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WEST OAKLAND COUNTY
AUGUST 31, 2011
SHOP LOCAL • THINK LOCAL • LIVE LOCAL
Police officer suspended
This week’s prep football games: • Huron Valley Lakeland at South Lyon, 7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 1 • Huron Valley Milford vs. Wayne Memorial, 7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 1 • Orchard Lake St. Mary’s vs. Toledo (Ohio) St. John’s Jesuit, 7 p.m., Friday, Sept. 2 • Walled Lake Central at Salem, 7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 1 • Walled Lake Northern at South Lyon East, 7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 1 • Walled Lake Western at Novi, 7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 1 • Waterford Kettering at Northville, 7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 1 • Waterford Mott at Livonia Stevenson, 7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 1 • Our Lady of the Lakes at Hamtramck, 6 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 1 • West Bloomfield vs. Clarkston, 7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 1
That’s what HE said: "If you look very closely at that green wall, just for the fun of it, I hid a marijuana bush. Let's see if you can find it." — Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson joking at the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new "green" terminal at the Oakland County International Airport in Waterford Township.
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Stop involving Ureste, husband sparks W. Bloomfield fracas By Michael Shelton staff writer
A West Bloomfield Township police officer has been suspended for his conduct during a recent traffic stop involving township Supervisor Michele Economou Ureste and her husband, Matthew Ureste. West Bloomfield Police Chief Michael Patton said the police department has concluded an investigation into the incident, adding that the officer didn’t follow department policy during the traffic stop that took place in the early morning hours of Saturday, Cassis Aug. 13, when the officer drove a motorist and a passenger home after administering a preliminary breath test (PBT) to the driver, but no other sobriety tests. “We’ve concluded the investigation and the department has disciplined him
because an intoxicated driver was not handled correctly,” Patton said. “In our review, according to our policy, this was the incorrect thing to do.” Patton wouldn’t reveal the identity of the police officer, but Lt. Tim Diamond said the officer received a five-day unpaid suspension. Patton also didn’t reveal the identity of the motorist, the passenger, or the results of the PBT. However, documents obtained by the Spinal Column Newsweekly through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) indicate that Michele Economou Ureste was the passenger and her husband, Matthew Ureste, was the driver. According to the documents, the traffic stop took place at 2:18 a.m. on Aug. 13 when Officer Robert Stephens observed a car run a red light at the intersection of Green Lake and Richardson roads. “It was a flashing light and the officer was approaching the intersection ... when they made a right-hand turn heading northbound,” Patton said. The car was then pulled over on
Welland Drive off Green Lake Road, according to the documents. Stephens spoke with Matthew Ureste, the driver, and reportedly detected an odor of intoxicants in the vehicle coming from one or both occupants. Stephens also noted that Matthew Ureste had watery eyes and admitted to drinking alcohol earlier in the evening. The couple were returning home after attending a Kid Rock concert in Detroit, according to the documents. Stephens asked Matthew Ureste to submit to a PBT and he consented. The results of Matthew Ureste’s PBT was a 0.11 percent blood-alcohol content, according to the documents obtained through FOIA. The legal limit is 0.08 percent. No other field sobriety tests were conducted. Stephens informed Matthew Ureste he was too intoxicated to drive home, and offered him and Economou Ureste a ride home in his patrol vehicle, according to the documents. Patton said that the department
PAGE 8 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯
HeyDays gallops into Highland on Saturday, Sept. 10 By Angela Niemi
INSIDE Special Report . . . . . . .10-13 County . . . . . . . . . . . .28-29 Public Safety . . . . . . . . . . .23 Environment . . . . . . . . . .27 State . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31-32 Lakes Area News . . . . . .8-15 Editorials . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Community Calendar . . . . .36 Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . .37-40
248.360.6397
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Horsin’ Around in Highland plus PetA-PALooza equals one great family weekend with the first-ever Highland HeyDays. Highland HeyDays is a two-day family festival held in downtown Highland geared towards bringing families, friends, neighbors, and pets together to celebrate the Highland community. This will be the first year of the two-day festival after local organizations decided to combine the annual square dance with a pet awareness day. The Highland Dowtown PAGE 9 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯
A combined effort of many organizations in the Highland Township area and two community events — Horsin’ Around in Highland and Pet-A-PALooza — Highland HeyDays will be held on Saturday, Sept. 10 and Sunday, Sept. 11. (Photo courtesy of Tami Flowers)
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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
ONE MINUTE INTERVIEW WEST
OAKLAND’S
Long and winding road
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: ASSISTANT EDITOR: Tim Dmoch Kirk Pinho Staff Writers: Angela Niemi, Leslie Shepard, Michael Shelton Contributing Writers: Mike Scott, Mark Stowers Staff Photographer: Amy K. Lockard Photography Intern: Stefano Ferri ADVERTISING SALES: Account Representatives: Cindie Audia, Denise Engelberts, Debra Grubb Linda Stickney, Laurie Wasker Sales Assistant/Proofing: Karen Whikehart PHONE SALES MANAGER: Lori Snyder Account Representatives: Rhonda Libkuman, Cindy Stawick, Leslie Timko GRAPHICS: Denise Jungjohan, Marcia Reimer, Stacie Sabady IT MANAGER: Joel Stickney CIRCULATION: Dan Griffin ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE MANAGER: Carolyn Petherbridge Assistant: Mable McCullough PRESS RELEASES: Deadline 10 a.m. Thursday. Mail to P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387-0014. Fax 248.360.1220 or bring to office. After-hours drop box. NEWS TIPS: Post at our website MAIL SUBSCRIPTIONS: 52 issues - $45 per year.
www.spinalcolumnonline.com OFFICES AT: 7196 Cooley Lake Road, Waterford, MI 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday thru Friday 248.360.SELL (7355) / 248.360.NEWS (6397) FAX 24/7: 248.360.1220 MAIL ADDRESS: P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387 SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY OAKLAND LAKEFRONT OAKLAND HOMES MONTHLYADVERTISER WEST OAKLAND DIRECTORY Member of National Newspaper Association Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce Waterford Chamber of Commerce
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Bullard discusses his past, present, future in public service
B
ill Bullard, Jr. of Highland Township is an attorney who has been involved in politics for over 40 years, from the local level as the Highland Township supervisor all the way up to the state House and state Senate. Bullard now serves as the Oakland County clerk/register of deeds, a position he was appointed to in December after serving on the Oakland County Board of Commissioners for eight years, with six years as chairman of the county board. One of the architects behind Proposal A, Bullard is now working to help the clerk’s office better serve county residents through expanded online access and services and mobile offices visiting different attractions across the county. Your career in politics spans four decades, but the position of Oakland County clerk is a whole different ball game. How did you prepare for your responsibilities as county clerk and what are the biggest adjustments you’ve had to make? BB: I’m the first attorney who has served as county clerk, first of all. As an attorney, I was familiar with the Legal Records Division of the Clerk’s Office. I’ve also been a public official for 30 years and in that capacity, I was very familiar with the Elections Division. I’ve prepared deeds, mortgages, and other legal documents, so that made me familiar with the register of deeds part of the operation. So pretty much, for somebody who was not a clerk or register of deeds prior, I had a lot of experience with the office. In addition, the county clerk is the clerk of the Board of Commissioners. I served on the Board of Commissioners for eight years, the last six years as chairman of the board, so that’s a very comfortable role for me to handle, being clerk of the Board of Commissioners. Earlier this spring you said you were assisting with an investigation after possibly forged assignment of mortgage documents were filed with your office and the Michigan Register of Deeds during the U.S. foreclosure crisis. Please give us some insight into that investigation and how it is progressing. BB: I have determined that in the first instance we found, because we learned about this through “60 Minutes,” that the name Linda Green was being signed to assignments of mortgage fraudulently by college students. We found about five of those filed in our Register of Deeds Office over the last three years. We turned that information over to the attorney general of the state, the prosecuting
Q
Q
attorney of Oakland County and the sheriff of Oakland County. Just recently, we determined that another person that admitted to signing fraudulent documents is a guy in Florida named Brian Bly. We found over a hundred Brian Bly signatures in recorded documents in our county. We turned those over to the attorney general, the prosecutor and sheriff. We’re not an investigative agency. We don’t have the resources or the legal authority to do that, but when we find what we think are alleged fraudulent documents, we turn them over to the investigative and prosecuting agencies, which is what we’ve done.
•
NE MINUTE
INTERVIEW
Q
There’s been an ongoing debate about liberalizing absentee ballot use, with some even calling for a “noreason” absentee voting option for all voters. What are your feelings on the wisdom of such reforms, or even eliminating the current criteria? BB: I support no-reason absentee voting. I think all you need to do is use a present statute and just say if someone wants to vote absentee, they can. (Secretary of State) Ruth Johnson has a proposal that may break this deadlock. Maybe there’s a way it can be done that is palatable to the Legislature and that is to have no-reason absentee voting, but make the person hand-deliver the absentee ballot, and I support Secretary Johnson’s proposal. Technology is rapidly evolving to the point where people can now file various documents with your office
Q
or access filed documents online. What ideas do you have on how technology can be further involved in the Clerk’s Office? BB: Well, the e-filing system, which includes all civil cases and now divorces with no minor children, we now have a project to extend that to DM cases, divorce with minor children. Eventually, all the case codes you file cases under will be under e-filing, but we’re moving rapidly in that area. In (this office), that’s the main technological initiative. In the Register of Deeds Office, within the next couple months, we’re going to be able to announce that when you register a deed or other document with the office, instead of sending it back to you six or seven weeks after the fact, we will be able to scan that document and hand it back to you right away. That will be a huge change in our operation. It will be a savings to us in postage of, we think, over $25,000 a year. There’s been an outcry from Democrats about new state legislative and congressional districts drawn up by the Republican majority in Lansing, while Oakland Republicans are upset about the redistricting of county commissioner districts via a panel dominated by Democrats. Does either side really have a case or is this just the latest example of minority party members lamenting district changes that will favor the other party for the next 10 years? BB: I can’t comment on the legislative or congressional (district changes) because I don’t know anymore than what I read in the papers. However, as far county commissioner (district changes), I was on the panel that made that decision. The map that was adopted on a partisan 3-2 vote, the chair of the Oakland Republican Party voted no and I voted no and there is a court challenge to the county map and it is in the Court of Appeals and we should know in the next few months whether the court will uphold that map or throw it out. I think that’s the history of redistricting ever since the early 60s when it was required and the majority party draws the maps. The minority protests and the minority party goes to court. That’s just the system that we have. Until we get a new system, that’s the system that we’re stuck with. ❏
Q
By Michael Shelton
Read more of this interview at spinalcolumnonline.com.
AUGUST 31, 2011
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AUGUST 31, 2011
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LAKES AREA NEWS
An in-car video recording shows portions of an Aug. 13 traffic stop involving West Bloomfield Township Supervisor Michele Economou Ureste, a passenger in the vehicle, and her husband, Matthew Ureste, the driver of the vehicle. The video will be posted with the online version of this article at spinalcolumnonline.com, and on the Spinal Column Newsweekly’s Facebook page. (Video obtained from the West Bloomfield Police Department through the Michigan Freedom of Information Act) field sobriety, bad driving or observavideo evidence that Matthew Ureste tions by an officer,” Walton said. “Bad ran a red light. driving is insufficient in itself. We have “My husband and I have never to have some evidence to prove guilt sued for damages, but a malicious beyond a reasonable doubt.” assault has defamed our hard-earned The Urestes were front and center family name by unsubstantiated alleat a special meeting of the West gations made from a police departBloomfield Township Board of Trustees ment against my husband in a routine on Monday, Aug. 29. traffic stop without a shred of eviThe meeting was scheduled to dence of wrongdoing,” she said. “I approve tentative contract agreements have battled unsavory politics. I’m between the township and its public also obviously a great threat amongst safety unions, including the police offimy fellow trustees with pending eleccers union, but much of the meeting tions.” was dominated by public comments Ureste also said she has had politiabout the traffic stop. cal enemies since she called into quesMatthew Ureste spoke at length tion Patton’s appointment as police during the public comment portion of chief. the meeting, defending himself and his Last fall, she, along with Trustee wife, saying that he wasn’t intoxicated Steve Kaplan, filed a declaratory lawthat night but that he was extremely suit seeking a ruling regarding a tired and that he and his wife were township policy amendment stating never informed that he blew over the that any board member, and not the legal blood-alcohol limit. supervisor alone, can recommend the He added that Stephens asked him if termination of a department head and he wanted a ride home and he accepted. a majority board vote would be needEconomou Ureste said that her ed to carry out the recommendation. husband wasn’t intoxicated, that they Kaplan said previously the townwere both tired and that there was no ship supervisor would have to recom-
mend to the board the hiring and termination of a department head and a majority board vote would be needed, and that the township’s amendment is contrary to a state statute granting a township superintendent those responsibilities. Those claims were dismissed by Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Rudy J. Nichols in January. Patton’s appointment to the police chief position was approved by a 5-2 vote last October, with Economou Ureste and Kaplan casting the votes against his appointment. Many township residents spoke at the Aug. 29 meeting, with a majority criticizing Economou Ureste and some even calling for her resignation. Economou Ureste’s predecessor, former township supervisor David Flaisher, also gave his support to Patton while former trustee Robert Spector also spoke out against the current supervisor. Township Clerk Cathy Shaughnessy said that it was possible that abuse of authority may have played a part in Stephens’ decision to give the couple a ride home, but that it may never be known. Township Trustee Gene Farber said Patton’s investigation was by the book and that he resented any implication that anything the police department did was politically motivated. Township Trustee Howard Rosenberg claimed that Ureste was attempting to make herself a victim by defaming the police chief. Township Treasurer Teri Weingarden said the issue was a distraction from the township’s push for a renewal of its public safety millage and authorization to increase the public safety millage, which will be voted on by township residents during the Nov. 8 general election. “Our public safety millage is vital,” Weingarden said. ❏
faced along Commerce Road from South Commerce Road to Union Lake Road. A center turn lane and signal upgrade is also part of the project. The total cost of the project is $2.1 million with construction costs totaling $1.88 million. The cost of the project will be split between the township, the Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC), and the county general government, with federal dollars coming from the Federal
The township’s share of the cost will be covered by both Tri-party Program funds and the township’s road improvement fund monies, according to Munro. “This is a change of strategy for Commerce to become more of a partner with the RCOC in order to receive the maximum amount of federal funding available — to leverage as much outside participation in order to maximize the return and value at the local township level,” Munro said. ❏
Ureste controversy ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 3
became aware of the traffic stop on Monday, Aug. 15 and that it seemed apparent that the department’s policies may have been violated during the traffic stop. He added that the Michigan Vehicle Code states that an officer may arrest a person based in whole or in part upon the results of a preliminary chemical breath analysis. Patton then initiated an internal investigation that was headed by Lt. Diamond. The investigation concluded on Friday, Aug. 26 with the suspension of Stephens. “Our focus has been on the conduct and decision-making of the officer. There are no direct or indirect allegations against the people stopped,” Patton said. “The investigation would not have made a difference if they were known or unknown, the policy is plain enough. No one is being charged criminally, arrested or ticketed.” Asked why he didn’t arrest Matthew Ureste, Stephens reportedly stated that he didn’t want to arrest the township supervisor’s husband; it was a busy shift and didn’t want to get tied up on an operating while intoxicated arrested; that he was concerned that an arrest would compromise an upcoming public safety millage vote. West Bloomfield police submitted a report on the traffic stop and an in-car video recording of the incident to the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office, which found there was insufficient evidence to establish any crime. Paul Walton, chief assistant prosecutor in the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office, said that a PBT alone isn’t admissible in court by the Prosecutor’s Office. “We would have to have evidence he was intoxicated, either through
Commerce Road resurfacing pact OK’d by board By Angela Niemi staff writer
The Commerce Township Board of Trustees has agreed to enter into a cost participation agreement with the Oakland County Board of Road Commissioners to have asphalt resur-
Surface Transportation Program Fund. “We’re fortunate to have participation from Oakland County and the federal government for these resurfacing projects,” said Commerce Township Clerk Dan Munro. Federal funding for the project totals around $1.37 million. The RCOC is contributing $606,816 toward total project costs, while the county is contributing $42,816, and the township is contributing $85,368.
AUGUST 31, 2011
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LAKES AREA NEWS
Wixom officials starting work on planning projects By Leslie Shepard staff writer
In keeping with Wixom Mayor Kevin Hinkley’s initiatives to maintain the city’s reputation as the”Best Hometown in the Midwest,” work is under way to roll out a visioning plan in tandem with updating both the city’s master plan and parks and recreation master plan. Hinkley pledged to bring Vision 2025 to fruition during his State of the City address in March. The goal calls for staying the course as the city moves forward, but with vision. “The vision and plans are to address the needs of the city as we see it for the future in regards to green space, manufacturing, retail/commercial, industrial and recreational (land uses) — all that’s involved in developing a 2025 vision,” Hinkley said. In 1991 the Wixom City Council authorized the strategic planning process for Wixom 2010: A Vision of Our Hometown. The 2025 Vision seamlessly continues that process. “The council before gave us what we have today so current council and planning will pick up where it was left off to determine what we will leave when we’re gone,” Hinkley said. “Essentially it’s a plan and direction to take the city to the next level.” Vision 2025 is intended to identify future needs of the city by analyzing aspects of public safety, infrastructure, public services, parks and recreation, economic development, and the environment. “It begs the questions where does the community want to be by year 2025?” Assistant City Manager Tony Nowicki said. As a result, the City Council recently accepted a proposal by LSL Planning, Inc., to manage a trio of objectives at a cost of $21,500. “The plans and visioning require public input and comments,” Nowicki said. “We need to develop the scopes, questions and topics.” Every five years municipalities are required by law to review and amend, as needed, their master plans, in accordance with Public Act 33 of 2008, the Planning Enabling Act. Moreover, parks and recreation programs must update a master plan every five years to satisfy state departments of Natural Resources and Environment requirements.
HeyDays will kick off on Saturday, Sept. 10 at 9 a.m. with a 5K run benefiting both the Aicardi Foundation and the Highland Conservancy. The library will host a program called “How to Meet, Greet, and Treat Dogs” at 2:30 p.m. “I think it’s a great opportunity for families to get out and enjoy their community. It’s a true family event,” said Highland Township Downtown Development Authority Director Missy Dashevich. (Photo courtesy of Tami Flowers)
Highland HeyDays ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 3
Development Authority’s (DDA) Horsin’ Around in Highland has been a staple in the community for the past several years as a time for residents to cut loose with a square dance. Pet-A-PALooza is a new addition to the community line up. According to Tami Flowers of the HighlandWhite Lake Business Association (HBA), some people were interested in having a pet awareness day like they had seen other local communities have. And together the two have become a festival with many local entities — such as the DDA, HBA, Highland Conservancy, Huron Valley Council of the Arts, Highland Equestrian Conservancy, the Highland Township Library and many others — joining forces to make the festival a reality. “We knew there had been discus“Of course we will be revisiting the overall city master plan during the process,” Nowicki said. “We will be economizing public input into one or
sion on how to make Horsin’ Around in Highland even better, so we decided to combine the two events together. It’s a good fit,” Flowers said. “It just shows a true community effort with the community working together,” said Highland DDA Director Missy Dashevich. HeyDays will kick off on Saturday, Sept. 10 at 9 a.m. with a 5K run benefiting both the Aicardi Foundation and the Highland Conservancy. The library will host a program called “How to Meet, Greet, and Treat Dogs” at 2:30 p.m. And then at 6 p.m., Horsin’ Around in Highland will begin with a square dance, beer tent, and entertainment. Food will be available from Highland Feed owners Mike and Deb Maher as a fund-raiser for the Aicardi Foundation, a cause close to the family as their niece had suffered from the illness. Also taking place Saturday will be two meetings and by addressing the three components concurrently, we will get a better program and better opportunity for feedback.”
a Fire in the Hole Chili Cook-Off to raise money for Highland and White Lake firefighters. Pet-A-PALooza will continue the good times on Sunday, Sept. 11 from 11 a.m to 4 p.m. with a street fair which will include booths for local pet rescue groups, animal magic shows, pet photos, demonstrations, vendors, and contests. There will also be bounce houses, face painting, and a petting zoo for children to enjoy. A portion of the proceeds from the street fair will be donated to Community Sharing. “There’s really a little something for everyone. It’s not just for families with pets,” Flowers said. “I think it’s a great opportunity for families to get out and enjoy their community. It’s a true family event,” Dashevich said. For more information on the event, go to highlandbusinessassociation.com or visit the Highland HeyDays Facebook page. ❏
FOR MORE LAKES AREA NEWS SEE PAGE 14
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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
By Leslie Shepard staff writer
SPECIAL REPORT
B
argain hunting is the way to shop these days. The economic downturn has paved the way for the proliferation of resale shops in the lakes area and across the country, and resale shopping is one way to save money while decorating or dressing with panache. Not only are resale shops thought to be effectively recession-proof, but they continue to thrive. The concept is a win-win situation. Consignees or donors bag up gently-used items and benefit by clearing out closets and/or earning money or credit towards purchases. In turn, customers have the advantage of buying these goods at a fraction of the retail price. Resale shopping is one sure way to safeguard a budget while satisfying the urge to buy. According to Adele Meyer, executive director of the NARTS: The Association of Resale Professionals, the world’s largest resale trade association, all demographics are taking advantage of resale bargain shopping during these challenging economic times. “People who previously gave away clothing, household goods and furniture are seeking other ways to dispose of unwanted items during an economic pinch,” Meyer said. “Some donate merchandise to a not-for-profit resale shop and take advantage of the tax deductions while helping a charity raise money. Others may choose to sell or consign merchandise at a local resale shop ... turning their ‘nolonger-needed’ articles into cash.” The resale industry’s image has changed in recent years. The antiquated thinking that resale shopping yields junk is now passe. “The slumping economy may draw people in, but once they visit a resale shop for the first time, they are pleasantly surprised with the high quality of merchandise and are forever hooked on a new way of smart spending,” said Kitty Boyce, president of NARTS. The spike in resale shop sales has resulted in scores of new shops cropping up across the country, at a rate of a 7-percent growth every year, Meyer said. NARTS members report significant increases in both sales and incoming inventory. According to the NARTS 2010 Operating Survey, 2009’s net sales grew 12.7 percent from 2008 figures and respondents reported robust growth rates over the past five years, with 2009 as the strongest. The increase is significant considering that retail sales overall were down 7.3 percent in 2009,
Thrifty, not frumpy
Resale shops cropping up in W. Oakland Richard Landry (right), owner of Caveman Consignment in Highland Township, opened up his store in March. The store offers “something for everyone,” Landry said, including alligator skin boots and belts, hunting knives, World War II mementos, and collectible kid toys. “We have a lot of guy stuff. It’s not all male-oriented, but guys have fun here,” he said. Pictured at left is Peter Landry, Richard Landry’s son. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
according to data from the U.S. Department of Commerce. More charities seeking additional streams of revenue are opening up not-for-profit resale stores. Others are seizing the opportunity to augment their space by including specialty items such as bridal wear, sporting goods, or goods for teens and furniture, two of the fastest growing segments of the resale industry. While all shops that sell gentlyused consumer goods are “resale” shops, there are slight distinctions. A resale shop is defined as a store that buys merchandise outright from individual owners. A consignment or thrift shop can also be called a resale shop, but only a store that actually consigns their inventory can be called a consignment store. Consignment shops take in merchandise on a consignment basis, paying the owners anywhere from 40 to 60 percent of the selling price if and when the items are sold. The majority of such shops often have a policy of displaying goods for anywhere from 30 to 90 days. As a new consignment store at 1423 S. Milford Road in Highland
Township, Caveman Consignment has staked its niche among the myriad of resale shops in the lakes area. The store, which opened in March, showcases a vast range of specialty items including sporting goods, tools, “man cave” essentials and cottage/cabin decor. “We have a lot of guy stuff,” said Caveman Consignment owner Richard Landry. “It’s not all male-oriented, but guys have fun here.” Right now some of Landry’s inventory ranges from alligator skin boots and belts, hunting knives, World War II mementos, and collectible kid toys to animal head mounts, bear skin rugs, tennis shoes, and neon signs. “We have something for everyone,” he said. “I have fishing and hunting accessories, baseball mitts, golf sets and shoes.” Landry, a former carpenter, traded his life in construction for retail in an attempt to make a living in a struggling economy. “When the construction business tanked, I thought this would be the way to go,” he said. “Business has been pretty good. It’s all new to me, but it’s been awful fun.”
My Blessings, an apparel and furniture consignment shop located just a skip down the road, partners with Landry because their inventories are so radically different. “I send merchandise down to them and they send stuff my way,” Landry said. He noted that popular items at his store include tools, collectibles, “man cave” essentials and bar taps, or “things people don’t normally find.” Landry offers consignees 50 percent of the selling price of an item, up to $400. Anything over that amount is negotiable. “With the market the way it is, it’s good to keep in mind that none of the items go to China — they go to friends and neighbors, people downsizing their homes, widows in the community, or the like,” he said. “Merchandise stays here in our community because that’s where the items come from.” Only those stores run by a not-forprofit organization are considered a thrift shop, such as those operated by the Open Door Outreach Center and the Salvation Army. Open Door, located at 7124 Cooley Lake Road in Waterford, is an outreach
AUGUST 31, 2011
Top photo: Highland Township Salvation Army store manager Janice Nylund (left) and store supervisor Mickie Kraatz (right) pose in the new store, which is located at 532 W. Highland Road. Bottom photo: Michelle Galorneau, owner of Treasure House Consigment in Waterford, shows off some store apparel. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Kraatz said. The trend toward resale and consignment shops has prompted Grace Centers of Hope, which is based in Pontiac and has an operation in Waterford, to look into adding another store to its four-store roster, according to Paul DeGrieck, director of business affairs and thrift stores for the not-for-profit organization. “With Grace Centers, about half of our revenue comes from our four thrift stores, so it’s a very important part of our business. In the last three years, we’ve added three more stores,” he said, adding that the outfits sell a wide variety of gently-used goods. “You name it, we sell it,” he said. And the industry is getting more competitive, according to DeGrieck. Grace Centers thrift stores — like the one located at 5919 Highland Road in Waterford — are now competing with not only organizations such as the
Salvation Army, but also some major department stores that are offering massive sales at rates of 75, 80, or 90 percent off of some items. “People are shopping for more bargains,” he said. “They are now going to thrift stores for the first time in their lives. It’s more competitive because the typical thrift store customer has also been hurt by the economy, and they are looking for bargains even more than before.” And those bargains help the organization serving the homeless pay it forward. At any time, the homeless shelter that receives no government funding has 250 men, women, and children in its care. “Another benefit indirectly to our customers is that they are helping somebody less fortunate than themselves because, when they buy from our stores, every nickel we make comes back to Grace homeless shel-
PAGE 11
ter.” And Grace Centers of Hope isn’t the only resale shop that touts that. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul resale shop at 2235 Elizabeth Lake Road between Telegraph and M-59 in Waterford also uses the vast majority of its proceeds to help those struggling in the community. “Ninety-two cents of every dollar goes back into our charity,” said Karen Braden, manager of the Waterford Society of St. Vincent de Paul store. “While that’s benefiting the resale part of it, the people shopping here are benefiting all the people that are in need of help.” The manager of the store, which has been in that location for six years, has noticed “a lot of new faces” frequenting it, particularly people in the market for children’s clothing. “We’ve been at this location for six years now, and I’m seeing a lot of new clientele,” Braden said. “I definitely think there has been a definite change in the way people are shopping.” The store carries “pretty much everything that you would use in a home,” as well as home accessories. “There’s very little that we don’t carry.” Resale shops have cropped up all over Waterford Township, including Treasure House Consignment on Cooley Lake Road, which offers women’s clothes, accessories and home decor. Moreover, there are several specialty resale/consignment shops in town. Dig’s Consignment Studio, located on Sashabaw, is a purveyor of furniture and household goods; Chi Chi and the Greek, located on M-59 near Cass Lake Road, is a vendor of vintage women’s clothing, meaning the apparel hails from between the 1920s and 1950s. Modern Exchange, located at 4539 Dixie Highway near Frembes, offers upscale women’s, children’s, career and designer wear. Modern Exchange opened last year with a variety of merchandise. Owner Marilyn Henney said business is booming, but she hesitates to attribute that to a challenging economy. She has simply come to understand her customer’s purchasing philosophy and changed up her inventory. “I turned the store into a high-end, brand name shop,” she said. “People are not over-shopping, but buying specifically for that ‘I love it’ type item. They are selective shoppers who walk out with the best piece in the store, no matter the price.” Henney added that the middle class has been hit the hardest in the economy and still covets high-end PAGE 12 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯
SPECIAL REPORT
human services center that has been in existence in the lakes area since 1980. The Open Door resale store was formerly located within the center’s Waterford Township food pantry until last year. Now it has its own nearby storefront that continues to attract foot traffic. “It’s hard to judge how we’re doing since we’ve only been in the new location a year,” said Open Door Manager Pat Kanners. “We had a terrible July, but business is again picking up because it’s back-to-school time.” The new storefront draws more regular customers to the bargain hub full of clothing for men, women and children; maternity wear; petite and plussize apparel; household items; accessories; luggage; and small pieces of furniture. Salvation Army thrift shops have four locations in the lakes area. Most recently the Highland Township store at 532 W. Highland Road opened its doors on July 30. According to District Manager Mickie Kraatz, business is flourishing. “All our stores are doing fantastic and Highland’s opening hasn’t affected any of them,” Kraatz said. “Highland is doing just what is expected — it’s community-based and gleaning great donations.” Each store has its own group of regulars that come in several times a week or are shopping nomads that travel from store to store, according to Kraatz. Salvation Army stores offer a vast range of inventory, from household goods, furniture, large appliances, electronics, apparel, and shoes to accessories. For most stores, about 60 percent of the clientele is buying apparel — except in Highland, where home goods are the most popular. To boost business, the organization holds six major sales per year, including a Labor Day sale where clothing is discounted 50 percent. All proceeds, after overhead and expenditures, benefit the Southeast Michigan Adult Rehabilitation Program in Detroit. The facility has the capability to house 300 men that are courtordered or voluntarily there for a sixmonth addiction treatment program. Therapy includes both sobriety and religious components. In tandem, the men are given work detail at store locations during treatment. Upon program completion, some are formally hired. Kraatz said the Salvation Army is widely known in the lakes area and attracts every demographic. “We offer something for everyone,” she said. The Salvation Army, however, is trying its hand at a niche market. In May, it opened an upscale Royal Oak location offering higher-end merchandise. “We wanted to try another venue,”
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SPECIAL REPORT
second chance warehouse sale
If you’re looking for unique items, new and used furniture, and great bargains, come on over to shop the ReSale Connection’s warehouse sale. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the philanthropic programs of Assistance League® of Southeastern Michigan.
Nancy Kunst (left), owner of Home Again Decor at 435 N. Main Street in Milford, sells — among other things — home furnishings with the help of worker Mary DePotter (right). What sets them apart is their specialized, painted antique furniture, Kunst said. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
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items at a reasonable price for a guiltfree shopping experience. “Their lifestyles had to change so they shop here and find cool things at a lower price,” she said. Henney and her staff check out the retail stores’ stock to keep up with what’s in style and what’s selling. Unlike other resale shops, she offers her services as a wardrobe consultant to bring back old-school customer service. Much of her stock is comprised of women’s and junior’s items, but she carries lines in maternity, plus-size, and mature clothing, along with household items and accessories. “My highest-selling commodity is purses, shoes and jewelry,” she said. “Coach is very popular. It’s usually gone in a day.” Still, not every resale shop in the community has fared well. Several have closed their doors in recent years. “The ones that niche themselves continue to do well,” said Waterford Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Marie Hauswirth. “They use discrepancy on what they take in. People don’t want to buy junk.” Henney carved out her niche and has drawn a regular customer base. “My clients aren’t as concerned with finding as much of a deal but finding something really awesome,” she said. “Many stores come and go. I attribute those that go to not having the right stock vs. the economy,” Henney said. Smart Chicks Consignment at 43039 Grand River in Novi is an exam-
ple of a resale store that’s here to stay. Owner Nancy Solomon opened the store eight years ago after a 17-year stint in a corporate job with Domino’s Pizza. “They said it would be three to five years until a new business would be successful,” she said. “It’s true. It took three to four years to get over the hump and get the customer base to get through this kind of economy. Business is very good now. “When I first started, I sold women’s clothing, shoes, handbags and accessories, and jewelry,” she said. “I then added home goods and furnishings. Clothing is still the mainstay and core of the business, but furnishings are picking up. Some of my customers go specifically to the home goods.” Solomon said her customer demographic is women 30- to 55-years-old with children in school, from a one- or two-income household who like to buy nice things but can’t justify the cost of buying new merchandise. Smart Chicks carries merchandise by Chico’s, Coldwater Creek, Ralph Lauren, Talbots, Ann Taylor, Ann Taylor Loft, Karen Kane, J. Jill, J. Crew, Gap, Banana Republic, Eddie Bauer, BCBG, DKNY, White House, Petite Sophisticate, Tahari, Liz, Tommy Hilfiger, Jones New York, Avenue, Lane Bryant and labels carried by Macy’s, Lord & Taylor, Nordstrom and Von Maur. She’s also selling new jewelry — necklace sets, earrings, watches and bracelets — according to her website at smartchicks.net. “You won’t find anything from Walmart, Meijer, or Old Navy here,” she said. “We only carry what an affluent middle-age woman would wear.” Solomon started the business as a PAGE 13 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯
AUGUST 31, 2011
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SPECIAL REPORT
Resale shops ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 12
consignment shop. Two years ago she made a change. While she continued to work regularly with as many as 800 consignors, she stopped taking on new ones; but, beginning on Friday, Sept. 16 and each Friday thereafter, Smart Chicks will be paying cash for the right fall/winter items (misses, petites and plus-size clothing that is less than 3-years-old, in very good condition, wrinkle-free, and bearing one of the designer labels listed above). “I definitely see people come in with their clothing for me to purchase,” she said. “I give cash on the spot, unlike other consignment stores. I’m a little different. “As far as the shopping aspect ... after people come in the first time, they come back after seeing the value,” she added. “I have a faithful group of customers, and a number that shop here every week from all over — Ann Arbor, Macomb, from out of state whenever they visit the area, and even some from other countries.” Solomon said with some more focused and aggressive marketing, her business will continue to grow. She said she expects to open a second location or expand into a larger space within the next two years. Smart Chicks offers a 20 percent discount on Wednesdays for seniors 60 and older. On Fridays, customers get 25 percent off their total purchase made with the cash. When a customer racks up a $200 total purchase, they get a 20 percent off coupon. “Business is very good now,” she said. Nancy Kunst, owner of Home Again Decor at 435 N. Main St. in Milford, opened her store three years ago; and as such, she said it’s hard for her to gauge whether the tight economy has resulted in a spike in business. However, she notes that she’s survived, and she takes that as a sign that business is good. “Starting a new business is difficult in any economy, and we opened three years ago in this economy,” she said. “We’re maintaining a steady flow. We definitely have our regulars that come in and have from the beginning. We have more of those people now. We doubled our space last year, and doubled the merchandise available.” Home Again Decor sells home furnishings such as pictures and lamps, accessories, potters and vases, and furniture. “What sets us apart is the specialized, painted antique furniture,” Kunst said. “It’s a little different than the
average store. Call it shabby chic. It’s really professionally painted furniture. “We added a boutique section a year ago, and have a lot of jewelry, shoes, and purses,” she said. “Jewelry sells well for us, due to our prices. The jewelry is new — samples from sales reps’ year-end inventory.” Kunst doesn’t take in merchandise on consignment. She said she finds all the store’s merchandise herself and has people refurbish some of the furniture she acquires. “I buy from stores going out of business, reps that sell me their samples, and even from a few stores down in Ohio that let me buy on a regular basis,” Kunst said. “I also look for things at estate sales.” According to Kunst, part of Home Again Decor’s success is based on setting up the store in a decorative way.” “It’s not just thrown together,” she said. “People enjoy the atmosphere of the store. I try to make it relaxing. “Business is going to pick up as the economy picks up — that’s to be expected,” Kunst said. “The more people that find out about us, the more come in.” ❏ Editor Tim Dmoch and Assistant Editor Kirk Pinho contributed to this report.
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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
LAKES AREA NEWS
Master plans ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 9
Each planning initiative is interdependent and will be facilitated in unison as a cost efficiency. LSL will be accumulating data, compiling information from meetings, training sessions, and meeting with commissions and city officials for a thorough evaluation. Administration internal kick off meetings are just starting so no timeline has been established for public meetings; however, Hinkley said the process could take roughly six to 12 months. ❏
5K run to raise funds for senior facility programs By Leslie Shepard staff writer
The 2nd Annual Canterbury-on-thelake 5K run will be held Sept. 18 beginning at 10 a.m. on its namesake grounds, located at 5601 Hatchery Road in Waterford Township. Canterbury-on-the-lake is a continuing care senior living community that offers three levels of care under one roof, including senior living apartments, assisted living apartments and a health center, which provides shortterm rehabilitation and long-term care nursing. Proceeds from the 5K run benefit programs conducted at the facility. “Ultimately the proceeds will be geared toward improving the quality of life for our residents,” said Ronda Pype, co-chair of the run. Monies may be used for supported animal care or possibly a new Internet cafe. “The goal this year is to put money toward one project,” Pype added. The cost to participate is $25 when registering online at canterburyonthelake.com, or $30 on-site the day of the event. A free goodie bag and Tshirt are included in the registration fee. Participants who register by Sept. 6 are guaranteed the T-shirt size of their choice. Post-race refreshments include bagels and water. New this year is a $10 per person brunch, open to the public from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. “We have an excellent dining program that is atypical to nursing home food so people are sure to enjoy it,” Pype said. PAGE 15 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯
A “Miracle Box” packing party will take place on Oct. 15 from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the Multi-Lakes Conservation Association, located at 3860 Newton Road in Commerce Township. The party, organized by a group of Wolverine Lake volunteers, will pack and distribute supplies to the men and women serving in the military overseas. Donations may be delivered beginning tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 1 until Oct. 1 to Kristy Nedrow at 515 Laguna Court in Wolverine Lake. (Photo courtesy of Jennifer Hansen)
Supporting American troops Volunteers gearing up to pack supply boxes for soldiers
By Leslie Shepard staff writer
W
hile U.S. soldiers continue to battle insurgents in Iraq and Afghanistan, putting their lives at risk daily, here in the lakes area a group of Wolverine Lake volunteers is “paying it forward” by joining the Desert Angels campaign to pack and distribute supplies to the men and women serving overseas. The “Miracle Box” packing party will take place on Oct. 15 from 9:30 a.m. to noon at the Multi-Lakes Conservation Association, located at 3860 Newton Road in Commerce Township. The 501(c)(3) non-profit organization is seeking other volunteers to pitch in by either helping to pack the boxes, or donating items or dollars to the cause. Donations may be delivered beginning tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 1 until Oct. 1 to Kristy Nedrow at 515 Laguna Court in Wolverine Lake. “These soldiers don’t have access to local drug stores, so there’s a lot
they go without,” said Desert Angels organizer and Wolverine Lake resident Joann Sullivan. “Desert Angels sends down items to make their lives a little easier.” Sullivan said popular must-haves include pocket foods like granola bars, Rice Krispie treats or instant items that only need water, such as instant coffee and oatmeal. Socks and bandanas are coveted items to help ward off perspiration. For a full list of suggested supply items, visit thedesertangel.org or wolverinelake.com. The village joined the effort for the first time last year thanks to Denny DeWitt, a Vietnam veteran who saw a need and answered the call in the community. “Denny wanted to get involved and organized the first packing party where we were able to pack and ship 303 boxes in 2.5 hours,” Sullivan said. “There was such an overwhelming response in the community. The saying ‘many hands make light work’ truly was the case.”
Monetary donations are welcomed since it costs $12.95 to mail every box; checks may be made out to Desert Angels, Inc. Another branch of Desert Angels is Desert K-9, geared toward sending supplies to the 600-plus military dogs deployed overseas. “The government doesn’t supply items to dogs — the handler must provide the necessities,” Sullivan explained. So in addition to collecting items for soldiers or the dollars to send the boxes overseas, the organization is also collecting necessities and/or monetary donations for the K-9 organization. Sullivan added that the biggest detriment to the military work dog is the scorching heat. To mitigate inclement weather conditions, cooling vests, paw booties, and goggles are needed, and a bundle of those items costs $250 each. Any monetary donation is welcomed. Checks must be written to Desert K-9 and mailed to Nedrow’s address. ❏
AUGUST 31, 2011
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LAKES AREA NEWS
Walled Lake DDA awards facade and sign funding By Leslie Shepard staff writer
T
o facilitate aesthetic improvements downtown during the economic slowdown, the Walled Lake Downtown Development Authority (DDA) continues to dole out facade and sign grants to help business owners enhance their storefronts. “It has been a very popular and successful program,” said Wendell Allen, chairman of the DDA’s Urban Design Committee. “There have been many new businesses in Walled Lake that have taken advantage of it.” The program started in 2006 and has picked up steam during the last few years. In the last two months, three businesses have been approved for grant funding while another four have applications pending. Pepino’s Restaurant on West Walled Lake Drive just completed its modification by installing a new shingled roof at the rear of the building to frame an outdoor seating patio in tandem with other minor improvements. Other grants were awarded to the Aaron Strand Insurance Company, and Lake Chiropractic. The Walled Lake DDA mission is to revitalize downtown Walled Lake, a Main Street Oakland County community. Through the facade and sign grant program, businesses can be awarded up to $5,000 in matching funds for facades or up to $500 for signs, contingent on DDA approval. Projects can range from door or window replacements, or elevation treatments such as stone, brick, or paint. However, landscaping, parking lot, flat roof and interior repairs or alterations
Canterbury 5K ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 14
There will also be a bounce house available for kids on the grounds, free of charge. In conjunction with the 5K race this year, those restricted by wheelchairs, scooters, or walkers can participate on campus grounds. That race will be officially timed and begin around the same time as the 5K run. “There is no cost for these entries,” Pype said. “We wanted more residents to participate and be a part of the whole event that was an emphasis this year.” ❏
Pepino’s Restaurant was one of three Walled Lake businesses to recently receive a a sign or facade improvement grant through the Walled Lake Downtown Development Authority (DDA). The facade and sign grant program, which awards up to $5,000 in matching funds for facade projects or up to $500 for sign projects, was started in 2006. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
are not eligible, in keeping with National Main Street program guidelines. For the 2011-12 fiscal year, the DDA budgeted $30,000 toward the program. “We get a few more (applications
for) sign grants than facades,” said DDA Executive Director Charlene Long. “The project doesn’t have to be large or costly.” The DDA lauds the program as a recruiting tool that spurs new busi-
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PAGE 16
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EDUCATION
Students transition to new schools in light of closure By Leslie Shepard staff writer
The move to close Highland Middle School in the Huron Valley School District has necessitated redistricting students to balance enrollment, and efforts have been under way since the spring to make the transition easier for those students impacted. “Transition is hard for families and we’ve tried to make it softer by offering open enrollment where we could and trying to keep neighborhoods together so it is less stressful on the students and families,” said Huron Valley Director of Community Relations and Fund Development Janet Roberts. Besides rerouting the students who formerly attended Highland Middle School to different middle schools, the district tweaked a few boundary lines that affect both Huron Valley Lakeland and Milford high schools, as well as other middle schools. “The general idea is to take the Highland Middle School equation out and balance enrollment between the
two high schools or the two sides of the district,” Roberts said. Transitions began last spring with multiple parent and student meetings. Counselors, and band and choir teachers, visited feeder schools while parents and students were given personal tours. Student ambassadors were assigned to new students, counselors and principals visited individual students at their original schools, and the district held several information meetings. With the new school year just a week away, a community ice cream social will be held this evening from 6:30-8 p.m. at Oak Valley Middle School as an opportunity for parents and students to meet staff, visit the school, try out lockers, find their classes, and renew friendships. Oak Valley is also planning a “clap in” for all students on the first day of school, Tuesday, Sept. 6, followed by an all-school assembly to introduce new staff, welcome new students, participate in relays and generally celebrate the beginning of a new school year. At the high schools, freshmen orientation has been the focal point, centered around getting freshmen into the building, meeting staff and starting
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school off on the right foot. “Once the school year is under way, we have intervention systems set up to support further transitioning, including new student groups and academic support,” Roberts said. Academically, the district will be monitoring student files to flag those who may require special attention. ❏
Project Rise back at Walled Lake high schools By Angela Niemi staff writer
Tuesday, Sept. 6 will not only mark the beginning of a new school year in the Walled Lake Consolidated School District, it will also mark the beginning of a new alternative education program in all three of the Walled Lake high schools. At the end of the 2009-10 school year, the district was forced to close the Community High School at the Community Education Center due to budget cuts. As all three high schools wanted to see some type of alternative education continue, Community Corners was moved to Walled Lake Northern for the 2010-11 school year. However, the district has decided this year to replace the Community Corners program by reinstituting Project Rise at all three high schools — Walled Lake Central, Walled Lake Northern, and Walled Lake Western. “Project Rise is an intensive one-onone program designed specifically for at-risk high school students,” said district Director of Community Relations and Marketing Judy Evola. According to Evola, since 1990, Project Rise has gathered and quantified data in four previous Board of Education reports documenting the success of the program — graduating and building relationships with at-risk high school students. “The goal of Project Rise is that all students will ultimately achieve academic success,” Evola said. “We want to ensure academic success for all students. We want them to improve basic skills in reading, math, writing, and listening. We want all of the students — specifically the students in Project Rise — to develop the ability to learn, think creatively, make decisions, manage time and solve problems. We believe Project Rise is a program with a proven track record that will help students develop individual responsibility, self esteem, and self management.” And by reinstituting the program at all three high schools, students won’t have to be transported to different schools.
“Students won’t have to leave their home school,” Evola said. “They can stay and receive the services that they may need right at their home school.” ❏
Board upholds OK of Green name change to Sheiko By Michael Shelton staff writer
The West Bloomfield Schools Board of Education at its Monday, Aug. 29 meeting held up an original decision to change the name of one of the district’s elementary schools from Green Elementary School to Sheiko Elementary School. Trustee Matt Chase made a motion on Monday to rescind the name change, which was seconded by Trustee Melanie Torbert, but the motion was struck down by a 5-2 vote. The name change was originally approved by the board at its June 13 meeting by a 6-0 vote, with Torbert abstaining. Board Vice President Bruce Tobin made the motion for the name change last June in honor of Kathy Sheiko, who was Green Elementary’s principal for 26 years before she retired at the end of the 2010-11 school year. “She was extraordinary. She was deeply involved in the welfare of every student. She knew each of them by name as well as their siblings and parents,” Tobin said. “She also mentored over a thousand teachers and administrators over the years.” Tobin added that the District Media Center has now been named the Green Media Center. However, some residents spoke out against the renaming of the school at Monday’s meeting. Members of the Greater West Bloomfield Historical Society and descendants of the Green family have also objected to the name change. Tobin said that no disrespect was intended towards the Green family. “The one-room school house that served as Green School on Green Road was sold long ago and developed as part of a subdivision,” Tobin said. “Land that was purchased from the Green building to build a larger school later became the district media center when a third building was constructed on land that was purchased and ultimately named Green school. “The second building now has the Green name restored and is now the Green Media Center.” Calls to Chase and Torbert were not returned prior of press time. ❏
AUGUST 31, 2011
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COMMUNITY LIFE ❐ Judith Ettinger of Waterford has successfully completed the necessary documentation of her ancestry to qualify for membership in the Society of Mayflower Decendants in Michigan. She was able to link her
heritage to James Chilton, who arrived in the harbor near Plymouth, Mass., on the Mayflower in November 1620 and was one of the signers of the Mayflower Compact.
Submit your wedding, anniversaries, baby announcements or other community news for publication on this page. Deadline is Fridays at noon. Include name, address and phone number for verification. We reserve the right to edit or not publish any submission. Items without names will not be considered. Mail to Spinal Column Newsweekly, P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387 or fax 24/7 to the editor at 248-360-1220.
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50 YEARS AGO Aug. 31, 1961 On Thursday, Aug. 24 during the rain storm that hit the area, two bolts of lightning struck a big poplar tree just seconds apart. The tree is only 10 or 15 feet from the home of Mrs. Margaret Curtis, 9116 Little Farms Drive. Mrs. Curtis was standing on the front porch and two of her sons, George, 20, and Larry, 14, were in a car one and a half cars' length from the tree. If the boys hadn't stopped when their mother called to them, they would have backed into the lightning. They said it sounded as though two cars crashed when the lightning struck the tree. The lightning tore wood and bark off the tree and threw it across the street. This close call made them stop and think of how lucky they were. 40 YEARS AGO Sept. 1, 1971 The new Southwest Oakland Vocational Education Center will open its doors in September to offer lakes area high school students courses ranging from architectural drafting and auto mechanics to food services and retail plant and floral sales. The ultra-modern facility is located at Beck and Potter roads in Commerce Township. The primary school districts which the center will serve include Huron Valley, Walled Lake, and West Bloomfield in the lakes area, and the surrounding districts of Clarenceville, Farmington, Novi, and South Lyon. 30 YEARS AGO Sept. 2, 1981 Spokesmen for the now defunct parents committees from the two Waterford elementary schools ordered closed last spring due to declining district enrollments expressed surprise last week at a school board decision to declare those buildings surplus and to collect appraisals for the properties. Silver Lake and Williams Lake elementary schools will not reopen this fall, as part of a board decisions to eliminate extra classrooms last March. Cherokee Hills also closed in that action, but has not been declared surplus property by the board. In a report prepared by the Silver Lake parents committee in March, committee members had requested that
Silver Lake be kept as part of the district's holdings. 20 YEARS AGO Aug. 28, 1991 The life of a 10-year-old Union Lake boy may have been saved thanks to the quick and appropriate response of a Waterford Township Police Reserve officer last week. Charles Yeager was attempting to cross Cooley Lake Road Friday night, Aug. 23, at about 7:30 p.m. when he was struck by a pickup truck driven by a 41-year-old Milford man. Reserve Officer Jack Ogg, patrolling the area, was flagged down and responded to the scene. Yeager was reportedly having difficulty breathing, and Ogg administered first aid to free the boy's wind pipe. Yeager also suffered heavy bleeding from an injury to his leg, and Ogg was able to control the bleeding and stabilize the boy until EMS arrived on the scene. The driver of the pickup was not issued a citation for the incident, Wolf said. 10 YEARS AGO Aug. 29, 2001 "Save Haven Hill," the non-profit organization initially formed to save the Edsel Ford family retreat on Haven Hill, located in the Highland Recreation Area, last week submitted an extensive business plan to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which details the group's future plans to restore the estate's remaining structures and the group's past accomplishments. Chris Arble, president of Save Haven Hill, said he submitted the thick plan to Dave Sinclair of the DNR at the Pontiac South District office. The group hopes to renovate the estate's remaining sheep barn, gate house and carriage house, all located within the recreation area.
Headlines of the Past
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LOCAL MATTERS
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❐ The Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission announces the appointment of A. David Baumhart, III of Bloomfield Hills as the citizen commissioner. Baumhart’s appointment to the commission came on July 6, and he replaced retired Commissioner Charles Palmer of Clawson. Baumhart is an attorney with his private practice ADR
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JANE DOE (nee SMITH), 88, passed away July 1, 2011 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Born October 18, 1923 to Thomas and Rose Jones of Detroit, Michigan and has resided in Florida since 2005, when she moved from White Lake, Michigan. She was born October 18, 1923 to Thomas and Rose Jones in Detroit, Michigan. Jane was an avid quilter and enjoyed cooking large dinners for her entire family. Jane was preceded in death 00 $ they by her husband John Doe and were married for 62 years. Survived by her 00 $ children Thomas Doe (Mary) of Brooklyn, MI; Karen (Timothy) Potts of Detroit, MI; 8 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. A Celebration of Life will take place on July 5, 2011 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the American Legion Hall in Brookfield, Michigan.
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Advantages, PLC. His prior experience with Oakland County Parks and Recreation includes the development of a competitive platform tennis program at Waterford Oaks County Park and serving on the Oakland Parks Foundation. He has also served on the Oakland Historical Commission as a member, vice chairman and chairman.
business notes movers / shakers honors / awards
JANE DOE, 88, passed away peacefully, July 1, 2011. Funeral was held July 5th, at First James Baptist Church in New Haven, Michigan. JANE DOE (nee SMITH), 88, of White Lake, passed away peacefully, July 1, 2011. Preceded in death by her husband John Doe. Survived by daughter Mary 00 Jones (Tom) and 6 grandchildren;$ extended family and friends. Funeral will be held on July 5th, at First Baptist Church, 2233 Oakland, New Haven.
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COE, JOHN E., age 82 of White Lake, passed away Saturday, August 27, 2011. He is survived by his wife Margo of 54 years; his children, Shelley (David) Parmenter, John T. (Julie), Thomas, Mary Ellen (Brendan) Rock; his grandchildren, Dustin, Taylor, Hayden, Meagan, Skylar and Parker; his siblings Joseph, Sally Freeman, David (Pam) and Patrick (Diana). He was preceded in death by his siblings, Mary Schikorra, James, Thomas, Anne Archer, Michael and Vincent. John was a Korean War veteran and worked in the West Bloomfield School District from 1972 to 1994. The funeral mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Thursday, September 1, 2011 at St. Patrick Church, 9086 Hutchins Rd., White Lake. Visitation will be Tuesday from 5-8 p.m. and Wednesday from 2-8 p.m. with a scripture service at 7:00 p.m. at the Union Lake Chapel of the Elton Black and Son Funeral Home, 1233 Union Lake Rd., White Lake. Mr. Coe will lie in state at the church on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Interment will be in Great Lakes National Cemetery under the auspices of the United States Army. Please visit www.eltonblackandsonwhitelake.com for more details.
AUGUST 31, 2011
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LOCAL MATTERS
Local Matters ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 18
SERVPRO’s 42nd annual National Convention that was held in June at the Renaissance Grand Hotel in St. Louis, Mo. This recognition rewards franchisees for their outstanding revenue performance and/or service to the company. For more information about SERVPRO in our coverage area, contact William Hannon at bhannon@servpronovi.com or call 248344-0044. For more information about SERVPRO in general, visit www.servpro.com ❐ lia sophia recently announced top honors to Angela Hutton of Commerce and Lulu Barragan of Pontiac for its Excellent Beginning Program Achievers for their outstanding sales accomplishments and professionalism. Having just joined the fashion jewelry business, Hutton and Barragan have earned this prestigious accomplishment in their first 15 weeks by attaining certain sales levels and by sharing lia sophia with other new advisors. Angela Hutton can be reached by visiting www.liasophia.com/angelahutton and Lulu Barragan can be reached by visiting www.liasophia.com/lulubarragan.
transitions changes ❐ Almetals, Inc. recently installed 74 Suntech 270 watt poly-crystaliine solar panels at its corporate headquarters in Wixom. This new system will supply approximately 20 percent of Almetals’ energy requirements and thus will further reduce its carbon output. Almetals is an award-winning specialty metals slitter and distributor for industries such as stamping, roll forming and tube producers. Their coil products include aluminum, brass and copper, clad metals, cold rolled, fin stock and coated and stainless steels. Visit them on line at www.almetals.com
awards ❐ Lakes Surgery Center of West Bloomfield earned the Gold Seal Of Approval accreditation by the Joint Commission for providing the nation’s highest level of quality health care and safety in ambulatory care. Founded in 1951, the Joint Commission is the nation’s oldest and largest independent, not-for-profit standards-setting and accrediting body in health care. Lakes Surgery Center located at 2300 Haggerty Road, Suite 1000, recently underwent a rigorous multi-day unan-
nounced on-site survey. A Joint Commission expert surveyor evaluated Lakes Surgery Center for compliance with standards of care specific to the needs of patients, including infection prevention and control, leadership, and medication management. Lakes Surgery Center received the distinction of a “perfect score” in all categories of the survey process. According to Lakes Surgery Center CEO/Administrator Anne HargraveThomas, several individuals played and instrumental roll in the survey accreditation process: Jennifer Butterfield, clinical nurse manager; Karl Bendy, materials and plant manager; Lisa Paterra, registered nurse; and Dr. Kevin Nett, medical director. Additionally, in 2010 and 2011, Lakes Surgery Center earned the status of “Top 100 Best Places to Work in Healthcare” by Becker’s Hospital Review/Becker’s ASC Review. To learn more about Lakes Surgery Center of West Bloomfield, visit www.lakessurgerycenter.com.
benefits
❐ Alekos Carry Out and Catering of Commerce is sponsoring a Spaghetti Dinner and Family Fun Day to benefit 16-year-old quadriplegic Walled Lake Central High School marching band member Drew Clayborn. This event will be held from 2-8 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 25, at the Multi-Lake Conservation Center located at 3860 Newton Road in Commerce. There will be fun, food and activities for all ages, including an auction of many one-of-a-kind items, and live entertainment. All money raised will help Drew continue to pay for the excessive health care costs through COBRA and the physical therapy equipment that he desperately needs. Drew was paralyzed from the shoulders down after a fall while practicing a back flip last year as he was preparing for the school musical. The cost for the spaghetti dinner is $10 per person and is payable at the door. To contact The Drew Crew, make a donation or for more information, visit www.thedrewcrew.org. ❐ DMC Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital is holding its 25th Anniversary & Healthy Harvest Bash 2011 from 1-3 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 18, at 1 William Carls Drive, Commerce. The event will feature the Radio Disney D-Tour followed by a special appearance from Mike and Ron Morelli from the hit TV show “The Biggest Loser.” Other children’s activities will include bounce houses, miniature golf, tot trots (2 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.), and crafts pre-
sented by the Ann Arbor Hands-on Museum. Pet therapy dogs will be on hand to meet children. Adult health screenings will be offered, as well as hospital tours and demonstrations of electronic medical records. Healthy Harvest Bash 2011 participants who tour the hospital can enter a prize drawing for a 32-inch HD TV; advance registrants at www.hvsh.org/openhouse can enter a drawing for a chance to win a Nike SQ Dymo driver ($360 value). Refreshments and parking are free. For more information visit www.hvsh.org or call 248-9373300.
chamber notes ❐ The Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce will hold the 4th Annual Crazy Putt-Putt Golf Outing Wednesday, Sept. 14 at the Kensington Mills Falls (Holden’s PuttPutt Course), 2055 S. Milford Road in Milford Township. The event is sponsored by Huron Valley-Sinai Hospital and Hines Park Ford. Check-in begins at 6 p.m., with a shotgun start at 6:30 p.m. The cost is $30 per person or $100 for a foursome. The price includes 18 holes of Crazy Putt-Putt (by the event rules), drinks (wine, beer and pop), and appetizers while you play. After the Putt-Putt golfing, participants will enjoy a chicken and potato wedge buffet dinner and mingling. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Western Oakland Meals on Wheels. Reservations are required; 21 and over only. Sponsorships are still available. For more information, call Jennifer at 248-685-7129, ext. 102. ❐ The Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce will hold the Brewed in Michigan event from 7 to 10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 7, at Baker’s of Milford, 2025 S. Milford Road in Milford Township. Tickets are $25 in advance or $35 after Oct. 1. The ticket price includes 12 pours of great local beer, six food taste tickets, a souvenir mug and drink specials at the After Party. Additional pours will be available for purchase. The After Party will run from 9 p.m. to midnight in the Baker’s Bar Wheelhouse with more great Michigan beer specials. The event sold out last year, so get your tickets today at the Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce, Baker’s of Milford, or PineRidge Market. A portion of the proceeds will benefit The Huron Valley Promise. Brought to you by the Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce with support from Baker’s of Milford and PineRidge Market. For more information or to purchase tickets, call the Chamber of
Commerce Office at 248-685-7129. ❐ The Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of Chamber events, call 248-624-2826 or visit lakesareachamber.com. • Oakland Chamber Network Mixer (OCN), 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 31, Bayside Sports Grille, 142 E. Walled Lake Drive, Walled Lake. Join the fun at Oakland County’s largest business card mixer. Admission is $10 for members paid in advance by Tuesday, Aug. 30; $15 for members paid after Aug. 30; and $25 for non-members. • Independence Village Lakes Connectors meeting, 8:15 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 7, at Independence Village, 935 Union Lake Road. This is a LABAT, or Lakes Area Business Alliance Team event. The team is limited to one representative per business classification. Meetings provide an opportunity to exchange qualified referrals. There is no cost to join the group. For information, call 248-624-2826 or visit lakesareachamber.com. ❐ The Waterford Area Chamber of Commerce is holding the following events in the coming days. For a complete calender of Chamber events call 248-666-8600 or visit www.waterfordchamber.org. • Join the Oakland County Pioneer & Historical Society for Small Talk! Topic: “The Underground Railroad Movement in Oakland County, MI 1840-1860.” Speaker Rochelle Danquah. Admission is $5. The event will be held from 2-3 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 11 at 405 Cesar E. Chavez Ave. in Pontiac. • Join the Waterford Area Chamber of Commerce for the next “Perking up Waterford!” event to be held from 8 a.m.-9 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 13, at Stephen Hershey D.D.S. M.S., 4468 W. Walton, Suite A, in Waterford. Enjoy a continental breakfast and network with fellow chamber members. Meet potential customers and build solid relationships enhancing your business growth. ❐ The Greater West Bloomfield Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the West Bloomfield Rotary Club, will host the 7th Annual Grub Crawl Thursday, Sept. 15, from 5-10 p.m. One of the goals is to promote area businesses while building a strong business/community relationship. Registration is required. Tickets are $40 per person and sponsorships are available. For more information call 248-626-3636 or visit westbloomfieldchamber.com.
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LOCAL MATTERS
A ‘windo’ to the lakes area
Third-generation Oxbowindo opens up to new focal point By Angela Niemi staff writer
O
ver the past few years, the economy has caused many businesses to seek innovative and alternative ways to survive. Oxbowindo in White Lake Township has done so by carving out its own niche in the window industry — by shifting its focus to replacing wooden windows. When construction was booming in southeast Michigan, Oxbowindo was busy supplying many new homes with beautiful new windows. But with the economic downturn, many industries and businesses suffered, especially the construction industry, which in turn affected Oxbowindo. “The bulk of window needs was always new construction,” explained coowner Todd Burmeister, who splits ownership of the third-generation, family-owned company with his brother, Kyle, and cousin, Debbie. “I would say our business was 70 percent construction to 30 percent replacement (back then). Everybody was building houses.” Their grandfather, William Burmeister, originally started the company as a lumber business in 1947 to meet the local building needs, before branching into window manufacturing to meet customer needs. Eventually, the company’s main focus became windows and the business morphed into the Oxbow Window Company, before turning into Oxbowindo in the 1970s. It has remained that way ever since, even with the company being passed down through successive generations. William Burmeister’s sons, William and Robert, inherited the business upon his death and continued expanding and developing the business — adding other quality lines of windows and doors while still manufacturing their own double-hungs and sliders. Today, the company manufactures wood and aluminum-clad exterior windows while distributing other window lines and exterior doors. However, Oxbowindo’s main business is now window replacement. “Our focus is the wood window market. There are a lot of houses in the tri-county area that have all-wood windows — with wood on the inside and outside. And between the way people aren’t maintaining their win-
Oxbowindo co-owner Todd Burmeister said the family-owned and operated business had to shift the nature of the business to emphasize replacement windows after the new housing construction market took a dive. The company manufactures wood and aluminum-clad exterior windows while distributing other window lines and exterior doors. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
dows and the way the windows were finished, the windows are rotting out of the homes, “ Todd Burmeister said. Although today the business is “geared almost a 100 percent” towards window replacement, Oxbowindo has not reduced its product offerings. “There are still a few new homes being built each year, but replacement remains our focus,” said Todd Burmeister, who had to shrink the staff and implement cost-cutting measures as the company navigated its way through the tough economic climate. Customer service also remains a focal point of the company. “All we can do is keep doing our best. The products are not changing as rapidly as they used to so we are placing our focus on our customer service to do the best to take care of our customers’ needs that way,” he said. ❏
Co-owner Todd Burmeister (right), salesperson Greg Cane and the entire Oxbowindo staff have maintained the business’ commitment to providing the highest quality customer service, but made it an even bigger focus since products aren’t changing as rapidly as they have in the past. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
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PUBLIC SAFETY Swordsman shot after he threatened police
Robber sought
By Leslie Shepard staff writer
A Waterford Township man was hospitalized in serious condition after he was shot by township police when he allegedly attacked them with a martial arts sword on Thursday, Aug. 25. According to police reports, officers responded to the Eagles Landing Subdivision at 1:25 a.m. after a family member called 9-1-1. The 25-year-old subject was reportedly off his medication, wielding the 2-foot-long sword and cutting up and damaging the home. When police arrived on the scene, the subject had left the home on foot with the sword in tow. Officers located the subject, who allegedly confronted police by brandishing the sword and holding it above his head. Police report the man asked officers to shoot him and then proceeded to attack them by swinging the sword. One of the officers deployed a Taser while another fired his gun, striking the subject near his right hip. Police found a second sword on the man. The subject was transported to a local hospital where he remains in serious condition. The investigation is ongoing. Apparently the subject has a history of problems and has used or threatened to use cutting instruments in the past. A preliminary investigation indicates that the officers acted responsibly and professionally given the confrontation, according to a Waterford police press release. ❏
Walled Lake man dies after falling five stories A Walled Lake man plummeted five stories from his apartment balcony to his death on Thursday, Aug. 25. A pedestrian discovered the 45year-old victim’s body in the 1000 block of Villa Drive at 6:41 a.m. and called 911. “The victim fell on a grassy area and from all indications he fell from his fifth-floor balcony,” said Walled Lake Deputy Police Chief Bruce Kirby. Police, fire and the Oakland County Medical Examiner’s office personnel arrived on the scene. A preliminary investigation indicates the man fell from the west side of the balcony that was enclosed by guard rails. “The medical examiner said he died from fractures and trauma sustained during the fall,” Kirby said.
Man held up Waterford bank Aug. 24
W
aterford Township police are searching for a man who robbed the Lakes Community Credit Union, located in the 4700 block of Dixie Highway, on Wednesday, Aug. 24. A white male suspect entered the bank at 2:24 p.m. and presented a note to one of the tellers stating his intent to rob the credit union. The man fled with money in
Apparently the victim lived alone and had resided in the same unit for 10 years, according to Kirby. There were no witnesses to the incident nor was there a note at the scene. “There is nothing to say he jumped purposefully or was pushed,” Kirby said. “However, it is still under investigation.” ❏
Vehicle reported stolen found three days later West Bloomfield Township police last week found a 2001 Toyota Avalon in a swamp near a Leo’s Coney Island restaurant three days after it was reported stolen. On Thursday, Aug. 25, officers responded to a woman who said her car was stolen while she was eating at the Coney Island. There were no signs of tools or broken glass at the scene. On Sunday, Aug. 28, a police officer was dispatched on a report of a suspicious vehicle after a car was observed in the swamp, which turned out to be the Avalon. There were no occupants in the vehicle and the door was locked with the ignition intact. An officer suspects that the Toyota may have rolled over the curb into the swamp. ❏
Man in jail rode stolen bicycle to courthouse A Waterford Township man who is serving time in the Oakland County Jail for driving with a suspended license may also face charges of possession of a stolen bicycle after he
hand before police officers arrived on the scene. No weapon was observed during the heist and no one was injured. The suspect’s photo was captured on the credit union’s security cameras. If anyone recognizes the suspect in the photo, contact Waterford police at 248-618-7527. You can view the surveillance video of the robbery on the Spinal Column Newsweekly website, www.spinalcolumnonline.com, or Facebook page. ❏ allegedly rode a stolen bike to court and left it on court property. On Monday, Aug. 22, 51st District Court officials contacted Waterford Township police stating that a bicycle had been left at the courthouse for 30 days after the 22-year-old man was incarcerated. Police checked to see if the bicycle was reported stolen. According to the Law Enforcement Information Network (LEIN) system, the bike was registered as stolen out of Waterford back in 2010. The victim was contacted and retrieved the Haro Intro Lite bicycle valued at $350. The suspect could now face charges of possession of the stolen bike. ❏
Township police help Shelby officers in case West Bloomfield police officers assisted Shelby Township authorities in apprehending an attempted murder suspect between the late evening hours of Saturday, Aug. 27 and the early morning hours of Sunday, Aug. 28. Officers visited a house in the 2600 block of Elizabeth Lane where the 42year-old suspect was staying. He was arrested without incident and then turned over to Shelby Township police. ❏
Woman stumbling in road cited for drug use A Wixom woman was arrested for drug possession in the vicinity of West Maple and North Wixom roads after police reportedly found her stumbling in the roadway on Monday, Aug. 15.
Police were dispatched to check on the woman’s welfare when they saw her moving slowly and uneasily. The officer recognized the woman, who allegedly is a known crack cocaine user, according to a Wixom Police Department report. The woman reportedly told police she had wrecked her fiance’s car. Her speech was slurred and her pupils were constricted, according to police. The officer asked if she was under the influence of narcotics, but she answered that she had not used crack in two months. She admitted to taking Xanax and heart medications. She agreed to have her purse searched. Police located a prescription bottle with blue pills with no markings, along with white pills mixed in, which she said were Methadone. Police also found a crack pipe and a small folding knife. The Wixom Fire Department and an ambulance arrived on the scene because of the woman’s heart condition. She was transferred to a nearby hospital for an evaluation. She was issued a citation for possession of drug paraphernalia and released with a court appearance date. ❏
Marijuana, pills found in 22-year-old’s vehicle Milford police arrested a 22-yearold Holly resident after he was caught with marijuana in his 1999 Dodge. The incident took place on Friday, Aug. 19 at 3:17 a.m. when an officer spotted the vehicle traveling 64 mph in a 50 mph zone along South Milford Road at Moore Road. The police officer pulled the car over and cited the driver for speeding, but then smelled burnt marijuana in the car. The driver said he had “roaches” in his driver’s side door. The officer found a cigarette box containing roaches and a clear plastic bag containing 10 white pills. The driver said that he got the pills from his mother and that he was taking them for an injured knee. Officers also found a clear plastic bag containing marijuana in the car’s center console. The suspect was arrested and the marijuana and pills were confiscated. Seven of the pills were identified as Tramadol and three were identified as Alprazolam. ❏
PAGE 24
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TRANSPORTATION
Widening project on Crescent Lake wrapped up early By Leslie Shepard staff writer
The Crescent Lake Road widening project in Waterford Township, which was scheduled to be completed in mid-September, wrapped up three weeks early on Thursday, Aug. 25. The project, facilitated by the Road Commission for Oakland County (RCOC), was formerly slated to be done on or around Sept. 16. “They moved up the completion date considerably,” said RCOC Spokesperson Craig Bryson. “They ended up being three weeks ahead of schedule.” Cadillac Asphalt of Clarkston was awarded the contract for the project. “They put in extra time into their schedule for weather, but they worked hard to get the project done,” Bryson said. The project called for adding a right-turn lane along southbound Crescent Lake Road at the north side of M-59 in Waterford Township. Crews were finalizing the striping and miscellaneous tasks at the end of last week. “Essentially everything is done and all lanes are open to traffic,” Bryson said. Waterford Township officials voted to allocate a portion of the community’s Tri-party Program funds toward the project to mitigate significant traffic backups along the roadway. By installing the right-turn lane, the intersection is expected to become safer for motorists and emergency vehicles by decreasing the length and time that fire and police vehicles are forced to travel southbound against traffic. Both the township police station and fire department headquarters are located off Crescent Lake Road north of M-59. Total project costs are estimated at $153,000, and split between Waterford Township, the RCOC, and the county government. ❏
M-59 MAINTENANCE PROJECT (Highland and White Lake townships) • Completion date: Approximately Nov. 15. • Cost: $4 million. • Notes: Highland Road will not be closed at any time during the project. Single-lane closures will be restricted to weekday and weekend hours between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m. Weekend lane closures will be minimized in central business districts. M-5/PONTIAC TRAIL/MARTIN PARKWAY ROUNDABOUT (Commerce Township) • Closure: Pontiac Trail between M-5 and Welch Road. • Detour: Welch Road to Maple Road to Haggerty Road and back to Pontiac Trail, and vice versa. • Notes: Pontiac Trail east of M-5 will remain open, and traffic will be permitted to travel from northbound M-5 to eastbound Pontiac Trail and from westbound Pontiac Trail to southbound M-5, but traffic will be reduced to one lane in each direction. • Completion date: Approximately Nov. 1. • Cost: $5 million. PONTIAC TRAIL/MAPLE INTERSECTION MAINTENANCE (Walled Lake) • Completion date: Undetermined. • Notes: Work is taking place as crews are available
on weekdays between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. One lane in each direction on Pontiac Trail and Maple east of Pontiac Trail will remain open. BRIDGE RECONSTRUCTION/I-96 BETWEEN MILFORD ROAD AND KENT LAKE ROADS (Milford Area) • Closure: Single lane closure on I-96 in each direction between Milford and Kent Lake roads on weekends and weekdays during non-peak hours. North and south ramps from Kent Lake to westbound I-96 will remain closed until end of November. • Completion date: Winter. • Cost: $15.5 million. • Notes: The first bridge reconstruction project to be undertaken will be the bridge over the Huron Valley Trail east of Milford Road. MILFORD/DAWSON INTERSECTION WORK (Milford Township) • Closure: None planned. • Completion date: Oct. 28. • Cost: $700,000 split between Milford Township, the RCOC, and the county government. • Notes: Both Milford and Dawson roads will remain open in both directions at all times throughout the project, but there will be lane closures on Milford and, at times, the road will be reduced to one lane between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. on weekdays with traffic directed by flaggers.
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ENVIRONMENT
New Union Lake boat access site project stalled By Angela Niemi staff writer
Although the state Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has started cleaning up the old Aggressive Marine site by removing the old marina’s underwater piers and taking out pavement, the DNR’s quest to acquire the adjacent “Dunville property” on the western shores of Union Lake remains stalled. “We were hoping that all would’ve been wrapped up several months ago. But it’s been a back and forth situation,” said Kristen Bennett, the DNR’s regional field planner for southeast Michigan. “We’re currently working with the bank and real estate to purchase the property.” The 2.41-acre property, along with the adjacent Aggressive Marine property — which was purchased by the DNR back in 2008 — would be used to develop a new public boating access site at Union Lake and Wise roads in Commerce Township. The DNR hopes to develop this new access site because the current Union Lake access site poses traffic and safety concerns. Union Lake Road separates the DNR’s existing boat launch ramp and its parking area, which creates traffic safety challenges and congestion problems. The current access site is located near Union Lake and Cooley Lake roads, north of the former Aggressive Marine property. The Dunville property includes 12.68 acres — 2.41 acres of upland and 10.27 acres of submerged land — and 400 feet of frontage on Union Lake. The property includes paved parking areas, public utilities, and a 3,521-square-foot brick and wood frame building shell that was formerly a restaurant, which the DNR plans to remove. Yet, until the Dunville property purchase is finalized, the DNR can’t begin construction of the new boating access site as there currently is not enough property at the Aggressive Marine site to house both a boat launch and 32 parking spots. “We talked about starting the launch (at that site) with reduced parking. But that would result in a situation with both launches open until the new one is complete, and we didn’t want to increase the number of parking spots available,” Bennett said. “Because the big concern from the community was the parking and num-
lake levels LAKE LEVELS Following are the lake level readings for lakes and rivers across the western Oakland lakes area, as compiled by Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner John P. McCulloch’s office. Legal levels are denoted by elevation in feet from sea level; current levels are denoted as plus or minus the legal in hundredths of feet. River depths are measures from the river bottom, at point of measurement. WATERWAYS Cass Cedar Island Commerce Dawson Mill Pond Duck Fox Huron River Long Loon* Maceday-Lotus Middle & Lower Straits Mohawk Oakland-Woodhull Orchard Oxbow Pontiac Shawood-Walled Lake Schoolhouse Scott Sylvan-Otter Union Upper Straits Watkins White Williams
LEGAL LEVEL 929.22 934.00 906.80 928.60 1016.63 930.00 1.08 933.006 949.30 966.70 930.70 949.30 957.50 930.50 942.75 962.83 932.80 949.30 951.00 928.60 927.07 930.80 950.00 1019.10 965.42
8/12/11 +.35 +.34 +.80 +.16 +.18 +.32 +.56 +.38 +.39 +.12 +.20 +.48 +.31 +.36 +1.15 +.72 +.42 +.41 –.90 +.29 +.29 +.42 Legal +.12 +.17
8/19/11 +.03 +.37 +.58 +.12 +.30 +.24 +.56 +.18 +.20 +.02 +.10 +.52 +.11 +.22 Legal +.69 +.39 +.50 –1.00 +.12 +.25 +.40 –.06 +.11 +.19
*Reading for Loon Lake, in Waterford Township, also applies to Mohawk–Wormer Schoolhouse, Silver and Upper Silver Lakes.
8/26/11 +.19 +.43 +.53 +.38 +.29 +.21 +.18 +.17 +.27 –.01 +.10 +.31 +.20 +.20 +.28 +.67 +.33 +.31 –1.00 +.38 +.35 +.31 –.09 +.01 +.37
ber of boats on the lake. And 32 spots was what they were comfortable with because the lake is already so congested. So we decided to hold off on changing anything until we have an adequate amount of space to open the other.” The number of parking spaces at a new access site was also the main concern of Union Lake property owners at a public hearing held by state officials at the Commerce Township Township Hall last December. However, it’s not a lack of parking spaces that worries the property owners so much as too many. Many property owners at the public hearing wanted confirmation that 32 — and only 32 — parking spaces would be developed at the new access site. They believe there is already enough boat traffic on Union Lake. The DNR had previously offered $656,000 for the Dunville property. The money to develop this and other state-sponsored boating access sites comes from the Michigan State Waterways Fund, not the state’s general fund. The Waterways Fund revenue is derived from boat registrations, marine fuel taxes, and user fees. By law, the fund is restricted to uses related to land acquisition and developing and maintaining waterway facilities and operations. ❏
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ichael McGuinness and Jason Bauer, the two former Oakland County Democratic Party workers charged in the so-called “Tea Party” scandal, had a pre-trial hearing on Wednesday, Aug. 24 and are scheduled for another on Wednesday, Aug. 31 in front of Oakland County Circuit Court Judge James Alexander. According to staff in Alexander’s office, three motions have been filed that will be taken under consideration. The first, filed by Bauer’s attorney, requests a separate trial for the two former Democratic Party officials. The second, also made McGuinness by Bauer’s legal counsel, asks for the jury selection process to be done via questionnaires. The third motion, a request for a bill of particulars, effectively means that McGuinness’ attorney wants “the court to list out what exactly the indictment is,” according to Alexander’s staff. Michael Dezsi, Bauer’s attorney, could not be reached for comment prior to press time. McGuinness faces six counts of forgery and perjury, while Bauer faces the same counts, plus three other charges for allegedly violating provisions of the Michigan Notary Public Act when he notarized what were allegedly fraudulent 2010 candidate affidavits for Aaron W. Tyler, who was running for the county Bauer 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. Uttering and publishing (forgery) is a 14-year felony; perjury is a 5year felony; and violations of the Notary Public Act are 1-year misdemeanor offenses. The county board’s 2nd District
represents Highland Township, the village of Holly, and Holly, Springfield and Rose townships. District 4 represents portions of Waterford and Independence townships, and Clarkston. The pair are accused of attempting to run so-called “Tea Party” candidates in the 2010 election in an attempt to siphon conservative votes from Republican candidates in the mid-term election cycle. In July 2010, a group identifying itself as the “Tea Party” submitted 59,000-plus voter signatures to the Michigan Secretary of State’s office, as well as the names of 23 candidates seeking legislative positions as Tea Party candidates. Waterford resident Matthew David Quinn was named in a candidate affidavit filed with the Secretary of State’s office as a Tea Party candidate for the 43rd state House District seat, a position currently held by state Rep. Gail Haines (RWaterford, West Bloomfield). Bauer allegedly has singed the affidavit naming Quinn. Likewise, Waterford resident Andrew Nicholls was named in an affidavit as a Tea Party candidate seeking the 26th state Senate District seat, which at the time was held by former state Sen. Deb Cherry but is now held by state Sen. David Robertson (R-Waterford). Most of that district is in Genesee County. Bauer also allegedly signed that candidate affidavit. Lyon Township resident Heather Sartorius, who was born in June 1990, making her just 20-years-old at the time, was named in an affidavit as a Tea Party candidate vying for the 15th state Senate District seat held at the time by former state Sen. Nancy Cassis but now held by state Sen. Mike Kowall (R-Commerce, Milford, Highland, White Lake, West Bloomfield, Orchard Lake, Wixom, Walled Lake, Wolverine Lake). Again, Bauer allegedly had signed that candidate affidavit. The Michigan Constitution requires that state representatives and senators be at least 21 years of age, meaning Sartorius was an ineligible candidate for that office. Neither Quinn, Nicholls, nor Sartorius have been charged or accused of any violation of law. ❏
AUGUST 31, 2011
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PAGE 29
COUNTY
Lawyer: Changing discount RX drug vendor OK by law By Kirk Pinho assistant editor
Legal counsel to the Oakland County Board of Commissioners, at the request of one member of the county’s governing body, has determined “based on the limited information available to (him) in the form of two letters from other lawyers” that the county wouldn’t be violating state or federal law if it switched vendors for the prescription drug discount card program in favor of one that could double the amount of savings the program’s participants enjoy, as well as double the amount of people participating in the program. County Commissioner Jim Runestad (R-Waterford, White Lake) brought forward the idea to the county board’s GOP Caucus in May and the board’s Republicans heard the arguments for switching from CVS Caremark to the Coast2Coast Rx Card, a move that Runestad estimated could Runestad bring between $150,000 and $200,000 to the county for health programs through a perprescription royalty that the county would receive. The royalty is what is at issue — whether entering into an agreement with Coast2Coast would violate state and federal anti-kickback statutes — and Richard B. Poling, Jr. wrote in a memo to county board Chairman Michael Gingell (R-Lake Orion) and Runestad that it didn’t seem to, at least in part, since the contract would be publicly disclosed. “Logically, with all of the other local governments that are using the Coast2Coast program, it would seem that if the federal government felt it was illegal, it would have stopped the program somehow,” the memo reads. Runestad said the GOP Caucus will “have a discussion” about the legal opinion and the merits of making the change. “What I foresee happening is, I’m probably going to produce a resolution for the caucus to discuss,” he said. “Thus far, I literally have not heard one commissioner say they don’t think it’s a good idea, at least doing an RFP (request for proposal)
The West Oakland Office Building located at 1010 E. West Maple Road in Walled Lake — which at one point housed staff of the county Health Department, Probation Department of the Probate Court, the Circuit Court Family Division, and the Information Technology communication hub — is scheduled to close on Friday, Sept. 2, after the Oakland County Board of Commissioners approved the sale of the facility in April. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
W. Oakland building to close 17,000-square-foot facility to cease operations Friday By Kirk Pinho assistant editor
A
s of Friday, Sept. 2, the county’s West Oakland Office Building located at 1010 E. West Maple Road in Walled Lake will be closed. The 17,000-square-foot, singlestory building situated on 1.64 acres was at one point home to staff of the county Health Department, the Probation Department of the Probate Court, the Circuit Court Family Division, and the Information Technology communication hub. The building’s sale, which the Oakland County Board of
with so many additional potential benefits of going to Coast2Coast over Caremark. They go from a 24 percent discount (currently) to a 50 percent discount, and from an approximately
Commissioners approved in April in a move that’s expected to save the county hundreds of thousands of dollars a year, is expected to only minimally impact those services, county officials said earlier. McDonald’s Corporation purchased the building for $675,000. The county expects to reap a $135,000 annual savings and realize the ability to forego $500,000 in capital improvements that were expected at the building. Local and county officials have also pointed to the fact that the West Oakland Office Building, since it will be placed in the hands of a pri20 percent penetration (rate) to a 40 percent penetration rate.” Oakland County began offering free prescription drug discount cards available to uninsured and underinsured
vate company, will also be added to the local tax rolls, meaning additional revenue for the city of Walled Lake. Residents looking for Health Department services can receive those at one of two locations — the North Oakland Health Center, located at 1200 N. Telegraph, Building 36 East in Pontiac; and the South Oakland Health Center, located at 27725 Greenfield Road in Southfield, the county reported in a press release urging residents to make sure their children are up-to-date on their immunizations before the start of the 2011-12 school year. ❏ citizens five years ago. Participants, according to the county, realize average savings on prescription drugs of 20 percent, plus savings on specialty medications. ❏
PAGE 30
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STATE
‘Dispensaries’ assailed in COA marijuana ruling By Kirk Pinho assistant editor
The Michigan Court of Appeals has ruled that an Isabella County business was operating outside the parameters of the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act (MMMA) when it allowed registered qualifying patients and primary caregivers to purchase medical marijuana, a ruling that effectively upheld provisions of the law barring so-called dispensaries from operating in the state of Michigan. The unanimous ruling, published on Tuesday, Aug. 23, determined that the MMMA — which was the result of a voter-approved ballot measure in 2008 that allowed the use of medical marijuana for qualifying patients — does not provide legal grounds for Compassionate Apothecary to allow patient-to-patient sales of medical marijuana, and that “no other provision of the MMMA can be read to permit such sales.” Compassionate Apothecary, which has locations in Mount Pleasant and Traverse City, allowed registered qualifying patients or their primary caregivers to purchase medical marijuana that other Compassionate Apothecary members had stored in lockers rented from the business. The operation provided the mechanism for the sale of medical marijuana and the retention of at least 20 percent of the drug’s sale price, the court wrote in its 17-page opinion. The court’s ruling came after Isabella County prosecutors filed a complaint against the defendants,
CLOSED DOORS Legislation that would require school districts to hold their school board elections during the November general elections of even-numbered years passed the state House of Representatives on Wednesday, Aug. 24, in a 72-36 vote.
A unanimous decision by the Michigan Court of Appeals states the Michigan Medical Marijuana Act (MMMA) — which was the result of a voter-approved ballot measure in 2008 that allowed use of medical marijuana for qualifying patients — does not provide legal grounds for so-called dispensaries to facilitate patient-to-patient sales of medical marijuana.
Brandon McQueen and Matthew Taylor, claiming that because Compassionate Apothecary was not operating within the scope of the MMMA, it was therefore a public nuisance since it violated the state’s public health code. A two-day hearing in a trial court took place, with that court ruling that Compassionate Apothecary — which had approximately 345 members — was operating within the appropriate scope of the MMMA.
McQueen, the ruling states, is a qualifying patient who has been issued a registry identification card and is also the registered primary caregiver for three medical marijuana patients. Taylor, the ruling states of the “generally undisputed” facts of the case, is not a qualifying patient but only a registered primary caregiver for two qualifying patients. “Together, McQueen and Taylor operate CA (Compassionate Apothecary), which can be described
as a medical marijuana dispensary. The goal of CA is to provide an uninteruppted supply of marijuana to registered qualifying patients. It does this by ‘facilitating patientto-patient transfers of marijuana between it’s members,” the Court of Appeals’ ruling reads. State Sen. Mike Kowall (RCommerce, Highland, Milford, Walled Lake, Wixom, Wolverine Lake, White Lake, Orchard Lake,
House Bill (HB) 4005, one of the earliest introduced this legislative session, would amend Public Act (PA) 116 of 1954 to require the November school elections in even-numbered years after Jan. 1, 2012. The proposed modifications would also strike out references in current law to May regular elections and the day on which candidates elected in those contests are sworn in. State Reps. Gail Haines (RWaterford, West Bloomfield, Eileen Kowall (R-Highland, White Lake), Chuck Moss (R-Orchard Lake), Bill Rogers (R-Milford), and Hugh Crawford (R-Walled Lake, Wixom)
voted in favor of the legislation. State Rep. Lisa Brown (D-West Bloomfield, Commerce, Wolverine Lake) voted against the bill, which now heads to the state Senate for consideration. • Local units of government would no longer be allowed to adopt a charter, ordinance or resolution that would enact a minimum staffing requirement under legislation that has received a concurring blessing of the state Senate after the state House of Representatives adopted versions of the bills that the upper chamber had previously approved.
The legislative package, Senate Bills (SBs) 485 through 492, would prohibit minimum staffing requirements for cities, counties, villages, and townships. SB 488 was introduced by state Sen. David Robertson (R-Waterford). Robertson and state Sen. Mike Kowall (R-Commerce, Highland, Milford, Walled Lake, Wixom, Wolverine Lake, White Lake, Orchard Lake, West Bloomfield) voted in favor of the legislation when it cleared the state Senate in a 26-12 concurring vote on Wednesday, Aug. 24. The legislation now heads to Gov. Rick Snyder. ❏
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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
STATE
Medical marijuana
Public workers to pay 20 percent of health care costs
❯ ❯ ❯ ❯ PAGE 31
West Bloomfield) said he believes the ruling will help communities grappling with issues related to medical marijuana. “I think it’s going to help communities in that those clinics that are set up, it’s going to be a little more clear,” he said. “That will, in turn, give better guidance for people thinking of opening these things and a little more guidance for communities, as well.” Commerce Township Supervisor Tom Zoner said that he isn’t sure how, if at all, the ruling will help local units of government regarding medical marijuana matters. “I’m going to have to wait for our attorneys” to review the opinion. Marcia McBrien, public information officer for the State Court Administrative Office, which oversees the state Court of Appeals and Supreme Court, declined comment on the ruling. A request for comment from the Marijuana Policy Project went unreturned before press time on Monday, Aug. 29. ❏
By Kirk Pinho assistant editor
Public employees in Michigan are on their way to paying at least 20 percent of their health care costs under legislation passed by the state House and Senate on Wednesday, Aug. 24, after a conference committee the previous day ironed out the wrinkles in the versions passed by both chambers earlier in the legislative Kowall session. State Sens. Mike Kowall (RCommerce, Highland, Milford, Walled Lake, Wixom, Wolverine Lake, White Lake, Orchard Lake, West Bloomfield) and David Robertson (RWaterford) supported Senate Bill (SB) 7 the second time around in a 25-13 vote in the state Senate last week.
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State Reps. Eileen Kowall (RHighland, White Lake), Gail Haines (R-Waterford, West Bloomfield), Bill Rogers (R-Milford), Chuck Moss (ROrchard Lake), and Hugh Crawford (R-Walled Lake, Wixom) voted in favor of SB 7, while state Rep. Lisa Brown (D-West Bloomfield, Commerce, Wolverine Lake) voted against it. The bill, which is expected to be signed by Gov. Rick Snyder, requires that public employers can’t pay more than $5,500 a year in health care costs for an individual, $11,000 for a couple, and $15,000 for a family. Instead of a hard and fast monetary figure, public employers could also opt to instead pay no more than 80 percent of the total annual costs for all of the medical benefit plans it offers or contributes to for employees, according to a legislative analysis of the bill. The analysis also states that a governing board or designated state official would have to authorize going to a percentage-based cap. A local unit of government could exempt itself from the requirements of the bill for one year by a twothirds vote of it’s governing body, and another twothirds vote would be required to extend the exemption. The chief executive of the unit of government would also have to sign off Brown on the exemption. “We have allowed some flexibility,” Robertson said. The bill’s requirements would apply to health care plans of all public employees and elected public officials to the greatest extent consistent with constitutionally allocated powers, regardless of whether the public employee is unionized, the analysis states. If the bill’s mandates fly in the face of an existing collective bargaining agreement or other contract currently in effect, the requirements of the legislation would not take effect until the pact expires, or is amended, extended, or renewed. Any collective bargaining agreement or contract executed on or after Sept. 15 would have to comply with the provisions of the legislation. Penalties for violation include a 10-percent reduction in a public employer’s economic vitality incentive payment — what effectively will replace the statutory state-shared
revenue program — or in school aid payment to school districts for the period during which the employer failed to comply with the bill, according to the analysis. “What we’re trying to do is get the cost of health care down statewide,” state Sen. Kowall said, adding that the requirement also would apply to state lawmakers. “That’s part of the solution.” “The cost of health care is bankrupting businesses and bankrupting the state. The money that the local units and Robertson the schools save stays with the (local units and) school districts. That money can be put right back into hiring more teachers or personnel.” He said the cost savings to units of government is expected to be in the “tens of millions.” “I think we came up with a good compromise version between the House and Senate,” Robertson said. “I think it’s necessary and entirely reasonable for public employees to pay a portion of their health care. In the private sector, individuals on average contribute between 17 and 21 percent of their own health care costs, if they have any health insurance at all.” But Brown had a different take, saying that the mandate would effectively be a tax increase on working people. “It’s really just passing the costs along to the employee, but meanwhile the employee is going to have less money,” she said. She also said she tried to improve the bill, but her amendments were shot down by the Republican majority in the state House. Among others — such as that it’s a state mandate on local units of government and that it usurps local control over health care issues — one concern she voiced was the potential that the state could lose out on federal transportation dollars that the state desperately needs for infrastructure projects. “There is language that, in regards to funding that we get from the feds, that things need to be collectively bargained. If we don’t, we lose the transportation dollars, and we don’t want to leave any dollars on the table,” she said. “It’s not funny, because it’s crazy.” ❏
www.spinalcolumnonline.com BLACK
APRIL 13-19, 2011
MAIL BAG
Go back to Iraq From George A. Goeddeke, White Lake Township: Isn’t it wonderful that this Iraqi immigrant (Louie Boji, One Minute Interview subject, Aug. 24, 2011) has had such success in the United States and then turns around and blames the United States for not having a plan after taking over his beloved country! Wasn’t freeing all Iraqis from a brutal, murdering dictator enough? Why doesn’t Mr. Boji go back to Iraq with all his wealth and put “his plan” in place for his own country? No way! He wants it both ways — the prosperity of the United States and to criticize this country after all it has provided him. If he was worth his salt, he would pack up, go back to Iraq, and do something about it and not whine about it to those of us who are truly Americans! ❏
Are we too lazy? From Mark J. Smith, Waterford Township: Have we become that lazy and inconsiderate that we have to park illegally in handicapped parking? If you are not handicapped, you cannot park in a handicapped-assigned parking spot, regardless if you have someone else’s handicapped
parking sticker or tag! I don’t care what excuse you have — if you are an ablebodied person and you park in a handicapped spot, not only is it illegal, but you are denying that legal convenience to someone who might really need it. At OfficeMax today, I saw a woman with absolutely no handicaps park in a handicapped spot and force an elderly person to park farther away in a regular spot. That elderly person struggled to make it to the store and even when that woman saw this, she didn’t seem to care — her time was so important that she couldn’t park a few feet farther away. That to me is the epitome of laziness and self-importance. I think the townships and cities are missing a big source of revenue, ticketing those who park illegally in handicap spots. ❏ Mail Bag provides a forum to express your thoughts. Please limit to 275 words or less. Please type and double space. We reserve the right to edit or not publish any letter. Deadline - Friday at 12 noon. Include name, address and phone number for verification, only your name and community will be published. Letters without names will not be considered. Mail to Spinal Column Newsweekly, P.O. Box 14, Union Lake, MI 48387 or fax 24/7 to Editor 248-3601220.
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WIXOM COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM (CERT) The City of Wixom will sponsor a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Training program beginning September 12, 2011. This program will consist of six weeks of classroom training on Monday evenings from 7:00–10:00 p.m. and will conclude with a Saturday morning field exercise. Classes will be held at Fire Station #1, 1345 N. Wixom Rd.
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PAGE 35
IN OUR OPINION
No legal entanglements New county prescription discount vendor sounds promising A rmed with a new legal opinion indicating there are no federal or state legal restrictions barring Oakland County from selecting a new discount prescription drug card vendor, county officials may forge an agreement with a new company to provide additional discounts to county residents and a modest amount of revenue for the county government. In light of the legal opinion, we hope to see a formal proposal submitted to the appropriate county board committee or committees for review and debate, ideally culminating with implementation of an agreement with the new vendor. Legal counsel to the Oakland County Board of Commissioners, at the request of one member of the county’s governing body, has determined “based on the limited information available to (him) in the form of two letters from other lawyers,” the county wouldn’t be violating state or federal law if it switched vendors for the prescription drug discount card program in favor of one that could double the amount of savings the program’s participants now enjoy, as well as double the amount of people participating in the program. County Commissioner Jim Runestad (R-Waterford, White Lake) brought forward the idea of changing vendors to the county board’s GOP Caucus in May and the board’s Republicans heard the arguments for switching from CVS Caremark to the Coast2Coast Rx Card, a move that Runestad estimates could bring between $150,000 and $200,000 to the county for health programs through a per-prescription royalty the county would receive. The royalty is what’s at issue — whether entering into an agreement with Coast2Coast would violate state and federal anti-kickback statutes. Attorney
Richard B. Poling, Jr. wrote in an Aug. 12 memo to county board Chairman Michael Gingell (R-Lake Orion) and Runestad that it wouldn’t seem to, at least in part, since the contract would be publicly disclosed. Another key point stated by Poling is that the actual intent of switching discount prescription drug card vendors is to help indigent citizens get cheaper medical goods and services — not for the county to gain “profit.” In addition, Poling states the change wouldn’t violate state or federal laws because any money paid by the new vendor to the county would go to the county government, not a specific person, thereby thwarting any “kickback” implications. “Logically, with all of the other local governments that are using the Coast2Coast program, it would seem that if the federal government felt it was illegal, it would have stopped the program somehow,” the memo reads. Runestad said the GOP Caucus will “have a discussion” about the legal opinion and the merits of making the change. He added that he hasn’t heard one commissioner say they don’t think the change is worth exploring, given the many additional potential benefits of going to Coast2Coast over Caremark. According to Runestad, Coast2Coast can offer a 50 percent discount on prescriptions for eligible county residents, as opposed to Caremark’s 24 percent discount. It’s believed that Coast2Coast would pay the county $1.25 for every prescription drug filled using the company’s discount cards. Oakland County began offering free prescription drug discount cards to uninsured and underinsured citizens five years ago. Participants, according to the county, realize average savings on prescription drugs
of 20 percent, plus savings on specialty medications. Runestad’s proposed change in discount card vendors sounds well worth the time and resources to thoroughly and seriously consider, yet there are a few questions that will need to be answered before the county board plows ahead to make the change. Doubling the discount county residents can get on prescriptions is enough of a benefit to make the vendor change worthy of consideration. But the change is expected to also double the amount of eligible resident participation under the current vendor and its program, from 20 percent penetration to 40 percent. If that’s not compelling enough, there’s the payments from Coast2Coast to the county to consider. True, as much as $200,000 a year in payments to the county may not seem like much considering an annual county budget approaching $800 million, but we’re confident that money could be put to good and significant use. It would appear that county commissioners are in sync in supporting the general concept of the vendor change and the benefits that would follow. What commissioners need to focus on from here are provisions of a marketing agreement that Coast2Coast would require and details of another company requirement: Providing a link on the county’s website to a special website regarding the discount prescription card program. According to Poling’s memo, it’s unclear who would create and maintain the program website and whether there’s to be oversight by the county over the website’s content and links. So long as those issues can be resolved to the county’s satisfaction, we expect to see Runestad’s proposal move through the committee process and addressed by the full county board. ❏
Vote on issues, not kerfuffles I
n notoriously political West Bloomfield Township, Supervisor Michele Economou Ureste is under fire after she and her husband reportedly received a ride home from a township police officer after her husband was pulled over in the early morning hours of Aug. 13 and given a preliminary breath test that allegedly indicated he had a blood-alcohol content above the legal limit. So be it. Township voters have the right to be upset about the situation. But we urge them to not let this controversy — no matter how it appears — affect their vote in November on a public safety millage proposal. The township will ask its residents in two separate ballot questions to renew the township’s existing public safety millage at its current rate of 3.1378 mills for 10 years beginning in 2012, and also ask for an 11-year increase of 2.85 mills beginning this year. A mill is equal to $1 for every $1,000 of a proper-
ty’s taxable value. The owner of a township property with a taxable value of $100,000 ($200,000 market value) currently pays $313.78 a year in property taxes for public safety services and would continue to pay that amount if the existing millage is renewed. The ballot language states that if the renewal is approved, the township would be authorized to collect up to $9.94 million in the first year. If the 2.85-mill increase is also approved, that same property owner would pay an additional $285 a year and the township would be authorized to collect up to $9.03 million in new tax revenue in the first year of the new collection. As the election nears — it’s now just over two months away — West Bloomfield voters need to remember that neither Ureste nor her husband are on the ballot this time around; that won’t be until 2012. The electorate needs to keep in mind that the proper-
ty tax issues should be voted up or down — and at this point we are not saying how voters should cast their ballots — based on their merits and their merits alone, not the actions or inactions of one specific township police officer, and not the actions or inactions of the township supervisor or her husband. With a trying economy forcing the hands of communities across the state to take such drastic measures as cutting police and fire services, it’s up to the voters to determine whether those services deserve or need added public funding, or if they should be forced to take a hit. Nowhere in that philosophical equation is what happened at the intersection of Green Lake and Richardson roads earlier this month. Whatever thoughts you have about the traffic stop debacle, those should be left at home when you go to the polls in November. ❏
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR ■ Knights of Columbus, Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Council No. 7444: Meeting 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, Sept. 1 and 15, St. Mary’s Catholic Church on Commerce Road, Milford. 248-363-0646. ■ Wixom Walled Lake Lions Club: Meeting, 7 p.m. Thursdays, Sept. 1 and 15, Big boy Restaurant, Pontiac Trail and Maple Road, Walled Lake. 248-683-9439 or 248-6857646. ■ White Lake Historical Society:Craft spaces available for Fisk Farm Festival, Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 10-11, 9180 Highland Road, White Lake. 248-240-6503. ■ White Lake Historical Society:Fisk Farm Family Fun Festival, crafts, music, games, live animals, storytellers, food, special Civil War miniature battlefield display, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 10-11, 9180 Highland Road, White Lake. 248-360-0188. ■ Multi-Lakes Conservation Association: Country Breakfast, Sunday, Sept. 11, 3860 Newton Road, Commerce. 248-363-9109. ■ Lakes Area Garden Club: Meeting, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13, Village of Wolverine Lake Offices, 425 Glengary, Wolverine Lake. 248624-1501. ■ Let Freedom Reign: Citizen activist group meeting, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14, Sports Center Bar & Restaurant, 2505 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford. 248-622-0300. ■ Waterford Parks and Recreation: HessHathaway Park committee is looking for crafters for the Annual Harvest Happening that will be held Oct. 1. For more information call 248-674-5441 or visit twp.waterford.mi.us/parksandrec. ■ Huron Valley Council for the Arts: 16th Annual Views & Visions, call for artists, allmedia art competition and exhibit. A prospectus with all entry information is available online at the VFAA website at milfordvfaa.org. Artists also may pick up a copy at the HVCA Gallery located at 205 W. Livingston Road in Highland, Main Street Art in Milford, or at Millers Artist Supplies on 12 Mile Road in Farmington Hills. Entry deadline is Saturday, Sept. 24. ■ American Cancer Society: Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, volunteers needed to join the committee, start a team or assist with day-of event needs, 7:30 a.m. to noon, Saturday, Oct. 1, Independence Oaks County Park, Clarkston. 248-663-3452 or Holly.Soranno@cancer.org. ■ Rotary of West Bloomfield: Meeting, 7:30 a.m. Tuesdays, Henry Ford Medical Center, second floor, southwest corner of Farmington and Maple roads. 248-520-0095.
■ Waterford Rotary Club: Meeting, noon, Tuesdays, The Shark Club on M-59, Waterford. 248-625-4897. ■ Big Chief Chorus: Rehearsals, 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Waterford Oaks Activity Center, 2800 Watkins Lake Road, Waterford. 248698-9133 or 248-563-2109. ■ Huron Valley Council for the Arts: Knitters circle, 10 a.m. Wednesdays, Highland Station House, Highland. 248-685-9015. ■ Williams Lake Church of the Nazarene: Angel Food Ministries, food distribution orders taken Wednesdays and Sundays, 2840 Airport Road, Waterford. 248-673-5911. ■ (Breakfast) Optimist Club of Waterford: Meeting, 7:15 a.m. Thursdays, Big Boy Restaurant, M-59 and Airport Road, Waterford. 248-673-3493. ■ Multi-Lakes Conservation Association: Allyou-can-eat fish fry, 5:30-8:30 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. 1-888-937-4390. ■ Catholic Social Services of Oakland County: Senior Companion Volunteers needed to support adults with developmental disabilities, Alzheimer’s disease, chronic mental illness, as well as the physically frail and homebound. 248-559-1147, ext. 3434.
SUPPORT GROUPS ❐ Sojourners: Support group meeting for widows and widowers, 1 p.m. Monday, Sept. 5, Orchard Lake Community Church, Presbyterian, 5171 Commerce Road, West Bloomfield. 248-681-4814. ❐ Alzheimer’s Association: Caregiver support group meeting, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 6, Sunrise Senior Living, 7005 Pontiac Trail, West Bloomfield. 248-738-8101. ❐ Celebrate Recovery: Alcohol, drugs, gambling, sexual addition recovery meetings, 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Life Point Christian Church, 501 Scott Lake Road, Waterford. 248-682-1747. ❐ Divorce Care:Support group meeting for adults and children, 6:30 p.m. Sundays, Brightmoor Christian Church, 40800 W. 13 Mile, Novi. 248-755-9533. ❐ Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous:Meeting, 6 p.m. Fridays, Crossroads Presbyterian Church, 1445 Welch Road, Commerce. 248-807-8667 or foodaddicts.org.
❐ Over Eaters Anonymous: Recovery from compulsive eating, 12-step program, meeting, 6 p.m. Tuesdays, St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 5301 Hatchery Road, Waterford. ❐ Postpartum Depression Support Group: Meeting, 6:45 p.m. Thursdays, Huron ValleySinai Hospital, Commerce. 248-937-5220.
SENIOR ACTIVITIES ❐ Dublin Senior Center: Bingo and Cards, 12:30 p.m. Mondays and Fridays, 685 Union Lake Road, White Lake. 248-698-2394. ❐ Highland Adult Activity Center: Wii Bowling, noon, Tuesdays, 209 N. John Street, Highland. 248-887-1707. ❐ Richardson Community Senior Center: Knitting and crochet group, 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays, 1485 E. Oakley Park, Commerce. Registration. 248-926-0063 or commercetwp.com. ❐ Sylvan Lake Lutheran Church: Senior Stretch and Tone, 11 a.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays and 8:30 a.m. Fridays, 2399 Figa Avenue, West Bloomfield. 248-682-0770. ❐ Waterford Senior Center: Line Dancing, Wednesdays, 3621 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford. Registration. 248-682-9450. ❐ West Bloomfield Parks and Recreation’s Senior Programs: Line Dancing, 11 a.m. Fridays at the Corners, 4640 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield. Registration. 248451-1900. ❐ Wixom Senior Center:Nifty Knitters, 10 a.m. Tuesdays, 49015 Pontiac Trail, Wixom. Registration. 248-624-0870 or wixomgov.org.
PARKS ❐ Indian Springs Metropark Environmental Discovery Center: Tot Time-Snakes, ages 2-5, 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 3, Indian Springs Metropark, White Lake. 1-800-477-3192 or 248-625-7280. ❐ Kensington Farm Center: Horse-drawn hayrides, noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, Kensington Metropark, Milford. 248684-8632. ❐ Kensington Nature Center: Beasts on the Beach, 1-4 p.m. Saturday and Monday, Sept. 3 and 5; Astronomy at the Beach, telescopes set up for public viewing, keynote speaker Astronomy Magazine’s David Eicher, 6 p.m.midnight, Friday, Saturday, Sept. 9-10, Kensington Metropark, Milford. 248-6851561 or 1-800-477-3178. ❐ Waterford Oaks County Park: Now taking lottery forms for leasing 60-square-foot indoor garden plots at 1580 Scott Lake Road in Waterford. The fall/winter garden plot pack-
age (Sept. 15, 2011-April 15, 2012) includes tested soil of compost and topsoil; controlled environment greenhouse with heat and light; use of dumpster, portable restrooms and basic tools; water; and education programs. Cost is $130/plot. For more information, call 248-858-0916 or visit DestinationOakland.com
LIBRARY EVENTS ❐ Commerce Township Community Library: Pre-Pub Club, adult book club, 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 12, 2860 N. Pontiac Trail, Commerce. Registration. 248-6698108 or commercelibrary.info. ❐ Highland Township Public Library: “Autumn Jewels: The Science Behind the Scenery,” adult program, 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 12, 444 Beach Farm Circle, Highland. Registration. 248-887-2218. ❐ Milford Public Library: Evening Storytime, Memoirs of a Goldfish, ages 2 and up with adult, 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 8, 330 Family Drive, Milford. Registration 248-684-0845. ❐ Walled Lake City Library: Learn how to work with your lender to avoid foreclosure with HUD-certified counselors, 5 p.m. Monday, Sept. 5; Evening Book Discussion, adult program, 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 8, 1499 E. West Maple, Walled Lake. Registration. 248-624-3772. ❐ Waterford Township Public Library: Evening Book Discussion Group, adult program, 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 8, 5168 Civic Center Drive, Waterford. Registration. 248672-4831. ❐ West Bloomfield Township Public Library: “What’s Cooking? Sweet and Savory Pies and Tarts,” adult program, 7 pm. Thursday, Sept. 8, 4600 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield. 248-682-2120. ❐ White Lake Township Library: August temporary library closing for renovations, 7527 E. Highland Road, White Lake. 248698-4942. ❐ Wixom Public Library: Julia Glass’ “Widower’s Tale,” adult book discussion, 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13, 4015 Pontiac Trail, Wixom. Registration. 248-624-2512.
RELIGIOUS ❐ Commerce United Methodist Church: Sunday School begins 10 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 9; “God’s Warriors,” boys only, 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 16, 1155 N. Commerce Road, Commerce. 248-363-3935 or www.commerceumc.org.
SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
Huron Valley Lakeland’s Charles Sanders (without helmet) goes the extra mile to get into the end zone for one of his three touchdowns against Northville on Friday, Aug. 26. The Eagles were trounced by the Mustangs, 69-28, and will look to regroup when it travels to South Lyon tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 1. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Mustangs trample Lakeland Mental, physical mistakes costly for Eagles in 69-28 defeat By Michael Shelton staff writer
Huron Valley Lakeland ran into a stampede in its season opener at home, as the Eagles were run over by the Northville Mustangs, 69-28, on Friday, Aug. 26. “We made too many mental and physical mistakes against a good football team. They capitalized on our mistakes and played at a high level,” said
Lakeland Head Coach John Maltese. Lakeland (0-1) trailed 21-7 at the end of the first quarter and 42-21 at halftime. Northville (1-0) then outscored the Eagles 20-7 in the third quarter before scoring one touchdown in the fourth to cap its scoring. Mustangs’ running back Brandon Love scored four touchdowns in the first half, while quarterback Jeff Gertley threw
for four touchdowns and rushed for one touchdown, as well. Eagles’ wide receiver Charles Sanders
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caught two passes on the night, which were both for touchdowns, for 84 yards
in addition to scoring a 5-yard rushing touchdown. Anthony Waite finished with 127 yards rushing on 17 carries with a 74yard touchdown run and a lost fumble, while Josh Orlando finished with 74 yards rushing on 14 carries with a lost fumble. Lakeland quarterback Casey Palanca completed 3-of-8 passes with PAGE 38❯ ❯ ❯ ❯
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FROM OUR BLOG Go to spinalcolumnonline.com to see what is on the minds of our staff. Assistant Editor Kirk Pinho wrote: I did a poetry reading at the University of Alabama while I was a graduate student there, and before I began reading my silly poems, I was thanking people who put a ton of legwork into getting the reading to run smoothly. They were my friends, colleagues, fellow poets and fiction writers, and my professors; I thanked the people who put in the time to design the posters and post them in the hallways of Morgan Hall, which to this day remains named after a famed segregationist and former U.S. senator. But as a joke at the time, I also quipped that I thanked Moammar Gadhafi for “freaking the (expletive) out of me” for getting me nervous before the reading (I remember exactly what I said because I have a DVD of the reading) for something completely outrageous he said that had piqued the interest of the national and international media. This was in 2009. We knew that Gadhafi was crazy – and I’m not talking about “crazy uncle” crazy, but certifiable, prone to a stunning deafness to reality and compassion and what people generally refer to as “a soul.” We knew the problems he posed geopolitically, not to mention the intense abuses of power he was prone to and deplorable abuses of human rights. But now, it seems, he’s gone. Hosni Mubark of Egypt is gone. Bashar al-Assad of Syria is all but on his way out, too. Oh, and don’t forget Zine El Abidine Ben Ali, the ousted president of Tunisia. The so-called Arab Spring has seemingly reaped dividends for the Arab world, with the knees of totalitarian regimes buckling under the weight of what seems to be, at least mostly, a democratic uprising in that part of the world. So kudos to them. Kudos to them for gripping the fat fist of destiny and taking their future into their hands, perhaps with some assistance – wink wink, nudge nudge – from the United States. But it’s not like we, as a country, haven’t taken a girl like this to the dance before. We’ve seen what happens when regimes topple and new ones take their place. Think of U.S. backed uprisings all over the world, whether they were in Central America, Asia, Europe, or Africa. Case in point: Liberia, a country I studied extensively as an undergraduate political science student focusing on international relations, had backed the U.S. in the Cold War – something not lost to the U.S. when we supported the overthrow of William Tolbert, the country’s president from 1971-80, by a master sergeant in the Liberian army, Samuel Doe, who managed to finagle tremendous financial assistance from the United States pretty much in exchange for their anti-Communist stance. How did Doe and his cohorts overthrow Tolbert? Basically, by getting stupid drunk, taking members of Tolbert’s cabinet to an Atlantic Ocean beach with pristine sand punctuated with seashells, tying them to telephone poles, and shooting them. One of the many problems of this “uprising” was that not only was it televised live, the drunk soldiers repeatedly missed their targets; these rebels proved, in fact, that a BAC higher than your country’s GDP might have that kind of effect on your marksmanship. That was how the formal American diplomatic relationship with Doe began, in an eddy of blood and superficial wounds and viscera.
To read more of Kirk’s blog, or blogs of our other staff, go to spinalcolumnonline.com.
two touchdowns and two interceptions. Christian Gojcaj also had 178 yards on kickoff returns for the Eagles, who also committed 12 penalties for 75 yards. Lakeland gave up 661 total yards to the Mustangs, as Anthony Waite, Bobby Schumacher and Austin Bills each finished with four solo tackles on the night and Justin Bafus had Lakeland’s lone sack. Northville is coming off a season in which it finished 9-2, its best season since it finished 7-3 in 2004. Last year, Northville shutout Lakeland, 35-0. The Eagles will next travel to “The Jungle” to face the South Lyon Lions on Thursday, Sept. 1. Lakeland has won three straight against the Lions, including a 10-3 victory last season. The last time South Lyon defeated Lakeland was in 2006, a 6-0 victory, which was the last of a 24-game winning streak the Lions previously held against the Eagles. “We need to address these mistakes, correct them and play a more fundamentally sound football game against South Lyon next week,” Maltese said.
WLC coach: ‘We’ll be fine’ after loss to Canton, 42-14 Walled Lake Central fell in its season opener at Canton, 42-14, on Thursday, Aug. 25. The Vikings (0-1) hope that the loss will be a case of deja vu, as it fell to Canton last season before winning 11 straight games and advancing to the Division 2 state semi-finals for the first time. “We had too many mental mistakes and errors, but we know what our problems are and what needs to be corrected,” said Central Head Coach Robert Meyer. Western’s Zac Leimbach ran for a 7yard touchdown to tie the score at 7-7 in the first quarter, and Tai Abiola caught an 18-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter from Nick Timmons. Leimbach led Central with 87 yards rushing on 15 carries, while K.J. Schultz had 68 yards rushing on 17 carries. “We had some injuries and issues, but now we’re healthy,” Meyer said. The Vikings will look to recover tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 1 when they travel to Salem. “Salem is feeling pretty confident and everyone will be gunning for us,” Meyer
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said. “We just need to work on mental toughness and not missing assignments. We’ll be fine.”
Northern falls short in comeback try against Churchill Walled Lake Northern almost pulled off an incredible comeback but fell just one point short, 56-55, to Livonia Churchill on Thursday, Aug. 25 in the season opener for both teams. “We fell down 27-0 in the first quarter. We had six turnovers in the game and gave up a kickoff return for a touchdown,” said Northern Head Coach Brett Moore. “Our kids battled back and had a chance to win with a little over a minute to play. We scored the touchdown and went for two to win the game and fell short.” Quarterback Kirk Thomas finished completing 12-of-18 passes for 227 yards, 3 touchdowns and 2 interceptions for Northern (0-1), in addition to rushing for 99 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries. Junior Matt Kosmalski rushed for 101 yards and a touchdown on 4 carries, while Jake Ginster had 80 yards and a pair touchdowns on 6 carries. Senior Ryan Soulet also caught 5 passes for 107 yards and a touchdown. On defense, Austin Peer had 3 sacks as part of 9 tackles on the night, while Andy Rabaut had 14 tackles, including 2 sacks. On Thursday, Sept. 1, Northern will travel to South Lyon East. “I was pleased with our resiliency in the game. Our kids never gave up. We basically scored 55 points in under three quarters of play,” Moore said. Livonia Churchill is 1-0.
St. Mary’s blanks GR West Catholic in season opener Orchard Lake St. Mary’s traveled west for its season opener and came away with a 35-0 shutout victory over Grand Rapids West Catholic on Friday, Aug. 26. “I was pleased with the offensive line and blocking and our defense was reactive to the ball,” said St. Mary’s Head Coach George Porritt. “We jumped on them right away and scored on our first three possessions.” All of St. Mary’s (1-0) scoring came in the first half, as Keith Stonestreet rushed for a 6-yard touchdown to open the game and later caught a 41-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Dan PAGE 39 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯
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Clements. Clements also scored on a 1-yard touchdown while Parker McInnis had a 2-yard touchdown run and Spencer McInnis ran 48 yards for a touchdown. Spencer McInnis finished with 99 rushing yards, while Stonestreet had 131 all-purpose yards. Porritt added that linebacker James Ross played fairly well as he fights hamstring issues, and David Talley and Dylan Zerki also stood out on defense. St. Mary’s will next play its home opener on Friday, Sept. 2, when the Eaglets hosts Toledo (Ohio) St. John’s Jesuit. “Playing Toledo is like playing in our league — they’re big and physical and it will be a tough game,” Porritt said.
Mavs’ offense runs on all cylinders in 55-3 rout of Mott By Michael Shelton staff writer
Huron Valley Milford made Pat Fox’s return to the sidelines a successful one, as the Mavericks trounced Waterford Mott on the road, 55-3, on Friday, Aug. 26. Mott surprised Milford (1-0) on its opening drive, as quarterback Evan Underdown led the Corsairs 81 yards, with the assist of a couple Milford penalties, before Orlando Herrera kicked a 23-yard field goal to give Mott an early 3-0 lead. “We talked about the penalties and told them to settle down. They seemed a little uptight,” said Milford Head Coach Pat Fox said of his players. The Mavs then erupted, as Alex Larson scored on a 7-yard touchdown run on Milford’s opening drive before the Mavericks recovered a botched kickoff reception by Mott on the ensuing kickoff. With the ball at the Mott 34-yard line, Brandon Wallace would later punch it in from 5 yards out to give Milford a 14-3 lead. Larson then connected with Wallace on a screen pass, which Wallace took 51 yards to the end zone, and Milford had a 20-3 lead at the end of the first quarter. Larson would later throw a 5-yard touchdown pass to Wallace just before halftime before he ran 59 yards for his second rushing touchdown just 40 secPAGE 40 ❯ ❯ ❯ ❯
West Bloomfield senior running back CJ Bratwaite finished with 72 yards on 9 carries, including a 38-yard touchdown run in the Lakers’ 34-12 loss to Farmington on Thursday, Aug. 25. West Bloomfield will play its home opener tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 1 against Clarkston. (Spinal Column Newsweekly photo/Amy K. Lockard)
Lakers torpedoed in opener
Missed tackles, big plays lead to 34-12 loss for W. Bloomfield By Michael Shelton staff writer
West Bloomfield was able to hang with Farmington on the road for one half before the Falcons took flight and pounced on the Lakers, 34-12, in the season opener for both teams on Thursday, Aug. 25. “They were more physical than us,” said West Bloomfield Head Coach Ron Bellamy. “I was encouraged that we were in the right spots, but we missed tackles and gave up big plays.” The Lakers (0-1) trailed 6-0 at halftime after Farmington’s Bryan Green rushed 49 yards for the only touchdown of the first half. The Falcons (1-0) then scored first in the third quarter when quarterback Chris Morgan connected with Isaiah Gourdine for a 34-yard touchdown before Green scored a twopoint conversion to give Farmington a 15-0 lead. Senior running back CJ Bratwaite finally got West Bloomfield on the
board in the third with a 38-yard touchdown run, but the Lakers’ extrapoint attempt was blocked and they trailed 15-6. Green then continued his dominating performance as he scored two straight touchdowns from one yard in the third quarter and 45 yards in the fourth to increase the Falcons’ lead to 28-6.
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Green finished with 228 yards rushing on 15 carries to lead all rushers. Jordan Degreffenreed then capped Farmington’s scoring with a 28-yard touchdown run in the fourth. Senior quarterback Daryn Byrd later threw a 25-yard touchdown pass to Cortez Hardrick for the Lakers’ second touchdown. Hardrick finished with 7 catches for 111 yards on the night to lead all receivers.
“(Hardrick) introduced himself to the OAA (Oakland Activities Association) Thursday night,” Bellamy said. Bratwaite finished with 72 yards on 9 carries while Byrd completed 12of-24 passes for 158 yards. “This is Byrd’s first year starting and I thought he did OK. He’ll continue to gain confidence over time,” Bellamy said. West Bloomfield will face a tough challenge tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 1 when the Lakers play their home opener against Clarkston in an OAA Red division matchup. The Wolves are coming off a 28-21 opening week victory over Rochester Adams. “We have to go back to the drawing board. We didn’t do a good job of teaching the fundamentals of tackling during camp, so we have to go back and work on those,” Bellamy said. “We’ll be fine for the stretch run.”
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onds into the third quarter. “Alex and Brandon are very good players. I thought Alex’s performance was strong for his first varsity game and Brandon’s been a strong player for years,” Fox said. Ryan Grubb would also score two touchdowns in the second half for Milford, which will host Wayne Memorial for its home opener next week, marking Fox’s first home game in three years. Meanwhile, Mott (0-1) will travel to Livonia Stevenson on Sept. 1.
Warriors cruise to 51-14 road victory against Saline Walled Lake Western opened its season in impressive fashion with a 51-14 victory at Saline on Friday, Aug. 26. The Warriors (1-0) led 19-0 at halftime before outscoring Saline 32-14 in the second half. CJ McGorisk had 69 yards rushing on 8 carries and two touchdowns for
Western, in addition to completing 3 passes for 78 yards and a touchdown. Brent Zdebski rushed for 146 yards on 27 carries and a touchdown for the Warriors, in addition to 6 total tackles on defense. Zack Prokes, Alex Buchanan and Ben Ruby also each scored a rushing touchdown, while Chris Stepek caught an 11yard touchdown pass. Kyle Bambard also kicked a 30-yard field goal for Western. Ty Sickler had 6 total tackles for Western, followed by Zack Mitchell with 4. Joel Lewis had a sack for the Warriors, while Jordan Audritsh made an interception. “Our defensive line was really strong. I think everyone came out in the third and played well, but we still have to improve on penalties and execution,” said Western Head Coach Mike Zdebski. The Warriors will next travel to Novi tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 1 to face the Wildcats.
Kettering falls to South Lyon East; Our Lady loses Waterford Kettering fell at home to South Lyon East, 29-16, on Friday, Aug.
Hey Sports Fans! The Spinal Column Newsweekly seeks volunteer high school students, parents, and community members to help cover high school sports in west Oakland County. Candidates should be familiar with high school sports. Contact Editor Tim Dmoch at 248-360-6397, Ext. 498; or email: timdmoch@thescngroup.com for more information or to be considered.
26. Justin Santana finished with 108 yards rushing on 20 carries with a touchdown, as well as 5 receptions for 61 yards. Vince Cooper also scored on an 8yard touchdown run for Kettering. The Captains had the ball on the Cougar 8-yard line with a minute left before quarterback Chase Kreilach was sacked and then fumbled the ball, which South Lyon East returned 80 yards for the insurance score. Alec Spurlock had 9 tackles and Eric Monville had 7 for Kettering, which will travel to Northville tomorrow, Thursday, Sept. 1. • Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes was humbled, 41-14, at Cleveland (Ohio) Villa Angela St. Joseph on Saturday, Aug. 27. The Lakers trailed 34-0 at halftime and couldn’t recover. “Everything that could go wrong did. We had a bad practice on Friday, so I had a feeling,” said Our Lady Head Coach Mike Boyd. Mitch Lasceski had a 3-yard touchdown run and Richie Cross scored on a 5-yard touchdown run for Our Lady, who will play Hamtramck on Thursday, Sept. 1.
VOLLEYBALL
Vikings, Knights finish third at Central’s invite By Michael Shelton staff writer
Some of the best volleyball teams in the county were in the lakes area over the weekend and converged at the Walled Lake Central Invitational on Saturday, Aug. 27, including Walled Lake Central, Northern and Western. The host Vikings (8-2) and Walled Lake Northern finished tied for thirdplace. Brighton won the tournament championship by defeating Farmington 25-21, 25-19. Central went undefeated in pool play, defeating John Glenn (25-16, 25-21), Pinckney (25-20, 25-18) and Fenton (25-20, 25-19). However, Central fell in the Gold Bracket semi-finals to Farmington (14-25, 18-25). Senior Colleen Starrs had 31 digs and 4 aces while junior Katie Lusk had 24 kills, 1 ace and 7 digs. Junior Brittany Guldan had 40 assists, 13 kills, 4 aces and 14 digs, while sophomore Catelyn Girard had 30 assists and 11 aces. “As the hosts, we were really excited to see a high caliber of teams
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participate in the event again this year,” said Central Head Coach Cathy Johnson. “Both Colleen and Katie were awarded All-Tournament team recognition for their outstanding play throughout the day.” As for Northern, the Knights went 1-0-2 in pool play, splitting with Grand Ledge (20-25, 25-18); defeating Livonia Franklin (25-11, 25-16), and splitting with Farmington (1525, 25-9). The Knights then defeated Fenton in the Gold quarter-final, 25-17, 2521, before losing to Brighton in the semi-final, 17-25, 18-25. Brooke Mayrand was 45-for-45 serving with 6 aces and 113 assists, while Meghan Conrad had 13 kills and 8 blocks. Jessica Mutrynowski had 17 kills and 9 blocks and was 38-for-40 serving with 8 aces. Courtney Sullivan had 15 kills with 7 blocks, and Courtney Scott added 13 kills along with 31 digs. “Our setters ran a very balanced offense with 5 attackers scoring double-figure kills for the day,” said Northern Head Coach Renee Miller. “We also served much more aggressively than last week but still managed to have a serving percentage over 94 percent as a team. We had twice as many service aces vs. errors which was one of our goals after last week’s tournament.” Mayrand and Conrad were both voted to the all-tournament team. “Brooke is a leader at every position for our team — setting, attacking, blocking and serving, she does it all for us,” Miller said. “Meghan is an intimidating blocker at the net that forces opposing teams to make hitting errors or set away from her, and those are things that don’t show up in the statistics, but score points for our team,” she added. Walled Lake Western went 0-1-2 in pool play, falling to Brighton (19-25, 21-25) and splitting with North Farmington (21-25, 25-21) and Rochester (25-21, 19-25). Western placed third in pool play and was placed in the Silver Bracket, where the Warriors fell to Grand Ledge, 22-25, 23-25. Senior Nicole Morgan led the Warriors with 29 kills, 32 hitting attempts and 7 aces, while sophomore setter Allie Gluchowski had 24 assists. “The tournament was the first time the team has officially competed together. It showed we have a lot of potential to be a great team and will be working toward a winning season,” said Western Head Coach Beth Canales.
AUGUST 31, 2011
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice of Posting
COMMUNITY LEGAL NOTICES
for Charter Township of Commerce Township Board 1. Synopsis of the meeting held on: Tuesday, August 23, 2011 The above synopsis shall be posted (in its entirety) at the following locations: (1) Office of the Township Clerk 2009 Township Drive (2) Main Township Library 2869 North Pontiac Trail (3) Township’s website www.commercetwp.com Daniel P. Munro Township Clerk SC: 8-31-11
WEST BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP’S
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE EVENT (open to West Bloomfield, Orchard Lake and Sylvan Lake Residents only)
Saturday, September 24, 2011 9am – 2pm at West Bloomfield Civic Center 4550 Walnut Lake Road INFORMATION HOTLINE 248-451-4834 (Taped message only) www.wbtwp.com and Civic Center TV15 FRIDAY APPOINTMENTS – Fifty appointments are available between 5 pm – 6:30 pm on Friday, September 23, 2011, FOR WEST BLOOMFIELD RESIDENTS ONLY. Call the Hotline starting September 1st - please leave name and number - you will receive a return call to schedule an appointment. No appointment is necessary for Saturday recycling participation. SHUT-IN SERVICE - Township staff will pick-up Household Hazardous Waste items from WEST BLOOMFIELD RESIDENTS with physical limitations between 8:30 am – 4:30 pm on Friday, September 23, 2011. Call the Information Hotline (248) 451-4834 starting September 1st – please leave name and phone number – you will receive a return call to schedule an appointment. ACCEPTABLE ITEMS GARDEN/GARAGE - Fungicides, Herbicides, Insecticides, Pesticides, Automotive Fluids, Gasoline, Diesel, Kerosene, Car Batteries, Polishes, Bug Spray WORKSHOP - All Paints, (Maximum 10 gallons per vehicle), Paint Solvents, Glues (solvent based), Wood Preservatives, Fluorescent Light Bulbs, Varnish KITCHEN/BATHROOM - Thermometers, Chemical Cleaners, Furniture Polish, Nail Polish, Expired Medication MISCELLANEOUS - Pool Chemicals, Household Batteries, Moth Balls, Solvents, Muriatic Acid ELECTRONICS - Computers, Monitors, Typewriters, Microwave Ovens, Phones, Pagers, Printers, Fax Machines, Scanners, PDA’s, Stereos, Radios, Cassette Players, Walkmans, CD Players, MP3 Players, Clocks and TV’s. A “Certificate of Recycling” and a “Certificate of Hard Drive Destruction” are available from vendor at no extra charge. Electronics should not be in boxes. SHREDDING: On-site shredding of PERSONAL documents will be available – max. 50 pounds SALVATION ARMY: The Salvation Army will be on site (Saturday only) for a “Donation Drive”. NO HOUSEHOLD APPLIANCES WILL BE ACCEPTED WE CANNOT ACCEPT Computer monitors with broken glass, Appliances, Water Heaters, Humidifiers, Dehumidifiers, Air Conditioners or Tires. Please contact your trash hauler directly for disposal options on items not accepted. USED SYRINGE COLLECTION at BEAUMONT MEDICAL CENTER - FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2011 from 11:00 am.-1:00 pm A free community service for the collection of home-generated needles, syringes and lancets. All needles, syringes and lancets must be placed in rigid containers with lids. For further information call Patti Morton, Environmental Services at: 248898-0634. Location of event is: Beaumont Medical Center (rear loading dock), 6900 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield - DO NOT BRING SYRINGES TO THE CIVIC CENTER SITE; FOR PUBLIC HEALTH REASONS, WE ARE UNABLE TO ACCEPT THEM AT THIS LOCATION. S.C. 8-31-11
CITY OF ORCHARD LAKE VILLAGE
NOTICE OF ZONING BOARD PUBLIC HEARINGS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that pursuant to Michigan Public Act 110 of 2006, the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, as amended, the City of Orchard Lake Village Zoning Board of Appeals will consider the following appeals at their Regular Meeting on Monday, September 19, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. in the Orchard Lake City Hall, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, Michigan: Oram Appeal – 3294 Wards Pointe (Lot Coverage for Addition) Zughaib Appeal – 4310 South Bay (Lakeside Setback for Addition) McPhail Appeal – 5600 & 5652 Pontiac Trail (Several Variances for Land Division Proposal)
The West Bloomfield Township Woodland Review Board will hold a public hearing at the Township Board Room, 4550 Walnut Lake Road on Wednesday, September 7, 2011 at 7:30 p.m. to consider the following Woodland Permit Applications: CASE #PWD11-0258 GAPPY Parcel: Lot 4, Walnut Creek Estates Sidwell #18-30-227-004 Location: 7460 Victoria Request: An after-the-fact request to maintain a manicured lawn area and to restore, mitigate and relocate areas to revise the existing recorded woodland preservation area. Applicant: Dalia Gappy CASE #PWD11-0259 AYAR Parcel: Lot 2, Oak Grove Sidwell #18-20-254-002 Location: 6245 Lynn Request: An after-the-fact request to restore a disturbed woodland preservation area with native landscape treatments. Applicant: Salar Ayar CASE #PWD11-0262 BARBAT Parcel: Lot 191, Wyndham Pointe Sidwell #18-30-228-037 Location: 5547 Hampshire Request: An after-the fact request to restore a disturbed woodland preservation area with native seed and mulch blankets. Applicant: Duane Barbat CASE #PWD11-0263 ZAID Parcel: Lot 192, Wyndham Pointe Sidwell #18-30-228-038 Location: 5551 Hampshire Request: An after-the-fact request to maintain a brick paver patio and landscape treatments within a woodland preservation area. Applicant: Rajaee & Edna Zaid CASE #PWD11-0261 NERUSU Parcel: Lot 44, Bloomfield Pines Sidwell #18-31-176-007 Location: 6656 Minnow Pond Request: An after-the-fact request to install retaining walls, brick paver patios, brick paver steps and disturbances within a recorded woodland preservation area. Applicant: Venkateswara Nerusu CASE #PWD11-0265 AGHA Parcel: Lot 165, Wyndham Pointe Sidwell #18-30-227-068 Location: 7229 Essex Request: An after-the-fact request to maintain a manicured lawn area and to mitigate by relocating areas to revise the existing recorded woodland preservation area. Applicant: Hooman & Mandy Agha CASE #PWD11-0266 SPIVEY Parcel: Lot 163, Wyndham Pointe Sidwell #18-30-227-066 Location: 7221 Essex Request: An after-the-fact request to maintain a manicured lawn area and to restore areas within the existing recorded woodland preservation area. Applicant: Kevin Spivey CASE #PWD11-0267 ATTY Parcel: Lot 164, Wyndham Pointe Sidwell #18-30-227-067 Location: 7225 Essex Request: An after-the-fact request to restore a disturbed woodland preservation area. Applicant: Johnny & Suha Atty CASE #PWD11-0268 KIZI Parcel: Lot 162, Wyndham Pointe Sidwell #18-30-227-065 Location: 7217 Essex Request: An after-the-fact request to restore a disturbed woodland preservation area. Applicant: Claudia Kizi Detailed plans are available for inspection at the West Bloomfield Township Environmental Department, 4550 Walnut Lake Road, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. A staff report, as prepared for the Woodland Review Board, will be available for review the Friday prior to the meeting. If you have any questions on this matter, contact the Environmental Department at (248) 451-4818.
Complete copies of the requests are available for review at the Office of the City Clerk in City Hall. Written Comments will be received in the City Clerk’s Office, 3955 Orchard Lake Road, Orchard Lake, MI between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, or may be submitted electronically to CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com. You are invited to attend the hearing. Rhonda McClellan CityClerk@CityofOrchardLake.com
PAGE 41
S.C. 8-31-11
John Roda, Environmental Manager S.C. 8-31-11 The Township will provide necessary, reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with disabilities at a public meeting upon two weeks notice in writing or by calling the Township Clerk or Environmental Director at (248) 451-4800.
PAGE 42
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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING HEARING OF ASSESSMENT
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING WHITE LAKE TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION Notice is hereby given that the White Lake Township Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Thursday, September 15, 2011, at 7:00 p.m. or shortly thereafter, at the White Lake Township Hall, 7525 Highland Road, White Lake, MI, 48383 (north side of Highland Road, just east of Porter Road). The purpose of the hearing is to receive public comments on the draft of White Lake Township’s 2012-2017 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP). A capital improvement plan (CIP) is a six-year schedule which identifies major public infrastructure projects and physical improvements, and the sources of funding necessary to complete those projects. Capital improvement projects include major expenditures such as new public buildings or expansion of existing buildings, water/sewer line extensions, fire and police facilities, and parks & recreation facilities. It is a tool to access the Township’s long-term capital improvement projects, and to prioritize those projects based on standardized criteria. The CIP identifies cost-saving opportunities for coordinating projects across various Township departments, and creates a bridge between the planning for future public projects and the annual budget. The White Lake Township Planning Commission is responsible for preparing the CIP, and presenting it to the Township Board for adoption. The 2012-2017 CIP is White Lake Township's inaugural Capital Improvement Plan. The Michigan Planning Enabling Act of 2008 requires a CIP for any Township which owns and/or operates a public water supply or sewerage disposal system. The CIP will be reviewed and updated annually. A complete copy of the draft 2012-2017 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) may be examined at the White Lake Township Community Development Department, 7525 Highland Road, White Lake, MI 48383, prior to the public hearing during the Township’s regular business hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m. (excluding holidays). The CIP will also be available for review online at the Township’s website: www.whitelaketwp.com. Written comments may be sent to the Planning Commission at the above address prior to the hearing or by email to soneil@whitelaketwp. com. Oral comments will be taken during the public hearing. This notice is published consistent with the requirements of Michigan Public Act 33 of 2008. Sean O’Neil, AICP Planning Director S.C. 8-31-11
Terry Lilley White Lake Township Clerk
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Master Plan Updated White Lake Charter Township Planning Commission Notice is hereby given that the White Lake Township Charter Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Thursday, September 15, 2011, at 7:00 p.m. or shortly thereafter, at the White Lake Township Hall, 7525 Highland Road, White Lake, MI, 48383 (north side of Highland Road, just east of Porter Road). The purpose of the hearing is to receive comments from interested persons on a proposal by the Planning Commission to adopt an updated Master Plan for White Lake Township. The updated Master Plan includes text, charts, tables, graphs, illustrations and maps that describe the Planning Commission’s proposal for the long-range future development of the community. The updated Master Plan has been prepared under the authority vested in the Planning Commission by the Michigan Planning Enabling Act, Michigan Public Act 33 of 2008, a amended. A Master Plan is a long-range policy plan for land use that helps guide Township officials when making development decisions. The Master Plan is not a zoning map and does not change the zoning of individual properties. A complete draft of the proposed Master Plan may be examined at the White Lake Township Community Development Department, 7525 Highland Road, White Lake, MI 48383, prior to the public hearing during the Township’s regular business hours; Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m. (excluding holidays). The draft Master Plan will also be available for review online at the Township’s website: www.whitelaketwp.com. Written comments may be sent to the Planning Commission prior to the hearing at the above address or by email to soneil@whitelaketwp.com. Oral comments will be taken during the hearing. This notice is published pursuant to the Michigan Planning Enabling Act, Michigan Public Act 33 of 2008, as amended. Sean O’Neil, AICP Planning Director S.C. 8-31-11
Terry Lilley White Lake Township Clerk
LAKE IMPROVEMENT BOARD FOR TOMAHAWK LAKE Notice is hereby given that the Lake Improvement Board for Tomahawk Lake, in the Township of Highland, County of Oakland, will meet at the Highland Township Offices 205 North John Street, Highland, Michigan at 7:00 P.M. on Monday, September 19, 2011 to review, to hear any objections to, and to confirm a 4 year Special Assessment Roll for the purposes of implementing an Aquatic Weed Control Program for the years 2012, 2013 and 2014, and 2015 for the improvement of the Tomahawk Lake. The total assessment is estimated at $15,200.00 to cover the proposed budget with individual assessments to be presented at the Hearing. The Special Assessment Roll will be on file at the Highland Township Offices for public examination. Any person may appeal and be heard at the said Hearing, which is called pursuant to the provisions of Section 30913 Part 309 of Public Act No. 451 of 1994, as amended. Act 186 of the Public Acts of Michigan, 1973, as amended, provides that the special assessment must be protested at the Hearing held for the purpose of confirming the Special Assessment Roll before the Michigan Tax Tribunal may acquire jurisdiction of any special assessment dispute. Appearance and protest of the special assessment at the time and place of review is required in order to appeal the amount of the special assessment to the Michigan Tax Tribunal. An owner of or party in interest in property to be assessed, or his or her agent, may appear in person to protest the special assessment, or may protest the special assessment by letter filed with the Water Resources Commissioner Office, Attention: Ron Fadoir, One Public Works Drive, Building 95 West, Waterford, Michigan 48328-1907 at or prior to the time of review, in which case personal appearance is not required. If the special assessment is protested as provided above, the owner or any party having an interest in the real property may file a written appeal of the special assessment with the Michigan Tax Tribunal within 30 days after the confirmation of the Special Assessment Roll has been published in a newspaper of general circulation.
S.C. 8-31 & 9-7-11 CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF WEST BLOOMFIELD
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON GREEN LAKE WATERCRAFT CONTROL ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that, on Monday, September 12, 2011, at 7:00 p.m. in the Township Hall of the Charter Township of West Bloomfield, 4550 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield, Michigan, the Township Board of Trustees will hold a public hearing on adopting a Resolution to inform and request assistance from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources regarding the need for an amendment of the current Green Lake Watercraft Control Ordinance in Section 25-43(3) of the Township Ordinance Code, to change it from an electric motors only restriction, to a 10 miles per hour speed limit and prohibition of vessels with the capability of exceeding that speed. The Resolution that will be considered for adoption after the public hearing is posted and available for inspection at the Township Clerk’s office, Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, on the Township’s website (www.wbtwp.com), and on cable television Channel 15. Catherine Shaughnessy West Bloomfield Township Clerk S.C. 8-31-11
The White Lake Township Water Department will be conducting the Fall 2011 Fire Hydrant flushing during the hours of 9:00 AM to 5 PM Monday through Friday from Tuesday, September 6 through Friday, November 11, 2011. Fire hydrant flushing signs will be posted one day in advance and the day of flushing at the entrance to each subdivision/development. Caution should be observed around any hydrant discharge. Minimizing water usage is recommended during the day of flushing in your area. Any questions should be directed to White Lake Township Water Department at 248-698-3300, ext. 8 SC: 8-31, 9-7, 9-14, 9-21-, 9-28, 10-5, 10-12,
LAKE IMPROVEMENT BOARD FOR TOMAHAWK LAKE
NOTICE TO BIDDERS CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF WEST BLOOMFIELD Notice is hereby given that the Charter Township of West Bloomfield will receive proposals for the following project: POLICE DEPARTMENT HVAC & DDC CONTROLS UPGRADE – bid deadline 2:00 p.m., Tuesday, September 27, 2011 A Mandatory Pre-Bid / Walk-thru will be held at 10:00 a.m. local time on Monday, September 19, 2011. Meeting location is at West Bloomfield Township - Town Hall Board Room, 4550 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield, MI 48323. Representatives of Owner and Engineer will be present to discuss the Project. Bidders are required to attend and participate in the meeting. Bid packages can be obtained at the offices of Johnson & Anderson, Inc., 4494 Elizabeth Lake, Road, Waterford, MI 48328, after 12:00p.m. on Tuesday, September 6, 2011. The Township of West Bloomfield reserves the right to accept or reject any or all proposals, to waive any irregularities, or to let proposals again whatever is in the best interest of the Township. All proposals must be submitted as per the instructions included in the Request for Proposals and addressed to: Attn: Catherine Shaughnessy, Township Clerk West Bloomfield Township Clerk’s Department 4550 Walnut Lake Road West Bloomfield, MI 48325-0130 S.C. 8-31-11
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING HEARING OF PRACTICABILITY LAKE IMPROVEMENT BOARD FOR TOMAHAWK LAKE Notice is hereby given that the Lake Improvement Board for Tomahawk Lake in the Township of Highland, County of Oakland will meet at the Highland Township Offices, 205 North John Street, Highland, Michigan at 7:00 P.M. on Monday, September 19, 2011 to determine the practicability of implementing an Aquatic Weed Control Program for the years 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015 for the improvement of Tomahawk Lake. This Hearing is called pursuant to the provisions of Section 30910 of Part 309 of Public Act No. 451 of 1994 as amended. LAKE IMPROVEMENT BOARD FOR TOMAHAWK LAKE S.C. 8-31 & 9-7-11
AUGUST 31, 2011
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211072517 - $105,000
211070398 - $95,000
211079839 - $559,900
211036868 - $129,000
211069633 - $325,000
211086475 - $59,000
LAKE, BEACH & BOATING 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, Union Lake privileges, wonderful back yard
UP-NORTH LIVING 1.45 ACRES 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, oak cabinets, newer roof, 3 car detached garage
GORGEOUS HOME 5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, 2 story great room, gourmet kitchen
MODERN RANCH 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, open floor plan, master suite with walk-in closet.
CUSTOM BUILT HOME 4 bedrooms, 3.1 baths, open great room, breakfast nook, hardwood floors, gas fireplace
NEWER CONTEMPORARY CONDO 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, open floor plan, vaulted ceilings. Close to downtown Milford.
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211056180 - $129,900
211068047 - $189,900
211061876 - $459,000
211088481 - $55,000
211072511 - $350,000
211075547 - $250,000
GORGEOUS SETTING 2.2 ACRES 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, large family room with fireplace, master 2 closets, barn/shed
FAIRWAY ESTATES STUNNING 2 bedrooms, 3 baths, granite, new carpet, tile, overlooking 16th hole
UNION LAKEFRONT 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, kitchen with island, pantry, stone fireplace, den
FOX HILLS CONDO 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, doorwall to deck, clubhouse, pool, tennis court
BEAUTIFUL ROLLING 10 ACRE HOME 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, open floor plan, 2 fireplaces, near Kensington, 30’x40’ pole barn
A PIECE OF PARADISE 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, open floor plan, quality decking
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TURED HOME A FE OF THE WEEK
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211060973 - $154,900
211014823 - $229,900
211062309 - $155,000
211085668 - $165,000
MOVE-IN READY 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, open floor plan, pole barn, pond
UPDATED TUDOR 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, hardwood floors, fireplace, granite kitchen
LAKEFRONT 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, sprawling brick ranch, 2 fireplaces
ARTS & CRAFTS BUNGALOW 4 bedrooms, 1.1 baths, updated, cove ceilings, new roof/furnace/central air
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210042174 - $178,000
211079367 - $65,000
211089163 - $265,000
211013658 - $148,000
OXBOW LAKEFRONT 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, fireplace, 2 garages, estate sized lot
GREAT INVESTOR HOME 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths newer kitchen, natural fireplace
WONDER HOME GREAT NEIGHBOR 5 bedrooms, 3.1 baths, master suite, walk-in closets, in-law suite, professionally landscaping.
EVERYTHING RIGHT HERE 3 bedrooms, 3 baths 2 fireplaces, finished basement, maple kitchen, great room
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211079746 - $259,900 D AN STL WE
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211053983 - $87,000
211037965 - $90,000
211083106 - $89,900
211030129 - $39,900
211043488 - $131,900
211084725 - $213,900
BRICK RANCH 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, large lot, central air
UNION LAKE PRIVILEGES 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, huge master suite, needs updating
IMPECCABLE BRICK RANCH 3 bedrooms, 1.1 baths, hardwood floors, oversized 2.5 car garage
RANCH CONDO 2 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, end unit, nice patio, move-in condition
MOVE IN CONDITION 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, hardwood floors, sprinkler system
BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED HOME 3 bedrooms, 2.2 baths, backs to preserve, master suite, vaulted ceilings
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211047575 - $400,000
211078139 - $89,800
211054757 - $299,900
211068744 - $890,000
211042316 - $57,500
211058061 - $129,900
COMMERCE LAKEFRONT 4 bedrooms, 3 baths almost 3/4 acres, finished walkout
WELL MAINTAINED RANCH 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, .80 acre, double lot, fireplace, 2 car garage
SPECTACULAR COLONIAL 4 bedrooms, 2.2 baths, spiral staircase, 2 fireplaces, hardwood
WHITE LAKE FRONT 4 bedrooms, 3.1 bath, totally remodeled, finished walkout
TOTALLY UPDATED 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, doorwall to deck, lake privileges
ENJOY RESORT AMENITIES 3rd floor condo, 2 bedrooms, 3 baths, pool, sandy beach
Denotes a Real Estate One Virtual Tour
Lakes Area (248) 363-8300
©Real Estate One, Inc., 2011
AUGUST 31, 2011
www.spinalcolumnonline.com
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Visit us at 560 N. Milford Rd., Milford RAL NATU
PL FIRE
ACE
ION! LOCAT
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$165,000 GREAT FAMILY SUB! •1,800 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 1.2 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage • Open floor plan •Great room with natural fireplace • Walk to downtown •211043331
ES CR 41 A
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$549,900
ITE WH
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$89,000 ALL-SPORTS WHITE LAKE! •1,702 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 2 car detached garage •2nd floor master suite with jet tub •1st floor laundry •211064566
ULAR TA C
$359,500
LOT
$139,900 MOVE IN READY! •1,700 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 1.1 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •Colonial on large lot •Open kitchen and eating area •All appliances stay •211076905
AC C
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$59,900
$309,500
HEN ITC
LAKE ACCESS ON WHITE LAKE! •825 sq. ft., 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, basement •Cute and clean •Wood floors in living room •Large fenced yard •211059951
ET QUI
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$309,900
$249,900 ON LOWER PETTIBONE LAKE! •1,492 sq. ft., 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •New kitchen w/cherry & granite •Master bath with dual shower head •1st flr laundry •211077057
KL DUC
BEAUTIFULLY CUSTOM BUILT! •3,800 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 3.1 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •3-story great room with hardwood floors •Kitchen with built-in appliances •211049829
$270,000 CUSTOM BUILT QUALITY HOME! •2,820 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, basement, 3 car attached garage •1.49 wooded acres •Living room with beautiful oak mantle •Open floor plan •211032090
E LAK
HOME ON QUIET DUCK LAKE INLET! •2,349 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •Large rooms •Large yard •Andersen windows and custom wood trim •211060483
$169,900
C SPE
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$74,900
K NEW
ALL-SPORTS THOMPSON LAKE! •1,747 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, 2 car attached garage •Vaulted and cathedral ceilings throughout •Brick paver patio •211079387
A CR
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RANCH ON HUGE LOT! •1,312 sq. ft., 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, 2 car attached garage •Open style floor plan •Nice sized rooms •Beautiful hardwood floors •211061873
$135,000 CHARMING WIXOM RANCH •1,388 sq, ft., 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths •Hardwood floors •Patio with private yard with lake privileges •210132913
O PS THOM
LAKEFRONT & ACREAGE! •3,043 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms, 3.1 baths, basement, 3 car attached garage •11+ acres on all-sports lake •Granite kitchen and baths •211067932
T E LO
YARD GE R A L
ES ILEG
$399,900
EFR LAK
HUG
ALL-SPORTS DUCK LAKE! •1,654 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, 1 car attached garage •Bright kitchen with appliances •Great room with fireplace •Enjoy lake views •211048878
V PRI LAKE
EXQUISITE BUILDER-OWNED HOME •4,383 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, 3 car attached garage •2 master bedroom suites •17 ft. cathedral ceilings •Hardwood floors •2 fireplaces •211064264
MOVE TO MAGICAL MILFORD! •1,865 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •Eat in kitchen with granite tops, new appliances, hardwood entry •211023966
$75,000
$689,900
1.49
$239,900
$224,900 GREAT LOCATION! •2,300 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •Open floor plan •Master bedroom has 2 walk-in closet •Neutral decor throughout •211050122
E LAK
PRIVACY BY NATURE! •3,683 sq. ft., 4 bedrooms, 3.1 baths, basement, 3 car attached garage •41 beautiful acres •Horse barn with 5 stalls •Wrap around decking •211075949
D F OR MIL
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WONDERFUL WHITE LAKE VIEWS! •1,700 sq. ft., 2 bedrooms, 2.1 baths, basement, 2 car attached garage •On quiet bay to main lake •Maple and granite kitchen •211028656
GE LAR
$344,900 AWESOME RANCH ON DUCK LAKE! •2,147 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 3 baths •Many updates, 2nd kitchen in walkout •Patio, covered deck, boat launch •211037456
Serving Milford & Surrounding Areas - 248.684.1065
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$64,900 MOTIVATED SELLERS! •1,032 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, 1 car attached garage •New carpet in master and bedroom 2 •Hardwood floors throughout •Large yard •211057520 ©Real Estate One, Inc., 2011
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$649,900
STUNNING 90 FT. OF MAIN LAKEFRONT ALL-SPORTS CASS LAKE •2,778 sq. ft., 3 bed, 2.5 bath, 2 fireplaces •2+ car garage, 3 decks, dock, seawall, shed #211063900 (800) 396-5205 X231
STONE HOLLOW SUB – CUSTOM BUILT 2.62 ACRE LOT •5 bed, 3.5 bath, 3,671 sq. ft. + 1,627 walkout •Attached 3 car, 2.5 car carriage house garage #211019535 (800) 396-5205 X265
2900 Union Lake, Suite 210 Commerce, MI 48382
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$750,000
$759,900
CUSTOM BUILT - ALL-SPORTS MACEDAY LAKEFRONT!! •4 bed, 4 bath, all brick + fin. walkout •5,200+ sq. ft., 1st & 2nd flr. masters, 3 car #211017553 (800) 396-5204 X296
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$499,900
STUNNING COUNTRY ESTATE ON 2.18 ACRES •3,200 sq. ft. + fin. walkout, 4 bed, 3.5 bath •Huge mstr., fireplace, bar, sauna, 3 car #211086533 (800) 396-5204 X282
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CUSTOM QUALITY BUILT 1.14 PRIVATE ACRE ESTATE •4 bedroom, 4 full bath, 2,900+ sq. ft. •Fin. daylight basement, 3 car/workshop, patio #211023447 (800) 396-5204 X241
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$374,900
INCREDIBLE HOME BACKS TO PROTECTED PRESERVE •3,412 sq. ft. + fin. walkout, 4 bed, 3.5 bath •5 car heated garage/workshop, deck #211083152 (800) 396-5204 X240
Zillow - Preferred Agent
$329,900
$324,900
$299,900 $299,900 BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED ALL-SPORTS LOWER STRAITS GREEN VALLEY SUB SPECIAL LAKEFRONT SPECIAL •2 houses @ price of 1 •Remod 3 bed, 1 ba, garage •2,766 sq. ft. + fin. walkout, 4 bed, 3.5 bath •2 kitchens, fireplace, cul-de-sac lot, deck •Lake house 1,768 sq. ft., 4 bd, 2 ba, needs TLC #211074305 (800) 396-5204 X234 #211073682 (800) 396-5204 X232
DEEDED BOAT SLIP ON ALL-SPORTS COMMERCE LAKE •3,019 sq. ft., 4 bed, 3 bath, 2 fireplaces •Daylight basement, deck, courtyard garage #211073119 (800) 396-5204 X224 . WP DT OR F TER WA
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FULL LOG RANCH ON BEAUTIFUL & PRIVATE TREED 1.12 ACRE •4 bedroom, 3 bath, 1,863 sq. ft., fin walkout •2 story fireplace, Florida room, 3+ car attached #211035240 (800) 396-5205 X299 P. TW RD O F TER WA
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CHARMING HOME ON ALL-SPORTS WATKINS LAKE •1,170 sq. ft., 3 bed, deep treed lot, fireplace •Basement, 2 car garage, huge storage loft #211078354 (800) 396-5204 X251
219 FT. FRONTAGE TO ALL-SPORTS WILLIAMS LAKE •3 bedroom, 2 bath, Florida rm, deck •Great rm w/fireplace, deck/dock, shed #211089314 (800) 396-5204 X248
$149,900
$149,900
WHITE LAKE WATERFRONT BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED RANCH WITH WALKOUT HOME ON LARGE LOT •1,661 sq. ft., 3-4 bedroom, 2 bath, great rm •1,740 sq. ft., 3 bed, 2.5 bath,updated kitchen •Family room w/fireplace, enclosed carport •Cathedral family rm, fireplace, fin. basement #211026322 (800) 396-5204 X260 #211089252 (800) 396-5204 X228
steve@TheStocktonTeam.com
QUIET CUL-DE-SAC & BACKS TO NATURE PRESERVE •1,575 sq. ft. + fin. walkout, 3 bed, 2.5 bath •Isle kitchen, family rm, fireplace, vaulted bath #211079134 (800) 396-5204 X201
$129,900
$124,900
HOME BACKS TO SUB PARK AND WALKING PATH •1,438 sq. ft. + fin. lower level, 3 bed, great rm •Snackbar kitchen, family rm, 2 car garage #211089004 (800) 290-9994 X247
$224,900
RARE FIND – HUNTER’S PARADISE 38+ TREED ACRES •Gently rolling terrain, creek, small pond •Zoned agriculture, split avail., good road frontage #211083343 (800) 396-5204 X220
L ITE WH
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$159,900
$184,900
FABULOUS RANCH CONDO – BEAUTIFULLY MAINTAINED SERENE COUNTRY SETTING HOME ON LARGE LOT •2 bed, 2 bath, vaulted great room, fireplace •1,936 sq. ft., 3 bed, 2.5 bath, island kitchen •Family rm w/fireplace, Fla. rm., inground pool •Daylight basement, 2 car attached garage #211079992 (800) 290-9994 X236 #211085573 (800) 396-5204 X250 . WP ET RC E MM CO
M XO WI
SHARP RANCH - TREED LOT OVERLOOKING CROSS LAKE •3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1,321 sq. ft., updates •Part finished basement, deck, 3 car garage #211064266 (800) 396-5205 X204
P. TW SE RO
$224,900 GORGEOUS HOME ON LARGE, NICELY LANDSCAPED LOT •2,551 sq. ft., 3 bed, 2.5 bath, granite kitchen •Fireplace, mstr w/California closet, fin basement #211069940 (800) 396-5204 X220
$184,900
$199,900
GORGEOUS 1.37 ACRES WOODED LOT ON HURON RIVER •2,160 sq. ft., 4 bed, 2 bath, 1st flr. laundry •Great room, formal dining, basement, 2 car #211082673 (800) 396-5204 X233
E AK
P. TW CE ER M M CO
M XO WI
P. TW LD E I F OM BLO W.
RD FO TER WA
Direct:
248-755-7600 248-755-7500
janet@TheStocktonTeam.com
$209,900
$219,900
. WP DT AN
Direct:
P. TW CE ER M M CO
RD FO TER A W
GORGEOUS GERUNDEGUT BAY ALL-SPORTS CASS LAKE •Remodeled ranch, stone fireplace, dining rm •Corian counter kitchen, tile, crown molding #211027050 (800) 396-5204 X280
Janet Steve
$259,900
$274,900
BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED CEDAR ISLAND LAKEFRONT •2,302 sq. ft., 4 bedroom, 3 bath, l.c. terms •New granite, ceramic, carpet, paint #211089671 (800) 396-5204 X246 LS HIL ON T G MIN FAR
P. TW CE ER M M CO
CE ER MM CO
SPRING MEADOW SUB BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED IN 2006 •2,962 sq. ft., 4 bed, 2.2 bath, fireplace •Cathedral master - jet tub, 1st flr laundry #211085166 (800) 396-5204 X252
HL HIG
Lakes Area’s #1 Team!
$329,900
$374,900
ALL-SPORTS OXBOW LAKEFRONT 1.19 TREED ACRE LOT •3,271 sq. ft. + fin walkout - contemporary •4 bedroom, 3.5 bath, 3+ garage, deck/dock #211075518 (800) 396-5204 X271
. WP DT IEL F OM BLO W.
$89,900 $40,000 ALL-SPORTS COMMERCE LAKEFRONT GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO BUILDING LOT BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME •Gated community–Island Club, rare opportunity •3 parcels (90 x 101), sewer & water at street •Sub park, tennis courts, meeting gazebo •Sub beach and boating on Upper Straits Lake #211038619 (800) 396-5204 X207 #211032130 (800) 290-9994 X221
www.TheStocktonTeam.com
AUGUST 31, 2011
www.spinalcolumnonline.com
RARE OPPORTUNITY 100’ LAKEFRONT - PRIVATE ALL-SPORTS UPPER STRAITS LAKE SPECTACULAR 1+ TREED ACRE GENTLY SLOPING HILLSIDE LOT FEATURES INCLUDE: •1,660 sq. ft. custom brick ranch •Finished walkout lower level •4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, 2 fireplaces •Wet plaster, hardwood floors •Large tiered entertainer’s deck •Attached garage + covered patio •Sandy shoreline - includes dock THE RIGHT LAKE + THE RIGHT STREET + THE RIGHT LOT = ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES
The Stockton’s are the Lakes Area’s #1 Team!
Janet Direct:
248-755-7600
janet@TheStocktonTeam.com
Steve Direct:
248-755-7500
PAGE 47
NOTICES
Michigan/ Other Areas
Reunions
WATERFORD TOWNSHIP High School 50th Class Reunion, Saturday, Sept. 24, 2011 www.wths1961.com PONTIAC ST. Frederick All Class Reunion, Sept. 11. Tour of school from 9am-10:30am. Mass at 11. Lunch at Santia Hall, Keego Harbor. Tickets at the Madonna Shop or 248681-3964
REAL ESTATE FOR SALE Houses For Sale
4
West Oakland area school reunions. FREE for 4 weeks within a 13 week period (27 word limit). Other Reunions Published 4 weeks for a total cost of $20 for 15 words; each additional 4 words $2.
11
Treed setting surrounds this spacious 1330 sq. ft. cottage w/short walk to park, beach & boat launch. Lots of character, nice kitchen, dining & snack bar, 26x16 living room w/lots of windows, updated bath & 2 car garage. $195,000.
England Real Estate (248)887-9736
248-366-7200
www.TheStocktonTeam.com
JUST LISTED!
$550,000
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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
Classified Connection
248-360-SELL
248-360-7355 WEST OAKLAND’S
Connect with your west Oakland neighbors – over 125,000 of them each week. ALL WANT ADS ARE INCLUDED ON OUR WEBSITE AND ARE POSTED AFTER 4 P.M. ON WEDNESDAY NEWSWEEKLY
England Real Estate (248)887-9736
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All-sports Cass Lake – largest lake in Oakland County. This double lot looks across to the elite homes on Dow Ridge. Build your dream home!
248.505.3066
Cheerful 2 bedroom lakefront home on all sports Lake Tyrone. Kitchen opens to lakeside living room with doorwall to 19x20 deck. Sandy beach & dock included. 2 car garage & 15x26 workshop. $195,000.
$/62 6(//,1* 3523(57,(6 $&5266 0,&+,*$1 &RPPHUFLDO 5HVLGHQWLDO 2IÂżFH /DQG 0RUH 6HSWHPEHU WK WK WK 3URSHUW\ LQ .HQW 0XVNHJRQ 6DJLQDZ 0LGODQG 0DFRPE :DVKWHQDZ &RXQWLHV &DOO IRU D )UHH %URFKXUH %URNHU &R 2S $YDLODEOH RQ $OO 3URSHUWLHV
For More Information Call
800-841-9400 www.hudsonmarshall.com 6WHYHQ / 5HHVHU
Highland
BEAUTIFUL DESIGN! Built in 2004 w/2500 sq. ft., 3 bedrooms & 3 1/2 baths. Fireplace in great room & dining room, library, formal dining, finished walk-out lower level with family room & hobby room. Private 4.14 acre setting. $385,000.
England Real Estate (248)887-9736 Waterford
WATERFORD 4869 FENMORE 2 bedroom, plus appliances. 2.5 car garage, nice lot. Lake access. Good starter or investment home. As is.
$55,000. 248-666-3576
1 Bedroom Apartments 2 bedroom, 1.5 bath Town Homes * $300 Moves You In* 1st Month FREE
248-624-6606 EHO www.cormorantco.com * Call For Details *
$395 Includes all utilities except electric, Security Deposit, Call after 12 noon for availability:
Over 1,300 sq. ft. Washer/ Dryer Large Decks Central Air $599 (includes site rent) Meadow Lake 3951 Bentwood Circle White Lake, MI 48383 (888)883-6121 www.4meadowlake.com Sun Homes NMLS#333675
Fawn Lake Pontiac Trail at Maple Pre-Owned Homes: $6,000 - $25,000 Rent: $385 - $400 PLUS MOVE-IN DISCOUNTS On Select Homes
(248)477-9192
Walled Lake Area 1 Bedroom Apartment. Small room for office or hobby. Quiet apartment building. Nice neighborhood, no pets. $485
per month. Includes heat and water.
248-624-4310 COME SEE US NOW WIXOM * MOVE IN SPECIAL* 2 BEDROOM ONLY, $595 Will Move You In !
Town & Country Apartments •48200 W. Pontiac Trail
3 Bedroom house, newly remodeled & freshly carpeted, Walled Lake view & access, fenced yard, petsok, $895 per month.
olivermich@mac.com 248-755-5073
•Between Beck & Wixom Rd.
CALL US TODAY !
(248)624-3194 Rooms/Share Quarters
65
EVENING HOURS NOVI AREA MONDAY - FRIDAY CORPORATE CLEANING GROUP
Lead and or assistant child care givers needed, Commerce area. Full or part time. Experience preferred. Flexible, paid holidays. Call Becky or Amy Z
248-360-7743 www.rlckids.com
LANDSCAPE & LAWN MAINTENANCE COMPANY HIRING FULL TIME. PLEASE CALL
248-669-1350 NOVI AREA
Are you looking for a new career? Would like to own your own business?
RENTALS
WALLED LAKE
HELP WANTED
Let’s Grow Michigan.
(248) 624-0709
55
BUSINESS WOMAN looking to share 2 bedroom apartment in Novi, with female. $400 plus utilities. Call for information. 248-787-2059
CHILD CARE
•Playground/Pool •Free Heat & City Water
Houses/ Condos
20's LADY Seeking to share rent with same. Max $275 month plus utilities with references 248-909-0703
248-313-9880
White Lake Apts 248-626-7857 Apartments For Rent SPECIAL 1 or 2 bedroom apartments. Heat and water paid. No pets. In City of Milford.
"DEAL OF THE MONTH"
57
OFFICE CLEANING POSITIONS
(newly renovated).
42
Rooms/Share Quarters
General/ Help Wanted
1 bedroom
Hartland
â˜ş
Pontiac Lake
MOBILE HOMES Mobile Homes for Sale
56
WALLED LAKE
HIGGINS LAKE PRIVILEGES!
steve@TheStocktonTeam.com
Guaranteed Marketing ‘Til Sold: •Virtual Tours •800 # Hotline •Best Web Exposure
2900 Union Lake Rd., Suite 210 Commerce, MI 48382
Apartments 18
57
FURNISHED SLEEPING room for rent. Waterford area, $100 /week. 810-355-8097
We are the 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. Contact Mary Nicole 800-370-5816 or marynicole@ realestateone.com
Chauffeur Executive transpor tation company seeks chauffeur. Clean MDR. Must be well mannered, good sense of direction and knowledge of TriCounty area. Contact 248738-9097 M-F 9a-4p no after hours calls please.
PAGE 48
www.spinalcolumnonline.com General/ Help Wanted
SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY 65
APPOINTMENT SETTER Ideal for anyone who can't get out to work. Work from home part time, schedule pick-ups for Purple Heart. Call 9-5, Monday through Friday: 734-728-4572 or email: phoneworkinfo@aol.com
CHILD CARE CENTER Seeking Child Care Provider. Early childhood or child related field degree preferred. 35-40 hours a week. Must be able to work until 6 p.m. Commerce Twp area. Call 10a.m.-3p.m.
248-669-6880
TAXI & AIRPORT DRIVERS WANTED Full or Part time Day or Night
DISPATCHER Any Day - Any Shift
248-666-2110 COOKIE DECORATOR Needed part time, approximately 20 hours per week, no experience needed- will train. Apply in person
Cookies By Design 33250 W 14 Mile Road West Bloomfield 48322
Medical/ Dental
Sales Positions 67
PODIATRY MEDICAL ASS'T Full time for busy Commerce office. Competitive hourly wage based on experience. Podiatry experience preferred. Email cover letter & resume to foot11721@aol.com
Medical/ Dental
67
CARE GIVER / COMPANION Needed for elderly lady, must be female. 40 plus hours per week. Must have reliable transportation, references, and good work ethic.
71
Real Estate Career We're doubling our staff! •Do you like working with new people & 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
Baby/Pet/House/ Sitting
75
CHILDCARE NEEDED for Toddler, Commerce, Monday and Wednesday 8:15-4:30 248-884-2567
JOBS WANTED Senior/Child Care
85
Day Care in Commerce Twp. Homemade food. Space available for full or part time kids. Great locationLow prices. Hours 7-6pm.
Call Julie 248-225-6559
When your sale item is $ 2500 or less
YOUR WANT AD IS
Please E-mail to: peppis@sbcglobal.net Office/ Clerical
69
Administration Two, full time, entry level Administration positions available in Bloomfield Hills. Michigan. Duties ill include providing general support to office and management staff. computer skills are necessary (Microsoft Office and Microsoft Outlook)
To Apply please email: askarhr@yahoo.com or Fax: 248-888-0011
Call Cindy Stawick at
248-360-SELL 24-hour Fax Line: 248-360-5308
Pre-Licensing Class September 19, 21, 22 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. September 26, 28, 29 9:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. 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.
AUGUST 31, 2011
www.spinalcolumnonline.com
MERCHANDISE FOR SALE Used/Wanted
89
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
SCRAP METAL Aluminum .30-.70¢/lb., Copper $2.20-$3.00/lb., Brass 1.10- 1.70¢/lb, Auto Rads. .90-1.25¢/lb. 1123 Decker, Walled Lk Mann Metals Corp. (248)960-1200 Absolutely Free
90
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. 4 9 weeks old kittens, free to good home. 248-722-8249 CAT LOOKING For good home, found in a box behind a gas station Gray short hair. 248-705-7002 DECORATE RED Lava rock you pick up 248-698-8623 FREE RAT female, peach/ white, never bites, very sweet. 248-757-0059
Garage Sales
103
September 8th, 9th, 10th, 94, 2843 Brisbane off Glengary. Furniture, and whole house full of odds and ends
Furniture/Rugs
GARAGE AND Big Estate Sale. Antiques, paintings, prints, collectible, tools, furniture, girls size 4-8. September 8th, 9th, 10th 9-3. 8351 Dickert Street
TWIN SIZED Girls wooden headboard bookcase $25 full sized Art Van 1 year old mattress $50. 248-624-8857 (Walled Lake area)
133
FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 9am-5pm. 1845 Portlock. Off Canal, from Wise. TV, men's, women's, boys, clothes. Houseold, small appliances. Everything must go.
"OUR CENTURY in Pictures," 1900-1999, Life Magazine book. very large 10" X 11", excellent condition. $10. 248623-2661
Bargain Bin
Odds N Ends
HIGHLAND
137
138
ANNUAL ROCKY Garage sale, September 1-4, 9-5. 3679 Nor th Milford Road. Rocks, minerals, jewelry, household items, and clothes.
$20 PREPAID Phone card for only $12.50- I can give you a 1-800 number to verify, expires June 13, 2013. 248-6232661.
WALLED LAKE
ELECTRIC ICE Cream freezer. $15. 248-420-4320
HUGE SALE, lots of new and used Harley Davidson parts, furniture, Halloween/ Christmas, small primitives. 2044 Winner Street (off Welch). Thursday, Friday, Saturday, 9am-5pm. WIXOM
Building Materials 105
ANTIQUES, LOTS Of collectibles, furniture, mans stuff, washer, dryer, 2 gas stoves, and a lot more. 4890 Cooley Lake Court, off Cooley lake Road, East of Ford, West of Bogie Lake. Road. Thursday, Friday, Saturday, 10-3.
Stuff/Kids
LIKE NEW Wooden Barbie doll house with furniture $24.99 248-366-6658
Garage Sales COMMERCE
125
KITCHEN TABLE with leaf $15 248-666-9444
ESTATE / GARAGE Sale. Thursday, Friday, Saturday, 9am-5pm. 5280 Kristi Lane. Estate sale items at garage sale prices.
EVERYTHING MUST Go. Friday, Saturday. 529 Lakeview, White Lake. Follow signs. Off Rustic Circle.
103
119
5 GIRLS t-shirts and tops $10 248-666-9444
COMMERCE
FRIDAY & SATURDAY, 9am-4pm. Foosball table, TV games, small electronics, yard tools, furniture, golf clubs, luggage, many other items. 2005 E. Nalone.
Auction/Estate Sales101
Clothing/Apparel
PELLA DOUBLE window 69inches X 48inches. NEW! New construction. Cost $650. Asking $150. 248-462-4886
Clothing/Apparel
119
BLACK LEATHER Men's Pants, 32inch waist, $24.00. 248-534-7004
Boats/Motors/Trailers 164
DAVE'S MOBILE MARINE •Pontoon Hauling •Inboard & Outboard Repair "We Come To You" •Buy & Sell Motors
(248)666-9248 Boat & Pontoon Hauling Local & long distance Shrink wrap- Winterization
Tritube hauling specialist Winter storage $199.99 Pontoons for sale Tom 248-681-4250 seaway5@comcast.net BOAT, MEYERS 13' aluminum, 9 1/2 HP Evinrude Sportwin motor, trolling motor, trailer, $900. 586-915-6137
CARS/TRUCKS MOTORCYCLES Wanted Parts/ Salvage
181
UNWANTED AUTOS LLC
FLOWER PLANTER Boxes, solid wood, custom made, 31x47 adjustable, starting at $20 OBO 248-762-4565
TOP $ Paid For Any: • Junk • Non Running • Wrecked Cars.
SHARP VCR works great, $7 248-960-7285
FREE TOWING. SAME DAY PICK UP
BOATS/ OUTDOOR
(248)467-0396 Unwanted Autos any year $200 to $2,000
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
RC Towing 248-770-3333 Motorcycles
Motorcycles
PAGE 49 183
MOTORCYCLEGUARANTEE See First Want Ad Page Trucks/Trailers
185
1978 CHEVY 3/4 ton, solid Tennessee truck. $2,200 OBO 248-762-4565
Cars
187
SALES GUARANTEE Autos, Vans, Trucks See First Want Ad Page CAMARO 1995 red, beige leather interior, V6, automatic, aluminum wheels, original owner $3,800 248-202-5681 CHEVROLET CAPRICE 1986, Loaded, one owner- like new. $7,500. 248-685-0289 CHRYSLER SEBRING Convertible 1996. white body black top gray interior. always been garaged. 32,000 miles. $6,900 248-363-1210 THUNDERBIRD 2003 4,000 miles, never been in weather, triple black $24,900 248-3631210
Classic/ Antique Cars
194
CHEVROLET EXPRESS Van 2005. 3/4ton, V8, air, cruise, tilt, p.s p.b, power windows, power locks, keyless entry, heavy duty locking differential, ziebart, tinted windows, original owner, highly maintained. $12,900 248-622-8910
Auto Dealer Specials on Pages 51 - 52
SERVICE DIRECTORY REPAIR/ IMPROVEMENT Appliance Repair
502
TONY'S APPLIANCE SERVICE Servicing all Major Appliances. •Hot water tank
(248)360-0213 (248)698-8819 Asphalt/Pavement 503
188
CLASSIC 1967 MERCEDES Benz, 4-door sedan, original condition, $7,000. 248-3903337.
Motor Homes
Vans
193
CHEVROLET CLASS C 1991, Very low miles, $10,000. 248-685-0289
KEITH'S SEALCOATING • NO SPRAY • ASPHALT REPAIR + GRAVEL FILL SINCE 1983
(248)-623-7282 PAGER (248)-452-3240
183
2004 YAMAHA R1- 1000 motorcycle. Many extras, must see. $4,500. (248)9789246
4
Reasons To Use West Oakland Service Firms
Kris Klann New & Used Vehicles
888-439-1841 kklann@lafontaine.com
Come in for our $995* Oil Change! *Excludes Diesel & Synthetics. Make/Model Restrictions May Apply.
• Up-to-date listings allow for seasonal or changing conditions • They are part of the community • They offer a variety of services to meet your needs • They are ready & eager to serve
www.lafontainechevy.com
Carpet Installation
Cement/Concrete 513
C & G CEMENT
Quality Workmanship Residential-Commercial Over 30 years Experience STAMPED CONCRETE DRIVEWAYS FOOTINGS GARAGE FLOORS BLOCK WORK FREE ESTIMATES Michael (248)363-4783 MILFORD LOCATION
BOB'S CARPET Has the best buys on all brand named carpet. Pad 1/2 8 lb $3 yd. Installation guaranteed. Also have heavy plush remnants $4- 6 per yard
Call Bob (248)681-5771 MB QUALITY FLOOR COVERING
(248)684-5928 MARCUCCI CONCRETE As Seen on ABC TV "Extreme Home Makeovers" Satisfying Customers for Over 30 Years •DRIVEWAY •PORCHES •FOUNDATIONS •BRICK •BLOCK •STAMPED/ COLORED Lic/Ins Visa/ MC Wixom
•New Carpet & Pad Sales •Installation, Repairs, & Restretches •27 years experience •Free estimates WE WORK FOR YOU
248-561-5667 Cabinetry
248-486-5900
515
Elegant Woodworking •Mantels •Fireplace Surrounds •Furniture •Entertainment Center •Custom Cabinets •Crown Molding •Kitchen Cabinets •Custom Bars Harold Canfield
(248)363-3804 elegant-woodworking.com
517
Arrow Concrete Driveway Specials All Phases of Concrete Stamped Concrete 20 Years Experience Fully Lic. & Ins. www.arrowcement.com 248-758-4346
Buying a Home? Let us
Look Before You Leap!
Afford
able Home Inspections
Up to 170 components inspected in a typical three bedroom home. Computer-generated, comprehensive, easy-tounderstand report summary. High resolution, color pictures provide a visual reference of problem areas. Reports are emailed to you and your Real Estate Agent. After inspection questions are always answered, even after you move into your home.
248-881-3478 Licensed Insured
4075 Echo Drive West Bloomfield
PAGE 50
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SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
LAKES AREA SERVICES (248) 360-7355
www.SpinalColumnOnline.com
Fax (248) 360-5308
IN PRINT and ON-LINE 24/7
Personal • Business • Maintenance • Improvements • Repair Doors
524
THE DOOR STOP Since 1980 Garage door springs and door openers repaired and/or replaced.
Call Anytime 248-624-4042 (cell) 248-640-6298 CERTIFIED OVERHEAD DOOR SERVICE •Garage Doors •Repaired/ Services •New Doors/ Openers •Installed at Factory Pricing •Emergency Service Available
248-624-3161 Drywall
526
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
R & D DRYWALL •Hang & Finished •Small Repair •Texture Repair •Plaster Repair •Wet Sand
Ron (248)673-7665 Electricians
Excavating
528
MASTER ELECTRICIAN Insured & State licensed, 25 years experience. Prompt, courteous service. Free estimates, All types of work. Competitive prices
(248)683-7985
Electrical Specialist 20% OFF ALL LABOR Master, Lic. & Ins., 25 years Experience. 24 Hour service, Free estimates. Outside plug, service upgrades, generator hook-up, all electrical jobs .
248-343-4238
•Linoleum •Ceramic Tile •Hardwood Floors •Laminate Wood 27 Years Exp. Free Est.
(248)684-5983 Handy Person
545
DU-IT-ALL HOME CARE IMPROVEMENTS Specials: •Ceramic Tile •Formica Tops & Kitchens •Exterior/Interior Painting Also, we do complete basements and all other interior work, including electric, plumbing, etc. Call today. Cell #
(248)891-7072 Licensed and Insured
D & S HOME REPAIRS REMODELING •Additions •Garages •Drywall •Painting •Plumbing •Electrical •Tile •Marble •Kitchens •Baths •Basements •Decks 33 Years ... Licensed
248-684-4175 810-714-3058
Handy Person
545
TOTAL HOME SERVICE 35 Years Licensed PLUMBING • HEATING CARPENTRY • DRYWALL ELECTRICAL NEW SERVICE KITCHENS BATHS CERAMIC TILE
"The job your husband will do tomorrow." (248)887-2366
QUALITY HOME REPAIR •Carpentery & Painting •Plumbing •Kitchen & Bath remodelingCounter tops, Cabinets •Home Improvements
248-820-1286 Licensed & Insured
Heating/Duct Work 546
THOMASON HEATING & COOLING • Furnaces • Boilers • Air Cleaners •Air Conditioners •Humidifiers Service & Replacements
FREE ESTIMATES ON INSTALLATION
248-363-1615 HURON VALLEY HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING •Repair •Replace •Inspections •Humidifiers •Water Heaters •Night service available
(248)887-3666
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
548
Buying A Home? Let Us Look Before You Leap! AFFORDABLE HOME INSPECTIONS Licensed Insured STERLING HOME SERVICES
248-881-3478 Lawn/Garden Services
553
A R T Outdoor Services, LLC Spring Clean-ups • Mulch Landscaping • Lawn Service Weeding • Fully Insured Residential & Commercial www.artoutdoorservices.com
(248)625-5719 LADY LIBERTY ENTERPRISES Land Decorating & Maintenance, LLC. Flower bed weeding, Mulching, Brick Pavers/Repairs, Boulder Walls, Lawn Maintenance, Spring Clean-ups, Tree & Shrub Pruning. Insured.
248-634-7041
College Student Looking for Lawn care, mulch/ stone & odd jobs Shawn Larkins 248-931-0295
Painting/ Decorating
Power Washing 562
FARR'S POWER WASHING •Deck Cleaning / Staining & Sealing •Brick Cleaning •Rust & Mold Removal •Housewashing. •Painting •Deck Repairs.
FARR'S PAINTING
farrshomeimprovements.com
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
SUMMER 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
569
567
DAVID MAROHN • Licensed & Insured • Plumbing Repairs Bathroom Remodel Drain cleaning •40 Years Experience •Quality Service
(248)363-4976 Premier Plumbing Licensed & Insured Complete Plumbing Service New Construction & Remodel Commercial & Residential
248-363-5864
(248) 477-7764 (248) 345-3308 Roofing
585
571
•Siding •Gutters & Leaf Guards •Soffits & Trimwork •Decks •Windows We accept Credit cards
Doug Dible 248-431-6243
ROOF LEAKS & WATER DAMAGE REPAIRS MAHER RESTORATION www.goMaher.com "Maher Makes It Happen"
248-926-6631 PRICE IS RIGHT ROOFING •Repairs •Re-Roofs •Chimney Repair •Metal Work •Flat Roofs •Complete Roof Packages. •Siding •Gutters
FREE Estimates 30 Years Experience
248-459-7894 ROOF REPAIRS Missing shingles replaced, Chimney flashing resealed, Leaks stopped, Vent stack flashing replaced, Complete roof inspection service, Guaranteed work. 30 yrs exp.
Call Doug Miller 248-360-0344 577
I.D.C.
Home Service Siding, Trim & Soffitt Guaranteed Professional Installation. Lic./ Ins. References available.
Bob: 248-363-0589 idchomeservice.com
Tree Service
J.M. TILE & MARBLE CUSTOM WORK •Remodeling •Quality Service •New Construction • Repairs •Grout Sealing • Licensed and Insured
John Miller (248)505-8865
D&D ROOFING
Siding
Tile
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
STUMP GRINDING AFFORDABLE
587
KODIAK TREE SERVICE 25 years experience •Tree trimming •Tree & stump removal •70ft bucket lift •Free estimates •Insured
248-921-9097 Waterproofing
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
Free Estimates
All credit cards accepted
Prompt Services Fenced Yard Accessible
Insured. Call Todd
BOB WYCKOFF
248-425-0155
WELL DRILLING
MAXON'S TREE SERVICE
"If you have questions, we have answers!"
•Trimming •Tree Removal •Stump Grinding •Lot Clearing •Firewood & Woodchips "We now have wood fencing & deliver sand, gravel, top soil."
Licensed & Insured Free Estimates
(248)887-2190
•PUMPS •TANKS • WELL REPAIR
(248)310-0917
Emergency Service EASY PAYMENT PLANS No Credit Check Visa & MasterCard
AUGUST 31, 2011
www.spinalcolumnonline.com
PAGE 51
Union Lake Rd.
2199 HAGGERTY RD. At Pontiac Trail across from Lakes Professional Building
Commerce Rd.
www.morrismotorsmi.com R
Oakley Park
WALMART
OIL CHANGE
Must present coupon when order is written. Cannot be combined with any other offers. GM vehicles only. Plus tax and shop supplies. Expires 9/14/11.
SC
GM PROTECTION PLAN Bring your GM Protection Plan Extended Service Contract to the dealer you know and trust! SERVICE CONTRACTS HONORED HERE
19
25 Off $ 15 Off
$ M
FREE
95*
$
+tax & dep. fee with coupon
SC
Fuel Injection Service HELP IMPROVE YOUR GAS MILEAGE! Our factory-trained technicians will perform the following:
10% OFF
Any Service Over $175.00 Any Service Over $90.00
Any Make or Model
*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 9/14/11.
•Pressurized cleaning of fuel injectors •Remove combustion chamber deposits •Clean air intake system •Three Part Fuel System
14 Mile Rd.
WILD CARD SPECIAL
~ COUPON ~
O I OTOR L
ACT NOW BEFORE OFFER EXPIRES
LIMITED TIME ONLY
Maple Rd. Haggerty Rd.
We will perform a complete computer scan and external diagnosis. If your vehicle displays a “Check Engine” or “Service Soon” bring this coupon in for diagnosis.
Walnut Lake Rd.
M-5
Service Special
Trail tiac Pon
Trail tiac Pon
Benstein Rd.
Check Engine Light Special or any Warning Light (ABS/Airbag)
Rd
.
ich
ard son 248-624-4500
99
$
Fuel filter Replacement
95
SAVE $30.00
Plus tax. Most GM cars and trucks. All coupons must be presented at time of write up. Offers cannot be applied with any other offers. Expires 9/14/11.
SC
One coupon per customer. Coupons may not be combined with any other offer. Expires 9/14/11. Excludes oil changes, brake promotion, tires and SRTA’S. Valid only in our service department. Must present coupon when order is written. SC
Front End Alignment INCLUDES: • Set toe-in on applicable vehicles • Check tire pressure • Caster or camber and rear adjustments are extra
39
$
95 +tax
Must present coupon when order is written. Most vehicles. Cannot be combined with other coupons or discounts. Expires 9/14/11.
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 and Body Shop Hours: Monday & Thursday 7 a.m.-8 p.m. • Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
Celebrating
www.morrismotorsmi.com
Your Hometown Car & Truck Service and Maintenance Center for over 42 Years
42
YEARS 11 9-20 1 96
*Diagnosis extra, brake inspection extra.
FREE Estimates on Collision Repairs!
PAGE 52
www.spinalcolumnonline.com
SPINAL COLUMN NEWSWEEKLY
Celebrating
42
YEARS 11 9-20 1 96
We Offer the Best Value for Less! Low Monthly Payments • Highest Quality Vehicles Purchasing a new sub-compact car can easily cost you $18,000 or more, and for that price, you’re still likely to have to compromise on features that are important to you.
Get the most from your car buying dollars, with all the features you need and want with a previously owned vehicle! OTHER FINE CARS & TRUCKS
OTHER FINE CARS & TRUCKS
2010 CHRYSLER TOWN & COUNTRY
2008 FORD ESCAPE XLT Stock #1937
#P1968
19,975
$
Now
**
Was $19,488
18,988
$
2009 CHEVROLET IMPALA
MANAGER’S SPECIAL
#P1921
**
12,999**
$
2008 FORD TAURUS
2010 CHEVROLET IMPALA
#P1915
#P2016
17,992
$
2007 JEEP WRANGLER X #P1945
20,998
$
**
2008 SATURN VUE #P2035
16,944**
$
14,760**
$
**
Purchase the “great” Escape just in time for the family vacation at a great value. The Ford Escape compact SUV looks more like a Ford Explorer, but with a plunging chrome grille. Ford says the standard fabric seats use 100 percent post-industrial plastic waste. In addition to the Safety Canopy side-impact and curtain airbags, the Escape now features an electronic stability system with Roll Stability Control. What we like in the featured equipment is: CD player in dash, alloy wheels, new blue gauges, quieter interior, large new center console, traction control system, auto headlight delay, power driver’s seat, center console, and privacy glass. EPA FUEL ECONOMY • City: 17 • Highway: 22
2007 SATURN OUTLOOK #P1956A
20,788**
$
2008 PONTIAC G6 #P2042
16,880**
$
Find us on Facebook
2199 Haggerty Road @ Pontiac Trail Walled Lake • www.morrismotorsmi.com
248-624-4500
Morris Motors Michigan
Complete Inventory At: www.morrismotorsmi.com 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 9/7/11. Subject to prior sale.
SALES HOURS: Mon. & Thurs.: 8:30 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Tues., Wed., Fri.: 8:30 a.m.- 6:00 p.m.