The 'Ville - June 2023

Ready Future for the

Vita Vizachero

Vita Vizachero

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

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

vvizachero@billbrownford.com

John DesOrmeau

John DesOrmeau

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

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

jdesormeau@billbrownford.com

vvizachero@billbrownford.com

Office:(734) 524-2711

Office:(734) 524-2711

Office:(734) 524-2720

jdesormeau@billbrownford.com

Office:(734) 524-2720

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

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

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

Journeyman Publishing

16435 Franklin

Northville, MI 48168

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

Thank you in advance.

Publisher

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

George L. Ginger

Linda M. Mulder

Edwina & Leonard Pittaway

ADVERTISE IN THE ‘VILLE

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

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

SCOTT BUIE - Advertising Director/VP of Sales

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

KURT KUBAN – Editor/Publisher

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

CRAIG WHEELER – Creative Director

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

MICHELE FECHT – Writer

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

WENSDY VON BUSKIRK – Writer

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

MARIA TAYLOR – Writer

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

TIM SMITH - Writer

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

LARRY O'CONNOR – Writer

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

JOHN C. HEIDER – Photographer

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

BRYAN MITCHELL - Photographer

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

The Power of Bringing People Together

The first time I met Gabriella Duhn was in the aftermath of her son being killed by a hit-and-run driver while he was skateboarding on Sheldon Road back in September of 2020. At the time, Dominic Duhn was a student at Michigan State University and had a bright future ahead of him.

It was a devastating tragedy for the family – and for the community. Being a father of teenagers myself, I could only imagine the grief Gabriella was going through.

Somehow, Gabriella was able to channel that pain into something beautiful. She has spearheaded an effort to build a skateboarding park in Northville, not only getting Northville political leaders to support the idea, but also raising money for the cause. With the help of so many in the community, she was able to raise around $400,000 for the project, which is just amazing when you think about it. And she did it in just two years.

We’ve been reporting on the progress of the skatepark for a couple years now, and it is finally becoming a reality after a

groundbreaking ceremony June 13. Please see our story on Page 8

My favorite moment of the ceremony was when Northville Township Supervisor Mark Abbo was making remarks about Gabriella’s determination. He paused mid-sentence, and the two of them hugged. It was an acknowledgement of a process that, at times, included some tension with Gabriella and township officials butting heads about certain details of the skatepark. Gabriella never relented about what she wanted the park to be, and it was that dogged determination that has turned what many thought was a pipe dream into a reality.

Construction is set to begin in the coming weeks, and the skatepark will be complete this fall. So this is a big shoutout to Gabriella Duhn (and all those who supported her efforts). Future generations of Northville kids (and even some adventurous adults not afraid to ride a skateboard) will benefit, and Dominic’s memory will live on in a very positive way.

Speaking of shoutouts, congratulations to all our recent

high school graduates. In this issue, our graduation coverage begins on Page 18. We’ve got lots of great photos from the Northville High graduation ceremony, as well as the senior car parade and Senior All Night Party event.

Thanks to the members of the SANP Committee and all the adults who put together a fantastic last night at NHS for the graduating seniors. I think it’s wonderful how the community comes together to honor the graduates, who really get the rock star treatment. It’s a deserving honor for crossing the finish line.

In this issue, we have listed the members of the Class of 2023 from both Northville High School and Catholic Central High School. Special thanks to Genitti’s for sponsoring NHS and Northville attorney Richard Corriveau (C.C. Class of 1959) for sponsoring Catholic Central. I think it’s important for the community to know the names of our future leaders.

If any members of the Class of 2023 get to read this, go out and change the world in your own

individual ways. We can’t wait to see what you all become. And, remember, no matter where your travels take you, Northville will always be your home. You will always be welcome back here. Just don’t forget to bring your skateboard.

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

ON THE COVER: Emma Asher and Max Anderson join their fellow members of the Northville High Class of 2023 in throwing their caps in the air at the conclusion of their graduation commencement ceremony June 4 at USA Hockey Arena. Photo by Bryan Mitchell

Gabriella Duhn

Your Voice

What are advantages?

My husband and I enjoyed a fun evening at The Downs for the Kentucky Derby. As I think about the plans for that property, I’m struggling to see how this benefits our community. We moved here to have access to a calmer, more nature-filled life beyond the concrete jungle. I can only think of a long list of disadvantages that will come with the larger population.

• Higher crime rates

• Larger student-to-teacher ratio

• Greater congestion

• Fewer parking spots in downtown

• Longer waits for tables or seats at our favorite restaurants

• More traffic issues

• More pollution

• More landfill waste

What exactly are the advantages?

Have better hours

Susan Carbott

Time to listen

Would Northville’s downtown streets be closed if we never had Covid? More than 600 pink signs continue to line the streets in opposition to the downtown street closures. The old survey never offered a compromise with eating on safe platforms with slow traffic. City Council voted to keep streets closed forcing local traffic into side streets all day. There was no consideration of opening the streets on weekdays. Northville is the only city in Michigan I’m aware of that has the main artery closed. Northville Schools Superintendent RJ Webber recently said he wanted the streets open to help with school buses which includes 14 other districts that bus their children to Cooke School here in Northville.

There are 13 eating establishments on the two barricaded streets. By my count, only six want to eat in the street, and only one is serving lunch in the street. Maybe it’s time to elect a Council that will listen to the majority, the schools, the Mobility Task Force and open the streets except for special events and concentrate on the Downs development before that also spins out of control.

Jim Nield

Flip flop

I’ve read a lot of different articles/opinion pieces about the closing of the streets in Northville. I love the street closures. I’ve spent a ridiculous amount of money in Northville since the closures. I’ve also brought my friends and work colleagues with me to show off our downtown area. I convinced my parents to move to Northville last year (they now live down the street from me and we go out to eat once a week downtown). Everyone absolutely loves it.

I’ve read opinion pieces stating that the stores are more difficult to access because there is no street parking. There is hardly any street parking on Main Street at all so this argument just makes zero sense to me. Prior to the street closures - I never once parked on Main Street. I always parked in the lots behind the stores. I just find it hard to believe that street closures have anything to do with struggling businesses.

Some of the business owners who are complaining about this have some of the most ridiculous hours I’ve ever seen in my entire life. I work 60-65 hours per week. My office is in Farmington Hills and my core hours are 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. The majority of retail businesses on Main and Center close at 6. I couldn’t shop at them if I wanted to Monday-Friday (unless I took time off work). If the business owners want more business, perhaps they should amend their hours so that working people can patronize their establishments.

Jess Suda

Put pandemic behind

I’m very disappointed with the decision to only partially open up downtown. While I completely understood the need to close it down during the Covid epidemic, it is now time to return to normal. Downtown today is an eyesore and, quite frankly, an embarrassment. It used to be a town that I was proud of. No longer. It looks like a construction site. Let’s re-open downtown and put this Covid period behind us.

Mark Bensett

I’m curious as to where the impetuous for the “Let’s Open Northville” movement is originating. It appears to be well organized and financed, unlike the original movement to close the streets, which had no obvious funding. My guess is that some of the individuals that originally were in favor of the closure have discovered their mistake and now have flip-flopped.

Speaking of mistakes and flip-flops, the City Council would very rarely make a mistake if they always did what is best for the Northville community as a whole rather than succumbing to what appears to be the pressures of various vested interests.

Sarunas Mingela

One of only 14

A huge congratulations to Northville’s Silver Springs Elementary by making a global impact for education. They are one of just 14 schools in the world to receive the Legacy Award (through the Leader In Me program). What an achievement!

Sally Simkins

Jennifer Stephens-Hoyer, M.D. Emergency medicine physician

Corner of Ann Arbor Road and N. Haggerty

Seizing the Moment

Boys golf team captures first ever state championship

By Brad Emons

Northville High has garnered its fair share of state championship team trophies.

But for the first time in school history, the boys golf team gets to put some hardware atop the mantle after capturing

its first-ever title by winning the MHSAA Division 1 crown June 9-10 at Grand Valley State University’s The Meadows.

Led by four seniors, Northville carded a two-day total of 300-305-605 to edge Rochester Adams by seven strokes while posting its highest finish since 2008 when the Mustangs finished third in the team standings.

After Day One, Northville and Kensington Lakes Activities Association nemesis Brighton were deadlocked in first at 300 each, but Brighton (609) slipped to third during the final round. Meanwhile, defending D1 champion Novi Detroit Catholic Central wound up fourth with 618.

Mason Sokolowsky, the firstround individual leader, led the Mustangs with a 70-74-144 to place third overall. He was followed by Greg Braun, 11th (74-74-148); Thomas Forsythe, 22nd (77-79-156); and Ryan

Gallagher, 28th (79-78-157).

Junior Nick Tokarz, who did not figure in the team scoring, shot an 84-82-166 to wind up 62nd overall.

The Meadows was firm and featured fast greens, but the weather did cooperate.

“We knew it was going to be challenging,” Northville firstyear coach Matt Lewicki said. “We knew that there were going to be a lot of big numbers kind of lurking out there, so playing smart golf was a big mindset for us, getting it in play, off of the tee and keeping the ball below the pin certainly on those greens. Outside of that, having a senior laden team – just have fun.”

The approach the Mustangs took was simple – seize and savor the moment.

“This was our last high school tournament for a lot of these guys, the last time they’re going to tee it up,” Lewicki said. “And we worked really hard all year

to get here. It’s fun and a lot more enjoyable for your last round of the year when you’re in contention and when you have a chance to win a state final. Have fun, play smart, play confident . . . and just stay focused and keep it together all day.

“We knew it was going to be a long round. The pace of play is long in those events just because the course is difficult. Managing things throughout the day and seeing the leaderboard – we were ahead a bit, were behind and then back ahead. And there were a lot of momentum swings throughout the day.”

During the regular season, Northville finished runner-up to Brighton in both the KLAA preseason (April 20) and KLAA postseason tourneys. In the dual match season, they placed runner-up to Howell and tied for second with Brighton and Novi in the KLAA’s tough West Division at 5-2.

The Mustangs, however, showed their potential and moxie, by winning the prestigious Corporal B Invitational at American Dunes in Grand Haven.

And when the regular season concluded, they wound up No. 4 behind Ann Arbor Skyline, Brighton and Traverse City Central in the final Michigan Interscholastic Golf Coaches Association D1 rankings.

At the Regional 3 tourney May 31 at Salem Hills Golf Course, the Mustangs shot 300 to finish third behind Detroit CC (288) and Brighton (296), while qualifying and securing a spot in the D1 finals.

Leading the way at the regional that day for Northville was Sokolowsky, third (68); Gallagher, sixth (73), Braun, 20th (77), Tokarz, 40th (82);

Members of the D1 champion Northville boys golf team include (top row, from left): assistant coach John Balagna, Nick Tokarz, head coach Matt Lewicki, Cameron Charles, assistant coach Tim Braun; (bottom row, from left) Dominic Gaudino, Ryan Gallagher, Mason Sokolowski, Tom Forsythe and Greg Braun. Photo courtesy of MHSAA | High School Sports Scene

Senior Ryan Gallagher was a mainstay in the lineup for the state champion Northville boys golf team. Photo courtesy of Karen Tokarz

and senior Cameron Charles, 50th (85).

The trio of Sokolowsky, Braun and Gallagher were the catalysts all season long for the Mustangs.

Sokolowski carded a teambest 18-hole scoring average of 72.6, while Braun averaged a 9-hole team best of 33.7 and was 74.6 per 18. Gallagher averaged 74.0 per 18 and 34.1 per nine.

“They have been our 1A, 1B and 1C and have been significantly strong players this year,” Lewicki said. “Not all three played to their potential each and every match, but usually two always did.”

Lewicki called Sokolowsky’s performance at the state finals “fantastic” after leading the opening round with a 70. Rochester Adams’

eventually took medalist honors with a 72-68-140, while East Lansing individual qualifier Drew Miller was runner-up with a 74-69-143.

“The golf that he (Sokolowsky) played was deserving of a state championship,” Lewicki said. “Mason shot two fantastic scores on a difficult set-up. Sometimes you can’t control what happens and sometimes when other guys win you have to tip your hat to them and say congratulations. Peter (Roehl) just played a little bit better.”

Sokolowsky proved to be clutch when the Mustangs needed it the most during the final round.

“Down the stretch the par that he made on No. 17 where he came out of the hazard in front of the green was incredible. I mean something that was a huge factor and helping us close out the deal. The birdie he made on No. 14 as well and being able to close out that round down the stretch and play par golf like that coming in was huge for us,” Lewicki said.

Meanwhile, Forsythe’s showing might have come as the biggest surprise. During the regular season he averaged 80 per 18, but stepped up his game at The Meadows after getting the call from Lewicki for the state finals.

“He had played a lot of events early for us and wasn’t shooting his best scores and some of the other guys were playing a little better than him, but he kept working his butt off all season and continued to improve, and stuck to it and kept grinding,” the Northville coach said.

“When that opportunity came up to qualify . . . I don’t think he was expecting the opportunity to be able to play on a state

finals team, so he played just lights-out golf in the qualifier, got through and ended up being a huge contributor for us in the state finals.”

The beauty of Northville’s state championship run was that it was a team of interchangeable parts. Tokarz proved steady, as well, carding an 18-hole average of 78 highlighted by a team-best tied for third finish with Gallagher in the KLAA postseason tourney.

Other varsity contributors throughout the season included senior Charles, junior J.J. Rickard, along with sophomores Dominic Gaudino and Cam McVittie.

“We were fortunate again to have a very deep team of talented players, so we were able to play a lot of guys and see kind of who was improving and who was fitting specific skill sets on golf courses and things like that,” Lewicki said. “The depth for one, the senior leadership . . . those two things really go a long way.”

Winning the championship had added meaning for Lewicki, a former Mustangs player himself and 2004 Northville alum.

“It’s nice to be able to be the head coach where I went to school,” said Lewicki, who works as a manufacturers rep in the auto supply business. “I’ve always liked to be able to give back because I think golf has done a lot for me. So that’s really the main reason I enjoy coaching. I like helping out the guys and just being a part of the team is fun.”

After being an assistant for five years at rival Novi, Lewicki took over the program this spring from Chris Cronin, who retired as a teacher last summer after 32 years at Northville

High. Cronin stepped down from his coaching position following the 2022 season because he didn’t want to jeopardize receiving his full teacher’s pension allocation after state laws changed.

“The culture of the team was fantastic from what Chris was doing for these guys to have a deep roster of seniors,” Lewicki said. “It goes a long way . . . the experience, the depth and these guys – having each other’s back and the team culture is just fantastic. Those really helped us this year.”

Peter Roehl

Northville senior Mason Sokolowsky finished third individually at the MHSAA Division 1 tourney. Photo courtesy of MHSAA | High School Sports Scene

Senior Thomas Forsythe proved to be a surprise finishing 22nd in the state tourney. Photo courtesy of Karen Tokarz

born of

Tragedy and love born of Tragedy and love

Persistence pays off as Unity Skatepark breaks ground

Northville Township Supervisor Mark Abbo was the first to speak at the emotional groundbreaking ceremony for the Unity Skatepark on June 13 at Millennium Park.

Abbo discussed all the hard work and effort in took to get to this point, a journey that began in September of 2020 when Dominic Duhn was killed while riding his skateboard along Sheldon Road. From that tragedy the new skatepark was ultimately born.

“This is a very special moment,” Abbo told the gathering of dozens of people, which included many public officials, but also Dominic’s family and friends.

Abbo said the project would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of Dominic’s mother, Gabriella Duhn, who has been the project’s leading proponent and fundraiser. She not only raised around $400,000 for the project, but also convinced city and township leaders (as well as residents who might bristle at the idea of a bunch of skateboarders coming into town) that it was a good idea.

“It was the pure will and determination from Gabriella Duhn that created this project,” said Abbo, as the two hugged. “You

just kept pushing on and made this happen.”

Total cost for the project is expected to be $655,500. Northville Township contributed $150,000 to the project as well as the Millennium Park land for the 11,000 square foot skatepark. In addition, Wayne County Parks contributed $83,327 of the township’s allocation from the county parks millage to

The latest addition to the park is a gathering area, where kids and others can just hang out. That’s what the park is all about, according to Gabriella Duhn.

She said she chose the name “Unity” because her son brought a lot of people together.

“Dominic had an eclectic group of friends that he brought together. And that is what I envision this place to be -- a place to bring people together,” she said.

While Gabriella was the driving force behind the project, she gave credit to her other son, Enzo, and Dominic’s best friend Jack Tsalis for coming up with the idea of the skatepark. Tsalis provided a few remarks at the groundbreaking. He said it only makes sense that it is at Millennium Park, where he and Dominic spent many days of their childhood.

the project, as well as $8,123 for the City of Northville. The Duhn family raised the rest.

The California-based Spohn Ranch Inc. is overseeing the design and construction of the skatepark, which will include a pump track, rails, a bowl, ledges, pads and embankments that will appeal to all levels of skateboard users. Spohn Ranch is still completing the final design, which is being based on a number of focus groups they hosted and an online survey that community members were encouraged to fill out.

“Growing up, this is where we hung out in this park, so it is humbling to have the skatepark here,” he said. “This is where I met so many friends and had experiences that helped shape my life. I really hope this park gives kids in the future the same opportunities.”

Northville Mayor Brian Turnbull, who also spoke at the groundbreaking, said construction is expected to begin in July and will be complete by October.

Fittingly, there will ultimately be a memorial on the site honoring Dominic and his message of unity.

“Out of love this place was created,” Gabriella Duhn said.

For more information, visit Skateparkproject.wixsite.com/northville.

Northville Township Trustee Scott Frush (from left), Councilwoman Barbara Moroski-Browne, Gabriella Duhn, Northville Township Supervisor Mark Abbo, Northville Mayor Brian Turnbull and Northville Township Trustee Chris Roosen at the June 13 groundbreaking for the Unity Skatepark.

An artist’s rendering of the Unity Skatepark at Millennium Park.

ASSORTMENT ,

& AFFORDABLE

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

WHAT A LEGACY!

Silver Springs first school in the state to earn Legacy status

Photos by John Heider

Silver Springs Elementary

Principal Katie Booth was absolutely beaming as students, teachers and family members gathered at the school on May 31. Booth couldn’t have been more proud as Silver Springs was recognized for becoming the first school in the state of Michigan – and just 14th in the world – to be named a Legacy School, the highest honor associated with the Leader in Me program.

“I know when you think about that there’s 7,000 total Leader in Me schools in the world, and there’s 700 Lighthouse schools and then you hear 14, you don’t realize how much that means,” Booth said. “You think I’m just a small little school, in this little town, but to be known as one of the first 14 Legacy Schools is a pretty incredible accomplishment.”

FranklinCovey, the organization that developed the Leader in Me program for schools, notified Booth and other school leaders in early May about the selection. According to FranklinCovey, a Legacy School exemplifies a strong leadership culture by unleashing the highest potential in students, staff, families, and community. A Legacy School stands as a global beacon throughout the world of greatness cultivated over time.

Silver Springs Elementary Principal Katie Booth.

Silver Springs 5th grader Allie Wojewuczki with her sister Allie, 2, before the school’s Legacy School ceremony.

Jim Welch sits with his son Gavin, 2, at the Silver Springs celebration.

Silver Springs students, including Alana and Olivia McCowan (at left) hang out on the playground after the celebration.

“FranklinCovey invited us to apply for the Legacy rating. You had to make a distinct contribution to the community to achieve that level,” Booth said. “So we asked ourselves ‘what is that legacy we want at Silver Springs?’ The overwhelming response from our staff, teachers and students is our inclusiveness and belongingness. It’s important to know that we have had a broad impact in our school community.”

The Silver Springs community celebrated the achievement on May 31 with an assembly, which was attended by a representative from FranlkinCovey, and then an after-school picnic for students and their families.

Silver Springs physical education teacher Angie Phillips said everyone from the

students and teachers to staff and families were just thrilled to attain the Legacy status, because it means the school has a strong leadership culture that is able to unlock the potential in students.

“We’re very proud. It’s an honor that the students and staff have worked hard for and it’s great to see the leadership from the students as they help each other,” Phillips said.

The celebration included an assembly and a family picnic on the playground.

Look Ajeless. Feel Ajeless. Be Ajeless.

COSMETIC PROCEDURES

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

• Appearance doesn't match the way you feel?

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

HORMONE OPTIMIZATION

• Regain your lost energy.

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

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

WEIGHT LOSS

• Medically supervised clean-start weight loss solution.

• Attain and maintain your weight loss goals.

• Improve your overall health and speed up your metabolism.

Casino‘Non-Issue’Rumor Is

Downs backers try to assuage fears about track relocation plan

Northville Downs’ proposed move will boost Plymouth Township’s fortunes and breathe life into a fading sport, backers say.

Detractors paint a less glamorous picture.

They contend a harness racetrack planned for the southwest corner of Five Mile and Ridge roads will only bring traffic headaches, if not a crime spike. A few naysayers assert the development is nothing but a backdoor to open a casino.

Don’t bet on the latter, Plymouth Township attorney Kevin Bennett retorts.

The attorney outlined several reasons why erecting a gambling house on the 128-acre site would be impossible under state law. Bennett spoke during a June 1 planning commission special meeting at Plymouth Township hall.

At the special session, commissioners voted to send the planned unit development site plan to the township board of trustees for final approval. The elected seven-member body will take up the matter sometime this summer.

A half-mile harness race track and three-story grandstand

seating 480 spectators is the centerpiece of the proposed Northville Downs at Plymouth Township.

The raceway would open spring 2024 and host live events from May to September, said John Carlo, Northville Downs’ owner and director of operations. Auburn Hills-based PEA Group is representing the track owner during the PUD process.

To torpedo casino scuttlebutt, Bennett recited state gambling laws.

A gaming house would require statewide voter approval and local backing at the polls, Bennett said.

Another state regulation restricts gambling facilities to cities with a population of 800,000 or more. Plymouth Township has 27,938 residents, according to 2020 U.S. Census figures.

“It’s a non-issue,” Bennett said.

Despite those assurances, some residents refused to let go of the conspiracy theory at the public meeting.

A few suggested a Native American tribe could buy into the project and open a gambling

By Larry O’Connor

house.

Bennett said Indian-run casinos are limited to federally designated tribal lands. No Native American reservations exist in southeast Michigan, the township attorney added.

“We really need to put this to bed,” said Bob Doroshewitz, planning trustee who joined six colleagues in unanimously approving the PUD site plan. “This myth out there about a 56,000-square-foot casino is total nonsense.”

Those spreading rumors either don’t know the law or have a political agenda, said Plymouth Township Supervisor Kurt Heise.

“I guess I’m just going to have to say it one more time: The casino is virtually impossible under the state constitution,” Heise said.

During the project’s unveiling in January, a proposed 53,800-square-foot gaming facility was listed as part of a “future phase.” Those plans were later scrapped, Heise said.

Along with the track and grandstand, the Northville Downs proposal includes a 35,500-square-foot horse barn, a 23,000-square-foot racing structure, and a 3,200-squarefoot maintenance building.

“There’s no second phase,” Heise said. “When you are going through the planned unit development process, there are always drafts that are flying back and forth.”

If the track owner makes any site plan revisions, the multistep PUD process would start over, Heise said.

Casinos aside, nearby residents are worried about the project bringing traffic headaches and unsavory visitors.

“It’s a nice site plan, it’s got a lot of nice features,” said Howard Hamerick, who lives near the proposed horse track. “The question is: How do you get there and how do you get out?”

Another resident recalled being less than impressed with the clientele during a Northville Downs visit a few years ago.

“I’m just going to say it: There were a lot of degenerates that were in that building, “ said George Maitland, who lives in the Andover Lakes subdivision. That observation didn’t mesh with the township police chief’s findings.

During a Feb. 15 planning commission meeting, Police Chief James Knittel said he spoke to Northville law enforcement officials about the raceway whose current 48-acre site is expected to undergo a sweeping $113 million redevelopment.

City of Northville Police Chief Alan Maciag and Capt. Greg Hannewald informed their Plymouth Township counterpart crime is not a problem at the historic racetrack, Knittel said.

A half-mile harness race track and three-story grandstand seating 480 spectators is the centerpiece of the proposed Northville Downs at Plymouth Township. Courtesy of Plymouth Township

Northville Downs opened in 1944 and is the state’s last harness remaining venue.

Aside from Kentucky Derby day, which attracts a lot of visitors to the Downs, the existing facility doesn’t require additional patrols, Knittel added. Northville Downs also hosts off-track betting.

“Generally, the type of clientele that goes to the track are senior citizens,” the police chief said.

The sports facility’s addition is also not expected to create nightmare gridlock, a traffic impact study suggested.

An analysis by Detroit-based Fishbeck predicts the raceway will generate 288 additional vehicle trips on weekdays. That figure is about a tenth of the estimated 2,077 trips a manufacturing site would create.

The once-proposed 5 Ridge Corporate Park was expected to house eight businesses.

The former Detroit House of Correction site is designated for industrial use but was expected to be rezoned as technology and research under the township’s 2025 Master Plan. A swath along Johnson’s Creek is classified as public land.

Harness race events are also not expected to coincide with the 4-6 p.m. peak weekday traffic period.

The proposed harness racing venue “will not have a significant impact on current traffic conditions on Ridge Road and Five Mile Road,” said Kyle Basset, Spalding DeDecker project manager, in a report to the planning commission.

The track’s arrival will pump more money into the township. The municipality’s share of

breakage fees — pennies accumulated from rounding down betting payouts to the nearest dime — could reach $250,000$300,000 annually, Heise said. That figure doesn’t include anticipated tax revenue.

Other perks will be outlined in a yet-negotiated community benefit agreement, which is included in the PUD process.

Soccer fields and pickleball courts highlight the plan’s recreational amenities. Under a shared services agreement, youth soccer’s Plymouth Reign will manage three fields planned within the half-mile track’s infield.

Likewise, a community organizer will oversee eight

pickleball courts, Carlo said. The courts are part of a “flex space” planned outside the racing building. That area can be easily reconfigured for other events such as 3-on-3 basketball tournaments.

The track’s owner assured planning commissioners that township residents will be able to play the increasingly popular paddle sport at the proposed facility.

“I don’t think our goal was to ever exclude anybody from pickleball,” Carlo said, “but have someone control it like the soccer fields.”

Compromise noun

Northville’s Mayor Brian Turnbull and the City Council stated going to “seasonal” downtown Main & Center closures was a compromise.

But…they didn’t ask what WE thought was a good compromise! Residents, Business and Building Owners, please politely post your suggestions for a real compromise at our Facebook page,

.

An artist’s rendering of the main entrance of the proposed Northville Downs at Plymouth Township. Courtesy of Plymouth Township

Come enjoy some of your favorite food & beverages with us on the rooftop patio!

Pictured:

Left: Great White Buffalo Brewing Co.

Right:Exchange Bar and Grill

The Rock Star Treatment

NHS Class of 2023 celebrated before saying good-bye

The 643 members of the Northville High School Class of 2023 were in for quite the whirlwind as they approached their last weekend as official high school students.

First, on June 3, they were carted through town along the route of the senior parade. Friends and family members lined Six Mile cheering them on. Many of the students, riding in the back of pickup trucks or through the top of convertibles and Jeeps, sported their college colors and plenty of Mustang pride.

The parade concluded at the high school where they spent their last evening as VIPs at the Senior All Night Party, organized by parents and teachers. The night was filled with food, games and activities – and plenty of conversations what it was like to be a Mustang for four years.

Everything concluded on Sunday with the commencement ceremony at USA Hockey Arena. It was a great tribute to a great

class that persevered through tough times (does anyone remember Covid?) to get to the finish line.

While they will no longer walk the halls or fill the classrooms of Northville High, the graduates have plenty of great memories that will last a lifetime.

Some, like Jacob Lee, will always remember the sports rivalries.

“My favorite memory from high school was going to the Northville vs. Novi football game and enjoying it with my friends from Northville as well as Novi. I have never seen our students have such high energy anywhere else. It was surreal to see what school spirit was really like when I was cheering in the stands,” he said.

Pratham Satappathy, a tennis player, will always remember when he hit a “tweener” against Salem.

“Everybody was hyped up and it was definitely something I’ve never even attempted before. It was the highlight of my last season

on the tennis team and something I won’t forget,” Pratham said. Art was a big part of the NHS experience for Alana Zhang, who cherishes her time in IB art class.

“In the class, I improved both my psychological approach to art as well as my creative skill set. I also met so many cool and creative people who helped me challenge myself and grow. Thank you Mrs. Miller and IB art for the memories,” she said.

Chive Paradowski, who was a member of the Stringers journalism club, will never forget the last day of classes.

“The final day was truly a unique experience,” Chive said. “As we exited the building, a multitude of seniors tossed their old school papers down the staircases, creating a giant pile of papers strewn across them. We walked out to the drumline playing, and I knew all of the tunes because of my time in the band. Going to the senior sunrise at the end of the day was a blast. Lots of chaos ensued with

plenty of yard games and another place to take some final pictures with other seniors. We even built a human pyramid.”

Of course, each student’s memories will be different, but they all share a common bond that will carry on with them on whatever path lays before them.

“My favorite part from my four years of high school would be creating all the connections I did with my teachers and peers. Coming into class and being able to have personable conversations with my teachers made such a difference to me,” said Olivia Harris. “It improved my high school experience drastically. At NHS, I also created lifelong bonds with my classmates and have met so many best friends.”

Congratulations to the Class of 2023!

*Brian Zhang contributed to this story.

Yuvraj Kapila

Pooja Kapoor

Ria Kapoor

Vansh Kapoor

Santino Nik Karaqi

Louis Edward Karkoski

Anika Kashyap

Adam Maher Kassem

Shankar Katragadda

Katie Anne Kehoe

Luka Samuel Kekich

Joshua Primus Kelanthara

Patrick William Kelley

Dylan Patrick Kelly

Benjamin Otto Kemnitz

Madelyn Marie Kent

Sahil Sachin Kerkar

Matthew Alan Ketvirtis

Fatima Khalid

Jenna Essam Khraizat

Fiona Katherine Kilian

Lucas Hongju Kim

Spencer Edward King

Owen Francis Kirkpatrick

Ava Lisbeth Klotz

Natasha Renee Kobelsky

Aniksha Kodali

Charmi Koppolu

George Justin Korah

Grace Anne Koski

Daniel Byoungjune Kou

Joshua Allen Kowalkowski

William Jason Kramer

Nele Johanna Kraus

Antony Yuri Kregel

Jordan Paige Krenz

Alexis Riley Kretsch

Christopher Krikor

Nanoor Krikor

Kole Deven Krzewinski

Saket Sujit Kulkarni

Vishal Kumaravel

Tanmay Rajeev Kundapur

Adhitya Krishna Kunju

Hunter Drew Ladach

Hailey Audrey Lammers

Lia Paula Lammers

Jessica Amy LaPonsey

Brandon Thomas Latta

Deepak Rohit Laungani

Andrew Lee

Jacob Jinyoung Lee

Nathan Lee

Zeke Charles Legel

Brooke Ann Lehmkuhl

Ellie Lin

Thomas Matthew Loebach

Sabrina Marie Loftus

Nicholas Patrick Lowery

Stephen Eduardo Lowery

Isaac James Luebke

Madeline Jane Luebkert

Andrew Larry Luther

Kailey Nicole MacDonald

Lauren J MacKellar

Riya Madabhushi

Sohan K. Madishetty

Paulina Madrigal Alvarado

Gabriella Mady

Jackson Cole MagyarPierson

Kyra Lynn Makie

Yousra Ahmed Makki

Brock Hansen Malaikal

Gianluca Francesco Mancini

Laya Bhanu Mangipudi

Mahathi Sai Mannem

Julia Lucine Manoukian

Shant Raffi Manoukian

Summer Mansi

Shourya Surya Marla

Eric Nathan Martin

Carter Christian MartinBorghi

Gillian May Maten

Yui Matsumoto

Karam Mattar

Avery Kate Maurer

Logan Edward Maynard

Reese Victoria McCarthy

Andrew Jackson McClure

Kampbell Patricia McConville

Gracelian Marie McCubbrey

Nash Patrick McDaniel

Franklin Dennis McDonagh

Ian Ross McDonald

Cole Michael McGowan

Kaitlyn Dorothy McIntyre

Matthew Nicholas McLaughlin

Lily Ann McMeekin

Aidan Alfonso Meade

Farrah Rushad Mehta

Anik Sai Mellacheruvu

Zayn Shakeel Merrick

Skylar Victoria Miklus

Leonardo Giuseppe Miksitz

Joshua Phillip Miller

Kendall Kao Chi Yuan Moeller

Hadi Mohiddin

Rami Mohiddin

Uchenna Esther Monplaisir

Rocco Armando Morales

Vincent Young Morales

Mark Marwan Morgan

Zain Mosallam

Trisha Morgan Motts

Melina Jeanne Moustakeas

Jacob Raymond Mowers

Hannah Noor Murad

Mitchell Robert Murdie

Ana Camila Murillo

Michael Lloyd Murphy II

Caleb Addison Pichler

Rachel Nancy Plagens

Stefano Platania

Massimo Domenico Porco

Madeline Rose Porter

Maximilian Winslow

Potrzeba

Sophia Marie Potrzeba

Ryan William Poulos

Blake William Presley

Daniel Prihoanca Jr.

Luca Vaka Prior

Chloe Raquel Pritchett

Mya Kay Proctor

Logan James Purkiss

Stephanie May Pyle

Patrick Thomas Schrems

Sofija Rose Serafimovski

Anvitha Roma Seri

Devin Andrew Shaffer

Aaria Aeraj Shah

Aryan Amit Shah

Amira Lily Shaheen

Noor Raed Shatara

Sophia Shaw

Matthew Joseph Shehab

McKenna Paige Shelide

David Nathaniel Shen

William Anthony Sherman

Aishwarya Shivaraman

Amrita Shivaraman

Brielle Marie Shular

Sonia Kaur Sidhu

Kylee Sims

Anoushka Singh

Sanjna Singhal

Mark Anthony Skonieczny III

Emerson Reese Slater

Ethan Anthony Sleath

Gwendolyn McKenna Smith

Shreya Sokhal

Mason Sokolowski

Sofia Oksana Sorce

Nikolaos Sotirios

Sotiropoulos

Niccolo’ Spagnoletta

Dennis Michael Speer

Zachary Lewis Spencer

Aidan Mark Spindler

Aleksas Spokas

Daphne YingHui Na

Eva Marie Naberhaus

Jamila Moiz Nagarwala

JaiPaul Singh Nagi

Rhea Sanoj Nair

Varun Sidhartha Nair

Yuya Nakajima

Sean Patrick Neafsey

Avery Madeline Nelson

Clark James Neuwirth

Alexander Tyson Nevelos

Jessica Marie Niemiec

Mary Olivia Nikitas

Nicholas John Novak

Rory Hughes O’Brien

Lauren Ashley Oehmler

Angelina May Oesterwind

Ryoya Ohno

Stephanie Anne Olsen

Jordyn Drea O’Neil

Kendyl Owens

Harrison Robert Ozog

Aryahi Satish Pachpande

Georgia Joan Pallas

Marco Nika Palushaj

Daniela Paniagua Torres

Wesley Wayne Paradowski

Raashika Sai Parchuri

Mehar Parmar

Ashna agnes Pasala

John Louis Patel

Mihir Rakesh Patel

Pareen V Patel

Prisha Denny Patel

Ram Sanjay Patel

Shivam Patel

Maanas Pavuluri

Anna Claire Payne

Elis Qafleshi

Shayan Ali Qazi

Frank Roufeng Qiu

Ahmad Sherif Rabbah

Jaskirat Singh Rai

Gabriella Christopher Raiti

Samarth Adithya Rajagopal

Veda Sri Ramakrishnan

Lucas Anthony Ramirez

Zahra Rauf

Sahej Kaur Rayat

Abigail Jane Reck

Sophia Leigh Reddy

Liam Avery Reich

Jackson Thomas Reineke

Kip Darwin Reiz

Madison SunJun Rhee

Taryn Jeannette Rice

Nicolas Jordan RiedleRueda

Devin Paige Riedy

Jack Richard Riordan

Kyle Addison Ritchie

Doug J Ritter

Emily Grace Roden

Angelo Christian Rodriguez

Chase Anthony Roe

Meghan Elizabeth Rogala

Anna Maria Saka

Adalyn Marie Saline

Maya Kaur Sandhu

Owen Michael Sanford

Emma Riley Santiago

Sharon Sara Santosh

Lilly McClain Sargent

Pratham Aggarwal

Satapathy

Garima Sawhney

Olivia Annabelle Steele

Connor Brian Stein

Maria Stojanoski

Jordan Gabriel Stojanovski

David Andrew Stojkovski

Gabriella Kristin Stoops

Kate Gilchrist Story

Ashlin Hope Stover

Emily Grace Strange

Abigail Justice Streetman

Brigita Sumskas

David Yun-ho Sung

Nathaniel Yun-soo Sung

Katherine Rose Swallow

Andrew Douglas Swancutt

Jax Sworski

Hamza Syed

Joseph Ryan Szalay

Emily Ann Tabaczynski

Sofia Tait

Joseph Gabor Takacs

Anthony Jude Takla

Lauren Paige Talcott

Evgenija Tanaskoska

Parth Rajiv Tandon

Daniel Allan Tate

Amanda Mewabo Tchonang

Eda Teomete

Peter Edward Tepatti

Benjamin Robert Thakady

Kelsie Lin Thomsen

Nolan McKinley Thomson

Isabella Reese Thornton

Christopher J Timlin

Ava Elisabeth Tithof

Alexander Edwin Todebush

Aubrey Elise Tolstyka

Luke Thomas Van Tiem

Jamisen Leigh VanderLugt

Varun Balaji Varre

Aidan Vata

Saitej Velaga

Ananya Veludandi

Megan Elizabeth Vitale

Julia Marie Vucinaj

Sydney Madeline Wagstaff

Caroline Grace Waidelich

Eric Wu Wan

Sabrina Tong-Chi Wang

Ella Grace Waugh

Chase Catherine Weaver

Alysse Elizabeth Webber

Jennie Mingzhen Wei

Aaron David Weiskopf

Donald Joseph Whinnery

David Robert Whitaker

Benjamin Martin Wiatrak

Maggie Lauryn Wierengo

Samuel Nathan Wiest

Sophie Marie Wildemann

Anna Rae Wilds

Ethan Thomas Williams

Jack Henry Willson

Waverly Shay Wilson

Ethan Michael Wiltfong

Victoria Celeste Winfield

Sawyer Critton Wolf

Oscar Edison Wong

Maxwell Warren Wright

Audrey Yvonne Chun Zhen

Wu

Nathan David Xiao

Jivin Yalamanchili

Nethra Yandooru

Connor Yang

Valerie Yuyue Yang

Eve Yang

Ronald Kenneth Young Jr.

Stephanie Mayyee Yu

Reese Ashley Zajac

Kate Elizabeth Zeleji

Anna Zeng

Alana Liu Zhang

Oscar Zhang

Wentai Zhao

Yingru Zhao

Aaron Siyang Zheng

Alessia Michele Zorzan

Allyson Jane Zuidema

Emily Zwettler

SPONSORED BY:

Catherine Elizabeth

Leneschmidt

Grace Lynn LeVan

Justin Kang Liao

Joseph David Liddle

Benjamin Ryan Liebman

An Teresa Ligenza

Riley Elizabeth Miller

Alexander Dragan Milojevic

Alexander Chris

Milosavlevski

Noah Matthew Minard

Aiden James Miner

Rhea Misra

Brisa Lou-An Perez-Garcia

Nicole Sophia Petrutiu

Megan Ann Pezzetti

Mary Alice Pflum

Marie Louise Pfund

Amber Kaur Phull

Alan Yanji Piao

Moreno Giulio Scaccia

Michael Andrew Jodl

Scavnicky

Alexandra Adele Schade

Elizabeth Ruth Schimper

Sophia Lynette Schneider

Audrey Hong Schreck

Blanka Laura Toth

Angela Marie Touma

Aidan Thomas Travers

Bhakti Alpesh Trivedi

Julia G Tuinman

Onivas Peyton Tupa

John Richard Valle

www.genittis.com

NORTHVILLE HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2023

Jacqueline Cape

Congratulations on your amazing journey and tremendous accomplishments at Northville High School. We could not be more proud and look forward to what extraordinary things you accomplish in lifewe always said "the sky is the limit". Always stay true to yourself with your contagious energy, grit and kindness.

Love Dad, Mom, Daniel and Mickey

NORTHVILLE HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2023

Allyson Zuidema

Ally, we are so proud of the young woman you are becoming. It has been an absolute joy to watch you grow and mature and take on all that life has to offer you! Your passion, dedication and care for all those around you will take you far kiddo! We are so excited to see this next chapter unfold as you head off to Hope College and continue to swing that club!! Roll Dutch!!

Aidan Meade

We are so incredibly proud of you! Your high school experience has been far from “normal”. First a global pandemic and then a chronic illness to deal with. You have shown courage, strength and resilience. We know it hasn’t been easy, but know you can always count on us. Your inquisitive nature, problem solving skills and tenacity will take you far in life. We can’t wait to see what the future holds and know you are destined for great things.

Congrats and all our love, Mom, Dad, Ava and Ashton

NORTHVILLE HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2023

Riley Heaton

Dear Riley,

What a privilege it has been to watch you grow up and mature into the beautiful and accomplished young lady you are today. So many memories - you hadn’t even gone to school yet, but you were the best teacher ever when you played “School”. Watching so many of your stellar Pom Pon performances over the years was pure pleasure. Now you’re headed to Miami University where we know you will continue on your path to excellence to all you seek to achieve. We are so proud of you. Love, Gram and Groopa

NORTHVILLE HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2023

Peter Tepatti

You are our greatest accomplishment and we can’t wait to see your future unfold in this next chapter of life. Make it a good story!

Love Always, Mom & Dad

NORTHVILLE HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2023

Nicole Petrutiu

Nicole, we are celebrating you today! Your achievements throughout the years have always been joyous and filled with love, laughter and tears. From the persistence in the classroom, to the basketball games, piano recitals, and endless volunteering hours at charity events, you have shown you are endowed with so much potential. As you go onto college, we hope you will reflect on educational insights and life lessons learned. Continue to ardently pursue your dreams. We love you!

Mom, Dad and Irene

Diya Ganguli

Congratulations Diya! We cannot express in words how happy and proud we feel. The last 4 years have not been easy, especially with the pandemic, but you persevered and worked hard and achieved so much. As you embark on your next journey, remember to always follow your dreams and passions. You have the potential to make a positive difference in the world and we can't wait to see what you will do next. Always remember that you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, smarter than you think, and loved more than you’ll ever know. Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it. You have so much to be excited for. We wish that success keeps following you in everything that you do. Today and always… Congratulations and Happy Graduation!

Love, Mom, Dad and Isha

NORTHVILLE HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2023

NORTHVILLE HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2023

DETROIT CATHOLIC CENTRAL CLASS OF 2023 Alexander Jaghab

We can not express how proud we are of you for graduating from Detroit Catholic Central and for choosing the University of Loyola Chicago to join your sister Hannah. Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off. We are honored to be your family! Always remember that no matter where life takes you, you will have our unwavering support and love. We are excited to see you grow and thrive in college and beyond.

Love Always, Dad, Mom, Peter, Hannah, Samantha, Tata Hanan & Yiayia Maria

GREENHILLS SCHOOL CLASS OF 2023 DIXON MILLER

Congratulations Dixon!

Through pandemics and broken bones, your self-discipline, hard work and positive attitude have always helped you persevere. As you head off to New Haven, CT, for a new adventure, never forget that those characteristics are part of your core.

DETROIT CATHOLIC CENTRAL CLASS OF 2023 Parker Jenkins Kara

Congratulations! The last four years have gone so quickly. The world around us went topsy-turvy and I worried - no activities, no chance to make new friends…but somehow you did it all! There were dances and bowling, marching band and memories! And through it all…the gifts of goodness, discipline, knowledge…friends and faith. I hope for life. Parker, I am happy for you and so proud to share in your life story, Now it's off to college, and whether it's an electrician or an accountant - you know what I say, you're always my favorite grandson!

Hugs, Grammy

BULLETIN BOARD BULLETIN BOARD

DETROIT CATHOLIC CENTRAL CLASS OF 2023 Parker Jenkins Kara

Congratulations! The last four years have gone so quickly. The world around us went topsy-turvy and I worried - no activities, no chance to make new friends…but somehow you did it all! There were dances and bowling, marching band and memories! And through it all…the gifts of goodness, discipline, knowledge…friends and faith. I hope for life. Parker, I am happy for you and so proud to share in your life story, Now it's off to college, and whether it's an electrician or an accountant - you know what I say, you're always my favorite grandson!

West Point Graduate

Hugs, Grammy

Northville’s Luke Vincent Doyle graduated (magna cum laude) from the U.S. Military Academy on Saturday, May 27. The son of Sean and Kerry Doyle, Luke graduated from Catholic Central High School in 2019.

At West Point, he concentrated his studies in management. He was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army within the Quartermaster Corps branch and will report to Germany for his first assignment.

The mission of the U.S. Military Academy is to educate, train, and inspire the Corps of Cadets so that each graduate is a commissioned leader of character committed to the values of “Duty, Honor, Country” and prepared for a career of professional excellence and service to the nation as an officer in the United States Army.

McNamara Sisters Medal For Malta

Running for the host country

Malta under duel citizenship status, Northville High grads Gina and Clare McNamara made quite an impression at the Games of the Small States of Europe track and field competition held May 29-June 3.

Gina, a middle distance indoor and outdoor scorer for the University of Michigan track team who graduated in 2017, captured gold medals in three events including the 800-meter run (2:12.46), 1,500 (4:36.81) and 5K (17:11.32).

Clare, a multi-events performer in the heptathlon and Big Ten scorer for U-M who just finished her junior season, placed third and took a bronze in the 800 behind her sister in 2:16.92. It was the first time the 2012 and 2020 Mustang grads had ever competed against each other in a sanctioned race.

Clare, a former MHSAA Division 1 state long jump champ and All-State volleyball player, was also a member of the silver medal 4 x 400 relay team for Malta (3:46.78) as Cyprus took the gold in 3:44.31.

The meet featured teams from nine different countries in the Olympic style games, including Malta, which captured the overall medal count with 97, including 38 gold, 30 silver and 29 bronze. They were followed by Cyprus, Luxembourg, Monaco, Iceland, San Marino, Montenegro, Andorra and Liechtenstein.

Both of the McNamara sisters’ grandparents were born in Malta and their mother Jackie also owns duel citizenship.

By Brad Emons

NHS athletes commit to playing at college level Signing Day

Northville’s College Signing Celebration Day on May 18 proved to be a signature day in the lives of 31 Mustang student-athletes.

They were saluted by the school’s staff of administrators, coaches and faculty members, along with their parents and relatives. The honorees are headed to play and compete at the NCAA Division I-II-II, NAIA and club ranks.

“We’ve got usually 30 to 40 kids moving on,” Northville athletic director Brian Samulski said. “It includes the preferred walk-on, partial-ride and fullride. At the end of every year, we celebrate all the students choosing to go on to the next level. It’s a pretty cool event just to see the amount of talented kids that we have at Northville and all the different schools that they’re going to. It’s a fun event to celebrate their high school success and them choosing to go on to the collegiate level and continue their educational and athletic careers.”

Leading the way among the NCAA Division I commits and signees is 16-time AllState swimmer Emily Roden (Missouri), who was the 2022 MHSAA Division 1 champ in

the 100-yard butterfly (54.05) while helping the Mustangs to a runner-up team finish in the state finals.

Two players from Northville’s Division 1 runner-up volleyball team will also play DI including Miss Volleyball nominee

Abby Reck (Northeastern University), first-team All-State outside hitter, and Taryn Rice (Northern Iowa), a third-team All-State libero.

Grace Koski, a member of Northville’s 2022 D1 runner-up girls soccer team which ended the 2023 regular season ranked No. 2, is committed to Cleveland State.

Meanwhile, Michigan Jaguars club players Natalie Garcia (Ohio State) and Hannah Gabriel (Valparaiso University) will play Division I women’s soccer as well.

Second-team All-State goalie

Drew Swancutt, who helped

the Mustangs to a 12-2-4 overall boys soccer record and a KLAA West and conference title, will play next season at WisconsinGreen Bay. Defender Will Eby, who played for the Michigan Wolves and Vardar Club teams, has earned a men’s soccer scholarship to Michigan State. Rounding out the Division I commits or signees include D1 seventh-place state high jump finisher Deepak Laungani, Indiana University; Natasha Kobelsky, women’s rowing (Penn); Sophia Reddy (Eurostars), women’s gymnastics, Central Michigan University; Radhika Ajmera, women’s rowing, Minnesota; and Gillian Maten, women’s synchronized skating, Miami University of Ohio.

Among the NCAA Division II bound student-athletes include Brady Heron (Wayne State)

and Brandon Latta (Michigan Tech), both members of the Mustangs 2022 MHSAA D1 boys cross country team; and Anna Gdowski, girls cross country and track (Wayne State).

Those headed to participate at NCAA Division III or NAIA schools include Sophie Aheimer, lacrosse (Albion College); Greg Braun, golf (Calvin University); Sydney Brown, basketball (U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, N.Y.); Gabe Clark, baseball (Hope College); Evelyn Deren, tennis (John Carroll University, Ohio); Emma Dreiman, swimming (Carnegie Mellon University, Pa.); Audrey Gonzales, soccer (Calvin); Ryan Halberg, swimming (Calvin); Leonardo Miksitz, baseball, (Rochester Institute of Technology, N.Y.); Jacob Mowers, swimming (Hope College); Luca Prior, football (Calvin); Aidan Travers, football (Adrian College); David Whitaker, cross country/ track and field (Massachusetts Institute of Technology); Ronald Young, volleyball (Indiana Tech); and Ally Zuidema, golf (Hope College).

State champion swimmer Emily Roden will be swimming for the University of Missouri. Photos courtesy of Northville High School Athletics

Cameron Lee Adams

Dominic Michael Aiello

Daniel James Anderson

Ian Matthew Arroyo

George Bassel Atala

Matthew Stephan Atkinson

Philip Albert Austin

Blake David Backus

Nicholas John Barnaby

Charles Joseph Bartels

Anthony Takayuki Belian

Blake Bendon

Robert John Bentham

Jack Martin Betley

Andrew James Bianchi

John Anthony Biskner

Carter Noah Bixby

Brady Michael Blakita

Schuyler Markey Boerema

Trevor Christian Bowser

Caleb James Brewer

George James Bridges

Samuel Joseph Brodzinski

Miles Robert Buckley

Brendan David Bulles

Tatum J. Bunn

Jacob Michael Bunting

Joseph Michael Burke

Dominic Edward Buzzelli

Maxwell Scott Campbell

William Carstens

Trae Luc Cassidy

Anthony Nabil Chalhoub

Charles Ryder Chappell

Andrew Stephen Charnley

Nathan Joseph Cholak

Luke Constantine Collias

Franklin Lawrence Coon

Brayden Wallace Courser

Griffin Thomas Crampton

Brendan John Crawford

David Joseph Creen

Connor Joseph Crespi

Ned Kieran Curley

Jack Alan Cyrek

Lorenzo Mario D’Abate

Connor Michael Davey

James Eben Davis

Tyler Charles Delyon

Owen Michael DeuPree

Johnathan Paul Diaz

Joshua Vaughn Diegel

Jude Ronald Dobson

Sean William Donahue

Nathan Saharsh Done

Dhruv Donekal

Timothy L. Dosch

Stanley Edward Dostal

James Robert Dulzo

Lukas Anthony DuToit

Michael James Ehresman

John Charles Erich

Aiden Edward Faunt

Charles Nicholas Fitrakis

Griffin Edward Freel

Dylan M Gilcher

Joseph Brett Goff

Nikolai Pavel Grabowski

Henry Aaron Graves

Tyler Matthew Gray

Dylan Jon Grewe

Nathan J Grondzieleski

Aidan John Grumm

Evan Anthony Haeger

Tyler Duke Hahn

John Elwyn Harju

Aidan Michael Harvill

Drew Nolan Heethuis

Luke Michael Heldke

Michael Patrick Hermann

Diego Hernandez-Ramirez

Nolan Joseph Hess

Baechler Bradley Houser

John Holmer Hull, Jr.

Ali S. Jaffer

Alexander Gabriel Jaghab

Johnathon Brett Janos

Joseph Robert Jarzembowski

Dylan Michael Jiddou

Clayton Jones III

Luke Jones Joseph Parker Kara

Devesh KC

Michael Paul Kellow

Jack Patrick Kelly

Owen Devereaux Kendall

Carson William Kerr

Andrew Jun Kil

Aidan Hannon Kinsella

Evan Alexis Kinter

Devon Manhal Konja

Andrew Peter Krakowiak

Alexander Frank Kummer

Luke Michael Kurpiers

Daniel Pasquarello Lafferty

Brennan Nicdao Laing

John Robert Langan III

Ethan Thomas Lapham

Dante Scott Lardin

Richard Kellen Larson

Joshua Patrick Lassaline

Colin Keith Lassey

Derrick Sumo Lee, Jr.

Aidan Michael Lemieux

Declan Claytor Lenhard

George Anastasios Liangis

Mark Steven Ling

Daniel John Long, Jr.

Nicholas Joseph Lopez

Spencer Lyons V

David Andrew Mack

Brogan Edwin John Maher

Jacob Dean Main

David Robert Maloney, Jr.

Aaron Robert Manriquez

Matthew Ward Mans

Noah David Marcy

Adam Ahmed Marhaba

Evan Patrick Marshke

Luke Anthony Martin

Jovon James Massey

Emett James May

Alec Christopher Maynard

Aiden Lowell Mazzocco

Tommy Ronan McGreevy

Jacob Christian McKee

Gabriel Richard McLaren

Finnian David McLenaghan

Alexander Michael Mentzer

Patrick Clifton Michel

James William Minnick

Noah Jacob Mio

Joseph Gabriel Moltane

Collin Francis Moore

Kyle Anthony Moore

Colin James Morrison

Samuel Thomas Moscone

Melvin Kimani Mungai

Joseph Michael Naasko

Jacob Paul Namel

Luca Francesco Naurato

Toby Francis Nelson-Pawlik

James Thomas O’Brien

Collin Christopher Orlandoni

Andrew John Pado

Diego Luna Patchett

Ryan Thomas Paulin

Logan Chase Paxton

Jason Maron Per

Daniel Jose Perez

Drew Michael Pierson

Kyle Robert Pierson

Andrew Louis Pleet

Arnav Vinayak Pulpa

Lucas Jude Quick

William Westerkamp Ramsay

Aaryan Singh Rathore

Pablo Antonio Razny

Christian Michael Reader

Nicholas Charles Reap

Vincent Riccardo Recchione

Kyle Eston Roberts

Jack Raymond Rogers

Joshua David Ross

Jacob Richard Rumberger

John Cornelius Ryan

Aaron Robert Rybicki

Nicolas Patrick Sanabria

Luke Manuel Saucedo

Peter Alexander Saval

Hero Patrick Schmidt

Daniel Arthur Schrameck

Ryan Tavis Schrameck

Joseph Timothy Sellis

Stevan Shammo

Jack Nicholas Sharkey

Steven David Shellenberger

Johnathan McKinley-May

Shephard

Martin Mitchell Shoushanian

Vann Zander Sloan

Saman Sohi

Aidan Michael Spehar

Jason David Spiegel

Joshua Charles Stinebiser

Sam Joseph Stinson

Joseph Lawrence Stopczynski

Franklin Harold Swanson

Blake Szymanski

Luke Szymanski

Ritvik Tangirala

Calvin Ray Taulbee

Ryan Charles Taylor

Michael Jeffrey Terrill

Eleftherios Theodorou

Ethan Norbert Thomas

Charles Paul Thompson

Joseph Bernard Tieppo

Zion Deonte’ Tinnon

Joshua Dion Tipton

Cole Andrew Tomaszek

James Zlatko Jordan

Tringale

Andrew Paul Urbain

Nicholas Michael Vance

Nicholas Vincent Ventura

Chase Alexander Vincent

Nikolaos Kiriakos Vlahadamis

Andrew David Wahoski

Ryan William Wantuck

Brady Patrick Wasen

Joseph Stephen Watson

Kristopher Seth Weaver

Christian Gabriel Werner

Landon Alexander West

Jack Thomas Wilkinson

Blaise Anthony Williams

Nicklaus Christopher Williams

Owen Christian Williams

Kellan Patrick Winslow

Tyler Joel Wolstone

Christian Robert Wolter

Steven Taylor Wood

Benjamin Michael Wright

Logan Hager Yatooma

Josh Carter York

Ryu Zarco-Yokoyama

Back on Track Anonymousdonationjumpstarts

Maybury’s7Mileentranceplan

A“sizeable” donation towards a proposed 500-foot non-motorized pathway into Maybury State Park off Seven Mile Road is inspiring boundless gratitude from patrons.

Shirley Masters wants to say a mighty “thank you.” So does Darren LaLonde, Kurt Westermann and numerous Northville residents, who live near the 1,000-acre recreational site.

The nonprofit Friends of Maybury State Park received the stunning gift for an undisclosed sum earlier this year to jumpstart the effort.

Good luck finding the generous soul, though. This donor is demanding anonymity.

“They specifically said, ‘Don’t try to contact us,’” said Chuck Murdock, Friends of Maybury president. “We did contact the bank and they said, ‘We will not divulge’” the person’s identity.

Masters, LaLonde and Westermann were among the 60 people who contributed to a Friends of Maybury fundraiser a few years ago, which raised $18,000 for an engineering study to get the long-desired entrance on the south side of the park off the ground.

Currently parkgoers access Maybury from Eight Mile and Beck roads.

The state park’s natural splendor features gently rolling terrain, woodlands and meadows. It’s extensive trail system makes it ideal for hiking, biking, horseback riding

ByLarryO’Connor

and cross-country skiing.

Since its opening in 1975, Maybury Park has seen nearby residential development explode. Those who live south of Seven Mile say they can’t walk or bike there because of the nonexistent shoulder and buzzing traffic along Beck Road.

‘VERY APPRECIATIVE’

To shed that inconvenience, residents are praising someone they’ll never know.

“I would be very appreciative of that person, especially if I knew who they were,” said LaLonde, who lives on Seven Mile, west of Ridge. “I would thank them. Maybury is a jewel of Northville Township, and it should be made accessible to everybody, especially for those residents who live around the perimeter.”

Masters and Westermann are also quite appreciative of the unknown donor.

“That person green-lit the project,” said Masters, who lives on Freestone Drive, near Six Mile and Ridge roads.

The proposed entrance hit a wall after Wayne County Roads officials said a useractivated Hawk Crossing traffic signal— estimated $80,000-$100,000 — would be required for a Seven Mile pathway. The county owns the east-west thoroughfare.

“So, we’re like ‘Now what do we do?’” said Traci Sincock, Maybury State Park supervisor. “We can raise $100,000 for a path, but now we have almost double that

(in terms of cost). We just kind of paused it.” Organizers hit the restart after the manna-from-heaven offering. Sincock and Murdock declined to reveal the donation amount, but hinted the gift was enough to cover a bulk of the project’s amended cost.

They are waiting on final estimates, though. The park supervisor noted that concrete, steel and asphalt prices have shot up due to inflation.

The proposed site for the new Seven Mile entrance is near an existing mountain bike trail and a paved pathway.

Photo by P.A. Rech

“Our best guess right now there is enough (money) in that donation,” Sincock added. Park advocates have linked up with Northville Township’s Pathways Advisory Committee, which includes trustees and staff, to help navigate the process.

ENHANCING SAFETY

The idea for a third entrance gained momentum during a 2019 park management study. People in a corresponding survey cited a Seven Mile Road access point as the No. 1 amenity they wanted.

Masters said she would prefer to walk or bike to Maybury but has to drive instead. She and her husband Alan are avid walkers.

“For us, (a Seven Mile entrance) would be phenomenal,” she said.

Westermann, who lives south of Maybury, also believes a Seven Mile entry point would enhance safety. He visits Maybury with his wife Debra and their two grandchildren,

Henry, 5, and Fynn, 2.

“They love going to the park; they love being outside,” said Westermann, who is on the Stonewater Homeowners Association Board of Directors.

“It’s such an asset for this community to have 1,000 acres of woods and trails for the public to use.

“It will also help reduce congestion on the other entrances. If people can come in from the south, they don’t need to drive over there and take up parking spaces, and there won’t be as many people coming in off of Eight Mile or off of Beck.”

Early on, Maybury officials met with Wayne County Parks counterparts to plot an ideal spot along Seven Mile for a nonmotorized path.

They ruled out a Seven Mile-Beck access point due to a lack of sidewalks and a busy intersection. An area close to Ridge Road was deemed unwise due to a crest hill decreasing traffic visibility, Sincock said.

Officials have honed in on a space between Honey Tree Lane and Grande Vista Drive, which once served as the Maybury Tuberculosis Sanitorium children’s entrance. The proposed site is near an existing mountain bike trail and a paved pathway.

“It makes natural sense to put it there, too,” Sincock said. “I’m sure the county will give us more direction once we get into the planning stages.”

GOING OUT TO BID

Once designs are completed, the project will go out for bids. Park officials expect a crowded field when soliciting contractors.

“This is a small project,” Sincock said. “It seems large to us, but scope-wise, it is 500 feet

of path and a traffic signal. So, it is not like a large company is going to take this on. They are looking for the bigger projects.”

Murdock and Sincock refuse to play detective in trying to guess the donor’s identity. They don’t want to upset the individual. Murdock surmises the person kindly responded after hearing about the stalled endeavor when the traffic signal doubled the cost.

“I think this donor got wind of the fact we were stymied,” Murdock said. “The obstacle was money, and this anonymous donor gave us this incredibly generous donation.”

The contribution came from a donor-advised fund,

which enables a giver to deposit money for charitable contributions over time. Such gifts are tax deductible.

“This donor has given a high level of trust that the Friends and the park will see this through, which obviously we are all committed to doing,” Sincock said. “It is very much appreciated.”

Friends of Maybury State Park is a nonprofit, volunteer organization that supports the recreational facility. People interested in joining may phone (248) 349-8390 or visit www. friendsofmaybury.org.

Better Business Banking

New Loan Center Conveniently Located In Plymouth

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

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

A pedestrian traffic signal, like this one on Lilley Road in Plymouth, will be installed on Seven Mile between the existing neighborhood and the new entrance.

Free Michigan Jazz Festival returns July 16 with 35 acts on six stages

By Kevin Brown

There is joy in jazz. And it “ain’t misbehavin’” -- apologies to Fats Waller – to say this music that originated in America celebrates freedom and democracy.

The free 28th Michigan Jazz Festival returns from noon-9 p.m. Sunday, July 16 to Schoolcraft College with 35 acts performing on six stages. It is the triumphant centerpiece of the festival board of directors’ year-round mission to promote jazz education in schools.

“The only thing better than music is LIVE music,” says WRCJ 90.9 FM on-air host Maxine Michaels, adding she’s honored to play a part in the festival.

“There’s always a high level of musicianship and diversity, plus the joy of sharing the day with a crowd that appreciates and supports the art form known as jazz,” said Michaels, who will serve as MC at the Bill Bolle Stage.

The MJF board works year-round to keep the jazz tradition alive by presenting youth education programs and by organizing the festival.

“Jazz, an American art form, uses complex harmonies, creative melodies and

Michigan Jazz Festival SCHEDULE

Leven Open Air stage, The Big Tent

Noon Bill Meyer’s SONEO

1:30 p.m. Sky Covington Featuring Club Crescendo

3 p.m. Aguanko

4 p.m. Kimmie Horne & Friends

6 p.m. Dave Bennett Quartet

7 p.m. Zen Zadravec

Bill Bolle Presentation Stage, Kehrl Auditorium

12:30 p.m. Terry Lower Trio with Edye Evans Hyde

2 p.m. Charles Greene Trio

3:30 p.m. Jonathan Blanchette’s Time-Jump

5 p.m. Ramona Collins

6:30 p.m. Signal Quartet

8 p.m. Dave Sharp Worlds Quartet, with Elden Kelly

Cotton Club Rathskellar Stage, Lower Waterman

12:15 p.m. Playing with the Pros

1:45 p.m. Detroit Office of Civil Defense

3:15 p.m. Ingrid Racine Quintet

4:45 p.m. Aston Neighborhood Pleasure Club

6:15 p.m. Andrew Rathbun Quartet

7:45 p.m. Kathy Kosins

Vosgerchian Solo Piano Room, Rennolds Room

12:15 p.m. Duncan McMillan

1:30 p.m. William Marshall Bennett

3 p.m. Matthew Fries

4:15 p.m. Rick Roe

5:30 p.m. Brendon Davis

6:45 p.m. Michael Jellick

Salden Big Band Stage, Diponio Room

12:15 p.m. Dr. Prof. Leonard King Orchestra

2 p.m. MJF All-Star H.S. Jazz Band

3:45 p.m. Grand Rapids Jazz Orchestra

5:30 p.m. CSO

improvisation which allows the performer to spontaneously create a melody which reflects the performer’s own musical ideas,” said Craig Strain, MJF board president and music educator.

The melding of rhythmic influence from Africa and harmonic influence from Europe resulted in an original form of music, Strain said. “The freedom given to the performer can be compared to the freedom given to the citizens in a free United States.”

Sally Pinchock is on the MJF board and marketing committee. “We pay over

7:15 p.m. Jeff Trudell Big Band

Sally Bolle Cabaret Stage, Henry’s Cafe

Noon Barbara Ware & Cliff Monear

1:15 p.m. Sandra Bomar & Don Bartkowiak

2:30 p.m. Marvin Jones & Jay Valle

3:45 p.m. Emma Aboukasm & Scott Gwinnell

5 p.m. Sunny Wilkinson & Ron Newman

6:15 p.m. Ellie Martin & Mike Harrison

Dwight Adams

Kimmie Horne

Michigan Jazz Festival High School All-Stars

Jeff Trudell

180 musicians to play, all from public donations,” she said. The board acts as a 501 C-3 non-profit to raise money to provide the free annual festival.

In a modification of the performer selection process, this year applicants were asked to submit a video of their group. The selection committee picked performers based on criteria including talent, diversity, youth and the applicant’s past performances at MJF. This season, more than 150 applications applied for 35 spots.

“This year our performers will include 19 acts that have not performed on our stages previously, with more youth, more diversity and a wider geographic footprint,” Strain said.

In addition to the six festival stages, there are two education clinics where students work with professional jazz musicians.

The festival is operated by the allvolunteer board of directors. It was created in 1991 to promote Michigan jazz musicians. The first festival was presented at Freedom Hill. In 1996 it moved to the Botsford Inn,

and in 1999 to Schoolcraft College.

“We’re so excited to welcome this great festival back to campus and invite the community to enjoy this free event,” said Glenn Cerny, Schoolcraft College president. “Since 1999, Schoolcraft College has sponsored the Michigan Jazz Festival, bringing some of metro Detroit’s most talented artists to our beautiful campus. The Michigan Jazz Festival is the perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy the area’s best jazz music.”

MJF board member Jeff Dunn also serves as festival photographer. “My interest in the music really took off in the 70’s, when I hung out at Baker’s Keyboard Lounge, Dummy George’s, and Cobb’s Corner. I did a deep dive into recorded music as well,” he said.

After buying “arms full of LP’s” from his favorite record stores, Dunn was fascinated by who played on the recordings. “Man, listen to that bass line. Who is that? George Mraz? OK – got to get some George Mraz records,” Dunn said. “I love the different styles too. Swing, hard bop, avant-garde/

free, modern, and stuff that doesn’t fit those categories. I’m still seeking new experiences through this music.”

Dunn said the festival gives area artists a great stage to showcase their talents. “And it helps to foster a sense of community,” he said.

Beyond the festival, the MJF board presents fundraising events year round to pay performers and teachers at education initiatives presented in person and on the web.

The festival board also seeks financial support through donations. Suggested levels include $2,500 for a named stage, $1,000 for patron designation and $500 to become a friend of the MJF. For more information, go to michiganjazzfestival.org.

There is free parking and festival merchandise will be available. Schoolcraft’s Culinary Program will provide a variety of lunch and dinner fare. Beer and wine are also available.

For more information on the festival, visit michiganjazzfestival.org.

Q: How should I take care of my skin in the summer months?

We are always here to help with all your skincare needs, however as summer fast approaches, we would like to share solutions to both the prevention and correction of sun damage, especially if you find yourself already noticing pigmentation and wrinkles. Here are a few summer promos ongoing at our clinic:

10% off any of the following!

SUMMER PEELS: A powerful chemical peel that combats pigmentation by effectively penetrating damaged areas, promoting rapid cell turnover, thus leading to less pigmentation and healthier skin. A patient favorite!

LIGHTWEIGHT MINERAL SUNSCREENS: A lightweight, all mineral, broad spectrum sunscreen that offers a slight tint to even skin tone, brighten complexion and provide a healthy glow.

BRIGHTENING TREATMENTS: Night time brightening antioxidant serums or wipes can minimize the appearance of unwanted discoloration and improves appearance of redness and has powerful antioxidants to promote healthy skin.

NEW LONGER LASTING BOTOX: The newest wrinkle reducing treatment is NOW available at MI SKIN CENTER and administered by a boardcertified dermatologist! Introductory pricing this summer as you try Daxxify!

If you need further help with your summer skincare options, schedule an appointment with board certified dermatologist Dr. Kartono at MI Skin Center at (248) 963-5915 or info@drkartono.com

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

PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY RELIEF IN 5 METRO DETROIT LOCATIONS

“I am on my feet 8-12 hours a day, if not more,” says David Zarek, who works in law enforcement and security. His job keeps him on the move, running up and down stairs, walking across roofs, and climbing ladders.

David’s diabetic peripheral neuropathy and three back surgeries caused nerve damage in his legs and feet, leaving him in considerable pain and thinking it might be time to retire. However, after ultrasound treatments at RealWave Neuropathy Treatment Centers in Southfield, David now plans to work for a few more years.

David credits his podiatrist for referring him to RealWave Neuropathy Treatment Centers.

“She started talking about this wonderful new company,” he says, but more importantly, she told me, “...my insurance also covers it.”

RealWave uses a specially tuned ultrasound machine to deliver focused energy to the affected area and treats the nerves involved to reestablish consistent electrical conductivity and normalize sensation.

At his first appointment, the nurse practitioner administered diagnostic tests to assess the nerve conductivity and blood circulation in his legs and feet. His treatment plan included RealWave ultrasound treatments and RealPulse treatments, a form of low-wave mechanical energy that increases blood flow and amplifies the positive impact of the ultrasound treatment.

After his second session of RealWave ultrasound, David says, “I started to notice a little bit of a difference. I noticed that parts of my feet weren’t hurting as bad. And, then it was getting progressively better as the weeks went by.”

“It has been nothing but phenomenal,” says David. “I go roughly two times a week…just because it makes me feel really good having the treatments.” When speaking about the RealPulse treatment, David says, “I love it. It kind of wakes your feet up, and then the RealWave [ultrasound] starts to soothe them.” RealPulse is especially beneficial for patients experiencing ongoing numbness, poor circulation, and non-healing wounds.

David says, “I’ve just been finding myself to be able to be capable of doing things that I couldn’t do a long time ago. And it has been refreshing. It’s been wonderful. It gives me a new lease on life.“

Dr. Francisca Kartono, DO Board Certified Dermatologist

David Zarek , RealWave patient

It's Your Business MEGANROSE Interiors

they made,” Atkinson says. “Rather than being fearful to do that, I drew inspiration from that. That’s what encouraged me to go for it.”

Her sister, Ryan, and brother, Michael, are now attorneys in the family firm, and her brother, Jack, operates Imagine Design & Build Co out of the same location.

Between the building in downtown Northville and their home in Cabbagetown, Atkinson remembers her parents were always renovating something.

A Sense of Home

Northville native creates warm, inviting spaces

By Wensdy Von Buskirk

Megan Rose Atkinson, a true Northville native, has always had a knack for transforming spaces and creating warm, inviting homes. Growing up in a family of entrepreneurs, she witnessed the hard work and dedication it takes to build a successful business. Inspired by her parents’ drive, Megan decided to combine her passion for interior design with her real estate expertise, launching MEGANROSE Interiors in 2020.

With a team of talented women and trusted contractors by her side, Megan’s business quickly took off. Now, three years later, she continues to bring functional beauty to homes in her beloved Northville, blending traditional

styles with modern touches that reflect the families who live there. With a deep-rooted appreciation for the sense of home, Megan is committed to helping her clients create spaces where new memories can be made.

GROWING UP

Atkinson has deep roots in Northville. Her mom, Michele — a past Victorian Queen — and dad John, opened their law firm Kelly & Kelly, P.C. in Northville in 1991, the year Atkinson was born.

She spent her childhood going to work with her parents, spending countless hours in the very building that now houses her own venture.

“I watched my parents build their business, the sacrifices

“That was just part of our lives,” she says. “We’re a projectbased family. We like to roll up our sleeves.”

BRANCHING OUT

Atkinson earned a degree in communications from Oakland University in 2013 and jumped into a career in real estate with Patti Mullen of the Patti Mullen Group.

“She is an incredible mentor,” Atkinson says. “She took me under her wing and I was able to gain so much insight into return on investment, home values, what improvements to make on properties that made sense for first-time homeowners and

people ready to sell.”

When COVID-19 shut down real estate, Atkinson looked for a new way to serve her clients. She decided to combine her keen eye for style, her business acumen and her experience with real estate together into a design business.

MEGANROSE Interiors took off right away. One client led to another and three years later she now has a staff of five women and a team of contractors to carry out a wide range of projects. She also has a warehouse full of inventory, and her office in the family building at 422 Main Street. For the last two years, MEGANROSE Interiors has been named Best Interior Designer by HOUR Detroit.

“It just snowballed,” she says. “We are a family of entrepreneurs. The entrepreneurial spirit is very much in my blood. I was raised to look for a need and to create solutions.”

MOVING FORWARD

Atkinson works with a lot of clients in her hometown.

“What’s really interesting is a lot of us that grew up in Northville have maybe gone and

Megan Rose Atkinson launched MEGANROSE Interiors in 2020.

Megan Rose Atkinson is one of four children of local attorneys John and Michele Kelly (back row center). Megan is right of John. Also pictured are her siblings Jack, sister Ryan and Mike, as well as their spouses and children.

explored, went away to college and returned to the nest where our roots are,” she says.

For one recent client, who came back and purchased the same house where he grew up, Atkinson redid the master suite with coastal-style white oak floors, painted the walls a warm white, added modern lighting throughout, and updated the cabinets and countertops in the kitchen.

In the formal living room, a space in a traditional home many homebuyers don’t know what to do with, she created a swanky lounge absorbed in Hale Navy, cognac leather, and nods to the bourbon he enjoys.

Still, she preserves a sense of home.

“We like the traditional home styles in Northville that we grew up in. We like all that symbolizes but we’re looking for a way to modernize it and make it more reflective of us. A space to create new memories,” she says.

COMING HOME

Atkinson puts her design acumen to work in the Novi home she shares with her husband, Jake, and their three small children.

Megan and Jake were high school sweethearts in Northville High School’s class of 2009.

“I’m still obsessed with him,” she says.

Raising a young family — Liam, 7; daughter, Blake, 5 and Tatum, 3 — informs Atkinson’s design choices.

She goes for functional beauty — elegant furniture with high-performance fabrics and modern rugs of durable wool “so you can live in your home without reservation.”

“That’s what I want in my own home. It’s a very come-asyou-are feeling when you walk in,” she says. “I’ve always really believed in the sense of home.”

For more information about MEGANROSE Interiors, visit themeganrose.com.

DESIGN TRENDS ON THE HORIZON

Natural Elements

Materials that come from the earth make for the most timeless choices. Utilizing organic materials like wood, jute, rattan, and stone emphasizes texture and brings a sense of nature indoors.

Large Scale Lighting

Light fixtures are the jewelry of the room and can serve as focal points adding visual interest with a touch of elegance and luxury to your home.

Black and White Palette

Black and white is a versatile, classic color combination that transcends passing trends and adapts easily to all interior design styles. The bold contrast between black and white creates a striking visual impact, adding depth, drama, and balance to the overall design.

Curves in Furniture Silhouettes

Inspired by femininity and architecture, curved silhouettes in furniture evoke a sense of history while also complementing a modern, transitional style. Our favorite way to achieve this look is in curved sofas, pedestal tables, fluted details, and beveled edges.

Source: MEGANROSE Interiors

BOLD Beautiful

Art In the Park brings eclectic mix of media to region

By Wensdy Von Buskirk

As Art In the Park gears up for its 43rd year, it remains on the cutting edge of creativity. Organizer Raychel Rork says the festival, which takes over downtown Plymouth July 7-9, features artists exploring media in delightful ways.

“I think what we’re seeing a lot of this year is there’s a lot of artists pushing the boundaries and pushing the limits of what their art is or can be,” Rork says.

That means many surprises as you stroll amongst the 400 artists from across the country who will exhibit in Kellogg Park and surrounding streets.

BOLD ART

You might be stopped in your tracks by a juicy cantaloupe that turns out to be a

exact ceramic replica, a life-size mannequin covered in mirrored disco-ball tiles, or a gorgeous high-end shawl imprinted with a photo of the Detroit skyline.

Rork said she and the other jurists were impressed as they combed through submissions for this year’s fair. Today’s

artists seem to be pushing limits, mixing media and exploring the limits of what can be done with clay, paint, photography and more.

“It was really fun jurying this year,” Rork says. “From their use of materials to bold, unapologetic creativity, you’re going to see lots of in-your-face, new, different and crazy stuff.”

Instead of making a simple coffee table, an artist will cut a hole in the center and suspend flower petals in resin. Instead of a traditional quilt, another will take a photograph of your cat and incorporate it into a fabric landscape.

Even portraits of your favorite celebrities have surprising twists.

The talent is world-class, Rork says.

“We have multiple artists who have also

Artist Katherine Weisinger at last year’s festival.

Acrylic painting of Abraham Lincoln by Larry Moore

George Tait – Human Statue

Kristen Dillenbeck Zipp will be back working on her living mural.

A caricature of Jimi Hendrix by Paul King.

participated in ArtPrize on a much bolder, larger scale,” Rork says. “They’ve competed with some of the best artists in our area and beyond.”

Of course, Michigan’s second-oldest art fair also features many familiar faces.

“It’s always exciting when we get something new that we’ve never seen before, but of course we love to get our favorites back,” Rork says.

AFRICAN CUISINE

As striking art takes over the vendor tables, bold flavors will be featured at various food stands. New this year is Fork In Nigeria, featuring African cuisine like Fufu, Puff Puff, and stewed meats over Jollof rice.

You’ll also find a converted bike cart peddling fresh pressed sugarcane juices with lavender and rose petals. Grab-and-go as you browse to the sounds of reggae band Roots Vibration, playing throughout the weekend.

“You’ll feel like you’re in the Caribbean somewhere, sipping your lavender-infused mocktail,” Rork says.

As always, the festival features tons of hands-on children’s activities like sandy candy art, face painting, candlemaking, henna and adventure theater. It also showcases entertainment including comedy juggling, a vibraphone player and a living statue.

Admission is free, and a shuttle from nearby Schoolcraft College makes parking a breeze.

For more information on the festival, visit artinthepark.com.

ART IN THE PARK

What: A celebration of creativity, music, and fun

Where: Kellogg Park (downtown Plymouth)

When: July 7-9

Hours: Fri. 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Who: 400+ artists along with food vendors, entertainers and visitors from throughout the region

How: Park at Schoolcraft College and take an air-conditioned shuttle to the show!

Info: artinthepark.com

We have multiple artists who have also participated in ArtPrize on a much bolder, larger scale. They’ve competed with some of the best artists in our area and beyond.”

Raychel Rork, Art In The Park director

More than a quarter million people are expected to attend Art In The Park.

More than a quarter million people are expected to attend Art In The Park.

Chef Prej Iroegbu

(pictured with AITP founder and her mother Dianne Quinn)

Dishin’ With Denise

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

Fathers, Flowers & Friends

Everyone who knows me, knows I’m a “daddy’s girl”.

My dad died 21 years ago – it seems like yesterday, and I still miss him. What I wouldn’t do to hear his voice, his hearty laugh and feel the roughness of his chubby arthritic hand, as he held mine to keep me safe, always. I hope all the fathers (and father-figures) out there had a wonderful Father’s Day. You make a difference, even when you think no one notices.

(117 W. Main) or online at www.cgcnv.org. The day of the walk tickets will be $15 and will be available at “The Green Space” (199 S. Wing, behind the Northville Library).

The Country Garden Club was founded in 1977. It is a 501(c)3 organization and is dedicated to community improvement through service, conservation and education. I’ve learned the members range from patio gardeners to farmers, “newbies” and advanced master gardeners. I’m afraid I don’t fit any of those descriptions – but I certainly enjoy a beautiful bouquet of flowers and I know how to can tomatoes, blanch beans and “put up” pickles. As long as someone else grows them!

P.S. Visit the Library and check out the display case. Country Garden Club has a display for June highlighting the need for native plants.  They also donate fresh flowers weekly for the Circulation Desk.

ever Garden Party on August 5th. Mill Race Village is such a gem in our community. It seems so natural for them to host a Garden Party, and yet, this is the first. The Village grounds will radiate charm with blooming gardens and the decorated historic buildings open for visitors, each with a story of their own to tell. There will be strolling food, beverages and entertainment plus a silent auction. You certainly don’t want to miss this first. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www. millracenorthville.org.

“It is so graceful, especially when it wafts gently in the breeze. Some gardeners trim the bottom branches off, so they look like a lollipop. I like the tree left arching and reaching to the ground, as this one is.” Tricia, I agree.

My dad was a great gardener. (I am not.) Here in Northville, we have some incredible gardens. The Country Garden Club of Northville will hold their 29th Annual Garden Walk on July 12th from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will be six private gardens to view. One is at the home of an interesting Polish lady, Tamara Petonke. She also creates oneof-a-kind stone birdhouses –perfect for any eclectic garden. And she even etches Polish Eggs -- what an art that is!

Tickets are on sale now for $12 at Gardenviews at Home

And speaking of gardens, the Northville Historical Society just turned 50 and they’ll be holding their first

Last month I told you about the Northville Tree Champions (NTC) – and the search for a favorite tree around town. The tree with the most entries is a Weeping Cherry, located on High Street – between Dunlap and Main. “There are other weeping cherries around town, but this is the one to enjoy,” according to NTC member Tricia Tompson.

And finally, let’s talk about friends. Congratulations to all the graduates who are moving on to new adventures. My advice – take along your friendships. As the country song says, “Nobody gets a second chance to make new old friends.” Friends are truly a gift. And it’s hard to keep friendships alive – time and troubles, miles and memories…they test us. June 8th was Best Friend’s Day. One of my best friends has been my best friend for more than 50 years – and we had a chance to meet up in June. We know each other’s secrets. We share an unconditional love. We observe and never judge. I have other best friends – I use “best” as an adjective, not as quantitative. They often quote Axel Munthe: “What you keep for (to) yourself, you lose. What you give away, you keep forever.”

Dishing with you is like talking with my best friends. I share my stories and hope at least one or more of you join me – sharing a good story or two. And if another person joins, we could start a chain reaction that goes on forever…sharing stories to make our piece of the world a little brighter – like those beautiful gardens in our community. Maybe I’ll try grow something. My dad would be proud.

Tamara Petonke not only creates one-ofa-kind birdhouses, but she also etches Polish eggs.

Tamara Petonke’s eclectic garden is one of the highlights of the Country Garden Club’s 29th Annual Garden Walk.

This weeping cherry tree got the most votes in the Northville Tree Champions’ search for a favorite tree in town.

People of beautiful Northville, We are new to the area and in need of full time daycare for our 2 year old son.

Genuine mutual affection between you and the child is what we’re looking for!

Previously, he was in loving home care, where an elderly lady was taking care of him and 3 other kids at her own house.

Home care at our house (Stonewater) would also be conceivable.

If this is for you, please send a one page introduction and photo to daycare.northville@gmail.com

We are looking forward to hearing from you! –C&M