We are Howell and Brighton Michigan's Hometown Radio Station

Friday, February 3

2/3/12 - A local woman has been charged in yet another disturbing child abuse case. The Livingston County Sheriff’s Department says 34 -year-old Sara Rae Walters was arrested and lodged in the Livingston County Jail on charges of 1st degree child abuse and torture following an extensive three month investigation. Sheriff Bob Bezotte tells WHMI the 3-month-old boy suffered the abuse at the hands of Walters, his step-grandmother, at their Oceola Township home. Bezotte says Walters was purposely taking the baby to a hospital outside of Livingston County on October 21st when he stopped breathing, so she pulled off on US-23 and called 911. Deputies arrived and noticed bruises and marks all over the baby’s body and called in EMS paramedics who revived the child and transported him to the hospital where he was found to have more than 60 different injuries including head trauma, a core body temperature of 88 degrees and numerous other superficial lacerations and contusions. Bezotte says the investigation took a while because there were so many people living inside the home and no one was cooperating but detectives were eventually able to put the case together. Bezotte says the baby is doing much better and was removed from the home and Child Protective Services is involved. He adds that the baby was actually a twin and apparently had more health complications and challenges than the other child who was not abused. Walters faces life in prison if convicted on the torture charge. She is set to appear in 53rd District Court for an exam February 13th. (JM)

2/3/12 - The Howell Public School’s Board of Education will meet in special session next week to discuss the Latson Road interchange and approve a contract offer for an executive director of labor relations and personnel. A special meeting is set for 7pm next Wednesday, February 8th at the Livingston County Road Commission offices. However, a joint mediation session is scheduled earlier in the day between the teams representing Howell Public Schools and Genoa Township, which have been working to negotiate a land deal for a necessary parcel owned by the school district. Superintendent Ron Wilson tells WHMI that he believes they are close to an agreement and the mediation session will take place from 2 to 5pm Wednesday. He says the Board of Education will then meet at 7pm and is expected to discuss the interchange matter in closed session. In other business at the meeting, the board will consider and potentially approve a contract through June of 2014 for Cassandra Harmon-Higgins with an annual salary of $115,000. If approved, Harmon-Higgins would serve as the replacement for Kristen Clark, who resigned in December to take a job with the Washtenaw County Intermediate School District. Clark’s tenure had saved the district thousands of dollars in legal fees because of her status as a licensed attorney, a service Harmon-Higgins will also presumably be able to offer. She is currently the in-house counsel for Michigan AFSCME Council 25. (JK)

2/3/12 - A Fenton robotics team taking part in a worldwide competition is asking for some community support. The White Wolves Lego Robotics Team is based out of Fenton and comprised of nine students in grades 4th through 8th. The team competed locally and placed 8th overall statewide and has since entered the First® Lego® League Challenge. White Wolves Coach Kim Weber says the team had to discover a problem in food safety and then create a way to solve it. When researching their idea, she says the kids discovered there are no expiration dates on meats purchased from the deli department in grocery stores so they surveyed people and spoke with local restaurant delis for input. After discovering that spoiled meats emit methane gas, she says they determined a way to detect it. Members of the USDA, U of M, and MSU’s food safety divisions looked at their test strip idea. MSU referred them to a chemical testing facility to test the strips for them and Weber says not only did they work, but there is currently no patent for them. The team is now asking for the community to vote for its project in the competition and a link to the site may be found below. The team with the most votes will win funding that can be used to patent the product. (JM)

Web Link:	http://fllinnovationaward.firstlegoleague.org/tast...

2/3/12 - A committee of parents, staff, and administrators from the Pinckney school district will offer a recommendation for how to handle the district’s declining enrollment before the end of the school year. Pinckney Schools have lost almost one fifth of their student body since peaking in the 2003-2004 school year at 5,200 students. This has caused a loss of millions of dollars in funding and several school buildings operating well below capacity. Last month, Superintendent Dan Danosky recommended that the district close Pinckney Elementary and restructure the district to include three K through 3 schools, with 4th and 5th grades in their own building and 6th through 8th in another. Parents and school staff expressed displeasure at the recommendation, and some claimed that the school board is required by its own bylaws to seek input from a community advisory committee. The board’s executive committee recommended that such a committee be formed. School Board President Anne Colone tells WHMI that the board approved the creation of such a committee last night, and that it will consist of a parent and a staff member from every school in the district, two principals, both assistant superintendents, school board liaison George Rogers, and Personnel Director Brian Higgins as its chair. The 22 committee members will be chosen by school principals and PTO leaders. The board expects to have a recommendation from the committee by May 3rd for implementation next school year. (TD)

2/3/12 - The city of Brighton will no longer act as the collection agency for funds donated toward the Mill Pond Veterans’ Memorial project. Following an executive session, council moved Thursday night to rescind the original resolution creating the project and naming the city as the collection agency. Instead, the city will be asking a group – preferably a veterans’ organization - to step forward and volunteer to collect the funds so the project can move forward. The vote wasn’t unanimous, with City Council Member Jim Bohn voting no. Council had been presented with two possible options by City Attorney Paul Burns, with the first option being for the city to take ownership of the project and conduct public bidding. That option was rejected by council in favor of asking a private group to take it over. The action followed criticism in some quarters over the city’s involvement, saying a municipality should not be the collecting agency for a project funded through private donations. Bohn tells WHMI he favored the city retaining its involvement primarily because of the time factor, saying the change in direction will set the project back several months or more. The donations collected so far will be returned to the donors. The Veterans’ Memorial is one of several planned improvements listed in the Mill Pond master plan, which was revised last December, after months of study and public meetings. The city is looking for an organization with 501(c)3 non-profit status, which would make the donor’s contribution tax-deductible. The two main veterans’ groups in the area – the VFW and the American Legion – do not currently have 501(c)3 status. (TT)

2/2/12 - The Green Oak Township Board awarded a bid Wednesday night for the replacement of all the lights in its municipal buildings with high-efficiency LED’s. Township Accountant Linda Vance sought out the $75,000 grant that was awarded to Green Oak in November and will be used to provide LED lights that will use less power and last longer than the fluorescent lights currently installed. The upgrade will take place before the end of June and will apply to the township’s three fire stations, police station, and township hall. The township itself must pay about $21,000 for the labor to install the lights, which will be made up through a 70% reduction in the township’s lighting bill. This is estimated to equal $1,000 per month in savings. The bid accepted by the township board was not the lowest offered, but provided materials produced exclusively in Michigan while others used Chinese materials. The bidder will also provide education and instruction on high-efficiency lighting to the township board and citizens, which is a requirement of the grant. The township will be required to dispose of the old fluorescent lights in an environmentally-safe manner, but the board will also explore the option of donating the still-functional bulbs to local schools. (TD)

2/3/12 - An empty warehouse is expected to be transformed into a new arts theater in Livingston County. The Dionysus Theater is set to open up in a space off of Grand River this spring. Owner/Artistic Director Steve DeBruyne says the plan is to put in 370 seats, build a stage, add lighting and sound equipment, hire great local talent and start putting on some shows. The name is based on a Greek god who DeBruyne says was a theater patron said to be surrounded by muses of all types, which he felt was a good fit. The 32-year-old DeBruyne grew up here and attended high school in Howell before moving to New York and attending a performing arts school but now resides in Pinckney. As a young actor, he tells WHMI he always wanted the opportunity to do more work professionally before making the jump to the big city but never got that chance so the goal is to build a professional theater company in Livingston County around the people that want to be a part of it. DeBruyne says this will be an opportunity for people of all ages to enjoy professional quality theater at home without having to travel so far away. He says they intend to put on plays and musicals and bring the classics to life. However, he says they also want to bring new productions to the area, which can be a challenge since many people don’t know the titles but he hopes the local community will be open to seeing new stuff and re-thinking their old musicals. DeBruyne adds that with so many different aspects of theater, they’ll be hosting open auditions March 4th and 5th to meet everyone in the community whether they’re old or young, can sing or dance, do impressions or otherwise. He says they’re planning to start rehearsals for their first production April 2nd and have a show opening in early May on the books, although the title has yet to be revealed. Six shows every season are anticipated with all funding for the operation coming from ticket sales. To learn more about the new theater, click on the link below. (JM)

Web Link:	http://www.diotheatre.com

2/3/12 - An event later this month in Brighton will feature one of the men involved in capturing Saddam Hussein. Retired Army Lieutenant Colonel Steve Russell will be the featured speaker Saturday, February 18th at a men’s luncheon at Cornerstone Evangelical Presbyterian Church. Russell served 21 years in the United States Army as an infantry officer in Kosovo, Kuwait, Afghanistan, and Iraq. During his command of the 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, he was widely covered in the media during the first year of the Iraq war. He and his unit were also featured in a BBC documentary about Hussein’s capture. Currently a state senator in Oklahoma, Russell is the author of a book about his experiences called “We Got Him! A Memoir of the Hunt and Capture of Saddam Hussein”. The luncheon is free, but registration is required. Call 810-227-9411 for details or e-mail; information@cornerstoneforlife.com. (JK)

Thursday, February 2

2/2/12 - Congressman Mike Rogers says the U.S. military needs to do more to "scare" Iran away from pursuing nuclear weapons. The Howell Republican, who chairs the House Intelligence Committee, made the comment to CNN in response to a new report by the Bipartisan Policy Center that says the United States must put more teeth into its threat to use military power to stop Iran's nuclear ambitions. While stopping short of advocating military action, Rogers indicated tangible military preparations need to go hand-in-hand with the Obama Administration’s sanctions and diplomatic efforts. He echoed those thoughts in an interview last week with WHMI. "We've gotten to a very strange place here internationally and I argue that this is a good time to reset the administration's policy so that they (Iran) understand that we have some certainty on what we will do and won't do. I would never tell them what we won't do and we just haven't quite gotten there yet so a lot of these problems are brewing because I think the administration is perceived as fairly weak and not in a position to do anything overseas and that's caused us a little bit of a problem." Rogers said the United States is obligated by treaty to defend Israel from attack even if such an attack were to follow an Israeli raid on Iran’s nuclear facilities. He says that’s why it’s imperative to make clear to Iran its pursuit of a nuclear weapon won’t be tolerated. (JK)

2/2/12 - The Howell Nature Center's Woody the Woodchuck has again contradicted her better known weather prognosticator Punxsutawney Phil and predicted an early Spring. Woody stayed outside her plastic stump for the requisite 30 seconds this morning at the Howell Nature Center to affirm the forecast. That was in contrast to Punxsutawney Phil, who reportedly saw his shadow and returned to his burrow, meaning six more weeks of winter. Woody's handlers at the Howell Nature Center have touted her superior record in years past when compared to Phil and say this year should only improve on that. With the unseasonably mild weather, about 150 people turned out for the ceremony. That compares to the dozen or so last year that came out following a winter snowstorm that dumped at least six inches of snow. (JK)

2/2/12 - Medical marijuana will be the next featured topic in a local planning series. The Livingston County Department of Planning is continuing its Brown Bag Lunch Series, which is a quarterly event that brings together planning professionals and local governments in an informal setting to share ideas and network. Jill Thacher, the City of Ann Arbor’s Historic Preservation Coordinator and MSU Extension Educator James Ribbron will be speaking on the topic of medical marihuana. Organizers say both speakers have been instrumental in the creation and modification of community ordinances regarding medical marihuana and the impacts the controversial issue can have on individual municipalities. The informational event is being hosted this quarter by Brighton Township and will take place at the township hall on Buno Road on February 22nd at noon. Anyone interested in attending should RSVP with the Livingston County Department of Planning. (JM)

Attachment:	BrownBagSeriesMedicalMarihuana.pdf

2/2/12 - A suspect charged in connection with two home invasions at a legal marijuana grow operation inside of a Highland Township residence is heading to trial. 17-year-old Rakeem Givens was bound over for trial on two felony counts of 2nd degree home invasion following an exam this week in 52-1 District Court in Novi. The charges stem from incidents on December 1st and 10th at a residence on Glengarry Court in the Highland Greens Estates Mobile Home Park. Authorities say the homeowner is a licensed medical marijuana caregiver who has a secured grow operation in his home. It was reported that some dried marijuana and $350 in cash was stolen during the first incident and two marijuana plants were taken the second time. The owner identified Givens as a possible suspect and he was later picked up and found to be in possession of marijuana and scales. Police say he admitted his involvement during an interview with a detective from the Oakland County Sheriff Department’s Highland Township substation. Givens will be arraigned in Oakland County Circuit Court February 10th. (JM)

2/2/12 - Construction should be getting underway very soon on a new brewery in Fenton. Michigan Brewing Company is leasing the old fire hall building at South Leroy and Ellen Streets from the city. The city has worked out a seven-year lease agreement with the owners in which they pay $1 per year, plus property taxes on the 73-year-old building. The Fenton Downtown Development Authority is supplying up to 33 percent of the project costs, not to exceed $400,000. Deputy City Manager and DDA Director Michael Burns tells WHMI that the company is in the process of getting construction estimates and can pick up their building permit. Once they get estimates, Burns says he thinks they’ll be ready to begin construction so hopefully pretty soon and be operational by the end of the year. The Fenton brewery and restaurant will sell beer, wine and whiskey that will be produced on site. (JK)

2/2/12 - The opinions of Livingston County residents are being sought before the County Parks and Open Spaces Committee submits its new five-year plan to the state. The plan is updated every five years by state mandate and outlines the county’s intentions for the parks, as well as the projected cost and timing of any plans or improvements. The newest form of the plan takes into account the new Fillmore property in Genoa Township, which was recently gifted to the county and will open to the public following some signage and financial changes, as well as planned improvements to the Lutz County Park (pictured). Public opinion on the five-year plan is being sought through the county planning commission and local libraries. A public hearing will also be held on the topic at the planning commission’s regular meeting on February 15th. The committee plans to put the plan before the County Commission for approval later this month and send it to the state before April 1st. This will allow the Parks and Open Spaces Committee to seek additional funding from the state called Michigan Natural Resource Trust Fund and Passport Grants. To read the Parks and Open Spaces Master Plan and contact the committee with your opinions, go to the Planning Commission's website by clicking here. (TD)

2/2/12 - A Livingston County teen was recognized at the 54th annual Distinguished Young Women of Michigan Scholarship Program held last weekend at Saline High School. Payton Reilly of Howell was announced as 3rd runner up and received a $1,150 college scholarship. Howell Mayor Phil Campbell congratulated Reilly on his Facebook page for also receiving the Spirit Award and the Audience Choice Award. The scholarship program is based on scholastic achievement, leadership, physical fitness and talent. The Michigan State Program is part of the Distinguished Young Women of America, which is the largest and oldest scholarship program for high school seniors in the country. Since it first began in 1958, more than $90 million in college scholarships have been awarded. (JK)

Wednesday, February 1

2/1/12 - Dozens of individuals have expressed an interest in becoming the next Milford police chief. Former Chief Tom Callahan retired after a lengthy career with the department and the Village of Milford is contracting with an outside agency to assist in the search. A total of 48 resumes were received by the deadline, which will be narrowed down and interviewed by a three member professional board made up of police chiefs from outside of the area. They will prepare a list of finalists to be interviewed by a local panel and present a recommendation to Village Manager Arthur Shufflebarger, who will make the final decision. He tells WHMI that this is a full time position and they have a number of good candidates so he’s very hopeful. Shufflebarger says these are challenging times so the person selected will need to be flexible in a number of areas. He says there are several things unique to the department, which serves both the Village of Milford and Milford Township. With the economic times we’re in, he says the budget is important but so is communication and relationship. He says department’s location in southeast Michigan connects them to a number of other communities so the continued communication and cooperation between area departments is important, adding that they have both a drug task force and a severe crime task force that serves as cooperative efforts between departments. Lieutenant Mike Lauridson is currently serving as interim chief, who Shufflebarger says is a longtime member of the department and very confident and comfortable with his position. He says if all goes well, they hope to make an offer to a candidate in March and have a new chief of police in place by April. (JM)

2/1/12 - Officials say a fire gutted a church overnight in Webberville. The fire reportedly began just before midnight at the Wayside Tabernacle on Elm Road. WLNS reports that several fire crews were called out to the scene and it took about 30 minutes to battle the flames. Fire officials say the church was a total loss, but there were no injuries as no one was inside at the time. The Wayside Tabernacle had a congregation of about 50 people and stood in Webberville for 31 years. The cause of the fire remains under investigation. (Picture courtesy of WLNS)

2/1/12 - Some technology improvements are underway at the Brighton District Library. The library is adding ten new computer workstations along with new tables and chairs to the public computer areas this winter and spring. Officials say new chairs are now in place in the adult computing area, replacing the old ones that were original to the building. Also in place are two AWE Early Literacy Stations in the youth department offering more than 50 multi-media educational software titles for children ages 2-10, with an interface designed to encourage exploration by both readers and pre-readers. The project is part of the library board’s continuing work to implement strategic goals that facilitate access to information while supporting both information and early childhood literacy. Funding for the projects is being made possible through a federal grant, capital funds and gifts from individuals and the Friends of the Brighton District Library. (JM)

Web Link:	http://www.brightonlibrary.info/

2/1/12 - And then there was one. Following last night’s elimination of Fowlerville's Nancy Rajala from "The Biggest Loser" on the popular NBC reality show, only her granddaughter Cassandra Sturos, also of Fowlerville, remains on the show out of the original three contestants from Livingston County. Ben Shuh of Marion Township was eliminated earlier. In last night’s episode, Rajala dropped 4 pounds, getting down to a weight of 196, but it wasn’t enough to stave off being voted off the show during the elimination round. During her five weeks on “The Biggest Loser”, Rajala lost a total 21 pounds. But at the end of last night’s show, Rajala was shown at home in Fowlerville, saying she had lost an additional 18 pounds. Sturos, who started the season at 239 pounds, lost 6 pounds last night and is now at a weight of 200. (JK)

2/1/12 - The Brighton TEA Party met last night to hear two GOP candidates discuss their aspirations to claim Debbie Stabenow’s seat on the US Senate in November. About 100 people attended the meeting at the Brighton Spirit Center, where candidates Gary Glenn and Clark Durant spoke about their vision for Michigan in 2012 and why they should be chosen by the Republican Party to challenge Stabenow. The candidates acknowledged that they were similar in their conservative platforms and most members of the audience agreed that they would support either one. Some members of the audience said that Glenn had the style and personality to draw the votes away from Stabenow. Glenn himself said he would take her to task on issues where her policies are not in line with Michigan voters. However, more members of the audience said Durant was the more likely choice because he has already raised more than $1.3 million for his campaign, demonstrating that he can find the support needed to take on the incumbent. Durant has already been endorsed by the largest Tea Party organization in the state for the GOP nomination, but the Brighton TEA Party will not endorse a candidate before the nomination, preferring to simply inform voters about the candidates. (TD)

2/1/12 - The Howell Downtown Development Authority is hopeful that it will have a new director in place by the end of the month. Three candidates selected by a committee for the position were interviewed this past Monday. DDA Board President Stephanie Schlittler tells WHMI that a sub-committee narrowed down the candidates to two individuals for final interviews, which she says are expected to take place within the next two weeks. More than 40 candidates applied for the position and Schlittler says many exhibited the qualities they’re looking for in a new director and they hope that one of the two finalists will be the right fit for downtown Howell. Former DDA Director Nathan Voght resigned suddenly last September to pursue other opportunities and had held the position since February of 2008. (JM)

Tuesday, January 31

1/31/12 - An evidentiary hearing has concluded in the case of a Northville couple involved in a lengthy legal battle with the City of Brighton over two homes the city wants torn down. Leon and Marilyn Bonner own two homes on East North Street which Brighton City officials previously determined to be unsafe and beyond repair. The city has an ordinance in place that states residences lose their right to nonconforming uses if they are not occupied for more than a year. Closing arguments were heard this week, marking the fourth day of the hearing that has continued over the past two months in Livingston County Circuit Court. City officials say the Bonners have not lived in the homes for at least a decade and no water service has been provided to the homes for 30 years, so they can no longer be considered to have a residential use, which is nonconforming in the business-zoned neighborhood. Leon Bonner previously testified that he has paid all bills on the properties, including the minimum water fees, and has utilized the homes over the years. His Defense Attorney Dennis Dubuc describes the buildings as being in good shape and requiring minimal maintenance to become functional but city officials maintain they are falling apart and need to be demolished. Dubuc has told WHMI that ordinances similar to the one in Brighton calling for demolition of the buildings have twice been struck down by the state supreme court and he is confident the same thing will happen here. Judge Michael Hatty is expected to issue a written opinion on the matter and further court dates have yet to be scheduled. (JM)

1/31/12 - An informational open house Wednesday night aims to assist Livingston County parents of students with disabilities with accessing support services after their children leave school. The Livingston Community Transition Council will host its “Night to Realizing Educational and Career Hopes”. LESA Transition Coordinator Kristen Capra tells WHMI that there are a lot of decisions for parents and students to make after high school and any kind of post-secondary resources they try to connect parents and students with when they are done with school will be represented in some way. She says materials will be available to pick up on the topics but it’s more than just brochures and local parents can speak directly with representatives about colleges, driving, work, Social Security, guardianship and transportation. Capra says when children leave school, the support services change along with the way parents and students access them so the goal is to help bridge that gap. The open house will take place tomorrow from 6 to 8pm at the Livingston Educational Service Agency on Grand River in Howell. No registration is needed and the program is open to all students in Livingston County. (JM)

1/31/12 - A witness deemed to be crucial to the prosecution in the case against a Detroit man accused of supplying the heroin that killed a Brighton Township woman has been located. 53rd District Court Judge Suzanne Geddis gave the prosecutor’s office one week to produce the witness to testify against 25-year-old Donald Watts Jr. and authorized a bench warrant for him. Ryan Wirgau was picked up last week and will remain in the Livingston County Jail until he testifies Wednesday. Court records say he is not to be housed near Watts. Wirgau’s involvement in the case is unclear or what his testimony is expected to reveal but he was granted immunity from potential criminal charges if he testifies truthfully about what he knows in the case. Watts is charged with delivering a controlled substance that caused the death of 20-year-old Kimberly Schanta, who was found dead October 14th last year in her Hilton Road residence. State Police said another person in the home reported that Schanta had been using heroin the night before. A subsequent investigation by the Livingston and Washtenaw Narcotics Enforcement Team and Drug Enforcement Agency identified Watts as the supplier of the heroin. Watts is being held on a $1 million bond and the exam is set to continue tomorrow. (JM)

1/31/12 - The newly elected Mayor of the City of Howell who was using the office title to promote a new prayer chain has changed course following complaints. On Friday, Phil Campbell announced the formation of “The Mayor's Prayer Chain” on his personal blog, which he said was meant to be a loose email association of people living in the greater Howell area willing to pray for the community and its needs. While Campbell told WHMI that he has not used any city resources for the project, late yesterday he changed the name to “My Private, Personal, Non-City Affiliated Prayer Chain” but declined to offer any further comment on the matter. In his blog, Campbell refers to himself as a new generation of leadership for Howell and that he finds out about everything that goes on in the community from disputes between neighbors to broader challenges the city is facing. He encourages the public to email him for inclusion in the prayer list and says once a month, he’ll send out an email with prayer intentions for the community. An anonymous individual questioned Campbell on his blog about the original posting, saying “As an elected official are you not going against the very essence of your own constitution by publicly endorsing a specific religion?” Campbell responded by saying there is no endorsement and that he’s only asking if individuals are willing to pray privately. He added that there are no legal problems so long as it is done through his personal website and personal email. But one local pastor wasn’t so sure of that. David Swink is the Pastor Emeritus at the Chilson Hills Church in Brighton. He is also Professor of Church Leadership at the Ecumenical Theological Seminary in Detroit. He tells WHMI that while he believes in prayer and praying for government officials, he thinks the original title of the prayer chain would be illegal and that the kind of mixing of church and state it entailed would be “very shaky.” Swink added that it would be more appropriate for the mayor to ask a pastor to form a prayer chain for the city. (JM)

Web Link:	http://philforhowell.blogspot.com

1/31/12 - Controversy continues over a cell phone tower being proposed in Putnam Township to improve coverage that some feel would cause health and safety issues. Keith and Jennifer Chambers operate a six generation farm, pre-school and childcare business on their 20-acre property on Farley Road, where the tower is proposed and neighbors are fighting it. Per ordinance, a tower must be on property zoned agricultural. The Chambers' parcel is designated as such, while most others are zoned residential. The site was also appealing in that it also had a driveway for access. Tim Olsen lives next door and is heading up opposition efforts. He says the Chambers were not picked by luck since Keith sits on the township board and alleges this was a done deal even before the law firm representing AT&T sent out letters to residents seeking interest last August. Olsen tells WHMI they’re involved in a one-sided fight and they recently put up signs across the street from the Chambers that read “Cell towers - are they safe for kids?” and “No cell towers near Day Cares” but by the next day, the signs had been flagged by the township. Olsen says small town politics are at play and the 200-foot tower is much more of an eyesore than the signs that went up. There are already five active towers within four miles of the Chambers property emitting signals and Kristy Flavin, who has a child at the day care, tells WHMI the tower doesn’t bother her or any of the other parents she’s talked to at the pre-school and she doesn’t have any health or safety concerns for her children. The Chambers have already signed a lease but tell WHMI they didn’t realize what an uproar the tower would cause and it was never their intention to harm any neighbors but they don’t feel it will after thorough research. The tower would require a special land use permit from the township and it has yet to be be formally approved. (JM)

1/31/12 - Fowlerville Police Chief Tom Couling says one of his goals for 2012 is to create an interactive online presence for his department to interact with civilians. Couling delivered his annual report to the Fowlerville Village Council last night, stating that crime statistics, including arrests and criminal complaints, was down throughout the village in 2011 compared to previous years. He said that the decision of the village council early last year to change open-carry regulations in keeping with state law probably had nothing to do with the decreased crime, which he attributed to aggressive policing and successful arrests in previous years. For 2012, Couling says the department will be moving into the social media scene. An administrative assistant will be maintaining a Facebook page where updates about police efforts and activities will be reported to villagers, who can then provide feedback and tips to the police. A Twitter feed is also planned. Couling says setting new goals and working to improve his department is an important part of his job. (TD)

1/31/12 - A longtime City of Howell employee has taken a leave of absence. City Manager Shea Charles tells WHMI that Deputy City Manager of Special Projects Terry Wilson is officially on leave from the city, but declined to comment further on the personnel matter. Wilson had served as the DPW Director but his title changed in recent years to reflect his larger scope of duties. It’s unclear why Wilson took a leave of absence but at the last City Council meeting a week ago, he left abruptly when members were questioning aspects of the street improvement program and drainage issues on Oceola Street. Some expressed that the city has spent millions on engineering fees and perhaps a second opinion is needed to determine if it was properly engineered or not and it should not be the city’s problem. Wilson left specifically when Councilman Al Schlittler expressed that he has never seen anything like it and the design lacked common sense. Schlittler said later in the meeting that none of his comments were aimed at city staff. (JK)

Monday, January 30

1/30/12 - A Fowlerville man is jailed on armed robbery and kidnapping charges following an incident last Friday night. Authorities say a Fowlerville police officer was flagged down by a pedestrian at about 11:15pm Friday at a gas station on South Grand Avenue and told a friend of his was being held at gunpoint near a home on North Ann Street. As officers began to investigate, however, the man received a call from the victim saying he had been set free. The victim then came to the gas station and talked with officers, telling them that he had been held at gunpoint by a man demanding $500 in cash. When he couldn't come up with the money, he was set free. Fowlerville Police Chief Tom Couling says using information from the victim, they were able to identify the suspect and take him into custody. He’s identified as 23-year-old Edward Alfred Priebe, who has since been arraigned on armed robbery and kidnapping charges. Chief Couling says while Priebe and the 16-year-old victim did not know each other, a mutual friend had arranged for them to meet for an apparent drug transaction. Despite that, he doesn’t expect any charges to be filed against the victim. Priebe, meanwhile, is due for an exam on Wednesday in 53rd District Court. He remains jailed on a $1 million dollar bond. (JK)

1/30/12 - Livingston County's resident weather-predicting woodchuck will make her 14th determination this week. Woody resides at the Howell Conference & Nature Center and will make her annual Groundhog Day prediction on February 2nd whether it’s sunny outside, raining or snowing. Woody’s rival is naturally Punxsutawney Phil, who claims to be correct in his predictions 100% of the time. Nature Center officials say after Phil’s huge gaffe with his 2011 prediction gone wrong and a string of bad forecasts, it’s safe to say he has lost his edge. Local officials say Woody doesn’t make silly claims and can woodchuck-up and admit when her forecast turns sour but of course, she has only had to do that 4 times, having been correct in her predictions nine out of thirteen times, including last year when she saw her shadow and crawled back into her den. The Nature Center will host a special celebration starting at 7:45am Thursday with the long-awaited prediction coming at 8:15am sharp. A free continental breakfast will be provided afterward and the annual “crazy outfit contest” for kids will again take place and the child who braves the winter weather with the most outrageous outfit will receive one free week at summer camp. For more about the event, click on the link below. (JM)

Web Link:	http://www.howellnaturecenter.org

1/30/12 - The Village of Pinckney recently finalized a land donation that could spur more recreational development. Village President Rebecca Foster tells WHMI that the donation includes a strip of land along the mill pond behind Pinckney Elementary, another lot off of Livingston Street that runs along the eastern edge of the pond as well as a piece by the Pinckney Library on Mower Road. That’s also where the mill pond dam and stream are located. Foster says the mill pond really isn’t visible from the street but is a wetland and pond behind the cemetery and Pinckney Elementary. Now that the land donation has been finalized, she says they will be working to incorporate into the recreation master plan and apply for potential grant funding to hopefully increase public access. The land was donated by the Reinhart Family Trust. Foster says this is similar to the Lakeland Trail in that in order to apply for DNR money to do anything with the donated property around the millpond; it needs to be included in the parks master plan. She adds that the Village and Putnam Township combined to do a parks and recreation plan but this property currently isn’t included because they didn’t know they would be getting it, therefore, the plan will be amended to include the land and then apply for grant funding. (JK)

1/30/12 - A fundraiser this weekend aims to ensure that the growing number of Livingston County residents in need of dental care continue to have access to it. The VINA Community Dental Clinic provides affordable, basic services to local residents with limited finances and little to no access to dental care. The clinic is located in the First United Methodist Church of Brighton Annex on Grand River and currently serves around 1200 patients. Dr. Christine Love is a volunteer periodontist with the clinic and tells WHMI that a recent open enrollment brought out an additional 100 people, including a woman who works two part-time jobs and lives in her car and a 21 year old who said she was living from "couch to couch" and had to walk to the church from Euler Road. She says its stories like those that make it all the more important that the “Have A Heart, Give A Smile” dental auction this Saturday at Cleary University be successful as the funds that are raised are critical to the clinic’s ability to continue to serve the estimated 17,800 Livingston County residents over the age of 18 with no dental insurance who are eligible for the clinic. Among the items that will be up for bid are a week’s stay at either an ocean front home on Siesta Key, Florida or a condo in Fountain Hills, Arizona; an MSU package including tickets to a game, a tour of the facilities and sideline passes; tickets to a U of M game in one of the new suites and Lion's tickets and sideline passes for one adult and one child with a chance for the child to participate in the punt -kick-pass competition. There’s also a birthday party for 25 at the Howell fire station and a ride in a fire truck in the Fantasy of Lights parade or dinner for 6 at the French Laundry in Fenton with the executive chef. You’ll find complete auction details and ticket information through the link below. (JK)

Web Link:	http://www.vinadental.org/Fundraising.html

1/30/12 - A long-time instructor in the Howell Public School District has been honored for his professional excellence and influence. Howell High School Choir Director Rod Bushey was recently named the Michigan School Vocal Music Association's 2012 teacher of the year. The 61-year-old Bushey was chosen from among four nominees by the association’s 550 members. In addition to having taught for at least 15 years, nominees also had to demonstrate consistent excellence and have been influential in creating a love and understanding of music for the masses in performance. Bushey has been Howell’s choir director for 40 years. The district will receive a check for up to $500 for the award, which Bushey has said he’d like to use to start a music education scholarship fund for students. Also honored by the association was Parker Middle School choir instructor Kelli Falls, who was named as an honors choir director. (JK)

Sunday, January 29

1/29/12 - The Howell Downtown Development Authority Design Committee is spearheading its first annual Public Arts Initiative Arts Project this year. Seven art categories will be judged by a professional jury panel and by the public by voting on their favorite piece. The categories include photographs of Livingston County, masterpiece-inspired art, open art for students k-12, open art for Livingston County artists only, open art for all artists, landscapes-seascapes and people. The application fee is $25 and the deadline for submitting applications is May 1. The artists will be notified of the winners in each category by June 6. The winners will have the opportunity to see their artwork reproduced and exhibited on an outside wall of a downtown Howell business. Those interested in knowing more about the public arts initiative should call 517-545-4240 or send an e-mail to info@downtownhowell.org. (TT)

1/29/12 - Four thoroughbred horses were killed in a Howell Township barn fire on Saturday. Howell Area Fire Department Chief Andy Pless says the fire erupted in a 60’-by-120'-foot steel pole barn on Crandall Road north of Warner Road – just north of the airport in Howell Township. The property is owned by Lee Seftelberg. Pless says the barn was totally engulfed in flames when Howell firefighters arrived. They were assisted at the scene by the Brighton Area and Fowlerville Fire departments. Pless tells WHMI the large barn was completely destroyed by flames. No other animals, besides the four horses which perished, were in the barn at the time. Pless says the fire marshall’s division is investigating the cause of the blaze, which is undetermined at this time. (TT)

Saturday, January 28

1/28/12 - A Livingston County woman charged with embezzling thousands of dollars from a local social service agency has avoided any jail time in the case. 39-year-old Laura Lynn Turner of Fowlerville was sentenced in Livingston County Circuit Court this week to five years of probation following her earlier no contest plea to a felony charge of embezzling between $1,000 and $20,000. Three other counts of the same were dropped as part of the deal and Turner will avoid any jail time if she repays $119,761 in restitution by the end of her probation term. If she does so successfully, the charge would also be reduced to a misdemeanor count of embezzling between $200 and $1,000. The Livingston County Sheriff’s Department says Turner was caught embezzling from the Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency, where she formerly worked as head of the guardianship program, which oversaw clients through the Probate Court. Turner was fired by OLHSA and the program was shut down. Officials say the crime came to light after discrepancies in the organization’s books were uncovered. (JM)

1/28/12 - It may seem early, but preparations are already underway for the 2012 Howell Melonfest celebration. Downtown Development Authority President Stephanie Schlittler tells WHMI that her committee has begun booking attractions for the festival and that Melonfest preparations are a year-round process that began immediately following last year’s festival. Committee meetings will grow more frequent in the summer as the festival approaches. The Howell DDA took over the organization of Melonfest from the Howell Jaycees back in 2009 and has experimented with the festival’s makeup every year since, so it is still unclear how this year’s Melonfest will look. Organizers are still waiting to hear from the Michigan Department of Transportation on whether Grand River will be closed for the event. (JM)

Friday, January 27

1/27/12 - The Salvation Army of Livingston County says the generous community support during its Christmas campaign exceeded expectations and went well beyond anything they could have imagined. The overall campaign fundraising goal for the season was $337,000 and to date, more than $378,000 was raised. Funds were raised through the red kettles which were stationed at seventeen locations across the county from mid-November to Christmas Eve as well as through mail and internet donations. Captain Aaron Ortman tells WHMI that they are blessed with a community that supports its neighbors and understand the importance of helping each other and this past season definitely reflects that. Ortman says 752 families were provided food, clothing and gifts this Christmas season but adds that nothing would be possible without the help of dedicated volunteers and many other organizations and churches. He says a big thank you is owed to everyone who sent in donations, gave online, or even dropped a few cents into the red kettles. In addition to assisting local families over the holidays, the donations raised also help support year round programs benefiting those in need in Livingston County. (JM)

1/27/12 - The Oakland Livingston Human Service Agency is once again providing free tax preparation to low income residents in Livingston County. OLHSA works with the Accounting Aid Society to offer the free tax filings but it’s also promoting the earned income tax credit, a federal credit given to low income wage earners who pay taxes. Authorities say that many eligible residents don’t know about the credit and that as a result, they could miss out on up to an additional $5,700 in their federal income tax refunds. Last year, on average, the credit boosted refunds for eligible workers by $2,100. The free tax services are being offered by appointment through February and March, while walk-ins are welcome on Saturdays. They’ll be held locally at the Mott Community College M-Tech campus on Packard Drive in Howell. You can find details through the link below. (JK)

Web Link:	http://www.olhsa.org/free-tax-preparation-20

1/27/12 - Family and friends of a Lyon Township man who was brutally murdered attended a court hearing yesterday for the two men accused of killing him. Many of them showed support by wearing t-shits that read “In Loving Memory of Christopher Townsend 1971-2011” and “Rest in Peace”. Brian Stafford and George Tanner, both 27, are charged with beating Townsend with a wrench and strangling him with a seat belt before burning his body and then dispersing the remains on property in Green Oak Township. They both appeared in court for a preliminary exam, which will determine if there is enough evidence to send the case to Circuit Court for trial. Tanner’s then-girlfriend, 22-year-old Rochelle Bryant, testified that Townsend, who was drunk at the time, made a pass at her and kissed her, which ultimately led the two men to kill him. She said Tanner led her to a bonfire near his uncle’s home in Green Oak Township where a pocketknife, wrench and machete were on the ground and that she saw what looked like bones in the fire. The victim’s son, 19-year-old Christopher Townsend Jr. of Detroit told WHMI that he will be at every hearing until the end with family and friends and disagreed with Bryant’s testimony, saying his father was a good man who had let the two defendants stay at his home. Testimony was heard from prosecution witnesses throughout the day including Tanner’s uncle who said his nephew had asked him for masks, gloves and bleach the weekend of the alleged murder. After a full day of testimony, the exam was adjourned to continue on February 16th. (JM/JK)

1/27/12 - Howell City Councilman Steve Manor was named 2011 Citizen of the Year by the Howell Chamber of Commerce at its 55th annual awards dinner last night. The dinner included over a hundred guests from the local business and political communities. It has served as a way for the Chamber to thank its workers and volunteers for decades. The Chamber pointed to Manor's decades of commitment to the local community and culture in choosing him for this year’s Citizen of the Year award. Manor represents Howell in the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments, where he received the Regional Ambassador Award in 2010. He is the city council liaison to the Howell Parks and Recreation Authority, a member of the Livingston Diversity Council, and president of the Howell Rotary. Manor said the recognition was a complete surprise and that he was honored, humbled, a grateful. Other awards presented last night included the Above and Beyond Award, which was presented to local businessman Paul Butler for his contributions to local events including Balloonfest, and the Outstanding Community Initiative award presented to the Howell Education Foundation for a building reconstruction project undertaken by local high school students. The Young Professional Award went to Rozalina Mekhael of LOC Federal Credit Union for her work with the Chamber coordinating events, and the Promote Local Award went to the new Michigan-themed retailer Heart of Michigan on Grand River. An Outstanding Architectural Achievement Award was presented to Dr. John Muir and Vision Source for their efforts refurbishing and setting up an optometrist's office in a 100-year-old Victorian-style home on Grand River. The new Phoenix Award was presented to the Magna International auto plant, which suffered major damage in a fire last year but managed to recover and reopen at 80% capacity within days. (TD)

1/27/12 - The Howell Public Schools district has completed its investigation surrounding the sudden firing of Howell’s head hockey coach and his two assistants earlier this month for what it labeled a hazing incident. Superintendent Ron Wilson tells WHMI that the district has completed its investigation and following interviews, they determined that there was no misconduct on the part of the kids. Wilson adds that the district reacted quickly and they have a solid coach in place and the matter is now considered closed. However, a presentation of some type is expected to eventually be scheduled in an effort educate athletes and students about what constitutes hazing and its consequences. The incident in question happened on a school sponsored trip to Marquette during which students and coaches were staying at a hotel and are alleged to have dressed up in women’s undergarments only and went over to a nearby bar as a joke. At the time, Wilson said the adults in charge of the trip are expected show better judgment and serve as role models and based on the admission of former coach Randy Montrose that he had been drinking during the trip, had gotten into an altercation with one of the parents as well as condoned the team members parading through the bar, Wilson said they had no choice but to terminate the employments of the coaches. (JK)

Thursday, January 26

1/26/12 - The state says seasonally unadjusted unemployment rates rose in all of Michigan's 17 major labor markets in December but despite the seasonal uptick, the overall market situation improved last year. The statewide unadjusted jobless rate for December was 9%, up from
8.4% in November. The figures were released Thursday by the state Department of Technology, Management and Budget. Livingston County’s individual unemployment rate rose just slightly to 7.9% in December, an increase of two-tenths of a percentage point from November, and the county currently ranks 14th in the state. The Upper Peninsula and the northeastern and northwestern Lower Peninsulas showed the highest percentage jumps from November to December. The state says overall, unemployment rates dropped significantly in 2011 with payroll jobs increasing in many areas. Nearly all regions recorded job gains in professional and business services as well as manufacturing, education, and health services. Only two of the state’s major industry sectors reported declines last year – government along with leisure and hospitality services. (JM)

Attachment:	JanuaryRegionalRelease.doc

1/26/12 - Brighton Fire Chief Larry Lane is once again retiring but says he’s confident in the future of the department under the new leadership of Fire Marshal Mike O’Brian. Lane originally retired in 2005 but was called back in April of 2009 to assist the department through some difficulties, including the forced resignation of Chief Marty Deloach. Lane says his return was only supposed to last three to six months, but here he is retiring again almost three years later. There’s been a lot of change over the years and Lane says when he first came to the area, the population of the entire county was around 50,000 and today, there are 46,000 residents in the Brighton fire authority boundaries alone. Lane is said to have been a visionary in establishing the overall fire authority structure, which he feels has served the citizens well. He says Brighton has an 88 person department, 80 of which are paid on-call firefighters, who between full time jobs and family, do quite a bit of juggling. There are also five fire stations now compared to three a decade ago. O’Brian says he’s fortunate to be stepping into such a fiscally strong organization with a solid board and says Chief Lane has done an outstanding job with his leadership and developing people. He says they will continue to work with partners and increase prevention efforts while utilizing technology to their advantage. The formal transfer of leadership from Lane to O’Brian will occur at the department’s annual awards ceremony scheduled next Friday evening. The complete interview with Lane and O’Brian may be heard this Sunday morning on WHMI’s Viewpoint program. (JM)

1/26/12 - A local legislator is sponsoring bills that he says would ensure public assistance recipients give back to their communities and undergo drug testing. Senator Joe Hune says Senate Bill 905 was introduced yesterday and would require cash assistance recipients who are not exempt from the Jobs, Education and Training program to participate in community service. The Hamburg Township Republican says it’s important for those who receive assistance to give back to the community that’s helping them in their time of need. Meanwhile, Hune’s other measure would require public assistance applicants to submit to a drug test if their caseworker has a reasonable suspicion they may be abusing drugs. The Family Independence Program currently requires families receiving assistance to work or undergo job training as a condition of receiving assistance. Hune says the funds are designed to help get people back on their feet and simply put; taxpayers should not be funding drug habits. Both bills have been referred to the Senate Families, Seniors and Human Services Committee. (JM)

1/26/12 - After months of working and interviews, the Howell Downtown Development Authority will wrap up its search for a new director next week. The director position has been vacant since September when former director Nathan Voght resigned. Since taking office in 2008 Voght was credited with leading the DDA through several projects involving local festivals and attractions, including the DDA’s takeover of the Howell Melonfest. The authority received more than 40 applications for the position, and the final three interviews will be conducted by the DDA on Monday with the hope of having a new director in place by the beginning of February. DDA President Stephanie Schlittler says the new director must have people skills, initiative, and a background in advertising and PR to help the DDA market the downtown business district and communicate with local business owners. She adds that although she does not know where the final three applicants are from, she does know that none of them are from the Howell area. (TD)

Wednesday, January 25

1/25/12 - A newly married couple will be recovering for a few days following an accidental shooting Wednesday afternoon in Marion Township. Livingston County Sheriff Bob Bezotte tells WHMI that the shooting occurred at the couple’s Norton Road home. He says the 21-year-old man was cleaning his new Springfield 9mm semi-automatic handgun but he failed to make sure that it wasn't loaded. Bezotte says as the man pulled the trigger, one single bullet discharged and shot him in the left hand and left leg but also shot his wife in the left leg who was standing next to him. Bezotte says the couple has been married for about a month and the man’s 22-year-old wife had purchased the weapon for her husband as a present and registered it on January 17th. He says they’ll forward a report of the incident to the prosecutor’s office for review but this was clearly an accident and there was no intent to hurt anyone. He says while the couple will be in some pain, they fortunately both suffered non-life threatening injuries and were able to drive themselves to the hospital. (JM)

1/25/12 - A request for bond by a jailed Brighton area money manager has been denied. John Bravata, of Brighton Township, is charged with securities fraud, conspiracy to commit fraud and money laundering. Authorities say he collected $53 million from clients that was supposed to be invested in real estate, but was instead used for personal expenses including jewelry and travel. Bravata, who has denied any wrongdoing, was jailed last May after authorities said he had a strong motive to flee the country. A motion to allow a bond for his release was denied yesterday by a federal judge in Detroit. Also charged is his son Antonio. Bravata’s business partner, Richard Trabulsy, entered a guilty plea in October to wire fraud and is set for sentencing in May. A new trial date for Bravata and his son has yet to be scheduled. (JM)

1/25/12 - A Brighton-area woman is among four people profiled in a video series about living and working with disabilities. 21-year-old Abby Loy of Genoa Township is featured in "A Vision for Abby," one of four installments in the "Possibilities Video Series" produced by the Developmental Disabilities Institute at Wayne State University.

Loy, who has Down syndrome, helped to premiere the series earlier this month at the Detroit Institute of Arts. In the video, LuAnn Loy, discusses the decision early on that she was would receive a traditional education in the Brighton Area School District. "We had been told that Abby would go to a school in a neighboring town and we didn't want that for her. We bought our home in Brighton because they have exemplary schools and that's where we wanted her to go to school." At Brighton High School, she earned her Varsity letter as a member of the marching and wind symphony bands and choir before graduating in 2009. Abby, who has delivered several presentations on Down syndrome to educators, physicians and decision-makers across the state, is also shown in the video talking about her present job as a student assistant at First Steps Preschool in Brighton. "I love preschool a lot. What I like there is kids having fun and kids working in your life." LuAnn Loy adds that their decision to ensure Abby was treated like every other child is no different than what any parent does for their child. (JK)

1/25/12 - There are differing opinions as to President Barack Obama’s positive assessment of the economy during his State of the Union address. Obama said he's willing to work with lawmakers to build on momentum but will fight efforts to return to policies that helped create the downturn and the defining issue of our time is keeping the American dream alive by giving everyone a fair shot. Republican Congressman Mike Rogers of Howell says this was really the launch of the president’s re-election campaign and he felt no concrete solutions were offered. He says the price of gas has doubled, there are more people than ever before on food stamps and Obama never mentioned the budget deficit. Rogers says he liked the part of the talk about going after China on trade, which is something he’s been working on for years, but overall the speech was a little disappointing because there are a number of real issues that people need solved in their lives. In contrast, Vice Chairman of the Livingston County Democratic Party Dane Morris tells WHMI that it was a great positive message and a record of great accomplishment for the president to run on in the election. He says the US economy is on the rebound, the war in Iraq is over and troops are coming home and he accomplished the mission of getting Osama Bin Laden. Morris says the lower unemployment in Michigan appears to be due to the uptick in the auto companies and citizens have President Obama and the Democratic administration to thank for coming to the aid of the auto companies and saving the industry in Michigan because otherwise they would be bankrupt. President Obama vowed to "fight obstruction with action" and avoid a return to what he called "an economy weakened by outsourcing, bad debt, and phony financial profits." He also suggested that half of the money that is no longer being spent on the U.S. military in Iraq and Afghanistan should be used to help create jobs and increase competitiveness. (JM)

1/25/12 - A Livingston County man accused of abusing poor boys at a residential center he ran in Haiti has successfully removed his court-appointed attorneys from representing him. Matthew Andrew Carter of Brighton is charged with multiple counts of Travel With Intent To Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct. U.S. authorities say the 66-year-old man traveled from Florida to Haiti between October of 2001 and May of 2011 with the purpose of engaging in sex with someone under the age of 18. He’s alleged to have forced boys at the Morning Star Center in Haiti's capital to engage in sexual conduct in exchange for gifts, money or continued care. The center provided food, shelter and education for poor boys in Port-au-Prince. Carter, who has been in custody since his arrest last May in Miami, had petitioned the court to dismiss his two public defenders, alleging they had intentionally violated his right to a speedy trial, failed to keep him informed about court proceedings and were, in his opinion, aiding the government’s case by allowing the prosecutor to “roam the planet looking for evidence that don't exist.” In a hearing yesterday in federal court in Miami, a judge granted Carter’s request and appointed a new public defender to represent him. Carter is scheduled to go to trial on the charges July 3rd. (JK)

1/25/12 - About half a dozen people attended a meeting held at the Brighton District Library by City Manager Dana Foster to discuss a possible bond issue to make capital improvements to the city. The informational meeting was the third in a series of four designed to gauge public response to the proposed bond and determine what kinds of improvements should be prioritized if it passes. The proposed 1.01 mill bond issue would replace the 1996 road bond millage which expires this year, allowing the city to make new capital improvements without increasing property taxes. A citizen’s task force identified more than $9 million in critical capital improvements to be made to the city last year, such as specific roads, gutters, and sidewalks that require improvements. However, in order to remain tax-neutral the bond would only $5.6 million in revenue. Foster says a possible lower amount of $5 million is also being strongly considered to make sure the bond remains tax-neutral despite changes in housing prices and the possible elimination of the Michigan Personal Property Tax. Citizen input is being sought on what kind of improvements should be prioritized for completion and whether the city council should put the bond issue forward to the voters in the first place. Those who attended the meeting expressed support for the bond and said the meeting was well-run and informative. Foster tells WHMI that the meetings have been productive and helpful in his task of advising the city council. A fourth and final informational meeting will be held on January 30th at the Brighton District Library. Foster encourages residents who cannot attend to call or email him with their thoughts and suggestions regarding capital improvements to the city. (TD)

Tuesday, January 24

1/24/12 - Sentencing will be held the same day for the mother of a murdered 4-year-old boy as the man convicted last week of beating the boy to death. Court records indicate that both Corrine Baker and her then-boyfriend Brandon Hayes will be sentenced by Genesee County Circuit Court Judge Richard Yuille on February 27th. Baker, who pleaded guilty to second degree murder as part of a plea deal, faces between 13 and 30 years in prison. Authorities say she didn’t do enough to stop the beatings that took place over several days in April 2010 in an Argentine Township apartment. Hayes was found guilty last week on all ten charges against him in the death, including first degree murder, torture and child abuse. He faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison with no chance of parole. Testimony during the trial indicated that one reason Baker may have been reluctant to call police as her son suffered from the beatings was because she was not supposed to be living outside Livingston County after a previous drug conviction. (JK)

1/24/12 - The Pinckney Village Council is moving along in the process to hire a new police chief but isn’t rushing any decision. Chief Denis Aseltine is retiring at the end of the month and applications will be accepted for the position through this Thursday at 4pm. Village President Rebecca Foster tells WHMI that Council met Monday night and discussed the search and says it was agreed that the formed search committee will begin reviewing applications next week. She says so far, more than 30 applications have come in and once narrowed down to the top five or so candidates, an investigation firm will be hired to conduct background checks and then interviews will be scheduled. Foster says this is a full time working chief position so a candidate will need to be comfortable with taking on a regular shift out on the road while also running the department. Foster adds that they’re more concerned with getting the right person and a good fit so if they can get a chief in place by mid to late March that would be great. But if it takes a little longer, Foster says that’s fine too because they have a great interim chief in Sergeant Bill Cook so they’re in a pretty good situation to take the time they need in hiring a permanent police chief. (JM)

1/24/12 - A Fowlerville man has entered a plea to charges surrounding a hit and run incident last October that claimed the life of a Howell man and injured a Hartland woman. Livingston County Prosecutor David Morse tells WHMI that Stephen Allen Lacosse II pleaded guilty as charged to two counts of failure to stop at the scene of an accident resulting in serious impairment or death. He’ll be sentenced March 8th. The charges were filed last month in connection with the death of 47 year old Jeffrey Westphal of Howell, who was killed after being hit by a pickup truck as he and Lisa Vail of Hartland walked along Center Road in Deerfield Township in the early morning hours of October 30th. Vail was hospitalized, but has since recovered. Police originally found Lacosse’s pickup truck abandoned in an Oceola Township ditch, which then led them to a Fowlerville woman who said she was the driver. Further investigation determined Lacosse was actually behind the wheel and the woman, who was his fiancé, lied because he was on parole and had been drinking. Morse says no decision has been made yet as to whether charges will be filed against her. As for Lacosse, Morse says he will be sentenced within the state guidelines, which call for up to five years in prison. (JK)

1/24/12 - A Detroit blues legend will perform this weekend in Howell. Alberta Adams, known as the “Queen of the Blues”, will appear in concert this Sunday at 2pm on the main level of the Howell Carnegie District Library. The 94-year-old Adams, who has been performing since the 1930s, has toured alongside musical greats such as Duke Ellington, Lionel Hampton, and T-Bone Walker. Adams received two historical awards from the State of Michigan in 2009 and is a Lifetime Achievement Award winner from the Detroit Blues Society. She will be backed Sunday by the RJ Spangler Trio, with special guest Michigan jazz master Larry Smith on alto sax. The concert kicks off a month of events tied to the Great Michigan Read book selection “Arc of Justice: A Saga of Race, Civil Rights and Murder in the Jazz Age” by Kevin Boyle. You’ll find details about the concert through the link below. (JK)

Web Link:	http://www.howelllibrary.org/presenting_alberta_ad...

1/24/12 - The Howell Public School Board heard a presentation Monday night about the future of technology in the district’s curriculum. The presentation was made by representatives of a technology committee, including Director of Technology Paul Pominville, who says the next upgrades to the district will include improved and expanded wireless capabilities. He says students bring their own wireless devices to school already, so the district would do well to embrace this concept and allow them to be used as tools for learning. The presentation was designed to give the board insight into what kind of technological and budgetary resources will be needed in the future. The plan will be reviewed by the district’s finance committee before the school board’s next meeting on February 13th. The board will then vote on the plan and could also take action on it, possibly including earmarking funds in the district’s budget for technology and infrastructure improvements. Superintendent Ron Wilson says the board will want to structure the funding so that replacement of large technological equipment, such as servers, can be done in a staggered schedule rather than all at once. (TD)

1/24/12 - At its meeting Monday night, the Brighton Board of Education approved an application for a preliminary qualification of a potential $88 million bond issue. That comes just a matter of days after Brighton school officials went to Lansing to plead their case for a bond issue. Superintendent Greg Gray tells WHMI he is certain the state will approve Brighton’s application, leading to an election in May. The bond issue would be for repair of existing facilities, new athletic facilities, technology upgrades and other items. Brighton has fallen behind other area school districts in recent years in facilities and technology as it has dealt with budget deficits and done some serious belt-tightening toward eliminating the red ink. The result: Leaking roofs, facilities needing major repairs, computers and related technology that is years behind other school districts and inferior athletic facilities. Gray says he expects state approval to go ahead with the bond issue within the next few weeks…The board would need to pass the bond language by Feb. 27 and turn it in to the state by the next day to get it on the May 8 election ballot. Gray says that it’s imperative the bond issue be placed on the ballot this spring. He says waiting until the November election would result in the district having to levy another mill in order to generate the same amount of revenue. (TT)

1/24/12 - The two men charged with murdering and mutilating a Lyon Township man will face new charges when they appear in court later this week. 27-year-olds Brian Stafford and George Tanner were originally charged with open murder in the death of 40-year-old Christopher Townsend, who lived across the street from them in the Kensington Place manufactured home community. New charges of disinterment/mutilation of a dead body have been filed against both suspects but Stafford is also facing three additional counts of assaulting/resisting a police officer for allegedly fighting with Brighton police at their department during the course of an interview. An exam in the case earlier this month was adjourned again the request of all parties due to a lack of autopsy reports and DNA test results on Townsend’s suspected remains. That information is expected to be received in time for the scheduled exam this Thursday in 53rd District Court, at which time both suspects will also be formally arraigned on the new charges. Stafford and Tanner remain held in the Livingston County Jail without bond. They’re alleged to have beaten Townsend with a pipe wrench and strangled him with a car seat belt before burning his remains and scattering them in Green Oak Township. One possible motive for the killing was a kiss Townsend reportedly gave Tanner’s girlfriend. (JM)

1/24/12 - An annual bicycle touring event has translated its efforts into action with a check presentation yesterday to support health and human service needs in Livingston County. The Howell Rotary Club hosted its “Tour De Livingston” last October with recreational rides of between 5 and 100 miles that began at Mt. Brighton. All proceeds from the event were pledged to benefit local basic need programs through the Livingston County United Way. At yesterday’s weekly Howell Rotary meeting, a check for $31,000 was presented to United Way Executive Director Nancy Rosso. The money will be used to assist the various United Way basic need programs that impact hunger, homelessness, children, and unemployment. (JK)

1/24/12 - The Howell School Board received and reviewed the investigation of former board member Robert Parker at its regular meeting last night. Parker stepped down from the board after the board discovered that he had been investigated by police for offering a Howell woman money in exchange for sex. The board then commissioned its own investigation into accusations of three separate sexual harassment claims against Parker made by two teachers and a student. Superintendent Ron Wilson says the report from that investigation was received by the board in closed session last night. He was tasked by the board to put together a report on investigation's findings and present it to the board in closed session on February 13th. The board will then decide whether to release the results or keep them confidential under attorney-client privilege, as well as what action should be taken as a result. It is unclear what actions could be taken by the board as a result of this report, which was commissioned before Parker stepped down by the board. (TD)

1/24/12 - A sidewalk to nowhere is adding to parking and drainage issues on Oceola Street in the City of Howell. Resident Tracey Shapter lives on Oceola Street and approached the Council at last night’s meeting about a warning ticket she received from police for parking on the sidewalk. The sidewalk was constructed as part of the city’s street improvement program and crosses over her driveway, making it impossible for her to use her extended driveway space for parking. The sidewalk ends at a fence that backs up to the property of Southeast Elementary School so there is no entrance to the sidewalk unless someone walks on her property. Per city ordinance, officers have been writing tickets to anyone who encroaches on the city sidewalks. Shapter says she just wants permission to park in her own driveway, not down the street as suggested where she can’t see her vehicle, especially if it were to be hit or vandalized. Councilman Doug Heins says the city overreached when it passed the parking ordinance that restricts a resident’s full enjoyment and use of property. He feels that no tickets should be issued for encroaching on sidewalks and told Shapter she should be granted an exception, adding that the community consists of eclectic homes put together at different times and everyone has unique situations yet they’ve created a one size fits all ordinance. He added that it speaks to the lack of common sense in the area where you have a sidewalk that runs into a fence and you can’t even park in your own front yard. Some Council members expressed that they would have a tough time granting parking accommodations to one resident and not another, especially since Shapter is not the only one with issues. Council ultimately directed staff to develop a series of alternatives for consideration. Meanwhile, Council also discussed drainage issues on Oceola Street and residents on the southeast side have raised concerns about flooding and inadequate drainage during heavy rains following the reconstruction and realignment. The city determined that the storm water was coming from a private road in Marion Township and traveled along the new sidewalk causing flooding. Some adjustments were made but the city began evaluating other options and one solution of three presented to council last night involved installing a concrete spillway at a driveway approach to push water in a swale and eliminate run-off. Councilman Al Schlittler, usually a man of few words at meetings, indicated that his comments were not directed at city staff but he was both frustrated and dumbfounded and has done everything he can to wrap his head around the problem. He personally went out and shot the street grades and felt none of the options were viable and they were all a waste of money. He says there is no way for the water to get to where it was designed to go and it all runs down the sidewalk because the road was rebuilt six inches higher than the sidewalk. Schlittler says he’s a chiropractor but poured concrete for years and has never seen anything like this and the design lacks common sense. He says it needs to be ripped out and the grade needs to be changed because half of the water goes across the street and the other half goes into the drain because the street slopes to the other side. Some Council members expressed that the city has spent millions on engineering fees and perhaps a second opinion is needed to determine if it was properly engineered or not while others said they really didn’t feel this should be the city’s problem. Since Council deemed the proposed solutions unacceptable, city staff will draft and present other alternatives at a future meeting. (JM)

1/24/12 - The Howell Public School Board held its officer elections last night resulting in a slightly reorganized board hierarchy. Before the elections began, then-vice president Ed Literski asked not to be nominated, stating that his term on the board was coming to an end this year and one of the newer members of the board should have a chance to serve. Mike Witt was elected vice president in his place after being nominated by new board member Jan Lobur. Kim Witt was then elected as board secretary after being nominated by Mike Witt, her husband. Board President Ann Routt was reelected to her office during the elections. Treasurer Doug Moore was nominated by fellow board members for every officer’s position in the elections before being unanimously reelected as treasurer. (TD)

Monday, January 23

1/23/12 - Demolition of an abandoned correctional facility that’s become a blighted nuisance in Hamburg Township has been postponed for at least another year. The township board approved a resolution a couple years ago stating that it would continue efforts with the state and local legislators to raze the Camp Brighton prison facility and all of its structures. The facility is surrounded by the Brighton State Recreation area in Hamburg and was abandoned by the Department of Corrections in April of 2007 but it has been pilfered and vandalized since then. A Senate appropriations bill in which Senator Joe Hune of Hamburg Township had included $400,000 for the demolition of the facility was removed from the bill when approved by the House. Hamburg Township Supervisor Pat Hohl says the site is not only a serious liability but an unfunded drain on police resources and tells WHMI that it has been operated by the state Office of Management and Budget since it closed. He says the Michigan Department of Corrections has indicated that it will send work crews from its boot camp program to clean up the facility and remove trash pending future financing for any razing of it. Hohl says the police department will continue to patrol the area and keep it secure pending a decision from the state as to a final outcome for the facility. (JM)

1/23/12 - A major fundraising campaign for the Howell Opera House continues with the big picture goal of increasing programming and eventually rehabilitating the historic gem built in 1881. Brent Earl spoke with WHMI’s Mike and Jon about the Livingston Arts Council and its ongoing efforts to restore the glory to the building. The organization was approached by two major donors with an opportunity to reduce the current mortgage on the building with each pledging a matching dollar-for-dollar gift up to $150,000. The actual opera house theater and stage is located upstairs and still in need of major renovations before it can be used publicly. Earl explained that this campaign would help reduce the mortgage on the Opera House and eventually allow the council to concentrate on securing funds for the second floor renovations and bring more arts and cultural programming to the community while boosting the flow of people downtown. The campaign to restore the glory at the Howell Opera House runs through March 31st and every dollar donated up until then will be tripled. For more details or to donate, click on the link below. (JM)

Web Link:	http://www.howelloperahouse.com

1/23/12 - Livingston County home sales saw improvement across all major categories in 2011, according to statistics released last week by multi-listing service Realcomp II Limited. According to the data, while the total number of homes sold increased less than 2%, the median price of those homes being sold increased from $135,271 to just over $139,000. In addition, the average number of days Livingston County homes stayed on the market went down from nearly 120 to just under 107. Also, the number of foreclosed homes that made up those sales was also down from 858 in 2010 to 781 last year. The uptick in home sales locally was mirrored across Michigan and nationally as hiring has improved. Applications for unemployment benefits are near a four-year low. The unemployment rates nationwide and in Michigan fell in December to their lowest levels in nearly three years. Coupled with record-low mortgage rates, analysts see hope for continued growth in 2012, although there is near universal consensus that the industry has a long way to go to reach pre-recession levels. (JK)

1/23/12 - The family of a slain Iosco Township man has put up several provocative billboards along I-96 in the hopes of finding the person or persons responsible for his murder. The billboards, which feature the statement “You Know Who Killed Me!", include a picture of 47-year-old Ronald Hauser, who was found shot to death New Year’s Eve in the basement of his Roberts Road home. Livingston County Sheriff Bob Bezotte tells WHMI he welcomes the billboards in the hopes of encouraging someone who has information about the murder to step forward. Bezotte says it appears Hauser likely knew his killer and that robbery was the motive for the killing. Hauser, who owned his own tree trimming service, was known to carry large amounts of cash. Hauser’s family has added $10,000 to the existing $2,500 in reward money. Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Mark Klein of the Livingston County Sheriff's Department at (517) 540-7960. Anonymous tips can be left with CrimeStoppers at (800) SPEAK-UP or (800) 773-2587. (JK)

1/23/12 - A number of longtime department heads were recognized recently by the Livingston County Board of Commissioners. Commissioners presented resolutions to a number of employees marking the significant milestones in their careers but the great value they bring to the county’s growth and overall success. Register of Deeds Sally Reynolds has been with the county for more than 35 years while EMS Director Jeff Boyd (pictured) was recognized for 25 years of service and countless contributions that greatly improve the caliber of care delivered to the public. Planning Director Kathleen Kline-Hudson, Michigan Works! Director Bill Sleight and Airport Director Mark Johnson have all been with the county for more than 20 years while Director of 911 Central Dispatch Don Arbic was recognized for a decade of service. Commissioners further expressed that the leadership of the men and women recognized sets unparalleled standards and their dedication and commitment serves as an inspiration. (JK)

Sunday, January 22

1/22/12 - Four people, two of them from Livingston County, are hospitalized as a result of separate crashes involving five vehicles that occurred Sunday morning on I-94 near Liberty Road in Ann Arbor Township. According to state police of the Brighton post, a 30-year-old Ann Arbor woman was going east in the westbound lanes and crashed head-on into a car driven by a 23-year-old Dexter man. Both were seriously injured and taken by Huron Valley Ambulance to the University of Michigan Medical Center. The woman going the wrong way is suspected of drunken driving, and charges are pending. As a result of traffic being stopped for that accident, another crash occurred seconds later in the same area when a 21-year-old Pinckney man failed to brake in time to avoid traffic stopped ahead and collided with a vehicle driven by a 60-year-old Gregory woman. Her car was then pushed forward into a third vehicle, whose driver escaped injury. The Pinckney man and the Gregory woman were both taken to the U of M Medical Center with injuries, and – as in the case of the other crash - alcohol is suspected as a contributing cause. (TT)

Saturday, January 21

1/21/12 - The Brighton Area Fire Authority delivered a report on its annual finances to the Brighton Township Board Tuesday night. The report detailed changes made last year in employee benefits and legacy costs. The fire authority emphasized its efforts to be more fiscally responsible and reduce expenses and debt. Fire Chief Larry Lane says all fire authority employee benefit packages are now completely financed and no money is owed by the authority. Although the fire authority is now funded through a millage rather than township funds, Lane tells WHMI that the board still has a vested interest in how the authority spends its money because the township is still culpable for any unpaid debt incurred by the authority. Lane says 2012 will see the fire authority focus on prevention by performing voluntary inspections of homes and replacement or installation of smoke detectors. He says preventing fire is the best way to protect lives, reduce costs, and secure the tax base of the township. (TD)

1/21/12 - The second annual “Midnight in the Tropics”, hosted by the Livingston Sunrise Rotary Club, will take place tonight (Saturday) at Cleary University's Johnson Center beginning at 6 p.m. Club spokesman Tom Martin tells WHMI that proceeds will go several organizations in the area with programs geared to help youths. The goal of the event is to raise $15,000. Midnight in the Tropics is the winter fundraiser for the Sunrise Rotary Club, which also sponsors the Great Duck Race on Brighton’s Mill Pond during the summer. The price of admission is $50 per person, and people may get tickets in advance by calling Martin at 810-588-0245. Tickets will also be available at the door. (TT)