Editions

By: Jeff Milo, Circulation Specialist

HAVE YOU GOTTEN YOUR FREE COPY of Station Eleven from the Ferndale Library yet? Written by Emily St. John Mandel, this disarmingly tender and thought-provoking dystopian suspense novel was recently announced as the selection for the library’s annual community book club series, Ferndale Reads. This is the seventh installment of Ferndale Reads, spanning the springtime with a set of fun and engaging events and programs tying in with a single book’s fictional world and thematic elements.

Ferndale native Darlene Hellenberg is the Head Reference Librarian, and she has spearheaded these community-wide book clubs each year. “I love this book!” Hellenberg said of Station Eleven. “When the Michigan Humanities Council selected it for their program, The Great Michigan Read, I knew we had to participate in their program and make it our Ferndale Reads selection.”

Free copies of Station Eleven were facilitated by Ferndale Reads 2016’s sponsor, the Friends of the Ferndale Library. This non-profit, volunteerrun organization is dedicated to engaging the community and raising funds to support the library. Hellenberg has arranged several programs scheduled throughout the forthcoming month, including a visit from the veteran food instructor Renee Chodowksi (aka The Great Foodini,) with a presentation on Food of the Apocalypse (on May 9 at the Ferndale Library). A full schedule of events, including the finale featuring author Emily St. John Mandel’s visit and book-signing at the Tangent Gallery (May 19) are available at the library’s circulation desk.

The acclaimed Station Eleven begins in the wake of a pandemic that devastates civilization, following unique characters like a Hollywood star, a zealous prophet and a nomadic group of Shakespearean actors, as they seek salvation across scattered outposts in the Great Lakes region. Rather than giving away too much about the book, library staff is encouraging patrons to consider joining a couple or three unique book clubs, each of which will be discussing Station Eleven.

The Thursday Afternoon Book Club will discuss Station Eleven on April 21 at the Ferndale Library (starting at 12:30 PM). This club is perfect for recreational readers with freer weekly schedules, perhaps for the newly retired or folks who work night shifts and miss other regular earlyevening book club meetings.

COMING UP: Poetry Reading sponsored by Springfed Arts on April 5 at 7:00 P.M. to 8:30 P.M. Hosted by Susan Sheiener (of Springfed Arts) and featuring poets Kevein Meisel, Joy Gaines Friedler, Lucinda Sabino and songwriter Lauren Crane. The Boston Tea Room will be serving a selection of teas. Free. No registration required.

Saturday Crafternoon (Monthly) April 16 at 2:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M. Space for your projects will be provided in the library’s community room. Coloring pages and colored pencils will also be available. Supplies for other crafting projects will not be provided. Presuming it’s not too messy, you’re encouraged to bring your own supplies (or equipment). Crafternoons will be hosted every third Saturday of each month, from 2:00 P.M. to 5:00 P.M. at the Ferndale Library.

ONGOING: The Artist in You is a community-wide celebration of student art, featuring works by young talents (grades 10-12) in the Ferndale School District and Center for Advanced Studies and the Arts (CASA.) Students’ 2D art will be on exhibit at the Ferndale Area District Library until May 17, sponsored by the Ferndale Area Chamber of Commerce.

We want to be your friend! Become a Friends member today for $20 or become Senior/student Friends member for $10. Info at: http://ferndalefriends.org/join-us/.

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

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Story and photos by Rebecca Hammond

TWO THINGS YOU HAVE PROBABLY NOTICED in Michigan: Some towns in our state do not use road salt and, of those that do, a lot remains on streets and sidewalks.

In Marquette, the city spreads sand, making streets into an odd lasagna of snow and sand, building up all winter long. It keeps salt out of Lake Superior, but has some downsides. According to WMU’s Carla Koretsky, professor of geosciences, driving over sanded roads may send particles into the air, exacerbating respiratory problems, and might be damaging to the road surface. It can also need cleanup at winter’s end. Here, piles of salt end up near stop signs, apparently bigger the longer the truck has to wait for traffic to clear. Sidewalks can end up with salt intact long after snow is gone. All of this eventually goes down storm drains. There’s so much in places, you could sweep it up and have a free supply.

How did the Flint River end up so corrosive? I’ve assumed there might be salt deposits along its route, the Great Lakes region being a former inland sea, and salt mines – huge ones – in existence under both Detroit and Cleveland. But years of overuse, or maybe just plain use, of road salt made the Flint River more saline and thus more corrosive.

Other cities might take this as a warning, and head a problem off at the pass. Using Great Lakes water as a drinking source is still a temporary way to avoid corrosive, salted river water, but using the sheer size of the Lakes as a way to dilute pollutants has never been a workable, long-term solution. The “Unsalted & Shark-Free” shirts and bumper stickers we amuse ourselves with were always incorrect. We are salting our Great Lakes. So far, it hasn’t mattered. But the amount of road salt used in Michigan is going up. Some interesting alternatives (beet waste, for example) have been proposed.

DOES IT MAKE SENSE FOR ANYONE in DC to object to the EPA having neglected to protect the people of Flint? Some of the same officials have tried to eliminate the EPA, or defund specific rules, or accuse it of “federal power grabs” (The Hill, 11- 23-15). When EPA administrator Gina McCarthy appeared in Washington last week, that was one accusation leveled at her. Since the EPA is also the PPA, I hope the rebuke is taken as a mandate to protect people by protecting our sources of drinking water. On the other hand, the Safe Drinking Water Act says that the EPA can take action if a drinkingwater supply even may be contaminated. Action in this case took far too long. At least drinking-water safety is getting the attention it deserves. Articles like “How Road Salt Could Turn Your City Into the Next Flint, Michigan” (Inhabitat, 1-16) are now common.

SOLAR: There’s a large solar array west of metro Detroit on I-96, and there’s a new one south of town on I-75. These are big, commercial installations. Vox.com says that in 2015, utility installations were 57 per cent of the total and, while residential rooftop installations remain the fastestgrowing segment of the solar industry, these commercial arrays are so huge, they represent a larger percentage of total capacity.

BANNING BANS DEPT: A “plastic-bag-ban” ban has been introduced in Lansing, banning the banning of bags by local governments. It’s a biggovernment override of local government by people who deride big government. With the density of plastic particles in Lake Erie now greater than in the oceans, and those particles arriving in the Lakes when any plastic item on shore is ground to bits by waves and sand, it’s a shame that big government won’t take on the issue. It’s a bigger shame that they forbid municipalities to. We can, though. Plastic bags are small, weak, and hard to carry. Reusable bags are big, sturdy, and fun to make. Look for cast-off clothes, sheets, tablecloths to make them from. Green life is one big craft project. Google “DIY grocery bags” for inspiration, but if you’re a beginner, don’t be put off by complicated designs. One is as simple as sewing the bottom of a T-shirt shut, and cutting off the sleeves and binding the next.

ENVIRONMENTAL GADFLY DEPT: The Gadfly made two rare public appearances in March, at the Ferndale Garden Club, and at Blumz, where the quarterly meeting of the SE Michigan Beautification Commissions was held. Both talks were about monarch butterflies and naturalizing one’s yard. This is one environmental issue we can act on and probably see improvement pretty quickly. Many sources are reporting far more monarchs in Mexico this winter compared to the last few, but there’s a long way to go before they rebound to numbers seen in the early ‘90s.

PLEASANT RIDGE NEWS: One of Leslie Jones’ top priorities for the PR Environmental Committee is education on lawn pesticides, with the feasibility of city bans the topic of their March 21 presentation. The photo of bright yellow dandelions accompanying the facebook notice is a reminder: dandelions are the first available food for bees, and any early butterflies.

PR’s next presentation is on Monday, May 23 at 7:00 P.M. at the community center on Ridge Road. Brendan Nolan, owner of Plants for Ecology, will be speaking on native plants. Free and open to all. A native plant sale will be held on Saturday, June 4 from 9:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. Find the Pleasant Ridge Environmental Committee on facebook.

Becky Hammond is a life member of Sierra Club, their former Great Lakes Program blogger, and the founder of the Ferndale Monarch Project.

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

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The Sharon Elaine Foundation, a Detroit nonprofit will host a fundraiser, “One Walk One Cure,” to aid in the research to end cancer with their first all cancer walk. One Walk One Cure will take place on June 26, 2016, on Belle Isle in Detroit, Michigan. The Sharon Elaine Foundation was founded to bring attention and awareness to ovarian cancer, and provides free human hair wigs to individuals who have a financial need. June is National Cancer Survivor Month and what better way to honor those who have been affected by cancer than with an All Cancer Walk.

To be a part of One Walk One Cure to end cancer register at www.runsignup.com/onewalkonecure.

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

Story by Cheri Clair

THE KELLY’S KIDS FOUNDATION provides support to low-income and disadvantaged families suffering from life-threatening illnesses in the Metro Detroit area using enrichment classes, training, financial support, and personal care.

Zsa Zsa C. Hubbard started this foundation in response to an illness that her mother, Kelly Hubbard, contracted in 2014 after she wore a scarf bought at a popular clothing store. Initially, she developed a rash which covered her entire body. Eventually, Mrs. Hubbard was completely disabled by the illness which appeared to be an allergic reaction. Throughout the next year, she was hospitalized over 40 times, attended numer-ous doctor visits, and received many treatments. She stayed in the hospital for months at a time. She received over ten blood transfusions, a feed-ing tube, suffered loss of muscle control, and underwent chemotherapy treatments. It was a life-changing experience for Kelly Hubbard and her family.

Due to her illness, her insurance was terminated, she was fired from her place of employment, her home was foreclosed on, and a plethora of overdue bills kept coming in. Due to the financial strain in her life, her daughters took over the responsibilities of their mother’s finances, parental rights, and household contributions. There were not many organizations for the Hubbard family to turn to for help. Kelly Hubbard sadly passed away on March 24, 2015.

Zsa Zsa C. Hubbard, chairman of the board, attended Bowling Green State University in Ohio, where she was selected to be a part of the distinguished Presidential Leadership Academy. Hubbard put aside her college career when she discovered she was pregnant with her first child. Later, as she worked for the Wayne County Clerk’s Office as Deputy County Clerk, she was guided by Wayne County Clerk, the Honorable Cathy M. Garrett, and other mentors, such as Bishop John Drew Sheard, Evangelist Karen Clark Sheard, Alpha Phi Alpha President Dr. Richard T. James, Alpha Kappa Alpha member Tonya Champion, and a host of others whose guidance helped to make her the woman who is the head of this foundation.

Other board members of the foundation include Dr. Trina Lynn Ross, who is a veteran within the Information Technology industry, having over fifteen years of experience in providing technological solutions across health care and automotive organizations, and Ariss Pierce, PT, DPT, Cert. MDT Specialist and owner of Trainers Physical Therapy. She is a native Detroiter and Doctor of Physical Therapy who has a passion for educating others on how to achieve physical wellness.

How can you help? Visit kellyskidsfoundation.org and make a donation. As Zsa Zsa says, “There are so many families that need support as they transition from having a well, able-bodied family member to changing your whole life around to fit the needs of that sick individual. Sickness can be hard, especially if one of those individuals made the majority of the household income for the family. The Kelly’s Kids Foundation provides families with direction, support and resources to assist them during these difficult times.

kellyskidsfoundation.org
(248) 688-5861

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

Story by Derek Lindamood | Book cover courtesy of Greg Sumner and History Press

Greg Sumner, a History Professor at U of D Mercy, considers his new book Detroit in WWII a love letter to the generation that came of age during that era. In winning the war, its members displayed what he calls moxie: a courageous, resilient toughness, full of dedication and perseverance. In his book, he’s nostalgically captured a close-up account of the tremendous feats those Americans achieved, along with the individual and cultural values they upheld.

The book, written with an energy and passion Sumner also exudes in person, is full of facts, anecdotes, and stories that give the reader a feel for life here on the wartime “home front.” A love letter to “The Greatest Generation,” Detroit in WWII asks us to examine ourselves, and aims to inspire, while reminding readers of the tremendous achievements of that time period.

Sumner notes, “The people born in the 1920s, they were grounded. They believed in teamwork, sacrifice. They grew up throughout the Great Depression, and most of them had very little. They appreciated what they had, and went about the business of overcoming hardship without patting themselves on the back about it. In the wake of Pearl Harbor, which brought them into a second World War barely twenty years after the first, they approached it as simply a job that had to be done, and the sooner the better, so they could get on with their lives.”

Drawn to the epic scale of WWII and what was at stake, this is Dr. Sumner’s third book on the War. A baby boomer born and raised in Indianapolis, he has lived in the Motor City for 20 years. His somewhat “outsider’s” viewpoint of Detroit allows him to appreciate the ingenuity and work ethic that some natives may take for granted. He said “can-do” was the attitude of the WWII Generation, starting with Henry and Edsel Ford down to the smallest tool-and-die shop, making possible truly miraculous production levels and output for the Allies. Related to this achievement in productive capacity: moxie.

“People with moxie are unconquerable”, says Dr. Sumner. “They get up again after being knocked down, don’t whine or complain, don’t wallow in victimhood. Everybody is a victim of life in some way”, he observes. “But we all have to transcend our circumstances. For the most part, Detroiters in WWII embraced the values we should still hold in high-esteem today: teamwork, responsibility and sacrifice for the common good. Just look at the hand the WWII generation got dealt—and look how they dealt with it.”

Professor Sumner, who refers to some of today’s cultural attitudes as “hyperbolic”, seems to be suggesting a contrast between what has been referred to as “The Greatest Generation” and those that followed on its heels (including the Baby Boomers, of which he himself is a part.) “The WW2 Generation is a challenge to us all,” he said. “I don’t write books to be museum pieces. I am trying to write a story that can inspire us today, and this turned out to be the tribute to the soldiers, Rosie the Riveters and ordinary men, women and children of this era, which I have been wanting to set to paper for a long time.” And his greatest reward, since the book was released in November, is that long-time Detroiters tell him he got it right.

Sumner’s book deals with the pain of that era, as well as the accomplishments that impetuously came out of it. Segregation was a fact of life in those days, producing the worst war-time race riot in the country in 1943, and those wounds have never fully healed. “Living in Ferndale, sometimes I feel like I’m living on the edge of a massive volcano that erupted in recent past. But with the resurgence of the city that we see today, again you can see that uniquely Detroit habit of dusting ourselves off and moving forward.”

Detroit in WWII is well-written, informative and inspiring. The book’s popularity is fueled by the resurgence of Detroit pride, and the reverence for the strong, grounded, traditional American values of the era, which surfaced alongside the very products they built, which were built to last. Sumner, as insightful as he is cerebral, pulled himself away from our conversation after leaving me with a memorable impression, along with his hopes for his book’s place in Detroit’s young, newly re-born future. “The young people of this area, including my students at the University of Detroit Mercy, need a past to build the future upon, one that goes beyond the familiar narrative of abandonment, blight and racial conflict. There is a uniquely proud history here, one that needs no hype or embellishment, and they ought to embrace it. I hope this book, about the human stories of life in the Arsenal of Democracy, a love letter to my adopted city, will help readers recover what is unique and, yes, great about Detroit… and use the city’s greatness as a foundation they can build on.”

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

Story by Sherrad Glosson Photos by Ed Abeska

Nature’s Playhouse offers a nurturing and stimulating environment for family play, learning, fitness and fun.

It’s amazing how technology has and will continue to flourish, but on the flip side I wonder if the children of today and the future understand what it’s like to be a kid. In today’s world kids have access to cell phones, tablets, and other sorts of technical devices that weren’t around just a few years ago. For those of you, like me, who wonder if the kids of today aren’t getting enough opportunities for improvised play and outdoor activities,there’s a business in the heart of Ferndale that gave me the feeling of being a kid again. Welcome to ‘Nature’s Playhouse.’

ff12657_Page_1_Image_0001When I walked in the front door it had the nature look. There were tree branches hanging from the ceiling and on the walls that gave me the idea of it being a treehouse. The space is warm, inviting, and comfortable, with lots of interesting shapes and colors, and non-toxic, allnatural equipment that attracts attention and invites exploration. I sat down with three of the business owners in this tranquil space and I asked them how this magical place came about.

Sarah (a social worker) had the idea, and through networking connected with Mikki (an infant mental health specialist). They linked up with Juliana (an expert in physical wellness.) Three women who had never met before, with different degrees, somehow found themselves doing business together, and have been doing business since November 2015 when they purchased it from the previous owner. Originally, they presented some ideas to the former owners they believed would add to the business, but as fate would have it, it was up for sale. They took the plunge.

“We saw how valuable of a resource it was for the community and we thought it was essential for us to keep it open to families,” Sarah stated. Their mission is to create a nonjudgmental place promoting social support for the children and their families, a place where families with diverse backgrounds, social economics, and ethnicities can come together and be a part of a common unity. Not to be confused as a daycare, they offer activities such as unstructured drop-in play, yoga, belly dancing, prenatal workshops and much more.

They agreed that what makes them unique is that they are very community based and are not like your typical business. They love the support from the families around town. It’s the type of place that’s great if you have a family and want to be around other families and grow together. Services include drop-in play, various educational courses, fitness classes and free support groups. For more information, please visit www.naturesplayhouse.com

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

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Story By Rebecca Hammond

Word of Faith Church in Southfield looks into turning 80 acres of urban forest over to oil drilling. The City of Southfield and its residents, though, plan to fight.

Drive through the intersection of Evergreen and 9 Mile in Southfield and the first thing you’re likely to notice is that you’re suddenly in a forest. The 80 acres of Bauervic Woods Park on the southwest corner, and the 110 acres Word of Faith Church owns to the north make this part of metro Detroit serene and bucolic.

Word of Faith and Jordon Development have applied for and received from the Michigan DEQ a permit to drill for oil on their wooded, yet urban, property. This part of Southfield is zoned residential. Many residents are opposing the idea of drilling for oil almost in their back yards, voicing concerns about loss of property values, noise, traffic, and damage to the environment. Beginning in January, a number of public meetings were held, some so large more were scheduled to accommodate overflow crowds.

Three days after the DEQ approved the permit to drill, the Detroit Free Press reported that the City of Southfield had a request granted by Oakland County Circuit Judge Michael Warren “seeking to bar Word of Faith International Christian Center and oil and gas exploration company Jordan Development of Traverse City from taking any action to install or operate a well on the church’s 110 wooded acres off West 9 Mile and Evergreen roads until a judge has ruled on the plan.”

MLive quoted Southfield City Attorney Sue Ward-Witkowski, saying that even with a DEQ permit, zoning rules could still prevent drilling. “We would not allow drilling operations. We would not allow that use in that district. The city has a local zoning power and we intend to pursue that.”

“Megachurch” is now a common word but, despite the proliferation of massive houses of worship, a church on so many acres of forest is unusual. How did a Southfield church end up on such a large piece of woodland? A Franciscan college and friary called Duns Scotus broke ground on the large parcel in 1928, and opened in 1930. It was in operation long enough that graduates still run a Facebook page and share memories of student life there. Word of Faith bought Duns Scotus in July of 1996, after moving from place to place during years of growth. From their web site:

“On July 9, 1996, WOFICC added another milestone to its history. Word of Faith International Christian Center purchased the lush and peaceful 110-acre, former friary, Duns Scotus, in Southfield, Michigan. For 17 years, Bishop and Mrs. Butler along with the congregation, stood on God’s Word for the fulfillment of this point of The Master Plan to …’build a 5,000 seat sanctuary.’ God did super-abundantly, above, all we could ask or think, giving WOFICC what many referred to as the ‘Jewel of the City.’ From this jewel, WOFICC continues to reach out to all nations with the gospel message of Jesus Christ. The newly built, 5,000 seat sanctuary stands at the North Elevation of the existing structure. The freshly renovated Chapel is on the South Elevation. God truly deserves all the glory! Word of Faith International Christian Center has indeed ‘come this far by faith.’”

In January, 1,000 people attended a public meeting at Southfield High School, including State Representative Jeremy Moss, who served on Southfield City Council before being elected to serve in Lansing. Moss was quoted in Oakland County 115: “I find it very troubling that the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality decided to issue a permit for exploratory drilling in Southfield. This action completely ignores the city’s lawful moratorium on oil and gas drilling within city limits, not to mention the strong opposition from residents who deserve a say in what happens in their own backyard. I fully support the mayor and city council’s efforts to defend and enforce the moratorium.

“We have seen adverse effects from this kind of drilling, and those effects would be multiplied in a densely populated area like Southfield. That’s why it’s crucial that the House take up House Bill 5258, legislation I sponsored that would increase the distance between residences and oil and gas wells, force drillers to comply with local regulations, and require the department to consider input from a public hearing. Michigan law guarantees cities the right to home rule, but in this instance, state government has decided it knows best, and the erosion of local control continues.”

The Detroit Free Press quoted resident Larry Quarles, 67, who lives in the area: “I understand the need for the church to raise funds; at my church, we have a similar situation,” he said. “But we would never, never do something like this. As a religious organization, we would never think of impacting neighbors or the community.”

The type of well-being proposed would not be hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, but rather a direct, vertical well. The church has asked for support for the drilling online, in the form of a link to the DEQ’s public-comments page. They have also mentioned the necessity of needing the money raised from the drilling for use in their mission work.

Whether the plan goes forward or not remains to be seen. Ferndale Friends will keep you abreast of any developments in this ongoing story.

If some happened with our soundness, we believe there is a solution to any maladies in a cure. What medicines do patients purchase online? Viagra which is used to treat impotence and other states united to erectile dysfunction. Learn more about “sildenafil“. What folk talk about “viagra stories“? The most substantial aspect you have to look for is “sildenafil citrate“. Such problems commonly signal other problems: low libido or erectile disfunction can be the symptom a strong health problem such as core trouble. Causes of sexual malfunction include injury to the penis. Chronic disease, several medicaments, and a condition called Peyronie’s disease can also cause sexual dysfunction. Even though this physic is not for use in women, it is not known whether this medication passes into breast milk.

Story by David Stone
Photos by Bernie Laframboise

What is it like to be treated by an accupuncturist? Your intreped journalist can now answer this question. I recently spent two days talking with the practitioners at Claddagh Chiropractic Wellness Center, asking them what it is exactly that they do, and getting treated by their accupuncturist.

A local Ferndale business since 2002, Claddagh offers massage, and reki, besides chiropractic and accupuncture.

The owner, Dr. Bridget A. Devlin-Smith, received her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Michigan State University, and her Doctor of Chiropractic from the National College of Chiropractic in Loma, IL. She is also certified in the “Webster” technique.

When asked what she likes most about Ferndale, she responded with an enthusiastic, “The people! They are a joy to work with…they understand that being healthy is extremely important…they do the things they need to do at home, they take recommendations, they get better fast.”

Dr. Andrea Whedon grew up in Rochester Hills, Michigan. She went to Albion College, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biology. She went to Logan College of Chiropractic in Chesterfield, MO., graduating as a Doctor of Chiropractic. She specializes in prenatal and pediatric care. She also has a degree in Sports science and rehabilitation. And she is certified in the Webster Technique by the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association.

Here’s what can you expect on your first chiropractic visit. The people at Claddagh want their clients to be comfortable. The first thing you’ll get is a tour of the facilities. Once you know what and where everything is, you will be escorted to a consultation room where you can talk to a chiropractic assistant about your condition. Next, you will meet with a chiropractr who will confirm the information, and give you a full exam, including x-rays if needed. The doctor will then inform you about anything they found. Lastly, you will receive a spinal adjustment and any other treatments, such as heat or ice, or anything else you may need.

Jane Cortz has done many things with her life, but was eventually drawn to the healing professions, helping others to connect body, mind, and spirit. She worked for a home health-care agency for many years. She went to Arizona to attend two healing workshops. When the owner of the home healthcare agency sold the business, she found herself unemployed, and decided to become a massage therapist. It is not unusual for a person to choose a healing modality because it helped them. Jane is no exception. She told me how she decided to go into massage after it helped her deal with MS.

As with all the practitioners, a massage therapist takes a medical history, and asks the patient what they expect to get out of the experience. Jane tailors the session to the patient’s needs. She says, “I learn the lay of the land, of the body, how their structure is.”

Eran Reznik is Claddagh Chiropractic Wellness Center’s board certified accupuncturist. He is a massage therapist, too. He has studied extensively in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Eran has a degree in Ancient Chinese Medicine. He is also certified in qi and Body Shiatsu, Zen Shiatsu and integrated massage therapy. Eran treats the whole patient, body, mind and spirit. Besides acupuncture and bodywork, he is trained in light touch energy healing.

I arrived at Claddagh on the day of my acupuncture appointment. Eran greeted me and escorted me to his treatment room, a cozy space with a treatment/exam table that, with its soft sheets and blanket, seemed much more like my bed. We talked about what I want out of this treatment, and he took a medical history, asking relevant questions to clarify points as we talk. Lastly, he asked me my birth-date, and produced an astrological chart for the day I was born, a chart that shows the proportions of the five Chinese elements at the time you were born. My chart showed a lot of fire, some air, and a very small amount of metal. There was absolutely no wood or water in my chart.

Eran began the formal treatment. As I lay comfortably on the treatment table, he began to stick very flexible needles in appropriate points on my anatomy. These pins do not hurt. Even the one he stuck in my forehead was painless. He then dimmed the lights, put on some very soft music, and left for 20 minutes. Later, he returned and removed the pins. At this point a regular patient might be told when to set up another appointment. But I left a healthier, and much happier me.

Claddagh Chiropractic Wellness Center offers many ways to get you healthy. Besides the Big Three mentioned above, they offer cold laser therapy, Reiki, Nutritional Response Testing, and Orthotics. They also offer free 30-minute classes that are open to the community. They offer classes on weight loss, allergies, spinal care, and other topics. All they ask is that you call in advance.

Whether you want help with a particular condition, or just some valuable information, check out the folks at:

Claddagh Chiropractic And Wellness Center
569 E. 9 Mile Road
Ferndale, MI 48220
(248)298-310
www.claddaghchiropractic.com

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

Story and photos by Cheri Clair

ATOM IS AN ARTIST. ATOM Art, in Ferndale, is a new art gallery/ studio. On a recent Wednesday afternoon, in the days before the grand opening, I paid a visit to the artist and his new work space. He and his assistant were there working together. The art on the walls of the still mostly barren main room of the gallery is engaging, as is the artist, Atom Kaiser. And, yes, his real name is Atom. “My parents were hippies,” he explained with a smile, as he took his Michigan State driver’s license out of a wallet made of foreign currency, like the ones the gallery sells.

ff12650_Page_1_Image_0002When I contacted the artist about doing this piece, I requested a tour and interview. Atom obliged and began to tell me about a work that I had been eyeing, followed by several other pieces. We came to one particularly striking study entitled Pill Man (see photo), and Atom shared with me that he had suffered a closed head injury and how it changed him and the way his mind works. The piece informs how the medications he was prescribed after his accident affected him. Like much of his work, it is a multimedia composition and Atom used real pills, clipped photographs, and other items to express his anguish here.

Much of his work incorporates techniques ranging from layers and layers of plaster and oil and acrylic paints, to the use of black, white, and muted colors, varied textures, and the application of diverse items on canvas. He introduces vivid colors in his more recent offerings.

ff12650_Page_1_Image_0003Although he was born here in Michigan, Atom has spent much of his life traveling and living in such far-flung places as Jamaica. The artist attributes his divergent styles to the various cultures in which he has chosen to hang his hat at times, both in and out of the United States.

When he returned to Michigan, he chose Ferndale as the location of his gallery because, he says, “I love Ferndale! The city is so vibrant, with so many interesting, kind people living and working here! My grandparents raised their family of six kids on Withington. In our family, Ferndale has always had a special significance, because my mom and all of her siblings grew up here for at least part of their lives. When this space became available it made sense to us that Ferndale was the very best location for what we wanted to do, as far as the art gallery was concerned.”

Atom holds degrees in digital art and studio art. In addition to painting, he does sculptures, installations, and photography. He has lived in and shown his art in many other states, as well as in Mexico and Spain.

There is ample parking behind, as well as around, the gallery, which is now open to the public. Hours of operation are, according to Atom, “11:00 A.M.-ish to 6:00 P.M.-ish, almost every day of the week… or by appointment.”

522 East 9 Mile Road in Ferndale.
Phone: 248-677-6740
Website: www.atom-art.com
Facebook: ATOM

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

By Jennifer Goeddeke

In late February of this year, I was fortunate to meet with Dr. Mohammed Arsiwala at the Ferndale location of Michigan Urgent Care & Occupational Health, a company he founded in 1998. Dr. Arsiwala is well-dressed, articulate, intelligent and yet also remarkably humble about his obvious career success. Notably, he is currently the Vice-Chairman for the State of Michigan Board of Medicine. Having completed his WSU Residency between the years 1995-1998, he then worked at Providence Hospital for one year, in urgent care medicine. When that clinic closed, Dr. Arsiwala quickly embarked on his own career-building journey.

ff12642_Page_1_Image_0004Originally, he built up an exclusively urgent care practice, but gradually shifted to more more occupational medicine. Dr. Arsiwala firmly believes in, “evidence-based medicine…I do not push antibiotics or narcotics…” He emphatically described some more of his humanitarianoriented, medical philosophy: “Care should be equitable…when a community is sick, then the outcomes are sick! Basic care and preventative vaccines are as basic as having clean air and water…these should be a basic human right!”

Now with 10 urgent care clinics open in five different Michigan counties, his company is definitely growing in leaps and bounds. On March 14, his newest location in Wyandotte opened, the first clinic of its kind in that area. Dr. Arsiwala anticipates opening another 15-20 clinics within the next three or four years. All of his clinics have long hours (8:00 A.M-10:00 P.M., seven days a week, 365 days a year including holidays.) All main insurances are accepted at his clinics.

You may wonder: What is the benefit of an urgent care visit as opposed to a trip to the emergency room? Typically, much shorter wait times and lower co-pays too. The overall focus is on high quality clinical care, with compassion, for all adult and pediatric accidents, injuries and illnesses.

ff12642_Page_1_Image_0003The Ferndale locale (at 641 West 9 Mile Rd.) is completely clean and modern; a 3,000 square foot facility, boasting nine treatment rooms in total, plus digital X-ray equipment and an on-site laboratory. The staff includes board certified doctors, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, medical assistants, X-ray technicians and administrators. In the occupational health section, which is DOT Certified, various physical exams and testing can be conducted, along with workplace injury treatment (Dr. James Blessman is now President of the Occupational Health division). With an estimated 65-70 per cent adult patients, and 30-35 per cent pediatric patients, the clinic is certainly very family-oriented.

In addition to expanding his scope of Clinics in Michigan, Dr.Arsiwala is also involved with impressive medical mission projects around the world! In 2005, he established The H.E.L.P. Global Foundation (an acronym for Help, Education, Life and Progress, www.Helpfoundationglobal.org. Also, there is a sister-organization run by volunteers: www.MelaykaInternational.org ). The reach of his foundation is significantly impacting India, Afghanistan, Haiti and Uganda.

Dr. Arsiwala’s goal is basically to “…create healthy communities and good economic outcomes…” For example, in India, the medical mission is combined with educational goals: providing 25 laptops and 25 teachers to teach children in rural areas. A further example of the HELP Global Foundation in action is the building of a 100-bed hospital in Afghanistan for trauma victims.A dental clinic has also been set up in Haiti. Providing further support for these projects is Dr. Arsiwala’s partner- Tara Coughlin, an educated attorney. Seven years ago she started a program to help injured soldiers on bases in Afghanistan (she also opened a clinic in Haiti). Jointly, they are in the process of building a 100- bed hospital in Afghanistan for trauma victims.

ff12642_Page_1_Image_0002In Uganda, Dr. Arsiwala began the “Ssezibwa Demonstration Farm Project” because farmers there are borrowing money, and not getting ahead at all. So, he formed a contract and created a special Farmers’ Co-op. The infrastructure for efficient production (equipment) was provided, along with assistance with seeds and water. Dr. Arsiwala also set up a grain mill, and hopes to sell their organic certified grain in various Whole Foods Chains. The ultimate goal is to, “…reduce poverty, increase dignity…” and have the children attend school instead of working the land. Additionally, the HELP Global Foundation is purchasing 50-60 acres to form a Regional Medical Center for Trauma patients in East Uganda.

Providing further support for these projects is Dr. Arsiwala’s partner, Tara Coughlin, an educated attorney. Seven years ago she started defending injured Ugandan soldiers, that worked as contracted employees in Afghanistan and Iraq (on US Military bases). Her organization is called Malayka International (www.MalaykaInternational.org).

I had to ask Dr. Arsiwala: where do you find the time for all of these projects? He replied succinctly and without pause, “time finds you!” He added, “…and the only limits on your life are those that you set for yourself!”

The Ferndale Urgent Care and Occupational Health Clinic is located at:
641 West 9 Mile Rd. (SE Corner of 9 Mile and Livernois).
www.Michiganurgentcare.com
248.206.1600.

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