Help Dearborn's Fight Against Unregistered Rentals

  Throughout all parts of our city, we’re seeing more owner-occupied homes converted to rentals with each passing month. It’s a clear sign of the rough economic times, and it’s a situation that’s certainly not unique to Dearborn.
  However, our city does require all non-owner occupied residences to be registered with the Building & Safety Department. Registration ensures that properties are inspected on a regular basis and meet minimum safety and maintenance requirements.
  Many homes, however, are being converted to rental properties without being registered or inspected by city officials. These homes can pose a danger to occupants and neighbors alike. Not to mention the negative impact unregistered rentals can ultimately have on entire neighborhoods.
  In an effort to crack down on such homes, the city has provided a way to look up all currently registered rental properties in Dearborn. If you suspect a home in your neighborhood is no longer owner-occupied and it does not appear on the city’s list at this easy-to-use link, you can then notify city officials by using the form provided here. The claim may be anonymously submitted, and will be researched and investigated by the Building and Safety Department.
  Mayor O’Reilly has made a priority of supporting Dearborn homeowners by aggressively pursuing compliance with those codes and ordinances aimed at keeping neighborhoods vital and strong. Residents are urged to do their part to help with this effort.

Check city's list of registered rentals here.

Report a suspected unregistered rental here.

Players Guild Brings 'The Rainmaker'

  This weekend, our friends at The Players Guild of Dearborn continue their successful 2009 run with N. Richard Nash's romantic comedy, “The Rainmaker.”
  Kim Donovan directs this effort, which is being co-produced by Dearborn’s John Sczomak and Cathy Zanardelli. The cast includes Richard Bulleri, Tim Timmer, Alex Godjov, Maria Kovac, Kenyada Davis, Gary Regal and Ron Williams.
  As you might expect, quite a bit of works goes into a production like “The Rainmaker.” Sue Suchyta, Guild volunteer and one-woman PR dynamo, knows all the ins and outs, and allowed us a peek behind the curtain.
  “Rehearsal time for a show can be two months or six weeks, give or take a week,” she said. “The stage will be cleared of a set once the show closes, and work begins for the next set soon afterward. Sometimes plays share set elements, but things aren't always that convenient.”
  Guild President Jeff Ostrowski agreed. “The Guild always seems to be flowing from one production to the next. We are all-volunteer, so we rely on the skills of our members and the community in order to mount our productions on time and with good production elements. We have a lot of volunteers who tirelessly work to ensure the Guild operates on a daily basis.”
  All the more reason to put aside a little time for “The Rainmaker.”

“The Rainmaker” will run weekends through March 15th. Friday and Saturday shows are at 8:00pm, with 2:30pm Sunday matinees. For more information, call the Guild ticket line at 313-561-TKTS, or visit their web site at www.playersguildofdearborn.org.

Dearborn Realtors Plan Home & Garden Expo

  The Dearborn Area Board of Realtors is offering residents fresh ways to make their homes attractive to buyers this spring and summer with their first Home & Garden Expo on Saturday, March 14. The event will run from 10am–5pm at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center. Admission and parking are free.
  The Expo will feature Dearborn exhibitors, and give homeowners a chance to spruce up their homes while supporting local businesses. Visitors will also get an opportunity to learn about our community’s attractive features and find out what makes Dearborn special. 

  There will be unique ideas on how to plant landscapes to help create curb appeal as well as a number of different demonstrations and seminars. The latest gardening trends will be explored, with workshops and helpful hints from experts giving visitors a chance to see, do and buy all under one roof.

  If you need more information or are interested in exhibiting, contact the Dearborn Area Board of Realtors. You can reach them by calling 313-278-2220, or stopping by their office at 2350 Monroe Street.

Mayor O'Reilly Dares To Be Amish

  Each year, students in the WDHS program at Dearborn High School produce their own full-length movie. It’s a big deal, with a fancy premiere at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center and even screenings at some local movie theaters.
  This year, the film is “Dare to be Amish,” and Mayor O’Reilly was asked to join other community leaders to help fill out the students’ cast (hey, is that Ann Stagg we see there?). The Mayor plays Judge Yoder, the leader of an Amish community who serves as a kind of mayor, judge and priest. It sounds like type-casting to us, but it’s apparently one of the more serious roles in the comedy.
  The students asked all the adults to be true to the Amish look, and since mustaches are a no-no for Amish men, Mayor O’Reilly sacrificed his. Despite a full schedule of meetings and public appearances this week, the Mayor committed to his role like a well-seasoned method actor. 
  “The film class is really a great program and the students do a wonderful job each year with their movies,” said Mayor O’Reilly, who has a theater background himself. “I’m glad to have this opportunity to be part of their efforts. I know I’ll get questions, but it’s all worth it."

  "Besides,” he pointed out, “mustaches grow back.”
  The comedy is being shot at locations around town, including Greenfield Village, and is scheduled to premiere at the Michael A. Guido Theater on May 7. Find out more about the project at www.daretobeamish.com.

Changes Ahead for Sacred Heart

  In a newsletter mailed to parishioners, Sacred Heart Pastor Peter Petroske announced upcoming changes that would significantly alter both the church's schedule and structure.
  Regretfully, Reverend Petroske gave notice that the historic church convent would be razed. “It would cost more than we could afford to retrofit the building to bring it up to code,” he wrote. He noted significant water damage to the building, as well as faulty windows and a pressing need for a new boiler that would cost up to $60,000.
  Although the landmark building has become a liability for the church, the Reverend recognized what a painful decision this would be for many Sacred Heart parishioners. “The convent stands as a symbol of what had been an important part of the life of this parish and school for many years,” he said. “The members are saddened by this necessary step.”

  The convent will continue to be used until the fall of this year. When the building is eventually removed, the site is being considered for additional parking or an expanded play area for Sacred Heart students.
  The church also announced changes to their Mass schedule. Saturday morning Mass will no longer be offered due to the increased volume of funerals and weddings. Saturday afternoon Mass will move up one hour earlier to 4:00pm. Sunday Mass times will be changed to 7:30am, 9:00am and 11:00am. The new Mass schedule goes into effect the weekend of March 14th and 15th.

With Vehicle Break-Ins Rising, Police Urge Caution

  It's a sad sign of the economic times, but theft of items from vehicles is an increasingly common crime in Dearborn. Police officials want to remind residents it can be prevented with a little common sense.
  Dearborn Police are urging motorists to keep valuables out of sight whenever leaving their vehicles. Lock them up in the trunk or stow them in the glove compartment. Also, be sure to keep your vehicle locked at all times.
  Another crime that is emerging in neighboring communities involves thieves breaking into a vehicle and stealing the victim's garage door opener, along with the vehicle registration or GPS unit. Using the registration or GPS unit to identify the owner’s home address, the thieves then go to the home and gain entry by using the garage door opener.
  Residents should consider adding garage door openers to the list of items kept out of plain sight in their vehicles. Some recommend removing the garage door opener altogether, as well as taking anything with your address on it whenever leaving your vehicle.
  The Dearborn Police Department has increased patrols in neighborhoods and stepped up the use of plainclothes surveillance officers (the latter being funded by a grant award). These measures, along with Dearborn’s Neighborhood Watch program, have helped deter vehicle larcenies and led to the arrest of suspected thieves throughout the city.

If you see suspicious activity in your neighborhood, call the Neighborhood Watch program at 943-3030.

Press & Guide Parent Company Files for Bankruptcy

  The Dearborn Press and Guide, which has struggled to survive in an industry fighting dwindling circulation and advertising revenue, was dealt a blow Saturday when its parent company, The Journal Register Company filed for bankruptcy protection from its creditors.
  In court documents filed Saturday in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Manhattan, company Chairman and Chief Executive James W. Hall said the recent economic crisis has been particularly hard on the newspaper trade. The Pennsylvania-based publisher says it had assets of $596 million as of November 30 and $692 million in debt, including unpaid interest.

  The Journal Register Company operates six daily newspapers in Michigan and has interests in another half dozen 'weeklies' like the Press and Guide.
  The Dearborn Press and Guide, which publishes twice weekly, moved its operations to Southgate and came under fire from some readers for losing its Dearborn-centric focus. There is no word yet on how the bankruptcy will affect the paper's operations.

OPINION: A Special Day in Dearborn

  It seems there is no shortage of bad news, lately. Our schools are in trouble. Our neighborhoods are struggling. Our local businesses are fighting to keep their doors open and, sadly, many are losing that battle. It’s easy, at times, to feel powerless. To run out of fight.
  Today, though, we have a special opportunity to create some good news. For ourselves. For our city. And, most importantly, for a little girl who has not run out of fight. 

  Meghan Salter has had a lifetime of bad news in her six years. But she and her family aren’t fretting over the minutiae we discuss here each day. They don’t have the luxury to worry about traffic signals, parking meters or who may or may not run for city council this fall. Their needs are far more immediate. Their needs are far more important.
  So today, 'Meghan Salter Day' in Dearborn, we urge everyone to come together for a family who has asked for our help. Tonight, let’s fill the Hubbard Room at the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center for Meghan. Let’s put just a little more than we can afford in those donation buckets for Meghan. Let's dance together, let's sing together and let's laugh together for Meghan. Let’s prove that even in dark times we can create our own light. Let’s show that, sometimes, we just have to go out and make our own good news. Not just for Meghan, but for ourselves.

  That's our opinion. Let us know yours.

Find out how you can help Meghan Salter here.

Highland Neighborhood Association May Fold

  On the heels of Mayor O'Reilly's State of the City address, which underscored the importance of Dearborn's Neighborhood Associations, comes news that one may be folding.

  A newsletter sent out by the Highland Neighborhood Association claimed the group 'is in urgent need of additional participation if we are going to keep this important organization in existence.' Among the positions they need filled is association president, whose duties include scheduling meetings, helping with the newsletter and delegating responsibilities. The newsletter stresses that the position can be 'as simple as you make it.'

  The Highland Neighborhood Association is bound on the north and south by Wilson Street and Cherry Hill, and on the east and west by Outer Drive and Ford Road. They have consistently been one of the most active neighborhood groups, and it would be unfortunate to see them go dormant just as so many other neighborhood associations are popping up around Dearborn.

 The Highland Association Easter Egg Hunt is scheduled for April 4th at Lindbergh School, but no other events remain on the group's schedule. If you can volunteer a little time to help keep this neighborhood association going, please call Kathleen Samulski at 313-562-3177 or email kathleen_samulski@yahoo.com.

Adray Will Close

  After 54 years of serving the community as a retailer and sponsor of countless sports teams throughout Dearborn, Adray Camera TV & Sound has announced they are closing their doors. According to a report that aired this afternoon on WXYZ-TV, the landmark Carlysle Street store is yet another victim of the grim economy. 

  A receptionist we spoke with at the store Thursday confirmed that they would, indeed, be shutting all operations soon. No final date has been set but she said, "I think we have less than a month left."

  It's sad news for those of us who consistently passed by the big box stores in favor of the expert knowledge and service that made Adray stand out for over a half century.

Mayor O'Reilly's State of the City: "We're Committed to You"

  A crowd that included everyone from Representative John Conyers and Debbie Dingell to Dearborn stalwarts Michael Berry and Commissioner Gary Woronchak, packed the auditorium at Henry Ford Centennial Library to hear Mayor John B. O’Reilly, Jr. make his State of the City address Wednesday evening.
  After a short film detailing Dearborn’s successes of 2008, the Mayor delivered an eloquent and impactful speech that promised a renewed dedication to serving the citizens of Dearborn.
  “Now is a chance to dream and plan, and to position this city for a promising future,” said Mayor O’Reilly. “I want to make you an integral part of this process.”
  Among the changes Dearborn can expect, is a radical restructuring of the city’s Building and Safety Department. 

  “For too many years we’ve blended these groups despite their distinct needs, frustrating everyone,” the Mayor explained. The city will now create a separate Residential Services Department that will serve the needs of residents exclusively.
  Mayor O’Reilly also announced a newly implemented online system that will allow home inspection reports to be printed on-site. 

  “Our goal is to give residents the time and attention they deserve using tools and processes that will make it much more convenient to do business with us,” he told the crowd.
  Additionally, the Mayor outlined changes within the infrastructure of City Hall that will ease the burden of residents. “Running you around City Hall is no longer acceptable,” he said. “Our new mission statement reads: ‘To deliver superior public service and earn the public’s trust every day in everything we do.’”
 The Mayor conceded that the national economic crisis had shaken many, but assured Dearborn that, in wavering times, residents could rely on city government. “You should be able to count on us every time for the services we deliver that make your life easier,” he said. “Our bottom line is that we’re committed to you.”
  The address ended with rousing applause and a standing ovation for the Mayor. Afterward, a young Dearborn businesswoman nodded vigorously, leaned toward us, and simply said, “The Mayor gets it.”

  No one in the auditorium Wednesday evening appeared to disagree.

Read the full text of Mayor O'Reilly's address here.

Schools Fundraiser at Dearborn Hills Tuesday

  With funding for Dearborn Schools becoming increasingly hard to come by, organizations like the Dearborn Public Schools Education Foundation have become a vital resource to our school district. The group is a private, non-profit organization whose mission is to generate funds for enrichment programs and other projects aimed at enhancing the quality of education and providing students throughout the city with opportunity. The Education Foundation has raised more than $1 million in grants to Dearborn Public Schools.
  This Tuesday, February 24th, the foundation will hold a Mardi Gras-themed fundraiser to benefit Dearborn students. The party takes place from 3:30pm to midnight at the clubhouse of Dearborn Hills Golf Course. 
  “In these tough economic times, this is an easy and affordable way to do something that helps our children and to have some great fun along the way,” said Education Foundation President Brian Mosallam. 

  Tickets are $20 per person in advance or $25 at the door, and include live music, dinner, a silent auction, soft drinks and party favors. To purchase tickets in advance, make your check payable to “DPS Education Foundation” and mail it to: DPS Education Foundation, 18700 Audette, Dearborn, MI, 48124.

Council Meeting Notes

  On the eve of the Mayor's State of the City Address, Dearborn's City Council convened a full house for the first time in 2009. All council members appeared at Tuesday's session along with Mayor O’Reilly. Among the resolutions adopted during this week’s meeting:

- $1,961,434 to Florent Cement Company for the Morley Avenue Storm Sewer and Oakwood Reconstruction Projects.

-$87,295 to Henry Ford Health Systems for on-site physicals within the Dearborn Fire Department.

-$12,000 to Shults Equipment, Inc. for plow repairs and equipment.

-Council President Tafelski announced this Saturday had officially been named 'Meghan Salter Day' in Dearborn.

  The council supported a suggestion by Mayor O'Reilly, and ultimately proposed by Councilwoman Sareini, to petition MDOT to change the blinking yellow light on northbound Telegraph and Fordson to a fully operational traffic signal. They also offered condolences to the families of the late John W. Curran and Thomas Cataldo, Sr.

'At Risk' State Funding and Dearborn Schools

  We've received dozens of e-mails in the last 24 hours asking for more information on Governor Jennifer Granholm's proposed budget cuts and their affect on Dearborn's schools. Many questions center around the state's 31a 'At Risk' funding. David Mustonen, Communications Coordinator for Dearborn Public Schools, generously provided information that we think will shed light on why Dearborn qualifies for these funds and how they're used to help Dearborn students.

  Our schools began to receive full 31a funding after former State Representative Gary Woronchak, working with district officials, convinced legislators in Lansing that Dearborn had a significant 'At Risk' student population. Section 31a funds must be used for services that help kids who meet the 'At-Risk' criteria specified by the state. Students may be identified as 'At Risk' if they fall into one of the following categories:

-Low achievement on MEAP tests in mathematics, reading or science
-Failure to meet core academic curricular objectives in English/language arts or mathematics (K-3 pupils only)

Students may also be considered 'At Risk' if two or more of the following conditions apply:

-Victim of child abuse or neglect
-Below grade level in English language and communications skills or mathematics

-Pregnant teenager or teenage parent

-Eligible for free or reduced-price lunch
-Atypical behavior or attendance patterns
-Family history of school failure, incarceration or substance abuse

  Section 31a funds may only be used to directly help those children most in need of additional instructional support beyond what is provided in the classroom. Thousands of students across our district benefit from staff or programs funded by 31a. Summer school, tutoring and reading programs all rely on 31a monies.

  Dearborn Public Schools officials fear Governor Granholm's suggested cuts to this funding would have a devastating spiral effect on the operation of the district, and eliminate many of the valuable programs and services that help our most academically challenged students.

Whiston Letter Urges Residents to Take Action on Governor's Cuts to District

   Hundreds of citizens, city officials and Dearborn Public Schools employees received an email correspondence from Superintendent Brian Whiston this afternoon, strongly urging them to contact Governor Jennifer Granholm and protest the proposed funding cuts that we first detailed here this morning. Feel free to cut and paste the content of this letter and send it to anyone who has an interest in the success of Dearborn Public Schools. The letter is quoted verbatim below and further details why the district considers these cuts unfair to Dearborn.

Greetings,
  Please call the Governor’s Office and “forward” this email to Dearborn Public School supporters.
  The district received disconcerting news of Governor Granholm’s 2010 executive budget recommendations. The Governor’s proposal included the following cuts for the Dearborn Public Schools:

1. $59 per Pupil Cut = $1,064,411
2. 20j Cut = $616,928
3. Bilingual (Sec 41) = $381,000
4. At Risk 31a = $5,875,000

Total Cuts for the Dearborn Schools = $7,937,339

  We had projected a $1.8M cut when we developed our $11M budget shortfall. With the Governor’s proposal we would have to cut $17M or an additional $6M. In this tough economy we surely understand the need for cuts in funding, as long as they happen across all districts equally. In essence we are the only district that will receive a double whammy, since we are the only district that is being cut both the 20j and 31a funds. With the present recommendations we will endure much more than most other districts in the State of Michigan. In addition, Dearborn Public Schools is one of several districts in the state that is considered a “Donor District.” This means that more local tax dollars are sent to Lansing to fund public education across the state than the district receives from the state. Currently, taxpayers in Dearborn send $14 million more dollars to Lansing than the district gets back.
  Please call Governor Granholm’s office at (517) 373-3400 and ask her to treat all districts the same. If cuts need to be made then all districts across the state should be cut the same per-pupil amount. Cutting more funds from some districts and less from others is not equitable and pits school district against school district. Our own State of Michigan House and Senate Representatives understand the devastating impact these cuts will have on Dearborn. At this time, sharing your concerns directly with the Governor will have the most impact to prevent these targeted cuts from happening.
In your own words let the Governor know how devastating her recommendations will be to our district. 

Thank you.

Brian Whiston, Superintendent
Dearborn Public Schools

DPS: State Budget Cuts Unfair to Dearborn

  Dearborn Public Schools officials are alarmed at some of the proposed cuts to Michigan’s State Budget that Governor Jennifer Granholm announced last week. The district points specifically to cuts in programs commonly referred to as 20j and 31a funds, and feels the loss will impact Dearborn schools disproportionately.
  20j funding was created to supplement districts such as Dearborn that already spent more per pupil than the government formula would otherwise have provided. Dearborn taxpayers currently send $14 million more to Lansing than the district receives back. Such funding was meant to hold districts like ours “harmless” from any reduction caused by a new funding plan. 
  31a funding is for “At Risk” students. Initially, none of the districts that received 20j “Hold Harmless” funding were eligible for these funds. Over time, Dearborn was able to convince the legislature that the so-called “Hold Harmless” funding did not address the fact that our district had a special demographic situation and such funding then became available. Dearborn Public Schools, due to the unique nature of our population, is the only public school district in Michigan to receive both 20j “Hold Harmless” and 31a “At Risk” funding.
  The bottom line appears to be even less state funding than DPS expected for 2009-10. The cuts to 20j funds will cost Dearborn nearly $1 million, but the loss of the 31a 'At Risk' funding will slash nearly $6 million, and have a crushing effect on the operation of the district. The district feels the loss of 31a money singles out Dearborn, in particular.
  This, of course, is bad news for a district already struggling with a projected budget deficit of almost $11 million. The loss of both 20j and 31a funding to Dearborn Public Schools would drive that number closer to $17 million. The district feels no further budget reductions can be made without making catastrophic cuts that would negatively impact the education of Dearborn’s children.
  Dearborn Public Schools strongly urges concerned residents to contact the Governor’s office by calling 517-373-3400 or faxing 517-335-6863. Citizens may also make their voices heard by filling out this form online. 

  The district has provided a page of useful talking notes that can be viewed or downloaded here.

Artists Society of Dearborn Kicks Off Spring Exhibit

  Regular visitors to the Henry Ford Centennial Library know that its Rotunda Gallery is one of the best spots in town to see our city’s fine artists display their wares. The Artists Society of Dearborn will take over the space from Sunday, March 1st through March 24th with their spring artwork exhibition.
  The exhibit’s opening reception, which is free and open to the public, will be held on March 1st at the gallery from 3:00pm to 4:30pm. A special critique and discussion of the various artwork will take place in the library March 24th at 6:00pm.
  The Rotunda Gallery is a collaborative effort between the Dearborn Community Arts Council and Dearborn’s public library system. For more information on this exhibit, call 313-943-3095.

OPINION: 21st Century Theater, 20th Century Entertainment

  We’re huge fans of The Michael A. Guido Theater at Dearborn’s Ford Community and Performing Arts Center. It’s one thing the city got right, plain and simple. If you’ve been lucky enough to see a show there you know the sound and lighting design are top notch, and the incredible sight-lines ensure that there really isn’t a bad seat in the house. In other words, it’s a state of the art facility.
  So we’re frankly a wee bit troubled that the stage of this modern gem is often host to national touring acts that are decidedly past their prime. Already this year, we’ve seen a performance from Saturday Night Live stars trod through. That would be an exciting evening of entertainment if those stars were, say, Andy Samberg, Dana Carvey or maybe even Norm MacDonald. But Joe Piscopo, Victoria Jackson and Father Guido Sarducci? Not so much.
  Tonight, The Guido Theater welcomes the sounds of Starship featuring Mickey Thomas. Their lineup consists of 1/6th of the 1980s roster of Starship. Which featured 40% of the 1970s roster of Jefferson Starship. Which was made up of bits and pieces of the 1960s lineup of Jefferson Airplane. In other words, they’re a band now better suited to county fairs, the occasional high-school reunion or an Oldies Night at a riverboat casino. Oh, and the less that’s said about the February 27th performance by Vicki Lawrence and 'Mama,' the better.
  Look, we understand there’s constant pressure to get acts on the stage and people in the seats, and the folks who do the booking at The Guido do a great job overall. We look forward to upcoming appearances by the Dearborn Youth Symphony and the Rackham Symphony Choir. We just hope that our very 21st Century theater could more often host entertainment that has at least some cultural relevance in the 21st Century.
  That’s our opinion. Let us know yours.
Still want to see Starship tonight? We won't judge. Call 313-943-2354 for tickets or visit www.dearbornfordcenter.com.

Sharon Dulmage Enters Council Race

  Just three months after narrowly losing her long-held seat on the Dearborn School Board, Sharon Dulmage has announced she will join the growing group of contenders seeking a position on the Dearborn City Council.

  "The time is right," Ms. Dulmage wrote DearbornNewsOnline.com. "I enjoyed being a public servant and want to continue to do so."
  A Facebook page, created by Dearborn Chamber of Commerce President Jennifer Knott Giering especially for Dulmage's council run, noted the candidate was expected to pull petitions on February 11th and that a special website would be up and running on March 1st.

  Dulmage pointed to her history on the School Board as just one of her qualifications, "I think my past record as a Trustee of the Dearborn Board of Education speaks for itself to show that I am willing to listen and ask questions. Although the schools and city are funded in different ways, it is still taxpayer money. I have an understanding of the funding structure, and believe I have been a good steward of taxpayer dollars."

  This latest entry into the council race adds a strong contender to an already crowded field and gives hope to Ms. Dulamge's many supporters who were left disappointed by the School Board results last November.

Trees Available Through City Program

  We can’t help but notice the large swaths of trees being wiped out in our city each year. Many were lost to the Emerald Ash Borer outbreak and others are, unfortunately, purposely removed by homeowners. So we’re heartened to hear that Dearborn residents can still order trees through a program offered by the Parks Division of the City of Dearborn’s Department of Public Works, which will be planted in the easement in front of their homes.
  Trees are planted by a contractor and have a one-year warranty. Public Works officials will decide if there is adequate space in the easement of a property owner’s home for a tree. Planting will take place in early April and should be complete by early June.
  The following species of trees are available: Celebration Maple, Yellowwood, Honeylocust, Ginkgo, Golden Rain Tree, Rubber Tree, Hackberry and Linden. Spring Snow Crab trees are available for planting sites that are underneath overhead wires.
  The program is open to Dearborn residents only, and the supply of trees for the program is limited. Trees cost $25 each and are sold on a first come, first served basis. Call 313-943-2317 to order, or request a selection guide which offers more information about the species of trees being offered.

Romulus Man Charged With Indecent Exposure at Libraries

  A Romulus man was charged today with two felonies in connection with acts of indecent exposure that occurred recently at public libraries in Dearborn and Canton.
  Dearborn Chief of Police Ronald Haddad praised those in Dearborn who helped contribute to the rapid identification and apprehension of the suspect by Canton police on Monday. “This was an excellent example of what a powerful combination you get when you blend good work by our police officers, cooperation from the victim and a commitment by personnel in all involved city departments to be on the lookout for the individual we believe was involved,” he said.
  Paul Rolando Porter, 40, was charged by Wayne County Prosecutor Kym L. Worthy in two separate cases involving indecent exposure. One occurred on January 30th at the Canton Public Library and the other on February 3rd at Dearborn’s Henry Ford Centennial Library. The Canton incident involved a 25 year-old woman. The Dearborn incident involved a 14 year-old girl.
  Porter faces serious charges: one count of Indecent Exposure by a Sexually Delinquent Person in the Dearborn case and one count of Aggravated Indecent Exposure by a Sexually Delinquent Person in the Canton case. Each charge carries a penalty upon conviction of a minimum of one day in prison and a maximum of life in prison.
  Porter was arraigned in Dearborn’s 19th District Court before Judge William Hultgren. Bail was set at $50,000/10 percent cash. Porter was also ordered to stay away from all libraries and must wear a GPS tether if released on bail. Porter is scheduled to appear on February 20th for a preliminary exam before 19th District Judge Mark Somers.
If you or anyone you know has been a victim of a similar crime in Dearborn, contact Dearborn Police Corporal Michael S. Maurier at 313-943-2273.

DPS Unveils Proposed Budget Cuts

  

  Dearborn Public Schools Superintendent Brian Whiston and Business Services Supervisor Robert Cipriano outlined the district's proposed $11 million in budget cuts before the school board for the first time Monday evening.

  Mr. Whiston noted that the cuts were difficult to make and did not reflect on the programs or positions involved, but were part of "the economic reality in which we live in." Whiston reminded the board that the administrative team was engaged throughout the process and they had gained consensus with the proposed cuts. A video of the presentation can be seen above.  

  Some of the proposed cuts include $5 million in step and insurance changes for teachers, $500,000 in cuts to Central Office and secretarial staffing and over $600,000 and eleven position within Dearborn's elementary schools. Cuts at the Michael Berry Career Center and cost-saving measures recommended in the recently conducted Plante-Moran survey were also discussed.

  Dearborn School Board President Joseph Guido was impressed. "It sounds like you found a way," he said after the presentation. "I feel much better now than I did six weeks ago."

  The final presentation of the budget to the school board is scheduled for June 8th.

19,420

  Today, Dearborn Democratic Congressman John D. Dingell becomes the longest to ever serve in the United States House of Representatives, passing Congressman Jamie Whitten from Mississippi.

  Dingell, who won his father's seat in 1955, is one of only three congressmen to ever serve for over 50 years. Whatever your political leanings, Dingell must be admired for his long record of service to the 15th District, the state of Michigan and the country as a whole. Today marks his 19,420th day serving our nation in Congress.

  Congratulations, Congressman Dingell.

Lynch's Set to Re-Open Dearborn Store

  Lynch's costume shop will return to its west Dearborn home nearly two years after abandoning the site to concentrate on operations in Livonia and Warren.

  The shop, which has been a local source for Halloween costumes, dance-wear, theatrical wardrobe and makeup as well as a variety of other accessories since 1949, is planning to re-open the Dearborn store in late May. 

  The loss of Lynch's has certainly left a hole in Dearborn's retail landscape. Young dancers have been forced to find other outlets for hard-to-find apparel and certainly the temporary costume shops that pop up each October can't hold a candle to the variety and quality Lynch's has continually provided the community.

  Look for the store to re-open at 939 Howard, just north of Michigan Avenue, around Memorial Day. Until then, you can visit them in Warren, Livonia or online.

OPINION: Dearborn’s High Schools Could Learn a Lesson From Livonia’s

  There is, as you might expect, a lot of hand-wringing regarding academic performance at Dearborn’s high schools. This is usually followed by an equal, if not greater, amount of finger pointing. What’s to blame for this apparent decline in student achievement? Some blame the school board. Others cry, ‘Demographics!’ Still others fault parents, television, music, movies, video games, the internet, overpaid teachers, underpaid teachers, the Republicans, the Democrats, Dr. Seuss, Dr. Spock or some combination thereof. We don’t think it’s too bold to lay some responsibility for student performance where it truly belongs: with students.
  It’s a notion that’s being explored now at Churchill High School in Livonia. Recently, faculty members there noticed an increasing lack of motivation among the student body. Eleven percent of high school students were failing classes. Not because of lack of ability or intelligence, but because of a sheer lack of effort. 90% of those that failed did so because they simply ignored homework or other necessary class projects. So a group of teachers and staff members came up with a program that would deny access to perks like parking passes and admittance to school dances to students who get a single failing grade on their report card.

  We think it’s a brilliant idea, and one that can be modified and instituted throughout Dearborn’s three high schools. We believe academic performance and ability to perform on state tests should be directly tied to a student’s access to extracurricular privileges. However, we’d go farther than just banning failing kids from school dances and the parking lot. We’d keep them out of art, music and drama productions. We’d not only exclude them from participating in athletic events, we’d exclude them from attending athletic events. Draconian? We sure hope so. How else to convey to our kids that the education we’re providing isn’t some gift that can be left unopened?
  According to Livonia Churchill principal Joe Anderson, parents are on board with their new grade incentive system. After e-mailing the parents of the 1,600 students who attend the school, only one responded negatively. Would a similar system work at Fordson, Edsel Ford and Dearborn High? We think so. It certainly wouldn’t hurt to find out.
  That’s our opinion. Let us know yours.

Campbell's Paint & Wallpaper Makes TV Debut

  When Mike and Mary Ray, owners of Campbell’s Paint and Wallpaper, sit down at eight tonight to watch “Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story” on TNT, they’ll be paying less attention to the performance of Academy Award-winner Cuba Gooding Jr. and focusing more on the details around him. Specifically, the paint used throughout the movie’s sets. After all, it came from their store.
  “Mike got a call from someone at Sony Pictures in September,” Mary recalls. “At first, he totally discounted it. Thought it was a scam. But a day later, Frank and Monk, the crew painters from Chicago, walked into my store. They were great guys and opened an account for the movie that day.”
  Clearly, Frank and Monk made a great choice. Mike and Mary have owned Campbell’s Paint and Wallpaper for 30 years and the store has continually offered top quality paints like Benjamin Moore and Sikkens. Best of all, Mike, Mary and their staff have genuine expertise when it comes to wallpaper and paint, so customers leave with the right product and the know-how to use it.
  The ‘Gifted Hands’ production used a home in Detroit for the location, and completely repainted the interiors to the set designer’s specifications. “The production ended up buying a substantial amount of paint from us,” Mary said. “Frank and Monk were incredible to work with. They were very professional. They knew what they wanted, and placed orders daily. The billing process was also very professional--we got paid very quickly. Frank told us that this was ‘just a made-for-TV-movie’ and that the amount of paint that they purchased paled when compared to the amount of paint purchased for a full-length feature film.”
  The Rays not only supplied the production crew with paint, they served as ambassadors to the entire Dearborn/Detroit area. “We recommended the best places in town for them to go,” Mary remembers. “We told them to go to Millers for a burger, Bangkok 96 for Thai food, Mi Pueblo for Mexican and La Pita for Middle Eastern. They loved La Pita so much, we suggested they visit Warren Avenue, which they did. We also recommended Westborn Fruit Market and Dearborn Farm Market if they should become tired of eating out. They regularly frequented both locations.”
  The experience was an eye-opener for Mary, as she learned what a profound economic impact a single production can have on the community, “I quickly realized that the trickle down effect of the movie business was massive. Even the local laundromat received a business boost because these guys were in town. They’re a substantial number of people in town, spending money on all of their everyday needs; the grocery store, the drug store, everything.”
  Since the wrap of the “Gifted Hands” production, Sony has returned to Campbell’s to buy paint for the set of a Lifetime channel movie called “America,” starring Rosie O’Donnell. It’s all great news for a couple who have a long history of championing local businesses, and a sure sign that movie production is not just a boon for our state, but our own backyard.
Visit Campbell’s Paint and Wallpaper at 904 Mason, just north of Michigan Avenue, or give them a call at 313-562-3500.

Community Rallies Around Ailing Girl

  The Dearborn Firefighters Burn Drive is hosting a fundraiser for the care of an ailing six-year-old Dearborn girl, Meghan Salter, on Saturday, February 21 at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center.
  Called “Meghan’s Miracles II Benefit,” the tribute will take place from 6-11 pm, and feature guest speakers, dancing, a tin-can raffle, entertainment, cash bar and a “strolling dinner” provided by a growing list of area restaurants including Andiamo, Levy Restaurants, Ford Field Caterers, Park Place Caterers, Tim Horton’s, Shield’s Pizza, Mexican Fiesta Restaurant, Joe’s Top Dog, LaPita and PM Catering. More restaurants are expected to join in support of Meghan and her family. Tickets are $50.

  Meghan Marie Salter was born healthy in October, 2002. However, within months of her birth, her health deteriorated. Since then, Meghan has experienced seizures and life-threatening physical illnesses to the extent that she is now entirely dependent upon medical equipment for life support. Doctors are still unable to determine the cause of her decline or diagnose her condition.

  Meghan's plight and this benefit have been mentioned during the last few City Council meetings, and this event is heartily supported by Mayor O'Reilly Jr., Council President Tafelski and city officials who all urge residents to help the Salter family any way they can.
  For more information about the benefit, including how to make reservations, donate money, become a sponsor or donate items for the raffle, please visit Meghan’s website at: www.meghansmiracles.com.

Bulletin: Killing Closes Southfield Fwy

  Dearborn Police, Dearborn Heights Police and Michigan State Police are all on the scene of a shooting that left a man dead on M-39 near Outer Drive within the last hour. Shots were reportedly fired after the suspect was involved in a high-speed chase and crash involving Dearborn Heights Police.

  Officials have closed the southbound lanes of the Southfield Freeway and one officer was taken to the hospital, apparently in good condition.

  Updates and further details on this developing situation can be found here.

Parking Test Details Revealed

  DearbornNews

Online.com has learned that the target date for the 90-day trial of west Dearborn's revised parking hours is set to begin on Tuesday, Feb. 17 (Monday, Feb. 16 is a parking system holiday).
  The hours of enforcement during the test period will be 9 am-midnight. Free Sunday parking will continue throughout the test. The trial can last up to 90 days, but may be shortened at the city's discretion. 

  These new hours will certainly be a relief to bar owners and patrons who make up the majority of late-night traffic in the city's west end.

Reduced Parking Hours Test for West Dearborn in the Works

    The Dearborn City Council on Monday gave the administration authority to implement a short-term test period reducing the hours of operation of the West Dearborn Parking System.
  Although the intention is to begin the test period as soon as possible, the starting date has not yet been set. Administrative details need to be finalized and new signs installed.
  Also to be determined are the reduced hours of operation during the test period. The parking system is in effect now Monday through Saturday from 9 am to 2 am in metered locations and 9 am to 4 am in cashiered locations. An informal survey of nearby cities with paid parking indicates many stop enforcement around 10 pm. 
  During the test period, which cannot exceed 90 days, the hours will be subject to change without notice. Signs will be placed at the entry to each parking lot, announcing the temporary hours of operation.
  Dearborn is responding to requests from west downtown businesses, which believe changes to the paid parking system will help drive customer traffic during the slower post-holiday season. City officials will gauge the impact reduced hours have both on revenues and the behavior of customers using the parking system.

More Parking News...

  The City Council on Monday also approved an ordinance that changes the purpose and composition of the Parking Advisory Commission, which sets and oversees policies affecting parking in the west downtown. The commission will no longer include property owners or merchants from the east end, since the commission is focused on the user paid parking system in the west downtown.
  The commission also changes in number from eleven to nine. Commission appointees have not yet been chosen. The nine members will be as follows: mayoral representative and alternate; City Council representative and alternate; traffic safety officer; City’s parking management contractor and alternate; restaurant owner/manager; bar/entertainment owner/manager; office/service sector owner/manager; retail business owner/manager; and downtown district resident.
  Council also amended the holidays Dearborn observes as free parking days so they matched those used by the U.S. Postal Office. It was thought those holidays would be easier to remember. Since Christmas Eve is not a postal holiday, customers will now need to follow the regular rates on that day, but can park for free on four additional holidays: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents Day, Columbus Day and Veterans Day. 
Need Validation?

  Finally, west Dearborn businesses are being offered incentives to advertise for free on the DearbornWestOnline.com website, which is run by the West Dearborn Downtown Development Authority. Businesses that do so are entitled to purchase parking validation stickers at a discount.

  This approach, while welcome, does seem to favor those businesses that are adjacent to attended lots. Shops and restaurants whose customers rely primarily on metered parking would not benefit.

Council Meeting Notes

  Council President Tafelski made it back from his trip to Super Bowl XLIII just in time to preside over the latest City Council meeting Monday night. Councilman Doug Thomas made his first appearance of 2009, an occasion that did not go unnoticed by his fellow council members. Councilwoman Suzanne Sareini was not present, but all other council members appeared along with Mayor O’Reilly. Among the resolutions adopted during this week’s meeting:

- $121,717, at most, to Carlisle Fields & Co. to renew insurance for Dearborn Towers in Clearwater, FL.

-$90,000 to Play & Park Structures/Playworld Midstates to erect ADA compliant playscapes in the following neighborhood parks: Oak, Oxford, Summer-Stephens and York.

-$15,000 to Heritage Newspapers/Dearborn Press & Guide for publishing official city notices and records.

  The Council observed a moment of silence to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Rouge Complex explosion and the lives it claimed. Condolences were also offered to the families of the late Carolyn Hahn and Ralph Cornell.

UPDATED: Edsel Ford Paper First to Go Online

  Edsel Ford High School's student newspaper 'The Bolt' is the first in the district to go online. The high school is well-known throughout the state for its long-standing commitment to teaching journalism and The Bolt has consistently been one of the area's best student-run newspapers. 

  The publication covers everything from school sports and theater productions to music and current events. Faculty member Keith Rydzik supervises the students in their effort. 

  UPDATE: A student editorial that appeared in the first online issue of The Bolt, and sparked lively conversation among our readers, was deemed too controversial by the Edsel Ford administration and The Bolt was shut down for several days. The online edition of the paper has returned, but without the opinion piece.

  Faculty members have not returned our e-mails regarding this issue, but you can read the Arab American News' version of events here.

Michael D. Albano: West Dearborn Needs Our Help

  Downtown west Dearborn has had plenty of revitalization efforts and added a number of new buildings in the past few years, yet one has to wonder what is happening down there. Why does it appear to be failing? I realize the economy is the worst it has been since the Depression. Yet, when compared to downtown districts in other cities, west Dearborn’s has far more empty storefronts
  The voters agreed to a paid parking system in west Dearborn, and that hasn’t helped. We have huge, multi-million dollar parking garages, metered lots, attended lots as well as metered parking spots on side streets throughout downtown. Yet these decks and lots remain half-full, at best. It might appear that the only people making money in downtown are the contractors building the parking garages, creating the lots and putting up all those pesky meters.
  Of course, paid parking can’t be blamed for all of west Dearborn’s woes. Look no farther than the ‘Newman’ shopping center. There are hundreds of free spots available to Dearborn shoppers, yet many retail suites sit empty. Some of have been vacant for years, and now Michael’s is closing its doors, too.
  Unfortunately, unique small locally-owned businesses like the Little Café are shutting down, as well. Many of us worry that all we’ll be left with are big, impersonal chains like Starbucks. Surely, that’s not what we want for our downtown, is it?
  So I think it’s time for the people of Dearborn to put our money where our hearts are: right here. Buying paint? Visit the experts at Campbell’s Paint and Wallpaper on Mason. Or head over to Village Picture Framing and Gallery on Monroe and check out the beautiful work they do there. Get everything you need for your bicycle (including the bike itself) at Bikesport on Michigan Avenue. Too many complain about what’s wrong with west Dearborn, but don’t spend money there to help the district thrive.
  Finally, I’d like to see all of our city leaders work harder to attract one-of-a-kind shops that will truly make west Dearborn a destination. That's easier said than done, of course, so we need the whole community to pitch in with ideas and effort. Our elected officials, our Chamber of Commerce, our business owners as well as organizations like the Rotary. Together, I think we can make a difference in west Dearborn. 

We invite our readers to give us their unique take on our city. Mr. Albano is a regular contributor to the Dearborn Press and Guide and DearbornNewsOnline.com.