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By: Jeff Milo, Circulation Specialist

Halloween is right around the corner. I can’t think of any other sentence that brings me more joy. As we’ve proven year-in and year-out, you’ve got a library in your community that’s absolutely mad about this time of year, the costumes, the candy, the decorations…

On the last Saturday of October, we always host a SPOOKTACULAR, where kids (and families) can come trick-or-treating throughout the library, winding their way around book shelves and through the Kids Corner on a path that’s populated by friendly Ferndale Library staff and volunteers in spirited costumes, passing out candy. Each year we select a theme for our staff and volunteers to embrace, and this year we’ve blended two perennial favorites. It’s Fairy Tales vs. Super Heroes on October 29. Our SPOOKTACULAR begins at 6:00 P.M., right after the annual Downtown Ferndale Trick Or Treat event. Our regular hours close at 5:00 P.M. that day, but we will re-open at 6:00 P.M. SPOOKTACULAR’s usually wrap up by 7:30 P.M. Children must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. No registration required.

The Youth Department is accepting donations of sealed candy every day leading up to the SPOOKTACULAR. We also are looking for volunteers, so if you love Halloween as much as we do, call Jordan or Ashley (Youth Librarians) at 248-546-2504 ex. 694.

FIRST STOP FRIDAY: Meanwhile, we are marking a full month of being back open on Fridays! We had a great time celebrating the return of Friday hours last month when we hosted a casual carnival for the community, with live music, juggling, activities and games in our courtyard. Let’s keep the festive vibes going with even more live music next month!

Every two months, we host an after-hours concert showcasing two live bands (or musicians) in our community room. This program, spearheaded by our Head of Circulation Services, Kelly Bennett, began in 2010 as “First Stop Friday,” an ideal way to kick off your evening’s entertainment by-way-of a 7:30 P.M. performance in the library. In 2014, when we had to unfortunately cut back our hours, it became “Start HERE Saturdays.” Well…long story short, First Stop Friday concerts have returned! The series re-emerged on October 7. Stay tuned for more lineups, and mark your calendar for December 2.

COMING UP: Our Parent and Teacher Enrichment Series continues on November 15 at 6:00 P.M. These insightful programs are coordinated with Oakland Family Services. This segment features “Reading with Infants & Toddlers.” You can register in advance: 248-858-7766 x. 323.
And don’t forget, parents, to let your teens know about the Teen Advisory Group. Five awesome reasons to join T.A.G.: You can influence Library pro-grams. You get community service hours. You can meet other awesome teens. It looks great on resumes. And, free food. Next meeting: Nov 2nd, at 4:00 P.M.

NEW HOURS:
Monday – Thursday 10:00 A.M. – 8:00 P.M.
Fridays 10:00 A.M. – 6:00 P.M.
Saturdays 12 Noon – 5:00 P.M.
Closed Sunday
Ferndalepubliclibrary.org

0 1648

Story by David Stone
Photography by Ed Abeska

It started innocently enough, like any other writing assignment: Find out about the wonderful new bike ff15660_hmf_4repair stations located in Ferndale, including at Geary Park, Schiffer Park, and also at Wolcott and Woodward Heights. Then the story developed into something bigger, much bigger. The bike repair stations are part of what Ferndale City Planner Justin Lyons calls a “multimodal transportation plan” designed to provide “equitable transportation for all users, ages, and abilities.”

Here is the background.

According to the Ferndale Moves! Web site, the City passed what’s called the “Complete Streets” policy in 2010. The City Council decided to create this multimodal transportation plan in 2012. This plan became Ferndale Moves!

Ferndale works with the Woodward Avenue Action Association, which is working on a
“Complete Street Master Plan” that will benefit all of the Woodward Corridor. “The cities of Ferndale, Hazel Park, Huntington Woods, Oak Park, Pleasant Ridge, and Royal Oak were awarded a Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant through MDOT and SEMCOG in 2015.” These funds enabled those ff15660_hmf_3communities to create a bicycle route that “will allow residents to connect with schools, libraries, and downtowns through Woodward Corridor communities without having to ride on Woodward Avenue.” The Ferndale Moves! Web site also points out that ‘the bicycle route will showcase the regional cooperation taken to complete the project.” This project included better “signage, improved pedestrian crossings and bike repair stations.”

So let’s meet one of the many people behind Ferndale Moves, Ferndale City Planner Justin Lyons. He has an undergraduate degree from Michigan State University and is finishing up his masters in urban planning at Wayne State University. Mr. Lyons has lived in Ferndale for two-and-a-half years, and has been our city planner for most of that time. I was surprised and pleased to learn that Justin Lyons rides his bicycle to work. As he puts it, “I use it as a mode of transportation.”

I asked Lyons why he felt Ferndale was a good place to locate a business. He responded by pointing out the “entrepreneurial character” of the city. He said residents are “receptive to new types of businesses.”  And that “a business can have true identity within a close-knit community.”

The bike repair station at Geary Park is very well located , along the stretch of park that runs parallel to ff15660_hmf_2Pinecrest and the bike route that follows Pinecrest. I must say, the site is amazing. You can hang up your bike while working on it. There is an air pump and a very impressive array of tools available to the knowledgeable biker. If you are like me — ignorant and afraid of tools — a sign gently calms you with a reassuring, “Scan code for detailed repair instructions.” Even the airpump, with its various attachments (Schrader and Presta), encourages you to “Scan code for information.”

Since all the signage isn’t up yet, you might not recognize the stations until you see the bicycle racks and the green post containing all the tools.

These stations are a wonderful way to encourage citizens of all ages, to bike rather than drive whenever possible. And enjoy our beautiful city.
http://ferndalemoves.com/

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By Rose Carver

The new bike lanes on East Nine Mile Road have some pedaling with ease, while others are anxiously pumping the brakes.

The bike lanes were built as part of the wider goals set by the Ferndale Moves initiative — a far-reaching plan to make Ferndale a more multi-modal commuter-friendly city. The initiative began in 2010 when the city passed a “Complete Streets Policy, expressing the desire to design Ferndale streets with all road users in mind – including walkers, bikers and transit vehicles,” according to the Moves website.

The bike lanes are buffered, which means there is a painted barrier between the bike lanes and driving lanes. In addition to the bike lanes, East Nine Mile’s construction included a downsizing from four to three traffic lanes. Conversions were also made to the median of Woodward and Nine Mile at the intersection to allow for right turns only, and the middle lanes from three to two lanes.

Since last year, when the orange barrels were finally removed to reveal the new road structure, residents have reported the problems and advantages of such a change. Complaints include problems with traffic being diverted to residential streets, and issues with the pacing of Nine Mile, due to the loss of traffic lanes, as well as the safety of the bike lanes in general.

Debbie Connelly, a Ferndale resident of 41 years, said the bike lanes make her nervous because she doesn’t see them being used correctly.

“I think they are dangerous. A lot of bikers don’t follow the rules of the road,” claims Connelly. “A car weighs 4,000 pounds, a truck weighs even more and when bikers don’t pay attention, or maybe the driver isn’t because of texting – that’s so scary to me!”

Eddy McCauley, a resident of Ferndale for 15 years doesn’t see the same danger, and says the bike lanes are the inevitable next step for a progressive city.

“One of the first things people I know visiting Ferndale for the first time comment to me on is how nice it is to see a suburb of the ‘Motor City’ embrace alternative modes of transportation. It is one of the many things that makes Ferndale the place I choose to live,” McCauley said. “This is reality, if it annoys you, you may want to get out of the way before progress runs you down.”

Ferndale resident Natalie Ryan-Gluth provides a unique perspective because she moved to Ferndale from Chicago, a much larger city with a cyclist-friendly atmosphere. She believes that Ferndale is simply catching up with a common practice of many large cities.

“It is going to take several years for people to get used to [the bike lanes] and develop an affinity for them,” Ryan-Gluth said. “Bike lanes are normal in big cities. It’s Detroit that is weird for having so few. It’s smart to put them in now.”

Lori Lewand, another resident of Ferndale, finds middle ground when she says that she is happy about the bike lanes, but says more education about their use is necessary.

Barry Hicks is the Executive Director for Ferndale’s Downtown Development Authority (DDA). He says that the changeover can be a confusing time for some people.

“I think that whenever you are talking about multi-modal transportation and getting out of the “I-gotta’-take-my-car-everywhere” mindset, there is a little bit of a learning curve both for motorists and for those using the bike lane itself.” Hicks said the lanes were designed with safety in mind, and the statistics regarding buffered bike lanes, which were also constructed on Livernois last year, are positive. According to a study entitled: Route Infrastructure and the Risk of Injuries to Bicyclists: A Case-Crossover Study found on peopleforbikes.org, stated that “Streets with protected bike lanes saw 90 per cent fewer injuries per mile than those with no bike infrastructure.”

Hicks indicated that more signage around the bike lanes has been the topic of some internal discussion, and that citizens should be on the look out for those.

The Ferndale Moves website explains the implementation of the new bike lanes are a part of the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), which lumps in the bike lane construction with construction that was already planned. Hilton Road is the next one to be finished, with a reduction in lanes.

The user-friendly Safety section on the Ferndale Moves website provides Ferndaliens with the opportunity to do their part in researching the transition to help become familiar with the signals, rules, and regulations of the road’s current and upcoming transitions, so the traffic can move smoothly and safely for commuters of all types.

0 2016

By Ann Heler, President, Board of Directors

On August 7, we celebrated six years as a working clinic. How many readers remember when we opened over at Kulick Community Center? We have so many people to thank: The original group that conceived and created FernCare, the original clinic team that actually put together the medical clinic processes and procedures, all of the volunteers and of course everyone who has supported and donated.

Our next fund raiser is Sunday, November 1 at Le-on & Lulu on 14 Mile Road in Clawson. This will be our fifth fundraiser with them. They kindly donate 10 per cent of every item sold on that Sunday to us. Once again we will (have) our sommelier (wine specialist) pick out three Fall wines for the wine tasting.

If some 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 emasculation and other states coupled to erectile disfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What folk 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 heart 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 disfunction. Even though this medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this treatment passes into breast milk.

0 2086

Story By David Wesley
Photos By Bernie Laframboise

In a novel from 1902, Joseph Conrad wrote, “The two main ingredients of the terroristic personality are vanity and laziness.” Through the scenes we see exploited by the news from tragedies such as the one in Orlando, the public can manage to untangle the villains, dismiss them as crazy, and rush to help he victims in any way possible. Neither news nor hearsay can prevent the sane majority from doing what is humanistic in the wake of public horrors as the shooting at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando proved.

Incidents like Orlando are becoming more common in the Western world, especially across pockets in Europe, because of a phenomenon the French call “anomic terrorism,” terrorism bred from alienation over one’s displacement across countries, cultures and religions (and more). And because of shortcomings and handicaps in their personality, as Conrad stated, it brings about a quick and easy impulse to make a violent legacy and raging headlines.

Despite this new type of terrorism, the reaction against it has been nothing short of phenomenal. Globally, people are coming together in ways digitally and physically to support the victims and uphold the new majority mentality of equality and fairness.

No matter how charity or help is done or received, it’s intimate and helpful. Naturally the city of Ferndale, ff14680_bnektar_helpbeing the LGBTQ Mecca of the Mid-West, has raised lots of money to the victims of the Orlando shooting. At their brewery and tap room on the fringes of the city, B. Nektar held a charity drive on July 19th, where 50% of the sales in their taproom went to the Pulse Victims Fund.

The B. Nektar family stands behind the victims and their families in Orlando with heavy hearts. Through the wide bright windows of their spacious taproom, people were gathered in lines buying B Nektar’s notable brews like Zombie Killer and The Dude’s Rug, many glasses and many colors inside. The bartenders were happily busy handling money and beer, while the owner, Brad and wife Kerri, chatted with customers. Everyone was socializing comfortably and the event had a natural, uplifting energy because of its intent.

B. Nektar invited their friends from the Hero-or-Villain Van food truck to bring their food to sell. Their tips were donated to the Pulse Victims Fund, as well. Workers and regulars from Affirmations swirled about, while the people from BrewPass were selling Brew Passports (five dollars from the sale of each book was donated back). Placed before a beaming window, a black canvas with rainbow letters read, “Give-O-Mead-Er,” with the hashtag WeAreOrlando at the bottom. Between the top and bottom there were envelopes that held donations in increments of $250. By the time I left the Give-O-Mead-Er had reached $1000 in donations. Over $2,000 was raised in all.

Ferndale has a right to be proud yet again, but instead it seems Ferndale’s pride is channeled into warmth and inclusiveness towards everyone. B. Nektar had a wonderful idea to bring people out for a good time while doing some impactful charity work. In fact, I know of no other city besides Ferndale that has held a charity event like this, inside a microbrewery, and used the profits for Orlando. The event was as good as the idea, and everyone who stayed around and drank beer and ate food made donations that will make lives deservedly better.

I found the couple piñatas on the wall amusing, and the LGTBQ decorations touching. The spirit of Ferndale ff14680_bnektar_glasseswas an actual living thing inside B. Nektar that evening. The crowd grew bigger and the laughter and the chatter got louder. It was not a somber event despite the tragedy it was for; instead, a sociable positivity held the air together for the evening. People only started to walk home after the dusk thinned around 9:00 P.M..

Hopefully, other businesses in the city will join in and host events like this for other charities near and far. B. Nektar opened its doors in 2008 to Ferndale, and since then the city and the business have had a wonderful love affair that only gets better. Guided by geeky imagination, influenced by sub-pop culture and never satisfied with the status quo, B. Nektar always aims to bring a modern twist on mead as well as diversify craft mead, cider and beer. The people of Ferndale think they’re doing a fine job, and many more glasses are raised to their efforts and success.

Find more information on B.Nektar on their website; bnektar.com

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 emasculation and other states connected to erectile malfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What humanity 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 soundness problem such as soul 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 disfunction. Even though this medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this curing passes into breast milk.

0 1459

By: Jeff Milo, Circulation Specialist

We sent this column to press just before the recent primary [pub. note: It passed],here voters were asked to support a millage increase that would expand the Ferndale Library’s operating hours, and enhance services. Perhaps you’re reading this after a successful campaign, in which case you will find us grateful and ready to further strengthen and upgrade sever-al aspects of our service, including programming and computer access, along with more hours. We’d be sad to say that more cuts could be on the horizon should this millage have failed. Regardless, let it never be in doubt that we are unwaveringly devoted to serving the City of Ferndale, and strengthening this community by providing access to materials and services that inform, enrich, entertain and empower.

Concert Aug 23: Now how about some enriching entertainment; there’s a concert coming up on August 23. Our annual three-part Summer Concert Series brings top-tier local artists and talented touring songwriters
(from all around Michigan) into the library for special weeknight performances that music lovers of all ages can enjoy, whether they get up close to the performers in our community room or if they are catching the strains of beautiful music streaming into the library’s main floor to sound-track your studying or latest read.

Trois Bouffons will perform a free concert at 6:30 P.M. on August 23, to close out this year’s series. This eclectic quartet are able to program a multifaceted musical experience. Based in SE Michigan, Trois Bouffons formed in 2007 to preserve the legacy and over-all charms of French Canadian tradi-tional music. With this library performance, they’ll blend in elements of Delta blues, New Orleans Jazz, Appalachian folk and traditional fiddle music. Fans of vintage styles will sure-ly love this show.

Interim Director: The Board has appointed Darlene Hellenberg as interim Director, taking over as former Director Jessica Keyser takes a new position at the Grosse Pointe Public Library. Darlene has served as the Head of Reference for one year and has been with the Library since 2003. She got her masters in Library Science from Wayne State in 2012. She has administered the annual Ferndale Reads citywide bookclub for six years, along with regularly coordinating a diverse blend of monthly program-ming, from the educational to the entertaining, the literary to the en-lightening. She is as wise and reliable as she is friendly and forthright. The Board anticipates a smooth transition. The process to select a permanent re-placement will begin in late August.

Youth Book Club Update: Youth Book Clubs will be taking a break throughout the rest of August and resume in September. There will be a new book club announced soon, though, which is exciting news. Follow facebook.com/ferndalekids for up-dates. Starting in September: Early Elementary Book Clubs (K-2 grade) will meet on the first Wednesdays, Upper Elementary Book Clubs (grade 2-5) will meet on the second Wednesdays, and Middle Grades Book Club (grade 5-8) will be on the third Tuesdays.

You can find updates about ongoing Adult Reading programs at our web-site: www.ferndalepubliclibrary.org/readers-corner

If slightly happened with our soundness, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a cure. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat emasculation and other states united to erectile disfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What people 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 malfunction can be the symptom a strong health problem such as heart trouble. Causes of sexual dysfunction switch on 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.

0 1905

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.

0 1387

Story by Andrea Grimald
Photos by Bernie Laframboise

Although nearly every home and vehicle has a radio readily available, FM stations don’t get the love they used to. Radio stations are plagued wth bad reputations for repetitive, generic music and repetitive, obnoxious commercials, and internet radio and streaming services seem to dominate the listeners. But a local group is determined to have Ferndale dusting off their radios for something new. Imagine enjoying a local band on the radio, and finding out they are playing down the street this upcoming weekend. Imagine hearing about every party or event that will improve your neighborhood. Large-scale radio stations don’t have the scope or capability to focus on the bustling activity of each city, especially a city as busy as Ferndale. Ferndale Community Radio aims to keep you in your car longer, to make you tune your radio alarm clock to listen at home, to get you more involved in your community. Recently, t
he Federal Communications issued a license for a Low-Power FM (LPFM) station to a group of friends in Ferndale. LPFM radio stations are rare, and designed to help the community. One-hundred-watt broadcasts reach only three to five miles, and are designed to stay community-centered and commercial-tee. With such a small range of broadcasting, the focus of each station is as local as local gets.

Although sounding like a great service, LPFM stations are generally hard to find. Large, commercial radio stations lobbied Congress against allowing low powered stations, claiming the small stations are detrimental to their commercial feeds. Because of this, Congress passed the Local Community Radio Act, which allows a ffas2106-fr1very small amount of LPFM licenses to be granted within a very small time tame. These licenses were only given to commercial-free, non-profit, educational entities. These groups must prove they have a place to broadcast tom and available airspace to broadcast to, among other regulations.

Although there weren’t a high number of applications nationwide (less than 3,000 in 2013), licenses were awarded to less than a third of the applicants, wth an estimate of only 800 LPFM stations currently broadcasting.

One of these permits was granted to the soon-to-be Ferndale Community Radio thanks to hard wort< and determination of local radio enthusiasts. These enthusiasts include Michelle Mirowski, president and general manager, Dave Phillips, head of communications, Jeremy Olstyn, in charge of programming and training, Paul Schmalenberg, head engineer, and Dave Kim, in charge of promotions. All five come from radio backgrounds, whether DJ-ing for their high school or college stations, or working in the broadcast industry. The group has a passion for radio and many ideas of the potential that so many commercial stations miss out on.

Although Underwood Five considers themselves very lucky to be awarded a construction permit to begin building the station, many roadblocks have come up along the way. Trying to find airspace on the crowded Metro­ Detroit dial was not easy. Finding a location seemed impossible, until the Rust Belt Mar1<et graciously offered booth space to broadcast from. Owner Chris Best admitted that since opening the Rust Belt, they had hoped to offer their space for a local radio station but weren’t aware of the limitations set by the FCC and the Local Community Radio Act. This space will allow for an open and accessible station to establish itself, as well as pro-vide an excellent soundtrack during business hours of the Rust Belt. However, while the Rust Belt is a great location and full of Ferndale-centric shops and shoppers, it is not currently equipped for a radio station. This is where the next step becomes imperative.

Ferndale Community Radio is currently raising money to begin building their station. The money they will raise will go to building materials for their studio, the tools to get broadcast-ready (including a transmitter, an antenna, a tow-er, and the costs of professional installation). Depending on the success of their fundraising campaign, they are hoping to begin broadcast before 2016 is over. They will need to raise $15,000 to cover the costs. Their recently started IndieGoGo campaign can be found at www.FerndaleRadio.com
Due to the limitations set by the license, if Ferndale Community Radio is not broadcast-ready by February
2017, they will lose their permit. If the permit is lost, it will not be passed on to another group. It will become obsolete. Due to the delicate reward process and the limited number of LPFM stations nation-wide, losing the permit would be a loss not only for the hardworking FCR group, but also for Ferndale as a whole.

For local bands, a community radio station will be a dream. For listeners who like something unique, untouched by commercial interests, possibly including on-air book clubs and programs with fantastic story telling, Ferndale Community Radio will be their go-to. As the station becomes more established, the creators are hoping to bring more DJs and broadcasters on board, entertaining any show ideas. They encourage other aspiring radio fans to reach out and volunteer.

To learn more, go to FerndaleRadio.com to hear about the vision from the visionaries.

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 coupled to erectile malfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What folk 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 disfunction can be the symptom a strong health problem such as core 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 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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Story by Derek Lindamood
Photo by Bernie Laframboise

THE MORE SUCCESSFULLY A city mingles every­day diversity of uses and users in its everyday streets, the more successfully, casually (and economically) its people thereby enliven and support well-located parks that can thus give back grace and delight to their neighborhoods instead of vacuity.” – Jane Jacobs, The Life and Death of American Cities.

Hazel Park is changing – and fast. The revitalization and development of a thriving downtown is on the horizon and moving forward each passing week.

An institution called The Congress for New Urbanism – which aims to develop “vibrant and walkable cities, towns, and neighborhoods where people have diverse choices for how they live, work, shop, and get around” – selected Hazel Park and one other Michigan City to assist with the urban development process for local citizens wanting more out of their town. Beth Holland, Charles Gladue, Mike Webb and Jen Jackson – all Hazel Park residents and volunteers – are working for and with the Hazel Park government and CNU to help improve Main Street Hazel Park.

For starters, John R. Road – owned by Hazel Park, not Oakland County -will be refurbished and improved. The current road is two lanes, which will be reduced to one – the other becoming parking spaces – while the speed limit will be reduced to 25 mph, allowing safety for bikers without the need for a bike path. From 8 Mile to 10 Mile, the city will be divided into districts -restaurant/retail, an art area, an art park, a historical museum (the original Hazel Park Library), a farmer’s market, and more.

“I lived in Ferndale from 1960-1970, before Ferndale even had a downtown. It was during this time period when Ferndale first began to debate with Oakland County over the usage of 9 Mile Rd. as a place for a Main St. Here in Hazel Park, we don’t have that issue – the city of Hazel Park itself owns John R.,” said Beth. This fact will contribute to the ease and speed that the downtown can be created now that the wheels are in motion.

A vitamin store, a recording studio, an Italian Bakery, unique eateries and other businesses will be popping up all around the 2.8 square mile city. Philanthropists such as the Truba family, residents of Hazel Park for 40 years, have donated funds for an outdoor fitness center at Greenacres Park. “The equipment that will be installed in the park will be specially made for outdoor fitness,” Councilman and local mechanic Mike Webb said. The folks from Detroit TV Series, Hardcore Pawn, will open a shop in Hazel Park (although not shoot episodes there). Most interestingly, inside of the original Hazel Park Firehouse (next to Checkers on 9 Mile) will be a firehouse-themed restaurant called Fire House Plaza. “I’m not sure our city will house as many bars as Ferndale, but we’ll have plenty of restaurants and retail, plus a farmer’s market open on Sundays starting June 19 of this year,” Beth said.

Heading up the creation of the Farmer’s Market is Jen Jackson, a native of Holland, MI who harnesses a passion for her new city, as well as helping those in need. “All monies generated from leasing Farmer’s Market space will be reinvested back into the market or into Parks & Recreation,” she said.

The vision for the New Hazel Park is “practical, not crazy” – and the other amenities and spaces included at the Farmer’s Market will offer just that – affordable, fresh produce and goods, a playgroundfor children, bathrooms, a near-by dog park and plenty of parking. Some of the vendors already showing interest in occupying the market space are Jentzens Farms out of Monroe, Apothecary Handmade Cosmetics, Ain’t No Sunshine Farm, and Pink Robin Bakery – which already has three locations in Detroit. The Farmer’s Market will be located on the Ferndale border off Woodward Heights, exactly where the Hazel Park Art Fair is located every year. SNAP and EBT Cards will be accepted at the market.

The energy and excitement exuded by these four Hazel Park citizens was incredibly inspirational. To better serve their community, each of them have dedicated their own time and energy to educating themselves – through MSU Extension programs and an Oakland County crash course called “One-Stop Ready” – in efforts to provide them with the knowledge that will help aid them towards achieving their goals. The knowledge ff-hp-group-bwHPGMMarket@gmail.comgleaned from these programs have led to quick and easy processes which facilitate businesses getting permits and approvals much faster. Companies that apply for business permits in Hazel Park typically receive them one-two weeks after the application date. Further, they have assisted in changing zoning laws to allow for businesses to purchase and knock down unoccupied (for a minimum of six months) adjacent houses, to create parking space.

The most amazing detail regarding the sudden development of The New Hazel Park is that it’s coming on the heels of very, very difficult times for the city. “From 2008-2012, the city was in an utter state of emergency. With the financial crisis, and State funding being cut, we asked citizens to step up, and they responded”, said Councilman Webb. “Now, we’ve got triggers in place to continue developing the city under financial stability for the next 25 years. As the road bonds and ice rink are paid off in the near future, this will free up capital to continue to put towards further growth and progress. Not only is Hazel Park an affordable place to retire, but it will very soon also be a viable place for millenials to get started. The schools are improving, their financial health is returning under our new superintendent, and the new downtown will be a place to shop, socialize and enjoy.”

For more information on CNU, go to: https://www.cnu.org/

If you’re interested in leasing space at the Hazel Park Farmer’s Market, email HPGMMarket@gmail.com

If some happened with our heartiness, 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 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 dysfunction can be the symptom a strong soundness problem such as core trouble. Causes of sexual dysfunction turn on injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a state 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 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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