15 years ago – 1994
‘House burns after drug bust; arson is suspected? Agents from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency raided an Independence Township home, seizing a sophisticated indoor marijuana growing operation and $400,000 in plants. Two days later, the house was a burnt-out shell.
‘Township cuts funding for DARE drug officer? Independence Township Board cut the Drug Abuse Resistance Education position in Clarkston schools, citing a recent failed police millage. School officials were disappointed.
‘One last fling? There was a big turnout for Family Night at Deer Lake Beach, all enjoying a swim, hot dogs, games, and a chance to dig in the sand.

25 years ago – 1984
‘Rolling 20s? Hazel and Leo Armstrong raised and trained about 100 pigeons to perform acrobatics in the sky, then return to their coop. Leo returned to the hobby, which he used to do as a boy, in his retirement.
?79-year-old poet tells how her writing began? Genevieve Gosh was inspired to write by life’s changes and difficulties, including a divorce, job at General Motors, and raising three children.
‘School teaches teens high-tech? Students at Clarkston’s Northwest Oakland Vocational Education Center spent the summer learning about computers and robots in the High-Tech program. They learned about digital electronics, computer literacy, basic computer skills, robotics, word processing, and career possibilities.

50 years ago – 1959
‘Staff complete for Clarkston schools? Clarkston Community Schools was one of the fortunate districts in the area in that they completed their staff for the 1960 school year. It included 143 teachers and administrators, and 58 secretaries, custodians, cooks, and bus drivers. Student enrollment was expected to be more than 3,800 students, an increase of 300 over the previous year.
‘Make plans now for Labor Day? The annual Labor Day Parade was being planned by Clarkston Rotary, according to Bill Kelley, general chairman.
‘Clarkston locals? Marine Reserve Capt. F.E. Reynolds of Clarkston returned to the Naval Air Station Grosse Ile, with Attack Squadron 222 after completing the two-week training exercise ‘Operation Ready.?

15 years ago – 1994
‘Accident closes I-75? After cutting each other off for miles, two road-raging drivers southbound on I-75 near Clintonville finally hit, lost control, and spun out. They hit three cars, sending four people to the hospital.
‘O’Neill wins? Candidate Megan O’Neill beat Republican challenger Kerry Kammer for U.S. House of Representatives. O’Neill, who ran on a conservative platform, was to go up against Rep. Dale Kildee that fall.
‘New academy gives students options? Four Clarkston students were among the first class of the new North Oakland Science Math Academy, shortened to NOSMtech, though pronounced ‘Awesome-tech.? Kyle Hughes was hired to teach math.

25 years ago – 1984
‘CVP’s Children’s Theater presents ‘Tumbleweeds?? Under the direction of Sandy Sandord, young actors and actresses prepared their comic-strip-based play. Joe Williams played the title role, and Kristin Ried played Hildegarde.
‘POH awaits 3rd review of satellite? The hospital was set for final review of its proposed, $34 million, two-story hospital at Dixie and White Lake roads. POH was competing with five other hospitals for Certificates of Need permits from the state for a center in north Oakland County.
‘Teacher takes hiatus to Mexico? Sherill Bailey headed south of the border for a year to teacher sixth graders English at the Instituto Lauren’s in Monterrey. She learned of the school during a month-long mission trip, painting a church with Volunteers in Mission.

50 years ago – 1959
‘Veteran of Year will be chosen at state fair? Each of Michigan’s 1,500 local veterans? posts were invited to send nominations. Winner was to be chosen based on contributions to civics, community, and veterans.
‘Chairman named for Mothers? March? Mrs. Everett Dennis was appointed chairman for the Independence Township area Emergency Appeal of March of Dimes. The appeal was needed to care for local polio patients.
‘Clarkston locals? Carol Kieft returned home from Lapeer where she attended a two-week Red Cross session at Camp Sherwood. She earned her Girl Scout Badge in Life Saving, and enjoyed several cookouts and overnights.

15 years ago – 1994
‘Dog days end happily for Clarkston boy? As 8-year-old Jarrett Sidaway of Clarkston and his dad searched for Dale the dog, neighbor Russell Rana found the pet wandering by itself. Noticing his Wisconsin dog tags, he then saw the Sidaways? car drive by with Wisconsin license plates ? the family just moved into town. The boy and his dog were reunited.
‘Surprise state money gives school board new choices? More than $265,000 in unexpected state revenue meant Clarkston schools budget had more wiggle room than anticipated. Suggestions included eliminating Pay to Participate, reducing class sizes and increasing the district fund balance.
‘Festival of Fun returns to Clarkston? The Fourth of July festival in 1993 was so successful, Independence Township Parks and Rec was eager to bring it back. They planned three days of activities at Clintonwood Park.

25 years ago – 1984
‘Circus is coming to town? Independence Township firefights organized a circus during the Fourth of July holiday weekend. The put up the big tent on 60 acres near Dixie and Maybee Road.
‘Introducing the Atomic Breakers? Teenagers Dave Pace, Mark Willson, Greg Cherniak, John Trevino and Mark Whitcomb formed their own breakdancing group. They wore red-white-and-blue, slippery jackets, baggy, black pants, and red-laced tennis shoes as they kicked, flipped, and spun around on sheets of cardboard.
?50-acre mine on hold for traffic? Residents and officials opposed a sand mine proposal at Sashabaw and Waldon roads due to traffic, estimated at about 100 trucks a day. The state wanted the sand to complete I-696.

50 years ago – 1959
‘Local girl leaves for scout Roundup? Linda Jean Chapman of Independence Township was headed to Colorado Springs for the Senior Girl Scout Roundup. To prepare, she trained in camping, outdoor cooking, and photography.
‘Clarkston boy takes part in 4-H exchange program? Robert Brewer of Independence Township spent a week in Kentucky, meeting with 4-Hers from around the country.
‘Clarkston locals? Chuck Hancock and Fred Park joined the Marines and were stationed in San Diego, Calif.

15 years ago – 1994
‘Pinball wizard? Wendy Hollibaugh of Clarkston took first place in women’s singles at the International World Championship of Pinball in Chicago. Her interest in the game came from her fianc?, Tim Morse, who collected many different pinball machines.
‘A fine day of remembrance? The streets of Clarkston were lined with people as veterans, marching band and Boy Scouts led the Memorial Day parade through downtown to the cemetery.
‘Clarkston man named to Council on Deafness? Ron Swartz of Clarkston joined Gov. John Engler’s advisory council. He hoped to address issues such as illiteracy and unemployment.

25 years ago – 1984
‘Winners? Community Awards winners included Dr. James O’Neill for Super Person, Jeanette Morrison for distinguished service, Kathleen O’Donnell for outstanding educator, Kenneth Delbridge as outstanding government official, and Dale Scott Davis and Mark Heil as outstanding young citizens.
‘First Lady visits? Paula Blanchard, Gov. James Blachard’s wife, visited the Catallo residence in Clarkston, learning about their Bringing Arts Studios into Classrooms program. Paula, who grew up in Clarkston, enjoyed the visit because the Catallos? home used to be her church.
‘Man traces family history through Civil War? James Genco of Ann Arbor wrote a book based on letters written by his great-great-grandfather Harold Bartlett, a Clarkston resident who fought in the Civil War. The book was titled ‘To the Sound of Musketry and Tap of the Drum.?
‘Veterans honored? The American Legion Color Guard, Clarkston marching bands and local scouts led the Memorial Day parade through downtown.

50 years ago – 1959
‘Second Polio clinic at Pine Knob School? Salk shots were available for $1 at the Sashabaw Road school.
‘Clarkston students receive Latin awards? During a candlelight ceremony, eight students received certificates of membership in the National Latin Honor Society: Earl Pearson, Mary Upward, Inis McClair, Maureen O’Mara, Judye Fife, Jeanne Underwood, David St. Clair, and Carolyn Ruggles.
‘Clarkston locals? Jeffery Bullard was the 12th child to arrive at the home of the Leonard Bullards of Clarkston.

15 years ago – 1994
‘City, township agree on service contracts? Clarkston and Independence Township hammered out an agreement on fire and library services. The contract set down in writing what was verbally agreed to when Clarkston became a city in 1992.
‘Class of 2007 gets their start? Kyla Berden, Kevin Kock and the rest of their kindergarten class got together with their parents for orientation at the new Springfield Plains Elementary School.
‘SMS composer wins state PTA competition? Seventh-grader Jonathan Moniaci placed third in the state Reflections contest with a composition he wrote for two pianos. It was the second time he placed at the state level.

25 years ago – 1984
‘Birthday celebration? It was party time at the Village Bakeshop as Judge William Stamp, retired publisher of The Clarkston News, marked his 88th birthday with a giant cookie adorned with birthday greetings from James Snover, Jack Chisholm, Lucky Fletcher, Smokey Stover and Todd Post.
‘Independence ponders township manager? A proposal to hire a township manager and make the supervisor’s job part-time was shaping up to be a November election issue. Treasurer Fred Ritter and Trustee Dale Stuart opposed the idea, saying it would be too expensive.
‘Meet Howard Wright ? Mr. Mom? The Pine Knob Elementary teacher won a Mr. Mom contest aired on Channel 7, winning a trip to Disneyworld with his two son, both Korean orphans he adopted.

50 years ago – 1959
‘Senior exercises at Clarkston High? Commencement for the high school’s 103 graduating seniors was set at the school athletic field, or gym in case of rain. Seniors were also planned a trip to Washington D.C.
‘Girl Scouts visit Detroit? Troop 200 scouts toured downtown Detroit along riverfront developments, saw a show at the Music Hall, and stayed at the Statler Hilton Hotel. They collected autographs from celebrities at the hotel, including boxer Rocky Marciano.
‘Another Mother’s Day to be remembered? Frank Ronk, Keith Hallman, and Stan Radoye staged an elaborate outdoor breakfast for their wives and children, foregoing their usual golf game. Things went awry when the backyard grill caught fire, but Fireman Ronk had his trusty extinguisher handy.

15 years ago – 1994
‘Space man and stars visit former Clarkstonite’s home? Former Springfield Township resident Cindy Roesler hosted astronaut Jim Lovell, actor Tom Hanks, and director Ron Howard. Her home in Texas used to be Lovell’s, and the filmmakers were interested in using it for ‘Apollo 13.?
‘A sneak peek at Springfield Plains? The parking lot was still muddy and the building unheated, but residents got a look at the new elementary school. Principal Sharon Devereaux and Superintendent Gary Haner were on hand to greet visitors and show them around.
‘Area Marine saves lives during training? Clarkston native Ronald Olsen, sergeant in the Marine Corps, was put in for medals for rescuing Marines from a burning tent.

25 years ago – 1984
‘Exploring a world of difference? Norbert Schaar, German exchange student at Clarkston High School, described life in West Berlin, in the middle of Communist East Germany. He looked forward to a trip to Florida, free of borders and government checkpoints.
‘Math whiz? Steve Doolittle, Sashabaw Junior High student, was a top achiever in a statewide mathematics contest. He received a certificate of merit for superior achievement, one of 30 awarded statewide.
‘Independence weathers the wind? Winds gusting to 60-70 mph took their toll, blowing off rooftops, toppling trees, sending students into tornado shelters, and blacking out much of the area.
‘Century mark for Ellis farm? Emmalyn Freeman shared memories of growing up at the Springfield Township farm. Her family owned the farm for the past 100 years, earning it Michigan Centennial Farm certification.

50 years ago – 1959
‘Local Boy Scouts win first prize? Clarkston scouts won the award at the Manitou District Scout Show for their project, a 15-foot tower made of 600 pounds of wood and 1,000 feet of rope. The demonstrated its sturdiness by climbing up and down it in droves.
‘Shower honors Jacqueline Powell? Mrs. Ronald Throndset entertained at a miscellaneous shower honoring the future bride. They play games and presented the honoree with many lovely gifts.
‘Clarkston locals? Private Douglas DeGrow was home on a 48-hour leave from Ft. Belvoir.

15 years ago – 1994
‘City Ok’s park surfacing? Clarkston looked to refurbish playground equipment at Depot Park, and order new benches and free-standing play equipment, but funding was a problem.
‘Optimists are true ‘friends of youth?? Basketball, essays and speeches are some of the ways Clarkston-area youngsters knew about the Optimists. The Optimists ? a Clarkston-area service club with a motto of ‘Friend of Youth? ? sponsored all sorts of activities for youngsters of all ages.
‘Ukrainian Easter Eggs a tradition at St. Dan’s? Dolly Schenk of Independence Township and assistants Fran Shirley and Donelle Vogal instructed about 40 people in the art of making Pysankas ? Ukrainian Easter Eggs.

25 years ago – 1984
‘Kids learn sign language from deaf teacher? After-school enrichment teacher Mary Lauer lost her hearing as a toddler due to an ear infection. She taught sign language to eight students in Clarkston Community Education’s After-School Enrichment Program.
‘Players gear for new production? Clarkston Village Players was set to stage the light-hearted farce, ‘Don’t step on my Footprint,? at a Deer Lake Racquet Club dinner theater.
‘OCSD fingerprints 550 kids? Members of The Oakland County Sheriff Department’s E.S.C.A.P.E. (Enroll in the Sheriff’s Crime and Accident Prevention Education) fingerprinted pupils at Bailey Lake Elementary. The workshop, including a visit from Deputy McGruff and a film, was open to all children of the Bailey Lake area.

50 years ago – 1959
‘Village officers elected Monday? Clarkston voters elected Edward Thomson as president, with 67 out of the 78 votes cast, the largest vote in village history.
‘Music on the air at Sashabaw? Sashabaw Presbyterian Church voted to have a sound system installed in the church belfry. The electronic system was designed to replicate the sound of carillonic bells.
‘Library campaign gains support? A proposal to build a new library for Independence Township gained support from parents and businesses, in the community of 12,000 residents. The old library of 5,000 books was operated by the Clarkston Community Women’s Club.

15 years ago – 1994
‘Officer honored by MADD? Mothers Against Drunk Driving honored Clarkston’s Corporal Scott L. Dickey for his efforts against drunk driving. The officer made 18 alcohol related stops that year. He was recognized at MADD’s Sixth Annual Lifesaver’s Awards Banquet with 40 other Oakland County police officers who also received the Lifesaver’s Award.
‘Artists brightening walls, homes? David Yarnell attended the Apostolic Christian School in Pontiac where his art adorned the walls and bulletin boards. Now, he professionally paints murals in homes. He took art classes in junior high and commercial art classes at the Northwest Vocational Center in Springfield Township after high school graduation.

25 years ago – 1984
‘Heritage tracing made easier? A $1,000 donation from the Clarkston Community Women’s Club helped the Independence Township Library purchase a brand new microform reader/printer, which can be used to read census records. The new piece of equipment aids in information searches and, with a push of a button makes copies for 15 cents.
‘Ray Eby lives for his newspaper? Eby, vice president in charge of operations at The Detroit News, started working with newspapers at a young age in Chicago. Rung by rung, he climbed the corporate ladder, and was named one of the two vice presidents the first of the year.
‘Rifle-twirler captures trophy? A 17-year-old Clarkston High School senior came home with a first-place plaque for a solo performance in Chicago, for rifle twirling. Wendy Ripley was a rifle twirler for the high school marching band and a CHS club named Phoenix.

50 years ago – 1959
‘Clarkston to participate in music festival? Clarkston High School will be among 27 southeastern Michigan high schools participating in a music festival Sat., Feb. 14 at Wayne State University. Nearly 400 young singers and pianists will perform both solo and in ensembles.
‘Interesting movies at First Methodist? A movie at First Methodist Church was sponsored by the Margaret Richards Circle of the Women’s Society of Christian Service. ‘The Private War of Major Benson? starred Sal Mineo, Charles Heston, Julie Adams and Tim Hovey.
‘Primary vote is light? The Republican and Circuit Judge primary election only attracted about 730 voters.

15 years ago – 1994
‘Award-winning artist calls Independence home? Russell Cobane, a well-known wildlife painter that lives in Independence Township, began his art career at Center for Creative Studies in Detroit. He paints with acrylics, and some paintings measure up to 3 x 5 feet.
‘The Fridge heats up winter? Michigan’s first refrigerated toboggan run opened to the public and Oakland County Parks and Recreation hopes to keep it open through March. It is operational in temperatures up to 45 degrees.
‘Skiers on way to MHSAA regionals? The Clarkston High School skiers will travel to Mt. Holly for the MHSAA regionals to compete against other high-school skiers in southern Michigan. The top two teams from each of four divisions will travel to the state finals at Crystal Mountain, Thompsonville.

25 years ago – 1984
‘Valentine’s wedding ? and baby!? An Independence Township couple got married on Valentine’s Day in Hell, Mich., 14 years ago. The birth of Pat and Larry Johnson’s first child was two weeks shy of their anniversary. They were in college when they were first married, and Hell, Mich. was one of the first places they dated.
‘Fleet buys Riverside? Paramed Inc. owners of Fleet and Suburban ambulance companies bought Riverside Ambulance for an undisclosed sum. Riverside has serviced Independence and Springfield townships for at least nine years.
‘Singer makes her TV debut? Her singing career barely a year old, Gina Roselli makes her television debut Feb. 15. She will be featured in the young talent segment of ‘Good Afternoon, Detroit?, the channel 7 program hosted by John Kelly and Marilyn Turner.

50 years ago – 1959
‘World Day of Prayer Friday, Feb. 13? The World Day of Prayer will be held at the First Baptist Church of Clarkston, Friday, Feb. 13. A tea will be served by the Ladies Auxiliary of the Baptist Church following the event.
‘Independence has more champions? Gary Armstrong and Larry Saiz are on their way to bigger things after the Golden Glove Matches last weekend in Pontiac. With both of them having two matches and coming out on top each time they are now eligible to compete in Grand Rapids for the state titles.

15 years ago ? 1994
‘Firefighter injured in house fire? Local firefighters battled a fire in sub-zero temperatures where one firefighter was injured and a home was destroyed. Sgt. Mike Bussell was treated at the scene for minor burns on his jaw and ears.
‘New elementary school named ‘Springfield Plains?? The Clarkston School Board unanimously chose ‘Springfield Plains Elementary? from a field of 34 other names submitted by people living in the school district. The name was chosen, because historically there was once a small school house with the same name.
‘Clarkston slays Dragons, wins tournament? The Clarkston wrestling team made its GOAL record 2-0 by beating Lake Orion 47-8. Clarkston also took first place honors at the Lansing Sexton Invitational, competing against three Class A teams ranked in the state’s Top 10.

25 years ago ? 1984
‘School district OK’s $735,000 for energy plan? The Clarkston board of education voted 5-1 to proceed with plans to make the district’s school buildings more energy efficient. The board approved the $735,000 for the project that will change the look of most of the district’s eight school buildings and the learning center.
‘Multipurpose rooms for schools in the works? An architect has been given the green light to prepare plans for multipurpose rooms for Clarkston’s five elementary schools. Sherman Associates of Troy is to be paid $25,000 for preliminary plans.
?$36,000 to aid downtown project? Downtown Davisburg received $36,000 from federal Community Development to help complete Phase II of the Springfield Township improvement project.

50 years ago – 1959
‘Elementary P.T.A. inspired by talk? An address was delivered to members of the Clarkston Elementary P.T.A. and friends by the Rev. Robert Richards of Saline. He spoke about patriotism and how fortunate Americans are.
‘School board receives bids? Bids were received at a school board meeting for the sale of $1 million in bonds for the purpose of building a new high school. These Series I bonds of the 1958 bond issue were sold to the lowest bidder, the First of Michigan Bank and Associates for the average interest rate of 3.94610 percent.

15 years ago ? 1993
‘Look-alikes? Danielle Weddle, 7, and her dog Taboo of Independence Township won the judges? award for Pet Look-Alike on ‘Kelly and Company,? a Detroit television morning talk show. Weddle and Taboo both had brown hair, brown eyes, and the same birthday.
‘Future scientists? Katie Woloson, Stephanie Pierce, Nicole Kulon, Taylor Hosher, and other Clarkston Elementary students learned about medicine, animals, and other topics at the school’s Festival of Science.
‘Wife remembers her spouse as father, war hero? Margery Poeppe honored her late husband, World War II veteran Ambrose Poeppe, at his military funeral at Lakeview Cemetery.
‘Township adopts $13 million budget? Independence Township’s budget was about $25,000 less than the year before, reflecting loss of property taxes for education. Cuts were made in funding to local non-profit groups and road improvement.

25 years ago ? 1983
‘Kite stays aloft 3 whole days? Triplets Brian, Daniel, and Jennifer Weil were flying a kite when Brian let all the line run out. The line was caught in a nearby tree, so the 5-year-olds watched it fly for three days until it broke. Their mother, Kerry, found the kite on the expressway.
‘Snow mishaps mar Friday? The season’s first snowfall caused traffic trouble, including a head-on collision on Dixie at Holly Road.
‘Goodby Frisbee, hello Hacky Sack? Rick Emerson and Mark Platt demonstrated the foot juggling game, keeping a little leather bag filled with plastic beads in the air using nothing but feet and legs.

50 years ago – 1958
‘Fiftieth anniversary to be celebrated? Mr. and Mrs. George Marshall celebrated their golden anniversary with a family reunion and dinner. They were married in 1908.
‘Local church scene of wedding? Constance Stiller and John Campbell spoke their marriage vows in a double-ring, candlelight ceremony at First Methodist Church of Clarkston.
?’Back to school? at elementary? Clarkston Elementary PTA hosted the event for parents, featuring a typical school meal, announcements over the new PA system, and class in their children’s classroom.

15 years ago ? 1993
‘Boy volunteers for research? Six-year-old Travis Thompson volunteered to wear a monitor measuring electro-magnetic fields, as part of a university study on leukemia. Scientists wanted to study how ambient radiation affected health.
‘Incumbent win in city council election? Steven Arkwright, William Basinger and James Schultz were elected to Clarkston City Council, with about 176 of 900 registered voters casting ballots. Top issues included budget, downtown business and police service.
‘Will technical center close?? State education funding called into question the future of Oakland Technical Center ? Northwest Campus. Sherry Johnson said she hoped the campus stayed open because it offered more specialized training.

25 years ago ? 1983
‘Walkers raise money for SCAMP? Runners and walkers completed three-mile and 10-mile courses through Clarkston and Independence Township to benefit SCAMP, raising about $15,000 in pledges.
‘Thieves get computers? A $250 reward was offered for arrest and conviction of those responsible for stealing $17,000 in micro-computer equipment from Sashabaw Junior High School.
‘Keeping alive the memory of F. Lee McDonald? The Clarkston High School graduate was killed in Vietnam in 1970. In his memory, his sister, Janice Ledogar of Springfield Township, became active in MIA-POW groups.
‘Woman sees brother she never knew existed? Five children of Harry Dalton of Independence Township welcomed a half brother they had never met before. Betty Cockoum discovered him while researching her family tree.

50 years ago – 1958
‘Localite wins in treasure hunt? Mrs. Iva Caverly of Waldon Road won $1,000 in a national contest. She won a car in a contest in Drayton Plains a year before.
‘Rotary Anns hear special speaker? Club members hosted former state Rep. Ted Hughes, who spoke about an upcoming Michigan Constitutional Convention. Co hostesses were Mrs. Frank Ronk and Mrs. Keith Hallman.
‘Clarkston locals? Frank Atkins was honored by his daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Drake of Clarkston, for his 91st birthday. They celebrated with a birthday dinner in Flint.

15 years ago ? 1993
‘School spirit? Rusty Mitcham and Kristen Stanton took their ceremonial walk around the Clarkston High School gym as the 1993 Homecoming king and queen.
‘Clinton’s health care plan receives mixed reviews? Some Clarkston residents thought the plan would guarantee basic health care for all, while other thought it would cost too much.

25 years ago ? 1983
‘Enrollment drops slow; officials are encouraged? Enrollment was expected to be 5,901, down from 6,032 the year before. The 131-student drop was less than the 266 lost the year before that.

50 years ago – 1958
‘Charlene Wilson Homecoming Queen? In addition to earning the crown, Wilson was elected senior editor of the Hilltopper yearbook, and awarded a Hi-Fi set for being best salesman in the school magazine campaign.

15 years ago ? 1993
‘Vigilance key to eliminating head lice? One Independence Township parent thought she would not have to wage another battle against a tiny yet pesky bug that fall. However, she was wrong. For the second time in three years, she would have to deal with head lice.
‘Bye-bye, bottled water? Clarkston residents with tainted well water were hoping a state grant would help clean up their taps. A $215,000 grant would be used to hook up city residents to Independence Township’s water system. The wells on Northview Drive were contaminated by chemicals traced to a closed landfill on Clarkston Road and gas station at Main and Clarkston.
‘Depot Park improvements include upgrades? Depot Park Playground Committee recommended upgrades to a tire swing, and removal of railroad ties, teeter-totter, and exposed cement under the slide.

25 years ago ? 1983
‘Symbolic no ? village withholds signature for group home? To make a point about having its hands tied, Clarkston’s village council refused to approve a proposed group home for the aged on Clarkston Road.
‘Classy covering: Park gazebo plans unfurled? When architect David Katz unfurled his drawing for the Village of Clarkston’s new gazebo, council members ‘oooh’d? and ‘ahh’d.? In the plan, lattice work covers the year-old, unfinished gazebo’s cinder-block foundation. The roof is supported by Mediterranean columns furled inside. The spandrel, ornamented space where the scalloped roof-line meets the columns, has a ball-and-dowel motif, and the roof is thick wood Shaker shingles.
‘Voters say ‘no? to new historic law? The ordinance, defeated 97-81 in a citizen advisory ballot, would have regulated all home construction and repairs.

50 years ago – 1958
‘Clarkston locals? Twelve neighborhood children gathered at the home of Wendy Sue Miskimins to help her celebrate her fourth birthday with fun and refreshments. Little Charles Eastman (Butchie), son of Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Eastman, fell and broke his shoulder in two places.
‘Improvement association plans Fall Dance? The Clarkston Gardens Subdivision Improvement Association planned a dance at Oakland County Sportsmen’s Club.

15 years ago ? 1993
‘Clarkston ? one year of cityhood? Residents celebrated Clarkston’s first year as a city on July 1 and reviewed the positive changes in law enforcement and some negative, such as money issues.
‘CHS alumnus produces dance show? Clarkston-Independence cable channel produced a half-hour dance show called ‘Drew’s House? featuring Clarkston residents and former students.
‘Rape suspect heads to circuit court? A 31-year-old suspect faced several rape charges, up to life in prison if convicted. He was accused of breaking into an Independence Township woman’s home and attacking her. The woman fought him off with a kitchen knife and her bare hands.
‘Middle school ‘concept? not new and not complete? Clarkston Community Schools? realignment took about six years of planning, officials said.

25 years ago ? 1983
‘DNR denies Levy Co. mining plan? A 20-year plan to mine 300 acres near the headwaters of the Clinton River was denied, essentially killing the controversial project. Independence Township officials were pleased with the result.
‘Florida man wants park of PK? A developer offered Pine Knob Investment a $3 million loan to buy Borg Warner’s interest in the Pine Knob golf course.
‘Purse finders – trio tracks down owner? Three friends, Mark Arsenault, Paul Postal, and Matt Racosky, were searching for empty bottles when they found a purse. They tracked down the owner, Dorothy Kyles, and returned it.

50 years ago – 1958
‘Localite helps land Marines? A Clarkston resident arrived in Bari, Italy for a rest after taking part in the landing of U.S. Marines at Beirut, Lebanon.
‘Drive with care over Labor Day holiday? State police urged drivers to be careful over the Labor Day holiday, hoping to reduce the death toll from the previous year’s 13 fatalities.
‘Clarkston locals? Mr. and Mrs. Harold Rioux of Davisburg spent three weeks touring Colorado and visiting their daughter Barbara.

15 years ago ? 1993
‘New ACLU president hails from Clarkston? A Clarkston woman, whose careers include librarian, lawyer and psychiatrist, was elected president of the American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan.
‘Woman raped in own home? A 41-year-old Independence Township woman was raped in her home by a Clarkston man out of jail on bond for another sex-related crime.
25 years ago ? 1983
‘School may give bonus points for hard classes? Clarkston High School proposed awarding students taking fourth-level and advanced placement classes by giving .25 bonus points for each semester with passing grades.
‘Township woman world-ranking? An Independence Township woman received the highest rating of any woman postal tournament chess play in the United States and has offered her services to the U.S. postal Olympic team.
50 years ago – 1958
‘H.R. Lissner to teach at WSU management center? Wayne State University’s Material Management Center hired a Clarkston resident to teach technical mechanics and dynamics.
‘Annual flower show in Oxford? The Oxford Garden Club hosted its 24th annual Flower and Vegetable show at Oxford High.

15 years ago – 1992
‘Reading not easy for everyone? An Independence Township man explained how he learned to read as an adult with the help of the Oakland Literacy Council.
‘Project helps others get picture of United Way services, partners? Volunteer photographers displayed a collection of black-and-white pictures of people helped by the Untied Way and Lighthouse North.
‘Check helps DARE get off to a strong second year? A check for about $2,500 from Cherry Hill Lanes North helped the Drug Abuse Resistance Education program in Clarkston elementary schools.
‘City sidewalks set for repairs using block grant money? Clarkston City Council wanted to shift federal grant money from sidewalk repairs on Holcomb Road to storm drain repairs on West Church and Holcomb, and remove trees on Holcomb.

25 years ago – 1982
‘Clarkston schools lose 272 pupils? The financial blow of losing about 272 students was offset somewhat by a dramatic increase in Adult Education enrollment. Tentative figures were 6,026 K-12 students, 100 Adult Education, and 48 preschoolers. The year before, they had 29 Adult Education students.
‘Township ups on-call fire fighters? pay 30%? After 10 years without a pay hike, Independence Township’s on-call fire fighters received a raise, from $5/hour to $7.50/hour.
‘Clarkston area reacts quietly to Tylenol scare? Local store shelves were stripped of Tylenol Extra-strength capsules following news that some were founded laced with cyanide in Chicago. Local stores reported little concern among their shoppers.
‘CHS 1982 king, queen named? Kendra Kurz and Eric Peterson were named Clarkston High School’s Homecoming queen and king.

50 years ago – 1957
‘Homecoming at Clarkston High? Charlene Wilson was set to be crowned Homecoming Queen, and the football team was preparing for its Homecoming game against Clarenceville.
‘Know your United Fund – Leader Dogs for the Blind? The Leader Dog program in Rochester, funded by United Fund, supplied more than 1,100 trained dogs to blind people.
‘Don’t take a chance! Take your polio shots? Detroit was experiencing a polio epidemic, so Clarkston residents were encouraged to get vaccinated.

15 years ago – 1992
‘Teachers get 4.5 percent increasefor two years? Clarkston school teachers received a 4.5 percent pay increase per year for two years in their contract. The agreement included class size improvements, retirement incentives and dental insurance coverage increases.
‘School board struggles with space solution? With frequent temper flare ups and expressions of frustration, board members and administrators talked about the problems of 278 extra pupils, with more expected. They did not have the money to hire teachers or build classrooms.
‘Store owners tell chief shoplifting is problem? Shoplifting, alarms and traffic tickets were some of the issues Clarkston business owners discussed with Clarkston police.
‘Library’s future remains up in the air? In the wake of a millage failure, Independence Township Library was trying to maintain services. Officials were looking into what could be cut.

25 years ago – 1982
‘Resident blasts historic commission? A resident pleaded with the Clarkston Village Council to reconsider the powers of the Historic District Commission. He wanted to fix up his 1902 home with insulation and aluminum siding, saying it would rot if he didn’t.
‘School talks stand still? Contract negotiations stalled between administrators and teachers. At issue were salaries and class size.
‘On target: Clarkston Community Schools? 1982-83 goals look toward future? School officials and committees continued to update curriculum and design a plan to install cable television in schools. They were also considering how to install computers and institute programming classes.
‘Marathoners ready for the big run? The ‘Clarkston 15,? a group training together for the Detroit marathon, were determined to finish strong.

50 years ago – 1957
‘Sashabaw Church completes canvass? Sashabaw Presbyterian Church completed a fund-raising campaign for its new home on Waldon Road.
‘Area chairmen named for United Fund Drive? Mrs. Charles Hancock, Mrs. DeVere Games, Mrs. Lawrence Wellman, and Mrs. John Bell were appointed to key posts in the Women’s Division of the upcoming Independence Township United Fund campaign.

15 years ago – 1992
‘Man takes sheriff car – five-car chase follows? An Independence Township man suspected in hubcap thefts briefly escaped from Oakland County Sheriff’s deputies. He slipped his handcuffs and took off in a police car. He was soon caught and rearrested.
‘Parents tired of conflict, voter apathy? Taxes, trust and time were the main issues at a Clarkston schools forum. The district faced problems with overpopulation and needed to build more classrooms, but many residents said they were paying enough taxes.
‘Officials turn to community for suggestions? School officials said a bond issue was likely to collect funds for more school space, repairs, and facility needs.
‘Hawking it? Clarkston Community Historical Society hosted the Crafts and Cider Festival in Depot Park. Between 5,000-7,000 people attended, and about 4,000 doughnuts were sold.

25 years ago – 1982
‘Judge rules against group home? The state was expected to appeal a circuit court decision finding a group home in violation in subdivision deed restrictions. Neighbors had brought the issue to court.
‘Teacher contract still undecided? Negotiations continued slowly on the Clarkston schools teachers? contract. At issue were salaries and class size.
‘Businesses, council clash on signs? Clarkston Business Association and village council disagreed on the proposed sign ordinance. Businesses wanted overhanging and marquee signs, while village officials wanted to prohibit them to restore architectural integrity to the area.
‘Delays key complaint against historic board? The Clarkston Historical Commission faced complaints it was too slow. A Church Street resident was waiting for approval to build a chimney.

50 years ago – 1957
‘Horse show winners from far and near? The Dixie Saddle Club held its Fall Horse Show at the Glenn Ellis Farm. About 175 horses participated.
‘C.M.A.’s concert Sunday, October 19? Waterford Township Civic Music Association’s first concert of the season was to feature the piano team of Ferrante and Teicher, at the Isaac E. Crary Junior High School.
‘Clarkston locals? Little Charles Eastman (Butchie), son of Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Eastman, fell and broke his shoulder in two places.

15 years ago – 1992
‘Clarkston student enrollment up 278? Student enrollment exceeded projections, increasing overcrowding problems in Clarkston schools. Enrolment was 5,885.
‘Springfield Board freezes salaries, millage rate? The Township Board voted unanimously to keep its millage rate the same as the previous year. About $25,892 in new taxes had been considered.
‘Main Street building carries Teggerdine initials? The ‘T-K? initials on the 12 S. Main St. building, now Village Apprarel & Gifts and Clarkston Cafe, stand for Teggerdine-King, next door neighbors who built the building in 1928.
‘Carpenters help rebuild homes, morale in Florida? Volunteers with Clarkston-area company Oakland Carpenter Contractors and Mt. Zion Temple were set to help rebuild homes in Miama, Fla., after Hurricane Andrew.

25 years ago – 1982
‘PK to seek additional $30 milion? Pine Knob was set to amend its lawsuit against Independence Township for a total of $60 million for interfering with its business.
‘School enrollment predictions ‘on the nose?? Clarkston schools counted 5,990 students, meeting projections. Student population was on a downward trend at the time, falling 308 from the year before.
‘Leaders to vote on Oweki sale? Camp Fire Inc. was set to vote on the sale of Camp Oweki, a 120-acre parcel on the shores of Independence Township’s Gulick Lake.
‘M-15 traffic flow generates different opinions? Opinions differed on how to reduce traffic on M-15. The state wanted to widen the road to five lanes, while Independence Township didn’t.

50 years ago – 1957
‘School bus law in effect Saturday? A new law required all motorists to stop when meeting a bus dropping off or picking up students. Previous law only required drivers approaching from the rear to stop.
‘UF leaders plan fall campaign? Four Clarkston community leaders were set to direct the fall Independence United Fund Campaign. Merle Bennett, Allen Hawke, Jerome Wilford, and Betty Games hoped to lead a successful campaign that year.
‘Clarkston locals? A pajama party took place at the home of Pat Hart. The group of friends gathered before leaving for college.

15 years ago – 1992
‘Students back in school; strike over? Representatives from administration and teachers? union agreed on a tentative contract, ending a five-day strike. The pact was reached after an 11-hour session with a state mediator. Students were to make up the five days lost in the strike.
‘Township board halts DDA plan? Independence Township Board voted to approve an amendment to the Downtown Development Authority plan dropping an extension to Citation Drive. The extension would have been to a new township fire station.

25 years ago – 1982
‘Teachers return sans new contract? It was back to school as planned, despite the lack of a new contract between teachers and administration. At issue was teachers? pay.
‘It rained on our parade? For the first time ever, people claimed, it rained on a Clarkston parade. Plenty of people still came out under umbrellas and rain gear to enjoy the Labor Day Parade.

50 years ago – 1957
‘Crowd sees parade in spite of weather? In spite of chilly, cloudy weatherm crowds lined the streets of Clarkston for the annual Rotary parade for Labor Day.
‘Local archers win honors? Mr. and Mrs. Bob Greene, archery enthusiasts, won several trophies at the State Target Championship Shoot in Saginaw.

15 years ago – 1992
‘Post-election puzzlement – questions still unanswered? Controversies that may have led to incumbent Independence Township Supervisor Frank Ronk’s defeat in the primary included the township’s struggle against Clarkston’s campaign for cityhood.
‘Witnesses tell of drug, money deliveries for Family? Preliminary exams continued for suspects charged with conspiracy to distribute drugs to local teens. Five men, three of whom from Clarkston area, faced 7-year prison terms if convicted.
‘CHS students face LSD charges in separate case? Another Clarkston-area teen faced misdemeanor charges of possessing illegal drugs.
‘Docks unfair to most in association, one says? Independence Township residents filed a lawsuit against a proposed 40-slip marina on Woodhull Lake. Residents said it would allow access to non-lakefront property owners.

25 years ago – 1982
‘The race is on? Former President Gerald Ford made an appearance at a fundraiser at Deer Lake Athletic Club for Republican Congressman James Dunn.
‘Cancellation: Aug. 13th concert? Organizers of Concerts in the Park were forced to cancel a concert in Depot Park when a scheduled performance fell through. More concerts were planned for later in the month.
‘CHS’s building program folds; gone this fall? The 4-year-old building trades program at Clarkston High School was cancelled, due to a sluggish real estate market. Houses constructed by students weren’t selling, officials said.
‘Schools? loan means $270,000 in interest costs? Clarkston Community Schools faced interest payments on a $4.2 million loan. The loan was needed to pay for operational expenses, and would be repaid when property taxes were collected in December.

50 years ago – 1957
‘Navy plans Great Lakes homecoming? Frank E. Hunt of Clarkston was named commander of a special Michigan Navy recruit company. They were set to graduate during Salute to Michigan week in September.
‘Clarkston locals? Mrs. Russell Colston was convalescing at her home after recent surgery.
‘Saddle Club ready for horse show? The Michigan Rangers were set to appear in Davisburg.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
? Cityhood ‘stay? hearing Sept. 11: The latest chapter in the Clarkston cityhood lawsuit has beens scheduled for Oakland County Circuit Court Wednesday, Sept. 11.
Originally slated for Aug. 28, the case was adjourned because Judge John O’Brien failed to appear in court.
? Pre-exam reset: A Lapeer County grandfather charged with the sexual assault of his 5-year-old grandson will have to wait a few more weeks for his preliminary exam.
Originally scheduled for Aug. 30, the grandfather’s attorney requested the exam be postponed. It is now set for 9 a.m. Sept. 20 before Judge John T. Connolly in 71st District Court, Lapeer.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Judge halts Borg’s suit: Borg-Warner Equities? lawsuit against Pine Knob Investment Co. and Independence Township has taken a turn, as Federal District Court Judge Ralph Guy abstained from hearing the case on Aug. 27.
? Springfield man arrested for assault: The Oakland County Sheriff’s Department has arrested Charles William Smith, 18, of Springfield Township, who is suspected of the armed robbery and kidnapping-assault of a Linden woman.
The woman was beaten and apparently left for dead on the side of Dartmouth Road, Independence Township, on Aug. 29, police said.
? Pond yields whopper: Nine pounds, 34 inches.
Now, that’s a lot of fish.
And that’s what 11-year-old Scott Wyman pulled out of Clarkston’s Upper Mill Pond Aug. 26 while fishing over at his grandfather Bill Morse? house on Glenburnie ? a nine pound, 34-inch Northern Pike.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? Parade in Clarkston Labor Day: The Clarkston Rotary Club is looking foward to a big time on Monday, September 3rd when the biggest and best Labor Day parade is staged here. Everyone is hoping for fine weather adn a big crowd. The general committee for the parade is composed of Ira Snader, A. E. Butters and Bob Wilkinson.
? Dr. C. Howard Ross Addresses Rotary: The highlight of the regular Clarkston Rotary Club meeting on Monday evening at the Community Center was a talk by Dr. C. Howard Ross, who specializes on the subject of geriatrics.
? Vaccine Available For Teen-Agers: Oakland County physicians are now able to purchase Salk Polio Vaccine through commercial channels, according to Dr. Frederick N. adams, of Birmingham, Chairman of the Polio Committee, Oakland County Medical Society. This vaccine is in addition to the free vaccine supplied them by the Oakland County Health Department for the priority group of children ages 1 through 14 years and expectant mothers.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
‘Grandfather charged: The grandfather of a five year old boy, who was allegedly sexually abused by his father and a friend, has also been charged with molesting the child.
Terry, 46, (his last name is being withheld because it is the same as the child’s) of Deerfield Township, Lapeer County, was arraigned on one count of first-degree criminal sexual conduct in 71st District Court in Lapeer on Aug. 23.
? Dillon named to SJHS post: A Utica native has been named to the post of assistant principal at Sashabaw Junior High School.
? Events galore for Labor Day: Labor Day in downtown Clarkston promises to be filled with hearty and entertaining fare, starting with a pancake breakfast, followed by a parade and ending with a corn roast.
? Early deadlines this week: Due to the Labor Day holiday, there will be an early deadline for news and advertisement items at The Clarkston News.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Historic ordinance hearing date set: Clarkston’s Village Council has scheduled Oct. 28 as the public hearing date for opinions on the proposed historic district ordinance.
Residents living in the village’s historic district can expect to see notice of the hearing in their mailboxes this week, said Trustee Gary Symons at the Aug. 24 village council meeting, stressing the hearing is limited to property owners in the designated district.
? Reward offered for sign thief: The Oakland County Chamber of Commerce through its Silent Observer Program is offering up to a $500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the June theft of over $700 worth of Clarkston Village street signs.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? Merchants Plan Annual Golf Day: Wednesday, August 29, will be Clarkston’s Annual Golf Day when all male golfers are urged to participate.
? Vows Spoken In Drayton Plains: On Friday evening, August 17, at eight o’clock the United Presbyterian Church in Drayton Plains was the scene of a pretty wedding when Betty Jane Fowler and Wayne L. Morgan spoke their nuptial vows to the Reverend Walter J. Teeuwissen in a candlelight service before one hundred and fifty guests.
? Rotary Hears Talk By Dr. Buehrig: The regular meeting of the Clarkston Rotary Club was held on Monday evening at the Community Center. Thee speaker of the evening was Robert C. Buehrig, M.D., who related some of his experiences as a doctor in the United States Army while stationed in Japan.
? Attention! Football Players: Football practice starts at Clarkston School on Monday, August 27. All boys with uniforms are to report at 9:00 A.M. Any new boys are to report between 9:00 A.M. and noon.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
‘Boys drawings keep two in court: Drawings by a 5-year-old boy helped a judge decide to send two 23-year-old Independence Township men to Oakland County Circuit Court Aug. 15 on charges of child abuse and criminal sexual conduct.
? Lightning claims life of golfer: Three golfers were struck by lightning at the Heather Highlands Golf Course in Springfield Township last Thursday, resulting in the death of one man.
At 5:50 p.m., Aug. 15, the trio was hit while taking shelter under an apple tree on the fifth hole of the course. Elwynn Hillman, assistant chief of the Springfield Township Fire Department, said the lightning bolt stuck the ground near the tree and entered the men’s feet via the ground.
? Labor Day parade plans in place: Floats, musicians and festive bicycles and vehicles are wanted for Clarkston’s annual Labor Day parade.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Smith, village clash on M-15 stance: Clarkston Village Council Trustee Jackson Byers is adamant that M-15 south of the village, from Waldon to Paramus road, shall not be widened.
Independence Township Supervisor James B. Smith is not making any promises.
While both men agreed Clarkston’s Main Street should remain undisturbed, the possible chasm developed when Byres and other council members queried Smith at the Aug. 10 meeting, intent on discovering more of the state’s plan to widen M-15.
? Council seeks thief catchers: Angered by vandals and thieves defacing and stealing public property, Clarkston’s Village Council is gearing up to fight back and has begun investigating secret witness programs to apprehend lawbreakers.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? Edison Opens New Building: Dedication ceremonies Tuesday, August 14, marked the completion of Detroit Edison’s new combined Oakland district headquarters and local customer office. The modern one-story office building, located at West Huron and Pine Streets in Pontiac, opens for business on August 15th.
? School Tax Explained: The State Tax Commission approval of Independence Township’s appeal for a greater share of the allocated 15 mill tax, limited the Clarkston Schools to the lowest school operating tax rate ($8.40) in Oakland County while granting Independence Township the highest tax rate (1.92) of any township in the county.
? Fire Fighters Host Association: On Tuesday, August 21, the Independence Township Fire Department will be host at a meeting of the recently organized North East Oakland County Fire Fighters Association. This will be a join business and social meeting.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
‘Dugan Fife selects Michigan: Dugan Fife has heard plenty of University of Michigan stories from his father, Dan.
But on Tuesday afternoon, the Clarkston High School senior began the first chapter of his Wolverine story. At a press conference in the school’s library. Dugan announced he had given a verbal commitment to accept a scholarship to play basketball for Michigan.
? Springfield files suit over horse ranch: A lawsuit filed last week in Oakland County Circuit Court could determine whether 17 horses may remain on a Springfield Township parcel.
However, one of the owners of the parcel claims the motive behind the lawsuit is not over the number of horses but rather over the race of the children who ride the horses.
? Free music in Depot Park: Members of the public are invited to take part in the third annual Community Praise Festival.
Planned for 6-7:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 25, the festival includes performances by area talent and sing-alongs.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Board defends 7% salary increases: The Clarkston schools board of education stood firm on its decision to grant 7 percent salary increases to administrators and other non-affiliated supervisory personnel Monday night.
Although the salary increases were not on the meeting agenda, several of the 36 persons in the audience commented on the raises and board members willingly discussed their decision.
? Theft spurs $50 reward offer: Pilfered swimming markers and a string of floats have prompted the Deer Farms Homeowners? Association to offer $50 for their return.
One strip of floats was removed from the subdivision beach last week, said secretary Betty Wagner, so the neighbors began a beach patrol.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? School Bonds Sold To The Lowest Bidder: The Board of Education took bids for the sale of $500,000.00 worth of bonds on Tuesday, July 31, 1956.
? According to the Lake Orion Review purse strings as well as heartstrings have opened for the family of three-year-old Martha Little of Lake Orion, who met a brutal death in a field in Independence Township on July 27.
? Get Ready Now For Labor Day Parade: The Clarkston Rotary Club has started plans for the Annual Labor Day Parade on Monday, September 3. Everyone is cordially invited to participate. Remember this will be the last celebration for the summer. The adults are urged to join in the fun and get in line along with the children, floats, etc.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
‘Fear keeps boy from testifying: In apparent fear of two men who are charged with abusing him, a 5-year-old boy looked away from the suspects as he was led into the courtroom.
When 52 nd District Court Judge Gerald McNally asked the young blue-eyed, blond boy if there was anyone in the courtroom the boy wished to have ‘kicked out,? the child pointed to his father and the father’s friend.
? Defeat for park issue: Parks and recreation officials will have to find another way to pay for operations in Independence Township.
Voters expressed their feelings on further taxation as they downed a proposed operating millage for the parks and recreation department by a two-to-one margin.
? Principal takes Fenton job: After five years at the helm of Clarkston High School, Principal Robert Burek is moving on.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? CHS lights hit heights: After a six-month absence, a set of field lights is again standing at the Clarkston High School athletic field.
Installation of the six new light poles ? each of which weighs over three tons ? took about six hours last Saturday. But event though the new lights are in place, contributions are still being sought to finance the final wiring and aiming of the lights.
? Pine Knob developers clash, Borg-Warner lawsuit also names Independence Township: Pine Knob Investment Co. and Independence Township are back in court, but this time the fracas is over the resort’s halfway house down the hill from the Hamburger Mansion and both Pine Knob and the township have been named in a lawsuit by Borg-Warner Equities.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? Child Killer Arraigned Tuesday: Last Friday, Howard Wayne Moore, 23, brought a 3 year old girl, Martha Little, from neighboring Lake Orion, to Independence Township, in the vicinity of Sashabaw and Maybe Roads, and by his own admission, did ‘feloniously, willfully and of his malice aforethought, did kill and murder, Martha Little.?
? Banker Serves Twenty-Five Years: August 1st, 1956 marked the twenty-fifth anniversary of Robert L. Jones? association with the Clarkston State Bank. He was employed as a teller right after graduation from Clarkston High School, and has progressed to the office of Executive Vice-President.
? Special Services At Baptist Church: The Dixie Baptist Church, 3505 Dixie Highway, Clarkston, will celebrate with special services its second anniversary, August 5.
? Plans Completed For School Reunion: Plans are completed for the Clarkston School Reunion at the Community Center on Saturday, August 11, starting at 11 a.m.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
‘Pair charged with molesting boy: A father and his friend have been charged with sexually abusing a 5-year-old boy.
? Concours, ice cream in Depot Park: Clarkston area residents will be within driving distance of three vintage car events Aug. 2-4.
The Concours in Depot Park in downtown Clarkston is 6-9 p.m. Friday, Aug. 2. The annual event features a display of vintage race cars, live music by the Dixie Strollers Dixieland Band and an ice cream social to benefit SCAMP.
? Springfield man killed in crash: Kurt Lyn Wert, 24, of Springfield Township was fatally injured in a one-car accident July 26.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Village nixes Deer Lake boat ramp: Clarkston Village Council is laying down the law ? and says there’ll be no improved boat launch at Deer Lake Beach.
At the July 27 meeting, upon advice from their attorney, council members agreed that since Independence Township leases the land from the village for Deer Lake Beach, Clarkston ultimately as landlord has the last say in what construction is done there.
? Deer Lake residents move to block launch: If the choice is up to Ronald Turner, there’ll be no improved boat launch at Deer Lake Beach.
Turner, a waterfront homeowner on Hillside Drive, Independence Township, is rallying residents to block the planned boat launch improvement to be paid for with $5,995 in federal revenue sharing money.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? Rotary Governor Visits Clarkston: On Monday evening the Governor of this Rotary District, G. Clarence Nichols of Blenheim, Ontario, made a visit to the Clarkston Rotary Club. This was his annual visit and coming so early in the Rotary year , served to give the club something to work for, instead of reviewing activities as the Governor would have done if the visit had been later.
? Clarkston Team Wins Again: On Thursday evening of last week, the Clarkston Merchants outplayed the Pontiac Mets by a score of 22-3. The Clarkston battery was Wilmot and Shadowen. Chuck Hancock won the scoring with 4 for 4.
? Ronk’s Barber Shop Gets New Look: Ronk’s Barber Shop at 25 South Main Street, Clarkston, has acquired a new look ? one of those 1956 looks. The shop has been enlarged and newly decorated with restful colors of green and gold. New Koch equipment has been installed ? the chairs are the very latest.
? You Are Invited To Visit Store: A cordial invitation to visit O’Dell’s Drug Store is being extended to everyone this weekend by Rowena O’Dell and Keith Hallman, proprietors.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
‘Absentee ballots available: IF you can’t make it to the polls for the Aug. 6 parks and recreation millage election, there’s still time to fill out an absentee ballot.
The Independence Township Clerk’s office is presently distributing absentee ballots to all registered voters.
? Final free concert: The season’s final free concert in Clarkston’s Depot Park takes place 7-9 p.m. Friday, July 26.
The Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra includes 17-18 of the Detroit area’s finest musicians. The group plays big band standards and contemporary jazz from Glen Miller, Count Basie, Frank Sinatra, Maynard Ferguson and Spirow Gyra.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? 7% salary hike for administrators: Wage hikes of 7 percent have been granted to most Clarkston schools? administrators and non-affiliated supervisory personnel. The exception is a 10-percent increase for the food service supervisor.
The school board approved the salary increases in a 5-2 vote last week after meeting in a closed session for about one hour.
? Village seeks free flag for park: Clarkston Village Council Trustee James Schultz is making a plea to patriots in and around town.
Schultz is looking for a star spangled banner to decorate the flag pole in the village’s Depot Road Park.
? Parking promises: A new 40-car parking lot is slated for a parcel of land at Dixie Highway and I-75 in Springfield Township this fall.
‘This new lot won’t be far from the existing lot at I-75 and M-15,? said Bill Schram of the Michigan Department of Transportation. ‘We’re hoping this will take care of some of the overflow from there.?

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? School Buildings As Scheduled: The building program of the Clarkston Community Schools has been proceeding as scheduled. This $1,200,000 program consists of additions to the High School, the Clarkston Elementary and a new elementary building on Sashabaw Road.
? Young People Form Ginny Doll Club: A Ginny Doll Club has been formed for the young girls of Clarkston.
? District Governor To Visit Rotary: Next Monday evening, July 23, the Rotary Club of Clarkston will be host to G. Clarence Nichols, Governor of District 222 R. I. who is making his annual visit to the 44 clubs in this part of Michigan and Ontario.
? Pioneers Picnic Thursday, July 26: The Clarkston Pioneers will meet on Thursday, July 26 for a picnic on the grounds at the Jack Chisholm home on Miller Road.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
‘Business, homeowners survive storm: Some area residents resorted to picnicking during a power outage caused by the July 7 storm.
However, most Detroit Edison customers would agree that the blackout ? the worst in history for the Oakland County area ? was no picnic.
The Clarkston and Davisburg area suffered much tree and shrub damage, as well as damage to homes and other structures.
? Bopping to banjos: Back by popular demand, the Auto City Banjos will liven up Clarkston’s Depot Park with a free concert Friday, July 19.
The 15 banjo players from the Flint area were well liked last year, said concert organizer Don Brose, adding that the group’s proceeds are donated to charity.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? M-15 widening out until cost shared: If Independence Township is willing to promise $100,000 to pay its share of the drainage improvements proposed for M-15 south of the village, then the state is willing to have a consultant review alternatives to the proposed five-lane widening.
If Independence does not agree to take on the cost of the drainage construction, then the state will not move to widen M-15 to five lanes, and instead may just review intersection improvements.
? Engineers ask payment from Independence: Former Independence engineers Johnson & Anderson of Pontiac have come to collect their due, but the township’s escrow account has dwindled to $2,000 and the firm’s bill is $11,050.
? Springfield shys at TV action: Springfield Township is in no hurry to jump on the cable TV bandwagon.
By unanimous vote, the Springfield Township board agreed at its regular meeting July 8 to drop out of a planned meeting later this month between several townships to discuss the future of cable television.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? School District Boundaries Altered: February 16, 1956, the County Board of Education took action to transfer all of Independence Township (except the South half of Sec. 32 and S. W. ? of Sec. 33) from the Waterford Township School District to the Clarkston Community School District.
? Crowd Here For Celebration: It seems that each year the Fourth of July crowd in Clarkston grows. This year the Firemen planned a full day and everyone had a good time. The parade in the morning started the program. The veterans with the colors led the march to the music of the school band. The firemen, in uniform, followed the band.
? Wilberg Elected To School Board: At the Clarkston Community Schools Annual Election held on Monday, Walter Wilberg was elected to the School Board. He defeated Kenneth Thayer by 10 votes.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
‘Storm slashes trees, wires, homes: High winds and rain battered Independence and Springfield townships Sunday night, leaving toppled trees, fires and damage of all types in their wake.
The Independence Township Fire Department responded to 80-100 calls during the course of the July 7 storm.
? Five wells contaminated: Recent water tests mean bottled water for a few Clarkston residents.
Residents in five Clarkston homes have been told that their water is contaminated, and village manager Art Pappas has been frustrated in tracking down the source of the problem.
Pappas said since May 13, at least five residents near the intersection of M-15 and Clarkston Road have received letters from the Michigan State Department of Public Health stating that their water is contaminated.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Women join in suit against school, They charge misrepresentation; PBI attorney dubs suit ‘cheap crap?: Seven women, two of whom are Clarkston-area residents, have filed a joint lawsuit in Oakland County Circuit Court against Pontiac Business Institute’s Oxford School of Business, charging the school misrepresented itself to students.
The school’s attorney, Dennis L. Carmichael, called the suit ‘cheap crap? and ‘nonsense at the highest level,? and refused to respond to the allegations, as did the school’s President Howard Weaver.
? Music awaits: Free concerts by a 31-piece band await in the Clarkston Depot Road Park each Friday evening at 7. They’re sponsored by the Clarkston Business Association.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? School Election Monday, July 9: Kenneth Thayer and Walter Wilberg have filed nominating petitions for membership on the Clarkston Community School Board.
The school election will be held July 9, at the Clarkston Elementary School on Waldon Road for the purpose of electing one board member for a term of three years.
? New Pastor At Methodist Church: Last week the new pastor of The First Methodist Church Clarkston assumed his new parish responsibilities arriving from The Woodmere Methodist Church in Detroit.
? Baptist Ladies Host Pioneers: On Thursday afternoon of last week the Clarkston Pioneers were entertained at a luncheon and program at the Clarkston Baptist Church by the ladies of the church.
? Clarkston Team Has Winning Streak: The Clarkston Merchants Baseball Team, Class E, sponsored by Clarkston business men, is playing good ball and should have sideline support from Clarkston baseball fans. Leo Armstrong of Clarkston is the manager and assistant manager is Larry Powell.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
‘Report: Few dropouts: Apparently, word of the national education system’s demise hasn’t reached the Clarkston area yet.
According to the Clarkston Community Schools 1990-1991 Annual Report, this district isn’t about to fall under a shroud of illiteracy as many of this country’s doomsayers predict.
Statistics show quite the contrary. The two factors hurting the nation’s schools ? student dropouts and the lack of adult interaction ? are two of Clarkston’s strong points.
? When the saints come marching in?: Dixieland jazz music is the forte of The Pontiac Playboys Jazz Band, who will perform Friday in Clarkston’s Depot Park.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Company seeks 5 more years, Salemn gravel pit requests mining extension: J.P. Burrough’s Aggregate Division is seeking an extension to mine gravel from the 200-acre Salemn pit on Oak Hill Road, Independence Township.
The pit has been in operation since 1960. It is now bound by a 1977 consent judgement which extended the pit’s operation an additional five years with specific plans for restoration of the 200-acre site.
While the operation should be winding to a close by the end of April 1982, it appears mining may continue at least until 1987, with an additional year for reclamation, following a written request by Burrough’s aggregate division President E. John Perry.
? Ka-boom!: The roar of fireworks and their bright colors are to light up the skies over the Pontiac Mall on Friday, July 3.
The annual free event sponsored by the mall is to begin at dusk in the parking lot. Co-sponsor this year is WPON Radio.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? Celebrate July Fourth In Clarkston: Bang! Bang! The Fourth of July program will be off with a bang in Clarkston when the parade starts at ten o’clock in the morning. All of the participants are asked to be at the Methodist Church corner in plenty of time so that every event will take place as scheduled.
? Reception Sunday At Seymour Lake: Next Sunday afternoon from 3 to 5 o’clock a reception will be held in the basement of the Seymour Lake Methodist Church to welcome Reverend and Mrs. Isaac R. McPhee.
? Scouts Arrive For First Roundup: The schedule for the arrival of the special Girl Scout Roundup trains has the girls from the western half of the nation arriving in Detroit on Thursday of this week and Scouts from the eastern half on Friday.
? Rotarians Hear Winning Orator: The Clarkston Rotary Club had the privilege of hearing the speech of Sheldon Smith, who won second place in the National Oratorical Contest, at its meeting Monday, held at the Community Center.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
‘Strike ends: Strikers were back to work at Clawson Tank in Springfield Township after a contract agreement was reached last week.
Some workers were called back to work June 12 to start up the lines.
‘There were a lot of little things that each side gave on, but the major issue was the health benefit program,? said Earl Walker, vice president of Local 614 of the Teamsters union.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Vandals wreak havoc in Clarkston: As schools close for the summer and malicious activity at the Clarkston Mills Mall increases, merchants gear up to face the onslaught of thievery, vandalism and pranks.
Every day business owners are haunted by returning bands of junior high students who verbally abuse store owners and apparently take a perverse delight in destruction.
Their primary targets are the public bathrooms, the elevator and their newest tactic, racing bicycles from one end of the mall to the other.
? Hello: This week and next, The Clarkston News will provide ‘blanket coverage? of all rural route patrons of the Clarkston Post Office.
Each week readers will find an envelope and ‘flyer? telling about The News and a bonus coupon for want ads. You can get $6 in want ads plus The News for 52 weeks for just $5.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? Work Started On School Buildings: Bids were accepted May 23 for the addition to the Clarkston Elementary School and the new elementary school.
? Get Ready For Big Celebration: The big celebration of the summer will soon take place. The Fire Fighters are planning an exciting program for the Fourth of July, starting with a parade at 9:00 o’clock. Children’s events will follow.
? Township Zoning To Be Discussed: Township zoning problems will be discussed at a conference to be held at the Independence Township Hall in Clarkston, on Monday, June 18, beginning at 8:00 P.M.
? School Tax Rate Slightly Lower: The school tax rate for the year 1956-57 will be slightly lower than the tax rate of the last fiscal year.
? Listings Solicited For Calendar: When members of the Clarkston Community Women’s Club come to your door selling listings for the Community Birthday Calendar they want you to realize that your Township Library gets most of its financial help from the proceeds of the calendar sale.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
‘Millage: thumbs up, Downs falls; Thomas re-elected; Karlstrom, Helpern newcomers: The Clarkston school election resulted in the demise of an incumbent and a close approval of a millage renewal.
Despite the efforts of 1,202 no voters June 10, the school’s operating millage passed with 1,595 residents casting yes votes. The election also saw incumbent Durham Downs turn his four-year seat over to Kurt Karstrom in the school board race.
? Millage goes before residents: The future progression of the Independence Township Parks and Recreation Department could be on the line Aug. 6.
On June 4, the township board unanimously voted to conduct an operating millage election for the parks and recreation department. The millage will come before the residents Aug. 6, with the township seeking not more than one mill over five years.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? 52.7 percent say ‘yes? to school millage, Carolyn Place, Stephen Werner win board seats: Voters rallied around the financially troubled Clarkston school district Monday by approving a 3-mill tax hike for 10 years in a vote of 2,657 to 2,382, a 52.7 percent margin of victory.
From the field of nine candidates for two-year terms on the Clarkston Board of Education, voters chose incumbent Carolyn Place and newcomer Stephen Werner.
? Rose celebrates 100th: Rose Fiedrich’s 100th birthday party Sunday was a fitting tribute to a perky, charming woman.
As the crows of some 65 expected guests began arriving, Rose sat in the backyard under a canopy, shading her from the bright sun. She shook hands, smiled and said, ‘I remember you,? a lot.
? Patriots unite: ‘The Good Old Days? ? whatever they were for you or your group, it’s time to reminisce.
Plans are underway for the July 4th parade and float builders or individual paraders are asked to help illustrate that theme.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? Seniors To Receive Diplomas Monday: High School days are about to end for the members of the 1956 graduating class.
The Baccalaureate Service will be held in the High School Auditorium on Sunday evening, June 10, at eight o’clock. The Reverend F. Robert Wilkie, pastor of Sashabaw Presbyterian Church, will preach the sermon.
? Ten-Year Old Struck By Car: On Tuesday evening of last week Herbert Green, ten-year old son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Green, suffered head and chest injuries and a compound fracture of the left leg when he was struck by a car on South Main Street.
? Rotary Anns Install Officers: The Clarkston Rotary Anns closed the season on Tuesday with an installation luncheon at Old Mill Tavern.

Independence Township
May 20: Employees at a golf course on Waldon Road discovered a golf cart in a pond on the course. According to reports, the cart suffered water damage and would not start. Employees also found empty beer cans and holes poked into the green on another hole.
May 22: Window on door broken at a business on Sashabaw Road overnight. Nothing was reported missing.
An arrest warrant issued for a 21-year-old Waterford man following a traffic stop for driving with a suspended license, second offense, expired license plate, possession of drug paraphernalia and accepting and concealing stolen property.
May 23: Arrest warrant issued for 21-year-old Holly man for marijuana possession on Dixie Highway.
An in-dash stereo/CD player and portable CD player stolen from two unlocked vehicles on Crestview Drive. One vehicle sustained significant damage to its dashboard during the attempted theft. The other vehicle did not have any damage.
Resident called police to complain about noise from the Oakland County Sportsman’s Club on Waterford Road around 7:45 p.m. Police arrived at the club at 7:57 p.m. and observed a small blue midget vehicle driving around the track. The man claimed to be a club board trustee.
A soundboard was stolen from a church on Maybee Road. A window on one of the doors was found shattered during the investigation. The K-9 Unit was brought to the scene, but did not find a trail leading away from the building. The dog did however lead police to a room with a desk flipped over and the soundboard missing.
Meadows Drive resident reported fraudulent activity on credit card totaling $193.
Fifty CD’s stolen from a car, no force, on Chickadee Lane.
36-year-old Clarkston man arrested for disorderly conduct, public drunkenness around 2:45 p.m. Police were called to a beach on Clarkston Road near N. Eston Road to check on the well being of two people who were heard yelling. After police discovered a large, nearly empty bottle of vodka at the scene, they had both people submit to a breath test. The man blew a .30 and was transported to POH emergency for observation during detoxification. A woman with the man was released after her breath test was satisfactory.
May 24: Cecelia Ann Avenue resident reported receiving a bill from law offices in New York which stated he had an outstanding balance of $655.33 on a wireless phone bill. The man stated in reports the account is fraudulent as he did not authorize the account.
A 15-year-old juvenile lodged at Children’s Village for resisting and obstructing arrest after police found two youths allegedly shooting off fireworks and possessing tobacco. Police were called to the area for possible gun shots. After police were unable to make contact with anyone in the apartment, they kicked in the door and found the two juveniles inside. One of the juveniles was sent home with a guardian, while the other was placed in a patrol car until protective services arrived. Protective services were called due to the condition of the apartment in which the youths were found. The youth placed in the patrol car reportedly kicked the seats, hit the door and window, spit at officers and made threats. He was uncooperative with the protective services staff who arrived. Officials determined he could not be released to family in his condition.
Resident called police for a noise complaint at the Oakland County Sportsman’s Club on Waterford Road around 6:23 p.m. Police went to the nearby race track around 6:45 p.m. and found all the race cars on trailers and the race area unoccupied. Police were unsuccessful in locating a manager or owner of the facility at the scene.
Two Pontiac men arrested following an investigation of an attempted larceny from a business on Sashabaw Road. Store employees called police after they stopped the 28-year-old man from trying to leave the store with several items including two Dr. Pepper 20 ounce sodas, two packages of socks, two packages of t-shirts and 43 assorted DVD’s. The items were valued at $803.
May 25: Two robotics kits stolen from business on Dixie Highway.
Misty Hill Road resident reported an unknown person made three fraudulent purchases on her credit car totaling $414.90.
26-year-old Clarkston man arrested for operating his motor vehicle while intoxicated on Maybee Road at 2:17 a.m. P.B.T. results were .173.

Springfield Township
May 20: Shed on King Road broken into and several items stolen including a power generator, outboard motor and power washer.
May 23: Two saws stolen from home under construction on College Park.
Plastic bottle filled with rocks thrown through a side window of a trailer on Louise Road.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
‘Holdup, Man charged in robbery: A 40-year-old Springfield Township man has been charged in connection with a bank robbery in Metamora Township, Lapeer County, last week.
William J. Hastie was arrested May 21 on charges that he robbed the Lapeer County Bank and Trust at M-24 and Pratt Road, Metamora Township, around 12:30 p.m., last Tuesday.
? Floats, music wanted for July 4th: Plans for Clarkston’s Fourth of July celebration are shaping up, according to Capt. Mike Fahrner of the Independence Township Fire Department.
? Group pushes for YMCA center: A small group of Independence Township residents are trying to garner community support for the creation of a YMCA center in the Clarkston area.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Blaze guts Independence business: Firefighters from six departments battled a Friday afternoon blaze the destroyed the main building of the moon Valley Rustic Furniture Co., located at 6465 Dixie Highway in Independence Township.
? Machus plans July opening: If’s official ? a Machus restaurant is coming to The Clarkston Mills shopping mall.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? Changes Made In School System: Several changes are being made in the school system to improve the services and to adequately handle the increased number of enrollments and additional facilities and personnel.
? Large Crowd At Reception Sunday: Approximately 350 attended the reception at the Clarkston Methodist Church last Sunday honoring the Reverend and Mrs. Robert M. Atkins who will leave in June to make their home in California.
? H.S. Addition To Be Started: bids were taken Wednesday, May 16, for the high school addition. Bids were received 17 companies.
? Rotary Anns Elect Officers: On Tuesday evening the Clarkston Rotary Anns met at the home of Mrs. F.E. Davies on S. Holcomb Street. Mrs. Garnet Poulton was the co-hostess.
? Sandusky Mayor In Clarkston: Exchange Mayor Finkbeiner of Sandusky was welcomed to Clarkston Monday, with Mrs. Finkbeiner and party of four councilmen and their wives.
? Revival Meetings At Dixie Baptist: Evangelist Jim Mercer will be conducting a series of revival meetings each night at 7:30, May 28 through June 3.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
‘A Memorial Day parade and cemetery ceremony Monday, May 27, honors those who died in the defense of their country.
? Dandelion blows in with the breeze: By 9:15 a.m. Monday, May 20, about 50 people had already been treated to a close-up look at Lucky Fletcher’s 29-inch-long dandelion ? mounted with clear tape onto flexible glass.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Ditches blamed for Mill Pond mess, Subdivision retention basin exonerated by village engineers? study: It’s the opinion of Mosher-Kapelczak, Clarkston Village engineers, the Deer Lake Farms retention basin is functioning correctly ? and not dirtying up the waters of the Mill Pond.
Engineers have pinpointed the ditches along Holcomb Road as the source of some of the Mill Pond sedimentation, and they lay the finger of blame on the repaving of the roadway.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? Sandusky Mayor To Visit Clarkston: The annual Mayor’s Exchange Day, Monday, May 21st, sends us Mayor Finkbeiner of Sandusky.
? Ground Breaking Takes Place Sunday: Climax to the third great step in the development of St. Andrew’s Episcopal Mission, Drayton Plains, came Monday night when All Saints Parish Vestry, the sponsoring religious corporation for the Mission, okayed the financing and building plans for the first unit of St. Andrew’s new church home.
? Men’s Club To Hear History Of County: On Thursday evening, tonight, the Men’s Club will meet at the Methodist Church for the regular monthly dinner-meeting.
? Special Clinic For Palsied Children: Parents of cerebral palsied children who want to learn the proper treatment for their children will have the opportunity June 6-7 when one of the country’s six specialists conducts a clinic here.
? Interesting Letter From Heidelberg: An interesting letter was received this week from Sylvia Petersen who is studying in Heidelberg, Germany. Sylvia is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Albert Petersen of Orion Road.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
‘Options target overcrowding: A range of options for potentially overcrowded Clarkston schools was unveiled to school board members at the regular meeting May 13.
The administration recommendations were requested by the board after residents voted down new construction in last February’s bond election. The board took no action on the list of options and there was little discussion.
? Squirrel cuts power to church: A squirrel climbing some electrical wires caused a tree fire and lost its life in the process on Mother’s Day.
About 10 a.m. Sunday, May 12, fifth-grade children took advantage of the warm weather and studied outside during their Sunday school class at Calvary Lutheran Church, Bluegrass Drive, Independence Township, said the Rev. Robert Walters.
? Woman found dead in Springfield: The body of a 42-year-old Flint woman was discovered in a rural part of Springfield Township May 11.
Lt. Robert Smith of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department said Springfield residents stumbled onto the remains of JoAnne Dawkins about 1- a.m., Saturday. The body was found along the side of Bridge Lake Road, north of Davisburg Road.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Secret meeting theory surfaces, Knob attorney charges ‘serious cover-up;? ZBA members don’t remember: Alleging a ‘serious cover-up,? attorney Anthony Locricchio says the reason Pine Knob Investment Co. wants members of Independence Township’s Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) questioned under oath is to establish ‘they held an illegal meeting? during review of the proposed 20-story, ski-run-roof hotel in October 1979.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? Area Women Honor Mrs. Atkins: As most of the folks in Clarkston and vicinity know, the Reverend and Mrs. R.M. Atkins are expecting to move to California this summer, most likely in June. They are looking forward to a much needed rest from many years of work in the Methodist Church.
? Rotarians To Hear Alaskan Prospector: Clarkston Rotarians and their wives will join the Waterford-Drayton and Ortonville clubs next Tuesday night, May 15, at a special ladies? night program at Community Activities Center on Williams Lake Road. The featured speaker will be Harold Eide, authority on Alaska who has spent 25 years in that country as prospector, miner and Eskimo trader.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
? 2,000-plus and counting: There possibly has been no one like Chris Wasilk in the history of Clarkston Community Schools.
Wasilk, a Clarkston High School senior who will graduate June 12, hasn’t missed a day of school since his first day of kindergarten at North Sashabaw Elementary school 13 years ago.
? Cleanup days begin Saturday: Spring cleaning is getting a boost this weekend from Independence and Springfield townships and the Village of Clarkston.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Pine Knob proposes all-new hotel: For the past year, Independence Township and Pine Knob Investment Co. have been locked in a $30 million legal battle over a proposed ski-run-roof hotel.
Now willing to compromise, Pine Knob Co-owner Joseph Locricchio has informally presented the township with an alternative proposal.
? Carriage traffic to mansion adds romantic dining allure: In the evening, with candle-lit lanterns glowing, horse-drawn 1860 opera carriages move up the winding road leading to Pine Knob’s Hamburger Mansion.
‘Doorbrides? and drivers dressed in jodphur-like pants, black knee high riding boots, top hats, and red, silk-lined capes aid passengers on and off the carriages with a flair for the romantic unseen since the 19th century.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? High School Ball Team Wins 2 out of 3: To date the Clarkston Wolves have played 3 games, 2 non-league games and 1 league game. The boys won the 2 non-league games with Fenton 11-7 and 3-1 over Oxford. They lost the one league game they have played 10-2 to Milford.
? District Scouts Hold Camporee: The annual ‘Early Bird? Camporee for the Manito District Scouts is to be held April 27, 28, 29 at Senator Higgins ‘Holiday Farm? which is located on the north side of Big Lake Road, west of U.S. 10.
? Rotary Anns Have April Meeting: On Tuesday evening the Clarkston Rotary Anns met at the home of Mrs. William Sharpe with Mrs. W.H. Stamp as co-hostess.
? Democratic Club In Northeast Oakland: First organizational meeting of the Northeast Oakland County Democratic Club, comprising Independence, Brandon, Oxford and Orion Townships, has been scheduled for Sunday, April 29.
? Music Association To Have Kick-Off: A kick-off dinner at 6:30 P.M. Monday will launch the one-week membership campaign of the Waterford Township Civic Music Association. Some 200 music enthusiasts will attend the affair and receive their kits of information and supplies for securing memberships.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
? Mandatory recycling coming soon: Residents should start practicing good recycling habits in Independence Township ? it could be mandatory by the fall.
The Independence Township board approved the first reading of an amendment to the solid waste ordinance April 16.
? Bacteria forces water shut-off: Higher-than-normal bacteria levels found in water samples at Clarkston High School prompted officials to shut wells at the building.
The bacteria was discovered late Thursday during a routine water check by the Oakland County Health Department.
? Winning a cool grand: Imagine being 10 years old and winning $10,000.
That dream became a reality for Independence Township resident Christopher Palmer April 12.
The youngster’s name was drawn in a raffle at Marian High School Birmingham. His 15-year-old sister Melissa sold him the winning ticket. She earned $500 at the raffle for selling the selected ticket.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? DNR plans Levy property inspection: Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) continues to review the Edward C. Levy Co.’s application for an Inland Lakes and Streams? permit needed to mine 400 acres in Independence Township near the headwaters of the Clinton River.
? Foster care home hits courts again: There’s new movement in Lake Oakland Woods subdivision’s legal battle to enforce its deed restrictions and oust an adult foster care home currently in the neighborhood.
? For nine months, residents have fought to limit use of homes there to single family, defined by deed restrictions as those related by blood, marriage or legal adoption.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? Changes Made On Rural Mail Routes: A new mail route is being established at Clarkston which means there will be a new carrier. All box holders should be sure to have their name on their box and all persons getting mail in other than their own box have mail addressed in care of the name on the box.
? The supply of Salk poliomyelitis vaccine in Oakland County is slowly increasing as had been anticipated, according to Dr. John D. Monroe, Medical Director of the Oakland County Health Department. However, patience and cooperation from parents are still necessary.
? Everyone in the Clarkston area is invited to visit the new home of The Clarkston News, their home town paper. Open House will be held at the new location, 5818 M-15 near Dixie Highway, on Friday afternoon, April 20, from 1:00 until 5:00.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
? Jury favors district in lawsuit ruling: The Clarkston school district emerged as the clear winner when the jury returned its verdict in a $3 million lawsuit filed against the district by architect Charles W. Sherman and Associates, Inc.
Though the Oakland County Circuit Court jury determined the district should pay the firm approximately $166,000 for various expenses and services, the panel ruled in favor of the district on the ‘tortuous interference? claim, a key element of the suit.
? Trailer mishap claims a life: A 74-year-old Independence Township man died last week after a travel trailer pinned him at his home.
Francis J. Rose, of Lakeview Drive, was pinned under his 16-foot trailer April 8 while changing the tires. Apparently, the jack slipped, trapping the retired Detroit police officer.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Administrators offer to take less: Six Clarkston schools administrators have stepped forward with offers to take reductions in salary increases for the 1981-82 school year.
? Fight goes on: Independence Township scoffs at court battle fatigue when it comes to adult foster care homes and enforcement of local zoning laws.
After months of skirmishes, the township lost its bid to prevent an adult foster care home, and in February Oakland County Circuit Court Judge James S. Thorburn allowed six developmentally disabled adults to move into Lake Oakland Woods subdivision.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? Juniors Present ‘Cheaper By The Dozen:? The Juniors of Clarkston High School will present ‘Cheaper by the Dozen? in the school auditorium on Thursday and Friday evenings, April 12 and 13.
? Open House At The Clarkston News: Next week The Clarkston News which is 27? years old, will start its 24th year with the present publisher. In recognition of this fact and to acquaint subscribers and friends with the new location, 5818 M-15, The Clarkston News will hold ‘open house? on Friday afternoon, April 20 from 1:00 until 5:00 o’clock.
? Scout Cookie Sale A Big Success: Mrs. Donald Redmond, cookie sale chairman for the North Oakland Girl Scout Council, is already thanking the communities this week for the splendid response to this year’s Cookie Sale, although it does not end until April 16.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
? Three seats attract six: Clarkston-area voters will choose from among six candidates for three school board positions in the June 10 annual school election.
Those running for seats included: Durham M. Downs, Kurt G. Karlstrom, David E. O’Ryan, Janet R. Thomas, Carol D. Balzarini and Joseph A. Helpern.
? Dropped wallet leads to thieves: Two men admitted to stealing nearly 30 shrubs after one of them lost his wallet at the scene of the crime.
The pair confessed to stealing over $600 worth of shrubbery from three Independence Township sites on April 4.
? Time changes in Clarkston: Time changed in downtown Clarkston this week ? with a little help from Cliff Hammond.
Hammond, owner of It’s About Time clock store in Independence Township, winds the clock on Main Street each week, oils the machinery once a year and changes the time twice a year for daylight savings time.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Township wins fights, County agrees to pay $448,000 sewer debt: Persistence has paid off for Independence Township in its dogged pursuit of $1.5 million in excess sewer construction funds at the county level.
Donald W. Ringler, manager of Oakland County’s Sewer, Water, Sold Waste Division, has agreed to make the township’s semi-annual sewer bond payment of $448,000 out of the $1.5 million account.
? 9 candidates file: The race is on for two seats on the Clarkston Board of Education. Nine petitions were filed at the administration office by the 4 p.m. deadline on Monday.
The nine candidates included: Hadyn Cook, Ann Glenn, Thomas Goldner, Gerald Harbaugh, Carolyn Place, Carole Rausch, Stephen Werner, Robert Clark and Douglas Roeser.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? Cancer Fund Campaign Starts Today: The American Cancer Society’s Crusade for Funds and Education will begin in the Clarkston area on Thursday, April 5th.
? Realty Firm In Clarkston: In the last few weeks, Clarkston’s first Real Estate firm was established when Howard Fox and Lloyd Kirby formed Clarkston Real Estate and opened their offices at 20 South Main.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
? Clarkston area spared brunt of storm: According to authorities in Springfield and Independence townships, last Wednesday’s storm didn’t cause substantial damage in the Clarkston area.
It did, however, wreak havoc in most of Oakland County where hundreds of trees fell, and nearly 77,000 Detroit Edison customers lost power.
? Time changes Sunday: We lose an hour this weekend due to daylight savings time. That means it will be a little darker when we wake up in the morning, but lighter when we go home at night.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Voters boost board salaries by 9%: Calls to freeze salaries of Independence Township’s elected officials failed at the annual meeting Saturday, as residents with a show of hands approved an approximate 9.3 percent pay hike for the coming 1981-82 year.
The increase boosts the supervisor’s salary over the $30,000 a year mark and ups the clerk’s and treasurer’s salaries by more than $2,000.
? Deadline looms for nominating petitions, Walters decides not to run for school board: After serving eight years on the Clarkston Board of Education, Robert Walters has decided not to seek re-election this year.
Incumbent Carolyn Place, who has also served eight years, said she does intend to run for office again.
? Easter egg hunt is on: For the next three weeks, The Clarkston News will be hiding Easter Eggs? in advertisements, headlines, stories, pictures and in the classifieds. Some merchants are offering prizes, so make sure you scan each week’s Clarkston News very carefully.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
? Easter Services In The Local Churches, Easter Season Begins Evangelistic Series: Reverend Ken Hasper, who has conducted three successful Gospel Campaigns at the Waterford Community Church will return Easter morning for a one week series, to close on Sunday, April 8.
? Make Easter Seals Mean Something: The crippled children appearing on the 1956 Easter Seal may symbolize more than a new hope for the crippled.
? Cancer Drive Starts Next Week: The residents of Independence Township are aware of the fact that the United Fund does not contribute to the Cancer Fund and because money is needed to carry on the fight against cancer, a drive is being planned to start the latter part of next week.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
? Mystery solved, Clarkston-area actress plays part in cracking case: An excited J.J. Allen telephoned The Clarkston News offices Thursday, March 21.
At first , the excitement seemed the normal reaction of an actress who had just appeared on national network television.
Allen, in fact, had appeared the night before on ABC’s ‘Unsolved Mysteries.? The Independence Township actress had been featured in The News last January, after she was chosen to portray a Coldwater, Mich., woman allegedly murdered by her husband last Easter Sunday.
? Easter egg hunt: Children have a chance to meet the Easter Chicken as well as hunt for eggs this weekend.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? She’s so glad she’s livin? in the USA: Leanne Reed was proud. The party in her first grade classroom at Andersonville Elementary School last week was just for her, and it was even more special than a birthday celebration.
She had become a citizen of the United States just the day before on March 17, and now it was time for her young friends to share in the excitement.
? $20,000 bond forfeiture asked, Township takes court action on Stickney pit: The Stolaruk Corp. has reached the end of the line as far as Independence Township is concerned.
The corporation failed to reclaim the Stickney gravel pit as outlined in a 1979 consent judgement and the township has moved for forfeiture of a $20,000 bond.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
‘School Athletes Honored At Banquet: On Monday evening a large crowd gathered in the cafeteria at the Clarkston High School for the sixteenth annual Athletic Banquet sponsored by the Clarkston Rotary Club. Jim Price and Keith Lowrie were co-chairmen of the affair.
? Operation Dress-Up Gets Underway: Miss Virginia Sink, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Floyd Sink, of 9940 Sashabaw Road, president of Soroptimist International of Detroit, announces that her group has launched OPERATION, DRESS-UP, a campaign for new shirts for boys 10-17 years of age.
? Plan To Attend Junior Play: The juniors of the Clarkston High School wish to remind everyone that the play ‘Cheaper By The Dozen? will be presented in the H.S. Auditorium on Thursday and Friday evenings, April 13 and 14.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
? Judge says ‘yes? to cityhood ruling: Another hurdle was passed in Clarkston’s run for cityhood last week, but the Independence Township Board has provided an additional roadblock.
On March 13, Oakland County Circuit Court Judge John O’Brien upheld the state Boundary Commission’s decision to give the village the right to incorporate as a city.
However, the Independence Township Board voted to appeal O’Brien’s decision at the March 19 meeting, pushing the case to the Michigan Court of Appeals. The motion to appeal passed 5-2, with Daniel Travis and John McCrary voting no.
? Take part in shaping schools: Community volunteers are asked to help Clarkston Schools act on an extensive improvement project.
The district school improvement plan was initiated last fall. The efforts satisfy new state law, Public Act 25, which requires each district in the state to complete improvement efforts.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Angry taxpayers try for lower assessments: Patience was short, tempers were high and agitation moved full-speed ahead, fueled by the long wait and shared horror stories.
Over 100 residents choked the basement, landing and stairs of the Independence Township Hall on the evening of March 10.
Armed with fistfuls of information to defend their positions, some faced a three-hour wait to appeal their 1981 tax assessments before the Board of Review.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
‘Annual Athletic Banquet Mon., March 19: On Monday, the 19th day of March, at 7:00 P.M. the Clarkston Rotary Club will sponsor the annual Athletic Banquet for those who have been active in athletics the past season at the Clarkston High School. The banquet will be held in the High School Cafeteria.
? Village Head Orders Police To Enforce Parking Rules: In a statement to The Clarkston News, Russell Coltson, President of Clarkston Village, stated that he had ordered the Village police to enforce all parking regulations in the village.
He stated the new signs would be erected immediately and that all violators would be issued tickets.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
? Needham resigns key board position: Clarkston Board of Education President John Needham has resigned his position on the school board.
Though the resignation becomes effective March 18 ? in time for a new candidate to run in the annual school election in June ? Needham will remain on the board for the duration of the current school year.
? Search for outstanding community people: Know an outstanding citizen or volunteer in the Clarkston community?
If so, you may want to nominate him or her for a community award.
? Three re-elected to village seats: Three Clarkston Village Council trustees, running unopposed, were re-elected; but two write-in candidates picked up a large share of the votes in the March 11 general election.
Douglas Roeser received 80 votes, James Schultz 69 and Robert Whitmer 67 to again earn two-year terms.
Write-in candidates Thomas Goldner and Geraldine Hunter received 47 and 46 votes, respectively; and write-in (formerly village council president) Carol Eberhardt had two votes.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? School board approves budget cuts: The first cuts of staff and activities planned for the Clarkston school district for the 1981-82 school year are now official.
The school board agreed unanimously Monday night to eliminate all interscholastic sports and extracurricular activities and to no longer offer driver’s education.
The board also unanimously agreed to notify Athletic Director Paul Tungate and Clarkston High School Vocational Education Director Marvin Hess of pending layoffs.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
‘Easter Seal Sale Starts March 10: Volunteers representing groups of all kinds in Oakland County are spending afternoons and evenings in club houses, living rooms and at headquarters of the Oakland County Society for Crippled Children, hard at the task of helping crippled children.
? Proclamation By Village President: A village plea on behalf of crippled children was issued by President Russell H. Coltson in a proclamation which officially opened the 1956 Easter Seal campaign in Clarkston.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
? Crash kills little girl: Icy road conditions are being blamed for a March 3 traffic accident that killed an 11-year-old Springfield Township girl in Orion Township.
The incident occurred at 1:44 p.m., and Wendy Upton of Carriage Trail was pronounced dead shortly after 3 p.m. at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, Pontiac. She was buried at Ottawa Park Cemetery, Independence Township, March 6.
? Progress ?91 this week: This week’s Clarkston News marks the 20th year of our annual Progress advertising edition.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? School millage to hit June 8 ballot, Talks about where to cut district budget continue: A millage request for Clarkston schools will appear on the June 8 ballot, but the amount the schools will ask voters to approve has yet to be set.
The school board voted unanimously to place a millage request on the ballot at the Feb. 24 special meeting.
? March for Loyalty Day: The Clarkston VFW Post is looking for persons interested in participating in the Loyalty Day Parade planned in downtown Clarkston on Saturday, May 2.
The parade is sponsored by the Oakland Veterans of Foreign Wars and its theme is ‘Loyalty to Our Country.?

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
‘Rotarians Hold Annual Farmers? Night: Once a year the Clarkston Rotary Club entertains the farmers and former farmers of the surrounding territory at one of its weekly meetings. The meeting this year was held last Monday at the Community Center.
President Ronald A. Walter called the group to dinner and Al Lee gave the invocation.
? School Bond Issue Approved Monday: The electors of the Clarkston Community School District approved the bond issue at the special election held February 27, 1956, by an overwhelming majority of 80 percent.
? Clarkston’s History Now In Library: If you are interested in the early history of Clarkston and the surrounding townships, you will be happy to learn that the Independence Township Library has recently purchased the ‘History of Oakland County? form 1817 to 1877.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
? Barn fire, Firefighters battle blaze seven hours: Authorities are still investigating the cause of a fire that destroyed a Springfield Township barn last weekend.
About 4:30 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 23, the Springfield Township Fire Department rushed to a Scott Road homestead to combat a reported blaze. Upon arrival, they discovered a large barn fire on the property of Lloyd Vergin.
? Residential assessments up 8 percent in township: If you own property in Independence Township, you probably have already received your assessment change notice.
And if you’re like most residents in the township, your property probably increased in assessed value ? on average by 8 percent, according to township assessor David Kramer.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Economy, law change mean more civil suits: A doctor, unable to collect payment from an uninsured patient, looks to the district court on procedure for filing suit in small claims court.
When a fuel bill goes unpaid, the company’s owner steers himself to the courthouse and goes after payment before a judge.
The list of recent court actions goes on with landlord/tenant suits, gas companies, seeking payment from credit card holders and those collecting on auto accidents.
? Judge allows adult foster care home to fill to capacity: Independence Township is sitting high on an observation platform with telescope in hand when it comes to the adult foster care home in Lake Oakland Woods subdivision.
Last Friday, Oakland County Circuit Court Judge James S. Thorburn lifted the temporary restraining order and in doing so allowed two additional developmentally disabled adults to move into the home at 5127 Timber Ridge Trail.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
‘Vote on School Bond Monday, Feb. 27: Monday, February 27, 1956 is the date of the Special Election, at which time the voters of this school district will vote on a bond issue of $1,200,000.
? Slate Named At Citizens Caucus: The following nominations were made at the Citizens Caucus held at the Village Hall on February 20: president, Russell Coltson; clerk Ralph Thayer; treasurer, Mary Baldwin; assessor, Lloyd Sibley; trustees for 2-year terms, A.E. Butters, Edward Thomson, Herbert Beach. Election for the above named offices is on March 12.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
? Study predicts more traffic snarls: Over the next 20 years, a majority of the thoroughfares in and around Independence Township could exceed the roadways capabilities.
? First-grader breaks birthday traditions: After breaking her arm twice at two consecutive Feb. 2 birthday parties, 8-year-old Courtney Taylor of Independence Township has had enough birthday surprises for a while.
When Courtney broke her arm last year on Feb. 2 at her cousin’s birthday skating party, Courtney’s parents, Michael and Joann Taylor, took the accident in stride. They figured that’s the breaks.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Thefts at village business spur relocation plan, ‘I figured it was a nice, quiet neighborhood? fool that I am:? In the past eight months, since moving his business into Clarkston’s Downtown Emporium, John Ruppel’s store has been broken into three times and has lost just shy of $6,000 to thieves in the night and shoplifters.
Several weeks ago, a speaker cabinet was stolen off the floor as he talked on the phone.
? Talking about? Are you optimistic about the country’s future under President Reagan? Lillian Morts, Drayton Plains, ‘Yes.? Fred Holderbaum, Goodrich, ‘Sure.? Frances Stewart, Independence Township, ‘Yes.? Al Cutshall, Independence Township, ‘No.? Jeanette Morse, Independence Township, ‘Yes I do.?

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
‘School Bond Election Monday, Feb. 27: The Clarkston Board of Education proposes a $1,2000,0000 bond issue election to be held on February 27, 1956, for the purpose of providing the necessary facilities to house increasing school enrollments.
The bond issue will provide the new elementary school located on Sashabaw Road, additions to existing elementary schools and the high school.
? C.H.S. Faculty Defeats Holly: The Clarkston High School Faculty played and defeated the Holly High School Faculty Monday night at Holly by a score of 92-62. Ed Hintz led the winners with 25 points and Bob Pence, the losers with 26 points.
? Day of Prayer Friday, February 17: The Women of the World will meet in groups for the World Day of Prayer on Friday, Feb. 17. In Clarkston the women of the whole district will meet in the Methodist Church at 1:30 P.M. for this very special service.
? Twenty-One Club Has Valentine Party: The Youth Committee of the Clarkston Community Women’s Club entertained 190 students at the Twenty-One Club Saturday night in the high school gym. Fenton Weaver’s orchestra furnished the music.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
? Hopes for a safe return: Agnes Denise can readily recall the moments in history that stand out in her 80 years of memory.
And with Operation Desert Storm, she has another to add.
? Don’t forget to vote: A special bond election for Clarkston Community Schools is set for Feb. 11. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
? A flag from the past: War in the Persian Gulf brings back memories of other wars in which the United States has been involved.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Levy gravel mine battle continues, DNR hears protests; decision on study 30 to 90 days away: Hundreds of Independence Township and Clarkston Village residents, as well as 30 organizations are waiting with baited breath to see if the state’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) calls for an environmental impact statement (EIS) on the Edward C. Levy Co.’s proposed 400 acre mining operation.
If the call for an EIS goes out, chances are the permit needed to create a lake by mining will be approved, said Jeffrey King of the DNR’s Land Resource Division Pontiac office.
The DNR had 30 to 90 days to make a decision, and if the call for the EIS is given, the request is passed on to the Environmental Review Board.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
‘Rotary Club Has Ladies? Night: On Monday evening the Clarkston Rotary Club dined at the Methodist Church with the Ladies Auxiliary of the Baptist Church servicing a delicious chicken dinner. The members? wives and a few friends and some members of the Ortonville and Waterford-Drayton Rotary Clubs were guests.
? Insurance Company Honors Localite: L.M. Oakley was elected presidents of the Detroit Agency Association of the Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company at their Annual Meeting held Monday at the Whittier Hotel. Mr. Oakley was presented with a gavel in recognition of his new office.
? By The Way?: On Friday Michigan motorists will again travel under a speed limit all over the state. Most safe drivers will never break the speed limit which will be 65 miles per hour in the daytime and 55 miles per hour after dusk.
However, there will be those who believe they should get everything out of a car that its high power motor will deliver and they will endanger the lives of the safer drivers? Most Clarkstonites who have to go to the center of Detroit often will know the short cuts, but to you who travel, not quite so often, you should try going the John Lodge Expessway where you can travel up to 55 miles per hour and with no traffic lights or crossroads you can reach the heart of downtown Detroit in a very few minutes. The route is a time saver.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
? B&Bs stall: Bed and breakfast facilities still are not allowed in the Village of Clarkston.
The Clarkston Village Council took no action on a proposed bed and breakfast ordinance Jan. 28, two weeks after a public hearing on the issue.
? Hibler hired at Wixom library: Nearly six weeks after resigning from his duties at the Independence Township Library, James Hibler has been named director of the Wixom Public Library.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Outlook bleak for Clarkston schools: A grim picture was placed before Clarkston School Board members Monday night.
Superintendent Milford Mason placed the figures on a blackboard and the tallies revealed that even if all extracurricular activities ? including athletics, band, chorus, drama and drivers education, were removed from the budget ? cuts in staff totalling over one-half million dollars would have to be made to balance the 1981-82 budget.
At the end of the three-and-one-half-hour long meeting, school board members had made only one firm decision, to appoint a 20-member citizens? council to react to cuts proposed by the school administrators.
? Topped tower: After 25 years of service, the decaying light poles at the Clarkston High School athletic field are no more. Friday morning, workmen labored into the afternoon cutting down the old poles to make room for a new system, planned to be installed and ready by next fall’s football season.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
‘Help Fight Polio; Turn On Light: Tonight the Mothers? March on Polio will take place in the Clarkston area. Not only mothers but every individual is interested in helping the victims of this dreaded disease.
? Rotary Club Hears Noted Astronomer: On Monday evening the Clarkston Rotary Club enjoyed an exceptionally interesting speaker, Dr. Keith Pierce, associate professor of astronomy at the University of Michigan, based at Mt. Math-Hulbert Observatory at Lake Angelus.
? Unique Souvenirs Seen At Open House: Last Saturday evening Mr. and Mrs. Allan Hinz of Hillcrest Drive entertained at an ‘open house? honoring her sister, Mrs. Marjorie Brim, who just returned from a trip around the world.
? Piano Team Here Next Week: The most popular piano team of our day, Luboschutz and Nemoenoff, will appear hear on February 1, at the Isaac E. Crary Junior High School auditorium, under the auspices of the Waterford Township Civic Music Association.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
? Students walk for Middle East peace: Though candles were snuffed by snow and biting winds Jan. 17, spirits were not.
About 50 Clarkston High School students trekked from the High School on Waldon Road to the evergreen tree on Main Street, Clarkston, in support of peace ? and of U.S. troops in the Persian Gulf.
? Council approves M-15 plan: It looks as if M-15 will be widened this summer ? with the Clarkston Village Council’s blessing.
The council initially opposed the widening, but voted 5-0 Jan. 14 to approve a ‘compromise? widening plan.
? Brisk sales of U.S. flags: American flags are sold out in Independence Township, but area stores are ordering more.
? School issues session: A special presentation Jan. 30 is designed to answer questions about three school proposals.
Sponsored by the Blue Ribbon Kids Committee, the presentation will cover the Feb. 11 election school bond proposals for a new high school, new elementary school and a swimming pool.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Schools bounce back from Bankok, Absences decrease, but are still higher than normal: When it comes to the Bangkok flu, administrators of Clarkston’s schools are keeping their fingers crossed, says William Neff, administrative assistant of elementary education.
While the numbers of absentees have declined over the past week, administrators almost shut down Clarkston Junior High on Jan. 14, he said.
? Village parking officer quits: The familiar blue uniform of Clarkston’s parking enforcement officer, Volney Schaffer, is absent from the village scene following his resignation last week.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
‘New Pastor At Sashabaw Church: Reverend F. Robert Wilkie, who has done extensive work with young people, will take over the pastor’s duties at the Sashabaw Presbyterian Church beginning Sunday, January 22.
? Art Workshop At Clarkston High: Fifty Clarkston and Ortonville teachers will participate in a fifteen-hour IN-SERVICE EDUCATION WORKSHOP to be conducted by Miss Elizabeth S. Ohlrogge, Art Consultant of the Binney & Smith Co., on January 25, 26 and 27 at Clarkston High School.
? Locker Plant Owner Dies Suddenly: Folks in Clarkston were shocked on Tuesday when they learned of the sudden passing of Charles Robinsin of 7860 Perry Lake Road, owner and operator of the Clarkston Food Locker Plant on N. Main Street.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
? Main Street ribbons show support: It took Marla McKee about 48 hours to assemble volunteers, ribbons and the necessary hydraulic equipment at a 25-foot tree on Main Street, Clarkston.
Marla, who has a brother stationed in the Persian Gulf, hoped to decorate the tree to remind Clarkston residents of soldiers stationed there.
? Woman falls victim to leukemia: A young woman with a crop of red hair and an incredible will to live lost that battle on the morning of Jan. 14.
Joette Kovacik, leukemia victim, died at the age of 21.
Though she was the first diagnosed with leukemia at the age of seven, Joette beat the odds of her original diagnosis. Doctors had told her she would only live to about age 14. Her indomitable spirit gave her an extra seven years.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Bangkok flu strikes, Hundreds of Clarkston school district pupils call in sick: The Bangkok flu that’s sweeping across the United States is blamed for the high number of students calling in sick to Clarkston’s high school and two junior highs.
Before noon Monday morning, Sashabaw Junior High reported 250 absent students, or 26 percent of the school’s population.
Clarkston Junior High reported 25 percent of the school’s pupils absent. A total of 132 students called in sick and 15 were sent home after arriving.
The high school was hardest hit with 253 students homes sick on Monday, said Dom Mauti, principal.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
‘Rotarians Hear Special Speaker: On Monday, at the regular meeting of the Clarkston Rotary Club held in the Independence Community Center, Program Chairman Fred P. Warrick, introduced a representative of the Petroleum Institute, by name Bill Taylor, sent by the Shell Oil Company.
? Twenty-One Club Meets Saturday: Attention: All sixth, seventh and eighth graders in the Clarkston Community Schools: The January meeting of the Twenty-One Club will be this Saturday, January 14, in the High School Gym.
? Jack W. Haupt New Pontiac Dealer: It was announced this week that the Edw. D. Whipple Pontiac Sales has been sold to Jack W. Haupt. Edw. D. Whipple started this agency in 1934, when he purchased the assets of the Leonard & Miller Sales which was operated by Ben Miller and Frank Leonard in the building now occupied by Rudy’s Super Market.

15 YEARS AGO (1991)
? Lawsuit against school goes to court, School district architect turns down settlement in $2 million lawsuit: An architect fired by the Clarkston Board of Education in 1988 has turned down an out-of-court settlement offered by the district and has opted, instead, to take the matter to trial.
The lawsuit, filed by Charles W. Sherman and Associates, Inc., is to be heard by Oakland Circuit Court Judge David F. Breck on March 25.
‘Michigamme residence besieged by hooligans: An Independence Township family has suffered through the nightmare of seeing their Michigamme ‘dream home? become a hot spot for thieves and vandals.
Since October 1990, the Bussell family has had to call the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) five times because of incidents occuring at or around their home. These cases have involved gunplay and auto theft.

25 YEARS AGO (1981)
? Law changes auto insurance rates, Good news for young men; bad news for others: Depending on where you live, your age, marital status and sex, Michigan’s Essential Insurance Act will be good news or bad news for your 1981 car insurance rates.
The new law, which went into effect Jan. 1, outlaws the use of sex or marital status in determining rate structures. It also places limits on the practice of charging more or less based on where an individual lives.
? Possible county dump site in Independence resurfaces: The possibility that the Oakland County solid waste plan presently under study could include a site in Independence Township concerns the township board.
With that thought in mind, the board unanimously approved the establishment of a five-member solid waste task force recommended by Supervisor James Smith at monday night’s meeting.

50 YEARS AGO (1956)
‘Deer Crashes Car On White Lake Road: On Sunday evening, just after dusk when Robert C. Jones and a girl friend, Marietta Neubacher, were driving along White Lake Road towards the Dixie on their way to the Robert L. Jones home in Clarkston for supper they were surprised when a deer bounded across the road and over a knoll west of Boothby’s Old Farm Shop. ‘Bob? brought the car to a stop so they could get a better look at the deer, when suddenly’crash’a second deer, a buck, in fast pursuit of the first one, bounded into the side of the standing car. This was sudden death for the buck and startling for the two young people.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Palace owner buys Pine Knob Theater: Pine Knob Music Theater has new owners.
Due to environmental difficulties facing the proposed Palace Gardens, the owners of the Palace of Auburn Hills purchased Pine Knob Music Theater Last week.
Arena Associates, owner of the Palace, officially purchased the 16,000-seat facility Nov. 29 for an undisclosed amount of money. The company comprises Detroit Piston owner William Davidson, David Hermelin and Robert Sosnick.
? Winter storm wreaks havoc: Monday’s snow and rain storm caused havoc with area roadways. Several traffic mishaps resulted from the slick conditions.
In Independence Township, Sgt. Joe Quisenberry of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department said deputies reported 50 cases of cars running off the road. About 10 ‘fender benders? were also reported in the township.
? Goodfellows? 50th sale this weekend: Goodfellows form the Independence Township Fire Department and Clarkston Rotary Club will be out in force again this year for the sale of Goodfellow Papers.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? High taxes sure bet in ?81, Despite sluggish economy: Property ownership is becoming a measure of wealth, said David Sherill, Independence Township assessor.
In 1981, Sherill predicts township properties will increase in value by 15 percent.
In 1980, property value averaged a 13-percent increase, he said.
? Village seeks $15,000 ideas: The Clarkston Village Council is looking for ways to spend $15,000.
The second public hearing to help determine how the projected income from Community Development should be spent is planned Monday, Dec. 8.
? Party!: Bring a homemade ornament for the tree and your best Christmas-caroling voice and join the crowd in downtown Clarkston for ‘Family Night in the Village.?

50 YEARS AGO (1955)
? Rotarians hear interesting talk: The Clarkston Rotarians were quite happy on Monday evening to have as their guest speaker, Professor Herbert Lissner of Wayne University Engineering Mechanics Department.
? Local Girl Named Good Citizen: The December meeting of the General Richardson Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution will be held December 1st, at the home of Mrs. Maxwell Shaley of Pontiac. Mrs. Donald Hogue will tell of Christmas customs in colonial times with story and song.
Marietta Neubacher, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph F. Neubacher, will represent Clarkston High School, together with six other senior girls from are high schools, at the meeting.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Palace owner buys Pine Knob Theater: Pine Knob Music Theater has new owners.
Due to environmental difficulties facing the proposed Palace Gardens, the owners of the Palace of Auburn Hills purchased Pine Knob Music Theater Last week.
Arena Associates, owner of the Palace, officially purchased the 16,000-seat facility Nov. 29 for an undisclosed amount of money. The company comprises Detroit Piston owner William Davidson, David Hermelin and Robert Sosnick.
? Winter storm wreaks havoc: Monday’s snow and rain storm caused havoc with area roadways. Several traffic mishaps resulted from the slick conditions.
In Independence Township, Sgt. Joe Quisenberry of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department said deputies reported 50 cases of cars running off the road. About 10 ‘fender benders? were also reported in the township.
? Goodfellows? 50th sale this weekend: Goodfellows form the Independence Township Fire Department and Clarkston Rotary Club will be out in force again this year for the sale of Goodfellow Papers.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? High taxes sure bet in ?81, Despite sluggish economy: Property ownership is becoming a measure of wealth, said David Sherill, Independence Township assessor.
In 1981, Sherill predicts township properties will increase in value by 15 percent.
In 1980, property value averaged a 13-percent increase, he said.
? Village seeks $15,000 ideas: The Clarkston Village Council is looking for ways to spend $15,000.
The second public hearing to help determine how the projected income from Community Development should be spent is planned Monday, Dec. 8.
? Party!: Bring a homemade ornament for the tree and your best Christmas-caroling voice and join the crowd in downtown Clarkston for ‘Family Night in the Village.?

50 YEARS AGO (1955)
? Rotarians hear interesting talk: The Clarkston Rotarians were quite happy on Monday evening to have as their guest speaker, Professor Herbert Lissner of Wayne University Engineering Mechanics Department.
? Local Girl Named Good Citizen: The December meeting of the General Richardson Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution will be held December 1st, at the home of Mrs. Maxwell Shaley of Pontiac. Mrs. Donald Hogue will tell of Christmas customs in colonial times with story and song.
Marietta Neubacher, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph F. Neubacher, will represent Clarkston High School, together with six other senior girls from are high schools, at the meeting.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Roommate charged in shotgun death: A 33-year-old Independence Township man was killed by a shotgun blast in Lake County, and his roommate is being held in connection with his death.
Gary J. Herron, 33, of Pine Knob Lane, died Nov. 4 from a single shotgun blast to his chest in rural Newkirk Township. His roommate, Everett Howell, 53, notified local authorities about the incident.
? Board ups support for youth assistance: Clarkston Area Youth Assistance will receive an increase in funds from the Clarkston school board after an appeal by current and former board members Nov. 12.
? Squad car rolls on Waldon Road: A deputy was injured Nov. 14 when he swerved to avoid an oncoming car and flipped his squad car on Waldon Road, Clarkston.
Deputy Ernie Ott, a six-year veteran of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department, was treated and released from Pontiac Osteopathic Hospital.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? 10th graders? math scores improve: After posting dismal math scores on last year’s Michigan Assessment test, over 23 percent more of Clarkston school’s 10th graders achieved acceptable scores this year.
But 10 percent more of the 4th graders? math scores dropped below acceptable tallies.

50 YEARS AGO (1955)
? Polio Vaccine More Plentiful: Dr. John D. Monroe, Medical Director of Oakland County Health Department, states that beginning November 18th the Polio Vaccine Program will include all children 1 year through 14 years and all pregnant women. Eligibility cards are no longer necessary. Second injections may be given now, but 3rd injections and boosters will not be given until spring in order to achieve maximum effect for the next polio season.
? Two Clarkston Men Hune In Pennsylvania: A week ago last Friday Walter Barrows and Herbert Baynes returned from a successful hunting trip in Pennsylvania. They each bagged a wild turkey. Walt’s weighed 17 pounds and Herb’s 12 pounds.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Thumbs up for Springfield library tax: The old cliche ‘three’s a charm? proved true at the polls in Springfield Township Nov. 6, as residents approved an operating tax for the library.
? Voters renew police millage: Citizens of Independence Township voted over-whelmingly Tuesday to continue a one-mill tax to finance police services over a three-year period.
? 43, 45 percent turn out in townships: The Republican Party appeared to be the party of choice in Springfield and Independence townships in the Nov. 6 general election.
By nearly two-to-one margins, both townships chose Republican John Engler over Democratic incumbent James J. Blanchard in the gubernatorial race. Statewide results were not available at press time.
? Leaf vandals anger resident: An 80-year-old Clarkston resident is angry that her hard work has gone to waste.
Rite Chisholm of Miller Road spent all day Saturday raking leaves around her home. Through her sole efforts, Chisholm accumulated 17 bags of leaves, which came close to matching the 22 bags she had raked the week before.
However, vandals got to the 17 bags before the local trash collectors did, and the contents were strewn all over the yard once more. Needless to say, Chisholm is a little upset.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Smith ousts Tower, Rose wins with 70 percent; Ritter lone Democrat on board: Republican candidates in last night’s election captured all but one seat on the Independence Township Board.
Lone Democrat Frederick Ritter was re-elected treasurer over his Republican opponent Carol Balzarini by a margin of 560 votes.
? Springfield race unseats incumbent: In the only contested race in Springfield Township, Republicans Mary Watson and Shirley Secatch were elected to four-year terms on the township library board in Tuesday’s election.

50 YEARS AGO (1955)
? Children Share Halloween Treat: Clarkston children collected $46.60 in coins on Halloween night when, between 6:15 and 7:15, they called at the homes of their neighbors and asked for treats of pennies for UNICEF, the United Nation’s Children’s Fund.
? Large Crowd at School Fair: A large crowd attended the Annual Fair sponsored by the Clarkston P.T.A., at the Elementary School last Saturday evening.
? Weekend Party Honors Birthday: Mr. and Mrs. Harold Bauer entertained at a weekend party in honor of Mr. Bauer’s mother, Mrs. Emma Bauer, who celebrated her 85th birthday last Friday.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? M-15 widening plans prompt protest: Construction on the widening of M-15 is to begin next spring ? but not if the Clarkston Village Council has its way.
The council protests the plan to widen a portion of M-15 to five lanes and plans to appeal the decision Dec. 7 before the executive committee of the South Eastern Michigan Council of Governments (SEMCOG).
? Don’t forget to vote Tuesday: Voters in Independence and Springfield townships face a local ballot proposal as well as county, state and national candidates in the general election Tuesday, Nov. 6.
? Community Expo Wednesday, Nov. 7: Business displays, food and lots of mingling likely will take place during the Fourth Annual Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce Community Expo Wednesday, Nov. 7.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Zoning amendment may stop ski run: If the Independence Township Board adopts a proposed amendment to the zoning ordinance limiting structure height to 35 feet, Pine Knob’s proposed 185-foot ski run would be subject to the new law, said Richard Campbell, township attorney.
‘If the judge rules Pine Knob can come back to the township and apply for a building permit without site plan approval, in my opinion, Pine Knob’s project would be subject to the new ordinance,? he said. ‘That’s assuming all effective dates have passed.?

50 YEARS AGO (1955)
? Great Artists To Be Heard Here: On Monday night a large crowd gathered at the Waterford Township High School for a ‘kickoff? meeting for the Civic Music Association. The interest in fine concerts for this area was keen and the workers were anxious to get started.
? Children Plan Halloween Treat: Be sure to answer your doorbell Monday night. UNICEF goblins will haunt the town, gaily bedecked in costumes and carrying UNICEF milk cartons.
It will be ‘trick or treat? allright, but all these goblins want is a treat for all the world’s children. They want to help the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) help children in some 80 countries in the world who are sick and hungry.
? Mrs. L. Sibley Honored Today: Mrs. Lloyd Sibley, Past Matron of Joseph C. Bird Chapter, 294 O.E.S., of Clarkston, will be installed as President of Oakland County Association this afternoon in the Masonic Temple at Royal Oak.
? Flying Saucers Subject Of Lecture: Desmond Leslie, one of the world’s foremost authorities on unidentified flying objects and co-author of the best seller, ‘Flying Saucers Have Landed,? will speak in Pontiac on November 4th.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Devil’s Night to be OK: With Devil’s Night edging closer, area officials foresee no problems like those facing large metropolitan areas.
? New schools, pool subject of hearing: A Clarkston school district plan to construct a new elementary school, high school, swimming pool and improve existing facilities will be discussed at a public hearing Tuesday, Oct. 30.
? Time to change clocks: We gain an hour this weekend due to Daylight Savings Time, so don’t forget to set your clocks back by one hour before you go to sleep Saturday, Oct. 27.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Kirk bows out of Springfield treasurer’s race: Four months ago there were two races on the Springfield Township Board; then there was one; and now there are none.
Marjorie Kirk, who had been running as a Democrat against incumbent Republican Treasurer Patricia Kramer, has announced her withdrawal from the campaign.

50 YEARS AGO (1955)
? U.F. Campaign Starts Friday: The kick-off meeting for the United Fund Drive will be held at the Community Center tonight and the workers will start canvassing on Friday. Remember when you give you are contributing to a great many needed agencies. The goal for Independence Township is $4,379.17. In order to reach this goal, it is necessary for each to give a little.
? Clarkston Ready for Trick or Treat: Clarkston youngsters are again ready to go on their Trick or Treat rounds the evening of October 31, as the first step in their shared Hallowe’en with the ill and hungry children of the world. Then, when all the public-spirited citizens of this town have given their treats of coins, the money will go to UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund.
? President Appoints Ralph T. Jans: Ralph Theodore Jans of Clarkston has been appointed a career Foreign Service Officer by President Eisenhower, the State Department announced today. The appointment also makes him a Vice Consul and a Secretary in the Diplomatic Service.
? Exciting Days at Clarkston High: Thursday and Friday were days to be remembered by students in the Clarkston High School. Excitement was high as the bonfire and pow-wow took place on the school grounds on Thursday evening. This was a good start for the big events which were to take place on Friday.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Burro cruelty case in circuit court: A Springfield Township man faces multiple-charges in the 1989 death of an American burro nicknamed ‘Milton Burro.?
Ronald Keen, 48, is facing one felony count of malicious destruction of property over $100 and a misdemeanor count of animal cruelty.
The Andersonville Road resident could receive four years in prison if convicted of the felony. The misdemeanor carries a 90-day penalty.
? Charter commission election on Tuesday: Voters in Clarkston have a chance to shape their town’s destiny in the charter commission election Tuesday, Oct. 6.
? New ‘Notice? head: Public notices have a new look in your newspaper this week.
In fact, they have a new name. For years these legal notices have had ‘Official Notice? to draw attention to them. Now they are ‘Public Notices.?

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Lawsuit in limbo, Foster care application withdrawn; second one to determine future: A lawsuit filed by Lake Oakland Woods subdivision residents to block an adult foster care home is hanging in limbo following the withdrawal of an application for the home’s state licensing.
The likelihood that a second application may be submitted by another non-profit organization will determine future legal tactics, said the resident’s attorney, Donald E. Schuster.

50 YEARS AGO (1955)
? United Fund Drive Starts Next Week: The United Fund Drive will get underway next week. A.L. Rose, Jr., is general chairman of the drive in Independence Township. In charge of the work is the Rotary Ann Club with Mrs. Charles Rockwell as chairman.
? U.N. Celebrates Tenth Anniversary: The United Nations which celebrates its tenth anniversary this year, can be proud of its many accomplishments. Its agencies have been a tremendous influence for world betterment. The United Nations Children’s Fund is one of these organizations. The lives saved and the countries helped by UNICEF) the initials by which it is known) are a testimony to its success.
? Military Service For Sgt. Ridgeway: A military service will be held on Sunday afternoon at two o’clock at the Sharpe Funeral Home in Clarkston For Sgt. Junior Vern Ridgeway, killed in action in Korea, December 3, 1950. The body will arrive at the Funeral Home on Saturday evening.
? School Fair, Sat., October 29: Let’s put a red ring around the date, October 29, to remember the Fair at the Clarkston Elementary School. Fun for everyone.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? City vs. township boundary dispute gets moving: The lines of battle are slowly being drawn between the State Boundary Commission and Independence Township.
The first of many legal steps was taken by the State Boundary Commission Sept. 29, as it primes itself for a lawsuit levied by the township.
Township attorney Gerald Fisher said the State Boundary Commission has just recently filed a ‘record? of its proceedings with the Oakland County Circuit Court. The record is a written transcript of the Jan. 16 meeting where the State Boundary Commission granted the Village of Clarkston the right to seek cityhood.
? Door-to-door man charged in assault: A 22-year-old salesman has been charged with sexually assaulting a Clarkston High School senior while soliciting door-to-door.
Mark A. Woods of Philadelphia was charged with two counts of fourth-degree criminal sexual conduct. On Sept. 20, he was bound over to Oakland County Circuit Court after a preliminary exam in the 52nd District Court, Independence Township.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Pine Knob takes ski run to court: Pine Knob Investment Co. and Independence Township are facing each other in court again ? but this time on a new issue.
Pine Knob contends it does not have to appear before the township’s planning commission for site plan approval for a proposed ski run, and instead can immediately apply for a building permit.

50 YEARS AGO (1955)
? First Homecoming at C.H.S. Next Week (Marietta Neubacher and Kay Robinson To Reign As First Homecoming Queens): Marietta Neubacher and Kay Robinson will reign jointly as Clarkston’s first Homecoming Queens, October 14.
After casting several ballots, the Varsity was unable to decide between the two popular seniors.
? Localite Receives Honor Man Certificate: Edwin H. Campbell, seaman, recruit, USN, received an honor man certificate and an engraved identification bracelet during recruit graduation at the Naval Training Center at Great Lakes, Illinois, on September 17.
? Extension Members Attend Rally: Nine members of the Clarkston Home Extension Group attended Rally Day and the Officers Training Class at the Dublin Community Center on Thursday, September 29th. A pot-luck luncheon was served at noon.
? School News, Wolves Retain W-O Lead 13-0: Clarkston defeated West Bloomfield 13-0 in their second league game.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Teacher’s aide saves choking elementary student: The quick actions of a teacher’s aide at Bailey Lake Elementary School saved a child from choking to death nearly two weeks ago.
Janet Proctor, a Thendara Park resident, successfully performed the Heimlich maneuver on fifth-grader Heather Hunter to dislodge a piece of food in the youth’s throat.
According to Bailey Lake Principal Doris Mousseau, Hunter was eating her lunch in the school cafeteria when a piece of pizza crust got caught in her throat. The girl began gasping for air, and slid under he table wheezing.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Lake Oakland continues fight: After five residents have been selected for the adult foster care home proposed for 5127 Timber Ridge Trail, Independence Township, a show cause hearing in Oakland County Circuit County is scheduled to resume.
Judge Hilda Gage halted the Sept. 17 hearing when it was discovered residents for the home would be selected within a week.
? How do you keep ’em off Clarkston sidewalks?: The sidewalks of Clarkston are still taboo for peddling bikers.
At Monday night’s meeting, the Clarkston Village Council discussed the problem of bikers continuously peddling on the downtown sidewalks.
The council agreed to continue to remind bicyclists to walk their bikes when on the downtown sidewalks, and to request the support of the community.

50 YEARS AGO (1955)
? Wolves Win First League Game 31-0: Clarkston celebrated Dad’s night and the official opening of their new lighted football field with a 31-0 victory over Brighton. This, the first league game, was played on an excellent field before a good sized crowd. The Wolves seemed inspired and out-hustled the Brighton team from the opening kick-off.
? School Gets Milk At Lower Rate: Due to changes in the regulations of the special milk program by U.S.D.A., there will be a reduction in the price of school milk.
Children previously have been charged 25 cents per week for milk or 5 cents per half pint. Beginning Monday, September 26, milk will cost 25 cents per two weeks or 2? cents per half pint.
? Clarkston J.V. Defeated 9-0: Clarkston J.V. was defeated by Brighton in their first game of the season.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Friday storm thrashes Clarkston area, Buildings damaged in Springfield; wires downed in Independence: A storm that brought high winds and possibly a ‘little tornado? damaged three buildings and overturned a semitrailer-truck in Springfield Township about 2 p.m. Friday, Sept. 14.
‘High School, college may share space: Oakland Community College and Clarkston school officials are pursuing ideas of a joint campus in the Clarkston area.
The facility would be developed on a 110-acre site in conjunction with a new high school, according to Clarkston Superintendent Gary Haner.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Pine Knob plans 4,000? ski ramp, ‘Essentially, it’s everything less the hotel? ? Palulian: A ski ramp that would sit 185 feet above Pine Knob’s highest peak is the latest proposal of Pine Knob Investment co-owners Gary Francell and Joseph Locricchio.
Plans for the 4,000-foot-long ski run were submitted last week to the Independence Township Building Department.

50 YEARS AGO (1955)
? Rally Day at Methodist Church: Two Rally Day services will be held Sunday, Sept. 25, at 9:45 and 11:00 a.m. with Mr. Philip R. Smith, Supt., of Church School, presiding at both services.
? Meeting Celebrates 50th Anniversary: On September 14th the Ella Van Meer Camp No. 4346, Royal Neighbors, met at the home of Mrs. Opal Beach for their regular meeting. This was a special occasion for the group was celebrating 50 years of the Camp’s existence.
? A Visit To The Township Library: Have you read a good story lately? Are you interested in science, psychology, psychiatry, history? Of course you have an interest of some nature and in order to be well informed you must read and study. There is no better place to find material than at the Independence township Library.
? Seniors Purchase P.A. System: With the money left after the trip to Washington the Class of 1954 decided to purchase a new P.A. system to be installed in the High School cafeteria. Many dances and banquets are now held in the cafeteria instead of the gym. The new purchase will eliminate the necessity of transferring equipment now housed in the gym.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Independence to appeal census figures: U.S. census population figures in Independence township are too low, according to township officials, who are trying to prove it.
‘We are planning to appeal,? said Clerk Joan McCrary, Sept. 4.
‘Teachers greeted with vandalism: The first week of classes will be a memorable one for about eight Clarkston Elementary School teachers.
Wednesday, Aug. 29, the second day of school in Clarkston, was marred with vandalism in the Clarkston Elementary School parking lot. About eight faculty vehicles were ‘keyed? by known persons. Some of the scratches were over a foot in length and deep enough to see the primer underneath.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Independence twins arrested in ‘sting? operation: Twin brothers from Independence Township have been arrested for allegedly selling stolen goods to undercover officers during a recent ‘sting? operation in Waterford Township.
John and Joseph VanSickle, 18, of 4665 Fourth Street, were arraigned Thursday in the 51st District Court before Judges Robert C. Anderson and Kenneth H. Hempstead.
? Township moves toward new neighborhood park: Residents living in the southeast area of Independence Township may have a new park to romp and laze around in.
Last week, the township board made an offer to purchase about 13.5 acres for a neighborhood park on Maybee Road, next to the Clarkston Eagles Hall.

50 YEARS AGO (1955)
? Seventh Annual Horse Show Sunday: On Sunday, September 11th, beginning at 9:00 A.M., the Dixie Saddle Club will hold its seventh annual Horse Show at the Glenn Ellis farm on U.S. 10 (9331 Dixie Highway), near Bridge Lake Road, 3? miles north of the junction U.S. 10- M-15.
? Labor Day Parade Draws Large Crowd: The Labor Day Parade sponsored by the Clarkston Rotary Club was bigger and better than ever. The committees appointed by President Ronald A. Walter, spent many hours on the preliminaries required for a successful parade. Consequently, more people were interested in getting in line with cars, floats, horses, etc.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Population, housing up: Preliminary U.S. Census figures show that population and housing units are up in Independence and Springfield townships, as well as in the Village of Clarkston.
Independence showed a 13.5 percent gain in population, while Springfield jumped by 19.3 percent. The Village of Clarkston showed a 3.2 percent increase.
‘Labor Day events for whole family: Labor Day is filled with events for the whole family on Monday, Sept. 3.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Clarkston kids face changes: There will be some cuts ? about $300,000 worth ? in the Clarkston Community School District budget this year.
Faced with less-than-previously-expected income, the district is slated to run one-half-million dollars in the red. Money saved from previous years, or equity, will be used to balance the budget.

50 YEARS AGO (1955)
? Goodwill Trucks Here Wednesday: The opening of school means many things to many people. To the children it is an annual readjustment time, a shift from the careless summer days to the routine of school. To mothers it means new clothes to replace those outgrown or worn out, in brief the fall cleaning out of closets. To the men it means the putting away of summer garden tools and outdoor equipment and a chance to inventory winter needs before the snow falls.
Goodwill Industries can help and be helped during this change over period. Over four hundred handicapped employees are ready to take your summer discards, work on them, cleaning and repairing them for sale in one of their six retail outlets.
? Township Library Reopens Tuesday: The Independence Township Library has been closed for the past two weeks. It will re-open on Tuesday, September 6th and all books that are out will be due on that date.
? Pioneers Have August Picnic: On Thursday afternoon of last week the Clarkston Pioneers held their August picnic on the grounds at the Jack Chisholm home on Miller Road. There was a large attendance and the Pioneers will remember this picnic as one of the big events of the year.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? New Yankee partner has Pine Knob ties: Pine Knob General Manager J.J. Nederlander believes his uncle, Robert E. Nederlander, has the mettle to lead the New York Yankees into the 21st century.
‘Praise Concert in Depot Park Sunday: Area residents have a chance to hear one more free concert in the park this year. A Praise Concert is planned for 6-7 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 26, in Clarkston’s Depot Park.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Candidate for Springfield supervisor quits race: Citing personal reasons, Springfield Township supervisor candidate John H. Mulloy has decided to discontinue his campaign for the top post on the township board.
‘My decision is definite,? Mulloy said. ‘I’m going to contact the county and try and get my name off the ballot.?
? Pleads innocent, Raymer to undergo forensic exam: Robert Raymer, 6048 Waldon Road, Independence Township, pleaded not guilty to an open murder charge before Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Farrell E. Roberts at an arraignment held Thursday.
Raymer, 52, is being held in Oakland County Jail without bond for allegedly stabbing to death his 25-year-old son.

50 YEARS AGO (1955)
? Vows Spoken Saturday Evening: Last Saturday evening at seven-thirty Ellen Ann Snader and Richard Blackwood BeGole spoke their nuptial vows before about three hundred guests in Christ Church, Cranbrook, to the Reverend Perry R. Williams.
? News To Publish Pict-O-Facts: The Oakland County Planning Commission has prepared a series of fifty-two ‘Oakland County Pict-O-Facts? for weekly publication beginning September 1 in this paper. These are illustrated and briefly worded facts about the physical, economic, social, and historic aspects of county life.
? Get Ready Now For Big Parade: Plans are almost completed for the Rotary-sponsored Labor Day Parade. The general chairman and committee have been working on the preliminaries and they are in hopes that adults and children are getting their costumes ready.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Thumbs up for library, 2,010 say yes to millage: A giant hurdle was cleared Tuesday, Aug. 7, when more than 2,000 Independence Township voters approved a three-quarter mill levy for four years to operate the upcoming library expansion.
According to township officials, 2,010 voted yes, while 1,612 voted no. The figures are unofficial until certified by the Oakland County Board of Canvassers.
‘Races close locally: Races in Independence and Springfield townships were close in the Aug. 7 primary election.
About 23 percent ? 4,305 people ? cast votes in Independence, said Deputy Clerk Cathy Derousha late Tuesday night. About 17 percent showed up in Springfield, said Clerk Calvin Walters.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? 2 trustee incumbents axed, Independence Republicans choose Rose for clerk; Kozma, Vandermark, Travis, Stuart for trustees: The primary race for clerk and trustee positions is over in Independence Township, decided yesterday by a turnout of more than 25 percent of the township’s registered voters.
‘Voters pass 3 of 4 millage proposals: With a good showing in voter turnout, Independence Township voters approved three of the four millage proposals on yesterday’s primary ballot.
? Springfield nixes millage duo: In a very light turnout, Springfield Township voters rejected two township millage proposals by wide margins in yesterday’s primary election.
A proposal that would have provided a 1-mill levy for the township library was defeated 469 ‘no? votes to 246 ‘yes? votes, while the other proposal, raising 1 mill for road improvement, was nixed 434 to 282.

50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘Teaching staff completed for 1955-1956: The staff has been completed for the ensuing year. There will be 25 new teachers on the staff, seven of whom are to fill new positions created by expanded enrollments. There are 80 teachers on the staff ? 47 in elementary school and 22 in high school.
? Rotary hears about crippled children: At the regular meeting off the Clarkston Rotary Club held on Monday at the Township Community Center, the members were given a very interesting report on the Oakland County Crippled Children’s Society, its aims and how they are accomplished, by Mrs. Elizabeth Kirkby, the executive secretary in charge of the operations of the society.
? Boy Scouts at World Jamboree: The Boy Scouts of America will be represented by 1,561 Explorers and adult leaders at the Eight World Jamboree, the Jamboree of New Horizons, at Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada, from August 18 to 28, according to word received by Scout Executive Edward H. Leland of the Clinton Valley Council, from Dr. Arthur A. Schuck, Chief Scout Executive.
? Fire Department answers call: The Township Fire Department was called last Wednesday night about ten o’clock to extinguish a fire at the Dixie Spot. It seems Mr. and Mrs. Ricksen had gone out for the evening and were unaware of what was happening and when they came back shortly after ten o’clock they were surprised to find members of their family had been called to the scene.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Lawsuit challenges village’s cityhood: The legality of Clarkston’s bid for cityhood came under fire last week.
A lawsuit against the State Boundary Commission was to be filed in Oakland County Circuit Court by Independence township July 30 or 31.
‘Don’t forget to vote: Michigan residents vote in state primary elections Tuesday, Aug. 7. The polls are 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Heavy weekend rain washes out private roads: Residents living in homes on O-aw-wen-sa and Tiohero roads in the northeast section of Independence Township are losing their roads.
Following Sunday’s hard rainfall, sections of roads in that area are washing out, leaving electrical wires exposed and four-foot deep caverns.
‘Village appoints new commissioner: Laurie Stern, of 22 E. Church Street, Clarkston, has been appointed to serve a two-year term on the Clarkston Planning Commission.
Stern, co-owner of Country Greens, 25 South Main Street, Clarkston, was approved unanimously by the Clarkston Village Council Monday night to replace Steven Himburg who recently resigned and moved to California.
? In downtown Clarkston, Sidewalks to get facelift: Bikers, walkers and shoppers can look forward to revitalized and brand new sidewalks in the Village of Clarkston.
Clarkston’s Village Council voted unanimously Monday night to hire Guinn Construction of Lake Orion for the construction of approximately 1,250 feet of new sidewalk and to replace 117 feet of deteriorating sidewalk.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘Lights installed on athletic grounds: It looks as though Clarkston is going to enjoy some football under the lights, come fall. This past week the lights on the School Athletic Field were installed and the lights will be turned on about the 15th of the month.
? Localite elected county chairman: The Home Demonstration Council meeting was held on Tuesday at the Extension Office, 1260 West Boulevard, Pontiac. Election of officers took place with Mrs. George A. Perry of Clarkston being named County Chairman.
? Pioneers have outdoor meeting: The Clarkston Pioneers enjoyed a picnic on the spacious grounds at the Allen E. Hawke home, 42 W. Washington Street, on Tuesday afternoon of last week. It was a beautiful day and the extra large group gathered at tables under the large willow tree for a delicious picnic luncheon at noon.
? Newlyweds to live in Clarkston: The Clarkston Methodist Church was the scene of a pretty wedding last Saturday evening at eight o’clock when Sara Lou Voliva of Waterford and Glenn A. Davison of Clarkston were united in marriage in a double-ring ceremony by the Reverend Mr. Robert M. Atkins.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Growth up in Independence, 394 permits issued in 1990, only 215 in first half of 1989: According to a report conducted by the building department, the township has granted 179 more building permits for the first six months of 1990 than allowed in the first half of 1989.
‘Newsletter focuses on village historic district: The first of a twice-annual publication was recently mailed to Village of Clarkston residents.
Published by the Clarkston Historic District Commission, the newsletter ? called HomeWork ? is to be used to exchange ideas and information.
? New Orleans style featured in park: The final Friday free concert in the park July 27 features the Tailgate Ramblers, a Dixieland Band.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Pine Knob amusement ride rolls on, Independence attempts to pull plug, but warnings are ignored: Even with Independence township’s threat of court action, the first ride of the proposed ‘Wonderful World of Pine Knob? continues to operate.
A township employee attending Pine Knob’s music Theater saw the ride in operation following a July 10 concert and reported it to the building department.
‘Father charged with son’s murder: An Independence Township man has been arrested for allegedly stabbing his son to death on Friday.
Robert Raymer, 52, of 6048 Waldon Road, was arraigned before 52nd District Court Judge Gerald E. McNally on Monday.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘Ground broken for school bus garage: Ground was broken Monday for the school bus garage. Construction work began immediately, and will be completed in approximately 60 days. The garage is a three-stall repair unit, fifty-nine feet wide and forty-four feet deep.
? Clarkston Local News: Mrs. Holt Pollok and two children of Richmond, Virginia, are visiting her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Mallory Stickney.
? Plan now for Labor Day Parade: Just a reminder ? Plan now to attend the annual Labor Day Parade sponsored by the Clarkston Rotary Club. There will be children in costumes, displaying their favorite pets, the band, vehicles of all descriptions, horses, floats, etc.
? Benefit Exhibit at Davisburg: A benefit antique and handicraft exhibit and sale has been scheduled for Friday and Saturday, July 29-30, from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. at Davisburg Town Hall. Proceeds from the event will be used to improve Springfield township park baseball diamond.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Independce Board picks Saile for trustee seat: Former Clarkston News Editor Jean Saile was chosen by the Independence Township Board June 19 to fill trustee seat vacated by William Vandermark.
Saile, 59, was selected from a field of five applicants. The board voted 6-0 to appoint her to fill the seat vacated when Vandermark resigns move than a month ago to move to Springfield Township.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
‘Pink Knob amusement park hits snag: Under the threat of court action from Independce Township, co-owner of Pink Knob Investments, Joseph Locricchio, submitted the revised final site plan for the proposed ‘Wonderful World of Pink Knob? on Friday.
When the amusement park’s final site plan was approved in April, Independence Township’s Planning Commission did so with stipulations.
‘Judge delays toothy decision: Oakland County Circuit Court Judge William J. Beer has delayed the decision on whether or not the extraction of the root of a tooth from a suspects mouth would be in violation with the Fifth Amendment.
Albert Joseph Hartford, 22, of Pontiac is suspected of the March 15 murder of Francas Ramsey at the Richardson’s Farm Dairy on Clarkston-Orion Road, Independce Township.
? 50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘School Bus Garage To Be Erected: The Clarkston Board of Education at a special meeting held on May 26, 1955, took the following action: (1) to proceed with the plans for erection of a school bus garage, (2) to employ Richard Morgan as a full time mechanic.
The proposed bus garage is to be approximately 44 feet by 59 feet erected in the vicinity of the existing gas pumps on the south west corner of existing high school driveway.
? Holiday Traffic Patrol Coverage To Be Increased: A full force of Michigan State Police will be aided by 216 National Guardsmen in an effort to hold down the traffic death injury toll over the Fourth of July weekend.
The Guardsmen are part of a total of 400 called out for a traffic duty by Governor Williams. The remaining 184 are assigned to sheriffs.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Hughes, Downs win board seats: Durham Downs and Sheila Hughes, running on a joint ticket, were elected to the Clarkston school board, with about 6 percent voter turnout June 11.
Roughly 1200 of 18200 eligible registered voters turned out.
Downs captured 616 votes to win the one-year seat on the school board. He ran against Dennis Walters, who earned 366 votes, and Kurt Karlstrom, who garnered 301 votes.
? Flashback to Summer fun for family: Flashback to Summer combines Father’s Day and summer fun for the whole family at Independence Oaks County Park Sunday, June 17.
The 1062-acre park is on Sashabaw Road, 2 1/2 miles north of I-75, in Independence Township. The vehicle entry fee is $4. For more information, call 625-0877, or call the township parks and recreation department at 625-8223.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
‘Village faces fire tax vote: Clarkston Village voters are scheduled to face a proposed 1-mill fire protection increase on the Aug. 5 primary ballot, following the village council’s unanimous vote Monday night.
This millage is exactly the same as one which will appear before Independence Township voters Aug. 5.
‘Luzi, Hubbard win school board race: It was a close race for the two Clarkston School Board seats in Monday’s election.
But when the unofficial tallies were made Monday night, incumbent C. Vincent Luzi and Addison Hubbard came out on top.
? 50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘Marriage Vows Spoken In Lansing: The wedding of Nancy Ann Brown and James L. Waterbury was solemnized in the chapel of People’s Church in East Lansing at four o’clock on Saturday afternoon, June 4th.
? Children Help Replenish Library: The children in the Clarkston Elementary School have been working to put new books on the library shelves. They had to earn money and this they did successfully. When the new books are ready for the shelves they will bear the names of the children who earned them.
‘Bible School At Waterford: Waterford Community Church will conduct a two week Vacation Bible School beginning Monday, June 20. All boys and girls in the community are invited to attend the sessions which will be held each morning from 9 to 12 o’clock.
Sailing With Christ will be the theme of the entire school, using the Bible as the textbook, and presenting lessons from the sea stories in the Bible. A happy program of worship, Scripture memory work, guided recreation and handcraft will make each morning full of interesting activity for all who attend.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Don’t forget to vote Monday:The annual election of the school district is set for Monday, June 11.
Results will determine two candidates for the Clarkston Board of Education. One seat, vacated with the resignation of Trustee Elaine Shultz, is a one-year term. The other, which will fill a position vacated by Jane Chaustowich, is a four year position.
? Water Tower: A new water tower is in the final stages of design for the intersection of Dixie Highway and White Lake Road, Independence Township.
Its installment will be one of the main components to a township municipal water system.
According to George Anderson, director of the township department of public works (DPW), the tower’s construction should begin in about one month. It is to have a ‘spheroid? shape much like that of a golf ball.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Auto-baron Henry Ford once said something to the effect that history is bunk.
Out of his disdain for interpreted history, Ford created Greenfield Village.
Ford would admire the perseverance and determination of another history-hound in search of the truth, 31-year-old George McCall.
For the past 10 years, McCall, a former Clarkston resident, has researched and written, interviewed and taped, collected and swapped Ford history and memorabilia.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘Graduates To Hear Dr. Guy H. Hill: Guy H. Hill is a Southerner by birth, but a mid-Westerner by adoption. His boyhood and youth were spent in North and South Carolina where he earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees. His profession, namely teaching and school administration, was also begun in the Carolinas where he taught and administered school fourteen years after graduating from college.
On a general Education Board fellowship to the University of Michigan he completed his residence work for the doctorate in 1931.
‘Mary Jane Beattie Receives Degree: Commencement exercises were held on the Kalamazoo College campus on Monday morning, June 6.
Mary Jane Beattie, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert C. Beattie of 3557 Walton Blvd., received her degree of Bachelor of Arts Magna Cum Laude.
‘Let’s Keep Clarkston Clean: Yes, with your help Clarkston can be one of the cleanest little villages in Michigan. Of course, everyone must cooperate. The village fathers are encouraging this ‘Keep Clean? slogan by placing trash cans in the downtown section. You are asked to use them. See that the streets are not littered with bits of paper, gum wrappers, empty ice cream cones, old newspapers, etc. Use the trash cans. There are several in the business section of the village.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Teachers, board ratify contract: Clarkston teachers will receive a 6.25 percent pay raise and a change in insurance beginning in August.
The elements are a part of a new two-year contract ratified by both teachers and school board in separate sessions May 29. The contract affects 298 members of the Clarkston Education Association, the teacher’s union starting in August of 1990.
? Memorial Day quiet in area: Independence and Springfield townships successfully survived the Memorial Day weekend casualty-free this year.
This is quite an accomplishment considering Memorial Day weekend is one of most accident-laden times of the year. AAA authorities estimate that Americans traveled nearly 920 million miles during this three-day period.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Weed killers float from Mill Pond into surrounding water: Water from the herbicide-treated Clarkston Mill Pond has been flowing into Parke Lake since day one of the May 19 treatment.
But lake residents are not in any danger, according to Steve Sadewasser of the State Department of Natural Resources (DNR).
‘Priest celebrates 25th: The Rev. Charles E. Cushing is to celebrate his 25th anniversary in the priesthood with a special mass and open house Sunday, June 1.
The mass is to begin at 3 p.m. at St. Daniel Catholic Church where Father Cushing is pastor.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
? Seniors Returned Sunday From Washington Trip: The Seniors of the Clarkston High School, 51 of them and their class sponsor, Mr. Edward Hintz and Mrs. Hintz left the Clarkston High School on Wednesday afternoon, May 25, by Greyhound bus to start the trip they had anticipated almost since they graduated from the eighth grade. When they left Mrs. Hintz was wearing an orchid that had been presented to her by Mr. and Mrs. R.L. Jones.
‘Farm Bureau Has Interesting Meeting: The Clarkston Farm Bureau met at the Township Community Building on Wednesday evening of last week. Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Drake and Mr. and Mrs. Horace Theriot were hosts for the evening. Gordon Bates was the chairman and Mrs. George Perry was the discussion leader.
? Recital Tonight at Waterford High: The annual Ballet Recital will be held tonight, June 2, at 8:00 o’clock in the Waterford High School. This recital climaxes 35 weeks of classes which have been attended by about 200 students. Tickets are available at the door.
The program will be in three parts: The Bunny Ballet; The Scarecrow Frolic and The Debutante Ballerina.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Villagers say yes to cityhood: Villager voters turned out in the largest number ever recorded in voting history -385- to cast their ballots in favor of becoming a city Monday, May 21.
Just a half hour after the precinct closed, unofficial totals showed 228 yes votes and 157 no votes, which means another hurdle was passed in the process of cityhood for the Village of Clarkston. The vote totals must be verified by the Oakland County Board of Canvassers.
? Memorial Day parade in works: Memorial day 1990 will be marked with a parade in downtown Clarkston followed by a ceremony at Lakeview Cemetery, Independence Township.
Sponsored by Campbell Richmond Post 63 and Chief Pontaic Post 377 of the American Legion, the parade begins at 10 a.m. at the corner of Church and Buffalo streets.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Concert traffic to flow one-way: Before summer’s end, a portion of Sashabaw Road may be converted to a one-way street after each Pink Knob Music Theatre concert.
The change would make all three lanes of Sashabaw one-way from the theater’s marquee to the I-75 entrance ramps.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
? Township To Observe Memorial Day: As in years past, the Campbell-Richmond Post, American Legion, has planned a program for Memorial day in Clarkston.
‘Springfield Opens Davisburg Park: At a Springfield Township Park Commission meeting held Monday, May 16th, Werener M. Hoy, chairman, announced the board members were unanimous in offering the facilities of the Davisburg Park to all who care to take advantage of them. All the grounds and equipment are being readied now, and reservations for use of the buildings may be had by calling Ward Lowes at Melrose 7-5398.
? Clarkston Local: The Baccalaureate Service for the Clarkston High School Seniors will take place in the school auditorium on Sunday evening, June 12. The Commencement Exercises will be the next night, Monday, June 13.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? Arson suspected, Bathroom fire closes Clarkston High: Arson is suspected in a fire that closed down Clarkston High School for a day and inflicted heavy smoke damage to several rooms on Monday, April 23.
at 9:36 a.m. Monday morning, the Independence Township Fire Department responded to a fire at the high school. According to CHS Principal Robert Burek, someone lit a towel dispenser on fire in a boy’s bathroom on the south end of the high school.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Pine Knob park height fight arises: The height argument on Pine Knob’s proposed amusement park is not over, according to Independence Township Board Trustee William Vandermark. The amusement park proposal is to go before the planning commission Thursday, April 24, for final site plan review.
? Second man gets life in Hockey case: Jeffrey Allen Coyle, the second man convicted of the September 2 slaying of Monica Hockey in Independence Township, was sentenced to life imprisonment without parole Tuesday.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘Cancer Drive Now Underway: About thirty-five volunteer workers attended the Cancer Drive kick-off breakfast at the Clarkston Cafe on Monday morning. Mrs. Howard Huttenlocher and Mrs. John Stageman are co-chairmen of the drive.
‘Clarkston High Chalks Up Victory: On Thursday afternoon, April 21, the Clarkston baseball team journeyed to Holly and proceeded to bust the Holly Bronchos with a 16-2 final score.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
? 800 mailed, but some without census: Lots of Independence Township residents still have not received their forms from the U.S. Census Bureau, but another 800-900 were mailed out Saturday, April 14, said Bill Crystler, district office manager in Rochester.
‘Thief gets away with jewelry, silver: Several thousand dollars worth of jewelry and sterling silver pieces were stolen from a home on Deerhill Drive, Independence Township, April 12.
The break-in occurred sometime between 8 and 9:30 p.m., when the owners were out to dinner, according to a report at the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department.
? Parents speak out against middle school concept: Three parents expressed anger over the middle school concept at the April 9 Clarkston Board of Education meeting.
The three had requested an opportunity to speak to the board and were listed in the meeting agenda.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Clarkston schools fight test apathy: Apathy, noise , moving from class to class and lack of review made Clarkston High School 10th graders score low on the Michigan Assessment Program test, say Clarkston school administrators.
? Life term in Hockey case: Kyle Glenn Johnson was sentenced to life imprisonment without parole Tuesday morning for his part in the brutal murder of Monica Hockey in Independence Township Sept. 2.
? Toxic waste controversy heating up: Clean-up efforts continue at the toxic waste dump sight in Springfield Township, but there remains little agreement between residents and local, county and state officials about the current state of affairs.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘Men’s Club To Hear Talk On India: The Men’s Club of the Clarkston Methodist Church has been very fortunate in securing as their guest speaker at tonight’s meeting, Mrs. Lola Hanavan of Detroit. Mrs. hanavan will take the group on a trip to India, a country the average person knows little about.
?21 Dance Club Draws Large Crowd: The 21 Dance Club had an unusually good time when they met in the Clarkston High School gym last Friday night. There were approximately 130 attended.
‘Cancer Fund Drive Next Week: Did you know that cancer as a killer has risen from eighth place in 1900 to second place today? There is one cancer death approximately every two minutes in the United States.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
‘School board reinstates $1.6 million in budget: The deep budget cuts that slashed Clarkston School programs and staff last year will be reinstated in the school budget for 1990-91? including money that could eliminate pay-to-play requirements and could reinstate the high school SEARCH program.
‘Seven to run for two school seats: Seven candidates will run for two positions on the Clarkston Board of Education.
The two separate positions will become available in June; one is a four-year term and the other is a one-year term.
? 42 young people honored for community service: Shannon Duby is a card shark, and the patients at Grovecrest Continuing Care love her for it. Duby, who also lifts the spirits of Grovecrest patients in other ways, was one of 42 young people honored April 5 at the annual Youth Community Service Award Banquet at the Clarkston United Methodist Church.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Pine Knob amusement park plans ready to go: A 12-ride amusement park at Pine Knob could be constructed before the music theater season begins.
Final site plans for the facility are to go before the Independence Township Planning Commission Thursday, April 24.
? School board candidates file, Reickel decides not to seek re-election: Four candidates have filed for the two Clarkston Board of Education seats that go on the June 9 school election ballot.
? Village to force septic ban: The Clarkston Village Council has ruled unanimously to proceed with court action, forcing the last remaining 17 village homes with septic systems to tie into the sewer line.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘Juniors Sponsor Paper Drive: Remember to have all waste paper bundled and at the curb early on Saturday morning, April 16th. This drive is being sponsored by the juniors at Clarkston High School. They are trying to build up their treasury for the senior trip.
‘Women’s Chorus At St. Andrew’s: A return engagement will be kept by the Pontiac Women’s Chorus on Sunday evening, April 17th, when it returns to St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Drayton Plaines, at 7:30, bringing an ‘Eastertide and Springtime? concert.
‘Cancer Fund Drive April 17-23: Since the united fund in Independence Township did not give anything to the Cancer Fund a drive for this purpose will be held here during the week of April 17-23.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
‘Monday, April 9, deadline to run for school board: Four Clarkston-area residents have indicated their intentions to run for two available school board seats at the June 11 election.
? Get hoppin?: A number of egg-cellent programs are available in the Clarkston area to help you celebrate Easter this year.
? Delay in mailing census forms: Barb Kennedy of Thendara, Independence Township, has been paying attention to the U.S. Census Bureau advertisements warning residents to fill out their forms by April 1.
So she was dismayed when she didn’t receive a form as of Monday, April 2. After a little checking, she found that several of her neighbors had not received forms either.
A phone call to the Davison branch of the U.S. Census Bureau let her know that there’s been a delay of some sort and that she should call back if she does not receive a form within two weeks.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Building permits plunge downward: Requests for building permits have slowed to a trickle in Independence and Springfield townships these past few months, and spiraling inflation and interest rates are getting the blame.
? Pine Knob Hotel height back to zba: Independence Township is to reconsider the height of the proposed 20-story Pine Knob hotel one more time before the matter is heard before an Oakland County Circuit Court judge.
? Hop on Easter Bunny’s trail: In the grand tradition of the ground hog, the Easter Bunny saw its footprint in the grass last week and postponed the Clarkston Jaycee’s Easter Egg Hunt to Saturday, April 5.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘Banquet proceeds for field lighting: The Clarkston Rotary Club wishes to thank all those who participated in this year’s Athletic Banquet. We believe it to be the largest ever and we appreciate the response give it by the public.
? W.S.C.S. Circles Plan Meetings: The Martha Circle of the W.S.C.S. will meet at the home of Mrs. R. E. Spohn on Thursday, April 7. There will be a planned luncheon at 12:30 with Mrs. George Perry, Mrs. John King and Mrs. W.H. Stamp as co-hostesses.
? Civil Defense Unit Meets Tonight: Everyone in the Township is urged to attend the meeting of the Independence Township Civil Defense Unit tonight (Thursday) at the Sashabaw School on Maybee Road at 8 o’clock.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
‘Crash kills area man: A 20-year-old Independence Township man died of injuries sustained in a two-car accident in Pontiac Sunday, March 25, about 2 p.m.
James Turner of Whipple Lake Road suffered multiple trauma injuries, according to physician Robert Aranosian, head of the emergency room at Pontiac Osteopathic Hospital.
? Woman flees rape attempt: A 30-year-old Independence Township woman fled from a possible rape-attack Thursday, March 20, at 3 a.m., said Detective Steven Parker of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department.
? Dog spends night in storm sewer: When Rory Kelly, 8, went searching for worms Friday, March 16, he had no idea he would end up fishing for a dog.
The Clarkston Elementary School second-grader was digging in a leaf-filled culvert two weeks ago when he heard a whining sound accompanied by splashing.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Community salutes basketball team, Wolves finish best season: The Clarkston News joins the entire community this week in saluting coach Gary Nustad and his 1979-1980 Clarkston High School basketball team?
Records? How about a 26-game winning streak, the longest of any Class A team in the state?
In addition, the Clarkston cagers won their third straight league championship with a perfect 10-0 conference record; won their first district title in 16 years; defeated Flint Central to take their first regional championship in school history; and advanced all the way to the state semifinals before bowing to Highland Park by a single point, 51-50.
? Parents protest new school lines: Proposed boundary changes that would affect about 180 Clarkston School District pupils resulted in an emotion-charged public hearing Monday night.
About 75 people attended the two-and-one-half hour meeting conducted by Clarkston Schools Superintendent Milford Mason.
The boundary changes, tentatively approved by the school board, were designed to get sixth graders out of Clarkston Junior High School and back into elementary schools.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘Carnival Tonight at Clarkston High: Come to the annual School Carnival, March 24th at Clarkston High School. Admission is 10 and 25 cents. All proceeds will go toward lighting up the Football Field. The Carnival starts at seven and is highlighted at eleven with the crowning of the King and Queen, selected from the Senior High Students. A prince and princess will be selected from the junior high students. Drawing for the Door Prizes will be the closing of an eventful night.
? Mayors Exchange Monday, May 16th: Municipal officials throughout the state, assisted by county and community Michigan Week committees, are preparing for the greatest get-acquainted move ever made by the people of Michigan ? the Mayor’s Exchange of the second annual Michigan Week on Monday, My 16.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
‘Village officials all re-elected: There was no upset in the Village of Clarkston election Monday, March 12. The Clarkston Village Council Members, all incumbents, retained their seats despite votes for three write-in candidates.
? School trustee resigns position: Trustee Elaine Schultz has resigned her position on the Clarkston School Board of Education.
Schultz announced her intention to resign at the board’s regular March 12 meeting. Although the resignation became effective immediately, the board unanimously voted to appoint her to finish out the term year ending June 11.
? Supervisor uncovers elusive tooth: Matt Crigger, 8, uncovered the true identity of the Tooth Fairy march 13 ? on his elementary school playground.
At Recess last Tuesday, the Bailey Lake Elementary third-grader was running and sliding on the icy playground when he fell over another boy and broke his tooth on the ice.
The tooth broke off at the gum line and Matt also received a swollen lip from the fall.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? Remke Sr. buys Clarkston Mills: The Clarkston Mills now has a new owner, Tom Remke Sr., and optimism about the future of the shopping mall abounds.
Opened about one-and-one-half years ago, the Clarkston Mills, 20 W. Washington, Clarkston, has been a curiosity for area residents as plans for a restaurant were discussed and then dropped off and on over the time span.
? Boundaries to change at three schools: Elementary school boundary changes which would take Andersonville sixth graders out of Clarkston Junior High have been tentatively approved by the Clarkston Board of Education.
? No ‘raggedy flag? for Clarkston headlined the front page picture of women putting up a new American flag.
? CHS attendance policy unchanged: enforcement of Clarkston High School’s ‘tough? attendance policy is being tightened up, but protesting parents have won no change in the policy during this school year.
Some of those who have been complaining about the way the policy is being carried out are threatening a lawsuit.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘Goodwill trucks Here Monday: An emergency call for usable, repairable discards was made today by Goodwill Industries, Michigan’s largest employer of handicapped people.
? Gail Wilds Named Homemaker: Gail Wilds has been named the Homemaker of Tomorrow in Clarkston high School.
She received the highest score in a written examination which tested the homemaking aptitude of the senior girls in her graduating class.
? Township Holds last Caucus: The last caucus to be held in Independence Township for the nomination of township officers took place last Saturday at the Community Center. The primary method of election will be used from now on until changed. It was probably the largest caucus held in the township.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
‘Raging fire: A raging fire totally destroyed a home on Balmoral Terrace, Independence Township, Feb. 28.
The blaze was particularly difficult to bring under control because it had burned for several hours before it was noticed, according to Independence Township Fire Chief Gar Wilson.
? Village general election Monday: Voters in the Village of Clarkston have a chance to elect their leaders in a general election Monday, March 12.
The polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the Village Hall, 375 Depot Road, Clarkston.
On the ballot are unopposed candidates for the Clarkston Village Council. All Republicans, and all are incumbents.
? Groveland man charged in I-75 shotgun incident: A Groveland Township man has been charged with felonious assault after allegedly pointing a shotgun at a motorist and threatening to kill him.
The incident occurred March 1 on I-75, one mile south of Dixie Highway in Independence Township, according to a report at the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department.
25 YEARS AGO (1980)
? 49 Clarkston school kids sent home: Forty-nine students in the Clarkston Community School District were barred from attending class Monday, having failed to comply with state immunization laws.
‘Thirty-six tenth graders and 13 fifth graders are affected,? said Mel Vaara, assistant school superintendent. ‘These 49 won’t be allowed to attend school until we have some certification that they’ve been properly immunized.?
? Pine Knob saga add Chapter 11: A soft winter was the final blow for financially troubled Pine Knob Investment co-partner. Chapter 11, a reorganization proceeding under the federal bankruptcy code, was filed in Detroit federal court last week for Pine Knob Investment, Pine Knob Country Club Inc., Pine Knob Ski Resort Inc., Mansions Inc., and Gary D. Francell, co-partner in Pine Knob Investment.

50 YEARS AGO (1955)
? Pioneers Celebrate First Anniversary: The Clarkston pioneers celebrated their first birthday on Thursday of last week when they met at the community center for a pot-luck luncheon with Mrs. Emma Young as luncheon chairman.
? Youth Dance Grand Success: The Youth Dance was held in the Clarkston High School Cafeteria on Saturday evening, February 26th. About 135 students attended and danced to the music of Russ Garcia’s Star Dusters. Mr. and Mrs. Fred Warrick were chairmen of the dance and Mr. and Mrs. L. V. Cushman were co-chairmen.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
‘Winter ‘white-out?: 100-car pile-up, ‘The roads were just coated with ice,? says Springfield Township fire chief: Driving was next to impossible throughout Oakland County Feb. 24, when the area was hit by one of the worst storms so far this winter.
Likely the worst area to navigate was a section of I-75 north of Dixie Highway in Springfield Township, the scene of an accident involving more than 100 cars.
? School out again, Extra day added to end of year: Students arrived at Clarkston High School, Clarkston Junior High School and Sashabaw Junior High on Thursday, Feb. 22, only to find that school was called off.
Assistant Superintendent Mel Vaara and Transportation Supervisor Kevin Bickerstaff jointly decided to call off school at 7:15 a.m., Vaara said.
? Most property assessments up in Independence: If you own property in Independence Twp., you likely found your annual assessment notice in your mailbox this week. If that assessment seemed higher than last year, you’re not alone. The residential class of property went up as a whole eight percent for this year.
25 YEARS AGO (1980)
‘Village traffic talks jam up: Increased traffic on Main Street has both village resident Gary Mitchell and the Clarkston Village Council concerned about pedestrian safety, but there’s little agreement between Mitchell and the council as to what should be done about it.
? County detective claims office space: there’s no more room in the lot, among other things.
So the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) plans to move only one officer ? a detective sergeant ? into the building next to Independence Township Hall for the time being.
? Something’s coming…: Friday, Feb. 29 is the time for extra special birthday celebrations for Leap Year babies, who only have real birthday anniversaries every four years.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
? Township caucus Saturday, March 5: This coming Saturday, March 5th, at two o’clock in the afternoon a Republican Caucus will be held in the township offices in the Community Center Building, for the purpose of nominating candidates for the coming election. As of this writing, no Caucus has been mentioned for the local Democratic party.
? localities have book published: This past week a book ‘The Strain Gage Primer? written and compiled by Charles C. Perry and Herbert R. Lissner was published by the McGraw-Hill Book Company, Inc., of New York. This book which was started in 1950 has not only involved plenty of study, experimenting and overtime work, but a great deal of patience in assembling this knowledge which will mean so much to engineers.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
‘Rabies Suspected, Puppy confined after skunk scuffle: After her dog Midget scuffled with a skunk, Pam Hancock had a difficult decision to make.
She either could quarantine the 9-month-old puppy for six months to see if rabies resulted, or she could put the dog to sleep immediately.
Ignoring the advice from her veterinarian and the Department of Agriculture, Hancock decided to keep her dog alive.
? No surprises in village primary: Except for the vast turnout of 101 of about 470 registered voters, there weren’t any surprises at the Clarkston Village Council primary election Feb. 19. All the incumbents were re-elected.
? Big gestures exist in small town: Though Mike Jeffers of Pontiac is a former Clarkston area resident, he was surprised to find that the small-town flavor of the village and its merchants still remains.
After ordering a coffee and a donut at the downtown bakery, he realized he had no money. The clerk allowed him to go ahead and he could come back and pay later. Later that day, after stopping by the bank, Jeffers paid his $2,40 bill (including a second donut and coffee) and left a $5 tip.
Jeffers was surprised at the trust and grateful for the continuing closeness of the Clarkston community.
25 YEARS AGO (1980)
‘For hotel building permit or $30 million, Pine Knob sues township: Pine Knob investments is asking for $30 million in damages if Independence Township does not issue a building permit for the resort’s proposed skyscraper hotel.
‘Amusement park gets go-ahead: An amusement park at Pine Knob has been approved in concept by the Independence Township Planning Commission.
The vote was 6-2 at the meeting on Feb. 14.
The conceptual plan included 12 rides with a 1920s theme on approximately five acres located between the music theater and the ski hill.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘Rotary Celebrates Golden Anniversary: Clarkston was linked today with more than 8,400 other cities and towns in 89 countries of the world as the Rotary Club commemorated the 50th anniversary of the founding of Rotary.
The birthday of this worldwide fellowship of business and professional men was celebrated by the Clarkston Rotarians at a Birthday Party.
Clarkston Rotarians plan a 15th anniversary of their own in June of this year. It was on June 24, 1940, they had their charter presented at a mammoth ‘Charter Night? with more than 400 Rotarians attending from Royal Oak, Ann Arbor, Pontiac, Birmingham and nearby communities.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
‘Village passes by 685: The 5.6321 millage request for Clarkston schools was approved Feb. 12 with 4,063 yes votes and 3,378 no votes.
‘It was busy,? said Rosemary Howey, elections clerk in Independence Township.
About 7,441 of the township’s 17,000 registered voters turned out. The vote total is not official until it’s certified by the Oakland County Board of Canvassers, which takes about a week, said Howey.
‘Clarkston’s primary is Feb. 19: It looks as if the Village of Clarkston primary election Monday, Feb. 19, will determine the make up of the Clarkston Village Council.
Only members of the Republican Party are vying for spots on the ballot for the March 12 general election. No Democrats are running.
? Looking to the future: Pictured is Christopher Messing, of Wealthy, Independence Township, gets an early start on voting techniques. His mother, Deanette, stops in at the voting booth at Clarkston High School on Feb. 12 to cast her ballot.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
‘Without Pine Knob, Reserve cops? future glum: The future looks glum for Independence Township’s reserve police unit, according to Supervisor Whitey Tower.
Township attorney, Richard Campbell, told reserve members last week they should not cover Pine Knob Music Theatre’s traffic control, because they cannot write tickets or enforce state laws, Tower said.
‘Flashing signs for school area: Flashing speed limit signs on both sides of Waldon Road at the Clarkston school complex are to be installed before the e end of the school year.
‘It will be a couple months maximum by the time they (the Oakland County Road Commission) get them in,? said Supervisor Whitey Tower.
The $3,054 cost is to be divided equally among Independence Township, Clarkston Community Schools and the road commission.
‘Parents protest discipline policy: Parents in disagreement with Clarkston High School’s method of disciplining students for absences by withholding grades took their complaints to the board of education Monday night.
After an hour and a half of listening to the faults the parents see in the policy and the ways in which it is administered, the board decided to ask administrators for a report on the matter, expected back at the board’s March meeting.

50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘Rotary Club Hears Debate: Four students from the University of Michigan, under the leadership of Marvin Esch, presented a debate to the members of the Clarkston Rotary Club on Monday evening at the Community Center.
‘Truth Dollars Fight Communism: The campaign for Radio Free Europe is on. Radio Free Europe is supported by Crusade For Freedom. Every American is asked to help.
General Walter Bedell Smith, former Under Secretary of State and former American Ambassador to Moscow, is the new President of the American Heritage Foundation, which sponsors the Crusade for Freedom.
? Freak Accident Causes Damage: On Thursday morning of last week at about 5:30 a Readi-Spud Potato Company truck traveling north on M-15 lost a right rear-wheel which ran across a vacant lot and then rammed a metal garage door at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Leo Erickson, 6140 S. Main St.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
‘Rapist gets 24 life terms: The man charged in a series of ski-mask rapes, including an assault in Independence Township, will spend the rest of his life in prison.
Steven A. Szeman Jr. was sentanced Feb. 2 to 24 life terms for 12 Oaklnad County rapes ar attempted rapes he allegedly committed throughout a period of a year and one-half.
‘Auto crash kills Waterford man: A Waterford Township man was killed in a late afternoon accident on Maybee Road Feb. 4. Walter V. Gallegly, 39, of Drayton Plains was driving his 1988 Chevrolet east on Maybee Road, near Waterford Road, when the vehicle ran into a pile of slush on the right shoulder, just after 4:45 p.m.
Gallegly attempted to correct the car’s position and lost control on the roadway, according to a report at the Oakland County SHeriff Department.
? Kids need millage: An Oxford man faces charges for allegedly swindling Independence Township residents of money with his window business.
William Schumacher, 60, of Oregon, was arrested and charged with larceny by conversion and another charge involving work without a proper license.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
‘Gravel site condemnation suit likely: Independence Township’s quest to buy 80 acres of a proposed gravel pit will probably end up in court, township attorney Richard Campbell said last week.
‘We’ll probably file suit within ten days,? he said.
‘Tower GM effect slight: Construction plans for a huge General Motors plant which have been announced for neighboring Orion Township have brightened the horizon somewhat for Independence Township developers.
But the overall effect of the plant is not expected to be felt much in the neighboring township, according to Independence supervisor Whitney Tower.
‘County to decide on PK: A decision on the proposed purchase of about 400 acres of Pine Knob by the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission should be made by the end of February, acording to county officials.
A closed parks commission executive session is scheduled this week for informational purposes, said Eric Reickel, manager of the county parks and recreation department.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘New Library Opens Feb. 16: An important event to take place in Clarkston on Wednesday, February 16th, will be the opening of the new Independence Township Library. The Clarkston Community Women’s Club will hold an open house in the Library from one until four p.m. for both men and women in this area.
A silver Tea will be featured and any donations will be appreciated. Mrs. Don Stackable, head of the Library Committee, will also accept books for the library that day.
‘Chevrolet Agency Changes Ownership: The Chevrolet agency in this area is now known as Haskins Chevrolet, Inc., with Roy Haskins of Detroit as president. Leo J. Torney, also of Detroit, is the General manager. Don Pringle gave up the agency due to the pressure of other business.
? Dairy Bar Opens Today: Mr. and Mrs. John Stafford of Pontiac, former owners of ‘The Pantry?, will open the Clarkston Dairy Bar this afternoon and they invite your business. The pool tables have been removed and that space will be used for dancing.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
‘Bruno lives: Bruno, the Independence Township pit bull, has been given a new lease on life from Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Richard Kuhn.
After hearing oral arguments in the case, Kuhn issued a written agreement that keeps Bruno from being destroyed.
‘Bruno lives,? said a clerk for Kuhn, in advising of the judge’s decision. The pit bull was accused of being dangerous after the dog allegedly chased a next-door neighbor and her dog into their Pine Knob Lane , Independence Township home. The neighbor, Mrs. Henrietta McIntyre, suffered a heart attack that she said was caused by the dog’s behavior.
‘High winds cause power outages: While Springfield Township reported no damage from high winds on Jan. 25, Independence Township suffered some minor damages and power outages.
Oakland County reported winds at 46 mph with gusts as high as 63 mph. In Independence Township, about 11,000 residences were without power 2:30-5 p.m. after high winds caused wires to come off of the insulators, said Chief Gar Wilson of the Independence Township Fire Department.

25 YEARS AGO (1980)
‘Village voids cop contract: A divided Clarkston Village Council Monday night decided to see how much police protection it can get without a contract.
The council voted 3-2 to discontinue its police contract with Independence Township. The community will rely on the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department, which Village President Fonti ApMadoc said has a legal obligation to provide protection whether or not the village has a contract.
‘Thayer resigns: Clarkston Village Councilman Michael Thayer, elected to three terms as a member of the village council, has resigned.
In a letter Thayer cited ‘personal reasons? for his decision and set Jan. 25, 1980 as the effective date of his recognition.
‘Reserve cops very limited: The Independence Township reserves police unit will have ‘very, very limited? powers, according to township attorney Richard Campbell.
‘I don’t think we shouls undertake to do anything more than to attend to Clarkston parades and sporting events,? said Campbell.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘Rotary Club Adds Three Members: Harry D. Waggener, of the Michigan Bell Telephone Co.; William Race, of the Clarkston Motors and Howard M. Kieft, Surveyor and Engineer, were welcomed into Rotary at the weekly meeting of the Clarkston rotary Club.
‘Michigan Bell Helps School fund: The Michigan Bell Telephone Company’s payment to the state Primary School Fund was the largest in the company’s history and Michigan Bell remained the largest single contributor, in 1954.
The amount was $7,235,000, in state property taxes, Michigan Bell, in common with railroads, Pullman, railway express, telegraph, and other telephone companies, pays such a tax earmarked for the Primary Fund in lieu of other property taxes.
‘Just A Little Backslider: A Reno, Nevada housewife doesn’t hire a baby sitter when good skiing weather arrives. Taking a tip from her Indian friends she straps skis on her feet and Junior on her back then heads for the hills. Snuggled in a warm blanket and protected by a sturdy headshield (in case Mama does a little accidental baby sitting herself) the little tyke is all set for a bracing run.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
‘Stoplight in place by month’s end: The long-awaited stoplight at M-15 and the north ramp of I-75 will be in place by Jan. 29, state highway officials confirmed.
The light pole and power lines are already installed. The light will be a regular stop-and-go light; no turns or phasing will be used.
‘Pulphus to spend life in prison: In a lengthy sentencing proceeding, a circuit court judge ordered Hezekiah Pulphus, Jr. to spend the rest of his life in prison, without parole, for the murder of 19-year-old Patrick Walsh.
‘Informational sessions on Clarkston millage: If you want to know more about the Feb. 12 Clarkston millage election, you’ve got two good chances: Monday, Jan. 29 and Thursday, Feb. 1.
? Clarkston Wolves: Varsity wrestler Joe Webb takes on Waterford Mott’s Max Baker, winning by decision Thursday, Jan 18. The Wolves, ranked eighth in the state, are having a strong season and wrestling better than ever.
25 YEARS AGO (1980)
‘Sheriff protection now full-time: Emergency calls for police assistance in Independence Township should now be directed to the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The number to call is 858-4911.
The two local police officers resigned from their positions Monday to join the OCSD and the contract increasing the township’s OCSD coverage from four to six deputies was signed last week, said Supervisor Whitey Tower.
?? But politics linger on: Political pressures continue to surround the dissolution of Independence Township’s police department.
The latest turmoil involves changing the location of the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department substation from Colobiere Center, Big Lake Road, Springfield Township, to the police services building adjacent to Independence Township Hall on Main St., Clarkston.
‘Hockey Hockey: To Jeffrey Galley’s delight, his father Ronald pulls him around the ice on Clarkston’s Mill Pond at the end of a large hockey stick. After a long ride, the elder Galley dropped to the ice, laughing, and said, ‘Daddy’s going to have a heart attack.?
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘Adult Classes Offered at High School: Adult classes will be offered at the Clarkston High School during the winter term.
Classes will convene at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 9. At the first meeting a date and time schedule will be arranged that will most nearly meet the wishes of the group.
Classes will be offered in typing, shorthand, art and driver training provided there are enough enrollees to warrant having the class.
‘Night football for C.H.S.: 1954 Wayne-Oakland Champs, Football under lights will be played next fall at Clarkston High School. This announcement was made Wednesday evening at a meeting of the local committee in charge of Football Field Lighting.
Five home games are scheduled for evening play during the coming season.
‘Mill Pond to be lighted: The Firefighters Association is seeing that the Mill Pond is lighted for skaters. The Detroit Edison has installed the meter and it is expected that all will be in readiness by the end of this week.
However, just because the pond is lighted does not mean that the Firefighters, the Township, or the Village is responsible for the safety of your children.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
‘State grants cityhood to Clarkston: The Village of Clarkston has been approved by the Michigan Boundary Commission to move forward in their plans for ‘cityhood.? The decision was announced at a meeting in Lansing Tuesday, Ja. 16.
‘Millage campaign in high gear: About 460 millage volunteers have their work cut out for them for the next few weeks. Convincing voters to approve an additional 5.5 mills for Clarkston school operations won’t be easy. But the millage workers have a simple strategy: just present the information to the public, said David Reschke, school distroct co-chairman for the Blue Ribbon Kids Committee.
‘Clarkston teachers hope for the best: Clarkston Senior High School science teacher Bill Mackson said a defeat in february’s millage vote will keep much – needed textbooks and lab supplies out of his already ill-equiped classroom. But Mackson knows the real casualties of a defeat will be Clarkston students left with a sub-standard education and unprepared for college.
25 YEARS AGO (1980)
‘Pine Knob wants amusement park: A 12-ride amusement park is Pine Knob’s latest plan. Conceptual review of the about-five-acre site plan is tentatively set for the Jan. 24 Independence Township Planning Commission meeting, said Timothy Palulian, building and planning commission director.
‘Clarkston kids? tests have one flaw: The Michigan educational Assessment Program has once again found Clarkston fourth and seventh graders performing well above state averages on reading and mathematics tests. However, the district’s 10th graders, tested for the first time in the statewide program, fell below average for the percent who made minimal achievement on the math portion of the test.
‘New ambulanceservice for area: Riverside Ambulance Service now has an office in Independence Township with a paramedic unit on duty 24 hours a day. After receiving an advance license from the state, the office opened last week at the Clarkston Professional Building, 5885 M-15. The ambulance service is to cover Independence, Springfield and Brandon townships, said Lee Moore, vice president of Riverside and paramedic coordinator for the corporation.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘MOTHERS? MARCH ON POLIO JANUARY 27TH: The slogan for the 1955 March of Dimes, jan. 3-31, is ‘It’s A Bigger Job Now!? A little thought on the fight against polio and one realizes just how much has to be done before this dreaded disease is controlled. Polio is apt to strike any place, it might be your child and it might be yourself. There must be a concerted effort on the part of everyone in the country to raise funds for this purpose.
‘Do You Protect Your Child’s Health: Vigilance is a small price to pay to help maintain thehealth of your child. The immunization survey conducted late in 1953 by the schools and the oakland County Health Department revealed that this County had only 50% of its school population protected against diphtheria; 41% protected against smallpox. Research has shown that at leat 60% need adequate protection against these diseases to prevent rapid spread through the community.
‘All Things Will Become New: A New Year means the promise of a new beginning. It is a gift from God – a challenge to throw off the old- and try on the new. Are we willing, in return, to get out of our rut that has brought us nothing but fear, despair and finally bodily illness? Are we willing to part company with our old habits of putting the blame on everyone but ourselves?

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
‘Clarkston cityhood decision Jan. 16: After a two year wait, Clarkston Village Council members will soon hear word of whether or not the village will enter into ‘cityhood.? During the council meeting on Jan. 8, officials announced that a decision will be made by the Michigan Boundary Commission in Lansing Tuesday, Jan. 16.
‘Icy back roads shut schools: Icy back roads caused school to be canceled in Clarkston Thursday, Jan. 4, though many of the main paved roads were clear. About 250 people’apparently many who lived on blacktopped roads’called the bus garage last Thursday to verify the closing, said Assistant Superintendent Mel Varra, adding that some couldn’t believe school was canceled.
‘Beefed up police force in township: Three Oakland County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) deputies have been added to the police force covering Independence Township. The addition of the three officers, effective Jan. 1 brings the number of police patrolling the township to 15.
25 YEARS AGO (1980)
‘Independence reserve cops stay put: Independence Township’s reserve unit is to stay on the job. The township board voted 5-2 at last night’s meeting to maintain the local 16-member reserve program. On Dec. 6 the board voted to dissolve the local police department and contract solely with the Oakland County Sherrif’s Department for police protection.
‘Maybee park? Maybe: A new park may be purchased by Independence Township in 1980. The land between 10 and 14 acres, is located north of Maybee Road and west of Sashabaw Road, directly across from Lake Oakland Woods Subdivision. Supervisor Whitey Tower and Treasurer Frederick Ritter were given the go ahead to have the property appraised and make the necessary arrangements for its purchase in a 5-2 decisionby the township board last night.
‘Sex bias wanes in Clarkston schools: Sex discrimination in Clarkston school is dwindling, according to Conrad Bruce, Title IX coordinator and administrative assistant for personnel services. ‘I’m not saying we’re perfect but we’ve come along way,? he said. But career counseling ? the area that needs the most attention according to a national organization devoted to ending sex discrimination in schools ? has had little attention, Bruce said.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘Bloodmobile in Clarkston January 25: January 25 is D-Day in Clarkston. January 25 is Blood Donor Day in Clarkston at the Community Center from 2:00 to 8:00 p.m. Blood is desperately needed every day. There is no substitute for human blood. Scientists cannot make blood, it must be donated. Your donated blood is given to the sick and injured who need it. Any blood not used for transfusions is processed into blood derivatives which are used in treatment for certain diseases and to counteract shock.
‘Women to hear John L. Carey: John L. Carey, a prominent resident of Clarkston, will speak on ‘Subversive Activities in America before McCarthy? at the meeting of the Clarkston Community Women’s Club. The meeting is to be held in the Community Center on Wednesday, January 19 at 1:00 p.m.
‘Laura Ruggles named good citizen: General Richardson Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution, recently observed its 55th anniversary with a luncheon at Devon Gables. The chairman of the ‘Good Citizen? committee announces the names of seven high school girls in this area who have been chosen by the seniors and faculty as outstanding citizens. Clarkston High has selected Laura Ruggles, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Ruggles of Reese Road.

15 YEARS AGO (1990)
‘Flu season hits Clarkston area: The good news is the recent rise in ‘flu? cases may be dwindling. The bad news is the real flu, or influenza, may have yet to arrive. Area Physicians have been deluged with flu cases lately. Primarily it’s two types of flu, according to Tarlika Dhabuwala, who practices from her M-15, Independence Township, office.
‘MEAP results show ‘good gains? in Clarkston: MEAP (Michigan Educational Assessment Program) test results for Clarkston show students have made some good gains, said Judith Backus, director of curriculum, at the Dec. 11 school board meeting. MEAP test results were sent home to parents of Clarkston school children before the Christmas holiday break.
‘Dog, family reunited: Firefighters at Independence Township’s Station No. 2 were happy to perform a food deed recently. But just the same, they were a bit unhappy about it too. A blond cocker spaniel they had temporarily adopted was reunited with it owner after a story appeared here in The Clarkston News about the animal.
25 YEARS AGO (1980)
‘Independence Township’s CD funds. Few care about $120,000: Budgeting for $120,000 in Community Development (CD) funds in 1980 is a task the Independence Township Board faces with little public input. The first public hearing held Dec. 18 had only one interested group present ? the Independence Township Safety Path Committee. Requests for the federal funds for a mini-fire station in the Woodhull Subdivision area located in the southeast section of the township and for park development in that general area also were received from township department heads.
‘Ice fishermen, skaters must bide their time: Unseasonably warm weather has prevented ice fishermen, ice skaters and other sportsmen from venturing out onto the frozen lakes this winter, but even lakes that appear solid during extended periods of cold should be treated with caution.
‘Machines keep skiers schussing: Don’t let a lack of snow on your front lawn or some mild temperatures fool you ? there can still be some excellent skiing at the local slopes this winter. Thanks to the technology of snow making, it’s no longer necessary to have any natural snow at all to have the ski season going full tilt at places like Pine Knob in Independence Township.
50 YEARS AGO (1955)
‘New school additions nearing completion: The Clarkston High School addition, the last of four additions constructed this past year, is nearing completion. The cafeteria and principal’s office were put in operation Jan. 4, and the remainder should be completed within 30 days.
‘Ground observers reactivated: For some time there has been a feeling that Clarkston should have a Ground Observer Group to watch for possible enemy planes which might try to enter the area. It seems that while the country is very well provided with radar screens that these do not pick up anything lower than 500 feet from the ground leaving a portion of our lands wide open for attack.
‘March of Dimes started Monday: Freeing patients from iron lungs and releasing them from total reliance on braces and crutches are objectives of the 1955 March of Dimes scheduled to open this week, Carl W. Donelson, the chairman of the Oakland County chapter of the National Foundation for Infantile Paralysis declared today.

15 YEARS AGO (1989)
‘MEAP scores rank with 1989: Students in the Clarkston area tallied scores consistent with those achieved in last year’s Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) tests. ‘The students did pretty good,? said Dr. Judith Backes, coordinator of staff development and curriculum. ‘We saw some increases in the new reading tests, and the middle school students fared pretty well.?
? Boy charged with manslaughter: A 14-year-old boy has been charged with killing a 15-year-old girl in his Oakvista, Independence Township, home last week. The boy, a Sahabaw Junior High School student. has been charged with involuntary manslaughter. He is being held because he is a minor. The girl , Carmen Blehm of High Street, Independence Township, was shot in the head Dec. 15, while visiting the youth’s home.
? Judge’s order restrains Deer Lake sewer for now: An Oakland County Circuit Court judge delivered a restraining order to Independence Township last week, so he could investigate a citizens? lawsuit over the Deer Lake sewer proposal. On Dec. 19, Judge Barry Howard prescribed the restraining order after listening to the basis of the suit.
25 YEARS AGO (1979)
? Thayer to give up council post: Michael Thayer, who has served as trustee on the Clarkston Village Council for three terms, will not run for a fourth term of office. Thayer also is an Independence Township trustee.
? Many chop wood to cut fuel costs: As gas and oil costs continue to spiral, firewood sales are better than ever, according to Tom Ritter, owner of Ritter’s Farm Market in Independence Township.
‘I’ve noticed an appreciable increase in the amount of wood we sell,? says Ritter. ‘It used to be just a decorative sort of thing for people’s fireplaces, but now there are a lot of homeowners proud to say they’re using it for fuel.?
‘Township moves on sheriff’s pact: Winding down of Independence Township’s police department has begun. The township board unanimously approved a mutual service agreement with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) and elimination of local coverage on weekends at last week’s meeting.

50 YEARS AGO (1954)
‘Car accident fatal to local man: A car accident on the Dixie Highway on Christmas Eve took the life of HArold E. Weston, 43, of 105 Wompole Drive, Clarkston. He was born in Lapeer on June 29, 1911, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Walter Weston.
? State Police Offer Safety Movie: A new traffic safety moving picture, ‘According to the Record,? produced by the Michigan State Police is now ready for distribution. The 16 mm film, in color and sound, is intended for showing before all age groups, although the theme primarily concerns drivers of 25 years of age or less.
‘Fire Department Answers Call: On Thursday night of last week, about midnight, the Independence Township Fire Department answered a call to the B. F. Evans Equipment on the Dixie Highway. They fought the blaze until about three in the morning.

15 YEARS AGO (1989)
‘Director quits library post: James Hibler, director of the Independence Township Library, resigned from his position Dec. 11.
‘Because of the township board’s inadequate support of the library and because of its disrespectful treatment of me personally, I have resigned my position to pursue employment elsewhere,? said Hibler, who declined to comment further.
? Controversy comes to courtroom: Independence Township is in the national spotlight Dec. 12 and 13 when the murder case involving Dr. Jack Kevorkian and his ‘suicide machine? is heard in 52nd District Court. Media representatives from around the world covered the event.
? Girl dies in ‘accidental shooting:? A 15-year-old Independence Township girl was fatally injured after being shot in the head Saturday night, Dec. 15.
Carmen Blehm of High Street was transported to Pontiac Osteopathic Hospital last Saturday after being shot in the head with a small caliber handgun. She died about 4:30 p.m. Sunday afternoon.
25 YEARS AGO (1979)
? M-275 foe combat-ready: M-275 foe Stephen Rosman says he is optimistic about stopping the proposed freeway.
Rosman, a Commerce Township resident, heads Citizens in Opposition to M-275. The State Highway Commission recently approved M-275 in a 4-2 vote.
On the other hand, Springfield Township resident Ralph O’Reilly says the roadway is inevitable, even though he still opposes it and worked in the past for M-275’s defeat.
? Symbolizing season: Marilyn Biondi works on a huge Santa Claus face at Rudy’s Market. She has also painted Christmas decorations on three other business windows in and around town.
With the holiday season fast approaching, the poinsettia business is booming. Here, Teresa Wallace and Lucy Blacklock, both students at the Northwest Oakland Vocational Center, prepare the plants for delivery from the center’s greenhouse to waiting customers.
50 YEARS AGO (1954)
? Christmas Concert at High School: The Clarkston High School Band and Chorus will present their Annual Christmas Concert on Tuesday, Dec. 21 at 8:00 p.m. in the High School auditorium.
? Rotary Holds Farmers? Night: On Monday the Annual Farmers? Night was held at the Community Center. Over 70 Rotarians and their farmer friends were present to enjoy a very fine dinner served by the ladies of the Seymour Lake Methodist Church.
‘Reminder: Are you helping to brighten Clarkston for Christmas? The Rotarians have done a good job in the business section and they would like the homeowners to cooperate by having some outdoor lighting. Light up a shrub or a tree or put a lighted wreath on the front door.
‘Michigan Bell Awaits Decision on Rate Increase: Rehearing of Michigan Bell Telephone Company’s application for a rate increase is closed.
The Public Service Commission has asked for statements from all parties on the company’s investment base proposal by Dec. 24 after which the Commission will hand down its decision.

15 YEARS AGO (1989)
‘School site tested; Feb. 11 election set: The Clarkston Board of Education has taken two more steps toward the creation of a new Clarkston High School. On Dec. 10, the board formally set Monday, Feb. 11, 1991, as the special election date. On this day, voters will see three bonding propositions.
? Fine, probation are penalty for burro death: Ronald Keen, 48, was sentenced last week to two years probation and $871 restitution for mistreating an American burro. The man was also ordered to spend five days in the Oakland County Jail.
? A 61-year-old Springfield Township woman is in an intensive care unit at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, Pontiac, after being struck by a car. On Dec. 5, Aphride hassopolis was struck by a car while trying to cross Dixie Highway near I-75. At 3:55 p.m. last Wednesday, the woman was hit by an automobile driven by Onda Clark, 43, of Springfield Township. No tickets were issued at the scene.
25 YEARS AGO (1979)
? Police conversion slow: Takeover of Independence Township police protection by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Department is going to take longer than originally planned. Last week’s township board decision was to eliminate the local department and reserve unit in two steps ?’hire two additional OCSD deputies increasing the number from four to six beginning last Friday and have the Director of Police Services Charles Kimbel stay on the job until Feb. 2 to wind down the remaining services.
? School administrators get 9% raises, no seniority: Nineteen Clarkston School District administrators– principals, assistant principals and program directors–have individually signed contracts with the district which give them a nine percent pay increase for the year.
‘Bah! Humbug!: There will be no Christmas parade in Clarkston this year. The decision not to have a parade was made months ago, according to Independence Township Police Services, who have run the parade in recent years.
50 YEARS AGO (1954)
? Chritmas Music At Sashabaw: At Sashabaw Presbyterian Church on Sunday evening, December 12, beginning at 8 o’clock the Orchard lake Presbyterian choir, under the direction of G. Thomas Hartle, will sing the beautiful ‘Christmas Oratorio? by Camille Saint-Saens.
? D.A.R. Enjoys Christmas Program: The history and traditions of Christmas carols was the program for the December meeting of the General Richardson Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution. Mrs. Donald B. Hogue, a student of folk songs and carols, was the guest speaker.
‘legion Auxiliaries Play Santa: More than 30,000 members of the Michigan American Legion Auxiliary this week are bringing a Christmas shopping shopping service to 3,500 hospitalized veterans who are unable to go to stores to do their gift hunting for relatives and friends back home. Repeating a service 7 years ago, the auxiliary members have set up a shopping center in each of five Veterans Administartion hospitals located at Dearborn, Saginaw, Battle Creek, Iron Mountain and the new Ann Arbor unit.

15 YEARS AGO (1989)
? School board approves budget cut: The Clarkston Board of Education unanimously adopted about $2 million in budget cuts Dec. 4, contingent upon the results of the upcoming millage election. On Feb. 12, 1990, voters will be asked to approve an additional 5.6 mills for the 1990-91 school year.
? Stolen items linked to Independence: Jewelry and coins confiscated in the arrest of a Waterford Township woman is believed to be among items stolen in two Independence Township burglaries. Police arrested Deanna Lassi, 18, after searching a Waterford Township home and uncovering almost $20,000 worth of property believed stolen in burglaries throughout Oakland County, said Oakland County Sheriff’s Department Investigator David Roddy.
? New finance director brings experience to job: Independence Township’s new finance director has been around. Kerry Donahoe, hired as finance director in November, has worked in similar departments in Southfield, Troy and Birmingham throughout his varied career.

25 YEARS AGO (1979)
? Hotel appeals run out: Pine Knob’s request to build a 20-story hotel has been denied in the last remaining appeal process in Independence Township. The zoning board of appeals voted 3-0 to uphold Building Department Director Timothy Palulian’s denial to issue a building permit at its Nov. 28 special meeting.
? Grant helps mentally ill with arts: The Northwest Oakland Life Enrichment Coalition (NOLEC) has received a grant from the Michigan Council for the Arts to hire an artist-therapist to work with the mentally ill at the Springfield Oaks Recreation Center.
? Independence police get the ax: Two additional Oakland County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) deputies will patrol Independence Township’s streets starting Friday, and the township police department will, for all practical purposes, cease operation. The township board voted 4-3 to dissolve the local department at last night’s meeting and increase the OCSD contract to seven deputies.

50 YEARS AGO (1954)
? ‘Safe Driving Day? Wednesday, Dec. 15: Mayor Russell Coltson today proclainmed Wednesday, December 15 as ‘S-D Day?-or ‘Safe Driving Day?-and pledged the full support of the village government in making the project a success. He urged all citizens to do their utmost to keep entirely free of accidents on Dec. 15.
? Manley L. Walter Dies Suddenly: The village of Clarkston was greatly shocked last Sunday at the sudden death of one of it’s native sons, Manley L. Walter. Mr. Walter passed away at his home at 20 Buffalo Street. He was born in Clarkston in May 5, 1908.
? Christmas Music At Sashabaw: At Sashabaw Presbyterian Church on Sunday evening, December 12, beginning at 8 o’clock the Orchard Lake Presbyterian choir, under the direction of G. Thomas Hartle, will sing the very beautiful ‘Christmas Oratorio? by Camille Saint-Saens.

15 YEARS AGO (1989)
‘Board OK’s $10 million 1990 budget: A $10.6 million budget for 1990 was approved by the Independence Township board Nov. 20 with little discussion.
The new budget will become effective Jan. 1 and ends Dec. 31, 1990.
? Holiday craft festival visits Springfield Park: A variety of arts and crafts, displayed in an early 1800s storefront setting, will be featured at the Davisburg Christmas Craft Festival Dec. 1 to 3 at the Springfield Oaks Activities Center.
The ninth annual event will showcase musical instruments, Christmas ornaments, carousel animals, glass art and other handcrafted items. Craftmaking demonstrations will be conducted throughout the festival.
? Little Indians: The Indians of Discovery School, taught by Lynn Barclay of Oakvista, Independence Township, sing for family members before sharing a Thanksgiving meal the children helped prepare. The preschool Indians are (from left): Jason Zuker, Seth Gilles, Linden Barclay, Matthew Haskins and Adam Clements.
25 YEARS AGO (1979)
? Parks and Rec into ballet: As Stacey Seacatch takes the Bouree position, other members of her ballet class form a line before gliding across the floor. The other girls (from left) are Nancy Needham, Kelly Jones, Tammy Sansom, Alexsis Chittick, Robin Nicholas, Gretchen Eidam, Tamara Clark, Robin Meissner, Karen Bielecki and Chaun Wilson. Zoe Ann Keros teaches the class through the Independence Township Parks and Recreation Department.
? Reickel hits parent apathy – No Junior High on ballot soon: In a special three-hour-long meeting Monday night, the Clarkston School Board voted not to put the $9.1 million school bond issue back to the voters in the near future.
? Dressing up for Frosty Fashions: It takes more to get ready for a fashion show than to just put on the clothes and walk on stage.
Peggy Vermilye, a Clarkston High School student, got some fashion tips for her part in Forty Fashions planned by the CHS Business Office Education Club (BOEC) on Thursday, Dec. 29.
50 YEARS AGO (1954)
? Newlyweds reside in Clarkston: The Clarkston Baptist Church was the scene of a pretty wedding on Saturday evening when Marian Ruth Teggerdine became the bride of Robert I. Cooley.
? Brighten Clarkston for Christmas: What is more beautiful than to see a little town bright and shining at Christmas-time. This is the aim of the Clarkston Rotary Club. The committee in charge of decorations in the downtown section is asking every home, if possible, to have some outdoor lights. Perhaps you could have a lighted wreath or some other lighted decoration on your front door, or maybe you could light up some of those evergreen trees or shrubs that are in your front yard. The idea is to make Clarkston alive with lights this Christmas season.
‘Prospective Bride Honored Saturday: On Saturday, Candy Becker and Judy O’Dell entertained at a miscellaneous shower at the Becker home on Allen Road, honoring Ann Barrows whose marriage will be an event of December 18.

15 YEARS AGO (1989)
‘POH receives state OK for Dixie site: After a seven-year wait, including a three-year appeal process, the state granted a Certificate of Need(CON) to Pontiac Osteopathic Hospital (POH) Nov. 21 for a 125-bed acute care facility in Independence Township.
? Trial date set for suspect in stabbing: A date has been set in the murder trial of Hezekiah Pulphus Jr. of Grand Rapids. Pulphus is charged in the June stabbing death of 19-year-old patrick Walsh of Springfield Township.
? College student gets 8-point buck: Many Michigan residents may boast of rifling deer this week, but one Independence Township resident has a different tale to tell.
‘Township asks DNR for $29,500 for recycling: Independence Township has petitioned the state for money to help with solid waste disposal. The $29,574 request was made to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, as part of its protecting Michigan’s Future Bond Program.
25 YEARS AGO (1979)
? No M-275 on Main St: Proposed construction of M-275 In Western Oakland County is expected to be considered by the Michigan Highway and Transportation Commission next week, although there apparently is no consensus on the route the highway should take.
? Gorsline says he’ll quit office: Robert H. Gorsline, midway through his second term as an Oakland County commissioner, says he plans to leave the political arena in another year and become an Episcopal minister.
? Gun collection stolen: A $10,000 gun collection was stolen from an Independence Township home in the middle of the day Thursday, according to Independence Township police.
‘Independence tentatively approves $300,000 building: Construction of a $300,000 Independence Township maintenance building could be underway this year.
50 YEARS AGO (1954)
? Special Speaker At Quarterly Meeting: The quarterly meeting of the Methodist W. S. C. S., will be held at the church on Thursday, December 2nd. The Martha Circle will serve a luncheon at 12:30.
? P.C.A. To Hold Annual Meeting: The Board of Directors of the Pontiac Production Credit Association has set Wednesday, December 1 as the date for the 1954 annual meeting. The meeting this year is to be held at the Community Center in Fenton beginning at 12 noon.
‘Cruelty To Animals To Be Curbed:Oakland County Animal Welfare Society, Inc., 1923, announces that in conjunction with the Anti-Cruelty League of Michigan and because of complaints concerning inhumane acts allegedly carried on at Rodeos there will be two Humane Officers and Humane Directors present at every Rodeo Show.
‘Young Folk Crowd Junior High Hop: The second Junior High Hop was held on Friday night in the Clarkston High School Gym and about 160 of the 6th, 7th and 8th graders again had an enjoyable evening.

15 YEARS AGO (1989)
? Residents demand action from board: About 75 angry parents crowded into the Clarkston School Board room Nov. 13 and demanded that the board set a date for a millage election. In a three-hour discussion, about 20 parents voiced disapproval with the condition of Clarkston schools.
? Independence man killed in accident: An Independence Township man was one of two killed when a truck was smashed by a freight train near downtown Pontiac early Nov. 11. A witness told police the truck was attempting to drive around the warning gates when the crash occurred.
? Area man dies in car-train crash: A multiple car accident on Dixie Highway resulted in the death of an Independence Township man Nov. 6. James Morris, 20, of Mary Sue St., died after the car he was riding in struck two vehicles and overturned.
25 YEARS AGO (1979)
? Murphy: Decision on Pine Knob is months away: Pine Knob has been offered for sale to the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission, but a decision on the matter is three to six months away, according to Daniel Murphy, Oakland County Executive.
? School superintendent’s salary goes to $42,300: Clarkston Schools Superintendent Milford Mason has been awarded a three-year contract which sets his current salary at $42,300. Mason’s salary was boosted 9 percent from $38,800.
? Holiday Cookbook: It’s nearly the holiday time — when guests are welcomed with special foods both rich and lavish. Each family, each household, has its own traditional treats — and sharing the recipes for those goodies is also a part of the spirit of the season.
50 YEARS AGO (1954)
? 90th Birthday Honored Last Week: On Wednesday evening of last week a number of friends of John Marvin gathered to help him celebrate his 90th birthday. They enjoyed a supper with a lovely birthday cake for dessert. The cake was made by Mrs. Clyde Becker.
? Native of Clarkston Dies in New York: Charles T. Bower, a native of Clarkston, died in New York City on November 11, following a brief illness. Before his retirement 20 years ago, Mr. Bower had held important executive secretarial posts, including that of assistant secretary of the Union Pacific System.

15 YEARS AGO (1989)
? Area residents say no to Proposal A, B – Fire bond issue defeated by residents in Independence Township: Residents in both Independence and Springfield townships voted overwhelmingly against two statewide tax proposals in Tuesday’s special election. In Independence Township, voters also defeated a $2 million fire bond issue.
? Man literally takes up cross: As soon as Mike Gainor, 34, appeared in the Clarkston area, he attracted attention.The call to The Clarkston News on Halloween said a Christ-like figure, bearded and bearing an 85-pound cross, was walking down Dixie Highway near White Lake Road, Idependence Township.
25 YEARS AGO (1979)
? The Golden Anniversary Edition of The Clarkston News!
? Police protection issue resurfaces: Possible elimination of the local Independence Township police department is the topic of a special public hearing set for Nov. 27.
? PK hotel permit denied: Pine Knob’s building permit application for its high-rise hotel was denied last week by the Independence Township Building Department.
50 YEARS AGO (1954)
? Local team heads league – Hintz puts the Wolves in the winner’s circles: Friday night the Clarkston football team brought home the League Championship from Holly by winning with a score of 18 to 7.
? 25th Anniversary celebrated Sunday: On Sunday, November 7, from 4 until 7 o’clock in the evening Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Johnson received about 140 friends and relatives at the Clarkston Community Center, the occassion being their twenty-fifth wedding anniversary.

15 YEARS AGO (1989)
? Bond, 2 proposals highlight ballot: A $2 million fire bond and two state proposals designed to raise money for education face Independence Township voters on Tuesday, Nov. 7.
The fire bond issue, defeated by 55 votes in the March 28 election, is on the ballot for the second time.
? Judge to hear Bruno’s case: Bruno, the Independence Township dog accused of being dangerous, has a little more time to enjoy life before Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Richard Kuhn decides his fate.
? Don’t forget to cast vote on Nov. 7: Voter turnout Tuesday, Nov. 7, is likely to be low in Springfield Township and medium in Independence Township, according to election officials.
? The Third Annual Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce Community Expo was held on Nov. 8 from 6-9 p.m.
25 YEARS AGO (1979)
? Hotel hits zoning snag: Pine Knob’s quest for a 22-story, ski-run-roof hotel has hit another zoning snag.
Controversies over whether recreational districts should include hotel-resort-convention facilities on 10 acres or more (use) and whether such facilities can be built up to 200 feet high (height) are on the Oct. 16 ballot with the use a binding referendum and the height an advisory referendum.
? Writers can join smokeout: The Clarkston News, the Clarkston High School Students Against Smoking organization and the American Cancer Society are sponsoring an essay contest for youths on the topic of ‘What I Think About Smoking.?
? News news tops: Readers of The Clarkston News are getting the best in local news coverage. That’s been confirmed by the Michigan Press Association, which has been awarded the newspaper top honor for local news coverage in its circulation category in the association’s 1979 newspaper contest.
50 YEARS AGO (1954)
‘Rotarians take European trip: On Monday evening the Clarkston Rotary Club with their wives and some friends enjoyed a delicious roast beef dinner prepared and served by the Clarkston Royal Neighbors. Guest Rotarians were from the Pontiac Club and the Waterford-Drayton Club.
? Clarkston local: Mr. and Mrs. Maynard Kizer and Mr. and Mrs. Gray Robertson were hosts to the Clarkston Football Team, the Cheerleaders and the coaches and their wives, at the high school following the game at Oxford last Friday. Although they lost the game, they claim they didn’t lose out on the food and all were very grateful to the two couples for the delicious repast.
? Children have Happy Halloween: Well, the big night is over and the goblins and witches have vanished for another year. The small fry had a good time visiting the homes of their neighbors and getting their large sacks filled with sweets and fruit. Some of the costumes were really original. One little lass who drew a lot of attention was a little three-year-old who was dressed as Little Red Riding Hood, but insisted upon wearing large, cardboard pig’s face as a mask.