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PUMPKINS, RIDES AND MORE, A6

SPECIAL SECTION INSIDE

THURSDAY October 7, 2010

The Observer & Eccentric Newspapers Volume 124 Number 8

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The ‘best’

Downtown Farmington’s Riley Park earned second place in WDIV-TV’s 2010 Vote 4 the Best contest in the Best Outdoor Concert Venue category. The contest results were announced Sept. 24.

Joe’s Headquarters barber shop on Farmington Road, just south of Grand River, took first place in the “barber shop” category.

Take a road trip

“Don’t make me pull this car over.”

“But Daaad I have to pee.”

“Mooommm she bit me!”

You could probably plug any of those lines into memories of your family road trips. ‘Leaving Iowa,’ playing through Oct. 17 at the Farmington Players Barn, is sure to tap into your past and touch your heart.

The show, directed by Nancy Harrower, of Royal Oak, takes a rear-view look at the American family by poking fun at various vacations through the nation’s heartland.

‘Leaving Iowa’ opened last weekend and left audience members laughing as they detected bits of their own families on the stage. It’s the story of Don Browning, a Boston journalist, played by Toby Booker of Warren. Don comes home to Iowa and winds up taking a road trip to his past, where he eventually learns to honor his late father. He’s accompanied by his bratty sister, his loving mom and his eccentric dad. Two actors play 22 characters the family meets along the way.

Remaining shows for ‘Leaving Iowa’ are 8 p.m.

Thursday though Saturday, Oct. 7-9; 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 10; 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Oct. 14-16; and 2 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 17. Tickets are available at farmingtonplayers.org or at the box office (248) 553-2955.

Barnett Coffee Hour

State Rep. Vicki Barnett, D-Farmington Hills, will host a Coffee Hour to meet with constituents 10-11:30 a.m.

Saturday, Oct. 9, at the Family Buggy Restaurant on Orchard Lake Road, between 12 Mile and 13 Mile in Farmington Hills.

com

Sharp steps down from school board

BY STACY JENKINS OBSERVER STAFF WRITER

Gary Sharp had to make a tough choice, but has decided to resign from the Farmington Schools Board of Education.

Holding back the tears, the 12year school board veteran made the announcement Tuesday at the board’s study session. “Farmington Public Schools is a great place because of all of you,” he said.

Sharp’s resignation is effective Oct. 31.

He made the decision because he’s instrumental in expanding the Foley and Mansfield law firm in northern and southern California and has to spend large amounts of time Sharp there. He and his wife, Terrie, who also works at the firm, have rented a home in the Berkley, Calif., area so they can manage the firm’s West Coast expansion.

Sharp said it’s a decision he’s been

putting off for a while. Now that their youngest son has graduated and is now in college, they felt the time is right. They do not plan to move to California full time.

“I absolutely love Farmington Hills and will not give up my home,” he said.

But giving up his seat on the school board is the right thing to do, he said.

“It’s not fair to the community to spend two or three months away,” he said.

Name by name, Sharp thanked his fellow board members and staff

Please see SHARP, A2

Third time’s a charm

for Senior Spelling Bee winner

PHOTOS BY JOHN STORMZAND | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Robert Lockwood and Lecia Allman were among eight contestants in Tuesday’s Senior Spelling Bee.

68-year-old wins after 19 rounds

Spellers Richard Holmes, Ann Calvo and Lecia Allman were among the contestants in Tuesday’s Senior Spelling Bee.

BY STACY JENKINS OBSERVER STAFF WRITER

It was deja vu for Richard Holmes.

For the first time since he was in eighth grade, the 68-year-old Farmington Hills man was declared the winner of a spelling bee.

Strangely, he remembers winning that eighth-grade bee on the word “accommodate,” which was one of the words in

Bully Proofing

St. Alexander’s Church is hosting a parent workshop on Bully Proofing Your Child 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 12, in the social hall. Parents and guardians can learn multiple strategies on how to handle this troubling problem from the experts from Catholic Social Services.

General presentation will be followed by breakout groups for the elementary, middle school and high school levels, and then will wrap up with a question and answer period.

Adults only, but babysitting will be provided. To RSVP

by Oct. 11, call Carol at (248) 477-1373. The church is at 27835 Shiawassee Road in Farmington Hills.

members who have made his experience on the board memorable and valuable.

Board members said they will miss his humor, his passion and his ability to listen and quickly formulate solutions and understanding.

“Gary has been an integral part of this organization,” board President Howard Wallach said. “I will miss the humor that you bring to all of these meetings.”

Wallach later spoke of the close

Please see SPELLING, A2

Civic Theater could feature new manager munity and does a good job of paying attention to the details,” Pastue said, noting that Freeman improved the A familiar face could be coming soon Rhthymz in Riley Park free concert to a theater near you. series that drew hundreds to downtown The Farmington City Council will Farmington each Friday during the soon decide whether to hire Farmington summer. resident and local volunteer Scott Pastue said Freeman is self-driven Freeman to operate and manage the and is known as a person who does city-owned Civic Theater. research before making decisions. He The idea, which has been in the works also notes that Freeman’s vision for the for about three years, was brought to historic Civic Theater is similar to his the city council’s study session Monday own, and that of the ad hoc committee.

by City Manager Vince Pastue.

“I have a good comfort level with “He knows and understands our com- Scott,” Pastue said.

BY STACY JENKINS OBSERVER STAFF WRITER

Home Delivery: (866) 887-2737 Return Address: 41304 Concept Dr. Plymouth MI 48170

Improving the Civic’s programming, marketing and bottom line are among the challenges Freeman would face in running the second-run movie house.

The city council seemed in favor of the agreement and will make a decision at its Oct. 18 meeting.

Freeman said he’s been interested in the Civic Theater for a number of years.

“I’ve had lots of ideas,” he said. “I’ve always said its greatest asset is its potential and it’s yet to be realized.”

He said he has ideas to maximize rev-

The Civic Theater is a landmark in Farmington.

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SHARP FROM PAGE A1

friendship they’ve formed, as co-workers in the same law firm and as members of the board.

“He has been a true friend to me,” Wallach said.

Wallach recalled Sharp’s enthusiastic handstand at a graduation ceremony as one of the humorous antics he’ll always remember.

Board Vice President Sheilah Clay agreed that it was a stellar Sharp moment.

“You’re the kid at heart on this board,” she said.

Trustee Frank Reid said he knew from the first time the board interviewed Sharp for an open seat on the board 12 years ago that he was right for the job.

“It was apparent that you had a heartfelt concern for the kids,” he said. “And you have a quick understanding of the things we deal with on a day-to-day basis.”

Trustee Priscilla Brouillette said Sharp has “a wonderful ability to get to the heart of the issue and express it extremely well.”

FILLING THE VACANCY

The school district must, per state law, fill the vacancy within 30 days — from Oct. 31 — or it will be filled by the intermediate school district.

The district posted the vacancy and is requesting applications for consideration. Candidates will be interviewed publicly for the seat and the appointee will serve from Dec. 7 until Dec. 31, 2011. The seat will be open during the November 2011 election and the term is through Dec. 31, 2015.

Applications are available in the superintendent’s office at the FPS Administrative Center, 32500 Shiawassee, and on the home page of the district’s website www.farm-

ington.k12.mi.us. Application requests can also be e-mailed to the Board of Education at boardofeducation@farmington.k12.mi.us or faxed upon request by calling Debbie Higgins at (248) 489-3331.

The deadline for candidate applications is 3:30 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 22. Applications can be submitted in person, by mail, by e-mail or by fax to the attention of: Mrs. Debby Brauer, Board Secretary, c/o the Superintendent’s Office, Farmington Public Schools, 32500 Shiawassee Street, Farmington, MI 48336-2338.

The fax number is (248) 4893334 and e-mail is boardofeducation@farmington.k12. mi.us.

Interviews will be held beginning at 6 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 18, and, based upon the number of applications received, Monday, Nov. 22.

All interested parties are encouraged to have both evenings available for interview purposes. The meetings will be open to the public and cablecast live on TV-10.

The Board of Education plans to appoint a trustee at the close of the meeting Thursday, Nov. 18, or, if a second meeting is necessary, Monday, Nov. 22.

SOME ADVICE

Sharp, who was appointed 12 years ago, then elected, said people should apply for the right reasons — not to address a particular issue or problem and not to try to make major changes.

“Anybody who’s interested in the welfare of the students in our community, I encourage you to apply for this board,” he said. “It is the hardest job that you will ever love. If you have an underlying love for education, this is the place to be.” sjenkins@hometownlife.com (313) 222-2369

online at hometownlife.com

LOCAL NEWS

Observer & Eccentric | Thursday, October 7, 2010

PHOTOS BY JOHN STORMZAND | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Family and supporters watched the spellers during Tuesday’s Spelling Bee at the Costick Center.

SPELLING FROM PAGE A1

Tuesday’s Farmington Hills Senior Division Senior Spelling Bee at the Costick Center.

After 19 rounds, Holmes was the last speller, defeating secondplace contestant Richard Smolek, of Farmington Hills after spelling “prerequisite” correctly.

The only prerequisite to join the Spelling Bee was being 50 years or older.

Holmes recalled the last time he won a spelling bee — in 1955 at Pasteur Elementary on Detroit’s upper west side.

“I won with the word ‘accommodate,’” he said, smiling. “That’s where it all started.”

He has always enjoyed learning the spelling and definition of new words.

“I find it fun to look at the dictionary,” he said. “And I like to watch the national spelling bee.”

This was his third time participating in the local contest.

Holmes is retired from the Michigan Department of Human Services and serves on the board of Oakland Livingston Human Service Agency and the Pasteur Alumni Foundation. He is also a member of the Farmington Community Chorus.

He will now compete — along with Smolek and third-place finisher Lecia Allman — in the Oakland County Spelling Duel, Oct. 22 in Birmingham.

Smolek said he decided to participate in the local bee on a whim.

“It’s a lot of fun,” he said. “It’s an activity — a chance to interact with people.”

Other participants were Robert Lockwood, Leo Simpson, Ann Calvo, Marguerite Adams and Sharon Wagner. The top three won gift cards to Border’s.

The top three Spelling Bee winners, from left, Richard Smolek, second place; Lecia Allman, third place and Richard Holmes, first place.

Leo Simpson concentrates on a word at Tuesday’s spelling bee.

sjenkins@hometownlife.com | (313) 222-2369

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CIVIC

LOCAL NEWS

environment,” she said.

Freeman said cleanliness, staff uniforms, training and technology will improve the experience.

He said he would personally market the Civic to local groups, to “remind people that we have this gem and to reacquaint them with the Civic Theater.”

Wright said it’s a “real tough problem” to meet the goal of 1,200 movie-goers each week, given today’s competition such as easy and cheap video rental services and downloads for TVs and computers.

Programming could include special events, Freeman said, which would be in keeping with the community’s standards — nothing too crazy.

He said he would consult with Pastue on proposals that seem borderline.

Councilwoman JoAnne McShane said she views it as an opportunity to be a creative entertainment venue.

Freeman would be hired as an independent contractor with a two-year agreement, with possible one-year renewals.

FROM PAGE A1 enue and minimize expenses, while hopefully making technological investments that would attract more business.

Freeman said the theater “is not just a money maker,” it should be a destination, a place where people meet and hang out.

“It becomes a place they want to be, it’s intangible — they may not know why they want to be there, but they enjoy it,” he said.

Councilman David Wright said there must be a vision, backed up with forecasts and goals. Pastue said the target movie audience is about 1,200 per week, to meet revenue requirements. If there are fewer patrons in a given week, the revenue could come from private rentals.

Councilwoman Valerie Knol said the Civic is “a gem” in the community, but she has concerns about the lack of professionalism, staff “attitude” and the lack of technology.

“You expect a second-run movie, but you also expect a professional, clean, friendly

sjenkins@hometownlife.com | (313) 222-2369

Observer & Eccentric | Thursday, October 7, 2010

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Share your Halloween photograph and win Share a photo of your favorite Halloween decoration (your home, your pumpkin, your costume, other) with readers at hometownlife.com (see the Reader Submitted Photo Gallery on the homepage) and you could win a prize!

Post your photo, then we will ask hometownlife. com visitors to vote. The top Underwood three vote-getters will win a prize. First prize is two tickets (in a suite) to the Nov. 29 Carrie Underwood “Play On Tour” concert at the Palace with special guests Sons of Sylvia and Billy Currington.

Second prize is two tickets to Rock of Ages, Nov. 9. at the Fisher Theatre featuring Constantine Maroulis - the American Idol finalist who was nominated for a Tony Award for his starring role in the Broadway production.

Third prize is four movie

Share your scary, spooky or kooky Halloween photos with us and win prizes. passes to Emagine Theaters in Canton or Novi or the Palladium/Birmingham Theater in downtown Birmingham.

Readers can view the Halloween gallery and recom-

mend your photo.

Be sure to include a first and last name and the town where you live (only contestants from Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne counties are eligible to win prizes but anyone can rec-

ommend a photo).

Those who share photos that receive the most “recommend” votes as of midnight, Oct. 31 win prizes and will be published in the Farmington Observer.

Don’t be spooked by flash crash into rash decisions L

ast May we experienced a f lash crash, when in less than a 15-minute period the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped nearly 1,000 points. Within a short time, the market bounced back and what could have been a catasMoney Matters trophe turned out to be a bad day.

The day of the f lash crash Rick Bloom — and for a time afterward — there was speculation as to what caused the crash. There were people who speculated it was an error in entering an order to something more sinister, suggesting that someone was trying to manipulate the market.

The variety of speculation on Wall Street and in the media resulted in fear on behalf of investors. In fact, many investors, fearful that we were about to enter another period

of extreme volatility, decided to liquidate their portfolios. The good news is the report showed there was nothing sinister about the f lash crash nor was there any attempt to manipulate the market. Rather, it was a series of events that all came together in the proverbial perfect storm.

According to the report, the epicenter of the crash was a trade done by a mutual fund company.

According to the report, the mutual fund company, believing that the market was set for a downturn, employed an aggressive selling strategy. Although, the strategy itself is not that unusual, what was unusual is the timeframe used to employ the strategy. As opposed to spreading out the transaction over a period of time which is normal, the company employed the strategy over a very short period of time. This event triggered other transactions and suddenly the Dow was down nearly 1,000 points. After certain mar-

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ket controls were triggered, the markets were able to stabilize and it turned out to be just a bad day.

This is not the last of the f lash crash. Most likely there will be congressional hearings, new regulations and, of course, a fair number of conspiracy theories. As investors, we should focus on what we can learn from this event.

The obvious is that speculation doesn’t do anyone any good. Immediately after the f lash crash, the talking heads were on TV with all sorts of theories. Although it was entertaining, it was pure speculation. Crazy things happen in the market over short periods of time and investors need to recognize that. As difficult as it may be, investors must be disciplined. It’s been shown that investors who act out of fear or greed inevitably end up making the wrong decision. When market volatility occurs, it almost always pays to take a step back and let things settle down.

Another lesson is that we ought to discount the people who claim that upon any irregularity there is some sort of sinister conspiracy. People who claim the markets are fixed and controlled behind the scenes generally have no clue what they are talking about.

As investors, it behooves us to avoid any information coming from people who lack credibility. It’s tough enough being an investor without having to deal with people who have no clue. Of course, that doesn’t mean that you should turn a blind eye to the gyrations of the market. However, make sure that before you radically change your portfolio, you’re not relying upon speculation and hearsay. Rely on the facts.

Good luck.

Rick Bloom is a fee-only financial adviser. Observer & Eccentric readers can submit questions at moneymatters@hometownlife.com. For more information, visit Rick’s Web site at www.bloomassetmanagement.com.

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Observer & Eccentric

HAVE A STORY IDEA?

hometownlife

Thursday, October 7, 2010 4

LOCAL POLICE CALLS

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dark hat. . A resident on the 38000 block of Country Circle reported that she left for work at 7 a.m. and returned at about 4:30 p.m. to discover the door to her home was open and the door frame was broken. All of the drawers and closets inside the home had been rummaged through and a necklace, a plasma TV, a DVD player and a laptop computer were missing. . Police were called to a house fire on the 21000 block of Rensselaer on Sept. 30 because the cause was suspicious. The fire apparently started by two candles that were found under a mattress, according to inspectors. The resident of the home, a single mother of four, was not at home. Her mother discovered the fire at about 12:45 p.m. when she stopped by to visit. . A 36-year-old Farmington Hills man was arrested for operating a

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13 Mile Rd.

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Soccer club co-treasurer charged with embezzlement

14 Mile Rd.

FARMINGTON HILLS

. A 33-year-old Novi man was arrested for drinking and driving, third offense, on Sept. 29 in the area of M-5 and Drake. Police, while on patrol, spotted the driver swerve onto the shoulder of the road and estimated the driver was going 85 mph. He was pulled over and police noticed he smelled of alcohol. He registered a .18 on a preliminary breath test. He was convicted of driving while impaired in 2003 and 2005. . A lawn service man was working at Faith Covenant Church, at 14 Mile and Drake, on Sept. 29 when he noticed a suspicious man was in the area of his open lawn equipment trailer. He later noticed two backpack-style blowers were missing from the trailer. . A father and daughter were arrested on Sept. 28 on the 21000 block of Hamilton Ave. after they reportedly assaulted a resident there, who is the boyfriend of the daughter.

When police arrived, they found the victim on the ground, being kicked by a 48-year-old Farmington Hills man who reportedly entered the victim’s mobile home while he was sleeping and started punching him and demanding that he pay him money that was owed to him. He was arrested on home invasion, assault and battery and domestic assault on his daughter. His daughter, 21, of Farmington Hills, was arrested on larceny, after she allegedly took money from the victim, her boyfriend, and for domestic assault on him. . A 45-year-old woman on the 30000 block of Crest Forest Drive reported a peeping Tom was peering into various windows of her home at about 6 a.m. on Sept. 28. She reportedly heard her parrot making loud noises in the living room and went to see what was happening. She saw a man dressed in dark clothing looking into her window.

The man then went to the back of the house and looked into a sliding glass door and a bedroom window before running away. The woman described him as a white male, age 60-65, about 6 feet tall, medium build and wearing a black windbreaker, khaki pants and a

Contact Editor Stacy Jenkins Voice Mail: (313) 222-2369 E-mail: sjenkins@hometownlife.com Comment online at hometownlife.com

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vehicle while under the influence of drugs after police stopped him at about 11:30 p.m. on Oct. 1 in the area of Drake and Grand River. A “be on the lookout” bulletin was issued after other drivers called police about his “weaving all over the road.” He told police that he was tired, after working a long shift. He admitted to taking Soboxone, which was found in his vehicle. . A 64-year-old Novi man was arrested for drinking and driving in the area of 12 Mile and Inkster, where he allegedly crossed the center line and struck another vehicle head on.

A “be on the lookout” bulletin was issued just prior to the crash, after other drivers reported he was driving poorly.

He reportedly admitted to drinking at a local restaurant. Hydrocodone pain killers were found in his vehicle, and he told police that he takes two per day for pain.

8

BY KAREN SMITH OBSERVER STAFF WRITER

The former co-treasurer of the Livonia City Soccer Club was arraigned Monday on a charge he embezzled more than $100,000 from the nonprofit organization, Lt. Greg Winn of the Livonia Police Department said.

Brian Patrick Molloy, 40, of Farmington, Molloy stood mute to the charge and Magistrate James Jolly entered a not-guilty plea on his behalf during his arraignment in 16th District Court.

Molloy was released on a $25,000 personal bond. A preliminary examination was set for Oct. 14 before Judge Sean P. Kavanagh.

Winn said the embezzlement appears to have gone on over about two years. “We’re still going over bank records,” he said, adding the investigation is continuing and investigators are working on recovering the money.

The Livonia City Soccer Club has about 1,000 youth players.

The organization was formed in June 2008, when the former Livonia Meteors Soccer Club and the former Livonia Soccer Club merged. Molloy had been affiliated with the Livonia Soccer Club.

The board of the Livonia City Soccer Club met Monday night and formally removed Molloy from the organization, LCSC spokesman Joe Bauman said.

Bauman said the embezzlement has not impacted the business

operations of the organization.

The organization also issued the following statement: “In the past few weeks, the club became aware of suspected embezzlement activity regarding our bank accounts.

It appeared an unknown individual or individuals had gained access to our bank accounts and were able to fraudulently remove funds out of those accounts. The suspected fraudulent activity was discovered as part of a routine examination of club bank statements.

“Immediately upon discovering the suspicious activity, club officers contacted bank authorities, who in turn alerted their fraud prevention unit.”

The statement went on to say club officials worked closely with police and fraud investigators to identify the individual responsible for the fraudulent activity.

Because the investigation is ongoing, the Livonia Police Department instructed the club not to discuss details regarding the case.

“We will share additional information regarding the matter as soon as we are permitted by the police department,” the statement said. “It is important to note that the club is working with police and bank officials to identify and implement additional measures to safeguard club funds and prevent this type of regrettable incident from ever happening again.

“We will continue to update our club families as more information becomes available. In the meantime, rest assured the club is committed to providing the outstanding soccer experience our players and families have come to expect.” ksmith@hometownlife.com | (313) 222-2098

online at hometownlife.com

LOCAL NEWS

Observer & Eccentric | Thursday, October 7, 2010

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OCC board candidates share their views at forum

BY STACY JENKINS OBSERVER STAFF WRITER

Five of the 11 candidates for the Oakland Community College Board of Trustees shared their views at a recent candidate forum, hosted by the League of Women Voters.

Participants were Deborah Macon, of West Bloomfield; Amber Patterson, of Southfield; Anne Scott, of Clarkston; Michele Scott, of Southfield; and Thomas Sullivan, of Oakland Township.

There are three six-year seats up for grabs in the Nov. 2 election. Incumbents are Thomas Kuhn, of Troy; Anne Scott; and Sullivan. The seven trustees serve as nonpartisan volunteers and are not compensated.

Macon is a regular at the OCC board meetings and an active member of several community outreach groups. She’s a former classroom teacher, former West Bloomfield Township board member and former Bloomfield Hills school board member.

Patterson has 32 years experience in higher education and corporate education training and is a former adjunct instructor at OCC. Anne Scott was first elected to the OCC board 18 years ago. She owned a staffing company for 27 years.

Michele Scott is a student at OCC who is working toward a master’s degree in business administration.

Sullivan is a retired dentist who was elected to the OCC board two years ago.

Other candidates who did not attend the forum are: Daniel Kelly, of Clarkston; Kuhn; Fred Mester, of Bloomfield Hills; Olga Meyer, of West Bloomfield; John Reeves, of Southfield; and Carol Smith, of Bloomfield Hills.

Macon

Patterson

Anne Scott

she said. “I’m thrilled that our project will come to fruition.”

Michele Scott said transparency is “vital in public office Michele Scott Sullivan and in your professional life as well.” She said the meetings could be podcast or broadcast on the OCC website, so people could view them day or night and be informed.

Sullivan said “this has to happen.”

“The sooner it happens, the better it will be,” he said. “Transparency, transparency, transparency is the reason it should be done.”

ONLINE CLASSES

Because OCC is facing record enrollment levels, online classes are an option that’s becoming popular and necessary.

Patterson said online learning is a way to bring students who are not local to the school and could even bring students from around the country to OCC. “Online learning is the future,” she said.

TRANSPARENCY Anne Scott said she favors blended classes, Candidates were asked for their thoughts on incorporating online learning. why the OCC board meetings are still not televised Michele Scott said online courses allow for more or webcast for the public to view. options for students.

Macon said she’s already gone on record to say “Online course expansion is vital because that that televised meetings and online meeting minis the standard by which community colleges are ute archives are important. measured,” she said, noting the courses must be “It builds transparency and encourages public high quality and relevant. confidence,” she said.

Sullivan said online courses, if they’re done Patterson said she would be assertive in encour- properly, are “extremely important,” especially aging the broadcast of board meetings. with the challenges the school faces with high “We are all elected officials and should be enrollment, currently. accountable to those who voted for us,” she said, Macon said anything to make education more the reference being if she were elected. “I would accessible and flexible is a good thing. push for that to happen.”

Anne Scott said it will happen.

HIGH ENROLLMENT “I’m of the opinion that we will be televised,” OCC is experiencing high enrollment lately,

Five of the 11 candidates for the Oakland Community College participated in a recent forum hosted by the League of Women Voters Oakland Area. largely due to the economy. Many people who are laid off from their jobs are pursuing other fields, such as health care, and need the course work or degrees.

Anne Scott said OCC’s administration is “thinking outside of the box” in terms of offering weekend courses at all campuses and determining the best use of space at all buildings.

Michele Scott said all of the resources that are already paid for must be utilized wisely.

She said adding programs and space should not incur expense.

Sullivan said high enrollment presents accessibility challenges and he believes the administration is addressing the issue.

Macon said it is the administration’s role to work on these issues, but as a board member, she would like to be involved in the analysis.

Patterson said the situation is “an opportunity for creativity,” including forming partnerships with employers.

WORKING WITH OTHERS

Candidates were asked how well they would be able to work with other members of the board.

Michele Scott said she would always be

respectful, have an open mind, be a good listener and work toward accomplishing the goal at hand.

Sullivan said he works in a respectful and collaborative way.

“When we make a decision, whether we like it or not, we need to speak with one voice,” he said.

Macon said she has a long track record of building consensus and using her strong communication skills to work toward getting results.

Patterson said listening, understanding and collaborating are keys to being a “team player” on any board.

Anne Scott said all members serve because they want to provide a quality education for students at OCC. Having the same goals makes building consensus easier. Listening is important, she added.

“There’s not a clear-cut answer to some decisions, so it’s important to listen,” she said.

For more information about the candidates, visit the League of Women Voters Oakland Area website at www.lwvoa.org. sjenkins@hometownlife.com | (313) 222-2369

You’re invited to Sanctuary at Marian Oakland for a Free Senior Breakfast and Presentation...

“Learn About Medicare”

by Preferred Providers

Wednesday, October 13 from 9 - 10:30 a.m.

29250 West Ten Mile Road • Farmington Hills, MI 48336 www.SanctuaryatMarianOakland.org

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER @hometownlife

OE08716682

Seating is limited. To RSVP, please contact Ellen at 248-474-7204.

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Observer & Eccentric | Thursday, October 7, 2010

LOCAL NEWS

Melissa Erickson and her daughter, Ella, from Farmington, enjoyed Tuesday’s Hay Day.

online at hometownlife.com Families enjoyed hay rides at the Hay Day event at Heritage Park in Farmington Hills.

Hay Day!

PHOTOS BY JOHN STORMZAND | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Jim and Jessica Wilde and 18-month-old Gavin enjoy an outdoor dinner at Hay Day.

Pumpkins, hay rides and more at annual event H

undreds did a fall migration to Heritage Park on Tuesday for the ever-popular Hay Day event.

A huge campfire for roasting dogs and marshmallows; crafts and bouncers for kids; hay rides for all — it was a perfect fall evening. The annual event was put on by the Farmington Hills Special Services Department’s Recreation Division.

Shunse Miyaiono, 6, of West Bloomfield carries a painted pumpkin at Tuesday’s Hay Day.

Rita Soka and her son, Luke, 5, roast marshmallows at Tuesday’s Hay Day.

Eli Miller, 1, from Farmington, checks out the sights at Tuesday’s Hay Day.

Brayden Bridges, 3, paints a pumpkin at Tuesday’s Hay Day event at Heritage Park.

online at hometownlife.com

LOCAL NEWS

Fire Department personnel are able to access all Knox-Boxes with a single master key controlled solely by the Farmington Hills Fire Department.

The Knox-Box, which costs about $210, reduces both response time and property damage. There is no waiting for a property owner to unlock the door in the middle of the night and no need to force the door open or break windows to gain entry. In the event of a dwelling fire emergency, however, the Knox-Box would not be used and firefighters would force doors or windows to gain rapid entry.

To order a Knox-Box, stop

by Fire Headquarters located south of the corner of Eleven Mile and Orchard Lake Roads. You will need to fill out an application, which will then be reviewed by the Fire Department. When the KnoxBox is delivered to your home,

Fire Inspector Mike Kish finishes installing a residential Knox Box at a home in Farmington Hills. call the Fire Department to have a firefighter secure your keys. For more information,

call (248) 871-2820 or call the local Fire Department in your area.

Barnett’s plan: Attract ‘triple bottom line’ businesses In an effort to attract innovative job creators and new investment to Michigan, State Rep. Vicki Barnett (DFarmington Hills) recently testified before the House New Economy and Quality of Life Committee on her plan to attract socially and environmentally conscious businesses that are creating jobs in emerging 21st century industries.

“This plan will help make Michigan a destination of choice for companies in emerging 21st century industries and position the state as a leader in the new global economy,” said Barnett. “Across the nation,

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Michigan Truth Squad beefs up for election

FHFD says Knox-Box is important safety tool Do you live alone or care for someone who does? If so, the Farmington Hills Fire Department recommends that you purchase a Knox-Box Rapid Entry System.

“The Knox-Box is a small safe that holds entry keys and medical information that firefighters can retrieve quickly and easily in an emergency,” said Lieutenant Denny Hughes.

The Knox-Box securely hooks over the top of an exterior door and is not removable once the door is shut.

“It gives firefighters or paramedics fast access to a home when the owner isn’t there or is unable to answer the door due to illness or disability. Installing a Knox-Box also decreases dependence on neighbors or family members who may have misplaced the house key or may be unavailable when emergency help arrives,” added Hughes.

Observer & Eccentric | Thursday, October 7, 2010

The Michigan Truth Squad, the nonpartisan political ad watchdog website sponsored

by The Center for Michigan, is increasing coverage and capabilities to better serve voters leading up to the Nov. 2 general election.

Three referees will join current reporters in examining political ads. The added reporting muscle will allow the Truth Squad to expand its fact-checking scope to include the state’s congressional candidates, according to John Bebow, executive director of The Center for Michigan.

Until now, the Truth Squad has only examined ads, websites and other campaign literature from candidates for the state Legislature, governor, attorney general, secretary of state, and political parties.

“The Michigan Truth Squad has already had an impact on

the elections, being cited by candidates who find themselves on the side of truth and being criticized by those who are being caught spreading misinformation, exaggerating, not providing complete information, or telling outright lies,” Bebow said. “Now we are expanding our reach through Election Day in hopes that candidates and parties will focus truthfully on the issues that count.”

Bebow noted that the Truth Squad website has received more than 70,000 page views. Visit www.MichiganTruthSquad. com.

The Center for Michigan is a “think-and-do tank” founded by veteran statewide business and political leaders in early 2006. A 501(c)3 non-profit organization, The Center’s objective is to assist the state through its current economic trouble and to lay the foundation for a better future.

Hills hosts photo contest for upcoming rec brochure

For the first time, the City of Farmington Hills’ Special Services Department is opening up the pages of its upcommany business- duct business in a socially and would have the option of coning winter/spring program es are focusing environmentally conscious verting to these new rules. brochure to a photo contest, in on sustainway. These businesses often do “Corporations, along with order to feature photographs ability as part not fit the legal definitions of their owners and managers, taken by the people in the of their busieither pure for-profit or nonwho wish to include other con- community. ness model. profit organizations – meaning siderations in their corporate Amateur and professional Michigan they are essentially forced to priorities, currently have their photographers alike are invitneeds to choose between making profits hands legally tied by statutes ed to submit their favorite phoBarnett attract entreor pursuing social or environthat force managers to focus on tos of winter activities, taken preneurs that mental goals. a financial bottom line only,” in and around Farmington will create jobs, and the kind Under Barnett’s plan, these said Michael Sauvante, execuHills and Farmington. of businesses this bill targets innovators – often referred tive director of the Michigan The department is looking present a tremendous opportu- to as “Triple Bottom Line” or Based Commonwealth Group, for shots that include parks or nity for the future prosperity of “Benefit Corporations” – would which promotes triple bottom people of all ages enjoying the our state.” find Michigan as an attractive line approaches to business, beautiful outdoors, or engagThere is a growing national location because they could banking, financial markets and ing in a winter/spring activity, trend among new, cutting-edge legally devote efforts to socially economic development. “This such as sports, dance, theater, businesses and industries to or environmental goals as well plan will help change that and or simply family fun. identify themselves as good as profits. Owners and manfree companies to pursue all Photos do not necessarily corporate citizens and conagers of existing corporations their goals.” have to be taken during city-

sponsored events; they may even be photos taken in your own backyard. Photographers will receive special credit in the brochure, which is mailed to over 40,000 homes. Prizes will also be awarded to the winners, such as tickets to Special Services concerts and events.

Entries are due no later than Oct. 20. Each entrant may submit up to 10 photos. To enter, please e-mail jpeg images to specialservices@fhgov. com or send a disk to: Photo Contest c/o Rachel Timlin, Costick Center, 28600 W. 11 Mile, Farmington Hills, MI. Disks may also be delivered in person to the Costick Center front desk, Monday through Friday, between 8:30 a.m. 4:30 p.m.

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online at hometownlife.com

LOCAL NEWS

Observer & Eccentric | Thursday, October 7, 2010

Many October offerings for Adults 50 & Better The City of Farmington Hills offers dozens of programs for area adults age 50 and better at the Center for Active Adults, located in the Costick Center on 11 Mile Road between Middlebelt and Inkster.

The Center is open Monday – Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Lunch is served daily, $2.75 for ages 60 and better, $5 for under 60.

Here are just a few of the programs available in October.

• Book Discussion. Thursday, Oct. 7, 1 p.m. The Space Between

by Thrity Umrigar. Join a lively,

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informal book discussion on the first Thursday of each month.

Paperback copies are available in advance for checkout.

• NEW! Meditation Yoga.

Thursdays, Oct. 7-11, 9:45 a.m.

A new five-week session of Yoga that focuses on reducing stress and increasing inner strength and peace. Just in time for the holiday season. Wear loose clothing and bring a mat. $30, resident discounted fee $25, drop-in fee $6.

• Friday’s Film. Friday, Oct. 8, 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Enjoy coffee and donuts, see The Back Up Plan and then enjoy a vegetable lasagna lunch. Register by Oct. 7. Fee is $5.

• Roth IRA 2010: Opportunities and Strategies.

Tuesday, Oct. 12, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Learn more about the taxfree income a Roth IRA can bring. Discover how to reduce current and future taxes for yourself and your beneficiaries.

Includes a coupon for a free lunch compliments of Financial Partners, Inc. Register by Oct. 8.

• Investment Concepts: Learn About Bond Investing.

Thursday, Oct. 12, 1 p.m. Join David Judge of Judge Asset Management to learn about what bonds are, how they are affected, and the risks and rewards of bond investing.

Walk-ins are welcome, but registration is required by Oct. 5 to receive materials at class. No fee.

• Lifelong Learning at Longacre: The Spirituality of Aging – Connecting with Others. Wednesday, Oct. 13, 10 – 11 a.m. Learn tools to perform life repairs in relationships with self, family, and friends for release, health, and reconciliation. Register by Oct. 11. Fee is $5.

• Simply Ballroom. Friday, Oct. 15, 8-10:30 p.m. Enjoy ballroom dancing, DJ music, raffle, door prizes, refreshments, and a complimentary dance lesson at 7 p.m. Singles and couples of all adult ages and skill levels welcome. Fee is $10 per person.

• Flu Shots. Tuesday, Oct. 26, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bring a picture ID with your current address

and Medicare/Medicaid card, $10 for those without Medicare/ Medicaid. MedicareAdvantage subscribers should call their provider to verify if the flu shot is a covered benefit.

• Caregivers 101. Tuesday, Oct. 26, 10-11:30 a.m. A panel of experts will talk about legal issues, home care options, and managing caregiver decisions.

Includes a coupon for a free lunch compliments of Simplify It, Trillium Home Care, and Foster Swift. Register by Oct. 22.

• Halloween Party. Friday, Oct. 29, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Enjoy a special meal, entertainment, prizes, dancing to a live band, and a costume contest. Register by October

25. Tickets are $8 by deadline, $10 after.

Several support groups are also available at the Center for Active Adults including Caregivers, Grief and Loss, First Step Stroke, and Vision Impaired. The Center also offers many clubs that meet regularly including Coupon Clippers, Photography Club, and the Red Hat Society. Call (248) 473-1830 for meeting dates and times.

Programs and activities are sponsored by the Senior Adult Division of the City of Farmington Hills. Advance registration is required for all programs. To register for events or to obtain additional information, call (248) 473-1830.

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Three Men and a Tenor, an internationally-renowned comedic vocal music sensation, will bring a highenergy, hilarious vocal music show to the Farmington Players Barn Theatre at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 22 and Saturday, Oct. 23 as part of the City of Farmington Hills Cultural Arts Concert Series.

Three Men and a Tenor have been performing together since 1992, and have a polished, family-oriented musical comedy program.

The group was named “Michigan’s Finest Entertainment” by Michigan Events Magazine. The talented vocalists perform favorite oldies and original pieces with their own brand of laugh-along, sing-along antics, sharp choreography, and soothing harmonies.

Three Men and a Tenor have shared the stage with numerous American legends, such as Chuck Berry, Dionne Warwick, Bob Newhart,

and Peter Cetera. The group has been a featured guest on over 80 national radio and television stations and starred in their own Emmy Award winning TV special, broadcast on over 70 national PBS Stations.

Recently, they were chosen to represent the “Best of Michigan” at the Governor’s Service Awards. This will be their second appearance in Farmington Hills.

The concerts take place in the intimate atmosphere of the Farmington Players Barn Theater, located at 32332 12 Mile Road. Tickets for Three Men and a Tenor are $19 for adults and $17 for seniors and students. Tickets can be ordered online at https:// recreg.f hgov.com, by calling the Cultural Arts ticket line at (248) 473-1848 or purchased at the Costick Center.

Other concerts in the series include Holiday Fun with the Michigan Opera Theatre on Dec. 8 and Blackthorn on March 10, 11 and 12.

Three Men and a Tenor will perform Oct. 22 and Oct. 23.

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online at hometownlife.com

LOCAL NEWS

Observer & Eccentric | Thursday, October 7, 2010

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Vote for Dwyer

life that a city requires.

The city could lead the way in this respect, but Sometimes it is difficult to get excited enough these men and a few women are steeped in old about a candidate to endorse him or her. But not traditions and rigid mindsets. They are entirely so with Bill Dwyer, candidate for Oakland County the wrong people to consult and the results of commissioner. Bill Dwyer is a man of honor, integtheir efforts will be more than predictable. rity, wisdom and great professional skills.

Mary Johnson Year after year, Bill managed the multimilFarmington Hills lion-dollar budget of the Farmington Hills Police Department. He did not exceed his budget, while at the same time making Farmington Hills one of This election, Congressional candidate Andrew the safest cities in Michigan and even in the top “Rocky” Raczkowski has repeated lies about 20 in America. the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act. Bill Dwyer is tireless, capable and has served These lies are spread by Fox News hosts, corpothis community with distinction. These skills can rate-funded campaign groups and the national be put to good use as the commissioners strugRepublican Party. Unfortunately, the press gle with many issues that effect our daily lives. doesn’t call the Republicans out on the lies. So I am honored to support Bill Dwyer for Oakland let’s look at some facts instead of the fiction.

County commissioner and I hope you will, too.

Contrary to Rocky and Republican dogma, the Nancy Bates ARRA has helped the economy and created priFarmington Hills vate sector jobs. The non-partisan Congressional Budget Office documented the stimulus has grown the economy an additional 3.5 percent and It seems the city and the planning commission more than 3 million jobs were created. Without never rest with their plans and schemes. All pubthe stimulus, the jobless rate would be more than lic hearings, both city and planning commission, 11 percent. are sham hearings and are entirely without any Here are some of the federal ARRA $80 milredeeming public value. lion that are creating and or retaining jobs in The only intent is to show the public what they Oakland County: already plan to do and how they to plan to do it • Over $35 million in transportation projects and they really don’t care what the public thinks. are literally keeping some paving/construction These are just show hearings attended by very companies from closing, saving jobs from the few people and not even paid attention to by brink, hiring new workers and their suppliers everyone else. are hiring.

Result: better, safer roads.

Actually it is the same old story with the • The $15 million weatherization program and same old people and nothing will change except other OLHSA programs created or retained 350 the money to be extracted from the taxpayjobs.

Result: 1,600-2,000 families see significant ers. One problem is that they are so desirous energy cost savings for their homes. of the taxes to be extracted from commercial • The $5 million Energy Efficiency grants to interests that they have to pretend that the Oakland County will result in 57 new/retained whole thing involves some kind of public good. jobs, while $7 million in municipal grants will Behind all their machinations will be a Corridor produce even more. Result: energy-efficiency Improvement Authority — or two or three. These features at our airport terminal along with many are authorities made in heaven for bureaucrats. other facilities, saving money and reducing polThis gives them a whole new ballpark in which lution. to sit around and get paid to concoct a city that • The $256 million ARRA Economic matches their strange conception of reality.

Development Bonding Authority has already The very same people who have presided over leveraged $60 million in economic developthe mess that is city planning are now in charge ment, including a new movie production studio of calling for a redo of their previous efforts. in Pontiac.

Result: 500 construction jobs and, They will not have done the real work that needs according to Oakland County estimates, 3,000 to be done to improve Farmington Hills. That new permanent jobs and up to 10,000 indirect would entail consulting not with developers and jobs. their ilk, but with genuine land use experts, landOakland County also just used that bondscape architects and ecological visionaries who ing authority to fund the sewer repair near can see beyond dollar signs to the real quality of Middlebelt and 13 Mile, saving Oakland County

Recovery money helped

The Observer & Eccentric Newspapers and Buddy’s Pizza present “Good News, Good Chews!”

Share your good news with our readers and you could win lunch or dinner for four at any Buddy’s Pizza (dine-in or carryout) location.

Want to read about the hometown hero, the terrif ic student, the helpful neighbor, the group, church or synagogue that’s working hard to make our region a good place to live, work and play?

The Observer & Eccentric and Buddy’s Pizza are partnering to make sure good news is recognized and rewarded.

Tell us about that special event, person or group effort that made

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Tell us about the good things going on in your community and we’ ll share them with readers.

To top it off, you could win a scrumptious meal for four at Buddy’s.

Marcy Brontman and Michelle Lawton of Buddy’s along with O&E editors will select one overall winner each month (through 2011) to enjoy a special meal at Buddy’s.

E-mail your good news story (include a photograph) to: goodnews@ hometownlife.com.

Tell us your story in 150 words or less (attach photos in a jpg format as large as possible and be sure to identify everyone in the photo).

Deadline is the last day of each month.

City of Farmington Notice of Public Hearing Community Development Block Grant Funds

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS 2010 SIDEWALK PROGRAM CITY OF FARMINGTON HILLS, OAKLAND COUNTY, MICHIGAN Sealed bids will be received by the City of Farmington Hills Clerk's Office, Oakland County, Michigan at 31555 Eleven Mile Road until 10:00 a.m., Monday, October 18, 2010, at which time and place all bids will be publicly opened and read aloud. This project consists of approximately 720 linear feet of sidewalk installation along the south side of Folsom Road between Nine Mile Road and Power Road and approximately 720 linear feet of sidewalk installation along the east side of Middlebelt Road between Chateau Court and Spring Road. The approximate quantities of major items of the work are as follows: Concrete Sidewalk 7,200 SF 12" CSP with MDOT Class II Sand Backfill 450 LF Plus miscellaneous items necessary for a completed project.

Plans, specifications, and bid forms may be obtained beginning Thursday, October 7, 2010 at www.mitn.info. All bids must be submitted in accordance with the bid specifications. Each bid shall be accompanied by a Certified Check or Bid Bond by a recognized surety company in the amount of five percent (5%) of the bid, payable to the City of Farmington Hills, as security for acceptance of the Contract. The City reserves the right to waive any or all bids, to waive irregularities and/or informalities, and to make the award that, in the opinion of the City Council, is in the best interest and to the advantage of the City of Farmington Hills.

KATHRYN A. DORNAN, City Clerk Publish: October 7, 2010

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Farmington will hold a public hearing on the use of Community Development Block Grant Funds. The Hearing will be held on Monday, October 18, 2010 at 7:00pm at the City of Farmington Council Chambers, 23600 Liberty Street, Farmington, Michigan 48335 for the purpose of hearing public comments on the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Year 2011 application in the approximate amount of $29,256 to fund eligible projects. All interested citizens are requested to attend the Hearing. Comments will also be received in writing or in person at the City Manager’s Office until Thursday, October 14, 2010 at 4:30pm.

Arrangements to reasonably accommodate special needs, including handicap accessibility or interpreter, will be made upon receiving 72-hour advance notice. Contact the City Manager’s Office at (248) 4745500 ext. 2221, 23600 Liberty Street, Farmington, Michigan 48335 for special services.

Sue Halberstadt, Clerk, City of Farmington Publish; October 7, 2010

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The City of Farmington has tentatively declared its intent to proceed with certain improvements to River Glen Street, including removal of existing concrete, a new road base be installed, drainage improvements (including curb and gutter), and paving the reconstructed road area with asphalt. The City has tentatively decided to establish a special assessment district to defray a portion of the costs of such improvements by special assessment against the benefited properties. The improvements are intended to provide special benefits to the properties identified on the attachment to this Notice, which properties together tentatively constitute the “special assessment district.”

The cost estimate and plans describing the improvements are on file and available for public inspection at the City Clerk’s Office, which is located at 23600 Liberty, Farmington, MI 48335. The cost of the improvements is estimated to be $126,000 to the benefiting property owners.

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Election campaigns become demeaning when personal assaults replace important issues. The California governor race remains focused on Meg Whitman’s employing an illegal alien who provided falsified proof of citizenship. Must an employer require a lie detector test?

In the Delaware senate race, candidate Christine O’Donnell mentioned she once attended a witchcraft meeting during high school. Does New England still burn witches at the stake?

In Michigan, Rocky Raczkowski is beggared by a claim he falsified estimates several years ago.

This charge was brought up during the primary by his opponent Paul Welday — and rejected by voters. Rep. Gary Peters hopes it will give him an edge.

Rocky accuses Peters of supporting Obama.

This charge appears true. Peters’ platform includes: “Prevent health insurance companies from denying coverage because of a pre-existing condition.” This defeats the concept of insurance.

I could take out insurance when my house is on fire.

Hank Borgman Farmington

Notice is hereby given that on (October 18, 2010) TATE & CO. Auctioneers, Executive Administrator for Extra Space Storage, will be offering for sale under the judicial lien process, by public auction, the following storage units. The goods to be sold are generally described as household goods. The terms of the sale will be cash only. Extra Space Storage reserves the right to refuse any and all bids. The sale will be at the following location: Extra Space Storage, 38875 GRAND RIVER AVE., FARMINGTON HILLS, MI, AT 9:30 am

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that at the above time, date and location, the City Council shall meet for the purpose of hearing statements and objections by any interested person with respect to the proposed improvements and the proposed special assessment district.

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between $500,000 and $700,000.

Republicans, and much of the press, also fail to note that one-third of the ARRA included tax cuts for 98 percent of Americans, increased unemployment benefits, $250 assistance checks for all disabled vets and other local community grants available directly or through the state.

They also fail to note the support given to the states to defray cuts from lost revenue, or funds going directly to Michigan colleges and universities, for research and training programs for our changing economy and future green jobs.

The infrastructure/energy funding included in the ARRA plays an important role in creating jobs, but it also reverses three decades of infrastructure neglect.

The National Association of Civil Engineers has given America a grade of D for the condition of our infrastructure.

The bottom line is that the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act has greatly improved the country and, more specifically, our county. We can’t go back to ignoring our infrastructure or fellow citizens. We need to support the candidate who is looking out for us now and in the future, Congressman Gary Peters.

Darryl C. Conliffe chair, Farmington/ Farmington Hills Democratic Club

OPINION

PAGE A10 (F)

THURSDAY, October 7, 2010

OUR VIEWS

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OBSERVER FARMINGTON

Stacy Jenkins, Community Editor Susan Rosiek, Executive Editor Grace Perry, Director of Advertising

COMMUNITY VOICE Do you think the Farmington School District provides a quality education despite recent cuts?

We asked this question at the Farmington Community Library, Farmington Hills main branch.

CTAC leaders deserve kudos It’s been more than two decades since individuals in the community, led by Farmington Hills resident Betty Nicolay, stood up against domestic violence and substance abuse that is often hidden within the confines of our homes.

Since its inception as the Farmington/Farmington Hills Families in Action, the effort has grown to become known as the Call to Action Coalition, with a mission of “breaking the silence” against violence and substance abuse.

Leaders of the CTAC ref lected on the group’s past, present and future at last week’s community breakfast, in which about 150 people took or renewed their pledge to break the silence on these issues.

In re c appi ng t he jou r ney, exe c ut ive d i re c t or Estralee Michaelson thanked Nicolay for all of her work, as she steps down from the CTAC. She also listed some of the group’s accomplishments, highlighting some of the goals that have been achieved.

In listening to those goals, one cannot help but to be amazed how topics that have been taboo, such as alcoholism, domestic abuse, youth alcohol and drug use, could be propelled into view in a very public way.

What is clear, is the message that it’s not only OK to speak out, reach out and get involved when we suspect or learn of these issues, but that it’s expected — it’s our responsibility to watch out for each other and to support each other with a listening ear, a resource or a shelter when needed, with no blame and no judgment.

It took a lot of courage for Nicolay and Michaelson to bring this concept to the community so many years ago.

This message is getting out because certain goals have been met — that all sectors of the community would be involved, from law enforcement to the schools and the clergy, for example.

Public service announcements have been produced on each topic, by SWOCC Studios, and DVDs have been produced and distributed. Pamphlets are now in every emergency response vehicle, for distribution where violence, drugs or alcohol are contributing factors in an incident.

The CTAC has continued its annual fall kickoff breakfast, to renew the efforts, for the past 22 years.

Michaelson has worked closely with the local media, to spread the mission as well.

This is likely Michaelson’s last year working in the community, so she challenged everyone to carry on the work of the CTAC and “never, ever give up on this mission, ever.”

We echo that sentiment and encourage those who are involved in CTAC to keep it going and keep it a strong resource in the community.

It’s not known how many lives have been saved by the basic idea that as neighbors, families and residents of this community, we’ve learned that it’s OK to intervene without fear of “being nosey.”

We applaud the long-standing commitment displayed by Nicolay and Michaelson. They’ve laid the ground work and now it’s time for others to step up and lead this important effort.

Like many of the speakers have said at many kickoff breakfast events, Farmington and Farmington Hills are not immune to these issues. There are families in crisis within our neighborhoods; there are young people in the community who are heading down a dark and dangerous road with drugs and alcohol.

We’ve seen tragedies occur and have wondered why no one stepped in before lives were lost. Hopefully, we will not have to ask ourselves that question in the future.

Kudos to CTAC, its leaders and those in the community who see this as an effort that’s well worth continuing for years to come.

Estralee Michaelson, left, gets a hug from Betty Nicolay, founder of the Families in Action group now known as the Call to Action Coalition.

“My kids go to Walled Lake schools. It hasn’t affected the education so far, it’s affected programming and athletics. It went up to $350 for pay-to-play.”

“My son’s elementary school, William Grace, was one of those that was closed. So far, (new school year) good.”

Adriana Lewerenz

Farmington Hills

“Yeah. I go to Dunckel.

They made the classrooms better because we have more varieties. And they made new sports classes and language classes like Japanese.”

Adaija Black, 12

Michelle Holtzman

“I’m a North Farmington senior. I think the teachers that stayed are putting more effort into making the school a better place, to make up for the teachers we lost.”

Dunckel Middle School

Farmington Hills

Oona Friedland, 17 Farmington Hills

LETTERS Elect Dwyer

My first introduction to Bill Dwyer was in 1985, when he became the police chief in Farmington Hills. Over the years I have appreciated his dedication, honesty and integrity when dealing with issues concerning our city.

He was able to not only bring our police force up to a very high caliber by having officers trained through the FBI Academy and other opportunities for training, he also was able to provide us with superior services in a cost-effective manner.

Now that he is retiring from his current position in Warren, I believe he is the right person for our community as our county commissioner. His understanding of budgeting processes and local government from years of experience and will serve us well in this new position. Please join with me in November to make this happen.

Jan C. Dolan former Farmington Hills mayor

Vote Peters

I write this letter in support of Congressman Gary Peters. He is a strong independent voice for Oakland County. With Gary Peters’ support, a small business program which was piloted in Michigan will be taken nationwide. A great many jobs come from small business.

Gary Peters is in a group of congressman demanding $72 billion in cuts to the federal budget. This while our last representative helped double the national debt during eight years of runaway spending.

With Congressman Peters, Oakland County’s voice will not be sidestepped with “birther” questions, which are a key focus of the opposition party candidate Rocky Raczkowski.

Mark Reina Farmington

Taxing situation

We have lived in Farmington Hills for 34 years. What a lively place to live, except when you have to deal with the Treasury Department. We recently mailed in our summer tax check (payment in full) and shortly after, we received a letter showing a penalty.

After almost eight hours of conversation between the check issuing company, the bank that processes the payments (Comerica) and the Treasury Department of Farmington Hills, what we found out is, if there is a problem, the average everyday citizen is the victim.

Supposedly, the payment was made late (although no one can prove it to me). What we did fail to do is to include the coupon. For that we are penalized $121.94! I spoke directly to Comerica Bank, which tells me its records show the reason the check was not processed was because the coupon was not with the check. OK, we accept that mistake.

However, the city of Farmington Hills will not even consider reversing the penalty as it is insisting the payment was late, even though it cannot prove it and Comerica does not say it was late nor can it prove it came in late.

What it said was, the coupon was missing.

WHAT DO YOU THINK? We welcome your Letter to the Editor.

Please include your name, address and phone number for verification. We ask your letters be 400 words or less. We may edit for clarity, space and content.

Submit letters via the following formats.

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After 34 years in Farmington Hills, and paying our taxes on time every year, one would think that someone with some authority would look at the circumstances, take all things into consideration and would waive this penalty or at least be honest about why the penalty was issued.

So I guess what they say is true: “You can’t fight city hall.” So much for being a good citizen.

Carol and Jim Hearrell Farmington Hills

Elect Rocky

Generally speaking, in a congressional race the incumbent touts his votes and accomplishments. This year, Rep. Gary Peters has done none of that, starting right out with defamatory ads against his opponent. Setting aside the unseemliness of this approach, why is he doing it? Is he ashamed of his stands to increase the size of government by taking over our health care? He voted for that. Is he ashamed of his vote for massive tax increases on the energy we use? He voted for that. How about the huge and generally useless near trillion-dollar stimulus package?

Rocky Raczkowski realizes that government cannot create jobs (except government jobs), but that government can create an environment that is either favorable or detrimental to the creation of jobs by the private sector.

He knows that higher taxes and more onerous regulation (the Peters/Pelosi/Obama approach) is detrimental to the job market.

That’s why he favors a smaller, more efficient government. I will be voting for Rocky and urge all voters to do the same.

For more detail on Rocky Raczkowski’s platform, go to his website, rockyworksforus.com.

For more information on Gary Peters’ record and ideas, go to Nancy Pelosi’s website.

Al Brune Farmington Hills

Thank you, kindly

In a world where we hear more bad news than good news, see more bad deeds than good deeds, feel more good than evil, a recent experience really touched me.

Went to the “do it yourself” car wash

on Orchard Lake Road and Shiawassee in Farmington. Washed the car, then drove over to the plaza parking lot to hand dry the car.

When finished, I found I had accidentally locked myself out of the car. The car was running and my purse was locked inside.

Horrified and in disbelief of my stupidity, I scanned the stores in the immediate vicinity. Walked over to Dingmasters auto repair shop. Spoke with an employee who sent me to speak with the manager or owner. Told him my problem and asked if he could please help me. He immediately responded with, “yes, I will try to help you.” He did not hesitate for a second, did not ask for money — I was really in shock. Had not expected anyone to help me.

He came over and within a few minutes the car was unlocked. I apologized for not having any money to give him, just some quarters.

He said, he did not want any money and it was OK. I gave him a hug and said, “I hope it comes back to you two-fold.” He smiled and walked away. What a wonderful person and a great business we have in our community.

Brenda K. Bradley Farmington Hills

Great weekend

Farmington: A Community Remembers was a great success. Friday night was an elegant affair with food and drink. More importantly, it was a coming together of many people from the community and a reunion for others. The icing on the cake was the art work of Ellie Spicer. Those who attended not only saw her artwork, but never-before-seen photographs of the Spicer/Goodenough family.

Saturday’s Playfest was equally as exciting. Children were captivated playing oldfashioned games like marbles, hopscotch and jacks, while they listened to the music of Charlene Barry and the Eysters. Stacy at the Nature Center had activities that were also a highlight at the event like Wonder Walks, led

by Jerry Wilhelm, and outdoor explorations.

Mike Parson from the Redford Unicycle Club gave unicycle demonstrations. Hay rides through Heritage Park were a hit as well. A huge hay fort was created by Heritage Park’s Randy Lovett. All of this was in the spirit of No Child Left Inside, a national movement to get kids outside and explore their surroundings.

I would be remiss not to mention all the people who helped bring these ideas into reality. First, funding for the event came from the Riley Foundation, the city of Farmington Hills Special Services Department, the Farmington Hills Historical Commission and Pastways.

The people who gave of themselves included: Linda Arnold, Sharon Bernath, Dave Boyer, Nancy Coumoundouros, Larissa Czuchnowsky, Barb Dermody, Jan Dolan, the Eyster Family, Bryan Farmer, Liz Goodenough, Frank Levey, Alice Nichols, Margot Mazur, Maryann Oliveri, John Roos, Sherrie Stewart, Ann Stolberg, John Willyard and University of Michigan students Lisa, Scott and Nick.

We are eagerly looking forward to doing the Playfest again next year.

Brian Golden Playfest coordinator

online at hometownlife.com

Observer & Eccentric | Thursday, October 7, 2010

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FEATURES, B6

Falcons repeat as boys city champions

BY DAN O’MEARA OBSERVER STAFF WRITER

PHOTOS BY JOHN STORMZAND | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Junior Erin Dennis was North’s third runner and sixth overall in the city meet.

Raiders reclaim girls FPS crown in cross country

BY DAN O’MEARA OBSERVER STAFF WRITER

If there was a favorite Monday in the Farmington Public Schools girls cross country race, it was North Farmington, although it didn’t look that way early.

The Raiders ran conservatively at the start, saved their best for late and captured the 2010 championship with a strong finish.

North was nine points better than defending champ Farmington at Oakland Community College, 29-38. The Falcons had their streak of seven straight victories come to an end.

The Raiders won for the first time since taking Please see GIRLS, B2 Farmington junior Gabby DeFlorio was the FPS girls city meet champion Monday.

Farmington’s eighth consecutive city championship in boys cross country was a little extra special Monday.

For only the fourth time in the 40-year-plus history of the meet, the Falcons achieved a perfect score, posting a low of 15 points.

Farmington sent the first five runners across the finish line to lock up this year’s title early and win convincingly over its city rivals.

Furthermore, all five were under 18 minutes and were just 23 seconds apart.

Senior David Hong, who had been slowed by an injury, came roaring back to win the race in 17 minutes and 15 seconds.

Sophomore Drew Lindman ran 17:17, senior Kevin Pitt 17:20, junior Nimantha Herath 17:34 and senior Cody Larsen 17:38. “(Hong) has been one of our hardest workers, especially in the off season,” coach Charlie Stamboulian said. “Having that base helped him come back faster than most would have.”

He added Hong’s time was not a lifetime best, but Stamboulian is confident he is going to break 17 minutes in the near future.

Lindman did run a lifetime best and keeps on getting better, according to his coach. Pitt was a little off his lifetime best.

Herath ran 16:46 at the Spartan Invitational and had been the team’s consistent leader.

“I think the other guys are starting to realize they can get up there with him,” Stamboulian said. “I think Nimantha is going to bounce back Saturday and have a good race at the county meet. His goal is to be in the top 30. I think he’s totally capable of doing that, as well as a few other guys.

“As a team, we accomplished what we wanted to accomplish today. The guys ran together and under control.

We tried to get a little faster as the race progressed.”

Larsen also had been battling injuries and missed a lot of practice time, so Stamboulian was especially pleased by his performance Monday.

“The more he can practice, the more rapidly he’s going to improve,” he said. “He’s a great competitor, and he helps our pack move.”

Farmington’s 15-point score was achieved previously by the Falcons in 1970 and ’79 and North Farmington in 1998.

Stamboulian pointed out this year’s meet almost didn’t happen.

It had been cancelled until the six coaches agreed to have it Monday.

“There have only been three coaches here in the last 40 years — Jerry Young, Charles Bridges and myself,” Please see BOYS, B2

JOHN STORMZAND | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Senior David Hong led the Farmington boys to their eighth city championship in a row.

ment,’” coach Joe Ludwig said. “That’s It was mission accomplished what we had for the Harrison High School to do. boys tennis team in the OAA “It would Blue Division tournament have been an Friday. advantage if The Hawks had to win it John McDonald Berkley had to force a tie with Berkley for ended up less the overall championship, and than second that’s exactly they did. place, but we had to win to Harrison, which finished assure ourselves of at least a second behind Berkley in the co-championship. They went dual-meet standings, won the out and did that all the way to tournament with 59 points the end.”

— three more than runner-up The Hawks won four flights Berkley. at first and second singles and With eight points for their doubles. They were runners-up first-place finishes and seven at third and fourth doubles and for the seconds, Harrison and fourth singles.

Berkley are overall co-champiHarrison had won five conons with 15 points apiece. secutive titles in the old OAA “I told the guys: ‘We’re in sec- Division III when there were ond place. The only way we can four divisions. The Hawks were gain a division championship in the OAA White the past two here is if we win the tournaseasons until being re-assigned

to the Blue this year.

“Obviously, winning the tournament was a nice conclusion to the OAA Blue Division season,” Ludwig said, adding all the Hawks played at a high level Friday.

“We had been sitting in second place, having lost a close match to Berkley earlier.

Winning the tournament made up for anything that might have been missing.

“It consolidated a good season for us. It was a good win for the seniors, because we have so many of them this year.”

At No. 1 singles, senior John McDonald eliminated his Berkley counterpart in the semifinals and defeated Lathrup’s top player in two sets in the final.

Harrison junior David Olson won the No. 2 singles title in Please see TENNIS, B3

Swimming

HARRISON 130.5, NORTH 52.5: The Hawks earned their first dual-meet victory in girls swimming and diving Tuesday at North Farmington.

It was the second straight win for Harrison (1-4) over its crosstown rival, which had never lost to Harrison until last year.

The Hawks, who compete at the highest level of the Oakland Activities Association (Red Division), won every event but diving.

Marina Borri, Miranda Shelly, Miranda Doepker and Sandra Johnson were double individual winners.

Borri won the 200-yard freestyle (2:03.88) and the 500 free (5:26.23), Shelly, IM (2:21.88) and butterfly (1:01.2); Doepker, 50 free (25.88) and backstroke (1:05.65); and Johnson, 100 free (56.86) and breaststroke (1:14.9).

Harrison’s winning relay teams were: medley (Rath, Mikayla Doepker, Miranda Doepker, Johnson), 1:57.06; 200 free (Johnson, Miranda Doepker, Maggie Hack, Natalie Reamer), 1:45.80; and 400 free (Borri, Rath, Shelly, Lydia Miller), 4:03.33.

North’s Kristen McKelvey won diving with 188.3 points.

Harrison’s Natalie Reamer and Maggie Hack had second places in the 500 free (5:50.31) and butterfly (1:05.74), respectively, and both were on the second-place medley and 400 free relays.

Borri and Shelly also competed in the medley relay (1:57.74), Mikayla Doepker and Christine LaBelle in the freestyle relay (4:07.83).

The Hawks had other seconds from Rath, 200 free, 2:04.72; Emma Sutherland, 200 IM, 2:28.69; and Kellee Olson, backstroke, 1:09.38.

Miller, Megan Yee, Sutherland and Ellen Leever took second place in the 200 free relay (1:51.14).

The Raiders had three runnerup swims by Lindsay McDonald, 50 free, 27.49; Anna Pokriefka, 100 free, 1:00.67; and Claudia Leshok, breaststroke, 1:15.67.

Football

North senior Don Lim heads to the finish line in the city meet Monday.

Farmington senior Kevin Pitt finished third overall for the first-place Falcons.

Hawks are OAA Blue co-champs Marlins earn sixth

BY DAN O’MEARA OBSERVER STAFF WRITER

GAME WRAP

straight swim title

who want to swim there.

“For me, it’s Mercy High School’s reign always imporas queen of girls swimming tant that kids and diving in Oakland County swim well will continue for another year. first and, The Marlins won their when you add Nikki Barczak sixth consecutive championit all up when ship Saturday at Waterford it’s all over, Mott by a 143-point margin they achieve over Catholic League rival something. It’s great to have Birmingham Marian. both. They swam well and “There are a lot of kids who achieved a championship as come to Mercy, knowing that well.” swimming is important and Mercy scored 405 points; we’re going to make a lot of the top five included Marian, physical demands and they’re 262; Seaholm, 182.5; Groves, going to make a lot of sacrific- 167; South Lyon, 163. es,” coach Shannon Dunworth Farmington Harrison had its said. “There are a lot of high best finish, taking sixth place expectations, and I’m fortunate to get those type of kids Please see SWIM, B3

BY DAN O’MEARA OBSERVER STAFF WRITER

BERKLEY 52, NORTH 33: Senior quarterback Zach Washington was 10-of-27 passing for 110 yards and a touchdown Friday for visiting North Farmington.

Washington also rushed 16 times for 75 yards and a touchdown. Chad Bridges made the TD reception.

Kevin Miller, James Ward and Jacquis Woods had one rushing TD apiece for the Raiders, who are 1-5 in the OAA Blue Division and overall.

Woods carried eight times for 84 yards, Miller three for 61 and Ward four for 50.

The Bears (5-0, 6-0) did a good job of running fullbacks Lionel Walker and Ronald Hunt while using star Terrell Porter as a decoy, North coach Todd Schultz said.

Berkley, which had a 32-12 halftime lead, blocked a punt and recovered two fumbles on a punt return and a bad snap in the first half.

“The kids did a better job of competing in the second half,” Schultz said. “We have Avondale (this week), and they’re a pretty good team; so we’re going to regroup and get back to work.”

Boyssoccer

CLARENCEVILLE 4, RU 4: Little-used freshman Steven Spens had a goal and assist Monday as host Livonia Clarenceville (7-7-1) rallied from a 3-0 deficit to tie Redford Union (8-5-2).

Jimmy Moody, Zac Rosen and Joey Schiffman also scored for the Trojans, who trailed 3-2 at halftime. Schiffman’s goal tied it at 4-4.

Masambou Jatta had two assists for Clarenceville, which was coming off a 4-0 loss Friday at Macomb Lutheran North.

B2

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LOCAL SPORTS

Observer & Eccentric | Thursday, October 7, 2010

online at hometownlife.com

GIRLS FROM PAGE B1

JOHN STORMZAND | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Harrison junior Miranda Doepker and the Hawks had their best finish at an Oakland County meet.

Hawks shine at county swim meet IM with a personal best.

Olivia Rath, who also had her fastest time in that event, was Harrison High School seventh in the backstroke and had its best finish in the his15th in the IM. tory of its participation in the In the butterfly, Miranda Oakland County girls swim Shelly was fourth, Miranda meet Saturday.

Doepker seventh and Maggie The Hawks claimed sixth Hack 15th. Sandra Johnson place behind such perennial was 13th and Hack 15th in the state and county powers as 50 freestyle.

Mercy, Marian, Seaholm and The Hawks also were fifth Groves with 160.5 points. in the medley and 400 free Harrison was just six and a relays. Rath, Borri and Shelly half points out of fourth place were on both teams; Johnson with Groves scoring 167 and anchored the medley, and South Lyon 163.

Doepker was the lead swim“We didn’t have a bad mer in the 400. swim,” Harrison coach Ross Johnson, Hack, Doepker Bandy said. “All the girls swam and Paige Kondek combined exceptionally well, and we to give Harrison sixth place in were very pleased with the the 200 free relay with a seaperformance. son-best time.

“It’s the best Harrison has In the 50, Johnson had her ever done at the county meet. I best time; Hack qualified for was darn proud of them.” state in that event and the Harrison’s best finish was butterfly. Emma Sutherland

by Marina Borri, who tied for and Natalie Reamer had persecond in the 100-yard breast- sonal bests but didn’t place in stroke with a school-record the 500 free and backstroke, swim of 1:05.88, surpassing respectively. the record set by Lindsay “I don’t know of too many Fetters of 1:06.46.

0-4 teams that could have Borri also was fifth in the done as well as we did,” Bandy

BY DAN O’MEARA OBSERVER STAFF WRITER

said. “People don’t realize the caliber of teams we face during the dual-meet season, and they don’t realize the quality of swimmers we have and what they’re capable of doing. We sorta showed the area we have pretty decent kids.

“We just swam exceptionally well. I’m very pleased with the performance of my kids, the attitude, the focus. They were all there to do a job and they did it. They did not let me down in any way.

“It makes a coach very happy when you can walk out of a meet feeling as good as we did walking out those doors.”

Bandy added the Hawks are very coachable and are starting to jell in their individual efforts and as a team.

“They have their focus on doing a job, and they have their goals,” he said. “I’m very pleased with everything I’ve seen.

“I was a little upset a couple weeks ago when I didn’t think we swam our freestyle events as well as we could. Now look at it; our freestylers are swimming very well.”

OAA TENNIS RESULTS OAA RED DIVISION BOYS FINAL TENNIS STANDINGS Tournament: 1. (tie) Bloomfield Hills Andover and Rochester Adams, 7.5 points; 3.

Troy, 6; 4. West Bloomfield, 5; 5. Birmingham Groves, 4; 6. (tie) North Farmington and Birmingham Seaholm, 2-5; 8. Troy Athens, 1.

Dual meets: 1. Adams, 8 points; 2.

Andover, 6.5; 3. Troy, 6.5; 4. (tie) West Bloomfield and North Farmington, 4.5; 6.

Groves, 3; 7-8. Seaholm and Athens, TBD. Final overall: 1. Adams, 15.5 points; 2.

Andover, 14; 3. Troy, 12.5; 4. West Bloomfield, 9.5; 5. (tie) North Farmington and Groves, 7; 7-8. Seaholm and Athens, TBD. North tournament finishes: 1S. Andre Dupret, fifth; 2S. Michael Mertz, sixth; 3S. Max Kohl, fourth; 4S. Trent Anderson, third; 1D. David Bur and George Paul, seventh;

2D. Brook Heebner and Ashwin Vaishnav, fourth; 3D. Blake Burnett and Scott Kennedy, seventh; 4D. Colin Knighton and Eric Miller, eighth.

Coach’s comment: “It was a great tournament overall,” north coach Whitney Wasielewski said. “It was a very competitive, day. It was exciting to see a lot of great tennis. There was a ton of three-set matches.

“Obviously, we would have like to do a little better. It just prepared us for (the regional today), which we care about more.

In my opinion, it’s the toughest league in the state.”

OAA WHITE DIVISION BOYS FINAL TENNIS STANDINGS Tournament: 1. Rochester Stoney Creek, 7 points; 2. Bloomfield Hills Lahser, 6; 3.

Clarkston, 5; 4. Farmington, 4; 5. Rochester,

3; 6. Lake Orion, 2; 7. Troy Athens, 1.

Dual meets: 1. Stoney Creek, 6-0, 7 points; 2. Lahser, 5-1, 6; 3. Farmington, 4-2, 5; 4. Clarkston, 3-3, 4; 5. Rochester, 2-4, 3; 6.

Lake Orion, 1-5, 2; 7. Athens, 0-6, 1.

Final overall: 1. Stoney Creek, 14 points; 2. Lahser, 12; 3. (tie) Farmington and Clarkston, 9; 5. Rochester, 6; 6. Lake Orion, 4; 7. Athens, 2.

Farmington tournament finishes: 1S. Koushic Yadati, fifth; 2S. Tae Hyung-Kang, fourth; 3S. Akhilesh Sivakummar, fourth; 4S. Rohit Bhadange, fourth; 1D. Joey Amis and Lokesh Pagadala, third; 2D. Kaushik Kanumuri and Rohit Bollineni, fifth; 3D. Joe Zimmer and Andy Greig, second (lost to Stoney Creek, 2-6, 7-6(5), 6-1); 4D. Chris Bell and Austin Maley, second (lost to Stoney Creek, 6-0, 6-2).

PPUBLIC UBLIC COURSES COURSES

back-to-back titles in 2001-02.

They also won three consecutive city meets in the previous decade (1992-94).

“My girls ran good, smart races because they didn’t go out too hard,” North coach Bill Pinnell said. “If we had scored the meet at the mile mark, we wouldn’t have been leading.

In the second mile, the girls started working and did a real good job.”

He added the Raiders had been looking forward to the meet, knowing they had a good shot at winning and ending Farmington’s dominance.

“We saw Harrison’s results from Algonac,” he said. “They looked to be quite improved, and we were impressed by their performance at (the New Boston) Huron (Invite).

Farmington is always tough, but we knew they were down a little bit from past years.

“Today was a great day for the Lady Raiders. We didn’t run all that well in the last (OAA White Division) jamboree, and we came back with a better race today. I was much more pleased than I was last week.”

For just the second time in their six championships, the Raiders won without having the individual winner. Emily Shively won the race in 1992 and Jamie Brenner in ’93; Susan Barrows was a two-time winner in 2001-02.

Junior Angela Wright paced the North effort with a second-place finish (20:04).

Sophomore Christie Goodwin was fourth (20:27), junior Erin Dennis sixth (20:55), senior Cherie Gaines seventh (21:08) and junior Rachel Rosinski 10th (21:22).

Sophomores Sarah Robert and Maria Vicini served as blockers and pushed Farmington and Harrison runners farther back. Robert was 13th (21:44) and Vicini 16th (22:16).

“Our pack has been coming along,” Pinnell said. “That’s one thing we have to work on is getting the pack close to Angie. We were 1:18 apart, which is almost 30 seconds better than the last few times.”

The Raiders did that

BOYS

FROM PAGE B1 Stamboulian said of the Farmington boys program.

“I’m happy we continued the tradition of the meet.

The other five coaches have been a huge part of the city meet. They’ve been around since I was a kid. It’s a tradition we’ve all been a part of.”

Stamboulian said it’s important for the Falcons to strive for five runners under 17 minutes. Otherwise, they won’t be able to win their conference or qualify for state, he added.

“We’re in a very legitimate regional this year, and we like it that way,” Stamboulian said. “I don’t

JOHN STORMZAND | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Senior Cherie Gaines helped the Raiders win their first city title since 2002. without freshman Sophia Farquhar, who has been consistently in the top three but didn’t run because of an injury.

“If we had her, it would have been just over a minute apart,” Pinnell said. “That’s one of our goals, to get to a minute or under.

“As as team, we had a great race. We have individuals who are improving, so it’s nice to see everyone firing on all cylinders.

“We’ll see how we do in the county meet (Saturday) because that’s a big test for us, and we’re looking forward to the last jamboree and beating Oxford.”

Farmington junior Gabby DeFlorio won the city meet in 19:35. Olivia Salinas was fifth, Jenny Rogers eighth, Cara Whinnery ninth and Sarah Gallagher 15th.

“While we hated to give up the trophy, North did a ter-

rific job,” Farmington coach Charles Bridges said. “It was well deserved. They’ve been running well all year.

“Overall, I’m pleased with the progress we’ve made. We had the first scrimmage with North, and they destroyed us; at the first jamboree, everybody destroyed us.

“When you compare the results, we’ve very close to where we ran last year (in the city meet), so our best races are ahead of us. Practices are going much better, and the girls are starting to see the results of their progress.”

North also ran a dual meet Monday with West Bloomfield and won, 23-36. West Bloomfield’s Erin Finn was the overall winner and set a course record of 17:38.

Finn broke her own record of 17:57, which she ran in an OAA Blue jamboree Sept. 28.

That eclipsed the record time she ran last year of 18:02.

think any team wants to sneak into a state meet in a weak regional.

“Having said that, we’re going to have to get a lot better to compete with those teams.”

Harrison and North Farmington had 59 and 60 points in the city meet, respectively. The Raiders were minus their top two runners. Freshman Ben Wright was hurt and senior Travis Hebden was sick.

“While it hurt us, obviously, we had some personal bests today,” coach Paul Welch said. “They’re just not coming down quick enough to be helpful at this stage JOHN STORMZAND | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER of the season. So, we’ve got work to do.”

Matt Lukas was Harrison’s top runner in sixth place.

CROSS COUNTRY RESULTS FARMINGTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY MEET Oct. 4 at OCC Orchard Ridge Team standings: 1. North Farmington, 29 points; 2. Farmington, 38; 3. Harrison, 58.

1. Gabby DeFlorio (F), 19:35 2. Angela Wright (N), 20:04 3. Cameron Chism (H), 20:23 4. Christie Goodwin (N), 20:27 5. Olivia Salinas (F), 20:52 6. Erin Dennis (N), 20:55 7. Cherie Gaines (N), 21:08 8. Jenny Rogers (F), 21:14 9. Cara Whinnery (F), 21:19 10. Rachel Rosinski (N), 21:22 11. Courtney Chism (H), 21:23 12. Olivia Jones (H), 21:35 13. Sarah Robert (N), 21:44 14. Catherine Barkach (H), 22:00 15. Sarah Gallagher (F), 22:02 16. Alyssa Robert (N), 22:19 17. Anita Stanfield (F), 22:37 18. Paula Moldovan (N), 22:56 19. Emily Moulds (H), 23:06 20. Rachel Lubin (N), 23:07 21. Julia Kovtsun (H), 23:23 22. Mattea Krasicky (N), 23:27 23. Trisha Phillips (H), 23:54 24. Erin Loch (N), 24:07 25. Laura Drotar (F), 24:10 26. Courtney Batten (H), 24:14 27. Anne Picking (F), 24:16 28. Jamie Garcia (H), 24:17 29. Jackie Katz (N), 24:39 30. Katie Gallagher (F), 24:47 31. Jane Xiao (F), 24:52 32. Emily Smith (H), 24:59 33. Lea Mathar (H), 25:06

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34. Asha McKinney (N), 25:10 35. Lauren Shinske (N), 25:14 36. Jackie Mancos (H), 25:48 37. Kelsey Stern (N), 25:52 38. Stephanie Sanders (H), 26:02 39. Veronica Harte (H), 26:12 40. Angela Malek (N), 26:20 41. Vixey Silva (N), 26:38 42. Morgan Gilliam (N), 28:15 43. Nastja Gubar (H), 29:02 44. Jaylyn Smith (H), 31:41 45. Bree Powe (H), 31:49 46. Miah McCaul (H), 33:14 47. Maya Haynes (H), 33:55 48. Alasia Muhammed (H), 34:33 FARMINGTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOYS CROSS COUNTRY MEET Oct. 4 at OCC Orchard Ridge Team standings: 1. Farmington, 15 points; 2. Harrison, 59; 3. North Farmington, 60.

1. David Hong (F), 17:15; 2. Drew Lindman (F), 17:17; 3. Kevin Pitt (F), 17:20; 4. Nimantha Herath (F), 17:34; 5. Cody Larsen (F), 17:38; 6. Matt Lukas (H), 17:42; 7. Jordan Russell (N), 17:59; 8. Andrew Brown (F), 18:01; 9. Joe Blair (H), 18:03; 10. Marcus Reed (H), 18:03; 11. Ben Katz (N), 18:12; 12. Stefan Hayes (F), 18:14; 13. Don Lim (N), 18:18; 14. James Huang (N), 18:22; 15. Max Bradley (N), 18:25; 16. James Kotzian (H), 18:45; 17. Gerald Rivkin (N), 18:53; 18. Rayen Patnaik (F), 18:54;

19. Joe Carter (H), 19:00; 20. Brandon Palmer (H), 19:20; 21. Kevin Lapinski (H), 19:28; 22. Connor Rubin (H), 19:28; 23. Dan Lindow (F), 19:48; 24. Yoshua Mathai (F), 19:49; 25. Zach Wloch (F), 19:58; 26. Tony Lim (N), 20:03; 27. Quinn Culbertson (H), 20:08; 28. Eric Grinsberg (H), 20:13; 29. Jack Madigan (H), 20:25; 30. Robert Picking (F), 20:27; 31. Dan Beale (F), 20:30; 32. Jake Weimar (F), 20:31; 33. David Mittelbrun (N), 20:41; 34. Daniel Rothenberg (N), 20:42; 35. Alex Przeslawski (H), 20:46; 36. Brian Hanley (F), 20:56; 37. John Sheppard (F), 20:59; 38. Kevin Neumann (H), 21:16; 39. Neil Macklin (F), 21:25; 40. Balaji Veluswarny (N), 21:43; 41. Michael Drakos (H), 21:55; 42. Voja Ogarevic (H), 22:09; 43. Jonathan Huang (N), 22:20; 44. Connor Ferguson (F), 22:39; 45. Dean Phillips (H), 23:01; 46. Johnathan Zhu (N), 23:28; 47. Felix Richter (H), 23:29; 48. John Davis (N), 23:31; 49. Reed Muscio (N), 23:40; 50. Harrison Feng (N), 23:40; 51. Jason Barnett (N), 23:44; 52. Adam Bussell (N), 23:50; 53. Kenny Manoj (N), 25:13; 54. Erik Sucher (N), 26:42; 55. Louis Senia-Grant (N), 26:47.

online at hometownlife.com

SWIM

FROM PAGE B1 with 160.5 points.

Mercy senior Nikki Barczak set two meet records in freestyle events and helped the Marlins win both freestyle relays.

Barczak won the 100-yard freestyle in 51.54 seconds and later followed that swim with a record-breaking, first-place time of 23.50 in the 50 freestyle.

“You’re just happy to see her hard work pay off directly,” Dunworth said. “She’s certainly deserving. She just brought it to a new level, and that’s what athletes do. When you take advantage of opportunities that are afforded to you, you’re ideally doing things right.”

Barczak and teammates Maria Bargardi and Annie Valentine spent time last summer at the University of Texas, training with coaches in one of the best college programs in the country, according to Dunworth.

“Locally, their (club) programs are very solid,” he said.

“When you leave home and do something like that, it puts a 24-hour focus on the sport.

Certainly, they had a wonderful time, but there were no distractions to swim practice. It was eat, sleep and swim.”

Sato Kakihara, Barczak, Olivia Samoray and Taylor Steffl set a meet record in the 200 free relay (1:37.15), and Kakihara, Samoray, Christine Edwards and Barczak did the same in the 400 free (3:34.35).

Seven other swimmers scored in championship heats for Mercy. Kakihara led the group with second-place swims in the 200 and 500 freestyle.

Bargardi was second in the

TENNIS FROM PAGE B1

straight sets after his Royal Oak opponent had taken out Berkley in a three-set semifinal match.

Seniors Michael Erickson and Naveed Carim defeated Berkley in a head-to-head final match for the No. 1 doubles crown.

“Johnny and Michael and Naveed at one doubles have been the steadiest flights all season,” Ludwig said. “Johnny and Michael are co-captains, so they’ve taken that role by the horns and demonstrated good leadership on and off the court. They’ve been my two solid flights all year.

“David Olson kicked it in gear in the second half of his semifinal match and rolled to an easy finals win. I have to give him credit for having picked up his game at that right moment.”

Seniors Brett Jaksim and Michael Yu also defeated Berkley in the No. 2 doubles final, 6-3, 6-4, to give Harrison a fourth flight championship.

“Brett and Michael played above and beyond the call of duty,” Ludwig said. “It was the first year they played together and they did very well. This tournament was probably the peak of their play in terms of getting that win.”

LOCAL SPORTS

Observer & Eccentric | Thursday, October 7, 2010

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Raiders stay alive in soccer title chase

back and fourth in the IM; Steffl got second in the fly and third in the 50 free, and Samoray had a pair of fourths

BY DAN O’MEARA still be playing for one in October, you in the 200 and 100 free.

OBSERVER STAFF WRITER can almost taste it,” he said. “I think we Valentine finished third in should bring a pretty good effort to our the fly, Emma Craig sixth in North Farmington’s players thought last two games. the 200 free and Jordan Ewald their hopes for a division championship “We’re not the most talented of teams, eighth in the back. Lauren in boys soccer had been dashed Tuesday but we have great leadership and the Roberts and Emmy Orrico when they tied Bloomfield Hills Andover, boys have worked hard. It’s an honor to were seventh and eighth in 1-1. stand out there with them. They’re a great diving, respectively.

The Raiders figured they had to win group.

Valentine, Craig and Ewald out in their final five OAA White Division “We’ll see what we can do with these also scored in consolation games to have a shot at tying Auburn last few games. Thanks to Berkley, it gives heats, as did Edwards, Lauren Hills Avondale for the title. us a chance to regroup and play another Ochoa, Hannah Schmidt, “Our boys left just absolutely dejected,” day; so we’re still alive.”

Emma Michalzuk and Alex North coach Mike Horner said. “They felt Andover (8-3-2) outplayed North in a Abowd and Hannah Knoop. really bad.” scoreless first half, according to Horner.

“The only event we didn’t After the team had gone and as he was “They controlled the middle of the field have someone in the top leaving the field at North Farmington, on us,” he said. “It turned out they didn’t eight was the breaststroke,” Horner got a phone call from the Berkley get too many good opportunities, but we Dunworth said. “All the way coach, telling him of Berkley’s win over just weren’t doing the job. down, we had depth and pretty Avondale.

“In the second half, we had the better big point scorers as well.”

The Yellow Jackets are 9-2 with one of them. We worked hard and won a lot of The Marlins also got secgame to play against Andover. With two the free balls.” ond place in the medley relay games remaining for each, North is 8-1-1, North scored with 14:27 left in the game with the team of Edwards, Berkley 8-2 and Andover 7-2-1. when Eric Weberman sent a corner kick Bargardi, Valentine and Steffl.

The Raiders play at Hazel Park tonight to the far post and Kyle Kansman put it in “We’re trying to figure out and will be host to crosstown rival the net. what we’re going to do at the Harrison for the division finale Tuesday.

Off a restart at midfield, the Andover state meet,” Dunworth said. “It “If we win both, we’ll be all alone in player dropped the free kick in the middle was a good opportunity to do first place thanks to Berkley tonight,” of the box. The ball bounced off several that, and we were really excitHorner said. “So that tie suddenly doesn’t players before Andrew Thomas scored ed at how that ended up.” look as bad as it did when we left the field. with 42 seconds left.

Mercy’s large point total “We had been on a five-step program The Raiders outshot the Barons, 10-4. and convincing victory in the to win the division here. To give up that North goalie Mark Thornton made three county meet bodes well for the goal was just heartbreaking. I called my saves.

Marlins as they look to repeat captain when I got home, and he perked “They were a scrappy team; they keep as Division 2 state champs up quite a bit.” coming at you,” Horner said of the Barons.

JOHN STORMZAND | STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER next month.

Horner added the Raiders (11-2-1) have “The referee said it was one of the best soc“It answered some quesnever won a championship in 31 years of cer games he’s seen all year. I appreciated tions,” Dunworth said. “We Sophomore Kyle Kansman scored the North playing boys soccer. that, but I’ve seen a couple of ours I like have some freshmen who we Farmington goal in a 1-1 tie Tuesday.

“When you get the opportunity to better.” knew could be pretty good kids. We’re getting a little more confident in what they’ll be able to deliver at the end of the year, and the veterans have CATHOLIC LEAGUE GIRLS continued to respond.

GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP “It’s always nice, once Oct. 5 at St. John’s Golf Course it’s over to look to the next TEAM STANDINGS: 1. Birmingham Marian,

BY BRAD EMONS tingent (top 12), which play,’’ he said. “Don’t be real big meet. Nonetheless, the 337; 2. Farmington Hills Mercy, 356; 3. Ann OBSERVER STAFF WRITER also included junior and aggressive and chip and Oakland County meet is a big Arbor Gabriel Richard, 377; 4. Bloomfield runner-up medalist Macy putt well.’’ deal for us. We asked the kids Hills Academy of the Sacred Heart, 393; The timing couldn’t have Hudson (80), senior LiAnne Mercy boasted three Allto swim well, so it was good to 5. Warren Regina, 402; 6. Dearborn Divine been any better Tuesday for DiMambro (86), fourth Catholic selections, includsee them respond.”

Child, 413; 7. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep, 418; 8.

Livonia Ladywood, 422.

Birmingham Marian’s Ellen place; and senior Kristin ing senior Maggie Lentz Individual medalist: Ellen Manson Manson.

Lunghamer (92), 10th place. (81), third place; sophomore (Marian), 79.

The junior turned in a But the story of the tourMaddy Asta (89), sixth; TEAM-BY-TEAM SCORING career-round 79 to lift the nament was Manson. and sophomore Brenna Marian (337): 1. Manson, 79; 2. Macy Mustangs to the Catholic “She was a surprise for us Hammond, eighth.

The Hawks were second at Hudson, 80; 4. LiAnne DiMambro, 86; 10.

League girls golf champitoday,’’ Marian coach Tom The Marlins will host a the other doubles flights with Kristin Lunghamer, 92; 13. Kelly Lunghamer, Brecht said. “She’s our f ifth Division 2 regional tournajunior Amit Sharma and senior onship at St. John’s Golf 94; 23. Emily Fioravante, 100. player, so it was a pleasant ment Friday at Fox Hills, Michael Hammond playing No. Course in Plymouth.

Mercy (356): 3. Maggie Lentz, 81; 6.

Marian, ranked No. 6 in surprise for her to shoot 79. and Marian plays in the D-2 Maddy Asta, 89; 8. Brenna Hammond, 0; 16.

3, seniors Balaji Pandian and Division 2 and undefeated That was her career low. regional Thursday at Devil’s Elena Vlachos, 96; 18. Kelsey Shaw, 97; 43.

Vikrant Wadehra No. 4.

Sarah Montone, 118. in dual matches this year “On the last hole, she Ridge in Oxford.

Freshman Dylan Collins was Sacred Heart (393): 5. Sarah Dilts, 88; with a 10-0 record, posted made a 15-foot putt for a “We’ve been pretty conthe No. 4 singles runners-up, 22. Elizabeth Robbins, 99; 23. Rebecca Noble, an impressive four-player par, and it was just a solid sistent in the 350s for most losing a third-set tiebreaker to team total of 337. putt. She said to me, ‘Hey, of our tournaments,’’ Mercy 100; 28. Elia Wilson, 106; 37. Elizabeth Fox, 113.

Berkley in the final, 4-6, 6-1, 7Ladywood (422): 18. Michelle Nelson, 97; Farmington Hills Mercy this was my best score.’ She coach Vicky Kowalski said.

6(3), and senior Cole Tritt was a 26. Nicole Salter, 104; 31. Alex Parisot, 109; 35. was a distant second with was really, really pleased.’’

“I actually feel pretty consemifinalist at three singles.

Christina Briden, 112; 41. Katie Gubachy, 117; 356, and Ann Arbor Gabriel Marian opened its f ident that, if we shoot like “Dylan had never played 43. Sara Even, 118.

Richard took third with a Catholic League dual match that on Friday, we will win competitive tennis, so it was a ALL-CATHOLIC 377. season on the St. John’s our regional, which will be learning experience for him all Marian: Ellen Manson, Macy Hudson, LiAnne DiMambro, Kristin Lunghamer; Defending champion course, and Brecht had great. the way through,” Ludwig said.

Bloomf ield Hills Academy some simple instructions for “We haven’t won a region- Mercy: Maggie Lentz, Maddy Asta, Brenna “He played his best tennis at Hammond; Gabriel Richard: Aspen Sims; of the Sacred Heart placed his squad. al in a while. Of course, the tournament. He has really Sacred Heart: Sarah Dilts; Regina: Natalie fourth with 393.

“When you’re playing we’re looking to go back to improved his game, and I can Didio; Divine Child: Natalie Blazo; Notre Manson led the Marian a course like this, you’re the state f inals for the secsee three years of good tennis Dame Prep: Brooke Borowski.

All-Catholic League contrying to keep the ball in ond year in a row.’’ from him in the future.

“Amit and Michael Hammond have been very steady. They had some low points, but they always PREP GRID PICKS came back and have been conWeek 7 Brad Emons Dan O’Meara Tim Smith Jim Toth sistent winners.

Friday, Oct. 8 “Balaji and Vikrant managed Canton (6-0, 4-0) at Plymouth (5-1, 4-0), 7 p.m.

Canton Canton Canton Canton to put their games together at the right time. They got a good Rochester Adams (5-1, 4-1) at Farmington Harrison (6-0, 5-0), 7 p.m.

Adams Harrison Harrison Harrison second place, which solidified North Farmington (1-5, 1-5) at Auburn Hills Avondale (4-2, 4-1), 7 p.m.

Avondale Avondale Avondale Avondale our place as a team.”

Plymouth Salem (0-6, 0-4) at Livonia Stevenson (2-4, 1-3), 7 p.m.

Stevenson Stevenson Stevenson Stevenson With 11 seniors and only six Livonia Franklin (4-2, 2-2) at Livonia Churchill (2-4, 1-3), 7 p.m.

Franklin Franklin Franklin Franklin underclassmen, Ludwig is in Wayne (0-6, 0-4) at Westland John Glenn (2-4, 1-3), 7 p.m.

Glenn Glenn Glenn Glenn need of players for next season.

Redford Thurston (5-1, 4-0) at Redford Union (1-5, 1-3), 7 p.m.

Thurston Thurston Thurston Thurston Any current or future Harrison Garden City (1-5, 1-3) at Dearborn Heights Robichaud (2-4, 2-2), 7 p.m.

Robichaud Robichaud Garden City Garden City students who want to play tenRiver Rouge (4-2) at Livonia Clarenceville (3-3), 7 p.m.

Clarenceville Clarenceville Clarenceville River Rouge nis can contact Ludwig at 586Farmington (6-0, 5-0) at Rochester Stoney Creek (2-4, 2-3), 7 p.m.

Farmington Farmington Farmington Farmington 904-6937 or smerekalud@aol.

Grosse Pointe Univ.-Liggett (4-2, 3-1) at Lutheran Westland (0-6, 0-4), 7 p.m. Liggett Liggett Liggett Liggett com.

Plymouth Christian (0-5) at Mendon (5-1), 7 p.m.

Mendon Mendon Mendon Mendon Last week 13-1 (.929) 12-2 (.857) 10-4 (.714) 11-3 (.846) Overall 71-14 (.835) 71-14 (.835) 54-31 (.635) 61-24 (.717)

Mercy runner-up in golf tourney

GIRLS GOLF

THE WEEK AHEAD

FOOTBALL Friday, Oct. 8 Farmington at Stoney Creek, 7 p.m.

Roch. Adams at Harrison, 7 p.m.

N. Farmington at Avondale, 7 p.m.

BOYS SOCCER Thursday, Oct. 7 N. Farmington at Hazel Park, 7 p.m.

Oxford at Farm. Harrison, 7 p.m.

Friday, Oct. 8 Dearborn at N. Farmington, 5:30 p.m.

W. Bloomfield at Farmington, 7 p.m.

GIRLS VOLLEYBALL Thursday, Oct. 7 Warren Regina at Mercy, 6:30 p.m.

Lake Orion at Farmington, 7 p.m.

Harrison at S-Lathrup, 7 p.m.

Lahser at N. Farmington, 7 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 9 Farmington at Andover Invite, 9 a.m.

North Farm. at Plymouth Invite, TBA. Mercy at East Kentwood Invite, TBA.

GIRLS SWIMMING Thursday, Oct. 7 N. Farmington at Royal Oak, 6:30 p.m.

Lake Orion at Harrison, 6:30 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 9 Mercy at Liv. Stevenson Invite, 11 a.m.

BOYS TENNIS Thursday, Oct. 7 Harrison, N. Farm. at D-2 regional, 9 a.m. at N. Farmington High School.

Farmington High at Div. 2 regional, 9 a.m. at Birm. Seaholm High School.

BOYS & GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY Saturday, Oct. 9 County meet at Kensington, 10 a.m.

GIRLS GOLF Thursday, Oct. 7 Farmington, Mercy at D-2 regional, at Fox Hills Golf Course, Plymouth.

Harrison-N. Farm. at D-1 regional, at Tanglewood Golf Course, N’ville.

Community Newspaper Group: Observer & Eccentric Newspapers Hometown Weekly Newspapers

PUBLIC NOTICE

1-800-579-7355

Published in accordance with Public Act 331 (1966), as amended.

Schoolcraft College announces that the financial audit for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2010, has been completed by Plante & Moran, LLP, Southfield, Michigan. It has been presented to the College Board of Trustees and has been accepted by them.

Notice is hereby given that the audit is available for public inspection in the Office of the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in the McDowell Center at the College, 18600 Haggerty Road, Livonia, Michigan, on weekdays, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

GLENN CERNY Vice President and CFO Publish: October 7, 2010

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Thursday, October 7, 2010

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MILESTONES Bowl for Jobs Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit extends its role as a leader in the fight for Metro Detroit employment by offering the region the chance to “Boo! and Bowl for Jobs” in a Halloween-themed event Saturday, Oct. 30 from 1-3 p.m. at Drakeshire Lanes in Farmington Hills. In addition to bowling, Metro Detroiters can recycle used computer and related equipment free of cost, donate gently used clothing and household items and participate in a children’s costume contest during the event.

All activities support Goodwill programs that help Southeast Michigan residents earn jobs by overcoming employment challenges and becoming trained, trusted and ready to work.

“This event offers several ways Metro Detroiters can support Goodwill programs, whether through bowling, donating or just attending to show they care about local people in need of work,” said Mark Lane, director of public relations and special events for Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit. “It’s a chance to have some Halloween fun with the family while helping our friends and neighbors

IT’S YOUR BUSINESS get back to work.”

For $20, participants will receive three games of bowling, bowling shoe rental, pizza and a soft drink.

Participants also will receive a voucher for a free game of bowling at Drakeshire Lanes to be redeemed between Nov. 1 and Dec. 31, 2010. A silent auction and tin can raffle will take place during bowling activities, which run from 1-3 p.m.

Donations of computer equipment, gently used clothing and household items accepted from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donors will receive a tax donation slip.

To purchase tickets or sponsor a lane, visit http://goodwilldetroit. org/bowling-for-jobs/ or call Chris Fichter at (313) 557-8793. Individual tickets also will be sold at the door.

Book signing Border’s on Orchard Lake, south of 14 Mile, will host the Pals Around the World book signing, featuring the release of Volume 1: My Little French Friend, at 2 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 9.

The event is in honor of Teacher Appreciation Month and includes additional visits to metro Detroit area charities and schools that help children. For additional dates, please visit the events page at: www.palsaroundthworld.com

Pals Around the World is supported by over 30 Grammy and Academy award winning artists as Pals Ambassadors and is sponsored by Children International, the largest charity in the world helping children who lead the United Nations Youth Day League every August. Two dollars from the sale of each book goes directly to Children International in addition to highlighting the celeb and educator charities. In addition, the books are eco-friendly, with two trees planted for every tree used to manufacture each Pals book.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Get connected Bright House Networks announced that it has launched the easy gadget app for iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad. The new app will be available to both Bright House Networks’ residential and business customers free of charge.

Residential customers must The Goldfish facility is on Haggerty between Nine Mile and 10 Mile in Farmington Hills. subscribe to both Bright House Networks home phone and Road Runner services. Business Solutions customers must subscribe to both Bright House Networks phone and High Speed-Internet services. Easy gadget for the iPhone is now available on the Apple App Store.

Swim school marks first anniversary with a splash

BUSINESS NEWSMAKERS Alexa Simkow

Alexa Simkow, R.N., surgical services nursing director at Botsford Hospital in Farmington Hills, has been selected as a recipient of a Botsford Hospital 2010 Safety Excellence Award. The award recognizes employees’ contributions to the hospital’s safety initiatives. Using her knowledge of inspection standards, Simkow has helped many hospital units assure that their policies and procedures meet rigorous standards expected of hospitals. These standards focus on providing safe, well-documented patient care. Simkow has been instrumental in implementing a surgical checklist to prevent errors during surgery.

Dorothy Schmidt

Susan King

Susan King, D.P.M., has joined the medical staff at Botsford Hospital. Dr. King practices at Foot Care Institute of Michigan located at 21111 Middlebelt Rd. in Farmington Hills and 11885 E. 12 Mile, Suite 202B in Warren. The Farmington Hills number is (248) 478-1150 and the Warren office number is (586) 755-4242.

Dr. King received her medical education from Scholl College of Podiatric Medicine at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science in Chicago. She completed her Podiatric Medicine and Surgery residency at Botsford Hospital.

Dorothy Schmidt, R.N., BSN, MS, PA-C, has joined the medical staff at Botsford Hospital. Schmidt, a certified physician assistant is a member of the American Academy of Physician Assistants and Sigma Theta Tau International.

She is the physician assistant at Rehabilitation Physicians located at 28455 Haggerty Rd., Suite 200 in Novi. The office number is (248) 8933200. Schmidt received her Master of Science in the Physician Assistant program and her Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the University of Detroit Mercy in Detroit.

Linda Major

Linda Major, R.N., a float pool nurse at Botsford Hospital in Farmington Hills, has been selected as a recipient of a Botsford Hospital 2010 Safety Excellence Award. The award recognizes employees’ contributions to the hospital’s safety initiatives. Major is recognized for her rapid and professional actions to help a patient who needed immediate medical assistance. Marge Hasler, R.N., Botsford Hospital’s vice president and chief nursing officer and chair of the hospital’s Safety Board, says, “Linda helped the patient without hesitation and remained focused on the safety of the patient and other patients on the unit.”

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It’s not typical for businesses to get excited about being under water. But for Brian and Hope Bayer, franchise owners of Goldfish Swim School in Farmington Hills, being under water is not only what their business is all about, it’s cause to celebrate.

This month marks the one year anniversary for Goldfish Swim School-Farmington Hills which provides water safety training and swim lessons to four-month-old infants to children up to age 12 in a safe, kidfriendly and fun environment.

Goldfish Swim SchoolBrian and Hope Bayer are celebrating their first anniversary as franchise Farmington Hills will hold owners of Goldfish Swim School in Farmington Hills. an Anniversary Celebration Open House on Friday, Oct. 29 from 6:30-8 p.m. They invite ily, refreshments and a balloon #200, between Nine Mile and the public to come and check artist for the kids.

10 Mile. For more informaout their facility, enjoy open The school is located at tion, call (248) 596-1914 or visit swimming for the whole famlocated at 22710 Haggerty Rd., www.goldfishswimschool.com.

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Daniel Zoller, M.D., has joined the medical staff at Botsford Hospital.

Board certified in pediatrics, Dr. Zoller is a member of the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Zoller practices at Botsford Pediatric Associates located at 23133 Orchard Lake Rd., Suite 100 in Farmington. The office number is (248) 4770100. He received his medical education from the University of Florida College of Medicine in Gainesville, Florida. He completed a pediatric residency at Children’s Hospital of Michigan in Detroit.

membership.

The Greater Farmington Area Chamber of Commerce had a great joint event with the Farmington Downtown Development Authority at the Farmington Community Library in Downtown Farmington last week.

With over 25 attendees, the participants were given some insightful information

by Richard Williams, president of Tango & Associates, a Chamber member and expert in the field of marketing.

Williams’ presentation included an exercise which forced the attendees to really evaluate their ability to sell their products to potential customers. He also gave a new perspective to those companies hesitant to invest in marketing and public relations.

If you missed this meeting, please join the Chamber along

with the DDA as we present our next event at the GFACC 2010 Business Expo. Again, dinner will be served along with some valuable information on the internet and social media.

Please visit our www. gfachamber.com or call us at (248) 919-6917 to find out what is happening at the Chamber. Thursday Connections, Thursday Forums, Annual Dinner (Oct. 27), 2010 Dream Raffle (drawing is Nov. 11 at the Chamber business trade show), 2010 Expo, and more. Again, for more details or on how you can support your Chamber and community contact us today.

If interested in advertising opportunities on the Strictly Business section of the Farmington Observer, contact Carole Layne at (734) 5828363.

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Daniel Zoller

CHAMBER CHAT elcome new Greater Farmington Area Chamber of Commerce members.

For the month of September we gained the following new members: Community Graphics, Cruz Hearing (Farmington Hills), Delet Doors, Inc. (Farmington Hills), McCarty Chiropractic Wellness Mary Engelman Center (Farmington Hills), Micro Dose Life Sciences (Farmington Hills), Oriental Culture Association (Troy), and Sugar Momma’s Catering (Farmington Hills).

It is very exciting to gain members every month and the GFACC is pleased to add our new members to our growing

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Contact Editor Stacy Jenkins Voice Mail: (313) 222-2369 E-mail: sjenkins@hometownlife.com Comment online at hometownlife.com

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ENTERTAINMENT

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Parks offer Halloween hike, festival

Date added for Caberet night Tickets for the Oct. 16 show of “The Great American Songbook from Tim Pan Alley and Beyond,” have sold out and a second performance has been added on Friday, Oct. 15.

The Spotlight Players production will start at 8 p.m., at the Village Theatre at Cherry Hill, 50400 Cherry Hills, Canton. Tickets are $15.

Cabaret night will transform the Biltmore Studio at the Village Theatre into an intimate night club. “The Great American Songbook from Tin Pan Alley and Beyond” will feature eight vocalists performing music from Ellington to Loesser, Berlin to Sondheim. The show is directed by Roy Sexton with musical direction and accompaniment by Rebecca Biber and choreography and additional direction by Lauren London.

“We don’t want to tell you everything we’ll be performing, because we want you to be surprised by some of the songs we present,” Sexton stated.

The cast includes Plymouth and Canton residents Cathy Skutch, Rebecca Winder, and Christine Kapusky Moore; Brooklyn’s Bruce Hardcastle; Farmington Hills’ Matt Cameron; Ann Arbor’s Rebecca Biber and Lauren London; and Saline’s Roy Sexton.

The Village Theater has free parking is handicap accessible.

For tickets call (734) 3945300 or (734) 394-5460 or online at www.canton-mi.org/ villagetheater or at the door.

Box office opens one hour before show time.

Observer & Eccentric | Thursday, October 7, 2010

Wayne County Parks will offer a free afternoon of games and activities, including hayrides, inflatables, costume parade, games and trick-or-treating, 1-3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 16 at Nankin Mills Interpretive Center, located on Hines Drive east of Ann Arbor Trail in Westland.

Magician Ben Spitzer will perform and Richard Paul’s “Ha Ha Halloween Show” also will be featured.

A spook-free Halloween Hike is set for Friday, Oct. 22 at Nankin Mills.

Costumed characters will entertain and educate as they share nature stories with hikers.

Starting times will be 6 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. The hike will last approximately an hour and will be followed by a short live animal presentation.

Participants must pre-register before the day of the event. Cost is $4 per person.

For more information call (734) 2611990.

Costumed critters like this owl will tell their stories at a Halloween hike Oct. 22 at Nankin Mill in Westland.

See 12 runway shows at Fashion in Detroit Local musician

Thomas Birchler of Vinyl Misst is playing two solo shows, Oct. 15 and 29 at Leo’s Sports Bar and Grill, 40380 Grand River, Novi. Showtime is 7:30 p.m. Vinyl Misst performs Oct. 8 and 22 at the same location. for more information call (248) 615-2102

Art group shows works in Livonia Visual Arts Association of Livonia (VAAL) is exhibiting works in a show titled “Artistic Expressions” through Oct. 28 at the Livonia Community Recreation Center, 15100 Hubbard.

Eugene Clark, artist consultant and teacher at College for Creative Studies in Detroit, will judge the show. He specializes in anatomy and figure drawing. The awards ceremony will take place on Oct. 21 at the Livonia Civic

Center Library where Clark will present the awards.

The art exhibit features the art work of VAAL members and includes water media, pastels, oils, photography, and mixed media. Some works may be purchased.

Exhibit hours are 5 a.m.-11 p.m., Monday-Friday, 6 a.m.8 p.m., Saturday and 7 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.

For more information about VAAL or about the show call (734) 838-1204 or visit our website at www.vaalart.org.

Tickets are available for Fashion In Detroit, an annual event that includes runway shows, trunk shows and parties, Oct. 22-23 at MotorCity Casino Hotel in Detroit.

Ticket prices range from $35-$125 for each day’s activities. The Afterglow party is $50.

Fashion In Detroit is an annual, two-day fashion event co-created by Project Runway’s Joe Faris, along with Karen Buscemi, K’Kio Hardin, Lians Jadan and Leslie Ann Pilling to put a fashion spotlight on Michigan and create a venue that fills the needs of many

locally-based designers and the Michigan fashion community.

Fashion in Detroit includes 12 runway shows by a collection of local and national designers, designer trunk shows/meet and greets, “Cheers Michigan” product displays, a VIP private reception and an Afterglow bash. Each day’s admission ticket includes six fashion shows, gift bags, a souvenir guidebook/lookbook, entrance to the trunk shows and eligibility for high-end giveaways.

Designers Adriana Pavon, Geftaki/Julie Lindsay, English Laundry, Ines Di Santo and

Peter Hidalgo will be featured Oct. 22. The first day of Fashion in Detroit also will include a student show.

The second day will include Femilia Couture, Christiane LaRue by Bonnie Foley, Moosejaw, Heike Jarick, Prophetik by Jeff Garner, and Motor City Denim Co. by Joe Faris. Buy tickets through www.ticketmaster.com.

MotorCity Casino is located at 2901 Grand River Ave., Detroit.

For more information, visit www.fashionindetroit.com, call (248) 677-1769 or e-mail info@fashionindetroit.com.

Trio performs at Plymouth Elks “Jazz at the Elks,” the monthly music series at Plymouth Elks Lodge 1780 will feature Sven Anderson on keyboards, Dan Jordan on bass and George “Sax” Benson on saxophone, 7-10 p.m.

Tuesday, Oct. 26.

There’s no coverage charge for the show, although the Elks Lodge will accept donations. A cash bar and hors d’oeuvres will be available.

Space is limited. RSVP by calling (734) 453-1780.

The Elks Lodge is located at 41700 Ann Arbor Road; www.plymouthelksevents.com.

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Observer & Eccentric | Thursday, October 7, 2010

online at hometownlife.com