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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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By Jenn Goeddeke

Exciting alternative treatment is available for children with ADD, ADHD, or for those on the autism spectrum. Neurofeedback is behavioral therapy, and does not involve administering any medication. In fact, most of the treatment is fun-based and even involves the child watching their favorite movies and playing video games (but not the type played at home). As a mother with a teenage son who was diagnosed with ADHD at a young age, I fully understand the importance of effective and permanent treatment options.

Working at the cutting edge of this scientific-yet holistic- approach to attention deficit issues is Donald Magder, whom I recently met at his Royal Oak office. Magder is busy improving the lives of his clients with a series of 45-minute treatment sessions conducted over a 20-40 week timespan.

Neurofeedback (sometimes referred to as Neuro-biofeedback) has been around for over 50 years. It has become much more refined,and now is more widely available for use by licensed clinical psychologists, such as Magder. This form of treatment has been getting serious attention. For example, the American Academy of Pediatrics (www.aap.org) described this technique as “the most efficacious” on their list of interventions to help children with ADD or ADHD. Neurofeed-back has also been featured on Dr.Phil, Oprah, and hundreds of news outlets around the world. In addition, the PGA and other professional sports organizations use the technique to improve concentration and performance in athletes.

So how does this treatment work? Initially, a map – called a “Qeeg” – is taken of the brain. This process is completely painless, as is every aspect of neurofeedback. Nineteen different areas of the brain are recorded electronically using small monitors which are part of a cap (resembling a show-er cap), fitted around the child’s head. This gives a detailed picture of how the child’s brain is communicating with itself, and a treatment plan is then formed based on how a normal brain should function). The brain waves of inattention and attention can be weakened or strengthened accordingly over time, a lot like weight training at a gym! Magder sometimes refers to it as “wait-train-ing” for the brain.

The ongoing treatment involves the child playing specifically devel oped video games and watching movies. Magder showed me a few of the training games he uses, which included ‘Midway Carnival’ and sports-related games, tailored for different age ranges. Magder monitors the brain wave pat-terns during these activities on his computer, and sounds and visual rewards are used for brain waves going in the right direction. The brain often gets over a thousand ‘re-wards’ in one session! In this gentle way, over the course of a few weeks, the brain is actually re-trained to permanently function in a more effective and balanced way. Magder likens the process to “…eavesdropping on our brainwaves…and being a neuron-nudger!”

The human brain is a remarkable learning machine, and various long-term studies have shown that once brain waves have improved, they do not need any more training. I read through a few testimonials and feedback sheets from The Brain Training Center clients, and they were certainly very favorable; according to their parents, the children being treated by Magder are developing significantly more self-regulating behaviors, both at home and at school. Only mild side-effects have ever been reported, after millions of treatments have been given over the past twenty years. These side-effects can include some fatigue, mild headache, or a slight temporary increase in hyperactivity. Effects dissipate after 24 hours.

Neurofeedback sessions need to be conducted twice a week for a few weeks, so clearly there is more ‘effort’ required than just taking a pill. However, the upside is a safe and long-lasting treatment, which is actually fun too!

Magder emphasizes that he keeps the treatment affordable, and works out options with lower-income clients or for those without health insurance (for children under 18, Blue Cross/Blue Shield Insurance now covers the treatment in MI). He also offers a free, one hour initial consultation, to allow parents to make an informed decision regarding the potential benefits of neurofeedback for their child. Magder suggests that the summer vacation can be an optimal time for children to start the training.

Donald Magder can be reached at: 248.703.6943. The Royal Oak office is located at: 123 South Main Street, Suite 100.  Visit The Brain Training Center web-site for further information:
www.trainyourbraincenter.com

 

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 impotency and other states coupled to erectile disfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What men talk about “viagra stories“? The most essential aspect you must look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile 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 medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk.

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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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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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By Cheri Clair

On May 21st, at the Dearborn DoubleTree Hotel, a memorial service was held for local, much-loved entertainment impresario and Pagan leader, Michael Wiggins. Attendees were encouraged to come and “raise a glass to honor the man who thought that nothing was better than a good party.”

Wiggins died of a heart attack on May 4th, at the age of 50, leaving his loving wife Cindy a grief-stricken ff-mwwidow, and numerous others just as devastated. Wiggins was named Detroit’s “Pagan of the Year” in 2013, and was the longest-serving president of the Magickal Education Council. He also helped organize an annual four-day Pagan conference known as ConVocation, and was affiliated with the annual Renaissance Fair.

On May 24th, I spoke to Steven Gamburd, the current co-owner of the Phoenix Cafe in Hazel Park. The cafe was launched as an art studio and entertainment venue by Wiggins and others in September of 2009.

Gamburd was in place as the Art Gallery and Special Events Curator at that time. He became co-owner, along with Hans Barbe, in 2013 when Wiggins schedule would no longer allow him to run the venue himself. Gamburd, was clearly in great distress over the loss of Wiggins. We discussed memorial service and the many affiliations Wiggins had in the Pagan and art communities. Gamburd proudly spoke of Wiggins’ own art and his popular steampunk dance parties.

Co-owner Hans Barbe shared the following: “I met Michael in 2009 when putting together what became the Phoenix Cafe. He was interested in the concept of a community arts space that was all about amplifying people’s unique talents and passions. When one of the leaders of the effort defected from the project, Michael stepped into the void. He was the one who named the venue and was the face of it for its first three and a half years.

“It’s not every day that you encounter a single human being possessing all his attributes: a powerful mind, wise temperament, compassionate heart, creative talent, leadership skills, vision, purpose, wit and good taste. ff-mw-coupleHe was truly unique not just for possessing all those qualities, but for excelling in them. Michael was simply good at life and his example of what it means to live to the fullest will influence me for the rest of mine. “

In his poem, ‘Be the Chosen. I Chose,’ he succinctly and beautifully outlines his philosophy of life. But the last line in particular is so him. On one level it’s a witty taunt, but on a deeper level it’s really a challenge to all of us. He wanted to see other people aspire to be great. That, to me, is the best way to honor his memory: to not back down from a challenge, to not shy away from your greatness, to go for whatever it is you know you need to go for, even if you don’t fully know what you’re doing. They say what people most regret at the end of their lives aren’t things that they did, but things they didn’t do. I don’t think Michael died with any such regrets.

“When we first got off the ground in 2009, there was a short-lived attempt at putting out a regular newsletter for the venue, and I wrote a kind of mission statement of what the venue was all about. I reread part of it at Michael’s memorial on May 21st because I felt that it spoke to what he was about. He was committed to what the venue was about, but he ultimately didn’t need the venue to do it. What the Phoenix meant to him was what all his projects meant to him.”

The MC for an upcoming memorial at the Phoenix for Wiggins, Ted Riot, shared: “Michael’s ringtone for me was the song ‘Rockstar’ by Nickelback. He treated everyone like a rockstar. He gave everyone credit. Their views mattered. Their feelings mattered. Equal. I was an equal in the house of Phoenix. I think ‘equal’ conveys the whole message of the Phoenix. The word for Michael is ‘WhereWithAll.’ Wherever he was, with all his mental faculties, he had all the tools he needed. The where-with-all to overcome. To ascend. To achieve.

“We shared this belief: I am king. I am supreme. But not at your expense. You are not lower. I am not great because you’re less. You don’t have to be a peasant for me to be king. I am king. He was helpful, and kind. He would help anyone it seemed. Everyone was like an out of town guest.”

Riot added, “The symbol for Michael Wiggins should be M over W. Period. Like an hour glass. Because you can flip it over and it would still say the same thing.”

Brian Lewandowski, Gallery Coordinator for the Phoenix Cafe, who has been with the cafe since Memorial weekend 2011, which is when he first met Michael and the rest of the gang, had this to say about Wiggins,“

He was welcoming from the start, and introduced me to the whole steampunk movement. I knew about steampunk prior to that, but not on a conscious level. He put a name to it, and showed me what amazing art and ingenuity was involved with the genre.

“One thing that will always remind me of Michael is the Phoenix mosaic that is hanging in the cafe. ff-pg-blI wanted to make a sign for the front window, and talked extensively with Michael about what it should be. We agreed it should be a mosaic Phoenix, and it should be lighted. So I worked for several months on the piece, unveiling it at our two-year anniversary show on November 11, 2011. Ever since, it has been a mainstay in the cafe. Due to its weight, we were unable to initially hang it in the front window. We liked how it looked where we hung it, as did everyone else, so it has stayed there.

Michael also got me involved with the monthly steampunk dance parties he held at the Phoenix, until they outgrew the venue. I know it sounds cliche, but it truly was an honor and a privilege to know Michael. It was crushing when I heard the news of his passing, and took me some time to really comprehend.”

A Memorial Steampunk Art Show, emceed by Ted Riot, honoring Wiggins, will be held at The Phoenix Cafe (24918 John R., Hazel Park, MI) on Friday, August 5th at 7pm, and will feature performances by CHAW, Emily Infinity, La Bas, Doc Colony and more.

If something happened with our health, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a cure. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotence and other states connected to erectile disfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What people talk about “viagra stories“? The most 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 core 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 malfunction. 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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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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