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By Ingrid Sjostrand | Portrait of Ron Marshall & Illustration by Arthur Wright

Ferndale has lost a true friend. When I asked those who knew Ronald (Ron) Marshall Jr. about his personality, the same characteristics were repeated again and again; intelligence, motivation for the success of others, infectious humor and a sometimes infuriating honesty.

“Ron was brilliant and humble about his intelligence. He was hilarious, and enjoyed laughing at what other people said even more. He was empathetic, yet pushed people to find their own success. Every day with him was a crazy, special adventure,” Heather Coleman-Voss says of Marshall, one of her best friends.

Screen Shot 2015-12-11 at 3.41.08 PMMarshall passed away on Sunday, November 15th at St. John’s Providence hospital in Southfield after suffering a stroke the previous Thursday.

Larry Miller, a friend and business partner of 3 years, builds on Ron’s character.

“Ron’s enthusiasm is, and was, extremely infectious – even those days… when he was exasperating,” Miller reminisces. “His love of people and the world… will forever impact me and how I interact with (them.)”
Jorge Sanchez calls Marshall his best friend of 27 years, having attended high school and lived together for
some time after.

“He taught me what a great friend was,” Sanchez says. “All I can tell you is that whether I needed to be told I was right, wrong, overreacting, whatever, he was there to tell me, walk me through it and help me. He was the Angel and Devil on my shoulder, always there with me.”

Marshall’s personality made him an exceptional entrepreneur. He studied journalism at the University of Michigan Dearborn and went on to build his own company, Ron Marshall Consulting and Management (ROMACOMA), for over 18 years.

Miller saw the power of Marshall’s mind while working with him.

“His brain worked at a million miles a minute. He was able to… articulate (ideas) and focus his massive energy. He would give you great ideas and some awesome motivation,” Miller says.

Coleman-Voss met Marshall through a mutual friend, which is a common theme when speaking of Ron, who connected hundreds of people. She began working with him at Ferndale Michigan Works! in 2010 when she suggested him for their role of Assistant Training Facilitator.

“Back then, we’d teach workshops to approximately 800 people each month; the impact he had on our career-seeking clients was incredible,” Coleman-Voss says. “He made them laugh, showed them how very
important they were, and he was invested in their success… and they were very successful!”

Coleman-Voss tells of one day at Ferndale Michigan Works! when they were giving a presentation on social media and the internet was down.

“I said, ‘So, how do we present social media with no social media access?’ He looked at me, whipped off his glasses and said in a hilarious voice, ‘We IMPROVISE!’ Which is exactly what we did, and the event went over very well,” she says. “There is always a positive to be found, always a reason to laugh.”

A memorial Facebook page was created in Marshall’s memory, which has over 250 members. Friends have also created a Go Fund Me page to raise money for the family during their grieving time. At press time, 126 friends and loved ones had donated over $5000.

Coleman-Voss sums it up. “Ron taught me to love your friends with everything in you, because your friends are also your family. We all miss our best friend.”

Marshall is survived by his wife Tamara and sister Heaven, whom he raised after the passing of their mother. His funeral was held at James Cole Funeral Home on Saturday, November 21.

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

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Story by Jeff Lily | Illustration by Gary Bedard

Imagine that your occupation involves being in dangerous situations, with strangers in strange homes, late at night, and for the purpose of providing sexual gratification. Sound like a really gritty crime drama?

Welcome to the “glamorous” world of escort work. This was reality for one Ferndale resident, who came forward to tell her story. Her name, and many details, have been changed to protect her identity; the pertinent facts, however, are all true.

This is Alice’s story.

She tells it to me while sitting on the sofa in the small, neat front room of her friend’s house. She’s younger than you’d think, and looks it despite all she’s experienced. She’s petite, willowy, almost fragile-looking. That last is an illusion, though, which disappears when you look into her eyes. They’re dark, sharp, and intelligent; they measure and weigh you, objectively calculating, cautious. There’s strength there, too, the kind that comes from facing down tough situations and coming out alive.

“I got out of jail. Two felonies and a misdemeanor, all drug- related.” She says. Not ashamed, and not flippant, either. Just the facts. “I had about $2500 in debt that needed to be paid. I was working three jobs, and still not making it.” They were waitressing jobs, she explains when I ask, because after jail there’s not many places that will hire you. One night, a friend of hers who worked as a stripper suggested stripping “as a joke.” Alice declined, but when she heard about escorting, it sounded appealing.

“All you do is go on dates, and they pay you,” is how she says it was described. It turned out to be more complicated than that.

Looking at Alice now, it’s difficult to believe that someone like her — smart, good-looking, charming — would need to go to these extremes. But anyone can have a bad start in life.

“I have the perfect background for it.” Alice explains. She was adopted, bounced around in a series of foster homes, and suffered abuse. “No one becomes a stripper because you were loved too much as a child. No one escorts because their daddy told them they were the best. Everyone in the business is broken, one way or another.”

So it was that she found herself in a hotel room one night, photographed in lingerie, and advertised. The money was more than she’d ever made before. But after a couple of months she’d had enough, and quit.
But she still needed money, so she went into stripping. The hours were long, the work exhausting. She still has side effects from wearing her costume shoes, which made her feet swell and bones
curve. There were other dangers as well.

“We (the dancers) all drank pretty heavily.” Alice admits. She didn’t get into drugs, but some of the women she worked with did MDMA, cocaine, Xanax, and others. At the very least, “You’d go home drunk and wake up the next day hung over. Every day.”

The work also affected her personal life. “My boyfriend couldn’t tell his friends what I did for a living.” Alice recalls. “He couldn’t tell his parents. That put (a lot of) strain on our relationship.”

Finally, she reached her limit. “I watched this documentary about girls in the porn industry. I never did porn, but they were saying the same things, the exact same things, that I said to justify stripping. Things like, ‘It makes me feel beautiful. I get paid to party. I’m having the time of my life.’ Hearing them say that scared the life out of me. I couldn’t do it any more.”

Despite everything, she won’t condemn the whole adult entertainment industry, or try to tell anyone how to run their life.

“It’s not the industry that’s bad. What they do to the girls is,” she says. Because so much of the business is illegal, it operates undercover and can’t be regulated. “I’ve talked to a couple of girls since I got out, and they asked if I could help them get started.” So she told them the truths that the pimps and the club owners won’t. Bottom line: You’ll lose too much of yourself for a paycheck. It just isn’t worth it. The girls she talked to decided not to take the leap.

Alice is putting her life together. She has steady work now, still too close to the industry for comfort, but no longer in it. She finished her high school education, all AP classes, with honors, and is looking forward to starting college.

She’s also determined to take the hard lessons she’s learned and educate other young women who are considering working as strippers, escorts, or in adult films. Her eyes light up as she talks about her project, joining with a large group of former adult entertainment workers to collectively develop a blog.

“All you do is go on dates, and they pay you,”

“It’s called ‘Married to the Money’ because so many girls have trouble leaving, because of the money.” Alice explains. The blog will tell the stories of adult industry workers, with the goal of educating others about the realities of working in the business. What anyone does with the information, and if they choose to believe it, will be their choice.

Creating the blog is painful work. It dredges up a lot of memories, and of course the stories hit close to home. But that the point. “I want something honest. Almost too honest. If I can make even one person stop and say, ‘Wait a second. Maybe this isn’t as good, as healthy, as I think it is…” She pauses. One of her jobs while stripping was to recruit other women into the business. “I wasn’t very good at it. It hurt me to tell them, ‘Oh, you’ll just be waitressing.’ Because I guarantee, if we recruit you, within a month you’ll be on the pole…”

I see then that the blog will have a lot of uses. I understand that it’s not just helpful information, or a public service. It’s also therapy.

As of press time, the blog isn’t quite ready. Ferndale Friends will publish the address when it goes online.
Meanwhile, Alice is busy with her studies, dreaming and planning.

“The best feeling in the world is leaving that stage for the last time, knowing you’re never going back.”

At that, she finally cracks a smile. The stage is behind her now. Her life is just ahead.

If something happened with our health, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a preparation. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat emasculation and other states connected to erectile dysfunction. 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 health problem such as heart 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 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 Jason Shubnell | Photos by Bernie Laframboise

The LGBT community, with its growing acceptance in U.S. society, has made big strides over recent years. Both celebrities and the federal government have played a part in this progressive wave. However, remedies for the unique challenges the trans community faces in the healthcare system have lagged behind. Sex reassignment procedures and hormone therapy are just a few of the services the trans community needs; unfortunately not every doctor and physician can (or will) provide these. The Affordable Care Act of 2010 banned sex discrimination in most healthcare facilities and programs, so it’s not always a matter of lingering bigotry but also a lack of familiarity and training.

“Finding safe and affordable healthcare providers who are respectful and knowledgeable regarding transgender healthcare can be a huge challenge pretty much everywhere,” said Daniel Herrle, who runs FtM Detroit, a transmasculine activism and support collective. “Ferndale has a lot of resources available that fit this description. However, transgender folks aren’t always aware of what is available to them.”

Screen Shot 2015-12-11 at 3.28.42 PMEnter RAD Remedy, a virtually-operated nonprofit collective with team members and data entry volunteers located across the country.

RAD, which stands for Referral Aggregator Database, was launched in 2014 to help bring a solution to one central problem: connecting transgender people with healthcare providers that can meet their needs.
“I kept consulting referral lists from community organizations only to find them inaccurate or out of date,” said RAD Remedy Executive Director Riley Johnson. He was looking to connect with others in the trans healthcare space. “In one memorable example, the provider in question was a friend of mine who had passed away two or three years prior.”

Johnson eventually found the Trans*H4ck, a transgender hackathon, speaker series and code school based out of Chicago.

“We began as a team of strangers: two social workers, two developers, and me,” Johnson continued. “Twenty- seven hours of work later, we won top honors at the event. We felt it was important to seek as many perspectives as possible, so we later decided to attend trans conferences and do a needs assessment so we could develop the tool to be most accessible.”

Screen Shot 2015-12-11 at 3.28.31 PMAlong the way, Herrle joined the team. He is a Ferndale resident and the organization’s design director.
“I had been looking for ways to start up something similar, and through my searching, I found that RAD was just getting started,” said Herrle. “They had a booth set up at the Philadelphia Trans Health Conference in 2014. I attended the conference, found them there and immediately got involved.”

Herrle, who along with Johnson and many other RAD team members is transgender, hopes more providers in the area will connect with the organization: “This can become an even more valuable resource if local residents review these providers and suggest more. Participation of residents sharpens and refines what is available through RAD.”

The RAD Remedy database has over 3,000 providers nationwide, with new providers added each day. Johnson said the organization would ideally have reviews available for all providers so people “can know what they’re walking into before they access care. However, we don’t measure success by vast amounts of providers in the system…We prefer to empower users, work to improve capacity for organizations, and work with providers to improve their services, forms, and systems.”

On the medical and insurance side of things, Johnson says, “It can be challenging when necessary surgeries and treatments are deemed ‘cosmetic’ or ‘experimental.’ Such procedures have been practiced for decades and are necessary and responsible treatment for diagnosed conditions, but all too often blanket exclusions prohibit insurance coverage, making access to such treatment impossible for most folks. Trans health is something untaught in most U.S. medical schools, so it should be no surprise that many doctors have no clue as to how to proceed. We at RAD Remedy want to take the guesswork out of things by providing clear and low-stakes consulting so providers can improve forms, systems, and practices with the clients they serve.”
RAD has a volunteer team and board comprised of people across the country in areas such as Chicago, Detroit, Seattle, New York City, Portland, Minneapolis, and Columbus, Ohio. According to its website, there were 37 providers within the Detroit area at time of writing.

RAD has been working with Affirmations, and seeks to expand the partnership.

“Affirmations currently hosts a network of LGBTQ- affirming healthcare providers that are located throughout southeastern Michigan and are accessible on our Health and Wellness Network.” Explains Kelsey Hug, Affirmations’ Community Resource Manager. RAD Remedy hosts a similar network at a national level. We haven’t completely sorted out the details of what that partnership will look like, but we’re excited to find ways to best serve transgender community members across Southeast Michigan in the best way possible in partnership with other LGBTQ+ serving organizations.”

RAD has not been without its struggles. “For many on our team, paying work must be prioritized, so if we are able to secure organizational funding, we may be able to have team members work more actively on RAD and thus get more aspects completed,” Johnson said. A crowdfunding campaign can be accessed at www.rockethub.com/projects/61520

“We also face an obstacle in that the communities we serve often have trauma around getting care, so it can take time to earn their trust, both for us and for the providers who work with us to improve their services,” Johnson continued. “We strive to be both a community project (where many people contribute) and a community resource (where many people benefit), so we feel it is important to build our networks and prove our worth over time.”

The organization is always looking for more help. RAD is hoping to boost its tech team, along with adding a development person, although Johnson said they can always find ways to make use of all sorts of people and all sorts of skills they may have.

Speaking on the makeup of the RAD organization, Herrle stated: “While our team is mixed, it was important for us to maintain a level of, ‘by the community, for the community.’”

—-

Check out RAD Remedy online at www.radremedy.org

If some happened with our soundness, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a medicament. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotency and other states connected to erectile dysfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What men talk about “viagra stories“? The most vital aspect you must look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile dysfunction can be the symptom a strong soundness problem such as core trouble. Causes of sexual disfunction turn on injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a status 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 Jeff Lilly | Photos courtesy of Designhaus Architecture

The old Save-a-Lot store, at 430 West 9 Mile Road, sits silent and vacant, an eyesore. The parking lot yawns, a dull desert of asphalt. Wasted space on a busy street.

But soon, work will begin to demolish the old store and convert it and its parking lot into something much more useful and beautiful.

Uh-oh. The subject of redevelopment on 9 Mile can be a tricky one, especially when development plans grow too large or complex. The recent failure of the 3-60 Project is a case in point. Too large for the space, too much disruption of business during construction, and an end product that just wouldn’t have fit the character (and needs) of Ferndale. So, when Ferndale Friends got word of plans for this new development, we looked into it.

Screen Shot 2015-12-11 at 3.14.37 PMAt the Rochester office of Designhaus Architacture, Peter Stuhlreyer, AIA, Chief Architect and CEO, lays out the plans. The illustrations reveal a striking, L-shaped, four- story structure with a varied facade. It will run the length of the current lot, hiding the building’s parking behind and underneath; parking sufficient for the residents and businesses in the building, plus a tiny bit extra.

“We’re trying to build a high quality housing project… for anyone.” Peter says, over a constant background whir of power tools. Designhaus, too, is in the process of being upgraded. “Ninety units, about half single- bedroom, about half two-bedroom, with a few larger units on the corner. Businesses on the ground floor. Elevators, stairs, workout facilities, a common room, gathering spaces. There’ll be a small public patio on the roof.”

How do you fit a new building into an existing street?

“You don’t want to pander to history, to create some kind of phony pastiche of old buildings.” Peter explains. “On the other hand, you’re not trying to reinvent the wheel, either. There’s a strong tie to context. You don’t want to introduce something foreign, but you also don’t want to try and appease everyone, to make them comfortable just to get approved.” The world, he says, is full of buildings designed with the latter philosophy in mind, and it shows in the general sameness and dullness that abounds in shopping centers and housing developments. He smiles, and adds an important caveat. “You also don’t want to shock them.”

On the nuts-and-bolts side, there is a lot of modeling, 3D rendering, and street viewing. The new structure is designed to do more for 9 Mile than just provide more living and business space, though.

“9 Mile starts to fizzle out as far as its pedestrian energy at that point. This (building) says, we’re still part of that energy.” Peter says that research showsthe effects of “holes” in the urban landscape, namely features like surface parking lots.

Studies show that once pedestrians hit an area with an open lot, they tend to cross the street and walk back the other way. 430 West 9 Mile will fill in that hole.

“We have open storefronts and businesses. There’ll be public art (to be placed by the DDA.) On the east side of the building, there’ll be a small musical performance area, facing into the vest-pocket park that will go there. It will really energize the area.” Peter talks about other ideas, such as shuttle buses that will run to the planned rail line on Woodward to reduce traffic.

Designhaus has been around for close to 20 years, focusing on mixed-use projects and things that Peter calls “difficult sites.”

“People are moving back to the cities,” He says. “The properties (that are there) are troubled… problems with space, zoning, environmental issues… it’s much harder than developers going out, buying five acres, and putting up a building.” They’ve worked on projects as diverse as student housing, microbreweries, and converting old offices and schools into living space. “We have a reputation for getting things done in (challenging) situations,” Peter smiles again, “and coming out the other side without the public coming to our office with torches.”

Peter says there wasn’t any difficulty with the process in Ferndale, though. Designhaus worked very closely with the City of Ferndale and gave them exactly what they asked for; something suited to the scale and feeling of the neighborhood, yet moving it upward and outward, too.

Construction is slated to start in April of 2016.
www.designhaus.com

If something happened with our heartiness, 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 connected to erectile disfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What people talk about “viagra stories“? The most vital aspect you must look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile dysfunction can be the symptom a strong soundness problem such as core trouble. Causes of sexual dysfunction include injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a condition called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual malfunction. Even though this medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this treatment passes into breast milk.

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Story and photos by Kevin Alan Lamb

Have your children grown up and moved away? Or perhaps you’ve lost the one you loved and have grown too familiar with the way an empty house feels. No matter how the pages turned in your story, the next chapter in your life may be a protagonist who infuses youth, culture, and a daily reminder that life is beautiful.

Just ask Charlene Marklein Nutton, who has welcomed Educatius International student Worapong Kitti-a-nong Oh into her home, from Thailand.

“I am a widow so there is only Oh and myself. Oh has bought many photos on his computer, and before seeing them I knew very little about Thailand. It is a beautiful country and much more modern in parts than I thought. Ninety-seven percent of the people of Thailand are Buddhist. Oh has taught me a number of things about his religion. While he is here we are going to visit a temple. Oh is very gracious and likes to cook a number of his country’s dishes. We have been to downtown Detroit to see how close Canada is, the new DEB building, Belle Isle, a wedding and Arts, Beats & Eats. On Sunday we are going to a Tiger’s Game. His English has improved a lot since he arrived 11 days ago,” Nutton says.

Educatius International is a global leader in the field of international education seeking families in Berkley, Clawson, Royal Oak, Ferndale, and Bloomfield to host international students attending Clawson, Ferndale, and Bloomfield Township high schools for the upcoming school year.

“Hosting an international student is an enriching experience for the family, the student, the schools, and the community. There is a sharing of cuisines, language, culture, relationships, and life in a different part of the world where one may have only read about or seen on television. An international student is here to experience American culture and improve their English language skills. They can add interest in learning in the classroom as they learn from us and we learn from them,” Debi Wilkelis of Educatius International says.

Oakland County Schools have endorsed the program for the 2015-16 year, placing students in high schools throughout Oakland County. A local coordinator is provided by Educatius International to supervise and work with the host families and schools to ensure a positive experience.

Host Mother Shari Berard says, “I raised two wonderful boys through the Ferndale school system and now I am alone. Meeting Debi and (listening to) her persuasive ways, I soon was hosting a girl from Spain in my home. The first night, with students arriving, I had five people in my living room speaking four different languages. Seeing these students who are willing to leave their homes and live with those who speak another language and then studying in that language takes courage. It has been a joy to meet and be with others in this program.”

While welcoming someone from a foreign a land into your home may be intimidating, with a built- in language barrier, it just might also be one of the best experiences of your life. After all, it’s not every day you are given a chance to welcome a brave, cultured, and grateful child into your family. Children like Worapong Kitti-a-nong Oh, who shares a few of his exciting experiences so far.

“At school in Thailand, I have nine periods each day and end the class at 4:00 P.M. every day but here, I have only seven periods each day and end class at 3:05 P.M.. It’s a new experience for me that school ends earlier. Also, I am able to speak English with my friends in the class every time because in Thailand, I speak English only in the English class. Next, I am able to see something that we don’t have in Thailand such as weddings in the other country. I can feel weather that is very very very cold for me because in Thailand, that’s always 80 degrees. Last, I am able learn about living with the other people that isn’t my family; my host.”

Educatius reimburses monthly with a set stipend of $300 to offset the cost of hosting. A referral bonus of $100 is offered for approved host families who host. It is a common misconception that families think they must entertain or treat their students as guests.

“We encourage them to treat them as extended family members who participate in family functions and help with chores around the home no different than their own children,” Wilkelis says.

Students can share a room with another student within the same age range and sex, so long as they have their own bed and closet/dresser. Host families are expected to provide student’s three meals a day, understanding that lunch may be purchased at school. Additionally, host families are asked to drive students to activities at least three times a week.

Candela Ruano is a 14-year-old high school student from Spain, attending Ferndale High School. She shares some her most interesting experiences thus far.

“High school definitely, it’s so exciting to meet new people. At first it was scary (for everybody is) but then is amazing. Everyone treats so well and you feel really comfortable. I’m in Ferndale High School and I should be in 10th grade but, because I’m an exchange student, I’m a senior so that I can graduate and ‘feel’ more the experience. Ferndale is a really quiet place but with a lot of things to do. I have the advantage to live near 9 Mile where there are a lot of stores,” says Ruano.

Hosting is a rewarding and enriching experience that may be just what you need, but didn’t know to look for. Educatius is still in need of host families for students from Spain, Thailand, and other countries. If you are interested in learning more about hosting, please contact Debi Wilkelis at 586-381-5174 or debiw.educatius@gmail.com.

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 impotence and other states coupled 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 dysfunction can be the symptom a strong heartiness 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 disfunction. 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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Screen Shot 2015-10-20 at 10.15.39 AMRaylon Leaks-May

I am a proud Ferndale resident of twenty five years, a married mother of five beautiful children, and I currently, serve on the Ferndale Schools Board of Education as a Trustee and as Treasurer. I believe that I am uniquely qualified to be your next Ferndale City Council leader because I have a history of building bridges with local community leaders and have a solid track record of bringing new voices into our community’s most difficult and important conversations. In addition to this, my experience with school board strategic planning and governmental policy will be vital as decisions regarding the development of our progressive community are made. The combination of my qualified experience and new perspective will make us Even Better Together!

I see Ferndale through fresh, perspective lens, a vision that includes:

A Multi-Generational Vision- Ferndale attracts young professionals and baby boomers, and many residents seek to stay here as they age. I will ensure that Council has a strong housing plan that accommodates multi-generational needs and I see ways to keep our residents healthy and active throughout their lives with improved parks, roadways, and recreation.

Smart Development- Ferndale’s growth brings both opportunities and challenges. We must approach development, growth, and mass transit in a way that benefits the whole community—balancing beauty, convenience and business sense. My experience will help us find the right mix.

Inclusive Collaboration- Effective decision- making requires ensuring that all voices are included in our community’s most important conversations. I want everyone to have a seat at the table, especially those who have felt unheard and unseen. Our city can work even more closely with our schools, library, and neighboring communities to include all stakeholders.

Screen Shot 2015-10-20 at 10.15.49 AMDan Martin

Four years ago I had the privilege of being elected to my first term on City Council. It has truly been a wonderful experience working with residents and city employees alike, and I firmly believe that we are a better place today then we were four years ago. This Council has encouraged policies supporting responsible economic growth, residential improvements, modernization of technology at City Hall, as well as reduced water rates and taxes. There have been struggles along the way, but I feel that we have worked together to arrive at the outcome best for our community as a whole.

I am seeking a second term because I want to continue to this work. Protecting the great services we currently have is a priority, especially those provided by Police and Fire. My goals for the next four years include focusing on continuing to improve business processes and customer service across our departments. Residents make a significant investment to our City and each other, and I was to be a strong voice protecting that stewardship. I am supporting a comprehensive plan to address environmental opportunities and protections within the City and ensure the development that will continue to come to Ferndale is sustainable, and within the character of our unique community.

Please feel free to visit my web site at www.danmartinforferndale.com to learn more and get involved. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questionsorconcerns. Again,thankyoufor the opportunity to serve and I look forward to strengthening our partnerships in the future.

Screen Shot 2015-10-20 at 10.15.58 AMWilliam S. White

William S. White is originally from Pennsylvania but moved to Ferndale 27 years ago to start a family. He is married to Kathy White (26 years) and they have three sons together; William, Brian, and Brandon. William has been in Ferndale for 27 years and all three of his sons attended school in the Ferndale School District. He wants to keep our Police, Fire and DPW strong.

If something 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 impotency and other states connected to erectile dysfunction. 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 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 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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Story by Malissa Martin | Illustration by Gary Bedard | Photos by Joshua Martin Photography

Screen Shot 2015-10-20 at 11.41.37 AMDEALING WITH THE LOSS OF AN INFANT is hard and can be an emotional roller coaster for families. Having comfortable surroundings in the hospital during that time gives families time to grieve together.

In 2008, Tracy Roberts was five months pregnant when she and her husband lost their twin boys. To cope, Roberts began attending a support group at Beaumont Hospital. In January 2009, Roberts, Amy Allen and Anna La Fountain founded Angel Kisses. All three had suffered late- term pregnancy loss, and all were interested in raising awareness of stillbirth and providing emotional support to families.

Initially, the nonprofit worked with Beaumont Hospital exclusively. “We used all of our money in the first four years to give back to Beaumont. With that money, they were able to create a separate waiting room for families who had experienced stillbirth, so they didn’t have to wait in the delivery room where all the parents were excited that they were having live babies,” says Roberts. These types of rooms weren’t available to Roberts and vice president Jeffery Thomas when he and his wife Nicole (who is the treasurer of Angel Kisses) lost their baby girl.

Angel Kisses has since refocused its mission and now concentrates solely on fundraising. “Up until about three years ago we focused on not just fundraising, but also putting programs together and doing a
whole bunch of stuff. But about 2012 we later we decided we were going to fundraise for non-profits, hospitals, organizations and individuals who were just in the process of starting a support group, or some other way to help people in Michigan who have experienced stillbirth as well,” says Roberts.

Since its inception, the nonprofit has raised over $105,000; $30,000 has been given as grants in the past two years and the rest donated to Beaumont Hospital. “We do the fundraising and then give it out as grants to other organizations,” says Thomas.

The first year of its new mission the nonprofit raised money for Beaumont nurses to attend a conference in Kalamazoo called “Resolve Through Sharing,”giving “them a chance to learn more about how to help grieving parents. The nurses are really like the first line there,” says Thomas. Last year the nonprofit donated money to Metro Detroit Share, which provides memory boxes to hospitals for parents.

This year, Angel Kisses is providing grants to six charities and will have announced the
winners at the Fourth Dress Like Devils & Run for the Angels 5K Run/1M Fun Walk on Saturday, October 3.

“It’s all part of the fundraising cycle, so the money goes to raising money for the charities that we’re supporting,” says Thomas. Coffee, fruit, and bagels were provided. A small award ceremony was held for the top three finishers for men, women, and kids. After the race, the annual balloon release took place at Roseland Park Cemetery, which also sponsors the event.

“That’s a ceremony where people write messages to the babies that they lost, or anyone that they know may have lost their children,” says Thomas. Roberts explains that many family members besides parents come to support and that’s important.

The healing process can be a long journey for parents who’ve suffered the loss of a stillborn baby. “We have people who’ve attended our fundraisers that are 60-70 years old that have finally been able to talk about the loss they had 50 years ago, because it’s so different from what they did back then and what they do now,” says Roberts. Acknowledging the situation by talking about the baby and saying their name is important and helps parents cope.

Angel Kisses has big plans for 2016 and has already begun planning their Annual Fundraiser and Silent Auction for Saturday, February 20, 2016. For more information about the race, email Jeffery Thomas at jefferythomas@angelkisses.org.

To learn more about Angel Kisses or to apply for funding, please visit http://angelkisses.org or email Tracy Roberts at tracyroberts@angelkisses.org

If some happened with our health, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a medicament. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotency and other states coupled to erectile dysfunction. 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 soundness problem such as soul trouble. Causes of sexual dysfunction turn on injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a condition called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual dysfunction. Even though this medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this treatment passes into breast milk.

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Story by Ingrid Sjostrand | Photos by Bernie Laframboise

Dog owners know that walks are a non-negotiable part of life. Everyone has their favorite routes, and a lot of factors go into making a successful stroll. Forgetting to bring bags to clean up after your pup or an unexpected hot day making your hound dehydrated can leave everyone suffering, or even cut a walk short.

Changing up your route just might relieve you of all your dog walk woes. Ferndale residents should consider taking their pooch down Allen Street where one homeowner has turned her fence into a deluxe dog stop.

Screen Shot 2015-10-20 at 11.33.26 AMLocated at the corner of Allen and West Hazelhurst, owner Julie Miron has provided everything walkers might need to make their dogs happy. Waste bags and a trash can, disposable bowls and water, notices about dog health and yellow ribbons to warn of unapproachable dogs are some of the things you might find there.

“It just seemed like a nice thing to do,” Miron says of the station. “Allen Street has a lot of dog walker traffic, and I saw the bag dispenser posted online and thought it was really cool.”

Miron spread the word about her work by posting photos to the Ferndale Forum Facebook group. She received immediate positive feedback and over 113 “likes” on her post. Many members commented thanking her for her generosity.

A lifelong animal lover, Miron has been involved with the Michigan Anti-Cruelty Society for 25 years and is the owner of two Flemish bunnies and two dogs – a bloodhound and amastiff/Rottweiler mix. Miron walks the bunnies more than the dogs, which she describes as “socially challenged.” This might have been the inspiration for the yellow ribbons.

“Some dogs aren’t as approachable, so the yellow ribbon is for them and the posters are to help inform the other walker,” Miron says.

These yellow ribbons caused a lot of discussion within the Ferndale Forum and helped teach many dog owners and residents something useful. Forum member Stevie Hayley sparked the discussion with a photo of Miron’s dog station and the question: “Does everyone know what the yellow ribbon is for? Thank you neighbors, this is very kind.”

Everything Miron has posted or available at her dog spot is meant to inform residents and enhance a dog’s walking experience.

“Disposable bowls are extra precaution against canine influenza,” Miron says. “There is a heat PSA also, and a friendly neighbor made the dog cut outs there.”

As winter approaches, Miron has no plans to take down the dog station, only improve it with seasonally relevant information.

“Probably no water, unless I put out my heated water dish and maybe a PSA about salt on dog paws,” she says of the things she might change.

Miron encourages neighbors to stop by and check out the dog spot; a Ferndale resident since
1989, she is no stranger to the attention. She says she used to get noticed for her impressive Halloween displays and recently on the Ferndale Forum.

“My neighbor and I joke about who is trending more on the Forum. He lives at 1000 Allen, and everyone thinks it is a wine store. People constantly stop to chat, and it used to be Kellehers Market in the old days,” Miron jokes.

If some happened with our health, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a cure. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotency and other states connected 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 soundness 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 disfunction. 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 Jill Lorie Hurst | Photos by Ed Abeska

THERE ARE A LOT of great kids in Ferndale. Summers they’re on bikes, or creating art with sidewalk chalk. Come September, we see them running to catch the school bus. Vibrant, healthy kids, the future advocates, leaders, and care- givers of this town we love. But we all know it’s hard to stay vibrant when you are hungry.

More than half the kids in Ferndale qualify for the reduced price / free lunch program offered by the public school system. This helps Monday through Friday, but what about the weekends?

Lindsay Gonska, a four-year vet of the Ferndale Public School system (second grade) and parent Nikki Amey share a deep concern about hunger and how it affects student performance…and the desire to fix the problem.

Lindsay: “Once you become invested in Ferndale, you want to help.”

Enter “Blessings in a Backpack,” a national program that started in Louisville, Kentucky in 2005 by a teacher who saw students returning to school on Mondays hungry, tired, and sluggish. The program sent these students home with backpacks that provide three meals a day Lindsay Gonska during the weekend. BIAB now exists in 46 states. Michigan joined up in November of 2008, with more than 100 schools involved. Lindsay, Nikki and other committed folks in town are determined to make the program available to qualified Ferndale Public School students.

Recently I sat down with Lindsay, and my friends Megan and Jim Pool – who are on the committee – to get a progress report and find out what we can do to help. Simple answer: Money is needed. Once theprogram is completely funded, there will be volunteer opportunities, but in order to start the program without having to stop it midway, they need funding. A little goes a long way, and a little more can do a lot.

A $25 donation feeds one student for ten weeks. $100 gives a student a backpack full of food every weekend for the entire school year. Once funded, the program will start in our elementary schools, but the plan is to make it available to all qualified Ferndale Public School kids as soon as possible. The program takes into account food allergies and special dietary needs.

Jim Pool says, “This is the way for the community to be good neighbors to our youngest neighbors.” Our future teachers, nurses, urban planners, our artists, chefs, veterinarians and public servants…

Lindsay Gonska wants Ferndale kids to be the most successful students they can be. She is quietly, fiercely determined to get “Blessings in a Backpack” up and running. “We’re doing it. We’re going to keep going. It can succeed.”

For more information and to make a donation (tax deductible), see blessingsinabackpackmi.org or call 248-528- 1060. When you donate, please specify that the funds go to Ferndale. If you donate with a personal check, please write “Ferndale” on the memo line.

When we help our kids, we are helping not only their present, but OUR future.

Blessings in a Backpack is currently part of a fundraising challenge through Hour Detroit, competing against other charities to win $25,000. www.crowdrise.com/GiveDetroit-BlessingsinaBackpack/fundraiser/elainezold

If some happened with our health, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a medicament. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotency and other states connected to erectile malfunction. 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 dysfunction can be the symptom a strong health problem such as heart trouble. Causes of sexual dysfunction 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 therapy passes into breast milk.

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By: Ms Margo

• ARIES 3/21 – 4/19: Finding your purpose is sometimes hard. Just remember you have more than one gift and talent to give to the world. Search for your happiness, kick back, enjoy life, and stop stressing

• TAURUS 4/20-5/20: Sometimes you do not keep in contact with friends and family. You’ve been very tall back in your own little world. Many people care about you, as you should for them. Return calls, they are important.

• GEMINI 5/21-6/21: Time to have some fun. Head up to Como’s with your chicas & chicos! Brighten up the place with your smile and laughter. Going to pass out Halloween candy this year, maybe? Just pass on your loving charm to others.

• CANCER 6/22-7/22 : Nobody wants to hear you whine any more. You will find love all in good time. But you must remember you have to give him a little bit and stop judging. It could be your best friend that’s sitting next to you. Endless love.

• LEO 7/23-8/22: Your animal totem this month is the squirrel. This means that you are nesting again, preparing for something new, and allowing yourself to rest. Also, that you’re Secret Squirrel. You can share the nuts, it’s okay.

• VIRGO 8/23-9//22: What a great place to go and trap a great delicious breakfast at the Flytrap on Woodward. Great company, and you can always stop by at Toast to celebrate more!

• LIBRA 9/23-10/22: You are an amazing, strong, beautiful person. Look deep within yourself and see this blooming lotus flower, rising above all obstacles.This is truly who you are, conquering the world. Don’t let anything negative get in your head. Think positive.

• SCORPIO 10/23-11/21 : Girl, you need a new hairdo! Fix those roots! let’s get to the problem of all the things you’ve got going on in your head. Get your nails done and toes, too. New love on the horizon; you want to look your best and clear your mind.

• SAGITTARIUS 11/22-12/21: Wooo, that’s scary! When you get grouchy and moody, it’s definitely not a pretty sight on you. You’re totally different person. Go out and buy yourself some flowers and cheer yourself up.

• CAPRICORN 12/22-1/19: You’re one smart m cookie! When’s the last time you hung out at the Ferndale library and just checked out the new selections? Maybe hang around the smart educated books! Someone is noticing you.

• AQUARIUS1/20-2/18: Speaking about vacation time, you need to definitely take one. You have some lucky numbers this month: 173, 1498, 342, and 1171. With these numbers, you might be able to take a longer vacation and just be out $4.

• PISCES 2/19-3/20: It is awesome that you’re doing what you love. Feel proud, look in the mirror, and see that lovely person who is giving back to the universe. Some people might be jealous or haters because you’ve got it all together!

If some happened with our health, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a cure. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat emasculation and other states united to erectile dysfunction. 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 dysfunction can be the symptom a strong soundness problem such as heart trouble. Causes of sexual disfunction switch on injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a condition called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual disfunction. Even though this medicine is not for use in women, it is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk.

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