Bill Joyner's FridayMusings May 13, 2024

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FridayMusings since 2003

Monday, May 13, 2024

Helping define Livonia's Quality of Life

Archive – Bill Joyner's Friday Musings

20 years publishing FridayMusings without bias but not without opinion

Livonia Veteran reaches out to expand accessible outdoor activities through Michigan Operation Freedom Outdoors

Tom, who prefers not to make this about himself and thus is referred to by his first name only in this article, is a Franklin High School alumnus, a married father of three attending Livonia Public Schools, and is in the process of constructing a new family home in Livonia. Following his military service, which included a tour in the Middle East, he channeled his strong sense of determination into founding Michigan Operation Freedom Outdoors. This program aims to increase accessible hunting facilities in Southern Michigan and enhance opportunities for wildlife observation and photography.

During a conversation with Tom and Steve Alexander, who arranged our meeting for lunch at Steve's Restaurant, it was often highlighted that Tom's work with veterans is driven not by a desire for personal accolades but by the satisfaction of helping men and women return to the outdoor activities they may have enjoyed before their military service, which for many resulted in mental or physical injuries.

After returning from service and with an idea in mind he started Michigan Operation Freedom Outdoors. Prior to the COVID-19, he parlayed his idea into a position with the Michigan DNR where he served as vice chair of the DNR Accessibility Advisory Council.

He explains that the position was terminated during COVID-19, so he continued his mission through various partnerships. "We managed to privately secure funds for materials for accessible blinds, while UAW Ford at the Rawsonville Plant and the Union Sportsman's Alliance" contributed by providing labor. Most of the lumber came from Home Depot, which, although previously donated, now requires us to purchase the material.

In addition to offering accessible hunting, photography, and wildlife experiences, he has expanded to include gardening accessibility in Livonia by securing a 24x24 plot at the Greenmead community gardens. There, he collaborates with Rotundo Concrete to install a concrete pad for raised garden beds he is organizing to be built in time for the growing season.

This initiative envisions a veteran or elderly individual using a wheelchair, walker, or personal assistance device being able to access the plot. Unable to kneel or bend over, they can now manage a personal raised bed to plant and cultivate vegetables, or simply enjoy the outdoors, regaining or redefining some normalcy and engaging in activities they once loved but can no longer participate in.

The details on how and where to be a part of this 24X24 garden raised bed plots are being worked out as contact information and reservation information for just this area is being coordinated through the Veteran's Connection. As soon as it is available Musings will make sure the word is put out.

Thank you Tom for the idea, but more importantly for the follow-through and implementation. You are a special person to all of us in Livonia who knows or has a disabled family member.

Michigan Roundtable Roundtable for Just Communities

The 74th Annual Tribute Dinner honors changemakers including Livonia's Delisha Upshaw

The 74th Annual Tribute Dinner for the Michigan Roundtable for Diversity & Inclusion offered a significant opportunity to reinforce community bonds with individuals, organizations, and leaders from the corporate sector. It was a moment to honor and recognize outstanding leadership, fervor, and unwavering dedication to creating avenues of hope.

It was a night to inspire from the Michigan Roundtable for Just Communities, a new name announced at the event. Among the change makers being honored was Livonia's Delisha Upshaw. Another Livonia resident who shined was Co-Executive Director Steve Spreitzer as the energy in the room was palpable.

The event was highlighted by a keynote address from Dr. Reuben Miller of Chicago, author of "Halfway Home: Race, Punishment, and the Afterlife of Mass Incarceration," who captivated the audience with his dynamic presentation, direct facts, and inspiring message. Orlando Bailey, from the Authentically Detroit Podcast and Bridge Detroit, served as the evening's host.

The Michigan Roundtable paid tribute to Satori Shakoor, Delisha Upshaw, Danielle Atkinson, Nakia Wallace, and Fifth Third Bank.

Friends and family from Livonia were on hand to celebrate the occasion with Upshaw.

Upshaw received the Racial & Social Justice Champion of the Year award, an annual recognition for individuals who tirelessly advocate for human rights. This year, she was also honored with Schoolcraft College's Inaugural Pathfinder Award and the Michigan Black Legislative Caucus's Advocacy of the Year Award. The Roundtable characterizes Upshaw as embodying the true spirit of being "for the people," highlighting her creative and strategic activism.

Laura Jannika described the evening perfectly saying that "Delisha is truly deserving of this high honor, and she gave a rousing heartfelt speech. Her intense activism began in the heart of COVID-19 darkness, and she has continued to inspire countless Livonia citizens. Thank you to Steve Spreitzer and the "Roundtable for Just Connections" for all your work to "midwife" justice, and lift up the greatness in people. Your empathy has no bounds. What a wonderful night!"

Jannika referenced Livonia resident Steve Spreitzer as one who played a significant role in the evening and throughout the year as co-executive director of the Roundtable. Spreitzer held the position of Interim President and CEO from August 2013 to July 2014 when he became Executive Director, a position he has held since then. He has been with the Roundtable since 2008. He earned his Master's in Social Work from Michigan State University, focusing on the faith community's role in promoting social justice. Steve's career spans community mental health, criminal justice ministry, and legislative advocacy.

His work has been acknowledged by the World Sabbath for Religious Reconciliation, the Council of Islamic Organizations of Michigan, the Catholic Youth Organization, and the Hindu American Foundation.

Livonia resident Delisha Upshaw, being honored and recognized by a community organization celebrating 83 years since its founding. How great is that?

Clarenceville Public Schools Education Foundation hosts successful roll down raffle

Five hundred enthusiastic education supporters convened at St. Mary's Conference Center on Friday night to generate funds for the Clarenceville Education Foundation, raising over $20,000 at this annual Reverse Raffle and Dinner.

The event, MC'ed by local master of ceremonies Wayne Kinney and assisted by Clarenceville's own Vanna White, Shari Krazel, progressed seamlessly from the welcoming of elected officials and distinguished guests to the thrilling final countdown, culminating in a crescendo of cheers as the winning number was drawn.

It was an evening of celebration with guests ranging from members of the Clarenceville School Board, Superintendent Paul Shepich, members of the Band Boosters counting down the days until the May 15 guitar raffle auction, County Commissioner Terry Marecki, Schoolcraft Trustee Brett Gierak, City Councilmen Jim Jolly and Brandon McCullough.

Thank you Dan MacIver and Brian Mahoney for the work put into co-chairing this event. The winning $5,000 was split 5 ways, each taking home $1,000.

For over 60 years our Livonia Youth Symphony Orchestras of Michigan has provided young people with the opportunity to learn and grow in their love for music.

The mission of the Livonia Youth Symphony Orchestra is to provide a diverse group of students, regardless of level or background, with musical training that sparks the imagination.

They deliver unparalleled musical education to the region's youth, offering various performance opportunities through their full orchestra and ensembles. This fosters teamwork and collaboration while enhancing the cultural fabric of the community by developing the artists and audiences of tomorrow.

Their programs are designed to cultivate excellence and personal growth, preparing students to be not only musicians but also active community participants.

Their dedication fosters a lifelong passion for music in their members, and their performances contribute to the vibrant musical culture of the community.

Local Neurosurgeon Discusses Common

Spine Ailments, Treatments Available in Livonia

Jay Nathan, MD, is a neurosurgeon with Trinity Health IHA Medical Group, Brain & Spine Surgery in Livonia. In a recent conversation with Friday Musings, Dr. Nathan discusses common spine ailments he treats patients for, how to avoid these conditions, and more.

Q: What are some of the things you typically treat patients for?

Dr. Nathan: I treat many patients suffering from chronic back and leg pain, which can be brought on by spine arthritis, herniated discs, overgrown spinal joints, and changes in spinal alignment. Some of these issues can be problematic because they’re very close to nerves and can cause weakness or an inability to walk.

Q: How do patients develop these conditions?

Dr. Nathan: All of us have some degree of wear and tear as we age, but there are plenty of other ways to develop back pain. Genetics play a role in how your spine wears over time. Additionally, one’s occupation can put them at a higher risk to develop back pain if they are bending, lifting or twisting frequently.

One of the biggest factors people may not realize, however, is nicotine use. Nicotine and other chemicals in tobacco or vape pens attack the small blood vessels in the spinal joints and discs, decreasing blood flow and depriving the spine of oxygen and nutrients. Using nicotine also leads to worse surgical outcomes, increasing the risk of complications including infections post-operation, oftentimes requiring another surgery. In fact, we sometimes cannot perform an operation if a patient is using nicotine due to this risk.

Q: What are surgical and non-surgical approaches to treatment?

Dr. Nathan: Many of our procedures are minimally invasive — which means incisions are smaller and they produce faster recovery times and less pain post-operation — and are performed with the assistance of modern technology. For example, we have image guidance available where we take a CAT scan in the OR, and that 3-D image then gets registered to a computer. Our surgical instruments can be tracked on this computer image with millimeter precision. To put it in simpler terms, it’s like a GPS to navigate through the operation, which greatly enhances our precision and safety.

As far as non-operative treatments are concerned, there are certain medications and physical therapy available that can help. We try to avoid opioids and opt for anti-inflammatory medicines instead. There are other highly effective non-surgical treatments we recommend for patients if that is the best option. At the end of the day, we cater to and develop a unique game plan for each patient.

Q: Are there ways to avoid back pain?

Dr. Nathan: General spine wear and tear is nearly impossible to avoid. However, the best way to decrease your risk is to stay as healthy and mobile as possible. That means maintain a strong core and strong muscles around your spine, and maintaining good technique if you do have an occupation that requires constant movement. And for people who work from home, try avoiding hunching over your computer, and stretch frequently.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like us to know?

Dr. Nathan: I view surgery as a tool that can be really helpful in the right setting, but we always pursue the treatment that is going to balance the lowest risk and the highest reward. Sometime that is surgery and sometimes it is not. Having an appointment with a neurosurgeon does not mean you are guaranteed to need surgery. We are here as a guide to help you make the best decision possible.

For more information and to schedule an appointment, visit TrinityHealthMI.org/spine.

Mail Address

19514 Bainbridge 48152

E-mail address

rwilliamjoyner@gmail.com

Cell address

734-674-5871

The typewriter is not available for phone calls or emails Saturday and Sunday. Mental health and rehabilitation time. Out and about enjoying life.

What motivates FridayMusings:

We can't only define Livonia as taking small steps toward maintaining the way things were. That will give us mediocre outcomes. Our goal needs to be innovative and transformative.

The contest is open to all Livonia residents. The winner will receive a $500 cash prize and will be noted as the Livonia 75 Committee’s designer on the website. The winning submission becomes the sole property of the Livonia 75 Committee during the Livonia 75 timeframe. The logo will be used on the Livonia 75 website, social media, posters, printed materials, gifts, novelty items, FridayMusings masthead, or anywhere else the Livonia 75 Committee deems appropriate.The contest opens on MAY 1, 2024 and closes on MAY 31, 2024 at 11:50 p.m.