Police Warn of Thieves Posing as City Workers

  Dearborn Police are warning residents of burglars posing as water department employees who are targeting local homeowners, with seniors being especially susceptible. 
  According to reports by Local 4 News, an 84-year-old woman was approached by a man while in her yard on Kentucky Street. He identified himself as a city employee and claimed there was a water main break down the road.
  The suspect asked her to accompany him inside so she could test her water pressure. While she was running the water in the basement, an accomplice entered her home and stole $500 and two safes containing important documents, according to police reports.
  "My will, my cemetery papers. Where I am going to be buried. I paid all of that so my children didn't have to worry about it," she said.
  The woman, who was uninjured and asked not to be identified, hasn't left her home since the robbery.
  "I haven't slept a night through since that. I have no appetite. I am crying out loud. I have never cried like that in my life," she told reporters.
  Police warn residents to keep any workers without proper identification from entering your home. Anyone who witnesses suspicious activity in their neighborhood should call Dearborn Police immediately at 943-2241.

Public Service Days Return April 6th

  The city is reminding residents that Public Service Days parking enforcement resumes the week of April 6th. Enforcement has been suspended since February, due to heavy winter snowfall that made it difficult for some residents to find alternative places to park on their neighborhood’s Public Service Days.

  However, beginning the week of April 6th, residents will once again be required to comply with Public Service Days parking regulations. That means all parked vehicles must be removed from the street from 7:00am to 4:00pm on your neighborhood’s Public Service Days. Violators may be ticketed without warning.
  Remember that Public Service Days occur on your trash pickup days during the first full week of the month and the third full week of the month. The city recognizes the first full week as the week that has the first Monday of the month; the third full week is two weeks later. 

  For more information about Dearborn's Public Service Days, including a complete schedule, visit www.cityofdearborn.org or call 943-2886.

Parisian Bistro Makes 'Tonight Show'

  A little levity at the expense of an eclectic Dearborn eatery, but you really can't buy this kind of exposure. In fact, we think the folks at Parisian Bistro should capitalize on the publicity and invite Jay by for lunch when he comes to town next week for his free 'Comedy Stimulus Plan' concerts.

OPINION: Make Dearborn More Attractive to Hollywood

  The film industry has gained an undeniable foothold here in Michigan thanks to generous tax breaks from the state. A producer for Epoch Films in Beverly Hills, California told us just this week that we’re definitely on Hollywood’s map. “One of the first questions we ask ourselves is: ‘Can we shoot in Michigan?’ The savings there are too big to ignore, and a lot of productions, like ‘Gran Torino,’ succeeded on both a financial and creative level.”
  There’s no reason Dearborn can’t play a bigger part as more movie and commercial shoots flock to the area this Spring and Summer. Local businesses like Campbell’s Paint and Wallpaper have already felt the positive economic impact the industry can bring to our community.
  Now, the city has asked residents to serve as home-grown 'location scouts' by sending in pictures of Dearborn sites that may appeal to filmmakers. Needless to say, our city hosts a wide variety of intriguing spots. There are rural settings, deep woods, winding rivers, massive industry, warehouses, quiet parks, old world charm and, of course, thousands of unique homes and neighborhoods. The pictures will be posted on a special section of the city’s website, with all due credit going to each photographer. It’s a great idea, and we suggest everyone send their pics to movies@cityofdearborn.org.
  We think it’s a fine start, but would encourage our city leaders to do more to attract the film business to our city. Appointing a ‘film czar’ (we hate that term, by the way) or someone who can serve as a liaison between the city and the industry would be a good first step. Someone who can be an ambassador to producers who are considering the Metro Detroit area, and make it plain that Dearborn is the best choice for their production.
  Creating a unique website for interested film-makers is also essential. The city website is difficult to navigate, at best, and hiding pictures of Dearborn’s beautiful and unique locations deep within its dark corridors almost guarantees they’ll never be seen by the people of Hollywood. Let alone the people of Dearborn.
  We believe our city is the total package for movie-makers. We have a diverse, hard working and friendly community. We have great places to stay, from modest motels to luxury hotels. We’re spitting distance from Metro Airport, with a variety of great bars and restaurants. And we offer an array of incredible locations that few other cities can match. Let’s do more to capitalize on this economic boomlet and market Dearborn as the top choice for Hollywood.
  That’s our opinion. Let us know yours.

UPDATE: Mary Ray kindly pointed out an article by Mitch Albom in Sunday's Detroit Free Press (read the full article here) that details the efforts of State Senator Nancy Cassis to cap the the tax breaks Michigan currently gives filmmakers. We think it will devastate our state's burgeoning film industry, and encourage our readers to let Senator Cassis know her plans will effectively throw a wrench into a rare sector within Michigan's business community that's actually growing. Call 1-888-38-NANCY or email her at senncassis@senate.michigan.gov

Dave Bowman: What I Love (to Hate) About Dearborn

  Negativity seems to be all the rage these days, so I'll do my best to pinpoint what it is I love to hate most about the city I've lived in since 2000.

• I hate how my large custard dipped in butterscotch melts so quickly on hot summer days while sitting and listening to the 1913 Herschell-Spillman Carousel go round and round at Greenfield Village.
• I hate that I have to bring up my trash cans before dusk on trash day so that our neighborhoods can continue to look buttoned-up and beautiful.
• I hate that when I come out of church on clear Sunday afternoons I have to smell the delicious wafts of food being served up and down Michigan Avenue.
• I hate having to help my kids change from snowsuits to bathing suits at the Ford Performing Arts Center so they can swim, dive and frolic in the indoor pool while it's -5˚ F outside.
• I hate that to even drywall my bathroom I need to get a tedious permit so that whenever anyone buys a fine character-laden home in Dearborn they know they're getting something of quality.
• I hate the way small business owners around the city immediately greet me upon entry and seem genuinely dedicated to helping me find what I need and have an expert opinion on whatever task I'm trying to complete.
• I hate the sounds of dozens of bird species and rushing water that disturbs my peaceful walks within the green spaces.
• I hate how my feet hurt after spending an entire day viewing amazing pieces of history and innovation at Henry Ford Museum.
• I hate that four different parks are an excruciating 2 or 3 blocks away from my home in all four directions.
• I hate that I have to drag all of my leaves down to the curb so that the city can helpfully remove them and leave the street cleaner than before.
• I hate that none of the houses in my neighborhood match and all have unique character instead of being a cookie-cutter subdivision.
• I hate all the old growth trees that tower over my home, giving bountiful shade, beauty and clogging up my gutters.

Dave Bowman runs NetworkDearborn.com, a website dedicated to connecting small businesses in Dearborn and Dearborn Heights with local customers who value supporting local establishments. Tell us what you love (or what you love to hate) about Dearborn at editor@DearbornNewsOnline.com .

Mary Ray: What I Love About Dearborn

• The Bryant Library - everything about it - the architecture, the murals and the smell of the books. 
• Seeing Levagood Park come back to life on the first nice Spring day. Spotting baseball and softball practice, parents and grandparents pushing babies in strollers, roller-bladers, kids on the playscapes, teens and tweens just “hanging out” and business people ditching the office for a lunch break on the picnic tables.

• Walking into Miller's, Westborn Fruit Market or even Kroger’s and ALWAYS seeing someone I know—a friend, a neighbor or a customer.
• The sandwiches at Mati's Deli — most importantly the BREAD!
• The beautiful patchwork of quilts and blankets covering the hill early in the morning at Ford Field in anticipation of that night’s Homecoming concert and fireworks.

• Driving home from work on a late-summer Saturday afternoon and seeing city barricades blocking off a couple neighborhood streets filled with barbecues, lawn chairs, folding tables and maybe a huge inflatable for the kids. Seeing people enjoying themselves and their neighbors at a classic Dearborn “block party”.

• Watching a football game under the lights on the hill at Dearborn High School. Boo-hoo!!!
• The long-time tradition of the Dearborn High (and Edsel Ford) graduation night “All-Night Senior Class Party”. Not only does it keep the kids safe and off the streets on a very adrenaline-filled evening, but it also galvanizes the parents into a group that transcends all economic, religious and neighborhood boundaries.
• Dedicated citizens like Joan Reed who had an idea, spent countless hours and persevered against all odds to bring us the Dearborn Farmer’s & Artisan Market last year. Good luck this year at the more visible location of the Bryant Library!
Mary Ray owns Campbell’s Paint and Wallpaper at 904 Mason Street, and is a relentless booster for local businesses. She often joins the conversations here and posts as 'cornerstore.' Tell us what you love about Dearborn at editor@DearbornNewsOnline.com .

City Must Pay for Mediation Mistake

  A recent story in the Dearborn Times-Herald is raising questions around town as to why and how the city bungled a recent mediation hearing, costing taxpayers over $7,000.
  The report by Times-Herald editor J. Patrick Pepper (read the full story here), revealed that U.S. District Judge David Lawson ordered Dearborn to pay $7,400 in penalties to former 19th District Deputy Court Administrator Julie Pucci for failing to follow facilitation orders in a settlement conference.
  Judge Lawson ordered the conference in an attempt to resolve the gender discrimination lawsuit filed by Ms. Pucci against her former boss, 19th District Court Judge Mark Somers. She filed the suit two years ago after her position was eliminated, claiming Somers prevented her from advancing to the court’s administrator position.
  What apparently cost the city and rankled Judge Lawson, was the fact that no city officials with clear settlement authority represented Dearborn at the hearing. Just days after the eight hour mediation session ended with a tentative settlement agreement of $360,000 over 25 years and $50,000 in attorney’s fees, Dearborn City Council rejected the deal. It was then revealed to Ms. Pucci that only the council had authority to settle on behalf of the city, leading her to file the motions for sanctions.
  “It is plain … that the defendants entirely disregarded this court’s order for them to have decision-makers present at the mediation session,” Lawson wrote. “The conclusion is unavoidable that the defendants did not participate in the mediation in good faith, and the session ultimately was a waste of time and expense by the plaintiff."

Randy Coble: What I Love About Dearborn

• Homecoming fireworks on a perfect summer night.
• The vegetable curry at Thai Palace II on Michigan Avenue.
• The running track around Hemlock Park.
• The marble walls of the Henry Ford Centennial Library.
• That perfect Hawaiian omelette they serve at the Senate Coney Island on Greenfield just north of Rotunda.
• The bean soup at Lile’s Sandwich Shop.
• Running the Gateway Trail on a beautiful summer day, through the woods and onto the campus of UM-Dearborn.
• The sound of the river as it runs through the Henry Ford Estate Fair Lane.
• The deafening applause from the crowd at the 2002 Memorial Day Parade, when the grand marshals – New York City police officers and firefighters – were introduced.
• The acoustics of the theater at Dearborn’s Ford Community & Performing Arts Center.
• Levagood Park.
• The excitement found on Warren Avenue during the Arab Festival each year.
• The community groups who help make the City a better place, just because they know how important a job it is to do.
• How many people I’ve run into – everywhere from Bayou La Batre, Alabama to Stockholm, Sweden – who either used to live in Dearborn or have family or friends who’ve lived here.
• The fact that people the world over know the name of this city as the birthplace of Ford Motor Company, and a community that embodies the American melting pot of diversity.

Mr. Coble works in Dearborn's Department of Public Information, and we're proud to have him inaugurate this series. Tell us what you love about Dearborn at editor@DearbornNewsOnline.com .

'What I Love About Dearborn' Series

  There's been a trend toward less than positive stories about and around our town lately. Certainly, there’s much to be concerned about within the city and around the world. However, we believe it’s important to make room for some upbeat news and to occasionally take the time to appreciate all the good that surrounds us.
  With that in mind, we’ve created a series called ‘What I Love About Dearborn.’ We’ve asked city leaders, business people and now we’re asking you, our readers, to tell us what makes this city special. It can be a list, a story, even an essay. Anything that helps convey those specific aspects of Dearborn that make our city so extraordinary. They can be as mundane as the feta omelette at the Holiday Grill on a Sunday morning (one of the things we love about Dearborn) to the stunning beauty of the nature trails along the Henry Ford Estate in the middle of autumn.

  There is no better time to remind ourselves and our neighbors that there's plenty to appreciate throughout Dearborn, and we hope you take the time to participate. Many have already responded and you’ll see their stories here soon.

  Send your submissions to editor@DearbornNewsOnline.com  anytime or simply hit the 'Contact' button in the column to your right.

Six-Word Memoir Contest at Dearborn Libraries

  We love this concept. Can you tell your life story in six words or less? For this simple, but brilliant contest sponsored by Dearborn Public Libraries, you must write a memoir using only six words. No more. No less.
  For inspiration, check out the book 'Not Quite What I Was Planning: Six-Word Memoirs by Writers Famous and Obscure.' The collection features clever, pithy six-word summations like Rip Riley's: 'No wife. No kids. No problems.' It also includes touching lines like this one from 9-year old Hannah Davies: 'Cursed with cancer, blessed with friends.'
  Winners will receive a Borders Books & Music gift card and their memoirs will be published in a future edition of Dearborn’s 'Library Matters' newsletter. The contest is open to all Dearborn library card holders 18 and over. Entry forms are available at all Dearborn public libraries. The deadline for submission is Monday, April 13th.

City Seeks Emergency Response Volunteers

  Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) volunteers are trained to help the community in the event of a significant public safety emergency, such as a tornado touchdown or other disaster. They’re a vital safe-guard in uncertain times, and all residents are invited to participate in an upcoming free training program.
  The 20-hour training program will be offered on Friday, March 20th from 6:00pm-10:00pm and Saturday and Sunday, March 21-22, from 9:00am-5:00pm. The books and equipment used during the training will be yours to keep if you join CERT.
  “If you have ever asked yourself the question ‘What can I do to help?,’ this is a great way to answer it,” said Dearborn Fire Department Lieutenant Brad Smith, who serves as the City’s emergency management coordinator. “CERT is a nationally-recognized program that helps people be ready to help themselves, their neighbors and their community at times of critical need.”
  Only Dearborn residents are eligible to participate in the training. If you plan to attend, please call Mr. Smith in advance at 313-943-5470. The training will be held at Dearborn Police Headquarters, 16099 Michigan Avenue.

Abraham Apologizes, Pledges to Pay Taxes in 30 Days

  Councilman Robert Abraham has pledged that in the next 30 days he will personally pay the overdue property taxes owed by a corporation he is associated with, even though he is not legally obligated to do so, according to a press release issued by the city moments ago. The overdue property taxes are the responsibility of the corporation and not its individual members, the release claims. However, the councilman felt compelled to personally follow through with the payments.

  In a March 14 letter, he apologized for the concern the property tax situation may have caused. “I want to offer a sincere apology to everyone who has been affected by this issue, especially my colleagues on the City Council and the Mayor of the great City of Dearborn," he said.  "I also want to apologize to the citizens of Dearborn for any unrest this matter may have caused them.”
  The corporation, which developed the Garrison Oaks Condominiums, has been hit by the same economic pressures affecting other companies in the real estate market. All the condominium units have been issued Certificates of Occupancy. Four units are still held by the development company as registered rental properties and have tenants.
  In the letter, Mr. Abraham expressed regret that economic conditions have placed the corporation in a troublesome position with the property taxes. “The combination of the unique, unpredictable and devastating financial circumstances beyond my control are the reasons that the real estate property taxes owed by the corporation are not yet paid,” he said.
  Questions have arisen in the Dearborn Times-Herald and on this site about the implications the unpaid property taxes have on Mr. Abraham’s position on the council. Under City Charter rules, elected officials cannot be in default to the City.
  Although he claims he is not liable for the debts of the corporation, Mr. Abraham hoped to eliminate any uncertainty about his standing by personally paying the overdue taxes.
  “I truly enjoy serving the people of Dearborn, and I do not want to jeopardize my position on our Council, the integrity of the Council and other elected officials,” he said. “I hope this promise to pay will be considered as a genuine attempt to put this issue behind all of us.”

  Readers may view Councilman Abraham's letter here.

Thomas Wants Re-Vote on Parking, Dobkowski Wants Mercy for Abraham at Wild Council Session

  A larger than normal crowd, including all City Council members and Mayor O’Reilly, gathered Monday evening for what became a long, loud and, at times, ludicrous meeting of city leaders.
  Council initially plowed through a heavy agenda with efficiency. Among the resolutions adopted:

-$459,866 to L3 Communications for a digital upgrade to the in-car video equipment used by Dearborn Police.
-$73,138 to JCI Group to cover expenses incurred to date for marketing services, which includes $53,000 to extend the Welcome Home Dearborn campaign and web site until at least June 30th of this year.
-$55,712 to Nickel & Saph, Inc to provide builder’s risk insurance for the Combined Sewer Overflow Project.
   Council also offered condolences to the family of Peter Peponis. Councilwoman Hubbard’s sincere sympathies for the late Colleen Howe turned into a long and sometimes rambling reminiscence that covered everything from her old dating habits, a chance meeting at Jacobsons and, if we heard correctly, a bar somewhere in Minnesota.

  The mood didn’t stay light for long, though. Councilman Thomas, particularly feisty during this session, announced stoicly, “The time has come for us to admit our mistakes. Paid parking in this town is not working.” A spirited scrap ensued with Mr. Thomas facing off with Councilwoman Sareini and the Mayor over the subject. Mr. Thomas wouldn’t be swayed and demanded, “This council should support a measure to put paid parking back on the ballot.” This will assuredly not be the last we hear of this topic, as it appears the councilman is determined to, once again, get this issue in front of Dearborn’s electorate.
  Former City Charter Commissioner Stephen Dobkowski got up next to address the body that forced him from office three years ago for unpaid back taxes. He passed out a document that referred to Councilman Abraham’s recent tax issues. Surprisingly, instead of calling for his ouster, Mr. Dobkowski suggested that council should take the 'high road' and overlook Mr. Abraham’s latest troubles. “I ask that he not be removed. Show mercy to him and his family,” Mr. Dobkowski plead. With that, he packed a few documents into a paper grocery bag and quietly left the meeting.
  No other public acknowledgement was made of Councilman Abraham’s tax troubles during the session.

Free Parking Approved for St. Pat's Day

 During a long, often contentious City Council meeting, a resolution authorizing free parking in west Dearborn was approved this evening. All user-paid public parking areas in the district will be free of charge throughout the day tomorrow. That includes the city’s two parking decks and all paid lots and metered parking spaces.
  Councilman Darany questioned the wisdom of essentially giving away parking revenue on a day when a high volume of customers can be expected to visit city lots, whether the parking is free or not. Others, including Double Olive owner Joe Agius, argued for the parking reprieve but thought it could have been better communicated to business owners and residents.
  Ultimately, though, the resolution passed unanimously and St. Patrick's Day revelers will have a few more bucks in their pockets for green beer Tuesday.

Martian Marathon Landing in Dearborn

  For us, a long-distance run usually spans no more than the length of our driveway, so we have endless respect for those brave souls who have the willpower and physical capability to take on something as daunting as a marathon. We’ll all have a chance to marvel at these athletes, and even join them, when The Martian Marathon returns to Dearborn on Saturday and Sunday, April 4th and 5th.
  On April 4th, five and 10-kilometer races will be held, with $3,200 in cash prizes awarded. On April 5th, the half-marathon and full marathon will be run. The 5K and 10K races will follow a course through some west Dearborn residential areas. The half and full marathon courses will go through those areas, out onto Hines Drive and back again.  All events will begin and end at Ford Field Park (click on the course map above for route details).
  The Martian Marathon weekend will also include a pre-race dinner for participants and a health and fitness expo. The expo will be held at 835 Mason, between Morley and Garrison. It’s free and open to the public.
  For more information, visit www.martianmarathon.com.

Councilman Blames Economy for Tax Troubles

  As promised, J. Patrick Pepper and our friends at the Dearborn Times-Herald continue to dig into the story about Councilman Robert Abraham and his tax woes. In the March 18th edition of the paper, which is available on news stands now, Abraham blames crashing property values for his $80,000 tax default.

  Mr. Abraham pledged to repay all the back taxes, which are actually assigned to his company, Abraham & Matthews, LLC. However, the councilman would not set a timetable on when payments could be expected. 

  How these recent reports will affect Mr. Abraham's seat on city council remains unclear. Council President Tom Tafelski told the Times-Herald he felt for his colleague's troubles but added, "We have to hold ourselves to a higher standard, because we are the voice of the public."

  What happens next may become clearer after Monday's 7:00pm council meeting.

Two Dearborn Police Officers Charged With Felonies

  The Detroit Free Press is reporting this afternoon that a Dearborn police officer has been charged in connection with a ticket-fixing scheme
  Cpl. Alex Brian Ramirez of Dearborn was arraigned in 19th District Court on felony charges of embezzlement and bribery by a public official, misconduct in office, obstruction of justice, conspiracy to obstruct justice, larceny in a building and a misdemeanor charge of nonperformance of duty. The crimes are punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
  Hassan Hojaije was also charged in connection with the alleged bribery scheme. He will be arraigned on charges of obstruction of justice, conspiracy to obstruct justice and bribery. The charges against Hojaije, who is also from Dearborn, carry penalties of up to five years in prison.

  Read the full Free Press story here.

  In a seemingly unrelated incident, Dearborn police officer Gino Soave was arrested for tax evasion and fraud related to the purchase of a 54-foot boat christened the Bada Bing V, state Attorney General Mike Cox announced. According to Cox's office, Soave fudged the sale price on the boat by nearly $170,000 when reporting the transaction to the Secretary of State, saving himself $12,000 in sales taxes.
  Soave faces one count of forgery, a 14-year felony; one count of uttering and publishing, a 14-year felony; and one count of tax fraud, a five-year felony.

Michael D. Albano: Ford Center Worth the Cost

  While talking with residents about our Dearborn Ford Community Performing Arts Center over the past year, I have learned that it is one 'touchy' issue with some folks. People are either for it or against it, with very few taking a middle ground.
  For those who side against the facility, their biggest complaint is that residents must pay a membership fee when citizens already support The Center with their tax dollars. Despite millions donated by Ford and other civic-minded investors, many still have an issue with a portion of Dearborn's limited tax revenues being pumped into something they see as 'frivolous.'
  They also argue that our old Youth Center was more than adequate, and offered a recreational facility that was affordable. The Ford Center, they complain, seems to charge for every little thing. In its heyday, our Youth Center offered a roller-skating rink, canteen, TV rooms, shuffleboard, a gaming room with pool and ping-pong tables, meeting rooms and a few more amenities.
  But let's face it. Our Dearborn Ford Community Performing Arts Center trumps the old Youth Center in almost every way. It offers two full court gymnasiums, a state-of-the-art-fitness center, an indoor running track, a dance and aerobics area, three different pools and even a 30-foot high climbing wall.
  Of course, I haven’t even mentioned the Hubbard Ballroom, the Padzieski Art Gallery or the beautiful Michael A. Guido Theater, which are also part of the complex. When the media flocked here for the 2007 Republican Presidential Debates, some were just plain blown away by the Guido Theater’s incredible sightlines and acoustics.
  And yes, all of this comes at a cost to residents. But I believe that, despite those costs, it’s worth having the best community center in the nation right here in Dearborn, Michigan.
We invite all of our readers to give us their unique take on our city. Mr. Albano is a regular contributor to DearbornNewsOnline.com.

Times-Herald Puts Councilman Under Spotlight

  The Dearborn Times-Herald rattled a few cages around town this week with revelations that City Councilman Robert Abraham may be in danger of losing four local properties to tax foreclosure.
  In Tuesday’s article (read the full story here), Times-Herald editor J. Patrick Pepper disclosed that Councilman Abraham owes more than $80,000 in back taxes on four condominiums he helped develop on Garrison Street and an office building on Michigan Avenue. The latter property would reportedly not enter foreclosure until next year for Mr. Abraham, who also serves as Treasurer on Henry Ford Community College's Board of Directors.
  While the tax issue is certainly a burden for Councilman Abraham, other factors loom, as well. As Mr. Pepper point out in his article, the 2006 City Charter states, “No person who is in default to the city may accept or hold an elective or appointive position unless the default is resolved.” That essentially leaves Mr. Abraham’s immediate political future in the hands of his colleagues on City Council.
  Of course, the Times-Herald doesn’t appear ready to walk away from the story anytime soon. “I have been following this story closely and will continue to work this as hard as I can to put the picture together,” Mr. Pepper wrote us.
  We’ll be reading, because it’s sure to be an interesting picture. It’s one that's already raising eyebrows and questions throughout Dearborn.

Sponsors Sought for Dearborn's 85th Memorial Day Parade

  Anyone who has been to one of Dearborn's Memorial Day Parades knows it's one of the biggest events of the year for our city. Thousands line Michigan Avenue, as fighter jets roar overhead and marching bands from around the state stride past. 2009 marks the 85th year for the parade, which is considered one of the nation's premier Memorial Day Parades

  Sponsorship opportunities remain available for this year's parade. Sponsors help defray the costs of the event, which traditionally includes high-profile elements like major floats, entertainers and distinguished military bands. Of course, sponsors not only do the city a service, they reap the kind of high-profile positive exposure that traditional marketing just can't buy. After all, who doesn't like a parade?
  Dearborn Federal Savings Bank, ACO Hardware, Comerica Bank, LaFontaine Motors and the Kiwanis Club of Dearborn Outer Drive Foundation were among last year's sponsors.

   “We want the 2009 Memorial Day Parade to be what it’s always been: A remembrance of the fallen and a celebration of patriotism," said Dearborn Allied War Veterans Council Commander Gary Tanner. "But we also want to involve as much of the Dearborn community as possible. The parade is one of the things that makes Dearborn so special. Helping sponsor it is a great way to show your support for the meaning of Memorial Day.”

  Sponsorships can be had at a variety of levels that fit many different budgets. Businesses, community service clubs and individuals who want further information can contact Nancy Lenhart in the in the city's Department of Public Information at 313-943-2231.

Chief Haddad and Superintendent Whiston to Address Snow Woods Association

    The Snow Woods Neighborhood Association invites residents to attend its next meeting on Wednesday, March 18th at 7:00pm. The meeting will be held at the Ten Eyck Board Room in the Dearborn Public Schools Administrative Service Center located at 18700 Audette.
  The gathering is sure to be a lively and informational one, with both Police Chief Ron Haddad and Dearborn Public Schools Superintendent Brian Whiston scheduled to speak to the group. Membership dues will also be collected via cash or check. Dues are $10 per household, or $8 for households headed by anyone 62 and older. Door prizes will also be given at the event.
  The Snow Woods Neighborhood Association is one of over a dozen active neighborhood associations in Dearborn, and represents residents living in the area bordered by Village Road, Rotunda, Southfield and Outer Drive.

Daddy-Daughter Dance Downright Delightful

  Those searching for evidence that Dearborn still stands as one of our area’s truly exceptional cities, need look no farther than the annual Daddy-Daughter Dance held each year in The Hubbard Ballroom of the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center.
  This year, as in year’s past, hundreds of beaming fathers proudly squired their daughters across the dance floor to everything from ‘The Chicken Dance’ to the latest Hannah Montana hits. Over 700 packed the hall Saturday evening, and with the ‘Pretty in Pink’ theme, it sometimes looked like an explosion in a cotton candy factory with twirling young dancers in pink taffeta racing across the room.
  Most attendees seemed to agree that this year’s Daddy-Daughter Dance was the best in recent memory. All the city workers and volunteers who make this event so special for Dearborn’s little ladies deserve a big cheer for a job well done.

Dearborn Elks Award Scholarships

  The Dearborn Elks at Lodge #1945 on Michigan Avenue near Gulley do a lot of good around our city. From helping needy families during the holiday season to annual events like their Hoops Shoot, the Elks are an organization that quietly make a big difference for many people in our community. Especially when it comes to Dearborn’s kids.
  Recently, the Elks presented ‘Most Valuable Student’ awards and scholarship funding to two very deserving local high school students. Two Dearborn High seniors, Lars Johnson and Paige Bruce (pictured holding their awards), each received $1,000 in scholarship funding. Both have also advanced to the national level of the Elks scholarship funding program. Each is guaranteed at least $4,000 in additional scholarship funding, and could receive up to $60,000.
  This year, the Elks National Foundation will pay out $2.3 million in college scholarships to 500 high school seniors nationwide, and it’s great to see some of that money go to students right here in Dearborn. 

  Helping to honor Mr. Johnson and Ms. Bruce during the presentation ceremony were Mayor O’Reilly, Dearborn City Council members and families of the students, as well as Dearborn Elks scholarship program chairperson Mike Hamilton.

State Rep Questions County's Need for Three Community Colleges

  Fred Miller, a Democratic State Representative from Mt. Clemens, sent shivers down a few spines this afternoon when he openly questioned whether Wayne County truly needs three separate community colleges. Currently, Wayne, Schoolcraft and Dearborn’s Henry Ford Community College all serve the area.
  According to a story in the Detroit Free Press, the lawmaker raised the question during a budget hearing in Macomb County today attended by several community college leaders. Representative Miller was not suggesting merging or eliminating any of the Wayne County institutions. At least not yet.
  Marge Swann, vice president and controller at HFCC, defended the county’s schools, “We compete for programs and we compete for students and we believe that leads to...the best and most appropriate program development.”
  It’s a story worth watching as the state looks under each and every stone for ways to trim a bloated budget.

OPINION: Missed Opportunity at Edsel Ford

  A month ago, this site posted a short article titled ‘Edsel Ford Paper First to Go Online.’ It was a simple and, we thought, unremarkable piece that applauded the students at The Bolt newspaper for being the first in Dearborn to publish an online edition. It was meant to shine a little light on students who were doing something special. Unfortunately, that light was too harsh for some.
  A few readers took issue with an editorial written by Edsel senior Deanna Suleiman, in which she gave an emotional commentary regarding the recent conflict in the Gaza Strip. Complaints were raised and, within days, the digital version of the Edsel Ford Bolt went dark. School officials had pulled the plug.
  We think that was a mistake. A big one. What could have been an opportunity for expanded discussion and discourse turned into a clumsy case of restricted speech. What should have been an opportunity for learning, a true ‘teachable moment,’ instead taught the wrong lessons altogether.
   Weeks later, it’s a decision that is still clanging around our school district. Ms. Suleiman’s case has become a cause célèbre throughout Dearborn and beyond. Many are taking sides without ever having a chance to read her original piece, and that's a shame.
  Of course, as far as we’re concerned, there’s only one side to be on in this battle. And that’s the side of free speech.
  That’s our opinion. Let us know yours.

Announcement on Newman Tenant ‘Very, Very Close’

  For months now, the Dearborn rumor mill has been churning out speculation of a national grocery chain moving into the vacant Norm Newman-owned properties that formerly housed Pier 1 Imports and the short-lived Inca Computers store on the 22000 block of Michigan Avenue.
  While many hoped for a higher-end destination grocer like Whole Foods, Papa Joe’s or even Trader Joe’s, the likely new tenant appears to be the German-based discounter Aldi Foods. Aldi, which already operates 20 stores in the metro Detroit area, is well-known in the industry for it’s no-frills approach. Nearly all products that line the shelves are store brands and customers pay a premium for everything from shopping bags to shopping carts.
  Clearly, though, any new business would be a welcome addition to Dearborn’s struggling west end and to Newman’s mostly vacant shopping plaza. A spokesperson for Newman refused to give the name of their new tenant, as negotiations have not been finalized, but told us they are ‘very, very close to an announcement.’

Enrollment Begins for Full-Day Kindergarten

  The start of the 2009-10 school year is still a long way off, but now is the time for parents to get their child ready to start kindergarten in the Dearborn Public Schools. Schools across the district are holding Kindergarten Round-Up throughout March and April. This year's Round-Up is especially important with the addition of full-day kindergarten in Dearborn schools.
  “Students have had great success in full-day programs currently being offered and parents have absolutely loved the program,” commented Dr. Wageh Saad, Associate Superintendent of Elementary Education.
  The state of Michigan is requiring all districts to offer full day kindergarten starting in 2010-11 in order to receive full student funding. However, Dearborn Public Schools will begin full day kindergarten this September at all of its elementary schools. The district and individual schools will offer options for parents who would like their child to remain in a half-day program.
  “Research has shown that full-day kindergarten will benefit all students and provide them with a social and academic advantage as they begin first grade,” Saad added.
  Kindergarten Round-Up provides parents the opportunity to find out about their neighborhood school and enroll their child for the fall. All parents who have a child who will be five years old by or on December 1, 2009 should plan on attending a Kindergarten Round-Up at their neighborhood elementary school. Parents should contact the school and let them know they will be attending so administrators can prepare information packages and advise of any schedule changes
  Check out the times and dates for all Kindergarten Round-Ups here.

Burton-Katzman Asks Circuit Court to Dismiss Lawsuit

  The legal mess at the nearly empty West Village Commons got messier last week as Burton-Katzman Development Company has now asked Wayne County Circuit Court to dismiss Dearborn’s $16.7 million lawsuit against them.
  Most readers will recall the city filed suit against Burton-Katzman in January, citing the company for not completing an agreed-upon deal to finish (or even start) developments between the two parking decks just south of the West Village Commons shopping court. The city’s suit also claimed Burton-Katzman failed to complete twelve condominium units and dissolved their company in 2008 without notifying Dearborn officials.
  Now, the defunct company is claiming they never had a deal with Dearborn. Instead, they say the development deal was with a Burton-Katzman offshoot, conveniently named West Village Commons LLC. In their motion for dismissal, Burton-Katzman claims they should not be included as a defendant in the case at all.
  No ruling has yet been made in the case, but this latest turn of events is another in a long series of headaches involving this seemingly cursed project in west Dearborn.