Misattributed quote

Dear Editor,
There was a quote attributed to me in the article “More work for Depot bridge” on page 1 of Sept. 7 edition. This was a mistake on the News’ part as I never made this statement nor did I make any statement at the special meeting concerning the work on the bridge. This quote should have been attributed to Cory Johnston, who actually made the statement. None of the words quoted were mine.
I understand City Manager Carol Eberhardt was pretty upset over this and rightfully so, if I had actually made the statement. This, in and of itself, is what upsets me the most. I have known Carol for over 30 years and have always considered her a friend and hope to always have her friendship. I would never want to hurt her or offend her in any manner. I hope she feels comfortable enough to call me out if I do. This does not mean we will always agree on issues and the business of getting things done, however; at the end of the day we should still be friends.
I understand from the city manager, City Council members were discussing this statement and how, if I actually had made the statement, it raised doubts concerning my integrity and my agenda. I also, now know, why all the cold shoulders over the past few days came my way. The city manager indicated there were many phone calls concerning this statement as well as citizens coming into the City Hall to complain or get clarification.
City Council members, please know I have the utmost desire to work as a team member with you all. I have made myself available and spent time being tutored by the city manager and others these past few months. I want to be better prepared for the task that may come my way as a result of elections in November. I stand ready to discuss any issue council feels I need to be involved with. Or any item of concern the city residents may need assistance with. My goal is to work with you (all of you) in the next few years (in whatever capacity I may find myself). No hidden agenda here folks, none.
My integrity is well founded and very difficult to shake; my resolve is even stronger. If any of you ever feel that what I may have said (done, or will do) is not acceptable to you, please feel free to call me on it, immediately. I acted immediately and contacted The Clarkston News and was assured a correction would be made in the next edition. I ask you call me on issues immediately so resolution can be accomplished without tarnishing others motives or intent. For three days, instead of open discussion about the validity of the News’ article and the quote in question, there were insinuation of hidden agendas and inappropriate questioning of my honesty and abilities.
It was relayed to me there were indignant attacks on my character. Why? What did I do wrong? Nothing, as it was not my quote. I spoke with council members, the mayor, and the city manager several times via phone calls and e-mails and nothing was said concerning the quote in the News. However, behind the scenes there were many conversations concerning it. This is unfortunate and caused my reputation and motives to be viewed as questionable.
This must stop and communications must improve. There were even doubts The Clarkston News would ever make a statement to correct the ownership of the quote. Doubts this Letter to the Editor would happen. Folks, The Clarkston News is part of our communications process and our relationship with them needs to improve as well. I am confident it will drastically improve in the coming months.
We have a very bright future in front of us. I hope the next few years are fruitful for our city and that we work hard together, with our committees and special groups, to maintain our city’s charm and bring an even higher sense of community to our home. I am committed to that and will work tirelessly to achieve it.
My e-mail is scpdap@aol.com and I frequently check e-mails and will reply within 24 hours. Please, feel free to e-mail me and or call if you have any concerns I need to address, now or in the future.
Steve Percival
Clarkston

Family history invite

Dear Editor,
You are invited to participate in a project which speaks to the quality and character of this community. It is the identification of the descendants of ancestors who have lived in the Independence/Clarkston area for at least 100 years!
Lots of research has been, and is being, done identifying ancestors, but little has been, or is being, done to identify those current residents whose families have lived here for at least a century.
Let me give you a couple of examples. Jack Bailey is an Independence Township fireman. His ancestors came to the township in 1830; and, his neighbors/cousins are the ninth generation of the family to reside here.
Chuck Robertson is a retired pharmaceutical executive who lives in the Clarkston home once owned by his parents, in a subdivision created by his grandfather, whose father was a physician in the city in 1880. Chuck is a fourth generation resident.
Then, there are the descendants of the Clark, Follett, White, Bullen, etc., families.
I am inviting you to help identify the many current residents who are descendants of earlier residents. Such information helps us identify the legacy of those who came before you and, thereby, contributed to the heritage of this community.
And, a way will be found to recognize these descendants! If you can help with this project, please contact me at tkstone@aol.com. Thank you!
Tom Stone
Clarkston