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Story by Ellen Janisch

Jeff Montgomery Local Civil Rights Legend promoted into eternity 1953-2016.

Jeffrey Montgomery, early LGBTQ activist and co-founder of the Triangle Foundation, passed away in Detroit on July 18th, 2016, at the age of 63. This loss is profound for the gay rights community; Montgomery’s relentless drive, compassion, and desire for change will long be remembered by those who are continuing his noble cause for LGBTQ acceptance.

Born in 1953 in Detroit, Montgomery grew up in Gross Pointe and attended Gross Pointe South High School until his graduation in 1971. He went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in social science from Michigan State University in 1976. Following the tragic events of 1984, when Montgomery’s partner, Michael, was slain outside a Detroit gay bar, he began his crusade against anti-gay police sentiment and inaction. Montgomery founded the Triangle Foundation to assist the victims of anti-gay crimes.

Rudy Serra, prominent local attorney, former appointed judge for the 36th District Court, and longtime ff1461011_jm-trianglecolleague of Montgomery, was there from the beginning: “Triangle was the LGBT organization that stood-up to anti-gay police misconduct. Jeff was a very important influence on this issue because some members of the LGBT community disapproved of defending men who were ‘cruising for sex.’ Jeff understood that being ‘out-and-proud’ required unabashed understanding of sexual freedom. Under Jeff’s leadership, Triangle began collecting and compiling police reports and court documents from men who were arrested in gay bars and parks and who said they had [done] nothing illegal.”

Thanks in part to Montgomery’s work, Triangle was able to prove that hundreds of individuals were being illegally arrested and prosecuted for acts that were not crimes. Triangle represented some 700 men in Detroit who were arrested for being allegedly “annoying.” The law used to charge them was eventually struck down. “Jeff and Triangle were instrumental in defending hundreds of victims of anti-gay police activity in Plymouth, Pontiac, Detroit and elsewhere in Michigan,” Serra said.

What initially started as a small grassroots organization led by Montgomery, Henry D. Messer, and John Monahan, the Triangle Foundation grew to become a recognized Michigan-wide political tour-de-force that routinely took on challenging cases involving hate crimes, employment discrimination, anti-gay slander, and many other LGBTQ concerns.

“Although, initially, Triangle was dedicated to anti-gay/anti-violence, Jeff’s concern extended to everyone who needed help,” Serra said. “Accordingly, Triangle rapidly grew beyond anti-violence programs and grew into support for LGBT people in employment discrimination, transgender bathroom disputes, school issues, family law, estates and more. The Triangle Foundation was the primary voice of the LGBT community in Lansing. I personally went with Jeff Montgomery, Sean Kosofsky and/or Henry Messer on many occasions to successfully lobby about LGBT issues such as sex offender registration, amending the Civil Rights Act, local ordinances, and many other global LGBTQ issues.”

The Triangle Foundation, which has since become Equality Michigan, flourished under Montgomery’s leadership as president, interim executive director, and executive director until his departure in September of 2007. An exceptional public speaker, some were initially skeptical of Montgomery taking such a prominent position early on. “There were people who questioned whether Jeff was ‘qualified’ to be an executive director at first, and I think his initial hiring was considered a trial period,” Serra said. “He was exceptionally skilled in media relations and very quickly became the primary public voice of the LGBT community in Michigan.”

Montgomery went on to become a go-to authority on LGBT issues, frequently speaking with media outlets on high profile LGBT criminal cases, including the Matthew Shepard murder trial. In 2000, Montgomery delivered the inaugural Matthew Shepard Memorial Lecture at Brown University. Entitled “America…You Kill Me,” this speech further cemented Montgomery as an established authority on the fight for LGBT rights.ff1461011_jm_friends
“When I heard Jeff’s inaugural Matthew Shepard Memorial lecture, I thought it was one of the better speeches I had ever heard,” Serra recalled. “I recommended that it be sent to ‘Vital Speeches,’ and they agreed and published Jeff’s speech…Jeff was ‘the’ face of the LGBT community in Michigan. When an issue arose, he was the one the news media would interview.

In addition to his pioneering efforts with the Triangle Foundation, National Coalition of Anti-Violence Programs, Woodhull Freedom Foundation, and the WikiQueer Global Advisory Board, among others, Montgomery was also passionate about the performing arts. He worked tirelessly to restore Detroit’s Orchestra Hall in the 1970s and 1980s, which has since served as the home of the internationally renowned Detroit Symphony Orchestra. Additionally, he was public relations director for America’s Thanksgiving Parade.

Through all his diverse pursuits, Montgomery remained steadfast in his love for the city of Detroit. “Jeff was committed to stay in Detroit himself, to assure that Triangle Foundation stayed in Detroit, and to do everything possible to support the City of Detroit and the well-being of the residents of Detroit,” Serra said. Accordingly, Montgomery was the recipient of the “Spirit of Detroit” award three times and named a 2002 Michiganian of the Year by the Detroit News.

Montgomery’s life and career is the subject of a forthcoming documentary called “America, You Kill Me,” on ff1461011_jm-tuxwhich he was collaborating with his brother John at the time of his death. Montgomery’s legacy as a visionary, political activist, and indisputable leader lives on through the efforts of others in the LGBTQ community, who can draw much from his history and countless triumphs in policy reform and anti-discrimination action.

Serra sums it up: “Jeff did not have formal educational training in social work, community organizing or law. His accomplishments show that a person of passion and dedication can teach themselves how to do what is required and can build relationships that compensate for their own weaknesses…Jeff sacrificed for his passion. The staffs of many gay rights organizations were often little more than glorified volunteers. Jeff took time to prove his worth and earned more and more respect and a larger and larger role [in] LGBTQ social revolution.”

More on Montgomery’s work can be found at www.jeffreymontgomery.org as well as a link to donate to his autobiographical documentary, “America, You Kill Me.”

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 impotency and other states connected to erectile malfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What men talk about “viagra stories“? The most vital 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 heart 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 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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By: Linden Godlove, Ferndale Area Chamber of Commerce

The Ferndale Area Chamber of Commerce wants to help connect the community! This Fall we’ll be bringing people together, with our Guide to the Ferndale Area, our new bar crawl, social media campaigns, and the Annual Gala.

Every year, the Chamber publishes the Guide to the Ferndale Area, a resource magazine that provides an overview of the community, including maps, city profiles, photographs, and more. The Guide helps connect people to the organizations they are looking for and the information they need. All members of the Ferndale Area Chamber of Commerce automatically get a company listing in the Guide’s directory. In addition, any organization can showcase their business with an ad.

This September, we’re bringing a new event to Ferndale Streets: “Sip, Stroll, Roll.” Fifteen bucks is your pass to discounted tastings at bars and bistros throughout Ferndale. Participating businesses include Cork Wine Pub, Pop’s for Italian, Western Market, Valentine Distillery, Schramm’s Mead and more. Walk or bike on a delectable adventure of special drinks at a discount-ed price. Appetizers will also be available. Visit your favorite spots and try out some new ones.

Organizations on the edges of Ferndale will soon be spotlighted in our social media campaign, “Up in Your Business.” Spaces beyond Downtown Ferndale will be featured in business profiles, photo tours, and more. Follow us on Facebook
(www.facebook.com/FerndaleAC), Twitter (twitter.com/FerndaleAC), and Instagram
(www.instagram.com/ferndale.area.chamber/), and get acquainted with retail areas in Livernois, the Hilton Row, 8 Mile and more. If your organization is outside of downtown Ferndale and you’d like some love, contact us. This is an exclusive bene-fit for Chamber members.

We revel in fun at the Ferndale Area Chamber, so we are eagerly planning our 2016 Gala. The theme is “Local Flavor” for our biggest party of the year, a celebration of our community and achievements. “Gala 2016: Local Flavor” is on Thursday, November 10 at the Rust Belt Market. Ferndale Area restaurants, bars, and markets will have offerings to experience. Wares crafted by artisans in our talented community, as well as gift baskets from small businesses will be up for auction. Contact us if you want to join the party, whether it’s with the planning or to play.

The Ferndale Area Chamber of Commerce makes great efforts to elevate our members in the community, and broadcast the amazing things they are doing. Many hands are needed to raise up our community. Contact us if you’re interested in lending a hand in volunteering to help us in our work.

The Ferndale Area Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit, member-based organization. Contact us at 248-542-2160 or info@ferndalechamber.com.

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 impotency 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 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 medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk.

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By Malissa Martin

Sometime being a teacher can take one away from your family, but in return teachers gain new family members with heir students and co-workers. After retiring, many teachers wonder what’s become of their students and counterparts.

Ron Schultz wondered exactly this when he retired from the Ferndale School District in 2003, so he founded the Ferndale Association of Retired Teachers (F.A.R.T.). The retired science specialist said the acronym F.A.R.T. came to him in the middle of the night.

When the group first began, it was four to five individuals meeting on a regular basis. After a few gatherings, Schultz took control and started inviting other Ferndale retired teachers to the meetings.

F.A.R.T. has since grown to 25 members and meets for breakfast on the first Friday of every month
at Apovini’s in Clawson. “The purpose of the group was really to create a time and a place where we could meet, stay in touch with each other, and preserve our professional friendships.” Schultz
says. “We also get to know each other in a personal way, outside of the work environment. We share
news with each other such as trips we’ve been on, something about our grandchildren. We might share things about book and movie recommendations that we’ve seen or read and just good conversation laced with a little gossip.”

The group also discusses past students and feeds off their success stories. “We always share any news we have about students and their families.” Schultz admits. “Students we may have had and the success of some kids. Somebody will always come in and say ‘Did you hear about so and so? Well, he graduated from such and such and he’s going to be a doctor.’ And it really makes you feel good.”

In some cases, Schultz himself runs into past students while running errands. “They pop up all over the place and you’re just so pleased to see they’re doing well and you bring that back and share it with everybody.” Schultz says.

Almost 80% of F.A.R.T. members are retired elementary and middle school teachers from the Ferndale School District. A lot of members have taught 25 to 35-plus years. Most retirees began teaching in Ferndale or taught the majority of their years in Ferndale. A few members taught the same families through three or more generations.

Several F.A.R.T. members know one another from working in the same building, district meetings, and school related events. New member Christine Sorowka said she heard stories about some members from students. “It has been wonderful for me because some of these teachers I didn’t know personally, or even professionally, but I would hear about them because the elementary schools fed into the middle schools. I would hear about Mr. Burke or Mrs. Grady and now I actually get to know the person and it’s just so nice and it’s a nice thing to do on Friday. You find out things about people you never knew.” Sorowka says.

Sorowka taught middle school and high school math in the Ferndale School District for 37 years.

Shultz and Sorowka confess they miss teaching, and say teaching has drastically changed from when they started. “I’m thankful that I’m out of it now because I can’t teach the way they would want me to teach now. I don’t think they are teaching. They’ve lost the idea that you need to inspire kids, motivate them, bring them to education, and make it something that they want to do. And that means you don’t start off with facts and figures. Education is really about motivating kids, inspiring them to want to learn, and then teaching them how to learn.” Schultz says.

F.A.R.T. members still go by the school schedule and take off summers. They even cancel breakfast if school is closed due to bad weather. In addition to professional networking, Schultz said the group provides encouragement and support to members when needed. They even pay their respects when retirees pass away by raising their glass for a toast in their honor.

When Schultz isn’t busy with F.A.R.T., he enjoys oil painting, nature photography and playing in his garden.

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 impotency and other states connected to erectile disfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What people talk about “viagra stories“? The most essential aspect you should 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 include injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a status 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 By Jill Hurst
Photos By Ed Abeska

Ferndale High School Principal Roger Smith met with me after a two-week vacation with his wife that started up in Niagara Falls and headed down the East Coast. Visiting old friends, meeting new family, seeing theater; a great trip, but Smith was happy to be home, smack in the middle of life at Ferndale High.

A “good kid” in high school, I never visited the principal’s office. The bench outside the office was reserved for serious troublemakers. Smith’s office? Different. But he is moving. Around the corner. Easier to get work done? Maybe.

Smith looks a touch wistful. “I love this office.” He’ll still be close to the day-to-day influx and close to the assistant principals. Smith speaks highly of both AP’s, Eric Bruner, who was Principal of Coolidge H.S. and Shaun Butler, also the Athletic Director. Smith describes them as “tremendous assets to the district and to this building.”

People stop by, including one of my favorites, Bill Good, Communications Director. I meet Superintendent Blake Prewitt. Smith re: Prewitt, “He is supportive, forward-thinking and fiscally sound.” A good collaborator.
Roger Smith grew up in Ferndale. “It’s a tremendous place to live and raise a family. A little jewel. It’s an area that is very inclusive and its diversity is something we all hang our hat on.” He attended Ferndale Public Schools (Roosevelt Elementary, Lincoln Jr. High). He graduated from Ferndale High School in 1974. He attended Wayne State University on a music scholarship, and earned a degree in music education.

At WSU, he met his wife Cecilia, also a musician and educator. She teaches K-5 music in Northville. Smith first taught at Avondale High School, followed by two years at Madison Jr. High School in Pontiac. In 1980, Ferndale High School was looking for a band director. Smith made it to second place. There was concern that, as a former student, he was too close to the school.

Three years later, the job opened up and this time he was hired. He rebuilt the band and orchestra programs, a “consuming commitment.” His two sons, now 26 and 29, both attended FHS and were in band and orchestra when Smith was the director. Problems there? “Not to my face. They might’ve taken some teasing. Hopefully it was good-natured.”

In the early 2000’s Smith attended Oakland University, to get a degree in Educational Leadership. “I was looking for a new way to help.” When Smith had the chance to move into administration, teachers who worked with Smith were ready to take over the music department. Elon Jamison became band director and Ben Moy took over as orchestra director.

The basic philosophy at FHS? “The Four Rs: Rigor of curriculum, relevance of what you’re teaching, relationships and resiliency.” Balance academia and human relationships. “We work hard on relationship-building. No matter what your job description here, I expect you to engage.”

Smith acknowledges the legacy of past principals at FHS, and predecessors Lisa Williams and Herb Ivory. “I’m just trying to keep the boat going with a few new initiatives.

How to help young people navigate through these challenging times, through a fraught election year?The election this year provides so much opportunity for teachers to be authentic in their teaching. History teachers, economics, English…everyone can draw on the election to make their teaching connect to what’s happening in the world today.

Sometimes kids need extra guidance to help them find that connection. There’s help available: The FHS counseling department, Ferndale Youth Assistance and the Southeast Oakland Coalition.

Also Peer Mentoring. Smith mentions “Challenge Day,” a nationwide event that teaches kids to communicate and hopefully understand that they’re not alone. Another program (Smith’s favorite), is an anti-bullying initiative called “Defeat the Label.” There is the Restorative Practices Justice Program, which cuts down on suspensions, as well as “Eagle Time,” giving 9th and 10th grade Math and English students, who are doing particularly well in class, weekly time with counselors to discuss college and career. Kids who are struggling get extra instruction time with the teacher.

There are also a wide variety of organizations and clubs available to give everyone a home base, including the Gay/Straight Alliance, Students Against Destructive Decisions, Girls Leading a Positive Movement, Spanish Club, Student Enterprise Theatre, Tuesday Night Singers, Black History Club, Art Club, Robotics, S.T.E.M. and many others.

And then, academics. “We have a variety of AP and Honors courses taught by highly effective teachers. Academia here is as strong as you’ll receive anywhere. I’m very proud of my teaching staff. Reading is Ground Zero. It’s all about reading.”

What are you reading, I ask? Smith goes out of the office, returns with his hard-cover copy of “Breaking the Line,” by Samuel G. Freedman. “It’s a little football-centric. Football and civil rights. A relevant book for our time.”

A program Smith spotlighted is the Baker Early College Program. While at Ferndale, students take a course of study in either criminal justice, business and marketing, computer programming or medical assistance. Then they attend Baker in their 13th year of school that actually gives the student the opportunity to earn a two-year Associate’s Degree in one year. At no cost to the student or family, this is an extraordinary opportunity.

A nice young woman comes in with a question; Tasha, a former probation officer who went back to school to get her masters in social work. Now working with Ferndale Youth Assistance, she counsels students and their families. Ferndale is such a diverse area, not only racially and culturally, but socioeconomically. “I can’t paint with a broad brush because every kid comes to us with their own experience. They have a lot going on in their lives, and quite often I hear adults say, “Wait until you get into the ‘real’ world.” This is their real world! It’s very, very real to them. We want them to feel safe here, emotionally and physically, help them find the wherewithal to keep going when things don’t make sense in their world or in their family relationships. We try to provide optimism and resiliency. A lot of kids have been given up on. It’s an ongoing struggle. Along the way, you might shake your head at them, but you don’t give up and eventually they find a connection.”

The secret to Roger Smith’s success, both as band director and principal? “I surround myself with people who are smarter than me. The staff are experts. My job is to provide resources to allow them to do what they do best. I put people where they are going to excel. I just try to stay out of their way.”

At the end of the day, this lifelong Ferndale guy and former Ferndale student loves his job. And that sets the tone for the staff and students at Ferndale High. Smith finished by saying, “One of the best parts of the job is seeing a kid who comes to high school with very low levels of maturity and self-confidence, and watch them develop into a strong, character-driven young man or young lady.” They are some of our most proud success stories.”

If something happened with our soundness, 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 connected to erectile dysfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What men 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 disfunction can be the symptom a strong health problem such as core trouble. Causes of sexual malfunction include injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a condition 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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OUR LOCAL AND MULTI-TALENTED GARY BRUNNER LAUNCHES A NEW CAREER IN HORROR ACTING VIA THE RUSSIAN SLEEP EXPERIMENT

Story by David Wesley
Photos by Michael Bugard
Film still photo courtesy of Framed Pictures, LLC
Posters designed by Mark Kosob

Gary Brunner is an actor, musician, artist, chef and lifelong Ferndale dweller. His life and career is storied, starting with witnessing the making of the original Evil Dead film. Gary also runs Atomic Dawgs, in Berkley, ff-gb-russianfor owner Joel Martin, who also owns 54 Sound. Now Gary’s career is taking a new interesting turn. He’s now about to become a presence in the cult horror film world. He is the lead actor in the short film “The Russian Sleep Experiment” which was adapted from of the most popular creepypastas (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Creepypasta.) The story has millions of fans and you can see the trailer on YouTube. Gary got his desire to be in film because he used to hang out with the Evil Dead crew when they were editing “The Evil Dead” in Ferndale. More on that seminal meeting in a moment. Needless to say, Gary was blown away when one of his childhood heroes (Evil Dead veteran and film/TV director Josh Becker) had this to say about the Russian Sleep Experiment short: “The Russian Sleep Experiment is certainly one of the best short films I’ve ever seen, and I’ve seen alot. It excels in every department…and it all comes together in what I feel is the perfect length and tone, thus achieving an extremely solid impact in its payoff.”

Gary himself sat down with Ferndale Friends, and gave more insight on his colorful life and careers in Metro Detroit:
Ferndale Friends: How did you get involved with film and theatre in Detroit?
Gary Brunner: When I was about ten years old I used to ride my bike up to the magic shop in Ferndale. I wanted to do monster makeup, something my parents were strongly against. I got some fake beard hair glued to my face and couldn’t get it off. So I skipped school and went to the magic shop for answers. There was a sign on the door that said “back in five minutes.” This was most disturbing to me, of course. I mean, if my parents found out I didn’t go to school because I had a fake beard glued to my face, I’d be dead for sure. So I ff-gb-rse-poster2sat in the hallway in front of the door and waited and waited. I noticed on the door directly across the hall from the magic shop, it said “Action Pictures.” That had to mean movies! I pressed my face into the mail slot in the door. The first thing I saw was an Evil Dead poster on the wall in the office. What I didn’t know was that the door wasn’t shut all the way. So when I smashed my face into the mail slot, I fell into the office. Bruce Campbell and Sam Raimi came running out to see what was going on. Sam looked real mad, “What are you doing breaking in here kid?” Bruce chimed in, “Yeah kid, and what’s that hair glued to your face?” After I told them what had happened, they laughed hysterically and helped me get the fake beard off with spirit gum remover. Once I was beard-free again they let me watch Evil Dead. It hadn’t even been released yet. They didn’t even have a distribution deal yet. I was hooked!

FF: How has the art scene in Detroit changed since you began making a presence in it?
GB: I think the art scene has grown into an amazing situation. When I was younger, there weren’t the same opportunities that there are now. I used to go and watch music artists like the Romantics, George Clinton and Eminem record their songs (at 54 Sound.) Years later my friend and mentor, Joel Martin, bought an old house in Berkley and wanted me to design and implement a fine dining version of a neighborhood hot dog joint. It’s almost four years later and we are still hanging in there and seem to win, place or show every time there is a contest involving hot dogs. I feel so grateful to ave such a wonderful opportunity to be so creative with my cooking skills.

FF: How did your experience with the Evil Dead crew influence your part in the Russian Sleep Experiment? GB: The Russian Sleep Experiment is like my Evil Dead movie. I used to watch those guys work so hard to get Evil Dead funded and distributed, and now here I am years later trying to raise money for a feature­ length film. Those guys never gave up and neither will I.

FF: How do you feel about the changes seen in Ferndale as a longtime resident?
GB: I’ve seen a lot go down in Ferndale since my family moved here when I was eight-years-old. A lot of the ff-gb-paintneighbors on my block have long since retired or moved away. What replaced all those original residents no one could have seen coming. Ferndale has turned into a creative Mecca of sorts. We still have a lot of families in Ferndale, but it seems like every other week I hear about some amazing artist or musician that just moved into Ferndale. There are so many cool shops and mom and pop kind of restaurants. More than a handful of music studios. I love Ferndale, I love my street, I love my house, I love all my neighbors on my street and never want to leave.

FF: What are the projects you ‘re working on now and do you have any future projects you have planned?
GB: Aside from the Russian Sleep Experiment Project, I play drums for an outlaw country band called The Holy Winos. I’m also putting together a power pop style band. I. like a lot of other actors, audition any time and every time I can, hoping for that big break!

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 connected to erectile malfunction. 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 dysfunction can be the symptom a strong heartiness problem such as heart 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 dysfunction. 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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Story by David Wesley
Photos by Bernie Lamframboise

It’s 2002, and Alyssa Atkinson and I are freshmen at Ferndale High School in the same first-hour class – German. During the first few nervous weeks of high school we begin making silly small talk together. Sitting together, we quickly dins out our similar backgrounds.

“You know you’re poor then there’s furniture on your porch and in your yard.”

“Oh, yeah! I see that all over!”

We pointed out many amusing similarities about our family’s financial status then, and for the first two years of high school we always shared laughable exchanges. But gradually we faded from each other’s lives with the abrasive shuffling that pulls people in their own directions.

Flash-forward ten years after our 2006 graduation, and the opportunity arises for me to interview a girl named Alyssa Atkinson who had become a serious philanthropic presence inside the city of Ferndale today. I make contact and not only discover a distant and memorable acquaintance, but also find how much has changed for us socially, financially and emotionally. Our hearts are still anchored in Ferndale but how we go about showing our affection for the people and the city is mutually exclusive. She’s neck-deep in a handful of fundraising, volunteer and social activities that has helped bring Ferndale to the warm, bustling place it’s at today. As for myself, a journalist and author based in the city, I wear a plastered smirk over a brimming heart when we catch up again after all these years. My work is important to me, but Alyssa’s has affected the citizens, the city’s economy, the culture and much more. I’m riveted to find out her story behind the swirling praise that buzzes around her today.

D.W What sort of volunteer experience do you have in Ferndale? How has it affected you and the city?

A.A. I am currently in my third year as the fundraising chair for Ferndale Pride, the LGBTQA street festival that brings around 15,000 people to the city each year.

I am also in my third year as the board secretary for Ferndale Youth Assistance. On this board I co-chair the Bowl-A-Thon committee and the camps committee. I also was the volunteer coordinator for the BBQ Ribs Burnout Tent twice, when it was a part of the Blues Festival fundraiser. I still am an active volunteer with Bluesfest each year, often “passing the pig” at multiple venues a night. Lastly, I volunteer at multiple different Michigan AIDS Coalition events, a Ferndale based non-profit.

It has affected me in the sense that it has been the greatest way I have ever found to help overcome my severe social anxiety and depression. I often have a hard time being in large groups or speaking with people I don’t know, but when it is for a greater good I find I am able to really come out of my shell and can even be really good at it. Being a part of something so much bigger than myself has helped me to get out of my own head. I would highly recommend it.

It may be hard to quantify how it has helped the city but I will try my best. In 2014-2015 I raised over $7,000 for Ferndale Pride (final numbers are of course not in for this year yet). This money is used to keep the festival free to all, and the money remaining after expenses goes to five charities: The Ferndale Community Foundation, Affirmations, Transgender Michigan, Michigan AIDS Coalition, and Ferncare.

With FYA, I have assisted in raising money that provides camp and skill-building scholarships for students and families in the district. These range from sending students to summer camps, specialty camps, and day camps they may not be able to otherwise afford to attend to hosting workshops for families about things like bullying, healthy communication, and even free legal-aid clinics.

Side story: My mom had a really bad childhood, and I will always remember her telling me about how when he could go away to camp in the summer that was the best time of her childhood life. It was the only time she ever felt like she could be a kid and have fun. I definitely think this is why FYA’s camps program is so important to me. It’s hard to really explain that feeling with facts or figures, but I think that unfortunately there are still some children who that is true for and if we can help them have the experience my mother did, well then I just think that is one of the greatest things you can do.)
D.W. With so much change occurring in the city since you graduated, how do you feel it has happened and how can we continue to make Ferndale grow?
A.A. This one is tough for me to answer because I feel part of my answer will be unpopular, but I want to be honest. When I was a kid I loved this city. Growing up here with only my mother I had this feeling like the city was my family, like it played a huge role in how I grew up, and I will forever be grateful for that. When I got ff-jj-aa-vfolder and went away to college sometimes people would ask if it was hard having two moms (my parents are lesbians) and I would always respond with, “No, I grew up in Ferndale.” However, in a very selfish way, part of what I loved about this city was that it felt like a secret. Like, nobody from outside Ferndale really knew how amazing and “cool” and special it was. Now everyone and their mother knows … And while I am truly happy for its success and thoroughly enjoy most of the new additions, I can’t help but miss the hole-in-the-wall restaurants that were kind of dirty but made the absolute best food. And being able to find a parking spot in two minutes on a Saturday night. I feel it happened because this city is the best city there is and we couldn’t keep that to ourselves forever.

My only idea for future growth is that I would love to see more office-type businesses and retail. And of course, more parking! I look forward to seeing growth continue West down 9 Mile towards Pinecrest and think a lot of those ideas could be realized in that. I think the restaurants could benefit from a lunch crowd and I would love to have a more diverse mix of businesses to spend my money at. I really miss places like Dragonfly and House of Chants.

D.W. Why do you think you won the Good Neighbor Award and how has it affected you inside the city?
A.A. According to my presenter, Councilman Dan Martin, I was nominated by multiple people. I believe it was for my work with Pride, Youth Assistance, and the Michigan AIDS Coalition. He gave a wonderful introduction where he stated that the word “vulnerability” had been used by more than one of my nominators to describe me. At first I winced at this description, but he went on to explain it as a strength and as an indicator of how I am always willing to put myself out there. At the event I spoke very briefly and said that for the sake of my “vulnerable” description I wanted to share that I had struggled with anxiety and depression and had found this to be a really positive outlet for working through those things.

Several people came up after the event and thanked me for sharing, so those responses were really heart-warming and encouraging — that was definitely the biggest way it affected me. That and, of course, I felt a great sense of pride. I love this city so much, so to be recognized for just doing something I love was really an amazing feeling.

D.W. What are your future plans for yourself and the city of Ferndale?
A.A. I hope at the end of this month to become the board president for Ferndale Youth Assistance. We have an amazing board with really wonderful ideas and recently were given very generous support by Jack and Annette Aronson. I am so excited to help develop new programs and expand old favorites in the years to come.

I also hope to increase our visibility within the community. Once Pride is over, I’m looking forward to relaxing a little and enjoying the summer, although I did just join the Green Cruise planning committee.

I have always dreamed of one day helping Ferndale in the most effective way and possibly being a member of the City Council, but with the recent boom in home values I fear that may not be an option. At first I felt saddened that I could no longer afford to live in my home town, but I feel more optimistic about it lately. There are a lot of wonderful neighborhoods that need a lot of help and perhaps that is where the next leg of my life will take me. I have a deep love for this city, but really, at the end of the day, I just want to help make the world a better place. Maybe that is cheesie, but I really like helping people. I have a big heart and I used to think that was a bad thing, but now I think it is my best quality. I feel content to go wherever I am needed or wherever I can help.

If something happened with our soundness, 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 men 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 malfunction can be the symptom a strong heartiness problem such as soul 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 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 Sara E Teller
Photo by Bernie Laframboise

Cindy Truba-Hutchinson of Commerce Township, Michigan, was born and raised in Hazel Park, Michigan, one of three children to long-time residents Richard and Lorraine Truba. “Dad lived on the same street his whole life,” she explains of her father. Truba was a well-known businessman and public figure who raised Cindy, her brother and their sister just a few houses down from where her grandparents lived in the tight-knit, family oriented community. Richard and Lorraine owned Truba Carpet at 9 1/2 Mile and John R for 50 years, which had previously been a furniture store owned and operated by Cindy’s grandfather.

Richard was a Masonic Temple Shriner and active member of numerous community organizations including Hazel Park’s City Council, zoning board, and Lions and Elks Clubs. Following in her father’s shoes, Cindy herself became involved in the City Council before relocating to Commerce Township and was the first female Lion’s Club member in Hazel Park in 1987. “Mom and Dad were both very giving of their time and money,” Cindy says. “They were proud and giving, and wonderful citizens of the city.”

So, when her mother passed away this year at 89 years old, joining her father who passed ten years earlier, she decided to commemorate their long-time charitable presence in the community by raising funds to build what she calls “a park within a park in Hazel Park.” Originally inspired by her son Tyler, who owns a gym in Wixom, Michigan, to provide residents of Hazel Park with a health and wellness experience, Cindy decided to work with the city’s Recreation Department to design a fitness park — a family-centered recreational escape intended to serve as “an asset to the whole community.”

“Sareen Papakhian, Hazel Park’s Assistant Planner, has been extremely helpful” in making Cindy’s vision come to life in the heart of Green Acres Park. These gathering places “are very prevalent where the weather is great all the time,” she says, and she felt Hazel Park residents would be thrilled to have something similar in their backyard.

“We will start with eight or nine pieces of equipment, some ADA-compliant, made for the outdoors,” Cindy explains. She has confirmed the city is working with an equipment builder used previously to construct several playground structures meeting all American Disability Act specifications. These structures and the remainder of the park facilities should be available by the end of the summer. So far, the Truba and Hutchinson families have been able to raise two-thirds of their fundraising goal of $30,000 toward the project, and they hope to raise the remainder by the end of June. Cindy is asking for the public’s help with funding the remaining $7000.

At the time of this interview, Cindy planned to set up in the refreshment tent at the upcoming four-day Hazel Park Memorial Festival located at Green Acres Park. The festival draws a large number of Hazel Park residents and those of neighboring communities with its parade, carnival, craft sale, live entertainment and numerous family friendly activities. Anyone interested in donating to the fitness park can send a check in care of “Richard and Lorraine Truba Recreation Fund” to The City of Hazel Park, 111 E 9 Mile Road, Hazel Park, Michigan 48030. Please make sure to note the project on the memo line.

If something happened with our soundness, 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 connected to erectile disfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What humanity 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 health problem such as heart trouble. Causes of sexual malfunction include injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a state 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 therapy passes into breast milk.

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By Sidnie Jackson

Ferndale is a city full of givers and community people. One of the people who have made a huge contribution to our city is Michele Sibula, one of this year’s winners of the annual “Good Neighbor Award” from Ferndale Citizens for a Fair Ferndale.

Sibula is a lifelong Ferndalian; she has lived here for 54 years, along with raising her three children in Ferndale: Arik, Shea, and Lauran. After having three children go through the Ferndale Public School System, she began her volunteer work by volunteering in and out of her children’s classroom. She was an active member of the PTO, involved in fundraisers and her childrens’ volleyball, softball, and baseball games. She was also extremely invested in being a marching band parent.

Sibula quickly became a proud mother of three college graduates and, for the most part, her volunteerism as a parent came to a close. Then, tragedy struck her family. One of the most important people in Sibula’s life, her beloved cousin, passed away from breast cancer at age 41 leaving behind two children. Ironically, Sibula became inspired by the situation and, with her spirited personality, decided she could do something to help in the fight against cancer. Jackie Koivu, one of her friends and an active member of the community, asked Sibula to help with Relay for Life, the American Cancer Society’s ongoing national fundraising project.

Sibula served as the local Vice Chair of Relay for Life for one year, and later took charge of the local project after Koivu move to Florida. Now, nine years later she is still in charge of Relay for Life here in Ferndale.

When Sibula discovered she won the Good Neighbor award this year, she was surprised. “I believe God put us here on this Earth to help other people.” Sibula serves our community not for individual recognition, but out of the goodness of her heart, and to see a change in the community and the lives of others. She is very passionate about her service to the world.

Sibula is quite busy during the spring time before the annual Relay for Life event. She is constantly on the computer and phone, answering and asking questions regarding the event.

During the spring prior to Relay, she organizes many events to raise money and awareness. For example, Comedy for a Cure, Drag Queen Bingo, and many dining nights, as well as many other events that help raise money. Sibula also takes time to get sponsorships from businesses,organize team meetings, and brainstorm ideas of how to make Relay for Life As successful as it can be.

When asked why she does all of the work for this event, she stated “I want to live in a world where no mother or father has to leave their child; no child has to grow up without their parents. I want to live in a world where you don’t have to hear the words, ‘you have cancer,’ because almost everybody whether through family or friends have known someone who has been diagnosed with cancer and it makes you feel helpless.”

There are things we as a community can do to help the fight against cancer and Relay for Life is a major way that we can achieve the goal of ending cancer. Already our little Ferndale has raised over $400,000 dollars over the past nine years.

Sibula believes in what the American Cancer Society stands for, and how they help by providing money and programs for cancer patients and their families. Relay for Life is important to Sibula because it calls attention to the importance of the mission statement: Celebrate those who’ve won the battle against cancer, remember those we have lost, and fight back through research and early detection.

Sibula said that in order to prevent cancer we can do some very simple things. We can pledge not to smoke, and to eat more vegetables because those two things can help prevent cancer. In addition, go to annual doctor visits for early detection. Fighting back against cancer is not all about the money, but about prevention.

Not only does Sibula understand that cancer touches a lot of people, but she has personally been affected: her cousin and her mom is now an eight-year colon cancer survivor. Sibula humbly stated, “through volunteering I have gotten way more out of it than I have ever given.”

If some 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 impotency and other states united to erectile disfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What folk talk about “viagra stories“? The most substantial 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 heartiness problem such as heart trouble. Causes of sexual malfunction include 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 medication passes into breast milk.

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By Ingrid Sjostrand

Ferndale is a community built on inclusion and acceptance, with so many organizations and events made to bring people together. Rabbi Herschel Finman recognized this, and saw Ferndale as the perfect place to build and foster representation for a rapidly growing Jewish population in the area.

“I have always looked for opportunities to help and serve people in communities, especially where there were no services offered,” Rabbi Finman says. “About a year ago my wife and I saw that Ferndale was becoming a place where Jewish people were moving, but there was nothing servicing them so we decided to start getting involved.”

He and his wife, Chana, created the group Jewish Ferndale in December 2014. Through word of mouth, hosting classes and conducting events, like the Menorah lighting at the Kulik center in December 2015, Jewish Ferndale has gained a strong following. So strong that they have found themselves in need of a permanent space. “We have always had to scramble to find spaces. The library has been very gracious in offering us space,” Rabbi Finman says. “We’ve had to rent out various establishments around the city for parties the library wouldn’t be the proper medium for, so it was determined last July that we should really start looking for our own place.”

It didn’t take long for them to find 1725 Pinecrest Dr. sitting at the corner of 9 Mile. Built in 1950, this former dentist’s office needed minimal work to create a gathering spot and residence for Rabbi Finman and his wife. While they currently reside in Oak Park, it was essential that Jewish Ferndale be a warm, comfortable homeff-jj-house retreat for visitors.“We have people that come to our house all the time so this will be an extension of our home that people can come to and relax at,” Rabbi Finman says. “That will be a focus for drawing people in –to experience various mediums in a relaxed area.” The four-bedroom, two-bath space is currently being renovated to include a Jewish library with resources and books, a large commons area with a cozy, hearth fireplace, a garden and a detached garage to become an art studio. The Finman’s will reside on the second story.

“Maybe a Saturday night coffeehouse, which sounds very grandiose, but really it’s just someone itting next to the fireplace with a guitar, people sitting on couches schmoozing and drinking tea,” Rabbi Finman pictures one of many future nights within the home.

Rabbi Finman is not lacking in involvement in Metro Detroit’s Jewish community; he has been an active member for the last 30 years. Not only does he host Michigan’s only Jewish radio program, The Jewish Hour; he sends a weekly email entitled eParsha to a mailing list that has grown to include over 14,000 people in the last 16 years and produces short youtube videos, YouParsha, discussing the Jewish happenings of the week.

In all his ventures Rabbi Finman has always recognized a lack of resources or listened to the needs of the community and created a solution. He says that the success of Jewish Ferndale will follow that same path.
“We have to get people just to come in and see what they can have and what people will want and if it’s within our scope, and parameter and resources than we’re willing and open to it having those things.”
He hopes that complete renovations to Jewish Ferndale’s new home will be done by Labor Day, but has already begun conducting classes within the space.

“It will be another place for people to go, they have their home, their business and this will be the third place,” Rabbi Finman says. “The main thing is that we hope it will be warm and inviting.”

If some 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 impotency and other states united to erectile disfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What humanity 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 health 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 medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk.

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