July 2020 | Vol.3 | Issue 7
Northville’s News and Lifestyle Magazine
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Publisher Here is a list of people who contributed to local journalism last month. We appreciate your support! Marc & Wendy Corriveau Jerry Nehs John & Sandy Dickson Carolyn Nieuwkoop Craig & Patricia Fishbeck Jim & Martha Nield Perla & Roy Forbes Mike & Judy Nolta Cecelia Ginger Kathryn Novak Janet Goldberg Richard O’Donnell Bo Hall Anna Mary Postma Terry & Lynda Heaton Richard & Jeanne Storm John Janitz Bill & Laurie Thelen Steven & Lisa Kozerski Laura & Lew Tillman Patti & Phil Michaelson
VOLUME 3
ISSUE 7
JULY 2020
16435 Franklin, Northville, MI 48168 • 734.716.0783 • TheVilleMagazine@gmail.com
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, who all attend Northville Public Schools.
CRAIG WHEELER – Creative Director
Craig has been in the creative industry for over 25 years. He has developed a diverse background in that time, but publication design has been his passion during the past 16 years. Craig enjoys cycling, running, wine tasting, his beloved Boston Terrier and an unhealthy addiction to movies.
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.
BRAD EMONS - Writer
Over the course of his four decades with the Observer & Eccentric Newspapers, Brad established himself as one of the preeminent prep sports reporters in the state, winning many journalism awards along the way. His greatest joy is interviewing local athletes and coaches, and reporting on their efforts.
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
LONNIE HUHMAN - Writer
Lonnie graduated from EMU with a degree in creative writing. He is a longtime newspaper reporter, including two stints with The Northville Record. He is now a freelance reporter for a number of publications, including The Sun Times News in Dexter, where he lives with his wife and two young children. He is glad to be back covering the Northville community.
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.
JENNY PEARSALL – Graphic Designer
Jenny has been in the design and print industry for more than 20 years, holding various positions in graphic design, large format and trade show graphics, print buying, production and print management. One of her favorite memories is working for Colorquik Graphix in the historic Water Wheel building in downtown Northville.
The ‘Ville is a product of Journeyman Publishing, which assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information. Any form of reproduction of any content in this publication without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Comments are welcome at thevillemagazine@gmail.com.
A View From The ‘Ville
Along For the Ride O ne of my favorite parts of The ‘Ville has been the On The Road feature. It’s where you go out to all parts of the world, and snap a photo with the magazine. Initially I just planned to run one photo a month, but I routinely receive so many photos I’ve had to run a full page most months. You have not disappointed me, either. You’ve taken The ‘Ville to Germany, Greece and Italy, Australia, the gateway to Antarctica, ancient sites like Machu Picchu, the Sunshine State and Keystone State, national and state parks, and we’ve even been to a few places I’ve never heard of (Andorra?). The magazine has been to a lot of places I’ve never been, and that’s pretty cool. Well, this month, it’s my turn. My wife and I took our three teenagers on a two-week road trip out West. Yes, I realize that it might seem like a crazy idea packing three teens into one
vehicle for two weeks – kind of like having three grenades rattling around next to each other. But we made it fairly unscathed. We drove to the top of Pikes Peak (one of the Colorado’s “fourteeners” – taller than 14,000 feet), crossed the Continental Divide, saw the ancient cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park, soaked in the incredible beauty of Zion National Park (wow!), and hiked into the Grand Canyon – a place all Americans should see before they die. Of course, we took The ‘Ville along for the ride. One thing I can tell you is America is a special place. I recommend you go out and discover it. Sitting on the rim of the Grand Canyon watching the sun set, with nary a person around is something that I will never forget. Talk about social distancing. Now that we’re in the midst of this crazy pandemic, people
definitely aren’t traveling as much. If you are traveling closer to home, there are still Me and the family at the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. lots of cool locales, including right here in that promotes literature, and Michigan. Take along The ‘Ville, is active with many other and keep those photos coming. initiatives in town. I love to see the happy vacation When Denise called to let me faces, even during the pandemic. know she wouldn’t be able to Especially during the pandemic! write the column for obvious reasons, she felt terrible and WHERE’S DENISE? apologized. That’s Denise in a Speaking of favorite things nutshell – always thinking of about the magazine, you will others. notice that there is no Dishin’ On behalf of everyone with Denise column this month. involved with The ‘Ville family, Denise Jenkins had to take the please accept our condolences, month off because her husband, Denise. You are one of a kind. Walt, passed away on July 4th And Walt was a good man. He after a prolonged fight against will be missed. cancer. Denise is a dynamo. She is Kurt Kuban is the Publisher on the Chamber of Commerce and Editor of The ‘Ville. He Board, Tipping Point Theatre welcomes your comments at Board, organizes the annual kurtkuban@thevillemagazine. Short on Words writing contest com.
Your Voice: Letters to the Editor 4 Meet the candidates for Northville Board of Trustees 8 Past Tense: When Henry Ford came to town 20 Northville’s ‘Secret Garden’ is oasis 28
Accountability & Transparency
16
Hitting Northville's New Trail
22
U-M Walk-On Itching to Play
36
ON THE COVER: Retired art teacher Judie Braun takes a rest in the garden she has been cultivating for 30 years near the Springwater Park and Country Club Village condo developments. Photo by Bryan Mitchell
Northville couple works ‘For the Good’ 38 Haircut challenge supports healthcare heroes 42 Community Bulletin Board 44
Your Voice Getting things done
Bob Nix and the Board of Trustees have restored the Northville Township finances. He and his team are totally dedicated to our priorities and way beyond any political party. I served on the Planning Commission and Chair of the Senior Advisory Board under former Northville Township Supervisor Mark Abbo. His lack of financial leadership became very obvious. As Supervisor, he directed the purchase of the 7 Mile state hospital property for $23.5 million. We all paid way too much with many dilapidated buildings. Bob Nix renegotiated the prison property at 5 Mile with the state to capture some of the sale income to demolish the 7 Mile hospital buildings. While on the Planning Commission I offered Abbo to drive him to the top of the smelly Salem landfill. He ignored my many offers and ignored the problem in general. Nix and trustees have employed an outside consultant, who specializes in landfills and he is working in concert with the area residents, the DNR and EPA on this issue. Nix and the outstanding trustee team need to get re-elected to complete the many projects they are doing a great job managing, plus maintain our solid finances going forward. Bob Nix’s leadership with the city and the downtown is very important to every Northville resident. Jim Nield
Facts and results
Northville Township Supervisor Bob Nix inherited a very complicated and difficult situation in 2012 including the former hospital and prison properties. I have been struck by recent promotional material from others which negatively attack Nix’s efforts and results. Really? Check those properties today from what he was left to resolve. Check the numbers since he took office: a $16 million (40%) reduction to long term debt, an increase of $13 million to reserves to protect the township during periods of uncertainty such as we are experiencing and a $10 million reduction in the obligation for employee benefit plans last year are only a few examples of significant financial improvements since 2012. Check the box to reelect Bob Nix to assure continued results. We can’t afford less! John P. O’Reilly
Pleased with repaving job Those of us who travel Sheldon Road on a regular basis between Six Mile and Seven Mile are extremely pleased with the recent repaving job. Our hats are off to Bob Nix, our township supervisor, who was instrumental in making this come to pass. Jerry Nehs
SOUND OFF 4 The ‘Ville
Jankowski won’t play politics
I strongly recommend Cyndy Jankowski for Northville Township Trustee. I worked hand in hand with Cyndy on the Northville School Board for 7-plus years. She is a dedicated person who cares deeply for this community. She has the right temperament and skills to bring value to the township. She has integrity, listens to constituents, is honest, and puts a significant effort into every decision put before her. Cyndy has held every position possible on the Northville Board of Education, from Treasurer to President, multiple times. I can tell you from firsthand experience nobody will put in more effort to try to find solutions and come to decisions that best fit the overall community’s needs. In this political environment we need individuals who don’t play politics and give lip service to constituents. We need people who will simply do what is right for the community. Cyndy is one of those who deserves your vote. She has showed her character via 8-plus years on the Northville Board of Education. Vote Cyndy Jankowski in August; you won’t regret it. Jim Mazurek
Know your candidates
After serving as Trustees, Fred Shadko and Margie Banner were unanimously appointed Treasurer and Clerk, and both of them have done an outstanding job in these positions. They both had the experience and background to seamlessly take over these two crucial roles for our community. They are both dedicated public servants to the township constituents and show up, which is important in a small community such as ours. I supported their appointments and wholeheartedly encourage voters to re-elect both of them on August 4. It isn’t often that voters in Northville Township see this amount of campaign literature from outside sources. Fred and Margie’s campaign opponents have spent a great deal of money on mailings and I would suggest voters look into their support group. I could not find anything other than a Facebook group of 27 (I didn’t see any Northville members), which makes me wonder about their agenda and lack of transparency. The selection of the Board of Trustees is important to our community and I am confident in my vote for Fred Shadko and Margie Banner, as well as my vote to re-elect Bob Nix for supervisor. Sue Hillebrand Former Clerk, Northville Township
We need collaborators
We are relatively new Northvillians, having built in the city of Northville on the edge of the township just five years ago. So why would we weigh in on Bob Nix’s campaign for reelection as Township Supervisor? It’s really quite simple. Living in an era when the phrase “working across the aisle” has become the ultimate political oxymoron, we need collaborators, not competitors. Bob Nix can do this… has done this…and will continue to do this. We need him, even as all of Northville -- on all sides of the Township/City border -- needs him. Bill and Kris Ritter
Please submit your letters by emailing Editor Kurt Kuban at kurtkuban@gmail.com. Letters must be 150 words or less. We reserve the right to edit all letters.
Advanced Disposal can’t be trusted to protect Johnson Creek Northville Township recently learned that Advanced Disposal Services (ADS) has submitted two NPDES permit applications requesting permission to discharge leachate from the Arbor Hills East Landfill and from the Compost facility located north of the landfill into Johnson Creek. Johnson Creek is the only coldwater trout stream in Wayne County and is an irreplaceable resource for our community. The residents of Northville Township, and the leadership of the township oppose the approval of these applications because any discharge by ADS will cause irreparable harm to Johnson Creek. The ADS applications seek modifications to an existing permit (MIS210766). Northville Township has carefully reviewed the ADS applications and believe that they contain errors and omissions. Our
residents and our Township Trustees have submitted detailed objections to the state. Objections have also been submitted by The Conservancy Initiative (TCI), an environmental nonprofit 501c(3) corporation, by their letter dated June 23, 2020, which we reviewed and fully support. Accordingly, Northville Township requests that both permit applications be promptly denied. We also request notification if either of these permits move forward or are denied and copies of any correspondence, emails
or comments between Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and ADS. We reserve our right to submit more detailed comments during this process. Since 2015, Northville Township residents have suffered with noxious odors from the Arbor Hills Landfill in spite of multiple violation notices issued and enforcement actions taken by the EPA and EGLE. ADS has demonstrated a disregard for environmental regulatory compliance
or sustainability. The permit requests by ADS are predicated entirely by financial gain over protecting the environment. Johnson Creek is an irreplaceable asset for our community. With a history of repeated noncompliance with air and waste regulations, and no experience operating water treatment facilities, we simply cannot entrust the environmental health of this treasure to ADS. A single breakdown in the treatment system, for whatever reason, will cause irreparable harm to the trout stream. Discharge of landfill leachate and compost contaminated runoff to Johnson Creek is not the solution to the failure of ADS to properly manage and maintain the landfill and compost operations. Bob Nix Northville Township Supervisor
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MEET THE CANDIDATES Your guide to the Northville Township Board of Trustees election
A
s we have been writing about for several months, the August 4th Primary Election is a big deal in Northville Township, bigger even than the general election in November. In the June issue, we took a look at the millage renewal/increase that voters will be asked to approve. This millage provides about 70-percent of the township’s approximate $27 million budget, and is essential for services like public safety, parks and recreation, and senior and youth services. Most of the half-mill increase, if approved, will be earmarked for public safety. This month, we turn our focus to the candidates running for the Board of Trustees. All seven seats on the Board, including Supervisor, Clerk, Treasurer and the four Trustee positions, are up for grabs. All are contested. Since all but one candidate in the race is a Republican, the primary election will pretty much determine who serves on the Board for the next four years. Democrat Mohammad Aslam, who is running for Trustee, automatically moves to the general election, where he will take on the top four vote getters among Republican candidates. The primary will determine the Supervisor, Clerk and Treasurer winners. The race pits current Supervisor Bob Nix against his predecessor, Mark Abbo. Current Clerk Margie Banner is being challenged by Roger Lundberg, while Treasurer Fred Shadko is being opposed by Jason Rhines. There are six Republican candidates running for Trustee, including incumbents Scott Frush, Mindy Herrmann, and Chris Roosen. Current Northville School Board member Cyndy Jankowski, Steve McGuirk and newcomer Kevin Johnston are the others. We reached out to all the candidates, and asked them a few question to see where they stand on the issues and what their goals are for public service. Please see their responses. We also reached out to Aslam, but he did not respond to our inquiries. We hope this helps our Northville Township readers decide who to vote for this August. (* Denotes Incumbent)
8 The ‘Ville
SUPERVISOR
Robert Nix *
AGE: 73 POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Northville Township Planning Commission, 15 years (several times as chairman); current Township Supervisor (2012 to 2020). PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: Retired (2013), partner, law firm of Kerr Russell, after 40 years (specializing in commercial real estate, development, finance, construction, land use, leasing, environmental and commercial law). Taught a commercial real estate course, Wayne State University Law School (2010-2014). WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST ISSUES FACING THE TOWNSHIP? 1.The financial impact of COVID-19 on Township, including first responder equipment and operation costs, reduction in state revenue and loss tax revenues. 2. The noxious odors, health hazards, regulatory violations and environmental problems created by the Salem Township landfill; any expansion of the landfill and discharges into Johnson Creek. 3. Creating a commercial tax base to ease the tax burden on residents. HOW DO YOU PROPOSE TO DEAL WITH THOSE ISSUES? 1. The conservative financial policies we implemented during the last 8 years to recover from the Great Recession will be used to meet this new financial challenge. Although the extent of the financial impact is uncertain, the Township is taking action to reduce costs by freezing hiring, reducing some positions to part-time, delaying rehiring of laid off staff and funding cost through the Work Share program. Revenues will be preserved by suspending the funding of facility replacement reserves and seeking reimbursements from Federal and State programs. We will maintain a balanced budget and ensure public safety and essential services are funded. 2. Continue our 4-year fight for a permanent solution and use the Landfill Working Group, our partnership with the Conservancy Initiative and coalition with
the City, School District, and legislators to obtain an enforcement order that stops odors, enact legislation that prohibits any expansion or new landfill and prevent any discharges into Johnson Creek. 3. We will promote quality development along our borders compatible with our residential community. When completed, the mixed-use Village project at 5 mile/Beck will create tax revenue of $1 million. The 5 Mile corridor from Beck to Napier Road known as the Michigan International Technology Center (MITC) will be developed for high tech and R & D businesses that will create millions in tax revenue and hundreds of jobs. WHY SHOULD TOWNSHIP VOTERS CHOOSE YOU TO SERVE AS THEIR SUPERVISOR? Our great community is my highest priority. During my time as supervisor, I instituted financially responsible policies, posted financial statements on our website for transparency, reduced debt by $16 million, eliminated $12 million of unfunded pension and medical liabilities, increased the commercial tax base, demolished the Scott prison at no cost to Township, demolished the psychiatric hospital and 10 additional buildings providing for recreational uses, obtained $6.3 million of road improvements by Wayne County, and controlled water and sewer rates. I will continue this progress into the next term. WHAT IS ONE THING VOTERS DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU THAT HELPS DEFINE WHO YOU ARE? I make decisions by getting the facts, analyzing the options/solutions, consulting the decisionmakers and deciding by consensus. Decisions are made on the basis of what is in the best interest of Township, not political, personal or special interest group agendas.
SUPERVISOR
Mark J. Abbo
AGE: 67 POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Northville Township Trustee (7 years), Township Treasurer (1 year), and Township Supervisor (2000-2012) PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: CPA
(30 years of private sector experience); former Wayne County CFO; current Wayne County Commission’s Chief Fiscal Advisor. WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST ISSUES FACING THE TOWNSHIP? 1. Despite having a $5.3 million operating surplus, and multi-million fund balances, the current township leadership has placed a ½ mill property tax increase on the August ballot during the current pandemic and economic crisis. It’s time for tough fiscal decisions, not placing a higher tax burden on our residents. 2. The sorry history of the Arbor Hills Landfill - thousands of complaints about noxious odors from dirty gases, recent reports of the discovery of PFAS onsite and interest by the owner in obtaining permits for expansion and dumping leachate in Johnson Creek to save money- is a mandate for new township leadership. 3. In the past few years, new subdivision construction and commercial development within the township has not followed our previous philosophy of maintaining ample open space, and sufficient structural setbacks. The result has been too much density that is not in line with maintaining property values and aesthetically-pleasing township standards. HOW DO YOU PROPOSE TO DEAL WITH THOSE ISSUES? The current 1% “administrative fee” the township charges to collect taxes - a “tax on a tax”must be eliminated. Tough decisions are needed to keep the township on sound financial footing without property tax increases. New leadership is needed to build a multi-jurisdictional coalition to aggressively press for enforcement of the law, including by lawsuit, and strengthening laws and penalties to prevent landfill violations. Township ordinances that control development must be enforced and strengthened, if necessary, to assure that future development is more consistent with the character of the township. WHY SHOULD TOWNSHIP VOTERS CHOOSE YOU TO SERVE AS THEIR SUPERVISOR? These difficult times again require a proven crisis manager that led the township through the great recession of 2008-2009, keeping taxes low while establishing fiscal stability. Having led the purchase of the 7 Mile hospital property, we need to fulfill the commitment made to residents to finally pull down remaining
buildings and implement the Master Parks Plan for the site. In short, it is respectfully submitted that we need a true fiscal conservative that keeps his word. WHAT IS ONE THING VOTERS DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU THAT HELPS DEFINE WHO YOU ARE? For many years I have enjoyed riding my HarleyDavidson motorcycle, when I do some of my best thinking while experiencing the freedom of the road.
CLERK
Margie F. Banner*
AGE: 69 POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Northville Township Trustee, followed by 5.5 years as Treasurer, and I now serve as Clerk. Have served on most Township boards and commissions. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: Paralegal. Writer, ALM Legal Publications (30-plus years). WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST ISSUES FACING THE TOWNSHIP? 1. The economy is one of the biggest issues, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic. 2. The landfill. Due to its ongoing lack of maintenance, encroaching noxious odors, and continuing environmental violations, it may cause lasting damage to local real estate, environment and aesthetic values of the community. 3. Planning for the improvement of the Township’s future tax base. HOW DO YOU PROPOSE TO DEAL WITH THOSE ISSUES? 1. We have planned for an economic downturn, paid off our pension and OPEB liabilities, and are seeking a .5 mill increase (offset by a .5 mill decrease in the 7 Mile bond interest). We are seeking to recover pandemic costs from the CARES program, we have placed workers on furlough, and the Work Share program, and eliminated several staff positions. Eliminating or delaying capital improvements is an option. 2. The landfill is located in Salem Township, outside of our jurisdiction. However, its effects on 2,000 Northville Township homeowners cannot be ignored. The Township has partnered with the Conservancy Initiative to fight the landfill on every front. We hired a lobbyist to fight
expansion efforts in Lansing. New ownership of the landfill may give us opportunity to clear up existing problems. 3. Continue supporting efforts to make our Michigan International Technology Center (MITC) along Five Mile (between Beck and Napier) a success. We are on the right track to expand our tax base in an area that will not affect the bulk of our residents, but in the future will provide a stable commercial tax base. WHY SHOULD TOWNSHIP VOTERS CHOOSE YOU TO SERVE AS THEIR CLERK? The Clerk’s position is the only full-time elected position in Northville Township. My primary statutory duty is to provide safe, secure and accurate elections for our residents. I believe I am the best candidate because of my years of experience on the board, my institutional knowledge of the Township, my extraordinary work ethic, my ability to get along with people, and my responsible common sense approach to problem-solving. I have been through multiple elections, have been trained and certified as a Clerk - and continue to attend certification seminars and workshops. WHAT IS ONE THING VOTERS DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU THAT HELPS DEFINE WHO YOU ARE? I do everything to the “nth” degree, leaving no stone unturned. I am also kind and empathetic.
CLERK
Roger Lundberg
AGE: 71 POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Republican precinct delegate since 2012; member Wayne 11th Congressional District Republican Committee since 2016; Secretary, Northville Republicans Club PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: 34.5 years at DaimlerChrysler in Product Development. Director level positions held in: Product Strategy, Jeep Program Management; Technology Planning; and Engineering Operations What are the biggest issues facing the township and how do you propose to deal with those issues? 1. The elephant in the room is the health and economic fallout from the COVID-19 crisis. Candidates continued on page 10
The ‘Ville 9
Candidates continued from page 9
There are lots of unknowns. The impact on the overall economy, on businesses, on individuals are all uncertain. Fortunately, the Township is in a strong financial position. However, depending on how COVID-19 plays out, we may have to draw down some of the “rainy day” funds, and/or implement targeted budget cuts. In this scenario, I would have department managers identify and prioritize options to achieve the required cuts. Then, working with the managers, the Board would prioritize on an overall basis, ensuring critical services are maintained. 2. Rising property taxes. Taxes keep going up, in spite of Headlee. Personally, my property taxes are up over 25% in the past 10 years, and are now one of my biggest expense items. According to the Township’s financial report, property tax revenues are up over 42% in the past 10 years. The 2014 taxpayer approved millage was a significant increase of 25%. This increase gave the township a strong financial position, including ample rainy day funds. This is not the time to raise taxes. If elected, I’ll fight to maintain our current level of services without tax millage increases, and determine the appropriate level of rainy day funds to ensure they aren’t overfunded. 3. Arbor Hills Landfill - the mountain in our back yard -- negatively impacts property values and the quality of life of many Northville Township residents. This will require a multi-faceted approach, working with all levels of government and the Conservancy Initiative - improving enforcement to assure compliance, using social media where appropriate, and supporting new legislation. Why should township voters choose you to serve as their clerk? I will bring a fresh new perspective to solving the issues facing Northville Township. I am a fiscal conservative Republican. I am analytical by nature. I have the education, extensive private industry work experience, and a proven track record. What is one thing voters don’t know about you that helps define who you are? I was born and raised on a dairy farm near Ludington, where I learned my work ethic and family values, which have served me well. I have been a leader all my life,
10 The ‘Ville
always taking on leadership roles, whether it be in high school, college, in the community while raising my family, or with my career at Chrysler.
TREASURER
Fred Shadko*
AGE: 73 POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Northville Township Board (two terms); served on Planning, Election, and Historic District commissions; Landfill, Water Rate, and Seven Mile Park committees; and the Economic Development Corp. and Brownfield Authority. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: 39-year career in IT, primarily in the domestic auto industry. Project Manager on multi-million dollar systems critical to vehicle production. WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST ISSUES FACING THE TOWNSHIP? 1. Covid-19 pandemic - and the financial fallout. While we don’t yet know how deep a financial decline will be, we are making plans to accommodate it. 2. The rogue landfill in Salem Township, with its noxious odors, PFAS-contaminated liquids (“leachate”), and threats to Johnson Creek, has been cited by the EPA and has over 50 state violations. HOW DO YOU PROPOSE TO DEAL WITH THOSE ISSUES? 1. Watch our expenditures and, if necessary, take difficult and sometimes unpopular actions to stay on target. This is not a time to “defund” police, fire and ambulance operations. I will never stand for defunding our police department. We will continue to use sophisticated purchasing agreements for police cars, fire engines, etc., as they need replacement. We will scrutinize the items on our Capital Improvement Plan, and hold off on items that are not immediately necessary. We downsized our full-time work force and are using the WorkShare program to reduce our labor costs. We’ve been successful getting Covid-19 related expenses reimbursed by FEMA and will monitor their programs closely. 2. I’ll continue to work with Michigan’s EGLE and the U.S. EPA to rein in the landfill. Due in part to the present Board’s insistence, EGLE has presented the 50plus violation notices to the state Attorney General’s office, and a lawsuit by the State is
likely to be filed soon. If the landfill attempts to expand, I’ll again aggressively oppose the request at the Washtenaw County meetings, as I successfully did in 2017. I attended every Washtenaw Solid Waste Advisory committee meeting, met with Washtenaw County commissioners and the County Administrator to voice our opposition to the expansion proposal. I also made numerous trips to Lansing to work with EGLE as it drafted revisions to the Michigan solid waste law, “Part 115.” I voted to hire the lobbyist who is helping shepherd the bill through the Legislature, and working to include the language that can prevent a new landfill on our border. The latest threat to the Township is the landfill’s permit application to discharge treated leachate, which has borne PFAS, into Johnson Creek, which we totally oppose. WHY SHOULD TOWNSHIP VOTERS CHOOSE YOU TO SERVE AS THEIR TREASURER? My municipal finance experience and relationships with state and county officials will serve us best. Municipal finance is very different from a standard forprofit business. There are volumes of rules and laws to navigate, and they are constantly being revised and updated. WHAT IS ONE THING VOTERS DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU THAT HELPS DEFINE WHO YOU ARE? I have had perfect attendance since being elected in 2012 at all Board and Commission meetings. I am the only sitting Board member who can make this claim.
TREASURER
Jason Rhines
AGE: 45 POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: I am proud to say, this is my first campaign. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: Licensed Michigan residential builder; president/CFO of a disaster restoration and building company WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST ISSUES FACING THE TOWNSHIP? 1. Covid 19 - How to keep residents and especially seniors safe. 2. Fiscal responsibility, transparency and not raising taxes during a pandemic. 3. The Arbor Hills landfill.
HOW DO YOU PROPOSE TO DEAL WITH THOSE ISSUES? My plan is to utilize my experience in disaster restoration to make sure residents and especially senior communities have the information and resources they need. If our local government is ever forced by the state to close again, I will make sure residents can reach me via cell phone and/or email directly if they have any urgent concerns. These are the times when residents need their elected officials. My plan is to put the Township checkbook online so residents can see exactly where their tax dollars are being spent. I’ll go line by line through the budget and reallocate resources if needed to maintain essential services without raising taxes. According to Napoleon Hill’s personal development book “Think and Grow Rich”, the difference between success and failure in anything comes down to a few basic principles like desire, faith, imagination, organized planning and persistence. My plan is to jump into this problem with both feet and create a solution. If I don’t find a way to solve the problems that are most important to the citizens, then I would expect not to be re-elected in 2024. WHY SHOULD TOWNSHIP VOTERS CHOOSE YOU TO SERVE AS THEIR TREASURER? I am a true and committed fiscal conservative and an out of the box thinking problem solver. If elected, I promise to have the courage to do the right thing and to be resolved to find solutions for long standing problems while also having the vision to keep Northville Township prepared for potential disasters in the future. WHAT IS ONE THING VOTERS DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU THAT HELPS DEFINE WHO YOU ARE? One of my favorite quotes is from a 19th century conservative British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, who said, “Nothing can resist a human will that will stake its very existence on its stated purpose.” This summarizes three things I’m passionate about: history, philosophy and personal development.
TRUSTEE
Scott Frush*
AGE: 49 POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Current trustee. I
was appointed by Supervisor Bob Nix and confirmed unanimously by the Board of Trustees in early 2019 given the retirement of Sue Hillebrand. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: SVP and senior financial advisor with a global bank; past instructor of finance, University of Michigan; author of six finance books published by McGraw-Hill WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST ISSUES FACING THE TOWNSHIP? The three biggest issues include (1) economic uncertainty and related impacts to the budget, (2) supporting our first responders, and (3) fighting the landfill. HOW DO YOU PROPOSE TO DEAL WITH THOSE ISSUES? As for issue one, I bring a fiscally conservative approach with the firm understanding that I must be an exceptional steward of the taxpayers’ money. This includes not increasing total property tax millage rates, stretching every dollar spent, delaying capital projects where feasible and sensible, and delivering the highest utility for each check we must write. As for issue two, supporting our first responders is essential—and may become critical over the next four years if the COVID-19 pandemic escalates and requires substantial more EMS runs and/or if the economy declines and the frequency of violent crimes and home invasions rise. In good times and in bad times, I will always support our first responders. As for issue three, fighting the landfill is not only needed to stop the horrible odors, but also to ensure there are no health concerns arising from the dump. Opposing the expansion of the dump across Six Mile Road is a top priority as is prohibiting discharges into Johnson Creek. As a current trustee, I will continue to engage our legislators locally and in Lansing to not only fine the dump operator, Arbor Hills, when they violate regulations, but also to enact new legislation to increase fines and oppose the expansion. WHY SHOULD TOWNSHIP VOTERS CHOOSE YOU TO SERVE ON THE BOARD? If voters seek a trustee who is fiscally conservative, seek a trustee who supports our first responders, and seeks a trustee who will fight the landfill, then please vote Scott Frush. I will be an advocate for you. In addition, I will work to control water rates, promote our parks and recreation, and
work to retain the character of Northville against questionable property developments. WHAT IS ONE THING VOTERS DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU THAT HELPS DEFINE WHO YOU ARE? Every candidate for every office—locally and across the country—tells a good story about why they should be elected. However—as we all know—actions speak louder than words and many local leaders have endorsed me for trustee. I’m honored to have earned the endorsements of Sue Hillebrand, retired clerk; Terry Marecki, our county commissioner; Symantha Heath, trustee; Bob Nix, supervisor; Patrick Colbeck, former state senator; Jeff Noble, former state representative; the Fallone family, owners of Cantoro Market; Bob Cushman; Marty Testasecca; and Tom Stroup.
TRUSTEE
Mindy Herrmann*
AGE: 54 POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Served as Northville Township Trustee 2008-present PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: US Naval Academy graduate 1988; USMC officer 1988-2016 (28 years as a Supply Officer; also worked in administration, logistics, and recruiting); USMC Command and Staff (Master’s Level Program) graduate; work with both Beat the Streets Detroit (501c3 youth wrestling organization) and the Federal Bar Association. WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST ISSUES FACING THE TOWNSHIP? All of the substantial aftershocks of Covid-19 have yet to be seen. While Northville Township has positioned itself well to financially weather this storm, the elected individuals of the board need to think independently and work cooperatively to meet the challenges which lie ahead. It is important that we live within our means and continue to look for ways to partner with other organizations and communities to most effectively provide quality services to our residents. The Arbor Hills Landfill is a nuisance, which is getting literally larger every day. As the landfill grows in size, the problem worsens. As Northville Township works Candidates continued on page 12
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Candidates continued from page 11
TRUSTEE
through its staff and subcommittees of our elected officials, it is important that both of those assigned to the landfill issue continue to work with our legislators, the Conservancy Initiative and citizens throughout the township to fight any proposed expansion and hold the dump accountable for all violations. Continuing to provide great services to our residents during tough times. I am especially committed to our shared services (with the City of Northville and our school district). HOW DO YOU PROPOSE TO DEAL WITH THOSE ISSUES? Living within our means. I was the only board member to vote no for the proposal for the August ballot to increase township taxes. We need to look at everything for cost reductions so that we don’t get into the trouble faced by many Michigan communities where they are not able to meet their financial obligations. Right now, our financial posture puts us in the top 2% of all communities in Michigan, which translates to us not having to pay a disproportionate/untenable amount of our revenue to interest payments etc. – so most of our revenue goes back into the community/ providing residents with services. Continue working with the Conservancy Initiative, lobbyists, and the legislature to achieve our goals in regards to the landfill. Educate our constituency. This is a problem that will affect our entire township. WHY SHOULD TOWNSHIP VOTERS CHOOSE YOU TO SERVE ON THE BOARD? Vision, Leadership, Integrity: Think my record as a Marine Corps Officer, my work and leadership for several nonprofit organizations, my continued service to the township and my record of often being the only board member to vote independently when necessary (such as the voting no on millage increase) is a testament to my ability to make good and sometimes difficult decisions. I will do everything within my power to best represent all of our residents. WHAT IS ONE THING VOTERS DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU THAT HELPS DEFINE WHO YOU ARE? One of my biggest strengths is thinking creatively on how we can get from here to there. I feel like I’ve done a good job of it in both my professional and personal life, and would love to use this skill for the benefit of my community on another board term.
Chris Roosen*
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AGE: 53 POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Northville Township Trustee 2004-2012 and 2016-Present PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: 20 Years at Ford and Visteon, 10 years at global auto suppliers in sales and program management. WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST ISSUES FACING THE TOWNSHIP? The financial fallout from the global pandemic, which although still uncertain, is predicted to reduce state revenue sharing by $1.5 million this year. We do not yet know what 2021 will bring. HOW DO YOU PROPOSE TO DEAL WITH THOSE ISSUES? Northville Township is in an enviable position because we have a strong fund balance, and our pension and retiree health care plans are now fully funded. We need to keep our police, fire and EMS services fully funded, which means we need to pass the millage renewal, which will dedicate 88% of funds raised to Public Safety. We need to carefully manage spending, especially capital spending, the rest of 2020, and carefully craft a balanced budget for 2021. Our success will be in a series of small steps, not one big cost cut. In the end, we will come through this crisis strong, as we did 10 years ago. WHY SHOULD TOWNSHIP VOTERS CHOOSE YOU TO SERVE ON THE BOARD? My experience, which includes serving on the Township Board during the last recession 10 years ago, leaves me best prepared to serve the community through the ongoing pandemic and economic recovery. These unstable times call for continued stable, professional, and civil community leadership. Northville Township is a great place to live, raise a family, and enjoy your retirement. There is no need to make major changes, but instead we need to stay focused on what has already made us successful. WHAT IS ONE THING VOTERS DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU THAT HELPS DEFINE WHO YOU ARE? I was raised in Detroit (Warrendale) by loving parents who will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary this September. I have never forgotten where I came from.
TRUSTEE
Cynthia (Cyndy) Jankowski
AGE: 63 POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Northville Public Schools Board of Education, 9 years, currently serving as Treasurer. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: 30-plus years as a paralegal in litigation and real estate. WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST ISSUES FACING THE TOWNSHIP? 1. Budget impacts from anticipated reductions in sales tax revenue and other revenue sources, directly related to COVID-19. 2. Thoughtful township development, particularly along the Five Mile corridor. 3. Continuing the township’s efforts in Lansing, regarding future expansion of Arbor Hills landfill, and their newly filed applications to permit discharges into Johnson Creek. HOW DO YOU PROPOSE TO DEAL WITH THOSE ISSUES? 1. Anticipating shortfalls in the township’s operating budget, directly attributable to Covid-19, will be my highest priority. Having been on the Board of Education during turbulent times, I have the experience to evaluate cost saving measures, and keep services at a level our residents deserve. 2. With the township at a 95% built-out capacity, thoughtful commercial and residential development will be key to sustain property tax revenues and provide a work/life balance for our residents. Transparency and open dialogue with our community on proposed development plans will be key for sustainable future growth. As our community grows, it will be paramount to collaborate with SEMCOG and Wayne County to fund road and signal improvements for residential safety. 3. As a member of the Landfill Working Group, I understand residents’ concerns in protecting their dearest commodity – their family. As a Trustee, I will find opportunities to have our voices heard in Lansing. Strategies to unite our township residents to the east and north, and encourage their participation will be necessary as the Board continues to challenge Advanced Disposal to resolve its continued odor issues.
WHY SHOULD TOWNSHIP VOTERS CHOOSE YOU TO SERVE ON THE BOARD? I have lived in the township for the past 16 years, with a nine-year tenure on the Northville Board of Education and serving in every officer position, including three separate terms as President. I believe the district’s success in serving its 7,100-plus students has been utilizing a process-based decision making protocol, and listening to the families we serve. I’d continue this process, seeking input from both sides of the aisle to make fair, unbiased decisions for our township residents. WHAT IS ONE THING VOTERS DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU THAT HELPS DEFINE WHO YOU ARE? Coming from a family of community servants, I have learned the importance of being a good listener. My father served as a school board trustee for 14 years, and was a township trustee for 20 years. He instilled in me the importance of honesty and integrity to the residents we serve, and to only make decisions after evaluating the facts and soliciting input from both sides of the issue.
TRUSTEE
Kevin Johnston
AGE: 25 POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Selected Eagle Scout, Troop 755 Northville and peer elected leadership at Western Michigan University PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: Real Estate industry for almost 10 years WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST ISSUES FACING THE TOWNSHIP? 1. Needless expenditures 2. The landfill 3. Increased traffic HOW DO YOU PROPOSE TO DEAL WITH THOSE ISSUES? 1. Ruthlessly examine expenses over the past years and cut back where necessary -- no more thoughtless reoccurring costs of $16,000 lawn mowers and multiple brand new Chevy Tahoes. 2. Continue open communication with landfill and community leaders to spread awareness of the continuing issues. Push for required input from neighboring communities with regards to expansion and operations of landfills. 3. Work with citizens and professionals
to determine the best solution to mitigate congestion and increase effectiveness of our current roadways. WHY SHOULD TOWNSHIP VOTERS CHOOSE YOU TO SERVE ON THE BOARD? The township needs a fresh perspective on issues and everyday challenges we all, as fellow community members, face. Instead of having the same people in the same positions doing the same thing year after year, we need change to accommodate our ever advancing society and upcoming global challenges. WHAT IS ONE THING VOTERS DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU THAT HELPS DEFINE WHO YOU ARE? I believe everyone brings value. No one opinion should be superior to all. Those in power should continue the fundamental of our nation’s intended emphasis on the community as a whole. United together with everyone being heard and bringing their own experiences and perspectives is the best way to succeed.
TRUSTEE
Steve McGuirk
AGE: 63 POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: Served on several Northville Township committees and State Soccer Board; VP of Michigan State Premier Soccer Program and Nomination Chair for Michigan State Youth Soccer Association; served as lead on a Presidential primary campaign in Ohio. PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE: Manufacturers representative for the home furnishings industry and software developer WHAT ARE THE BIGGEST ISSUES FACING THE TOWNSHIP? 1. The local economy is our most pressing problem. Families are concerned with their financial futures due to the Covid-19 and employment. 2. Arbor Hills landfill has applied for a leachate field, which is worrisome. With recent PFOS/PFAS pollution from a Wixom business of the Huron River, the fear of permanent groundwater contamination with these ‘forever’ chemicals is a real possibility. This landfill is in the Johnson Creek watershed with nearly 50 environment violations. PFOS/PFAS are extreme cancer causing chemicals, which have been limited
in California to six molecules per trillion particles. The Huron River outside of Wixom was testing as high as 1,400 PPT. HOW DO YOU PROPOSE TO DEAL WITH THOSE ISSUES? I would freeze budgets with the lowest impact to services, until we grasp the effects of the financial impact of Covid-19 and its effects on employment. Strengthen the Township balance sheet through strategic partnerships that leverage local entrepreneurial creativity, philanthropic underwriting, and subject matter expertise. Tackle the Arbor Hills landfill dilemma head-on by assembling top experts to collaborate. I would stay informed by attending lectures at the universities and meetings offered by the state. Work closely with our elected state officials, writing letters and phone calls. Maybe teaming up with the City of Northville to be great neighbors and take on this issue together. WHY SHOULD TOWNSHIP VOTERS CHOOSE YOU TO SERVE ON THE BOARD? I am passionate about Northville, and have been actively involved with local issues since moving here. I’ve attended 100-plus Northville Township meetings; served as president of Northville Soccer for 22 years; been appointed to volunteer community service committees “Yes to Northville Parks” and “7 Mile property plan group”; and benefitted from the mentorship of the late (great) Marv Gans. My experience with computer user groups, youth sports teams, statewide volunteer organizations, and political campaigns have given me the necessary communication and negotiation skills to serve my fellow citizens. WHAT IS ONE THING VOTERS DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU THAT HELPS DEFINE WHO YOU ARE? Our daughters, Morgan and Paige, loved growing up here. That makes it home. I’m fortunate to be in a position to devote myself to my community and hope to be worthy of the voters’ trust.
Remember to VOTE! The ‘Ville 13
R E A L E S T AT E S P E C I A L I S T R E A L E S T AT E S P E C I A L I S T
RECENT NORTHVILLE HOME SALES
43333 Reservoir Street, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . $210,000 41810 Five Mile Road, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . . $255,500 44711 Six Mile Road, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . . . $260,000 299 Ely Drive, Northville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $301,000 19811 Scenic Harbour Drive, Northville Twp . . . . . $324,000 x46217 Greenridge Drive, Northville . . . . . . . . . . $365,000 21400 Standstead Road, Northville . . . . . . . . . . . .$371,500 41616 Sunnydale Lane, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . $385,000 41991 Banbury Court, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . . $385,000 840 Spring Drive, Northville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $390,000 453 Morgan Circle, Northville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $400,000 41933 Pon Meadow Drive, Northville Twp . . . . . . $440,000 504 Cady Street, Northville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $470,000 20428 Lexington Boulevard, Northville . . . . . . . . $475,000 49751 Parkside Drive, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . . $480,000 17297 Victor Court, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . . . $490,000 1012 Grace Court, Northville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $495,000 46594 Valley Drive, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . . . $500,000 18282 Cascade Drive, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . . $520,000 526 Orchard Drive, Northville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $550,000 x16538 Sherwood Lane, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . $565,000 19099 Denali Circle, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . . . $570,000 46580 Crystal Downs, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . . $605,000 845 Novi Street, Northville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $610,000 44520 Country Lane, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . . $630,000 39700 Golfview Drive, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . . $635,000 16124 Maplewood Court, Northville Twp . . . . . . . $643,000 44118 Deep Hollow Circle, Northville Twp . . . . . . $665,000 18309 Clairmont Circle, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . $685,000 18667 Clover Hill Court, Northville Twp . . . . . . . $702,500 50825 Northstar Way, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . $712,000 18839 Bayberry Way, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . . $715,000 16273 Aspen Valley Drive, Northville Twp . . . . . . $721,000 18551 Fox Hollow Court, Northville Twp . . . . . . . $865,000 44103 Cypress Point Drive, Northville Twp . . . . . . $870,000 18212 Parkshore Drive, Northville Twp . . . . . . . . $950,000 522 Rouge Street, Northville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,225,000 47510 Creekside Court, Northville Twp . . . . . . . $1,565,000
RECENT NORTHVILLE CONDO SALES 19172 Northridge Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $133,000 705 Randolphy Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $133,200 19557 Mariner Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $152,000 19546 Northridge Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $160,000 15935 Morningside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $180,000 15986 Morningside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $180,000 15907 Morningside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $193,550 16030 Morningside . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $194,900 19836 Irongate Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $196,000 41323 Lagoon Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $200,000 39639 Springwater . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $216,000 808 Revere Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $217,900 39492 Rockcrest Lane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $220,000 669 River Park Vlg Boulevard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $259,925 42447 Corlina Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $295,500 39502 Village Run Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $303,000 39563 Village Run Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $325,000 224 Saint Lawrence Boulevard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $340,000 49466 Glacier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $343,500 337 Cady Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $365,000 17098 Garden Ridge Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $365,000 203 Saint Lawrence Boulevard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $373,000 325 Cady Street . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $395,000 39793 Eagle Trace Drive . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $400,000 233 Saint Lawrence Lane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $410,000 44800 Broadmoor Circle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $415,000 17050 Garden Ridge Court . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $444,967 17560 Lake View Circle . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $457,500
“Angela worked tirelessly on negotiating our deal, and ensuring we had the most competitive offer on the home we wanted. We trust Angela and HIGHLY, HIGHLY recommend her to anyone looking for a new home, a new office, or land to build a new project!” Catherine and Chris F . - Northville
2014 • 2015 • 2016 • 2017 • 2018 • 2019
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Fausone Bohn, LLP would like to wish everyone in our community a happy and healthy Fourth of July. We look forward to continuing to serve the legal needs of our community throughout the vast areas of practice that we offer. We are your neighbors, we attend your places of worship, and coach your children. We understand the importance of having a
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City of Northville police officers Melissa Vernon (left) and Frank Cerulla sit in the patrol car. You can see the body cameras worn on the front of their uniform.
Accountability and Transparency In face of scrutiny, Northville police departments strive to be fair and unbiased Story by Lonnie Huhman | Photos by Bryan Mitchell
T
he death of George Floyd under a Minneapolis police officer’s knee has ignited protests across the nation, even including here in Northville where a large crowd gathered at Ford Field on June 12 to show solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement. Floyd’s killing has also led many people to take a closer look at their local police departments, and Northville is no different. Both the city and township police departments say community members have been reaching out to them in an effort to learn more about their policies and practices as it relates to such things as use-of force, de-escalation, impartial policing, and use of body cameras. Both
16 The ‘Ville
departments said they welcome the community’s questions and inquiries because, in the end, being accountable and transparent is important.
Police Department care. They care about the people and the community for whom they took an oath to serve. They do this through a commitment to
Protesters descended upon Northville's Ford Field on June 12 to show solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement. Photo by Roberto Fernandez
“Beyond policies, procedures, and standards of conduct, the men and women of the Northville Township
providing exceptional service, earning the trust of our citizens and showing respect to all,” said Northville Township Manager/
Public Safety Director Todd Mutchler of the core values of the department. This sentiment is shared by the Northville City Police Department, according to Chief Alan Maciag. “As the Chief of Police, I take pride in knowing that the officers of the Northville Police Department conduct themselves with integrity, high ethics, professionalism and respect,” Maciag said. “One of the most important decisions that I make is hiring the right individuals as police officers. Only officers who possess these important traits are hired as police officers in the City of Northville,” Maciag continued. “Officers have empathy and understand that everyone they deal with is a
human being and they are to be treated with respect and professionalism, no matter what they may have done. Anything short of this has consequences.” USE OF FORCE Concerning use of force, both departments said they have policies in place to prevent incidences like in the case of George Floyd. Mutchler said choke holds or restricting a person’s airflow has not been allowed in the state of Michigan for decades. “The application of choke holds is considered deadly or fatal force,” Mutchler said. “Northville Township does not permit the use of choke holds in its force continuum. Northville Township officers receive on-going and regular training in use-of-force policy and application. They are required to demonstrate proficiency in departmental use-of-force standards annually through a written and practical exam. Successful completion of this allows an officer to ‘re-certify’ for another year.” Maciag shared a letter he received from a resident concerning the death of Floyd, as well as his response, in which he showed solidarity with those who have protested Floyd’s death. “I am as concerned and horrified as you are regarding the death of George Floyd,” Maciag wrote. “The actions of the officers involved were not only unjustified, but criminal. These actions do not represent the majority of hard-working police officers who dedicate their lives to serving the public with integrity, respect and professionalism.” Maciag said leadership
within his department holds officers accountable if policies are violated. “Officers train yearly in such categories as anti-bias, gender bias, community engagement and verbal de-escalation,” Maciag said. “Officers are also trained on the proper techniques of use of force, defensive tactics and department weapon systems. Internal department policies are also in place to prevent these types of actions.” DUTY TO INTERVENE Maciag noted that the city’s current use of force policy has a “duty to intervene” which means that if an officer observes another officer using excessive force, that officer is required to intervene and stop the officer. “The officer also has a duty to report the excessive use of force,” Maciag said. Both departments also look to train in order to maintain good policing and to improve. Mutchler said his department supports de-escalation training by providing context and strategies for behavioral health incidents (mental health crisis/substance abuse incidents) through “Mental Health First Aid” courses and Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training. “These courses focus on deescalation techniques to diffuse situations and limit the use of force,” Mutchler said. They also employ impartial policing. “All Northville Township police officers received training in Fair and Impartial Policing in 2019,” according to Mutchler. “Additionally, members of the department became certified instructors
Northville Township police officers, including Jennifer Johnson (pictured), receive regular training in use-of-force policy and application. The department does not allow officers to use choke holds.
in this critically important training allowing us to provide this training in an ongoing manner within the department as well as offering it to officers from other agencies as well.” These are just some of the areas and ways that both departments work to prevent issues that could turn deadly. Both Maciag and Mutchler emphasize the need for accountability and transparency. BODY CAMERAS One area the city department does this is through the use of cameras worn by its officers. Maciag said his department was one of the first police agencies in their area to equip all of its officers with body worn cameras. He said the use of incar/ body worn video and audio has been extremely important on many occasions. “They have been used to document the conduct of defendants, review complaints against personnel and are used for training regarding officer safety issues,” Maciag said. “The use of cameras has helped to reduce the number of allegations of misconduct and the reduction of civil litigation against the department. Department transparency builds trust and accountability with the community we serve. In-car cameras and body worn
cameras are essential tools in providing transparency.” In January, Mutchler said the township police department began initial steps toward a goal of achieving accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). He said the department is looking to build upon the high standards achieved by attaining accredited status from the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police in 2018. “Through these accreditations, the department demonstrates a commitment to providing the highest level of professional police services. This status is earned through a vigorous process which requires objective evidence or proof of compliance with the many standards set forth,” Mutchler said. “These standards are recognized internationally as best practice industry standards regarding the delivery of law enforcement services. Northville Township benefits from these accreditations by the high standards in place which ensure exceptional and professional police service as demonstrated through transparency, accountability and a commitment to service.”
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Now, as we navigate through these unprecedented times, we want everyone to know our family is here to support you. Like you, we care deeply about the Northville community. That’s because we’re not just your attorneys, we’re also your neighbors. We live here, raise our kids here, and work here. We could not be more proud of the way our community has responded to a devastating, worldwide pandemic. A big thank you to all the frontline healthcare workers who have worked so hard to keep us safe! We know far too many of you are hurting right now. We’re all hurting in one way or another. If you have legal needs during
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“ H O N E S T A S T H E Y C O M E .” — C l ay H . “MADE HOME BUYING A B R E E Z E .” — S c o t t G . “ B E S T O F T H E B E S T.” — S h awn a H .
“AB SOLU T ELY AMA ZING .” — C o u r t n ey P.
“ T R U S T H I M 10 0 % .” — Michelle S.
“ I WO U L D 10 O U T O F 10 R EC O M M E N D H I M .” —Te r r e n c e K .
“MIKE MA DE M Y HOME BU Y ING E X PERIENC E T HE B E S T.” — C a s s an d r a
H.
“ D I D N ’ T J U S T T E L L M E W H AT I WA N T E D TO H E A R .” — Ke n d r a H . “ I WO U L D N E V E R G O TO A N OT H E R AG E N T A F T E R WO R K I N G W I T H M I K E .” — M i c h e l l e H .
—J a s o n H .
“ H A N D S D OW N M I K E W I L L B E T H E O N LY O N E T O H A N D L E M Y R E A L E S TAT E D E A L S .” —J o s h K .
“GRE AT TO WORK WI T H , V ERY PROFE S S ION AL .” — Lo r i
V.
“A LWAY S AVA I L A B L E TO A N SW E R M Y Q U E S T I O N S , H E I S T H E B E S T.” —Te r r i N .
“AB LE TO C LO SE T HE DE AL .”
— Ro n C .
“ H E G OT T H E H O U S E S O L D V E RY Q U I C K LY AT A PR I C E B E T T E R T H A N I T H O U G H T.” — Ro b i n R . “G U I D E D U S T H RO U G H E AC H S T E P.” — C ar l K .
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PAST TENSE
When Henry Came to Town
Auto pioneer mixed with locals during Northville visits By Michele Fecht
B
ernice Lute was a young teenager scooping ice cream at Cloverdale (now Rebecca’s) in the waning years of World War II when four well-dressed gentlemen walked into the popular dairy, took a front table, and placed their hats on the window ledge that overlooked North Center Street. Lute didn’t take much notice of the elderly gentleman in the group until he left her a 50-cent tip. “You didn’t get tips back then,” said Bernice, now 91. “I didn’t realize it was him until the men left and someone said ‘That’s Henry Ford!’” It was a BIG tip and most likely more than the cost of the ice cream. Bernice, who married her Cloverdale Henry Ford co-worker Othal Baggett after he returned from his war service, noted it was her only sighting of Ford. Nevertheless, the auto pioneer had been visiting Northville since the late 1880s — more than a decade before the first Ford car, the Quadricycle, was completed — and two decades before the Model T went into production at Detroit’s Piquette Plant. FAMILY CONNECTIONS Henry Ford’s early visits to Northville coincided with his
20 The ‘Ville
marriage to Clara Bryant in 1888. In “Northville: The First Hundred Years” – a compulsory read — author and former Northville Record editor Jack Hoffman noted that Henry and Clara Ford honeymooned in Northville in a house at 632 North Center Street. The home still stands today. In addition, Hoffman wrote that Henry and Clara helped with construction of the home of Edward and Elizabeth Bogart Whitaker (Elizabeth was one of Clara’s relations) at 335 North Center. Henry allegedly sawed all of the wood for the home and Clara stained some of the interior woodwork. The structure is now the office of John Johnson Farmers Insurance. Henry and Clara grew up in Greenfield Township (eventually annexed into the cities of Detroit and Highland Park) along with Clara’s first cousin Marvin Bogart. Though there was a more than 20-year age gap between Henry and Clara and her cousin Marvin, the three remained constant friends until Marvin’s death in 1938 at the Marvin Bogart. Photo age of 98. courtesy of Candy Bogart Bogart was part of a pioneer family in the area that is now Wixom; the family homestead was located
Henry and Clara Ford honeymooned in Northville at this house at 632 North Center Street. Photo by Bryan Mitchell
on 12 Mile Road near Napier. A Civil War veteran, Bogart served in the Michigan 22nd Co. and fought in the Battle of Chickamauga, where he was captured and eventually sent to the notorious Confederate prison, Andersonville. He would survive 14 months there as a prisoner of war. Though a Wixom resident, Bogart was a popular figure in Northville. He was a member of Northville’s Allen M. Harmon Post of the G.A.R., and was the last surviving member of the post when he died. Ford enjoyed spending time at the Bogart homestead and tried to convince Marvin to invest in his fledgling automotive enterprise. Bogart declined. A horse and buggy man, it was not until Ford offered Bogart a car that he agreed to learn to drive. With Ford’s chauffeur as his instructor, the Civil War
veteran finally took the wheel. He was 85. Ford continued to gift Bogart with a new car every year, delivered through the Hugh Arms Agency in South Lyon. One of Marvin Bogart’s grandsons was Edward M. Bogart, the longtime owner of the E.M.B. Food Market (now Genitti’s) on Main Street. Ford frequently stopped by the market, particularly after his 1919 purchase of the Dubuar Manufacturing facility at Main and Griswold. The former lumber and manufacturing facility would become the Northville Valve Plant, the first of Ford’s village industry factories. VALVES AND VISITORS Ford’s visits to Northville were far more frequent once production was under way at the valve plant. The plant went into production on March 20,
1920 manufacturing valves for automobiles and Fordson tractors. By 1936, Ford would replace the former Dubuar factory with a larger Albert Kahn-designed structure of brick and steel, distinguished by its waterwheel. The facility today is the Water Wheel Centre. In more than a bit of irony, Ford often rode the interurban from Farmington to the Northville plant then continued on to his plants in Waterford and at Phoenix Lake. The popularity of the automobile helped spell the demise of the interurban in 1928. By 1920, Henry Ford was world-renowned. Despite his fame, the auto pioneer took keen interest in his 19 village industry plants and enjoyed showing their operation to guests and dignitaries. The Northville Record wrote about several distinguished visitors who accompanied Ford on tours of Northville’s valve plant. Among the notable was aviatrix Ethel Dare, airplane wing walker, stuntwoman, and the first woman to change airplanes in the air. In August 1923, Henry Ford brought Thomas Edison and Harvey Firestone to the Northville plant after returning
area since it became known that Mr. Ford and Mr. Lindbergh were in conference.”
Henry Ford frequently visited his Northville valve plant, which today is the Water Wheel Centre. Photo by Bryan Mitchell
from Marion, Ohio, where they were attending the funeral of President Warren G. Harding. Their one-hour tour of the plant warranted the lead story on The Northville Record’s front page under the headline, “Three Jolly Chums Visit Northville.” The Record noted that Edison and Firestone along “with their wives” — that would be Mira and Idabelle — were spending the week with Henry and Clara Ford in Dearborn before heading to northern Michigan for a camping expedition. Ford, Edison, Firestone and naturalist John Burroughs (who died in 1921) were famous for their cross-country camping expeditions and dubbed themselves, The Vagabonds. There are scant details in The Record’s story on the visit
“Family Owned for Four Generations”
by America’s three titans of industry, but it is likely that it turned the heads of workers on the valve plant production line. In July 1940, Henry Ford brought two of America’s greatest aviators to the valve plant for a “30-minute inspection.” Col. Charles Lindbergh and Capt. Eddie Rickenbacker, America’s most successful fighter pilot in World War I and Medal of Honor winner, visited the plant and “expressed their approval of the condition of the plant itself as well as the grounds.” The Northville Record reported: “Nothing was said by the three about using the valve plant for the manufacturing of war planes. Such speculation has been current throughout this section of the metropolitan
A LASTING TRIBUTE In March 1941, it was noted in The Record that Henry Ford spent the afternoon visiting Northville friends. He did not stop at the valve plant. There is little mention of his time in Northville during the World War II years — though we know he stopped for ice cream at Cloverdale. On November 15, 1946, more than 3,500 people turned out to dedicate the Henry Ford Field, a new athletic field complete with a baseball diamond and lights, located on Griswold across from Northville’s Ford Valve Plant. Today most know it simply as Ford Field. Henry Ford died on April 7, 1947. The Northville valve plant shut down the day’s production April 11 in memory of the auto pioneer. The Record noted that “Mr. Ford had a peculiar love for Northville and felt that smaller plants such as the local valve plant allowed a man to work in industry and keep his feet in the soil . . . Many local people recall with a loving devotion and pride the many visits of Mr. Ford to Northville, and his joy in meeting people here.”
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r o F t a e r
G
s r e N N i EG
B
le's l i v h t r No s e t a r ail t r t r e e p k i x E b n i a t n u mo t ell s e yan Mitch w ne otos by Br h Story & P
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orthville Township celebrated on June 19 the opening of new mountain biking and hiking trails at the eastern portion of the former psychiatric hospital property
on Seven Mile. The trailhead is located on Wayne Avenue (off of Haggerty next to the Hawthorn Center) and weaves through 50 acres of woodlands. The township partnered
The trailhead kiosk includes a map of the new mountain bike trail.
22 The ‘Ville
with the Motor City Mountain Biking Association (MCMBA), a volunteer organization, which designed and built the trails over the last year on the southwest section of the land purchased by the township as part of the master plan for the property. As of now the property includes a two-mile mountain bike trail and a milelong hiking trail. With the pandemic bringing many of the ways people would entertain themselves to a halt, parks have seen a major uptick in overall use for hiking and biking. Personally, I've never seen so many new mountain bike riders at Maybury State Park. So, if you are new to mountain biking or took
the kids out to Maybury for a ride and found it a little intimidating, head over to the new trail and give mountain biking another try. The Belle Creek Branch mountain bike trail is a twomile long twisty, gentle rolling trail perfect for younger riders and first-time mountain bikers. The singletrack trail starts at the kiosk sign along Wayne Avenue and rides one-way in a clockwise direction. The trail immediately starts to twist and turn making as much use of the space available as possible. The forest is lush and beautiful and should be amazing come autumn with fall colors. It’s not an advanced trail at all, and not a destination trail. However, if you live close by,
within a couple miles, it is an excellent trail for elementary school age riders as well as someone who has never ridden a singletrack trail before. It’s twisty, but there are no real up hills or down hills to speak of so a nice leisurely pace can help younger and newer riders build confidence before giving a trail
like the singletrack at Maybury State Park a try. For Northville families with young children new to the sport it has a bunch of potential for learning the sport of mountain biking, confidence building and fun. Trails continued on page 24
Here are some other mountain bike trails in the Northville area to check out:
1. Maybury State Park If you you are brand new to mountain biking you might not know there is a wonderful singletrack trail specific to mountain biking right in Northville's back yard at Maybury State Park. So, once you get your taste of the sport at the new Northville Trail, head on over to Maybury. The trail is a little over six miles as it uses much of the typography Maybury has available. This singletrack trail is a fun trail for all levels of mountain biker. With the short, punchy climbs (one at the very start), twists and turns, beginners will find it a challenging ride but not impossible. And more advanced riders still can have a blast, sprinting up those short climbs and hammering out a couple laps. There are more natural obstacles such as rooty and rocky sections, but manageable and not too serious. A couple, fast as you dare, downhills, while short, will have you grinning wide as you zip through the forest.
Ayden Ash tries out the new trail.
straight with a few gentle climbs and descents. The yellow trail, at about six miles, is a bit more twisty yet still straighter with more flow than trails. Like Lakeshore Park or Maybury. Many riders link the two trails turning the ride into a 14-plus mile loop. Beginners will like the gentleness of the trail while you will see fit, advanced riders hammering out speed along the smooth singletrack.
4. Brighton Recreation Area Southwest of downtown Brighton is Brighton Recreation Area where mountain bikers can get a nice challenging ride on 14 miles of singletrack. The Torn Shirt loop is about five miles long and considered more advanced for Southeast Michigan. Not because of any major trail features, jumps or things like that but more so for the typography. The climbs on Torn Shirt are quite punchy and can be lung burners. The climbs seem to all be after slow corners with little momentum to carry speed and one right after another. The climbs ease up some on the second half of the loop with some nice twisty, flowy runs. The Murray Lake loop is nine miles, seven if you take the shortcut, and is more moderate with the climbs being more gentle. Personally I don't ride Brighton nearly enough. Every time I do, I seem to say to myself, “Wow! I forgot how fun this trail is.” While I won't tell beginners to hit up Brighton right away, the trail is fine for all abilities, beginner to advanced racer types.
2. Lakeshore Park in Novi
5. DTE Energy Foundation Trail
The singletrack mountain bike trails at Lakeshore Park (aka The Tree Farm) in Novi is 10 miles of twisty fun. Similar to Maybury with less climbing and a bit more on the natural trail features, like roots, rocks and log piles. A fun trail for all levels of riders. It seems to get less traffic than Maybury however that might be because its longer and a bit more spread out. Much of the trail is quite twisty, like many Southeast Michigan mountain bike trails, with a section after you take the bridge across the river where you can open things up a bit. No real sustained downhills but some fun little sections like the “Expert Loop” and the well known “Crater” where more experienced riders can catch some air by dropping into the crater and exiting fast over a large hump.
About an hour’s drive from Northville is the DTE Energy Foundation Trail in Waterloo Recreation Area near Chelsea with four distinct loops totaling 20 plus miles of trail. The trail is what would be considered by many to be a “flow tail” with a wide, groomed tread, smooth corners, berms and jumps. The climbs are somewhat sustained, but not too long. The reward is a “fast as you dare” and flowy downhill run. There is something for everyone at the DTE trail, beginners to advanced to adrenaline seekers. The Green Lake loop is the most mellow of the trails and excellent for beginners. Four miles long, mostly flat and flowy through the forest. Big Kame's 4.5 miles is ridable by all however a couple of the rock downhill sections can be intimidating to beginner and novice riders. Bigger climbs and fun, fast downhills with jumps berms and more await riders on the Winn Loop, eight miles, and Sugar Loop, four miles. While some jumps are big they are all rollable for beginners.
3. Island Lake Recreation Area Out toward the Milford area is Island Lake Recreation Area, across the freeway from Kensington Metropark. The trail here is longer, yet also beginner friendly. From the trail head parking lot, riders can choose from the blue trail or the yellow trail. The beginner friendly blue trail is about nine miles long and more open and
– By Bryan Mitchell
The ‘Ville 23
Trails continued from page 23
This is not a trail for intermediate to advance riders to come hammer out some miles as it’s short with few challenges. Although if you live close by it could be fun to see how fast the corners could be taken without overshooting into the woods, and
easily breaking 10-minute laps on the trail. Parking for the trail is available along Wayne Avenue and across Haggerty Road in the Schoolcraft College parking lot. Look for the new trailhead kiosk along Wayne Avenue. A map of the trail is posted at the trailhead and you can find one online. (http://site.mcmba.org/images/Maps/ Northville/Map-Northville.pdf ) Future plans are underway for connection to the trails on the West end of the 7 Mile Property, which will make much of the park more easily accessible to the neighboring residents. Opening of the western end is anticipated for the fall 2020, however the pandemic could slow the progress down. More intermediate mountain bike trails are planned, as well. Bryan Mitchell is the coach of the Northville High School mountain biking team. He’s been riding mountain bikes for 25 years, and learned the sport on the trails at Maybury State Park.
Alexandra Grabowski rides the new mountain bike trail on the Seven Mile Park property.
E X P E R I E N C E D. Q U A L I F I E D. D E D I C A T E D.
COMMITTED TO PROVIDING TOWNSHIP RESIDENTS WITH ACCURATE ELECTIONS, OPEN COMMUNICATION, FISCAL RESTRAINT, AND TRANSPARENCY. ENDORSEMENTS: Terry Marecki, Wayne County Commissioner; Bob Nix, Northville Township Supervisor; Fred Shadko, Northville Township Treasurer; Historic District Commissioners (Sivy, Schleh, Rosone, Maitland, Palmer, Shadko); Chip Snider, Northville Township Manager (retired); Roland Hwang; Sue Hillebrand, Northville Township Clerk (retired); Jim Petrie, RESA Board Member, Lonna Petrie; Chuck Murdock, 2018 Citizen of the Year; Richard Henningson, Northville Treasurer (retired); Richard Allen, Northville Township Trustee & Planning Commissioner (retired); Joe Oldenburg, Northville District Library Trustee (retired); Martha Nield, Northville Public School Board (retired); Jim Nield, Business Owner; Cynthia Jankowski For more information go to
www.bannerforclerk.com or my Facebook page, Marjorie Banner for Northville Township Clerk Paid for by the Committee to Elect Marjorie F. Banner Clerk. 41726 Pon Meadow Ct., Northville, MI 48168.
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MARK ABBO FOR TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR TOUGH TIMES CALL FOR
A TOUGH LEADER
AS NORTHVILLE TOWNSHIP SUPERVISOR, MARK ABBO: • Crisis manager that led township through the Great Recession of 2008-09 • Kept taxes low while establishing fiscal stability without 1% collection fee • Purchased the 7 Mile hospital and now must implement the Master Parks Plan • Led the community effort to defeat Livonia’s attempt to annex 414 acres of land • Launched Advanced Life Support services for our residents • Built a new water tower to lower water costs and improve water pressure
@AbboforSupervisor www.MarkAbbo.com
Holding the line on spending Protecting Services Putting the checkbook online Repeal the 1% fee to collect taxes
PUTTING NORTHVILLE FAMILIES FIRST
Building a family friendly community
FAMILY FOCUSED • MONEYWISE ECONOMIC SECURITY
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VOTE FOR NORTHVILLE ON AUGUST 4TH
PROTECT & FULLY FUND PUBLIC SAFETY • REPEAL THE 1% TAX ON TAXES PRESERVE JOHNSON CREEK • STOP LANDFILL ODOR & VIOLATIONS Paid for by CTE Mark Abbo 42003 Banbury Ct., Northville, MI 48168 • CTE Jason Rhines, 17994 Stonebrook Drive, Northville, MI 48168 Paid for by Committee to Elect Roger Lundberg, 44140 Cypress Point Dr, Northville MI 48168 • CTE Steve McGuirk, 41849 8 Mile Road, Northville, MI 48167
Judie Braun, with the help of volunteers, takes care of the special garden.
Northville’s
Secret Garden
Retired teacher cultivates 2.5 acre oasis into a ‘living sculpture’ Story by Emily Doran | Photos by Bryan Mitchell
N
estled behind the condos on Oakmont Drive in Northville’s Country Club Village lies a hidden oasis filled with trees, flowering plants and carefully cultivated vegetation. The “Secret Garden” -- as it is affectionately called by local residents – has been retired art teacher Judie
28 The ‘Ville
Braun’s passion project for almost 30 years, and at this point, it’s hardly a secret. Local plant enthusiasts have long revered the nearly 2.5 acres of shade garden that attracts hundreds of visitors — who hear of it through word of mouth — every year. But the area hasn’t always been so developed and wellmaintained. When Braun and her husband, Robert, moved from their Plymouth home to their Northville condo 27 years ago, the stretch of land behind their complex was a tangled, unbuildable jungle of trees and overgrown underbrush. On top of that, Braun knew something was missing. “When we moved here, all of a sudden, I realized that I didn’t have a garden anymore, and I was heartbroken,” she said. “And we hadn’t sold our house,
so every time I went back to the house, I cried because I missed my yard.” Shortly after, the couple started clearing the woods so Braun could have a space to use her green thumb again. With permission from the different developers who have owned the tract of land over the years, they have since cultivated the wild terrain into a vibrant garden filled with native wildflowers, quirky sculptures and meandering paths. Originally, though, Braun didn’t plan to care for such a large area. “Who in their right mind would ever start out to think about doing a garden like this? That’s insanity, in my mind. It happened, but it was because I felt driven. I felt guided. And it was like it was meant to be,” she said.
Judie Braun
A ‘HEALING’ SPACE Braun’s artistic abilities are evident in both the overall design of the space and the thoughtful touches throughout. “I’m very spatial, and I’m a sculptor by nature,” she said. “And so the garden itself, in my mind, is a living sculpture.” At one of the entrances, the white leaves of a Japanese dappled willow tree hang low over an archway. Inside, wood-chip paths wind past rock-bordered garden beds, which Braun treats as uniquely themed “rooms.” Lush ferns
and assorted hostas (some with blue leaves as big as dinner plates) fill out the bulk of the space, while flowers — yellow corydalis, wood violets, Virginia bluebells and more — add pops of color. A rock-lined stream flanked by dense foliage also runs through the garden, and in the spring, wildflowers abound. “I have almost every wildflower that is natural to this part of Michigan,” Braun said, noting that the garden “changes constantly” because of trees growing and being removed, and from nature simply taking its course. “Things kind of come and go, and some things are so prolific that they naturalize,” she said. “It’s really crazy to get things in balance, so it’s an interesting challenge. … I think I thrive on it.” Plants and trees aren’t the only attractions. Along the way, whimsical statuettes — think frogs wearing clothes and posing like people, or a winged gargoyle reading a book — peek out from among the plants. Other larger statues, such as
the eel-shaped concrete dragon swimming in the dirt like the Loch Ness monster, stand out as focal points. Quaint bistro tables with intricately carved chairs to match give human visitors spots to relax, while several fanciful birdhouses provide resting places for feathered friends. The end result is a calming space that Braun describes as “spiritual” and “healing.” “There’s a power in this garden that cannot be denied,” she said. “People come in it, sense it, feel it, have said something about it. It’s very spiritual. It’s a place to meditate. It’s very healing. I have people that have brought relatives and sprinkled them in here because they wanted to be sprinkled in here.” In fact, the secret garden, which is open year-round to the public, has attracted visitors from around the globe. “I’ve had people come from almost every state; plus, I’ve had people from Germany, Italy, China, Africa,” Braun said. “When they come to
visit friends or relatives and their friends or relatives have brought them to visit the garden, they will ask if they could come back to see it. That’s probably the best compliment anybody could be paid.” HELP WANTED After years of developing the garden and adding new plants and artwork, Braun has reached a point where she needs more assistance with the upkeep. That’s why a few of her friends are helping her entreat other gardeners to lend a hand. Ronnie Cambra, a retired nurse living in Northville Township, learned of the secret garden shortly after she joined the Country Garden Club of Northville in 2006 (the club has included Braun’s garden in its annual garden walk fundraiser multiple times). When she left the club more than a year ago, Cambra decided she would focus on a new project: helping Braun find volunteers to work in her garden. After researching what it would take to establish the garden as a conservancy or develop a “Friends” group to help manage the space — both of which would be complicated, bureaucratic processes — Cambra realized it would be easiest to enlist volunteers in a less formal manner instead. They’re still working out the organizational kinks, but Braun, Cambra and the other women in their group are hoping to attract master gardeners — who need to work a certain number of hours
each year to maintain their certification — and other plant enthusiasts. “We’re appealing to people that love to dig in the dirt,” Cambra said. With so much ground to cover, there is plenty to be done. “I started working in the garden again in March and started raking out the flowerbeds and stuff, because I haven’t been able to do anything for almost two seasons, so the garden really has needed a lot of attention — you know, cleaning things out, getting the beds rid of a lot of the weeds,” Braun said. If you are interested in volunteering, contact Cambra at (248) 348-6098 or Braun at (734) 953-9420. They ask that volunteers bring their own tools. Of course, people who simply want to visit the garden are also welcome to stop by, and a sign near the entrance lays out some basic rules guests must follow, such as staying on the paths and not leaving children unattended. “It’s a wonderful place to meditate, just sit and visit,” Cambra said. “Every time I’ve gone over there, you always see at least a few people that are sitting and talking and admiring the flowers. It’s just gorgeous.”
The ‘Ville 29
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Re-Elect Terry
Marecki
JOHNSON CREEK
Concerned about its future? So are we!
for Wayne County Commissioner Proudly representing District 9 Northville Township, the City of Northville (part), and the City of Livonia (part) “Since taking office as the County Commissioner (2015) and while serving on the Ways and Means Committee, the Commission has passed a balanced budget with a hefty surplus each year. I will continue to ask the hard questions, to assure tax payers that their monies are being spent wisely.” - -Terry Marecki
Become part of the solution to protect our community. Learn more about our Northville environmental nonprofit at
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Go to the TCI website for election candidates’ views on Arbor Hills Landfill related issues.
Terry Marecki for Wayne County Commissioner,16519 Ronnie Lane, Livonia, MI 48154
SP ECI A L A D V E R T I SING ME S S A GE that can be cardiac, it can be respiratory, it can be COVID related or non-COVID related,” she said. “When I ask patients why they waited so long to come in, it’s usually related to the perception that the hospital isn’t a safe place to be.”
ST. MARY MERCY LIVONIA WEATHERS THE COVID STORM Hospital stresses safety as it reinstates many procedures and elective surgeries During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is no secret that Southeast Michigan was especially hard hit. Area hospitals were overwhelmed with COVIDinfected patients that forced them to restrict and even eliminate non-life threatening surgeries and services. St. Mary Mercy Livonia Hospital was no exception. At the peak in early April, the hospital located at 36475 Five Mile Road, was treating as many as 150 COVID-positive patients at one time. Hospital officials figured out very quickly that they needed to revamp policies and procedures to not only treat COVID patients, but also to protect non-COVID patients and health care providers. Those new policies helped St. Mary Mercy weather the storm, and beginning in mid May the hospital – adhering to state guidelines and CDC requirements -- began a phased approach to resume services curtailed by COVID-19. The process began with time sensitive cases that had been deferred when the hospital began shutting down elective services during the height of the crisis. By the end of June, as the curve flattened, the hospital was performing about 90 percent of the services it was doing before the pandemic, according to David Spivey, St. Mary Mercy Livonia President and CEO. “We anticipate having all services completely restored to pre-COVID
levels by the fall,” said Spivey, a Northville resident. The main message Spivey wants to convey to the public is it is completely safe to return to the hospital for elective services. Procedures implemented during the peak of the crisis remain in place. These enhanced safety measures include: • COVID-free zones separate patients confirmed to have COVID-19 from others in the hospital. • All patients scheduled for elective procedures are tested for COVID-19 prior to the surgery/procedure. If a patient tests positive, the procedure will be postponed until a negative result is obtained, unless urgent. • Masks are provided and required for everyone, including staff, patients and visitors. • CDC standards for facility deep cleaning with increased frequency and special attention to surfaces that are frequently touched, like doorknobs and flat surfaces. • Continued visitor restrictions. • Continued monitoring of personal protective equipment (PPE), medications, supplies and bed capacity. The measures are in place at all Saint Joseph Mercy Health System facilities, Spivey said.
“There’s been a lot of concern from members of the community about returning to the hospital for services, and if it’s safe to do so. The overwhelming answer to that is very much yes. We’ve done a lot to create a safe environment. We have screenings at all of our entrances, which include temperature checks as well as an assessment of your health,” Spivey said. “Not only is it safe to return for care, it’s really necessary. There’s been a lot of deferred care that has resulted in declines in health status for many members of our community.”
She said there’s also been an uptick in blood clots, even among younger patients who have no history. Part of that is because of COVID-19, and part is because people have been leading more sedentary lifestyles due to quarantine. Blood clots can cause strokes and heart attacks. “It’s really important people know that emergencies should not wait. Do not ignore symptoms like shortness of breath or even possible strokes,” Dr. Paz Arabo said. “Those are worrisome symptoms, and something you really need to seek medical treatment for.” By the end of June, St. Mary Mercy was only treating about a dozen COVID patients, but Spivey is confident they are ready for a second wave, if and when it comes. In the meantime, they will continue to implement their phased approach to restoring services. In addition to letting people know the hospital is a safe place to seek treatment, Dr. Paz Arabo said the other message she wants to give the community is one of thanks. During the darkest days of the pandemic, the morale of frontline workers at the hospital were buoyed daily by the gifts of meals, PPE and even heartfelt messages staff received from people from surrounding communities, including Northville.
Dr. Patricia Paz Arabo, St. Mary’s emergency room medical director, who has been on the frontlines of the hospital’s pandemic response, has seen this firsthand, as patients return to the hospital after having deferred care during the worst months of the pandemic. One thing people should not ignore, she said, is shortness of breath.
“I was truly humbled and touched,” she said. “On behalf of the emergency department, I want to thank people. It was an unbelievable outpouring. To this day, we are still getting meals delivered to the emergency room.”
“We’ve been noticing a pattern of people waiting a little too long at home, people who really need to be in the emergency department. Shortness of breath is a symptom
If you are interested in discussing a plan to schedule a procedure at St. Mary Mercy Livonia, visit stjoeshealth.org or call 1-800-BeRemarkable to find a physician.
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C.J. Baird is entering his senior season with the Wolverines. Photos by U-M Athletics
Itching To Get Back On The Court U-M walk-on staying positive about prospects for senior season By Brad Emons
T
he driveway became C.J. Baird’s main domain during months and days of the COVID-19 pandemic. No gym, no interactions other than Zoom calls with his University of Michigan teammates for the 6-foot-5 senior basketball walk-on, who had his junior season prematurely cut short on March 13 in Indianapolis when the Wolverines were getting ready to face Rutgers in the opening round of the Big Ten Tournament. “That was probably one of the hardest things I had to endure in basketball,” said Baird, who sharpened his hoop skills as a youngster playing for Our Lady of Victory in Northville. “Losing a game is one thing and losing a playoff game is another thing, but to have the season completely taken away from you, that’s totally out of your
34 The ‘Ville
control and is really hard.” Under new coach Juwan Howard, Michigan entered the Big Ten Tournament with a 19-12 record highlighted by an early season win over No. 1 Gonzaga and a split of the season series with rival Michigan State. “We had worked so hard to get to that point,” said Baird, who walked on at U-M after earning All-Catholic League honors three times at Novi Detroit Catholic Central. “Before it even started it was kind of just like, ‘We can’t do this anymore.’ It was heartbreaking. But then again, we all wanted to be as safe as we could even though the guys wanted to make another run at it this year. I was glad that we got out of there when we did, but I think the realization when they told us our season was done was really hard to handle.”
BACK HOME
Baird stayed another week in Ann Arbor, but returned home to finish out his classes online. “Everybody had gone,” Baird said. “It was an easier place for me to take classes and we had air conditioning here (at home).” Baird kept in correspondence with U-M strength and conditioning coach Jon Sanderson, who has given Baird multiple workouts to do at home, with and without weights, during his home quarantine. “I’ve been shooting around in my driveway a lot, trying to make sure I keep on top of my skill,” Baird said. “I actually have a trainer of mine that I’ve been going to for a few years now. He gives me a call, comes up on my computer, I put my computer in the driveway – and we’ll do
little training sessions and stuff like that, so that’s been helpful as well. No gym access and nothing since about that third week of March now.” During the COVID hiatus, Baird was able to spend quality time at home with his parents David and Lisa, along with his older sister Katie, who worked remote from her job in Indianapolis. Needless to say, Baird picked up some other interests during his self-quarantine. “I’ve actually done a lot more lifting and more running,” Baird said. “That’s a little bit more of a hobby. I actually picked up some video games again. I’ve kind of been getting myself engrossed in that a little bit. Fun to play at night, a little more engaging than sitting there and watching TV, so everything I appreciate a little bit more. And actually with a couple of friends, my mom and I will play backgammon together . . . board games, stuff like that. Other than working out at home, working out alone, I’ve been pretty busy with family . . . so that’s been a good way to pass the time.”
little better,” Baird said. “Got to know what we wanted for the team for the coming year and what we saw in last year’s team. That’s been good. Obviously, no in-person contact with anybody on the court. We’ve been careful regarding that because everybody wants to get back as fast as we can. We’re all trying to be as careful as we can.” Baird played four varsity seasons at Catholic Central under coach Bill Dyer where as a senior he averaged 15.7 points, 8.0 rebounds and four assists per game as the Shamrocks finished 13-7. He also finished 10th in the state in free throw percentage (85.1). Baird then enrolled in U-M’s prestigious Stephen M. Ross Business School. As a freshman, he started out as a team manager before being called up to fill one of the team’s walk-on
SEASON IN LIMBO
But by the end of June, Baird was ready to return to Ann Arbor as U-M players were being phased in for COVID-19 testing to get ready for voluntary training on campus. “I’ve heard nothing about what the plans are going forward,” Baird said. “I know the NCAA voted to push back required workouts until later in July now, so the season is kind of getting pushed further back again. Just kind of working out, staying in shape and I’m hoping to start as soon as we can.” The communication between
Baird played four varsity seasons at Catholic Central (top). Photo by Michael Rossi Baird loves to shoot three-pointers, and nailed his first career three in a win over Texas A&M in the Sweet Sixteen. Photo by U-M Athletics
coaches, players and staff has been limited to Zoom calls. “We’ve had culture meetings, which have been great for our team, got to know each other a
spots, used primarily as a scout team and practice player under coach John Beilein. Baird appeared in five games during his first season as the
Wolverines made a memorable run all the way to the NCAA Championship game before falling to Villanova. In a Sweet 16 game, Baird nailed his first career three-pointer in a lopsided win over Texas A&M. The following season, Baird appeared in 13 games making a total of three triples as Michigan made it back-toback 30-win seasons and two straight Big Ten titles. After Beilein’s sudden departure to the Cleveland Cavaliers following Baird’s sophomore year, Howard took over the U-M coaching reins. “It was actually really smooth,” Baird said. “Of course, everybody was really excited when coach Howard first got announced as the head coach. He was a legendary player, 19-year NBA career, Fab Five legend at Michigan. And of course, it would be a different style, but we were all looking forward to what he’d bring. “It was nice he kept a couple of the members of Coach Beilein’s staff, so it kind of eased the transition a little bit more. We had familiar faces and were able to make new ones. We’ve built a great bond across this team. Now that I’m an older guy, you feel a little more interaction with the coaches and talk to them more. It was great. It was really a great year for us.” Baird, who became a fan favorite coming off the bench in the waning moments, appeared in five games last season.
A DIFFERENT LOOK
The 2020-21 edition of the Wolverines will look completely different. Two starters graduated, three Baird continued on page 36
The ‘Ville 35
Baird continued from page 35
transferred and one other player (Isaiah Livers) is contemplating a move to the NBA. Howard recruited three new freshmen, including his son Juwan, Jr., while two others come in as transfers. “With COVID, there’s a lot of unknowns,” Baird said. “The biggest one is how are we able to come back and how are we able to practice without a full team for a long time? Because in most years, I’d be working out right now in the gym with a few of my teammates. But I think the biggest unknown is when are we going to come back as a team? I think all the guys coming here, all the new freshmen, and the transfers, have really bought in to Coach Howard’s system. But I think they’ll be all great additions to our team and they’re all fantastic players. I’m really excited to see how they integrate. I think they’ll fit in well.” Baird’s accomplishments off the court are impressive to say the least. The finance major earned Academic AllBig Ten honors in 2019 and earned Michigan’s Academic Achievement Award for two straight years. In the summer of 2019, Baird performed an internship at Lear Corporation in Southfield. In early July he began another internship program online at the accounting firm Plante & Moran. Baird’s first goal following graduation is to earn a Master’s in accounting, a one-year program at Michigan. He then plans to take the CPA exam and become certified in the State of Michigan.
36 The ‘Ville
“Unfortunately, it looks like that will probably be it,” Baird said of his U-M basketball career. “It’s kind of hard to think about that now. With the pandemic and all the stuff, it’s really going to be one interesting senior year, but I’m looking forward to it.”
OLV MEMORIES
With all kinds of time to reflect at home during the COVID interruption, Baird fondly reminisces about his time attending grades K-8 at Our Lady of Victory where he was coached by John Basford. “My eighth-grade year we won the CYO title, and it was me and a bunch of my best
Baird’s 8th grad OLV team won the CYO title.
friends growing up,” Baird said. “We all started together, we played together for many years on travel teams in the summer and at OLV. Kind of a culmination of all of that was winning the CYO title, beating a few of my now friends that went to U-D Jesuit and Our Lady of Sorrows in Farmington. Probably the high point of my OLV time was winning the CYO title. It was great.”
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Jordan and Ashley Surma
Finding Purpose Northville couple works ‘For the Good’
Construction, since age 14. Jordan attended St. Robert Bellarmine Catholic School in Redford, and Ashley converted to Catholicism through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, led by Father Denis, who officiated at their wedding. Although faith plays a big part in their lives, it isn’t the focus of For the Good. “We will share faith every now and then but we don’t want it to deter anyone who doesn’t practice our certain faith,” Ashley said.
By Wensdy Von Buskirk
J
ordan and Ashley Surma are all about spreading positive vibes. In 2018, the Northville couple founded For the Good, a multimedia organization focused on helping people maximize their potential and serve the world with purpose.
“Ashley and I were looking at the news every day and saw there was a negative shift taking place,” explained Jordan. “We were watching everything going on in the world. There was no positive change, and everyone was focusing on what’s going wrong.” The Surmas started out with the idea to launch a website where they could share good news stories, but it quickly
38 The ‘Ville
became much more. In two years it has grown to include blogs, social media, speaking engagements, a podcast, online shop, and community events. All of their platforms, emblazoned with their bright yellow logo, aim to empower and elevate people with inspirational themes. “We wanted to help people find the good within themselves. Whatever change there is going to be in the world, it has to be on an individual level. We need to dig deep to find our purpose and help other people as well,” Ashley said. Ashley and Jordan, who share a birthday and turn 30 this year, moved to Northville in 2017 to be closer to Father Denis Theroux and Our Lady of Victory Church. Ashley grew up in Dearborn and used her journalism background to launch The Asher Group, a marketing agency focusing on businesses and nonprofits. She also is a volunteer and board member for New Hope Center for Grief Support. Jordan has worked with his family business, Kajas
The couple continues to define whether For the Good is a business or charity, and where it will go from here. In the meantime, they are staying focused on their message. In February, they launched a weekly podcast that tackles topics like “You need to feel to heal” and “5 ways to drastically reduce your anxiety.” Available on Apple Podcast, Spotify, I Heart Radio and Soundcloud, the podcasts are up to 30 minutes long and often include special guests. During the COVID-19 quarantine, the Surmas set up weekly video conferences to connect the community, and found their mission resonated more than ever. In May, Ashley released a book “The Mountains We Climb: And How We Conquer Them with Faith and Resiliency,” available through
Barnes & Noble and Amazon. In it, she talks about her own struggles with childhood health issues and losing her father, and offers advice to help people overcome obstacles in their own lives. The couple also have an online shop with For the Good T-shirts ($23), affirmations cards ($18 for a set of 12) and a free, downloadable Make Today Count journal, with prompts to start the day with gratitude and intention. “We want to bring hope and healing to our world,” Jason says. Ashley agrees. “We want people to understand they have the power to shift their mind and the thoughts they are having, and to watch their consumption of news and social media. Be mindful of what you are filling yourself up with,” she says. “The world may seem dark right now, but we have the power to be the light, to uplift and support each other.”
FOR THE GOOD
The Northville-based organization will host two summer events at Maybury State Park: Raise the Barre 6-8 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 6 Free outdoor class with The Barre Code of Northville. Recharge Retreat 8 a.m.-3 p.m., Sun. Aug. 30 Morning yoga with the Northville Yoga Room, journaling and gratitude practices, guest speakers, breakout groups and a workout with The Barre Code of Northville. A portion of proceeds benefit Wish Upon a Teen. Tickets, $49. For more information, visit forthegood.com
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FRED SHADKO EXPERIENCE COUNTS!
Fred has twice been elected to the Northville Township Board of Trustees. He was appointed Treasurer in the middle of his second term. The Township’s fiscal responsibility has paid off in big ways – our pension liability is 100% funded. OPEB is 99% funded. We are living within our means.
The Treasurer’s office has received multiple peer-reviewed awards for budgeting and presentation. With a long career in Information Technology, Fred has supported technology deployment, increasing efficiency, and reducing costs to residents. Watch for important announcements in Summer, 2020.
Since 2012, Fred has had perfect attendance at all Board meetings, and all commissions to which he has been appointed, including Planning, Election, Historic District, Economic Development and Brownfield. He has served on the Water Rate, Landfill, and many other committees. Retired from the auto industry, he has the time and drive to serve Northville Township.
ENDORSEMENTS: Margie & Mark Banner, George Fomin, Dick Henningsen, Sue Hillebrand, Eric Lark, Linda & Larry Last, Terry Marecki, Martha & Jim Nield, Sue & Bob Nix, Joe Oldenburg, Chip Snider, Jim Tesen (partial list) Paid for by CTE Fred Shadko for Northville Township Treasurer, 47040 Timberlane, Northville, MI 48167.
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Matthew Tuer and his dad, David, raised more than $7,000 to provide food to local healthcare workers and public safety workers.
Clips For Corona Heroes Middle schooler starts haircut challenge to support local healthcare workers By Emily Doran
W
hen hair salons and barbershops across the state were temporarily closed this spring, Northville middle schooler Matthew Tuer saw an opportunity to give back to front-line workers fighting the coronavirus pandemic. “I needed a haircut and so did my dad, and so I shaved his head and he shaved mine, and we were going to make it a challenge for me and my hockey teammates: We would all shave our heads, and then we would each donate $10 to help out medical workers somehow,” said 12-year-old Tuer, who attends Hillside Middle School and plays for the Novi Youth Hockey Association. “Then, we decided it would be to buy food for medical workers, and then we made it a challenge that anybody could do.” Through his “Clips for Corona Heroes” GoFundMe page, Tuer has raised nearly $7,000 since March by challenging people to shave their heads and donate the money they would have spent on haircuts to provide
42 The ‘Ville
Matthew Tuer shaves his dad’s (Dave) head.
meals for front-line workers. Donors are encouraged to share the challenge with friends and family — along with photos and videos of their new hairstyles — using the #ClipsForCoronaHeroes hashtag. By mid June, Tuer and his dad, David, have delivered at least 1,300 meals to several local hospitals, including Beaumont Hospital in Farmington Hills, and other first-responder organizations.
After the GoFundMe hit its initial goal of $1,000, the Tuers made their first delivery, which consisted of 250 6-inch subs, 250 bags of chips and 400 water bottles provided by Buscemi’s of Northville, to Beaumont. Tuer’s hockey coach, Aaron Gillingham, who is also the chief human resources officer at Beaumont Health, jumped on board as soon as he learned of Tuer’s initiative. After donating himself, he connected Tuer with the Beaumont Health Foundation to help him get some more publicity and organizational assistance. While Tuer received some pointers from the foundation team about budgeting and logistics, “he managed the entire project,” said Tom McGannon, vice president of community engagement at the Beaumont Health Foundation. “He resourced food donations, knowing that we can only bring food donations that were individually wrapped for the safety of our health care workers, and worked out the delivery and all the logistics,”
McGannon said. “He was a very impressive young man.” Front-line workers haven’t been the only ones benefiting from Tuer’s fundraiser during this difficult time. Buscemi’s, the local pizza and party shop that has been providing the food for the initiative, has also been getting a boost. “One piece that was very important to (the Tuers), I recall, was that they wanted to support local restaurants as well during this process,” McGannon said, “so the benefit of the generosity was twofold: both to help front-line caregivers and also to support local restaurants.” While donations have slowed recently, Tuer says he “would like to keep this going until the coronavirus goes away.” “It feels good,” Tuer said. “I hope that the nurses and doctors stay safe and they’re enjoying their meals, so that they’re not hungry working nonstop and then getting hungry in between their shifts. I hope this is good for them.”
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‘Friends’ scholarship winners
Mother of all garage sales
The four winners of the second annual Friends of the Northville Public Library Scholarship Program are Jacob Karpenko, Arianna Markey, Hellen Zhou and Sanjana Kerkar. All will be attending the University of Michigan, except Zhou, who is enrolled at Northeastern University in Boston. The Friends offer four scholarships to local high school students. One of these scholarships is sponsored by Northville Marathon Bridge. The other three are funded by the Friends to create awareness and encourage student use and support of the library. The students are required to volunteer with the Friends and also write an essay pertaining to the impact of library use on their lives. They will all continue their education as full-time students this fall. Congratulations to this year’s winners! Pictured are (in front) Sanjana Kerkar and Jacob Karpenko. In the back are Friends members Linda Schwelnus, Martha Nork and Kathy Fox.
The annual garage sale hosted by Carole Jean and Bill Stockhausen at their home at 218 W. Dunlap has taken place the first full week of June since it was founded more than two decades ago. However, this year, due to the COVID pandemic, it was rescheduled until the week of August 17. The sale benefits the Northville Historical Society, the Mackinac Island Honor Girl Scouts and the Dr. Karl Stockhausen Medical Scholarship. “People can save what they have purged during the lockdown and bring it on Sunday, August 16 directly to the sale at our house,” said Carole Jean Stockhausen. For more information, please contact the Stockhausens at (248) 349-2833.
Name the park contest Northville Township officials continue to enhance the former State of Michigan psychiatric hospital property on Seven Mile, increasing recreational opportunities (see page 22) and opening up portions of the property to the public. Now the 200-acre park needs a name. And that’s where the public comes in. Township officials are looking to residents to come up with a fitting name for the Seven Mile park. To enter the contest, you must be a Northville Township resident (at least 10 years old), and you have to submit your suggestion by Aug. 1. The prize winner will be announced on Aug. 10th. If you have a suggestion, email it to clerk@ twp.northville.mi.us by the Aug. 1 deadline. Pictured are members of the Northville Township Board of Trustees along with members of the Motor City Mountain Biking Association at the recent ribbon cutting for the new walking/biking trail on the property. 44 The ‘Ville
New Rotary president Guy Bardsley was sworn in as the new president of the Northville Rotary Club during a June 19th ceremony at the Living and Learning Center. He is the 94th president of the club that has been serving the community for nearly a century. Bardsley said he has several goals for the club this year, including continuing to increase membership and to support local causes and organizations like Northville Civic Concern. The local club will also continue to support Rotary International’s goal of eradicating polio around the globe, he said. “Our club is a diverse group of business and community leaders committed to making our local and global community a better place to live. We aim to enrich the lives of our members by providing fun, fellowship, and opportunities for meaningful participation. Through ‘Service Above Self’, we engage the community and have a positive impact on the lives of those we support,” Bardsley said. District Governor Elect Noel Jackson (right) attended the ceremony and swore in Bardsley (left), who will serve a one-year term. For more information about Northville Rotary, including how you can become a member, visit northvillerotary.org.
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