The Ville - August 2023

Northville’s News and Lifestyle Magazine

New Coach, Big NewExpectations Era,

Brent Luplow ready to put his stamp on Mustangs football

Vita Vizachero

Vita Vizachero

Vita has lived in the Northville / Novi community since 1989. Some of her local favorites are Table 5, Pooles, Rocky’s, and Cantoro’s on Haggerty.

Vita has lived in the Northville / Novi community since 1989. Some of her local favorites are Table 5, Pooles, Rocky’s, and Cantoro’s on Haggerty.

vvizachero@billbrownford.com

John DesOrmeau

John DesOrmeau

John has lived in the Northville / Novi community since 1987. Some of his local favorites are Rocky’s, Custard Time, Guernsey’s and the Pizza Cutter.

John has lived in the Northville / Novi community since 1987. Some of his local favorites are Rocky’s, Custard Time, Guernsey’s and the Pizza Cutter.

jdesormeau@billbrownford.com

vvizachero@billbrownford.com

Office:(734) 524-2711

Office:(734) 524-2711

Office:(734) 524-2720

jdesormeau@billbrownford.com

Office:(734) 524-2720

Please consider a donation to support The 'Ville. Since we began publishing more than five years ago, our goal has been to provide our readers with valuable information about the Northville community each and every month. Your support helps that mission survive and grow.

And while The 'Ville is sent to every address in Northville at no cost to readers, it is not free to produce.

LOCAL Matters! is the foundation of this magazine. If you find it of value, please consider supporting it. Every little bit helps! Please send donations to:

Journeyman Publishing

16435 Franklin

Northville, MI 48168

You can also make donations via PayPal to kurtkuban@gmail.com.

Thank you in advance.

Publisher

Here is a list of people who contributed to local journalism last month. We appreciate your support!

John & Terrie Karebian

J.J. Lineman

John & Margaret Roebuck

ADVERTISE IN THE ‘VILLE

Our locally-owned publication is an affordable way to reach the Northville Market. We direct mail to all 21,000 addresses in the 48167 & 48168 zip codes.

To secure space in The ‘Ville, contact Scott at (313) 399-5231 or scott@streetmktg.com.

SCOTT BUIE - Advertising Director/VP of Sales

For more than 20 years Scott has worked with clients in Metro Detroit to create advertising campaigns to grow their business. After managing sales for radio stations in the Detroit Market for 17 years he purchased Street Marketing where he works closely with a variety of businesses and events. Scott and his family have lived in the Plymouth and Northville area for 25 years.

KURT KUBAN – Editor/Publisher

Kurt Kuban is an award-winning journalist, having served as a reporter and editor for several local newspapers and magazines, including The Northville Record, over the course of a career spanning more than two decades. Kurt lives in Northville with his wife, Cheryl, and their three children, all products of Northville Public Schools.

CRAIG WHEELER – Creative Director

Craig has been in the creative industry for over 30 years. He has developed a diverse background in that time, but publication design has been his passion during the past 20 years. Craig enjoys chasing his young daughter and providing moral support to his lovely wife.

MICHELE FECHT – Writer

Michele Fecht is a longtime journalist whose first post-college reporter position was at The Northville Record before moving on to The Detroit News. A 30-plus year resident of the City of Northville and historic (old) house owner, she is an author, researcher, local history enthusiast, and community activist/advocate.

WENSDY VON BUSKIRK – Writer

Wensdy graduated with a degree in journalism from Wayne State University. Her first job was working as a reporter for The Northville Record. Now, as a freelance writer and editor, she works for a variety of magazines, and is excited to get back to her roots in The ‘Ville. -Photo by Kathleen Voss

MARIA TAYLOR – Writer

Maria is managing editor at The ACHR NEWS, a B2B publication based in Troy. She has worked as a reporter for the Northville Record, Novi News and Plymouth Observer, and once had her photo on the cover of TIME. She lives in Farmington and, as a self-avowed history nerd, routinely risks her life by standing in the road to photograph old buildings.

TIM SMITH - Writer

Tim brings a penchant for telling powerful and personal stories that run the gamut from news to sports. During more than 35 years in journalism, he has earned numerous state and national awards. The Wayne State grad is a published author and rec ice hockey player.

LARRY O'CONNOR – Writer

Larry is a metro Detroit area journalist whose work has appeared in The Detroit News, Jackson Citizen Patriot and the Observer & Eccentric Newspapers. When he’s not meticulously chronicling people or events, he’s avidly rooting for his favorite soccer teams –Manchester United and Glasgow Celtic.

JOHN C. HEIDER – Photographer

John is a 25-year veteran of the Northville Record and other Detroitarea newspapers. In addition to his photography, he's an amateur gardener, poet and fly-fisherman. He also claims to have invented the metric system.

BRYAN MITCHELL - Photographer

Bryan started working as a photographer more than 30 years ago, and was the Northville Record photographer in the 90's. He has freelanced for The Detroit News, The Guardian, Reuters, and other publications. His photography has appeared in newspapers and magazines around the globe. The Northville resident also coaches mountain biking at Northville High School.

Good luck, Coach!

Before sitting down to bang out this column, I was at the football scrimmage between Northville High and Saginaw Heritage on the morning of Aug. 17. Actually, I was working on the chain gang, which I will be doing all season for the Mustangs home games. My youngest son, Kaden, is on the team and I volunteered to do it this year.

So, I had a pretty good view of the team, and its new head coach, Brent Luplow. While it was a scrimmage, it was his first time leading the Mustangs in game-like action. In fact, it was his first time as a head coach of any football program. He formally served as offensive coordinator at nemesis Brighton High, where he had a lot of success – something Mustang Nation knows too well.

Luplow replaces Matt Ladach, who spent 15 years as the Mustangs head coach. Ladach had a successful tenure, winning plenty of games and division championships. However, he

was never able to guide the team to any district playoff titles, something Luplow hopes to remedy.

He is full of enthusiasm, is clearly well-prepared and brings plenty of promise and confidence.

It won’t be easy, though. In addition to being a first time head coach, there are high expectations in Northville -regardless of the sport. And that is something he is going to have to learn to navigate. The job isn’t just about X’s and O’s. In fact, that’s probably the easiest part.

Luplow is installing new concepts on offense and defense, and they will be put to the test quickly with a contest against a tough Clarkston team on opening night at the Big House (Michigan Stadium). Talk about starting off with a bang.

We’ve got a preview of the team and the 2023 season in this issue beginning on page 18.

Bottom line, the team should be solid this year. They’ve got a lot of returners from a team

that finished 8-3 and won a playoff game last year. Barring injuries, the team should contend for a division title in the Kensington Lakes Activities Association west division. Maybe Luplow can get the team over the hump and win a district championship, which will probably mean beating rival Catholic Central.

Those are certainly the goals of everyone in the program.

If I had any advice to give Coach Luplow it’s to never forget that the program is all about the kids, no matter how much you (and the parents) want to win. Developing them into responsible, confident and quality young men has to be the overriding goal of the program. If you are able to do that, the other things will take care of themselves.

I know Coach Luplow knows this. But maybe all the parents and fans need to be reminded as well.

Good luck, Coach Luplow, as you take the team into this new era. I know the community is behind you, and they will surely fill the stands over on Eight Mile. As for me, I’ll have a pretty good view of things on the sideline.

Let’s go Mustangs!

Kurt Kuban is the Publisher and Editor of The ‘Ville. He welcomes your comments at kurtkuban@thevillemagazine. com.

ON THE COVER: New Northville High football coach Brent Luplow is ready for the Friday night lights at the stadium on Eight Mile, which has new turf this season. Photo by Bryan Mitchell

Ladkas of Summer A Sports Fan's Paradise

Legacy Park Taking Shape

Light not needed

To add to the congestion on Beck Road, a new functioning traffic light has been added at Technology Drive. If I count correctly, we now have six traffic lights between Beck Road and the entrance to M-14. I could understand the additional light if there was a need. In the last two weeks I have been stopped at that light numerous times and have yet to see a car enter or cross 6 Mile from Technology Drive.

Thomas Doyle

Meijer yes, track no

Northville Township needs a grocery store like Meijer. They offer an excellent selection and fair pricing. It will bring a nice tax base not to mention the extra jobs. As for a race track on Five Mile, the generation for horse racing is coming to an end. Millennials just haven’t picked that up as a sport or function they attend. All you have to do is go to Northville and watch the amount of cars going to activities at Northville Downs. I think the land could be used in a more beneficial way for the township and community.

Mike Sucharski

Rowing team excelled

I read the NHS Sports Round-Up article in the July edition of The ‘Ville that highlighted the successes of the spring teams. I just want to add to the accomplishments highlighted in the article. Northville High School’s rowing team won the State Championships on May 20, and had its first ever national champion boat at the SRAA Nationals in Oak Ridge, Tennessee on May 27. The rowing team did so well that the Midwest Scholastic Rowing Association awarded Northville the Team Improvement Award for 2023. I encourage you to view the team’s accomplishments on its website northvillerowing.org or follow them on Instagram or Facebook via Northville Rowing.

Congratulations to all of the athletes at Northville High School!

Times change

Meg Ivey

In Kurt Kuban’s column last month about the National Parks you used the term “foreign visitors.” While this was widely accepted several years ago, it is now considered insensitive. A better term might be “international visitors.” I, too, was reminded about this at the library where I volunteer. We used to call some book categories “foreign languages.” It’s now “world languages.” Times change. Sensitivities change. We have to change, too.

Many thanks for your columns.

Tremendous turnout

A huge thank you to The ‘Ville and the wonderful folks in Northville and surrounding communities for supporting our fundraising efforts through the Northville Garden Walk. We were blessed with a beautiful day and a tremendous turnout! We greatly appreciate the support. The proceeds go into the community through Northville High School scholarships, local and national gardening projects.

Thank you!

Diane Cupps

Kathryn Novak Country Garden Club of Northville

Maud Grobben, Megan Lauster, Megan Gibbons and Allison Philips won a national competition back in May in Tennessee. Photo courtesy of Northville Rowing

Celebrating 38 years in downtown Northville!

Northville Physical Rehabilitation is a full service outpatient rehab practice offering physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy services.

Our clinic on Main Street is one of the largest private outpatient rehab facilities in Michigan, with over 9,000 square feet of state-of-the-art rehab equipment. We utilize the newest treatment techniques for a wide spectrum of orthopedic, neurological diagnosis, as well as work and sports-related injuries. Our therapy team will develop customized programs to treat limitations resulting from illness, injury, developmental problems or simply the aging process.

• Arthritis

• Neck and Back Pain

• Pulmonary Rehab

• Stroke Brain Injury

• Occupational Therapy

• Work & Auto Injuries

• TMJ

• Chronic Pelvic Pain

• Orthopedic Disorders

• Neurological Rehab

• Sports Injuries

• Hydrotherapy

• Vestibular Rehab Therapy

• In-Home Physical Therapy

• Lymphedema Care

• Speech Therapy

Our hours are Monday-Friday 7 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Call today to request an appointment and be seen within 24-48 hours. All insurance plans are welcome.

Stop in for a personal tour of the facility, as not all facilities are the same and your health is too important not to compare.

Legacy Park Taking Shape

Township making progress on major projects for former hospital site

By Larry O’Connor | Photos by John Heider

A135-foot-tall water tower stands as a symbol of progress, a tangible measure of what lies ahead for Northville’s highly anticipated 350-acre Legacy Park.

The white spheroid-shaped beacon is surrounded by swathes of unkempt buckthorn trees and punctuated by mounds of broken concrete, twisted metal and unearthed soil. The rubble signals a pivotal stage in the township’s 14-year effort to transform the former state psychiatric hospital property into a gleaming community asset.

“People will start seeing it all come together within the next year,” said Bob Belair, Northville Township Public Services director and overseeing the massive project.

Once completed, Legacy Park is anticipated to become the crown jewel in the Northville Parks and Recreation Department portfolio while also serving as a conduit to state-owned Maybury Park and Wayne County’s Hines Park.

GREEN SPACE

The sprawling green space is designed for passive use, leveraging the site’s natural beauty for leisurely pursuits like walking, hiking, jogging and biking. At least 17.5 miles of trails are designated for nonmotorized use.

Residents shared ideas on Legacy Park features they would like to see during an open house on Aug. 3 at Northville City Hall.

Northville Parks and Recreation Department officials are gathering community input while developng a five-year Master Plan, which will serve as a blueprint for Legacy Park’s development.

Township resident Kathy Northcutt suggested planners produce a monthly newsletter so people can track the project’s progress.

“There is so much going on,” said Northcutt, a 32-year resident who lives on Maxwell Street near the Seven Mile site. Northcutt also lobbied park officials to keep artifacts -flagpole and historical marker

A sign greets visitors at Legacy Park (above). At top, an artistic drawing of the township’s new 60,000-square-foot Essential Services Complex, which will house public safety and public works headquarters and a second fire station that will be located on 15 acres of Legacy Park.

Northville Township is saving one building from the former psychiatric hospital complex.

— from the psychiatric hospital, which opened to much fanfare in 1952.

“Every time I leave the neighborhood, I see the flagpole is there,” Northcutt said. “It reminds me of what they did at Tiger Stadium when they took it down.”

The township bought the Northville Regional Psychiatric Hospital property from Schostak Brothers and Co., and partner REI Investment Group Inc. for $23.5 million in 2009 with money from a 2009 voterapproved millage.

“The concept was that this will be the last piece of land that the township will ever need,” Northville Township Supervisor Mark Abbo said.

NEW TOWNSHIP BUILDINGS

Planners carved out a 15-acre parcel for the township’s new 60,000-square-foot Essential Services Complex, which will house public safety and public works headquarters and a second fire station. An adjoining 100-space parking lot will serve a trailhead for recreational users.

The complex’s $36 million cost will be covered by a $17.5 million bond issue and from existing funds, including $3 million from the 2022 American Rescue Plan, Abbo said. Construction will start later this year.

The township continues to seek grants and other funding to pay for the park’s recreational amenities.

“Everybody’s really, really enthusiastic about what we can do at Legacy Park, and we want to get the ball rolling,” the township supervisor said.

A looming water tower further speaks to the hospital site’s utility.

The $6.8 million reservoir complements the township Water Department’s 161-foot water tank on Beck Road, north of Five Mile. The new tower

will go online next spring once it passes inspection.

Strategically, the second 500,000-gallon tank will enable the township Water Department to conserve the Great Lakes Water Authoritysupplied resource when rates are less expensive. Those reserves will flow to customer water taps during peak hours, when GLWA sets rates for communities.

A few years ago, township officials considered linking up with Livonia, Westland,

Plymouth and Canton townships to form a water authority, Abbo said. The township opted to build another holding tank instead.

The second tower will save the township Water and Sewer Fund $1 million annually, according to a preliminary engineering study.

“So the payback is real quick on it,” Abbo said. “The cost (to build a second water tower) was about $7 million, but the million dollars a year in savings is forever.”

DEMOLITION

Along with splashes, Legacy Park’s evolution has been highlighted by crashes — as in the sound of empty buildings getting leveled.

Demolition started in 2012 and proceeded as money became available. The hospital complex contained 22 buildings and a water tower, power station and underground utility tunnels when the township assumed ownership.

Northville Hospital’s ninestory and 252,174-square-foot treatment center was torn down in 2018. This summer, contractors finished leveling 10 of the remaining 11 structures.

Building 14 is the sole edifice spared from the wrecking ball. The vacant 15,000-square-foot

Continued on Page 8

Northville Township Supervisor Mark Abbo (left) and public services director Bob Belair stand near the township’s new water tower on the Legacy Park property.

An artist’s rendering of the new fire station, which will serve the eastern side of town.

‘Ville

structure housed the hospital’s laundry operations, said Belair while providing a tour of the Seven Mile Road site.

The interior remains gutted while its walls are strafed with graffiti. The abandoned premises became a popular vandalism target after the hospital closed in 2003.

“There have definitely been some kids in here,” said the public services director, brandishing a flashlight to illuminate the spray-painted musings.

Vandalism hides the structure’s greater potential, township officials said.

Champagne-shaped pillars extend to a sturdy roof on the 15,000-square-foot facility, which includes two sets of restrooms and a half-basement. The gaping structure could be converted into an open pavilion or an art gallery, Belair said.

“The term that’s often used is it was a building that had good bones,” Abbo said. “It just seemed a shame if we had to destroy it because it was a very strong structure. So we thought that we’d save it and try to utilize it for something in the

future.”

Revitalization is a constant theme throughout Legacy Park’s birth.

Specialized contractors removed toxic materials — including paints and solvents — and remediated asbestos contamination, which bogged down the comprehensive demolition project. In 2021, township board trustees approved a $12 million bond sale to shift the razing project into high gear.

Last year, contractors completed environmental clean-up at six structures, setting the stage for this summer’s final teardown.

Remaining debris has value.

Workers are busy salvaging metals and pulverizing concrete into 1- to 3-inch stone, which will be sold for road paving aggregate. Excavated soil accumulated around the site will be reused as backfill, the public services director said.

The township is joining forces with forestry experts and the state Department of Natural Resources in devising a plan to clear brush and overgrown weeds, Belair said.

“They are going after it,” he said.

Q: How to prepare your skin for back-to-school season?

We are always here to help with all your skincare needs. However as back to school season fast approaches, we would like to share tips on managing expected skin breakouts that can help with one less thing to worry about during school season!

Facial Acne

A combination of prescription medicines whether lotions, cream, with or without oral medications can be fast and efficient in controlling acne to avoid future scars. If milder acne is present and scarring is less of a concern, a combination of aesthetic treatments and a daily skin regimen can promote rapid cell turnover, thus leading to less uneven pigmentation, less clogging up of pores, and healthier skin. A patient favorite is a monthly hydrafacial or acne peel with a daily skin regimen that includes the use of a retinol of the correct strength and a daily moisturizer with sunscreen.

Eczema

As fall approaches, oftentimes the seasonal itchy skin peeling occurs. Whether on the palms of hands or soles of feet, we can prep our patients by continuing a daily exfoliative moisturizer we can give by prescription or recommend an available over the counter product. For moderate flares of eczema with more itch symptoms, keeping a tube of prescription anti-inflammatory cream on hand would be a good idea. For those away from home at school, you may need this prescription on hand in case of emergency when flares that are super itchy happen due to stress or the dryness of the season. If you need further help with your rash or other skincare options, schedule an appointment (virtual appointments are also available) with board certified dermatologist Dr. Kartono at MI Skin Center at (248) 963-5915 or info@drkartono.com.

Tuesday late hours available until 7:00 pm Saturday hours available

Dr. Francisca Kartono, DO Board Certified Dermatologist

THELADKASSUMMER OF

Andrew Koilpillai started playing cricket with his dad in the yard of their home in his native India.

Five decades later, he’s still at it.

Koilpillai, who lives in Northville, is part of a burgeoning number of players taking up the game in Michigan, helping the Michigan Cricket Association grow from just four teams at its inception to more than 90 teams now.

Why all the love for a sport comparatively few Americans know much about?

“That’s like asking (Americans) why they like baseball,” he said, smiling. “It’s in the blood. I like being part of the team. It’s a relaxing day, you don’t have much of anything else going on.”

It’s a passion developing more quickly in the U.S. than ever, according to Koilpillai, who points out that continuing immigration to the United States is helping drive his favorite sport’s popularity.

Cricket, played with a bat and ball by competing teams of 11 players each, is the national summer sport in England and is popular in English colonies.

Koilpillai points out it’s a cultural sport, popular in places such as Australia, India (his native country), Pakistan, the West

With area’s changing demographics cricket’s popularity growing

By Brad Kadrich |

by Bill Bresler

“You can build relationships with people from everywhere,” said Rahman, chairman of the Michigan Cricket Association, the sport’s largest representative in the state. “(Immigrants) are here playing, so when I play I can meet people from other countries. Cricket is a cultural thing.”

Cricket is played with a flat bat (Koilpillai likened it to a large ping-pong paddle) and ball. It’s a high scoring game (one game Koilpillai described ended up in a 191-133 final score) that takes anywhere from three to six hours or more to play.

The field is oval with a rectangular area in the middle, known as the pitch, that is 22 yards by 10 feet wide. Koilpillai said the oval is some 70 yards across.

“It takes skill, it’s fun, you have to be in shape,” he said. “It’s like baseball, there’s a lot of hand-eye coordination that goes into it.”

Indies and the British Isles.

Tayefur Rahman, who has been associated with the sport for more than 30 years as a player, coach and administrator, said the migration of people from countries where the sport is popular allows players to form bonds and friendships with other players.

MAKING A PITCH

Rahman said the Michigan Cricket Association started in the early 2000s with just four teams. But it’s popularity has grown to the point where the association now has some 92 teams featuring some 1,600 players, including teams in four youth

Photos

Standing (from left) are Prabhav Katari, Vijay Patel, and Andy Koilpillai, all of Northville. Kneeling are Sundaresh Ram of Ann Arbor and Pranav Katari of Northville.

Northville’s Pranav Katari, a “bowler”, winds up to deliver a ball.

Andy Koilpillai bats during a recent cricket match.

leagues.

The problem hasn’t been finding players; it’s been finding places for them to play. It’s not as hard as it used to be. Mich-CA had only four or five fields when it started in 2001.

Now, Mich-CA has nine fields – including fields in Grand Rapids and Toledo, Ohio –on which it plays its Saturday and Sunday games.

“This is the hard part … getting a cricket field,” Rahman said. “We find some land and put a pitch on it so people can play.”

Mich-CA plays on fields at Heritage Park in Canton, at Bloomer Park in Rochester Hills, and on fields in Pontiac, Hamtramck and Detroit (on Belle Isle).

But thus far, Canton is the only municipality that has dedicated fields for the sport. Rahman said the association recently pitched the Northville community, and there is help on the way here.

Northville Township officials approved the creation of a cricket field in Millenium Park on 6 Mile at their July 20 meeting.

Township supervisor Mark Abbo said the field will be installed by this winter and will overlay a soccer field, so the biggest challenge will be managing time between the two sports.

“Anything to get our people active, and this is one more opportunity that we’ll be able to offer our residents,” Abbo said, noting they are also looking to provide pickle ball courts in the near future.

Debra Bilbrey-Honsowetz, who served a year as interim parks and recreation director for Northville before the hiring of Derek Smith last month, noted the recent formation of a Northville cricket club and a changing demographic that makes a new cricket pitch a viable idea.

“It’s a growing sport and there aren’t many fields,” Bilbrey-Honsowetz said. “The community demographics are changing and supporting that kind of activity … seems like a good fit for the community.”

Koilpillai pointed out that nearly all communities, for instance, have baseball fields available. He’s hoping Mich-CA can find the same acceptance for cricket fields.

“We want to work with municipalities to give us some fields,” he said. “There are baseball fields all over. We just need some dedicated grounds.

“It doesn’t necessarily have to be in the city,” he added. “It can be anywhere (in the metro area). It could be a partnership; we would rent it, we’d want them to maintain it, cut the grass, or if they want us to maintain it, we could lease it from them.”

PLAYERS COMMITTED

Maybe that goal will be reachable if the sport’s popularity continues to grow in the U.S. It’s already popular overseas; Rahman likened it to the popularity of soccer’s World

Cup.

That popularity may be creeping into the U.S., which will co-host the 2024 Cricket World Cup (along with the West Indies).

“People didn’t understand (cricket) in the past,” Rahman said. “Now people know and understand the excitement in the game, and they like it.”

Cricket players prove the primary point of the baseball movie, “Field of Dreams” nearly every weekend: If you build it, they will come. Players from metro Detroit, for instance, often make the two-hour drive to Grand Rapids to play a 3- or 6-hour game.

It makes for a pretty long day.

“It’s a full day,” Koilpillai said, laughing. “Everyone’s enthusiastic, and they’re committed.”

Players like Rahman have been committed for a long time. Associated with cricket since childhood in his native Bangladesh, he’s been playing more than 30 years.

He moved to the United States in 2010 and, three years later, began organizing cricket leagues. He became secretary of Mich-CA in 2020 and is now the group’s chairman.

“It’s kind of my life,” Rahman said. “I like the teamwork, it has excitement everywhere. It’s teamwork, patience ... the way you play, everything is there in cricket.”

For more information about the Michigan Cricket Association, visit www. cricclubs.com/MichCA. You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter.

ASSORTMENT ,

& AFFORDABLE

When it comes to creativity, outstanding credentials and a history of excellent client services, Las Vegas Stone has set the bar high. Working with us, you can count on a qualified team for not only planning and design of any project, but also material distribution and installation. The exquisite products we offer in all of our showrooms allows us to empower and work with our clients to make their dream design a reality. Our goal is to provide first-class quality craftsmanship in a cost-efficient manner, achieving 100% client satisfaction.

Editor’s note: The Northville-based New Hope Center for Grief Support hosted its 8th annual Kid’s Camp July 20-21 at Maybury Farm for children (ages 4-14) who have lost a loved one. More than 100 kids attended this. We sent out our photographer Bryan Mitchell to document some of the activities. New Hope Executive Director Jennifer Frush wrote this summary of the annual event.

Hope, Healing and New Beginnings

New Hope summer camp helps children face their grief

By Jennifer Frush | Photos by Bryan Mitchell

“Tackling Grief with New Hope” was an incredible success and helped bereaved children find a safe space to do the grief work. Our theme this year -- “Tackle Your Grief with New Hope” -- was created to help campers find the courage to face their grief, practice to get stronger, and experience perseverance to grow through it.

Our camp is designed to

help grieving children connect with other grieving children to learn they are not alone in grief, learn about the emotions and reactions associated with grief so they feel better prepared to handle them with healthy coping strategies when they arise, and to grow through the grief journey by sharing their stories and hearing those of others.

This year we had 117 campers

and the support of over 130 volunteers to help bring hope, healing, and new beginnings to children impacted by the death of a loved one. There were nine stations the kids rotated through over the course of two days. Each activity was designed to open up dialogue about the emotions of grief. We are grateful for the donors, sponsors, grantors, community partners, and supports of New

Hope for helping make this possible.

It’s hard to believe that Michigan has one of the highest children bereavement estimate models in the country. One in 11 children are bereaved by the death of a parent or sibling in the home before the age of 18, compared to the national average of 1 in 14. In Wayne County that number drops to 1 in 9 children.

Ellie kept her stuffed animal with her during the camp.

There were lots of activities for the campers, including a yoga session. Charleigh feeds a pony some grass.

New Hope’s vision as a bereavement resource center is to provide support for children, adults, and families across Southeastern Michigan who are grieving the death of a loved one. We offer numerous peer support programs, education, resources, and more recently we began offering school-based programs and grief sensitivity training. Our services are always free of charge to

participants, and we welcome all grieving the death of a loved one.

If you are looking for support, know someone that could benefit from our services, want to get involved, donate, or would like more information please visit our website at newhopecenter.net or call our office at (248) 348-0115.

Carter does some yoga at the camp.

Akai puts a hand print on a pony to represent leaving an impression on its heart.

New Coach, New Era, Big Expectations

Mustangs buying into Brent Luplow’s football philosophy

By Brad Emons |

by Bryan Mitchell

Northville High football isn’t undergoing a complete makeover heading into the 2023 season, but under the guidance of first-year coach Brent Luplow, there will be at least some cosmetic changes.

After spending the past four seasons as Brighton’s offensive coordinator, the 29-year-old Luplow is bringing a different look to the Mustangs, especially on the offensive side of the ball.

“We’re going be more personnel-based,” Luplow said. “We’re going to play out of a handful of different personnel packages with different types of kids coming into the game depending on what kind of formation we’re in. We’re going to be more formation heavy and we’re going to try to be and look very complex to a defense, but be basic and have our base plays

that we run out of different formations.”

Matt Ladach, who stepped down after an 8-3 season and second-place finish in the KLAA West Division in 2022, finished his Northville coaching career

with an 89-56 overall record. It included nine playoff berths and four KLAA Central Division titles. And in passing the torch, he left Luplow a cupboard well-stocked with returning and experienced players.

“I think it’s a transition,” Luplow said, “but the best thing about them is that they’re willing to see change through and willing to trust us and understand that we’re trying to put them in the best position to be successful, and win in this league, a tough league where you have to be doing multiple things. You just can’t do your own thing. They’ve bought in really well and we’ve been very pleased with that.”

All-KLAA selection

Graham Gilmartin, a 6-foot-1, 244-pound senior, anchors the offensive line. And it’s been a learning curve as far as getting up to speed with the new techniques in the offense.

“I don’t want to get into too much detail, but this year we’re doing a lot more quick hitting run plays than last year and I

Photos

Senior Ferris Jordan closes in on a teammate during defensive line drills.

think we’ll be more of a running team this year,” said Gilmartin, who has had interest from Carnegie Mellon University (Pa.). “That’s coach Luplow’s scheme. It doesn’t change a lot, but we get to be more aggressive that’s for sure. It’s fun.”

Junior defensive back/ running back Drew Rankin also returns after starting his sophomore year on the varsity.

“It’s just going to take coming more together as a team and buying in to the new philosophy,” said the 5-10, 175-pound Rankin of the offense. “On the defensive side it hasn’t been a huge adjustment. We’re bringing back all of our coaches and then we have a new defensive coordinator. On the defensive side, not too big of a deal, but on the offensive side, totally new scheme, totally different. It’s been a lot of learning.”

Other key returnees on

offense include seniors Caleb Moore (running back), Nick Helner (wide receiver), Caden Besco (tight end) and Robbie Schuckel (offensive line), along with junior Colin Charles (wide receiver).

The triggerman at quarterback will be 5-10, 155-pound senior Isaac Pace, who takes over for the graduated Luca Prior (Calvin University).

“We’ll be under center and we will be in the shotgun,”

said Luplow, who brought Ed Dreslinski over from Brighton to be his offensive coordinator. “We’ll mix it up depending on the game and we’ll take what they give us and we’ll put an emphasis running the ball physically and take what they give us through the air.”

And if there’s a reason the defense is ahead of the offense heading into the season opener Aug. 25 against Clarkston at the Battle of the Big House (Michigan Stadium), it’s

because the Mustangs return a slew of experience.

Among the returnees on the defensive side of the ball include Gilmartin (end), Besco (outside linebacker), seniors Owen Ross (middle linebacker), Evan Deak (outside linebacker), Cooper Hoffman (middle linebacker), Ferris Jordan (line), Cullen Murphy (secondary), Sonny Rentz (secondary) along with junior Hassan Elzayat. (Rentz will also handle the kicking duties.)

“It really hasn’t changed a whole lot,” Luplow said. “We thought they were really good last year there and we wanted to kind of keep those pieces together as much as possible. A new defensive coordinator (Matthew Sexton) -- came from Canton High School -- he ran their defense the last few years

Continued on Page 20

Graham Gilmartin

Northville senior lineman and team captain

I think this team can be one of the best we’ve seen in a long time here at this school for sure. I know. I was on this team two years ago. It was kind of the same mindset that we had and we were just kind overconfident coming into the year. We went 3-6, so it didn’t turn out good at all. I know this team. We have the same attitude, but we’re willing to go and do the stuff that we need to do and become a good team this year.”

Coach Brent Luplow flanked by captains Graham Gilmartin (left) and Drew Rankin (right).

Photo by Brad Emons

at Canton. The philosophy and the scheme has stayed very similar to what it was last year.”

Among the promising newcomers for Luplow include juniors Cole Attanasio (linebacker/tight end) and Kaden Kuban (linebacker/ running back), along with sophomore Max DeFore (running back).

“I think this team can be one of the best we’ve seen in a long time here at this school for sure,” Gilmartin said. “I know. I was on this team two years ago. It was kind of the same mindset that we had and we were just kind overconfident coming into the year. We went 3-6, so it didn’t turn out good at all. I know this team. We have the same attitude, but we’re willing

to go and do the stuff that we need to do and become a good team this year.”

Meanwhile, reviews have been positive for the new head coach from the players’ perspective.

“I like him a lot,” Rankin said. “He’s a great guy, great coach, super smart. He knows a ton about schemes, everything like that, super good.”

Northville opens its season Aug. 25 against Division 1 state semifinalist Clarkston in the Battle of the Big House at U-M Stadium.

“There’s nothing better than the Big House,” Luplow said. “I’ve coached there twice as a coach at Brighton, so I’m kind of familiar with the day and what’s going to happen there. It’s your first event and here you go. Expecting a huge turnout from

the community and the kids are excited.”

Luplow believes he’s found the right program to embark on during his first season as a varsity head coach.

“It’s been really good, enjoy the community and I think it’s a good fit so far,” he said.

“I’m very pleased with the type of kid, the type of family, the type of community member I’ve encountered since I got the job. It’s been really good. We’ve enjoyed it here and we’re excited to see what the next few months hold.”

Senior left-handed QB Isaac Pace will lead the Mustangs offense this year.

NOW PROUDLY IN DOWNTOWN NORTHVILLE

At @properties Christie’s International Real Estate, our in-house marketing and technology teams produce best-in-class programs and products that give home sellers and buyers a competitive advantage in the marketplace. Backed by a powerful international network with offices across the entire state, we are local and global real estate experts. Bottom line: we offer the finest resources to ensure your home sale or purchase is the best you’ve ever experienced.

FOOTBALL

GIRL’S CROSS COUNTRY

BOY’S SOCCER

GIRL’S FIELD HOCKEY

COED MOUNTAIN BIKING

On the face of it, the small creek flowing near a walking path adjacent to the Northville Ridge subdivision is nothing to get worked up about.

“It’s a tributary to Johnson Creek and the creek was likely hand-dug many, many years ago to drain the landfill property,” said David Drinan, vicepresident of watchdog advocacy group The Conservancy Initiative. “It’s just a perfectly straight creek. I can jump it. It can’t be but two feet wide.”

Into that unnamed tributary which stretches from Napier to Ridge roads flows landfill runoff, which moves down the side of the mountainous landfill into a culvert system, then a retention basin and – eventually – into Johnson Creek, the area’s last remaining cold-water trout stream.

But according to anyone taking a deeper dive, the tributary in Northville Township is a definite danger zone – not only to the Rouge River watershed, but to its fish habitat and even to human beings.

That creek is relatively close to Arbor Hills Landfill, which apparently is the source of stormwater laden with PFAS – part of a concerning group of what Drinan called “forever chemicals.” Even more specifically, it is the compound PFOS (one of many PFAS chemicals) which was found in the Arbor Hills stormwater.

The Conservancy Initiative is pushing for Arbor Hills Landfill (operated by Green For Life) to begin sampling and analyzing the stormwater on a monthly basis and enable prompt PFAS remediation.

Spearheading such an effort were it to come to fruition would be the Michigan

PFAS Found In Johnson Creek

Locals call on landfill to clean up chemical-laden run-off

Story

Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE), the state’s oversight agency charged with preserving safe water supplies.

Determining how to address pollution in Johnson Creek need not take forever, although patience is drawing thin. Which is why Drinan, in mid-May, literally took matters into his own hands by removing a sampling of creek water to send on for further examination.

The samples were sent to a laboratory for testing, upon which results showed an excessive amount of PFAS –namely, 49 parts per trillion, just over four times what is considered safe.

That alarming statistic followed an earlier study determining whether Johnson Creek fish were impacted

by PFAS, conducted by The Ecology Center and Wayne State University with assistance from Plymouth-based Friends of the Rouge.

The Ecology Center/WSU study’s findings showed that a creek chub caught in Johnson Creek at the Fish Hatchery Park near downtown Northville contained 38 parts per billion of PFAS.

Alarmed by such statistics, Friends of the Rouge executive director Marie McCormick underscored the importance of measures that would help mitigate the problem.

“The bottom line is there are chemicals in that river that shouldn’t be there,” McCormick said. “They are inside the bodies of fish that we are collecting. And they are inside the bodies of fish that people are eating.

And that’s a problem.”

In mid-July, Drinan met with Northville officials about the situation and then wrote a letter to Dave Seegert, general manager of Arbor Hills (operated by Green For Life), in hopes of prompting regular monitoring of landfill stormwater.

“The Conservancy Initiative understands that the PFAS issues at the Arbor Hills Landfill are complicated and may take years to fully resolve,” Drinan’s letter began. “Because of the complicated nature of the PFAS issues, we believe remediation progress should be tracked by measuring the PFAS impacts on the environment outside the landfill.

“Ultimately, the PFAS leaving the landfill is the best measurement of the remediation progress at the landfill.”

The letter continued to note that a monitoring program “would allow (Arbor Hills Landfill) to better understand how PFOS concentrations are impacted by rain events, and remediation efforts and potentially demonstrate compliance with water quality standards.”

Moreover, Drinan’s letter intends to ratchet up pressure and build community awareness about finding solutions to a dire situation sooner rather than later. He remains hopeful the general public will soon have avenues to be heard on the subject.

“PFAS is an emerging pollutant that has been getting a lot of press lately,” Drinan explained. “It causes cancer in animals and human beings. It is referred to as the forever chemical because it doesn’t break down, it doesn’t bio-

and Photos by Tim Smith

David Drinan, vice president of watchdog group The Conservancy Initiative, has been taking water samples from a creek near the Northville Ridge subdivision.

degrade. It keeps building up. So when you eat that fish it’s going in your blood, and it doesn’t break down. It just keeps accumulating.”

Also urging Seegert to promptly address the Arbor Hills stormwater issue was Northville Township Supervisor Mark Abbo.

“Johnson Creek is the area’s only cold-water trout stream and combines with the Rouge River in Northville,” noted Abbo in a July 14 letter to Seegert. “Protecting these streams is critical to our community.”

Environmental problems stemming from Arbor Hills Landfill stormwater have been on the radar for several years.

In June 2021, EGLE issued a violation to GFL for the landfill’s stormwater discharge exceeding water quality standards for the chemical.

A subsequent study by GFL determined that a foam material used to put out a 2016 fire at Arbor Hills was the source of that contamination.

Last August, a thunderstorm triggered a leachate spill into Johnson Creek. Leachate forms when water comes in contact with landfill waste.

“Rainwater and any liquid you leave in your trash or collects in your trash when you take it to the curb gets put into the landfill,” Drinan said. “Or it’s rainwater that falls on the landfill, gets into the landfill, and has to get pulled out of the landfill. So there’s pipes and pumps and systems to pull it out. You can see all the wells when you drive by a landfill, and there’s piping that collects it. But those pipes, there’s a possibility for leaks to develop.”

Keeping closer tabs on the

situation is vital, according to a March report by The Conservancy Initiative in which it was recommended that Arbor Hills appoint a person to provide twice-yearly updates to the Northville Landfill Working Group – comprised of city and township officials and citizens.

Meanwhile, ensuring the ecological health of Johnson Creek is key to what Abbo wrote to Seegert are planned “significant investments” –including an estimated $6 million in environmental grants which would fund the Johnson Creek Intercounty Drain Restoration Project near Cold Water Springs.

Groundbreaking for the drain

upgrade is slated for 2024 and intends to “enhance wildlife habitat by increasing native fish, mussels and aquatic bugs.”

Abbo mentioned the investments in his letter to Seegert.

“It is crucial to promptly address the PFAS issues at Arbor Hills to protect these waterways and the planned investments,” Abbo wrote.

Dave Seegert, general manager of Arbor Hills, did not return calls to comment on this story.

The runoff from the Arbor Hills landfill is noticeable as it enterss into Johnson Creek.

out & about out & about out & about

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S HAPPENING IN NORTHVILLE THIS MONTH

Maybury Sanatorium Hike

Sept. 16

Music With A Message

Aug. 27

Our Lady of Victory is sponsoring this live performance of The Scally Brothers from 1-3 p.m. in Northville’s Town Square. This is part of the OLV community outreach program. The concert is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Colleen Misiak at (248) 349-2621, ext. 2269, or via email at cmisiak@olvnorthville. net.

It’s Victorian Time!

Northville’s Victorian Heritage Festival will take place Sept. 22-24 in and around downtown Northville. Put on by the Northville Chamber of Commerce, the festival includes lots of activities throughout the weekend. The Victorian Parade kicks off at 6:30 p.m. on Friday. The parade entry deadline is Sept. 14 by calling the Chamber at (248) 349-7640. Hours for the community booths will be 4-9 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. On Sunday, from noon-4 p.m., Mill Race Village will host Victorian Sunday, featuring Victorian-themed family activities. Refreshments, Victorian children’s games, children’s crafts, live music, and the annual Northville Duck Race will all be part of the activities. For more information about the beloved festival, visit www.northville.org.

Victorian Clothing Sale

Sept. 7-8

Married by the Mayor

Sept. 2

Mayor Brian Turnbull will once again be officiating weddings at the historic Mill Race Village, which offers an all-inclusive package including music, flowers and photography. There are time slots available at 10 a.m. and noon. For more information, call (248) 348-1845 or visit www. millracenorthville.org.

The Northville Historical Society will host this annual sale in advance of the Victorian Heritage Festival from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. both days at Mill Race Village. Shop for Victorian-era clothing and accessories from various vendors. There will be new, vintage and gently-used clothes available. Admission donation is $2 (cash only). For more information, visit www. millracenorthville.org.

Farm To Table 2023

Sept. 9

Main Street League will be hosting this annual event beginning at 6 p.m. on the beautiful grounds of the Living and Learning Center. Food will be prepared by Chef Brian Psenski.

Tickets are $150, which includes a northern Italian themed dinner in the garden, beer, wine, and live entertainment. The proceeds will support Main Street League’s outreach and emergency relief services for local families throughout the year. There are sponsorship opportunities still available. For more information, visit www.mainstreetleague.com.

The Friends of Maybury State Park are sponsoring this walk through history from 10 a.m.-noon at Maybury State Park. Join them for a hike through the park highlighting its past. On the property are remnants of both early farms, and the Maybury Sanatorium, a tuberculosis sanatorium which was in operation until the late 1960s. The hike starts at 10 a.m. and will run approximately 60-90 minutes. All ages are welcome. The group will meet at the Trailhead Building. For more information, visit www. friendsofmaybury.org.

Harvest Moon Star Party

Sept. 29

Join the Farmington Community Stargazers as they look at the night sky through telescopes from 7-9 p.m. at Maybury State Park. The group will meet at the Maybury State Park ball fields parking lot, accessible from the 8 Mile entrance to the park. Wear warm clothing, as it will get chilly when the sun goes down. All ages are welcome. The event will be canceled if it is raining or too cloudy to view the sky. For more information, call (248) 349-8390.

Library Volunteer Fair

Sept. 30

The Friends of the Northville Library will be sponsoring this event from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in the Carlo Room of the Library. Representatives from a variety of local organizations will be on hand to explain the work they do, answer questions, and help you find a volunteer position that suits your interests and talents. For more information, visit the library’s website at northvillelibrary.org.

Picking Up STEAM

Webber stoked to begin his second year at the helm

By Tim Smith

For his opening act as Northville Public Schools superintendent, RJ Webber went all-out to learn the lay of the educational land. He made hundreds of in-school visits during 2022-23, all while striking a chord of inclusion and exploration – something that shouldn’t be surprising, since he also is a fledgling guitar player.

Fueled by last spring’s overwhelming approval of a $134.4 million bond issue capping off his first year at the helm, Webber knows the district and community much better entering Year Two of his tenure.

And with that, he intends for 2023-24 literally to pick up “STEAM” and continue last year’s momentum, beginning with Tuesday, Sept. 5 when classes begin.

“Last year was all about listening, learning, observing and hustle,” said Webber, during a recent interview in his office on the third floor at Old Village School. “So I made 350 building visits, … to get to know the

people in this community who give so much and take so much pride in it.”

Webber called 2022-23 an important year of personal discovery where he learned about a district jewel for special needs children, the Cooke School located on Taft Road.

“The love, care and empathy given to those families – and many of those students are with us until they’re 26 – is really astounding,” Webber noted.

“It’s why I will always fight for public education and why I believe so much in our public, community schools.”

With 120 staff members serving about 150 special education students from nine western Wayne County districts, “it shows you the level of need there,” Webber said.

“I’m really proud of that, having never (previously) served in a district or a community with a center-based program.”

As for STEAM – the aforementioned Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics program

which was a key component of the May 2 bond proposal – students in grades K-12 ultimately will tap into five key learning disciplines.

“I think the big thing that pops is our attention to STEAM,” Webber said. “That was a big feature of our bond. … The experience of our kids are about to have at the (elementary) level is going to be absolutely phenomenal. It’s really a continuum of services that goes for 12 years.”

Physical improvements which were touted in the bond proposal will take some time to begin materializing, such as canopies above the main entrances at all schools as well as new bleachers at the Eight Mile Stadium.

But Webber said the 73-percent approval for the bond proposal indicates most Northvillians won’t be too impatient to start seeing those kinds of results.

“We asked the community to put their faith and trust in us in a bond. People worked really

hard on that. This community has consistently invested in their kids. And to me, that’s one of the things that makes it an absolute pleasure to serve here,” he said.

Regardless of progress on bond-proposal projects, Webber noted a number of curriculum enhancements which will welcome students in early September.

At Northville High School will be an expansion to the multimedia class, for example.

“The way people create and consume information now is very different than when you and I came up,” Webber stressed. “Small video bits, using podcasts.”

With the multiple modes of technology such as iPhones, tablets, laptops and more comes an important job for educators at every level – helping students better communicate and connect with each other.

Teachers and paraprofessionals will each receive what Webber described as two days of “capacity building” -- namely beefing up their own skillbuilding in order to parlay that new knowledge to youngsters.

“It’s how do we learn to listen to each other, how do we learn how to speak with each other in ways that we do things with each other, and not to somebody or for somebody,” he continued.

Another enhancement at the high school will be Virtual Learning, to assist students who are still not completely comfortable with attending full days of school in the post-Covid world.

“The positive out of Covid is we got better on-line instruction,” Webber said. “But I will always argue there’s no substitute for being with a great teacher together and building

Above left, Superintendent RJ Webber (left) with Mayor Brian Turnbull during a recent tour of Northville. Above right, the high school is launching a new orchestra program this year.

community. But it doesn’t work for everybody.”

Also launching at the high school will be an orchestra program, which took root over the past three years at Hillside and Meads Mill middle schools.

“That gave it time to grow, rather than saying ‘We’re going to do orchestra in grades 6-12,’” Webber said.

At the middle school level will be math support and Peer Link Physical Education offerings, the latter which will pair students with special needs with students from the general population.

“That teaches so many great things around empathy, care and relationship-building,” Webber said. “And that’s what we’re about here.”

The district will continue to focus on providing family wellness initiatives for families,

staff members and students who need it who may be facing difficult mental-health issues “or require additional support academically and emotionally,” Webber said.

A longtime culture of “high accountability, high support” is what Webber said attracted him to the Northville job when it became available in 2022.

The district is exploring ways to increase its outreach with families who might need their children to receive additional guidance and direction.

Bringing in college interns who are looking to log enough hours (500) to receive social worker certification is one aspect. Another is setting up an office to foster improved outreach efforts.

Webber said the district is all-in on having family outreach efforts join its academic and

athletic programs among the very best in Michigan.

“If you look, we’re in the top five every year in both,” he chimed. “We won three state championships last year. However, excellence is also determined by how we take care of each other and how we make sure people are well. And this is obviously a very stressful world. Our kids have so many expectations on them and the parents want the best for them. And teachers have their own pressures.”

Webber also wanted to chime in about his 2022-23 record on calling multiple “snow days” and how he hopes parents aren’t holding those sometimes-errant decisions against him.

“I had to call six snow days,” said Webber, smiling. “I want to thank the community for being kind. I wish I didn’t have to

call that many. I know the kids weren’t upset with me, but it puts a burden on parents.”

Yet he and the rest of a sixperson team likely would make the same calls all over again.

“I will always err on the side of caution, because I think of those 16-year-old drivers we have going to the high school,” Webber concluded. “We have 2,400 kids at our high school and I worry about them on the roads without driving experience.”

Caution about weather is understandable. But for education itself, with RJ Webber at the NPS wheel, it looks good that the path ahead for youngsters will continue to be onward and upward.

The first day of the 202324 school year for Northville Public Schools is Tuesday, Sept. 5th.

Outpatient surgery now

available in Plymouth

Offers better access, the latest procedures and a welcoming environment

“With the addition of outpatient surgery at the Henry Ford Medical Center in Plymouth, we’re making healthcare as convenient as possible for our community,” says Theresa Broniak, director of ambulatory surgical services at Henry Ford Health.

Surgical services

We offer outpatient procedures in six specialty areas, including:

• Orthopaedics

• Sports Medicine

• Urology

• Ear, Nose and Throat

• Neurosurgery

• Plastic Surgery

the risk of side effects commonly associated with treatment for prostate cancer.

In addition, given that the Plymouth and surrounding areas feature a strong focus on school athletics, our sports medicine procedures will improve access for local student athletes, helping them get back in the game.

Additional features and amenities

“We designed every aspect to create a more personal outpatient surgery experience and make things easy for you—so you can focus on your procedure and healing,” Broniak says. This includes:

• Private rooms: Before and after your procedure, to help ensure optimal recovery and privacy.

waiting room for family members.

• Same-day medication refills from our onsite pharmacy: These are delivered to you before you leave the outpatient surgery area. In addition, our team makes sure you understand the time regimen for any pain medications before you go home.

• Convenient parking: Henry Ford Medical Center – Plymouth features ample parking, making it easier to get in, get out and return home.

• Recovery call: The day after your surgery, a nurse will call to check in and make sure you’re doing well.

Coordinated care

Given that our outpatient surgery area is located within the Plymouth medical center, you can also get all your care in one place—and from a coordinated team.

“The surgeons performing the procedures are the same ones that you’ll see when you come to one of the clinics in our medical center,” Broniak says. “And our entire Plymouth team is a tightknit community of people who work together every day to provide a seamless experience for you.”

The new construction includes two large, state-of-the-art operating rooms, brand-new equipment and the most advanced technology available.

“We’re focused on providing better access to the latest surgical procedures and a one-onone experience with less waiting time,” Broniak says.

This includes the only high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) system in the area for the treatment of prostate cancer. HIFU offers a radiation-free procedure that uses high frequency ultrasound waves to heat up and burn the diseased area of the prostate, while sparing other parts of the gland. This can reduce

• Waiting area: We offer a large, comfortable

“We want all of our patients to have the best recovery possible,” Broniak says. “And we understand that the actual procedure is only part of it.”

In addition, if you need to visit another location within Henry Ford Health for additional care—or if you are referred to Plymouth from one of our other locations—all your medical records will be available through Henry Ford MyChart, making it easy to connect all your care.

Henry Ford Medical Center – Plymouth is located at the corner of Ann Arbor Road and N. Haggerty. To make an appointment, call (734) 928-1600, or visit henryford.com/ plymouth.

At Henry Ford Medical Center – Plymouth, you can get all of your care in one place.

Whether you live in Plymouth or nearby, we’re proud to bring primary and specialty care closer to you—including pharmacy, on-site imaging (3D mammography, MRI, CT and X-ray) and lab services. Our facility was built just for you. And it’s just minutes down the road.

See a full list of services at henryford.com/plymouth

We believe all your healthcare solutions should live where you do.

Corner of Ann Arbor Road and N. Haggerty

Look Ajeless. Feel Ajeless. Be Ajeless.

COSMETIC PROCEDURES

• Diet and exercise not giving you the look you want?

• Appearance doesn't match the way you feel?

• Look ajeless with botox/fillers, skin rejuvenation, body sculpting and more!

HORMONE OPTIMIZATION

• Regain your lost energy.

• Improve muscle strength, mental focus, sexual performance and more!

• Age healthier and live happier with safe, proven, and effective methods.

WEIGHT LOSS

• Medically supervised clean-start weight loss solution.

• Attain and maintain your weight loss goals.

• Improve your overall health and speed up your metabolism.

It's Your Business Epiphany Kitchens

From Utilitarian To Inspired

Epiphany Kitchens designs are from the heart

By Larry O’Connor

For 17 years, Epiphany Kitchens has excelled by pumping new life into a home’s most under-appreciated space.

“(The kitchen’s) the heart of the home,” said Jay Towar, the remodeling specialist’s effusive founder and president.

The businessman’s astute observation proved true during the pandemic as homebound folks increasingly dined inside. The prolonged sequestration caused many homeowners to yearn for their kitchens to be more than just a placeholder for a fridge, table, and sink.

In such instances, Epiphany’s

exquisite craftsmanship and a century of combined expertise became currents pulsating through a home improvement automatic defibrillator. Ornate Amish-built cabinets and being a Galley Workstations specialist only fortified the firm’s sterling reputation.

Epiphany Kitchens serves Northville as well as Plymouth and Novi where homes list anywhere from $500,000 to $1 million and beyond.

Regardless of property values, the home remodeler’s mission remains the same: Transform utilitarian kitchens into tony design spaces where culinary

delights are inspired.

“That’s our sweet spot,” Towar said.

Amid chatter about cabinetry and faucets, Epiphany’s climb to one of the area’s premier home-remodeling outfits also deserves a spot on the front burner. Shrewd moves and uncompromising values have punctuated Towar’s trek.

The Northville Hills resident’s commercial savvy has been accrued through four decades of entrepreneurial ventures.

The self-described small business specialist ran a heating and cooling franchise, sold

aluminum siding and windows, and righted a refacing business before selling the entire operation to a major home improvement chain.

Those business forays paved Towar’s seamless pivot into kitchen remodeling.

Towar graduated from Michigan State University with a bachelor’s degree in labor relations. He aspired to be a union organizer, but with mass automotive worker layoffs in the mid-1970s, the budding marketing maven found himself in pharmaceutical sales.

After three years toiling in the medical industrial complex, Towar grew disillusioned.

Integrity and instinct guided Towar’s future endeavors, which led him to downtown Northville.

His innate sense for prime locations kicked in as he sat on a downtown bench while enjoying an ice cream. A “For Lease” sign across North Center Street caught his eye.

“I thought to myself, ‘You know that building is so perfect,’” Towar said. “I just called my wife (Sharon) and said, ‘I just had an epiphany: We should go into the high-end kitchen remodeling business, or, maybe not-so-much high end but just do it right.’”

The 107 N. Center Street spot was the ideal launching pad as Epiphany’s sparkling showroom lured numerous walk-in clients. Now the client base is largely from referrals from satisfied customers, Towar said.

His wife of 40 years joined as chief financial officer. The office staff complemented Epiphany’s job site team, which has blossomed into seven crews featuring installers, floor specialists, carpenters,

The Epiphany Kitchens showroom is located at 107 N. Center Street in downtown Northville.

electricians, drywallers, plumbers and painters.

Tony Bronzovich emerged as the firm’s design and project management guru. The Oakland University graduate joined Epiphany in 2006 and has since become a partner. Bronzovich possesses an uncanny knack for transforming customers’ rough kitchen overhaul ideas into dynamic but functional designs, Towar said.

“He’s amazing,” Towar said.

Epiphany’s founder pounced after learning about Bronzovich’s creative flair through another kitchen outfitter.

Towar offered to “overpay” the ballyhooed designer for a six-month trial to get his fledgling enterprise off the ground.

“I said, ‘I think you are pretty talented, but in six months, I am going to know everything you know and probably let you go,” said Towar, recalling the conversation. “He said, ‘Yeah, OK, I’ll do that, but I don’t think you’re going to want to let me go.”

The prospective employee proved prophetic.

After a half-year, Epiphany’s founder offered Bronzovich a 10% stake in the company to remain. Bronzovich’s ownership share has since grown to 15%.

Bronzovich will likely take over when the founder retires,

which is not in the immediate future. “I am having too much fun,” Towar said.

To expand its reach beyond kitchens, Epiphany is taking on full-build projects. A designer was hired to help with the burgeoning workload.

As business booms, the company’s founder has grown more philosophical.

“Now, I tend not to work from the pocketbook but more from the heart,” said Towar, who’s contemplating an expansion into Hilton Head, S.C. “So, now strangely enough or appropriately enough, we are more successful than ever before.”

For more information about Epiphany Kitchens, visit www. epiphanykitchens.com or call (248) 697-6215.

Downtown

Timeless with a twist

Pictured: Left: Town and Country Bikes and Boards

Right:Warehouse Pilates

Sharon Towar

Jay Towar

A Sports Fan’s Paradise

Northville man’s sports gear business began at Tiger Stadium

By Sue Voyles | Photos by Ken Voyles

It started out simple enough.

Two brothers, ages 11 and 13, wanted to make some extra money. So on opening day of the Detroit Tigers 1982 season they tried selling peanuts to fans outside of Tiger Stadium.

For the next season they added Tigers souvenirs, along with hats and helmets from every major league baseball team, and then 1984 happened. Even as the Tigers created a memorable, 104-win season with a World Series championship, a new Corktown business was being born, known first as the Designated Hatter and later as the Detroit Athletic Co.

Loved by diehard Detroit sports fans, what was started by two Redford Township boys, Steve and Dave Thomas, who just loved baseball and had an entrepreneurial spirit, is now known worldwide as the Vintage Detroit Collection.

Four years ago, while looking for more space, and after a name change to the Vintage Detroit Collection, the business launched a new chapter in Plymouth Township, moving to 44692 Helm Street.

But even now through more than four decades serving fans, the same excitement a young man once had being around the ballpark still rings in Steve Thomas’ voice.

“For me, it was a thrill to be outside the ballpark. I was 11

years old and also intimidated and scared,” says Thomas, a Northville resident and sole owner of the company today. “We would each do our own thing, selling peanuts, and meet up after the game. At first it was only before-the-game business for us. When we started to sell souvenirs, we stayed after the game, and it became more demanding. But we found that we sold more after the game. That’s when it started to be more like a business.”

Steve and Dave were no strangers to Corktown and the Stadium at the corner of Trumbull and Michigan Avenue.

The Redford Union High School graduate fondly recalls those early hectic days when everyone in the family gave him and his older brother a helping hand with their burgeoning enterprise.

“We had two years to get

ready for what happened in 1984. I don’t know if we could have timed it any better. The team … had one of the most magical seasons of all time. By that time our parents had to help us, our older sisters had to help us, and it became a family enterprise,” said Thomas. “There was such a demand for what we were doing. We had no way to anticipate that season. To think that team would win the World Series … there was a tremendous amount of luck in the timing of our business.”

The 52-year-old Northville resident added that brother Dave moved on to work on another business. “We were partners in multiple businesses and there’s one he gravitated to and the one I gravitated to, so Dave left to work on the other business.”

SECRETS TO SUCCESS

In addition to the 1984 Tigers, Thomas has seen many Detroit sports hallmarks over the years including the return of the Stanley Cup to Detroit in 1997. And no matter whether the Detroit teams are winning or losing, he’s always kept the business focused on the fans. In fact, Vintage Detroit Collection sells only merchandise for all four Detroit major sports teams to fans both here and around the globe.

That’s right, you won’t find a Yankee cap or a Bruins jersey anywhere in the inventory. (Although Thomas noted that they have just started to sell merchandise for Michigan State University and University of Michigan athletics.)

And as for the notion that Detroit sports fans are found across the globe, one only needs to look at Vintage Detroit Collection’s shipping records.

Vintage Detroit Collection owner Steve Thomas, of Northville.

Vintage Detroit Collection only carries Detroit sports gear.

“We ship to Australia and surprisingly, there is a large contingent of Red Wings fans in Australia. We have shipped to Japan,” says Thomas. “We have shipped to multiple countries in Asia and just about every country in Europe.”

In addition to creating the customer jersey niche, Vintage Detroit Collection also was an early adopter when it came to the online aspect of business. They started selling online in 1998 and host more than 2,500 blog entries on the website, which are full of stories about Detroit sports history, players, coaches and thoughts on the current teams.

“As soon as blogs became prominent it didn’t take us long to pick up on it. We hire local writers to write the blogs,” says Thomas. One of the most well-known is sports journalist

Bill Dow, who was a customer in the retail store and active in the Tiger Stadium Fan Club, where Thomas met him.

Being a pioneer in digital marketing certainly helped the 10-person company pivot to an all e-commerce business during the pandemic, a model that sustains them today (although customers can walk in to the Helm Street location).

A TRUE FAN

When talking to Steve Thomas, it’s clear that he’s a true Detroit sports fan at heart

doing what he loves. And like many fans in Metro Detroit, he has sports memories and favorites he likes to reminisce about.

“There are two things that stand out to me. The 1984 Tigers season was just magical from beginning to end. It was almost like living a dream. I remembered right around July and August, I was almost praying that the season would end because I didn’t want it to go downhill,” he said with a chuckle. “That is at the top of my list. The second is the 1997

Detroit Red Wings season when they finally broke the (losing) streak and won the Cup. What made it more enjoyable was it happened in the summer, in June. I remembered how the city and suburbs reacted – they went crazy.”

When asked his opinion on whether the Motor City is a great sports town, he answered without missing a beat.

“There’s no question that Detroit is a great sports town,” he said without hesitation. “There are a lot of cities that have two or three major league teams, but we have all four and very few cities would have the sports history that we have in Detroit. I would say that Detroit is in a very elite category.”

For more information about Vintage Detroit Collection, call (313) 961-3550 or visit vintagedetroit.com.

Vintage Detroit Collection began as the Designated Hatter next to Tigers Stadium in Corktown. Photo courtesy of Steve Thomas

On the Road With

Motoring Across Europe

Northville’s Patrick Giesa took along his copy of The ‘Ville during a 15-day motorcycle trip across Spain and Portugal. The trip included tours of castles and wine regions of the two countries. He and his group rode about 200 miles each day. The trip started and ended in Madrid. Giesa said it was “definitely a bucket list” trip.

“The people I rode with come from all over the U.S. and are accomplished riders who are here for the curves,” wrote Giesa, who is pictured here (top left photo) at Cabo Da Roco, Portugal -- the westernmost point on the European continent.

A Gator in Gainesville

Scott Frush, a Northville Township trustee, on scene in May in Gainesville while pursuing his Doctor of Business Administration degree at the University of Florida in front of a landmark metallic structure of a gator in the business school complex. He (top right photo) is proudly showing a cover of The ‘Ville from 2021 of the concept for the new Unity Skatepark for which he helped shepherd through the approval process.

Portuguese Holiday

German Reyes-Villanueva and his wife Gisvi traveled to Portugal earlier this summer and had a wonderful trip, as they toured the country dining and visiting cultural sites. The trip included stop in Porto, Salamanca, Alhambr, and they attended the Internacional Conference Banquet at the Palacio do Freixo. Here Gisvi (bottom left photo) is pictured with her copy of The ‘Ville at historic Braga Cathedra.

Dubai Nights

The Dhillon family from Northville took along their copy of The ‘Ville on their recent trip to Dubai, the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates. The family, including Kulbir and Raman, along with their children Kavnir and Rasnik, visited a number of cultural sites. Here Gisvi (bottom left photo) is pictured with her copy of The ‘Ville at the historic Braga Cathedral.

The next time you head out of town, take along a copy of The ‘Ville, snap a photo, and let us know where your travels take you. Our readers would love to know! Please email the photos to kurtkuban@gmail.com. We’ll feature the photos in an upcoming issue.

Your Home, Organized. Your Life, Simplified.

Your life is busy, but it shouldn’t mean compromising on a tidy home. Elevate the look, feel, and functionality of your home with organizing services from TidySmart. 248-277-3505 | TidySmart.com

Say hello to Bob and Mike.

Bob Greenlaw and Mike Kaczmarczyk, the dynamic duo driving the GK Real Estate Team are not your average Realtors – they're your go-to guides for all things real estate and community. Together, Bob and Mike are the heart and soul of the GK Real Estate Team. If you're looking for a team that's professional but personable, expert but down-to-earth, look no further.

Bob brings a versatile background in marketing and sales to the team. A former small business owner and lead on global marketing teams, Bob's skills seamlessly translate into the world of real estate. With International Marketing at Wayne State University, he uses his expertise to market and sell residential and commercial properties. Off-duty, Bob coached youth soccer and is a family man spending time with his wife, daughter, and son in Northville Township.

Mike brings a strong sense of community to the team along with an eye for detail. With nearly 20 years of experience as a Realtor, Mike also earned a BBA in Accounting from the University of Michigan – Dearborn. Prior to real estate, Mike worked as a public accountant and small business owner, and he continues to be an active member of the Livonia community. When he is not selling houses, you will find Mike with his wife and their family of three boys bowling, playing soccer, golfing, at his son’s rock concert – or at DisneyWorld.

Denise Jenkins is a member of the Northville Chamber of Commerce and Tipping Point Theatre. An avid writer and proponent of the arts, she is also plugged into what’s happening in Northville. Contact her at denisemjenkins@aol.com.

Stop! There’s a Scoop…

Idon’t know if I ever mentioned this, but when The ‘Ville was just an idea in Kurt Kuban’s head, I told him if he embarked on this incredible journey, I would contribute with the infamous New York Post Page Six type article. Why? Well, I jokingly have said throughout my life – the stork was on its way to NYC when it accidently dropped me in Detroit, and Page Six is an “institution built on tipsters, anonymous sources, and old-fashioned reporting.” Some of my favorite things in life!

of Museum Education and Community Engagement at the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts.

“I am thrilled to join the Art House in its mission to cultivate the arts through creative experiences and educational programs in the community,” said Shannon, who has plans for our gem here in Northville.

Registration is open for the fall classes and workshops. There are more than 54 available – and most are expected to sell out. There may be a few changes, but the popular annual exhibition West of Center will open Aug. 29. Stop by and join me in welcoming Shannon back to Northville.

I’ve been attending the 100 Women Who Care meetings held quarterly at Genitti’s August was my fourth quarter. The next meeting will mark my one-year anniversary. I’ve been moved by all the presenters of worthy charitable groups in our area. This month the group supported Penrickton Center.

education, training, and peace of mind for overnight stays. They do it all without government funding – and there is no charge to the families for any services. It’s not unusual to catch a few of us tearing up during presentations, but the August meeting brought tears to my eyes when one of the cochairs reported that our chapter crossed the 200-member mark (they aren’t changing the name). Congratulations to Suha, Lisa and Amy for getting this Northville chapter going and keeping it going -- and to all the wonderful women who attend, bring nominations to the table, host the event and finally, those who write the checks. I am proud to be among you!

Honor at a waffle breakfast on the corner of Griswold and Main, at 371 E. Main Street on Sept. 3, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The annual Northville’s Old Timers Luncheon will be held at Genitti’s on Wednesday, Sept. 13 beginning at 11 a.m. The cost is $15 per person. After lunch they will announce the Senior of the Year. Call to make a reservation (248) 349-0522.

The Art House has a new executive director, Shannon Karol. I worked with her on the Arts & Acts Festival this year – a big initiation to her new post. She did it well. Shannon is happy to be “home” – she is a 1999 Northville High graduate. She went on to study Art History at U-of-M and the University of Iowa, and for the past 18 years has worked in art museums, including the Kresge Art Museum at MSU, and across the country (Cincinnati, Dallas and Louisville). Most recently she worked as Director

“I have been a member of 100 Women since its inception,” said Randa Batshon, who brought the nomination. “This was my first time presenting a charity, and the first time this organization has been presented. I learned of Penrickton Center through a good friend whose son was born with a rare form of multiple dystrophy that caused him to be blind with partial hearing loss and several other disabilities. The center has been amazing and a blessing for their family.”

She told us how the center provides a safe place for

Celebrity sightings this summer around town include Lauren Mendelson with one of her daily drivers, the Ford GT from the 2019 movie Ford v Ferrari. It’s been known to make an appearance at the ECC Cars and Coffee events. Dallas Star Jason Robertson – who Wayne Gretzky called “one to watch” -- was out and about and in training. Laura Genitti will be the Guest of

The biggest scoop in town – the new stop signs on Griswold at Cady. I cross the new four-way two, sometimes three or four times a day. It’s always an adventure. Folks see them, maybe a little late. There has always been a stop on Cady, but the Griswold signs are new. No one knows who goes first – according to old driver’s training manuals first to come goes first, then yield to the person on your right. There are orange flags to let you know something is different, but we are all creatures of habit, so I felt this was the perfect case for old-fashioned reporting!

Shannon Karol, Art House Executive Director

Lauren Mendelson with Denise

Cecile pointing out the new stop sign at Griswold and Cady.

New Loan Center Conveniently Located In Plymouth

For over 18 years we’ve been there when our customers need uswith products and solutions designed to grow as your business grows.

With over 65 years of combined experience, Ingrid and Darren are local, trusted and ready to go to work for you.

Darren R. LaLonde Ingrid Runnion