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WEST OAKLAND’S NEWSWEEKLY www.spinalcolumnonline.com

12/14/11

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

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CREAM OF THE CROP Anderson, OLSM senior, aces the ACT — just like his brother did - pg. 18

GOING AFTER URESTE’S JOB W. Bloomfield lawyer will challenge supervisor in August primary - pg. 3

THIRD TIME’S A CHARM Communities finally get OK for NRTF funds to pay for new trail - pg. 31

THIN THE HERD

SANCTIONED DEER HUNTS AT AREA PARKS HELP MANAGE GROWING POPULATION

pg. 8

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Erika Rochow, who can be contacted at www.liasophia.com/msrochow, earned the award along with three others for her outstanding sales accomplishments and professionalism, the company announced earlier this month. She netted the prestigious award in her first 15 weeks with the company by attaining specific sales levels and sharing lia sophia with other new advisors, the company said.

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That’s what HE said: "I've been involved in politics for 20 years ... and I have never, never seen such a blatant partisan overreach — and that includes my time in Illinois and in Michigan."

— Oakland County Democratic Party Chairman Frank Houston commenting on legislation that would give county commissioner redistricting power to the Republican-controlled county Board of Commissioners after a panel controlled

by Democrats approved new district lines in May.

INSIDE Special Report . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9 County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 Public Safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 Lakes Area News . . . . . . . . . .7-15 Letters to Santa . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Editorials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Community Calendar . . . . . . .38-39 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40-43 Obituaries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

248.360.6397

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Pontiac fire union balks at Waterford contract proposal

By Leslie Shepard staff writer

The proposed merger of the Waterford and Pontiac fire departments have Pontiac firefighters smoldering, especially since they say they have put together a proposal that union officials say would save Pontiac even more money than joining with Waterford would.

“The crux of the issue is that we tried to meet and exceed the targeted savings and haven’t had any opportunity to prove or disprove them,” said Damon Harney, president of Pontiac Firefighters Union Local 376.

“That’s why we have gone public. We met the requirement yet the emergency (financial) manager (Lou Schimmel) has refused to entertain our numbers.”

Pontiac union members pounded the pavement as they picketed outside the Waterford Township Civic Center and Fire Department Headquarters on Tuesday, Dec. 6 to demonstrate in opposition to the possibility of shuttering the Pontiac Fire Department and contracting for services with Waterford Township.

Warshay looking to oust Ureste from supervisor position

By Michael Shelton staff writer

With 2011 almost in the history books, a West Bloomfield Township resident has thrown his hat into the ring to challenge the current township supervisor for her seat next year.

Jonathan Warshay, 50, a staff attorney for Lakeshore Legal Aid in Southfield, has announced he will run against Supervisor Michele Economou Ureste for the Democratic Party’s nomination for the township’s chief executive post.

Warshay said he felt compelled to run because of what he believes to be dysfunction within the current township board.

Protestors gather outside the Waterford Township Civic Center on Tuesday, Dec. 6 to voice their opposition to a proposed merging of the Pontiac and Waterford fire departments. Township officials and Lou Schimmel, emergency financial manager for the cash-strapped city, have been discussing the proposal that would fold an estimated 45 Pontiac firefighters in with the Waterford Fire Department. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

“I can understand that the city of Pontiac must do something about its $12 million deficit, but they shouldn’t have been picketing in Waterford,” said Waterford Township Treasurer Margaret Birch.

However, Waterford Fire Chief Dennis Storrs said he can empathize with the union’s plight.

“We’ve talked to them a lot because

they’re our brothers and we’ve worked closely with them over the years,” Storrs said. “Any time you’re faced with the prospect of potentially losing your job, that’s the main problem. They have a proud tradition in the Pontiac Fire Department and it has earned them a lot of respect over the years.”

The Pontiac Fire Department has

“I feel that my presence would make it orderly and efficient,” Warshay said.

“My election would make a smoother road for the township to progress. I think I would use the board members’ talents in different areas, because there is a wealth of experience.”

Warshay also objected to Ureste’s lawsuits against the township in relation to Trustee Larry Brown and the West Bloomfield Board of Trustees’ appointment of Police Chief Michael Patton.

Warshay “They spend meetings working out minute details. I think it would be much less intensive,” he said.

Warshay previously served the city of

Ferndale as a councilman and mayor pro tem.

He also has a master’s degree in business administration and a juris doctorate from Wayne State University.

In addition, Warshay teaches at the university level.

He also cited his experience in technology as a consultant for Oracle, experience which he believes will help the township with its current technology issues.

Warshay is also involved in the township as the vice president of the West Bloomfield Optimist Club, in addition to serving on the West Bloomfield/Lakes Democratic Club and the Jewish Coalition Against Domestic Assault.

A call placed to Ureste for comment was not returned prior to press time.

The filing deadline for candidates is in mid-May. The township supervisor serves a four-year term. ❏

PAGE 7 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW WEST

OAKLAND’S

Brightening someone’s day

NEWSWEEKLY

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

ASSISTANT EDITOR: Kirk Pinho

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

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

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

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

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

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

St. Mary’s Kuligowski, 16, nets national honor for service

P

aul Kuligowski may be only 16years-old, but the Orchard Lake St. Mary’s junior is proving that you can never be too young to make a difference. Kuligowski was one of 15 students selected from across the country

by PARADE Magazine for its AllAmerican High School Service Team after he founded and started his non-profit outreach organization, Acts of Kindness.

He began the organization to provide basic necessities for struggling individuals and families, whether it’s food, clothing or toiletries. Kuligowski serves as the CEO and, with the help of his family, friends and volunteers, collects and distributes donated items to the Detroit Rescue Mission and other agencies. He and the other PARADE honorees were recognized at a ceremony in Washington D.C. this past summer.

You have been honored for starting your own non-profit organization called Acts of Kindness. Please tell us about its mission and how you came up with the idea.

PK: Acts of Kindness is a program and company I founded in 2010 and its basic mission is to provide basic necessities for homeless people and families that need basic things such as undergarments and toothbrushes. Our main goal is to give humanity to all people, no matter what the circumstances are.

We actually do drops at various locations such as the Detroit Rescue Mission, where we give them the things that they need such as roll-on deodorant or whatever there might be. We gather the items by talking to people and networking through e-mail and by phone, and we collect it all at my house, actually, and we distribute it to various locations that can use the help. The big ones (that we help) are the Detroit Rescue Mission. Another one is Turning Point and the third one is the shelter in Mt. Clemens.

I did a lot of community service in the eighth-grade and I just wanted to figure out how I can help more people because I realize that there is a greater need out there. I realize it’s not hard to actually make a difference and just the little things can really brighten someone’s day.

You’re a 16-year-old student and most students your age aren’t thinking about starting up and running their own organization. Tell us about what a typical day is like for you with Acts of Kindness as the CEO, in addition to your schoolwork. What are the biggest challenges you face in making

Q

Q

your organization work?

PK: It gets pretty crazy, but you wake up and drive out to Orchard Lake, get through the school day, you get out at 2 (p.m.), and then you come home and do your homework. Then after dinner, you figure out what Acts of Kindness needs today and you just go through the checklist and make sure you’ve got everything together, you got your receipts and you go to sleep and you start all over the next day. There’s really not a whole lot of downtime though.

I (also) do cross country and track.

(The biggest challenge is) getting people to take you seriously because they see a 16-year-old and they don’t

•

NE MINUTE

INTERVIEW

realize that people my age can make just as big of an impact as people in their 40s running big mainstream companies. If you want to help, you can and people don’t realize that.

At first my dad helped me get a start, but as you get going and you improve your company, we really are helping people and that’s what the main goal is. You get donations and then people start donating clothes, hats and gloves and it starts flowing in.

Who do you hope will benefit the most from Acts of Kindness? Do you have a staff? If not, who do you work with to carry out the organization’s mission?

PK: We really target families as a whole because the economy is not the best right now and people don’t realize that it’s not just the homeless guy on the corner begging for money. There’s actually whole families that need food and

Q

basic necessities. And that’s our goal, to help families stay clean and sanitary and have dignity.

We don’t really have a staff. I do a lot of the work, the networking and stuff, but my whole family actually participates in sorting things and helping distribute but you’ll get volunteers, like some of my friends come over and help out and just do a little bit.

We’ve logged our hours for community service and we’ve been certified with Presidential Service Awards, so that’s kind of like the reward. You log your hours so you can get rewarded for your time.

You were named to Parade Magazine’s All-American High School Service Team for your efforts.

What does that honor mean to you?

PK: It’s a great honor. All 15 of us (who were chosen) benefited because it puts our cause out there and it really helps us because we get our mission.

It’s a real honor because someone is actually recognizing us for doing a good deed and it’s nice. It seems to get brushed over a lot. People don’t realize that it’s just as important as schoolwork, sports or any of that stuff.

What are your future goals for Acts of Kindness and do you plan to keep running it after high school?

What do you hope to do when you graduate from St. Mary’s?

PK: I plan on keeping it going after high school and I just want it to expand where we can help out — not just the tri-county area, but the whole state and country if it ever became that big — but just expanding and (helping) as many people as possible.

I plan to go on to college. I’m not sure exactly where yet, but I want to go into business management and see where Acts of Kindness goes. I have no plans of stopping and just seeing where life takes me.

How can anyone who is interested in donating to Acts of Kindness contribute or learn more about your organization?

PK: We’re working on a website, which we don’t have up yet, but the best way to get a hold of us is (at) kuli01@comcast.net. And if anybody has any questions or they want to donate, that’s the best place to get a hold of us. To learn more about the company, we have our annual reports and business plans if anybody has specific questions. ❏

Q

Q

Q

By Michael Shelton

Read more of this interview at spinalcolumnonline.com.

DECEMBER 14-20, 2011

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PAGE 7

LAKES AREA NEWS

Fire contract ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 3

been in existence for 175 years. It currently employs 57 firefighters. At the time the fire service contract negotiations commenced with Waterford, there were 62 employed.

Since that time, a few have opted to retire.

When and if the agreement moves forward, it’s estimated that 45 Pontiac firefighters would be employed by Waterford Township and 18 would be offered early retirement, according to Harney.

This is the second time Pontiac has sought financial relief from an outside source via a public safety service agreement. In August, the city contracted with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department for police patrols and dispatch services.

“Up to this point it’s been a challenge,” Storrs said. “The economy is driving these decisions and there’s not a lot of choices.”

In a letter to the editor in today’s Spinal Column Newsweekly, Waterford Supervisor Carl Solden stated the following: “I don’t think any of us wish to see ‘changes’ such as this, but again the (real) facts are revenues have been decreasing for the last 10 years; (and) property assessments have gone down, which creates a huge loss for municipalities in property tax dollars, our main source of income. Unfortunately the economic status has dictated these very types of ‘changes.’ Business as we once knew it is no longer sustainable.”

Pontiac officials approached Solden about considering a fire service contract between the two communities as long as it was agreeable to both parties.

Solden said that union representatives have been trying in recent weeks to sway Waterford residents’ sentiments so the Board of Trustees refuses to sign an agreement.

Prosecutor lacks evidence in hazing incident

By Michael Shelton staff writer

There are currently no plans for the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office to authorize charges in the alleged hazing of a Walled Lake Western football player because of a lack of sufficient

Economic challenges have prompted Pontiac Emergency Financial Manager Louis Schimmel to approach Waterford Township officials about the township taking on firefighting duties for the city. Protestors (above) at the Waterford Township Civic Center say they have come up with a plan that would save Pontiac more money than the proposal currently being discussed by the two communities. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

Roughly 125 people showed up to protest any prospect of an agreement at the Waterford board meeting last night, Monday, Dec. 12.

“They rallied and got support,” Solden said. “They are trying to alienate our residents against the board to get us not to agree with this resolution. I don’t want them influencing our residents.

“I understand they are trying to protect their turf and department, but

Waterford is prepared to take over the service and that’s what we’re going to do.”

Schimmel has stated the agreement is one way to reduce the city’s looming $12.5 million deficit. Should the agreement come to fruition, Pontiac would save about $3 million per year.

However, Harney said Pontiac’s payment to Waterford Township of $6.2 million per year would save the city $3 million, but the union’s proposal would

save Pontiac even more.

The union proposal adds up to $6.1 million for total operating costs ($1.1 million) and labor ($5 million).

“Under our plan the city would save in excess of $3.1 million,” Harney said.

Harney said the last time Schimmel met with union representatives face-to-face was Nov. 30.

evidence, but the Wixom Police Department is continuing with an investigation.

According to Paul Walton, chief assistant in the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office, this isn’t an indication that the case is closed.

According to a Wixom police report filed by the alleged victim’s mother, the incident took place in October in the house of assistant football coach Bill Brenner and involved the player being tied around a pole with duct

tape and a helmet being placed on him.

The incident resulted in the discipline of five Western football players and the suspension of Brenner and assistant football coach Bob Chiesa.

Wixom police provided to the Prosecutor’s Office an information packet, which included a videotaped interview with the alleged victim.

Walton said that in the interview the victim denied receiving any injuries and that he knew the players

were joking and that he could have freed himself from the pole at any time.

Walton added that the victim said duct tape was placed on his mouth for only a second and that he was hit with swimming noodles and a pillow while taped to the pole.

According to Walton, the victim’s mother indicated that he was taken to the hospital, and the victim stated he had headaches before the incident.

PAGE 11 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

PAGE 11 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

By Angela Niemi staff writer

O

SPECIAL REPORT

PAGE 8

akland County may be Shangri-la for white-tailed deer.

There is an abundance of food and water, adequate shelters of wood lots and undeveloped fields to frolic and roam, relatively mild winter conditions, private land sanctuaries safe from hunters, and nearly no natural predators — which is one of the contributing factors explaining why the local deer population has grown so profusely. As a result, special deer hunts used as a population management tool are being implemented again in some area county parks and Huron-Clinton metroparks.

“Historically, the predators that have kept the deer (population) in check are gone, such as the wolves.

Today we have some coyotes that may take some sick or compromised deer, but they certainly don’t provide the overall predator pressure that historically may have been in place,” said Brittany Bird, a natural resource planner for Oakland County.

The Michigan State Police reports that there are more than 60,000 vehicle-deer crashes in Michigan every year. A couple years ago approximately 2,000 of those occurred in Oakland County — one of the highest amounts ever recorded.

According to Joe Robison, a wildlife biologist with the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the deer population in Oakland County is still increasing.

While Oakland County may resemble deer paradise, no environment can handle a species whose numbers are over its biological carrying capacity — the area’s capability to support a species’ sustainability by providing food, water, cover, and space.

And with their prolific reproductive potential, white-tailed deer have the ability to quickly overwhelm an area, reaching numbers that are completely unsustainable by the environment. Does have the ability to reproduce within their first year. Once they are older than 3-years-old, the does usually produce twins and triplets.

Typically, when controlling the deer population by lethal methods, does are the targeted deer because even though it takes two to reproduce, one buck can fertilize many does. Each doe is capable of producing multiple offspring; therefore,

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

the fewer does, the less potential for more fawns.

According to the DNR, the ideal number of deer per square mile is 15, based on biological carrying capacity. After that number is exceeded, the vegetation in a given area and the deer themselves experience harm. As such, it is sometimes necessary for humans to manage the deer population.

Deer herd densities in excess of the DNR’s recommended limits can result in increased propensity of deer disease, poor individual deer health, starvation, and high incidence of roadside mortality.

Furthermore, there are ecological and agricultural threats to consider, as well.

“Overbrowsing becomes a problem. The deer eat more food than is available. There is also damage to shrubs and trees, especially in an urban setting,” Robison said.

According to Oakland County Parks Natural Resources Stewardship Program, overbrowsing can alter the structure and composition of plant communities. The damage to the natural community can be seen by how long it takes the native forage plants to regenerate. Many can require up to 10 years to recover, and that’s only after the deer population is controlled.

Deer have the potential to introduce and spread invasive species, as well, by eating the preferred native species, while serving as dispersal conduits of invasive species along the game trails.

There are an estimated 24,000 deer in Oakland County, according to the DNR, which is able to estimate the deer population using a couple different techniques, including aerial surveys, mortality and reproduction rates, as well as the state police records on the number of deer hit by road vehicles.

With the absence of predators, unmanaged deer herds frequently exceed the land’s carry capacity in urbanized areas.

Another reason for the large deer population, according to Robison, may be the lack of opportunity to hunt in certain human populated areas.

“Over population (of deer) could be a result of non-huntable areas in townships or hunting restrictions in city environments,” Robison said.

“Hunting opportunities are the No. 1 management tool of the DNR. And in an urban setting, hunting is not allowed.”

In the absence of natural predators, hunting is the preferred

DECEMBER 14-20, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

Populations in west Oakland parks still high Last year, 27 deer were removed from the Kensington Metropark in Milford Township through special hunts intended to maintain a healthy deer population and preserve other natural resources in the park. This year the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority (HCMA) hopes to remove another 77 deer from Kensington. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

method of deer management, which is why the county Parks and Recreation Department and the Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority (HCMA) have used managed hunts as a way to control the deer population in their respective parks.

The county utilizes both archery and controlled hunts in when trying to control the deer population inside county parks. Archery hunting is available to members of the public inside the Addison Oaks East Unit, Highland Oaks, the Independence Oaks North Unit, Rose Oaks, Lyon Oaks, and Orion Oaks during the DNR’s approved archery season, which lasts from Oct. 1 through Jan. 1.

Controlled hunts have taken place at Addison Oaks since 1990 and in Independence Oaks since 2003.

“It’s necessary to employ measures such as these to keep the deer population at a level that state biologists recommend,” Bird said.

According to Bird, the hunts have been successful.

“When we first started the hunts at

Addison Oaks, the deer densities were in excess of 140 deer per square mile. There were very high levels of deer browse that were severely impacting the native communities that we were seeking to preserve at the parks. Since we implemented the deer management program, we have brought the deer densities closer to the state recommended levels with archery hunts and managed hunts.”

The managed hunts are volunteerbased with participation determined via a lottery application system. The hunts target only antlerless deer, and all deer taken are donated to the Salvation Army in support of the Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger Program.

Last year, approximately 1,500 pounds of meat were donated.

The county parks are closed to the public on days of the hunts, and the county has a list of safety measures and requirements that must be followed.

Two hunts are conducted in each

park in November and another two in December.

According to Bird, they typically remove about 20 deer per park depending on the density of the deer herd found based on aerial surveys.

This past winter, Addison Oaks had a density of 35 deer per square mile, while Independence Oaks saw a density of 27 deer per square mile.

Bird said the county plans to continue the controlled hunts in an effort to manage the deer populations and restore the parks’ ecosystems.

“We haven’t gotten to the recommended levels and maintained them long enough to see restoration of native plants,” she said. “We’re looking to maintain the deer densities for another five to eight years before we see restoration to the point we can see landscape changes. We are approaching that point but we’re still not there yet. Of course, there are other confounding factors such as invasive species. Deer management is just one piece of the puzzle, but it’s an important piece to look at and

address.”

The HCMA has been using controlled hunts to manage the deer populations inside its metorparks for over 10 years, including inside Kensington Metropark in Milford Township and Indian Springs Metropark in White Lake Township.

Last year, 27 deer were removed from Kensington, while 22 were removed from Indian Springs via deer hunts.

This year the HCMA plans to remove 77 deer from Kensington and 31 from Indian Springs.

According to aerial surveys performed in January and February of this year, the deer density was estimated to be 30 deer per square mile inside Kensington (5.1 square miles) and 24 deer per square mile inside Indian Springs (3.5 square miles).

According HCMA Chief of Natural Resources Paul Muelle, the HCMA has already conducted a hunt at Indian Springs with volunteers from the Safari Club International, who donated their time and expertise again this year.

“We removed 25 deer,” he said.

“We’re going to evaluate and look to see if we need to have another hunt to reach our goal of 31, to see if it’s worth it or not. Sometimes it’s not worth going back in for just a couple deer.”

All the deer meat was distributed

by Sportsmen Against Hunger.

Meanwhile, January and February hunts are planned inside Kensington.

However, due to local firearms restrictions in Milford Township, these hunts are conducted using sharpshooters from local police departments.

“Typically, when possible, we work with volunteer hunters during the regular deer season as specified by the DNR. But other than that we bring in our own sharpshooters out of the regulated hunting season to get to our management numbers,” Muelle said.

He added that so far the HCMA has “absolutely seen success” with the deer management program.

“We are seeing vegetation out there that we haven’t seen in a long time,” he said. “We are going to continue to monitor that progress, but we are seeing that success, for sure.”

It’s not just the plants that are looking healthier, but the deer, as well.

“We have seen a huge difference with the deer herd health from when we started the program to now,” he said. “Deer are looking healthier now that we are at maintenance levels. It’s another reason to continue with the program,” he said. ❏

SPECIAL REPORT

Special deer hunts

PAGE 9

PAGE 10

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

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PAGE 11

LAKES AREA NEWS

Fire contract ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 7

After collecting data on the number, nature, and severity of attacks by pit bull terriers in the community, state, and across the country, Orchard Lake officials have determined that a ban of new pit bull terriers within the city is an appropriate way to go. “I can’t say that we wouldn’t have problems with other dog breeds, but more often than not pit bulls are the problem,” said Orchard Lake Police Chief Joe George. “Most vicious type attacks seem to involve pit bulls, but I can’t say all of them are bad.” Pit bull terriers already living in the city would be allowed to stay under the proposed animal control ordinance.

Orchard Lake target: pit bulls Council looking to join the pack in banning ‘bully breed’

By Leslie Shepard staff writer

T

he Orchard Lake City Council will be mulling over a significant overhaul of its animal control ordinance at its Monday, Dec. 19 meeting.

“Right now we address just dog control — not cats or exotic animals, for example,” said Director of City Services Gerry McCallum. “So now it’s being expanded under an animal ordinance to be more detailed and comprehensive.”

If passed, the ordinance that mimics much of Waterford Township’s exotic animal rules would address dangerous animals such as pit bull terriers and other exotic animals like poisonous snakes and spiders.

The proposed ordinance also calls for the maintenance of existing pit bull terriers in the city and the subsequent banning of all new pit bulls.

“Many communities like Keego Harbor, Sylvan Lake, Rochester Hills, Sterling Heights and Dearborn were looking at various forms of the Waterford ordinance and for a lot of good reasons,” said City Councilman Joe Majcher, who helped research the draft proposal.

“We’re trying to be proactive and a couple months ago we had a police report of a person bit by a pit bull, and that re-energized drafting the ordinance.”

The proposal is based on data collected about the number, nature, and severity of attacks by pit bull terriers in the community, state, and across the country, which concluded pit bulls pose an unacceptable risk of harming people.

Other statistical evidence amassed reportedly reveals that pit bulls lead the pack in dog bite-related fatalities in the United States, and have jaws that can exert up to 2,000 pounds of

pressure per square inch, three times that of a German shepherd or Doberman pinscher.

“I can’t say that we wouldn’t have problems with other dog breeds, but more often than not pit bulls are the problem,” said Police Chief Joe George. “Most vicious type attacks seem to involve pit bulls, but I can’t say all of them are bad.”

The animal control ordinance would combine both the dog ordinance in place and the new zoning ordinance for animals.

“We took much of the dog ordinance, zoning ordinance and combined it with the Waterford ordinance detailing exotic animals and put them into one animal ordinance,” Majcher said.

Lastly, penalties would be stiffer for violations. Currently any violation would yield a municipal civil infraction. If revised, violators would be subject to a misdemeanor charge. ❏

“He told us to agree to the merger or he would impose it,” Harney said.

“He’s not willing to accept our offer and we want him to meet with us publicly and do a round-robin to substantiate both our sets of numbers.

Just give us a chance to support and provide our numbers.”

Negotiations had halted between Schimmel and the union. Schimmel — who did not return calls for comment for this story prior to press time — gave the union an ultimatum of accepting agreement terms by Friday, Dec. 9 or he would sidestep them and hire a new crew.

But to date, Harney said the union has not been notified of any change nor has Waterford sealed the deal.

“We’ve seen no action from the emergency manager — no meeting, nor has he laid us off. No change,” Harney said. “Currently we’re still employed and don’t know what the next move will be.”

Harney added that the union is prepared to defend itself, if need be.

“We have our own ideas and contingency plans in place,” he said.

According to Harney, Schimmel’s proposal offers early retirement to 18 firefighters, bonuses to others, as well as job security given they would be hired by Waterford Township.

The formula used to determine their pension will be based on 22 years of service and multiplied using the pension formula determined by the collective bargaining agreement.

Regardless of the merger, Schimmel has stated that of the five fire stations in the city, two would close.

All medical runs are expected to be outsourced to a private ambulance company.

“We accepted the move to outsource medical runs with the caveat to negotiate that provision down the road,” Harney said. ❏

Western hazing ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 7

“His overall description was teammates fooling around and seemed to contradict severely placed assertions,” Walton said.

He added that other players involved chose not to speak with police and that investigators have to seek permission to interview minors.

“You’re pretty much left with the young man’s description,” Walton said. ❏

PAGE 12

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

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PAGE 13

LAKES AREA NEWS

Kowall requested to ask for AG’s say on sexton debate

By Angela Niemi staff writer

White Lake Township Treasurer Forrest J. Brendel has put in a request to state Sen. Mike Kowall (RCommerce, Highland, Milford, Walled Lake, Wixom, Wolverine Lake, White Lake, Orchard Lake, West Bloomfield) to seek a legal opinion from the office of Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette on whether Brendel is able to simultaneously hold the township treasurer and cemetery sexton positions.

It’s been argued that Brendel’s holding of the two positions at the same time may represent a conflict of interest. Brendel denies that any conflict exists.

A sexton is the municipal position that maintains and manages public cemeteries, including retention of various documentation and marketing of available cemetery plots.

The White Lake Township Board of Trustees voted down a proposal in November to ask the Michigan Townships Association (MTA) for a legal opinion on the matter and opted to look to the state attorney general instead.

However, according to the law, only a member of the state Legislature may request an opinion from the state Attorney General’s office — not local municipal officials.

Brendel said he asked Kowall on Thursday, Dec. 8, to request an opinion and is hoping to get an opinion within the next 60 to 90 days.

Brendel has been the township’s sexton for the past 25 years. He took over the treasurer position last September through a township board appointment following the resignation of Beverly Spoor. Before his appointment he had served as a township trustee for about 13 years. ❏

Waterford budget for FY12 balanced with cash reserves

By Leslie Shepard staff writer

The Waterford Township Board of Trustees adopted the township’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2012 budget after holding a public hearing yesterday, Monday, Dec. 12 on the spending plan, which calls for pulling just shy of

The Hospitality House Food Pantry held its annual Santa Shop event Saturday, Dec. 10 at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church in Walled Lake. Hospitality House received over 6,000 items from area businesses and residents for this year’s event, which provided gifts for 605 children from 280 area families in need. As in the past, Hospitality House clients were invited to the event to choose from donated gifts to give to their children at no cost. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Marcia Reimer)

$1 million from the fund balance to cover losses sustained from the decline in property tax revenues.

“Property values are going down and have been unprecedented, which puts a lot of pressure on municipalities,” said Waterford Budget Director Derek Diederich. “Decreased property values have affected the township by receiving less millage revenue.”

Total operating revenues for the township are expected to be $38.7 million in 2012. Of that, $7.7 million is expected from property taxes, while police and fire millages are expected to generate $5.98 million and $5.2 million, respectively.

The budget is also accounting for a contract to provide fire services to Pontiac (just over $6 million).

“No ink is dry on a contract yet, but it is looking favorable for both communities — it’s an assumption factored in,” Diederich said.

Total revenues are up from this year by $3.3 million, or 9.46 percent.

Estimated expenditures at $39.9 million are expected to surpass total revenue. The bulk of the expenditures are for police and fire services, about

$12.7 million and $14.7 million, respectively. General government operations are budgeted at $4.55 million.

Total expenditures for the year would rise by $3.7 million.

Fund balance projections peg the general operating fund beginning balance at $1.36 million and ending with $435,306. The fire fund beginning balance is reported at $321,340 and ending at $548,651; the police fund beginning balance reports $992,258 and ending with $482,469.

Millages levels for 2012 won’t change. The debt retirement millage for the police and fire buildings is 0.50 mills.

The township levies a total millage of 10.8896 mills. The general operation millage collection remains at 3.8478. One levy for police services is at 1.5 mills while another is that same rate. Two fire service millages come in at 1 mill each, while another is levied at 0.63 mills. A library millage is currently levied at 0.9118 mills.

A mill is equal to $1 for every $1,000 of a property’s taxable value, which is generally equal to half the property’s market value. ❏

Commerce DDA taps Insite to help market property

By Angela Niemi staff writer

For the past month, cars have been traversing the M-5 roundabout and cruising along Martin Parkway, which means the Commerce Township Downtown Development Authority (DDA)-owned land along the parkway is primed for development to begin.

One way the DDA’s marketing committee is looking to spur retailers to come into the area is through the hiring of Insite Commercial, a metro Detroit area commercial real estate company that will help market the DDA’s property. Insite was one of eight firms that were interviewed for the job based on multiple reasons.

Insite has been retained under a 24-month agreement and will be paid on a sliding scale based on commission.

PAGE 14 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

LAKES AREA NEWS

Unveiling the future New charging stations in Milford debut

By Michael Shelton staff writer

T

he village of Milford is inviting residents to check out the debut of six electric vehicle charging stations tomorrow, Thursday, Dec. 15, beginning at 8 a.m. and ending at 9:30 a.m.

The stations will be at the East Lot adjacent to the Milford Historical Building at 124 E. Commerce Road. Representatives from the Milford Parking Authority will be present.

As part of the demonstration, there will be two Chevrolet Volt vehicles used, as well as an electric Ford Focus prototype, which is set to come out early next year.

Marketing DDA land ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 13

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“We would be dealing with the president of the company, who is a local person and who has knowledge of the DDA area,” said Kathleen Jackson, the township’s planner who also is the director of the Commerce DDA. “We just felt it was the best match.”

The DDA has been busy putting out feelers to both national and local retailers.

Jackson said she is hoping to bring in a “mix of uses” into the DDA district, which includes property from two golf courses — the Links at Pinewood and El Dorado — that the DDA purchased several years ago. The former El Dorado course is located north of Pontiac Trail west of Haggerty Road, immediately adjacent to the M-5/Pontiac Trail/Martin Parkway roundabout site.

“We’re thinking that some portion may be residential with singlefamily homes or even multiple residences,” she said. “And then we anticipate the rest to be commercial (development) in the form of retail, restaurants, and hospitality. We’re looking to add a type of senior facility and perhaps some type of sports venue such as an indoor hockey rink or indoor soccer facility.”

Of the 350 acres of DDA-owned land in the district, only about 220 acres are available for development due to wetlands and paths. ❏

There will also be breakfast burritos served by Chef Joe Olson, and Cinco Lagos will also serve refreshments.

The new charging stations will allow free charging for those driving electric vehicles.

According to the Milford Parking Authority, the six stations have the capacity to charge up to 12 electric vehicles.

Funding for the stations was provided through the U.S. Department of Energy as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. The stations were installed by ChargeNow, which is located at 5725 Dixie Highway in Waterford Township. ❏

Familiar face will be Walled Lake's new finance chief

By Leslie Shepard staff writer

Walled Lake City Manager L. Dennis Whitt recently appointed Colleen Coogan, who currently serves as the executive director of the Michigan Government Finance Officer's Association, as the city's new finance director.

The Walled Lake City Council approved her contract on Dec. 6.

The city used Coogan through her company, ADC Accounting Services, when conducting municipal accounting duties, including the annual audit.

"She took over at a time when we were considerably behind and did the catch-up (work) to get a timely audit done in October, compared to last year when it was completed in March, a month after the due date," Whitt said. "She shows the skills of an accountant and finance director and has the skills to train people."

Coogan stands to receive a salary of $70,000 annually for 32 hours of work per week. In lieu of health, dental, and optical insurance benefits, Coogan will have the option to receive these benefits subject to a corresponding reduction in salary.

The city has also agreed to contribute 5 percent of her salary to a 401(k) plan with the Municipal Employees Retirement System or PAGE 15 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

DECEMBER 14-20, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 15

LAKES AREA NEWS

New finance chief ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 14

another system of her choosing.

She is not eligible for funeral leave, holidays, sick time, personal days, or insurances unless the city chooses otherwise on a discretionary basis given the same terms and conditions applicable to other city department heads.

As the Michigan Government Finance Officer's Association's executive director, Coogan is responsible for such duties as enhancing member services, and acting as a liaison to governmental units and professional associations. Coogan will maintain this position for two years, in addition to her finance director duties in Walled Lake, to expand their resource base for their members, develop an organizational framework and increase the association's visibility statewide. ❏

Board divided on W. Bloomfield’s ‘12 spending plans

By Michael Shelton staff writer

The West Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees approved the Fiscal Year (FY) 2012 budget at a special budget meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 7 and at the board’s regular meeting on Monday, Dec. 12, but the approval process was not without controversy.

At the Dec. 7 budget meeting, the general fund budget was approved by a 5-2 vote, with Clerk Cathy Shaughnessy and Trustee Larry Brown voting against the spending plan, objecting to the elimination of nine furlough days.

Shaughnessy said that when township residents last month approved not only a renewal of the township’s public safety millage, but also an 11year increase of 2.85 mills, that the increased rate was based on the premise that the township would still have the furlough days.

“But, the board eliminated them and it was disingenuous to the voters,” Shaughnessy said. “What we did to the voters was not right. We made a promise to the voters that we’d be fiscally conservative.”

Township Trustee Steve Kaplan said the general employees and Water and Sewer Department employees had not received a raise in two years and, in essence, had received salary reduction because of the furlough days.

“There is sufficient funding because we have over $200,000 in state-

Wixom fuel spill contained after 300 gallons leak

By Leslie Shepard staff writer

W

hen approximately 300 gallons of fuel were recently released from an underground storage tank on the vacant Holloway property and threatened to contaminate waterways in Wixom, urgent measures were taken to mitigate any immediate hazard, according to city officials.

The fuel spill occurred on Thursday, Dec. 1, around 4 p.m. at the site located at 29250 S. Wixom Road. The Wixom Fire Department — in conjunction with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and a private environmental clean-up company — initiated containment protocols to prevent any fuel from further spreading. By 1:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 2, the site was quarantined and deemed secured.

“We could have had a significant and costly issue if it continued into the Norton Creek, but all the responding agencies worked well together to pursue the ultimate resolution to the matter,” said Assistant City Manager Tony Nowicki. “We have nothing but praise for how well they all worked in collaboration.”

The leak was caused, in part, by an environmental assessment conducted on the 10-acre property in conjunction with a purchase agreement. The underground tank was discovered, dug up, and samples of the contents were collected; however, the tank wasn’t properly capped at the end of the assessment, Roberts said.

shared revenue,” Kaplan said.

Shaughnessy disputed that figure and said that the township needs to save every dime that it can to sustain public safety funding.

“There is no relation between state-shared revenue and employee concessions,” she said.

Shaughnessy also claimed that department heads were denied a chance to discuss purchases with the supervisor and the budget director.

“They don’t know what they’re buying,” Shaughnessy said.

The board didn’t take any action on the Capital Project, Safety Grant, Debt

Action has been taken to mitigate any immedidate hazard stemming from a Thursday, Dec. 1 leakage of 300 gallons of fuel from an underground storage tank on the vacant Holloway property (above) in Wixom. The Wixom Fire Department — in conjunction with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and a private environmental clean-up company — initiated containment protocols to prevent any fuel from further spreading. By 1:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 2, the site was quarantined and deemed secured. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

It’s surmised that heavy rainfall during the week of Nov. 27, totaling approximately 2 inches, allowed groundwater to penetrate the tank and force its contents to overflow.

“Several complaints were made to the MDEQ of hydrocarbon fuel smell at the Marathon (gas station) nearby — it was a very pungent odor,” said Wixom Fire Chief Jeff Roberts. “When the MDEQ came out, they found the exposure.”

The Wixom Fire Department is involved in a hazardous materials (HAZMAT) program to respond locally in emergency situations.

“All the contamination occurred above grade and under West Road in the wetlands back there,” Roberts said.

DEQ investigators stated that less

than 50 gallons of fuel flowed into ditches.

The fuel lost momentum before causing more contamination.

“The fuel had to travel a tremendous distance and through a low depression,” Roberts said.

“An absorbent material that floats and absorbs oil, not water, was put in the wetlands,” Roberts explained. “The MDEQ has put into place a maintenance program where they monitor the area and replace the absorbent material as needed.”

The city has a cost recovery ordinance in effect that allows it to legally recoup dollars from the property owner in this hazardous emergency situation. ❏

Service and Special Assessment District funds on Dec. 7 and instead returned to them on Dec. 12.

Township Supervisor Michele Economou Ureste voiced her objections at the Dec. 12 meeting, claiming that Shaughnessy was upset that Finance Director Peter Dobrzeniecki didn’t criticize the budget enough at the previous board meeting.

“It’s just been out of control.

Enough is enough already,” Ureste said. “I don’t want this to be about the finance director trying to find something and just grasping at straws.

These are my budgets. My budget

director has been jumping through hoops during this whole budget process. It’s a fine working budget.”

Ureste also said previously that having two directors — one for finance and another for the budget — compounded the difficulties experienced in the budget process.

Ureste also motioned to reconsider her vote on the 2012 Retiree Health Care Fund, but the motion failed, 4-3, with Ureste, Kaplan and Township Treasurer Teri Weingarden voting in favor of reconsideration.

The township has yet to present updated budget figures for 2012. ❏

PAGE 16

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

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CEDAR CREST LUTHERAN 485 FARNSWORTH, WHITE LAKE (248) 698-3820 Founded in 1934

Christmas Eve • 5 p.m.

CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT

Carols & Candlelight family-oriented celebration of Jesus’ birth

CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICE

(Calvary is one Church in 2 locations, another campus is in Clarkston, MI. Call for worship times)

There’s always room in the inn for you

UNION LAKE BAPTIST CHURCH 8390 Commerce Road Commerce

NEW YEAR’S DAY Mary, Holy Mother of God Sunday, January 1, 2012 8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m.

Calvary Lutheran Church

4150 Pontiac Lake Rd. Waterford 48328 Choir Cantata Dec. 18, 10:30 am Candlelight Christmas Eve Service Dec. 24, 6:00 pm Christmas Carol Hymn Sing Dec. 25, 10:30 am

8:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m. – Christmas Liturgies

NEW YEAR’S EVE Saturday, December 31, 2011 Mary, Holy Mother of God 5:00 p.m.

Lutheran Church of the Ascension

7:00 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

WEDNESDAY ADVENT SERVICES 7:00 p.m.

Potluck dinner before Advent Service 6:00 p.m. - Soup, Salad, Dessert

New Hope

Christian Fellowship

6020 Pontiac Lake Rd. Waterford, MI (248) 886-1500

248-363-9600 Christmas Eve Candlelight Service 7 p.m. Sat., Dec. 24, 2011

Christmas Day Service 11 a.m. Sun., Dec. 25, 2011

www.AllNewHope.org Christ Centered - Family Focused

Join us for our Christmas Services: Sat., Dec. 24th @ 6 p.m. – Christmas Eve Candlelight Service Sun., Dec. 25th @ 10 a.m. – Christmas Day Service We wish you a very Merry Christmas and A Blessed New Year!

Christmas Eve Saturday, Dec. 24, 2011 5 PM - Twilight Service 7 PM - Festival Service 11 PM - Service of Lights

Christmas Day Sunday, Dec. 25, 2011 9:30 AM - Christmas Morning

DECEMBER 14-20, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 17

St. William Parish 531 Common Street • Walled Lake, MI 48390-3417 (248) 624-1421 (Rectory) • Website: www.stwilliam.com Mission Statement: Live the good news so joyfully that you can’t help but proclaim it!

st. matthew walled lake campus 2040 s. commerce, walled lake.248.624.7676 Christmas Candlelight services - a classic worship service with carols and candlelight (*communion service) 3:30, 5:30, 7:30 & 10:30* - december 24 prayer and praise family services - “Christmas Hang-ups”: A Christmas musical for all ages 1:00 & 3:00 pm - december 24

st. matthew wixom campus 48380 pontiac trail, wixom.248.624.9525 “Christmas Hang-ups” - A Christmas musical for all ages 4:00 pm - december 24 Candlelight and communion - Worship led by the Wixom Campus Band 7:00 pm - december 24

Christmas day - december 25 - walled lake campus: 11 am • wixom campus: 10:00 am st-matthew.org

Christmas Schedule: Mon. 12-19 7:00pm Penance Service Wed. 12-21 7:00pm Communal Penance Service Thurs. 12-22 12 Noon Penance Service Sat. 12-24 4 pm Children’s Mass 6 pm Evening Mass 11:00pm Choir/Carols 12:00 Midnight Mass Sun 12-25 9 am Mass 11:30am Mass (No 6:00 evening Mass)

Orchard Lake Community Church, Presbyterian WE INVITE YOU TO JOIN US!

Christmas Eve Services Children’s Christmas Musical Pageant at 5:00 p.m.

Christmas Eve at Crossroads 7:00 p.m. Communion Candlelight Nursery Available

Crossroads Presbyterian Church

Carols, Candlelight, and Communion

Christmas Eve: 4pm and 6pm Christmas Day: 11:15am

WALLED LAKE CHURCH OF CHRIST 1403 N. Pontiac Trail Located between Decker and S. Commerce Rd.

248-624-4600

Bible Classes (all ages) 10 a.m.

Worship with attended nursery - 11 a.m.

Sermon by Minister Roger Woods www.walledlakecoc.com

orchardgrove.org l 850 Ladd Road l Walled Lake

First Baptist Church of Walled Lake 309 E. Market St., Walled Lake 248-624-2483 Email: office@fbcwalledlake.org Christmas Eve Day Special Service with Communion 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 24, 2011

“Jesus is the reason for the season”

9:00 & 11:00 p.m.

Regular Worship @ 9:00 & 10:30 a.m.

(Childcare, Sunday School, Adult Classes)

5171 Commerce Road Orchard Lake

1445 Welch Road, Walled Lake (248) 624-3821 www.crossroadspc.org

Candlelight Services

WALLED LAKE UNITED METHODIST 313 Northport (behind Lynch & Sons Funeral Home) Walled Lake, MI 48390

248-624-2405 December 24 - 7:00 p.m.

Service of lessons & carols with candlelight Regular Sunday Service • 9:30 a.m.

Sunday School for all ages • 10:45 a.m.

HAVE A BLESSED NEW YEAR!

(248) 682-0730 www.orchardlakechurch.org

Commerce United Methodist Church 1155 N. Commerce Road Commerce Township (Just south of intersection of Bogie Lake & Wise Rds.)

(248) 363-3935

CHRISTMAS EVE 7:00 p.m.

Contemporary Family Candlelight Service

10:00 p.m.

Traditional Candlelight Service with Communion

PAGE 18

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

EDUCATION

Communications plan expected to cost HVS $35,000

By Leslie Shepard staff writer

The Huron Valley School District will soon be conducting phone surveys as the first step in formulating a comprehensive communications plan.

The Huron Valley Schools Board of Education voted to approve the measure, which is expected to cost

$35,000, at its Thursday, Dec. 1 meeting.

According to district Communications Director Kim Root, to obtain quality feedback on the community’s opinions about the district, communication needs, and to ensure the information is utilized in future communications, the district administration is seeking additional data to formulate a comprehensive plan.

The district has contracted with Truscott Rossman to conduct a community survey, facilitate focus group PAGE 19 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

WENDY’S / TIM HORTON’S Walled Lake DDA December Business of the Month

T

he Walled Lake Downtown Development Authority (WLDDA) Urban Design Committee awards the efforts of those businesses that add to the beautification and economic vitality of Downtown Walled Lake. This month, the Urban Design Committee recognizes the Walled Lake Wendy’s/Tim Horton’s as an example of excellence in urban design and overall appearance.

Wendy’s/Tim Horton’s is a well-known destination spot in Downtown Walled Lake; located at 1006 E. West Maple Road at the intersection of Pontiac Trail and West Maple Road. Any day of the week people driving through the Downtown will see cars lining up along West Maple Road waiting to go through the Tim Horton’s and Wendy’s drive-thru. The wait in this line is made more enjoyable because of the beautiful and well-maintained landscaping at this popular coffee shop and eatery.

Wendy’s/Tim Horton’s is also known for their generosity when it comes to community commitment.

They are always quick to give to good causes and have been a regular sponsor of the Walled Lake Downtown Development Authority annual “Bill Compton Support Our Troops 5K Run”.

Tim Horton’s drive-thru is open 7 days-a-week, 24 hours-a-day. Their dining room hours are Monday thru Friday 6 a.m.–10 p.m. For more information call 248-668-0044.

Wendy’s drive-thru is open 10:30 a.m.-midnight, 7 days-a-week. Their dining room hours are 10:30 a.m. – 10 p.m. For more information call 248-668-1177.

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248-926-3810 Fax: 248-926-3812

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

47448 Pontiac Trail At Beck Road

Wixom, MI 48393

Open: Mon. - Fri. 9-7 • Sat. 8-4

Call before 5 PM

248-624-1421

Lic.# A00049

Kyle Anderson plans to attend college and study political science or international relations after graduating from Orchard Lake St. Mary’s. The senior has been a four-year member of St. Mary’s cross country team and active in the Key Club. (Photo submitted by the Anderson Family)

Perfect score St. Mary’s senior earns 36 on ACT

By Tim Dmoch editor

O

rchard Lake St. Mary’s senior Kyle Anderson, the son of Bob and Teresa Anderson, earned a top composite score of 36 on his recent ACT test, according to an ACT press release.

While the number of students earning a composite score of 36 varies from year to year, about onetenth of one percent receive a top score. Among test takers in the high school graduating class of 2011, only 704 of more than 1.6 million students earned a composite score of 36, according to the release.

The ACT consists of tests in English, mathematics, reading, and science. Each test is scored on a scale of 1-36, and a student’s composite score is the average of the four test scores. In addition, some students take the ACT’s optional writing test, but the score for that test is reported separately and isn’t included within the ACT composite score.

“While test scores are just one of the many criteria that most colleges consider when making admission decisions, your exceptional ACT composite score should prove helpful as you pursue your education and

career goals,” wrote ACT CEO John Whitmore in a letter recognizing Kyle Anderson’s achievement.

ACT test scores are accepted by all major U.S. colleges, and exceptional scores of 36 provide colleges with evidence of student readiness for the academic rigors that lie ahead.

Teresa Anderson said Kyle has applied for admission at six universities, including the University of Michigan, Harvard, Penn, and George Washington University.

“He just heard yesterday that he was accepted by Georgetown,” she said. “Once he hears back from the others, then he’ll make a decision.

He’s interested in political science, and particularly international relations. Those are his career interests.”

According to Teresa Anderson, Kyle was a member of St. Mary’s cross country team for four years, and has been very active in the Key Club, the high school branch of the Kiwanis International service organization. She said Kyle held a state level position with Key Club for two years.

Kyle’s older brother, Ryan Anderson, also earned a composite

PAGE 19 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

DECEMBER 14-20, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 19

EDUCATION

By Michael Shelton

Perfect ACT ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 18

score of 36 on the ACT. Ryan Anderson was a 2009 graduate of Orchard Lake St. Mary’s.

According to Teresa Anderson, Ryan is attending the University of Michigan, where he is majoring in computer science engineering. He is a member of the university’s computer science competition team and is president of his fraternity, Tau Kappa Epsilon. “(Ryan) is a member of Circle K, the college arm of Kiwanis,” she said.

“He also was very active in the Key Club while at St. Mary’s. He has an internship set up for next summer with Boeing in Seattle. He is very busy and happy. He loves U-M, and may go there for his master’s degree, as well.

“Kyle and Ryan are really each other’s biggest fans, and are very supportive of each other,” she added.

“From a mother’s perspective, that’s a wonderful thing.” ❏

Communications plan ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 18

sessions and develop a strategic communications plan.

“We wanted to get focus groups’ input to get as objective information as possible — it’s realistic feedback,” Root said.

The Huron Valley school board and administration initiated the process due to the number of significant changes implemented over the last few years.

“Communication with families is one of the most important things, especially since we’ve closed several buildings,” Root said. “We want to gauge the satisfaction of our customers in terms of communicating with them and how we’re doing as district from a financial standpoint.”

While the communications department is functioning well, Root added that there are always areas in which to improve.

“We have a large district that services a number of communities,” she said. “The board and administration want to make sure we’re doing the best job possible.”

Of the $35,000 needed to pay Truscott Rossman, $13,000 will be diverted from Schools of Choice advertising and the remainder will be taken from the district’s fund balance.

“We get very few second semester Schools of Choice applications, and most of them are students who have

Melanee Sheldon of Clarkston, Chesney Lambert of Waterford, Alex Beaty of Keego Harbor, Veronica Nowak of Waterford, Delaney Lambert of Waterford, and Justine Burt of White Lake perform in a scene from the Oakland Theatre Arts Guild production of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” which is being presented at the Starlight Theater at 7370 Highland Road in Waterford. The show runs through Dec. 18, with performances on Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday at 2 and 4:30 p.m. Tickets are $14 for adults, $13 for seniors, $11 for students, and $10 for children. Tickets are available at starlighttheater.net. Tickets and information can also be found by calling 248-886-8880. (Photo submitted by Oakland Theatre Arts Guild/Starlight Theater)

moved and want to stay in the district, so we’re taking some of the dollars from that advertising fund,” Root said.

Telephone surveys will commence at the beginning of January. ❏

WBS board keeps VSI payments in place for Marasco The West Bloomfield Schools Board of Education has voted 5-2 to reject a motion to stop all payments under the school district’s Voluntary Severance Incentive (VSI) program to the district’s former assistant superintendent for human resources, Anthony Marasco.

Trustees Matt Chase and Melanie Torbert cast the only two votes in favor of stopping the payments and calling for Marasco to return all payments to the district.

Chase originally presented a motion calling for the district to cease

payments on Nov. 28, but the board voted to table the issue until Monday, Dec. 12.

The VSI offered $70,000 to district administrators and teachers as part of a 2008-10 labor contract, if they met certain requirements.

Fifty teachers took advantage of the VSI, as well as eight administrators.

Chase said previously that his concern with Marasco was that he was the district’s lead negotiator when the VSI was being formed and that the intention was to have the same terms for administrators and teachers.

He also said previously that the teacher’s contract was written three months before the administrator’s contract and that Marasco still took VSI severance payments from West Bloomfield Schools while working in another school district.

A 2.5 hour debate on the issue ensued at the Dec. 12 meeting before the resolution came up for a vote. ❏

WLCS redistricting meeting slated for tomorrow night The Walled Lake Consolidated School District Board of Education will be holding a redistricting meeting on Thursday, Dec. 15 at 7 p.m. at the Educational Services Board Room.

With the closing of Maple and Twin Beach elementaries at the end of the school year, the time has come to put together a redistricting plan.

A redistricting committee comprised of teachers, parents, and principals from each pre-kindergarten through eighth-grade school will give a progress report to the school board.

The committee is looking at various factors to decide how to redistrict.

Two community input meetings will be held at Maple and Twin Beach elementary schools from 7 to 9 p.m. on Jan. 10 and Jan. 17, respectively.

For more information, visit www.wlcsd.org or e-mail redistricting@wlcsd.org. ❏

PAGE 20

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

COMMERCE TOWNSHIP COMMUNITY LIBRARY 2009 Township Dr. Commerce

MUNRO COLLISION

AUTO EXCELLENCE DETAIL SHOP

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Keep your loved ones warm with a remote starter • Wixom

248-668-1955

248-669-8108

MILFORD MONTESSORI 2700 E. Commerce Milford

248-685-7600 248-505-4875 PENNY LANE ELDERLY CARE HOME 1305 Ford Road White Lake

248-887-0616 HURON VALLEY HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING Night Service Available

248-887-3666 GREEN APPLE RESTAURANT WATERFORD 4780 Dixie Hwy.

248-618-7330 7156 Cooley Lk. Rd.

248-366-9100

UNWANTED AUTOS LLC

TOP $ Paid for any:

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248-410-1067

FIREPLACES PLUS

WALLED LAKE SCHOOLS PRESCHOOL

Waterford, MI

248-681-2007

GSRP & Headstart Programs Walled Lake

Cleanings and Repairs

5279 Dixie Hwy. Waterford, MI 48329

248-618-6900 HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

ALJ TAILORING 30960 Beck Rd. Novi In the K & S Plaza

248-960-9090

MAIN STREET ART 432 North Main St. Milford

248-684-1004

248-956-5080

WHITE LAKE INN

THERMAL SHIELD WINDOWS & SIDING INC.

3955 Ormond Road White Lake

6000 Williams Lk. Rd. Waterford

248-887-1818

THE GRATE FIREPLACE SHOP 1987 E. West Maple Walled Lake

248-624-6655

248-623-6666 HEART OF THE LAKES V.F.W. POST 1008 1690 Airport Road Waterford

248-674-2826

DAN’S AUTO CLINIC

24/7 FITNESS CENTER

851 N. Pontiac Trail Walled Lake

2083 Wixom Road Wixom

248-669-3756

248-926-4077

OAKLAND SPORTS CENTER KTM

MULTI LAKE ENTERPRISES INC.

Hall for Rent Open to the public

MILFORD SAV-MOR PHARMACY

5272 Dixie Highway Waterford

1191 N. Milford Road Milford

248-673-3366

248-685-8363

Parts • Accessories MX & Edura Specialists

GARY & SONS TOWING

MANN METALS

Waterford, MI We Buy Cars & Trucks

1011 Decker Road Walled Lake

248-960-1200

248-467-0396 DAVE’S ELECTRICAL SERVICES, INC.

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

HIGHLAND AUTO REPAIR 7421 Highland Road White Lake

248-887-2944

HIGHLANDMILFORD EAGLES #4076 4450 Duck Lake Rd. Highland, MI 48356

CARVEL ICE CREAM 3050 Union Lake Rd. Hiller’s Market Plaza Commerce

248-360-2200

Insulation Contractor Walled Lake

248-363-6333

LAKES EQUIPMENT SERVICE 2242 Fyke Drive Milford

248-342-8378

248-231-4083

BOGIE LAKE GREENHOUSE

MELVIN’S ACE HARDWARE

1525 Bogie Lk. Rd. White Lake

620 N. Pontiac Trail Walled Lake

248-887-5101

248-624-4583

DECEMBER 14-20, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 21

COMMUNITY LIFE

Letters to Santa Dear Santa, Can I please have the Wii? I’ve been spectacular. I have been listening to my teacher.

What kind of cookies do you like? Is Rudolph going to be here?

From Molly, White Lake Township

Dear Santa, What I want for Christmas is a remote control Beyblade, Super Mario Brothers for DS, and Dr. Dreadful’s Zombie Maker. Merry Christmas.

From Josh, West Bloomfield Township: There’s still time to get your child’s letter in next week’s paper! See the ad on page 31 for full details.

Dear Santa, Can I please have the Wii? I have been good all year.

I have been nice to my sisters. I have also been listening to my mom. Do you always wear a red and white hat or do you sometimes wear one of those Michigan State hats that look like a Santa hat?

From Bailey, White Lake Township

community honors ❐ The Jewish Ensemble Theatre (JET) in West Bloomfield is to be commended for its long standing efforts in combating bullying in our schools. The Dorfman Foundation Youth Theatre, JET Y.E.S. has been actively involved in combating the terrible toll bullying takes on Michigan’s youth for the past 16 years. They have been going into schools, synagogues, churches and other public venues with three short plays which address bullying at ageappropriate levels. Through the power

and immediacy of live theater, students are given the opportunity to see young characters like themselves, or kids they know, in situations they face every day.

In the talk backs following the plays, students have the opportunity to begin processing what they have just seen and dialogue possible solutions. Study guide materials help educators apply the lessons learned by students in future problem solving strategies. “I Was Just Kidding,” for elementary students, tells the story of Debbie and her two friends and how words can wound PAGE 23 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

50 YEARS AGO Dec. 7, 1961 Members of the Walled Lake Fire Department are proud to announce that they took the trophy as overall champs in Oakland County's Annual Fireman's Field Day that took place on Sept. 29 at the General Motors Athletic Field.

The first trophy they received made them the overall best team in the Pontiac area. They also won the trophy in the Water Battle contest. The third trophy was won in the hose evolution contest. The Walled Lake team had six other teams in competition with them.

They included Birmingham, Waterford, Commerce, Union Lake and Pontiac Township.

40 YEARS AGO Dec. 15, 1971 High winds more like a tropical gale than a winter storm whipped through the lakes area last Friday, causing electrical power shortages at thousands of homes.

No damage estimates were available, but the winds, which gusted to more than 50 mph, knocked down trees, toppled moored airplanes, ripped telephone wires apart and blew a roof off a building.

The late afternoon storm flipped two single-engine planes at Oakland-Pontiac Airport in Waterford Township. In Union Lake, winds separated part of the metal roof at the John R Lumber Company, causing it to careen into the telephone wires of an adjacent Detroit Edison Company substation.

Of the six townships in the lakes area, West Bloomfield sustained the most damage. In addition to power failures at thousands of homes, the water supply was cut off in the Deerfield and Kimberly subdivisions near Middlebelt and Fifteen Mile roads.

Other communities hit by the storm included Commerce, with 380 houses without electrical power; Walled Lake, 2,000; and White Lake, 130.

30 YEARS AGO Dec. 16, 1981 The inmate population of west Oakland will double next week, as approximately 80 male prisoners are scheduled to be moved into the 31year-old Camp Pontiac facility in White Lake Township on Monday, Dec. 21.

Corrections information official Cal Goddard said the inmates, from various overcrowded prison throughout the state, would begin a regular routine

next week at the maximum security "work camp."

Camp Pontiac has stood empty since Nov. 30, when 71 female prisoners were moved out of the old facility and across the street to a newly-constructed Camp Gilman. Both facilities are located on White Lake Road between Cuthbert and Teggerdine roads.

20 YEARS AGO Dec. 11, 1991 Highland Township will own the land where its composting site is located within the next six months, if current negotiations with the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are successful.

Highland Township Trustee Dennis Powers, who chairs the township's Solid Waste Committee, said he and Supervisor Thomas Dunleavy have met with DNR officials to discuss the outright purchase of the property, or a three-party land swap for the property.

Highland's composting site is located behind the Oakland County Sheriff's Department Highland Substation on Duck Lake Road.

10 YEARS AGO Dec. 12, 2001 Representatives of Waterford, White Lake, Commerce and West Bloomfield townships met last week to discuss the final stages in completing what has become known as the Four Towns Study — an extensive effort researching potential road improvements and widenings along the Haggerty, Union Lake and Williams Lake road corridors — and to establish public hearing forums to garner public comment on potential improvements.

The Four Towns study was prompted by the pending completion of M-5, which is expected to dump up to an additional 30,000 vehicles a day on Pontiac Trail in Commerce Township.

Headlines of the Past

– A special feature of the Spinal Column Newsweekly –

PAGE 22

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

HENRY FORD MEDICAL CENTER Commerce

Come meet our Commerce Family Doctors with your child and their favorite stuffed animal for a free Teddy Bear check up!

Teddy Bear Clinic will be open during After Hours Urgent Care on Saturdays, December 3rd, 10th & 17th from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

FOR TEDDY BEAR APPOINTMENTS CALL (248) 360-8103.

HENRY FORD MEDICAL CENTER – C OMMERCE #OMMERCE 2OAD s #OMMERCE 4WP -)

)NTERNAL -EDICINE &AMILY -EDICINE AND !FTER (OURS 5RGENT #ARE

DECEMBER 14-20, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 23

COMMUNITY LIFE

Continued ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 21

community honors even if you are “just kidding.” “Mean Girls,” for upper elementary and middle school girls, reveals the devastating emotional impact of the girl bully.

“Word,” for middle and high school students, looks at an incident of bullying from the different perspectives of the bully, the victim and a bystander and shows the power of the bystander

We’ve Gone

DIGITAL!

If you’d like to receive our full edition in your email box, send your request to: signmeup@thescngroup.com

to positively affect outcomes. For a very reasonable price, a school or school district can utilize these shows to be part of their state-required plan to address bullying. All three shows are available anytime throughout the school year, and by special arrangement for summer programs. Check out their website at www.jettheatre.org and click on “Touring Productions for Students” for more information or call Mary Davis, JET’s Outreach Coordinator, at 248-788-2900

H

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Would like the citizens of White Lake to attend the Township Board meeting December 20th @ 7 pm 7525 Highland Rd.

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Visit any of our 9 Locations Walled Lake • Commerce • Farmington Hills Southfield • Royal Oak • Warren • EastPointe V i s i t o u r w e b s i t e w w w. s u p e r c a r w a s h . n e t or call us at 248-549-6770

“Your tax dollars at work” Matt Sprader ~ 248-640-2694

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PAGE 24

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Eve Till 5:30 SALE PRICES GOOD DEC. 12TH - DEC. 24TH, 2011 Christmas Closed Christmas Day

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PAGE 25

LOCAL MATTERS

chamber notes ❐ The Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of chamber events, visit www.huronvcc.com: • Chamber members are invited to the Electric Vehicle Charging Station Demonstration and Ribbon-Cutting on Thursday, Dec. 15, at the east parking lot adjacent to the Milford Historical Society building. Breakfast food and beverages will be provided. Hosted by the Village of Milford Parking Authority, this event will feature instructions/demonstratons on using charging stations by Hands-on Chevy Volt .

• The Coffee Club, 8 to 9 a.m. Friday, Dec. 16, Petrillo Group-Raymond James, 2753 S. Milford Road, Highland. Take a moment out of the holiday hustle and bustle and join us for this free morning mixer. Great networking and holiday cheer are on the agenda.

• HVRN Wednesday Group, 8 a.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 21, Comeback Inn, 1451 South Milford Road, Highland.

• HVRN Tuesday Group, 8:30 a.m.

❐ The Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce has announced the beginning of its 2012 Membership Renewal Drive.

Save $25 if you renew your chamber membership now before Saturday, Dec. 31 — effective Jan. 1, 2012, membership dues increase by $25. If you need a copy of your renewal invoice and updated information, please contact Jennifer at jennifer@huronvcc.com or call 248685-7129, ext. 102 ❐ The Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce (LACC) is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of chamber events, call 248-624-2826 or visit www.lakesareachamber.com: • Studio Artiza Holiday Open House, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, 1224 West Maple Road, Walled Lake.

Join the festivities for refreshments, prize drawings and discounts.

• Each One - Reach One Reception, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 25, Comfort Suites, Wixom. Invite nonmembers to “come check us out.”

Compelmentary appetizers and refreshments. Enter a drawing for a free oneyear chamber membership. Sposored by Comfort Suites, Wixom. Call for reserva-

❐ The Waterford Area Chamber of Commerce (WACC) is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of chamber events, call 248-666-8600 or visit www.waterfordchamber.org: • Business After Hours Mixer, 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 15, The Fountain Golf Course, 6060 Maybee Road, Clarkston. $10 for members; $15 for non-members.

• WBAG, 8 to 9 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 20, Clarkston State Bank, 6600 Highland Road, Waterford.

• WBAG, 8 to 9 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 3, 17 and 31, Clarkston State Bank, 6600 Highland Road, Waterford.

• WACC’s 13th annual Meeting and Awards Dinner, 5:30 to 9 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 12, White Lake Oaks, 991 N. Williams Lake Road, Waterford.

Join us for a fantastic evening as we roll out the red carpet for the Grammys.

Cost: $48 per person, table of eight is $360. For more information or to RSVP today, visit http://bit.ly/sOrK8I ❐ The Greater West Bloomfield

Chamber of Commerce is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of chamber events, call 248-626-3636 or visit westbloomfieldchamber.com.

• The chamber’s annual meeting and installation of new board members will be held at the Jewish Community Center in the Greenberg Suite beginning at 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2012. There will be a breakfast buffet and networking from 7:30 to 8 a.m. with Judge Kimberly Small installing new board members beginning at 8 a.m.

Tickets are $25 and advance registration is required. Register at westbloomfieldchamber.com or call 248-6263636.

• Join us for Mingle, Mix & Meet networking and coffee at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 25. This month’s Mingle, Mix & Meet is being hosted by Touch of Europe Spa located at 4301 Orchard Lake Road in West Bloomfield.

Be sure to bring plenty of business cards to hand out to attendees. Free to chamber members, $5 for non-members. Register at westbloomfieldchamber.com or call 248-626-3636.

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Admission to this event is $3 per person or $5 per family. For reservations or more information, call Brian McKee at 248-408-5262 or 248-698-3961.

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❐ Dobski’s Restaurant at 6565 Cooley Lake Road in Waterford has been named Metro Detroit’s “Best Polish Restaurant” in the Click on Detroit “4 The Best Contest.” This award was announced during Thanksgiving Day coverage on WDIV, Channel 4. Local viewers were asked to vote in different categories for their favorite places. Go to clickondetroit.com to view all the winners. For more information, visit www.dobski.com

Tuesday, Dec. 27, Milford Fire Station, 325 W. Huron, Milford.

• The Coffee Club, 8 to 9 a.m. Friday, Jan 6, Gregory J. Hicks, 1203 N. Milford Road, Milford. Start the new year off right at this free morning mixer.

• Ambassadors meeting, 10 a.m.

Wednesday, Jan. 11, Conference Room, Milford Police Department, 1100 Atlantic Street, Milford.

• Ribbon Cutting for 2 Moms & A Mop, 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 11, new suite location, 317 Union Street, Milford. Check out the new world headquarters of 2 Moms & A Mop. • New Member Meet and Greet, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18, Conference room, Huron Valley State Bank, 130 S. Milford Road, Milford.

• Hosted by The Plum Door Teas, The Coffee Club will be held from 8 to 9 a.m., Friday, Jan. 20, at 210 S. Main Milford. Join us for this free morning mixer where you’ll enjoy coffee, tea and some of the best scones in town. ❐ Member news from the Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce: Refer a business owner or yourself for a free assesment and win a free iPad when they or you become a client. Contact Mike Moses at INsight Business Coaching for more information... Insight Business Coaching, 28345 Beck Road, Suite 402, Wixom, 48393 or e-mail mike@insightbusinesscoaching.com

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

DECEMBER 14-20, 2011

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PAGE 27

PUBLIC SAFETY Kids’ prank about train accident not so funny A trio of juveniles in Wixom aren’t laughing now that they’ve been arrested for a prank they allegedly pulled off along the CSX Railroad that had law enforcement personnel concerned that a person was seriously injured.

At approximately 6:37 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 9, Wixom police received a report from the railroad that a southbound train might have struck a person on the tracks near the West Maple Road railroad crossing. The train was forced to initiate an emergency stop due to the incident.

Upon investigation by police and fire personnel, it was determined that the train had struck a partially-dressed mannequin-like figure. No person had been struck by the train.

Police retained the three juveniles during the investigation. They have been released pending a complaint filed in the Oakland County Juvenile Court. ❏

Police nab suspect in pair of home invasions Wixom police have arrested a man for allegedly breaking into a pair of homes near his residence in the 1500 block of Nightingale on Wednesday, Dec. 7.

Police were dispatched for a possible breaking and entering in progress at 7:15 a.m. A witness stated he approached a young white male coming out of his neighbor’s home. The suspect fled the scene in a dark minivan and the neighbor contacted police.

Officers entered the burglarized home and observed two garbage bags with property inside along with copper piping.

Two windows were broken at the scene. Police found a footprint in the snow.

The homeowner stated that knives and coins were taken, along with some old checks, a DeWalt shop vac and a radio.

A neighbor, who resides a few houses down, approached police and advised them that his son went out early that morning with his plumbing tools. Copper piping was found in the backyard.

He also stated that his 22-yearold son has a heroin problem and voiced his concern that perhaps his son could be responsible for the theft in question.

En route to speak to the man’s

Missing man found 42-year-old was driver in fatal wreck

By Angela Niemi staff writer

A

42-year-old Highland Township resident who went missing at approximately 8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 10 after being involved in a fatal car accident that took the life of a 21-year-old Highland man, has been found.

He was located on the evening of Monday, Dec. 12 at a home other than his own, where he had been staying after being released from the hospital this past weekend.

According to Lt. Dave Pement of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department Highland Substation, the missing man was the driver in a fatal single motor vehicle crash that occurred on Wednesday, Dec. 7 at around 11:17 p.m.

The 42-year-old was operating a 2009 Pontiac G6 eastbound on Middle Road when he failed to negotiate a curve and ran off the roadway before striking several trees. The vehicle overturned while descending an embankment into a wooded area.

The 21-year-old male victim was a back-seat passenger and was ejected from the vehicle. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

A 12-year-old back-seat passenger was also ejected from the vehicle and injured. She was taken by ambulance to Genesys Regional Medical Center in Grand Blanc Township and was reported in stable condition, along with a 20year-old Highland woman, who had been in the front passenger seat.

The 42-year-old driver was also taken to the hospital with back and knee injuries.

It’s unknown whether alcohol or drug use played a role in the crash, and the ejected passengers were not wearing seat belts at the time of the accident, according to law enforcement officials.

According to Pement, family members were worried when the driver went missing, as he had been despondent since the crash. Family members were also concerned as the driver’s shotgun had been missing from his home, as well.

However, law enforcement officials were unsure whether the missing shotgun was related to man going missing. Before being found Monday night, he had last been sighted walking down Middle Road at around 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 11.

Over the past few days, the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department sent a ground unit to search for the man, along with the department’s aviation unit.

They had been searching between the Highland Greens mobile home park where the man lives, and the crash site on Middle Road near Hickory Ridge Road before the man was located safe and sound at another residence. ❏ son, police saw the same footprint in the snow leading to a home in the 3000 block of Partridge. The home also had a broken window. Large amounts of water was pouring out into the backyard. Police discovered copper plumbing had been removed, similar to the first breaking and entering scene.

Police then saw a dark minivan in the area, peered inside and observed the missing radio and shop vac.

They intercepted the suspect who appeared to be intoxicated. His speech was slow and his eyes were glassy, according to police.

The suspect was arrested for both breaking and entering incidents. ❏

Man faces 20 years for $110K embezzlement A Waterford man who allegedly embezzled over $100,000 from his employer was arraigned in 50th District Court on Friday, Dec. 9.

Steve Sharrard, 47, reportedly worked as a bookkeeper for 12 years at Moote Electric, located at 490 S. Opdyke in Pontiac. Detectives from the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department Pontiac Substation began investigating embezzlement allegations after the owner of the company filed a complaint with the substation on Nov. 29.

The embezzlement, which totals $110,000, allegedly took place over the course of the last year. Detectives

from the Sheriff’s Department were able to determine the money was used to purchase lottery tickets.

Sharrard was given a $50,000 personal bond.

If convicted, Sharrard faces up to 20 years in prison. His next scheduled court date is tomorrow, Thursday, Dec. 15 at 1:30 p.m. ❏

Teen convicted in stabbing death case

By Michael Shelton staff writer

A 16-year-old Walled Lake resident was convicted in Oakland County Circuit Court on Monday, Dec. 12 in the stabbing death of another teenager.

Leonard White was found guilty by a jury of involuntary manslaughter in the June 4 death of 17-yearold Walled Lake resident Jonathan Rickman. However, White was found not guilty of assault with a deadly weapon.

The suspect was originally charged with open murder and assault with a dangerous weapon on June 6.

Rickman, a junior at Walled Lake Western High School, died as a result of one stab wound to the torso, after police officers responded to a call from Henry Ford Hospital in West Bloomfield about a stabbing victim.

Officers then went to a residence on Rafford Lane in West Bloomfield where four young men were found inside a house. One of them was the suspect, who was then taken into custody.

According to a West Bloomfield Police Department report, there was a gathering at the Rafford Lane house where people were playing cards and a disagreement broke out between the suspect and the victim — a dispute which escalated into a fight. The suspect allegedly marched into the kitchen and pulled out a knife and threatened the victim.

According to police, after the victim left the house, the suspect followed him out to his car and more words were exchanged before the suspect stabbed the victim in the street.

White claimed in court that Rickman was a bully, that Rickman boasted of having a gun, and that he was defending himself with no intention of stabbing Rickman.

The case was tried by Judge Wendy Potts, who will hand down White’s sentence on Wednesday, Jan. 4 at 3 p.m. ❏

PAGE 28

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

TRANSPORTATION

Locals say that takeover of RCOC unlikely

By Leslie Shepard staff writer

Two bills that recently passed the state House are raising questions about whether Michigan’s county road commissions will retain their autonomy.

The legislation comes on the heels

of Gov. Rick Snyder saying that road commissions are “unneeded.” He has suggested giving counties the option of usurping control over their road commissions or consolidating them.

“It’s an option, they don’t have to do it,” said state Rep. Chuck Moss (ROrchard Lake). “Our road commission in Oakland County is doing a great job and I don’t see why anyone would want to get rid of it, but unfortunately there a number of counties in upper Michigan where that’s not the case.

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There’s the thinking that if there’s one executive responsible for roads then the populace would have one person accountable. On the other hand, some want to make sure resources are not politicized.”

Runestad added that the Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC) does an outstanding job with

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PAGE 29

TRANSPORTATION

Road commissions

83 counties was created by a vote of the people, whether their commissionâ?Ż â?Ż â?Ż â?Ż PAGE 28 ers are elected or appointed, and if eliminated, it should be by the vote of the resources they’re given. the people, like they did in Wayne and “They do the best they can with Macomb counties.â€? the resources they have and look at State Reps. Hugh Crawford (Rour real needs and make the best Walled Lake, Wixom), Gail Haines (Rdecisions for the county,â€? Runestad Waterford, West Bloomfield), Eileen said.

Kowall (R-White Lake, Highland), Bill In a county where its county road Rogers (R-Milford) and Moss voted in commissioners are elected, any decifavor of both bills, but state Rep. Lisa sion to change the status quo would need to be voted on by the electorate. Brown (D-West Bloomfield, Commerce, Wolverine Lake) voted against the bills.

In Oakland County, the RCOC is Both Rogers and Kowall touted the governed by a three-member board RCOC’s efforts, but voted in favor of appointed by the county Board of Commissioners to six-year terms. One the legislation because other counties member is appointed every two years. aren’t as fortunate. “The language in the bill is permisAlthough the RCOC board is sive and gives other road commissions appointed by the county Board of the tools needed for their own particuCommissioners, the RCOC is separate lar situations,� Kowall said. “Our road from the county’s general governcommission in Oakland County is doing ment. The Board of Road Commissioners establishes RCOC poli- a great job, especially with the resources it’s given.� cies, administers its own budget and The RCOC views the bills as another hires the road commission’s managing attempt to shift funding to taxpayers. director. “We think it’s a rehashing of what “We take issue with the county taking over the road commission by a (former Gov. John) Engler did in the 1990s to shift funding onto the simple vote from the county board,� said RCOC Spokesperson Craig Bryson. locals,� Bryson said. “The road commission has no taxing authority, but “Every single road commission in all

counties do. By moving the jurisdiction to the counties, it forces counties to raise property taxes to fund roads.�

However, if that is the motive, shifting the jurisdiction to the county more than likely would not address the funding problem, according to the RCOC. “Roads in Michigan have been under-funded for 40 years,� Bryson said, adding that there is currently $20 million in equipment needs and millions of dollars in back-logged projects in Oakland County, all of which are on the back burner due to funding constraints. “Inheriting this would be a huge liability.�

While the RCOC is not panicked about any changeover in the foreseeable future, the possibility exists if the legislation passes the state Senate. “(Oakland County Executive L.) Brooks (Patterson) has no desire to take us over, and if anyone studies the issue, they wouldn’t want to,� Bryson said. “We don’t think there would be an immediate response, but there could be in the future.�

Rogers said he can’t see Oakland County taking over the RCOC. “I tend to doubt the commissioners here want to take that on,� Rogers said. “It’s not for the weak of heart.�

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Currently the rapport between the RCOC and the Oakland County Board of Commissioners is amiable and interactive, but if there was a change in leadership on the county board, the RCOC’s days could be numbered, Runestad said. “If a different group of people were elected to the board, the dynamic could very well change — you don’t know,� he said.

Other RCOC responsibilities that would be under the control of the county Board of Commissioners, if they opted to take it over, include the maintenance of the county road system, construction of new county roads and the improvement of existing county roads.

Runestad said taking control over the RCOC would be a daunting task. “In Oakland County, if (the county board) were to take over the RCOC, it would be highly politicized and the politics would weigh in on every decision,â€? he said. “The House pushed it through without debating some of the amendments we proposed, but we understand they are being more deliberative in the Senate,â€? Bryson said. “We’ll see.â€? â??

PAGE 30

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

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PAGE 31

ENVIRONMENT

NRTF board OKs $3.75M for trail’s land acquisition

By Angela Niemi staff writer

The old adage the third time’s the charm has proven true with regard to the Commerce, Walled Lake, and Wixom Trailway Management Council finally being recommended to receive funds from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (NRTF).

On Wednesday, Dec. 7, the NRTF Board of Trustees recommended to the Michigan Legislature that 99 recreation development projects and land acquisitions totaling nearly $39.7 million be funded in 2012.

The board this year had considered 145 applications for development and acquisition projects totaling roughly $63.75 million, which were competitively evaluated based on scoring criteria developed by the NRTF board.

The NRTF is a restricted fund that was established in 1976 to provide a source of funding for public acquisition of lands for resource protection and outdoor recreation. The funding is derived from royalties on the sale and lease of state-owned mineral rights.

The Trailway Management Council was recommended to receive $3.75 million to acquire a stretch of railway corridor and the Walled Lake Train Depot that is considered the missing link in a trail that would traverse the county and connect to a cross-state corridor spanning the Lower Peninsula.

The target 5.33 miles of Michigan Air-Line Railway corridor extending through the trailway council communities would be converted into a non-motorized recreational trail to link the Huron Valley and West Bloomfield trail segments.

“It feels wonderful (to be recommended),” said Commerce Township Planner Kathleen Jackson.

“It’s a big relief.”

The trailway council had previously made two unsuccessful attempts to get NRTF funding to acquire the railroad corridor.

A trailway council application was previously submitted for an NRTF grant in July 2009. The trailway council’s application was denied due to a lack of matching funds. Subsequently an application was resubmitted by the trailway council in April 2010 that addressed matching funds; however, the project was not selected for a grant after a local business, American Plastic Toys, protested the effort.

However, since then the U.S. Surface

The Commerce, Walled Lake, and Wixom Trailway Managemenet Council has been recommended to receive $3.75 million from the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund to acquire a stretch of railway corridor (above) and the Walled Lake Train Depot that is considered the missing link in a trail that would traverses the county and connect to a crossstate corridor spanning the Lower Peninsula. The portion of railroad would be converted into a non-motorized recreational trail to link the Huron Valley and West Bloomfield trail segments. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

Transportation Board (STB) granted the Michigan Air-Line Railway’s petition for an abandonment exemption which, according to Jackson, will take place in November 2012.

This means the owners of the railroad have until Nov. 30, 2012 to

The target 5.33 miles of Michigan Air-Line Railway corridor extending through the trailway council communities would be converted into a nonmotorized recreational trail to link the Huron Valley and West Bloomfield trail segments. pull up the ties and rails that run across M-5.

Jackson officials will have to build a bridge over M-5 to connect the trailway segements.

“MDOT (the Michigan Department of Transportation) has expressed an interest in building the bridge,” she said. ❏

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PAGE 33

STATE

Dems assail new bill targeting OC redistricting effort

By Kirk Pinho assistant editor

A Republican state lawmaker from Oxford Township has successfully pushed legislation through the state House of Representatives that would effectively bring Oakland County back to the drawing board when it comes to the redistricting process for new Board of Commissioners districts, as well as reduce the county’s governing body from 25 commissioners to no more than 21.

With House Bill (HB) 5187, sponsored by state Rep. Bradford Jacobsen (R-Oxford), a former county commissioner, Democrats in Oakland County are up in arms over the proposal that would essentially wrench their control of the 2011 district lines and hand it over to the GOP-controlled county commission.

In a 58-50 vote, state Reps. Hugh Crawford (R-Walled Lake, Wixom), Gail Haines (R-Waterford, West Bloomfield), Eileen Kowall (R-White Lake, Highland), Chuck Moss (ROrchard Lake) and Bill Rogers (RMilford) supported the legislation.

State Rep. Lisa Brown (D-West Bloomfield, Commerce, Wolverine Lake) voted against it.

Crawford, also a former county commissioner, said he supported the legislation because it would bring the county in line with the state legislative redistricting process and save the county about $250,000 a year in commissioner salaries and beneHaines fits.

“I think it’s a more fair way of redistricting,” said Kowall, a former county commissioner who also introduced a similar measure earlier this year that would give the redistricting power to the Board of Commissioners.

“It’s money-saving, but it’s also giving the redistricting to currently 25 people that more fairly represent the county.”

Haines said politics was not part of her decision to cast her vote in favor of HB 5187, which now heads to the state Senate for the upper chamber’s consideration.

“I’m really not interested in any of the political wrangling, but any time that I see that we can save money, and it’s been estimated that in 10 years,

Brown recall hits new snag Judge nixes panel’s approval of petition language isa Brown has reason to smile since an Oakland County Circuit Court judge has granted a motion for summary disposition of recall petition language that was previously approved by the Oakland County Elections Commission, effectively meaning that Democratic lawmaker representing West Bloomfield, Commerce and Wolverine Lake can breathe easy for the time being about the security of her job.

On Wednesday, Dec. 7, Circuit Court Judge Martha Anderson ruled in favor of a motion by the state representative’s attorney, Mary Ellen Gurewitz, to revoke the recall petition language submitted by West Bloomfield resident David Rohtbart, effectively ending that attempt to oust Brown from office.

“I’m not planning on doing anything,” said Rohtbart, who stressed that he is a political moderate. “If the (GOP) wants to do something beyond this, it’s up to them, but I’m moving to the sideline.”

A message with the Michigan Republican Party — which had been spearheading and financing the recall effort against Brown and, according to Oakland County Republican Party

Chairman Jim Thienel, paid canvassers $1 per signature collected — went unreturned prior to press time.

Rohtbart said he started the recall effort against Brown, who is in her second term, to make a statement about the political system when those on the left look to kick out Republican or conservative lawmakers for their votes.

“Any time a Republican does something, a union comes out Brown with a stupid recall thing. It’s almost like you have to counter-punch,” he said. “My statement was that I don’t feel that it was right for people on a political agenda not to allow people to do their job for a period of time.”

Oakland County Democratic Party Chairman Frank Houston welcomed Anderson’s decision.

“The courts, as well as the public, are sick of all the political games. I think it’s important for Democrats and Republicans to get back to focusing on issues that voters care about,” he said.

According to staff in the Oakland

County Clerk/Register of Deeds Office, 10,090 registered voter signatures — an amount equal to 25 percent of the voters in the 39th state House District that cast ballots for governor in 2010 — would have been needed for a Brown recall election to be held.

The language the Oakland County Elections Commission originally approved for two separate recall efforts filed by Rohtbart cited Brown’s opposition to the repeal of the pension tax exemption many retirees across the state enjoyed, as well as her vote against a bill that enacted an increased level of authority for emergency financial managers.

Brown wasn’t the only member of the lakes area’s delegation to the state House facing a recall effort.

State Rep. Gail Haines (R-Waterford, West Bloomfield) is the target of a recall effort by Waterford Township resident Neil Billington — who challenged Haines in the 2010 Republican primary election — for her vote in favor of the emergency financial manager bill that would eventually become Public Act 4 of 2011.

A message left for Brown at her Lansing office was not returned prior to press time. ❏

between $2.5 million and $3 million can be saved, and any time we can make government smaller, I’m interested in that type of legislation.”

Several also pointed to the fact that other major counties like Wayne, with a population of 1.8 million, and Macomb, which is inching towards 1 million residents, have county boards comprised of fewer members than Oakland’s.

As it currently stands under state law, the redistricting process for the Oakland County Board of Commissioners is the responsibility of a five-member Crawford county Reapportionment Commission, which statutorily is comprised of the county treasurer, county clerk/register of deeds, county prosecutor, and the chairs of the county Republican Party and county Democratic Party.

This year, that process was controlled by Democrats Frank Houston, the county Democratic Party chairman; county Prosecutor Jessica Cooper; and county Treasurer Andy Meisner. Oakland County Clerk/Register of Deeds Bill Bullard, Jr., a Republican, and county Republican Party Chairman Jim Thienel also served on the panel, which approved new Board of Commissioners districts in a party-line 3-2 vote in May. Houston didn’t mince words when decrying the legislative proposal.

“I’ve been involved in politics for 20 years ... and I have never, never seen such a blatant partisan overreach — and that includes my time in Illinois and in Michigan,” Houston said, also wondering why Jacobsen didn’t put forth the legislation months ago, before the county’s recent redistricting process began following the release of the 2010 U.S. Census figures, as required by law.

“I’m hoping cooler heads will prevail.

Houston added that he questions Jacobsen’s asertion that the bill isn’t motivated by political gain, and that Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patters “should be ashamed for supporting this.”

Cooper contends that HB 5187 may violate the Michigan Houston Constitution.

“You can’t pass an act that only applies to one county,” she said, adding that with the 2012 elections looming, the political “silly season” is on the minds of many. “I’m not going to challenge it (legally), but I’m sure there will be people who will. I’ve got stuff to do.”

HB 5187 now heads to the state Senate for consideration.

Jacobsen did not return calls seeking comment. ❏

By Kirk Pinho assistant editor

L

PAGE 34

Obituaries BERMAN, JEANETTE, a resident of Novi, Michigan, died on December 1st, 2011 at the age of 97. Funeral services arranged by The Dorfman Chapel.

KELLY, SAMUEL H., of Commerce Township was born on May 9, 1923.

He died November 29, 2011 at his home at the age of 88.

KEPES, GERALD, a resident of West Bloomfield, Michigan died on November 28th, 2011 at the age of 85. Funeral services arranged by The Dorfman Chapel.

LLYOD, MARVIN V., age 88, of Sylvan Lake passed away December 3, 2011.

MCDERMOTT, THOMAS P., of Fowlerville was born on April 11, 1964. He died November 30, 2011 at the age of 47.

MCDONALD, JOSEPH A., of Commerce Township was born on May 23, 1957. He died November 30, 2011 at his home at the age of 54.

MORRONE, JOSEPH VINCENT, of Milford and formerly of New Orleans, died on Saturday, December 3, 2011.

He was 42 years old.

STULIGROSS, KENNETH J., of Walled Lake was born on March 18, 1937 and died December 1, 2011 at age 74.

WALBERG, ROBERT BRUCE, a resident of Milford Township passed away in the care of his family December 2, 2011. He was 87 years old.

WALLACH, ANN, a resident of West Bloomfield, Michigan, died on November 27th, 2011 at the age of 87. Funeral services arranged by The Dorfman Chapel.

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

www.spinalcolumnonline.com FAX: 248.360.5308/248.360.5309

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COUNTY

High court appeal over BOC district lines will be filed

By Kirk Pinho assistant editor

County Republicans are taking their case to the state Supreme Court against a ruling by the Michigan Court of Appeals last month upholding the constitutionality of county Democrats’ adopted district lines for the Board of Commissioners.

County Republican Party Chairman Jim Thienel Thienel said he expects legal counsel in the lawsuit — filed on behalf of Oakland County Commissioner David Potts (RBirmingham); Janice Daniels, who was elected as Troy’s mayor in November; and Mary Decuir — to appeal the appeals court ruling this

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It’s unclear how, if at all, legislation that passed the state House of Representatives last week effectively giving the GOP-controlled county Board of Commissioners redistricting power would impact an expected appeal before the Supreme Court.

House Bill 5187 cleared the lower legislative chamber on Thursday, Dec. 8 and now is awaiting action by the state Senate.

“I believe the Potts appeal will be filed and I have no reason to believe at this point that it will not be filed,” Potts said earlier this week. “When I spoke with my lawyer, I was told the appeal would be filed this week.”

County Republicans believe their case may have a better shot at their desired outcome before the Republican-controlled state Supreme Court.

This comes after the appeals court ruled that the new district lines, adopted by the county’s Reapportionment Commission in May, held legal muster. The commission tasked with redrawing the Board of Commissioners district lines had a 3-2 Democratic majority, with county Democratic Party Chairman Frank Houston helming the panel.

County Treasurer Andy Meisner and Prosecutor Jessica Cooper, both Democrats, and Republican county Clerk/Register of Deeds Bill Bullard, Jr. and Thienel also served on the commission that was empaneled as required by law following the release of the 2010 U.S. Census figures.

Republicans contend that the district lines are gerrymandered for political advantage, a charge county Democrats have denied. ❏

Year of probation for former OCDP chief McGuinness

By Kirk Pinho assistant editor

The former chairman of the Oakland County Democratic Party was sentenced to 12 months of probation on six charges on Wednesday, Dec. 7, by Circuit Court Judge James

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Alexander, according to staff in the judge’s office.

Michael McGuinness pleaded no contest in October to three counts of uttering and publishing and three counts of falsely swearing on a legal document to register people to vote, all of which stemmed from the socalled “Tea Party” scandal, a scheme that reportedly was an attempt to divide the Republican electorate in close 2010 elections.

Jason Bauer, the former political director for the county’s Democratic Party, also pleaded no contest in November to similar charges that were brought forth earlier this year following county Prosecutor Jessica Cooper and Sheriff Michael Bouchard — a Democrat and a Republican, respectively — announcing charges against the pair in March.

The two former party officials were at the center of the scandal that eventually caused former Oakland County Clerk/Register of Deeds Ruth Johnson, now Michigan Secretary of State, and County Executive L. Brooks Patterson to request a oneMcGuinness man grand jury of Circuit Court Judge Edward Sosnick, which was convened in September 2010.

Bauer is accused of notarizing what were allegedly fraudulent 2010 candidate affidavits for Aaron W. Tyler, who was running for the county Board of Commissioners 2nd District seat; Ruth A. Spearman, who was running for the Board of Commissioners 4th District seat; and Johnathon Michael Young, who was running for the state Senate’s 12th District seat that represents communities outside the lakes area.

Uttering and publishing is a 14year felony; perjury is a 5-year felony; and violations of the Notary Public Act are 1-year misdemeanor offenses.

The county board’s District 2 represents Highland Township, the village of Holly, and Holly, Springfield and Rose townships. District 4 represents portions of Waterford and Independence townships, and Clarkston.

A message left with John M. Allen, the attorney representing McGuinness, was not returned prior to press time. ❏

DECEMBER 14-20, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 35

IN OUR OPINION

A blatant GOP power grab Effort to undo county board districts is selfish and disturbing T

he Michigan House of Representatives — dominated by a solid Republican majority — has passed a bill that would let Oakland County’s Board of Commissioners, also controlled by Republicans, essentially toss out previously approved new county commissioner districts and start the mandatory redistricting process from scratch. Supporters, including all but one of west Oakland’s state representatives, cite the cost savings that would result from enacting the bill, which also calls for reducing the number of county commissioners in Oakland. Yet the proposal should be viewed with a fair measure of suspicion.

Since it was Democrats who held a majority on the county redistricting panel that completed its statutory task earlier this year, the bill that recently cleared the House smacks of a blatant power grab.

House Bill (HB) 5187, sponsored by former Oakland County commissioner and current state Rep. Bradford Jacobsen (R-Oxford), would bring Oakland County back to the drawing board when it comes to the redistricting process for new Board of Commissioners districts, as well as reduce the county’s governing body from 25 commissioners to no more than 21.

Specifically, HB 5187 states that in a county with a population of 1 million or more that has adopted an optional unified form of county government with an elected executive under Public Act 139 of 1973, the apportionment commission shall be the county Board of Commissioners.

In a 58-50 vote, state Reps. Hugh Crawford (RWalled Lake, Wixom), Gail Haines (R-Waterford, West Bloomfield), Eileen Kowall (R-White Lake, Highland), Chuck Moss (R-Orchard Lake) and Bill Rogers (RMilford) supported the legislation. State Rep. Lisa Brown (D-West Bloomfield, Commerce, Wolverine

Lake) voted against it.

HB 5187 now heads to the state Senate for consideration.

Supporters of the bills state it would bring the county in line with the state legislative redistricting process and save the county about $250,000 a year in commissioner salaries and benefits. They also hold that the Board of Commissioners would more fairly represent the county’s voters in carrying out the required redistricting chore.

Under current state law, redistricting for the Oakland County Board of Commissioners is the responsibility of a five-member county Reapportionment Commission, which under the law is comprised of the county treasurer, county clerk/register of deeds, county prosecutor, and the chairs of the county Republican and Democratic parties.

This year, that process was controlled by Democrats Frank Houston, the county Democratic Party chairman; county Prosecutor Jessica Cooper; and county Treasurer Andy Meisner. Oakland County Clerk/Register of Deeds Bill Bullard, Jr., a Republican, and county Republican Party Chairman Jim Thienel also served on the panel, which approved new Board of Commissioners districts in a party-line 3-2 vote in May. Back in March, Kowall introduced HB 4380, stating that in a county with a population of 1 million and an elected county executive, the county apportionment commission shall be the county Board of Commissioners. That bill is largely similar to HB 5187, but lacks the provision whittling the county Board of Commissioners down from 25 members to 21.

HB 5187 is also similar to Kowall’s HB 4380 in that it appears to be a brazen effort by Republicans to

rewrite the redistricting law so that they may control the process and carve up districts that benefit the GOP for the next 10 years.

The redistricting chore can be characterized by the familiar phrase, “to the winner goes the spoils.” Every 10 years following the release of new U.S. Census statistics, the county Reapportionment Commission draws up new districts. And every 10 years the party holding the majority on that commission comes up with new districts that benefit it, and the minority party cries foul. It unfolds that way like clockwork. It’s not uncommon for the minority party to file a legal challenge against the majority’s new district map, as has been the case this year.

We expect such gamesmanship in the redistricting process. But trying to change the rules of the game when they no longer benefit your party takes the game to a whole new, overtly selfish and disturbing level.

You can bet that if Democrats held a majority on the county Board of Commissioners, neither HB 5187 nor HB 4380 would have been introduced. Similarly, neither bill would have been introduced if the GOP held a majority on the county’s Reapportionment Commission.

It’s telling that there was no talk of savings for the county when Kowall’s HB 4380 was introduced in March. Now, HB 5187 includes a provision to reduce the number of elected county commissioners and conveniently provide for the “cost savings” support argument, which provides cover for what we believe to be the real catalyst for the bill — sore loser Republicans wanting to undo the new commissioner districts so they can have their own way with district lines.

If saving the county money is the real intent, let the county board cut commissioner pay and benefits.

But don’t hold your breath for that. ❏

‘Fracking’ bills make sense C

oncerns about hydraulic fracturing, more commonly known as “fracking,” have prompted some in the state House of Representatives to introduce a legislative package — House Bills (HBs) 5149, 5150 and 5151 — that would, among other things, institute a one-year moratorium on the controversial process that is used to stimulate wells for the extraction of underground resources, including oil, natural gas, geothermal energy, or water, while a study on fracking is being conducted in other states. Because the process has the potential to cause significant harm to drinking water supplies and more information is needed on its possible consequences, lawmakers should enact the proposal.

Fracking is used by gas producers to stimulate wells and recover natural gas from sources such as coal beds and shale gas formations, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The process uses thousands of gallons of water, mixed with chemicals and sand, to create fissures in rock formations to release oil and natural gas.

A study conducted by the EPA in 2004 concluded that there was little-to-no risk of fracturing fluid contaminating underground sources of drinking water. In 2005, Congress exempted hydraulic fracturing from the federal Safe Drinking Water Act. Since then, however, there have been complaints of water contamination following the use of fracking in several states, including Wyoming and Pennsylvania.

According to state Rep. Jeff Irwin (D-Ann Arbor), the bill he is sponsoring — HB 5149 — requires oil and gas companies to follow the same rules as all other citizens with respect to water use. Another requires a one-year study to be conducted in order to look at the best practices of hydraulic fracturing in

other states around the country, while a third bill requires a one-year moratorium on fracking while that study is being conducted.

While we whole-heartedly believe in the need to further pursue domestic energy production as a means to alleviate America’s dependence on foreign energy supplies, it only makes sense to be sure that the procedures by which that domestic energy is retrieved are safe. Holding off a year on obtaining natural resources through fracking is reasonable while more information on the process’ potential adverse effects, particularly given some issues that have been raised in other states relative to drinking water supplies — which are of the utmost importance. In the meantime, oil and gas can be tapped via other existing means.

Lawmakers should back the Democrats’ proposal and stand pat for a year on fracking. ❏

PAGE 36

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

OAKLAND CONFIDENTIAL

MAIL BAG

Commerce stewards F rom Marvin Lee, Commerce: (Commerce Township Supervisor) Tom Zoner, (Trustee) Rob Long and all the Commerce Township officials have been very responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars. Any suggestion to the contrary is out of line. ❏

Facts of the merger Crawford

Cooper

A collection of gossip, scuttlebutt, and odds and ends from our reporters’ notebooks.

WHAT’S NEXT? With visions of sugar plums dancing in their heads, perhaps, and a lengthy break on the way, members of the lakes area’s delegation to the state House of Representatives are likely eager for a respite from the rigors of Lansing. We know we would be, too, after a year of doing political battle for, you know, the GOP’s wish list for Santa Claus — business tax cuts, labor reforms, tackling teacher tenure, yadda, yadda, yadda. So, that being said, what’s next? State Rep. Eileen Kowall’s (R-White Lake, Highland) crystal ball is showing that additional reforms to the state’s education system are likely coming down the pike in 2012. “I think you’re going to see more on education, and not just K-12, but community colleges and colleges, too.” And state Rep. Hugh Crawford, a Republican representing Walled Lake and Wixom, says the state House is waiting for some recommendations from a slew of committees Gov. Rick Snyder has put together, particularly regarding liquor control. Although it’s unclear what exactly those reforms are going to be, we’ll drink to that.

NO SURPRISES: Not that this is a political bombshell by any stretch of the imagination, but Oakland County Prosecutor Jessica Cooper, heretofore referred to as “Coop,” will be seeking re-election as the county’s top badguy-or-gal-getter (at least in court).

She said she’s already held some fundraisers for her campaign. And who, you may be asking, might she face in a 2012 general election campaign? Well, some names have been floated around the water cooler as possible Republican challengers, but the little birdies who told us them told Oakland Confidential in confidence — which is all to say, we can’t tell you ... yet. Stay tuned, folks.

PEOPLE’S COURT: Now that former Oakland County Democratic Party Chairman Michael McGuinness has been sentenced to a year’s worth of probation for his apparent role in the socalled “Tea Party” fiasco — and we don’t use the word “fiasco” every day

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Schostak

Kowall

— that roiled Republicans and, yes, even some Democrats in 2010 (Coop is one of them), what does the current party chief have to say about the whole debacle? “The bottom line is, I think it’s good for everybody that we can move past this issue,” said county Democratic Party Chairman Frank Houston. “The reality is, the legal system worked the way it’s supposed to.” And how. And little ol’ Oakland County got the attention of Michigan Republican Party Chairman Bobby Schostak, who issued the following response to the sentencing last week: “It is reprehensible for anyone to try to manipulate the electoral process by submitting the names of people as candidates who are not even aware their names are being submitted, as apparently occurred in this case. To do so under the guise of forming a new political party adds shame to this incredibly devious — and not too bright — politically motivated maneuver.” McGuinness and former county party political operative Jason Bauer apparently were the ringleaders (although we’ve certainly heard otherwise) in the Tea Party charade in which a spate of “candidates” were put forward for the 2010 Michigan ballot, including right here in the lakes area. In some cases, those candidates weren’t constitutionally eligible to run for the office for which their name was submitted due to their age. Oops. Both McGuinness and Bauer pleaded no contest in their separate trials. Bauer’s day of reckoning comes on Jan. 12, 2012.

KOWALL WATCH: 2012: State Sen. Mike Kowall (R-Every Lakes Area Community But Waterford) told Oakland Confidential that he plans on submitted the appropriate paperwork for his planned campaign for the Republican nomination for the newlydrawn 11th U.S. House District by the end of the calendar year. In that race, Kowall will square off with CouldaBeen-President, U.S. Rep. Thaddeus McCotter (R-Waterford, White Lake, Highland, Milford, Commerce, Wolverine Lake, Walled Lake, Wixom).

Kerry Bentivolio, a Republican, is also seeking the GOP’s nomination. This’ll be a doozie, y’all. ❏

From Carl Solden, Waterford Township Supervisor: Based on recent events, as well as misinformation being disseminated by people regarding contract fire (department) services between Waterford Township and the city of Pontiac, I am not only compelled but it is my responsibility to see that all stake-holding citizens, especially Waterford citizens, are informed (about) the true facts pertaining to this endeavor.

I allude to the Waterford citizens as they are and have been paying taxes, including millages, to support their fire/EMS services in their home community. I, as well as the Township Board (of Trustees), am very cognizant of that fact and your tax dollars will stay in Waterford. We are very fortunate to continue to have first-class and excellent fire/EMS services provided by the professional staff in the Waterford Fire Department.

On Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2011, many representatives from (fire unions other than Waterford’s) protested at the Waterford Township Civic Center. The protest was under the guise of seeking citizen support to repeal Michigan’s Public Act 4, which outlines the duties and powers of state-appointed Solden (emergency) financial managers. I will also say the majority of the people engaged in the protest were orderly and they were more than welcome to express their concerns at our civic center.

Unfortunately, it didn’t take long to realize that the true meaning of the protest was to alienate our Waterford citizens with respect to contracting fire services with the city of Pontiac. Signs, as well as comments to the media reinforced my suspicions as to the real reason for the protest. The misinformation was disturbing and uncalled for at best.

Comments were made to (another

media outlet) via video that Waterford citizens’ fire/EMS services would be “depleted in this deal,” there would be “possible fallout,” (and) this deal would “affect their services.” Signage stated, “Do you know where your taxes are going?” This is a sample of the remarks.

Waterford citizens deserve to know the (real) facts: Your tax dollars will remain in Waterford; your fire/EMS services will remain in tact, as always; and there will be no change in fire/EMS services to Waterford Township.

Waterford will staff fire stations in Pontiac to serve the citizens with quality and professional services, hopefully with a majority of the same firefighters currently employed in Pontiac if they choose to apply and if they qualify for employment with Waterford Township.

They will be under the direction of the Waterford Township fire chief and his administration.

This contract is strictly a business venture as it relates to revenues and expenditures. In order for this venture to be successful, Pontiac must save money and Waterford must make money. Both equations will be met.

There is no reason to and we will not change anything in Waterford Township. Almost all fire departments in Oakland County are and have been participants in mutual aid, whereas Waterford assists Pontiac when called upon and vise-versa. That also will remain in tact, not only with Waterford and Pontiac but with every fire department in Oakland County.

I don’t think any of us wish to see “changes” such as this, but again the (real) facts are revenues have been decreasing for the last 10 years; (and) property assessments have gone down, which creates a huge loss for municipalities in property tax dollars, our main source of income. Unfortunately the economic status has dictated these very types of “changes.” Business as we once knew it is no longer sustainable.

Unfortunately, Waterford Township, as well as the Waterford Professional Firefighters, is being blamed for promoting, instigating and initiating this contractual agreement. That is another (falsehood).

I attended a meeting where (Pontiac Emergency Financial Manager) Mr. (Lou) Schimmel explained there was interest in discussing changes in the manner in which fire service would be provided in the future for the city of Pontiac. I have an extreme amount of

PAGE 37 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

DECEMBER 14-20, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

MAIL BAG

Continued ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 36

confidence in our fire (department) administration and their entire staff; there was no doubt in my mind Waterford Township could handle fire services for the city of Pontiac, thus the talks began.

I will also take the blame for an additional $2.2 million coming to Waterford through this contract, enabling us to continue providing fire/EMS services in Waterford without

personnel cuts. Although I am part of this by being there and willing, I can’t take the blame for the city of Pontiac saving $3 million in this endeavor, that blame rests entirely on the shoulders of Mr. Schimmel. So you see, the citizens of both municipalities have gained!

I will also note (that) I, as well as the six other board members and our families, reside in Waterford. Do you think (any) of us would act in a manner to destroy or weaken our fire/EMS services? ❏

PAGE 37

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Congratulations to the 2011 Christmas Coloring Contest Winners!

Zechariah Premkumar . .Age 10 Morgan Main . . . . . . . . . .Age 9 Rylie Josephson . . . . . . .Age 8 Matthew Young . . . . . . . .Age 7 Michael Paduchowski . . .Age 6 Sarah Young . . . . . . . . . .Age 6 Filip Steciak . . . . . . . . . .Age 5 Wyatt Josephson . . . . . .Age 5 Anjelina Collier . . . . . . . .Age 4 Layne Biggers . . . . . . . . .Age 3

Notice of Posting for Charter Township of West Bloomfield Township Board 1. Synopsis of the Special Budget Meeting held on: Wednesday, December 7, 2011 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: 12-14-11

How Long Have You Been Married?

The Spinal Column Newsweekly is looking for west Oakland's longest married couples for recognition in our Seniors Today special section, which will be published on Jan. 18, 2012.

Send us a copy of your wedding or engagement photo, along with information about the wedding, by Wed., Jan. 4, 2012. We will feature the area's longest married couples in an article and photo layout that tells their story.

The Longest Married Couple will receive a Gift Certificate for a romantic dinner at a local restaurant.

Send your photos and information to Editor Tim Dmoch P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387-0014; or via e-mail to timdmoch@thescngroup.com.

AROUND THE LAKES AREA

A special feature of the Spinal Column Newsweekly

WE’RE ASKING… What is the best movie you've seen in 2011? "'Friends With Benefits.'

It was really funny."

— Brooke Hensley, White Lake Township

"'Jack and Jill.' It was just hilarious because of Adam Sandler."

— Diane Burrill, White Lake Township

"'Dolphin Tale.' It was innocent and true."

— Stacey Stanek, Milford

"'Bridesmaids.' I enjoyed it. It was fun and entertaining."

— Bobbie Henry, Highland Township

PAGE 38

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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR ■ Church of the Holy Spirit: 50-plus Singles Christmas Dance, DJ Terry Barr, beer, wine, snacks, Friday, Dec. 16, 3700 Harvey Lake Road, Highland. $10 in advance, $15 at the door. 248-8876933, 248-343-4551 or 248-8727140.

■ Williams Lake Church of the Nazarene: Holiday Market Place, ladies shopping event with food, music, and door prizes, 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16, 2840 Airport Road, Waterford. 248673-5911.

■ Democrats of West Oakland County: Annual holiday candlelight dinner, public invited, Tuesday, Dec. 20, Bayside Sports Bar and Grille, 142 E. Walled Lake Drive, Walled Lake. $20 paid in advance. For menu and payment options, see www.mydems.info.

■ Huron Valley Council of the Arts: Highland Festival of Trees Artist Market, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays; and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays now through Friday, Dec. 23, 205 W. Livingston Road, Highland. 248-8898660.

■ Jewish Ensemble Theatre: “God of Carnage,” Tony Award-winning comedy for Best Play 2009, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays now through Jan. 1, 2012, 6600 W. Maple Road, West Bloomfield. 248-788-2900 or visit jettheatre.com.

■ Lakes Area Rotary Club: Meeting, noon, Tuesdays, Bayside Grill, 142 E. Walled Lake Drive, Walled Lake. 248770-2707.

■ Dads of Foreign Service: Bingo, 5:30 p.m. Sundays, VFW Post 4156, 321 Union Lake Road, White Lake. www.vfw4156.org or 248-698-8302.

■ Rotary of West Bloomfield: Meeting, 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Henry Ford Medical Center, second floor, southwest corner of Farmington and Maple roads. 248520-0095.

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

■ Big Chief Chorus: Rehearsals, 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Waterford Oaks Activity Center, 2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford. 248-698-9133 or 248-5632109.

■ Huron Valley Council for the Arts: Knitters circle, 10 a.m. Wednesdays, Highland Station House, Highland. 248685-9015.

■ (Breakfast) Optimist Club of Waterford: Meeting, 7:15 a.m.

Thursdays, Big Boy Restaurant, M-59 and Airport Road, Waterford. 248-6733493.

■ Multi-Lakes Conservation Association: All-you-can-eat fish fry, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Fridays, 3860 Newton Road, Commerce. 248-3639109.

■ Grace Hospice: Volunteers with reliable transportation needed to visit terminally-ill patients and family members in our communities. Free training and classes are now forming. 1-888-9374390.

■ Catholic Social Services of Oakland County: Senior companion volunteers needed to support adults with developmental disabilities, Alzheimer’s disease, chronic mental illness, as well as the physically frail and homebound. 248559-1147, ext. 3434.

SUPPORT GROUPS ❐ Celebrate Recovery: Alcohol, drugs, gambling, sexual addition recovery meetings, 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Life Point Christian Church, 501 Scott Lake Road, Waterford. 248-682-1747. ❐ Divorce Care: Support group meeting for adults and children, 6:30 p.m.

Sundays, Brightmoor Christian Church, 40800 W. 13 Mile, Novi. 248-7559533. ❐ Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous: Meeting, 6 p.m. Fridays, Crossroads Presbyterian Church, 1445 Welch Road, Commerce. 248-807-8667 or foodaddicts.org. ❐ Independence Village of White Lake: Volunteers needed part-time for Bingo, coffee chat, walking group, etc., 935 Union Lake Road, White Lake. 248-3607235. ❐ Over-Eaters Anonymous: Recovery from compulsive eating, 12-step program, meeting, 6 p.m. Tuesdays, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 5301 Hatchery Road, Waterford. ❐ 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. ❐ Postpartum Depression Support Group: Meeting, 6:45 p.m. Thursdays, DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital, Commerce. 248-937-5220.

SENIOR ACTIVITIES ❐ Calvary Lutheran Church: In conjunction with St. Joseph Mercy Oakland, “Senior Fit,” free exercise program for ages 55 and up, 11 a.m. to noon, Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, 9101 Highland Road, White Lake. Registration.

1-800-372-6094 or 248-625-3288.

Trail, Wixom. wixomgov.org.

248-624-0870

or

PARKS ❐ Indian Springs Environmental Discovery Center: “Uncovering the Invisible Hike,” 1 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18, Indian Springs Metropark, White Lake. Registration. 248-625-6640. ❐ Kensington Farm Center: Farmer for a Day, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28, Kensington Metropark, Milford.

Registration. 248-684-8632.

❐ Dublin Senior Center: Lunch, Bingo and cards, 11:30 a.m. Mondays and Fridays, 685 Union Lake Road, White Lake. Registration. 248-698-2394.

❐ Kensington Nature Center: Reptiles in the Lobby, 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17; Winter Walkabout, 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 18, Kensington Metropark, Milford. Registration. 248-685-1561 or 1-800-477-3178.

❐ Foster Grandparent Program of Oakland County: Volunteers needed ages 55 and older to provide tutoring, mentoring and nurturing youth with special needs. Volunteers receive a non-taxable stipend, mileage reimbursement, a meal or meal reimbursement, training. 248559-1147, ext. 3424.

❐ Commerce Township Community Library: Rhoda Janzen’s “Mennonite in a little black dress,” adult book discussion, 10:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 16, 2860 N. Pontiac Trail, Commerce. 248-6698108 or commercelibrary.info.

❐ Highland Adult Activity Center: Bingo, noon, Mondays and Wednesdays; Sit’N’Stitch, 10 a.m., and movie with popcorn, noon, Fridays, 209 N. John Street, Highland. 248-887-1707. ❐ Richardson Community Senior Center: Knitting and crochet group, 9:30 a.m.

Tuesdays, 1485 E. Oakley Park, Commerce. Registration. 248-926-0063 or commercetwp.com. ❐ Sylvan Lake Lutheran Church: Senior Stretch and Tone, 11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 8:30 a.m. Fridays, 2399 Figa Ave., West Bloomfield. 248-682-0770. ❐ Waterford Senior Center: Poker, 9 a.m.

Mondays and Thursdays, 3621 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford. Registration. 248682-9450. ❐ West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation Senior Programs: Line dancing, 11 a.m.

Fridays at the Corners, 4640 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield. Registration.

248-451-1900. ❐ Wixom Senior Center: Senior Christmas Party, 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 15; Meals on Wheels, first and third Monday of the month (must pre-register by the Thursday before), 49015 Pontiac

LIBRARY EVENTS

❐ Highland Township Public Library: Meet Local Author, Amy Ackley, book signing and Q&A, 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 21, 444 Beach Farm Circle, Highland. Registration. 248-8872218. ❐ Milford Public Library: Create Holiday Gift tags, grades 3-7, 10:30 a.m. Monday, Dec. 19, 330 Family Drive, Milford. Registration. 248-6840845. ❐ Walled Lake City Library: Afternoon Book Discussion Group, 12:30 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 20, 1499 E. West Maple, Walled Lake. Registration. 248-6243772. ❐ Waterford Township Public Library: Waterford Genealogical Society Meeting, 1 p.m. Wednesday, Dec/ 21, 5168 Civic Center Drive, Waterford.

Registration. 248-672-4831. ❐ West Bloomfield Township Public Library: Adult Book Review, Jamie Ford’s “Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet,” 10 a.m. Friday, Dec. 16; Music @ Main, Double Play, flute and tuba duets, 3 & 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. PAGE 39 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

DECEMBER 14-21, 2011

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Continued ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 38

18, 4600 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield. Free admission for both book review and concerts. 248-851-0463 or www.wblib.org. ❐ White Lake Township Library: Baby Play Group, 10:30 a.m. Friday, Dec. 16, 7527 E. Highland Road, White Lake.

Registration. 248-698-4942. ❐ Wixom Public Library:Hooks for Hope,

All Ages Knitting Group, 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 20; Children’s “New Year’s Dance Party,” all ages, 2 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 28, 49015 Pontiac Trail, Wixom.

Registration. 248-624-2512.

RELIGIOUS

❐ Waterford Community Church:”Walk Through Bethlehem,” 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 17 and 18, 3900 Airport Road, Waterford.

Free admission. 248-623-1340 or waterfordwired.org.

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF WHITE LAKE OAKLAND COUNTY, MICHIGAN

NOTICE OF ADOPTION AMENDMENT TO ORDINANCE NO. 32-A TRAFFIC CODE ORDINANCE Notice is hereby given that at a regular board meeting on November 15, 2011 the Charter Township of White Lake adopted amendments to Ordinance No. 32-A,Traffic Code Ordinance. The amendments to the Ordinance were accepted by the Charter Township of White Lake on October 18, 2011 and adopted at the November 15, 2011 regular board meeting.

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE TRAFFIC CODE ORDINANCE FOR THE CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF WHITE LAKE, IN ITS ENTIRETY. ARTICLE I. ADOPTION OF UNIFORM TRAFFIC CODE Section 1 Code Adopted Section 2 References in Code Section 3 Notice Section 4 Penalties Section 5 Applicability to Private Property Section 6 Parking on Private Property; violation as Civil Association ARTICLE II. ADOPTION OF MICHIGAN VEHICLE CODE Section 1 Code Adopted Section 2 References in Code Section 3 Notice Section 4 Penalties Section 5 Applicability to Private Property Section 6 Parking on Private Property; violation as Civil Association ARTICLE III. ADOPTION OF NATURAL RESOURCE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT, CHAPTER 324, PART 821, SNOWMOBILES Section 1 Act Adopted Section 2 References in Act Section 3 Notice Section 4 Penalties ARTICLE IV. ADOPTION OF MICHIGAN MOTOR CARRIER SAFETY ACT Section 1 Act Adopted Section 2 References in Act Section 3 Notice Section 4 Penalties ARTICLE V. ADOPTION OF NATURAL RESOURCE DEVELOPMENTAL PROTECTION ACT, CHAPTER 324, PART 811, OFF ROAD VEHICLES Section 1 Act Adopted Section 2 References in Act Section 3 Notice Section 4 Penalties ARTICLE VI SEVERABILITY ARTICLE VII REPEALER ARTICLE VIII EFFECTIVE DATE ARTICLE IX ADOPTION

PAGE 39

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This Ordinance will be in effect seven (7) days after publication. This Ordinance is available for purchase or inspection at the office of the Township Clerk at 7525 Highland Road, White Lake, Michigan during regular hours from 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. Monday through Friday, except holidays.

Terry Lilley, Township Clerk SC: 12-14-2011

6525 COMMERCE RD., WEST BLOOMFIELD • 248.363.7666

s m E: to co IN o e.

- L p h li n ON e on W am mn NO d g lu de lco Ad ina sp

@

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Eagles go 1-1 Lakeland tops Pinckney following loss

By Michael Shelton staff writer

Huron Valley Lakeland split its first two games of the season at home, including a 49-41 victory over Pinckney on Thursday, Dec. 8.

The score was tied at 11-11 in the first quarter before Lakeland took a 26-22 lead into the locker room at halftime.

The Eagles then led 33-31 at the end of the third quarter before outscoring the Pirates 16-10 in the fourth quarter to pull out the win.

View VIDEO CLIPS relative to this story at

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

Tommy Yakel led Lakeland with 16 points, including 5 three-pointers, while Chuck Sanders scored 12 points.

Sophomore Nick Troxell scored 5 points and blocked 6 shots while senior Casey Palanca scored 4 points and grabbed 6 rebounds.

“After having a very lackluster performance on Tuesday against Wayne Memorial, we bounced back and played Lakeland basketball. We played with energy, toughness, and intelligence,” said Lakeland Head Coach Bob Brugger. “Our overall teamwork was PAGE 41 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

Huron Valley Lakeland’s Brad Govan (No. 44) goes for a shot against Pinckney’s Dominic Bona (No. 3) and Stephen Waltersdorf (No. 33) on Thursday, Dec. 8. The Eagles defeated the Pirates, 49-41, on their home floor after losing by 1 point to Wayne Memorial two nights earlier. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

DECEMBER 14-20, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 41

BOYS BASKETBALL

Lakeland Eagles ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 40

much better than was displayed on Tuesday. We have a lot of new faces and are still trying to establish roles on our team. With the strong post presence we have, it will be essential that we shoot well from the perimeter to keep defenses from doubling the post.”

Lakeland began its season with a 44-43 loss to Wayne Memorial on Tuesday, Dec. 6.

The Eagles trailed 12-3 at the end of the first quarter before going on a 15-9 run in the second quarter to trail 21-18 at halftime.

Lakeland outscored Wayne 13-8 in the third quarter to lead 31-29, but Wayne outscored the Eagles 15-12 in the fourth quarter to steal the victory.

Sanders led Lakeland with 12 points, while Troy Baertson had 11 points.

Lakeland will host Huron Valley Milford on Friday, Dec. 16 before playing in the Livonia Franklin Holiday Tournament on Wednesday, Dec. 28 and Thursday, Dec. 29.

The Eagles finished 12-11 last season and are looking to return to the top of the Kensington Lakes Activities Association (KLAA) North Division this year.

“I like our athleticism and look forward to watching us mature as a basketball team and learn how to play together on both ends of the floor,” Brugger said.

Central, Western cruise in season openers; Mott falls Walled Lake Central won its season opener, 50-29, at home over Novi on Tuesday, Dec. 6.

Charles Taylor, a transfer student, led the Vikings (1-0) with 15 points and 12 rebounds.

Central, the defending Kensington Lakes Activities Association (KLAA) North Division champion, played at Northville yesterday, Tuesday, Dec. 13 after press time and will host Grand Blanc on Friday, Dec. 16 before playing at Grosse Pointe North on Tuesday, Dec. 20.

• Walled Lake Western won its season opener in impressive fashion, 69-29, over Franklin Road Christian at home on Friday, Dec. 9.

Senior forward Cam Vieaux led the way for the Warriors (1-0) with 18 points and 5 rebounds. Senior forward

The CW3 Extreme U14 Boys Premier Red soccer team won its division at the Capitol Area Classic on Sept. 18 in Lansing. Pictured in the top row from left to right are: Patrick Rori, Jacob Kirsch, Andrew Martin, Nickolas Bourlier, Evan Norton, Jeff James, Robert Vangel and Coach Chris Haney. In the middle row from left to right are: Ethan Bresnay, Eddy Perez, Cameron Dickinson and Jake Phillips. In the bottom row from left to right are: Ben Freeman, Michael Santoni, David Lawless, Davis Weber and Elton Gjura. (Photo by Roger Martin)

Aaron Prim had 12 points, 12 rebounds, and 5 blocks; and junior guard Korey Wade had 10 points and 5 assists, as the Warriors gave firstyear Head Coach RaRedding Murray his first victory.

Western played at Farmington Hills Harrison on Dec. 13 after press time and will host Brighton on Friday, Dec. 16.

• Waterford Mott fell in its season opener at Birmingham Groves, 57-52.

Khalil Malone led the Corsairs (0-1) with 18 points and 6 rebounds. Drew Hovsepian chipped in with 13 points and Hunter Reiche contributed 12 points in Mott’s first game for new Head Coach Jeff Jayson.

Mott played its home opener on Monday, Dec. 12 after press time against Ferndale and will play at West Bloomfield tonight, Wednesday, Dec. 14 before hosting Hartland on Friday, Dec. 1 • Huron Valley Milford opened its 2011-12 campaign with a 47-30 victory at home over Livonia Franklin on Friday, Dec. 9.

The Mavericks (1-0) led 16-7 at halftime before Franklin cut their lead to 2 in the third quarter.

But, Milford responded by scoring 23 points in the fourth quarter to pull out the victory.

Joshua Corey led Milford with 12 points, including 10 in the fourth, while Christopher Orr and Steven Sloboda each scored 10 points. Jacob Lee chipped in with 9 points.

Milford finished just one game below .500 last season at 10-11 and is looking for a breakout year in 2012.

Milford played at South Lyon East on Tuesday, Dec. 13 after press time and will travel to face rival Huron Valley Lakeland on Friday, Dec. 16.

The Mavericks will then play in the Northville Holiday Tournament on Wednesday, Dec. 28 and Thursday, Dec. 29.

• Walled Lake Northern is off to a 20 start to the 2011-12 season with two big victories on its home floor this past week.

The Knights began their season with a 53-31 victory over Northville on Tuesday, Dec. 6.

Northern led 16-10 at the end of the first quarter and 26-15 at halftime before outscoring the Mustangs 27-16 in the second half.

Ryan Soulet led the Knights with 15 points while Jared Sheena had 11 and Gage Throgmorton had 9.

Northern then hung on to defeat Novi, 53-47, on Friday, Dec. 9 in a game in which the Knights had a 17point lead, but the Wildcats would not go away.

Northern led 31-17 at halftime, but Novi pulled to within 45-42 late in the game. However, Northern was able to hit its free throws down the stretch.

Gage Throgmorton led the Knights with 23 points, including 17 in the first half, while Ryan Soulet had 7 points.

Tre Caldwell led Novi with 16 points while Alex King had 9 and Michael Joez had 6.

Northern will host Howell on Friday, Dec. 16 before playing in the Dexter Holiday Tournament on Dec. 28 and 29.

• West Bloomfield split its first two PAGE 42 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

PAGE 42

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BOYS BASKETBALL

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Boys Hoops Recap

Full-court pressure key to Captains’ 59-20 blowout win

❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 41

games of the season this past week.

The Lakers (1-1) picked up their first win, 60-52, on Friday, Dec. 9 at Oak Park.

The game was hotly contested throughout, with West Bloomfield leading 13-11 at the end of the first quarter, 23-20 at halftime and 40-34 at the end of the third quarter.

Daryn Bryd, the Lakers’ lone returning starter from last season, led his team with 20 points, while Jake Daniels had 10 and Moe Sims had 9.

The Lakers began their season with a 53-49 loss at Melvindale on Tuesday, Dec. 6.

West Bloomfield will next host Waterford Mott tonight, Wednesday, Dec. 14.

• Orchard Lake St. Mary’s opened up its 2011-12 season with a 60-49 defeat at home to Clarkston on Friday, Dec. 9.

The Wolves led 29-21 at halftime and 48-34 at the end of the third quarter.

Justin Barrows and Sam McClendon each scored 12 points for the Eaglets (1-1).

Mitch Baenziger led Clarkston with 23 points while Nick Tatu scored 15.

St. Mary’s then rebounded with a 58-55 victory at home over Henry Ford on Saturday, Dec. 10.

Chibunna Ukandu led the Eaglets with 16 points while Barrows had 14 and McClendon had 11.

St. Mary’s will next host Flint Powers Catholic on Friday, Dec. 16 for Alumni Night before playing in the Mt. Clemens L’Anse Creuse Classic on Tuesday, Dec. 27 and Wednesday, Dec. 28.

• Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes dropped two games on the road this past week to begin the 2011-12 season.

The Lakers (0-2) began the week with a 59-31 loss at the hands of Oakland Christian on Monday, Dec. 5.

Our Lady then traveled to Royal Oak Shrine on Wednesday, Dec. 7 and fell 68-56.

Garrett Ross scored 22 points to lead Our Lady against Shrine while Jake Doetsch had 13 points. Josh Green and Colt Moran each had 8 points.

Our Lady played at Crosswell Lexington on Monday, Dec. 12 after press time and will host Georgetown District on Friday, Dec. 30.

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

By Michael Shelton staff writer

Walled Lake Central’s Caitlin Starrs (No. 23) manages to get a shot off over a Northville defender on Friday, Dec. 9. The Vikings would fall to the Mustangs, 53-30, marking their second straight loss since they opened the season with a victory. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)

Difficult defeats Vikings beaten by Novi and Northville

By Michael Shelton staff writer

After starting the season with a victory, Walled Lake Central fell into a funk this past week with two losses.

The Vikings began the week with a 48-12 loss at Novi on Tuesday, Dec. 6.

Kara Birrell and Brianna Kruse each scored 4 points for the Vikings (1-2). Ciara Sims scored 3.

Kerri McMahan had 17 points to lead the Wildcats, while Ally Danniback had 6.

The Vikings were held to only 3 field-goals and a 3-pointer while shooting only 3-of-12 from the freethrow line.

Central then hosted Northville on

Friday, Dec. 9 and played better basketball, but fell to the Mustangs nonetheless, 53-30.

“The girls competed hard and we were able to pull within three halfway through the third quarter,” said Central’s first-year Head Coach Michelle Fortier after losing her second straight game since winning her first with the Vikings on Nov. 29 over Pinckney. “However, Northville went on a run to end the third quarter and we were never able to recover.”

The Vikings will next play at Grand Blanc on Friday, Dec. 16 before playing at the Walled Lake Northern Holiday Invitational on Wednesday, Dec. 21.

Waterford Kettering put on a show in its home opener, as it handily defeated Lake Orion, 59-20, on Tuesday, Dec. 6.

The Captains (2-0) scored the first 10 points of the game and led 24-6 at the end of the first quarter and 43-10 at halftime.

“We put pressure on the Dragons, picking up full-court (pressure) on every change of possession and created many turnovers to establish control of the game,” said Kettering Head Coach Scott Woodhull. “Taylor Steinhelper and Sarah O’Connor came off the bench to keep the pressure on the Lake Orion ballhandlers, as they each came up with steals that turned into baskets.”

Arjanai Washington led Kettering with 13 points, while Allison Bicknell had 9.

Shelby Watts also had 6 rebounds and 2 blocks for the Captains, who will next play on Friday, Dec. 16 when they travel to Pinckney.

Kettering will then play over the holidays in the Motor City Roundball Classic at Birmingham Detroit Country Day on Wednesday, Dec. 28 against Detroit Mumford, and on Friday, Dec. 30 against Romulus.

“The Classic is one of the premier showcase events in the nation for college coaches to watch high school players,” Woodhull said.

Kettering was scheduled to play at home against Grand Blanc yesterday, Tuesday, Dec. 13 after press time, but Woodhull said that the game has now been pushed back to Jan. 24.

Western and Mott improve to 2-1 following victories Walled Lake Western recovered from a bad start and picked up a 42-35 victory on the road at Farmington Hills Harrison on Tuesday, Dec. 6.

The Warriors (2-1) trailed 14-1 in the second quarter before Western Head Coach Dave Walther said that his team switched to a more aggressive trapping defense and caused Harrison to turn the ball over 18 times in the second half alone.

The Warriors outscored Harrison PAGE 43 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯

DECEMBER 14-20, 2011

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Western Warriors ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 42

28-13 in the second half to pull off the comeback victory.

Freshman Jayla Nichols led the Warriors with 15 points, 3 steals and 4 rebounds. Julia Venegas chipped in with 9 points.

The Warriors played their home opener against Howell yesterday, Tuesday, Dec. 13 after press time and will travel to face Brighton on Friday, Dec. 16.

Western will then face Livonia Stevenson on Monday, Dec. 19 before playing at the Walled Lake Northern Holiday Invitational on Wednesday, Dec. 21.

• Waterford Mott defeated Berkley on the road 49-39.

The Corsairs (2-1) led 10-9 at the end of the first quarter before Berkley rebounded to take a 19-15 halftime lead.

Mott regained the lead, 34-33, at the five-minute mark of the fourth quarter and held on to win.

Lauren Hung led Mott with 22 points, as she shot 13-of-14 from the free-throw line and also grabbed 6 rebounds.

Carly Banchiu also had 6 points, 14 rebounds, 7 steals and 2 assists, while Rachel Waynick had 7 points.

Claudia Crake also scored 8 points as she shot a perfect 6-for-6 from the freethrow line.

Mott hosted Milford yesterday, Tuesday, Dec. 13 after press time and will travel to Hartland on Friday, Dec. 16.

Lakers, Eagles pull off victories; Mavs, Knights fall short West Bloomfield traveled to Howell on Thursday, Dec. 8 and came away with a 75-46 victory over the Highlanders.

The Lakers (2-0) outscored Howell 27-12 in the first quarter and led 35-23 at halftime. West Bloomfield then outscored Howell 40-23 in the second half.

Sydney Davis led the Lakers with 30 points while Kheri Motley had 15 points and Ashley Ziegler scored 13 points.

The Lakers played their home opener against North Farmington yesterday, Tuesday, Dec. 13 after press time and will host Troy on Friday, Dec. 16.

• Lakeland rebounded from a 22-11

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PAGE 43

Tied for 4th-place Eaglets stifled by Cranbrook at home

By Michael Shelton staff writer

Orchard Lake St. Mary’s fell at home, 5-2, to Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook on Saturday, Dec. 10.

After Jeff Martin scored for Cranbrook on the power-play to open the game, Brendan Tracey tied the game for the Eaglets at the 11 minute mark of the first period off an assist from Stephen Zorc.

But, Jeremy Loewenstein then scored two straight goals, including a power-play goal, to give Cranbrook a 3-1 lead at the first intermission.

Nicholas Carbone then scored in the second period off an assist from Cody Milan to pull St. Mary’s within a goal.

However, Cranbrook put the game away in the third period on a goal by halftime deficit to defeat Wayne Memorial at home, 44-34, on Friday, Dec. 9 for its first victory of the season.

The Eagles (1-3) outscored Wayne, 20-5, in the third quarter before going on a 13-7 run in the fourth to complete the comeback.

Marlayna Malvich led the Eagles with 17 points while Dominique Zigo had 13 points.

Lakeland began the week with a 4636 loss at Macomb Dakota on Tuesday, Dec. 6.

The Eagles trailed 14-3 at the end of the first quarter and 22-11 at halftime.

Zigo led Lakeland with 13 points while Malvich had 9 points.

The Eagles hosted Hartland yesterday, Tuesday, Dec. 13 after press time, and will play at Huron Valley Milford tomorrow, Thursday, Dec. 15.

• Huron Valley Milford fell on the road, 58-51, to Fenton on Tuesday, Dec. 6.

Milford (0-2) trailed 29-21 at halftime before going on a 16-6 run in the third quarter to lead 37-35. Fenton then outscored the Mavs 23-14 in the fourth quarter to pull out the victory.

Claire Slaughter led Milford with 16 points while Lane Andrews had 10 points and Paige Smith had 8.

Milford played at Waterford Mott yesterday, Tuesday, Dec. 13 after press time, and will host Huron Valley Lakeland tomorrow, Thursday, Dec. 15.

• Walled Lake Northern fell in its season opener at Northville, 53-32, on Tuesday, Dec. 6.

The Knights (0-1) trailed 23-4 at

Billy Young and Loewenstein’s third goal to complete a hat track.

St. Mary’s was also penalized twice for too many men on the ice and was 0-for-3 on the power-play.

Aaron Alkema stopped 22-of-24 shots for Cranbrook in the win, while Austin Julvezan stopped 22-of-27 shots for St. Mary’s.

St. Mary’s is now 3-3 and tied for fourth-place in the Michigan Interscholastic Hockey League with 6 points, while Cranbrook is 6-1-1 with 14 points, trailing Novi Detroit Catholic Central by a point for firstplace.

The Eaglets will next take on Dearborn Divine Child on Saturday, Dec. 17 before hosting University of Detroit Jesuit on Tuesday, Dec. 20. the end of the first quarter and could not recover.

Caitlin Crowley led Northern with 21 points in the loss.

Alex Moynes and Kendra Brenner each had 11 points for Northville.

Northern hosted Brighton yesterday, Tuesday, Dec. 13 after press time, and will play at Howell on Friday, Dec. 16 before hosting the Walled Lake Northern Holiday Invitational on Wednesday, Dec. 21.

HOCKEY

Northern blanks Western; Eagles fall; Milford wins Walled Lake Northern shutout Walled Lake Western, 3-0, on Saturday, Dec. 10.

Also on Dec. 7, Northern (6-1, 2-1 in the Kensington Lakes Activities Association North Division) shutout Fenton 1-0 while Western tied Mt. Clemens Chippewa Valley, 4-4.

Northern will next play at Huron Valley Milford tonight, Wednesday, Dec. 14, while Western (3-5-1, 1-4 in the KLAA West Division) will host Waterford Mott on Saturday, Dec. 17.

• Huron Valley Lakeland fell to Grand Blanc, 5-1, on Saturday, Dec. 10 at Lakeland Ice Arena.

Trent Lloyd scored on the power-play in the third period off an assist from Nick Kobak for the Eagle’s only goal.

Grand Blanc outshot Lakeland 4116, while Jacob Neil made 15 saves in net for the Bobcats.

Trevor Kalinowski made 36 saves in net for Lakeland (1-6), who will play Farmington tonight, Wednesday, Dec. 14 at Lakeland Ice Arena.

• Huron Valley Milford defeated Walled Lake Central 1-0 on Friday, Dec. 9.

The Vikings (4-3) will play at Grand Blanc tonight, Wednesday, Dec. 14, while Milford (1-1) will host Walled Lake Northern.

On Tuesday, Dec. 20, Central will play at Howell.

SPORTS NOTES West Bloomfield High School’s Erin Finn came in as the runner-up in the 2011 Foot Locker Cross Country Championship National Finals on Saturday, Dec. 10 at Morley Field at Balboa Park in San Diego, Calif.

Finn came in second with a time of 17:24, which was just behind champion Molly Seidel of University Lake School in Delefield, Wisc., whose winning time was 17:22.

Finn qualified for her second straight national final by taking thirdplace at the Midwest Regional with a time of 17:34. Seidel was also the winner of the Midwest Regional.

Finn dominated the national final from the start, powering through the field and hitting the first mile in 5:20. Finn continued to push the pace, maintaining her lead for the first half of the race.

Seidel started to close the gap approaching the two-mile mark, separating herself from a chasing group of runners.

For the remainder of the race, the two ran neck-and-neck, until the home stretch, when Seidel was able to overcome Finn to capture the title.

Finn was the state champion at the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) State Finals in Brooklyn, Mich. on Nov. 5.

• Walled Lake Central resident Chad Norton recently completed his sophomore season of cross-country at Guilford College in Greensboro, NC. Norton participated in all six events for the Quakers this season and was the second runner in Guilford history to compete at the NCAA Division III Cross Country Championships on Nov. 19, where he finished 177th among 300 runners with a time of 25:45.71, the sixth-fastest time in school history.

Norton earned First Team All-Old Dominion Athletic Conference (ODAC) honors on Oct. 29 with a fourth-place finish. His sixth-place effort at the NCAA Division III South/Southeast Championships on Nov. 12 earned AllSouth recognition.

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89 Used/Wanted 90 100% Free 91 Antiques 93 Collectibles 95 Coins/Stamps 96 Diamonds/Jewelry/Gold 100 Cemetery Plots 101 Auction/Estate Sales 102 Moving Sale 103 Garage Sales 105 Building Materials 106 Tools 107 Snowblowers 109 Lawn Tractors/Mowers 110 Lawn/Garden/Sod MOBILE HOMES 111 Gravel/Sand/Dirt 42 Mobile Homes for Sale 112 Firewood 114 Business 43 Mobile Home for Rent 115 Pet Supplies RENTALS 116 Horses 45 Banquet/Party Facilities 117 Food/Produce 119 Clothing/Apparel 46 Vacation Homes/ 121 Cellular Cottages/ 122 Appliances Time Shares 47 Commercial/Industrial 125 Furniture/Rugs 49 Shopping Center Units 127 Rent To Own 128 Art/Crafts 50 Office Space 129 Household Items 52 Storage 130 Home Care Equipment 55 Houses/Condos 132 Stuff - Infant 56 Apartments 57 Rooms/Share Quarters 133 Stuff - Kid 134 Stuff - Teen HELP WANTED 137 Bargain Bin 138 Odds N Ends 60 Job Fairs/Seminars 61 Technical Fields And Lots of Others!

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REAL ESTATE FOR SALE Houses For Sale

11

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HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

PAGE 45

RENTALS

12

ATTENTION INVESTORS $115K cash or OBO.

Commercial/ Industrial

4 bed, 2 bath, 3000 sq.ft., with garage and basement.

Sandy, deep, lakefront lot on Duck Lake. ARV $350,000 minimum. Bids due by December 30th. Highest & Best. Call Ron. 505-463-7349

Mobile Homes for Sale

Looking to rent a house or condo? call Arlene Keller Williams Realty mihome4u.com 248-912-4628

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

(248) 624-0709

WATERFORD Duplex

43

RELOCATE TODAY!!

Beautiful 55+ community! We'll pay up to $5,5,00 for a single section home & $8,500 for a multi section home w/ $299 site rent for the 1st year. Relocate your manufactured home to beautiful Cranberry Lake. 248-698-1120

BEAUTIFUL 55+ COMMUNITY

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

LOVELY COMMERCE TWP.

Brand NEW homes for rent.

Appliances. Lake access.

3 bedroom, 2 bath, basement,

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15 month lease for $600/mo Cranberry Lake- White Lake 248-698-1120 888-306-2483

LET IT SNOW! Beautiful custom built 1 1/2 story home on all sports Lake Tyrone. 3 bedrooms, beautiful kitchen, dining area with cherry cabinets & granite counters, great room with soaring ceilings. Large deck w/scenic views. Walk-out lower level with bedroom, walk-in closet & full bath. 4 car gar garage w/ finished loft. Paved road. $254,500.

England Real Estate (248)887-9736

lake privileges, fenced yard, windows. $955 per month

(248)335-8988 COME SEE US NOW WIXOM * MOVE IN SPECIAL* •Playground/Pool •Free Heat & City Water

Town & Country Apartments

248-640-7960

•48200 W. Pontiac Trail

Waterford Condo - close to OCC 2 Bedroom, 2.5 baths, all appliances, nice deck, basement, 1 car garage, no smokers, pets negotiable. $1300.00/mo, 1/2 month security deposit, $100.00 cleaning fee.

248-912-4628 for more details mihome4u.com Apartments

56

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•Between Beck & Wixom Rd.

CALL US TODAY !

(248)624-3194 Apartments For Rent SPECIAL 1 or 2 bedroom apartments. Heat and water paid. No pets. In City of Milford.

(248)477-9192 Rooms/Share Quarters

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

lease.Walk to shopping. Near

248-624-6606 EHO www.cormorantco.com * Call For Details *

57

SHARE MY House: Kids & pets, ok. Lake access, $600 plus half utilities. 248-3638131 BUSINESS WOMAN looking to share 2 bedroom apartment in Novi, with female. $400 plus utilities. Call for information.

248-787-2059 FURNISHED SLEEPING room for rent. Waterford area, $100 /week. 810-355-8097

PAULA REESE

RICK REID

Buying or Selling? I am Your Realtor

248-981-8582

248-882-1112 • 586-215-6801

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Exe

MIDDLE STRAITS LAKE IMPROVED PRICE - $174,900 Charming newly remodeled 3 bedroom ranch with open floor plan, close to association clubhouse and beach.

Lakeside Florida room surrounded by the best panoramic views of Middle Straits Lake. Bloomer Park and Bay Pointe Golf are nearby. Call Rick or email rick_reid@att.net.

360 ROSEBUD Special Half off Security Dep. 2 Bedrooms- $650 per month plus electric 1 Bedroom- $500 per month

Across from Cedar Island Lake Clean, 2 bedroom, all appliances. $675 per month.

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Charming older home in the Village. 3 bedrooms, spacious kitchen, formal dining, office, enclosed porches, breezeway/ laundry room, 2 car garage & 16x26 barn. $110,000. 3644 Avon St.

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Large corner lot, door wall off of dining room to backyard patio. New berber carpet, cabinets & flooring $1100/ mo

Call: 248-425-4853 55

56

HILLSIDE MANOR APTS

WALLED LAKE

Industrial space with offices, loading dock, 14' overhead doors, 3 phase electric, brokers welcome

42

Fawn Lake

Mobile Homes for Rent

Waterford

Houses/ Condos

Apartments 55

47

248-496-7652 248-496-7648

MOBILE HOMES

Houses/ Condos

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Gorgeous executive luxury home on amazing wooded 2.5 acres in Brandon Twp. Quiet cul-de-sac. Spectacular 3,217 sq. ft. with an add’l. 1,736 sq. ft. in walkout. Dramatic ceilings, extensive custom trim, hardwood floor, all the amenities throughout. Kitchen with breakfast area, main level master suite with heated Travertine floor in master bath and walk-in closet. 5 bedrooms including 1 guest suite. Prof. landscaping. $418,000

543 N. Main Rochester, MI 48307

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GORGEOUS HILLSIDE HOME ON ALL-SPORTS SILVER LAKE •1,718 sq. ft., 3 bed, 3 bath + fin. walkout •2 story great room, loft, family room, patio #211112589 EXT. #266 • KEY #266253

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$224,900

$329,900 BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED CEDAR ISLAND LAKEFRONT •2,302 sq. ft., 4 bed, 3 bath, LC terms, 2 car •Granite kitchen & baths, fireplace, ceramic #211089671 EXT. #246•KEY #257017 P. TW RD FO R TE WA

GORGEOUS GERUNDEGUT BAY ALL-SPORTS CASS LAKE •Remodeled ranch, stone fireplace, dining rm •Corian counter kitchen, tile, crown molding #211027050 EXT. #280 •KEY #248373

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UPPER STRAITS LAKEFRONT INVESTMENT SPECIAL •4 bed, 3.5 bath, 2,746 sq. ft. + fin. walkout •1st flr. mstr., 2nd buildable lakefront lot #211104723 EXT. #245 •KEY #260513

ITE WH

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

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170 FEET OF FRONTAGE TO ALL-SPORTS WILLIAMS LAKE! •3 bedroom, 2.5 bath, fin. daylight basement •Huge mtr., jet tub, deck, garage, shed, dock #211109029 EXT. #214 •KEY #263461 .

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DECEMBER 14-20, 2011

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PAGE 47

Visit us at 560 N. Milford Rd., Milford IFUL UT BEA

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$240,000 SOLID BRICK/STONE RANCH! •2,500 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms, 4.1 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •Master with fireplace, doorwall to deck, his and hers bath •Hardwood floors thru out •211124335

ACE EPL FIR

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RONT ER F T A W

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N LA U LR. 1ST F

DRY

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NT F RO

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WS V IE E K LA

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$214,900 BEAUTIFUL HOME ON 1/4 ACRE! •2,566 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •Island kitchen opens to family room with cathedral ceiling •Finished basement with wet bar •211091132

D ATE UPD

WONDERFUL WHITE LAKE VIEWS! •1,700 sq, ft., 2 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •On quiet bay to main lake •Maple and granite kitchen •211122345

$149,000 TOTALLY REMODELED! •1,616 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, basement •2 car attached garage •Situated on over 1/2 acre •211118570

K ND ISLA

ALL-SPORTS LAKE SHERWOOD! •3,845 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, 2 car attached garage •Open floor plan •Huge foyer open to great room •First floor master suite •211116287

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ET QUI

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NT

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CRE /2 A R1 OVE

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ER WAT

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RO ERF WAT

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E O US

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B 5.1

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CONTEMPORARY WATERFRONT HOME! •2,780 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, 2 car garage •Remodeled and updated •Granite kitchen and all baths •2nd floor laundry •211001443

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RONT ER F T A W

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$157,000 ON LAKE GEORGE! •1,721 sq, ft., 3 bedrooms, 3.1 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •Open floor plan •Finished walkout basement •First floor laundry •211097045 ©Real Estate One, Inc., 2011

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211123433 - $164,900

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211108753 - $162,900

SUPERB COMMERCE HOME 4 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, first floor master with bath, close to M-5

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VACATION AT HOME 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, pool, hot tub, acreage cathedral ceilings

211103967 - $149,500

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

MOVE IN TOTALLY REMODELED 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, ceramic floors, maple cabinets, 2 car garage, finished basement

LD FIE OM O L B ST WE

D AN RTL HA

LD FIE ING R P S

L ITE WH

E AK

R BO AR OH G E KE

211121503 - $289,000

211091929 - $795,000

211112421 - $180,000

211101276 - $250,000

211048408 - $100,000

PROFESSIONALLY LANDSCAPED 5 bedrooms, 2.2 baths, master suite with jacuzzi, lower level walkout, brick patio

WHITE LAKE FRONT 4 bedrooms, 3.1 baths, totally remodeled, finished walkout

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

IMPECCABLY MAINTAINED HOME 4 bedrooms, 3.1 baths, great room, island kitchen, finished walkout basement

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

RD FO TER WA

RD FO OX

L ITE WH

E AK

D IEL MF LOO B ST WE

VI NO

211115899 - $259,000

211104235 - $110,000

211115490 - $249,000

211099179 - $233,000

211074688 - $110,000

LAKEFRONT GEM 83 FT. ON WOODALL LAKE 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, huge master with bath, doorwall to deck walkout with 2nd kitchen

PICTURE PERFECT HOUSE 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, floor plan, cathedral ceilings

CUSTOM RANCH END OF CUL-DE-SAC 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, maple kitchen, hardwood floors, finished walkout, wet bar

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

CHARMING RANCH 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, hardwood floors, vaulted ceiling

Denotes a Real Estate One Virtual Tour

Lakes Area (248) 363-8300

©Real Estate One, Inc., 2011

DECEMBER 14-20, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SANDY JONES

CAROL WAGNER

“Dedicated to Servicing all your Home Buying and Selling Needs” cwagner@realestateone.com

Visit: sandyjoneshome.com for all available properties

The Season for “Gift” Giving!

If you have a pulse your life is full of ups & downs. No matter what our personal circumstances are, each of us have the ability to give.

A gift doesn’t have to be wrapped in pretty paper with a bow; it could be a smile, or a compliment. Just a kind gesture could make a huge difference in someone’s day.

Lets “ALL” try it this holiday season!

Who knows it just might carry on into the rest of the year.

My Prayer/Wish/Gift to all of you is the hope that your Christmas holiday is full of warmth. love and good health.

Remember I am always available to help you and those you know with any real estate needs.

Merry Christmas Sandy

BECKY KATZMAN McCARTHY 248-790-9915

586-612-5995

248-320-3531

PAGE 49

Lakes Area Specialist rmccarthy@RealEstateOne.com WILLIAMS LAKE DEEDED CANALFRONT RANCH!!

S AM LLI WI RONT D F E ED L DE CANA

Just a few steps through a gate to your private dock and just a few houses off the main lake.

Great view from yard of main lake and beautiful surrounding lakefront homes! Open floor plan, master suite, spacious kitchen, great deck.

Priced to sell and won’t last!! Not a short sale!!

PICTURE PERFECT HOUSE NESTLED ON 1 ACRE LOT!!

THE WORLD’S LARGEST RIBBON… Should be wrapped around this delightful home!

This is the perfect present. The open floor plan is great for the holiday gatherings. This home is located Bluffs at Williams Lake Crossing, built in 2011. This 3 bedroom, 2 bath ranch features a large great room with vaulted ceilings and recess lighting. The 2 car garage has additional 6 feet of space. The daylight basement features 10 foot ceilings and is plumbed for an additional bathroom. For a surprising look inside call Carol. $162,900

House features, approx. 1,800 sq. ft., open floor plan, 3 bedrooms, 2 full baths, oak hardwood floors throughout, eat-in kitchen includes all appliances, cozy fireplace in living room, master bed with private bath and jacuzzi tub, 2.5 car garage, pole barn, sprinkler system, fenced backyard, privileges to Stony/Squaw Lakes. $110,000. Call Becky for details!

G

TIN

EW

LIS

N

JOY DIMAGGIO

Marie & Associates

CHERYL YEAGER

248.790.6356

Hadley, Tessa, Thad, Quinn, Stella & Zoe 248-470-6196

cherylyeager.com cherylyeager@yahoo.com

realestateone.com/joydimaggio Lakes Area Specialist

2011 – “Put some JOY into buying & selling YOUR home”

Home for the Holidays

248-310-8077 CT TRA ON ABLE C D IL L AN AVA

WHITE LAKE RANCH Desirable Whispering Meadows Sub, cul-de-sac setting, 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, hardwood floors, first floor laundry, maple kitchen, vaulted great room with natural fireplace, skylights, Andersen windows, 4 door walls, vaulted master suite, spa tub, awesome finished walkout lower level, huge wet bar, well landscaped, sprinkling system. $249,000 (cy1047T)

ROYAL OAK • ARTS & CRAFTS

ALL-SPORTS WILLIAMS LAKE FRONT $239,900 • Gorgeous lot 76’ X 173’ • 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths • Great room with fireplace • Mint condition

• Sandy beach • Walkout basement • Florida room

Denotes a Real Estate One Virtual Tour

ALL SPORTS WILLIAM LAKEFRONT $189,900 • Gorgeous lot 50’ X 200’ • Sandy beach • 2.5 car garage • Large deck w/brick pavers • Possible walkout site • 2 bedroom, 1 bath

Design updated to maintain the character & charm. Cove - hardwood - angles - nooks - built-ins…granite and ceramic tile. White kitchen, 4 bedrooms, garage, basement. Enjoy. $149,500 MLS 211103967

Looking for more great homes to sell.

Please call 248-470-6196

Lakes Area (248) 363-8300 • 8430 Richardson

SOLD OXBOW LAKEFRONT Private all-sports, 105 ft. of main lakefront, estate size lot offering loads of potential, home will require some work, 2 garages, great storage, 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, natural fireplace, quiet peninsula street. $178,000 (CY10188L) ©Real Estate One, Inc., 2011

PAGE 50

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

HELP WANTED General/ Help Wanted

General/ Help Wanted

65

COOK POSITION Experienced in volume food preparation and specialty foods for catering. Must be able to merchandise foods in school lunch program. Safe Serv Certification and knowledge of HACCP required. Apply online: www.bloomfield.org to job 11-FS-08 JANITORIAL HELP Cleaning specialists wanted, part time, evening shifts available to clean office buildings and banks placed within ten mile radius of home. Hiring immediately for Bloomfield Hills & Birmingham

(586) 759-3700

CARE GIVER AFC Third shift, must be experienced with Alzheimers and can cook. White Lake.

248-866-3984

65

Absolutely Free 67

C.N.A.s

CALL TO FIND OUT How to potentially earn

$700 to $1,200 per week.

Incredible opportunity!

Will train.

Commerce area.

(413) 297-5980

DRY CLEANER

Looking for Counter Help and Presser.

Full or Part Time.

248-624-4333

West Bloomfield Day Care Seeking p/t helper. Dependable, reliable and a love for children a must!

References required.

Call Kelly at 248-366-8082

MAINTENANCE PERSON

NOW HIRING:

Needed for apartment community. Good salary & benefits for qualified applicants.

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

Info:

Fax resume to: 248-960-7656

Medical/ Dental

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

PART TIME ALL SHIFTS APPLY IN PERSON

West Hickory Haven 3310 West Commerce Rd. Sales Positions

71

Real Estate Career We're doubling our staff!

•Do you like working with new people and new situations?

•Do you have good problem solving skills?

•Do you have a "Sky is the limit mentality"?

If you said, "Yes", call me.

Kathy Solan 248-363-8300 248-348-6430 Real Estate One

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE Used/Wanted

89

SCRAP METAL Aluminum .30-.60¢/lb.

Copper $2.00-$2.60/lb.

Brass .80¢- 1.50/lb.

Auto Rads. .80¢-1.10/lb.

1011 Decker, Walled Lk

Mann Metals Corp.

(248)960-1200 SEA-DOO JET Skis wanted dead or dying. 1995 on ups. $200- $1400. Top $ for XP's & 947/951 or larger motors. Call Steve at 231-943-4152

90

100 GALLON Fish tank to needy family, ideal Christmas gift, several parts. 248-7797588 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.

Collectibles

Garage Sales

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY 103

WHITE LAKE INSIDE SALE.. Monday through Sunday, 8am-6pm.

1211 Bogie Lake Rd.

Building Materials 105 FLUSH DOOR- 30inch interior, used, $12. 248-698-4168

Pets/Supplies

115

93

LIONEL "O-27" Gauge Christmas train set up/ layout, free standing/ 6ftx10ft, animated toy gadgets- ferris wheel, antique trains, etc. $1,500 OBO. 248-366-7044

MICHIGAN WILD Bird seed.

(No Filler.) 25 lbs. $15. 248736-0254

Clothing/Apparel

119

Auction/Estate Sales101

GENTLY USED Jeans- two pair, size 14. $10 each. 248666-9444

LOTS OF Collectibles from dual estates. Toys, records, musical equipment, pool table, etc. 2623 Haphon Drive Waterford.. December 15th, 16th, 17th. 10am-6pm.

MEN'S CANVAS Hunting Vest with pockets & pouches, size medium, $5.00. 248-6232661

PUBLIC AUCTION "Mini Storage Depot will sell at public auction, contents of Units Numbered (F452, Kelsie Miller: household goods, furniture, boxes, toys, tools), (J8046, Tequilla Garrett: furniture, boxes), (K911, April Lewis: household goods, furniture), (M1114, James Eller III: furniture), on Friday, December 30th, 2011 at 2pm, for back storage fees owed. The auction will take place at Mini Storage Depot - 46550 Pontiac Trail, Walled Lake, Michigan 48390. We reserve the right to reject any and all bids."

NEW GIRLS Junior small 4-1 jacket brown/ blue $25 248682-8212

Furniture/Rugs

125

BAKER'S RACK- Brass & green enamel, $25. 248-6669444

Household Items

129

WHIRLPOOL SIDE by side refrigerator, $300. GE electric smooth top range, $300. Paint ball equipment, $400. Two TV's, 21" and 27", $15 and $20. Toshiba satellite laptop (hard drive removed) $50.

Emachine PC (hard drive removed) $50. 248-790-0659

Household Items

129

"COKE" GLASS Tiffany hanging lamp, never used, paid $300- asking $150; Pioneer stereo with speakers, $125.

248-363-5679

Odds N Ends

138

$20 PREPAID Phone card for only $12.50- I can give you a 1-800 number to verify, expires June 13, 2013. 248-6232661.

BUTTER CHURN $24.99 248-360-2589 HIGH CHAIR Fisher Price deluxe healthy care $20 248363-4503

MARY KAY

December Classes Available $ Class only

99

With a prepaid voucher Contact Mary Nicole 248-684-1065 MaryNicole@RealEstateOne.com •Are you looking for a new career?

•Would you like to own your own business?

We’re Michigan’s largest real estate broker and last year we sold over 17,000 properties. We expect to surpass that in the coming year.

Join us as we grow Michigan.

Cars

Wanted Parts/ Salvage

BUICK LESABRE, 2005, 85K, $7,000.Very good condition. 248-363-3457 FORD FUSION 2008, V6, 24,500 miles. Wixom, $16,500. (586) 206-3222

181

UNWANTED AUTOS LLC

FORD FUSION Sel 2010. Fully loaded, all the bells & whistles. $17,000. 33,500 miles. 248210-9936 or 248-924-7412

(248)467-0396 Unwanted Autos any year

CHEVROLET IMPALA SS 1996, 93,000 miles, leather seats, CD changer, always garaged- excellent condition, $10,000 OBO. 248-363-1210

$150 to $2,000

SATURN SC-2 Hatchback 2001, good condition, 5 speed, one owner, 240,000 miles. $2,900. 248-363-5133

RC Towing 248-770-3333

BOATS/ OUTDOOR

AUTOS, CARS & TRUCKS

Wanted Boats/ Jet Skis/Parts

162

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

Call Steve 231-943-4152 Snowmobiles

179

WANTED: Vintage Preformance Snowmobile. 248-6826486

MAC Valves, Inc. is a worldwide manufacturer of pneumatic solenoid valves. We are looking for some one to fill an opening position in our purchasing department. They must be a reliable, self motivated person and be able to work in a customer focused team. We are a people oriented technology based company and operate in a group system environment where people are given responsibility to learn and advance. Purchasing experience is preferred and Excel experience is a must.

Apply in person or mail resume to: Donna Shopp MAC Valves, Inc 30569 Beck Road • Wixom, MI 48393

187

JEEP LIBERTY 2007, 4x4, chrome addition, 37k, excellent, $12,500 248-770-3828

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

Rochelle Koloff Independent Beauty Consultant 1-248-568-1750 Twin5801@aol.com marykay.com/rkoloff

BUYER/PLANNER NEEDED

Pre-Licensing Class

CARS/TRUCKS MOTORCYCLES

CAMPBELL'S TOWING

$200 AND UP

248-698-1062 Motorcycles

TOYOTA SOLARA 1999, leather, sun roof, 85k, one owner. 248-884-7200.

Vans

194

2000 DODGE Grand Caravan Spor t. 76K. 3.3L V-6.

Power windows, locks, drivers seat. A/C, 4 captains chairs.

Excellent condition. $6,200 248-320-1969

183

2004 YAMAHA R1- 1000 motorcycle. Extras, must see. $4,500. (248)978- 9246

Check Out Morris Motors Specials on Page 52

Buying a Home?

Let us

Look Before You Leap!

Afford

able Home Inspections

Up to 170 components inspected in a typical three bedroom home.

Computer-generated, comprehensive, easy-tounderstand report summary.

High resolution, color pictures provide a visual reference of problem areas.

Reports are emailed to you and your Real Estate Agent.

After inspection questions are always answered, even after you move into your home.

248-881-3478 Licensed Insured

4075 Echo Drive West Bloomfield

DECEMBER 14-20, 2011

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

PAGE 51

LAKES AREA SERVICES (248) 360-7355

www.SpinalColumnOnline.com

Fax (248) 360-5308

IN PRINT and ON-LINE 24/7

Personal • Business • Maintenance • Improvements • Repair PERSONAL/ SERVICES Disc Jockeys/ Music

332

LMS PRODUCTIONS "Music For The Holidays" •Holiday Favorites •Oldies/ Classic Rock Perfect for small to medium gatherings- Hire radio personality for your next event!

LARRY MATTHEWS 248-505-8792

REPAIR/ IMPROVEMENT Appliance Repair

502

Cabinetry

515

R&D DRYWALL

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

•Hang & Finished •Small Repair •Texture Repair •Plaster Repair •Wet Sand

(248)363-3804 elegant-woodworking.com

Carpentry

516

YAM CONTRACTING •Carpentry •Deck Repair •Int. & Ext. Painting •Custom Woodwork •Powerwashing •To Do Lists •Unfinished Projects

(248)709-6631 anthyam@att.net 517

C & G CEMENT

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

513

BOB'S CARPET Has the best buys on all brand named carpet.

Pad 1/2 8 lb $3 yd.

Installation guaranteed.

Lots of remnants $4 per yard

Call Bob (248)681-5771 MB QUALITY FLOOR COVERING

526

Elegant Woodworking

Cement/Concrete

TONY'S APPLIANCE SERVICE Servicing all Major Appliances.

•Hot water tank

Drywall

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

(248)684-5928 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

•New Carpet & Pad Sales •Installation, Repairs, & Restretches •28 years experience •Free estimates WE WORK FOR YOU

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

248-561-5667

248-624-3161

Ron (248)673-7665 Electricians

528

MASTER ELECTRICIAN Insured & State Licensed, 25 years experience.

Prompt, courteous service.

FREE ESTIMATES. ALL TYPES OF WORK. Competitive Prices

(248)683-7985 Excavating

529

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

Fully insured. Free estimates.

(248)624-6458 AFFORDABLE DEMOLITION & SERVICES "Division of Rae Excavating" • BUILDING REMOVAL• • Sewer and Water • Storm Sewers • Trucking & Grading Licensed & Insured

248-624-4473 Flooring

536

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

(248)684-5983

Handy Person

545

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

(248)891-7072 Licensed and Insured

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

248-684-4175 810-714-3058

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

"The job your husband will do tomorrow."

(248)887-2366 Heating/Duct Work 546

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

Heating/Duct Work 546 HURON VALLEY HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING •Repair •Replace •Inspections •Humidifiers •Water Heaters •Night service available

(248)887-3666 Mitch's Mechanical 248-302-1808 Specializing in Total Home Comfort. Home of the $50 service call and $50 furnace or a/c, clean and check. 24 hours emergency service.

Home Improvement 547 SHERMAN BLDG CO. •Additions •Garages •Decks •Rough & Trim Carpentry •Wood Siding •Basements •Kitchens •All outside wood repairs

248-682-1393 248-802-6554 Home Inspection

Roofing 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 WINTER SPECIAL Save 20% this season on exterior/ interior painting, drywall repair, & wallpaper removal on small or big jobs. 25 years experience. licensed and insured.

Same day free estimates.

248-894-3239 Plumbing

567

Premier Plumbing 548

Buying A Home?

Let Us Look Before You Leap!

AFFORDABLE HOME INSPECTIONS Licensed Insured STERLING HOME SERVICES

248-881-3478 Lawn/Garden Services

Painting/ Decorating

553

A R T Outdoor Services, LLC * Snow Plowing * Salting Landscaping • Lawn Service •Insured Residential & Commercial

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

248-363-5864 Roofing

571

D & D GUTTERS * Snow Plowing* • Leaf Guards • Siding • Windows •Insulation special: Avg. $1500 per house Doug Dible

248-431-6243

ROOF LEAKS & WATER DAMAGE REPAIRS

FREE ESTIMATES ON INSTALLATION

www.artoutdoorservices.com

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

248-363-1615

(248)625-5719

248-926-6631

571

Tree Service

587

PRICE IS RIGHT ROOFING

KODIAK TREE SERVICE

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

•Siding •Gutters

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

FREE Estimates 30 Years Experience

248-459-7894 Siding

Waterproofing 577

I.D.C.

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

Bob: 248-363-0589 idchomeservice.com Tile

585

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

John Miller (248)505-8865 jmtileandmarble.com

Trash/Debris Removal

586

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

Call anytime for estimates & great service

248-887-4892 Tree Service

587

LOUIE'S TREE SERVICE Tree Removal •Stump Grinding Firewood • Free Estimates 20 Yrs. Exp. • Fully Insured "Will Beat All Competitors" Residential • Commercial

248-240-6143 248-240-6142 248-366-1325

248-921-9097 599

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

Wells

603

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

Emergency Service 7 days a week 248-

363-6464

aquawells.com All credit cards accepted

BOB WYCKOFF WELL DRILLING "If you have questions, we have answers!"

•PUMPS •TANKS • WELL REPAIR

(248)310-0917

Emergency Service EASY PAYMENT PLANS No Credit Check Visa & MasterCard

PAGE 52

www.spinalcolumnonline.com

SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY

Union Lake Rd.

2199 HAGGERTY RD. At Pontiac Trail across from Lakes Professional Building

Commerce Rd.

.

morrismotorsmi.com Ric d hard son R

Oakley Park

248-624-4500 Trail tiac Pon

WALMART

Haggerty Rd.

11 9-20

Maple Rd. M-5

1 96

Benstein Rd.

RIGHT HERE

Celebrating

42 YEARS

Where You Need Us!

morrismotorsmi.com

2008 CHEVROLET IMPALA LTZ

2010 CHEVROLET IMPALA

#P2023

17,984

$

#P2016

17,995

$

15,995

$

15,995**

$

FEATURING

**

2010 MITSUBISHI GALANT FE

#P2019

2011 CHEVROLET HHR

Now

#P1980

16,995

15,695

$

2009 DODGE CHARGER

Was $14,995

12,995

$

$

**

#P1886

17,995

$

**

15,995**

$

2008 LAND ROVER

2008 FORD ESCAPE

#P1955

$

27,995**

$

17,995

$

30,995

$

#P1937

18,400

14 Mile Rd.

**

2007 SATURN OUTLOOK XR

2007 MAZDA CX7

#P1956A

18,995

$

15,995**

$

20,999

$

#P1951

18,995**

$ Find us on Facebook

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

**For purchase with qualified credit approval. Prices are plus tax, title, license & doc fee. Call dealer for more details. Offer good thru 12/21/11. Subject to prior sale.

LIMITED TIME ONLY

FREE

Must present coupon when order is written. Cannot be combined with any other offers. GM vehicles only. Plus tax and shop supplies. Expires 12/28/11.

SC

10 Off 20 Off 30 Off

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

Any $100 Service Any $200 Service

Any $300 Service ANY MAKE OR MODEL

$ $ $ $ $

One coupon per customer. Coupons may not be combined with any other offer. Expires 12/28/11. Excludes oil changes, brake promotion, tires and SRTA’S. Valid only in our service department. Must present coupon when order is written.

SC

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

OIL CHANGE

99 19

$

95 $

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

Expires 12/28/11.

morrismotorsmi.com

Your Hometown Car & Truck Service and Maintenance Center for over 42 Years

Service Special ~ COUPON ~

OUR FACTORY-TRAINED TECHNICIANS WILL PERFORM THE FOLLOWING:

248-624-4500 *Diagnosis extra, brake inspection extra

Flush

SC

95*

M

We will perform a complete ACT NOW computer scan BEFORE OFFER and external diagnosis. If EXPIRES your vehicle displays a “Check Engine” or “Service Soon” bring this coupon in for diagnosis.

~CHILD FRIENDLY CUSTOMER LOUNGE~

O I OTOR L

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

Check Engine Light Special or any System MORRIS BONUS BUCKS BG’s Cooling Warning Light (ABS/Airbag) ~ COUPON ~

+tax & dep. fee with coupon

*Includes up to 5 quarts of oil and oil filter. Excludes synthetic oil and diesel engines. Most vehicles–see service advisor for exceptions.

With this coupon. Coupon cannot be combined with any other offer. Expires 12/28/11.

SC

We Service All Makes and Models of GM Vehicles and most Domestic and Import models as well

WE OFFER: NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY Most Repairs Completed Same Day

Enjoy your complimentary coffee while you wait • Work With Most Insurance Companies • Expert Mechanics and Technicians • Full Paint or Touch-Ups • Expert Color Matching • We Handle Large or Small Jobs

SERVICE, PARTS & BODY SHOP HOURS:

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

FREE Estimates on Collision Repairs!