The 'Ville - May 2024

John DesOrmeau

John DesOrmeau

Vita

Vita

John

John

since

Some of his local favorites are Rocky’s, Custard Time, Guernsey’s and the Pizza Cutter.

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LOCAL JOURNALISM MATTERS

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!

• Joyce Fennell

• Michele Jasinski

• Marlene Kunz

• The Morita Family

• Jim & Martha Nield

• Happy Westmeier

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addresses in the 48167 & 48168 zip codes.

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

BRAD

EMONS - Writer

Over the course of his four decades with the Observer & Eccentric Newspapers, Brad established himself as one of the preeminent prep sports reporters in the state, winning many journalism awards along the way. His greatest joy is interviewing local athletes and coaches, and reporting on their efforts.

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.

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.

A View From The ‘Ville

These are groundbreaking times in Northville

Years from now, when people look back at the month of May 2024, they are going to say, ‘Man, there was a lot going on in Northville back then.’ It seems like every time I turned around this month, there was some major groundbreaking or ribbon cutting ceremony taking place.

On May 4th, the Unity Skatepark opened to the public. If you are a regular reader of this magazine, you know all about a local family’s effort to build a safe place for skateboarders after their son, Dominic Duhn, was killed while riding a skateboard back in 2020.

and playscapes, exercise courts and even a community center. People who attended the session – and there were quite a few people there – voted on the ideas by using yes or no stickers. The consultant the department hired is compiling all the information, and will make a report and offer some recommendations sometime later this year. At that point they will host another session for people to comment again.

At more than 300 acres, Legacy Park really could become something special.

So, it was truly an amazing moment to see Dom’s mother Gabriella Duhn, who spearheaded the project, to address the hundreds of people, many with skateboards in hand, who came out to celebrate Unity’s opening at Millennium Park in Northville Township. Check out some photos from the day on Page 12.

It’s been a big month for Northville Township. Ten days later, on May 14, township officials gathered at Legacy Park to break ground on a new 96,000-square-foot Essential Services Complex (ESC).

The new facilities, which sit on the north section of Legacy Park near Seven Mile, will house a second fire station and a new stateof-the-art police headquarters. The complex will also be home for the Department of Public Works, which has outgrown its current facility, and there will also be a smaller building to serve the Northville Parks & Recreation Department.

It is going to be a major upgrade for the township, which has really outgrown many of its current facilities.

I know there are people out there who are concerned about putting up buildings at Legacy Park, but there really is a lot of space at the site and the township is committed to making it a destination-type park. In fact, on April 30, Northville Parks and Recreation held a public input meeting at the Northville Community Center, where they presented some possibilities for Legacy Park’s future.

These possibilities included natural areas, picnic shelters, pathways, play areas

The City of Northville probably had the biggest ceremony, however. On May 13, Hunter Pasteur Homes broke ground on their Northville Downs redevelopment, which has been the talk of the town for more than five years. See Page 30.

All the city officials were there, as well as regional, county and state leaders -- and even U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell made some remarks. There were also a LOT of media members there, and I’ve seen the story covered in a variety of media. Fox 2 labeled the groundbreaking as “the first step” in the Downs redevelopment. Anyone who has been around here, though, knows this process started more than five years ago when Hunter Pasteur CEO Randy Wertheimer attended his first Planning Commission meeting in the Hillside auditorium. Let’s just say it didn’t go so well. I have to admit, I thought the project was dead that night. But after hundreds more hours of meetings, here we are on the cusp of the city’s biggest project in generations.

Wertheimer was in a much better mood at the groundbreaking, and even thanked city planners for “holding my feet to the fire” to come up with an impressive plan that will have enormous public benefits, including 15 acres of public green space.

In his remarks, a beaming Mayor Brian Turnbull said, for Northvillians, these are “truly exciting times.” Yes, they are.

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

‘A Wonderful Ride’ –

by Bryan Mitchell

Photo

Hunter Pasteur’s Randy Wertheimer, U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell, Mayor Brian Turnbull, State Rep. Matt Koleszar and City Council members were among those who participated in the Downs groundbreaking.

Your Voice

Concerns not being addressed

Northville City Manager George Lahanas is on the wrong track when saying “The city has broad authority to manage its right of ways. This takes that away. We need to prevail in court to restore it.” (As noted in last month’s issue)

That statement alone is the reason why the people who started the “Let’s Open Northville” filed an injunction. It seems our local government cares more about power and the ability to make unilateral decisions than the effects of those actions on the people who elected them.

Obviously, Let’s Open Northville feels like this is a final measure as their concerns are not being addressed. With all the new developments in Northville, comments like Lahanas’ will fuel the wrong ideas. We need to come together as a community, not divide ourselves.

Erin Brockenshire

Ignoring concerns

I am writing in response to your April editorial regarding the street closures and the injunction that has put it on hold. You mention “Let’s Open Northville” and diminished their objectives by stating, “whatever their motivations are.” This manner strikes me as an effort to ignore their multiple concerns that are well known by the public.  Nowhere in the article is there mention of diverted street traffic into neighborhoods, major parking issues further worsened by the Downs project or the fact that there are businesses that prefer open streets.  You do not address the reality of a ghost town like environment that exists during weekdays for six months, revealing the truth that closed streets are preferred in order to create a weekend party and socializing district primarily beneficial to restaurants and bars.

Mayor Turnbull states that “he feels for the businesses that have been gearing up for the street closures” while you failed to note that he had advance opportunity to warn businesses of an impending court case that might delay or even cease closures. Now, he attempts to appease them by letting them know he feels their pain. You failed to note that his oversight has angered business owners. Gearing up meant financial investments that may have been completely wasted. The mayor had a duty to advise caution for all businesses until such time the lawsuit is settled.

I believe The ‘Ville would be better served to present itself as a nonbiased publication that considers various sides of disputable matters and represents the interests of all readers.

Steve Pichan

A good location for market

The Highland Lakes shopping plaza is a great spot for the Framers’ Market. Easy in and easy out, without the headache of the Center Street and Seven Mile Road intersection. Also, I would like to suggest having the market stay open later than 2 p.m. Most people are still at work and are unable to get there before 2 p.m. I think 7 p.m. would be a good closing time.

Robert E. Eads

Waiting for the fallout

Even now, with stables succumbing to the wrecking ball, the Downs continues to haunt our collective psyche. How many letters in the last edition of The 'Ville pertained to the Downs? How many still envision a future in which the Downs - contrary to the Hunter Pasteur plan - carries on in some altered form? How many, looking ahead, foresee havoc with a newly established populace at 7 Mile and Sheldon coupled with an overrated traffic ring? How many simply pine for the days when our city’s signature, historic attraction was a reassuring and (presumed) permanent landmark?

Before demolition began, I mentioned to my photographer son that the Downs’ property and its buildings represented a compelling subject for a photographic walk-through. He took me up on my suggestion. When I looked over his resulting images however, any romantic notions I’d harbored about the place quickly evaporated. Everywhere he’d pointed his camera was decay, neglect and filth. Clearly, the Downs was in dire need of something, but erasure? Obviously the option with the greatest return potential won out.

I have heard Northville referred to as a bedroom community - where people employed elsewhere sleep only, with no real industry. The Downs was our one draw. Tour bus operators could point to it as a relic; a throwback to simpler entertainments. What will those operators highlight now? A restored river? A slew of pricey homes? A traffic-congested main artery? A quaint little town that was content to remain neither quaint nor little?

There are residents waiting to see what the fallout brings. If Northville becomes more frustration than satisfaction they are prepared to pull up stakes. I find that regrettable, but understand that the changes being wrought are enough to make some rethink their reasons for settling here in the first place.

Ken Kilpatrick

How about Legacy Park?

Although I don’t live in live in Northville, I visit often. My husband’s parents have lived here for decades. I have a thought about a permanent site for the Farmers’ Market. How about Legacy Park? I know it’s not up and running yet, and I don’t even know if they are planning on installing bathrooms with electrical outlets, but it seems like it would be a great spot.

Donna Hamilton Plymouth

‘Mean Girls’ was great

My family attended the Saturday, April 27 matinee of “Mean Girls” at Northville High School. We thoroughly enjoyed the performance and were impressed by the talent and enthusiasm of the NHS Drama Club’s cast and crew. It seems there was more advertising than in the past, which brought the production to my attention. Good job all!

Thanks to The ‘Ville for continued coverage of important local issues.

Joyce Fennell

Please submit your letters by emailing Editor Kurt Kuban at kurtkuban@thevillemagazine.com. Letters must be 150 words or less. We reserve the right to edit all letters.

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A Wonderful Ride

Principal Brad O’Neill to start ‘next chapter’ at end of school year

By Tim Smith | Photos by Bryan Mitchell

Just like in summers prior,

Brad O’Neill plans to travel to a secluded cabin on Lower Fungus Lake, Ontario – threeand-a-half hours north of Sault Ste. Marie – and kick back with family after another long, pressurized year as Meads Mill Middle School principal.

“It’s a place to unwind and get off the grid,” said O’Neill, 59, who’s been at Meads for 10 years.

Only this time around, he can fish and hike to his heart’s content for weeks and months if he wants. O’Neill recently announced his retirement from Northville Public Schools after a 31-year career, so he won’t have to worry so much about drawing up plans for next year.

“Like everybody else, I look forward to June, just like the kids do, and summer vacation,” O’Neill said. “But I don’t think things are going to hit me until August when I’m supposed to

go back.”

Although O’Neill is optimistic about what the next chapter of his life will bring, he repeatedly emphasized during an hourlong interview how “grateful” he is to have experienced so many friendships and community connections over the decades. It will be a tough act for him to follow.

“I’m looking forward to that next chapter, but also knowing that I’m going to have a void. I think that’s inevitable,” O’Neill continued.

For O’Neill, building those connections can start small. Like standing outside the front door of Meads Mill to welcome students in the morning, or wishing them well as they leave the building at the end of that day. He knows those days are ending soon, and it will be somebody else greeting students in 2024-25.

Yet O’Neill is not sad. He is

happy at the places he’s been, the people he’s seen and the things that have been achieved.

EVERYONE HAS A ROLE

Indeed, Northville’s left quite an imprint on him over the past three decades, as O’Neill went from a physical education teacher at the elementary (Moraine, Winchester) and middle school (Cooke, Hillside) levels to administrative roles at Northville High School, Hillside again and finally Meads Mill.

But he still hangs on to memories of his formative years, spent playing hockey at Claude Allison’s outdoor rink in Redford Township to learning how to love the art of cooking thanks to his home economics teacher at Milford High School (where he graduated in 1983).

“I learned to cook from her,” said O’Neill about the teacher, Janet McAlpine (who passed in 2023). “You can ask my mom. She (his mom, Midge) knows how I love cooking, I have a passion for cooking. And it came from her class.”

He said his go-to dishes include soups and pasta dishes, turning basil and parsley from his home garden to “incredible marinara sauce.”

McAlpine re-entered his life decades after high school, when the two worked together at the Kensington Golf Course, where O’Neill worked as a starter for 25 years while he was a teacher.

Another blast from his Milford High School past – his baseball coach Cole Rowekamp – really helped O’Neill as far as his philosophy about how to treat everybody from the stars to the scrubs. That guidance has been in his own playbook as a teacher and principal.

“When I think about people who were influential in my life,

as far as educators, the one thing that sticks in my mind is Cole Rowekamp,” O’Neill stressed. “He taught English and was varsity baseball coach. He made things fun and he treated everybody respectfully no matter who you were. That’s one thing I’ll never forget about that guy. … Everyone had a role and everyone had a purpose.”

Over the years as a teacher, administrator and even a coach in his own right (O’Neill was the first head coach of Northville High School’s varsity boys hockey program in the late 1990s and also was an assistant baseball coach for the Mustangs), O’Neill tried to pattern his own style after Rowekamp’s.

“I just remember how he dealt with people,” O’Neill added. “One thing that stuck out for me was how fair he was. I always thought he really loved what he did and that kind of shined through.”

PEOPLE PERSON

But there have been many others who’ve helped O’Neill after starting in the district following short tenures elsewhere.

To name just a few, he listed former Northville superintendents Leonard Rezmierski and Mary Kay Gallagher, athletic department colleagues such as Bryan Masi and current Northville High School Principal Tony Koski.

“Mary Kay (who retired in 2022) was instrumental in supporting me as an administrator,” O’Neill said. “I don’t think I would have been at this place if I wouldn’t have had her support and guidance.

“And it’s the collaboration, all the wonderful people here at Meads. Even though it’s been

Principal Brad O’Neill with some of his students at Meads Mill Middle School.

the last third of my career, I’ve learned so much here from my colleagues, staff members, community members.”

And learning itself really is at the heart of what drives O’Neill’s motor, as he has helped usher in progressive programs while making sure students still get a chance to let off some steam in an old-fashioned way –namely, recess. It’s as though he sometimes reverts back to his days as a gym teacher.

“I know it serves its purpose, technology,” O’Neill said. “But if you could listen to the kids outside here (across a parking lot from his office), they’ve been testing all morning (M-STEP, the computer-based Michigan Student Test of Educational Progress). Their teachers are giving them a little break to be outside and play.”

O’Neill nodded and said the proliferation of smartphones and other digital devices does prompt classroom challenges that need to be monitored, however. For example, Meads Mill students must check their cell phones at the door; they’ll get them back after the final bell sounds.

“I know that we’re steeped in technology, with kids learning and the devices that they use,” O’Neill went on. “My concern is, if they use it here for two, three, four hours throughout a day and they get out of here at 3:03 and then they continue with their digital footprint with their own personal devices, how much is too much?

“Those changes have been rapid, they’ve been quick,” he continued. “I would always advocate for balance with kids. A chance for them to unplug, a chance for them to interact. There’s a human need for that.”

FEELING CONNECTED

Some of the achievements brought in during O’Neill’s principalship have much to do with finding the right balance as well as the importance of collaboration.

O’Neill highlighted the implementation of “International Nights,” to celebrate culture and diversity as well as intervention support classes to boost students who might be starting to fall behind in key areas such as math and reading.

“Those foundational things, where kids need a lot of support and help in those areas, I’m glad we’ve implemented those programs and those continue to grow and are successful with our struggling learners,” he said.

Collaboration is something O’Neill truly values, so it is no surprise that he trumpets the school’s PBIS program – which stands for Positive Behavior Intervention Support.

“Kids feel connected and safe,” O’Neill said. “They follow

expectations but also promote being good people.”

Because of the innovations now in place at the school, tucked away on a dirt road deep inside a quiet subdivision south of Six Mile, there is plenty of positive momentum to tap into.

And with a three-to-four year schedule of bond issue projects likely to begin this summer, “we’re headed for some major stuff here, it’s really exciting for this side of the community,” O’Neill continued.

Whatever is in store for the school and its 635 students is something O’Neill will keep tabs on. But he is all in on what the retirement years bring. Family time is “number one,” he underscored.

For starters, O’Neill is amped up about driving up to the family’s cabin on Lower Fungus Lake, where there are miles of Ontario shorelines. He plans on relaxing with his parents, Mike and Midge (ages 82 and 80, respectively) while they can still enjoy the outdoors.

Also in the summer fun fold will be his wife Sandy and their adult children Gina, 25, and Collin, 22, both Lakeland High School alums. Brad and Sandy (a technical engineering recruiter), who reside in Milford, will play pickleball in a mixed doubles league and he will continue his lifelong passion of playing hockey –despite knees which might need replacement surgery.

There are other pastimes such as golf and travel, with the O’Neills eager to explore countries such as Portugal and Spain. “We definitely are going to be traveling,” he said. “We are big into experiencing different cultures.”

Wherever the coming years take Brad O’Neill, however, he’ll always have a soft spot for Northville Public Schools and primarily Meads Mill. “I feel like I’m going out happy, and grateful. Gratitude is huge for me.”

Honest to goodness, being in this district there’s two things I’ve truly felt – grateful and fortunate. I was always grateful for the opportunity to land in Northville. I have no regrets. It’s been wonderful, the people that I’ve been able to work with -- and the kids.”

Meads Mill Principal Brad O’Neill, who is retiring after 31 years in Northville

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‘WE DID IT!’ Unity

Skatepark opens to much fanfare

- Photos by P.A. Rech -

As Northville Parks and Recreation Director Derek Smith pointed out, the ribbon cutting and grand opening of the Unity Skatepark was three years in the making, an emotional journey that culminated with hundreds of people attending the May 4th ceremony.

“If you are not inspired by this, I don’t know what would inspire you,” Smith said to the crowd.

The new park for skateboarders located in Millennium Park cost about $1 million to construct. The majority of that money was raised by the family of Dominic Duhn, who was killed in 2020 after being hit by a car while skateboarding on Sheldon Road. Funding also came from Northville Township, which also donated the park land, the City of Northville, and Wayne County.

Gabriella Duhn, Dom’s mother, was the driving force behind the project. She told the gathered crowd that her biggest fear was nobody would show up. She didn’t need to worry.

Her hope is that the new park, dedicated in her son’s honor, not only provides a safe place for skateboarders, but also serves as a beacon of inspiration to all who use the park. She thanked all the people who helped make the park a reality.

One of those people was Northville Township Supervisor Mark Abbo, who attended the ceremony with his granddaughter, Kennedy. He noted how strong a force Gabriella has been throughout the process, and said it was time to celebrate all the hard work.

“This was born out of a horrible tragedy. We can numb the pain with all the joy that this place will bring to people,” Abbo said. “We did it!”

It was actually Dom’s brother Enzo and his best friend Jack Tsalis who came up with the idea for a skateboarding park. Both spoke briefly. As he looked at the skaters ready to use the new park, Enzo said his brother would be proud of the day.

“My brother continues to inspire me,” he said. “Long live Dom, and long live Unity.”

The driving force behind Unity Skatepark – (front row from left) Gabriella Duhn, Kitty Liddell, Drew Duhn, (back from from left) Jeff Scroggs, Andy Whitmer, Enzo Duhn and Jack Tsalis.

The Beer, Bites, Bands & Boards festival followed the skatepark opening.

Gabriella Duhn cuts the ribbon.

Photo by Kurt Kuban

Northville Township Board of Trustees election set

The slate of candidates is set for this year’s Northville Township Board of Trustees election.

Unless there is some kind of unlikely write-in candidacy (such as in 2020 when several candidates embarked on serious write in campaigns) it appears the top three spots will remain the same come November.

Supervisor Mark Abbo, Clerk

Cynthia Jankowski and Treasurer Jason Rhines, who are Republicans, are all running unopposed this year.

There are also four Trustee positions that will need to be filled. All the incumbents, which include Scott Frush, Mindy Herrmann, Roger Lundberg, and Chris Roosen – who are all Republicans -- are on the ballot again.

Frush has served on the board since 2019, when he was appointed to fill an open spot and was then elected in 2020. Herrmann has been on the board since 2008. Roosen is on his second stint as a trustee – he served from 2004-2012 and was elected again in 2016. Lundberg was elected in 2020 as the clerk, but stepped down in March of 2023 and was then appointed as a trustee after the board appointed then Trustee Jankowski to fill the role for the rest of Lundberg’s term. Essentially they swapped positions on the board.

Unlike for supervisor, clerk and treasurer, however, they

will have a Democrat opponent this year – former Northville School Board member Roland Hwang is running for trustee. He served eight years on the school board, deciding not to seek reelection in 2022.

Because there are only four Republican and one Democrat candidates, there is no need for an August primary election, and all five will appear on the November general election ballot.

The deadline for candidates to file was April 23.

The ‘Ville will have further election coverage as we get closer to the fall.

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Chris Roosen Cynthia Jankowski Jason Rhines Mark Abbo Mindy Herrmann Roger Lundberg Roland Hwang Scott Frush

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Honoring Their Sacrifice

Township gets special markers for

vets buried at historic Waterford Cemetery

By Kurt Kuban

Tucked into a little wooded corner of Northville Township, along Franklin Road in what used to be the settlement of Waterford (or Meads Mill), sits a little cemetery that is the final resting place of some of the community’s pioneers.

Mixed in among those aging grave markers are nearly a dozen modest headstones for military veterans, including several who served during the Civil War. Without close inspection, their graves don’t stand out and most passersby would never know their significance.

Northville Township Clerk Cynthia Jankowski wanted to change that. She approached Northville Township Manager Todd Mutchler to see if she could come up with a way to properly indicate their military service. He gave her the green light. She reached out to a company, Gettysburg Flag Works, which produces handsome bronze grave markers.

So, just in time for Memorial Day, Jankowski visited the cemetery that dates back to the early 1800s, and installed the bronze markers for each of the buried

veterans.

Thanks to research done by members of the Northville Township Historic District Commission, and especially member Robin Schleh, it was determined there are seven Civil War veterans buried in the cemetery. They include William Brigham, James Loud, Oscar Loud, Humphrey Burdick, Henry Williams, William Harris, and Peter McCoy (aka Peter Scipio).

It’s worth noting Williams, Harris and McCoy were African-Americans who all served in the 102nd United States Colored Troops (USCT).

In addition to the Civil War veterans, Waterford Cemetery is also the resting place for three World War One veterans -- William Thomas, Charles Thomas, and Norton Greene.

The seven Civil War vets are now celebrated with GAF (Grand Army of the Republic) markers, while the three WWI vets have “World War” markers. Each has an American flag inserted as well.

“We should always remember the sacrifices of those who served, especially

people from our own community,” Jankowski said. “I think it’s important to remember and honor them.”

This also comes on the heels of a restoration effort by local resident Brad Popiel, who approached the township (Northville Township owns and maintains Waterford Cemetery) last year about cleaning the aging headstones, which had become dirty with algae and moss. He used a cleaning method approved by national cemeteries like Arlington, which does no harm to the headstones.

“With these headstones glowing white among the rest, I’m confident the passersby

WATERFORD CEMETERY’S VETERANS CIVIL

WAR

• William Henry Brigham (W.H.), 1841-1896

• James Myron Loud, 1828-1880

• Oscar N. Loud, 1834-1873

• Humphrey S. Burdick (H.S.), 1843-1916

• Henry Williams, 1842-1884

• William Godfrey Harris, 1835-unknown

• Peter McCoy (aka Peter Scipio), 1846-1877

WORLD WAR I

• William Ira Thomas, 1879-1952

• Charles E. Thomas, 1893-1955

• Norton Thayer Greene, 1859-1930

will take notice, and take a moment to reflect and appreciate the soldiers who are buried there,” Popiel said at the time.

Now, not only are the headstones clean but they have attractive markers as well. Jankowski gave credit to Schleh and the rest of the Historic District Commission for doing all the research into the veterans at Waterford Cemetery, as well as to Popiel for bringing it to the public’s attention.

“I took the initiative to research and purchase the flag holders to further the work that Brad had completed with cleaning the headstones,” she said. “I also felt that the 10 souls buried there, deserved to be memorialized for their service, in true military fashion by installing the historically recognized bronze marker.”

Northville Township Clerk Cyndy Jankowski plants a special recognition marker at the grave of Norton T. Greene, a WWI veteran, at the historic Waterford Cemetery.

Three Candidates Vie To Replace Retiring Ron Lowe

Northville’s Ruggirello hopes to be 35th District Court’s first female judge

By Scott Spielman

The race for the next 35th District Court judge may make local history. There’s a possibility that the judge who replaces Judge Ron Lowe, the longest serving judge in the court’s history, will be the first locally elected female judge.

“They’ve never had a woman before,” said Maria Ruggirello, 30, a Northville resident who is one of three candidates to replace Lowe when he retires at the end of this term. “I think it’s very important. It’s representative of the people. When you look at all of the previous judges, they’re all good, qualified and smart men, but I think it’s time for a change.”

Joining Ruggirello in the race are Joe Barone, 52, of Plymouth and Michael Woodyard, 57, of Canton. Barone is a former Wayne County Commissioner with a law office near downtown Plymouth. Woodyard has been an assistant prosecuting attorney in Wayne County and then a criminal defense attorney in his private practice.

Ruggirello, who earned her law degree from Notre Dame in 2017, said running for judge had been a long-term goal for her.

“It’s just something that interests me. I love being in the courtroom. I care about justice, law and order,” she said.

Ruggirello has worked for the Foley & Lardner and Clark Hill law firms in Detroit, representing clients on everything from commercial litigation and supply chain work for auto suppliers and some defense work. She’s currently clerking for Michigan Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth T. Clement.

Among her goals, if elected, are working with the 35th District’s treatment courts and expanding them if possible to ensure

that substance abusers have options other than being jailed.

A lifelong resident of Northville, she said she thinks she can be an effective voice on the bench and offer perspective that the other candidates cannot.

“The community is very important to me. It’s my home base and I want to be there for a very, very long time,” she said.

Barone has been a practicing attorney for 27 years. He’s a Michigan State grad, with a Master’s in Law from Wayne State University. He served as Wayne County Commissioner from 2015-2018.

He said he’s concerned about the ongoing funding of the court, which serves the five communities of the Northvilles, the Plymouths and Canton. The court returns revenue to those communities based on caseload and population, but the Covid pandemic has adversely affected that revenue. Many communities had to reduce their police forces, which caused a reduction in caseload — there was even some uncertainty over whether the third judge at the court was needed.

Legislation was pending to reduce the court to two judges, but it was defeated. Barone said that was a good thing: the communities are rebounding from the pandemic and, besides that, he said the court offers other vital programs like the sobriety courts and teen courts that he wants to continue and build on.

“I think we should continue those programs,” he said. “It does no good for anyone to sit in jail for 30 years. Usually, it’s a mental health issue or a social issue. We’re much better at handling that locally—but you can’t do that with two judges.”

His firm handles everything from probate/estate issues to criminal and civil cases. He said the next judge should have a strong connection with the community.

“I think it takes experience, someone who’s been in our community for a long time, someone who has practiced in the community. That will give you insight,” he said.

Woodyard has been a practicing attorney since 2002. He completed his undergraduate degree at Eastern Michigan and law school at Wayne State University. He was an assistant prosecuting attorney in Wayne County for 15 years before opening his private practice in 2017. He’s also had cases in courts around the state and in others, as well.

He said having spent so much time in courtrooms around the county gave him good insight into best practices that he’d like to fortify in the 35th District.

“Having been a lawyer for 22 years and being in the courtroom for 22 years, I had a chance to see how the role of judge affects the litigants and the search for justice,” he said. “I’ve had a chance to see how courtrooms operate and I think I have a very firm and clear understanding of the role the judge plays.”

He said he looks at the judge role as a key one not only in the court, but in the legal system as a whole and in the community, too.

“I think my role as a judge will really set the tone for how people perceive their experience in the courtroom. I really feel that way,” he said. “I think the judge is the leader of the court and that means taking responsibility for how the organization is perceived. I really think having an even keel, being able to be persuaded in what others have to say, is very important. The environment will be one of respect.”

Since there are more than two candidates, the judicial race will be on the August primary ballot. The top two candidates will move on to the November general election.

For more information on each candidate, visit the candidates’ websites at Mariafor35thdistrictjudge.com, Ilikemikelaw.com, or Baroneforjudge.com.

The ‘Ville will also have candidate profiles later this summer.

Joe Barone Maria Ruggirello

Michael Woodyard

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State

champ Phillip Zhavoronkov finds redemption in his senior year doubters wrong Proving the

By Brad Emons

Phillip Zhavoronkov’s final season of high school swimming at Northville proved to be his own personal redemption tour.

Known as the “Russian Rocket,” Zhavoronkov returned to the Mustangs’ squad after what could only be categorized as a disastrous junior year of club swimming to ultimately capturing the MHSAA Division 1 championship in the 50-yard freestyle this year.

His finals time of 20.65 seconds earned him AllAmerican consolation consideration as well as the NHS school record, eclipsing the mark of Evan ScottoDiVetta’s time of 20.79 set in 2022.

Zhavoronkov also earned All-State honors (top eight) in three other events at the D1 meet held March 8-9 at Oakland University, placing third in the individual 100 freestyle (46.08), while also adding a pair of fifths in the relays joining senior Jason Cho, sophomore Ace Spicer and sophomore Adam Piao in the 200 medley

(1:34.90), along with sophomore Brady Stenson, sophomore Ben Hu and Cho in the 400 freestyle (3:10.67).

“At the start of my senior year I decided that I was going to come back for one more year,” Zhavoronkov said. “It was kind of like a Jordan-esque last dance. Try and come back and end it with a bang, prove everyone that doubted me wrong, I guess.”

The slender-built 6-foot Zhavoronkov was known primarily as a distance swimmer. As a freshman in 2021, he placed sixth in the D1 finals in the 500 freestyle (4:43.57) and followed that up with three All-State performances in 2022 as a sophomore with a fifth in the 500 freestyle (4:38.62) and eighth in the 200 freestyle (1:43.76).

He also teamed up with ScottoDiVetta, Nathan Xiao and Leonardo Simoncini for a runner-up finish in the 400 freestyle relay (3:06.01).

“Long story short we just put Phillip where we needed

him. He could have very easily continued to do the 200- and 500 (freestyles), but the way kind of our team developed through the last year-and-a-half we had some individuals who could fill those roles,” Northville coach Rich Bennetts said. “We were really kind of weak in the sprint freestyles, so Phillip and I spoke over the summer time when he was thinking about coming back . . . we were kind of sat down and had a little discussion as to the team needs and if he was willing to accept his role on the team.”

Zhavoronkov took a sabbatical from high school swimming during his junior year to swim for Club Wolverine in Ann Arbor, known for several famous Olympic swimmers including Michael Phelps and Hall of Fame coach Bob Bowman.

“We welcomed him back with open arms and I think he was obviously a super talented kid who swam literally every event,” said Bennetts, who guided the Mustangs to a fourth-place team finish this year. “And he was selfless enough to hop on in and go where we needed it and it worked out pretty well.”

A SEASON TO FORGET

The 2022-23 season, however, could only be described as a big detour for Zhavoronkov. It was akin to Murphy’s Law. If anything could go wrong, it did for Zhavoronkov at Club Wolverine.

“For swimming, it’s kind of super important to have a really good junior year,” Zhavoronkov said. “That’s when you’re recruited the most by schools and colleges are really impressed with kids who do well then, and they recruit those

kids. I took the year off because my main events in the past were the mile and the thousands, and I was more of a distance swimmer. I even swam the 7½ kilometers that year at Open Water Nationals.

“High school swimming doesn’t have those events, the longest is the 500 (yard freestyle), so a third of what I’d be swimming in the mile. So, I wanted to take a year off and I had six A.P. classes. I wanted to kind of focus on school and focus in on trying to get recruited for school. And I guess none of it really worked out.”

That junior season Zhavoronkov had two big meets to prove himself as a swimmer to NCAA Division I college coaches. The first national meet came last March in Austin, Tex.

“I flew over there and my parents were still at home and I ended up getting sick with COVID-19,” Zhavoronkov said. “I couldn’t speak, I could barely breathe, I had to wear a mask. While all my teammates were swimming in Texas, I was alone there. I only swam four of my total eight events. The four events I swam, I did really poorly in, mostly because I was sick and could hardly breathe.”

The second was an in-state meet last July in Michigan, but things quickly went awry there as well.

“I said, ‘O.K., I have a second chance to prove to college coaches that I’m worth it for recruiting in the summer,’” he said. “And three weeks before that big meet in the summer –and I was really do well in the summer – I ended up getting appendicitis and going into surgery and I wasn’t allowed to swim for another three weeks. I couldn’t compete.”

Follolwing his appendicitis

Senior Phillip Zhavoronkov excelled in both the sprint and freestyle distance events during his career with the Mustangs. Photos courtesy of Ekaterina Zhavoronkov

episode, Zhavoronkov then approached Bennetts about returning to the high school team again for his senior year.

“Part of our conversation over the summer was geared toward him having a good time again in swimming because he hadn’t been having that great of a time,” the Northville coach said. “He had some coaches who were down on him and he was down on himself. When he

stand atop the podium once the state finals at OU arrived.

And when he touched the wall first ahead of Detroit Catholic Central freshman Camren Turowski in the 50 freestyle, it was total redemption.

approached me about coming back, he basically said high school was when he had fun. And I just said, ‘Hey, you poured your whole life up to this point into the sport and it would be a shame if you didn’t go out with anything but a smile on your face.’”

VERSATILE SWIMMER

Zhavoronkov, who played soccer and basketball, as well as dance as a youth, began swimming competitively at age 5 with the Novi Sturgeons. Competitive age-group swimming became his main focus and it morphed into a 13-year journey where he proved to be versatile in all the strokes before concentrating on distance freestyle events.

After winning the Wayne County and KLAA championships in both the 50and 100 freestyles as a senior, Zhavoronkov was poised to

“I was able to prove to myself that I could do this at a high level,” Zhavoronkov said. “I was having a lot more fun just coming back and doing whatever the team needed. In the end, at the state meet, that ended up being the 50- and the 100 – which were sprint events, it was the complete opposite of what I was doing before. But I worked hard all season and I was able to get the state championship and the team record, which really made me happy because those were some goals obviously from the start when I started my high school career.”

Zhavoronkov not only enjoyed success at the high school level again, but he also had a lot of fun. But there was more to it than finishing first and winning a state title.

“My main goal was just to try and come back and be a leader for some of the freshman and sophomores,” he said. “I wasn’t able to lead in the past and be like a role model and an example to show them like, ‘Hey, maybe in swimming, people tell you success is getting recruited or success is this, or success is that’ . . . I guess I wanted to be a leader for the younger kids and be a role model.

“That was my main goal my

senior year, but it was a lot of fun for sure. Being able to see all my friends again and being able to go to my last meet – that was a big moment -- really emotional being able to swim my last meet and do really well in front of my friends.”

Zhavoronkov was not only a leader in the pool, but he’s also a leader in the classroom carrying a 3.8 grade-point average. Last summer he interned at Novi Energy where he was able to research nuclear and renewable energy.

“It was super cool being able to see the whole process, being able to see how everything works,” he said. “It was definitely inspiring engineering-wise.”

Zhavoronkov also took computer science classes both semesters at Schoolcraft College. He’s also interested in coding and artificial intelligence.

LOOKING FORWARD

Zhavoronkov’s parents, Ekaterina and Mikhail, moved to this country 19 years ago from the former Soviet Union when his father migrated here from being in the steel business. He’s an engineer by trade and has been a CFO involved in a managerial role with start-ups. His mother, a homemaker, was involved in ballet and swims recreationally.

Phillip also has an older sister Alisa, a senior who is studying chemical engineering at the University of Michigan where Phillip plans to attend in the fall with a double-major in computer science and business.

For Zhavoronkov, he’s been able to check a lot of boxes.

“Super smart kid, really quiet the couple of years we had him, kind of matured and

even though he was just coming back he provided a really nice leadership role for us for his senior year,” Bennetts said.

“Guys kind of trusted him, listened to him and he provided a great leadership spark for us.”

NCAA competitive swimming, however, is not in his plans at Michigan, but he plans to stay physically active either biking, running, playing soccer or basketball. He also likes to play poker and another one of his hobbies includes playing trumpet in an orchestra band.

There might be a void, however, come summer or fall when it comes to competitive swimming, but Zhavoronkov is not looking back, only forward.

“Swimming will still be probably a part of my life. Even though I might not do club swimming or swimming for a team at the University of Michigan it’s still going to be a big part of my life,” he said.

But there are some things about competitive swimming that he won’t miss, as the sport sometimes takes a physical and mental toll.

“To be honest, swimming is a great sport, but it’s super tough,” he said. “It never gets easier. The practices are hard, you wake up hurt. The 4 a.m. practices are the worst. But looking back, I don’t think I’d do anything different.”

That’s especially the case coming back for his senior swim season, which feels like total redemption.

Northville’s Phillip Zhavoronkov holds the Division 1 runner-up team trophy from the 2022 season, his sophomore year.

Phillip Zhavoronkov had plenty of reason to celebrate his senior season after winning the MHSAA Division 1 title in the 50-yard freestyle.

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Vlad Moldoveanu

and Marius Williams have a working partnership in the Hoopdrillz facility.

StoryandPhotosbyBradEmons

on the Hoopdrillz partners pass along lots of experience and passionFocusingDetails

fter playing four years of college basketball, Marius Williams decided he still wanted to give back to the sport he loves.

For Vlad Moldoveanu, a former Romanian professional ball player and now licensed international basketball agent living in Northville, it’s a business partnership with Williams that continues to thrive at Hoopdrillz, an indoor basketball training facility situated just off Sheldon and M-14 in Plymouth Township.

Hoopdrillz, located at 44191 Plymouth Oaks Boulevard Suite 700, is adjacent to Ethos Human Performance, an athletic performance training facility which was formerly occupied by Barwis Methods.

Williams, a former standout guard and tennis player at Belleville High who played collegiate basketball two seasons at NCAA Division II Arkansas-Monticello before transferring to NAIA Concordia

University in Ann Arbor where he scored 1,011 career points, hit the ground running when he and Moldoveanu opened their new basketball training facility.

Hoopdrillz has become a haven for individualized as well as group training. They also conduct clinics and camps serving prospective players from all age groups.

“We target anyone that loves basketball, first and foremost, who want to grow and get better at basketball,” Williams said. “We start from ages seven and go all the way up to professionals. If you are 7-year-old boy or girl that loves basketball and wants to get better at basketball we welcome those.”

Hoopdrillz is not your traditional full-sized gym facility. It’s elementary-sized in nature, but it’s 25- by 40- foot dimensions give their clients plenty of space to work on their individual skills.

Meanwhile, the 6-foot-9 Moldoveanu brings uniquely different perspective to Hoopdrillz. Moldoveanu played high school basketball in the Washington D.C. area after landing from his native Romania. He spent two years playing for NCAA Division I George Mason University before transferring to American University, averaging 18 and 20 points, respectively, while earning All-Patriot League first-team honors his junior and senior years.

Moldoveanu went on to have a 12-year professional career in Europe with stops in Italy, France, Estonia, Poland, Turkey, Greece and Romania before retiring in 2022.

During his pro off seasons, Moldoveanu would return to the area and work and train with Williams. Vlad and his wife Krysta (Cicala), a former Northville High All-State volleyball player who he first

met while she was playing volleyball for American University, are married and have three young sons residing in Northville.

“We started together from the get-go,” Moldoveanu said of Williams. “I was the first pro he ever trained and we just kept growing after that.”

While Williams and Moldoveanu tag team their teaching and training methods at Hoopdrillz, Moldoveanu handles the operations side of things.

“We’ve got a great marketing team that helps us as well with generating clientele,” Williams said. “He’s got an AAU team that is kind of like a walking billboard. We got a bunch of kids from AAU that come see us as well for training. With our partnership, he’s given us a lot of leeway to move the business forward, which I greatly appreciate about him and giving me that cushion to say, ‘Hey,

Northville's

(left)

Marius Williams with former Michigan star Jordan Morgan.

Basketball trainer

Marius Williams (right) gives instruction to E.C. Matthews and Rashad Williams

you can do this on your own and I’m here to provide the help for you as a teammate,’ and I think that’s been the catalyst for everything.”

After retiring from pro basketball, Moldoveanu, a former Euroleague and EuroCup player, founded VM Hoops Agency, which currently represents 45 professionals worldwide, including 18 Americans. He represents players anywhere from the NBA’s G League to Japan and Latin America.

“I have guys everywhere really -- from New Zealand, Australia, Romania, Croatia, guys all over the world,” Moldoveanu said.

‘GET IN, GET OUT’

During the summers, Hoopdrillz will work with 30 to 40 pro players including NBA G League players Kam Hankerson (Wisconsin-Green Bay) and Tre Maddox (Oakland-Cal Fullerton-Western Michigan), both of whom played together at Novi High.

Plymouth High grad Anthony Crump (Western Michigan/Northern Illinois/ UNC Asheville) is also a new client and has been joined in the gym by regulars Jordan Morgan (Michigan), Trendon Hankerson (Northern Illinois/ Akron), Wendell Green (Eastern Kentucky/Auburn), Rashad Williams (Oakland/St. Louis/Arkansas Pine-Bluff) and E.C. Matthews (Rhode Island).

Most of them prefer very individual workouts – tailor made -- or two-man workouts, which usually run just under an hour.

“I told my guys, ‘Get in, get out. Don’t spend hours there. It’s overrated,’” Moldoveanu said. “Sleeping in the gym is

Macedonia and he credits Hoopdrillz for much of his success.

“Very friendly,” Matthews said of the Hoopdrillz atmosphere, “but they want to push you at the end of the day and have your best interest at the end of the day. There’s a lot of basketball trainers where you can do a lot of cone work and get up a lot of shots on the day, but both Marius and Vlad – they like the details. If you’re foot placement is off by a degree . .

. he’ll tell you, or if your head is down while you’re trying to shoot, a pull-up shot, and he’ll tell you, ‘Your head is down,’ and to do it over. And when the game comes, you’re perfect. I’d say it’s the details is what they emphasize here.”

Professionally, Matthews has had pitstops with the NBA G League Raptors and Pelicans, along with seasons in Iceland, Finland, Portugal, Angola, and the Czech Republic. He wants to play as long as he can.

“I’m very gracious to go over there and play basketball, get to meet people, be in their culture,” he said. “And at the end of the day you get to play

a team-best 17.7 points per game, and shot 40% from threepoint range, along with 82% from the free throw line. He scored 23 points versus NCAA champion UConn, 26 against Minnesota with a high game of 33 vs. Alabama State.

And to launch his pro career, Rashad Williams believes Marius Williams and Moldoveanu are the best instructors.

VERY METHODICAL

Rashad Williams is seeking a shot in the NBA’s G League with a worst-case scenario going overseas to play. He believes Hoopdrillz provides him with a strong fundamental base.

“It’s real methodical, very, very detailed and just everybody in here, everybody who walks through the door has the mentality that they’re trying to get better and something that they’re working on,” Rashad Williams said. “I think that’s one thing that we all have in common. And just the love of the game of basketball.”

Hoopdrillz, however, doesn’t want to pigeonhole its clientele. It caters to the grassroots

young players out. That’s why Marius and I are so aligned in the business. We train them and get paid for that, but it’s a lot more than that.”

Fundamentals are obviously a huge part of their operation, something that is emphasized in Europe.

Two years ago, Moldoveanu took Marius Williams to Romania at his basketball camp where he got to chance to work with an assistant coach from the Greece National Team who was coaching at the World Cup. The two were able to bounce ideas back and forth off each other.

The ultimate goal is to continue to expand their teaching methods, and find clients who fit.

“It depends what you’re looking for, we could be the best fit, but I think it’s just a case-to-case scenario. It’s not, if you come here you’re going to do this,” Moldoveanu said. “It’s kind of you get in the gym, see what it is. But if you put in the work, you’re going to get better with us, for sure. It comes down to the work the players put in with us. That’s the key to our success.”

‘Transformational’ Downs development breaks ground

By Kurt Kuban

Hunter

Pasteur,

the developer that will soon convert the Northville Downs property into single family homes, condos, apartments and commercial buildings, organized a groundbreaking ceremony for the historic project on May 13.

Dozens of people attended the ceremony, including officials from Northville, Wayne County and the region. There were also many members of the media there, an indication of the kind of interest the project has garnered since it was first announced more than five years ago.

With a backdrop of the Downs site, including the main grandstand building that will soon be demolished, Northville Mayor Brian Turnbull spoke to those in attendance, explaining how historically significant the 49-acre site has been to the community.

Turnbull discussed some of the highlights of the project, especially the green space that

will be preserved – roughly 15 acres or about 30% of the site –and the daylighting of the Rouge River, which currently runs through the property through an underground pipe. His hope is that the entire project will be completed by 2027, which is the city’s bicentennial.

“This is truly a transformational initiative, not only for Northville but for all of southeast Michigan,” the mayor said, noting it will be a $350 million project. “These are truly exciting times.”

The project will include 48 single-family attached homes, 38 single-family homes, nearly 100 townhomes, 28 carriage

City challenges road closure lawsuit

According to Northville City Manager George Lahanas, the city has filed a motion in Wayne County Circuit Court to end a court-ordered injunction preventing the city from closing down Main and Center streets.

Last month, Judge Charlene Elder ordered the injunction after a lawsuit was filed by Let’s Open Northville, a local organization that has tried to prevent the city from closing down the streets for the season.

The group says the street closures violate the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

“We are dedicated to returning the downtown streets to their historic beauty, strengthening our small businesses, improve community connections, parking, and traffic congestion,” said local attorney Richard Corriveau, co-counsel for Let’s Open Northville.

As of press time, Lahanas and city officials were still waiting

homes, 15 row houses, more than 40 condos, 178 apartments, and nearly 20,000 square feet of retail space. It will be done in phases, with some of the first construction happening later this year.

U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell has been a big proponent of the redevelopment, and was able to secure some federal money for the environmental components. She said the project will not only benefit Northville, but the entire region. She mentioned the project’s benefits to the Rouge River, not only the daylighting, but it will also help control harmful sedimentation and flooding.

“This groundbreaking is the result of tremendous public/private partnerships that have come together in support of this development.

The City of Northville, Northville Township, the county, the state and the federal government have all been key stakeholders in this outstanding transformational project, which

has gone from a dream to a reality in the last five years,” Dingell said.

Deputy Wayne County Executive Assad Turfe also discussed the project’s regional significance.

Finally, Randy Wertheimer, CEO of Hunter Pasteur, spoke about the journey it has been since the project was first proposed to Northville officials nearly a half dozen years ago. He estimated since that time he’s spent hundreds of hours with city planners, devising a plan beneficial for all involved.

“While I wasn’t always thrilled with the outcome of these meetings, in hindsight I’d like to thank the planning commissioners, not only for their commitment to the City of Northville but for holding our feet to the fire. Together we have created a generational development,” Wertheimer said.

For more information about the project, including construction updates, visit northvilledowns.info.

for Judge Elder to rule on their motion. He said the city will file an appeal if she doesn’t rule in their favor.

The lawsuit and court ruling have caused a swell of discontent among supporters of the street closures. City Council meetings have gotten rowdy, with plenty of finger pointing.

City Council member Laura Genitti, who has received a lot of criticism, said the issue needs to be resolved soon.

“Enough is enough. This has turned away from what was intended when we started this – and that was to bring the town together,” said Genitti, who is in favor of street closures on the weekends only. “It is now tearing us apart, and we’ve got too many big things happening right now.”

Whatever happens, Genitti said it has to be driven by the downtown businesses, and not as an ultimatum by city officials.

City Council members at the groundbreaking.

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As a general rule, when symptoms occur related to cancer, it usually has progressed to stage three or four. Even with annual physicals, there are limitations. Most screenings only cover about 29% of cancers with 71%

occurring outside of where doctors are able to screen. However, full body MRI scans can detect cancer in every organ from the top of the head through the genitals and can detect it very early.

For a long time, full body MRI scans were available only in select areas outside of Michigan, requiring expensive flights like in Vancouver or California. However, this changed when a clinic opened in Southfield, making these scans available to Metro Detroit residents.

“Our advanced MRI screening can detect cancers very early when they are as small as a pencil eraser and are more easily treatable. If cancer goes undetected, however, it can grow into stage three or stage four with difficult treatments. We can

also identify conditions such as brain, abdominal, chest, and groin aneurysms,” stated the founder of the Southfield clinic called Bionicc Body Screening.

The primary focus of Bionicc Body Screening is to deliver peace of mind, offering a comprehensive and detailed imaging of the body’s internal structures. The ultimate hope is for excellent health. However, in the event that something is detected, the advanced screening aims to catch any potential issues at their earliest stages. This approach offers the best opportunity for successful treatment outcomes, should the need arise.

Robert B., age 50, opted for a full body scan from Bionicc Body Screening and a very small tumor

was detected. He said, “It saved my life. Their MRI found a kidney tumor that had been missed by a recent CT scan. I cannot recommend this service more.”

Take the first step to learn more about full body scans by visiting www.BioniccBodyScreening. com and request a free, no obligation Information Kit. Request it today and you’re also guaranteed a copy of their FREE eBook, Catching Cancer Before It’s Too Late! (This is a limited time offer.) Schedule today at 1-833-BIONICC

out & about out & about out & about

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S HAPPENING IN NORTHVILLE THIS MONTH

Memorial Day Parade

May 27

The annual parade is an observance to honor and mourn the US military personnel who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. and marches down Main Street to Wing Street, then West down Cady Street, briefly stopping at Oakwood Cemetery on West Cady Street. It then proceeds to Rural Hill Cemetery where there will be a memorial service starting at 11 a.m. There will be ice cream provided by Casterline Funeral Home and Guernsey Dairy at the corner of Dunlap and Center Street after the ceremony.

Scouts Anniversary Party

June 1

Calling all past Scouts, leaders, and families, Northville-based BSA Troop 777 is having a 25th Anniversary SEND IT IN To get your items listed in Out & About, email editor Kurt Kuban at kurtkuban@gmail.com.

Orin Rocks!

The annual Orin Rocks Block Party is back from 6-10 p.m. on May 25 in downtown Northville. The event organized by Orin Jewelers is free and open to the public. It will feature plenty of family-friendly entertainment. There will be live music performed by The Love Junkies, free face painting, photo opportunities, games, free balloon twists, fire performers, free kids’ art project, and more. Attendees will be able to enter to win a prize every hour.

gathering on June 1 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Northville Recreation Area in Hines Park. Activities will include games, Scouting events, a recognition ceremony and commemorative patches (free to everyone). Attendees can bring their favorite dish to share. Troop 777 offers a scouting experience to girls and boys ages 11-20. For more information about the celebration, visit www.troop777northville.org or send an email to troop777turns25@ gmail.com.

Who’s Your Bartender?

June

4

Join the Tawny K. Dahring Foundation and other local charities for a night of cocktails and fundraising at the “Who’s Your Bartender?” event from 5-10 p.m. at Lava Grill in Northville. Cheer on your favorite guest bartenders as they showcase their bartending capabilities while competing to win big for their charities. Every ticket purchased for the charity equals one vote. Buy extra votes for your favorite bartender/ charity -- every dollar via donation or “tip” equals one vote. Tickets are $10 in advance or $20 at the door. Some of the competing charities include KIDSgala, Dynami Foundation, The Kiefer Foundation, Glover’s Heroes and Operation Valhalla. The Tawny K. Dahring Foundation directly supports cancer research as well as individuals afflicted with the disease. For more information or to purchase tickets visit tkdfoundation-955488.square.site.

Edmund Fitzgerald Presentation

June 5

The Northville District Library will host the presentation “Edmund Fitzgerald: The stories, the song” from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Carlo Meeting Room. Hear the stories of the

Saturday Night

CONCERTS Kick Off June 1

The Northville DDA’s 2024 Music is Main & Center Concert Series lineup — sponsored by Dick Scott Automotive Group kicks off June 1. Concerts will be held Saturdays from 7-9 p.m. in Town Square through Sept. 28. The group Power Play Detroit will open the season on June 1. Other shows include:

• June 8: Rude Dogs (classic rock)

• June 15: 2XL (classic rock)

• June 22: Sound Station (classic rock)

• June 29: Premier Big Band (big band, swing)

• July 6: Theo Gridiron and Friends (hip-hop and soul)

• July 13: Geff Philips and Friends (pop, rock, soul and country)

• July 20: The Randy Brock Group Blues *Ward Church

• July 27: Atomic Radio (Top 40, pop, hip-hop and rock)

• August 10: Northville Folk (classic rock)

• August 17: Shelia Landis (jazz, blues and classic rock)

• August 24: Shawn Riley Band (classic rock and Celtic)

• August 31: Ava James (classic rock)

• September 7: Al’s Garage (classic rock)

• September 14: The Further Adventures of Fatboy & Jive Turkey (roots, blues, country and jazz)

• September 28: Zang (classic rock)

For more information, visit downtownnorthville.com.

crewmembers, their families and the ironies of a doomed ship in one of the worst storms in Great Lakes history. Learn how the hit song “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald” was written, recorded and performed by Gordon Lightfoot. Hear the mesmerizing song played live by Mike Fornes, who performs as Lightfoot live in concert. To register for the event, visit northvillelibrary.org or call the library at (248) 349-3020.

NHS Garage Sale

June 10-14

The 24th annual garage sale to benefit the Northville Historical Society and the Dr. Karl Stockhausen Medical Scholarship fund will be held June 10-14 from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. at 218 W. Dunlap Street. Drop off donations on Saturday, June 8 and help the cause. Some proceeds will help with the antique brick lane being installed this summer at Mill Race Village. For more information, contact Carole Jean at (248) 349- 2833.

Garden Party

June 22

The Northville Historical Society’s Second Annual Garden Party fundraiser will take place from 4-7 p.m. at Mill Race Village. You’ll be able to tour the historic buildings and beautiful gardens while enjoying hors d’oeuvres, wine, beer, and music. There will even be a silent auction. Tickets are $100 for NHS members and $110 for non members. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www.millracenorthville.org or call (248) 348 1845.

Mill Race Village Paving Way to the Future

By Sally Flayer

Anyone visiting Mill Race Village in recent weeks probably noticed more than 150 pallets of antique brick pavers stacked behind the buildings. There are 42,750 bricks which will be enough to pave the lane from the entrance gate through the cul-de-sac -- and refresh many of the buildings’ entry ways. This will provide relief to those who have had to dodge the mud puddles as they made their way through the Village, particularly those attending weddings in formal wear.

A longtime goal of the Northville Historical Society (NHS), the overall design of the Greening of Mill Race, the official name, will include a lane pervious to storm water run-off as well as rain gardens to filter the water. These, in addition to an underground drainage system, will improve the overall rainwater management of the grounds, ease the problem of standing water that has long plagued several areas of this natural flood plain, and enhance the environment and River Rouge ecosystem.

Kirt Holder, who oversees facilities at Mill Race, NHS board member Paul Hinz, NHS President Bill Stockhausen, and NHS member and civil engineer Don Webb have all been reviewing bids to install the red clay bricks, which are more than 100 years old. Once installed, they will create a beautiful Victorian-era lane to enhance Mill Race’s main passageway.

The bricks, procured separately, have already been delivered to the grounds. But to complete the job it will cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, according to the NHS, which operates the buildings and grounds at Mill Race Village year-round at no charge to the public. The nonprofit group receives no tax dollars from any source. Other than rentals for private events and donations, funding for maintenance and improvements comes from participation in NHS fundraising activities.

If you’d like to financially support Mill Race Village, please visit the NHS website at millracenorthville.org, and then click on the “Join/Donate” tab.

Help Sought for Local Family After Tragic Fire

By Wensdy Von Buskirk

AGoFundMe campaign for a local family that suffered a catastrophic fire needs help reaching its goal.

On April 23, an electrical fire ripped through the Portis family’s home, displacing high school sweethearts Marcia and Shannon and their six children.

“They lost their beloved home, and everything in it,” said Tamara Besco, a sixth-grade teacher for South Lyon Community Schools who organized the fundraiser. Besco said the money will help the family secure long-term rental housing in Northville.

Marcia Portis is an active volunteer in the Livonia and Northville schools where her children have attended.

“If there was a family that bleeds Northville it would be the Portis family,” Besco wrote in the GoFundMe. “There isn’t a moment she isn’t thinking about, talking about, or making it happen for our kids. Her children have been involved in every walk of life in both the Livonia and Northville communities for over 25 years.”

Besco met Portis when their daughters were in competitive cheer as young children and has known the family for 15 years.

Between all the activities of kids Gabrielle, Shane, Shannon, Shannah, Peyton, and Madden, the Portis family has been involved in Livonia and Northville pom as well as football and cheer for the Livonia Orioles and Northville Stallions, which daughters Shannah and Peyton have coached.

They’ve also been active with Northville Robotics, Northville Aceing Autism and Friendship Circle. Marcia has stepped up in the Livonia PTA and as chair of Northville’s 2024 senior spring break trip and the senior all-night party. Shannah was co-organizer of Northville’s first Black Lives Matter march, and the list goes on.

“So many amazing events, activities, and memories were made due to the hard work and dedication of Marcia and her family,” Besco said. “The family is a pillar of our community and it doesn’t surprise me at all that everyone has jumped in to help them rebuild their home.”

Donations have flooded in since the tragedy, topping $21,000 of its $25,000 goal at press time. Every little bit helps.

“We can’t replace their memories or the sentimental value of all they have lost, but we can come together to show them how much they mean to our community,” Besco writes. “Please keep them in your thoughts, prayers, and if you are able, please consider a donation.”

To donate, visit gofund.me/e4f26aca.

Don Webb (from left), Bill Stockhausen, Paul Hinz, and Kirt Holder go over plans for Mill Race.

The Portis family of Northville.

Bill Stockhausen, Paul Hinz, and Kirt Holder with some of the bricks for Mill Race.

M-14 Getting Major Overhaul

Multi-year MDOT project will be challenging to navigate

By Tim Smith

Déjà vu all over again is what many motorists, businesses and residents in Plymouth and Northville might soon be experiencing.

That’s because the Michigan Department of Transportation is now beginning a $139 million overhaul of M-14, the second time that busy freeway has been subject of a major construction project in recent years.

“The common complaint I hear is ‘Didn’t they just do M-14 a couple years ago?’” noted Plymouth Township Supervisor Kurt Heise. “And they did. The fixes were just not good enough.”

So for this time around, M-14 from Newburgh Road in Livonia (where the stretch of work actually begins on I-96 just east of I-275) to Sheldon Road in Plymouth Township will be completely rebuilt – with one side of the freeway remaining open to through traffic while work proceeds on the opposite side.

“They’re going to do one side first and then the other, but traffic will continue to go through,” Heise said. “This is not going to be a full closure. It’s going to take a few years to get done.”

Bridges which now carry traffic across M-14 on heavily traveled roads such as Haggerty, Schoolcraft and Northville also will be re-done during the project, expected to take approximately two-to-three years to complete. All told, repairs will be made to 17 bridges.

Plymouth Township hosted an M-DOT informational meeting on April 24, where interested citizens could get the

opportunity to view engineers’ drawings of various aspects of the project. Work officially began in May.

MDOT’s Diane Cross, in an e-mail, said the project “will take three years with bridge and shoulder work this year, and major construction of each direction during 2025 and 2026.”

In addition, work will take place at the Newburgh and Sheldon ramps, as well as at the I-275/I-96 interchange.

The construction, which comes on the heels of the major construction project of 1-275, which is now wrapping up, once again is certain to test the patience of many drivers.

And what lies ahead might fall into the “no pain, no gain” category.

“Just like 275 (construction) was a burden on Haggerty and Sheldon and Beck, I think this is going to create more traffic on Ann Arbor Road, and Five Mile, and basically your major east-west roads,” Heise said. “Those (roads) are going to see increased traffic because of people just avoiding the situation on M-14.”

Also factor in the additional traffic which normally would traverse bridges over M-14.

“When you’re talking about the Schoolcraft Road bridge, the Haggerty Road bridge, the Northville Road bridge, these are all heavily traveled right now,” Heise said. “When these bridges are out, that’s going to create a major traffic backlog because there are very few alternatives to these roads.”

Here’s the schedule for the M-14 bridge closures:

• Northville Road, May 10-June 13

• Robinwood (off Schoolcraft), June 14-Aug. 3

• Schoolcraft Road (at Wilcox), June 14-Aug. 3

• Haggerty Road, June 15-Aug. 3

Cross urged drivers to “plan ahead and possibly find alternate routes over the next three years” and also monitor www. Michigan.gov/drive “to see where there are construction delays. And we hope to have a website completed in the near future where drivers can see project details with ramp closures, etc.”

According to Heise, the M-14 construction will mean those who live and work near the freeway must figure out the best way to cope with the situation.

“If you look between 275 and Sheldon, the first exit off M-14 is Sheldon,” Heise outlined. “So it’s possible you could have operations like the businesses along Sheldon between M-14 and Five Mile, they might be impacted. But those are more local destinations, neighborhood destinations for people who live in Plymouth and Northville.”

Meanwhile, the M-14 project might provide different challenges for those who might live elsewhere in southeast Michigan.

“Saint John’s (Resort) might be impacted, that’s a possible concern,” Heise said. “Because that’s more of a regional destination, so it might be a challenge for folks to get to Saint John’s. But they’re very well-prepared to show folks how to get there.”

Heise would like more than just the freeway and bridges to be addressed during the extensive project.

“M-14 has some challenges because the topography there is very challenging,” Heise said. “You’ve got, at certain points, very steep slopes on both sides. It makes it very challenging in the winter, because you’ll have areas of the freeway that are wet.

“And you’ll have very icy patches along the way, too. That’s a challenge for drivers. Plus you still have a lot of underground water that seeps out and goes out into the freeway and creates icing conditions. … I’m hoping they’ll try to address some of that, too.”

This section of M-14 (looking west at I-275) is undergoing a major reconstruction. Photo by P.A. Rech

On the Road With

Spanish Delight

Northville Township residents Allen and Lisa Wang went for a nine-day trip to Spain in April this year. According to Allen, they visited the final resting place of Christopher Columbus in Seville and discovered that Spanish Baked Pig Ears were delicious. “The Spanish people are friendly and happy, and the Muslim (Moorish) influence in Spain is huge,” he said. Here they are pictured with The ‘Ville in Toledo, Spain on a rooftop terrace.

Dominican Republic’s Turquoise Waters

Northville’s Lourdes and Rabih Bazzi took along their copy of The ‘Ville during their recent Spring Break trip to the Dominican Republic. The goal of the trip, according to Lourdes, who is originally from the Dominican Republic, was to visit the southern part of the island, where the beaches are isolated and incredible. She said there are no hotels or resorts near the beaches of Bahía de las Aguilas. “To get to this beach there is a lot of off-road driving because the landscape to get to it is desertic. It is the bluest, most turquoise water I have ever seen. The sand is the softest and it is a very peaceful place,” she said.

Adventures In Peru

Northville High School’s reigning Homecoming Queen Lily Connors traveled to Peru over Spring Break with her sister Rose Connors (a NHS sophomore) and their mother Ann Connors. For Lily’s senior Spring Break, she wanted “to do something unconventional and asked for lots of adventure," according to Ann. So they settled on Peru, which featured plenty of activities including mountain biking (Lily is a member of the NHS mountain biking team) and a trip to the ancient Machu Picchu (where they are pictured with Lily holding the issue of The ‘Ville which she is featured on the cover). “She made sure to mountain bike in Peru and it ended up being a ride she will never forget with wild dogs chasing her and often times no path to follow,” he mom said.

A Grand Trip To Dubai

Back in March, a few members of Northville Newcomers & Neighbors, traveled to Dubai, UAE for a trip of a lifetime. While in Dubai, the group visited the BurjKhalifa, tallest made-made structure in the world, The Frame, the Palm Island, the Museum of the Future, the Gold Souk, the Dubai Mall (world's largest mall), the desert for the Safari Dunes Bashing, the Dubai Miracle Garden, and the Global Village, which is similar to Disney’s Epcot. From there, they visited the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, where there is a strict dress code that is enforced. Here the group is pictured at the Grand Mosque with their copy of The ’Ville From left are Denise McClellan, Mary Grace, Bevely Roberts, Dorisel Boggs, Kelly Hall and Corlyss Jenkins.

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

BULLETIN BOARD BULLETIN BOARD

Stroke Hero Award

Northville’s Rick Hoeg, who is a stroke survivor, was one of six people nationwide to receive a 2024 Stroke Hero Award from the American Stroke Association for their dedication in the fight against stroke.

Hoeg, who received the Voters’ Choice Hero Award, suffered a hemorrhagic stroke on Dec. 30, 2022. From there he tackled the hardest challenge of his life: recovery. While in rehab, Rick created a nine-part YouTube series on stroke education and prevention, often featuring his rehabilitation therapists. In his series, he taught stroke warning signs and shared his recovery journey, reaching over 100,000 viewers. Rick’s video series culminated in a $30,000 fundraiser benefiting the hospitals that saved his life.

To learn more about Hoeg’s story, visit www.stroke.org and search Voters Choice Hero.

Fellow Residents Celebrate 100th Birthdays

The residents and staff of Pomeroy Assisted Living & Memory Care of Northville got to throw a special celebration for two of the residents who celebrated 100th birthdays. Don Enos and Maureen Hornig both turned 100 this month. Pomeroy staff threw a party for them on May 20. It featured music, birthday treats and lots of stories.

Enos served in the U.S. Army Air Corps, and received a Purple Heart. After graduating from MSU, he had a long, successful career as an engineer. A devoted husband, he is the father of five children. He has many friends at Pomeroy, and enjoys music, watching sports, going for walks and spending time with family.

Horning, who was born in Ireland, moved to Detroit when she was young. She had a career in administration at DTE Energy. She still exercises and does other activities, including arranging flowers and playing in lively bingo games.

Little Victors!

A group of Northville High School students, who formed a club called Northville For Little Victors, participated in the 2024 VictorThon held April 6 at U-M’s Oosterbaan Field House. The club, founded in January 2023 by Rohit Maddali, Colton Thiel, Justin Minard and Noah Wild, has raised more than $1,400 for patients at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital. Here are the four pictured with U-M football coach Sherrone Moore and running back Donovan Edwards.

From Sunrise To Sunset

Kristine Dreyer, a para pro at Silver Springs Elementary, is serious about helping fund clean water wells for kids in Africa. How serious, you ask? Well, she is going to do a Longest Day Marathon on June 20 at Tom Holzer Ford Field. On the first day of summer, she is going to walk or run around the track from sunrise to sunset – more than 15 hours.

Dreyer is a member of Team World Vision (you may have seen them in their bright orange jerseys training along Hines Drive). The group raises money to pay for the wells to be built in Africa.

Dreyer, a marathon runner, hopes local businesses and residents will not only contribute to the cause, but come out and cheer her on as she attempts this feat of endurance. For more information on how you can contribute, contact Dreyer at dreyerkr@northvilleschools.org.

“My goal is to raise $10,000 and also raise awareness -- water is such a basic need we take for granted. Plus girls do not get an education if they are out every day walking four miles to get water, which isn’t even clean,” she said.

Worried silly fees will ruin the party? If you’re within $50 of your balance, that’s CloseEnuff ™. We won’t charge you unless you go over it.

Visit CFCU.org/CloseEnuff for

Invaluable Guides

A spotlight on the NHS counselors

Every high school student probably remembers meeting with a counselor for the first time. The nerves creep up as you sit in the office of a stranger adult whom you may only talk to once a year.

“When I first started high school, I was really nervous to go talk to my counselor,” Northville freshman Shria Amuthan recalls. Fortunately, she was only met with kindness and sincerity in that meeting.

As students navigate pivotal decisions in their high school journey, counselors serve as invaluable guides. They offer academic advising such as course selection and registration, help with college applications including creating college lists and writing recommendation letters, aid in career planning, provide social and emotional support, and if crises occur, they intervene and assist students through challenging times.

Despite being at NHS for less than one year, Amuthan has

of other students applying for colleges.

Beyond academic activities, counselors offer personal counseling as well.

already built a close connection with her counselor, Ms. Mearah Kemp. She appreciates that Kemp is very “adamant” when suggesting she take the classes that would benefit her the most.

When junior Ashley Reberg has questions about college not easily answered by a Google search, she goes to her counselor Ms. Emily Manoogian, who can tell her if there is a class that she could take to earn credits for hours worked at a part-time job or if out-of-state colleges could match in-state tuition. Reberg believes that talking about these not widely advertised opportunities has put her ahead

Junior Christopher Cowden transferred to NHS in his sophomore year. He initially reached out to his counselor, Ms. Kemp, for advice on dual enrollment, but then, earlier this year, when his younger brother had a second openheart surgery following a spinal surgery, the entire school administration team, including the counselors, were tremendously supportive, assisting his family in navigating a very difficult time. From medical issues to social issues, Cowden said “the counselors significantly improve student quality of life.”

In addition to the designated counselors by grade, the NHS counseling team also includes a

social emotional learning (SEL) counselor, a career counselor, social workers, and a school psychologist to promote a healthy and positive learning and growth environment.

Senior Janet Tian reflects on the close bond she has formed with the SEL counselor, Diana Seamus, who has always encouraged her to be her best

self: “As we progressed, I could … celebrate my successes with her.”

Although many students have benefited from a positive relationship with their counselors, some students we spoke to have had very limited interactions with their counselors. But Tian believes that her peers just do not realize “how easily accessible counseling services are at our school.”

With an enrollment size as large as 2,498 in the 2023-2024 school year and only eight counselors, it can be daunting for each counselor to manage 300 students. However, NHS counselors remain dedicated and efficient, and they truly enjoy watching students succeed.

Counselor Christina Marcantonio expresses her passion for working with students: “I love your age because you’re growing and you’re learning.” When one of Mr. Benjamin Corderro’s students, who has struggled for a long time, finally passed all of his classes, he exclaimed, “That’s more golden than any other reward.”

All the counselors want their students to succeed and are eager to lend them a hand. Students are welcome to book an appointment, stop by their counselor’s office, or visit the lunchtime drop-ins. Even if you do not need any help, your counselor will be happy to simply chat with you about your day. Remember, building connections with your counselor is an important part of high school.

Counselors Kate Schultz and Benjamin Cordero at lunch drop-ins. Photo by Keira Gallagher

Jenny Kresnak, the counseling administrative assistant, helps students in the counseling office. Photo by Brian Zhang

NHS Counselor Grace DeVore meets with sophomore Molly-Kate Coates. Photo by Keira Gallagher

EDITOR’S NOTE: High School Confidential is a collaborative effort by the Stringers Journalism Club made up of NHS students Brian Zhang, Adeline Snook, Diya Kannappan, Pranavi Oruganty, Sneha Hegde, Stella Maue, Marjolaine Encabo, Isabella Mach, Sneha Aradhya, Jiaxuan (Jackson) Gong, and Keira Gallagher, Ian Lee and Diane Zhao.

ACCELERATE YOUR JOURNEY

Summer enrollment is currently open, while fall enrollment opens May 29. Sign up for classes today at schoolcraft.edu Your Pride Awaits.

IDishin’ 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.

Mothers Are Our Sunshine

love a good catchy song that uses clever wording. Today’s country music has a plethora of wordsmithing. I never thought I’d be a fan. But I am. There must be a million country songs that have the word “Mama” in them. Thomas Rhett has a new one called “Mamaw’s House.” At Mamaw’s there’s a bible, a porch swing, a screen door, and a garden. “Maybe this crazy world would straighten up and slow on down…If every town had a Mamaw’s house.”

Ain’t it the truth?

Gabriel Taverner won the 8th grade essay contest for his school, St. Paul in downtown Northville. The topic was “My Michigan Hero”. The contest is sponsored by Farm Bureau Insurance with a grand prize of $1,000. English teacher Ms. Angelique Chopp thought his essay was worthy of moving on to the state competition. It’s not about winning or losing - it is the topic that earns Gabriel a gold star. He wrote about his grandmother, her faith and strength facing a tough diagnosis. She inspired him. I think his mom also inspired him… the interest in writing had to come from her – she is a published author.

automobiles from around the country and they have a judging crew that are 100% youth – mentored by some wellappointed adult automotive aficionados. They held the fundraising Founders Dinner in April at Cauley Ferrari. The evening honored Kristen and Ken Lingenfelter for their contributions to the automotive community. In attendance were automotive fans and families from Northville, Southeast Michigan and around the country.

But there were some of us who just went to support founders David Kibbey, Chase Ziegler, Drew Lehnert and Chief Judge Patrick Rizzo. Their claim: “Inspiring the Next Generation of Automotive Enthusiasts.” That night I went to the valet stand. There were Porsches, Audis, and Ferraris everywhere. One “lucky valet” got to retrieve MY Ford Escape. I guarantee – I gave the biggest tip.

Northville’s Avery Rentz was one of three top finalists in the running for Grand Valley State University’s Outstanding Intern for 2024. There were more than 80 nominations. Avery received her Master’s Degree in Health Administration this year. The GVSU intern program focuses on students receiving hands-on experience that will help them get their first job – with every intention to keep them in the state of Michigan. Way to go GVSU and way to go Avery… I hope your talents stick around to serve our community. Congratulations to my friend, Rocky from Rocky’s of Northville. He has retired! Yes, the rumors are true. He is passing the baton to Chef Joe and frontman David. The transition has been in the works for a while, and it has been somewhat seamless. Things may change a little, a splash of new mixed with the tried and true. Good luck Joe and David, you’ve got big shoes to fill. I

know you will keep the vibe alive. “Dishin’ with Denise” advice: don’t mess with the BREAD!

It’s a Monday night, the sun is shining there are children’s sporting events everywhere. I walk into Genitti’s and there are 100 Women Who Care, an incredible group of ladies. (Learn more at 100womenwhocarenorthville. weebly.com.) There are so many grassroots organizations that need help and so many women who are willing to share stories, asking for help. It is humbling. In May we heard from New Hope Center for Grief Support, St. Vincent de Paul and we chose to support The Pink Fund – all worthy organizations. This month marked the 6th year anniversary of the Northville chapter of 100 Women Who Care. Since then, the group has raised more than $415,000. Amazing! The next meeting is Monday, August 5 at Genitti’s (6:30 p.m.) Most of these women are mothers, all of them are daughters. My mom used to sing to me You are My Sunshine…she was mine, and ladies, so are you.

Northville Concours 2024 is organized by four high school students. They raise the funds to put it on. They bring in the best of the best vintage

Northville Concours 2024 promises to be one of the very best “things to do” this summer. It will be held July 12-14 at Mill Race Historical Village. So save the date. For information and tickets visit northvilleconcours. com.

Gabriel Taverner

Car enthusiasts and mother and daughter Wende (and Richard) Boerema and Suzanne (and Lawrence) Markey.

Members of 100 Women Who Care at Genitti's.

Avery Rentz

We offer the highest quality of therapy services for you and your family. Let us help you improve your relationships, relieve anxiety, set life goals and achieve them! Whatever it is you have in mind for your mental health, we can help. Get the life you have always wanted!

Don’t just live,

Reema Beri, PhD Clinical Psychologist

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