The summer storm that hit the VEHA the week of July 14 (complete with a brief power outage)changed our Vinsetta landscape, downing one of the last Willow trees that remained on our median. This old tree, across from Bicycle Hill Park, was one that my daughters and I visited frequently throughout the years. As tots, they would climb up between its tri-trunks and jump down into my arms. In later years, it was a regular stop on our walks where we'd pause for a drink and to just enjoy the beauty of our neighborhood.
Nature changes constantly - old trees fall, and new ones sprout. While it was sad to see this old friend fall, it reminded me that it's important to enjoy each step on our journey through the landscape around us and appreciate all the beauty our neighborhood offers us all!
Happy summer!
Dan Saad, VEHA Memo Editor
Neighborhood Updates
Rabid skunks have been confirmed, in two cases, in Royal Oak this season. A family dog, not vaccinated against rabies, contracted the disease from a skunk bite. Several other skunks, witnessed acting abnormally, were destroyed and their remains sent for testing. If you observe any animals acting abnormally this summer, call the Royal Oak Police at 248-246-3500 and report it.
For more information on rabies, call Oakland County Health and Human Services at 248-858-1406, or toll-free at 1-800-848-5533. For information on animal testing, call the Oakland County Health Division - Communicable Disease Unit at 248-858-1286 or toll-free at 1-888-350-0900, ext. 8-1286.
Raccoons, including a mother with four young, have been sighted on Pinehurst climbing trees and rummaging through garbage cans. Several years ago, raccoons took up residence in some Pinehurst attics and chimneys. The City of Royal Oak has no services to trap and relocate raccoons. Residents with raccoon problems must contact a private pest control company.
If you have an e-mail address and wish to get regular e-mail updates from the City of Royal Oak, including Police Updates, go to www.ci.royal-oak.mi.us/portal/content/e-mail-notification and sign up.
VEHA Picnic - On Again in 2010
Our neighborhood picnic will be held at Waterworks Park (Beechwood and Magnolia) on Saturday, July 17 (rain date, Sunday, July 18) at noon. Instead of bringing your own lunch, just bring a dish to pass for 8-10 neighbors and your own (non-alcoholic) beverages. The Parks Department will put out picnic tables for us, so you don't have to bring your own tables and chairs. Paper goods and flatware will be provided by the VEHA. This is a wonderful way to get re-acquainted with old friends and to meet new neighbors - we hope to see you there!
