May 2022 | Vol.5 | Issue 5
Northville’s News and Lifestyle Magazine
JUSTICE
IS CALLING
Crime reporters ready to solve Michigan cold cases
Meet the Local Sales Reps in Your Community.
Vita Vizachero
John DesOrmeau
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.
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.
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THE GIFT OF LOCAL JOURNALISM As you decide what is important in your life as we start a new year, please consider a donation to support The 'Ville. Since we began publishing four years ago, our goal has been to provide our readers with valuable information about the Northville community each and every month. Your support will help 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. We wish all our readers a Happy New Year and a healthy and prosperous 2022.
VOLUME 5
ISSUE 5
MAY 2022
16435 Franklin, Northville, MI 48168 • 734.716.0783 • TheVilleMagazine@gmail.com
KURT KUBAN – Editor/Publisher
Kurt Kuban is an award-winning journalist, having served as a reporter and editor for several local newspapers and magazines, including The Northville Record, over the course of a career spanning more than two decades. Kurt lives in Northville with his wife, Cheryl, and their three children, 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 19 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
Publisher Here is a list of people who contributed to local journalism last month. We appreciate your support! Kathleen Irwin Ron Lynch Jim & Martha Nield Jurgen Schnepel Margie Sievert
Deborah Stanifer & Arvy Kavaliauskas Richard & Jeanne Storm
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.
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.
LONNIE HUHMAN - Writer
Lonnie graduated from EMU with a degree in creative writing. He is a longtime newspaper reporter, including two stints with The Northville Record. He is now a freelance reporter for a number of publications, including The Sun Times News in Dexter, where he lives with his wife and two young children. He is glad to be back covering the Northville community.
BRYAN MITCHELL - Photographer
Bryan started working as a photographer more than 30 years ago, and was the Northville Record photographer in the 90's. He has freelanced for The Detroit News, The Guardian, Reuters, and other publications. His photography has appeared in newspapers and magazines around the globe. The Northville resident also coaches mountain biking at Northville High School.
A View From The ‘Ville
Survey Says: Social District, Street Closures Are Popular I f you’ve been paying attention to what’s happening in downtown Northville, there are two issues right now that really have people divided. The first, of course, is the development proposal for the Northville Downs site, which, if it comes to fruition, will be a game changer for our little downtown. The second is the debate about whether or not the city should keep Main and/ or Center streets closed to vehicular traffic, which began during the early days of the Covid pandemic as a way to help businesses stay afloat. On both of these issues, there are people for and against. It really depends on who you ask. Well, concerning keeping the streets closed or not, the City of Northville decided to do just that – ask the community. The city’s Downtown Development Authority (DDA) contracted with Carlisle Wortman Associates to conduct an online survey between April 11-May 2. There were more than 4,000
responses. The results were a little surprising, as nearly 75% of the responses were in favor of keeping the streets closed in one way or another. Only 26% said both streets should be reopened. The results of the survey can be found on the city’s website at www.ci.northville.mi.us if you’d like to do a deeper dive. There’s lots of interesting comments, too. Speaking of comments, there were plenty of those at a May 9 DDA public forum held at City Hall, where Joe Blair of Carlisle Wortman Associates presented the results of the survey. The DDA and City Council members who were present mostly listened. Most of the commenters that night were in favor of opening the streets back up, but many people, including a couple downtown business owners, indicated the street closures have benefited the community and created a better business and social environment. When it came time for the
DDA board to vote on the measure, at their regular May 17 meeting, there was – you guessed it – plenty of disagreement on what to do. Ultimately, a divided DDA board voted 5-4 to recommend to City Council that Center Street be reopened, and Main Street remain closed on a seasonal basis – basically May-November. So, in essence, the DDA board ignored the results of its own survey, though this is probably the best compromise. The decision now goes to the City Council, which may or may not go along with the recommendation. Council is expected to vote at their June 6th meeting. No matter what they decide, most likely both streets will remain closed for the rest of the season until Nov. 1, as city leaders made commitments to the business owners. Stay tuned, but my bet is on vehicles returning to Main and Center streets come this winter. OOPS Last month, we made a major blunder on the cover.
We misspelled Northville swim coach Rich Bennetts’ name, referring to him as Rick. Mistakes happen, but it really is unacceptable to get someone’s name wrong – especially on the cover. I take full responsibility for the mistake. I started this magazine so we could highlight people in our community for the great things they are doing, and Bennetts is definitely doing that, leading the boys swim team to a second-place finish in the state and having one of the most successful seasons in the program’s history. It kills me to make such a mistake, which hopefully doesn’t detract from an incredible season by the team. Rich, please accept my apology. You and the team deserve better from us. Kurt Kuban is the Publisher and Editor of The ‘Ville. He welcomes your comments at kurtkuban@thevillemagazine. com.
Your Voice: Letters to the Editor 4 Reporters motivated to solve cold cases 10 RJ Webber ready to take the reins 18 Arts & Acts returns to downtown roots 26 Wines of the World coming to Mill Race 32
WWII Ace
6
Downtown Concerts Are Back
14
Saddle Up!
22
ON THE COVER: Northville’s Alysia Sofios (left) and Ronnie Dahl are the co-hosts of the CrimeCasters Network, where they investigate unsolved crimes. Photo by Bryan Mitchell
Out & About 38 Dishin’ With Denise 42
Your Voice A passion for history
We had a great day in Northville enjoying the show and program during Patriot’s Day at Mill Race Village. The performers and history buffs did a wonderful job of reenacting the battle of Lexington and of Concord and general life at the time of the Revolutionary War. Their passion for history and desire to share their learning was infectious. We invited our grandchildren to come and learn about their country. Our 6-year-old granddaughter is already learning American history at her school, Ivywood Classical Academy in Plymouth, and also enjoyed seeing and learning what school was like during the olden days. The re-enactors will repeat the show over the next few years gearing up for a grand event for the sestercentennial of the American Revolution in 2026. That’s 250 years -- who knew? Next year, remember to join them. Holly Giannola
Elevate it
Let’s get serious about the proposed roundabout at Sheldon (Center) and Seven Mile roads. It simply will not work because it will be dangerous. Northbound traffic entering the roundabout must yield to eastbound traffic within the roundabout. The problem is northbound Sheldon Road traffic would require a turn and a descent just before entering the roundabout. Anyone who has lived in Northville for some time has experienced this intersection and the difficulty of maintaining control when the road is icy or slippery. It can quickly become a skating rink situation. Complicating things is the encroachment onto the roadway by cars parked on Sheldon taking advantage of the hill for sledding in the park. With a traffic signal at least some of the Seven Mile traffic would be stopped for a descending out of control vehicle. With the proposed roundabout and combined with slippery conditions, the eastbound Seven Mile traffic would continue to enter the roundabout until colliding with a northbound vehicle that could not stop or slow. Fortunately, there is a solution. Northville, Wayne County or Washington could fund an elevated roadway or bridge from the high point of Sheldon Road north of Seven Mile to the high point at Center and Main. This would eliminate the potentially dangerous traffic situation at Sheldon and Seven Mile roads by eliminating this intersection altogether and allowing for unimpeded traffic in all directions. It would be a win-win for everyone. Furthermore, the novelty of the elevated roadway could provide tourist revenue for Northville and would provide for ideas for the naming the proposed new development. Troll Village, Under Town, or Below the Bridge come immediately to mind as possibilities. Sarunas Mingela
SOUND OFF 4 The ‘Ville
Open the streets
The debate on opening the streets or keeping them closed and how it effects the downtown businesses and restaurants continues. There has not been a survey to do both. Let’s just return to the summer of 2019 with both important traffic arteries open in this little Victorian village using restaurant platforms and safe railings for this short summer season. It is difficult to complain to the developer of the Downs about future traffic congestion when Main Street and Sheldon to Center is closed. The outdoor dining total hours are very small compared to the total hours per year in this Michigan climate. Let’s all accomplish this with the very attractive summer outside dining that was very successful in the summer of 2019. There is no reason to eat in the center of the street. We all need to focus together on the future traffic issues with the potential of the over-crowding proposed Downs development by outsiders who will never live in this special Victorian village. Let’s promptly return to safe restaurant platforms and open the streets this summer. Jim Nield
Support the Library
Northville District Library is an integral part of the Northville/Northville Township community. It provides resources and experiences for all residents, regardless of age. Whether you need extensive research resources, or need to use a computer or are just looking for a good book to read. Or, perhaps you’re taking your children to the various children’s reading programs or attending the interesting adult programs and presentations, these are just a few experiences you can find at the Library… and they are free. Please continue to support Northville District Library and VOTE to renew the library mileage. The library is an invaluable resource to the community. Joseph and Carol Oldenburg
Wrong direction
When I was going to college, my beau took me to meet his parents in Northville. I immediately fell in love with the city. When I got married (to someone else!) I insisted we live in Northville. Its charm was totally unique. Well, I’ve lived here over 40 years now and I’m sad to see the direction in which the city is going. Who decided to change the Victorian festival to Heritage? ‘Victorian’ is immediately synonymous with Northville. ‘Heritage’ festivals are all over-ubiquitous. Northville has seen increasing traffic and now they want to add even more with this new development at Northville Downs. Money, money, money. Stuff everything in you can so we can make more money seems to be the “planning” process. I am all for new development, but development that makes sense and enhances our community, not detracts and makes it just like every other suburb. Linda Buier
Please submit your letters by emailing Editor Kurt Kuban at kurtkuban@gmail.com. Letters must be 150 words or less. We reserve the right to edit all letters.
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A PILOT’S STORY Northville WWII aviator enshrined in Michigan Aviation Hall of Fame By Michele Fecht
Naval pilot Lieutenant Ray H. Owen in front of his F6F Hellcat in 1945 (left) and today at age 100 with a model of the aircraft (right). Photo by Bill Bresler
O
n December 7, 1941, Detroit Cass Technical High School graduate (Class of ’41) Ray Owen was sitting with his buddies at Marcus Hamburgers in Detroit when the music on the restaurant radio was interrupted by a news bulletin announcing that the Japanese had attacked the U.S. Naval Base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. “I had no idea where or what Pearl Harbor was, but a chill ran up my spine,” recalled Owen. “It still does.” The December 7, 1941, attack on the American naval fleet — a date that will forever “live in infamy” — changed the trajectory of Owen’s life and forged the Greatest Generation — the men and women who lived through the Great Depression and World War II. At the age of 100, Owen is a testament to that generation. His service during World
6 The ‘Ville
War II as a naval fighter pilot has earned him a multitude of accolades and honors over many years, the most recent being his
enshrinement (induction) in the Michigan Aviation Hall of Fame in Kalamazoo on April 16. Like so many of his generation, Owen didn’t share much about his military service while raising a family — first in
Detroit and later in Northville. Owen still lives in the home he and his wife, Isabel, purchased in 1978. It has only been the past 15 years or so that he has shared his war story, said his daughter, Mary Owen Streeter, who two years ago wrote a book about her father’s life and service. What a story it is. She noted that in addition to his exceptional recall, her father saved everything from photographs and letters to his flight log books. He even saved the silk navigation maps he used on his flights over areas in the Pacific. A treasure trove that further enhances his story. A FORTUITOUS CHOICE Ray Henderson Owen signed up for the draft on February 16, 1942 (yes, he still has his draft card). Over the next several months, he saw his friends and
neighbors leaving for war with most assigned to the Army. “I knew I didn’t want to be in the trenches,” Owen said. “I wanted to choose where I was going.” In July 1942, a friend tipped him off about the Naval Air Corps (Reserves). Telling his mother he was going to a dental appointment, Owen instead headed to Detroit’s Book Building on July 31 where he was given an aptitude test — aced it — and then was interviewed. He was called back the following day for a physical and the next day for an eye exam. By Monday, August 3, just four days after his initial inquiry, he was sworn in as an Aviation Cadet in the United States Naval Reserve. He went home to await orders. Thinking his orders would come quickly, he quit his job, letting his employer know he
had enlisted. His orders didn’t come until December 10. He had just two days before he needed to report back to the Book Building for indoctrination and assignment. “They put us up in a hotel that night,” Owen said. “I called home to talk to my folks. I don’t think my mother was very happy, but my dad had been a signalman in World War I. He understood. They didn’t dissuade me from going.” On December 13, he boarded the train at the Detroit station and headed for Biltmore College in Asheville, North Carolina, to begin pilot training. TAKING FLIGHT Owen began his flight path at ground school in Asheville flying Piper Cubs. He would train on a multitude of aircraft including the Boeing Stearman while stationed in Olathe, Kansas, and Vultee SNVs and SNJ Texans after being transferred to Corpus Christi, Texas. In January 1944, he headed to the Naval Air Station in Miami, Florida, for fighter training in an SBD Dauntless, his first military fleet aircraft. In March, he was off to Glenview, Illinois, where he successfully landed the SBD on the USS Sable in Lake Michigan and qualified for carrier landings. In late April 1944, Owen was assigned to Fighting Squadron VF-81 at Otis Air Station, Camp Edwards, Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The squadron consisted of approximately 55 pilots and 35 F6F Hellcat aircraft. The squadron would come to be known as the Freelancers. Owen took his first flight in a Grumman F6F Hellcat on April 30, 1944. More powerful than the F4F Wildcat it was designed
Owen (top row, second from left) with members of his training squadron in front of an SBD (Scout Bomber Douglas) Dauntless. The SBD was a dive bomber used in the Battle of Midway that sank four Japanese carriers.
to replace, it would prove a game changer against Japan’s Mitsubishi fighter, the Zero. Owen explained that the Hellcat had a higher rate of climb than either the Wildcat or the Zero and greater endurance. It also was well armored with steel at the pilot’s back for greater protection. Owen qualified to fly the Hellcat in June of ‘44.
A WELCOME DIVERSION Outside of flying, dive bombing, strafing, and gunnery and rocket shooting practice, there wasn’t much else of interest to Owen while stationed at Otis Air Station . . . until June 17, 1944. That night, Owen met Isabel Mahoney. They became inseparable, dating almost every day until
Owen at his Northville home with his WWII service medals. Photo by Bill Bresler
Ray shipped out two months later. They spent much of their time going to the movies and dancing. Their favorite dancing melody — which became their song — was “I’ll Be Seeing You.” Ray explained that he didn’t make a commitment to Isabel because he was heading off to war and was uncertain of his fate. In September and October, Owen and his squadron were in Maui where they practiced maneuvers and carrier landings on the USS Ranger. In November, the squadron was in Guam and boarded the aircraft carrier USS Wasp then heading into the Philippines war zone. Between November 1944 and the close of January 1945, Owen’s squadron executed major strikes in the Philippines (Luzon), China and Japan. He explained that most of the squadron’s missions were ground attacks striking airfields to disable enemy aircraft noting that “every plane you damage on the ground is one you are never going to meet in the air.” During a strike mission on Luzon on December 15, Owen’s left wing was hit leaving a gaping hole. He alerted the skipper who told him to stay in the air as they were going to make another attack. Owen said he looked around to make sure there were no Japanese planes in the air and then rejoined his squadron flying his wounded Hellcat 180 miles back to the fleet using the full right rudder and full right stick. Once he landed on the carrier, the plane was dropped through the outboard elevator to the hanger deck where it was replaced, and the damaged wing Pilot continued on page 8
The ‘Ville 7
Pilot continued from page 7
thrown overboard. What saved Owen was that the hole in the wing did not damage the aileron, so he still had lateral balance. Without that, the aircraft would likely have gone down. Owen made his final flight off the USS Wasp on March 1, 1945.
for 33 years before moving to Northville in 1978. An electrical apprentice before he went into service, Owen received his journeyman’s ticket in 1945 and worked as an electrician until 1990, when he retired. He received his 75-year-pins from the IBEW Local Union 58 and the VFW in 2020. He is the proud father of three, grandfather of nine and greatgrandfather of 12. Up until five years ago, he had lost all contact with members of his squadron.
HER PROPOSAL Aside from the members of his squadron, the person who knew Owen’s war story best was WAR STORIES Isabel Mahoney. She had set While scanning through her sights on the young pilot magazines at a local bookstore, the first time she met him. A Owen’s son Ray stumbled prolific letter writer, she made across a copy of War Birds that sure Owen received stacks of featured a story on the Hellcat mail while on refueling stops in told by the Pacific. Commander Undeterred Robert H. by Owen’s Turnell, lack of a retired commitment member of before he the VF-81 headed to the Freelancers. Pacific, Isabel Searching took matters the internet into her own Ray and his hands. In a sister Mary Valentine’s found a video card written that was the in February basis for the 1945 she article. The posed the A stack of books in the living room of video was part question, Owen's home tell his story and the story of of the Profiles “How can I the Navy in World War II. in Courage say yes, if you interviews conducted by the don’t ask?” He wrote back . . . Flying Heritage and Combat and asked! Lieutenant ( jg) Ray Armor Museum outside Seattle, Henderson Owen and Isabel Washington. The museum Ann Mahoney were married was established by Microsoft on April 21, 1945. They were co-founder Paul Allen who had married 65 years when Isabel a passion for WWII history died in October 2010. The and artifacts. One thing led to story of “her” proposal to Ray another, and on October 31, remains a family favorite. 2017, the museum arranged Owen was released from for Owen, 95, and Turnell, active duty on November 22, 93, along with their families 1945. He and Isabel came home to travel to the museum for a to Detroit where they lived
8 The ‘Ville
Memorial Day 1944: NORTHVILLE ROLL OF HONOR
Northville marked Memorial Day 1944 with the unveiling of the Northville Roll of Honor, a 32 x 12-foot board located on the southwest corner of Main and Center streets. In the center was a world map with American flags marking the countries or regions where Northville men and women were serving or had served. The sides of the map contained 364 names of those serving or those who had served— listed alphabetically — with space for names to be added. The Northville Honor Roll was presented to the Blue Star Mothers — mothers with sons or daughters in active service. Mrs. George Rattenbury, a Gold Star Mother (mothers who lost a son or daughter in service), and Mrs. Sam Bongiovanni, the mother of four sons and a son-in-law in service, unveiled the honor roll. In the week following Memorial Day 1944, Northville, like the rest of the country, waited in somber anticipation for news of Operation Overlord, codename for the D-Day Landings and the Battle of Normandy. reunion between the two WWII VF-81 fighter pilots — believed to be the last survivors of their squadron. Both veterans wore their leather flight jackets that day and saluted each other before shaking hands. After 72 years, the two naval pilots were reunited. As the numbers of WWII veterans diminishes, greater importance has been put on sharing their stories. Owen has spent the last dozen or so years sharing his experience with students, young cadets at Midland Aviation Camp, StoryCorps (available on the StoryCorps website and in
the Library of Congress), the Detroit Arsenal of Democracy Museum, the University of Michigan and so many more. In May of 2010, he flew to Washington, D.C. on an Honor Flight to see the World War II memorial. This month, Ray H. Owen can be found among the 160 military and veteran banners currently posted on lampposts throughout Northville’s downtown. The USS Wasp F6F Hellcat pilot is at the corner of Cady and Griswold streets. He has earned a salute . . . and our gratitude.
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Alysia Sofios (left) and Ronnie Dahl of the CrimeCasters Network. Photo by Bryan Mitchell
E C I JUCST G IN ALL IS
dcast o p s he launc d cases er t or p l Crime reve Michigan co to sol By Maria Taylor
A
s a TV news reporter, Alysia Sofios spent years covering high-profile criminal trials, including for Scott Peterson and “Acid Queen” Larissa Schuster. She wrote a best-selling true crime book with the survivors of the Wesson Family Massacre, for which she was featured on Dr. Phil, 20/20, and CNN. Through it all, one case was never far from her mind: the unsolved murder of Bernita White, a Michigan mother shot with a sniper bullet while walking into Lansing’s Potter Park Zoo with her 5-year-old daughter. “Every reporter has a case she just can’t stop thinking about — that haunts her,” Sofios said. “This one is mine.” Stuck at home in Northville at the height of the COVID-19
10 The ‘Ville
pandemic, Sofios decided to take matters into her own hands. She picked up the phone and started making calls. The first retired detective she got ahold of said, “I’ve been waiting for your call for 15 years.” This January, Sofios’ podcast CrimeCasters Network debuted with new information in Bernita White’s unsolved murder. Detectives believe she was targeted, and their prime suspect is one of their own. But the bullet that killed her was never found, and the case has been cold for 20 years. “Every single detective on this case is convinced,” Sofios proclaimed on the podcast’s first episode, titled “Sniper at the Zoo.” “It’s time. Justice is calling.”
LOCAL ROOTS As a kid going to PlymouthSalem High School, Sofios knew exactly what she wanted to be when she grew up: a journalist, just like her local idol, former WXYZ-TV anchor Diana Lewis. “I just was obsessed with the news,” she said. “All of the other kids in school ... I would always be filling them in on current events.” Criminal cases and courtroom proceedings had always interested Sofios. So as soon as she was hired, fresh out of Michigan State University, by FOX 47 in Lansing, she began seeking out assignments that had anything to do with a criminal trial. That’s where she covered the shooting of Bernita White, and it cemented criminal cases as her niche.
Equally important, it laid out her approach, which she carried with her as her career took her from Michigan to California. “Early on when you go into journalism, you’re telling stories and it’s fun,” she said. “But then when you show up to some of these scenes and you see the faces of the victims’ families, something shifts.” For her, it was that story — seeing the little girl holding hands with her mom who was shot in the middle of the zoo. “She’s going to grow up without a mother,” Sofios said. “It gets very real. So although I did cover what was going on at the trial, I always focused on the families. I would always be pursuing their stories, rather than just what happened in court that day.”
KEEPS COMING BACK More than once, Sofios tried to get out of true crime. “It’s a heavy job,” she said. “It definitely comes home with you at night.” After her book, she needed a breather, so she moved to Santa Monica and covered American Idol. “Living in Michigan all my life, I will never take the sun for granted, so I made it like my mission that every single night, I’m going to watch the sunset,” she recalled. A lovely old couple lived next door, and she liked to sit on a bench and watch the sunset and chat. Then true crime came calling once again. One night after work, she came home to see her neighbor — the man she knew as Charlie — being put into an unmarked vehicle. “The next morning, I opened my curtains and there’s a line of satellite trucks down my street,” she said. She looked out and saw a former colleague there with his camera. “What are you doing?” she asked. Little did she know that for a year, she had been unknowingly living next door to the FBI‘s No. 1 Most Wanted fugitive, James “Whitey” Bulger — the mob boss played by Jack Nicholson in The Departed. His arrest would make international headlines the next morning. “Basically, it has followed me everywhere,” she laughed. When the pandemic hit, Sofios and her husband were living in Laguna Beach and had just bought a house in Northville. She happened to be in Northville when shutdowns hit, and she decided to stay put. Her quest to solve the Bernita White case led to her calling Ronnie Dahl, a Detroit
investigative reporter from FOX 2 and WXYZ and now her partner in the CrimeCasters podcast. Doing the podcast is different than covering a case for the news, Sofios said: more freedom, no deadlines, no holds barred.
mysteries. That’s always been the case. And people like to know why someone does what they do,” Sofios said. “There are these motives [in true crime] that have been used as tropes for the plots of movies for years and years. ... And I think now there’s been so many cases that,
Alysia Sofios and Ronnie Dahl discuss an unsolved cold case on the set of their CrimeCasters Network.
“As a reporter, you have to maintain relationships with the police departments,” Sofios said. “And if you say something they don’t like, you won’t get next week’s story. Now I don’t care: I’m telling the story like it should be told. I feel much more comfortable asking tough questions.” MAKING A DIFFERENCE With true crime in the top three most popular podcast genres, CrimeCasters certainly has a ready audience. Sofios attributes the true crime frenzy to Gone Girl. The movie’s 10-year anniversary is coming up this June, and she’s interviewing author Gillian Flynn for a special episode. “People like to solve
like movies, it almost feels like entertainment.” Then there are times when amateur sleuths have actually solved a murder. Of course, not everyone is into true crime. Sofios has heard her share of criticism like “Oh, you can’t be a fan of murder.” “But it’s not like that,” she said. “I think they’re a fan of trying to find justice. People are like, ‘Wait, I can actually make a difference.’ And with the amount of crime we have, the amount of cold cases we have, the victims’ families are reaching out to the public and asking for help. It’s more accessible than ever.” While active police officers aren’t too crazy about true crime podcasts, retired
detectives are eager to help get their old cases solved, Sofios said. “They’ll give us case files ... that we can’t get through FOIA, or they’ll give us insight about the case that they would never have been able to say to us on the clock,” she said. “They are able to be a lot more candid.” Most of Sofios’ listeners are Michigan-based, and she and Dahl have already taken on a lot of cases that listeners have submitted. CrimeCasters covers a mix of high-profile cases, cases that have stuck with Sofios and Dahl the most, and cases that need more attention to get solved. Because of the duo’s investigating, the police ended up taking the Bernita White case back to Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel’s office. Sofios is hoping the case will once again see the inside of a courtroom. “We want to help out by giving it a spotlight,” Sofios said. “If that happens, that will be my biggest victory.” In the two years she’s lived in Northville, Sofios said she’s gotten great ideas for upcoming episodes. “I’ll be at a coffee shop, and everyone will be like, ‘Oh, you do a podcast. Have you heard about this case? Have you heard about that case?’ That’s a little different from California,” she said. “People here are much more approachable. “The sense of community is kind of what I need to deal with all the difficulty that is part of my job,” she added. “It’s really difficult to cover some of these cases. But Northville makes everything so much better.” The podcast is available at www.crimecastersnetwork. com. New episodes post weekly.
The ‘Ville 11
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Sheila Landis and Rick Matle (July 8)
The Shawn Riley Band (June 4, Aug. 26)
y ! d k a Re To Roc ith By Tim Sm
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r than eve ic s u m e r o k with m c a b e r a ts n concer w o t n w to stroll through the downtown ’s do e l il v h t r social district, while the three No
fter more than two years of worry and anxiety over COVID-19, Northvillians are ready to step out and enjoy the music once again. Although the pandemic isn’t completely over, the virus has lessened enough so that the Northville Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is rolling out an expanded “Music is Main & Center” concert series that potentially will extend all the way to Halloween. According to Lori Ward, DDA executive director, acoustic concerts on Friday and Saturday nights are slated to begin Friday, May 27 – along with bigger, plugged-in concerts on a monthly basis throughout the summer. Opening night is set for 7 p.m. May 27 when the Northville High School Jazz Band will perform. The presenting sponsor for the show will be Serra Ford of Farmington Hills. “Prior to Covid we were trying to do our first year of offering concerts on both Friday
14 The ‘Ville
and Wednesday,” Ward said. “We never launched that way. But we’re having music every Friday and Saturday nights, one concert’s on Main and one’s on Center, kind of spreading it around. “And I think that we’re transitioning back, testing the
Gia Warner performs July 23
waters with big concerts by having a large stage band the fourth Friday of each month. The rest of the music will be singles or duos, like we did last year.” James Gietzen, whose JAG Entertainment is producing the music series, said music fans will get the best of both worlds. Acoustic sets will enable them
staged shows on Friday nights beginning the fourth weekend of June offer something bigger and more eclectic. “They have Main Street and Center Street closed, so these musical performances add a lot of ambiance for the outdoor dining platforms and people walking through town,” Gietzen noted. “It really gives you a good reason to go down there. If you’re not even hungry it’s a good time to go down and check it out.” As for the trilogy of Friday night concerts, which will take center stage in Town Square (the location for pre-pandemic summer shows), Gietzen added that ”those will be making it more towards what the concert series used to be like.” On tap for the third and culminating Town Square show will be the Shawn Riley Band on Aug. 26, sponsored by the Mike Miller Building Company. “He’s a local favorite in Northville,” Gietzen continued. “It should be a good time for everyone.” Ward said even the Town Square concerts won’t be rigid in terms of where folks have to sit to listen to the bands,
because tables and chairs can be dragged across streets and onto sidewalks if necessary to ensure social distancing for those who might still be leery of sitting in close proximity to others. “This will be the first time the DDA has used the stage since pre-Covid,” Ward emphasized. “So we’ll be utilizing that. But you can hear the music downtown, so they (visitors) are able to use the tables and chairs we have purchased to just sit in the road, sit on the sidewalks across the street.” Other Friday electric concerts on Town Square include Further Adventures of Fat Boy & Jive Turkey (June 24, sponsored by Grewal Law) and Premier Big Band (July 22, sponsored by Edward Jones Financial Advisor). Helping make sure the months-long endeavor is a smash hit with the public, a number of additional sponsors are enthusiastically getting behind the music series, Ward said. “We’ve had a lot of support from the business community in terms of sponsorship of the music to make it happen, which we’ve been very grateful for,” Ward said. “It extends how long we can do it, how often we can do it, so with our business partners we’ll be able to do quite a bit more this year.” At the top of the list of key
sponsors are Serra Ford and first-time sponsor Grewal Law. The former will be the naming sponsor for June, July Ryan Racine (June 25) and August concerts with the latter doing the honors for lot more in the downtown than the September-October slate. we were able to, whether it’s Grewal also is putting its name physical improvement projects and money behind shows by or flowers or marketing, or Ryan Racine (June 25), Gia whatever.” Warner (July As an 23), Mike example, Bass (July 30) WHEN: 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays Ward and Acoustic through October mentioned Ash (Aug. 5). OPENING NIGHT: May 27 with the annual Following Northville High School Jazz Band Skeletons Are are a few of MORE INFO: Visit www. Alive event. the other downtownnorthville.com. “With the sponsorship sponsorship, entries: The we were able to add music, May 28 concert is dubbed the food and other things to the Orin Jewelers Block Party; venue that would have just Shawn Riley’s first of two been an art installation,” Ward summer appearances (on continued, “(and) make it a real June 4) is sponsored by John destination, which has been Goodman Real Estate; Nick really successful.” and Keelan (June 17) and Ken Ward stressed there is a Mobley (July 29) are sponsored connection between hosting by Community Financial Credit enticing events such as “Music Union. is Main & Center” and having a The duo of Sheila Landis/ bustling, welcoming downtown Rick Matle (July 8) will be district. sponsored by SoulTracks. “We’re just seeing a lot more Sponsors of the July 16 concert people enjoying the downtown, by the Weekend Comeback not actually in a restaurant or in Band is First Merchants Bank. a retail space, but just hanging “I think it’s a great way to out,” Ward said. “So having show they are invested in their music available both nights that community and that they’re they can enjoy, while not sitting willing to partner with us to through a concert, they might make good things happen be able to sit at a table and enjoy downtown,” Ward said of the the music with friends and hang sponsors. “This allows us, with out. their participation, to tackle a
MUSIC IS MAIN & CENTER SERIES
“We’re seeing people hang out or visit the downtown more frequently and for a longer duration when they come down. And I think that’s helping everybody.” One of downtown’s most popular draws is the Shawn Riley Band, which recently played inside the Marquis Theatre due to winter cold. This July’s performance will be just like 2019 again. “Last year a couple times when weather was cold, some bands played inside the foyer of the Marquis Theatre and put their speakers outside,” Ward said. “So like the Shawn Riley Band actually played indoors. But there was snow on the ground, so people walking by during the winter months could still enjoy it but the band didn’t have to be outside. “We’re hoping to potentially expand into that in the fall as the weather turns. Trying to find other ways to do more either indoor concerts or with the speakers outside, to extend the music schedule a little bit longer.” For more information on the Music is Main & Center Series, including the line-up, visit www. downtownnorthville.com.
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RJ Webber will be running the show at Old Village School beginning on July 1.
Taking the Reins Webber eager to start new chapter for Northville Schools By Tim Smith
R
J Webber has a new, prestigious station in life both figuratively and literally. He plans to make the very most of it. Having been recently hired to become Northville Public Schools’ superintendent, Webber is ready to take the reins from Mary Kay Gallagher and start the next chapter of his varied and successful professional life. Beginning July 1, the 51-year-old Webber soon will preside over the 7,000-student, $70-million district from offices on the third floor of Old Village School on Main Street near downtown.
18 The ‘Ville
If there are times of anxiety about an upcoming report to give to the school board or a presentation to make in front of a community forum, Webber will get reminded about his paramount mission every single day on his way to the third floor – the district’s Early Childhood Program is housed in the first and second floors of the Old Village School. “The ability just to come in every day and see our kids being dropped off, to walk downstairs and see the power of what we’re doing in preschool is massive,” Webber said.
“The research is there, the impact it has on our children is tremendous. “And that’s the beauty of the ‘why’ of those of us who are in public education. We never have to think about our why. Our why is in front of us every day.” Coming over from Novi Community School District, where Webber has been assistant superintendent of academics, he brings personality and curiosity to his new position. Northville Public Schools agreed to a three-year contract to begin his tenure. In 2022-23, the base salary will be $225,000; for years two and three, the school board and Webber will meet by June 30 each year to determine how much he will subsequently earn. ‘A LONG, LONG TIME’ Webber, who lives in Novi with his wife Heather and 12-year-old son Ian, is planning on there being many additional contracts before he even considers retirement.
“Just the way I’m wired, the idea of retiring soon or not doing this work is something I never think about,” said Webber, with a smile. “So I can’t give you a prediction. I would really love to build the relationships and be here for a long, long time.” He likes Lafayette Coney Island chili dogs (always with a cold can of Vernors), rides mountain bikes and calls recreational running his “jam.” Add to that a passion to noodle about on a Fender Precision bass guitar as a stress reliever. Of course, he wants to up his personal musical ante. “I know there’s supposed to be a wonderful guitar instruction place here
have big shoes to fill,” he recalled. “When you’re coming in for somebody who’s obviously done an exceptional job, there’s a little bit of nerves on my part because you don’t want to in any way, shape or form denigrate, take away or harm the great work that’s been done.” LEARNING CURVE Like Gallagher, Webber is an inclusive leader who subscribes to the notion that “the best idea wins. I don’t care where it comes from.” Augmenting that leadership philosophy is building relationships, communicating with every group of employees – cooks,
FAREWELL MKG!
The public is invited to attend a special retirement party for longtime Superintendent Mary Kay Gallagher. The district is hosting the community open house to recognize Gallagher’s many years of service to the community from 4-6 p.m., June 16 at Northville High School. All are welcome to attend. Gallagher’s last day with the district is June 30. She was recently named the John Genitti Citizen of the Year for 2022.
If people are doing good work, and they are giving their all to whoever they serve – their community, their kids – then a leader has to make sure those people know that they’re cared for, that they will be advocated (for) and protected. I take that responsibility very, very seriously.”
RJ Webber
in Northville,” Webber continued. “So I’m thinking that’s something I’m going to do, start taking lessons, so rather than just play ‘Smoke on the Water’ over and over again, because it’s such a simple bass tone, I’ll actually learn how to play.” Being in tune with a guitar is fun. Being in tune with the students and employees of a public school district is a much more demanding but essential mindset. “What I hope is that, if we stay curious, every one of us has a story,” Webber stressed. “Many stories. One thing I try to teach my son and what I hope people notice about me is, I never ask somebody when I meet them what they do for a living. What I ask them is ‘What are you passionate about?”” Webber leads by example in that regard. And his antenna always is up, to get a read on the community he soon will serve. And he knows he’s following a great leader in the retiring Gallagher, who has been with the district three decades. “When I went to get a coffee at Tuscan Café, the owner of the café said ‘Oh, you’ll
custodians, bus drivers and teachers, to name a few – and walking the walk as much as possible. Those characteristics and tendencies were made crystal clear to the school district and its community during a grueling set of interviews and forums which Webber masterfully maneuvered through enroute to getting the superintendency over three exceptional candidates (including Aaron Baughman, assistant superintendent of instruction for Northville schools). After making the final four, he was first interviewed at Hillside Middle School. “One of the things people outside of public education don’t understand is there are very few jobs where you do much of your interview in public,” Webber said. “In front of everybody. And with technology, in front of the world because it’s being put on Zoom or whatnot. After that, the board winnowed down to three people. “The next week I came in around noon on a Monday and visited two schools with members of the administrative team. After that there were three community forums
Mary Kay Gallagher with Northville Township’s Mark Abbo.
with 15 questions at each.” Then, on that Tuesday morning, he walked into a conference room on the third floor at Old Village School, was given two writing assignments and asked to complete those within an hour. The first topic was how would he communicate details of a bond proposal to the public. “The second question was around Supervisor continued on page 20
The ‘Ville 19
Supervisor continued from page 19
He’ll likely invite that person to meet over a cup of coffee.
how I would allocate my time as a superintendent,” Webber added. “At 8:59 is when I hit send. Then, I took a 15-minute break and went down to the second level and did an hour and a half interview.” Webber wasn’t complaining one bit about the many hoops he needed to jump through. He knew then just how important it was to Northville to select the very best candidate to lead the district into the late 2020s and beyond. “The community involvement told me a lot about this community,” Webber said. “And it told me if they were going to take the time, energy and effort to be that thorough that they care about this district intensely. And they wanted to make the right decision. That was a huge tell to me that this was a place I wanted to be.” COMFORT AND INSPIRATION To look forward, Webber looked back. During some of those Northville interviews, he kept a 1940s work badge from his maternal grandmother Mary Szegda nearby. “It’s her badge from when she worked as a cafeteria worker at Hoover Ball Bearing in Ann Arbor, a little tin badge with her picture on it from 1942,” Webber said. “I put that next to the computer that was up there in the interview space so I could look at her, calm me down, slow down and remind me that this is a woman who emigrated from Slovakia in 1932 with an eighth-grade education. “She retired at age 67, after a lifetime of working in a factory making $6.48 an hour. She cleaned houses on weekends. She was all love. She gave me so much, so much confidence and so much grace. It reminds me of the power of public education.” That reminder from his grandma takes on added resonance during the oftenrocky ride public education itself has been subjected to nationally since the March 2020 onset of COVID-19 lockdowns, restrictions and angst – which continue to this day. Webber is acutely aware that he will be challenged by some and called upon to steer the district through any choppy waters ahead.
20 The ‘Ville
RJ Webber discusses what leadership means to him: “I have the privilege to be in a position to advocate for people who are doing well for kids. That’s important.”
“If people are doing good work, and they are giving their all to whoever they serve – their community, their kids – then a leader has to make sure those people know that they’re cared for, that they will be advocated (for) and protected,” Webber stressed. “I take that responsibility very, very seriously whether as an assistant superintendent, or a building principal or a soon-to-be superintendent. “I have the privilege to be in a position to advocate for people who are doing well for kids. That’s important to me.” Meanwhile, if a parent is overly confrontational, or doesn’t understand why the district is making a particular decision (such as whether students must wear face masks to protect their health), Webber gets it.
ENDURING LESSON Webber still considers himself an educator first, even though he now is taking the top job with a progressive and awardwinning district. Helping keep him on an even keel is his 30-years of experience in education, which began as a teacher at Mayflower Junior School in Nigeria as part of Alma College’s African Fellowship Program. “I couldn’t communicate with my family, the closest phone was 40 minutes away,” he said. “Water would work an hour a day and electricity was infrequent. But this empowering piece of education, and what it can do is stunning.” Webber then talked about a “full-circle moment” this January. He received a LinkedIn message from one of his former Nigerian students. “He said ‘Mr. Webber, I don’t remember anything you taught me but I remember that every single one of us loved coming to your class,’” he said. “That is everything to me. So I sent him a bunch of pictures that I had taken. He shared them with everyone in his class, they had never seen pictures of their childhood. “I was not a good teacher. I was just starting out and had no idea I made the impact I did on these children, who are now adults. He runs a bank in Lagos.” That humble take is something Webber can share with any Northville Public Schools teacher he will be leading, to remind them all about why they are there in the first place.
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Val Sierra (center) and other members of the Maybury Trail Riders on a group outing.
Saddle up Horse riders enjoy unique perspective of Maybury State Park By Lonnie Huhman | Photos by Bryan Mitchell
T
he view from the saddle can sometimes be the best one, especially if you are exploring a trail through the woods or a meadow. It’s a perspective that offers the rider a unique view of the world while at the same time being in harmony with the horse as it makes its way across the landscape. Members of the Maybury State Park Trail Riders Association know this view quite well. It’s a big reason why they enjoy horseback riding, especially at Maybury with its gently rolling terrain, open meadows, mature forest, a variety of wildlife and abundant wildflowers. “There is no better way to explore than from the
22 The ‘Ville
perspective of riding a horse. It is the best way to enjoy a beautiful day or settingespecially through the different seasons,” said Jennie Patterson, a member of the Maybury State Park Trail Riders Association. Fellow member Val Sierra said, for her, there is nothing as relaxing as trail riding. “Trail riding provides a wonderful break from the hustle and bustle of our everyday busy lives - and horses are a great calming influence. Being outdoors and working with horses - just enjoying time with them,” Sierra said. Some in the Northville community may have seen riders at the park, but might not know about the Maybury State Park Trail Riders Association.
The group goes back to 1997, when it held its first official meeting. It went on to become a 501c3 registered non-profit
group. “We are a group that works with the park and other non-profit groups affiliated with Maybury (such as the Friends) to help maintain and preserve the park for equestrian activities,” Patterson said. “We host events throughout the year, such as work days and organized trail rides.” They currently have 15 members, and are a diverse group of riders, who ride both English and Western. “Some of us ride only for pleasure, but some also show and ride in competitions,” Patterson said in explaining the group. “We all have a love for horses and for preserving the long history and tradition of horses not only in Maybury, but also Northville.” You do not need to be a member to use the trails in Maybury, however. The trails are there for everyone’s enjoyment. “It is the only state park in Wayne County that offers horse trails,” Patterson said of Maybury. “With all of the development that has gone on in recent years in this area,
Val Sierra of the Maybury Trail Riders poses for a photo with Billy, her 14-year-old Morgan horse.
respond the same way when you come upon them,” Sierra said. “Horses, like people, are different and do not behave the same way. Horses, as prey animals, tend to take flight when confronted with a situation that is unexpected. “Even fully trained and ‘desensitized’ horses can react in unexpected ways to situations - especially sudden movement, as a bike approaching fast around a curve, or loud noises.”
“When park visitors come across horses, please speak up and make your present known to the riders,” said Sierra. “The riders will advise how to best pass the horses. If hiking on a horse trail, be prepared to come across a horse that might be moving at a gait faster than a walk.” With safety in mind, Patterson said they want the positive interactions to continue because another big part of a trail ride at the park is
“The ability to walk, trot and gallop in different parts of the park. I personally like the interaction with other park visitors, especially kids who might have never seen a horse up close.” Val Sierra, On horseback riding in Maybury State Park there are very few safe places we can ride that offer wide, maintained trails free from hunting and cyclists.” She said there are approximately 12 miles of trails with a variety of topography and sites in the park. “It’s a great place to bring younger, less experienced horses and/or riders as well as train horses for a more complicated or longer trail ride, even competitions,” Patterson said. Sierra said the park offers a variety of trails - woods, meadows and some elevation. “The ability to walk, trot and gallop in different parts of the park,” Sierra said of what makes Maybury a great place. “I personally like the interaction with other park visitors, especially kids who might have never seen a horse up close.” One thing the horseback riding group does want to emphasize to the community is about these interactions. They want to have positive ones, not Dennis Hurley (left) on his horse Ranger and James Hardwood on his horse Blaze head out on a ride with the Maybury Trail Riders.
situations that go badly and could lead to someone getting hurt. “We’d like the community to follow the park rules regarding keeping dogs leashed and not riding bikes on the horse trails. We’d like the community to be aware that not every horse will
It’s about being respectful and obeying the park rules. Maybury does have specific use trails, so riders (horse and bike) should be able to feel confident they will not come across the other. The trail riding group hopes to get some specific signs in to help promote proper courtesy.
seeing the wildlife and human life. “A big smile from other people - particularly younger kids in the park is fun to see - especially when they were not expecting to see a horse up close,” Patterson said.
The ‘Ville 23
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‘We’re Back!’ ‘We’re Back!’ Arts and Acts Festival returns to Downtown Northville By Wensdy Von Buskirk
A
rts and Acts is back. The beloved tradition brings a swirl of sights, sounds, and socializing to downtown Northville June 17-19. According to Stacy Pearson, events and fundraising coordinator for Northville Art House, this year’s festival will feature an array of artists, musicians, food, and family fun. It returns to the heart of Northville after a brief move to Millennium Park, followed by cancellation due to COVID, then a scaled-down sociallydistanced version in the parking lot of the Northville District Library last year. “We’re back downtown, we are coming back full force, and we are super grateful to be here,” Pearson says. Admission is free, but sponsorship and booth fees support the Northville Art House, which is now a nonprofit independent from city funding.
26 The ‘Ville
“This is our largest fundraiser of the year. It allows us to continue providing the quality of art education, shopping, and gallery experience that we have in our brick and mortar location all year round,” Pearson says. Here are some festival highlights: ART IN THE SUN The 34th Annual Art in the Sun Juried Art Fair showcases contemporary art and unique creations by more than 75 fine artists and crafters from around the country competing for cash awards. “We have taken a lot of time to make sure we’re bringing a high level of talent to Northville,” Pearson says. ARTS & ACTS Throughout Friday and Saturday, live acts will be performed by solo musicians strolling along the festival path, and by acoustic groups in the social district from 7-9 p.m.
CHALK FESTIVAL The popular Northville Art House Chalk Festival invites artists of all ages to decorate a sidewalk square as the community votes for favorites. Artists compete for prizes in three age divisions. Register online now or in person at the festival for a small fee. SHORT ON WORDS The 10th Year—9th Edition of Short on Words literary event will be held Saturday, June 18, at the Northville Art House. It includes an Author’s Brunch with readings, refreshments, and awards.
Northville. Head to the festival and lend your own creative flair to the comeback of Arts & Acts. For more information and updates, visit northvillearthouse.org and @ ArtsAndActsFestival. Proceeds benefit the Northville Art House’s mission to cultivate the arts through creative experiences and educational programs in the community.
Arts and Acts Festival WHEN: June 17-19, 2022 WHERE: Along Main, Center, and Wing streets, adjacent to Downtown Northville’s Social District
FOOD & FARE Come hungry! A wide variety of food and drinks will be served from mobile trucks, food pods, and local restaurants.
WHAT: Art, music, chalk drawing competition, author’s brunch, food truck, kid’s activities & more
HANDS-ON FUN New this year are interactive art exhibits sponsored by businesses in downtown
Admission: Free
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From ndy u g r u B y e l al V a p a N o t Wines of the World to bring huge selection of vino to Mill Race By Larry O’Connor
P
eople saunter along a historical path, chatting as jazz from a nearby gazebo pierces the evening air. Tables nearby are adorned with delicacies — festooned with meats and cheeses — joined by countless glass vessels. They’re labeled with exotic names: Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Zinfandel, Pinot Gris and Riesling, whose grape-inspired contents await to be sampled and savored. This would be an intoxicating convergence of coincidence. Except, in Northville, it is known as Wines of the World. The third installment of the popular
32 The ‘Ville
“I’ve been to wine tastings and similar charity wine tasting event events, but what is kind of cool is the village takes place 6-9 p.m. Friday, adds a real ambiance to it,” said Michalak, June 3, at the Mill Race who is also Northville Historical Society Historical Village, 215 board of directors’ president. “You are kind Griswold. Tickets are of strolling through an old village while $125 each or $225 for a you are eating and drinking and listening pair. Proceeds benefit to music and talking with friends. So, it is the Northville Historical Society for Mill unusual in that way. Race Village and the I think it is a nice, Miracle League of WINES OF THE WORLD different night out Plymouth. WHAT: Fundraiser for Northville Historical Society for a lot of people.” Last year’s event and Miracle League of Plymouth Added Miracle sold out, though due WHEN: 6-9 p.m., Friday, June 3 League of to the pandemic, WHERE: Mill Race Historical Village Plymouth’s Stacey organizers capped TICKETS: $125 each or $225 for a pair Diefenbach: “It’s a ticket sales at 200. nice date night.” Capacity has been MORE INFO: www.millracenorthville.org/events-1/ wines-of-the-world-2022 The nonprofit’s increased to 275 this executive year. director gave 23 passes to parents in her An extra 75 tickets shouldn’t be hard to organization, which provides recreation and move, judging by early sales. More than 100 other support to families with individuals had been sold a month before the event. who have special needs. Wines of the World sells itself, said The Detroit Wine Organization Martha Michalak, event chairwoman.
spearheads the event, securing vital partnerships that ensure recognized wine regions like Napa Valley, Burgundy and Sicily are represented while emerging producers Michigan, Australia and Argentina get a place at the table. More than 100 wines will be available. This year, Wines of the World increased the number of tables to 25 from 20, said Krista Lang, Detroit Wine Organization
and enjoy it with somebody who drinks wine all the time and still finds something new. “I think it’s great and it is for charity, so we’re proud of what we do there.” Participants are supplied with 2-ounce samples in Suburban Cadillac of Plymouthsponsored glasses. The serious connoisseur, also known as an oenophile, may sniff inside the goblet and swirl
features bottles wrapped in brown bags. Speculators can spend $10 to $20 with hopes of yanking a container worth up to $100. People will also have a chance to bid on items — including signed sports memorabilia and a $300 bottle of wine — during a silent auction. If wine isn’t your bag, there will be plenty of food offerings to sample. Genitti’s Hole in the Wall, The Lava Grille, Matt’s Best BBQ, Toria and Honey Bee Market are among the 10 or so
executive director. Of the 25 tables, 20 – or 80% will be dedicated to wine tasting. Two tables are for spirits, two others for ready-to-drink cocktails. One stand will have beer with Northvillebased North Center Brewing Company on hand. While wine-tasting events might be the domain for the Frasier and Niles Cranes of the world, such gatherings are inclusive, if not educational. “You have such a wide variety of levels,” Lang said. “You can be a total beginner and you have people who might not even like wine and they’ll try something
the contents around before touching the palette. “Some people spit it out, some drink it,” she said. “If you don’t know anything about wine, you can learn so much there. Maybe you would try something you wouldn’t normally try. “So, we’ve seen where people will even say, ‘Wow, I didn’t even know that I would even like this Chardonnay or this champagne, but I tried it and I can’t believe how much I liked it.’ That is kind of cool.” Vino devotees who like a game of chance will gravitate to the event’s wine pull, which
restaurants planning to take part. Wines of the World started in 2019, which was dampened by rain. Covid put the kabash on the 2020 edition. A year hiatus did little to quell enthusiasm as demand exceeded the 200-person capacity in 2021. “We had a lot of people last year asking if they could still get tickets and it was really a hard decision to say no,” Michalak said.
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out & about YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S HAPPENING IN NORTHVILLE THIS MONTH 35th Northville Flower Sale May 27-28 The Northville Chamber of Commerce will host this annual sale at the corner of Center Street and 7 Mile (site of the Northville Farmers Market). Hours will be 8 a.m.-3 p.m. both Friday and Saturday. There will be a wide array of locallygrown flowers and plants available, including perennials, herbs, annuals, roses, shrubs, exotic plants, and trees from local growers and greenhouses, many of whom are vendors at the Farmers Market. Parking is free.
Orin Rocks Block Party May 28 This third annual party sponsored by Orin’s Jewelers will take place from 6-10 p.m. on Main Street between Center and Hutton. There will be prizes and live music by The Love Junkies, plus established restaurants will have their dining decks out. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call (248)-3134963.
Memorial Day Ceremony
May 30 Local veterans will lead this Memorial Day ceremony beginning at 11 a.m. at Rural Hill Cemetery (near Seven Mile and Rogers). The program will take place at the Memorial Garden area.
Thursday and Friday; Noon-10 p.m. Saturday and 1-8 p.m. on Sunday. The carnival will include rides and a midway. For more information about the event, visit www.northville.org/ carnival.
Movie at Ford Field
Farm Fest Maybury Farm (50165 Eight Mile Road) will host its annual Farm Fest from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on June 4. The event will feature many activities, including seed planting, cow milking game, lawn games, face painting, beeswax candle making, and slime making. There will also be story time, plus spinning and blacksmithing demonstrations. Farm animals will on hand, and Maybury Farm staff will make educational presentations. Tickets are $10 (kids 2 and under are free), or $13 with wagon ride. For more information, visit www.mayburyfarm.org/events or call Connie at (248) 704-9211. In addition to proclamations by local veterans and officials, musicians from Northville High School will perform during the ceremony. There will not be a parade that day.
supporting the Miracle League of Plymouth and the Northville Historical Society. Tickets are $125 (or $225 for a pair) by visiting www. millracenorthville.org.
Wines of the World
Spring Carnival
June 3 Enjoy great wines, great food and great company in the beautiful grounds of Mill Race Village from 6-9 p.m. for a fundraiser event
June 2-5 The Northville Chamber of Commerce’s annual carnival will take place June 2-5 in the lot next to Northville Downs. Hours are 4-10 p.m.
June 10 Join Northville Parks and Recreation from 7-10 p.m. for a movie under the stars at Northville’s Ford Field. The family-friendly film begins at dusk. Admission is free. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and snacks and enjoy movies under the stars. There will be pre-movie entertainment for the kids and food trucks. For more information, visit northvilleparksandrec.org or call (248) 449-9951.
Tunes on Tuesday June 21 The new season of Tunes on Tuesday begins. The family-friendly concerts take place Tuesdays from 10:3011:30 in Town Square. Sponsored by the Northville Downtown Development Authority and Northville Parks and Recreation, the concerts are free. Don’t forget your water bottle, hat and sunscreen. For more information, including the series lineup, visit northvilleparksandrec.org.
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Mural plan hits the wall A
mural depicting Northville’s horse racing past may have gotten the stamp of approval from City Council, but it floundered at the final signoff: the building owners. The mural was to be installed on the Center Street side of the building located at 102 E. Main (Lucy and the Wolf ). But the Victorian jockey graphic lost out to the vision of a trendier design. Stacey Tardich, whose parents own the building, said she loved the concept of a mural. “We were in hopes of a mural that encompasses Northville landmarks within the artwork, one that welcomes people to Northville and where people can stand below and take pictures — an Instagrammable mural,” Tardich wrote in an email. “We were just hoping for
a different design, something more current and impactful.” The horse race artwork had been developed by Bizzell Design, a firm hired by the DDA six years ago to develop downtown wayfinding signage. As part of that project, Buzz Bizzell, the wayfinding expert, provided ideas for add-ons beyond the DDA’s original scope of services — banners, a kiosk, and the mural graphic, which was shown on the side of Lucy and the Wolf. “I think he was trying to entice us with some of the compatible pieces that he’s done in other communities,” said Lori Ward, DDA director. The idea came up again in earnest two years ago, during a DDA rebranding project with Bizzell. The graphic got unanimous approval from the DDA design
committee, DDA board, and City Council, pending Historic District Commission review and approval. The cost was $11,670, to be paid for by the DDA. Bizzell was set to finalize the design, fabricate, and install it when Tardich asked for final design approval. In the end, she retracted the offer to use the building. “They have every right to do something different — it’s their building, they own it, they can go take an idea to the Historic District Commission and get approval for whatever they’re interested in,” Ward said. “But the DDA, the City do have a say in the graphic if they’re the ones that are paying for it.” Tardish added she hopes to
collaborate with the DDA on another mural in the future. Ward said the DDA didn’t show much appetite for pursuing alternate locations for the jockey, at least not in the short term. “I’m not sure that’s the best use of our funds to start over again with a different location,” she said. “We might not even be the right group to explore alternatives. That may be the Arts Commission. “We weren’t doing a mural just to do a mural. We were doing a mural that was to show the history of the community and fit in with the rest of our wayfinding signage system.”
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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.
May…You Stay Forever Young
here are a million songs titled “Forever Young”. My favorite is the version by Joan Baez. She sings “May you always be courageous…Stand upright and be strong…and may you stay, forever young.” As the world turns, these lyrics (and the whole song) are simple and timeless – quite appropriate, considering the title, don’t you think? Every year in May I gush over the military banners when they appear on the light posts around town. I see my dad’s banner every morning as I arrive for work. There is more to the program than just the banners. The stories behind the banners are available on the Northville Chamber of Commerce website (northville. org/stories-of-the-historymakers). Find a name and click to read. Families and friends tell the stories. It always brings a tear to my eye to learn about the heroic efforts of our veterans and our current military. God bless you all.
was always helping her mom (and salon owner, Youth) clean up, answer phones and eventually do nails during high school and on breaks from college. She met a boy from Northville, Brian Storm. They’ve graduated college, got jobs and recently Brian proposed…and Lina said “Yes.” Congratulations to the young couple and their families. The Love Junkies are the headliners for the 3rd annual Orin Rocks Block Party on Saturday, May 28. There will be food and face painters, balloon animals and jewelry giveaways. It’s all happening in the downtown Northville social district from 6 – 10 p.m. The event is free and promises to be fun for the whole family.
But most importantly, they host a giant yard sale every year. The 22nd Charity Garage Sale will benefit the Northville Historical Society and the Dr. Karl Stockhausen Medical Scholarship. Karl lost a brave battle with melanoma nearly 13 years ago at the age of 28. The family donated his body to the University of Michigan medical school (at his request), and they continue to raise money for medical school scholarships. Karl lives on. The garage sale will take place Monday, June 6 – Friday, June 10 at 218 W. Dunlap Street. You can drop off donations June 4-8. Have “stuff” to sell but need help getting it there? Contact the Stockhausens at (248) 3492833. They are looking for assistance with the pick-ups, if you are strong and civic minded.
Nancy Crenshaw Dr. Karl Stockhausen
Lina and Brian
“May God’s blessing keep you always…May your wishes all come true.” Those of us who frequent Northville Nail Boutique watched Lina Katmanivong grow up. She
42 The ‘Ville
“May you always do for others…And let others do for you.” The Stockhausen family has been active in the Northville community since forever. They are instrumental in the historic preservation of town, especially with Mill Race Village. There is a collection box on their front porch for Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts to drop off and pick up necessary “stuff.”
I love a good random act of kindness. Last month a reader of The ‘Ville sent me a note that I couldn’t resist. The school crossing guard at Center Street and Baseline for Amerman Elementary School has a smile on her face each morning when one parent (and others) drive by. Her name is Nancy Crenshaw. It’s my pleasure to give her a “shout out” and let her know someone is watching
out for her as she watches out for the children. When she was recognized on social media recently, she wrote: “Greeting the kids and sometimes sharing something with them - like seeing the deer up on the hill adds to my gift. I love to see others wave and smile, it gives me great joy.”
Taylor McNeill
“May you build a ladder to the stars…and climb on every rung.” One last shout out, to Taylor McNeill at Preservation Dental. The National Aeronautic Association (NAA) held their Aviation Records Celebration at the Lockheed Martin Fighter Demonstration Center in Arlington, Virginia on April 28. NAA is the caretaker of some of the most important aviation awards in the world and certifies all national aviation records in the United States. Taylor was recognized for her World Record – Speed Over a Recognized Course. She hand flew a Piper Comanche from Chicago to Omaha in 3 hours, 17 minutes (157.48 mph). It was her first world record. Until next month, “May your heart always be joyful…May your song always be sung.”
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