Board OKs 2 percent wage increase for full-time firefighters

Brandon Twp.- The township board has unanimously approved a 2 percent raise for full-time fire department personnel. During their Nov. 4 meeting, the board also approved a 25-cent per hour increase for part-time firefighters. Fire Chief David Kwapis noted that firefighters have not had a raise since 2008, while the cost of living has increased […]

Charlotte’s Web

Brandon Twp.- Taylor Reid watched YouTube videos of spiders to study for her latest role as the title character in ‘Charlotte’s Web.? ‘Her movements are a challenge,? said Reid, 17, a Brandon High School senior starring in her fourth BHS production. ‘It’s not as easy as playing a human.? Reid and a cast of about […]

‘Understanding the 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s Disease?

Brandon Twp.- Misplacing car keys, forgetting an appointment or grasping for a word or name that is ‘on the tip of the tongue,? all fall within the normal range of memory lapse. For someone who cares for an elder, has aging parents, or is entering their senior years themselves, however, such forgetfulness may be of […]

Hillside Bible Church’Hope for Haiti ready for challenge

Ortonville- Last year, 16,000 meals were sent to the impoverished nation of Haiti through the efforts of local residents and Hillside Bible Church in the village. This year, Hillside Pastor Kevin Shorkey plans to send at least 52,000 meals to the Caribbean nation and is asking local residents to provide ‘Hope for Haiti? and ‘Put […]

Cable budget approved, wage increase for consultant

Brandon Twp.- The township board approved the cable budget, including a 2 percent wage increase for consultant Greg Normand, during their Nov. 4 meeting. The budget and raise were approved unanimously. A separate motion to use excess cable franchise fees to support the police fund passed by a 5-2 vote, with Treasurer Terri Darnall and […]

Tragic end to search for happiness

Tauna Shapovalov was first separated from her older sister, Jean, when they were toddlers in the 1970s. They would reconnect when they were teens, but only for about a year. About 10 years later, in their mid-20s, the relationship was rekindled, but Tauna would be robbed of her sister forever when Jean was murdered about […]

One dead, four teens injured in Brandon Township crash

Brandon Twp.- Weather may have played a role in a car accident Monday night in the township that resulted in the death of a 17-year-old girl. Oakland County Sheriff’s Office Lt. Terry Mekoski said black ice was forming on the roads at the time of the crash. Alcohol does not appear to be a factor. […]

$1.4M: Brandon School Board plans new bus purchases

Brandon Twp.- The school district is planning to add 15 new buses to their fleet next year. The purchases will total just over $1.4 million, to be financed with an annual debt payment of $203,757. Transportation Director Debbie Allen recommended the purchase of buses rather than leasing options during a special school board meeting Nov. […]

Consumers still seeking sign-ups in Atlas, Brandon

As temperatures plummeted this week and snow flew, some residents of Atlas and Brandon townships are heating their homes with natural gas for the first time after Consumers Energy extended natural gas service in the area. Other residents of the townships are still hoping for the opportunity to switch from propane however, as they wait […]

Kayt Hyatt:’I’m grateful to be alive?

Kayt Hyatt was paralyzed in a car accident this past summer, but she is still finding much for which to be thankful. ‘I’ve found a sense of gratitude in all this,? said the 21-year-old. ‘I am very lucky to be alive and could have easily died in that accident. I am very grateful to have […]