Oxford Lions Club helps 45 families in need with baskets
The Oxford Lions Club would like to thank all of the people who helped make our annual Christmas Baskets Project a great success.
The club could not complete this project without the help of the Oxford Leader, Meijers of Oxford, Oakland Press, Oxford Middle School and Lakeville Elementary School’s Food Drive, Oxford Frosty Boy, and Vaughn Custom Sports? Toy Drive.
Plus, we want to thank everyone who bought Good Fellow Newspapers for the donations of approimately $4,489.
In addition, we are grateful to those who made monetary contributions, including the Oxford Meijer Store, Cub Scout Pack #366 and MSP Industries.
This year the Lions Club provided food and/or clothing for a total of 45 needy families in our community.
This number included 28 children and 35 seniors and adults, for a total of 93 Oxford residents.
We had our distribution on December 17, 2015 out of the Oxford United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.
Yours in Community Service,
Charles Garrard
Oxford Lions Club Director

Support for Henning
I’m writing in favor of Stephan Henning, former Oxford Middle School teacher and former Oxford High School boys varsity basketball coach.
I recall when he gave credit for who he is as a person to a former mentor.
As a senior citizen with experience in the athletics department at the sachool, I choose the Hall of Fame for Stephan Henning, who puts children first, always.
Mary Beth Kurschat
Oxford

Ridgelawn Cemetery says thanks to all
Ridgelawn Memorial Cemetery would like to thank those who participated in Wreaths Across American Dec. 12.
Thanks to those who sponsored 10 or more wreaths included ? JLS Financial Services, AMVETS Post 108, American Legion Post 108 and American Legion Auxiliary Unit 108.
And thanks to all those who ordered individual wreaths.
Many thanks to Lake Orion McDonald’s, Thomas Corcoran family, Lake Orion Dunkin Donuts, Oxford United Methodist Men, Ricki Purdy, Cathy Frack, American Legion Post 108, Pastor Dave Gerber, Boy Scout Troop 366 and Cub Scout Pack 4 for placing more than 100 wreaths, Oxford Fire Department, and Teri Stiles and Oxford Community Television for filming the event, Oxford Leader Editor C.J. Carnacchio for newspaper coverage, and all the folks who attended and made this ceremony possible.
Shirley and Chris Acheson
Ridgelawn Memorial Cemetery

No more Henning is a ‘loss for Oxford?
I’ve known Coach Stephan Henning for years. Respect him as an educator, coach and role model. This is a loss for Oxford. A group of young men will miss an opportunity to learn and compete and become great citizens under a special head coach.
Dave Smith, former Trustee, Waterford Board of Education/President, PlayAllSports.Net/Varsity Head Coach, WL Western Girls Basketball

Free coat giveaway at Leonard UMC
The Leonard United Methodist Church is holding a ‘free warm winter coat giveaway? on Dec. 28 and Dec. 29 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The church is located at 254 E. Elmwood. For more information, please call the church at (248) 628-7983 or call Kathrine Olson at (248) 628-3688.

Chief was always kind to seniors, actions were ‘totally in character for him?
This is in response to the article on Oxford Village Police Chief Mike Neymanowski. My first experience with him was years ago when he came into my home to comfort my family with an issue. His manor was professional and comforting, everyone just knew that he would take care of it and he did.
His mother lived in senior housing, Independence Village, here in Oxford until recently. He was so kind to everyone, both the Seniors and the employees. Our hearts just exploded to see how he was with everyone. He would always have a smile, hug and/or a kind word for those living there, even those who didn’t know where they were. His kindness toward his mother was uplifting and positive to those who saw it, they still talk about it.
The way he was with Mr. Oberstaedt is totally in character for him. The fact that he did not keep all the money for himself does not surprise me and I am sure some of the remaining inheritance money will be paid forward in some way in the future. I for one am proud to call him not only my Police Chief but my friend as well. Our police force is something to be proud of and I am sure his leadership style helps keep our community safe. I thank each and every officer for their hard work.
As for the letter implying that this article was not news. Shame on you, the community is entitled to make up their own minds on this issue. Having very limited information will limit our capacity to decide on ‘the issue?. My husband and I too are very disappointed in the content these days in ‘The Leader,? but do not limit it even further to the writers interpretation to condense 102 pages of information to two or three paragraphs on such a complicated issue of a prominent public figure.
Waunita Baril
Oxford

Retired cop says Neymanowski’s actions ‘created a perception of doubt and distrust?
As a former Oxford Village resident and retired law enforcement officer, I read with great dismay your recent story regarding Police Chief Mike Neymanowski’s inheritance of Mr. Alfred Oberstaedt’s estate.
While Chief Neymanowski may not be liable for any criminal violations, his judgment in this matter is certainly suspect concerning one of the most basic tenets of law enforcement. That is, officers? actions must at all times be above reproach in the eyes of the citizenry.
Most professional law enforcement agencies have an ethical code of conduct, which officers are expected to adhere to. This expectation starts with the junior most officer and goes up to the chief of police.
It would appear from the facts obtained through the Sheriff’s Office investigation that Chief Neymanowski used very poor udgment in the manner in which he handled both the will and his inheritance, and the openness that is expected from our public officials.
Look for a moment at some of the information provided by the Sheriff’s Office report. The will was prepared 13 days prior to Mr. Oberstaedt’s death. Chief Neymanowski arranged to have the will prepared, notarized and signed by his friend Mr. Kudela. The document was witnessed by an Oxford police chaplain and subsequently, Chief Neymanowski inherits an estate worth over a million dollars including a house and 13 acres of land.
My question to Chief Neymanowski is did you ever discuss the circumstances surrounding this sudden windfall with your boss, the village manager? Did you ever request a closed session of the village council to make them aware of your new friend and the benevolence that he had bestowed upon you? In essence, did you even realize that the circumstances surrounding this entire process would be called into question? I suspect not.
As a result, you have needlessly created an aura of distrust for yourself and the officers of your department. If you do not adhere to a higher ethical standard, what message does this send to the officers under your command?
More importantly, what message does this send to the citizens of Oxford that you serve? Chief Neymanowski, perception is in many cases more important than reality. By your actions and inactions, you have needlessly created a perception of doubt and distrust.
Kim G. Rossman, Groveland Township

Disappointed candidate suggested considering Mackinac Center’s ideas
While I was interested to read about a local citizen’s candidacy to replace Representative Brad Jacobsen, my interest was replaced with disappointment when I read that the individual suggested that legislators consider the ideas of the Mackinac Center for Public Policy in regards to road funding.
While its name sounds innocent enough, the truth is that the center is a statelevel conservative think-tank meant to promote free-market, pro-business policies.
Major contributors include groups that benefit from lower wages and a pro-business environment, often at the expense of everyday citizens.
So it was no surprise to read that their plan continues to increase fees on citizens while businesses continue enjoy nearly $2 billion in tax cuts since Governor Snyder took office.
It’s no wonder Lansing can’t figure out how to pay for our roads; they gave away too much money to corporations.
The Mackinac plan robs from parts of the budget and redirects the funds to roads, increases vehicle registration fees, continues to reduce wages by repealing the prevailing wage law, and a myriad of other ideas that might make some sense if it were not for letting businesses go nearly unscathed while citizens foot the majority of the bill. No wonder some Democrats are holding out for some sort of assurance that citizens, local governments, and schools will not be robbed again to pay for corporate tax breaks.
According to the Detroit Free Press, citizens have increased their contribution to state coffers in the following ways over the past several years, while businesses enjoyed the largest tax breaks in our state’s history:
n $50 million from the elimination of deductions for children.
n $200 million from the pension tax changes.
n $270 million from a decrease in the homestead property tax credit.
n $240 million from cuts to the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC).
n $50 million from the elimination of the special exemption for age and unemployment
compensation.
n $90 million from elimination of other nonrefundable credits, such as city income tax, homeless/food bank contributions and contributions to public universities and public broadcasting.
The average taxpayer received half as much in credits in 2012 as in 2011. In addition, the new tax code freezes the individual income tax rate at 4.25 percent; before the changes, that rate wasscheduled to drop 0.1 percentage point each year until it reached 3.9 percent in 2015.
In fact, Michigan had the fifth largest percentage increase in tax revenue collected from individuals, according to a survey of government tax collections by the U.S. Census Bureauduring fiscal year 2013
And the list goes on.
And now they want more?
The examples above are the types of ideas created and backed by the Mackinac Center.
If wages were growing and the vast majority of citizens were on a trajectory towards economic prosperity then paying more in taxes and/or fees would be easier to swallow.
None of the corporate tax cuts or tax increases on citizens were tied to a guaranteed benefit for citizens.
As it is, we keep paying more and many citizens continue to struggle with stagnant or decreasing wages, increasing health care costs, and a general lack of optimism about their financial futures.
For those who foolishly think that corporate tax cuts result in jobs, remember that businesses hire workers when people have enough income to create a demand for a product or service. Current leadership appears to assume that if businesses are given a pot of gold they’ll hire more people and wages will increase, but they’re wrong. A flower shop won’t hire more workers or increase pay because the business tax rate was cut.
They’ll hire more workers and increase wages when customers have more money in their pockets to buy flowers. On a larger scale, Michigan’s ‘comeback? is due more to an improved national economy than it is to corporate tax breaks.
Finally, instead of using common sense and finding a balance between repealing some of the corporate tax breaks and increasing fewer fees and taxes for citizens, know that on August 20, the House passed a series of bills which dealt with critical topics such as holding a ‘duel? (think Western-style gunfight, usually results in murder) in Michigan, trespassing in a huckleberry marsh, and to top off a busy day of governing, citizens are no longer violating the law if they swear in front of women or children.
These are the tough issues our legislators are tackling instead of having the courage to find a balanced approach to funding our roads.
Apparently, that was enough work for some of the highest paid legislators in the country and everyone went on vacation again until September 9.
Hopefully, our future legislators will take a close look at who is footing the bill in Lansing. It’s your family and mine, and it’s a continued sad state of affairs when our politicians feel we ought to pay more when we’ve already paid for the tax cuts given to their supporters.
Neil Peruski
Oxford

Couple considered the Neymanowski inheritance investigation ‘non-news?
It was disappointing to find a non-news article taking nearly three pages of the August 26 Oxford Leader.
Why is a story with the headline, “No evidence of wrongdoing…..” a front page feature?
The article is filled with innuendo and supposition by ‘friends? with no substantive information.
It appears that Chief Neymmanowski was forthcoming with his relationship with Mr. Oberstaedt, yet you biased the information to attempt to disparage his interview responses.
The Oakland County Sheriff’s investigation report was worthy of a small article on the third page at best — certainly not a feature in the weekly newspaper that we purchase for genuine local news.
Ted and Nancy Walton
Oxford
Editor’s Note: The vast majority of the information contained in the article came directly from the Oakland County Sheriff’s report, which was 102 pages long with exhibits, and a 40-minute interview with Chief Neymanowski.

Helen Smith’s daughters thank community for its support

My sisters and I would like to publicly express our gratitude to the Oxford Community for the abundant support we received from the recent loss of our mom, Helen L. Smith.
We experienced an enormous amount of love and kindness from so many that we find it impossible to mention them all. However, we feel there are some we need to acknowledge for going out of their way in our time of need.
C.J. Carnacchio ? The wonderful articles you wrote about mom were adored by us and spot on about her. We will cherish them forever in our hearts. Additionally, your endless support for her with your visits throughout her illness was remarkable. She loved seeing and talking with you. Thank you, C.J.
The American Legion Post 108, Ladies Auxiliary and the AMVETS, all from Post 108 ? They graciously hosted, catered and donated their services for our mom’s luncheon after her burial. We truly appreciate all you did for mom.
Pastor Bob Holt from Christ the King Church ? Thank you for your words about mom at her funeral. You talked about her with absolute truth. Fantastic job Pastor Holt. It was exactly what mom would’ve wanted.
Bud Rowley, The Oxford Wildcat Boosters, coaches and the Oxford student athletes ? Thank you! You helped fulfill our mom’s wishes. They were at mom’s burial site to sing the Oxford Wildcat Fight Song and let go the 52 blue and gold balloons. The balloons signified mom’s graduating year from Oxford High School. Once a Wildcat, always a wildcat mom! Thanks to you all!
In addition, the Booster Club honored her in the Lone Ranger parade. Mom’s grandsons, Chase and Wade, carried the banner and had special T-shirts printed. The chair that they made for her for the Oxford Football games traveled on the parade route. Beautiful tribute for her!
Rod Charles and the Lone Ranger Committee ? Thank you for dedicating the parade to our mom’s memory. It was very special and we will remember it forever.
Thanks to all of the following people who made sure we ate something by bringing food by her house ? Fran Collier, Lori Collier, Mike Forrester, Janelle Fearson, Mary Kay Guinn and Cathy Lantz.
Lastly, Dawn Scott, our mom’s adopted daughter. Dawn kept track of everything for us! Couldn’t have done it without her!
Our mom loved Oxford with all her heart and we definitely experienced that Oxford loved her back. Thanks Oxford for your love and support. You were awesome!
Much love to you Oxford,
Gayle Tucker, Patti Colvin and Nita Stevenson
Helen’s daughters

Final thoughts from Oxford’s parade posse
Saturday was a wonderful event for our entire Oxford community.
Thousands of people lined the streets to see an awesome parade and have fun at the Lone Ranger Festival.
There were people from all over Michigan and other states in attendance.
Each one of us can be proud.
Our fantastic parade did not happen by itself. Unpaid volunteers diligently worked for months to put together a spectacular parade.
Comments like, ‘Best parade I have ever seen? ? ‘My kids were so excited to see the superheroes? ? and ‘The music was great.?
It was nice to see the growing enthusiasm of the Oxford business community for the Lone Ranger theme. Among others Mike Phipps, co-owner of the Oxford Tap, was a standout in supporting the event.
Mark your calendars for next year, Kemosabe. We look forward to continuing the tradition.
Rod Charles & The Parade Posse

Editor’s Note: Mr. Charles and the rest of the unpaid volunteers can’t be thanked enough for the fantastic parade they organized this year. It truly is the crown jewel of all of Oxford’s annual events. It’s nice to see a group of folks doing something positive because they truly love their community. Here’s hoping the parade posse remains an independent committee, free of politics and government control.

‘Our village council is embarassing?
I am completely disgusted with the Oxford Village Council’s decision about the trash pickup contract (picking a company based in another state as opposed to Odd Job Disposal, a business based in Oxford).
Are you kidding me? We can’t even get our smaller government officials to listen and support us?
Us, meaning, our town businesses.
What a slap in the face. Talk about, ‘Do as I say, not as I do.? Personally, I will pay few extra dollars to keep it local. I always try to buy local and items made in the U.S.A. Our village council is embarassing.
M. Evans
Oxford
Editor’s Note: To be fair, council members Bryan Cloutier and Rose Bejma voted to contract with Odd Job.

Development benefits few, reader says

Dear Editor,
Notwithstanding the expressions of a select group of area individuals and businesses purporting interest in community development via more aggressive development of Clarkston’s Main Street, the reality is the proposed development will largely serve to financially benefit a only a relatively few wealthy individuals, all at tremendous cost to area residents (‘Downtown parking questions up to planners,? July 15).
The reality is the new businesses being planned will provide mostly very low paying service jobs which will do little or nothing to economically benefit the area’s middle class residents. Indeed, it is proposed residential apartments with parking for just a few vehicles be rezoned to allow for another restaurant, reducing the area’s housing stock and moving the town further toward traffic gridlock.
Oh well, at least someone will get richer from the deal. After reading about the visions for wider sidewalks and more tree space on Main Street–and viewing the ever-increasing vehicle load on the street–one wonders where all these niceties will fit!
It would be great to see a stylized plan for Main Street so that those of us with perhaps less vision can visualize exactly where all the new buildings, widened street/sidewalks, trees, etc. will be placed.
Meanwhile, I suspect that many who drive along Main Street at any given time are wondering if all the traffic makes a stop at Rudy’s Deli or another favorite spot is really worth the hassle, and ponder whether anyone who bought a beautiful house on the street is bothered by the increasing noise and traffic and regrets the purchase.
Maybe they can get rezoned to commercial and move out. Oh well, at least someone will get richer. Waiters and parking attendants, get your resumes ready.
Mike Fetzer
Independence Township

Thanks for Garden Walk community support

Dear Editor,
The Clarkston Garden Club wishes to thank all the community members who supported the 10th Clarkston Garden Walk on July 15.
We want to especially thank our Clarkston residents who opened their gardens for the walk, Sandy and Scott Parrott, Steve and Karen Hoke, Joanne and David Leddy, Baiba and Gunnars Ejups, Denise and Bob Toth-Reinelt, and our Clarkston Garden Club member Anita Andes.
We thank the local businesses who supported the program booklet and the restaurants, who created Garden Walk specials for walkers.
Local musicians and artists donated their time to perform or paint in the gardens for guests. Area artisans also were available at the Clarkston Independence District Library to sell their wares.
The love and sharing of gardening on the Garden Walk is another event that makes the Clarkston community a great place to live. Thanks to all who supported the Clarkston Garden Walk.
Beth Kerr, chairperson
Clarkston Garden Club

I would like to personally thank Mr. C.J. Carnacchio for all the hard work he puts in for the Oxford Leader.
I am a member of the Oxford Robotics team, a Boy Scout from Troop 366, a member of the Oxford Schools choir, as well as a member of the Oxford United Methodist Church, and I must say that at any community event that I am at, either participating or watching, C.J. is on the job.
He has been at every school, community, church or scouting event that I have ever been to. It doesn’t matter the day of the week or the time, holiday or not, C.J. is always there.
He always strives to get the best shots whether it involves lying down on the wet grass, or even almost being hit by a rubber band-powered popsicle stick car at a robotics event at the high school. He will always get the best shot possible.
It is very clear that C.J. loves his job and that he wants to cover any and all events and keep the community very informed about what happened over the past week. It doesn’t matter if it’s big or small, night or day, rain or shine, C.J. will be there.
Thank you, Mr. C.J. for always being there when something is going on in the community. As a student going into the ninth grade at Oxford High School, I really appreciate the coverage you provide to the community, as well as your dedication to the job.
You are an excellent role model to the community.
Adam Bertich (age 14)
Oxford Township

‘Another swing and miss? by Oxford Village Council
If I were Odd Job Disposal, I’d pick up stakes and move to Metamora or Lake Orion.
It is a shame the Oxford Village Council had an opportunity to support a small, local business that’s rooted within our limits, yet chose a big, out-of-state service.
All for what? A nickel a day?
I could see if they were way overpriced like some of the other trash haulers, but they were in the same neighborhood. If it came down to recycling bins (which I could definitely use), they could have simply offered them on a request basis. This was a real opportunity to demonstrate loyalty to a solid and growing contributor to our local tax base.
Another swing and miss. Maybe we can outsource our local government?
Mike Shea

Dorm is ‘wrong? for Oxford
The proposed 200-student dormitory is wrong for Oxford. The plan is hopelessly flawed from start to finish relying on a convoluted scheme of wishful thinking and fungible promises.
After close review, the contract that Oxford Community Schools signed with the Weiming Education Group is the linchpin for the dormitory, has far too many open-ended commitments and controls that could easily be exploited.
This would make the partnership very one sided and consume an inordinate amount of the district’s resources. The dependencies that the scheme relies on are also very troubling.
First of all, the students are expected to attend the high school for two years to receive a diploma. This alone depends on a circumventing of the F-1 visa law that limits attendance to one year. The concept is not protected through federal law and so for students to stay for more than one year requires the cooperation of a local college to offer enrollment, as well as variances from other government agencies which just grows into this convoluted mess that could fall apart at any moment.
Additionally, China itself is concerned about brain drain so China itself could change its laws to constrict students from attending the Weiming program. Other problems also exist with the funding scheme, which at present relies on funding both from very wealthy students and also the state of Michigan paying the per pupil grant. Well what happens when the state realizes that this is a loophole that needs to get closed? Won’t the international students balk at the doubling of tuition?
Then there is the building itself that is planned to make it almost impossible to use it for a second purpose in the future. How do you re-purpose a building that has one bathroom for every 27 students?
There has also been the claim that 200 high school students would bring a lot of economic activity to the area. It is doubtful. I posit that most of the activity will find itself at Great Lakes Crossing and other similar locations. While throngs of international teenagers swamping local restaurants may create net negative dining experiences that hurt as much as help business.
Most notably, I think building a dormitory for the sole purpose of housing 200 international students drives away focus from the core mission of giving Oxford children the best education possible. The scheme threatens to crowd out Oxford students for various activities and opportunities.
Also, all of these students are here to receive a high school diploma to make it easier to attend the American college of their choice. This increases demand on college tuition and enrollment. In effect, building the dormitory acts as an unintended subsidy for higher college tuition costs for our own children. So any perceived savings through this partnership, is undermined by unintended consequences.
This debate is not about international exchange programs which I support and encourage. This debate is about a poorly thought through partnership contract with Oxford Community Schools and Weiming and an even more poorly envisioned dormitory that is wrong for Oxford.
Gasper Cario, Oxford

Victim of Skilling appreciated column
These past few weeks have been super busy for Leader staff, and I, for one, want to congratulate and commend all of you for such complete coverage of the goings-on in our school district.
I consider myself a victim of the Skilling reign, and can finally begin to see daylight.
Never have I enjoyed reading a column as much as I did C.J. Carnacchio’s ‘Let the de-Skillingization begin!? Thank you for writing what has been on the minds of so many for so long.
I also appreciate your coverage and recognition of Team 20.
Linda Lewis, Oxford

Kudos to race director Jacinta Hogan
I just wanted to write and give special recognition to someone you interviewed in your recent article about the Oxford Wildcat Race. As a 15-year-old high school sophomore, Jacinta Hogan most certainly became the youngest road race director in the State of Michigan in pulling off an amazingly successful event in organizing these races.
I have been involved in road racing and race directing for over 30 years, and her attention to detail and passion for her causes would put most experienced adult race event organizers to shame. In doing so, she also fulfilled a commitment to the community in raising a significant amount of funding in supporting the Senior All-Night Party and the Ray Sutherland Scholarship Fund.
As adults in our community, we all would do well to follow her example of unselfish citizenship and dedication in doing her part in making this town a great place to live. It is refreshing and encouraging, among the less positive news we sometimes see regarding our youth, that our future will be in the hands of capable individuals like Jacinta.
Donald C. Richmond, Oxford

School board needs to be open
School board members are elected individually and independently.
It is not a group affair. Each member should do their own digging and investigating on issues especially under the recent allegations.
There is something to be said where there is smoke there is fire.
Brasington, Shumaker, and Schweig seem to be on the right path. Things can get clouded over very quickly by forked tongue.
How can anyone get to the bottom of something if EVERYONE doesn’t sit down at ONE table and discuss it? Seems to be a lot of phone calls and emails and private discussions flying around which doesn’t give the public any warm fuzzy feeling. In the public eye, perception is everything.
The school board is a public body and like it or not sometimes you have to discuss things that are uncomfortable, distasteful, and gray. The heat goes with the seat which makes me very confused why Mitchell declined to answer questions because she ‘doesn’t want to get involved.?
What the heck is that about? Isn’t being involved her job she was elected to do?
It appeared from the article that Reis was talking for everyone. Does the president have more power than the rest? Can’t any member of the board request to put something on the agenda and it is honored? If not it would appear the board has a bigger problem.
The board has the power to step up to the plate in open session and get to the bottom of issues when they first arise.
The truth is going to come out in the end anyway.
Dragging feet and closed sessions only prolong the pain and create more fires.
New board members promised openness and change. We know they didn’t create the current situation but they sure can clean it up by being up front and open.
Importantly, the only people to be protected should be Oxford taxpayers.
We can handle the good, the bad, and the ugly, but just want the truth ? all of it in the open on the public table.
Sue Bellairs
Oxford Township

TORC grateful for funding
Team 2137 TORC of Oxford High School is grateful for the assistance of its sponsors. Sponsors such as the FCA Foundation make it possible for TORC to cover the hefty registration fees and costs related to building their robot. In addition, TORC has travel expenses, business like expenses, and media and technology expenses. From 2012 to 2014, the FCA Foundation sponsored TORC for over $20,000.
This year, the FCA Foundation continued its commitment, donating more than $230,000 in grants to support students participating in FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) (grades 9-12) and FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) (grades 7-12) programs in Arizona, Illinois, Indiana and Michigan. TORC and 41 other teams received grants of $5,000 each to kick off the season. Additionally, as TORC and 25 other teams sponsored by the FCA Foundation made their bid for the World Championship, the Foundation awarded an additional $20,000 in grants ($800 per team) to help offset the teams? costs associated with travel and other expenses.
TORC traveled to St. Louis on April 21st, where they competed with 600 FIRST Robotic teams from around the world. As the number three ranked team from Michigan, TORC competed on the Tesla field, one of eight fields at the World Championship. TORC was ranked third with an average score of 167.5 (.5 from second place) and became the Captain of the number three alliance. TORC became the Tesla Field Division Finalists at the FIRST World Championship and completed its most successful season since it formed in 2007.
Team 2137 TORC would like to thank the FCA Foundation for its generous support!

Reader sounds off about property values and vets
After reading the article in the January 7 Oxford Leader about Oxford Township Housing starts I am appalled on how the treasurer looks at and complains about the Waterstone Independence Village’s reduction to an actual realistic value of their property and not the inflated amount the assessor of the township has pegged it at and our veterans.
We all know how Detroit and other communities have overvalued their properties creating large tax bills, only to cause mass exiting of people that can no longer afford their longtime owned property. And cause the resale of that same property to be in jeopardy since the appraisal most likely will not even meet what the tax Assessor has come up with. Along with these increases, there were no increase in services but there was an increase in budgets for the governments to spend, spend, and spend.
The treasurer goes on to complain about the 100 percent exemption on property taxes for our disabled veterans. Shame on him!
These veterans gave a big part of themselves to protect our freedoms and the U.S. We must always look for ways to care for and help our deserving Veterans.
It just goes to show you what a government treasurer thinks only about ? MONEY ? coming in for their use. Not whether the amount assessed is appropriate and should be assessed or paid. And certainly not the people that have given the most for our community and nation should be allowed what many businesses enjoy, no property tax.
I do have a concern though on HOW the Senior Village Management Company was able to ask directly the Oakland County Equalization Department to look into their property assessment and get a change. As the process of requesting a change in valuation requires the company to appeal to the township Board of Review first. How was this circumvented? Also, after the Board of Review’s determination the company would have to take it to the Michigan Tax Tribunal. How was this circumvented? Can we now go directly to the Oakland County Equalization Department to look into our property assessment and get a change?
The other real story here is that Assessors are continually over valuing properties in their communities hoping that no one will question it. Although these may have little effect on the taxes collected while owned (due to proposal A’s taxable value can only increase each year by the lesser of the rate of inflation or 5%), they will when you purchase a property when the cap is lifted and the taxable value is reset to equal the assessed value. And when you purchase that property for much less than the assessed amount they will not change it to the (MARKET / True Cash Value) purchase price as this is the BASIS of what valuation is all about (as was the case with the Waterstone property). We must ask why they will not adjust this automatically? They know what it sold for.
Be aware, as some legislatures and others have proposed to have the state do a one-time uncapping of the taxable value resetting everyone to the Assessed value and this is going to do what? Bring in —- MONEY for the government to spend and not you.
Let’s have realistic valuations of our property- use True Cash /Market Value.
Let’s value the costs of our freedom by thanking and taking care of our veterans.
Ron Renaud
Addison Township
Editor’s Note: I contacted Dave Hieber, manager of Oakland County Equalization, and he said Senior Village Management did not circumvent the process. They were not seeking to have the 2014 value changed, so no appeal was necessary. They asked to have Independence Village of Waterstone’s value reviewed before setting the 2015 value.
Hieber said ‘any taxpayer? who has ‘a concern (about) their value? is welcome to meet with his staff, or their local assessor, to review it going forward for the next year.
‘All they need to do is call us,? he said. ‘We’ve never told a taxpayer that we won’t discuss the valuation of your property.?

Meals on Wheels says thanks to holiday donors
Meals on Wheels of Oxford would like to thank CJ’s Caf?, Bortz Nursing Center and Independence Village for providing the holiday meals for our homebound seniors.
Because of these establishments and our dedicated holiday drivers, the homebound seniors in our area were greeted with not only a delicious hot meal but a wonderful smile and holiday visit.
We would also like to thank the Oxford VFW #334, Santa for a Senior and Lee, our local “Candy Angel” for their gifts and baskets that were given to our seniors during the holidays. We appreciate you all.
Mary Reynolds
Meals on Wheels of Oxford

Thanks, mystery plow!
Many thanks to the kind person who has been plowing the Polly Ann Trail, making it possible for all of the walkers and joggers to have a place to do so when the snow prevents it elsewhere. I’m sure everyone appreciates this as much as I do.
Marilyn Bossardet
Oxford Village

Comments on China Column
I just wanted to write and let you know your ‘My Way? column about the The Devil was PERFECT.
I hope a lot of people in Oxford will finally open their eyes and stop this madness with Dr Skilling sleeping with the enemy.
Oh, and for the record, my daughter had five years of Chinese at Clear Lake and she still can’t say two words or understand anything ? and she is an all-A student.
All they did was watch movies on how great China is.
Rick Wagner
Oxford

I read your recent column, ‘Making a Deal with the Devil? and it’s certainly one of your better hatchet jobs!
It’s certainly a bit over the top……. No, I take that back……. WAY over the top!
Are you expecting us to believe that these little teeny boppers are brain washed mignons of a vast Chinese conspiracy? What about all the other nationalities that might come? Middle Eastern, Russian, Indian, and even the French might be a bit suspect.
Really! I do understand that fear mongering is a newspaper tradition, but you get the prize for this one.
I do understand that China has its issues but if we are to believe all that you proposed, why not ban all Chinese companies or shut down the internet of Alibaba, Tencent, and the rest of their ilk?
If your intent was to protect the community, then I suggest we ban all Canadians for their socialist leanings and let’s not forget the hidden scourge from Wayne and Macomb counties!
Ed Dean
Oxford

I really don’t know where to start to express my dissagreement with your opinion. In general, I would expect more professionalism and ‘out of the box thinking? from a leading editor, even if it is ‘just? a local newspaper.
First of all, I’d like to apologize in advance for any misspelling or mistakes. My family and I are German citizens and we have lived in the U.S. since 2012. I am not a native English speaker.
Naming the Nazis, Goebbels, the Devil and China in one article makes me speechless. Before you pull up comparisons like this, you should think a little further.
We lived in China for more than six years. I did not just go there on business trips, I lived and worked there. And I traveled around China with my Chinese colleagues to places, you can never visit as a tourist. I have seen things I liked, and things I didn’t like. And there are things about the Chinese goverment I don’t like either. But calling a whole country a devil because of its goverment?
So, you don’t trust the Chinese Goverment, because they spy on the US Government. Have you heard about how the U.S. Goverment was just recently spying on the German Chancellor? I thought, the Germans and the Americans were friends. Do you spy on your friends as well? And what do you think the CIA and the FBI are doing? You think the Chinese Goverment is lying. Who told the world, the Iraqi Goverment has weapons of mass distruction? And have you heard about a place called Guantanamo?
You don’t have to trust China or anything coming from China, but I think a person in your position, writing for a newspaper, should be more open-minded and objective. Especially if you write about countries you have never visited.
During our time in China our daughter went to an American International School. She learned English there and had classmates from all over the world. Everybody from a different country and culture. And the school organized events, where every country could show their culture. This is a way to educate a child to be open-minded.
I am happy, that the Oxford School District teaches Chinese. To learn Chinese, you need a very clear pronounciation. This helps to develop a fine sense of hearing and can help you to learn other languages easier in the future. To learn about China is not selling your soul to the devil, it is to teach kids about a totally different world and culture. This is how thinking out of the box is created.
In a world that is getting more and more globalized and connected, it is not enough anymore to learn just English and Spanish.
We hosted a Chinese guest student this summer. We were happy to show our guest Oxford, Michigan and how we live in the US. This helps to create a new thinking and understandstanding of foreign cultures.
Like you, I strongly dissagree with a goverment that does not respect human rights. It doesn’t matter which country it is. But I would never judge an entire country and its people because of its goverment like you did.
I saw a change of thinking in many young Chinese people. They start to ask questions and show their dissagreement about their goverment. I am optimistic there will be a positive change in the long run.
Gunnar Wynarski, Oxford
Editor’s Note: Thank you for sharing your unique perspective and valuable insight, Mr. Wynarski. However, I must point out that in my column I called the Chinese government the Devil, not the Chinese people. I wrote, ‘Make no mistake, that’s exactly what the Chinese government is ? the Devil.?
I see the Chinese State as something that’s separate and apart from its people given they have no genuine control over it or voice in it. I will cheer the loudest when the government in Beijing finally falls on its own or is overthrown by the Chinese people.
The Chinese government is a vicious oppressor of its people and others such as the Tibetans. It remains a threat to all the free peoples of the world and its demise should be hoped for by all. Until then, I do not believe in having any dealings whatsoever with the Chinese government, which includes the many so-called private entities that are subject to its control, influence or agendas, be it openly or behind the scenes.
As for somehow equating the actions (i.e. spying, lying, etc.) of the United States government with those of the Chinese government, I do not agree. The U.S. government has indeed made mistakes and done some nasty things over the years, but it is by no means the moral equivalent in any way, shape or form to the Chinese government.
Hopefully, whatever bad the U.S. has done is outweighed by the significant amount of good it has done for the world, from providing humanitarian aid for the suffering to liberating nations and indeed, entire continents, from the grip of tyranny.

Support for Shumaker, Mitchell
FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics is a program that challenges our children to learn more about Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). To stay competitive in the world and keep our local economy strong, we need more children and young adults pursing this curriculum in school.
I have known Kim Shumaker as a fellow FIRST mentor for the past three years, long after her start in the program supporting her boys along with many other Oxford area students. Kim no longer has children in the program, but continues to actively serve as a lead mentor. Her role requires countless hours during the off-season to recruit new members, coordinate fund-raising and prepare the team for the build season.
During the build season (first six weeks of each year,) her role expands to six or seven days per week consuming night time and nearly all weekend hours. Road trips for competition come next and Kim is in the middle of preparation and planning for all events. Her efforts are tireless and this just covers the high school part of the program.
Kim took the challenge of FIRST creator/founder Dean Kamen to reach our youth earlier by helping our younger teams as well. Through Kim’s effort, we now sponsor and assist several middle school robotics teams. This gives middle school children a head start on developing their early mechanical and electrical skills along with teach them teamwork. This early opportunity helps develop their interest in STEM education.
Kim is drive to foster the creativity of the Oxford community students through these programs because she understands their needs and the importance of this strong link to success beyond high school.
In our team, Kim involves everyone by finding their strengths. This keeps them interested in the program and motivated to participate and learn. I can truly say that Kim has the interest of our Oxford youth in her sight well beyond their day in the school system. I am also confident that you won’t find a more dedicated and hard-working school board member. Please join me in supporting Kim Shumaker for the Oxford School Board.
Eric Schimmel
Leonard resident/FIRST Robotics Mentor

I also am giving my support for Kim Shumaker.
She has shown that she is a leader and not a follower of the pack.
I had the opportunity to get to really know her and the depth of her integrity through Wrestling and Robotics.
She always gave 100 percent if not more.
She is someone who’s word you can trust. If she says she is going to do something she follows through.
Sandy Frisch
Oxford

I am writing you today to offer my support for Angela Mitchell in her candidacy for the Oxford School Board.
I have been a professional child care giver since 1999 and I was a business owner in Oxford for 10 of those years. During that time I provided care for Angela’s 2 children and was very impressed not only with the way she was able to maintain a very successful career while raising 2 wonderful children, but also with her willingness to get involved when we would have functions and activities for the children.
I am confident that Angela will work very hard, be very dedicated and will be a valuable asset to the continued success of Oxford Schools.
Anita Leone

‘A few points in favor? of library millage
I would like to draw your attention to a few points in favor of passage of the proposed millage.
Our Library serves approximately 25,000 Oxford residents, handling over 300,000 visits each year.
In spite of decreasing tax revenues, the Library has continued to find innovative ways to continue to serve the community.
The last time the Library received a tax increase was in 1995, almost 20 years ago! Since then the population has doubled and inflation has continued apace.
The proposed millage increase should cost most households only about $30 per year. That could be spent by your family out for one dinner or six $5 pizzas.
This increase will help prevent discontinuation of Library programs for adults, teens, and youth, staff cutbacks and a rollback of operating hours during the week including the closing of the Library on Sundays. Please consider these facts when you vote on Nov. 4.
Christine McNally
Oxford Public Library Friends President

Village president shares thoughts on his candidacy, council race
Earlier this year, I had decided to take time off from serving on the village council.
But when I learned only four candidates would appear on the ballot for the five open positions, I became very concerned, even horrified, at this impending breach of electoral democracy.
Accordingly, I and some other village residents have decided to run as write-in candidates. We have filled out the paperwork required for write-ins, but of course our names will not appear on the Nov. 4 ballot.
Any village voters who wish to elect five trustworthy persons to the council, may do so by voting some or all of us write-in candidates. I am fully aware that by my support of all the write-ins, I may be reducing my own chances of being re-elected to council.
My number one wish that the Village of Oxford will have a fair and contested election this year, with every good candidate having a real chance to succeed, whether by being listed on the ballot or through write-in votes.
In order that you will be able to spell our names correctly, I will provide a list of all write-ins to whoever wants one. You can carry the list into the polling place and make personal use of it. Do not display the list in the polling place as that would be considered un-lawful campaigning at the polls.
I thank every voter in advance, for participating in the democratic process.
David Bailey
Oxford Village President

NOTE: This edition is the last one in which Letters to the Editor concerning the Nov. 4 general election will be published. As has been the Leader’s practice for years, we do not publish any election letters in the issue right before the vote. Absolutely NO
exceptions will be made.

School board candidates ask district to postpone decision on Chinese dormitory
Editor’s Note: The following letter was sent to Oxford Schools Superintendent Dr. William Skilling and the Oxford Board of Education.
As you are aware, there are nine candidates in the upcoming Oxford School Board election for four vacant seats.
On a seven-person board, four open seats will bring new voices to the current board.
Several of us attended the board meeting on Wednesday, Oct. 8. We heard Kim Shumaker and Angela Mitchell voice concerns about the timing and lack of details regarding the project during the meeting.
At the meeting, the board was presented conceptual designs of a Chinese dormitory to be built on school grounds through a partnership with Weiming.
There were no specific plans available or cost projections; however, attendees were given the impression there may be some kind of vote approving the project on October 22.
The audience was encouraged to attend two upcoming community forums for more information.
Because this potential building has many long-term ramifications, we the undersigned candidates, respectfully encourage you to postpone any decisions on this project until more detailed information is available, additional community input can be considered, and the newly elected board of education members are sworn in.
We appreciate your consideration and look forward to working with you to continue to make Oxford Community Schools a great place to learn.
Joyce Brasington, Angela Mitchell, Kim Shumaker, Mike Schweig, Amy Hamilton, Mark Stepek, Paula Foster and Noah Stevens

Schultz responds to candidates
Thank you for your thoughts on the International Residential Program.
The seated board – like any elected entity – is obligated to serve for the duration of its respective terms. Just because new members will be elected in November, does not mean those not returning get to quit early.
The board approved the partnership with Weiming, to build a resident hall for international students, a year ago. We are now in the final stages of doing our due diligence on the leasing of the property etc.
As always, the board will work hard to make sure we have as many questions answered as possible. That process will take time, the questions coming out of the public forums will obviously be considered also. We will not approve the leasing of the contract until we are completely comfortable with it and based on our attorney’s recommendation.
Thank you again for your email.
Colleen Schultz
President, Oxford Board of Education

Support for NOTA millage
We are so fortunate when we can care for ourselves. To have the ability to drive our own car where we want and when we want is a privilege that most of us take for grated.
We have a young man who is our neighbor and has cerebral palsy.
Without NOTA he doesn’t have transportation to go to college.
Another neighbor who is elderly uses NOTA to go the the Senior Center everyday.
Another family uses NOTA to take their family member to the center to give them a break from caring for them daily. I am sure there are others.
The point I hope to make is none of us know when we could be in need. We might lose our partner through death or health issues.
If we don’t support NOTA, it will not be there should we need it.
The cost is really very small. I hope none of us need this service, but if we should, I hope it will be there for us.Try to see the bigger picture.
Charlene Sutherby
Leonard

Readers support Kim Shumaker for school board
I am writing to endorse Kim Shumaker for Oxford Schools Board of Education.
Kim has been a reliable asset to the school board for the last five years.
She has a passion for the students of Oxford, always keeping in mind the value of the individual students.
She strives to give our students a purpose and she truly wants Oxford schools and its students to be successful.
Kim has a good rapport with the businesses in our community and an open mind on issues. She is thorough, logical and willing to listen.
I believe that Kim does, and would continue to do when re-elected, a good job for my Oxford student and all the other students of Oxford.
I urge you to vote for Kim Shumaker in the upcoming election.
Mary Reynolds
Oxford

I am writing this letter to give my support to Kim Shumaker and endorse her for re-election to the Oxford Community School Board of Education.
I met Kim in 2009 when our oldest son joined the Oxford Robotics Team his freshman year in high school.
She is a hard working individual that gives one hundred percent to any task she has put in front of her. I have seen her work well with a variety of people in various situations.
I especially enjoy watching her work with students because she is very enthusiastic and motivates them to get involved.
Kim is passionate about improving the educational environment for our students; she takes the time to fully understand the issue that she is working on and makes the best choice that will be the most beneficial to the students.
She has been open to the input of parents and students when working with the other board members to make decisions for our school district.
As a current board member I believe that Kim has been a dedicated advocate for our students and will continue to do so if re-elected. I hope that you will join my husband and me and give Kim Shumaker your vote in the upcoming school board election.
Gerylann and Scott McBride

I am supporting Kim Shumaker in her candidacy for the Oxford School Board.
I have been a home school parent for 16 years and she was very influential in my decision to become a part of the Oxford Virtual Academy and then Oxford High School. I have found Kim supportive of every student and finding the best environment of learning for them. She cares about the needs of students having flexible classroom choices.
I have worked closely with her, on the Oxford Robotics Team, for four years. Her passion to help students shows in her dedication and tireless efforts to advance Robotics in the High School and Elementary Schools.
Kim works well with many people. It is important to her that she listens to what people think and then do her homework. She has a very unique ability to build strong relationships between students, businesses, and the community.
Kim knows what it takes to make Oxford High School one of the best in the country. Integrity and professionalism are what she brings to Oxford Schools. She represents our community well and I hope you join me in voting for her again in the upcoming election
Jessica Newby
Lakeville

NOTE: The Oct. 22 edition will be the last one in which Letters to the Editor concerning the Nov. 4 general election will be published. As has been the Leader’s practice for years, we do not publish letters in the issue right before the election.
Absolutely NO exceptions will be made. Thank you.

Boosters thank those who helped with homecoming
This year’s Homecoming at Wildcat Stadium was a beautiful evening! The parade was festive and full of proud Wildcat fans, wonderful music from our OHS Band, crowning of our newest King and Queen, Adam & Chloe! Helen Smith, our biggest fan, watched the game from her new custom built chair!
The Boosters team, in an effort to make Oxford Homecoming even more memorable, hosted the 1st Annual Alumni Homecoming Reunion Event. Our goal was to bring Alumni home to the OHS HOMECOMING game for a fun pregame party. I guess you could say – ‘we built it and THEY CAME?. The alumni were treated to premium parking & seating priveleges, festive tent exclusively for them to gather, eat and reminisce.
We would like to thank all of those businesses and people who participated in making our event a big success:
A & A flowers, Autumn Days, Boulevard Boutique, Buffalo Wild Wings, Burning Oak, Collier Lanes, Custom Carvings-Gary Elzerman, Commercial Graphics Printing, Dubz Bikes & Boards, Harveys Backyard Bootcamp, Italia Gardens, Jets Pizza, Krues & Muer, The Lighting Guy, Oxford High School, Oxford Hills Golf, Oxford Leadership Kids, Oxford LOFT Program, Oxford Seven, Oxford Village and DPW crew, Oxford Tap, Oxford Parks & Rec, Red Knapps, Regina Paul Salon, Rodan & Fields/Kate Weber, Amy Rogers, Wojos, Zest Studios/Leslie Wilson,
Thank You, Gary Elzerman for building and carving the chair to honor Helen. You are an amazing artist! Thank you to Sharon Norman for making the lovely custom cushions for Helens chair. We truly appreciate how quickly Gary & Sharon responded to our request. Football Fans! Check out Helens chair at the next home game. It’s located to the right of the pressbox at the top of the bleachers.
And last but not least, special THANK YOU to Chris Zitney, who goes ‘above and beyond? – for Oxford Athletics and to the dedicated Boosters Alumni Event committee members: You are the most amazing group of people that I have ever had the honor to work with on a project for Oxford Schools. You rocked it!
Thanks again to everyone who helped the Booster with this event! OHS Aumni: please join us again next year in the Reunion Tent on Homecoming game night.
Kathy Stepek
Oxford Wildcat Athletic Boosters Association Member

Column generates plenty of reaction on Facebook
Last week’s ‘My Way? column by C.J. Carnacchio (‘They’re not ‘cool parents,? they’re stupid parents) generated lots of response on the Leader’s Facebook page.
The column chastized local parents who allow, and even encourage, underage drinking parties in their homes.
Written in response to the story about the approximately 20 Oxford High School athletes, mostly junior varsity football players, who got in trouble for drinking at local parties with parents present, the commentary received 40 ‘likes? on Facebook.
Here are some of the comments:
Phil Castonia ? ‘Don’t always agree with you C.J., but you are spot on with this one!?
Yvonne Walker Cifani ? ‘It is a shame and these parents should have to pay the price!! It is ridiculous and it happens over and over again . . . These kids should be suspended from all sports for the year, not just three games. Hopefully, OHS and these parents will get it together!!!?
Melissa Musgrove ? ‘When the first kid dies in (an) auto accident or dies of alcohol poisoning, the parents will wonder why. I have never understood the theory that kids need alcohol at their graduation parties. They aren’t of legal age to drink, so why would we teach them to break the law?
Anthony Fritz ? ‘Any gutter trash fool who makes parental choices that adversely affect the future or the safety of my child will have more than an article or the police to worry about.?
Sally O’Meara ? ‘As parents we are supposed to be setting examples of good behavior for our children, not condoning or even abetting illegal behavior.?
Richard Debbie Wood ? ‘Parents get a grip before someone gets hurt.?
Larry Stephens ? ‘The world is truly full of morons. Cool moms and dads should just be shot. Try being a parent you idiots.?
North Oakland Community Coalition ? ‘Supplying minors with alcohol is not cool. It’s setting them up for alcohol use disorders. Not to mention, it’s against the law!?

Teachers union officials respond to guest column from Mackinac Center
Upon reading the Guest Opinion piece written by the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, it is important that readers understand a bit about the Mackinaw Center.
While its name sounds innocent enough, the truth is that the center is a state-level conservative think-tank meant to promote free-market, pro-business policies.
Nearly all of their research, or at least the research that they choose to share, reaches conservative conclusions. Readers should understand that the Mackinac Center will not come to any other conclusions.
Major contributors include groups such as the DeVos Foundation, Walton Family Foundation (Wal-Mart heirs), Kelly Services, Inc. Foundation, and other groups that benefit from lower wages and a pro-business environment. Fewer union members are a good thing for those organizations, as the result is lower wages and higher profits. They have done a good job of convincing the public that if businesses have more money they will hire more people. That is not true ? business hire people when customers have more money and can afford their products and services.
There is ample data from BLS (Bureau of Labors Statistics) to show that workers in non-union states have significantly lower wages and fewer benefits than workers in states that are not adversarial towards unions. The lower wages and reduced benefits apply to non-unionized workers as well.
The Mackinac Center will not share both sides of an issue. For example, many of the reports from this group point to the ‘success? of charter schools. They rarely mention the unfair playing field when comparing public schools and charter schools. While public schools must accept all students, in many cases charter schools offer fewer services for special education and other programs that have a high per-pupil cost. They often offer fewer music, art, transportation services and athletic programs as well. It is hard to provide those services when the company running the charter schools is a for-profit company.
Here in Oxford, the education of the students at Crossroads for Youth, which was taken over by a charter school last year, was handed back to Oxford schools because it was not a successful program for the charter company. School districts do not have the option of simply getting rid of programs that do not make a profit. In addition, charter schools are often the last resort for teachers entering the profession due to the low pay, lack of benefits, and unattainable expectations. The charter school situation is an accurate representation of what is happening in our state ? the rich are getting richer, and the poor and middle class suffer at their expense.
Regarding the use of student data in teacher evaluations, MEA has supported efforts to create a fair and transparent system of teacher accountability. The challenge for policy makers and educators is to define what makes a fair measure of teacher effectiveness and student growth.
If left to the supporters of the Mackinac Center, annual standardized tests such as the MEAP would be the sole measure how much students have learned. Of course, the Mackinac Center will not point out the negative effects of such high stakes testing ? ‘drill and kill? style of teaching, a focus on minimal standards to produce test results, one-size-fits-all teaching methods, and an emphasis on test-taking and short-term memory skills that have little bearing on genuine, long-term learning. Additionally, teachers would be less likely to share ideas and teaching methods because they would simply try to move their own students forward, and to heck with the students down the hall. And forget about your child learning music, art, health, physical education, or a myriad of other subjects that are not part of the test, because teachers and districts would have little incentive to provide those things if one’s financial situation was dependent on a single test. What they don’t realize is that your student is more than a score on a test.
Perhaps the Mackinac Center and local representatives should spend their time trying to solve the huge inequity of funding in our schools. While Oxford and Orion school districts are neighbors, Orion receives about $1,000 more per student in state funding. In Oxford, that would mean an additional $5 million per year, a huge increase in an approximately $45 million budget. The difference is even bigger when one looks at the per pupil allowance in districts such as Troy and Rochester. For a district in Oxford’s position, the minimal increases the state has given over the past few years have been absorbed by the retirement reform the current legislature passed a few years ago.
Unfortunately for teachers in Oxford, that has contributed to an ever-increasing stagnation of wages, while teachers in Orion are able to receive pay increases to keep up with the cost of living. Of course, the lowest funded districts, such as Oxford, are expected to perform as well as districts receiving many millions of dollars more in funding. As noted, the rich get richer and everyone else suffers.
On a somewhat unrelated note, hopefully our current and perspective school board members will seek information about our schools and the state of the local teaching profession from a variety of sources. Too often, people in leadership positions make decisions without gathering accurate and/or complete information, and they often fail to seek input from the very people impacted by their decisions.
Go ahead and read the latest one-sided blurb from the Mackinac Center, talk to those who pull the strings at the board office to get another perspective, but definitely do not fail to talk to the teachers who have transformed the district over the past four years. Ask them how they feel about increased administrative salaries, questionable discretionary spending, and the promises of good things to come from programs they have created, all while their salaries have hardly moved and their take home pay has decreased significantly.
All they can do is hope and pray enough new students show up at the start of the school year to pay for a raise, because there never seems to be enough money on hand to recognize their efforts.
None of them will tell you they got into teaching to get rich, but they will tell you they are sick and tired of being trashed by the likes of the Mackinac Center, politicians, and an ill-informed public.
They will tell you they are proud of the work they do, and that all they want is to share in the success they helped to create.
Jim Gibbons
Parent, Teacher and OEA President
Neil Peruski
Parent, Teacher, OEA Vice President

‘Shame on? Addison voters
The voters of Addison Township did not pass the millage request for NOTA.
Shame on you.
We are the most rural of the townships involved and our seniors and handicapped residents need this service badly.
I, myself, am 78 years old and deliver meals to people who can’t get out of their homes.
Someday I, and you, may need help and like most elderly, we won’t want to have to beg for help from friends, neighbors and/or relatives.
Stop thinking only of the taxes you don’t want. This is certainly a very minor expense.
Think of your older relatives and neighbors, and do the right thing.
Suzanne Daley
Addison Township

Addison FD says thanks
The Addison Township Fire Department would like to thank all of our citizens for their support of the 2014 millage renewal.
We would not be able to be the very best that we can, if not for the support of our community.
Every thank you and vote of support motivates us to strive to always be better.
Addison Township Fire Department

No fan of Obama, either
Re: The July 30 Jim’s Jotting’s entitled, ‘No love for Obama in this Jot-a-torial.?
Seventy percent of those individuals who happen to populate the United States strongly agree with Jim Sherman, Sr.
As far as how history will treat Obama, it is my opinion he will go down as the worst president (not one of, but the) this country has ever had to endure.
However, history always depends on who writes it. While the killing of Osama bin Laden may have been on Obama’s watch, so was the Veteran Administration hospital scandal, the Internal Revenue Service scandal, and Benghazi, just to name a few.
Could it be that God just may be using Obama to punish this nation? Read the Old Testament, you may be surprised.
Bruce Marsee
Davisburg

On Tuesday, August 5, registered voters of Oxford Township and the Village of Oxford will have the opportunity to vote on the proposed Oxford Community Recreation Center.?
It has been my privilege to serve Oxford for the past twenty years as Parks and Recreation Director.?
It has been the vision of the Department to create a community that preserves and protects open space and provides its residents with diverse recreation opportunities that make Oxford a great place to live.?
During my tenure, the department has grown from?15 programs to well over 300 that provide positive healthy recreation opportunities for the entire community.
The department has created partnerships that together have raised private funds to construct amenities such as ‘Kids Kingdom Playground?, ‘KLR Splashpad?, ‘Red Rider Sled Hill? and ‘Devil’s Ridge Disc Golf Course?. ‘Additionally, Oxford Township Parks and Recreation has received over 2.5 million dollars in grants to purchase and protect open space areas and to develop a great park system.
Oxford Township Parks and Recreation has listened to the community to develop the programs and services enjoyed today.? The Department maintained transparency and fiscal integrity as it built the department to meet the changing needs of the community.?
The Community Recreation Center will be an investment in a healthy Oxford by providing a place where all residents can be active year round.??
Your parks and recreation department will expand its health and wellness, aquatic, athletic and leisure opportunities.??
Oxford Township Parks and Recreation Department values the trust of the community and we are committed to being’a leader within the community.
Ron Davis
Oxford Twp. Parks & Recreation

NO votes for community rec. center
Let me start by saying I think the recreation department does an admirable job.
This proposed new center is not about that. This community is facing multiple increases in water cost and taxes. I feel as though we so soon forget that we haven’t even come fully out of one of the worst economic periods in our history.
People lost their homes, savings, home values and jobs.
Now is not the time to add a luxury.
This community does not need a new community center. I’m sorry, if you have the disposable income, join one of the very fine gyms in Oxford or YMCA.
Try to make an agreement with the schools or one of the local communities to use their facilities at a cost. Try something, anything other than further burdening the hardworking taxpayers of Oxford.
This does not make economic sense and these types of fiscal decisions make me worry about how we are going to pay for other crucial issues that will come up over time like safety and aging infrastructure.
Sometimes you have to hold off on the shiny new thing, until you can actually afford it. I do not choose to put this community at risk. Fiscally, we cannot mortgage our future for this proposed new center.
I will be voting no.
Daniel Williams
Oxford

I’ve recently read a couple of letters to the editor supporting the new tax for the Oxford Community Center. I would like to present a common sense approach to this project.
The reasons put forth supporting the center range from increasing property values to the enhanced exercise and recreational opportunities it will provide. We are told that a Community Center would enhance the image of Oxford and that may increase property values. How does overtaxing anything increase its value? Common sense says it really just increases the cost of living here.
We are told this project would provide more exercise and recreational activities. They are both good ideas. If you want more exercise and recreation, do it on your dime.
Common sense says please stop asking the rest of us who have neither the time nor inclination to gather at a community center to pay for your recreation.
A few months ago this newspaper ran a lengthy article describing the other community centers in our area. This article clearly described the financial bust that the Orion Township Community Center has been and will be for the residents of that township. Common sense asks why would Oxford want to make the same mistake?
On August 5 let’s let common sense have its day for a change and vote NO on the community center.
Jim Teller
Oxford

As a state and community we are barely recovering from some of the worst financial years most of us have ever experienced. Our property values have lost 50 percent or more of their value since 2009. A lot of us had to reinvent ourselves after devastating layoffs, company downsizing, or plant closures. With 401K accounts worth considerably less, and maybe a foreclosure, or short sale, on our credit rating now is not the time for our local government to burden us with more financial hardship in the form of increased taxes for an ill-timed community recreation center.
What are they thinking? Just because a fire/library debt millage expiries in 2016 they think they need to replace it with another combined 1.65 mill levy? Why not give the tax payers a break for a couple of years and not have any new millage to pay? Allow us to catch up and climb to higher financial ground before asking for more. The timing is ridiculous and ill-advised.
Taxes are a never ending spiral, so let’s control them as a community while we have the chance by voting no for a new recreation center on Aug. 5. Like any other tax this will never go away and it will only keep creeping larger and larger no matter what type of spin the recreation department tries to apply to it. They are only providing us with numbers on what it will cost today and they have no idea what the true cost will be tomorrow. Once it’s built we have no choice but to keep funding it no matter what the cost. The best way to avoid buyers? remorse is not to go down the slippery slope of building the center in the first place.
I ask you to join me in delivering a resounding defeat to any, and all, new tax levies that might appear on the Aug. 5 ballot.
Don Bokshan
Oxford

YES votes for library millage
We are fortunate to be living in a comfortable community that is a great place for our families to thrive. A big part of what makes it great is the Oxford Public Library.
Some non-library users have the impression that libraries are ‘obsolete? and ‘nobody uses libraries anymore.? Had they walked through the Oxford Library lately they would see the reality. Adults use the computer lab for internet access and job seeking, as well as attending many informative programs. The youth and teen departments are teeming with young people and their parents: 718 children and 192 teens are participating in the summer reading program. Just two years ago, the figures were 607 children and 122 teens. Besides checking out books, parents and kids linger to do crafts or play with the many educational toys in the ‘Play ‘n? Learn Zone.? Teens hang out in the teen department and volunteer their time instead hanging out at the mall. By reading all summer these children will retain and improve their reading skills for the start of school in September.
Not just summer library use is up. More and more people are using the Oxford Library year round. This is happening while Library revenues have dropped. It has already cut expenses drastically. Does it really make sense to have the library cut hours, personnel, programs and materials when demand is the highest it has ever been? I don’t think so. Oxford is a wonderful, vibrant town. The library helps make it so. It is not a luxury but a vital part of the community. Please vote yes on August 5 for the Library millage.
Chris McNally, President
Friends of the Oxford Public Library

Fifteen years ago as an immigrant family from the United Kingdom, out of all the communities we could have settled in in southeast Michigan we selected Oxford, with one of the significant contributing factors being the excellent public library, as we recognized it as the hub of the growing community here.
At that time our family needed access to reading materials for our two young sons, as well as social interaction with other families, being new to the USA. Over the intervening years our needs have changed, but the library is still the hub of Oxford, and we have taken advantage of all the library had to offer ? Battle of the Books, the Summer Reading program, story time programs, craft projects, chess club, movies, Teen Advisory Board, volunteer opportunities for our boys working on their Eagle Scout requirements, and the lifesaving ability to print homework on a Sunday when our home printer was broken. We value all that our public library has to offer for all generations in Oxford, and we recognize that just as in the past five years our family’s daily living expenses have increased, the same is true for Oxford Public Library. However, the library has had to cope with these increased costs at the same time as its income from property taxes has decreased.
It is time for the people of Oxford to show how much they truly value the library that they use in ever increasing numbers, and therefore enable it to continue to offer the excellent services to us that we all rely on. Let this not be one of those situations where we only realize how much we appreciated our library once its opening hours have to be reduced and service is diminished.
This is the first election that I am able to vote in as a new US citizen and I take that as a privilege, a right and a responsibility. Please remember to vote on August 5.
Sian Marshall
Oxford

Whether personally an avid library user or not, it is important that we come together as one community to support the Library’s Millage request on August 5. Here is why:
Early childhood education, workforce development, and life-long learning are very important components of what the Oxford Public Library does. Not everyone associates these responsibilities with their public library’but economic development and early childhood literacy has become a large part of OPL’s Plan of Service by strengthening the local economy and by attracting new families and businesses to relocate here. Statistics prove that a strong and vibrant public library that plays an active role in its community has a direct correlation on reducing crime and in increasing property values.
Approximately 300,000 people visited OPL last year. Nearly 240,000 items were borrowed from the library in formats ranging from a print book to a downloadable eBook in every format and in multiple platforms. Over 10,000 residents attended library programs, and nearly 22,000 gained access to the Internet through its high-speed wireless network, or by using one of its public computers to conduct their research. Trained and knowledgeable librarians answered over 27,000 reference questions and provided free Outreach Services (homebound delivery) to homebound patrons who were unable to come into the library on their own. Nearly 1,000 adults, teens and children have registered for the library’s 2014 Summer Reading Program’this is an all-time record.
The library is asking voters to approve a 0.4518-mill tax to restore the tax rate previously authorized.
The last time the library received a tax increase was in 1995, nearly 20 years ago, when Oxford had less than 12,000 residents. Today, Oxford has over 25,000 residents, and as you would expect, library circulation is up as is demand for its programs. When the Library’s request for an increase was not approved in 2012, some residents expressed a concern about it being perpetual (meaning forever). Hearing those concerns, this funding request will expire in 10 years. The estimate of the revenue the Township will collect if the millage is approved and levied in the 2014 calendar year is approximately $311,000. This will not replace all of the funds lost to a declining economy, but it does provide for a much more stable funding mechanism, and would allow the library to continue providing the level of service and programs it currently provides.
What has already been done to help offset the loss in revenue? Staffing levels have been reduced by nearly 36%; retirement compensation packages were reduced by 50%; salaries were frozen unilaterally over the last 7 years, this includes gross wages and fringe benefits; healthcare costs were already reduced by 21% and recently reduced by another 34% the end of June of this year; energy consumption was reduced by 14%; and the materials/book budget by 36%. This has been made possible by means of implementing business philosophies recognized and proven to be successful in the private sector.
Aside from taking the above actions, the library has also borrowed from its fund reserve (savings account) in an effort to forego any additional cuts to services, hours and programs and to make much needed improvements to its already aging infrastructure. By sharing with you the larger picture I hope you can understand the urgency of this matter. I believe it is time to come to together as one community to proactively resolve this issue and to secure the future of our library for future generations to come. As a public servant I would never presume to tell you how to vote, but as a fellow resident and taxpayer myself, I would just share with you that your support is greatly appreciated and never underestimated, nor is it ever taken for granted by my staff or by me. Thank you for your time and support. Please remember to vote on August 5.
Bryan J. Cloutier
Library Director & Village Resident

YES votes for NOTA’s millage
I have lived in Oxford for 36 years. And whenever there is a millage for schools, police, the fire department, parks and rec and the library. I have always voted to support my community. Now I am asking my community to vote yes for NOTA.
NOTA is one of Oxford? finest transportation providers for our seniors, people with disabilities, members of our community who cannot afford a vehicle, and members of our community who lost their license because of medical conditions.
My leader dog Minor and I have been using NOTA since 2007. I have been able to have a successful career, go to my doctor’s appointments, and exercise at Curves independently. I am asking you to please vote yes for NOTA. So 1,800 citizens of Oxford and Lake Orion and Addison can keep our independence.
Marsha Katona
Oxford

The North Oakland Transportation Authority provides transport van and mini-buses for the transit of qualifying residents of Addison, Orion and Oxford Townships.
Most of the vehicles are equipped with the wheelchair lifts. Their services allow seniors and the disabled to access medical and other professional appointments, Social Security Offices, Michigan Secretary of State to replace Driver’s Licenses with a State ID card, grocery, clothing, personal and household care shopping, getting to jobs and job training.
Beside the physical transportation, an often overlooked service NOTA provide is a social aspect. Moving people from being homebound out to see friends, former co-workers, even to see some of those pesky relatives, does wonders both for their clients? mental and physical wellbeing.
NOTA is asking residents of the three townships to approve for a period of five years, 2014-2018, to a levy of ? mill or twenty-five cents ($0.25) per thousand dollars of taxable property value. For example, a property valued at $100,000 has a taxable value of $50,000. This would mean the cost of the proposed millage for NOTA would be $12.50 per year. VOTE YES FOR NOTA. I believe this would be money well spent to serve our communities.
Stu Wall
Oxford

Over the last year I have learned of a special service available to Seniors, disabled, low income and those that need rides to their doctors, jobs, kidney dialysis and grocery shopping. The dedicated administrators, drivers and board spend many hours making the most of the finances they have, and give their best.
Many around us daily struggle to survive without family, transportation, and find it difficult to obtain the basics, NOTA currently fills in the voids. Drivers go to the door and help those with wheelchairs and walkers make it into the buses.
Federal Funding has cut back finances, putting programming at risk. Possible 50 percent reduction in ridership. The millage request is about $12-$13 annually, with a SEV of $100,000 home or .25 mill.
We have some special people that benefit from NOTA. The little this costs will allow continued quality of life. Please give this your YES vote of support!
James R. Tichenor
Oxford

Just to let you know, NOTA has been a real life-saver for me. I’ve worked ‘full-time? since I turned 18 and have always been careful with my driving. On April 9, 2010 I had black out while driving to work. Despite my excellent driving record, my license was suspended because of this medical event.
NOTA got me to work and back. I have a few observations/notes to share with you:
1) I see the team at NOTA working very hard to meet the needs of each rider and at the same time, I see NOTA as being very responsible stewards of the funding they are allotted. I have met a whole group of people whom I never would have met. These people are genuinely disadvantaged. Anyone who thinks we don’t need NOTA to get these people to work and to their doctor appointments should spend some ‘time on the bus? seeing for themselves the genuine need.
2) The drivers for NOTA are very safety conscious. I don’t see them move the bus until everyone is buckled in and secure. They also know the law and they obey the law.
3) Most importantly, I see the NOTA drivers being professional and courteous to all the riders. I repeatedly observe the NOTA drivers treating everyone with respect, courtesy, and kindness.
I understand that some people don’t understand what NOTA does. To them I make a couple of assertions:
1) If we are fortunate enough, we will all be seniors at some time in the future. It is not likely that all of your family will live in close proximity to you. You can expect to be ‘transportation challenged.?
2) My traffic accident was the result of a ‘loss of consciousness? which is a lot like a single heartbeat. So, what’s the difference between someone like me and everyone who currently has a valid Michigan Driver’s License? Know this- there’s just a heartbeat of difference between me and you. Your life can change in a heartbeat just like mine did.
I hope NOTA is there to help you as they have helped me. Please support NOTA on Aug. 5 and vote YES! Again thanks NOTA!
John Katona, Oxford

Another ‘yes? vote for community center
The opportunity to approve construction for the Oxford Recreation Center will be put to a vote August 5 and I am crossing my fingers that it will pass. Being a resident of Oxford and a yoga teacher through Oxford Township Parks & Recreation, I realize the value it could bring to my husband and I, as well as the community.
As residents, my husband and I have participated in many of the ballroom dance classes offered through the parks and recreation department.
We both enjoyed having fun dancing while still getting the benefit of exercise.
Unfortunately, there will be no ballroom dance classes offered for the summer months due to lack of facilities.
If we had the new ORC, we would still be dancing and perhaps even more than one hour a week.
As a yoga teacher, I enjoy helping and enhancing the lives of others. Through the parks and recreation department, there is limited availability of days and times I can teach.
The new ORC would mean a great deal to me and my students. I would be able to offer many more yoga classes – morning, afternoon, and evening. Also, as my husband and I look toward our golden years and retirement (which are still many years away), the ORC would only enhance the lovely Oxford living of which we have grown so fond.
The community of Oxford would benefit by having the new ORC in many ways.
To list a few: the ORC would create new jobs, increase home values, increase revenue for local businesses, access to community recreation center all year round with more class offerings, and much, much more.
The new Oxford Recreation Center will be an outstanding amenity and integral part of Oxford, enriching the lives of people in support of wellness, health, fitness, and other positive activities right here in our community.
There will be something for everybody. Seniors, adults, teenagers and children will all have an opportunity to have a fun, happy, healthy experience there.
If you care about this community and want to make it a better place, all you need to do is vote ‘yes? on August 5.
Tanis Redd-Harris
Oxford

Thanks from the family of Harold Dodds
On behalf of the family of Harold Dodds, I would like to thank everyone for your many kind expressions of sympathy.
Kevin Lynch, of Lynch & Sons Funeral Home, your help and attention to each detail was amazing. You are a man of utmost integrity. Pastor Bob Service, you are top-notch always. Lee Knauf, we are grateful for the wonderful eulogy, and Jim and Kim, an awesome tribute to Grandpa.
Exemplary, special friend, Fire Chief Pete Scholz ? for speaking and honoring Harold’s 41 years of volunteer service to our community. Jack Leroy, always a friend, even recently visited with him and brought a box of books to share.
Lt. Brad Horton, V.I.P. & Partners to Harold for many years and a recent comfort to him and our family.
All the firemen, the salutations were a glorious goodbye. A&A Flower Shop, we’re grateful for your kindness. Tracey and Wade, neighbors who were there for all our needs, you have now become, a part of our family. Thanks to all the nursing staff at Crittenton Hospital, especially Nancy from the O.R, my special friend, you were there every step of Harold’s care. May God bless you extra.
Thanks again to all Harold’s neighbors for every kindness. The luncheon was paid by Bob Knauf and how appropriate, Harold’s favorite place to eat lunch. Also, we were able to sit under the moose head that Herman Boose shot in Canada. Herm and Harold were best friends. They even owned the Lake Orion movie theater back in the 1950s Thanks again to Bob and Sonja .
If I have forgotten anyone, please forgive me. It was a privilege for me to plan this service to honor Dad. Please, whenever you hear about the K-9 Stray Rescue League, think of Harold, who was the ultimate dog lover.
Gail Thiele

Reporting on good things local govt. does
I read with interest, but not surprise, Mr. Carnacchio’s reprint of his column on his conservative leanings (June 25, 2014). Apparently government at any level is ‘all equally loathsome and contemptible.?
It struck me as ironic when I read the entire paper and found three articles under Mr. Carnacchio’s by-line, which to me seemed somewhat confusing.
The article on the Oxford library renovations appeared rather positive.
Isn’t the library a tax supported entity? The article on the front page pointed out how the police were protecting the construction workers ignoring the road closing signs, while tax dollars are being wisely used to repair cemetery hill. And lastly, there was a nice article on the Seymour Celebration being held on (gasp!) public park property.
I guess the library, park commission and police department are not among the groups Mr. Carnacchio’s ‘detests.? I suppose we all have our favorite public boards and organizations but if we do, we should acknowledge that all are not ‘equally loathsome and contemptible.?
Alan Hafeli
Editor’s Note: The three stories to which Mr. Hafeli referred ? Seymour Celebration, the Oxford library renovations and the police on W. Burdick St. ? were news articles unlike the opinion column he’s taking issue with. These articles were written because it’s the job of a community newspaper to report on such happenings. The fact they were reported on means only that they were newsworthy and that should not be interpreted as any sort of personal endorsement of an event or government entity.

Reader considers it her ‘duty? to vote yes
If there’s one thing I’ve learned about Oxford, it’s that there are good and honest people here who work hard at improving community services and amenities. I’ve had the pleasure of working with many leaders from our fire, police, library, village, township, DDA, chamber of commerce, and parks & recreation sectors.
And if my YES vote on August 5 helps any of these groups in their quest to make Oxford even better, then they have it.
In fact, I consider it my duty to be supportive of the people and programs that enhance the place in which I live.
The August 5 ballot will ask Oxford voters to approve construction of a new community center at Stony Lake Township Park. In serving on the campaign committee, talking about the project with many residents, businesses and groups, I was surprised to learn how many Oxford families travel outside of Oxford for their health and wellness regimens. I’d like to see those dollars stay here in Oxford.
I can envision a community center where seniors interact with youth, and people of all ages get together for classes, a swim, or a workout. It will be affordable. It will raise property values. It will improve economic growth. Membership will be FREE to Oxford seniors. Everybody wins, and it is NEEDED!
I have seen tremendous support for this project in our community. But please do not assume the proposal will pass without your vote. The finish line is clearly within our reach, and we need every ‘sole supporter? to VOTE YES ON AUGUST 5! Let’s do this.
Linda Lewis
Oxford

Girls LAX thanks Ron Davis
On behalf of the Oxford High Girls Lacrosse team I would like to say a big thank you Mr. Ron Davis and the Oxford Parks and Recreation Department!
When the team decided to hold their banquet at Stony Lake Park, Mr. Davis waived the rental fee and donated the use of the pavilion to the team stating. ‘The team would need to use fundraising money to pay for the pavilion, that money should be used for new equipment for the team.?
This reinforces what many already know, our Oxford Parks and Recreation is a strong supporter of our community as a whole, and not just the events put on by their department!
Lisa Stockard
Oxford

Oxford teacher responds to Jacobsen’s column
Rep. Jacobsen’s recent columns in this paper suggest that all is well in Michigan and that there is nothing but better days ahead for all of us. Of course, there are two sides to every story.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Michigan’s unemployment rate was 6th highest in the nation as recently as April, 2014.
And a recent Detroit News article revealed that Michigan’s personal income growth lags behind the national average. it appears that Right to Work legislation, huge business tax breaks, and increased taxes on individuals have not only failed to produce jobs at a satisfactory rate, but the jobs that are being created are not doing much to increase the standard of living for many people who live and work in Michigan. Perhaps the opponents of RTW were correct when they called the policy Right to Work – For Less.
Regarding education, data from the Senate Fiscal Agency shows that Oxford Community School’s per pupil foundation allowance was $7, 557 per student in the ?08-?09 fiscal year. For ?13-?14 the amount was $7,145, a decrease of almost 6% while the expectations for schools and costs to run them have gone up. Lake Orion schools received $8,302 and $7,877 per student, respectively. While the school aid fund was being gutted, businesses enjoyed a $1.6 billion tax cut. Kids and those charged with educating them have not come first, despite rhetoric to the contrary. Admittedly, some of the lost funding was the result of the loss of federal stimulus funds, but the current administration made the loss worse by sharing money previously meant for K-12 education with higher education.
As if the financial failures of the current administration are not enough to convince voters that our state leaders should stop ‘reforming? public education, perhaps a recent push to put the department of treasury in charge of standardized testing will get voters? attention. Some legislators are not happy that they cannot micro-manage which standardized test (MEAP or Smarter Balanced) is given to students, so instead of letting the department of education make the decision, the idea is to rob the department of its ability to make the decision. Surely the treasury department knows what is best for kids, right?
To make matters worse, in a recent freep.com article, ?(Education) Department officials and others have raised concerns that dumping the Smarter Balanced test would violate a federal waiver the department received from many of the tough rules of the No Child Left Behind law.
If the state loses that waiver, every school in the state would be identified as failing.? Among the consequences is a loss of up to $1 billion in federal funding. Once again, what a strange way to put kids first.
While the school aid funds used to be directed towards K-12 education, the governor and his supporters took it upon themselves to include community colleges and public universities in the pool of money that was intended to be used solely for K-12 education. So it’s easy for legislators to say there is now more money than ever being put towards education, but the money is now divided up among more recipients.
It’s no wonder there are local teachers who cannot afford to live in the communities in which they teach. Wages have become stagnant with no relief on the horizon, and teacher attrition rates are climbing. The National Commission on Teaching and America’s Future estimates that one-third of all new teachers leave after three years, and 46 percent are gone within five years. There is no reason to think that similar statistics don’t apply to Michigan.
For example, one can’t help but wonder why a young person with any amount of potential would enter the teaching profession. The governor and his supports offer little hope to an eager, young person who wants to make a difference in the world AND make a respectable living. Just think, an aspiring high school student can get a bachelor’s degree in engineering and find a starting salary in excess of $50,000 or earn a bachelor’s degree in education and earn just over $35,000 in a local school district, and then have little hope that their salary will keep up with cost of living increases.
While I used to be able to recommend to my own children that teaching is a career worth considering, the current administration has stripped away many of the benefits of teaching that used to offset the low salary. Having a love for kids and teaching gets one only so far in teaching; at some point a person needs to be able to save money, purchase a home, make a car payment, and pay off student loans.
Newer teachers are not able to do these things. And the best and brightest of our high school students are not likely to pursue a career in education. It is disingenuous to say kids are first when the current administration has done so much to destroy the culture of those charged with educating kids.
Legislators would have you believe that high stakes testing is putting kids first. What it really does is stifle collegiality among teachers and force teachers and entire school districts to make decisions that may not be best for kids. If one’s salary and funding is based, in part, on student test performance then it is only logical to assume that teaching to the test is a strong possibility.
As a district, why put resources into the arts, computer-based curriculum, or foreign language, if those subjects are not tested? Because THAT is what is best for kids, but it costs money to provide those opportunities for kids.
The failure of legislators to fund education properly makes it necessary to do those things to attract (steal) students from other districts, which creates a system of winners and losers. If you are blessed enough to live in such a district, or can afford to transport your student to one of those districts, good for you. As for the rest of you, good luck putting your kids first when it comes to education.
Providing a quality education in one district should not come at the expense of another, yet that is exactly what is happening. Districts are fighting for the limited funds that are available since there is an overall lack of funding.
Meanwhile, our state legislators enjoy the fourth highest pay in the nation. They make about $72,000 per year in addition to a $10,000 allowance for expenses. In addition, Michigan is one of only FOUR states with a full-time legislature.
That leaves them with plenty of time to come up with legislation that is rarely talked about during campaign season: reducing the decision-making abilities of locally elected leaders, attacking women’s rights, forcing controversial RTW (For Less) legislation, increasing taxes on pensions, forcing state-appointed emergency managers on local communities, expanding the state takeover of schools (with dismal results to show for it), turning education over to for-profit businesses (with further poor results), and slapping $1.4 billion in tax increases on taxpayers to pay for $1.6 billion in tax cuts for businesses passed in 2011.
In closing, we need to elect local and state leaders who are not afraid to look past party lines. Many of us were duped by the current administration and its supporters, and the effects are everywhere around us in the form of unfulfilled promises, stagnant wages, higher taxes, and social policies that border on extremism.
One look at the voting record of our local representatives shows that businesses will continue to be favored over individuals and that our leaders will continue to inject themselves into areas of our lives where they have no expertise or right to be in the first place.
Hopefully voters will take charge and force a change so we are not subject to the whims of poor policies, unfulfilled promises, and legislative actions that continue to erode our standard of living.
Neil Peruski
Oxford

Graphic protest image upsets local mother
As many of you may have witnessed, the Oxford community had quite a public disturbance happen last Tuesday afternoon at the corner of Lapeer and Drahner roads.
A man was exhibiting a large sign protesting the act of abortion.
The sign was two-sided; one side with a written message and on the other side an extremely graphic picture of a disembodied, aborted fetus being held by medical clamps.
Before I go any further I want to make very clear that this is NOT a pro-life or pro-choice argument and the topic of abortion itself is irrelevant to the matter at hand.
What I am attempting to convey to the community is how an act such as this can affect our public health and safety. It definitely had an impact on my family.
I was heading home from Kroger at about 4 p.m. when I was stopped at the red light at the intersection. I noticed the man immediately as his sign was fairly large and brilliant neon yellow along with his coordinating colored shirt. When I first glanced over he was displaying the side of the sign with script on it and I quickly read his message diverted my eyes back on the road and for the green light. It was then in the corner of my eye did I see him flip the sign to the repulsive image of the dead fetus.
Within seconds I became panic stricken knowing that the wondering eyes of my 4- year-old son were in the back seat of the vehicle. I quickly shouted for him to look over at the Dairy Queen across the street in hopes that the idea of ice cream would be an effective distraction but I looked back to witness his little face staring at the sickening photo with confusion and fear. As he struggled to process this image he began to ask me ‘What happened to that baby, Momma?…? All I could do was plead with him to look away and pray that the traffic light change so I could speed away, but no matter how fast I could flee the situation the damage had already been done.
This left me with a feeling of anger like I have never felt before. As a mother, it is natural to want to protect my children from unnecessary graphic material put in our society as much as I can and here I was left defenseless against this public act that victimized my child.
I immediately called the police to make a report. I was informed by the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office that a deputy had already talked to the man and nothing could be done because he was protected under the First Amendment.
Here’s where I am confused? We have censorship for a reason, and it is EVERYWHERE! We censor our music on the radio and label CD’s for content. We have ratings on movies and television shows for suitable age groups. Even on the nightly news they warn us if they are about to show any kind of ‘disturbing images.?
These are things we do to justly shield a younger developing generation from harmful material. So how does the First Amendment get to be so taken for granted in other incidences?
I am not challenging our constitutional rights. I raised my right hand and have served in the military for almost a decade now defending those rights. Within this time, I have witnessed the violence that children in war stricken countries are exposed to and what that does to a society. There is nothing more distressing than the innocence of a child being deprived from them. Here in America our kids deserve better.
I grew up in the Oxford community and wanted my children to be raised here to avoid instabilities such as this. I am proposing that we as Oxford residents demand that there be an ordinance that prohibits the display of extremely violent or graphic images during any public protest.
I believe in the freedom of speech, but I feel just a strongly that we as parents and Oxford residents should have the freedom to protect our children and the children of this community.
Kate Logan
Oxford

Reader complains Skilling article made him ‘dumber?
(In response to June 11 article ‘Why was Skilling’s house on Craigslist??)
When did the Oxford Leader become the National Enquirer, delving into the personal lives of people, just because they hold some sort of “standing” in the community?
This information is none of my business.
And the reporter looks petty and small for chasing a personal item like this, especially when Dr. Skilling asked and answered the question and mentioned he didn’t want an article written about personal matters.
I am dumber for having read this article and somebody owes me a dollar.
Kevin Kadrich

White Cane drive a success
The Oxford Lions Club members were on the streets of Oxford, Friday & Saturday (April 25-26) selling White Canes.
Thanks to the generous people of the Oxford area and the wonderful support of the Oxford Leader for advertisement, our dedicated Lions and associates, were able to raise donations totaling $4,063.
We are eternally grateful for your support!
One hundred percent of the funds received, after costs, go to those in need, including people who are blind and deaf, as well as for our two $500 Oxford High School scholarships.
On behalf of the Oxford Lions Club, I say thank you to one and all!
Oxford Lions Club President
Charles W. Garrard

Parent says, ‘Please stop glorifying China to my children?
Oxford Schools, what kind of example are you giving our children?
Teaching ? or forcing ? the language of a country that has slave labor in their prisons!
To Superintendent Dr. William Skilling ? Why are you in love with China? Can you please answer that?
Please stop glorifying China to my children! China ? ‘The New Hitler.?
R. Wagner, Oxford

Grateful for coverage of special needs prom
Regarding: ‘A prom of their own? published in the April 30 edition.
I am so pleased with the great story!
Every photo shows joy.
You contributed to the happiness of many people and their families with this article.
Thank you with all my heart.
Andrea Perry

Organizers of special needs prom thank donors, supporters
We would like to take the time to thank everyone and their businesses that provided us with help for the Special Needs Prom that took place on April 26 at Merge Studio and Gallery in Oxford.
We would like to start off by thanking Merge Studios for donating the space for the prom; without them we would never have gotten this to happen and are incredibly grateful for their sincere and generous donations.
Special thanks go out to Uncle Boomba’s for supplying fifteen pizzas which the students and everyone else thoroughly enjoyed as well as Jacobsen’s Flowers for donating carnations for the students and decorations.
Sweet Island Frozen Yogurt was amazingly generous for coming out from Rochester and supplying over fifty people with dessert free of charge; which typically would have been anywhere from 400-500 dollars.
We must mention LuLu’s Fish Market, ‘Wiches and Funky Monkey for their donations to the Zombie Walk prizes which took place in October as well as our high school counselor, Mr. Lavalley, for presenting the idea of the fundraiser. Gen-X Transportation was kind enough to transport the students on a shuttle bus to and from the prom, which made the night even more special for them.
Both of us and the students wish to extend one big thank you to Kristen Hulbert for taking the time out of her day to do the students hair and makeup, as well as making sure that each had their own special time focused solely on them.
Without the administration at our high school we would never have been able to plan this without the reassurance and guidance provided by them, so we would like to thank Mr. Dunckley and Mrs. Beazley for all the time and consideration they gave us.
Without Jeanne DiCicco this prom would never have been the success that it was, we are eternally grateful for her kindness, her open-door mentality and overall being the right person at the right time.
We would like to end this letter expressing our appreciation to the Oxford Leader for the publicity it has given the prom and its donors; specifically C.J. Carnacchio. Thank you to everyone who donated both time and resources which allowed us to make this dream a reality for the students.
Megan Kerin and Hope McColl
Oxford High School seniors

Gender shouldn’t be a factor in deciding Oxford Cup winners
Over a span of three months, I contacted the school board three different times by U.S. mail and email.
I was not afforded the courtesy of a response so attended last night’s board meeting.
My concern was with the changes to the awarding of the Oxford Cup at graduation each year.
After over eighty years, the award was changed from top student to top male and top female student in the class.
I was informed that the cup was changed to have both a male and female winner because of community and high school staff suggestions. I do not feel gender is an appropriate criterion.
If the staff and the board feel more students should be honored, the cup should still go to the most qualified.
Whatever number of honorees is deemed appropriate, gender should not be a factor.
The top student or students should be honored.
It is possible that the very top voted students could be all of one gender.
When the winners of the Oxford Cup are categorized by male and female, a student with less qualifications could be honored because they were tops in their gender even though members of the opposite sex had higher qualifications.
I was informed that because the graduating class is larger than in the 1930s, the change was made to honor more students.
Following this logic, teacher of the year, support staff member of the year, etc. should also be changed to best boy teacher and best girl teacher, etc. since staff numbers have increased along with student numbers.
Obviously, I would like gender removed as a factor in this award.
Dr. Skilling and all board members? email addresses are on the district website, wwwoxford.k12.mi.us. Dr. Skilling can be contacted by phone at 248-969-5000 and by U. S. mail at 10 N. Washington, Oxford, MI 48371.
Please let the school board know if you agree with the removal and perhaps the change can be rescinded.
Marj Mihalyfi
Oxford

Wife thanks OXFD for helping husband
On Tuesday, March 25, my husband struggled with severe pain, dehydration and I believe hypothermia. As I saw his skin colore change, body temperature drop and uncontrollable shaking I knew it was time to dial 9-1-1.
From the time my call was answered, to the quick response time, to the quality of care and the safety of transport on icy roads to the hospital, it was amazing.
The Oxford Fire Department’s precision and skill is true blessing to us.
We are very grateful for all you do.
Thank you so much.
With much gratitude,
Larry and Yvonne Dudley
Oxford

Parents grateful for the free bike helmet
As the parents of a second-grade student at Daniel Axford Elementary School, we would like to thank McLaren, United Health Care and the Oxford Fire Department for their generous gift of the bike helmet our daughter received and your time to present them.
It was so nice to have the bike safety assembly with all the important information, but then each student was fitted personally with their own helmet.
It was like Christmas in April for her.
She was so proud of her new helmet and told us all about what she had learned.
One tip, if you have a bike helmet make sure your name and an emergency phone number is written inside it in case you are ever hurt while riding your bike.
Thank you again.
Heather and Eric Barnette
Oxford

Upset about chamber firing Bills as director
Holly Bills was amazing at her job as exeuctive director of the Oxford Chamber of Commerce!
She not only was great with our business, but not one person I have spoken with while mentioning her name, has had one bad thing to say.
I was so shocked to hear that she was fired, and did not receive a termination letter at that.
The reasoning behind the whole thing is just beyond ridiculous at best.
In the past day, I have been in local stores and places of business and everyone is talking. They just can’t believe that ‘our? Holly is gone.
I know I do not feel comfortable working with a Chamber of Commerce that is ‘moving in a different direction,? but has no clue what direction that even is!
Are you running the Chamber of Commerce for your businesses or for yourself.
Hmmmm…
Virginia Guindon
Oxford

Barn owner thankful for help
On behalf of myself and my family, I would like to personally thank the Oxford Fire Department and the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office for their response to the devastating fire that overcame our barn on Monday, Feb. 17.
From the calmness of the dispatcher who took the call to the fire chief and police officer making sure I was okay until family and friends arrived home, your skillful professionalism is very much appreciated.
A very special thank you to our neighbors opening up their barns, supplying hay, bedding, etc. for our two horses and the two horses boarded at our barn.
Thank you to the friends that walked the horses through knee deep snow past fire trucks, hoses, and police cars to get to these barns. I continue to be amazed by the outpouring of support, generosity and number of people offering to help in any way possible. We are so thankful to each and every one of you!
What a blessing it is to be a part of such an amazing community of people!
Bev Girardot
Oxford Township

Get rid of the snow
The Oxford Downtown Development Authority has done a great job in making Oxford a destination town.
People travel to eat downtown, go to the movies downtown and walk downtown. So, that means they want to be able to walk in town. Oxford needs a snow removal plan for the village, especially the downtown area.
You have a front-end loader and a dump truck, put them to use and get that snow out of there. Rochester does it. Dryden does it. Even Flint does it. You can, too!
Douglas Thompson

Some thoughts from an ‘imperialist dog?

As a Baby Boomer I always loved hippie rhetoric, but never really understood what it meant. Thanks to the Oxford School District and Confucius Institute now I understand the meaning of capitalist/imperialist dog.
One has to credit Oxford Schools for Capitalism. The 2006 Michigan Merit Curriculum required students ‘entering 3rd grade in 2006 and beyond to complete two credits of languages other than English or equivalent K-12 experience prior to graduation.?
Oxford Schools leveraged subsidized Confucius Institute teachers to meet the new requirement at a savings to the district.
One, however, has to reconcile capitalism with becoming an imperialist dog in the process:
‘Oxford Community Schools? Fifth Core World Language & Culture program is a financially sustainable model designed to create fluency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing Mandarin Chinese. There are over 2,000 students immersed in daily world language instruction, and the number will grow to over 3,000 in the next three years.?
Today, I would ask how many of the 2,000 ‘immersed? students have a significant long term knowledge of Mandarin other than the ‘cultural? softening to China that is the propaganda based purpose of the Confucius Institute? My granddaughter can say hello and goodbye in Mandarin after seven years in the Oxford School System while one visit from a friend of mine from China last year wiped out all the ‘cultural? softening.
The plan to construct the new student/parent facility on school property is a concern.
This imperialist dog would raise the hair on its back and stipulate that tuition is for education, not room and board. The student/parent center should be on Oxford tax rolls, pay for infrastructure, etc.
Since Confucius Institute/China is flush with cash how about adding a surcharge to fund improved economics education? Maybe we could develop an economics curriculum that would train our future representatives to develop Global economics solutions that don’t simply anticipate an equilibrium between middle classes of the United States, Mexico and China where obviously we lose.
Allen Schwartz
Oxford
Editor’s Note: It’s been reported that the housing for the international students is proposed to be constructed on 13 acres of private land adjacent to the high school. This land is reportedly being donated to the district by Burton-Katzman, a private developer. It’s also been reported that although the property would be owned by the district, school and county officials said the land and the dormitory could still be subject to property taxation if they’re leased out and used for non-exempt purposes.

What’s the DPW’s hurry?

Oxford Village is not that large to necessitate the Department of Public Works (DPW) snowplow to drive at such a fast rate of speed that the ice, snow and frozen slush plowed up from the road is thrown over the existing snow banks coating the sidewalks that were just cleared by a lot of hard work by the village residents.
Also, depositing large piles of heavy wet snow into the yet to be cleared driveways.
All in all the DPW does a good job of clearing the village roads but usually at the expense of the our walks and driveways.
R. Baril
Oxford

Township’s ‘demand? for two dispatchers ‘smacks of bullying?
The Oxford Leader’s recent reporting of Oxford Township’s demand to the Village to provide two full time emergency dispatchers, 24/7 or else, smacks of bullying to me.
I am well aware of a Hatfields/McCoy relationship between the two governmental entities that has apparently prevailed for many years, but this example seems to go beyond theoretical differences and smacks of a declaration from the township that does not truly represent the best interests of its constituency.
In as much as ‘two is better than one,? I suppose, in the context of emergency dispatchers, has the township confirmed through research of dispatcher records that the likelihood one full time (and apparently two on occasion) dispatchers would not be able to handle the typical flow of incoming requests for service?
Or, is that just an assumption, based upon a broadened responsibility the Village dispatchers now handle (inclusive of the village of Lake Orion as well as Oxford Township) that an increased risk to the citizens of the township exists, at least sufficient to demand additional personnel which, of course, results in increased expenses (which, of course, the costs of which are ultimately passed down to the taxpayers and/or resulting in cuts in other areas).
I would suggest that township Supervisor Bill Dunn and village Manager Joe Young sit down together and apply concerted efforts to analyze true historical statistics as to the number of dispatch calls, the times of day or night when they represent the most volume and, most importantly, an effective method of providing manpower when it’s most needed–and conversely structuring the system so that additional manpower is not simply in place–and costing taxpayers more–when it’s generally and historically not needed.
To just bully the village by a take-it-or-we-leave attitude in this matter appears to be more of a bullying of one entity against the other and this sort of thing needs to stop.
Paul Cervenak
Oxford

Praise for Rush’s opining

I read Don Rush’s column every week. His column in the Leader dated Jan 1, 2014 (‘Tirade Number 1 and Tirade Number 2?) is the best column I’ve ever read.
I feel it is so inspiring that I made copies and gave one to each of my children (five), one to each of my grandchildren (15) and one to each of my great-grandchildren (nine).
Keep up the good work.
Mel Pawl
Former downtown Oxford business owner

Readers sound off on open-carry
On Thursday, December 12, a man lawfully carried a Glock 9mm handgun into Oxford Middle School to attend a concert a family member was in. He didn’t shoot anyone, he didn’t violate the law, and no one got hurt.
That man was me. Therefore, I think I have a unique point of view to comment on an article that was created due to my lawful and appropriate actions.
Firstly, lets keep a brief lecture on the legal ramifications simple. The Federal Gun-Free School Zones Act prohibits ANYONE to come within 1000 feet of school property with a firearm, except under very special conditions. One of those very special conditions is if the person in question has a license issued by the sate (Michigan) to carry a weapon concealed. Therefore, the quote in the article is dead wrong when it says that “any individual could open carry into a school”.
To legally do so, you must undergo legal training, as well as live-fire training. Only someone, like me, who possesses such a license, can legally carry a firearm into a school.
The problem is that MCL 28.425o prohibits anyone from carrying a CONCEALED weapon into a school. That is why myself and others must resort to carrying our weapons OPEN.
But why would anyone want to carry a gun, let alone into a school? Why would you need one?
Well, personally, I carry at least one everywhere I legally can. Sometimes open, sometimes concealed, depending on the law’s stance on where I am going. It is so I can defend myself and the lucky people around me from unwanted attackers where ever I am.
Did you know that the theater in Aurora, Colorado was the only theater in the area that prohibited firearms? Yet a mass shooting happened, and no one inside could defend themselves. Did you know that it is illegal to carry guns in the Naval Yard in Washington, D.C.?
Did you know it is illegal to carry guns into schools in Sandy Hook Elementary, Columbine High School, and Virginia Tech?
The shooters seem to go only where no one is allowed to have a gun to defend themselves. I, personally, will never be caught in that situation where someone is murdering people around me and I have no way to stop it.
My Second Amendment rights “shall not be infringed” because I have a duty to protect myself, my family, strangers I don’t even know, and my freedom.
And THAT is why any further illegalization of firearms in schools is a dangerous idea.
James Baker
Addison Township

The Dec. 25 article ‘District wants open-carry of guns banned in schools? was full of misinformation and political pandering.
First of all School Board Trustee Jim Reis? statement that anyone can open carry a pistol into a school is incorrect. MCL 750.237a section (4) states that it is a misdemeanor to possess a pistol in a weapons free school zone. Section (5) then lists the qualifications for whom this does not apply, one of which is having a concealed pistol license. Therefore only persons in the general public with a concealed pistol license can open carry into a school.
He also states “It just creates panic and the district isn’t setup to handle that on a daily basis.” I would like to know how many times the schools have had to go into a lockdown because someone was legally open carrying a pistol. I am not aware of any incidences of this in at least the last three years. This type of drama is uncalled for.
The Michigan constitution states ‘Sec. 6. Every person has a right to keep and bear arms for the defense of himself and the state.?
Based on this article and the article back in January 2013 in which Oxford Superintendent Dr. William Skilling stated that he was glad that Governor Rick Snyder vetoed Senate Bill 59 which would have made it illegal to open carry in a school, but make it legal to carry concealed, I can deduce that our school board needs some education on the rights of the people.
Jim Zinke
Oxford

Smith family grateful for column about Merle
I am the daughter of the recently passed Oxford Village resident Merle Smith.
I live in Mississippi and was told to look the Dec. 4 column up that C.J. Carnacchio so graciously wrote in honor of my dad.
Merle was a great humanitarian and beautiful person.
C.J. spoke honestly when he stated that even though Merle didn’t see eye to eye on things he still appreciated your opinion.
Even in his eulogy an email was read that stated to be kind to each other and try like the Republicans. He was funny and a staunch Democrat.
Thank you, C.J. from the bottom of my heart for recognizing and writing such a lovely memorial to my father.
Jan Davis and the Smith family

Balancing business, cancer
I would like to remind everyone in Oxford about out wonderful business ladies in the community who are going through cancer treatment.
Trying to make a living, conducting business while going through treatment is very taxing.
Cancer is a very frightening disease , and the treatment is draining both physically and financially.
As we all know that our so called affordable health care has caused an increase in monthly medical insurance as well as increases in copays and annual deductibles.
I am the Sister of previous owner of Oxford Barber Shop. Sharon died of Lung cancer last February 5, 2013.
I have witnessed personally the struggle that one goes through fighting the disease and financial burden. Sharon eventually became too ill to work.
Many of her customers , friends and local barber shops (Paul’s Barber Shop, Leonard Olde Time Barber Shop and Backstreet Barber Shop) gave money or collected money to try to ease her burden. I am forever grateful to all of you.
Let us show compassion and take care of our own for this Holiday season and throughout the New Year.
I know of one lady in particular named Laura Lee of Laura Lee’s Salon in town. P.O. Box 114 Oxford Michigan 48371.Pease do not take offense if your name is not included in this letter. The people in town know who you are.
I plead for all others to help everyone of our Oxford business ladies in this time of need.
Catherine Trainor

Parent thankful for ‘Shop with a Hero? program
When they say, ‘it takes a village to raise a child,? they actually mean a small community. On Dec. 12, my children were blessed in being the recipients of the Shop with a Hero program.
This miracle could not have happened at a better time. I am a single, working mom of twin girls who struggles like most from pay check to pay check making ends meet, robbing Peter to pay Paul on a very tight budget. Christmas was on the ‘we will see what we can do? side of things this year.
When the phone call came to me a few weeks ago from a fireman named Kelly from Addison twp to let me know that my children’s names had been given to them to help with gifts for Christmas I was moved to tears.
At the time he called I was sitting at work (yes I work) literally looking at their Christmas list asking myself, ‘How??
My daughters are smart, funny, beautiful and have never caused me an ounce of problems. Most of all have never asked, ‘Why?? when Mommy says, ‘We just can’t get this, this time.?
I cannot say enough good about the Shop with a Hero program, Addison Township Fire Department, especially firefighter Kelly and firefighter Tracey and the Oxford Meijer store. Without them I am sure none of this would be possible. I am only guessing someone from Leonard Elementary or that community gave our names for this program and am truly grateful to that angel and blessed that my children have had this opportunity!
The evening with our heroes was unbelievable and went beyond our hopes and prayers. God bless them all!
Leslie Eckler-Neisler

EMS crew was ‘amazing?
My name is Diane Harbin. On Friday, Nov. 8, we called 911 (because) my daughter was not breathing. The EMS men and woman who responded were amazing.
They were there in less than 5 minutes (and) made every attempt to save my Samantha. They treated her with kindness and respect. They were so caring. There was nothing they could do to save her, yet I felt they were heroes.
I’m so grateful they were able to respond so fast. These men and women are underpaid and under appreciated in my opinion. They risk their lives on every call, never fully knowing what they will walk in on. These heroes are amazing. Thank you seems so small. God bless them.
Diane Harbin

Grateful couple thanks local business
Editor’s Note: Oxford resident Rob Misenar wanted to share his gratitude to Lynch & Sons Funeral Directors in Oxford for handling the arrangements and absorbing all the funeral costs (with the exception of the casket) for his infant son, Lucas Craig Misenar, who died on Oct. 29, 2013 at the age of 3? months.
I just wanted to reach out to you to let you know just how thankful that my wife and I are for all that you did for us in handling the arrangements of our baby boy. In your line of work, I am sure that you run into grief and sorrow on an endless basis.
You handle these emotions and carry yourselves with the upmost respect, compassion, professionalism, and grace.
We were extremely touched and moved with how you treated us and how the services were handled.
It was clear to us that you all shared in our emotions and that you were a part of proceedings and not simply there doing a job.
You went well above and beyond the normal call of duty, and for that we are forever grateful.
You are truly remarkable people doing remarkable work.
You all will be in our thoughts for a long, long time.
I will forever strongly recommend to anyone that finds themselves in a similar/unfortunate situation that they call Lynch and Sons Funeral Directors for their arrangements.
They make these impossible situations manageable and memorable. There is no one better.
Rob and Jessica Misenar
Oxford

Upset by column on women football announcers
As a recent transplant to Michigan, I subscribed to the Oxford Leader as I did not know much about the town I chose to settle in. I do love our new home, as it offers an easy commute to central Oakland County for a young professional like me, and the way of life and one would assume the values in which one hopes to raise a well-rounded family.
As I say, I still don’t know all that much about Oxford, but what I do know is football. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, I grew up with Fridays at high school games, Saturdays devoted to either Penn State or Norte Dame, and of course Sundays with the ‘Steel Curtain? Pittsburgh Steelers.
That’s why I was so surprised to see the title of Jim Sherman, Sr.’s recent column ‘Women football announcers are a sure sign of the apocalypse? in the Nov. 13 issue.
Mr. Sherman does it make your blood boil that Condoleezza Rice will be one of the thirteen inaugural members picking the upcoming college playoff teams?
What might qualify her for this you might ask?
Of course not being former Secretary of State, provost at Stanford University, a professor at Stanford Business School, and not to mention one of the only two non-male members of Augusta National. I mean after all she’s a woman what could she possibly know about football?
One might argue that as a resident of the ‘Crimson? state and having a father as a football coach ? she might just know a thing or two about football. Did you notice how many of her other achievements on her resume, many men never achieve?
I also imagine that you don’t have daughters.
Since you argue ‘football is a man’s game? you might assign similar ‘places? for each gender in other ways as well.
For instance would you be able to look a daughter in the eye and honestly say, ‘I’m sorry honey, that’s a man’s place,? if as a young child she told you she wanted to be a firefighter, in the armed forces, a police woman or yes even a sports telecaster.
Given your column I can only assume you would.
Before your next ‘rant,? as you characterize it, consider how your narrow-minded, misogynistic views reflect you, the publication you represent and the town of Oxford.
As I say, I don’t know Oxford, but I do know football, and regardless of gender, I will admit that there are some terrible announcers out there, also some terribly-opinionated small town newspaper columnists.
Erin Morehouse
Oxford
Editor’s Note: Mr. Sherman, Sr. has two grown daughters who are part owners of Sherman Publications, Inc. and oversee its day-to-day operations.

Gerbe, Kochis families appreciate fund-raiser
On behalf of the Gerbe and Kochis families, we would like to thank everyone involved in our November 13 fund-raiser for Billy Kochis’s four kids and wife Shannon.
This has been a tragedy in our families and we couldn’t be more thankful for a more loving and caring community to pull together to help us.
It is reassuring to know “Once a Wildcat, Always a Wildcat” stays true to the community.
Oxford High School, thank you for all you have done to get this fundraiser and silent auction coordinated.
Buffalo Wild Wings, thank you for your donations and hosting this event. It was an amazing night and a great turnout.
We truly enjoyed the caring conversations with all of you and support during these trying times. We are forever thankful for all of you in our lives.
Gerbe and Kochis families

Fmr. basketball player critical of coach
With the girl’s high school basketball season starting up again, I feel like it is the perfect time to reveal to the people of the community, and parent’s of players what happens behind the scenes. As a former player under the current head coach, Steve Emert, I have experienced some of the worst coaching practices, in my opinion.
A coach, especially at the high school level where so much is changing in a student athlete’s life, should be a mentor not a bully. They should encourage and push your child, but not to the extent that they come home bawling every day. That is what I witnessed firsthand land year.
Personally, I have played basketball for eleven years, through Oxford parks and Recreation since I was six years-old, Oxford Community Schools since I was eleven and a competitive travel league since I was twelve and I have never had a coach like Mr. Emert.
Since he has taken over the head coaching position, over a dozen players have quit. To some it was a second or third sport. But, for a few girls like myself, it was our one and only sport’our passion.
For as much as I loved basketball, I decided it was time to quit playing for Oxford High School because of the mind games that were played my junior year. He constantly put each player down, everyday and made us feel nearly worthless. From the times he would stop in the middle of practice and just yell for 30 minutes, to the times he would get up close in a player’s face and scream.
Mr. Emert was not a role model. He is someone who believes he is always right and if you don’t ‘buy into the program? then you will not be playing. It was not about talent or hard work, but by how much you were willing to give up to be a part of his philosophy.
He came to Oxford wanting to rebuild the program, but in the end tore it down completely. I think there needs to be a major change in the girl’s basketball coaching staff if they want to continue to have a program for years to come.
Alicia Vasquez
Oxford High School Senior

Lapeer fire chief appreciates OXFD
At a few minutes before 7 pm on Nov. 12, a fire began that shortly threatened to destroy a large section of historic downtown Lapeer.
While we don’t yet know what caused the fire, thanks to the efforts of all of the responders, the fire was contained to the building of origin and to one building on either side. Most importantly, no one was injured as a result of the fire.
The rapid development and size of the fire required us to ask for assistance from seven other fire departments.
Some we work with frequently, but this was the first time any of us can remember that the Oxford Fire Department has responded to the City of Lapeer.
While all firefighters would tell you that they ‘were just doing their job? and that they are always willing to help another department, we sincerely appreciate the assistance of the Oxford Fire personnel who responded and want to thank each for their efforts.
Without them and the other departments involved, the outcome would have been very different and much more tragic.
While things were a bit chaotic initially, everyone involved worked well together throughout the incident. I can’t put into words how much we appreciate everything that all the responders did to help us, and want to pass on the many thanks and praise of a grateful and appreciative fire department and community.
Fire Chief Terry Kluge
City of Lapeer

150 boxes for troops
The American Legion Auxiliary would like to thank the community of Oxford for their support to help make our latest packing party for our troops overseas a huge success.
Thank you to those who donated their Halloween candy, items to fill boxes, monetary donations and to the volunteers who packed the 150 boxes.
We would like to thank Dr. Khoury of the Oxford Smile Center and Saint Joseph School for their collection of all the Halloween candy.
The American Legion Auxiliary are very thankful for C.J. (Carnacchio) and the Oxford Leader.
They got the world out for us and they are very supportive of all our programs to help our military families and our community.
God Bless our Oxford community and God Bless America.
Pat Bliss
American Legion Auxiliary President

Critic of student housing
Where does (Oxford Community School’s Superintendent Dr. William) Skilling get the authority to commit us to building housing for the Chinese on Oxford School Property? A vote of the people is needed here. It will be our taxes that pay for it or money taken away from our kid’s education. Adding 200 Chinese students to our school district is a lot. Next he will say the school is too small and we need to build a new one. We don’t need to be in charge of educating the Chinese. They are already taking over our businesses and our jobs.
Carolyn Boots, Oxford
Editor’s Note: The student housing would be for all international students, not just those from China. School officials said the facility would be paid for using private funds, not tax dollars. No vote of the people is legally required for this type of project.