| News, Sports, Weather, Traffic, School Updates, and the Best Mix of Classic Hits |
Click any headline below for more details.
WHMI 93.5 - Livingston County's Own
We are Howell and Brighton Michigan's Hometown Radio Station
Thursday, September 2
Gen. James Rogers to Head Redstone Arsenal at Huntsville
9/2/10 - Army General James Rogers, who was raised in Brighton, will be installed next week as commander of the Redstone Arsenal at Huntsville Alabama. The ceremonies will take place on Friday, Sept. 10. In attendance will be Rogers’ father, John Rogers of Brighton Township, along with the general’s wife and children and members of his extended family, both military and civilian. At Huntsville, Gen. Rogers will be in charge of ensuring that airborne military hardware such as helicopters, drones and guided missiles get to American military units wherever they’re needed around the world. Rogers, now a two-star general, has had a distinguished military career that began with his appointment and subsequent graduation from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 1979. His last position was as commanding general for the First Theater Sustainment Command at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Before that, he was commander of the Army Joint Munitions Command and prior to that was chief of the logistics operations division at U.S. Central Command, or CENTCOM. He has received numerous medals and awards and has a master’s degree in engineering from the University of Michigan. (TT) Local TEA Party Holds Demonstration in Hell
9/2/10 - Wednesday night, exactly 666 days after the election of President Barack Obama, a gathering at Hell’s Dam Site Inn was hosted by TEA Party affiliate Retake Our Gov. Despite some rain showers more than 200 people attended the event, which included State Representative Cindy Denby, candidate Joe Hune, and author Dr. Dave Janda as speakers. Topics included calls for reduced government spending, encouragement for citizen participation in government, and arguments against the president’s methods for health care reform. The meeting was held less than a day after an incumbent Republican senator from Alaska conceded her party’s nomination to a relatively new candidate due in part to the influence of the TEA party. Despite the TEA Party’s heavy reliance on conservative speakers and influence over Republican politicians, participants are quick to point out that the Party is not an offshoot of the GOP. An even larger TEA Party rally is planned for Saturday, October 16th. It will be held at Schoolcraft College, and organizers are hoping for 2000 attendees. (TD) Local Businessman Cleaning Up Vacant "Eye Sore" In Howell Twp.
9/2/10 - A local businessman has purchased a vacant building and eyesore in Howell Township. The 190,000-square-foot building housed the Kelsey-Hayes Lemmerz aluminum wheel plant for more than 20 years but it closed in 2004. The company filed for bankruptcy in 2009 after trying to sell the plant for more than a year. Businessman Vern Brockway, who owns Genoa Township-based Regal Recycling, has since purchased the facility and property on M-59, west of Byron Road. The deal was finalized in May and the cost of the building was around $400,000. Howell Township Manager and Financial Director Lynn Meissner tells WHMI that the condition of the building was pretty run down and has worsened over the past several years. But, to the municipality's pleasure, she says visible changes have already been made to the property and since the purchase, Brockway has done a face-lift to the building including landscaping and clean-up work. No formal plans have been identified for the facility yet but it could be broken up into different components due to the large amount of space. Expert Cleaning Solutions, a Howell company that produces soaps and detergents, is currently working out of the building. (JM)
Green Oak Man's CSC Conviction Upheld
9/2/10 - The conviction of a Livingston County man imprisoned for sexually abusing a relative’s adopted son has been reaffirmed by the same court that last year overturned it. 41-year-old Douglas Eugene Camp of Green Oak Township is serving a 4 to 15 year sentence following a 2008 conviction in Lenawee County for second degree criminal sexual conduct. The Michigan Court of Appeals originally reversed the conviction, finding that Camp’s protection against a double-jeopardy prosecution had been violated when a previous acquittal in Livingston County was mentioned, prompting the judge to declare a mistrial. Camp was then convicted during a second trial. The appeals panel ruled that was improper as Camp hadn’t agreed to a mistrial. The Michigan Supreme Court ruled otherwise, saying it wasn’t clear whether or not an agreement had been made. It sent the case back to the appeals court for further review. After taking into account the ruling from the state’s highest court, the appeals court recently upheld the conviction. Camp, who remains incarcerated at a correctional facility in Branch County, is up for parole in November 2012. (JK) Attachment: CampConvictionAffirmed.pdf
Charter School Set To Open New Facility In Brighton
This video requires the Flash plugin.
9/2/10 - The new school year will usher in a new era for a local charter school. Charyl Stockwell Academy, currently located in Hartland Township, will open its new middle and high school building in a former automotive parts supplier facility in Brighton. The new building on Karl Greimel Drive had to be renovated to make it ready for students and teachers, as it was previously home to American Mitsuba’s windshield wiper design and testing work. School founder Chuck Stockwell says the renovations mainly involved putting up walls and covering drains, and he estimates the whole project cost about one million dollars. Stockwell tells WHMI he plans on this being a temporary home for the growing school’s middle and high school students, until the time that they’re able to build a new facility on land they own in Brighton Township. The school will open next week with roughly 200 students in grades 6-8 and 100 kids in grades 9-11. Stockwell says as the school grows, his ultimate plan is to have three separate buildings for elementary, middle and high school students with the middle schoolers continuing to use the Brighton location. (JK) Wednesday, September 1
Cyclist Struck In Hit & Run Crash Upgraded To "Fair" Condition
9/1/10 - The condition of a professional cyclist from Livingston County who suffered serious injuries in a hit-and-run crash is improving. 39-year-old Jason Lummis of Pinckney was struck by a pickup truck at the intersection of Dexter-Pinckney and Fleming roads in Dexter Township last week as he rode home from his workplace in Ann Arbor. Lummis, who is a member of the Bell's Brewery Professional Mountain Bike Team, has since been upgraded to fair condition but suffered several severe fractures and internal injuries. Meanwhile, a cycling safety advocate is still offering a $500 reward in the case. Joe Mizereck is the founder of the “Three Feet Please” campaign that educates drivers about the amount of space cyclists need for safety. He tells WHMI that he was sickened by the news of Lummis and the number of hit-and-run crashes involving cyclists continues to increase. He says many drivers are distracted today and not only to they need to make room for cyclists, but just pay attention to whats going on. As for cyclists, he says they need to be both predictable and visible when out on the road. More information about Mizereck’s campaign can be found at www.3feetplease.com. Meanwhile, the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department continues to investigate the incident. Anyone with information can contact the Washtenaw County Sheriff tip line at (734) 973-7711. (JM) Man Sentenced For Local Animal Neglect Faces New Charges
9/1/10 - Less than two weeks after being sentenced on animal neglect charges involving horses in Livingston County, a Redford Township man will be arraigned in Wayne County on similar charges. 36-year-old Eric Wenderski and his mother, 66-year-old Patricia Wenderski are charged with animal cruelty after more than 50 dogs, cats and rabbits were found living in their Redford Township home (pictured) last month. The house was declared unlivable by township officials, who are seeking to have it demolished and have the costs passed back to the Wenderskis. On August 20th, Eric Wenderski was sentenced to ten days in the Livingston County Jail and two years probation involving the discovery in April of dead, mistreated and malnourished horses on a Conway Township farm. His attorney said that after Wenderski’s sister had her leg amputated, he had attempted to take over their care but became overwhelmed. Eric Wenderski and his mother are set for arraignment tomorrow in 17th District Court in Redford Township. (Photo courtesy of myFOXDetroit.com) Brighton City Council To Discuss "Decision Pending" Sculpture
9/1/10 - A controversial nude statue is expected to be a topic of discussion when the Brighton City Council meets tomorrow night. The sculpture of a nude man, titled “Decision Pending”, is located at the south end of the Mill Pond on Main Street in downtown Brighton. In a surprise vote placed on the agenda at the last minute two weeks ago, Council voted 4-3 to move the statue from its prominent location to a place to-be-determined by the Arts and Culture Commission. The statue has become a fixture of the downtown scene since it was installed as part of the Brighton Biennial four years ago. However, some have objected to the nudity, while others have said it’s merely ugly and not art as they perceive it. Former council member John Tunis has been conducting a petition drive to keep the statue where it is and says in talking with residents, he says it appears as if the majority have no problem with statue. The issue is listed as an action item on tomorrow night’s meeting agenda but Tunis is asking Council to postpone the discussion until its September 16th meeting. He says council made a fast decision that took a lot of people by surprise and with the upcoming holiday weekend, a lot of people are out of town so he feels the issue should be put off. The meeting starts at 7:30pm at city hall. Meanwhile Tunis says he’ll continue circulating petitions, which are still available at various downtown merchants. (JM) Brighton High School Student Wins Nike Shoe Design Contest
9/1/10 - A Brighton High School student has won a Nike shoe design contest. 15-year-old Allen Largin was the grand prize winner in the 2010 Future Sole design competition. Largin is a junior at Brighton High with an ambition to design shoes and has been playing basketball since 5th grade. He was among 11,500 people who entered the contest and won in the high school category. He recently flew out to Nike headquarters in Oregon for the announcement of the winners and gave a 10 minute presentation to Nike shoe designers. Largin will receive $5,000 worth of computer design software and Brighton High School is set to receive a $5,000 grant. (JM)
GOP Candidates Speak At Brighton Tea Party Gathering
9/1/10 - More than 60 people attended an educational meeting of the Brighton Tea Party held Tuesday night at the American Spirit Centre in Brighton. The meeting was meant to inform voters on the candidates and issues that will be on the November ballot, including the race for the Michigan Supreme Court and the proposed state Constitutional Convention. Congressman Mike Rogers spoke at the event, telling attendees that the convention, which is up for approval by state voters this November, would be risky and expensive and thanked them for becoming active and involved in the system. But perhaps no issue has had a bigger impact from the Tea Party’s perspective than the health care overhaul passed earlier this year. Rogers tells WHMI that Republicans and Tea Partiers alike are working to stymie its full implementation. Both of the Republican Party’s nominees for the Michigan Supreme Court, Judge Marybeth Kelly and incumbent Justice Bob Young, also spoke at the event, as did GOP State Representatives Bill Rogers and Cindy Denby. Brighton Tea Party organizers say they will be holding a rally on October 16th at Schoolcraft College with a goal of getting 2,000 attendees. Mike Rogers confirmed during Tuesday night's meeting that such large demonstrations do impact how legislators see the constituency. (TD) New High School Program Offered To Livingston County Students
9/1/10 - A new optional high school experience is being offered to Livingston County students. Local districts are collaborating with the Livingston Educational Service Agency to implement a project-based learning program called “Widening Advancements for Youth” or W.A.Y. It’s designed for students in grades 9 though 12 that are suspended, expelled or homebound for a prolonged period of time as well as 5th or 6th year seniors. The one year program provides an extended period of time for kids to work on project-based curriculum through both online experience and learning labs over at LESA. Howell Superintendent Ron Wilson tells WHMI that the program focuses on the mastery of learning standards that can be applied to the Michigan Merit Exam and curriculum. He says this program provides the same curriculum that would be delivered in the regular classroom and has a 90% success rate, even with kids who have struggled academically. Wilson says kids learn in different ways and have different learning styles so the district must think out of the box and be receptive to all kids learning needs. He says the district needs to be looking at how things are changing in our society, changes in learning styles and the needs of students but it must also be receptive to making those changes as they come about. This program is different than alternative education and Wilson says its just another way to offer more students opportunities. Enrollment for the new W.A.Y program is being done on a first come-first serve basis and there are 60 slots available for all five of the county’s school districts. For more information, log onto www.Howellschools.com. (JM) Police Situation On US-23 In Green Oak Causes Delays Tuesday
9/1/10 - A police situation on US-23 in Green Oak Township yesterday evening looked a lot more interesting that it really was. Numerous police departments had a man pulled over and were arresting him on northbound US-23 near the Lee Road and I-96 interchange, prompting gawker delays and numerous calls from motorists during the evening commute. However, Green Oak Deputy Police Chief Jason Pless tells WHMI the situation was really much ado about nothing. He says Ypsilanti Police had issued a be-on-the-lookout notice to departments about a suspect possibly involved in a kidnapping. He was thought to have taken his girlfriend from her Ypsilanti residence against her will and the woman’s sister called police to report the kidnapping. The suspect’s vehicle was located and stopped near the interchange by local authorities and the Hamburg, Green Oak, Brighton and Michigan State Police departments were all at the scene. Pless says as it turns out, the claim of kidnapping was false and she was never taken against her will so all of the subjects were released. Meanwhile, there were major traffic back-ups on northbound US-23 at 6 Mile Road due to an overturned gravel hauler that stretched all the way into Ann Arbor. (JM) Fowlerville Company Moving & Expanding In Livingston County
9/1/10 - A plastics company currently located in the Village of Fowlerville has announced that it will be making a move to provide for expansion and the creation of new jobs. American Compounding is a contract manufacturer for large chemical companies located on Veterans Drive in the Village but it's moving to an undisclosed site in Livingston County. Co-Owner of American Compounding Randy Rudisill says the expansion and move is necessary in order to accommodate new business and unfortunately, it could not resolve issues with expanding on site. Other sites in the village were also considered but in the end weren’t viable options. The company received two tax abatements on the current site and Rudisill says it will meet those obligations for repayment but also make a significant contribution to a community project. The company has been working with the Economic Development Council of Livingston County and Executive Director Fred Dillingham tells WHMI that a grant has also been filed on behalf of the Fowlerville Downtown Development Authority. If successful, he says it would provide for a 12,000 square foot commercial lot on Grand River to house the farmers market and other community activities. Rudisill adds that they met last week with the village finance committee to inform them of the move. He says they didn’t want to leave the area and have always had a wonderful relationship with the community that has been generous and mutually beneficial. Rudisill says they did have other alternatives outside of the county but this is their community and they wanted to stay here. The company has a contract that requires additional capacity in the New Year and is working through due diligence on the new site and hopes to be operating prior to January 1st. (JM) Tuesday, August 31
Lawsuit Filed Over 2007 Cell Tower Fire In Howell
8/31/10 - More than three years after a cell phone tower located on Howell Public Schools property caught fire and burned down, the district’s insurance company is suing both the manufacturer and owner of the tower. The 177-foot tower, which was built by Commstructures Incorporated of Florida and owned by American Towers Incorporated of Massachusetts, was destroyed in the July 24th, 2007 fire. Steel repair work being done by a sub-contractor using a torch caused the internal wiring to catch fire and within two hours it began to lean dangerously to the side. It was eventually dismantled by work crews. SET SEG, a Lansing-based insurance company that insures more than 400 school districts in Michigan including Howell, filed the civil suit in Livingston County Circuit Court claiming both companies were negligent. SET SEG paid out more than $100,000 to Howell Public Schools, which is not named in the lawsuit. Both companies have denied negligence in regard to the fire and resulting damage. A trial has been set for June of 2011 in front of Circuit Judge Michael Hatty. (JK) Tuesday Marks Second Consecutive Ozone Action Day
8/31/10 - Today marks a second consecutive Ozone Action Day for Livingston County. The Southeast Michigan Council of Governments says another hot day is in the forecast and levels of ground level ozone will remain high. Residents can help keep air clean by not refueling your vehicle on Ozone Action Days, avoid mowing the grass and reduce vehicle use by carpooling. The program aims to have a positive impact on air quality and has been in place since 1994. SEMCOG says with 4.8 million people in the southeast Michigan region, there are little things residents can do to help keep air clean. But how effective is the program? SEMCOG Director of Communications Sue Stetler tells WHMI that past surveys have shown people are aware of what Ozone Action Days are and are also following the recommended tips. She adds that the ozone level in southeast Michigan continues to decline and last June, the region attained the national ozone standard. For more information about Ozone Action Days, log onto Click Here. (JM) State Police Save Life Of Suicidal Businessman Monday
8/31/10 - Michigan State Police Troopers at the Brighton Post and a concerned friend are being credited with saving the life of a local man Monday. A person called 911 at around 6am to report that a friend of his may be attempting to harm himself. Troopers began checking various locations and soon witnessed suspicious activity inside a store in a strip mall near Grand River and Hacker Road. Trooper Terry Berdan tells WHMI that they were able to access a back door to the man's business and then forced their way into the office. The 45-year-old Brighton Township man was found unconscious and unresponsive but lifesaving efforts ensued and he says they were able to thwart a suicide attempt. The man reportedly provided a laundry list of reasons as to why he was trying to take his own life. He was ultimately taken to the University of Hospital in Ann Arbor for care and medical treatment. (JM) Attachment: MSPRelease.doc
Firefighters Teach Fire Safety Through Reading Program
8/31/10 - Firefighters from the Brighton Area Fire Department made a special run Monday. For the second year in a row, they spent the morning reading stories and sharing fire safety information with local children at Borders bookstore in Brighton. The crew parked a truck outside the store and taught the kids about the equipment on board and the types of emergencies they respond to before allowing them to tour the vehicle and even test out the hose. They also brought their small, remote controlled, talking fire truck named "Freddie" inside the store to help educate the kids on what to do in the event of a fire. The firefighters say they welcome the opportunity for community outreach like this, and that educating the public on fire prevention from an early age is one of their most important missions. (JK) County Seeks Grant to Demolish Blighted Houses
8/31/10 - The County Infrastructure and Development Committee approved a motion last night to apply for $27,500 in grant money from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Neighborhood Stabilization Program. The money would go to demolish two condemned houses on East Grand River between Almon and Elm Streets. If the owners of the properties sell the resulting vacant lots for more than their current price anytime in the next five years then the grant will be repaid by the owners through the sale, but if not then the grant will simply be forgiven. The committee plans to look into this and other grant programs to decide if similar action can be taken with other condemned buildings around the county. (TD)
Monday, August 30
Rowell Approved for Appointment as County Building Official
8/31/10 - The County Infrastructure and Development Committee approved a resolution last night to appoint Jim Rowell as the county’s full time building official, effective upon the resolution’s final approval by the Board of Commissioners. Rowell has served as the interim building official for the county as well as the City of Brighton and City of Howell since the retirement of Building Official Bob Kobylas six months ago. He has been working at the county for about 32 hours each week at $70 per hour, but if hired will work a full 40 hours with an annual salary of almost $70,000. He would also end his employment with the cities of Brighton and Howell. The Committee reported positive feedback from citizens and staff members about Rowell’s performance. The motion to hire Rowell will go before the county’s Finance Committee before being sent to the County Board of Commissioners for final approval next month. (TD) Police Seek Suspect In Armed Robbery Of Gas Station
This video requires the Flash plugin.
8/30/10 - A suspect is being sought in the armed robbery of a Fowlerville-area gas station early Sunday morning. The Livingston County Sheriff’s Department says a white male entered the Fowlerville Mobil in Handy Township just before 3am on Sunday, pulled out a black semi-automatic pistol and demanded cash from the clerk. The suspect then fled on foot southwest of the station, which is located at Fowlerville Road and I-96. A Sheriff’s K9 unit tracked the suspect behind adjacent businesses, but then lost the scent. No one was injured during the robbery and an unknown amount of cash was taken. A reward of up to $1,000 is being offered by Crime Stoppers and officials are asking the public to take a look at a composite sketch of the suspect as well as several surveillance photos from the station’s cameras and contact them if they recognize the robber. Anyone with information can contact Detective Matt Shutes at 517 546 2440, ext. 7941 or Crime Stoppers at 1 800 SPEAK UP. (JK) Attachment: 1004064083010RAFowlervilleMobile.pdf
Road Commission Hires New Attorney In Environmental Suit
8/30/10 - The Livingston County Road Commission is utilizing the services of an environmental lawyer to assist in fighting a federal lawsuit involving groundwater contamination in Howell. Gould Electronics is based in Arizona but used to operate a factory on North Roosevelt Street – just north of downtown Howell. It’s right around the corner from a spot that was once owned by the Livingston County Road Commission and used as a garage to maintain vehicles and store fuel. Gould sued the Road Commission in US District Court in December alleging its responsible for allowing contaminants to leak out and enter groundwater in the area. The Road Commission then filed a countersuit, blaming Gould for the contamination. Under state law, the owner of the property at the time the contamination occurred is responsible for the clean-up. State environmental officials say in this case, there’s no clear answer as to exactly when the contamination occurred and who is to blame but they have found elevated levels of the solvent Trichloroethylene, or TCE in the groundwater. Gould owned the property from 1961 to 1976, while the road commission sold its property to the county in 2002. At a recent meeting, the Road Commission approved hiring Bruce Wallace, an Ann Arbor-based environmental law attorney to help investigate the groundwater claims. The case is expected to go to trial in April, but the Road Commission anticipates that it will likely be delayed. (JM) New Supreme Court Justice Offers Dissent On Local Murder Case
8/30/10 - A judge who was appointed last week by Governor Granholm to the Michigan Supreme Court, was also the lone dissenter in a case that involves the double-homicide of an Oceola Township couple in 2008. On Friday, a three-member panel of the Michigan Court of Appeals upheld a local judge’s ruling in the murder case against 64-year-old Jerome Kowalski. Judge Theresa Brennan had earlier forbid the defense testimony of Dr. Richard Leo, a California professor who specializes in false confessions, calling it flawed and irrelevant. However, Judge Alton T. Davis, in one of his final rulings while a member of the state appeals court, said that although Dr. Leo’s testimony concerning specific interrogation techniques leading to false confessions was properly excluded, he should still have been allowed to testify about false confessions in general. Davis further said that the testimony of Dr. Jeffrey Wendt, which too was excluded by Judge Brennan, should also have been allowed. Brennan ruled Wendt’s opinion regarding Kowalski’s state of mind during his confession couldn’t stand on its own without Leo’s testimony. Judge Davis disagreed. But because he couldn’t get at least one of the other two judges to agree, his opinion didn’t change the final ruling which was to exclude all of the testimony. Authorities say Kowalski initially admitted he had killed the couple, but defense attorney Walter Piszczatowski insisted the statements were only made after a prolonged interrogation and that Dr. Leo’s testimony was crucial to his defense. Kowalski, who’s charged with two counts of open murder and felony firearms, was arrested several days after the bodies of Richard Kowalski and his wife Brenda were found by their son in their Oceola Township home on May 1st, 2008. Piszczatowski has yet to say whether he’ll appeal the decision to the Michigan Supreme Court. If he does, it’s unknown if Davis, who is now a member of the state’s highest court, will have to recuse himself because of his dissenting opinion. (JK) Attachment: DavisDissent.pdf
Genoa Woman Under Influence Of Prescription Drugs Crashes Car
8/30/10 - A Genoa Township woman was hospitalized following a crash this morning. Michigan State Police at the Brighton Post say that shortly before 11am, multiple drivers made reports of a possible drunk driver in the area of Brighton Road and Bauer and then near Brighton Road and Clifford. Trooper Terry Berdan tells WHMI that he stopped the 42 year old Genoa Township woman on Clifford Road and noticed her vehicle had serious damage. He later learned that she was under the influence of several prescription drugs including lithium and zanax. Berdan says motorists need to be extremely careful when it comes to taking prescription medications and getting behind the wheel. In this case, he says the woman admitted she had taken the medications with the intention of lying down and going to sleep but received a call and had to be somewhere so she took the risk of driving. Berdan says its important people do not drive while heavily medicated as they not only put themselves but everybody else out on the road at risk. Berdan says based on evidence, it appears the woman struck a tree but after a quick search of the area he was unable to determine exactly where the vehicle crashed. He says it’s possible that someone’s private property was damaged and anyone with information is asked to contact him at the Brighton Post at (810) 227-1051. The woman was taken to St. Joseph Mercy Livingston Hospital for a consented blood draw and received treatment for only minor injuries from the crash. (JM) Judge To Rule On Suspect's Responsibility For Deputy's Injury
8/30/10 - A judge will decide whether or not a man charged with leading police on a high-speed chase through downtown Howell in June is responsible for breaking the leg of a Livingston County Sheriff’s deputy. 30-year-old Bobby Gene Cross III of Howell was arrested June 1st after leading police on a chase that began when he quickly drove away from a deputy at Grand River and Grand Oaks Drive in Genoa Township. After reaching speeds of 100 miles per hour, police say Cross abandoned the vehicle at Fleming Road in Howell Township and fled on foot. A deputy managed to catch up with him in nearby woods, where he fought with the officer, whose leg was broken in the ensuing struggle. In court last week, 53rd District Court Judge Suzanne Geddis requested written arguments about Cross’s responsibility for the fracture from both the defense and prosecution. She’s expected to make a ruling September 29th. Cross is charged with multiple counts of fleeing and resisting police, concealing stolen property, having open intoxicants in a vehicle, operating a vehicle while under the influence and driving on a suspended driver’s license. He remains lodged in the Livingston County Jail under a $200,000 bond. (JK) Women Acquitted Of Embezzlement File Civil Lawsuit
8/30/10 - A new civil suit has been filed by two women who were charged with embezzlement from a local football league and then acquitted on all charges. Lorri Sherston of Genoa Township and Irene Ferguson of Oceola Township, who were both acquitted in a criminal trial of embezzling money from the Howell Area Junior Football League, filed the suit in U.S. District Court in Detroit. Southfield-based Attorney Christina Davis represents Ferguson and Sherston. She tells WHMI that the case has been filed against Livingston County Sheriff’s Detective Bob Michels, the association and its board members including Coach Tom Curtin who allegedly made racial comments to Ferguson’s son. Ferguson and Sherston allege members of the league’s board provided false information to Detective Michels, which led to the local embezzlement case. The suit alleges Michels and Curtin are friends and that the detective failed to investigate the case properly and made up facts in police reports. Curtin, who denies he and Michels are friends or have ever socialized together, is also accused of defamation and intentional infliction of emotional distress by making false public statements to destroy Sherston and Ferguson’s reputations and businesses. Detective Michels has also vigorously denied the accusations, insisting that at all times he acted in the best interests of justice. An attorney for the defendants tells WHMI that he has filed a motion to dismiss the case based on the fact that there is no federal jurisdiction. Davis contends that because the primary claim pertains to civil rights, all of the related claims should be heard in federal court. (JK) Attachment: SherstonFergusonLawsuit2010.pdf
Attachment: MichelsResponse.pdf
Sunday, August 29
Former Brighton Councilman Wants to Keep Statue at Current Site
8/29/10 - A former Brighton City Council member has launched a petition drive asking the city to reconsider its August 19th decision to remove a nude sculpture that has elicited much comment and controversy since it was placed in Mill Pond Park four years ago. John Tunis tells WHMI the statue of a naked man titled “Decision Pending” has become a fixture of the community since being erected four years ago as part of the Brighton Biennial outdoor public art exhibit. Tunis says the sculpture, by artist Jay Holland, should stay where it is. Tunis, who is confident that the weight of public opinion is on his side, is hoping to get council to reverse its decision. Although people generally agree that the sculpture is not “pretty” in the conventional sense, opinions have been varied since the nude statue was erected at the south end of the Mill Pond in downtown Brighton, within feet of busy traffic on Main Street. Some find it art that should be protected by the First Amendment right of freedom of expression, while others say it’s offensive or ugly. Tunis says he is going to ask the city to postpone a decision on the sculpture until its first meeting after the Labor Day holiday. (TT)Saturday, August 28
State Police Searching For Suspect Wanted In Home Invasion
8/29/10 - Michigan State Police at the Brighton Post are asking for the public’s help in locating a female suspect wanted in a home invasion. Police say a female suspect broke into a Putnam Township home on Monday, August 9th at 11:30am. They believe she entered the residence through an unlocked window. The homeowner had surveillance cameras and was able to obtain video footage of the incident. The suspect is described as a white female standing 5 foot 5 to 5 foot 8 with brown hair and glasses. Authorities say the suspect vehicle is possibly a Maroon colored Dodge Caravan. Anyone that recognizes the woman or has information about the case is asked to call Michigan State Police at the Brighton Post at (810) 227-1051. (JM) Dexter-Pinckney Road Bridge Set To Open September 3rd
8/28/10 - Construction work on the Dexter-Pinckney Road Bridge is nearing completion, which is likely welcome news to both boaters and motorists. The Washtenaw County Road Commission has been working for months to replace the decades-old bridge. Motorists have been dealing with a detour route all summer while boaters have had to deal with canal closures. The old bridge was completely demolished and work has been progressing overall. New concrete bridge barrier rails were constructed, asphalt road approaches have been paved and the approach guardrail was being installed. Restoration work continues and a new storm sewer went in earlier. Work next week consists of applying a concrete surface sealer, sign installation, clean-up and pavement striping. As of now, officials say they expect the bridge will be opened on Friday, September 3rd. (JM) Veterans Diagnosed With Lou Gherig's Eligible For Federal Benefit
8/28/10 - A new federal benefit is available to veterans that had or have a service-related disease. The Federal Department of Veterans Affairs has determined that Lou Gherig’s disease or ALS is a service-connected disability for any person who has served on active duty. It’s a disease that damages the nerves and studies show that 75% of those suffering from it served in the military. Director of the Livingston County Department of Veterans Affairs Carl Pardon tells WHMI that anyone who served or had an honorable discharge can apply. However, widows or spouses of veterans with the disease can also file claims for themselves. There is no time frame that applies to the benefit. For more information, contact the Livingston County Department of Veteran Affairs at (517) 546-6338. (JM) Unadilla Man Sentenced In Home Invasion Case
8/27/10 - A Unadilla Township man who police say broke into his neighbor’s home and stole his car has been sentenced in Livingston County Circuit Court. Judge David Reader ordered 45-year-old David Clifton Neal to serve one year in jail with credit for 179 days served. He was sentenced as a habitual offender – second offense and must also serve 2 years of probation. Neal previously pleaded guilty to 2nd degree home invasion, felony car theft, drunk driving- second offense and driving on a suspended or revoked license. Unadilla Township Police were informed on February 28th that a car had been stolen from a residence on Templar Drive and soon located the vehicle at a home on M-36. Police arrested Neal, who admitted he broke into his neighbor’s home and stole his car keys. (JM) Friday, August 27
Howell Carnegie Distrct Library To Close For 10 Days
8/27/10 - The Howell Carnegie District Library will close for more than a week beginning this Saturday. The library is facing a large reduction in tax revenue and had to look at all options for cutting costs and will furlough employees beginning at 5pm this Saturday. The library will then re-open at 10am on Tuesday, September 7th after Labor Day. The closure will save approximately $20,000, which will come in the form of a staff savings. Library Director Kathleen Zaenger tells WHMI that they tried to choose a time when fewer people use the library and she adds that no materials will be due during the closure. She says the closure can appear to be a negative but the library is looking at numerous options for savings and is trying to keep as much staff as possible. She says they have managed to avoid any lay-offs and made no cuts to positions but they have reduced staff hours. The library has also offered no pay increases and has changed heath insurance providers again, which is the 6th change in 5 years. Despite the reduced revenue, Zaenger says usage continues to go up every year and they are working to preserve services for local residents. (JM) Appeals Panel Upholds Decision In Oceola Murder Trial
8/27/10 - The Michigan Court of Appeals has upheld a local judge’s ruling in the case against a Warren man charged in the 2008 murder of his brother and sister-in-law in their Oceola Township home. Attorneys for 64-year-old Jerome Kowalski had sought to appeal a ruling from Judge Theresa Brennan forbidding the defense testimony of Dr. Richard Leo, a California professor who specializes in false confessions. Authorities say Kowalski initially admitted he had killed the couple, but defense attorney Walter Piszczatowski insisted the statements were only made after a prolonged interrogation and that Dr. Leo’s testimony was crucial to his defense. But in an opinion released today, the appeals panel agreed with Brennan’s ruling that the testimony was, "...unreliable and highly questionable because it did not include objective and verifiable criteria." Kowalski, who’s charged with two counts of open murder and felony firearms, was arrested several days after the bodies of Richard Kowalski and his wife Brenda were found by their son in their Oceola Township home on May 1st, 2008. One of the possible motives that have been mentioned in the case is control over the estate of Richard and Jerome’s mother. There’s no word if Kowalski’s attorney will appeal the decision to the Michigan Supreme Court or proceed to trial in Livingston County. (JK) Attachment: PeopleVsKowalski.pdf
Ngalamulume's Name To Be Removed From Ballot
8/27/10 - Despite accusations by local Democrats that Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land was stalling the appointment of a nominee for the 8th Congressional District; it appears as if the process is moving forward. Livingston County Democratic Party Chairwoman Judy Daubenmier alleged that Land, who is a Republican, was “…fabricating her own hurdles to try to keep a viable Democratic candidate off the ballot.” She made the charge after the Secretary of State’s Office hadn’t removed the name from the ballot of the previous Democratic candidate, Kande Ngalamulume, once he had forwarded materials detailing his move to Pennsylvania and voter registration application there. Kelly Chesney, a spokesperson for Land, tells WHMI that any assertions that the Secretary of State had unduly delayed or blocked the process are “off-base.” She said they only received the documentation on Monday and even then it wasn’t Ngalamulume’s voter registration in Pennsylvania but rather a change of address form. She said they had some concerns as it appeared he was still registered to vote in that state while also being listed on the rolls in Michigan. However, they were finally able to make verification that Ngalamulume was no longer a Michigan resident and his name will be removed. That clears the way for the substitution of Lance Enderle as the Democratic opponent to face Republican incumbent Mike Rogers in November. Enderle, an unemployed teacher from Clinton County, is expected to be the selection of the 8th District Democratic Executive Committee to replace Ngalamulume. (JK) Attachment: MarkBrewerLetter.pdf
Pinckney Holds Drug Information Seminar in Wake of Teen Death
8/27/10 - A town hall meeting was put on by the Pinckney Coalition to Reduce Underage Drinking at St. Mary’s Catholic Church last night to discuss the area’s growing drug problem. The Pinckney area has had at least 10 heroin-related in the past three years, and the recent death of 18-year-old Peter Shmina may have been due to a drug overdose. About 60 residents attended last night’s meeting, where presenters from the Fraser, Michigan-based group Families Against Narcotics spoke about the urgency of the drug problem in the area as well as warning signs for parents and educators. Information was distributed on several options for those who may be facing addiction or want to know how to detect and address possible drug abuse. Heroin does not change a user’s behavior while they’re high, but coming down from a high can cause symptoms including mood swings, irritability, and difficulty regulating temperature. The presenters urged parents and educators to follow up on gut feelings that something may be wrong since external indicators may be subtle or non-existent. Click here for the Families Against Narcotics website. Click here for a complete schedule of all Narcotics Anonymous meetings held in Livingston County, including those which will start up in the coming week. Pinckney Community Schools will be holding a free, adults-only informational demonstration to educate parents on how to spot drugs, paraphernalia, and associated imagery on October 12th. For more information or to register for the demonstrated, call 734-398-7518. (TD) Pinckney Cyclist Seriously Injured In Hit & Run Crash
8/27/10 - A professional cyclist from Livingston County is hospitalized with serious injuries after being hit by a car earlier this week. 39-year-old Jason Lummis of Pinckney was struck by a vehicle Wednesday evening in Dexter Township. Lummis was taken to the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor and was last listed in serious condition. The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department says that Lummis, who is a member of the Bell's Brewery-Quiring Cycles Professional Mountain Bike Team, was riding his bicycle to his Pinckney home from his job at Great Lakes Cycling and Fitness in Ann Arbor when he was struck at the intersection of Dexter-Pinckney and Fleming Road. Police are looking for a Ford F-250, F-350 or Excursion that has a broken passenger-side mirror. Anyone who has information can contact the Washtenaw County Sheriff tip line at (734) 973-7711. (JK) Hundreds Turn Out For Bone Marrow Drive To Save Boy's Life
8/27/10 - Hundreds of community members turned out Thursday for a bone marrow registration drive that will hopefully help save the life of a little boy. 2-year-old Trever Stevenson of Howell has a rare auto-immune disease and in an effort to help find a match, MediLodge of Howell held the drive yesterday. Finding a match and giving Trever the transplant could completely cure the condition, which is known as I-PEX. Trever’s mom Crystal tells WHMI that he’s doing okay but it's tough because he wants to play and be normal and energetic but he gets tired out. Doctors say without the transplant, they don’t know how much longer he’ll be here. She tells WHMI that she didn’t expect such a large crowd and is really appreciative of everyone taking time out to donate. If they’re lucky enough to find a match, Crystal tells WHMI that a tough road still lies ahead for them. If a match is found, Trever then goes to the hospital for testing and starts Chemotherapy for about two weeks until they get to “day zero”. That’s the point when Trever will have no immune system or blood count. From there he could need transfusion and plasma and hopefully, his body doesn't fight off the marrow transplant. If it does work, Trever could be completely cured. Stevenson says after people are on the registry, it can take four to six weeks to go through the lab and have the swabs tested. Anyone wishing to donate and assist with medical bills can do so directly to Crystal Stevenson at 5504 Wildwood Drive Howell MI, 48843. (JM) Daubenmier Says Land Playing Partisan Politics With Ballot
8/27/10 - Livingston County Democrats allege that Republican Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land is putting up a roadblock for purely partisan purposes when it comes to appointing a nominee for the 8th Congressional District. The party wants to nominate Lance Enderle, a teacher from Clinton County who ran a write-in candidate in the August primary, after the previous Democratic candidate, Kande Ngalamulume, moved to Pennsylvania. Democrats are allowed to nominate a replacement but say Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land is standing in the way and not recognizing that the previous candidate has moved out of state. Chairwoman of the Livingston County Democratic Party Judy Daubemier (pictured) contends that Land has instructed Ingham County officials to take him off the voter rolls, and maintains it’s a deliberate roadblock to keep Enderle off the ballot. Kelly Chesney is a spokeswoman for Land and says they did receive a letter from Ngalamulume about the change but later learned that it wasn’t a new voter registration in Pennsylvania but rather a change of address. Chesney says there was some cause for concern since it was not a new voter registration. She adds that they are trying to resolve the situation quickly since the election is approaching and they need to get ballots printed. Chesney further says dialogue is occurring with the chairman of the state Democratic Party. (JM) Eastern Equine Encephalitis Found In County
8/27/10 - The Livingston County Department of Public Health is warning residents to take safety precautions when it comes to mosquito-born diseases after confirmed cases of one locally. Both a horse in the Howell-area and a deer in the northeastern portion of the county tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis, also known as Triple-E. Medical Director Dr. Don Lawrenchuk tells WHMI that this isn’t a new disease and it has actually been around for awhile. He says there is no major cause for alarm or concern as it's both a treatable and preventable disease. Lawrenchuk says taking good common sense precautions can help prevent problems and reduce exposure. The health department says the best way for residents to prevent mosquito-born illness is to reduce exposure and use insect repellent containing DEET along with long sleeves and pants when possible. Residents should also try to eliminate breeding sites by emptying standing water from flower pots, buckets, barrels and other containers. Severe cases of EEE infection start with a sudden onset of headache, fever, chills or vomiting that can progress into disorientation or seizures. Anyone that thinks they could have a mosquito born disease is advised to contact their health care provider. More information may be found in the press release attached below. (JM) Attachment: EEEPressRelease.pdf
Thursday, August 26
Unadilla Man Headed To Prison For Attacking Ex-Wife At Gunpoint
8/26/10 - A man convicted of holding his ex-wife at gunpoint is headed to prison. 52-year-old Terence Shawn Kiernan was ordered to serve 5 to 20 years in prison for a March 17th incident in which police say he assaulted his ex-wife, Unadilla Township Supervisor Linda Walker, in her Fowlerville law office. Authorities say Kiernan was angry because Walker received a portion of his pension benefits through the divorce agreement. After she agreed under duress to return the pension benefits, he fled the building and was arrested a short time later by Unadilla Township Police. Kiernan earlier pleaded guilty to numerous charges including felonious assault, extortion, felony firearms possession and carrying a concealed weapon. He was also sentenced to a separate two year sentence on the gun charges. (JM/JK) Livingston County's Jobless Rate Up Slightly From June To July
8/26/10 - Unemployment rates advanced slightly in all of Michigan’s 17 major labor markets in July. Livingston County’s jobless rate came in at 12.1% for July and currently ranks 18th out of 83 counties. That’s up just slightly from 11.8% in June. The figure was released by the state Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth today. State officials say payroll jobs in Michigan declined less this July than normal due to structural changes within the auto industry. Because of increased demand, a good number of auto plants remained active during what is typically the re-tooling shutdown period. Even with the reduced model-changeover activity, officials say jobless rates rose seasonally and typical cutbacks in education coupled with increased numbers of summer job seekers pushed rates upward. Mackinac County had the lowest unemployment rate for July at 6% while Baraga County had the highest at 24%. (JM) Fate Of Two Brighton Homes To Be Decided In Court
8/26/10 - A longstanding battle between the city of Brighton and two homeowners could soon come to an end. Livingston County Circuit Court Judge Michael Hatty is considering closing arguments in the case of Brighton vs. Leon and Marilyn Bonner, who own two homes in the city’s downtown development district. In January 2009, the city ordered the homes, located at 116 and 122 E. North Street, demolished after deeming them unsafe. But the Bonners insist the homes, which were built in the 1800's, are historic gems that need to be preserved and have been fighting the demolition order. Brighton’s building inspector testified in court that the damage to the homes, which have not been occupied for decades, is so extensive that the cost of repairing the buildings would be more than 100% of the their appraised value. WHMI spoke with people living and working nearby the homes, and the opinion was split. While some feel the Bonners should have the chance to bring the buildings up to code, others say the homes have become a public safety issue. An attorney for the Bonners asserts that the inspection by the city was done on a drive-by basis and that the city's actions are "unconscionable." He's asking that the city issue all requested permits and allow repairs to the home. The city wants the homes torn down as soon as possible. (MS/JK) New Livingston County Road Commissioner Begins Term
8/26/10 - Today marked the first Livingston County Road Commission meeting with newly-appointed Commissioner Steve Crane. The County Board of Commissioners confirmed Crane’s appointment on Monday to serve out the remaining two and a half years left on the term of the late Richard Slayton. Crane, who is not related to Road Commission Managing Director Michael Craine, has a long history in construction, owning two local construction companies and currently serving as the vice-president of the Home Builders Association of Livingston County. Commissioner John Dunleavy was appointed to be the Road Commission’s vice-chairman at today’s meeting, a position that has also remained unfilled since Slayton’s passing. (TD) Local Leaders Meet for Economic Strategy Workshop
8/26/10 - The last in a series of workshops for the Livingston County Strategic Growth Plan brought about thirty government officials, businesspeople, and citizens from around the county together at the Howell Carnegie Library Wednesday night. The workshops, sponsored by Michigan State University and local Chambers of Commerce, were coordinated by MSU Land Policy educator Glenn Pape to brainstorm ideas for an economic recovery plan that will be distributed to the various municipalities within the county. Strategic plans have already been designed for Detroit, St. Claire, Oakland and the Lansing area. Last night’s attendees were asked to identify and discuss the goals, assets, and obstacles of the county’s economic recovery. Participants included Howell Mayor Geraldine Moen, Mike Hall of Cobb Hall Insurance, and Marion Township Supervisor Bob Hanvey. (TD) Howell City Council Holds Off On Replacing "Swale" Drain Covers
8/26/10 - The Howell City Council deferred action Monday night on bids to replace swale covers that residents say are unsightly and difficult to maintain. The city’s street improvement program has various phases and included the installation of “swales”, which are designed to collect and retain storm water. Residents liken them to huge ditches that are difficult to maintain and almost impossible to mow around and say they also pose safety hazards. The city has been considering replacing all of the bee-hive swale covers that were installed in areas one and two of the project and received bids to do so but delayed action until next month. An ad-hoc committee was created to assess the core issues with the streets and has been meeting with residents who are pushing for more parking and other items in some phases. Council expressed that the bid prices are good for 60 days to offer flexibility and they just don’t want to change out the covers and then come back and have to re-do any work in the areas and have wasted money. The ad-hoc committee is expected to offer a full report to Council at its meeting September 13th, at which time a decision could also be made on the swale dome covers. (JM) Venue Change Sought In Case Against Man Charged In Boy's Death
8/26/10 - The attorney representing a former Livingston County man accused of beating a 4-year-old boy to death is filing a number of requests in the case. 24-year-old Brandon Hayes is charged with ten felonies including first-degree murder, torture and child abuse in the beating death of Dominick Calhoun. Another charge of 1st degree child abuse was also added for allegedly assaulting Dominick’s 8-year-old brother, who testified during an exam. Attorney James Piazza represents Hayes and tells WHMI that he has filed several motions in the case and intends to file others once the preliminary exam transcripts are filed. Piazza says due to the publicity generated in Genesee County, he doesn't feel Hayes can get a fair trial so he's asking for a change of venue. He's also seeking to quash some counts and wants an independent psychological review for competency and criminal responsibility. Both Hayes and Dominick’s mother Corrine Baker have been deemed competent to stand trial per reports from the State Forensic Center. Hayes allegedly beat the child in the couple’s Argentine Township apartment over the course of three to five days. Dominick was found by a relative April 11th and died the next day after being removed from life support at a hospital. Baker is charged in the case for not doing more to protect her son. (JM) Wednesday, August 25
Local Democrats Question Value Of Livingston County Airport
8/25/10 - Is the Livingston County Spencer J. Hardy Airport a drain on county resources or an important tool to keep the county attractive for economic development? If you ask local Democrats, the benefits the airport provides are far outweighed by the liabilities. They point to the $2.7 million dollars the airport borrowed from the county’s delinquent tax fund for an ongoing expansion project. Kelly Raskauskas, who is challenging Republican incumbent Carol Griffith for the District 7 seat, says the plan doesn’t make sense as it is utilizing much-needed financial resources to expand what she called an “underused airport with declining traffic.” To back up that claim, she pointed to an assessment in an FAA Operations Forecast, which predicts growth of only about 1% per year for airports in the Great Lakes region over the next 15 years. But Airport Manager Mark Johnson insists the airport helps the county attract and retain businesses. He says the airport has been breaking even since 2003 and has not needed any money from the county’s general fund in that period of time. As to the money borrowed from the county to pay for the expansion project, he says all of that is being paid back with interest. However, Raskauskas thinks the county should be targeting projects that will benefit a majority of taxpayers. (JM) Howell Schools Project Budget Surplus
8/25/10 - There’s some rare good news for a local school district when it comes to finances. At Monday night’s Howell Public Schools board meeting, assistant superintendent for finance Rick Terres told the board that the constantly changing financial outlook from the state has changed yet again, and this time for the better. Terres says that when the district put together its budget for 2010-11, the projection from the state was that per pupil funding would be cut by as much as $300. That would have left Howell with a deficit of roughly $750,000. But, he says the new state estimate keeps the foundation allowance at the same level it was for the 2009 school year, so even with a projected loss of 100 students the district should have a surplus of roughly half a million dollars. Terres told the board many experts feel the state may finally be moving out of the darkest times as far as the budget is concerned, but there are still concerns over the 2011-12 school year when federal stimulus money will have run out. (MS) Event Seeks Donor Match For 2-Year-Old Boy With Rare Disease
8/25/10 - A bone marrow registration drive is being held this week in hopes of finding a match for a local boy fighting a rare auto-immune disease. Trever Stevenson was diagnosed with immunodysregulation polyendocrinopathy enteropathy X-linked syndrome, or IPEX, and with all the medications and treatments he has had to go through, his immune system has become incredibly weak and he needs a bone marrow transplant. He’ll turn three next month but without a match, chances are he won’t make it to December. Trevor’s mother worked at MediLodge of Howell but had to leave to be home with him. MediLodge is now hosting the registration drive that will hopefully turn out a match and save Trever’s life. Organizers say it’s a really quick and painless process. The test consists of a brief questionnaire and a quick cotton swab of your cheek. The cost is free and should anyone be a match for Trevor, his insurance would cover the cost of any procedure. The drive will take place this Thursday from noon until 8pm at MediLodge on Grand River. To view a video of Trever Click Here. (JM) Local Legislator Says State Is Making Little Progress On Budget
8/25/10 - Michigan lawmakers won't be wrapping up decisions on the state budget until after Labor Day. The state Senate met yesterday but then adjourned until September 7th. Lawmakers are waiting on more detail on some of Governor Granholm's budget proposals before committing to final positions. Meetings are expected to continue over the next few weeks to try to establish some budget targets. State Representative Bill Rogers of Genoa Township says in reality, there’s not much going on at the Capitol when it comes to the budget and there doesn't appear to be a sense of urgency. Rogers adds that the state is also not making it any easier to attract or retain businesses and notes it has changed its tax code four out of the last six years. He says Michigan’s future is dependent on a smarter tax code and a more efficient government. A new budget needs to be adopted before the fiscal year begins October 1st. Lawmakers and Granholm are trying to erase a deficit of $302 million this fiscal year and a projected shortfall of $484 million for the year that begins October 1st. (JM) Tyrone Township Gravel Company Moves Lime-Filled Material
8/25/10 - A volume of lime removed during the cleaning of the Fenton Water Treatment Plant is being moved from the gravel pit where it was stored. Shoemaker Services of Fenton won the bid to clean out the Water Treatment Plant in June, charging the city just under $150,000. The material it removed was 40% slurry, but contained lime which is useful as an agricultural soil additive due to its calcium content. It was moved to the Fenton Gravel Company’s property in Tyrone Township to dry, but the township has since ordered the company to remove the material. Treasurer Dave Kurtz tells WHMI that the removal wasn’t due to the presence of lime, which is completely harmless, but because the Fenton Gravel Company’s consent agreement with the township forbids it from bringing in material for resale. Kurtz adds that it was a simple mistake on the part of the gravel company, and that they began complying with the township’s request as soon as notification was sent. The material could be stored in a landfill or placed on farmland in a process known as “sweetening” the soil. (TD) Tuesday, August 24
Brighton School Board Terminates Assistant Superintendent for HR
8/24/10 - The Brighton Board of Education terminated its human resources director Monday night, but it was not without experiencing some angst in the process. On a 7-0 vote, the board dismissed Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Howard Schwager. Board President Cheryl Leach tells WHMI the decision was based entirely on economics and not for reasons of performance. As Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources, Schwager was responsible for personnel and labor relations, one of his main jobs being the handling of negotiations for the school district with all district unions. Schwager’s termination is effective today. Some of the duties heretofore performed by Schwager - primarily those involving union negotiations and contracts - will now be performed by the Livingston Educational Service Agency. LESA serves as the intermediate school district for Livingston County's five k-12 school districts. Some other aspects of Schwager's duties will now be handled by Superintendent Gary Gray. Schwager's departure means there are now just three central office administrators in Brighton. It is a district which - a few years ago before major cuts were made as a "deficit district" - had already been cited by Standard and Poors as being extremely efficient in terms of having a lean administration. The remaining employees in central administration include Superintendent Gregory Gray, Assistant Superintendent of Finance Maria Gistinger and Assistant Superintendent of Instruction Laura Surrey. (TT) Brighton DDA Sells Former Mexican Jones Property
8/24/10 - Another re-development project has been inked in the City of Brighton. The city’s Downtown Development Authority formally approved a deal to sell the former Mexican Jones restaurant this morning to a Fenton restaurateur who plans to tear down the building and put up a 50’s family diner. The DDA sold the property on Grand River for $350,000 and will retain the existing liquor license. The authority will also keep a re-configured easement to maintain its Mill Pond walkway that runs through some of the property. Officials expect to close on the deal within 90 days. The deal allows the DDA to pay off the $340,000 it still owes for the restaurant. Mexican Jones closed May 5th and the property then went to the DDA, which had co-signed on the original loan for former owner Richard Gienapp because it needed the easement to build the Mill Pond walkway. City Planning and Development Director Matt Modrack tells WHMI that there was a fair amount of interest in the site without it being listed but this offer held the greatest promise and it’s another great example of re-development in town. He also noted that it’s important to understand the owner must still do his due-diligence with the site and will now begin the site plan process. (JM) Genoa Twp. Will Compensate Residents For SELCRA Rec Programs
8/23/10 - The Genoa Township Board is compensating residents for some recreation programs following the municipality’s decision to quit contributing financially to the Southeastern Livingston County Recreation Authority, or SELCRA. The board met Monday night and approved a reimbursement program effective immediately to offset the higher fees for Genoa residents. Residents will need to hand deliver or mail original fee receipts within 30 days after payment and the township will then cut reimbursement checks two times a month. The township had contributed financially to both SELCRA and the Howell Area Parks and Recreation Authority but just recently quit contributing to SELCRA. Officials said the decision stemmed from a desire among several local municipalities to see SELCRA streamline or consolidate some of its services with the Howell Authority but talks never materialized. The change then resulted in residents paying the higher out-of-district rates for SELCRA, which is around $20 more. The reimbursement program being offered by Genoa will be in effect through December 31st. Officials are expected to discuss how to move forward in the new year and say its likely that any issues with SELCRA will be resolved by that time. (JM) Local Businessman Starts Up Free Employment Website
8/24/10 - A local businessman has started an online venture he hopes will provide a more accurate way for employers to find potential employees. Steve Gronow is a Howell-based developer who recently began a new website called ejobmate.com. He tells WHMI that it’s a free way for those looking for work to connect with potential employers, but in a manner that isn’t centered entirely on one’s resume. "It's like a dating service for jobs. The traditional way of finding work is posting your resume at all the popular websites, but the ejobmate way is different by really taking an inventory of what your skills are and then we're going to the employers and asking them what the skills are in the jobs they have. Instead of searching resumes, we match skills. Most employers want to know if they're capable of doing the job before they even look at the resume." Gronow says ejobmate.com, which currently has four full-time employees, was recently shown to the head of the state’s employment agency, Michigan Works!, who said it offered elements the state’s website didn’t. Gronow hopes to see some sort of collaboration with the state in the future, but says his goal right now is to simply get as many employers and job seekers to use the site and make connections. (JK) Howell City Council Suspends Portion Of Noise Ordinance
8/24/10 - The Howell City Council voted Monday night to suspend enforcement of its noise ordinance as it pertains to street musicians. Issues with the city’s ordinance came up after street musician Joe Flanders was told to stop playing in front of the Dairy Queen downtown following complaints from a nearby business. The city’s noise ordinance is the only law that remotely deals with the issues but it also includes language prohibiting noise from instruments that annoys people. No ordinance deals with panhandling and there’s also no ordinance permitting process for street musicians. Council suggested using common sense and prohibiting aggressive panhandling but did say musicians can add to the ambiance of a downtown. Staff has also consulted with four different attorneys on the matter. One resident commented that it’s not a big problem but the city should have some rules and set up permit process for accountability. Flanders explained that he is not trying to cause any trouble. He added that he isn’t hounding people for money but rather just playing music for kids and families and only has good intentions. Council ultimately approved suspending a portion of the noise ordinance and directed staff to develop a permitting process for street musicians and the corresponding issue of aggressive panhandling. Officials say overall, the goal is to strike a balance between 1st Amendment and what it can or should not regulate. It’s also asking the DDA to be involved as street musicians usually perform in front of businesses. (JM) Howell's Superintedent Lays Out Short/Long Term Goals
8/24/10 - After three months on the job, Howell Superintendent Ron Wilson is settling in and ready to get down to business. Monday night Wilson laid out the results of his 90-day study of the district, and presented the school board with what he would like to see accomplished in both the short and long term. Wilson says over the next 12 months the district needs to develop more effective relationships with its stakeholders, including the board, unions and staff. Wilson also wants the board to empower him to reopen the district’s Parker campus by the fall of 2011 in whatever fashion is most beneficial to the district. The superintendent’s short term goals also included focusing on student achievement, streamlining curriculum and stemming the tide of students leaving the district. For the long term, Wilson wants the board to approve hiring a company to put together a comprehensive strategic plan for the district, a move Trustee Bob Parker didn’t seem to think was necessary, as he said he thought the board and administration should be able to put a list of priorities together on their own. But Wilson tells WHMI he feels a formal strategic planning process, would be well worth the roughly $10,000 price tag. Wilson also recommended streamlining the district’s central office as part of his short-term plan and announced Assistant Superintendent Lynn Parrish would be retiring effective January 1st. He asked the board to review his plan for further discussion and action at a future meeting. (MS) County Board Approves New Road Commissioner
8/24/10 - The Livingston County Board of Commissioners approved the appointment of a new Road Commissioner at its regular meeting last night. Steven Crane, who is not related to Road Commission Managing Director Michael Craine, will finish the two and a half years left on the term of Road Commissioner Richard Slayton who passed away earlier this summer. Crane has a long history in construction, having owned his own construction company since 1993 and served as vice-president of the county Home Builders Association. The County Commission interviewed about half a dozen applicants for the position. The County Board also approved a plan put together by local judges and court officials to help minimize jail time for minor offenders last night. The 2011 Community Corrections Plan will be used as a guideline for county judges during sentencing by recommending electronic tethers, substance abuse rehabilitation, and other alternative methods in lieu of jail time for minor offenders. Submitting a plan to the state is necessary to secure funding for the local corrections department, which totals more than $100,000 every year. (TD) Brighton High Gets New In-School Suspension Policy
8/24/10 - Beginning with the fall term, the Brighton Board of Education will have a revised policy relating to in-school suspensions and tardiness at Brighton High School. One of the purposes of the policy reversal was to change the focus from the negative aspects of out-of-school suspensions, such as the lack of supervision and the failure to address academics. Board President Cheryl Leach tells WHMI the new, in-school suspension policy will serve as a middle level of discipline for infractions, between mere detentions and out-of-school suspensions. Leach says the policy will allow the affected students to complete their classroom assignments on time. She says it also has the added benefit of making counselors and administrators available to meet with the students over academic and behavioral issues. Leach says a special room at Brighton High School will be reserved as the in-school suspension room. The room will also be used for students who are tardy without a pass to class. Those students will either receive a voucher allowing them to go to their assigned classroom or will have to remain in the ISS room until the end of that class period. (TT) Monday, August 23
New Trial Date Set For Man Charged In Brighton Woman's Murder
8/23/10 - Another trial date set for a Madison Heights man charged in the murder of his mother-in-law in Brighton Township is expected to be adjourned pending the outcome of lab testing. 62-year-old Americo DeCiantis Jr. is being held without bond and is scheduled to go to trial October 18th in Livingston County Circuit Court. However, prosecutors say his trial date will likely be moved out again as they’re awaiting DNA test results from the Michigan State Police Crime Lab. DeCiantis is charged in the shooting death of 72-year-old Louise DeRosia who was found January 26th inside her home near I-96 and Kensington Road. He was arrested immediately following a police interview in March and has been charged with open murder, felony firearms, and larceny in a building. According to State Police, DeCiantis confessed to shooting DeRosia, as well as the theft of her wallet and cell phone. He reportedly told police that he had argued with DeRosia over where the family would place DeRosia’s elderly mother. His attorney plans to contest the confession. (JM) Injured Motorcyclist May Have Been Speeding
8/23/10 - A Macomb County man suffered life-threatening injuries in a motorcycle crash over the weekend in Hartland Township. The Livingston County Sheriff’s Department says they were called out Saturday morning at about 8:30 to M-59 west of Old US 23 on a report of a crash involving a motorcycle and a car. Upon arrival, they found personnel from the Hartland/Deerfield Fire Department and Livingston EMS treating 62-year-old Dennis Kozicki of Clinton Township. He was reportedly riding his motorcycle westbound when he struck the rear end of a car waiting to turn into the CVS Pharmacy. Kozicki had to be airlifted by Med Flight to St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ypsilanti where he’s listed in serious condition today. The driver of the car and his passenger were not injured. While Kozicki was wearing a helmet, police say it was not an approved crash helmet. Furthermore, witness statements indicate he may have been speeding. Alcohol and controlled substance use remain under investigation by the Livingston County Sheriff Department Traffic Safety Bureau. (JK) Attachment: 100396259Old23PIA082110.pdf
Howell Superintendent To Release 90 Day Report Tonight
8/23/10 - Howell Schools Superintendent Ron Wilson is set to release his 90 day report on the district at tonight’s Board of Education meeting. Wilson is also expected to present a plan of action for the district and a blueprint for a strategic plan to the board. All three goals were articulated by Wilson when he was hired in May. Also tonight, the board is expected to approve the hiring of Melanie Post as the principal of Highlander Way Middle School. She has been serving as principal at Southeast Elementary since 2007. Of 12 applicants, five were interviewed by a committee. Post was chosen among those five to replace Jason Feig, who left the district in July to take a job as Principal of Dansville High School. Tonight’s board meeting starts at 7pm in the administration board room on Highlander Way. (JK) Judge Dismisses Trespassing Claim Filed By Former Trustee
8/23/10 - A trespassing claim filed by Hamburg Township woman against a local hardware store has been dismissed. The civil lawsuit was originally filed by Lakeland Ace Hardware against 57 year old Mary Ann Lamkin and her husband Steve, who countersued to have it dismissed. Mrs. Lamkin, a former Hamburg Township Trustee, is charged in a separate criminal case with disturbing the peace, reckless driving and trying to block traffic on Island Shore Drive. The hardware store is located on the corner of Island Shore Drive and M-36. The Lamkin’s allege that the store’s use of the road for access to its property was a nuisance and violated zoning ordinance. The Lamkin’s further claim that patrons who utilize the access are trespassing. The court dismissed both of those claims, noting that the store has been using the property in that way for more than 15 years and therefore, the Lamkin’s could not argue trespassing on their easement. The court did find that a nuisance-in-fact claim was not addressed by either party’s motion and thus could still be used for a pending bench trial which has yet to be scheduled. Meanwhile, Lamkin has also filed a motion to dismiss her criminal case with the Michigan Court of Appeals, which has yet to decide if it will hear the appeal. (JK) Local Families Urged To Support Early Education Event In Lansing
8/23/10 - Livingston County families and their children are being encouraged to attend an event later this week in Lansing. The “Sandbox Party” convention focuses on the importance of investing in early childhood education. It’s being put on by the Early Childhood Investment Corporation and its 55 Great Start Collaboratives. Great Start Livingston is encouraging local families to attend the event that features speakers, exhibits, family-friendly activities and a performance from “The Verve Pipe”. Great Start Livingston is a partnership of local professionals, community leaders and parents that work to build a comprehensive early childhood system for young children and their families. Coordinator Robin Schutz tells WHMI the convention is designed to represent Michigan’s youngest learners, ages birth to five years old. The “Sandbox Party” convention will take place Thursday from 1 to 4pm at MSU’s Breslin Center in East Lansing. For more information, log onto www.GreatStartLivingston.org. (JK) Sunday, August 22
Howell City Council May Suspend Noise Ordinance
8/22/10 - The Howell City Council Monday will likely decide whether to suspend the city’s noise ordinance, after a challenge as to its constitutionality was levied by the American Civil Liberties Union. The issue pertains to street musician Joe Flanders, who performs on the sidewalks of downtown Howell, and whose presence elicited a complaint from a downtown business. City Manager Shea Charles says the city presently has no ordinance provisions permitting or regulating street musicians and no panhandling ordinance. As a result, Charles says the noise ordinance was the only method the city was able to employ to get Flanders to stop. The ordinance contains an enforcement provision in the case of a person or group bothering people by playing a musical instrument. Charles tells WHMI the real problem was not the music but the fact that Flanders was walking around asking people for donations. Charles says a moratorium on the ordinance will give council and the city attorney time to come up with a proper ordinance to address panhandling as well as a permit structure for street musicians. The ACLU, in a six-page letter, alleged that the city was violating Flanders’ First Amendment rights of free expression by forcing him to stop playing. It also alleged that certain parts of the ordinance are unconstitutional. (TT) Saturday, August 21
Dozens Of Dogs Seized From Deerfield Township Home
8/21/10 - Animal control officers have seized dozens of dogs found living in what they call unacceptable conditions in Deerfield Township. Livingston County Animal Control received a complaint on Thursday about 30-40 dogs being housed in poor conditions near the 4000 block of Center Road. When officers responded, they found over 75 dogs, 60 of which were living inside the home. According to Animal Control, the dogs are small breeds, mostly Dachsunds and Pekingese. The dogs are currently being held at the Livingston County Animal Control shelter and other facilities where they are being evaluated. If and when they become available for adoption, they will be on Livingston County Animal Control’s website, which you can access by clicking here. (MS) Fenton Township Beach Closed Due To High E.Coli Levels
8/21/10 - It’s one of the last unofficial summer weekends before the kids head back to school, but if you’re thinking about a swim at Fenton Township Beach on Lake Fenton, you’ll have to make other plans. The Genesee County Health Department recently announced it is extending its advisory against swimming at Fenton Township’s beach because of high E.Coli bacteria levels. The health department first issued an advisory about the beach on August 4th, when the weekly water sample came back with an E.Coli level of 482 per 100 milliliters, which is about the maximum allowable level of 300 per 100 milliliters. The warning was extended this week as health officials say the water continues to have high bacteria levels. Township officials believe the E.Coli spike is likely due to the combination of high temperatures this summer and heavy rains that washed bird droppings into the lake. The beach is located at Fenton Township Hall. (MS) Friday, August 20
Brighton Votes to Relocate Controversial Nude Sculpture
8/20/10 - After being the object of vandalism, snide remarks and mostly negative comments for the past two years, the Brighton City Council has decided to put the issue of a nude statue to rest, once and for all. Council voted Thursday night to move “Decision Pending,”, the statue of a nude man at Mill Pond Park, to a different location. In a separate motion that barely passed, council decided to leave the question of where the sculpture will be moved up to the Brighton Arts & Culture Commission. As a postscript to that, a check will be made to ensure that empowering a commission that serves at the whims of City Council is not a violation of the city charter. Brighton Mayor Ricci Bandkau tells WHMI that she has always felt uncomfortable with the statue being where it is: Namely, in close proximity to a memorial honoring local soldiers from past wars, something Bandkau regards as disrespectful. A prior motion that the sculpture stay where it is failed for lack of a second. Former long-time Brighton City Council Member Dennis Nauss told council he doesn’t object to the nudity or the art of the statue. But he feels the sculpture in effect mocks those who have sacrificed their lives to preserve our freedoms. The Brighton Arts & Culture Commission will be asked to make its recommendation to the city on where to relocate ”Decision Pending” in time for council’s next meeting on Sept. 2. City Department of Public Services Director Matt Schindewolf said the DPS would not be able to move the sculpture and its foundation until the week after Labor Day, which takes place on September 6. (TT) LESA Hosts "Backpacks For Kids" Distribution Thursday
8/20/10 - Hundreds of Livingston County residents in need turned out Thursday evening to get free backpacks and school supplies for their kids. The Livingston Educational Service Agency held its 9th annual “Backpacks for Kids” distribution effort last night and the line was wrapped around the building. The project provided families who are experiencing financial difficulties with backpacks and basic school supplies at no cost. Organizers say the program couldn't be done without all of the generous community support and donations as well as all the helping hands on distribution day. In the end, every family was served and more than 1500 backpacks were passed out to those in need. (JM) Brighton Police Chief: Stout Not in Violation of Noise Ordinance
8/20/10 - It appears the owners of Stout Irish Pub and the city of Brighton are close to reaching an accommodation that will ensure the live music which has been a source of complaints may continue. City Police Chief Tom Wightman gave a presentation to City Council Thursday night about downtown businesses which have live entertainment and said they are not in violation of the city’s noise ordinance. Wightman said tests taken using the city’s decibel meter on different dates and from different locations show that both Stout Irish Pub – the cause of most of the resident complaints – and Downtown Main Martini Bar & Grille are in compliance. But Council Member Chad Cooper, who lives on Church Street a couple blocks uphill from Stout –insisted the noise is quite loud at his residence, as late as 11 p.m. Stout owner Mike Abrams told council that the live music, played on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, stops at 10 p.m. Cooper alleged that Stout personnel turn the volume down when the police come by and jack it up again after they leave. Abrams objected to the assertion, saying that’s not the way he conducts business. Abrams says he owns 15 sports bars in the metro area and spends more time in Brighton than anywhere else in order to work with authorities. Mayor Ricci Bandkau tells WHMI the city tries to accommodate both the needs of residents and businesses and reach a compromise solution in such cases. Nick Palizzi, co-owner of the Downtown Main Martini Bar & Grille, told council they have not had a problem with complaints about noise, saying they play primarily blues music to their motorcycle crowd on Thursday evenings. (TT)Brighton OKs 6-Month Moratorium on Medical Marijuana
8/20/10 - The Brighton City Council Thursday night voted to impose a six-month moratorium on issuing permits or licenses for businesses that want to sell or dispense medical marijuana. In so doing, the city is following the lead of many other communities in Michigan that have enacted a moratorium. The municipalities want the state to clarify the law, which follows 2008 state voter approval of an initiative to make the cultivation, sale and dispensing of cannabis legal for those with a doctor’s prescription. Among other questions, it’s unclear whether such businesses would be subject to certain zoning restrictions and how to tax such a business. Under consideration in Lansing are two legislative amendments to clarify and define the law. Doug Orton, who heads the Brighton Area Compassion Club, complimented City Council for not having what he called a “knee-jerk” reaction to the issue. Council Members said they feel there is a place for the medical dispensing of marijuana, but accommodating the new law must not rushed into blindly. Fred Waters of Howell, who also addressed council on the issue, revealed to WHMI why he needs medical pot just to make it through the day. Former Brighton City Council Member Dennis Nauss said Brighton and other communities that have imposed moratoriums on medical marijuana may be unintentionally circumventing the intent of the law. Nauss told council if communities keep imposing moratoriums, people with a legitimate need for medical marijuana may have no place to go to get the product legally. (TT)
Oak Pointe's Steve Pilon Again Crowned Iron Chef
8/20/10 - It was chef vs. chef last night at Livingston County’s version of the popular food battle “Iron Chef.” This year’s competition, which is a fundraiser for Gleaners Community Food Bank and OLHSA Shared Harvest Pantry, pitted defending Iron Chef Champion Steve Pilon of Oak Pointe Country Club against challenger Jimmy McNulty, of Downtown Main Martini Bar and Grill. Of course every Iron Chef battle has a secret ingredient, and this the chefs were asked to prepare 3-course offering using a selection of green, red, and hot peppers. About 400 people turned out to watch the battle and bid on auction items. Gerry Brisson of Gleaners tells WHMI the demand for food banks has never been greater, and the community continues to respond by opening up their hearts and wallets to donate to those in need.It was a close battle, but when the plates were cleared the 6-person panel of judges once again voted Chef Steve Pilon Iron Chef champion. Pilon tells WHMI it was a thrilling experience for a great cause. Last year’s Iron Chef event raised $95,000 to help provide nutritious meals in the community. (MS) Ngalamulume Out Of Congressional Race For Good
8/20/10 - The winner of Michigan's 8th District Democratic congressional primary said Thursday he has registered to vote in Pennsylvania, meaning party officials can now nominate a new candidate to face five-term Republican incumbent Mike Rogers in November. Kande Ngalamulume withdrew from the race in June, but his name still appeared on the ballot for the August 3rd primary, which he won easily. His only opponent was write-in candidate Lance Enderle. Ngalamulume briefly flirted with resuscitating his campaign following the primary victory, but dropped out again, citing an inability to raise sufficient cash to compete against Rogers. Ngalamulume said Thursday he had written a letter to the Michigan secretary of state's office that declared he's registered to vote in Pennsylvania. Democratic Party officials now will work to find a replacement candidate to take on Rogers, a former FBI agent who won two years ago with 57 percent of the vote. The most likely candidate is Enderle, who headed up the alternative education program for Leslie Public Schools before being laid off at the end of the 2009 school year. (JK) Melonfest Prompts Parking Restrictions & Road Closures
8/20/10 - There are some traffic issues motorists will need to be aware of as a result of this weekend’s Melonfest event that kicks off today in downtown Howell. Police Chief George Basar tells WHMI that North Michigan Avenue will be closed between Grand River and Clinton Street on Saturday and Sunday which will result in a detour on the north end of town. The detours are as follows: From the West take Grand River to Byron to Riddle to North Michigan Avenue. From the East take Grand River to National to North to Roosevelt to Madison. There will also be parking restrictions in some downtown neighborhoods to accommodate historic trolley tours planned for this year’s event. There will be restricted parking on portions of Higgens, Lake and Court Streets and on all of Barnard Street to allow emergency vehicle access for police, fire and EMS. For more information, log onto www.Howellmelonfestival.com. (JM) Tyrone Man Charged In Police Stand-Off Gets Jail Time
8/20/10 - A Tyrone Township man who held police at bay earlier this year has been sentenced. 45 year old Ralph Delano Vincent was ordered to serve six months in the Livingston County Jail and three years of probation after earlier pleading no contest to charges of felonious assault, possessing a firearm while intoxicated, and resisting police causing injury. Vincent was arrested February 22nd after Livingston County Sheriff’s deputies were called out to his residence in the Tyrone Woods Mobile Home Community. They were responding to a report of a suicidal subject who had consumed beer and pills and is alleged to have fired his .38 caliber handgun in the air after deputies attempted to use a Taser on him. Two hours after a phone line was established with Vincent, he was heard snoring. Officers then moved in and took him into custody without further incident. (JM) Thursday, August 19
Record Can Be Used Against Man Charged With Setting Ex On Fire
8/19/10 - Prior acts of domestic violence will be used against a Handy Township man charged in an April incident in which police say he set his ex-girlfriend on fire. Circuit Court Judge David Reader approved a motion today from prosecutors that will allow them to introduce as evidence prior criminal convictions of 50-year-old Charles Evan Jones. A check of state records shows he served time for attempted kidnapping in the early 90’s. Jones is charged with assault with intent to commit murder, aggravated stalking and filing a false report of terrorism. Police say Jones attacked his ex-girlfriend, a 51-year-old Howell woman, as she was returning home from work April 30th. He reportedly sprayed her with an unknown substance and then lit her on fire. She was able to escape from the vehicle and extinguish the flames, suffering only minor injuries. Jones is set to go to trial on August 30th but that date is expected to be adjourned to allow the defense more time to prepare. (JM) Green Oak Man Sentenced For Shooting Teen Prankster
8/19/10 - A Green Oak Township man found guilty of shooting a teenager after the boy pulled a prank at his home last November has been sentenced to jail. 70 year old Robert William Lupo was ordered to serve 30 days in the county jail, with credit for two days already served. Livingston County Circuit Judge Michael Hatty also ordered Lupo to serve two years probation and to forfeit ownership of the gun used in the incident. Lupo was found guilty in June on a single count of careless discharge of a firearm causing injury. Police say Lupo used a .40 caliber semiautomatic handgun to shoot the 15 year old after he and three friends attempted to ring his doorbell on November 20th. The teen, a student at South Lyon High School, was shot in the lower back but has since recovered. Lupo said he feared for his safety and fired a warning shot at the ground to scare the teens as he and his wife were victims of several burglary attempts when they lived in Detroit. Prosecutors argued that the boys were merely pulling a prank and that Lupo acted carelessly when he fired the gun. Green Oak Township police officers also testified that the bullet ricocheted off of Lupo’s asphalt driveway before hitting the teen. (JK) Green Oak Approves New Noise Ordinance
8/19/10 - Three years after a judge ruled Green Oak Township’s noise ordinance as “unconstitutionally vague”, township officials have approved an updated version they hope will hope pass muster in future legal proceedings. The township’s Board of Trustees last night officially adopted the new noise ordinance, which is very technically specific, regulating not just how much noise residents can make but even what sort of equipment must be used to test it and how much training the tester must have to enforce the ordinance. The old ordinance came under fire after the township tried to enforce it in regards to the shooting range at the Island Lake Recreation Area. After spending more than $150,000 in legal and other fees, the township lost that battle when former Circuit Court Judge Stanley Latreille ruled in favor of the privately-owned gun range, which will still remain outside the jurisdiction of the new ordinance. Meanwhile, Supervisor Mark St. Charles has said that several members of the township government, himself included, will be trained to operate the noise-testing equipment for enforcement purposes. The new rules take effect immediately. (JK) Brighton Woman Faces Trial For $2 Million Embezzlement
8/19/10 - A Livingston County woman has been bound over for trial on embezzlement charges that could land her in prison for up to 20 years. 59-year-old Bonnie Deppert was ordered this week to stand trial in Wayne County Circuit Court after being charged with embezzling $2 million from a Livonia parts manufacturer. Prosecutors said she siphoned money from the company over a six-year period. Deppert worked for 19 years as an office manager for Delta Research, an aerospace and automotive supplier. Company President Bob Sakuta earlier said that the employees all felt betrayed by Deppert’s theft, especially because they had all been sacrificing pay for the past two years in order to help the firm through tough economic times. He said it’s unclear where the money went. Records show Deppert and her husband own a $190,000 condominium in Brighton and a $400,000 home in Naples, Florida. (JK) Over 1,000 Take Part In United Way's 9th Annual "Day Of Caring"
8/19/10 - The Livingston County United Way’s 9th annual “Day of Caring” was a success Wednesday according to organizers and volunteers. The event is a one day blitz in which hundreds of volunteers work to improve the lives of others by donating their time and help with various projects. 1st Impression Printing and Graphics was running two shifts yesterday. Co-Owner Sandy Cortez says they were joined by the Howell Rotary and a total of 25 volunteers pitched in to do work at a home on Coon Lake Road in Marion Township but they also did some re-modeling work at the Putnam Township Senior Center. She says it’s important to give back to the community and it’s awesome to be able to do it with all of their employees because it makes it fun, adding that it’s a neat experience to know that hundreds are also out working across the county. Resident Patti Elias was on the receiving end of the work as volunteers helped wash walls at her home, trimmed trees, caulked windows and fixed screens along with other yard work. Elias told WHMI that grateful was an understatement and saying thank-you just doesn’t seem to be enough, adding that she wished there were more people like these volunteers in the world. The United Way is already labeling this year’s “Day of Caring” a success and while final tallies aren’t available yet, officials say more than 1,000 volunteer spots were filled at 80 work sites. United Way Director Nancy Rosso says every year the event gets bigger and despite tough times, this event touches many lives and it’s a really meaningful day that lets the whole community come together. (JM) Putnam Home-Based Business Ordinance Adopted
8/19/10 - After some discussion and one small change, the Putnam Township Board adopted its home-based business ordinance at its regular meeting Wednesday night. The township has been re-drafting its home-based business ordinance amendments since February when their previous amendments were determined by the township attorney to be invalid. The amendments had caused a stir by unintentionally banning several existing home-based businesses. Existing home-based businesses now have the opportunity to register with the township to bypass restrictions that will be placed on new businesses. The only alteration made last night was to extend the deadline for existing businesses to register with the county from November 1st to January 1st. The Board also discussed altering the ordinance to allow for brief drive-by inspections rather than complete annual inspections for businesses that have received no complaints from residents. The board rejected the proposed drive-by inspections after being advised to do so by the township attorney, who pointed out that acknowledgment of conformance was one of the services purchased when a home-based business renewed its license. (TD) Woman Charged In Larceny Case Can't Leave State For College
8/19/10 - A Brighton woman charged with forging the name of her lover's wife and stealing $20,000 worth of jewelry from a safe-deposit box has been barred from leaving the state to attend college. The exam for 24-year-old Maria Anne Parker was recently adjourned until September 1st. However, a motion made by her attorney asking that she be allowed to leave the state to attend college at the University of Minnesota was denied for the time being. Parker was arrested last May following an investigation by the Michigan State Police. Michigan State Police at the Brighton Post earlier told WHMI that Parker forged the woman’s name to gain access to a safe-deposit box at a local bank on March 31st, where she then took possession of the jewelry. Parker is charged with identity theft and larceny in a building. Authorities say Parker worked in the same office as her lover and his wife. The wife claims she was fired by the husband after she discovered the affair. (JM) Health Dept. To Hold Vaccine Clinic For New School Immunizations
8/19/10 - Local parents will have another opportunity to get their 6th grade students immunized at a low cost, in an effort to make sure all students meet new school vaccine requirements. This year, all 6th graders will have to show proof of having had two doses of the varicella vaccine, or proof of having had the chicken pox, as well as one dose of the meningococcal vaccine and one dose of the T-dap vaccine if it's been at least 5 years since the previous shot. Health officials say these are some of the biggest changes to school immunization requirements in recent years. The Livingston County Department of Public Health will be offering another special immunization clinic on Thursday August 26th from 12-7pm. Thanks to federal funding, the health department is able to offer the vaccines at a reduced cost, but appointments are required. To schedule an appointment, call the Livingston County Department of Public Health at 517-546-9850. (MS) Wednesday, August 18
Genoa Township Residents To Pay Higher Fees for SELCRA
8/18/10 - Starting today, Genoa Township residents who participate in recreational activities through the Southeastern Livingston County Recreation Authority, or SELCRA, are going to have to reach deeper into their wallets. SELCRA has just announced that effective immediately, Genoa Township residents will have to pay the “out of district” enrollment rates. In a news release SELCRA Director Derek Smith says that Genoa Township will no longer be a contributing sponsor of SELCRA for the 2010-11 fiscal year. However, Genoa Township Supervisor Gary McCririe says that’s not the whole story. He tells WHMI that the situation is a result of Genoa Township, along with the other municipalities that make up the Howell Parks and Recreation Authority asking SELCRA to discuss consolidating and streamlining services. He says SELCRA has so far refused to have those talks, so the township is withholding its contribution until that happens. Until the dispute is resolved, Genoa Township residents will have to pay the out of district rates, which on average are about $20 more. SELCRA Director Derek Smith disputes the notion that they have refused to meet with Howell recreation officials about consolidation. He says that there are similar goals for both sides, but a difference of opinion on how best to get there. He hopes it will be resolved quickly. (MS/JK) Volunteers Fan Out Across County For "Day Of Caring"
8/18/10 - More than a thousand volunteers are fanning out across Livingston County today as they roll up their sleeves and pitch in for the 9th annual Day of Caring. Sponsored by the Livingston County United Way, the event matches up volunteers with various community projects that range from simple yard work to installing wheelchair ramps. Some of the special events that are taking place in conjunction with the Day of Caring include a food drive being put on by the Livingston Essential Transportation Service. L.E.T.S. will have a bus parked outside VG's in Howell until 4:30 this afternoon for residents to "Stuff the Bus" with non-perishable food items. VG's will be hosting a special hot dog and pop sale with proceeds going toward additional items. Another project that will utilize Day of Caring volunteers is the “Backpacks for Kids” donation effort being put on by the Livingston Educational Service Agency. Two shifts of workers will be stuffing backpacks with donated supplies in preparation for tomorrow’s distribution, although LESA officials say they are still in need of backpacks, which can be dropped off today and tomorrow during normal business hours. Last year, 910 volunteer shifts were worked on 68 projects which translated to 3,640 total volunteer hours provided. United Way officials say they will definitely top that this year. (JK) Residents & City Of Howell Still Hashing Out Street Issues
8/18/10 - Around 30 residents and community members attended a committee meeting in the City of Howell Tuesday night focusing on issues with the street improvement program. There is reduced parking and narrow streets in areas and some residents lost parking altogether in front of their homes. Swales designed to reduce flooding are another big item. Residents say they didn’t ask for a complete overhaul and just wanted the streets resurfaced. They also have concerns about event parking and what will happen when winter comes and the city needs to plow since neighbors will be fighting over the few spots available just so they can get to their homes. Issues are mostly in the Piety Hill region but also in the Grand River, Prospect and Byron Roads triangle area. There are also concerns about future work in the southwest portion of the city. A committee of city officials and council members has been meeting with residents to talk over the issues, determine potential alternatives and potentially incorporate them into any future construction. However, some residents said they just keep re-hashing the issues and no progress is being made. Councilman Steve Manor tells WHMI that there is no easy fix and the city is working very hard to identify potential fixes and cost estimates to find a resolution to the issues of parking and swales but adds that it still must address storm water run-off problems and a limited budget. Some items discussed have been additional paving, bump-out parking and dome drain covers instead of the current beehive ones on the swales. (JM) Mike Cunningham Named Supervisor of Tyrone Township
8/18/10 - The search for the next Tyrone Township Supervisor came to an end Tuesday night when Mike Cunningham was appointed to the position by the Township Board of Trustees. Tyrone has been in need of a new permanent supervisor since the passing of Andrew Schmidt in May. The Board interviews Cunningham and two other finalists, Chuck Thompson and Larry Sefa, at its regular meeting last night. Board members described all three candidates as highly qualified, and the first motion to appoint Cunningham failed because board members were still split on the decision. The second motion to appoint Cunningham was approved, and he was sworn in following the meeting. The Tyrone Township Board has had a high turnover rate for officials, and members of the Board said one of Cunningham’s most appealing qualities was his desire to serve the township as long as possible. The Board will have to fill another position next month due to the resignation of Trustee Sue Anderson. Interim Supervisor Brian Miles said farewell to the board during the meeting. Miles stepped down from the board for personal reasons, but says he’d like to serve on township committees. He says he will not run for the trustee position left by Anderson. (TD) Monday, August 2
Rogers Says Afghan Intel Release Worthy Of Capital Punishment
8/2/10 - Following news that an Army private was accused with leaking thousands of pages of intelligence documents related to the war in Afghanistan, Congressman Mike Rogers says he supports execution for the soldier involved if he is ultimately found guilty. The Brighton Republican sits on the House Intelligence Committee and told WHMI that Private Bradley Manning appears to be guilty of treason in time of war, which is a capital crime. He also criticized what he called a “culture of disclosure” for encouraging someone like Manning into thinking that the release of such sensitive information was a good thing. Rogers says that in contrast, he thinks it has surely condemned to death many Afghans who assisted the United States. Manning is currently being held in solitary confinement in Virginia where he may face a court martial or federal prosecution as the investigation continues. You can hear the full interview with Rogers by Clicking Here. (JK)
Copyright © 2010 The Livingston Radio Company, Inc. All rights reserved.
Web Development by Network Services Group, LLC.