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Story by Jeff Milo | Photo courtesy of Friends of the Ferndale Library

THE FRIENDS OF THE FERNDALE LIBRARY are a group of citizens who care about our library and want to contribute to its continuing mission of enriching the community. The Friends, as they’re called for short, help the Ferndale Area District Library provide excellent programming and vital resources to the community; these volunteers hold fundraisers to bolster the library’s circulating materials collection, facilitate large-scale library events, sponsor special library programs, and occasionally purchase wish list items, like harder-to-find books, rare albums or foreign films.

Screen Shot 2015-10-20 at 11.42.52 AM“The Friends is pure Ferndale,” said former member Kevin Deegan-Krause. “It’s a diverse group of community members giving their time and energy for the benefit of the whole city, and, having a great time doing it!”

Deegan- Krause, an associate professor at Wayne State, has since moved on to the Ferndale School Board, but he was an active member of the Friends during the library’s renovation and expansion (2009-2010), and serving as president from 2010-2012.

The Friends group, founded in 1937, is the oldest organization of its kind in the state of Michigan. It was initially estab- lished to create an awareness of library services and needs (the Ferndale Library first opened in November, 1930). The Friends, except for periods during World War II, the late 1990s, has operated continuously to support library services. “It certainly has been one of the most active,” said Deegan-Krause, “and, in my mind, one of the kindest.”

“I am, at heart, a library nerd,” said Kelly Farrah, current Friends President. “Libraries have always been a sanctuary for me. They are a place in our community that is open and free to everyone.”

Farrah first got involved back in 2007, serving as Treasurer for the Ferndale Citizens for a Better Library, who worked to get a millage passed to improve the library. The Friends, said Farrah, were a natural progression after the library was revitalized. “I’m not sure people even realize that libraries have Friends groups.

“One of the most important aspects of (the Friends) is the fundraising. Like libraries everywhere, the struggles in the economy have affected the funds available for the library, so, raising money and awareness of the library’s needs is really important.”

Ed Burns, Reference Librarian and Assistant Director of FADL, served as the Friends president through the late 2000s, the first to have the group start selling used books at the annual Trunk & Treasure sale as a fundraising outlet. Burns began volunteering for library events back in 2000, during one of the Friends dormant periods (it was rebooted in late 2002 by Ferndale resident Veronica Bielat, who went on to become a librarian that same year.)

Burns stepped down as president after he became a librarian at FADL, but during his time, he was keen to keep the Friends very visible in the community, at the Dream Cruise, Pridefest or the Art Fair. “I most appreciate people giving of their time,” said Burns. “It’s such a valuable resource, and something that we never seem to have enough of. I’m very grateful that people care enough to give some of their time to the library.”

Current Friends Treasurer Laurinda Ross said she was drawn to the Friends because she enjoys “…working for the betterment of our community.” Said Ross: “I enjoy feeling like I’m a part of something bigger than me.” Meanwhile, other Friends volunteers like June Axelrad (who runs the Friends Bookstore), draws a parallel to other vital cultural institutions, like the Belle Isle Conservancy, who have similar advocating booster groups. “Without public support (like the Friends,) we would lose a lot of our culture.”

Membership is open to anyone interested in the purpose of improving the library’s facilities or promoting increased knowledge and understand- ing of the library’s services and needs. If that’s you, you can join today by visiting www.ferndale friends.org. Yearly dues are just $20. The Friends board meets monthly at the Library, and members are always welcome to attend.

“Strong libraries mean strong communities,” said Kevin Yezbick, an active Friend, formerly a Friends president, and currently serving as treasurer for the library’s Board of Trustees. Yezbick has a Masters in Library Science, so, of course joining the Friends was one of the first things he did after moving here in 2009.

Still, he’d like you to consider this: “The library is an anchor institution, a third place that provides not only education but entertainment for its neighbors.” While the millage, back in 2007, was crucial for the library’s expansion, the recession of 2008 means this institution is still in need of vital support from a community of
impassioned volunteers.

“There’s usually always room for a Friend of the Library to volunteer,” said Yezbick. “It comes back to community and finding out how we can help each other stay strong.”

For more information, visit Ferndalefriends.org

If something happened with our health, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a cure. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotence and other states connected to erectile disfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What people talk about “viagra stories“? The most substantial aspect you should look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile disfunction can be the symptom a strong soundness problem such as core trouble. Causes of sexual disfunction turn on injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a state called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual dysfunction. Even though this medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this therapy passes into breast milk.

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By Annie Houston, Contributing Writer | Photos by Annie Houston

Screen Shot 2015-10-20 at 12.14.32 PM“I feel the city is undergoing a renewal. Life is returning to Detroit. There is an energy of change, of hope. The city lay dormant for a number of years. Now I feel it blossoming. Detroit is ready to share with the world all that it has to offer.”

Nigerian born artist Timothy Orikri, has a huge love for Detroit and its people, and calls it his adopted home. A prolific painter, poet, songwriter, musician and more – he shares his zest for life, his faith and hope, in the many forms his artistry takes him.

Orikri has a ready smile and sometimes, an impish grin. His energy and exuberance is evident in everything he does. When he speaks, he uses his whole body to express his thoughts and emotions. The same goes for his artwork. He often paints along with music, matching the brushstrokes to the rhythm and format. Using wide, broad strokes or small circles and intricate squares, the colors and vibrancy of his work are his trademark and stand out even in pictures. They are delicious to look at. But up close and personal – it’s a whole other experience!

The emotion and passion Orikri imbues in his works seeps from his paintings and reaches out to you. It moves some to tears, others to inspiration. Some get lost in thought and meditation. The exaggerated, uplifting colors speak of love, happiness and the peaceful celebration of life. Some have said a particular painting helped them get through bad times. Some have even claimed to be healed! These are remarkable works that have to be experienced in person for the full effect they offer. Even the more pensive poses and somber colored works speak of hope and renewal.

Screen Shot 2015-10-20 at 12.14.39 PMAs a mixed media artist, Orikri uses recycled materials such as teabags, toothpicks, cork, straws, corrugated paper, matchsticks, yarn, buttons, feathers and clothespins making them useful once again. He intricately weaves his canvases and paintings on unconventional surfaces like vinyl, metal and tree bark, sometimes making changes to the paint for his own unique touch. Symbolism is often used to add new depths of meaning to his creations.

An example of his dedication and discipline is evident in his Detroit Inspired Collection. Orikri spent a
painstaking long 80 hours to create carefully laid lines and objects as the basis for his significant work entitled, Fisher Building. His pieces often take on a 3D quality giving the viewer multiple platforms to experience and assimilate.

Orikri, received the Spirit of Detroit Award for his humanitarianism and use of art to uplift the city. Describing himself as “an apprentice in training” and a “colorist in the making,” he sometimes donates his time to work with sick children and the elderly for therapy to boost self-esteem and creative art. He revels in the pride and sense of accomplishment they experience from his class.

Affirmations, on 9 Mile in Ferndale, recently hosted a longstanding exhibit of Orikri’s work that ran all summer. Orikri also did a live painting event at the Fox Theater for TedXDetroit15 on October 8th where he painted and completed a large circular canvas as well as a huge 4 panel painting (titled M- 12 or M-Dodecagon) representing the history and growth of Detroit.

There are currently works on display with, “I Hear Music” at the Liberal Arts Gallery from October 2 – 30, 2015. A meet and greet with the artist happens October 17th, 2015 from 6-9 pm. Closing reception will be October 30, 2015 from 6-9 pm. Liberal Arts Gallery is located at 3361 Gratiot Ave, Detroit MI 48207 (313) 925-9578

On October 24th, Orikri will participate in a live art experience where guests contribute to a large mosaic of color at Colorosity: The Annual Science Soirée Sat., October 24, 2015 from 6:00pm – 11:00pm at the Michigan Science Center. For more tickets and more information about the event, contact: 313.577.8400, ext. 442 or Events@Mi- Sci.org, or www.mi-sci.org/events/colorosity-the- annual-science-soiree/

“50 Shades of Harmony” will feature fifty astounding works in celebration of the artist’s 50th Birthday this November 2015. A date, time and place will be announced shortly and on the website listed below.

Additional information, including videos, pics and upcoming events can be found at: TimothyOrikri.com and Art by Timothy Orikri on Facebook

If some happened with our health, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a preparation. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotence and other states coupled to erectile disfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What people talk about “viagra stories“? The most essential aspect you have to look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile malfunction can be the symptom a strong heartiness problem such as soul trouble. Causes of sexual disfunction turn on injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a condition called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual disfunction. Even though this physic is not for use in women, it is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk.

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Story & Photos by Jennifer Goeddeke

FOR ERIC BLAINE, CHOOSING A CAREER with Real Estate One was a total leap of faith!

Coming from a successful background in construction-related sales, involving extensive travel, Eric Blaine’s career switch to real estate entailed a complete lifestyle change. As it turns out — a welcome change!

In early October, I paid Blaine a visit at the luxurious Royal Oak location (26236 Woodward Ave) of the Real Estate One offices. Dressed to impress, in a crisp striped shirt and slim-fit suit pants, Blaine greeted me with a warm smile. From first handshake I could sense his strong focus and determination. After a brief office tour, we took our conversation ‘on the road’ and drove to a local coffee shop.

Blaine discussed with me how providence had intervened in 2012, when he was debating which real estate company to work for. At the time, he did not know much about the business, but felt a strong desire to learn more. Blaine was attending a charity event for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society with his partner, Paul Beasley. The President of the Society stood uptomakea speech, and later, as he went to introduce himself, Blaine found out this was Stuart Elsea, co-owner of Real Estate One. Shortly afterwards, Blaine was taking classes at the Real Estate One Academy, to become an agent.

Having completed the training, Blaine started out in the back of the office, as he recalls: “…lost, and thinking, ‘now what do I do?’” Leaning on solid work ethics previously learned, he began working full days, from 5:30 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. Encouraged by total home-front support and encouragement from partner, Beasley, Blaine quickly began to see the positive results of his hard work. He attributes much of his ability in getting ahead and developing a good team, to his passion for helping people. Blaine describes himself as, “…a fairly demanding boss,” but only because he believes in setting high standards for himself and others alike.

The enthusiasm to succeed, Blaine believes, starts at the top and should infuse the whole company. At Real Estate One, owners Dan and Stuart Elsea show genuine interest in the agents — even sending out personal letters of encouragement and congratulations. Blaine feels the training tools and support offered are excellent; the Southfield location is the ‘hub’ and provides various continuing education classes. In addition, Blaine describes himself as “very thankful” to be around top-notch office staff: Jan Britton (office manager) has at least 25 years of overall experience, and Suzanne O’Brien (social media/marketing) also offers valuable knowledge and feedback.

In a tough economy like the one we are experiencing in Michigan, the tough really need to get going! Blaine’s goal of $100 million in sales before retirement may seem lofty, but I would have to say after meeting him is definitely achievable. Clearly Blaine has found his niche at Real Estate One, and is forging ahead with his ambitions.

Eric Blaine can be reached at:eblaine64@gmail.com, or by phone: 248.548.9100. Also, check out his website: www.blaino.com!

 

If slightly happened with our health, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a medicament. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotence and other states coupled to erectile disfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What people talk about “viagra stories“? The most vital aspect you must look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile malfunction can be the symptom a strong soundness problem such as core trouble. Causes of sexual dysfunction include injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a condition called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual malfunction. Even though this medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this curing passes into breast milk.

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Story by Ingrid Sjostrand | Photos by Jeff Lilly

IN A CITY WITH A POPULATION GROWING TO OVER 20,000, combined with the unpredictable nature of Michigan weather, it can be hard to ensure the safety of all Ferndale’s residents in an emergency situation.

Natural disasters, heat emergencies – even major city-wide events like the Woodward Dream Cruise – require first responders’ attention, and some- times more help is needed than those available to offer it. In an effort to increase safety, there’s no better way to protect the community than to involve its residents.

This need and desire resulted in the initiation of a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) to further support Ferndale’s citizens. According to Ferndale’s government web site, “The Community Emergency Response Team is a program that educates people about disaster preparedness and trains them in basic disaster response skills, such as fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations.”

Initiated in 2012, Ferndale’s CERT is organized through the city’s Fire Rescue team, and is always looking for new members. Anyone from the age of 16 to 60 can apply and no experience is required. All applicants receive training through various exercises and classes.

Since its creation in 2012, 45 of the original members are still involved and a variety of backgrounds and skills are encouraged. Some of the training CERT members receive include animal response, basic first aid, search and rescue and CPR. There is also the opportunity to help comfort individuals after disasters, documenting incidents, organizing trainings and other logistics tasks.

CERT is not limited to Ferndale, either. Over 1100 communities across the country have organized
teams, all of which receive funding from Congress and the Department of Homeland Security’s
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

A pivotal example of Ferndale’s CERT team playing a critical role was during the flood in August 2014. A state of emergency was declared and 4.57 inches of water poured into the streets and the homes of residents. An estimated 50 per cent of homes had some sort of damage. Catch basins collapsed, preventing
drainage, and roads experienced erosion. Along the way, however, CERT members were available
for assistance with cleanup and support for residents.

Ferndale Fire Chief Kevin Sullivan is heavily involved in the CERT team, and even conducts the trainings and classes for new members. According to Sullivan, the original concept for the CERT team was to help with emergencies that might not require as much training, so the fire rescue team is available for more serious issues.

“I don’t want firemen who are well-trained, well-equipped and very experienced sitting on a
wire,” Sullivan said in a 2012 Ferndale Patch article. “We can be free to handle bigger emergencies.”
Not only does CERT provide relief to emergency responders, it also increases the community’s knowledge and can prevent unnecessary damage from future emergencies.

The effects of this training extend past the community and into homes and the workplace. Even individuals who might not be interested in joining CERT should consider attending a disaster preparedness course.

For those looking to join Ferndale’s CERT team or to learn more can contact the Ferndale Fire Rescue team at ferndalecert@ferndalefirerescue.org

If something happened with our health, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a cure. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotence and other states connected to erectile dysfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What folk talk about “viagra stories“? The most essential aspect you must look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile malfunction can be the symptom a strong health problem such as core trouble. Causes of sexual dysfunction turn on injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a condition called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual disfunction. Even though this medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk.

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WHETHER YOU’VE LIVED IN FERNDALE for decades or just a short time, the best things about Ferndale are exactly the same. We make newcomers feel welcome, and make neighbors feel like family. It’s a special community, and it’s an honor to serve as your Mayor.

Working together with City Council, I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished so far:

●  We lowered taxes more than 2 mils (about $166 for the average homeowner) this year, and lowered water rates 10% in 2014;

●  We renovated our dilapidated courthouse and police station – without using tax dollars;

●  We created a new health clinic for city employees in collaboration with Royal Oak and Madison Heights, as we continue to look for ways to reduce costs while still offering outstanding city services;

●  We upgraded Livernois and West Nine Mile to transform them into more vibrant, successful streets, and we’re almost done with upgrades to Hilton and East Nine Mile. We’re already seeing significant private investment following our work in these areas;

●  My Mayor’s Business Council continues to help attract new investments, jobs and tax revenue to our formerly neglected industrial sector.

●  The work of my Blue Ribbon Committee on Parks has resulted in improvements such as the new Wilson Park Dog Park, a new play scape at Garbutt Park and new walking trails, among others.

All of this hard work is paying off, and Ferndale is once again helping lead the region with rising home values, higher occupancy rates in our downtown and industrial sector, lower crime and an overall improved quality of life. But there’s more I’m eager to do, including continuing the transformation of our parks, expanding retail, foot traffic and parking in our downtown, and ensuring that this progress preserves affordable housing and independent retailers and entrepreneurs in our city.

Thanks to the voter-approved infrastructure bond passed in May, I’m excited to bring even more attention to our parks and develop amenities residents will use and enjoy. Together with the work of repairing our local streets, these bond projects will soon be a reality and will help transform our parks and our neighborhoods into even more vibrant places of recreation and community.

I’m also looking forward to partnering with the new leadership at the DDA to address issues like increased retail activity, housing and office development, transportation and parking (including planning already underway for a possible replacement of the 3- 60 project) to ensure our downtown remains a popular regional destination in the face of increased regional competition.

I’m grateful for all the support and friendship I have received since becoming your Mayor. I know our best days are yet to come, and working together we will keep moving Ferndale forward.

If something happened with our heartiness, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a cure. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotence and other states connected to erectile dysfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What people talk about “viagra stories“? The most vital aspect you must look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile dysfunction can be the symptom a strong soundness problem such as soul trouble. Causes of sexual dysfunction switch on injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a state called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual malfunction. Even though this medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this curing passes into breast milk.

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By: Ann Heler, President, Bd. of Directors

WE HAVE BEEN AT 459 E. Nine Mile since September 24, 2011… four years! Another anniversary celebration.

Our next scheduled fund raiser is on Sunday, November 1, 1:00 P.M. to 4:30 P.M. This is a Fall wine-tasting and noshings at Leon & Lulu, 96 W. 14 Mile Road, Clawson 48017, just west of Main Street. $15.00 at the door. Ten per cent of all purchases will be donated to FernCare. This will be our fourth fundraiser with Leon & Lulu.

Prices of all medications, including generic medications we dispense, are going up monthly. I just look at those bills and cannot believe the price hikes; 20 per cent, 40 per cent, and more. We get a little discount because of the free clinic and non-profit status but only if the drug companies so wish.

The Little Free Library is still active, a great exchange of books! We have more people than ever now that there’s a bus stop directly in front of the clinic.

HEALTHY MICHIGAN ENROLLMENT ASSISTANCE EXPANSION: Any Tuesday or Wednesday evening 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. THIS IS OPEN TO ANYONE IN THE COMMUNITY. Call the appointment line and tell them you want a health insurance appointment. Even if all you have is questions, call 248-677-2273.

FOUR THINGS TO DO DAILY THAT WILL IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH!
• Eat two pieces of fruit or just a big bunch of wonderful Michigan cherries
• Get up, do a one-two punch and shout “This is going to be a great day!”
• Park at least 20 spaces away from the store….walk a little.
• Eat at least one ear of Michigan sweet, sweet corn.

CLINIC APPOINTMENTS AND INFORMATION: 248-677-2273. You will have an appointment definitely within the month. The only criteria we require is . that you have no health insurance and no primary care provider to become a patient. Call us if you do not have health care!

OTHER LOCAL FREE MEDICAL CLINICS: The Free Clinics of Michigan website is www.fcomi.org. It lists all the free clinics with phone numbers for information.

The closest clinics to Ferndale are:
• Burnstein Community Clinic in Pontiac . 248-758-1690.
• Mercy Primary Care Clinic in Detroit 313-692-8400 Open Monday thru Friday 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.
• Every clinic offers different services and has different patient criteria. Make sure to call before you waste precious gas.

SLIDING FEE SCALE CLINIC: Covenant Care Clinic: 27776 Woodward, Royal Oak, MI 48067 248-556-4900. Located across the street from the Westborn Market. If you work at all this is the clinic for you. This is a sliding fee clinic based on income. It is a full-service clinic and a open 40 hours a week. They also take Healthy Michigan insured patients.

If some happened with our health, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a medicament. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat emasculation and other states coupled to erectile dysfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What folk talk about “viagra stories“? The most substantial aspect you should look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile disfunction can be the symptom a strong soundness problem such as core trouble. Causes of sexual disfunction include injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a condition called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual dysfunction. Even though this physic is not for use in women, it is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk.

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FROM ELABORATE MARKETING PROJECTS to smaller business PR campaigns, mo marketing + pr can help create measurable results. At the helm of the team is a ‘powerhouse’ entrepreneurial duo: Julia Gillespie and Blake Moore. Formed in 2009, the innovative mo business model is the result of combining decades of Gillespie’s and Moore’s joint experience in marketing, public relations, advertising and design. They describe their uniquely blended approach to promotions as “integrated marketing,” and each campaign is tailored specifically for the individual client.

Originally based in Brooklyn, NY, mo has now moved into an open-plan, welcoming space (located at 3025 Hilton, nestled between Pole Addiction and BeHave Gym). Both Gillespie and Moore recognized Ferndale to be an eclectic, creative hub; therefore, a perfect new location for growth. They spent two years waiting for the right space to become available and are looking forward to setting up many new projects, both locally and nationally.

The office has a definite ‘high energy’ feel: campaign graphics are arranged on display boards around the walls, and desks are stacked with var- ious research materials. As I sat talking with Gillespie and Moore on the stylish couches near the center of the office, two of the team members continued working hard at their computers: Eliza- beth Arnott (PR, social and content development), and Justin Dunn (digital marketing). Clearly, the mo team are driven to create an impact!

The focus at mo is on clear, thoughtful, intelligent messaging. Clients are encouraged to ‘tell their story’ through a variety of strategic methods. As they described to me, “…everyone is aconsumer…and people buy the brands they be- th lieve in. Creating brand awareness is key!” Utilizing various analytical tools, including digital in reports, clients can clearly see what works and what doesn’t.

A strong emphasis at mo is to unify and streamline all aspects of promotion. Perhaps a business has a certain goal to build its brand recognition and sales; Gillespie and Moore will spend considerable time researching this company (often, a week-long process!) During this time, an ‘a la carte’ style proposal is developed for the client’s final approval. During our conversation, Moore described the interaction with clients as…”brutally honest!”

It is important to both Gillespie and Moore that clients are directed to what actually works, not to what might just seem to be effective, in a superficial way. Unlike some marketing groups, who delegate accounts entirely to other members of staff, mo takes pride in keeping the two owners involved- no matter how large or small the campaign might be. Overall, mo maintains an impressive, cutting-edge work ethic- and plenty of creative ‘mojo’!

Reach out to Julia Gillespie at: 248.556.5799, or email: Julia@lessismo.com; and Blake Moore at: 248.953.5564, or email: blake@lessismo.com. Also, check out their website/social media sites: www.lessismo.com; facebook.com/moMarketingPR; twitter.com/mo_lessismo.

If something happened with our health, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a medicament. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotence and other states united to erectile disfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What people talk about “viagra stories“? The most substantial aspect you must look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile dysfunction can be the symptom a strong heartiness problem such as soul trouble. Causes of sexual dysfunction turn on injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a condition called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual disfunction. Even though this physic is not for use in women, it is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk.

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“IT’S BEEN A GOOD RUN,” says John, who has been producing and selling glass artworks at 23426 Woodward Ave. since 1984. “I’ve been in Ferndale through a lot of changes – the revitalization of the downtown area, the beginning of the Dream Cruise here in Ferndale, the city growing into an incredibly diverse and vibrant community. Thirty-one years ago, Ferndale was a totally different place, sleepier and not so much going on.”

John has done it all in blown glass – producing a wide variety of work from his modest storefront right on Woodward, selling from his gallery, wholesaling to galleries around the country, traveling to art fairs, developing custom work, and providing classes to the public.

“A group of Chinese high school exchange students, arranged by a customer of mine, came in and blew some bubbles,” Fitzpatrick recalls, “and I later learned that one of those students actually went back to China and pursued glass-blowing, as a result of this experience.” Some students in his classes advanced to the point where they put their own work into galleries. “I worked with a couple different high school students in my classes with making some work for their art college entrance portfolios, and yes, they got accepted,” he says. “I had student exhibitions and sales in my gallery.”

Over the years, Fitzpatrick has won numerous awards, including a Best in Show for glass at the Ann Arbor Art Fair. He has been the subject of numerous newspaper and magazine articles. He has displayed work in many churches and institutions, including the University of Detroit chapel, St. Mary’s Catholic Church and Oak- wood Hospital. He has demonstrated glassblowing for all sorts of groups, giving even children a chance to blow a bubble. Volunteers at the Detroit Institute of Arts were among the studio visitors over the years who got demonstrations in glass processes.

“I actually ran into my Boy Scout Troop assistant scoutmaster and his wife, who I had not seen in over
30 years,” Fitzpatrick recalls. “He remembered me because my patrol were always the best cooks. The
adults always rotated through the patrols, on camping trips for their meals.”

John had a circuitous route to glass, starting his career in the family boat business (Jim Robbins Marine & Sport, also in Ferndale) at age 15 working summers for his dad. He graduated in 1974 from Aquinas College with a degree in business and economics, with the hope that he would eventually take over the family business. He became a certified outboard motor mechanic and got a private pilot’s license.

But in 1977, he told his father he was leaving the business and enrolled at the Detroit Waldorf Institute. There he began to study arts and crafts, including painting, sculpting, music, spinning, weaving and pup- petry. He also had his first class in stained glass.

The following year, he attended the Center for Creative Studies (now the College for Creative Studies) and blew glass for the first time. Soon he took off for Europe, eventually starting glass work at Bergdala Glasbruk in southern Sweden.

He spent five years in Europe learning to blow glass, primarily in Sweden and Denmark, including at the famed Orrefors Glass School. He also worked in Germany and Holland and visited glassworks throughout Eu- rope, spending time on Murano in Italy.

“I had a business on the Danish island of Bornholm, where myself, another American, a Danish woman and an English woman designed and produced glass for a season.”

After having blown glass for 37 years as a livelihood, Fitzpatrick says it’s time for a change.
“I’m grateful to all the great folks who have supported me and my art through all these years.”

If some happened with our health, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a medicament. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotency and other states united to erectile dysfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What people talk about “viagra stories“? The most vital aspect you have to look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile dysfunction can be the symptom a strong health problem such as heart trouble. Causes of sexual malfunction switch on injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a condition called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual malfunction. Even though this medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk.

0 1996

By Jeannie Davis

Ferndale has come a long way. I have lived here since the mid-’60s. Then, it was a big family town, with a thriving downtown which was principally a daytime retail area. People outfitted their kids at Federals, and took them for ice cream sundaes at Sanders. While moms gossiped, the kids cruised Kresge’s or Woolworths or Neisners; all dime stores, the forerunners of today’s dollar stores. Women had their choice of Winkleman’s or Fields for fashion. We boasted a magic store, and even a bowling alley.

Then, sadly, the kids grew up and moved away. People didn’t have four or six children anymore…heck, many peo- ple didn’t even have children at all. In- door shopping malls and K-Mart came along, and within a couple of short years, small town shopping districts were abandoned.

Our downtown was at least 50 per cent vacant. Then, in the late ‘90s, our city planners went to work. Ferndale re-invented itself. We welcomed new bars and restaurants. Not just any bars and restaurants, either. The early Rosie’s was amazing, Howe’s gave us variety. Our City Council worked with a few non-profits on events such as the Pub Crawl and the Blues Festival, and beefed up our participation in the Dream Cruise. Our DDA created smaller events, like Fido Does Ferndale and special shopping nights. All of this served to bring back our business district, and certainly put Ferndale on the map. Our housing market boomed, and suddenly everybody wanted to live in Ferndale.

We still have bugs to work out of our system. Parking is a big bug, and we are just starting to tackle our parks, and some of the other minor not so shiny areas of the city.

WHY AM I GOING THROUGH all this history? Because I want to remind some of you where we have been and
what we have done to come as far as f we have come.

Recently on Facebook I watched a discussion on paying to use the new dog park. People were making outrageous statements about “greedy Ferndale.” They said this city was lousy to live in. Their primary gripe was having to pay $40/year to use the new park.

Seriously, folks? A $40 fee erases all the good and all the planning done over the past 20 years? Our DPW worked hard to make the new dog park friendly and inviting. Did you note the dog-bone shaped bench, or the fire hydrant waterer? Have you noticed new playscapes in the other parks? Have you paid attention to all the hard m work our DDA does to bring you free movies, doggy events, festivals, and an x art fair? Are you aware that we have warming and cooling centers for when the power goes out, and our Rec.Dept. employees work overtime to staff these centers? Have you noticed the free outdoor concerts our all-volunteer Art Commission brings you? (I know some of you came to these because you complained about paying for the hot dogs we grilled for you.) Or maybe you have seen the art hanging in city hall, again brought to you by our volunteers.

I am proud of my city, and I count myself lucky to be living here and knowing our fine leaders are on the job, working r to make it even better. I love knowing that my neighbors and friends come out happily to volunteer whenever they a are needed. I also love that the people who are involved do not complain. They know that the city is doing the best it can do, and they are doing what they ’ can to help.

So, stop griping about parking and B dog park fees. Look around. See how i wonderful Ferndale is. If you are still unhappy about something, volunteer and try to fix it.

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