Ball-less Birthday Bash Celebrates Transgender Michigan ...



ONLINE community news. Go to to print out your own copy or read the stories below. Contact editor and publisher C. Proxmire at editor@

____________________________________________________________________________________

Nov 15 2009 edition READ ONLINE at Issue 12

Read online at



Ferndale Election Results

Golden Eagles #1

New Coffee Shop Embraces Spirit of Networking

Fire on Harris St. Under Investigation

Businesses Recognized at Awards Gala

Plane Crash in Roosevelt Park, 1946

School District Faces $300 per

Student Cuts

Fight Club Book Party

Birthday Bash Celebrates Transgender Michigan Founders Life of Giving

Bill Ristov Shares Hair Experience

Could Time Bank or Neighborhood Watch Come To Ferndale?

Police Report

Events

ADVERTISE

In The 115 ~

Just

$20

Per issue

Ferndale Election Results Are In

By, Crystal A. Proxmire

 

[pic]

supporters hold signs at Precinct 7

On Nov. 3, 2009, a mere 14% of registered voters turned out to select the leaders who will be making tough decisions for the City of Ferndale in the next couple of years.  At the forefront of the election was the topic of balancing the budget, with each Council candidate expressing different views about how best to handle the estimated $3.7 million budget deficit. 

Mayor Craig Covey ran unopposed and received 1,769 votes with only 7.38 percent (141) choosing to write in a candidate.  For City Council there were four candidates vying for two open seats.  Melanie Piana, best known for her work with the Michigan Suburbs Alliance, received 1,331 (29.95%) of the votes.  Incumbent – and new father – Scott Galloway took the second seat with 1,091 (24.55%). 

 

Tom Gagne, who made an unsuccessful run for Mayor in 2007, did not make it to Council having had only 1,013 (22.79%).  And newcomer Greg Pawlica got 1,004 (22.59%) votes, placing him fourth.

Poll workers at Autumn House (Precinct 6)

Covey had openly pushed for Pawlica’s election, giving him a boisterous endorsement and sharing the election night festivities with the Pawlica campaign team at Rosie O’Grady’s.  Covey expressed hope for Pawlica’s future political career by reminding the crowd that when he first ran for City Council he too came in last in a race between four people.  Pawlica, who was recently on the cover of Between the Lines Magazine, says it is too soon to tell if he will run again in 2011, and is taking a temporary reprieve from the spotlight.

 

Gagne and his wife Tiffani shared election night with a close gathering of friends and supporters at their Ferndale home.  Tiffani also lacked enough votes to claim a seat in the race for a seat on the Library Board.  Neither Gagne had comment for this article.

 [pic]

Piana and Galloway celebrate at the WAB

Galloway and Piana held a shared victory party at the Woodward Avenue Brewers on election night.  Piana and her husband James are enjoying a brief vacation so that she can rest up before her term begins.  Galloway and his wife Robin became parents on October 28 with the birth of their son Jack Wallace Galloway at 2:04 pm.  Jack is the couple’s first child, and is reportedly the youngest reader (or at least listener) of The Ferndale 115 News.

 

Patrick Dengate and Sarah Parmelee took the two open full-term seats for Library Board.  Dengate had 1,326 (36.01%).  Parmelee had 1,300 (35.31%).  Gagne had 1,039 (28.22%), and gave up her current seat as Board Secretary.  John Sterritt received 1,793 votes with only 22 write-ins in opposition (1.21%) for an unopposed partial-term seat on the board.

 

Although turnout was low, the Election Day process got dozens of Ferndale citizens active in the political process.  Poll workers manned each of the nine polling locations, making sure that people voted properly and in accordance with the law.  Some workers, like El’gin Avila and Paul Stromberg were Ferndale High School Students who took on the duties through their government class as a way to learn more about the political process.  “We help people with the ballots, check their ID and keep track of the number of voters,” Avila said.  Avila is a junior who hopes to become a sports doctor, while senior Stromberg hopes to go into politics.

 

“I’m surprised to see there aren’t more voters here,” Stromberg said.  “But it’s still a good experience.”

 

The Ferndale 115 News remains committed to being a place where all council members and others in local government can communicate with people in the city, and where residents can share their concerns/opinions about what is going on here in Ferndale.  Please sign up on our homepage for reminders for the newest issues and get involved in any way you can with our community.

El’gin Avila and Paul Stromberg Working Polls at Precinct 7

FERNDALE VIEW:  Golden Eagles #1

View Submitted by, Amy Ceglarek

Photos by Jessica Stilger for Ferndale Public Schools

 On Saturday November 7, 2009 the Ferndale High School Golden Eagle Marching Band competed in the Michigan Competing Bands Association (MCBA) State Marching Competition at Ford Field in Detroit and took first place in Flight III.  The Eagles Scored 85.95, which is a season high, and also received the Best Marching Caption Award.

 

The 113 member band played “Planet Earth” themed music by Frank Ticheli and John Mackey, and was led by Drum Majors senior Peter Ceglarek and junior Jordan Haines, and Guard Captains senior Amanda Blackwell and junior Kaitlin Ma.  The band has placed in the top ten at all state Championships since 1991, and was first place in 5 of the last 6 years.

 

Proud Parent Amy Ceglarek shared her “Ferndale View” of the competition:

 

photo by Jessica Stilger for Ferndale Public Schools

For the past five years my sons have been involved in the FHS Golden Eagles marching band. My oldest son Peter began his marching career as a trombone playing pre-fresh ( eight-grader) and  has continued through this year as a senior. For the past two years he has been drum major of the band. My middle son Patrick played in the pit last year and my youngest, Sean played trumpet as a pre-fresh this year.

 

My family’s experiences with the marching band have been very positive. Sure there have been many Saturday mornings when I’ve grumbled about getting them to practice by 7:00 a.m., but all complaining goes out the window when the first place winner at State’s are announced and it’s our band!

 

It was a great season for the kids. They came in a disappointing third last year at State’s after three years of being in first, so they had something to prove. However, besides wanting to win, these kids really care about each other and work as a very tight knit unit. I can’t recall how many times I saw band members giving each other hugs or wishing each other well throughout this season. It really gave me a great sense of pride to see these children become such a cohesive unit.

I was lucky enough to be only a few feet away from the drum major’s podium at State finals and I knew the band had won when I saw the huge smile on Peter’s face after the last note had been played. He knew and all the band members knew they had given two hundred percent. There is no better feeling as a mom than to see that sense of accomplishment shining in your child’s eyes. Way to go Eagles!

 

For more information about the Ferndale Golden Eagles Marching Band or other fine arts at Ferndale Public Schools go to , or .

photo by Jessica Stilger for Ferndale Public Schools

photo by Jessica Stilger for Ferndale Public Schools

Congratulations FHS Golden Eagles

Marching Band!

New Coffee Shop Embodies Spirit of Ferndale Networking

By, Crystal A. Proxmire

 

One of the largest ribbon cutting ceremonies in recent Ferndale Chamber of Commerce history was held on Nov 5, 2009 at Chazzano Coffee Roasters at 1737 E. Nine Mile Road.  Over two dozen supporters crammed into the quaint, but business-like coffee shop that is located between Hilton and I-75, to check out the unique specialty coffees and the unique meeting-friendly environment that Chazzano’s brings to the community.  Owner Frank Lanzkron-Tamarazo was happy with the turnout and went through several carafes of various specialty blends made with beans roasted right on site.

 [pic]

Chazzano Coffee employees listen to the grand opening speech

Chamber Director Jennifer Roosenberg attributed the large turn-out to “the fact that  he used so many Chamber members and networking that people really wanted to come out and support him.”  When Lanzkron-Tamarazo made up his mind that he wanted to have his shop in Ferndale, he set out to use locally-active businesses in every aspect of the business.  Insurance Agent Marty O’Neill knew Lanzkron-Tamarazo from Business Network International of Royal Oak (BNI), and O’Neill drew the coffee king to the Ferndale area by introducing him to commercial realtor Guy Scavone.  The connections continued until he had found the perfect location, as well as the perfect web of community support to ensure him a strong opening.

 

The grand opening speech included accolades for many local businesses.  Blumz was thanked for providing fabulous flowers for the opening.  Guy Scavone was recognized as the realtor and Todd Hoyt of K.E.T. Leasing and Hoyt, Brumm and Link as the new business’ landlord.  Aly Darin provided photography services.  Marvin Petuch of IBC International Bancard Corporation handles all of Chazzano’s credit card processing needs.  Adrienne Greer of the Miller Agency arranged the business’s liability and auto insurance.  Craig Cesarone of C-Biz Computer Solutions supplied the POS system for the cash register.  Ed and Angie Marsh of NightCry Graphics handled advertising and promotional materials.  Mark Hill of Alert Alarm makes sure that the property is monitored 24/7.  Mark Reder of Waste One Management is in charge of garbage disposal.  Veronica Lujic and Nicole Rafaill of State of the Art Custom Framing designed the menu board and the artwork in the shop based on Chazzano’s slogans.  Daren Bossenberger of Phono Creative set up the signage on the door.  Jay McMillan of Royal Services keeps the place looking spotless.  Rita Van Keymeulen of Creative Office Design was responsible for the entire look of the place, and Ken Seawell was recognized as Lanzkron-Tamarazo’s business coach.  And of course The Ferndale 115 News played their role letting the public know about the event.

 

Veronic Lujic and Nicole Rafaill

of State of the Art Custom Framing

with one poster they designed

“My business is in Ferndale. I want to help grow local business as my BNI of Greater Royal Oak helped to build mine. Rita Van was on-site immediately after I signed the lease for the property. Rita's business, Creative Office Designs created an incredible space and I am so grateful that Andi Greer referred her to me. Everyone was a referral from another business owner. I met my business coach, Ken Seawell, through Jay McMillan who is a member of my BNI of Greater Royal Oak. I use Jay McMillan from Royal Services because he is local, does awesome work, and is a trusted friend and business referral partner. Ferndale is filled with people who believe in Givers Gain- if you help others reach their goals, both professionally and personally, they will also help you. Ferndale chamber members understand that Givers Gain helps everyone. I want to do everything in my power to help grow business in Ferndale and help everyone expand their networks,” Lanzkron-Tamarazo said. 

 

Chazzano provides a unique coffee-tasting experience, and Lanzkron-Tamarazo takes his bean-roasting very seriously.  “There is nothing better that fresh-roasted coffee. My 9 years of experience roasting coffee has helped me to create roasts that bring out the natural flavors of the coffee. Wine has about 700 different flavor profiles- whereas coffee has over 1500 flavor profiles,” he said. “I am able to bring out notes of grapefruit in the Kenya AA, notes of blueberry with a red wine finish with the Ethiopia Harrar, and notes of dark chocolate with the Mexico Chiapas. We give away coffee that is more than 2 weeks old. I make sure that all of our restaurant, cafe, or office accounts have the freshest coffee. Coffee and its incredible aroma and taste lasts but 2 weeks. After 2 weeks, it is stale, without awesome aroma, and not worth drinking. Life is too short to drink bad coffee.”

 

One of the slogans is “Coffee that makes you sing,” which comes from the fact that Lanzkron-Tamarazo and his with Lisa are professionally trained classical singers.  Lisa teaches at Marshall Music in West Bloomfield, while Lanzkron-Tamarazo continues to function as a Cantor at the synagogue he founded in Farmington Hills – Congregation Hava Nashira.  Chazzano Coffee Roasters is certified Kosher by the Council of Orthodox Rabbis of Greater Detroit.

 

In addition to providing a welcoming atmosphere to hold business meetings, there are also cupping parties (for coffee tasting and lessons in coffee flavor) and a meeting room available for rentals.  For more information on this new Ferndale business go to .

Fire on Harris Street Under Investigation

By, Crystal A. Proxmire

 Late in the evening of Saturday, November 7, 2009 a backyard fire prompted residents on the north end of Harris Street to call the Ferndale Fire Department.  Neighbors gathered on the dark street to watch the bright orange flames flaring out from behind a large white house.  A shed and part of the back porch seemed to be part of the blaze.  There was no obvious damage to the main home, which residents continued to occupy as firemen tended to the smoldering backyard structures. 

 

“My wife thought they might just be burning leaves back there, but after it got big I told her that was no leaf fire and that we better call the fire department,” said one neighbor.  “They got here fast.  They’re lucky it didn’t spread.”

 

The fire was brought under control quickly by firemen on the scene.  Ferndale Police officers assisted by talking with witnesses and answering the questions of the curious neighborhood children who watched from a safe distance across the street. 

 

Neighbors on the scene shared various versions of some inner-neighborhood drama which may have been related, but the rumors have not been verified. Police and Fire Department representatives say that the fire is still “under investigation,” but that details will be released once they have a better understanding of the situation.

ADVERTISING IN THE FERNDALE 115 NEWS IS EASY, INEXPENSIVE AND EFFECTIVE. WITH OVER 900 READERS EACH ISSUE, PLUS 4,000 FLIERS DISTRIBUTED MONTHLY YOU CAN BE SURE YOUR MESSAGE IS GETTING PRIME EXPOSURE TO FERNDALE RESIDENTS.

OUR $20 PER ISSUE AD PACKAGE IS GREAT FOR BUSINESS ADVERTISING, OR SIMPLY TO SHOW SUPPORT FOR YOUR FAVORITE CAUSE. YOU CAN ALSO SEND BIRTHDAY WISHES, THANK YOUS, OR OTHER MESSAGES. OR YOU CAN PROMOTE YOUR FUNDRAISER OR EVENT.

$20 PER ISSUE

CASH OR TRADE OFFERS CONSIDERED

CONTACT CRYSTAL PROMXIRE EDITOR@

Businesses Recognized at Chamber Awards Gala

By, Crystal A. Proxmire

 

The Ferndale Chamber of Commerce held its annual Awards Gala on Nov 12 at The Detroit Golf Club.  Over 200 local business people attended, representing the broad range of product and service providers that consider Ferndale home.  From industrial and automotive parts, to eco-friendly design firms, to car and insurance salespeople, to nonprofits, restaurants, store-owners and the media Ferndale is like a big puzzle – with each one being an important piece. 

 

That is why the Chamber chose puzzles as their theme for the event – to let each member know that without them the picture of our community wouldn’t be complete.  And also to remind people that the ways we connect with each other are the things that give our puzzle its strength. Guests were treated to handmade chocolate puzzle pieces, and the 50/50 raffle involved puzzle pieces instead of tickets.  Gift certificates were made in frames accented with puzzle pieces and the rest of the décor seemed to fit together nicely.

 

Each year The Chamber asks members to nominate businesses and individuals for various awards, and a committee from outside of Ferndale makes the final decisions about who is to win.

 

Jerome Raska of Blumz won for the category of Business Person of the year, out of sixteen nominated individuals.  Raska is also the Board Chairperson of the Chamber and an active supporter of many Ferndale events and groups.

 

B. Nektar won for New Business of the Year, beating out Go Comedy, Royal Services, Body and Mind Fitness, S3 Entertainment Group and The Loving Touch.  (EDITORIAL

 

Volunteers Craig Cesarone of C-Biz Solutions and Jay McMillan of Royal Services were acknowledged with nominations, but the Volunteer of the Year Award went to Rita Van of Creative Office Designs.  All three, along with many others, have given their time to help the Chamber in it’s quest to serve the local business community.

 

Another 13 businesses or people were nominated for Special Service Awards, but that prize was taken home by The Ferndale Career Center for their help in working with local businesses to manage internship programs, train workers, and connect employers with those who need jobs.

 

And the final award was for The Best of Ferndale, given to a truly unique Ferndale event – The DIY (Do-It Yourself) Street Fair.   This event is held at Woodward and E. 9 Mile and features booths of creative vendors, activities for the family, music, food, entertainment and more.  Over two dozen businesses or groups were nominated for this honor.

 

The Gala, which was presented by Gage Products Company, is the largest fundraiser for the Chamber of Commerce.  The Chamber provides members networking opportunities, classes, advertising opportunities, support and business services.  They also help businesses connect with the community as a whole through volunteerism, contributions and events.  For more information on The Ferndale Chamber of Commerce go to .

The Plane Crash in Roosevelt Park, 1946

View of The Ferndale Historical Society

printed with permission from The Crow's Nest Summer 2009

By, Cecilia Belmonti

 

            On March 17, 1946, a two-seater SNJ Advance Trainer Navy plane spun out of control at about 500 feet above Ferndale, tore through power lines and crashed into what was then known as Roosevelt Park at Pinecrest and Earle Blvd. (now Earl).  The two pilots, Ensign Judson Berger, age 21 and Ensign O. Frederick Hall, age 24, were killed instantly.

            Ernest F. Berger, Judson’s father, who lived at 782 Oakridge had seen the plane flying overhead, not knowing that his son was aboard.  It appeared that Judson attempted to bail out.  His open parachute was caught on the cockpit cowling, and his body was thrown clear of the wreckage.

            Judson Berger was born in Ferndale in 1925.  He graduated from Lincoln High School in 1942.  Commissioned on April 4, 1945 at Corpus Christi TX, he was placed on active reserve November 19, 1945.

            Retired Marine Colonel William J. Rodgers, a Ferndale resident, was instrumental in efforts to place a memorial in Ferndale for the crash victims.  Thus on Veterans Day, November 11, 1994 in Geary Park (which on October 3, 1994 had been renamed in honor of Donald Red Geary, who had served for 32 years as Ferndale’s Police Chief), a memorial plaque was dedicated to these two pilots.  It reads:

 

In Memory of

Ensign Judson N. Berger of Ferndale

Ensign O. Fredrick Hall of Detroit

These two air reserve officers lost their lives at this site in

A tragic Naval plane crash March 17, 1946

Love of country, Dedication to duty

 

Source:  The Ferndale Historical Society and “Roosevelt-Geary Park Naval Air Crash, 1946” [scrapbook complied by Frank Flores] in Ferndale Historical Museum Archives.

[pic]

[pic]

The Ferndale Historical Society is asking for memberships for the year 2010.  Individual membership is only $10.  Family memberships are $25 and Lifetime Memberships are $100.  Please MAIL payment along with your name and mailing address to The Ferndale Historical Society 1651 Livernois, Ferndale, MI 48220.  Your membership helps support the Ferndale Historical Museum and will provide you with copies of their wonderful newsletter The Crow's Nest.  Go to ferndale for more info.

Mother Fletchers

234 W 9 Mile Rd

Ferndale, MI 48220-1794

(248) 398-4816

Mens and womens vintage clothing and accessories spanning all decades.

You can advertise in The Ferndale 115 News for just $20 an issue! Contact us at editor@ for details.!

[pic]

School District Faces $300 Per Student Cuts, How You Can Help

By, Crystal A. Proxmire

Children across the State of Michigan are suffering the consequences of funding cuts, including students in the Ferndale and Hazel Park school districts. The State of Michigan is planning on cutting the education budget by about $300 per pupil, according to Ferndale Public Schools Communication Specialist Jessica Stilger. At the Nov. 9 City Council Meeting Stilger spoke out about the proposed cuts and urged Ferndale residents to get involved.

Stilger said that decisions made in Lansing will be cutting $1.2 million from the district’s budget just four months into their fiscal year. “We are working hard to keep up quality education and providing a full service district. However we are asking people to contact elected officials.”

According to Ferndale Public Schools Website (schoolfunding.thml), says that Governor Jennifer Granholm “has signed a school aid bill presented by the state legislature that included a $165 per pupil reduction in school aid – this likely cannot be changed. The additional reduction of $127 per pupil can be restored, provided action is taken prior to November 21 [2009].”

It goes on to say that “School officials through the state are asking legislators to raise the $264 million needed to restore the imbalance in the School Aid Fund.” The website gives information on how to get involved in the fight to restore school funding.

Councilperson Kate Baker, along with everyone else on council, seemed concerned over the loss of State funding – which is affecting many aspects of life for Michigan residents. Baker asked that The City Clerk’s office draft a letter on behalf of The City of Ferndale to State-level leadership in support of restoring school funding. Council is expected to vote on sending the sentiment at the next Council Meeting.

Ferndale Public Schools asks readers to contact their representatives before November 21, 2009 to express their opinions on budget cuts for education. Below are some addresses of elected officials who may be able to help:

Governor Jennifer Granholm

P.O. Box 30013

Lansing, Michigan 48909

P: 517-373-3400

F: 517-335-6863

State Rep. Vincent Gregory

N0799 House Office Building

P.O. Box 30014

Lansing, MI 48909-7514

P: (517) 373-1788

F: (517) 373-5880

VincentGregory@house.

State Rep. Ellen Cogen Lipton

P.O. Box 30014

Lansing, Michigan 48909-7514

P: 517-373-0478

Toll Free:1-888-347-8027

F: 517-373-5884

EllenLipton@house. State Senator Gilda Jacobs

P.O. Box 30036

Lansing, Michigan 48909-7536

P: 517-373-7888

Toll Free: 1-888-937-4453

F: 517-373-2983

SenGJacobs@senate. House Speaker Andy Dillon

Phone: 517-373-0857

andydillon@house. Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop

P: 517-373-2417

SenMBishop@senate.

Wanna Talk About Fight Club:  Big Read at the Emory is Your Chance

By, Crystal A. Proxmire

 [pic]

Everything you ever love will reject you or die.

Everything you ever create will be thrown away.

Everything you’re proud of will end up as trash.

 

This is just a taste of the harsh life philosophy of Chuck Palahniuk in his short but sweetly nasty mind-twisting novel Fight Club, which will be discussed at the Emory’s upcoming Book Party on Thursday, November 19, 2009 at 7:30pm.

 

Many have seen the movie Fight Club, an adaptation starring Brad Pitt and Ed Norton.  But for those who are looking to delve even deeper into the psychology of masculinity, social pointlessness and violently cleansing self-development (complete with soap made from discarded liposuction fat), this novel has a lot to offer.

 

It is the tale of a man finding his inner man.  It is about a person looking at all the problems of society and liberating himself from them.  And creating new ones just for himself.  It is about shedding yourself of socially imposed responsibilities.  As main character Tyler Durden said “Getting fired is the best thing that could happen to any of us.  That way, we’d quit treading water and do something with our lives.” 

 

Very little of the book is actually about fighting; much more is about mischief and self-exploration.  There is even a little romance with a woman who trolls support groups in search of meaning and free coffee.

 

The Ferndale Public Library has copies of Fight Club available, and has teamed up with The Emory to promote reading with the Book Parties, leading up to a month long of festivities in March called “The Big Read.”

 

The Emory offers a free well or draft drink and appetizers to people who show their Library Card, and the casual discussion goes until 9pm or later.  Emily Husband, manager at The Emory, said that the first Book Party, held in September, was a success. There over a dozen readers discussed the book Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides.

 “We had a great turnout and it was a really positive partnership with the library.  If we can make reading fun and cool then its all for the better,” Husband said.  The Emory is located at 22700 Woodward Ave in Ferndale.

 

For more information about The Big Read, The Book Parties or other reading-positive events go to ferndale.lib.mi.us.

Birthday Bash Celebrates Transgender Michigan Founder’s Life of Giving

By, Crystal A. Proxmire

 

It would be hard not to call Rachel Crandall a giving person.  She is a busy psychotherapist who sees low income clients and volunteers her services, the Help Line Coordinator at Affirmations Community Center and the Founder of Transgender Michigan, a statewide organization that connects transpeople throughout the state with support and information, advocacy and social events.

 

She is known for her optimistic outlook and her eagerness to help others, dedicating most of her time making sure that other people have resources and support.  She is often available through all hours of the night to answer the Transgender Help Line, which takes calls from people with gender issues, questions, and crisis all over the world.  Transpeople, people who are questioning their identity or their sexual orientation, and people who may know others in this situation can call anytime and get compassionate answers from Crandall and other volunteers.

 

At “Rachel Crandall’s Ball-less 50th Birthday Bash on Nov. 15th at AJs Music Café in Ferndale, Crandall found herself surrounded by friends and supporters of her work.  Her wife Susan Cocker was at her side as she shared the event with dozens of friends and fellow transpeople, fellow lesbians and others from the LGBT and Ally community.

 

“Rachel is a trailblazer in Michigan and the rest of the world.  Transgender Michigan brings family together so we can talk about heartaches and joys and pains,” said Transgender Michigan Chairperson of the Board Lilianna Angel Reyes of Battle Creek.  “Rachel is a she-ro in the trans community and I wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for her and being able to find Transgender Michigan when I got involved six years ago.”

 

Crandall spent 38 years of her life in the body of a man, while feeling like a woman.  In 1997 she began expressing her feminine side and was fired from her job as a psychotherapist.  Subsequently she lost the husband/wife relationship that she had begun as a man named Richard.  “I really loved my wife.  I had a good job and I loved my life.  But I couldn’t be myself, so I always felt lonely,” Crandall said.  “Now I have a whole new life and I couldn’t imagine life without Susan, or without Transgender Michigan.  It’s something to look back.  I’ve had so much love.  And I’ve been really lonely too.”

 

It’s impossible to feel lonely when you’re helping people, and also when you know that there are always people there for you.  That’s why Crandall began Transgender Michigan the same year that she came out as a transwoman.  “There had to be some way to get all the information and support together so that no one else would have to feel like they were alone.”

[pic]

Transgender Michigan’s Helpline at 517-420-1544 provides 24 hour support for those who may be struggling with gender issues, or those who have questions about transgender topics.  They also have an online network of transpeople called Michigan TransNet, which gives resources for every county, as well as an informative website at .  They are also working to improve conditions for transpeople in homeless shelters, and improving letting people know more about transpeople through a public speakers program.

 

Crandall has also helped create Transgender Day of Visibility as a way to celebrate cross-gender expression.  The event takes place March 31 and is quickly gaining momentum across the country thanks to social networking and other websites.

 

Her birthday wish this year was simple – to raise money for the nonprofit group that she formed twelve years ago.  And with over 50 people rocking out to the sounds of MTF(male-to-female)-led group Steffie and the Dirty Virgins, the “ball-less” birthday celebration was certainly a happy one for Crandall and the eclectic group of friends who came to sing her praises..

Just 4 Us

[pic]

211 West 9 Mile Road

Ferndale, MI 48220

(248) 547-5878

Gifts and specialty items

My Experience at Malys

A Ferndale View from an

interview with Bill Ristov of Dye Salon

 

As a hairstylist it’s important to always be learning new things.  I try to go to trainings and hair shows at least one or twice a year to stay current on the latest products and styles.  I wanted to share my experience at the Maly’s Salon Forum and Grand Event in Grand Rapids, MI on Oct 25-26 with all the people here in Ferndale who help support me and the other stylists at Dye Salon.  I went with Billy Sandifer [owner of Dye Salon], and Nicole Cloutier and Natasha Vranic from Dye and we stayed at The Amway Grand Plaza Hotel.  I was in room 707, which was the room Henry Kissinger stayed in back in 1981 for the re-opening gala.  There was a plaque on the door and it had a great view of the city.

 

Grand Rapids was amazing.  I thought it was an elegant, pretty clean town.  There was not a piece of garbage anywhere on the streets, and there were a lot of old buildings left.  I love that the original style was maintained.  It was really nice and added to the city’s character.

 

Malay’s is a large distributor of beauty products and each year they host a big event with lots of product lines being shown, and each one has classes you can go to.  There are classes from 9:30 in the morning to 10:30 at night by companies like Paul Mitchell, Matrix, Ruth Roche, Redkin, and Martin Parsons.  It’s held at the Devos Center and each stylist has a different room to show their products and have classes.

 

The first night there was a big opening party with a show featuring some of their looks and trends for the year.  They had a big glass booth with a painter on the inside making paintings of the designers’ looks so that the audience saw the back side of the painting while the model appeared.  Each company gave teasers about what they were going to be teaching about, and we could go to any of the classes.

 

I especially liked the Paul Mitchell cutting class.  I learned that the stylists at Paul Mitchell think things are going more symmetrical like in the 80s, but more refined.  Bangs but not poofy bangs.  Or hair that is more stylized than we’re used to.

 

But for color I learned from the teachers at Redkin that because fashion and styles are becoming more bold, hair color is being toned down.  No more of the bright reds and the sharp contrasts and streaks.  Good color jobs will start to look more like gentle layers of colors on top of color – with depth, instead of the obviously highlighted look. 

 

I use Redkin products so I went to the Redkin color classes, but it’s nice to see the styles from different companies.  I think Martin Parsons tends to be more classic and conservative.  But Redkin taught three different techniques that are kind of new and interesting.  One was a long curly hair technique, another was a disconnected bob that has a two-tiered layring to it that so the outside is longer than the inside.  And the last was a modern symmetrical that also had an 80s feel to it.  Once side was long and the other short.

I got to meet a lot of other professionals, and the people I work with went to different sessions than I did so we were able to share what we learned back at the salon.  While in Grand Rapids I also got to see the Mega 80s band – which is usually here at The Magic Bag – play at the Intersection.  They said it was the largest crowd they’d ever played to and I really loved their show and seeing so many people there.

 

I’ve gone to LA, Chicago and New York for shows.  But going to Grand Rapids and meeting so many talented hair artists from our state is a good experience.  We try to get involved with fashion events here in Ferndale too.  Last week I did hair at a fashion show at The Magic Bag and a Ladies Night Fashion Show at Rosie O’Grady’s.  I think Ferndale can be a place where we set trends and I hope other people who read this will share their opinions on fashion or whatever else they are fabulous at!

Is Ferndale Ready for Time Bank or a Neighborhood Watch?

By, Crystal A. Proxmire

Two community-strengthening ideas are being discussed in Ferndale, in hopes of drawing out people to get involved.

TIME BANKING

The first proposed idea is for a system of service exchanged called a Time Bank. is a group that has set up a program that allows people to log community service hours and then trade in the work hours for services performed for them by others in the group. For example one person might babysit for three hours, and then have someone else cut their lawn for an hour, and another person help them stuff envelopes for their organization’s mailing for a couple of hours. Each person logs their hours into a database controlled by , along with a profile and a list of services that they can perform for others. Some examples would be computer repair, typing or help on the internet, driving others, housework, childcare, plumbing, yard work etc.

Kim Hodge of the Lathrup Village Time Bank spoke at AJs Music Café on Nov. 13th about the possibility of starting a similar group in Ferndale. According to Hodge, City Manager Bob Bruner has already purchased the introductory kit for the program, but is looking for outside help to organize the project. Lynna Kaucheck, a volunteer on the Environmental Sustainability Commission and an organizer for Clean Water Action, has agreed to be the temporary contact person for the Ferndale group, though people present at the meeting agreed that spring would be a better time to begin having meetings. In the meantime those who are interested can contact Kaucheck at lkaucheck@ or (586) 556-8805 to be added to the contact list for more information.

NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH

Another group that may soon be forming in Ferndale could be a neighborhood watch program. The Ferndale Police Department has supported citizen-managed Neighborhood Watch programs in the past, but Alert Alarm agent Mark Hill says there is a program through Alert Alarm that helps citizens organize and work with them on keeping neighborhoods safe. The program wouldn’t cost anything to Ferndale residents, unless they wanted to raise funds for specific things – like flashlights or cell phones. Police Chief Michael Kitchen says that the Department hasn’t found much interest in neighborhood watches in at least the past two years, but he is willing to support Hill’s efforts with information and a police presence at neighborhood watch meetings should a group get started.

Hill is currently looking for about ten people who would like to serve as block or neighborhood captains. He expects that people will be more likely to get involved in the spring, and is currently trying to see if there is enough interest for one to start. If you would like to be kept informed or getting involved, please contact Mark Hill at (248) 288-3583 or e mail at va93ts@

Support Ferndale businesses!

[pic]

AJS Music Cafe

240 W 9 Mile Road

Ferndale, MI 48220

________________________________________________________________________

POLICE REPORT  -

The following are messages from the Ferndale Police Department to media contacts.  For more information on any of these cases contact The Ferndale Police Department at 248-541-3650. 

Sat, Nov 7, 2009

Fire Under Investigation on Harris Street…. For story see p4fire.html.

Fri, November 6, 2009 7:39:54 AM

Nothing to report

Lt. William J. Wilson

Ferndale Police Department

Thursday, October 29, 2009 12:50 PM

Burglar dodges death - faces lengthy prison sentence 09-3340

 

NOTE TO MEDIA: The victim in this case is a 72 year old man with an amputated leg. He does not want to be interviewed by the media. I am not giving out his address, and ask that you do not dig to get it. Putting too much information out there may make this man a target for other opportunistic criminals.  Please respect his privacy and safety concerns.  Thanks.

 

At approximately 3:40 a.m. today, police responded to a residence when a man called and said he just shot at a burglar her broke into his house. The victim is a 72 year old man who has an amputated leg. He woke up in the early morning hours and heard noises of somebody in his house. The man grabbed his nearby .357 revolver and when the intruder came to the bedroom door, the victim fired a shot at him. The bullet missed, and the crook fled. The victim recognized the intruder by name as a person from the neighborhood.

The suspect is: John Robert Cole, a 56 year old man with a lengthy criminal record.

Police began to search the area, and within minutes a Ferndale Officer noticed Cole go into the 7/11 Store at 9 Mile / Hilton. Cole was arrested. He had the stolen wallet and money from the victim’s house in his pockets.

Cole has been arrested several times just in the last year and convicted of various misdemeanors. He has made life miserable for many in the neighborhood where he has resided. He has received short jail sentences, and has served abbreviated amounts of time. Hopefully he will be taken off of the streets for a number of years.

No action against the homeowner / victim is being considered as he was justified in his actions while defending his home and self.

The prosecutor’s office has authorized a warrant request for Home Invasion 1st Degree (punishable for up to 20 years), and Cole  was arraigned by Magistrate Larue Mead who set a cash/surety bond of $25,000 dollars

Lt. William J. Wilson

Ferndale Police Department

310 E. 9 Mile

Ferndale, MI

Tue, October 27, 2009 7:38:35 AM

All quiet

Lt. William J. Wilson

 

Carjacking at Fresard Chevrolet

 

Yesterday (10/21/09) at about 3:00 p.m., Ferndale police responded to a reported armed robbery that occurred at the Fresard Chevrolet dealership on Woodward in Ferndale.

It was reported that a salesperson was showing vehicles to the suspect, a black male adult. The suspect put a handgun to the salesman’s head and stole a 2009 Chrysler 300. Officers from Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Berkley and Royal Oak searched for the stolen car.

A Pleasant Ridge Officer conducting a traffic on Main St. near 10 Mile observed the stolen vehicle pass him traveling n.b. on Main. The officer followed the vehicle which went into a nearby parking lot. As the officer approached the stolen car, the suspect drove back to Main Street and sped away s.b..  At 10 Mile and Main, the suspect crashed head on into a SUV occupied by a man and a woman. The suspect then exited the stolen car and began to run s.b.. The suspect pulled out a handgun and held it as he ran. Witnesses stated he pointed the gun towards them, and then towards a Ferndale Police officer who was stopped south of the suspect. As the suspect neared the officer, he reportedly pointed his handgun at the officer who was exiting their vehicle. The officer responded by firing two rounds at the suspect. The bullets did not strike the suspect, but caused him to surrender. He was then arrested by officers w/o further incident.

Nobody was hurt in this incident.

After he was arrested, police discovered the weapon the suspect used was a toy airsoft pistol – a replica gun that looks very much like a real handgun.

We will be submitting this case to the Oakland Co. Prosecutor tomorrow for warrants.

Lt. William J. Wilson

Ferndale Police Department

310 E. 9 Mile

Ferndale, MI

248-546-2396

 

Tue, October 20, 2009 8:32:43 AM

Continuing a quiet streak in Ferndale

Lt. William J. Wilson

Ferndale Police Department

Sent: Monday, October 19, 2009 7:02 PM

To: Wilson, William; Mike Kitchen

Subject: Follow up on Martin Road Shooting

Hi Lt. Wilson and Chief Kitchen,

Any updates on the Martin Road Park shooting?  Do Police think the suspect was from outside the city?  Do Police think this is an isolated incident, or part of a bigger problem?  Any other comments on the case and how the Dept. is handling it? 

Thanks,

crystal

 

RESPONSE FROM LT. WILSON:

Tue, October 20, 2009 8:31:41 AM

Nothing new to report now.

Mon, October 19, 2009 8:02:22 AM

 Another quiet weekend in Ferndale

Lt. William J. Wilson

Ferndale Police Department

 

Dear Readers,

 

This is the 12th issue of The Ferndale 115 News, and we are now getting over 900 unique online readers each issue – which has come through steady growth through networking and word of mouth.  So I want to thank each of you who have taken an interest.  Now I’d like to tell people a little more about myself, since I’ll be now depending on you more and more to make this project a success.

 

This issue is thinner than most because two things happened to me over the past two weeks.  Early in the issue I was sick as heck for two days, then later in the issue I was hit by a car while riding my bike home from a meeting.  That cost me a day in the hospital and three more days of bruised ribs with painful breathing, banged up legs and a general “I feel like I’ve been hit by a bus” kind of feel.

 

So I want to start by sharing three of my personal views.  I try to keep objective about the topics I write about, but I also think that if I want other people to feel good talking about their views on various topics I should share what is important to me.

 

The first is bike safety.  I recently did a story about bike-friendly Ferndale, that applauded the city’s installation of bike racks and bike lanes and their promotion of alternative transportation though events like The Sierra Club Green Cruise and The Recreation Department’s Bike Rodeo.  And I still believe Ferndale is better than neighboring cities to ride in.  However safety is a huge issue and I’d like to encourage people to brainstorm how we can make drivers more aware of bikers, and how we can teach them the importance of stopping before crosswalks so that they don’t negligently kill someone.  I’m eager for more experienced bicyclists to share their safety tips, and for others to write in and share their ideas.

 

The second is Fern Care and the issue of healthcare in general.  Thanks to my recent emergency room visit I’ve discovered several things wrong with me that could easily have been prevented if medical care were reasonably accessible to people in my income level.  I also was reminded of the difference in care for people with health insurance and the absolute scum of the earth – i.e. poor people like me.  It is an even more poignant reminder of why The Ferndale 115 News has decided to make Fern Care their Charity of Choice for 2010.  Fern Care is a completely grassroots effort to give the public a free healthcare alternative.  The spirit of Fern Care volunteers is exactly the kind of spirit that gives me encouragement that people really do care – and that no matter what position we are in when we come together and support each other the whole of our strength is greater than the sum of all our parts.  Though editorially we plan to show as much of Ferndale nonprofit life as possible, we are dedicating advertising space to Fern Care and will spend the bulk of our charitable giving with them for the year because of the benefit their services will bring to so many people. 

 

And the third opinion I have today is that in order for The Ferndale 115 News to be successful I need to find a way to get others involved. If something happens to me I still need others to do things to make this paper work.  Even with me at peak health, this paper should reflect the work and views of many people - not just me.   So I would like to ask you to please take a moment to consider what value a good community paper could have for the community.  We can give people in Ferndale a one-stop place to find local events, and we can draw in people from other communities with all that we have going on.  Our stories can unite us by helping us to learn from our neighbors and learn to show emotional support for others and pride for our city.  We can also show people in other areas what a great place Ferndale is to live, especially if you want a place with active neighbors.  We can provide a low-cost way to communicate with each other about what we have to offer.  And we can ultimately build our economy by understanding how business, government, groups and individuals work together to make things better.  But what can you add to this learning experience? 

 

Can you forward interesting links to your friends and discuss stories that you’ve read here?

 

Can you write short letters sharing your opinion on any topic?

 

Can you let us know when news is happening?  Can you write or do photography?  Do you know people who could benefit from advertising here?

 

I’ve set up a wish list page to keep track of our specific needs.  I especially hope to get more people interested in writing about nearly any topic as long as our readers can learn from it and get to know you better in the process. Not just business profiles or advertorials, but a good paper that is rooted in the fair exchange of information.

 

So please – drive safely, support Fern Care and think of ways that you can help make The Ferndale 115 News a success for us all!

 

Sincerely,

 

Crystal A. Proxmire

Editor & Publisher

The Ferndale 115 News

Nov 15, 2009



-----------------------

[pic]

PARAMOUNT BANK

John D. McQuiggin

Assistant Vice President

Branch Manager

22635 Woodward Ave.

Ferndale, MI 48220

(248) 414-6500

fax (248) 414-6580

 

jmcquiggin@



[pic]

Lenny's copy center was founded in October of 2003 by Bob & Mary Lenaway. They are a family run business committed to giving you a warm welcome, a wide variety of products, fair prices, and old fashioned friendly service.

They offer so many things it's hard to believe they can fit everything in one cozy store. Office Supplies, Printing, Engraving, Rubber Stamps, Laminating, Gift Items, Personalized Tee Shirts, Legal Forms, Desktop publishing, Notary Service, Faxing, Imprinted Merchandise, Printers, Business Machines, Tee Shirt Making Supplies, oh and don't forget about the COPIES!

2103 Hilton

(248) 544-6313



lennys



This section of The Ferndale 115 News is brought to you with inspiration given from the good people at Fern Care, the upcoming free health clinic in Ferndale.  Check them out at .

[pic]

Let’s Talk Health series - free classes

First Thursday of every month 7-8:30pm

Kulick Community Center

Dec. 3   Asthma and Allergies – What Do We Need To Know

Jan. 7  Mental Health – The Hardest Thing To Talk About

Feb. 4   Garden Time!  Seedlings, Gardens and the Good Earth

 Mar. 4   Don’t Get Up!  Sit Down!  Chair fitness and exercise

[pic]

ALLURE KOUTURE

224 W 9 Mile Rd

Ladies & Men's Shoes & Accessories "We have the Shoe Fit For You!"  Also showcasing fine fashions.

248-336-0700

info@



Sun/Mon: By Appt

Tue/Wed:11am-7

Thur/Fri/Sat:11-9

[pic]

Your business is your area of expertise. So when it comes time to buy a new printer, rethink your web hosting, or switch Internet providers, C! Tech Solutions can make things easier for you. Our expertise can help you make the right choice whether you’re looking for computer hardware and software, telecom services, or even audio/video systems.

C! Tech Solutions excels in explaining things in a manner that just makes sense. Instead of assaulting you with techno babble, we’ll take the time to explain things in a way you can understand, so you can be confident in your investment.

586.995.0509

Now Open

[pic]

Chazzano Cafe Ebraica

1737 E 9 Mile Road



chazzanocoffee

.com

Now open Monday Through Friday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sundays 9 a.m. to 12 Noon

Good Coffee Makes You Singtm

248-691-4256

[pic]

[pic]

HuDEPICTURE "" \* MERGEFORMATINET [pic]

Hungry Howie's Pizza

419 W. 9 Mile Road

(248) 546-0643

Mon-Thurs 11am-11pm

Fri-Sat 11am-1am

Sun 12pm-11pm

Hungry Howie’s is the Original Flavored Crust Pizza™. With 8 great Flavored Crust™ pizzas and a wide selection of toppings, we have a pizza to please almost anyone. In addition to our mouth watering Original Flavored Crust Pizza™, we have plenty of other menu items like Howie Bread, Howie Wings, Oven Baked Subs, Crisp & Cool Salads, and more. Call us today, We’ll make it FAST, We’ll make it FRESH, and We’ll make it just FOR YOU!

[pic]

Modern Tax & Accounting Services

 

Robert B. Babut - Accountant/Owner

445 W. Woodruff Avenue

Hazel Park, MI 48030-3226

Phone - (248) 544-2002

Fax - (248) 399-7827

email - info@

moderntaxservice

.com

[pic][pic][pic][pic][pic][pic][pic][pic][pic]

R and S Resale

[pic]



RandSresale

.com

Quality New and Used Furniture

~bedroom~

~living room~

~dining room~

~new mattress sets~

~appliances~

3335 Hilton

(248) 298-2770

featuring:

[pic]

Five Star is the newest line of exceptional value where you get name-brand quality at value prices!

Delivery available.

Mark Hill of Alert Alarm

Bill Ristov of Dye Salon

Paramount Bank

Lennys Copy Center

Allure Kouture

C!Tech Solutions

Chazzano Coffee

Mother Fletchers

Hungry Howies

Modern Tax and Accounting

Just 4 Us

R+S Resale

AJs Music Cafe

Fern Care

[pic]

1737 E 9 Mile Road

Now open Monday Through Friday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Sundays 9 a.m. to 12 Noon

................
................

In order to avoid copyright disputes, this page is only a partial summary.

Google Online Preview   Download