Independence Township has a new deputy supervisor. The Supervisor Dave Wagner first said he had an administrative assistant but he has sworn the employee in as his deputy supervisor. Adding personnel to township government at this time, seems inappropriate.
The clerk is allowed to have a deputy clerk and the treasurer is allowed to have a deputy treasurer and that was one of the reasons given by the supervisor to hire a deputy. Another reason was that the supervisor has had health problems and vacation time and has not been at work. Elected officials do not have to follow a work calendar, they could work part time if they choose. There is no statute that says elected officials have to work 40 hours a week. But you expect a person running for office to be prepared to fill the duties of the office without hiring someone to work for them.
The board voted to limit the hours and wages to $15,000 which seems like an agreement to the hiring of this new person.
The new deputy supervisor has budget experience which seems to be a weakness of the Independence Township personnel. It appears that if the elected officials had the skill set to be a supervisor, he should be able to create a budget. Families create budgets, businesses create budget, and governmental entities need to be able to create a budget. Maybe the supervisor doesn't have the skill set for the supervisor's position. What do you think?
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
As the police blotter writer for Independence, Springfield townships and the City of the Village of Clarkston for the Oakland Press, I am able to talk with law enforcement personnel.They have been telling me for months that Independence and Springfield townships and the village of Clarkston are ripe for break ins and robberies because we are located between two major depressed areas with little left to steal. While some crime is caused by outsiders, plenty of the petty crime appears to be the result of our neighbors.
The smashed windows at Depot Park on July 22, the theft of credit cards from an area store and the daily break ins and larceny from vehicles in the townships should alert residents, that we need to take purses and laptops out of the vehicle and inside the home, make sure things are secured around our homes and vehicles and be alert that we do not live so far out in the country that no one is looking for items of value to take.
A renewal of the police millage for Independence Township is on the ballot on Tuesday. Without the renewal, the township would not have a police force. It would seem to be a no brainer, that residents need to vote affirmative for the renewal.
There is also an increase on the ballot. Information states that without the increase, there will be a loss of deputies to man the Independence Township Oakland County Sheriff's substation. I think it would behove the Oakland County Sheriff's office to tell us where the deputies are being utilized, the needs that deputies are seeing in 2010 and the residents need to make an informed decision on the increase in the police millage.
Independence Township has added low income housing in the apartments in the Sashabaw Corridor, arge mobile home parks in the southeast section of the township which provide affordable living for residents. But the denser population, also causes problems.
As a police blotter writer, I see parents in all areas of the township calling on the police to help negotiate family difficulties and help when identity theft and fraud have taken place because of the Internet. Ten years ago, Internet fraud, threatening Facebook entries and the lack of being able to problem solve family issues were not police issues.
But when you feel you need a law enforcement officer because you don't have anywhere else to turn, they are there.
We may see a couple of them having lunch or even a doughnut, but we don't see them when they come to a suicide, a hospice death, pull over a drunk driver or assist someone with a drug overdose, break up a fight at a bar, take a report on a break in or a larceny from a vehicle, pull us out of our vehicle after an automobile accident or shoot a deer we have just hit with our car. Most of the time, deputies and police officers see citizens at our worse or most vulnerable times. But they respond and we are fortunate that our deputies are well trained and professional in their approach.
Think about your votes on the millage and the increase millage and be informed.
If you are a City of the Village of Clarkston resident, the decision is do we vote yes and keep the Clarkston police or do we vote no and contract with the Oakland County Sheriff's Department. Many residents will talk about response time and village identity when making those decisions. Each resident will have to weigh the facts and make their own decision. Unfortunately, increasing the millage to the 20 mills will max out allowed millage to be collected by the city for any future needs.
The village is not immune from crime though it is more compact in size than the township. Crime is everywhere in today's economy. People who commit crimes do not walk around looking like criminals so each citizen needs to be alert and be watchful of what is happening around them.
Criminal activity can be reduced when citizens report suspicious happenings to the law enforcement officers in a timely manner. Citizens do not replace law enforcement officers but we can help law enforcement by being alert and securing our own property and items.
The smashed windows at Depot Park on July 22, the theft of credit cards from an area store and the daily break ins and larceny from vehicles in the townships should alert residents, that we need to take purses and laptops out of the vehicle and inside the home, make sure things are secured around our homes and vehicles and be alert that we do not live so far out in the country that no one is looking for items of value to take.
A renewal of the police millage for Independence Township is on the ballot on Tuesday. Without the renewal, the township would not have a police force. It would seem to be a no brainer, that residents need to vote affirmative for the renewal.
There is also an increase on the ballot. Information states that without the increase, there will be a loss of deputies to man the Independence Township Oakland County Sheriff's substation. I think it would behove the Oakland County Sheriff's office to tell us where the deputies are being utilized, the needs that deputies are seeing in 2010 and the residents need to make an informed decision on the increase in the police millage.
Independence Township has added low income housing in the apartments in the Sashabaw Corridor, arge mobile home parks in the southeast section of the township which provide affordable living for residents. But the denser population, also causes problems.
As a police blotter writer, I see parents in all areas of the township calling on the police to help negotiate family difficulties and help when identity theft and fraud have taken place because of the Internet. Ten years ago, Internet fraud, threatening Facebook entries and the lack of being able to problem solve family issues were not police issues.
But when you feel you need a law enforcement officer because you don't have anywhere else to turn, they are there.
We may see a couple of them having lunch or even a doughnut, but we don't see them when they come to a suicide, a hospice death, pull over a drunk driver or assist someone with a drug overdose, break up a fight at a bar, take a report on a break in or a larceny from a vehicle, pull us out of our vehicle after an automobile accident or shoot a deer we have just hit with our car. Most of the time, deputies and police officers see citizens at our worse or most vulnerable times. But they respond and we are fortunate that our deputies are well trained and professional in their approach.
Think about your votes on the millage and the increase millage and be informed.
If you are a City of the Village of Clarkston resident, the decision is do we vote yes and keep the Clarkston police or do we vote no and contract with the Oakland County Sheriff's Department. Many residents will talk about response time and village identity when making those decisions. Each resident will have to weigh the facts and make their own decision. Unfortunately, increasing the millage to the 20 mills will max out allowed millage to be collected by the city for any future needs.
The village is not immune from crime though it is more compact in size than the township. Crime is everywhere in today's economy. People who commit crimes do not walk around looking like criminals so each citizen needs to be alert and be watchful of what is happening around them.
Criminal activity can be reduced when citizens report suspicious happenings to the law enforcement officers in a timely manner. Citizens do not replace law enforcement officers but we can help law enforcement by being alert and securing our own property and items.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Around the township and village, political signs are showing up on resident's lawns. Citizens will see Vote for Rick or Hoekstra, vote for Oakland County Sheriff's deputies, Renew the Library millage or pick one of several candidates for state senator and state representative to represent Independence and Clarkston residents.
The citizens that wins the state senator race will win a four year term and receive $79,650 salary. How do citizens become knowledgeable about the candidates for this office? One way to listen to the candidates is by going to http://rhtv.pegcentral.com/player.php?video=6fff87dbe799d58fa01840e4ae62f0cf and view the League of Women Voters candidates forum held in June. Both Democratic and Republican candidates spoke at the June event.
One of the big challenges for the state and our legislators is the constitutional convention which comes up every ten years. Should the state open the consitution? Big question for our representatives.
We all need to be informed voters. Take some time and open the link and get a sense
The citizens that wins the state senator race will win a four year term and receive $79,650 salary. How do citizens become knowledgeable about the candidates for this office? One way to listen to the candidates is by going to http://rhtv.pegcentral.com/player.php?video=6fff87dbe799d58fa01840e4ae62f0cf and view the League of Women Voters candidates forum held in June. Both Democratic and Republican candidates spoke at the June event.
One of the big challenges for the state and our legislators is the constitutional convention which comes up every ten years. Should the state open the consitution? Big question for our representatives.
We all need to be informed voters. Take some time and open the link and get a sense
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Clarkston Cares for Military Families website
Amazing things happen in Clarkston and Independence Township. A group of citizens concerned about the military families living in the community have banded together to provide support.
Clarkston Cares was founded by Dr. Tom Stone, who was concerned about the effects of Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome on veterans returning from the Gulf and Iraq Wars.
Currently, Clarkston Cares has evolved as a community mechanism to help the veteran and their families during their loved one's deployment.
The website for Clarkston Cares follows http://clarkstoncares.org/index.htm.
In today's military, there are two different kind of soldiers, the regular military family that is a full time soldier and his or her family with access to military support at a local base, such as Selfridge Air Base.
Many of today's soldiers come from the state's National Guard. National Guard soldiers and their families do not enjoy the support given regular military personnel.
Schools in communities like Clarkston have a few students in classes whose parents are deployed versus schools on large military bases where a large number of students understand in their own way, the work their parents do. A son or daughter of a deployed Naitoanl Guard soldier may be the only child in their classroom with a parent in the military.
Health care and counseling is not as easily available to National Guard personnel as the regular military men and women. Recently, in Fort Lewis near Tacoma Washington, Congressman Kurt Shrader found that the WarriorTransition unit created to support soldiers returning with health issues treated National Guard soldiers differently than regular Army soldiers.
Back to the Community Cares organization in Independence Township and Clarkston, community members are available to help with referrals to tradesmens, service providers and professionals. Links are made to doctors, tutors, and counselors for military families. Mentors and service organizatios are available to support the soldier and military families.
Clarkston resident Stone, said about 24 residents have met over the last year to create the support network and be available for the military men and women as well as their families.
One of the members is Navy Captain Bart Clark, retired, who created the website for families to peruse to find the appropriate support.
Community ingenuity and concerned citizens can do amazing things.
Clarkston Cares was founded by Dr. Tom Stone, who was concerned about the effects of Post Traumatic Stress Syndrome on veterans returning from the Gulf and Iraq Wars.
Currently, Clarkston Cares has evolved as a community mechanism to help the veteran and their families during their loved one's deployment.
The website for Clarkston Cares follows http://clarkstoncares.org/index.htm.
In today's military, there are two different kind of soldiers, the regular military family that is a full time soldier and his or her family with access to military support at a local base, such as Selfridge Air Base.
Many of today's soldiers come from the state's National Guard. National Guard soldiers and their families do not enjoy the support given regular military personnel.
Schools in communities like Clarkston have a few students in classes whose parents are deployed versus schools on large military bases where a large number of students understand in their own way, the work their parents do. A son or daughter of a deployed Naitoanl Guard soldier may be the only child in their classroom with a parent in the military.
Health care and counseling is not as easily available to National Guard personnel as the regular military men and women. Recently, in Fort Lewis near Tacoma Washington, Congressman Kurt Shrader found that the WarriorTransition unit created to support soldiers returning with health issues treated National Guard soldiers differently than regular Army soldiers.
Back to the Community Cares organization in Independence Township and Clarkston, community members are available to help with referrals to tradesmens, service providers and professionals. Links are made to doctors, tutors, and counselors for military families. Mentors and service organizatios are available to support the soldier and military families.
Clarkston resident Stone, said about 24 residents have met over the last year to create the support network and be available for the military men and women as well as their families.
One of the members is Navy Captain Bart Clark, retired, who created the website for families to peruse to find the appropriate support.
Community ingenuity and concerned citizens can do amazing things.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Grocery Store Survey
Over 2,000 people had opinions on which grocery store they would like to have in the White Lake Commons shopping center at the corner of Dixie Highway and White Lake Road, according to Penny Shanks, Executive Director of the Clarkston Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber of Commerce had an online survey for residents to answer questions about a grocery store to replace Farmer Jacks. Shanks told the Independence Township Board of Trustees, at their June 1st meeting. Whole Foods was the most popular choice for a new store of residents answering the online survey gaining almost 42 percent of the votes. Trader Joe's, Nino Salvaggio's, and Papa Joe's food stores each received approximately 22 percent of the votes followed by VGs at 15 percent and HIllers at 12 percent.
The shopping center has been without a grocery store since 2007 when Farmer Jack's closed their southeast Michigan stores.
Residents said it was very important to have another grocery store in Clarkston and gave reasons such as competition, increased selection and quality, convenience, healthier choices and more organic foods, not having to drive so far for increased selections and the need for more vegetarian, gluten-free and whole food options.
The questionnaire asked about having a gas station as part of the grocery store and almost 50 percent of the respondents said it was not important.
The Chamber made a presentation to VGs which is part of the Spartan stores in Grand Rapids with the information.
Shanks told the board, that the grocery stores need better demographics about the Clarkston area. They want to know where people work, how far do they travel to work, and education levels. "Whole Foods doesn't see Clarkston as having the right demographics," according to Shanks. She told the board that the headquarters personnel of the grocery stores read the headlines and see southeast Michigan on the downturn by out of state companies.
Shanks shared that Clarkston is viewed as a town with many Chrysler employees. According to Shanks, prior to 2009, Chrysler had 12,000 employees working at the headquarters building, in November 2009 that number had shrunk to 6,000 and two weeks ago the number was back to 10,000 employees in the building. Southeast Michigan may be doing better than the national headlines according to Shanks.
Keep tuned to Inside Independence and share your thoughts about the needs for businesses in Clarkston at Inside Independence.
The shopping center has been without a grocery store since 2007 when Farmer Jack's closed their southeast Michigan stores.
Residents said it was very important to have another grocery store in Clarkston and gave reasons such as competition, increased selection and quality, convenience, healthier choices and more organic foods, not having to drive so far for increased selections and the need for more vegetarian, gluten-free and whole food options.
The questionnaire asked about having a gas station as part of the grocery store and almost 50 percent of the respondents said it was not important.
The Chamber made a presentation to VGs which is part of the Spartan stores in Grand Rapids with the information.
Shanks told the board, that the grocery stores need better demographics about the Clarkston area. They want to know where people work, how far do they travel to work, and education levels. "Whole Foods doesn't see Clarkston as having the right demographics," according to Shanks. She told the board that the headquarters personnel of the grocery stores read the headlines and see southeast Michigan on the downturn by out of state companies.
Shanks shared that Clarkston is viewed as a town with many Chrysler employees. According to Shanks, prior to 2009, Chrysler had 12,000 employees working at the headquarters building, in November 2009 that number had shrunk to 6,000 and two weeks ago the number was back to 10,000 employees in the building. Southeast Michigan may be doing better than the national headlines according to Shanks.
Keep tuned to Inside Independence and share your thoughts about the needs for businesses in Clarkston at Inside Independence.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Kudos for Memorial Day Program
A heap of thanks to Campbell Richmond Post 63 and the Clarkston High School marching band for a remarkable Memorial Day program at Lakeview Cemetery in Clarkston. While I have not been a regular attender to this parade and program, it was a moving experience. Several hundred people came out to hear the names of 800 veterans buried at the cemetery read by Post 63, as well as the Star Spangled Banner and Taps played by the high school band.
The parade to the cemetery included the American Legion drum and bugle corp leading a couple of restored WWII vehicles with veterans followed by the high school marching band with citizens folowing behind marching to Lakeview Cemetery, located on a rise between Deer Lake and Middle Lake, sometimes called Cemetery Lake. It was an especially pretty day and standing on the knoll between the two lakes, the cemetery was a very restful spot. In the crowd were grandparents, parents, and grandchildren as well as others paying their respects. Some people rode their bikes while others walked the 1/2 mile from town.
The Clarkston community opened Lakeview cemetery in 1850 and there is still space for burials today.
Unlike other Clarkston parades on the 4th of July or Labor Day, there was a smaller crowd of probably 500 or so in attendance. But this was not a parade to entertain, this was a program to remember.
All those standing or sitting under the pine and hardwood trees learned about the significance of Memorial Day from the history of the day shared by Barney Schoenfeld, Post 63 Commander to the reading of the Gettysburg Address by retired Calvary Lutheran minister Dr. Robert Walters with a little history of the battle in which 51,000 American men lost their lives.
Some of the older crowd remember the name of Decoration Day being associated with the what is called Memorial Day. Decoration Day was declared after the Civil War in 1868 and the day was renamed Memorial Day in 1971 under President Lyndon Johnson.
Two Warthog planes flew over the cemetery during the program which ended with a wreath laying and rifle volley followed by taps.
As many of the crowd listened to the 800 names being read of the veterans buried in the cemetery, there were names we were familiar with, family members, friends and other relatives who served their country in wars dating back to possible veterans of the Mexican American War, Civil War, Spanish American War, WWI and WWI, Korean War, Vietnam War, the First Gulf War, Iraq War and the Afghanistan War. It was mentioned that many veterans from the community were being buried at the National Cemetery in Holly as well as soldiers who lost their lives and were buried in the American cemeteries in Europe or Arlington Naitonal Cemetery.
A fitting rembrerance for veterans and the country was given by the community of Clarkston. If you haven't attended before, put it on the agenda for next Memorial Day.
The parade to the cemetery included the American Legion drum and bugle corp leading a couple of restored WWII vehicles with veterans followed by the high school marching band with citizens folowing behind marching to Lakeview Cemetery, located on a rise between Deer Lake and Middle Lake, sometimes called Cemetery Lake. It was an especially pretty day and standing on the knoll between the two lakes, the cemetery was a very restful spot. In the crowd were grandparents, parents, and grandchildren as well as others paying their respects. Some people rode their bikes while others walked the 1/2 mile from town.
The Clarkston community opened Lakeview cemetery in 1850 and there is still space for burials today.
Unlike other Clarkston parades on the 4th of July or Labor Day, there was a smaller crowd of probably 500 or so in attendance. But this was not a parade to entertain, this was a program to remember.
All those standing or sitting under the pine and hardwood trees learned about the significance of Memorial Day from the history of the day shared by Barney Schoenfeld, Post 63 Commander to the reading of the Gettysburg Address by retired Calvary Lutheran minister Dr. Robert Walters with a little history of the battle in which 51,000 American men lost their lives.
Some of the older crowd remember the name of Decoration Day being associated with the what is called Memorial Day. Decoration Day was declared after the Civil War in 1868 and the day was renamed Memorial Day in 1971 under President Lyndon Johnson.
Two Warthog planes flew over the cemetery during the program which ended with a wreath laying and rifle volley followed by taps.
As many of the crowd listened to the 800 names being read of the veterans buried in the cemetery, there were names we were familiar with, family members, friends and other relatives who served their country in wars dating back to possible veterans of the Mexican American War, Civil War, Spanish American War, WWI and WWI, Korean War, Vietnam War, the First Gulf War, Iraq War and the Afghanistan War. It was mentioned that many veterans from the community were being buried at the National Cemetery in Holly as well as soldiers who lost their lives and were buried in the American cemeteries in Europe or Arlington Naitonal Cemetery.
A fitting rembrerance for veterans and the country was given by the community of Clarkston. If you haven't attended before, put it on the agenda for next Memorial Day.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Dr. Roberts Retires
A run of 16 years with Clarkston Schools, is a quite a feat for Superintendent Al Roberts. Roberts announced his retirement on Monday to staff and board members. In the world where superintendents may come and go, Roberts is only the fifth superintendent heading the Clarkston Community Schools system, which has existed for more than 60 years. During his tenure, Roberts has overseen the largest building expansion in the district's history, with the construction of a new high school and two new elementary schools, expansion of the middle school almost doubling the building's size and remodeling each of the other buildings.
But Roberts says, the kids are where its at. Roberts started as a sixth grade teacher, becoming a principal by the time he was 30, having his school obtain a National Blue Ribbon award, then moving from New Jersey to Ohio and becoming superintendent of a district near Shaker Heights, and then moving on to Michigan and Clarkston.
The school board has yet to meet and decide if they are willing to let Roberts go in July,let him use the district exemption for another year of employment with the district or keep him for 85 days at one third of his salary, which would follow the new teacher retirement law.
Roberts downplays the building project and wants to talk about the programs that prepare kids for jobs not yet invented. Like any good educator, Roberts talks about kids and how to prepare them for the future. Roberts says, kids need good skill sets to help them gain employment and to become productive citizens. Skills such as problem solving, project based learning,information and technology skills, working in teams, and globalization are all things today's kids need and deserve.
Roberts says public education has been beaten down in current political climate, but he believes it is still the cradle of democracy. Without public education, Roberts thinks we would have a society of haves and have nots.
Roberts notes he is really proud of the Clarkston Science Mathematics and Technology classes, International Baccalaureate program, Destination Imagination teams, and Fast Forward software that have been instituted in the last few years for Clarkston students.
"More time to spend with my granddaughter is on the agenda," said Roberts. But he also says he still has the enthusiasm and excitement to work or volunteer in the education field in the future.
Good luck as you transition to new adventures, Dr. Roberts!
But Roberts says, the kids are where its at. Roberts started as a sixth grade teacher, becoming a principal by the time he was 30, having his school obtain a National Blue Ribbon award, then moving from New Jersey to Ohio and becoming superintendent of a district near Shaker Heights, and then moving on to Michigan and Clarkston.
The school board has yet to meet and decide if they are willing to let Roberts go in July,let him use the district exemption for another year of employment with the district or keep him for 85 days at one third of his salary, which would follow the new teacher retirement law.
Roberts downplays the building project and wants to talk about the programs that prepare kids for jobs not yet invented. Like any good educator, Roberts talks about kids and how to prepare them for the future. Roberts says, kids need good skill sets to help them gain employment and to become productive citizens. Skills such as problem solving, project based learning,information and technology skills, working in teams, and globalization are all things today's kids need and deserve.
Roberts says public education has been beaten down in current political climate, but he believes it is still the cradle of democracy. Without public education, Roberts thinks we would have a society of haves and have nots.
Roberts notes he is really proud of the Clarkston Science Mathematics and Technology classes, International Baccalaureate program, Destination Imagination teams, and Fast Forward software that have been instituted in the last few years for Clarkston students.
"More time to spend with my granddaughter is on the agenda," said Roberts. But he also says he still has the enthusiasm and excitement to work or volunteer in the education field in the future.
Good luck as you transition to new adventures, Dr. Roberts!
Monday, May 24, 2010
WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA MEMORIAL DAY 2010
Longtime Clarkston resident and Sashabaw Plains Daughters of the American Revolution member Charlotte Cooper is looking for veterans to thank this Memorial Day.
Charlotte has 100 business cards from Wreaths Across America with a picture on the front of the Arlington project (wreaths placed on graves at Arlington National Cemetery at holiday time) and the following message on the back
WE want to
THANK YOU
For your service and sacrifice,
We promise to REMEMBER the fallen,
HONOR those that serve and their families and
TEACH our children the value of freedom.
Thank you from Wreaths Across American and YOU SIGN YOUR NAME.
Wreaths Across American is trying to touch a half million veterans this Memorial Day with these cards. The cards are free, with $5.00 shipping from Wreaths Across America.org
Think about the surprise of a veteran when given a thank you card by a neighbor, resident, or total stranger this Memorial Day.
As of May 2009, Wikipedia says there are 1,445,000 active duty military personnel with a force of 850,000 men and women in the military reserve.
It would be interesting to note how many of these active duty personnel are men and women from Clarkston and Independence Township, who are serving in today's military.
There are only about 10% of our population that have served and are veterans. Serving in the military is an honorable endeavor in many families. In WW II, most everyone was touched by the military but not as much in the world of today.
As you reflect on Memorial Day, maybe you'll look at desertangel.org and pick up a few items to take to the Clarkston Congregational Church for the Miracle boxes they send to the troops. And remember our neighbor from Brandon Township, Joseph Miracle, who died July 5, 2008 from wounds sustained in the Watapor Valley of Kunar Province, Afghanistan. That's what Memorial Day is all about.
Tell me your stories and consider thanking a veteran this Memorial Day
Charlotte has 100 business cards from Wreaths Across America with a picture on the front of the Arlington project (wreaths placed on graves at Arlington National Cemetery at holiday time) and the following message on the back
WE want to
THANK YOU
For your service and sacrifice,
We promise to REMEMBER the fallen,
HONOR those that serve and their families and
TEACH our children the value of freedom.
Thank you from Wreaths Across American and YOU SIGN YOUR NAME.
Wreaths Across American is trying to touch a half million veterans this Memorial Day with these cards. The cards are free, with $5.00 shipping from Wreaths Across America.org
Think about the surprise of a veteran when given a thank you card by a neighbor, resident, or total stranger this Memorial Day.
As of May 2009, Wikipedia says there are 1,445,000 active duty military personnel with a force of 850,000 men and women in the military reserve.
It would be interesting to note how many of these active duty personnel are men and women from Clarkston and Independence Township, who are serving in today's military.
There are only about 10% of our population that have served and are veterans. Serving in the military is an honorable endeavor in many families. In WW II, most everyone was touched by the military but not as much in the world of today.
As you reflect on Memorial Day, maybe you'll look at desertangel.org and pick up a few items to take to the Clarkston Congregational Church for the Miracle boxes they send to the troops. And remember our neighbor from Brandon Township, Joseph Miracle, who died July 5, 2008 from wounds sustained in the Watapor Valley of Kunar Province, Afghanistan. That's what Memorial Day is all about.
Tell me your stories and consider thanking a veteran this Memorial Day
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Community Awards Breakfast
The Community Award winners announced this morning were amazing. Sometimes we watch television shows that show a community in action, but we live in ust such a community with giving individuals. While only seven deserving folks were honored today, I believe there are many many more of our neighbors who work to make the community a great place to live.
One of our neighbors spends her extra money to support the students in need at North Sashabaw Elementary. That new lunch box or new school supplies, a North Sashabaw student comes to school comes from our neighbor who feels blessed and wants to pay it forward.
A high school student who raised three puppies for Paws with a Cause is heading to college next year to major in pre-med.
The Citizen of the Year has opened her farm to provide horseback riding for 120 kids with special needs 52 weeks a year.
The Business Person of the Year, is a relatively new resident of the community but he dived right in. He helped raise $15,000 for SCAMPERSHIPS for childrens with special needs, while bringing in a couple of thousand visitors to the dine and shop in area businesses.
We have a one of a kind garden that was honored under community beautification. Today's audience heard that Clarkston has the largest Healing and Renewal garden in the United States covering five acres. Have you been for a visit?
When money is not available, the Clarkston/Independence community collaborates to create programs for families. Did you attend the cyber safety seminar or the anti bullying program or learn about educational funding in the state.
If you are an 80 year old widow living in our community, who do you ask if you need help with renovation or cleanup around your home. Well Clarkston has a group that goes to work the last weekend of April and doesn't leave until the job is done.
The winners of 2010 Annual Clarkston Community Awards Breakfast were:
Community Beautification/Preservation - McLaren Garden of Healing and Renewal Garden on the McClaren Health Campus on Sashabaw Road.
Community Collaboration - Clarkston Parent Teacher Association District Council, Elizabeth Egan President
Community Enhancement - Christmas in Action Clarkston, Diane Midgley President
Adult-Youth Volunteer - Carla Bell
Business Person of the Year - Kevin Harrison, KH Homes
Youth of the Year - Amanda Martin
Citizen of the Year - Nancy Heussner, Executive Director of O.A.T.S.
Great job! Clarkston Community Church for hosting a community event.
One of our neighbors spends her extra money to support the students in need at North Sashabaw Elementary. That new lunch box or new school supplies, a North Sashabaw student comes to school comes from our neighbor who feels blessed and wants to pay it forward.
A high school student who raised three puppies for Paws with a Cause is heading to college next year to major in pre-med.
The Citizen of the Year has opened her farm to provide horseback riding for 120 kids with special needs 52 weeks a year.
The Business Person of the Year, is a relatively new resident of the community but he dived right in. He helped raise $15,000 for SCAMPERSHIPS for childrens with special needs, while bringing in a couple of thousand visitors to the dine and shop in area businesses.
We have a one of a kind garden that was honored under community beautification. Today's audience heard that Clarkston has the largest Healing and Renewal garden in the United States covering five acres. Have you been for a visit?
When money is not available, the Clarkston/Independence community collaborates to create programs for families. Did you attend the cyber safety seminar or the anti bullying program or learn about educational funding in the state.
If you are an 80 year old widow living in our community, who do you ask if you need help with renovation or cleanup around your home. Well Clarkston has a group that goes to work the last weekend of April and doesn't leave until the job is done.
The winners of 2010 Annual Clarkston Community Awards Breakfast were:
Community Beautification/Preservation - McLaren Garden of Healing and Renewal Garden on the McClaren Health Campus on Sashabaw Road.
Community Collaboration - Clarkston Parent Teacher Association District Council, Elizabeth Egan President
Community Enhancement - Christmas in Action Clarkston, Diane Midgley President
Adult-Youth Volunteer - Carla Bell
Business Person of the Year - Kevin Harrison, KH Homes
Youth of the Year - Amanda Martin
Citizen of the Year - Nancy Heussner, Executive Director of O.A.T.S.
Great job! Clarkston Community Church for hosting a community event.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Community Awards Breakfast
The 25th Annual Community Awards Breakfast is coming Thursday at 8:30 a.m. at the Clarkston Communtiy Church, Youth Activities Room, 6300 Clarkston Road (on the bend of the road across from the high school). Cost of breakfast is $8.00 according to Linda Mladenoff, CoChair of the event. Mladenoff said the church is happy to host the event for the first time. She is working with representatives from Clarkston State Bank, Clarkston Schools, Independence Township on the award breakfast. The Clarkston Community Team, members of the church, are always looking for ways to impact the communtiy shared Mladenoff.
Tickets can be reserved by calling the Clarkston Communtiy Education office, 248 623 4327.
The categories for the Community Awards Breakfast are Citizen of the Year, Youth of the Year, Adult-Youth Volunteer, Business Person of the Year, Community Beautification/Preservation, Community Enhancement, and Community Collaboration0 Team Effort. I think it is important to recognize the many members of the community that work to make Clarkston and Independence Township a better place to live.
Tickets can be reserved by calling the Clarkston Communtiy Education office, 248 623 4327.
The categories for the Community Awards Breakfast are Citizen of the Year, Youth of the Year, Adult-Youth Volunteer, Business Person of the Year, Community Beautification/Preservation, Community Enhancement, and Community Collaboration0 Team Effort. I think it is important to recognize the many members of the community that work to make Clarkston and Independence Township a better place to live.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Senior Citizens Can Help the Economic Outlook in Independence Township
A new economic sector is emerging in Oakland County, called the Aging Industry. Most people don't think of Oakland County or Independence Township as a retirement destination but within the next five years, more retirees will be living in Oakland County and Independence than children 0 -18 years of age. From an economic standpoint, with each 100 retirees that continue to live in the county or township, $4 million dollars will be spent in the local economy each year and $1.4 million spent on healthcare. According to Oakland County's Preparing for the Silver Tsunami the average income of a household for residents 65+ was $41,201. Seniors spend 92% of their monthly income locally (in the townshiip or close by). In 2008, according to the report, seniors spent approximately $5.7 billion in Oakland County.
A couple of Independence Township officials stated the goal of the township was to create jobs. While I don't agree with this statement, I do think that the township government should consider in their planning, and visioning what services and businesses would be most appealing to retaining senior citizens.
With the McClaren Hospital complex on Sashabaw Road, doctors visits are closer for some residents. Insight into the needs of aging, transportation, housing, active lifestyle programs and nutrition should serve businesses and governmental units in preparing for this changeover of demographics.
A couple of Independence Township officials stated the goal of the township was to create jobs. While I don't agree with this statement, I do think that the township government should consider in their planning, and visioning what services and businesses would be most appealing to retaining senior citizens.
With the McClaren Hospital complex on Sashabaw Road, doctors visits are closer for some residents. Insight into the needs of aging, transportation, housing, active lifestyle programs and nutrition should serve businesses and governmental units in preparing for this changeover of demographics.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
First Congregational Church Clarkston
Clarkston and Independence Township have over 30 churches around the township. Each of the churches brings support to our community. The First Congregational Church located at Clarkston and Pine Knob roads is one of the newer churches, moving from Pontiac in 1990. The Congregation Church is one of the oldest denominations known as the church of the Pilgrims The congregation has become very active in the community. Each Saturday, the church members man the Kids Closet from 9 to 12 and offer clothing and food for children and families. The church is generous to the community providing use of their building for pickleball for the senior citizen center participants five times a week in their gym. (activity similar to tennis). On May 15, the church will host a Desert Angels Sew In to make neck coolers for soldiers serving in Iraq and Afganistan. The church hosts a Cub Scout group and Boy Scout council. Viewing the church's website, you find a Perennial Exchange on May 22 and a martial arts class, Church Ladies Chapter of Red Hat Society, and a Two by Two group for couples and singles. Thanks Congregational Church for sharing your facility with groups and making the Clarkston community stronger through your service to others and God.
More information is available online at firstcongregationalchurch.org
More information is available online at firstcongregationalchurch.org
Monday, May 10, 2010
Independence Township Cemeteries
Visiting Ottawa Park Cemetery on Dixie Highway on Mother's Day was a bit shocking. The City of Pontiac owns Ottawa Park Cemetery and many family members and former residents of Clarkston are buried there. While talking with people who were putting plants and flowers on their loved ones gravesites, the discussion was the upkeep and how the cemetery grounds have gone downhill in the last few years. When trucks and backhoes are driven across the grassy areas, ruts are still visible in the ground from a year ago. People said this wasn't the way it was a couple of years ago. While standing and talking with a long time resident, he pointed out how grave stones were damaged by the equipment and never repaired. While residents say they have called and talked to Pontiac city officials, nothing seems to change.
Cemeteries are expensive for governmental units to maintain. Independence Township owns three cemeteries, Lakeview on White Lake Road, Sashabaw Plains on Maybee Road, and Case Cemetery on Dartmouth Road in the northeast section of the township. Sashabaw Plains and Case cemeteries were taken over because the people who were in charge grew older and were unable to maintain the cemetery. Sometimes younger volunteers are hard to come by.
Our neighboring township Orion has no cemeteries. Interesting how cemetery ownship happens. Sometimes you will find small cemeteries next to older churches in the area. While the congregation may want to move to a larger space, they have made a promise to maintain the gravesites.
Independence Township under the DPW Directdor Linda Richardson seems to be doing an excellent job in maintaining Lakeview Cemetery where I stopped to make another visit to relatives' gravesites on Sunday. The cemetery sign said it was created in 1850. Knowing that community of Clarkston began in 1832, you wonder where people were buried prior to 1850.
Cemeteries are expensive for governmental units to maintain. Independence Township owns three cemeteries, Lakeview on White Lake Road, Sashabaw Plains on Maybee Road, and Case Cemetery on Dartmouth Road in the northeast section of the township. Sashabaw Plains and Case cemeteries were taken over because the people who were in charge grew older and were unable to maintain the cemetery. Sometimes younger volunteers are hard to come by.
Our neighboring township Orion has no cemeteries. Interesting how cemetery ownship happens. Sometimes you will find small cemeteries next to older churches in the area. While the congregation may want to move to a larger space, they have made a promise to maintain the gravesites.
Independence Township under the DPW Directdor Linda Richardson seems to be doing an excellent job in maintaining Lakeview Cemetery where I stopped to make another visit to relatives' gravesites on Sunday. The cemetery sign said it was created in 1850. Knowing that community of Clarkston began in 1832, you wonder where people were buried prior to 1850.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
New Grocery Store
I would love to have a Trader Joe's in Independence Township. We have the space where Farmer Jacks used to be. I believe Independence Township residents would like a specialty grocery store like Hillers or Colasanti's or Whole Foods. Trade Joe's personnel say the company adds 20 to 22 stores a year. Right now, the Rochester Hills store is the closest to Clarkston and Independence Township. The Chamber of Commerce did a survey a couple of months ago on the need and wishes of residents for a new grocery store. Interesting to find out the results. We have Rudy's but the market is limited with limited parking. We don't want to lose one store for another, so we need to have some variety. Let me hear from you on your thoughts about a specialty grocery.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Smoking in Restaurants and Law Enforcement
In talking with a local law enforcement officer about what restaurant and bar owners will do about anyone who continues to smoke in their establishment, he said that barkeepers and restaurant managers may call for the police if they cannot get smokers to quit. Deputies and police officers if called to the establishment, could cite the person for trespassing if they don't get the message about smoking.
Hopefully, this will not be how we use our police officers. But with every good intentioned law, there is an unintentional consequence.
Hopefully, this will not be how we use our police officers. But with every good intentioned law, there is an unintentional consequence.
Thursday, April 29, 2010
Get Out & ROCK & ROLL FOR SCAMP
The weather is warming up, time to get the family together and Walk & Roll for Scamp this Sunday. Walk & Roll offers three courses, one mile, two mile and five mile for the hardiest of folks. Get your pledge sheet from www.clarkstonscamp.org and help a great organization help fund camperships for special needs children and adults this summer. You may have to wear your rubber boots as precipitation is on the weather man's schedule. But the whole family will love the excersise and the tulips in and around Clarkston.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
For a cool Sunday afternoon, mosey over to the Clarkston United Methodist Church to listen to the Classical Bells at 3 p.m. April 25. The bellringers are really world class.
Get all the junk cleaned out and find a spot on the May 1st Heritage Garage Sale from M-15 at Dixie Hwy to downtown Bay City. If you are a collector and not a seller, get the car gased up and head north on M-15 to find those bargains. Times are scheduled as 10-4.
Get all the junk cleaned out and find a spot on the May 1st Heritage Garage Sale from M-15 at Dixie Hwy to downtown Bay City. If you are a collector and not a seller, get the car gased up and head north on M-15 to find those bargains. Times are scheduled as 10-4.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Independence politics seems to be busier than usual this week. After four votes, the Clarkston School board was able to fill the empty board seat left by the resignation of Joseph Armstong. The board voted five to one to seat Elizabeth Egan. Egan, the Clarkston PTA Council President has served the district as a volunteer in many capacities as well as serving as a guest (substitute) teacher in the district. Congratulations to Mrs. Egan and my hope is that she will vote her conscious and be an independent thinker on the board
The Clarkston News, in this week's editorial by Don Rush, calls for the resignation of Dave Wagner as Independence Township supervisor. Rush talks about the failed leadershiop of Wagner over the last two years and calls for a new direction. I concur. Wagner does not keep order during township meetings, is often away from the township offices and the contract Wagner entered into to reduce phone charges in the township, finds the township paying approximately $100,000. over three years to a company to tell us to put all township phones under one provider and negotiate one rate. Hello, what are we paying a supervisor for? Past employee lawsuits appear to part of the reason, an Human Resources director was added to the budget. And there are disturbing questions about how the current township hall was purchased.
The Clarkston News, in this week's editorial by Don Rush, calls for the resignation of Dave Wagner as Independence Township supervisor. Rush talks about the failed leadershiop of Wagner over the last two years and calls for a new direction. I concur. Wagner does not keep order during township meetings, is often away from the township offices and the contract Wagner entered into to reduce phone charges in the township, finds the township paying approximately $100,000. over three years to a company to tell us to put all township phones under one provider and negotiate one rate. Hello, what are we paying a supervisor for? Past employee lawsuits appear to part of the reason, an Human Resources director was added to the budget. And there are disturbing questions about how the current township hall was purchased.
Sunday, April 18, 2010
New Clarkston School Member
Seven citizens applied to be a member of the Clarkston School board and fill the vacated spot of Joseph Armstrong who resigned in March. The new board member if seated at the Monday, April 19 meeting will be voting on10 million reductions to the 2010-2011 school board budget and the superintendent's recommendations for the positions of Deputy Superintendent and Human Resources Director. Thank you to citizens who stepped up to fill the post. The new board member needs to be knowledgeable about the issues and have a strong sense of what is in the best interest of the students and the district. The Board of Education is the ultimate supervisor of all the employees of Clarkston Schools.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Hello neighbors
Welcome to Inside Independence Township.
I am Joette Kunse and I want to share with you the issues and ideas that the residents of Independence Township and the City of the Village of Clarkston — I won't always be so formal; you're my neighbors — that are being discussed in our community.
I will write about the great things that so many fantastic people are doing in and for the community and beyond. I will address the hot-button political issues, and I will find the small stories that will make you smile and be proud that you live here.
We will have a discussion about what's happening. Whether it's the debate of police in Clarkston or the potential recall of the township supervisor, I will examine what's being said and done. I also will tell you about the little things that make the community a great place to live, such as mom-to-mom sales, the important work of volunteers, or stories about the accomplishment of our students.
Please share with me topics and happenings that should be discussed as well as your opinions on what is going on.
This conversation will inform you about what decisions are being made that will impact your households, your wallets and purses and your lives.
I am Joette Kunse and I want to share with you the issues and ideas that the residents of Independence Township and the City of the Village of Clarkston — I won't always be so formal; you're my neighbors — that are being discussed in our community.
I will write about the great things that so many fantastic people are doing in and for the community and beyond. I will address the hot-button political issues, and I will find the small stories that will make you smile and be proud that you live here.
We will have a discussion about what's happening. Whether it's the debate of police in Clarkston or the potential recall of the township supervisor, I will examine what's being said and done. I also will tell you about the little things that make the community a great place to live, such as mom-to-mom sales, the important work of volunteers, or stories about the accomplishment of our students.
Please share with me topics and happenings that should be discussed as well as your opinions on what is going on.
This conversation will inform you about what decisions are being made that will impact your households, your wallets and purses and your lives.
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