Looking back over the news stories of 2004, one receives a sense of just how dynamic the Clarkston area community truly is. The City of the Village of Clarkston, Independence Township and Springfield Township are in a constant state of change.
The big news stories for the this great community ranged from the expansion and creation of the boulevard on Sashabaw Road to the creation of curriculums for Clarkston Schools new middle and junior high schools?
from the scandalous letter involving the 52-2 District Court judge’s race to the opening of the Independence Township spray park by an international celebrity…
from Clarkston Schools champion sports teams to a former school board member’s lawsuit against the district and his eventual resignation?
from the end of a decades-long middle school rivalry to the many staff changes happening right here at The Clarkston News.
Yes, oh yes, the Clarkston community has seen some sights. So as you ring in the new year, sit back, relax and enjoy the many headlines of 2004.

January
January 7
Springfield Kroger store back on track: A new shopping center on Dixie Highway in Springfield Township is taking shape, although perhaps not as quickly as some would like to see. A new Kroger store was advertised as being open in November 2003. The new target date is March 2004. A representative said construction did not begin in earnest until about August 2003 because developers were ‘waiting final approvals.?
Clarkston State Bank celebrates fifth anniversary: On a cold Monday morning on Jan. 25, 1999, officials gathered at 15 N. Main for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Clarkston State Bank. The bank has made great progress in five years, including expansion to five branches (and another planned for 2004), stock which has risen from $10 per share to $16 and involvement in many community organizations.
Millstream: Chuck Fortinberry, owner of Clarkston Chrysler Plymouth Jeep in Springfield Township, was featured for his work as senior co-chairman of the 2004 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

January 14
MDEQ hears both sides of well debate: Residents packed the meeting room at the Springfield Township Library to voice concerns about a proposed ‘augmentation well? on Waumegah Lake. Many protesters feared the well would threaten private wells, but representatives of the Waumegah Lake Improvement Board said the group was merely attempting to restore the lake to its court-ordered level of 1,049.9 feet.
Veteran has reunion: World War II veteran and Clarkston resident Nick Lekas had a reunion with three of his fellow veterans in Washington, D.C. They had not seen each other for 52 years, but one of the group used the Internet to track down the others. Telephone conversations led to the in-person reunion.

January 21
Former deputy faces child porn charges: An Oakland County Sheriff deputy assigned to the Springfield Township substation was arraigned on 20 criminal charges about two weeks after he resigned from the department. John Gomez, 43, of Waterford, was accused of using a home computer to download and distribute images of child pornography. Waterford police had previously confiscated computer equipment containing ‘thousands? of such images.
Patrol investigators start in Independence Township: The Oakland County Sheriff’s Department Independence Township substation now has two new patrol investigators on the road. Deputies Charles Farley and James Bowie will focus on controlling crimes such as vandalism and speeding in area neighborhoods.
Staff ‘brainstorms? to revise 6-7, 8-9 curriculum: Two new schools will debut in fall 2005, but not in new buildings. The current Clarkston Middle School and Sashabaw Middle School will have a facelift in philosophy and curriculum, as district officials began discussion of how to turn the former into a building for eighth and ninth graders and the latter for sixth and seventh graders. Among issues to be decided were same-sex classes, accelerated class sequences and earlier requirements for a world language.

January 28
Commission regroups after Springfield fire: A Jan. 20 fire caused the loss of 17 pieces of equipment and severe damage to the Road Commission for Oakland County’s Springfield Township garage. The alarm came in about 5:25 p.m., with several agencies assisting the Springfield Township Fire Department. With help from other government units and private services, the commission scrambled to maintain full road maintenance service.
School board to seek $1.9 million in budget cuts: Clarkston Community Schools set a goal to cut an additional $1.9 million from the projected 2004-2005 budget. With many details to be worked out, the school board identified a long list of potential moves to either trim services or increase revenue. Possibilities included ‘pay-to-participate? athletics, elimination of school accreditation, an incentive plan for staff resignations and larger class sizes to reduce the number of teachers.
‘New? firefighters stand guard in Springfield Township: Ryan Hart and Matt Strickland are not new, but they were hired for new full-time positions authorized in the 2004 fire department budget. Both were formerly ‘paid-on-call? firefighters.
Millstream: Jim Evans was featured for his work as president of the Clarkston Foundation.

February
February 4
Administration ‘disgusted? by test process: Clarkston school administrators participated in a practice long embraced by students: arguing about the accuracy of their grades. Michigan School Report Cards gave nine Clarkston schools a composite grade of ‘B.? Within that, however, were three elementary schools with ‘F? grades in ‘achievement change? and two secondary schools ruled to have fallen short of ‘adequate yearly progress.? Officials said the AYP measurements, especially, were based on inaccurate state record-keeping.
Building permit fee increase approved: The Clarkston City Council approved an increase in building permit fees on Jan. 26. Starting Feb. 4, fees will increase 30 to 40 percent. Building Inspector Sy Stone said this was the first increase since 1992, and was necessary because of updated codes and the volume of inspections requested.
Millstream: Don Brose was featured for his work coordinating six Junior Optimist Clubs in Clarkston schools. The owner of Brose Electric helped organize the clubs 10 years ago.

February 11
Students will ‘pay to play?: Clarkston school officials adopted a ‘conceptual plan? to save $1.9 million in the 2004-2005 budget. The board vote was not unanimous, however, as Trustee Tony Miller opposed ‘pay-to-participate? athletics and a yet-to-be-finalized plan to privatize custodial services. The success of the reduction plan will depend, in part, on getting at least 20 top level teachers to agree to a severance package intended to cut personnel costs. Most of the board debate centered on the plan to charge flat fees of $200 per high school athlete and $150 per middle school athlete for 2004-2005.
Residents will pay more for water: Residents of Independence Township will soon pay more in water rates, but township officials promised improved service. The water rate per 100 cubic feet was approved for increase from $1.02 to $1.35 on March 16, with the one-time connection fee increased from $1,000 to $2,000 on March 1, then to $2,600 on June 1.
Resident continues plea for repair of ditch: For the past seven years, Davisburg resident Carole Overall watched the ditch at the bottom of her property continue to grow. The ditch was a result of a long-standing runoff problem from the Big Lake Road property. The Road Commission for Oakland County widened the ditch and installed a cross-tube, but Overall believes those actions did nothing but create an eyesore.
Millstream: Skip and Carole Wendt were featured for their work with the Spray Masters Water Ski Show Club in Springfield Township.

February 18
School board proposes new cell phone policy: The elimination of a state law banning student use of cellular telephones led the Clarkston Community Schools Board of Education to draft their own policy. The policy does not ban possession of the devices, but requires that they be ‘turned off, stored away and out of sight? during school hours.
Springfield officials continue fight against pipeline: The Springfield Township Board adopted another resolution protesting a plan by Consumers Energy to build a new 36-inch natural gas pipeline through ‘miles of sensitive wetlands and exceptionally rare natural resource complexes.? Officials protested the plan in 2003, but added complaints about the utility company’s alleged failure to make significant modifications to their plan before filing with the Michigan Public Service Commission.

February 25
Board approves parks and rec plan: After much discussion, the Independence Township Parks and Recreation Department finalized a new five-year master plan. The township board approved the plan, which prioritizes needs such as renovation of the Bay Court Lodge, adding to or replacing the senior citizens center and making progress on long-term use of the Stickney/McCord property. Development of an indoor community center was also again listed as a need. Both a new senior center and the community center were voted down by Independence residents in 2002.
Powerlifters compete in honor of late teammate: The spirit of competition was overshadowed by the spirit of remembrance as the Clarkston High School powerlifting team staged an ‘internal meet? to raise money in memory of Kelly Ray Firby. Firby, 17, died in a Nov. 28, 2003 car crash on I-75 near Clintonville Road. Donations were to be used for new equipment for the club sport.
Clarkston schools earn state blue ribbon award: Clarkston High School and Clarkston Middle School are among 13 schools to earn this year’s Michigan Blue Ribbon Exemplary School award. Established in 1982 by the Michigan State Board of Education, the program recognizes schools which demonstrate a strong commitment to educational excellence and significant academic improvement over a five-year period.
Wrestlers win district, advance to regional competition: The Clarkston wrestling team accomplished one of their goals by capturing the district title. The Wolves won the district by defeating Lake Orion 58-15 and Grand Blanc 64-12.
Millstream: Bill Wint was featured for his work as the ‘son? in Lewis E. Wint and Son Funeral Home. Wint said the giving spirit was promoted by his parents, and he is attempting to pass it on to his children.

March
March 3
Thomas vows to remain on Oakland Schools board: Despite multiple calls from state and school officials for her resignation, Clarkston’s Janet Thomas vowed to remain a member of the Oakland Schools Board of Education. Also a former member of the Clarkston Community Schools Board of Education, Thomas has served on the intermediate district board since 1994. She was the last of five board members who served during the administration of former superintendent James Redmond, who left office amid charges of financial mismanagement. Thomas said the crisis of credibility is precisely why she should stay, since she had ‘historically accurate knowledge.? Former colleagues from Clarkston schools defended Thomas? position.
Local deputies increase action: There are notable decreases in some crime reports in Independence and Springfield townships in 2003, but Oakland County Sheriff statistics show more overall calls handled by deputies. While it’s scientifically impossible to document what crimes were prevented, there were fewer incidents of criminal sexual conduct, assault, burglary, malicious destruction of property and disorderly conduct in Springfield Township in 2003. Independence Township also saw a decline in the assault, burglary, larceny and vehicle theft categories.
Local pastors promote ‘Passion?: Clarkston area churches contributed to the early success of ‘The Passion of the Christ? by renting theaters and giving away tickets to the film, but the box office numbers were not the primary focus. Local pastors reported a good number of people coming with questions about the Christian faith, and some churches planned followup sessions in their worship services.
Jury convicts area auto dealer after sexual assault: Springfield Township resident Thomas Dittrich, 36, was convicted of criminal sexual assault on Feb. 26. Charges included six counts of third degree criminal sexual conduct and one charge of fourth degree criminal sexual conduct, all stemming from encounters with a 13-year-old girl in his home.
DeGain likes team’s chances at state finals: For the first time since 1997, only one year removed since current coach Joe DeGain wrestled under his father, Mike, the Wolves will compete at the Michigan high school state tournament. The Wolves impressed a crowd at Rochester High School by winning the regional title by defeating Troy in the semifinal and West Bloomfield in the final.
Clarkston netters carry share of league title into districts: The Clarkston High School varsity volleyball team capped their regular season by going 4-1-1 in a weekend tournament at Andover High School. While losing in the final round of that tournament, they captured a share of the OAA I league title by going 10-2 in league play, sharing the title with Bloomfield Hills Lahser.
Hockey Wolves claim share of league title: Five senior hockey Wolves played their last regular season game of their careers as they led Clarkston to a 6-3 win over Brother Rice and a 16-4-4 season record. They shared the OAA I championship title with Birmingham Unified.
Millstream: Monsignor Robert Humitz was featured for his more than 40 years as a Roman Catholic priest and more than 10 years as pastor of St. Daniel’s Catholic Church in Clarkston. He planned to retire (but not simply fade away) in June.

March 10
Independence board concerned about pipeline: Count Independence Township as another local government concerned about plans for a new Consumers Energy natural gas pipeline. On March 2, the township board authorized attorney Steve Joppich to intervene on their behalf. Six miles of the 36-inch pipeline would go through Independence Township, and officials voiced concern about lack of information about the plan.
Sashabaw businesses prepare for road work: Some proprietors feared loss of business, one looks forward to more business and others simply had lots of questions concerning plans for Sashabaw Road reconstruction. Groundbreaking for the $9.6 million road widening project was slated for March 10, and the Road Commission for Oakland County issued an advisory for motorists to seek alternate routes through November.
McLean opts not to seek reelection to school board: With an April 8 deadline to file nominating petitions, Clarkston Community Schools Board of Education President Karen Foyteck announced her intention to seek another four-year term. Trustee Mary Ellen McLean, however, said she will bow out after eight years. In adopting a resolution setting the final June school election (a new state law requiring changes in 2005), the board also voted to include a ballot question seeking a two-year, 4.5-mill renewal of the ‘non-homestead? property tax for school operations.
Morin’s hat trick helps Wolves capture regional: Clarkston wrapped up its second consecutive regional hockey title by beating Traverse City West 8-1. Senior Steve Morin was seemingly everywhere on the ice, scoring the game’s opening goal and two others.
CHS volleyball team wins district title: Not a bad first year for Kelly Avenall. The volleyball coach led the Wolves to their second consecutive district title with wins over Fenton and Holly on March 6 at Holly High School.
Wolves bring league hoops title into districts: There’s a definite favorite in the Lapeer East basketball district, and it wears the colors blue and gold. The Wolves wrapped up the OAA I title on March 5 with a 90-61 win over Ferndale. Last year, the Wolves ended the season in a three-way tie for the league title.
Millstream: Lifelong Clarkston area resident Mollie Lynch was featured for her work as director of the Independence Township Library.

March 17
McCrary decides not to seek another term: While Independence Township Treasurer Jim Wenger announced that he would seek another term, Clerk Joan McCrary decided not to seek reelection. McCrary was appointed to the vacant clerk’s position 16 years ago, then earned reelection three times.
Handwriting curriculum to return to old methods: Clarkston teachers were encountering problems in leading children to move from block printing to cursive handwriting. Using a transitional method called ‘D’Nealian? printing, students in recent years were encouraged to add ‘monkey tails? to printed letters, but many did not make the transition. School officials presented a new approach with some old twists as the board of education adopted ‘Handwriting Without Tears? at a cost of $30,000.
Clarkston soldier’s family thanks CMS student pen pals: Seventh graders at Clarkston Middle School were given the assignment to write a letter to a soldier serving in Iraq. Instead, they created a wealth of support, needed items and whoopee cushions. Chris and Julie Thomas, parents of Spc. Evan Thomas, visited students to thank them for their hard work.
Lajoie, L’Amoreaux win wrestling state titles: Six Clarkston varsity wrestlers headed to the Palace of Auburn Hills to go up against the best the state of Michigan had to offer. Two Wolves proved they were just that. Senior Tony Lajoie (130) and junior Braden L’Amoreaux (140) each took first in their respective weight classes, Lajoie for the second year in a row.
Hoops captures 11th straight district title: The Clarkston High School varsity basketball team spent the first four and a half minutes searching for their first field goal. But Waterford Kettering spent the rest of the game trying to stop Brad Goodman and Chris Johnson. The Wolves earned their 11th consecutive district title with the 69-57 win.
Millstream: Keith Clement was featured for his work as president of the Clarkston Athletic Boosters, a group which has donated $250,000 to school teams over a six-year period.

March 24
Officials set to revisit senior center issue: Independence Township officials and area seniors are once again planning to revisit the issue of new senior center facilities. The township Senior Advisory Committee is recommending a new building with an adequate basic structure, then adding on as expanded needs can be demonstrated and dollars are available. The committee said they do not want to combine the proposal with other township building needs, such as those defeated by voters in 2002. Supervisor Dale Stuart agreed with the need for a new senior center and vowed to ‘explore all our options.?
Sportsmen’s club struggles to pay for river cleanup: An environmental cleanup project is proceeding, but representatives of the Oakland County Sportsmen’s Club believe the cost will threaten their charitable giving. While not admitting responsibility, the club is trying to pay for dredging of the nearby Clinton River to remove lead particles in cooperation with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. The project came about after dead swans were found in the area in 2000. The club believes the bill could come to $200,000, but they had raised only about $55,000.
Local Guardsman serves 3 tours of duty overseas: Maria Timmerman, a special education paraeducator at Clarkston High School, has learned a lot about patience over the past several years. Warren ‘Bill? Timmerman, her husband, is a staff sergeant with the 1775th Military Police Company of the Michigan National Guard based in Pontiac. The 27-year veteran was serving his third tour of overseas duty at age 54.
Clarkston hoops team returns to quarterfinals: The Wolves playoff run continued with a 74-55 regional championship win over Chippewa Valley, which improved Clarkston’s record to 20-4 overall and put them in a rematch with Flint Carman-Ainsworth for the state quarterfinals for the second consecutive year.

April
April 7
Board member Miller protests termination of two custodians: Clarkston school board member Tony Miller voted against terminating two district custodians at the regular monthly meeting. The termination of the two employees was part of an entire personnel package which included 39 certified teachers and 15 support staff members accepting the district’s early buy-out offer, and the layoff of two language arts teachers. Since Miller disagreed with the custodial firings, he voted against the entire package.
Robber hits TCF Bank: Despite numerous witnesses, police faced a difficult search for the man who took $7,000 from the Dixie Highway branch of TCF Bank on April 4. The incident occurred around 2:20 p.m. and the man was caught on surveillance video; however, he was wearing a disguise. In addition to local investigators, the Federal Bureau of Investigation also responded to the incident.
Sex offender has day in court: A high-profile sexual conduct case made its way through the judicial system this week. Independence Township resident Guy Robert Lendrum was sentenced by Oakland Circuit Judge Rae Lee Chabot to 18? to 30 years in prison for 12 counts of sexual assault on children ranging in age from 18 months to 12 years old.

April 14
Fired custodians claim ‘harassment?: Steve Partlo, an 18-year-employee and custodian representative to the Clarkston Association of Support Personnel, and Diana Webb, a five-year-employee, claimed they were fired unjustly by school administrators on March 9, and included on an April 5 school board personnel report, in ‘retaliation? for their union-related activities.
Community garden may bloom again in two locations: The Independence Township board approved on April 13 the ‘concept? of a garden at the township-owned McCord property to be under the management of master gardeners and the Michigan State University Extension Service. The garden had previously been used by the 52-2 District Court and Community Corrections as a place to send nonviolent misdemeanor offenders. The board also received information that a second location is currently being considered for the court-based garden.
In response to residents? complaints… Independence Township to revisit sound ordinance: Due to complaints from residents in the Deer Valley subdivision, the Independence Township Board of Trustees revisited their sound ordinance. A subcommittee was created to investigate the noise problem and bring recommendations to the board.

April 21
Stuart seeks fourth term as supervisor… Trustee Rosso also seeks more years: Independence Supervisor Dale Stuart and Trustee Larry Rosso each announced his intent to seek another term in office. Stuart was looking for his fourth, while Rosso was seeking a third.
‘Gumball bandit? caught: Jerome H. Dyczkowski, a 62-year-old Lake Orion man, was arraigned on April 16 with a $5,000 cash bond for allegedly steeling money from gumball-style vending machines at the Independence Township Kroger. He was arraigned on a charge of breaking and entering the coin-operated vending machines.
Candidates prepare for school board campaign: Five candidates began campaigning for two four-year seats on the Clarkston Schools Board of Education: Jeffrey Allsteadt, Barry Bomier, Karen Foyteck, Joan Patterson and Diane Weller.

April 28
Passerby alerts family to multi-vehicle fire: The Pass family, on Parview Drive, will always be grateful to Jason Fogerty. Fogerty alerted the sleeping family to a fire in their garage. The family was able to get out of the home before the fire spread.
CHS set to remove pop from cafeteria: Clarkston Schools will remove all carbonated beverages from the high school cafeteria’s vending machines and soda fountains on July 1. The plan was to replace the beverages with water, juice and sports drinks.
DPW clerk resigns saying it was ‘horrible experience?… Director Richardson believes situation blown out of proportion: Denise King resigned from her position as DPW clerk stating ‘it was a horrible experience? after working only two days on the job. King, who was hired by the board earlier in the month, claimed she was treated rudely and coldly by the DPW staff. The DPW hired Nicky Shann to replace King on April 26.
Kohut to run for Independence Trustee: Michael Kohut announced his intent to run for trustee as a Republican in the Aug. 3 primary.
Schram lead Clarkston golfers in county tourney: Jackie Schram medaled in the Oakland County Golg Tournament with a 13th place finish. She shot a 93.

May
May 5
Springfield Oaks is new site for ‘community garden?: The paperwork was completed and the site work began on the new 52-2 District Court and Community Corrections ‘community garden.? An agreement was reached with the Oakland County Parks and Recreation and Oakland County 4-H to locate the garden in Springfield Oaks County Park.
Candidates file petition for judge position: Four candidates filed petitions to fill the seat left vacant by retiring Judge Michael Batchnik at the 52-2 District Court: Jason Douglas, Larence Kozma, Magistrate Kelley Kostin and Magistrate Colleen Murphy.
Despite bad weather, ‘Walk and Roll? raises big funds, support: The 2004 SCAMP Walk and Roll, despite cold temperatures and scattered rain showers, raised more than $15,000. The event saw an encouraging large turnout.

May 12
School board member Miller resigns: Tony Miller chose to resign from the Clarkston School Board deciding that the fight on the football field was more important than the fight in the political and legal arenas.
Teacher of the Year: Jill Santola was selected as the teacher of the year by the Clarkston Foundation and Suburban Ford of Waterford. She received a new car and a group hug from many of her students.
Independence board aims for $1.4 million senior center: The Independence Township Board discussed the option of building a new senior center on land near the Independence Township Library owned by the school district. The board planned to ask the schools for an extension of the township property line south 200-300 feet. They also planned to ask the schools for an easement for road purposes that is 50-100 feet in width running along the east border of the library property.
Child porn deputy to serve jail time: Former Oakland County Sheriff’s Deputy John Gomez was sentenced to one year in county jail, an additional year of house arrest with electronic tether, three years probation and 500 hours of community service by Oakland County Circuit Judge Nanci Grant. Gomez was found guilty of multiple felony charges.
Local same-sex couple hopes to promote awareness with holy union: Heidi Barnette and Angela Kurtz stood in front of the Oakland County Courthouse and participated in a ‘holy union? ceremony to recognize International Day of Clergy Support for Same-Sex Marriage. The ceremony was performed by Rev. Deb Dysert of Clarkston’s Divine Peace Metropolitan Community Church on April 27.
Millstream: Cheryl Pellici highlighted the efforts to bring back the Clarkston Jaycees, an international organization devoted to ‘leadership training through community service.?

May 19
County to decide if road will close: Independence Township residents gathered to voice their opinions on the possible closing of Campfire Circle, a street connecting Lake Waldon Village and Spring Lake subdivisions. Many residents argued the street was being used as a cut through with high levels of traffic, vandalism and speeding. Other individuals were against the closing arguing safety and emergency access concerns.
Whoopee Bowl cited as ‘dangerous building?: Springfield Township officials scheduled a ‘show cause? hearing for June 10 for the Whoopee Bowl on Dixie Highway to answer for allegedly failing to answer an order from hearing officer John Steckling. The ‘finding of fact? from the 2003 hearing found that the building had seven specific ‘defects? such as a partially collapsed roof and obstructed doorways.
Millstream: Jenna Hart and Matthew Pruente were selected as this year’s Young People of the Year in Clarkston as part of the 19th annual Michigan Week Community awards breakfast on May 19. The event was sponsored by the Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce.

May 26
Springfield birthday party attracts good crowd: Springfield Township enjoyed a birthday bash that featured a parade down Broadway followed by ‘day in the ‘burg?? with local businesses, historic building tours and entertainment. The ‘Happy Birthday, Springfield? event was May 22.
Woman dies after vehicle crash on Dixie: Joni Be Daley, 44, of Sterling Heights, was pronounced dead after a crash early May 23. Police believed Daley may already have been unconscious when her car left the roadway on northbound Dixie Highway then collided with parked cars at Bridge Lake Auto Parts just north of Cobblestone.
Schools study senior center land deal: The Clarkston Schools administration was authorized to ‘investigate the impact? a land deal with Independence Township would have on the district’s future needs. The township requested 2.5 acres of land between the township library and the school district’s administration building.
Board hears other side of sound debate: Passing a new sound ordinance in Independence Township was tabled once again after outdoor recreational vehicle owners came to the May 18 board meeting and let their voices be heard. The issue was brought forth by residents of the Deer Valley Subdivision.
Board hopefuls to meet in candidate forum: The League of Women Voters Oakland Area hosted a candidate forum on May 26 for those running for the Clarkston Community Schools Board of Education.
Millstream: John Cocciolone, president and CEO of Easter Seals-Michigan, was featured for his 20 years of work with the organization. He also won the prestigious Medders award from the national charity.

June
June 2
Candidates attempt to show differences: School board candidates participating in the League of Women Voters – Oakland Area forum spent the night attempting to show their differences among many agreed upon issues.
Residents discover the benefits of spring season walking: Area resident Kathy Uchman assisted many Clarkston locals with discovering the benefits of taking advantage of warmer weather and getting out for a walk.
Oakhurst charity event helps support ‘Fallen Heroes?: The second annual Michigan Fallen Heroes Memorial Charity Golf Event at Oakhurst Country Club on May 24 raised $3,000 to support the statue saluting public service officers and another $1,000 to the family of Officer Gary Davis, a Bloomfield Township police officer who was killed in a car crash on May 13.
Clarkston golfers advance to state competition: Clarkston finished third in the region with a team score of 361, edging out Grosse Pointe North, to earn a spot in the state competition. Top scores for the Wolves included Jackie Schram with 82, Lisa Lesko with 94, Nina Jackson with 93 and Sara Maesch with a 92.
Millstream: Cathy Forst was featured for her 25 years of dedication as the Springfield Township Library director.

June 9
Moving On!: The Clarkston High School Class of 2004 graduated on June 2.
Campfire Circle issue hits road block: The Independence Township board delayed an investigation into closing Camfire Circle, a road connecting the Lake Waldon Village and Spring Lake subdivisions, after learning that the street may actually be a private road.
Schools push non-homestead tax: Clarkston School administration and the five school board candidates voiced unanimous opinions for passing a proposal to restore the full 18-mill non-homestead property tax.
Orion man charged with sexual assault: Gregory Combs, of Orion Township, was arraigned for allegedly raping a 19-year-old Clarkston woman near the DTE Energy Music Theatre on May 28.
Softball team captures fourth district in a row: The Clarkston softball team captured their fourth district title, which was no big surprise going into the competition. The team defeated Pontiac Northern, Pontiac Central and Waterford Ketterington.
Schram leads Clarkston golfers at state tourney: The Clarkston girls golf team finished 11th in state competition at Forest Akers Golf Course at Michigan State University. This was the first time the team made state competition since 1976. Jackie Schram led the way with a 95 on day one and a 93 on day two.
Millstream: For the second year in a row, Sharon Worden, a cancer survivor, led a team in the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.

June 16
Clarkston School Board… Foyteck, Patterson win: Incumbent Karen Foyteck and newcomer Joan Patterson won