7/2/14 - Green Oak Township officials have canceled tonight's meeting of the Board of Trustees. Supervisor Mark St. Charles tells WHMI the township hall does not have enough power to run necessary facilities, such as air conditioning and toilets. The meeting has been rescheduled to Tuesday, July 8th at 7pm. (TD)
Green Oak Township Cancels MeetingGreen Oak Township Cancels Meeting
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2 of 3 Suspects Convicted in Murder of Former Brighton Man2 of 3 Suspects Convicted in Murder of Former Brighton Man
7/2/14 - Nearly four years after a former Livingston County man was shot and killed, a jury has returned guilty verdicts against two of the three suspects in the case. Three men were charged with the murder of 53-year-old John Mick, who was shot to death at the Flint River Village Apartments in August of 2010. Mick, who lived in Brighton for 14 years, had worked as an engineering technician at the GM Proving Grounds in Milford before retiring to take a security guard job in Flint. On Tuesday, a Genesee County jury returned guilty verdicts on murder charges against two of the three suspects; 22-year-old Floyd Gene Perkins and 21-year-old Kenya Ali Hyatt. However, they could not agree on a verdict in the homicide charge against a third defendant, 33-year-old Aaron Williams, although they did convict him on armed robbery and firearms charges. Perkins and Hyatt were also convicted on those counts. They face life in prison without the possibility of parole when they are sentenced July 28th. Williams will also be sentenced on the 28th, but would face a maximum term of life in prison with a chance of parole on the armed robbery conviction. Court records indicate that prosecutors have reserved the right to retry Williams on the murder count in the future. More than two years passed without a break in the case until Perkins and Hyatt were arrested in connection with another crime in Mt. Morris Township. Flint Police say they were able to obtain information from that case that led to the trio being charged in Mick's murder. (JK)
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Fatal Head-On Crash In Lyon Township Under InvestigationFatal Head-On Crash In Lyon Township Under Investigation
7/2/14 - Police are investigating a crash that claimed the life of a Lyon Township woman Tuesday morning. 76-year-old Carlena Taylor was driving southbound on Milford Road near Travis at 11:40am. The Oakland County Sheriff's Office says she crossed the center line and had a head-on collision with a minivan headed northbound. Taylor was trapped in her sedan, and emergency responders pronounced her dead on the scene. The driver of the minivan was a 73-year-old Commerce Township resident who was accompanied by his wife and two young grandchildren. All four were transported via ambulance to a hospital in Novi for treatment. The children suffered minor injuries and were released, while the adults were last reported in stable condition. Police say everyone was wearing seatbelts and alcohol does not appear to be a factor. The incident is now under investigation with the help of a crash reconstruction unit. (TD)
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Crews Busy Cleaning Up After Tuesday's Storm Crews Busy Cleaning Up After Tuesday's Storm
7/2/14 - Fire service and utility crews have been busy following Tuesdayâs storm that hit, resulting in downed trees, power lines and thousands of outages. Crews have been handling numerous incidents in Brighton, Green Oak and Hamburg Townships as well as some parts of Hartland Township. Brighton Fire Authority Chief Mike OâBrian says the response effort began when the weather sirens were activated, after a severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Livingston County by the National Weather Service due to winds of more than 70mph. OâBrian says the outdoor sirens are not just for tornadoes anymore and now sound across the entire county to warn of severe weather. He says there was some pretty damage in the Green Oak and Brighton Township areas, with large trees uprooted and onto homes in some cases, along with lots downed power lines. Meanwhile, DTE Energyâs latest storm update says the majority of remaining outages are in Livingston, Oakland, Wayne, and Washtenaw counties and approximately 14,000 customers remain without service.(JM)
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Motorcyclist Seriously Injured in Crash, Airlifted to Hospital Motorcyclist Seriously Injured in Crash, Airlifted to Hospital
7/2/14 - A motorcyclist had to be airlifted to a hospital following an afternoon crash. The accident was reported on Grand River near Kensington Road at around 12:41pm, near the Green Oak and Brighton Township border. An off-duty EMT arrived on scene and reported significant injuries. Brighton Fire Authority Chief Mike OâBrian says crews responded quickly and initiated patient care, working with Livingston County EMS and the Green Oak Township Fire Department. The motorcycle reportedly flipped over a few times and the 61-year-old man suffered serious injuries. Due to his condition, OâBrian tells WHMI he was taken by Survival Flight to the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor. Grand River was closed to traffic between Kensington and Pleasant Valley Roads following the crash. Michigan State Police at the Brighton Post are handling the investigation. (JM)
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Hamburg Cop And Firefighter Credited With Saving Local TeenHamburg Cop And Firefighter Credited With Saving Local Teen
7/3/14 - Two Hamburg Township emergency responders are being credited with saving the life of a local boy who went into cardiac arrest on Saturday. At about 1:20am on Saturday, June 28th, township police were dispatched to the area of Merrill and Sheldon Roads for a 16-year-old male in full cardiac arrest. Officer Adam Fischhaber was on the scene within three minutes along with firefighter Devon Peer. They found the boy lying on the ground, not breathing and with no pulse. The pair began administering CPR, and Fischhaber delivered a shock to the boy with the defibrillator carried in his police vehicle. The boy regained his pulse and began breathing on his own as a result. Livingston County EMS arrived on the scene and took over medical care of the boy, who was transported to University of Michigan Ann Arbor and last listed in critical condition. According to a press release, this was the fourth time in the past 18 months a Hamburg police officer has used a defibrillator to save someone from cardiac arrest. The devices are standard equipment on all department vehicles. (TD)
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County Gives Okay To Handy Township Industrial RezoningCounty Gives Okay To Handy Township Industrial Rezoning
7/3/14 - A proposal to rezone agricultural land in Handy Township as industrial was recommended for approval by the County Planning Commission last night. A special meeting was held for the vote since there was not a quorum of the commission at its last meeting. The 206 acres of land being considered were recently acquired by Handy Township in a legal settlement. They had been slated for residential use by a developer, but that plan fell through during the recession, dropping millions in sewer debt onto the township. Now officials want to rezone the land, located at the southwest corner of Grand River and Nicholson Road, for industrial use and sell it off to a company to cover that debt. Residents in the area have voiced their concerns throughout the process, including last night. They say industrial rezoning will change the character of the area, damage property values, and only serve economic interests of the township rather than improve the area. Planning commissioners voted to recommend the change, saying there was already industrial zoning in the area and that economic reasons are valid for rezoning as a way to preserve township services, like sewer. The only planning commissioner to oppose the rezoning, James Sparks, says the location is not a good choice for industrial development. The proposed rezoning will now go the Handy Township Board, which will vote on final approval on July 8th. (TD)
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Providence Hospital Makes Offer on Latson Elementary PropertyProvidence Hospital Makes Offer on Latson Elementary Property
7/3/14 - The Howell Board of Education will consider an attractive offer on a prime piece of real estate that it owns during Monday nightâs meeting. The board will consider a formal offer to sell the now leveled Latson Road Elementary School property to St. John's Providence Health System when it meets next week. Although it has not been finalized, Howell Superintendent Ron Wilson feels itâs more than a fair offer and told WHMI itâs certainly something that should be considered. The property was appraised at $5 (m) million this past October and the offer on the table is $5,075,000. If approved, Wilson says computations showed that this would be the highest price per acre paid for a piece of property sold in Livingston County in the last ten years, which precedes the market crash and downturn in real estate prices. Wilson noted that if the deal is approved and assuming a medical facility of some kind goes in, it could be a real positive for not only for the school district but the community as a whole since it would bring more jobs and doctors to the area. It's expected to be a medical professional office facility. Wilson says the district has various capital improvement needs that need to be examined and itâs been more than ten years since any bond issue or sinking fund so this could provide an opportunity to deal with technology and busing needs, as well as aging infrastructure such as roofs and parking lots. (JM)
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Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Milford Man's Drowning SettledWrongful Death Lawsuit in Milford Man's Drowning Settled
7/3/14 - A lawsuit has been settled that was filed by the family of a Milford man who drowned trying to save a teen from the Huron River. The suit, filed in Oakland County Circuit Court by the estate of Douglas Killingbeck, was settled last week for approximately $950,000. Most of the money, just under $600,000, was divided up among Killingbeckâs family. The remainder went for legal fees and other costs. The lawsuit claimed several defendants, including the Village Canoe Rental in Milford, failed to provide adequate warning and fencing near the Huron River dam in Milford. Thatâs where Killingbeck died May 21st of 2011 while trying to save 16-year-old John Przydatek, whose canoe had capsized while on a church trip organized by Knox Presbyterian Church, which was also named in the lawsuit for allegedly failing to properly supervise the outing and insist the teenager wear a life jacket. Both Killingbeck and Przydatek were pulled below the surface and drowned. The case had been scheduled to go to trial this month in front of Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Phyllis McMillen. Court records indicate she signed off on the settlement June 25th and the case was closed. (JK)
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New Laws Enacted To Regulate And Oversee PharmaciesNew Laws Enacted To Regulate And Oversee Pharmacies
7/3/14 - Governor Snyder has signed into law two bills sponsored by a local legislator to increase oversight on compounding pharmacies following a deadly fungal meningitis outbreak. The now-defunct New England Compounding Center in Massachusetts distributed tainted steroid injections to patients at clinics in 20 states. Michigan patients were hit hardest by the meningitis outbreak, with 264 infections and 19 deaths according to the most recent tallies. The steroids were distributed to clinics in four Michigan counties including Livingston, Genesee, Macomb and Grand Traverse. State Senator Joe Hune introduced two bills establishing more oversight for pharmacies, requiring the creation of a âpharmacist in chargeâ to be responsible for their operation, and outlining the penalties for violations that cause serious injury or death. Those bills were signed into law by Snyder on Wednesday. The governor says this legislation will help ensure a disaster like the meningitis outbreak does not occur again. (TD)
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Ribbon Cutting Marks Much Anticipated Opening of Brewery BeckerRibbon Cutting Marks Much Anticipated Opening of Brewery Becker
7/3/14 - After nearly three years of work and painstaking renovations, the community is toasting the opening of downtown Brightonâs first brewery. The much anticipated Brewery Becker is finally open and a well-attended grand opening and ribbon cutting was held this afternoon. The brewery is located on Main Street in the historic Western House Hotel, which first opened in 1873 and is known to many as the old "Pink Hotel". The brewery is a family venture driven by Owner Matt Beckerâs love of history and beer. John and Eileen Becker say the project has been a dream 20 years in the making for their son Matt but also quite the adventure. Matt Becker told the large crowd gathered that the building is the cornerstone of the downtown and while there were a lot of trials and tribulations because it was in such terrible condition, the support and enthusiasm of the community kept them going. The familyâs hard work is evidenced throughout the three-story building that has been completely restored and transformed, with much of the original materials and wood being re-purposed. Brewery Becker features a tasting area and beer garden and will have 14 rotating taps. All of the beers will be cask-conditioned real ales, meaning that everything is naturally carbonated and served by pumps. (JM)
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Wife of Unadilla Township Fire Chief Passes AwayWife of Unadilla Township Fire Chief Passes Away
7/3/14 - After months of fighting cancer, Suzi Schroeder, wife of Unadilla Township Fire Chief Mark Schroeder, has passed away. Suzi was diagnosed with both lung and brain cancer in 2013. All treatment options had been exhausted, and she had been transferred to a 24-hour care facility. She passed away on Wednesday. Individuals and other fire departments have extended their condolences with Mark Schroeder and the Unadilla Fire Department, which has issued a statement saying its members are grieving the loss of a tremendous individual. The department will host its annual barbeque fundraiser on Friday, with proceeds going toward the Schroeder familyâs medical bills. Residents can stop by the department tomorrow beginning at 11am to take part. A fundraising website for the family has also been set up. A link is posted below. (TD)
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Freeway & Service Drive Work Planned Next WeekFreeway & Service Drive Work Planned Next Week
7/3/14 - As soon as the holiday weekend is over, local drivers will once again have orange barrels to navigate. The Michigan Department of Transportation is planning double lane closures overnight on I-96 at Latson Road for bridge work. The double lane closures will occur each night between 8pm and 5am in both directions starting Monday, July 7th through Thursday, July 10th. They advise drivers to use caution through that zone and watch for traffic slowdowns. Meanwhile, the Livingston County Road Commission is planning a road closure in Green Oak Township next week as well. Fieldcrest Road, from 9 Mile Road to Silver Lake Road, will be closed to through traffic so crews can completely resurface the pavement, improve the road approaches and driveways and replace the guardrails. The closure is expected to last until August 8th. The northerly leg of Fieldcrest Road will be improved in a separate phase. (JK)
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Motorcyclist Remains in Critical Condition After Wednesday CrashMotorcyclist Remains in Critical Condition After Wednesday Crash
7/3/14 - Authorities have identified a motorcyclist who had to be airlifted to a hospital following a Wednesday afternoon crash. State Police from the Brighton Post say that 61-year-old Ronald Chapiewski of South Lyon was riding his motorcycle westbound on Grand River just after 12:30pm Wednesday when he left the roadway near Pleasant Valley Road, near the Green Oak and Brighton Township border. An investigation indicates he lost control on the gravel shoulder and collided with a guardrail. Chapiewski, who was taken by Survival Flight to the University of Michigan Medical Center in Ann Arbor, was last listed in critical condition. He was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash and neither speed nor alcohol appears to be a factor.
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Motorcycle Crash On US23 Sends Louisiana Man To HospialMotorcycle Crash On US23 Sends Louisiana Man To Hospial
7/3/14 - A Louisiana man was injured while riding his motorcycle on US-23 near M-36 Thursday afternoon. The Green Oak Township police were called out to the scene at about 2:35pm. Sergeant Steve Kramer says traffic in that area had stopped, but the man could not stop his Harley-Davidson in time. He went between some cars on the roadway before rear-ending another vehicle. A total of four vehicles were involved in the crash, with another related incident handled by the Michigan State Police. Kramer says the man was taken by EMS to the University of Michigan for treatment, and his status is unknown. Police do not suspect drugs or alcohol as a factor in the crash, but Kramer says the man was not wearing a helmet. It is not clear at this time why the man could not stop in time. US-23 was reopened to traffic within 45 minutes of the crash. The Green Oak Fire Department and Livingston County Sheriff also assisted at the scene. (TD)
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Event Seeks to Help Veterans With Benefit ClaimsEvent Seeks to Help Veterans With Benefit Claims
7/4/14 - Local veterans can learn about what kind of benefits they are eligible to receive at an event this weekend in Milford. The Disabled American Veterans Chapter 125 will be holding a veterans benefits expo on Sunday, July 6th from 3-7 pm at Bakers of Milford. The event is being held to educate veterans on the kinds of benefits they can receive and how to get them. Philip Sedlock, who heads up the local DAV chapter, says the process to receive benefits has changed. "They have a process now called Fully Developed Claim, which in the past a veteran would just submit a piece of paper to the Veterans (Affairs) and say 'I need help' ...and the VA would do all the leg work. Now with the FDC...the veteran does all the leg work. He submits the form which can lock down the date and gives him one year to put all this paperwork together." Chapter Vice Commander Bryan Bradford says the July 6th event will help get that process started and advise how to get it completed by bring in some of the top service representatives in the area to answer any questions veterans may have. Admission to the event is free. There will also be a classic car show, and a 50/50 raffle, with proceeds helping to support the local Disabled American Veterans chapter in Howell. (JK)
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Officials Urge Fireworks Caution & Common SenseOfficials Urge Fireworks Caution & Common Sense
7/4/14 - With the 4th of July holiday weekend here, local fire officials are reminding the public that the legalization of consumer grade fireworks did not make it a free for all when it comes to shooting them off. When it comes to fireworks, enforcement powers reside with local police departments and the powerful devices have led to an increased injury rate around the state but the real impact for some fire departments, including the Brighton Area Fire Authority, is complaints from residents about excessive noise late into the evening. OâBrian says the safest course of action is to leave fireworks in the hands of professionals. For those who do decide to use consumer grade fireworks, he says follow the instructions and be mindful of neighbors but also review rules with children. He reminds that if ignited, fireworks must leave your property and land on your property. OâBrian cautions against consuming alcohol and shooting off fireworks, which he says not only poses a safety risk but itâs illegal under the state law. There has also been a change in the state law covering consumer fireworks in that a person can now be charged with arson and face stiffer penalties and fines if their accidental or careless use of fireworks results in someoneâs home catching on fire. (JK)
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Brighton Welcomes Annual Independence Day ParadeBrighton Welcomes Annual Independence Day Parade
7/4/14 - The annual 4th of July parade ran through downtown Brighton on Friday. Several thousand residents of Brighton and nearby communities were in attendance for this year's parade themed America the Beautiful. Jason Spencer of Brighton tells WHMI the Fourth of July means independence to him. The parade celebrated the American spirit and featured floats, classic cars, motorcycle community groups, politicians and young aspiring farmers. Spencer said his son loves tractors, and a neighbor invited the young man to ride on his tractor in the parade. Parades were held in several communities including Whitmore Lake, Fowlerville and Gregory. Independence Day celebrations will continue throughout Livingston County this weekend. Picture courtesy of Nancy M. Johnson. (LR/JK)
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Boating Safety Encouraged For Holiday WeekendBoating Safety Encouraged For Holiday Weekend
7/5/14 - Many local residents will take to the lakes over the Fourth of July holiday weekend, and officials remind boaters to keep safety as a priority. Livingston County Undersheriff Mike Murphy tells WHMI some common-sense rules should be followed while spending time on the water, such as avoiding alcohol when operating a boat, not going to fast near other watercraft, having enough personal floatation devices for everyone on board, and keeping oars and rope on board in case the motor dies. Murphy says those on jet-skis should also pay close attention to traffic, including boats and other jet-skis. He adds that the law states boats should travel counter-clockwise around lakes rather than cutting straight across to their destination, which provides a smooth flow of traffic around the body of water. The leading contributing factors of boating fatalities in 2013 included alcohol use, excessive speed, and operator inattention and inexperience. (TD/JK)
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Fenton to Host 4th Annual ArtWalk Next WeekendFenton to Host 4th Annual ArtWalk Next Weekend
7/6/14 - The 4th annual Fenton ArtWalk next weekend will show off the skills of local artists around the city's downtown. For the event, more than 50 artists from the local area as well as the region will have their works prominently featured in the windows and stores of 31 participating businesses around Fenton. The event will feature works from a variety of media, including paintings, photography, sculpture, and jewelry. Live entertainment including musical performances, living statues, ukuleles, and steel drums will also be featured in the downtown area. The event will take place on Saturday, July 12th from 11am to 4pm. It will be preceded by the 13th annual Bastille Day Race hosted by the French Laundry, which will begin at 7:45 that morning. Youâll find details in our online events calendar. (JK)
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