October 2020 | Vol.3 | Issue 10
Northville’s News and Lifestyle Magazine
Autumn Comes To Maybury
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LOCAL Matters!
Please send checks, cash or lucky charms to: Journeyman Publishing 16435 Franklin Northville, MI 48168 Thank you!
Volume 3 Issue 10 OCTOBER 2020 16435 Franklin, Northville, MI 48168 • 734.716.0783 • TheVilleMagazine@gmail.com
Kurt Kuban – Editor/Publisher
Kurt Kuban is an award-winning journalist, having served as a reporter and editor for several local newspapers and magazines, including The Northville Record, over the course of a career spanning more than two decades. Kurt lives in Northville with his wife, Cheryl, and their three children, who all attend Northville Public Schools.
Craig Wheeler – Creative Director
Craig has been in the creative industry for over 25 years. He has developed a diverse background in that time, but publication design has been his passion during the past 16 years. Craig enjoys cycling, running, wine tasting, his beloved Boston Terrier and an unhealthy addiction to movies.
Michele Fecht – Writer
Michele Fecht is a longtime journalist whose first post-college reporter position was at The Northville Record before moving on to The Detroit News. A 30-plus year resident of the City of Northville and historic (old) house owner, she is an author, researcher, local history enthusiast, and community activist/advocate.
Brad Emons - Writer
Publisher Here is a list of people who contributed to local journalism last month. We appreciate your support! Tom & Gerry Payne Pat Allen Russ & Bernice Schiller Edward & Christie Bronson Nicholas & Janice Sharkey Liz Clancy Diane Thompson Debra Johnson Luis Mejia
Over the course of his four decades with the Observer & Eccentric Newspapers, Brad established himself as one of the preeminent prep sports reporters in the state, winning many journalism awards along the way. His greatest joy is interviewing local athletes and coaches, and reporting on their efforts.
Wensdy Von Buskirk – Writer
Wensdy graduated with a degree in journalism from Wayne State University. Her first job was working as a reporter for The Northville Record. Now, as a freelance writer and editor, she works for a variety of magazines, and is excited to get back to her roots in The ‘Ville. -Photo by Kathleen Voss
Lonnie Huhman - Writer
Lonnie graduated from EMU with a degree in creative writing. He is a longtime newspaper reporter, including two stints with The Northville Record. He is now a freelance reporter for a number of publications, including The Sun Times News in Dexter, where he lives with his wife and two young children. He is glad to be back covering the Northville community.
BRYAN MITCHELL - Photographer
Bryan started working as a photographer more than 30 years ago, and was the Northville Record photographer in the 90's. He has freelanced for The Detroit News, The Guardian, Reuters, and other publications. His photography has appeared in newspapers and magazines around the globe. The Northville resident also coaches mountain biking at Northville High School.
Bill Bresler - Photographer
Bill lied his way onto his high school's yearbook staff in 1971 and has worked as a photographer ever since. He recently retired after 39 years with Hometown Life, a newspaper group that includes the Northville Record. He's won many journalism awards for his work, and taught photography at Madonna University. According to Bill's wife, he's too young to retire, so he's happy to be part of The 'Ville.
The ‘Ville is a product of Journeyman Publishing, which assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information. Any form of reproduction of any content in this publication without the written permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited. Comments are welcome at thevillemagazine@gmail.com.
A View From The ‘Ville
Community Comes Through In Hit And Run Arrest O
riginally, my intent was to use this space to let you know about all the great election information we’ve packed into this issue, including stories about the ramped up race for the Northville Township Board of Trustees and profiles of the nine candidates running for the Northville School Board. (I realize many of you may have already voted, but if you haven’t please give this issue a good read.) Just before we went to press, however, we learned of an arrest in connection to the Sept. 3 hit and run accident that killed 20-year-old Northville resident Dominic Duhn. I thought it was really important to include something in this issue, considering last month I asked you to rally around the Duhn family. I’m happy to report the community did just that. Township officials received dozens of tips that ultimately
Back to Class
8
led police to arrest 19-year-old, Gustavo Godinez Jr. (right) of Westland, who was charged Oct. 9 with Failure to Stop at the Scene of an At-Fault Accident Resulting in Serious Impairment or Death, a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison. The big break in the case came after the family announced it was working with the organization Crime Stoppers of Michigan to provide a $15,000 reward for any tips that led to an arrest. It took about a day before the tip came in that led police to Godinez’s home where a search warrant was conducted. He was ultimately arrested on M-14. The Northville Township Police Department deserves a pat on the back for their work on this case. Detectives and
Scare Up Halloween Spirit
12
investigators spent more than a thousand man hours on the case, doing everything from contacting businesses along the I-96/M-14/US-23 corridor (from Outer Drive in Detroit to US-23 and Michigan Avenue in Pittsfield Township) to helping the Duhn family with media interviews and appearances. They also followed up on every one of the 35 tips that came in
A memorial on Sheldon Road at the site of the accident.
The Dean of Coaches
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ON THE COVER: Maybury State Park is one of the best places around to take in the fall colors, especially for photographers looking to capture the autumn gold. Photo by Bryan Mitchell.
from the public. Township officials tell me they are so thankful for all the help they received from the community, which really made the difference in this case just when it seemed we may have never found out who was behind the wheel in the tragic fatal accident. It’s important to note Godinez is presumed innocent until proven guilty of the charges. His next court date is Oct. 23 at 35th District Court in Plymouth. But officers feel confident they have the right man. The arrest, I’m sure, brings some solace to the Duhn family. But it doesn’t bring back Dom. So they will still need our community to lean on as this case makes its way through the courts -- and long after. Kurt Kuban is the Publisher and Editor of The ‘Ville. He welcomes your comments at kurtkuban@thevillemagazine. com.
Your Voice: Letters to the Editor 4 Round 2: Nix vs. Abbo 14 Fall color photography tips to use at Maybury 30 Past Tense: Historic home standouts 34 Historic District study moves toward adoption 36 Sale of park land a topic in commission race 42 Your guide to the school board candidates 46 Hillside addition almost ready for students 50 Non-profits struggle to stay afloat 52 Sisterhood of the Traveling Wine uncorked 56
Your Voice Application is not ballot
Wow - are people ever confused on the subject of absentee ballots and mail in voting. Several people in the last issue wrote in to say that mail in ballots are “mass mailed” (in the words of one contributor) or “blind mailed” (in the words of another) to people in the state. It is the application for an absentee ballot that is being mailed out by state officials. The application is then checked to assure that the applicant is a registered voter and a ballot with a bar code and a return envelope requiring the voter’s signature is mailed to the voter. There is no mass mailing of ballots taking place. I received an application for an absentee ballot in the mail, not a ballot. However, I chose to go to my local clerk’s office where I filled out the application for a ballot, had my ID checked, received a ballot, and voted early all in one trip. Jacqueline Gauvin
Dedicated public servant
As president of Northville Soccer for the last 22 years, I’ve known and worked with Mark Abbo during his 20 years involvement in Northville Township government. I found him to be a dedicated public servant, thoughtful to our needs, and committed to making our community a better place to live, work and play. Mark and the late Marv Gans has a proven record of fighting for our Parks and Rec programs and putting Northville families first. Mark is committed to re-establishing the soccer fields that were destroyed during the new construction project four years ago. I will be voting for Mark Abbo and would recommend you do so as well. Steve McGuirk
Stop party voting
I agree party shouldn’t matter. I feel because cross voting wasn’t available on the township’s Primary Election ballots and so many were uncounted, it’s great that Marjorie Banner is running as a write-in candidate. She has worked very hard for this township and deserves the position as clerk. I have never seen her opponent at any of the many meetings held to stop the dump. Marjorie has attended most, if not all. We need the experience and loyalty that Marjorie brings to this township. Please take time to write Marjorie Banner and fill that circle in for township clerk. I would like to see this party voting stopped. Virginia Miller
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Limit ‘bigfoot’ homes
We absolutely agree with the Northville City Council’s effort to limit “Bigfoot” housing. We need affordable, modest size homes for our young families. Carol & Dairell Abbott
McMansion mentality
I cheer the City Council’s passing of the FAR amendment to the zoning ordinance. It is so very necessary in the face of today’s McMansion mentality. Tom Young
Write in Nix
I do not know if anyone else noticed how bad Bob Nix’s signs were, but Mr. Abbo’s were much better and as shocking as this may be to some readers of The ‘Ville many voters, especially those new to Northville Township, vote in those who have the best signs. They had no idea that Mr. Abbo was our township supervisor during the early 2000s and while very knowledgeable about finance, he was very poor about dealing with the rest of the citizens of the township. Let’s just say he felt he did not owe anything to friends and neighbors who put him in office. I am specifically speaking of the water problems that many had. Most of us living in Northville Commons had to take care of the problem ourselves and at great expense I might add. Hopefully Mr.Nix will get some professional help regarding his signs, and I will be able to insert his name on my ballot. Joann E. Dayton
Spread the word
It is critical for Northville Township residents to vote to re-elect Bob Nix. Just remember to write in the name “Robert Nix” and fill in the circle. Bob lost only by a few votes in the primary due to a negative campaign and I can tell you that he has done an outstanding job. The township will truly suffer if he loses to his opponent. Let’s spread the word. Patti Mullen
For ‘good government’
For the last eight years, Bob Nix has labored for this community we love, cleaning up Mark Abbo’s mistakes. Nix has worked on $7-8 million dollars of remediation and clean up at the state hospital site and brought in business to relieve tax increases. He has worked tirelessly in Lansing on legislation to protect clean air around the Arbor Hills Landfill and maintain clean water throughout Johnson Creek. He worked with the City of Northville on a $900K grant for the Fish Hatchery Park renovation, along with spearheading joint dispatch and lockup for the community. He has partnered and helped lead shared service efforts at our community center, the Parks & Rec activities and at our library. We, as a community of both the city and township, are for the first time in decades working together. Bob Nix is for good government -- not politically based, but community based. Write in Bob Nix for Supervisor for the benefit of all Northvillians. Dave Gutman
Another chance
Like many of us, our whole family missed supporting Bob Nix in the August primary for township supervisor. I drove by a closed Moraine Elementary three times that day not knowing if I should head to the high school. I had read the strong support this magazine as well as other media had provided Bob. I was also aware of his accomplishments, especially compared to his challenger. I, like many I fear, rationalized that our three votes would not matter. The good news is that we have another chance to vote for Bob. Despite the primary snafu, we can still vote to keep Bob in office. I encourage you to support our hometown guy by writing his name “Robert Nix” in the “write in” slot and shading in the oval. Jennie Patterson
The right temperament
A record of success
Bob Nix’s record as Northville Township Supervisor has been, by any measure, a great success, which should prompt all voters to write-in Bob Nix for Supervisor. Bob’s leadership in overseeing the removal of the Scott Correctional facility and the psychiatric hospital buildings, and importantly, their replacement with a balance of commercial and residential development combined with parks, biking and walking trails, has been an undeniable benefit to our community. We should trust Bob Nix to continue this type of thoughtful, fiscally-sound development for another four years. Additionally, the outstanding services we all enjoy in the township are not by accident. They are the result of great leadership. And that leadership, for the past eight years, has been by Bob Nix. Larry Jensen
Influential commissioner I overwhelmingly support Terry Marecki as she runs for her fourth term as our Wayne County commissioner. Commissioner Marecki is the appointed Chair of the Committee on Public Services and, as a result, has been heavily involved with the improvements at 6 Mile and Beck, including the desperately needed turn light, 5 Mile and Beck, and the refurbishing of Sheldon Road between 6 Mile and 7 Mile. Northville needs to have an influential commissioner back on the Wayne County Commission. Vote Terry Marecki. Julie Ann Van Ameyde Northville Township
Cyndy Jankowski has dedicated nine-plus years to serving this community on our school board. She has held every position possible on the board of education, from treasurer to president, multiple times. I personally worked with her for seven of those years. There is not a better person to serve our community. I can tell you from firsthand experience nobody will work harder to find solutions and come to decisions that best fit the overall community’s needs. The township needs individuals who don’t play politics and give lip service to constituents. We need people who will simply do what is right for the community. Cyndy is one of those who deserve your vote. Vote Cyndy Jankowski for township trustee. You won’t regret it. Jim Mazurek
Aslam brings fresh ideas
M. Aslam, a successful small business owner, comes with a passion for change in the community. In his travels through the township, he knows what it needs, and he’s ready to roll up his sleeves to help make those things happen. I have listened to him on the trail; he is passionate about helping to keep Northville Township the most progressive and diverse community in Michigan. Aslam understands that, like every mid-size community, Northville Township has its challenges. He wants to bring some fresh thinking and fresh ideas to help resolve those challenges. He advocates transparency in township government, and supports a strong relationship between the township and Wayne County. He will advocate for needed green space in the community. He will oppose the expansion of the local dumping ground that envelops the community with perpetual foul odor and will push for an expedited solution for the abandoned Northville Psychiatric Hospital. Aslam will use his business expertise to help maintain the quality of life, education, safety, and more needed green space solution in the township. A proud parent of four, he is fresh blood with fresh ideas who is ready to work to keep Northville Township a beautiful place to live. I urge you to vote for him on November 3. Sam Ekong
Courageous and compassionate
With proud enthusiasm, I support Tanya Lundberg for Northville Township Trustee. Tanya is a trained lawyer and dedicated leader in our community. I’ve been fortunate to work closely with Tanya for many years in the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan and the Women’s Bar Association. These organizations are dedicated to securing the rights of women in society, promoting improvements in the administration of justice, and promoting equality and social justice for all people. During her presidency of the Women’s Bar Association, Tanya demonstrated courageous and compassionate leadership of our organization in furthering these causes. I’m confident that Tanya will carry over this same dedicated leadership as township trustee. Northville is lucky to have an advocate like Tanya. I strongly encourage your consideration of Tanya Lundberg for Northville Township Trustee. Erin Klug
Supporting the library
Community Financial Credit Union has, once again, come to the aid of the Northville District Library. The Friends of the Library requested funds to purchase Specialized STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education kits that would be available through checkout. The kits give kids an opportunity to learn by doing and playing, and to foster interest in STEM, which enhances problem solving skills, nurtures preparedness for upcoming technical innovations, and promotes understanding of concepts. Community Financial acknowledged this as a valuable resource for the children in our area and awarded a $1,000 grant to fund this acquisition. The Friends of the Northville District Library are grateful for their recognition of the library’s important role in our community and for their continual generosity. Chris Litka Northville District Library
Dedicated to her members
I would like to acknowledge Jody Humphries, director of the Northville Chamber of Commerce, for her diligence in providing members with information about the various loans and grants available to businesses during this pandemic. She not only supplied valuable information, but she also answered questions, made suggestions, and did follow up for me, all in a thoroughly professional and timely manner. Jody sensed my frustration and sometimes confusion, and responded accordingly. Kudos! Thanks to Jody and her team during these challenging times. Elizabeth Clancy Elizabeth’s Bridal Manor
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The ‘Ville 5
Your Voice
SCHOOL BOARD SUPPORT
As a former Northville Board of Education member (2014-2018) and board officer, I wholeheartedly support the board candidacy of incumbent Sarah Prescott and former board member and board President Jim Mazurek. I had the privilege of serving with Sarah and Jim during my tenure and know firsthand that they are both dedicated, hardworking and pragmatic educational advocates who put children, teachers, and our community at the forefront of their deliberations. Sarah and Jim are parents of Northville students (past and present), critical thinkers who derive insight from data and listen to the community, and effectively steward the district’s precious (and inadequate) financial resources. The Northville School Board’s historical strength is that it has been a nonpartisan body. Let’s keep it that way. You can count on both Sarah and Jim to represent our community with integrity and help make the best decisions for our children, particularly during these challenging times. Ann Kalass I am asking for your support of Jim Mazurek and Sarah Prescott for the Board of Education of Northville Public Schools. As the senior most member of the current Board of Education, I have had the honor and privilege to serve with both of these experienced candidates. Both Jim and Sarah have the financial acumen to counteract future COVID-related hits to the budget and implement cost saving measures when necessary. Both have personal
knowledge of the ideology that shapes the district’s goals and how those goals are implemented through policy and procedures to sustain and expand academic opportunities for all learner levels. Both are true advocates for student success and will continue their efforts to dialogue with our students and community to give all stakeholders a voice in the future vision of our district. Cyndy Jankowski I am proud to support Lindsey Wilson for Northville School Board. Not only is Lindsey a former federal prosecutor and trial attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice, but he is also a biologist and a chemist. Lindsey is trained to absorb the complex facts and advocate for what is right. He is compassionate about student mental health and happiness and will stand up for those kids who have fallen through the cracks, especially now and beyond COVID. Northville needs a fresh, forward thinking leader who has firsthand knowledge of the issues our kids face. Lindsey checks all the boxes as he has children at Amerman, Hillside and Northville High School. He is level-headed, intelligent and decisive -- the perfect traits to be an outstanding advocate for our children and teachers. Marty Testasecca Lisa McIntyre is a passionate leader who would make an excellent member of the Northville School Board. With a BA from Kalamazoo College, NPS district experience providing individualized education needs, volunteer experience with the
SOUND OFF 6 The ‘Ville
Ridge Wood PTA, and 30 years of experience as a mental health professional, she is uniquely qualified. As a mother of three NPS children, she has a vested interest in the district’s success. She believes we need to deliver education safely and equally, while being mindful of student wellness, especially with early learners. She also sees opportunity for an evolving STEM curriculum, and improving collaboration for all stakeholders in the educational process. The district would benefit greatly from her presence on the board because of her passion, and she will work tirelessly if elected. Jim Guerrera I am proud to support Lisa McIntyre for the Northville Board of Education. Lisa’s dedication to the community is well-documented by her executive leadership, including as current president of the Ridge Wood PTA. She has faced and addressed issues regarding wellness and financial challenges in these roles. Lisa will advocate fairly and passionately for all students, teachers and administrators no matter the issue. I have known her for more than seven years, and I have found her to approach all situations with compassion and integrity. I have no doubt that Lisa will bring these attributes to the Board. Tara Slone
Deal with the problems Today we have: 1. A disease with no current cure, leaving 200,000+ Americans dead. These deaths continue. 2. A major economic recession caused directly by this disease, with 13+ million Americans receiving unemployment assistance. This recession continues. 3. Massive numbers of Americans marching to change our society’s status quo. These marches continue. The group in power: 1. Has no serious response to the disease. First denial, then deflection, then inaction while adopting a “hope it goes away” approach. 2. Applied only “band aids” in a failed attempt to fix the recession independent of the disease. Only when the core disease is beaten can we truly repair our economy. 3. Is silent, ignoring millions of concerned American voices. Frustration will grow until this silence is replaced with a legitimate conversation with those voices. Based strictly on these three problems, does the current administration deserve the privilege of leading us for another four years? Bob Santer
Thank you
Thank you for publishing a beautiful and professional magazine each month, highlighting events and issues in Northville. We enjoy reading the articles that keep us informed about our local community. Christie Bronson
Please submit your letters by emailing Editor Kurt Kuban at kurtkuban@gmail.com. Letters must be 150 words or less. We reserve the right to edit all letters.
Back to Class
Northville Schools open for in-person learning, see a drop in students Story by Michele Fecht | Photos by Bill Bresler
F
or the past few weeks, Northville drivers have been sharing streets with one of the ubiquitous symbols of autumn — the yellow school bus. And after six months of COVID-19 lockdowns, it is a welcome sight. After a full virtual start for all grade levels in September,
Northville Public Schools began opening their doors to in-person learners starting with Cooke students on September 8. Approximately 56 percent of students at the special education program center have returned for in-person instruction with 44 percent of Cooke families opting for
Ready for the day to begin at Ridge Wood Elementary (above) and Meads Mill Middle School (right).
8 The ‘Ville
continued virtual learning. On September 21, kindergarten families choosing in-person instruction visited classrooms in the district’s elementary schools in lieu of the traditional “round up.” Kindergartners had their first official day of in-person learning on September 22 with first and second graders returning to classrooms during the week of September 28. All remaining grades — 3 thru 12 — returned to classrooms on October 5. According to Superintendent Mary Kay Gallagher, approximately 64.4 percent of K-12 students have returned to classrooms for in-person learning with 35.6
Students arrive on the bus at Ridge Wood (top). Jay Gingell and daughter Nelly wait for the doors to open at Ridge Wood. Nelly is in kindergarten.
continuing with at-home virtual instruction. Middle and high school instruction is a hybrid with students attending on alternating days to provide for more social distancing. “There’s been a real sense of joy in having kids back in classrooms,” Gallagher noted, adding that students and staff are adjusting to new safety protocols including mask wearing, hand sanitizing, social distancing and not sharing classroom materials. It’s a process. The percentage of students returning to classrooms for in-person learning increased by grade level as follows: Elementary: 60% inperson / 40%
Meads Mill Middle School Principal Brad O’Neill (top) works the bus dropoff area. Hand sanitizer stations are in use at Ridge Wood Elementry (above).
virtual; Middle School: 65% in-person / 35% virtual and High School: 69% in-person / 31% virtual. Northville families had the option of choosing virtual or in-person instruction for the 2020-21 school year. The district stated that changes in learning models — virtual or in-person — could not be made until the semester’s end. Rebecca Pek, Director of Personnel Development & Quality Assurance, noted that last-minute requests for changes at the start of the school year posed a challenge for the district as class numbers and staffing were established based not only on the best learning environment but also safety. “Obviously, with in-person learning we have to mitigate classroom size contacts,” she stated. The district’s enrollment this school year has decreased about 4 percent — or 290 students — compared to last year’s
enrollment of 7,382 students. Gallagher said the district is still looking at reasons for the enrollment dip but noted that in prior years, there has been an increase of families moving out of state but not as many incoming. It does not mean that the district may not see an uptick in student enrollment mid-year. Other reasons are families opting to homeschool students during COVID or enrolling students in private and/or parochial schools with other learning plans. Caarin Kogut, a mother of four boys, opted to enroll her youngest two sons — six-yearold twins — at St. Paul Lutheran Church School in Northville before the public schools announced they would return to in-person learning. Her two older sons attend Amerman and Hillside. Kogut said when schools went to virtual learning in March, her then-kindergarten twins “really struggled” with online learning. “The older boys did fine but the younger ones were really fighting it,” she said. “It was hard to keep them motivated.” As the school year approached and the district was still putting together a learning model, Kogut said she and her husband worried that their youngest “could not sustain online all day” so they opted to enroll them at St. Paul. Now that the public schools have opened for in-person learning, Kogut said she probably would not have made
the switch. She said the first graders are doing fine at their new school but logistics are more challenging. “I now have three different schools, three different start times, three different pick-ups,” she noted. “We’re still in the process of figuring it out.” Because per-pupil state aid is based on student enrollment counts tallied twice each year in October and February, districts are faced with the unique challenge of counting students both in-person and virtually. To prevent districts from being penalized due to enrollment declines brought about by COVID-related changes in learning plans, the state is using a “super blend” formula that weighs 75 percent of last year’s attendance with 25 percent of this year’s attendance. “The state is recognizing that the pandemic is impeding school enrollment,” Gallagher said. “It will take a number of weeks to certify the count. Then we’ll know where we stand.” Both Gallagher and Pek credit the staff with their creativity in carefully balancing PPE support without sacrificing learning in what is one of the district’s most challenging years. “Our staff has
really done a phenomenal job,” Pek said. The district also is committed to transparency in reporting COVID-19 cases through its online report found on the district’s website. Most cases thus far have been among high school students. “Our cases are being traced back to gatherings outside of school,” Gallagher noted. “If we are going to keep students in school, we need community-wide messaging to curb the gatherings.” There are challenges every school year, but this year has put school districts to the test.
Mohammad Bazzi and daughter Isabella Bazzi, a first grader, wait to enter Ridge Wood Elementary (top). Meads Mill students gather before the school doors open.
The ‘Ville 9
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Scare Up Some
Halloween Spirit By Wensdy Von Buskirk
A
ny place can be haunted, according to Ken Suminski, owner and founder of the Portal Paranormal Society, the group leading a ghost hunt in the Northville District Library this month. “Every structure has the potential to have spirits in it,” he says. “It depends on the age of the building and how many people have gone through it, what may or may not have transpired within. It could even be the land, something might have happened there before it was even built.” Are there spirits at NDL? Suminski aims to find out during a Virtual Haunted LockIn, scheuled 6:30-9 p.m. Oct.16, which teens can grab some snacks and tune in via Zoom as the Portal crew searches out the supernatural at the library in real time, using a variety of techniques. “As with every investigation, we use a mixture of very
12 The ‘Ville
modern, electronic digital based equipment, as well as some more antiquated methods,” Suminski says. “We use all the latest gear you see on the ghost hunting shows, but also old school things like dowsing rods. Those seem to be a good tool to use with a lot of spirits.” Portal Paranormal Society does investigations throughout the year, but Halloween is a particularly busy time for the agency, which is based in Brighton with satellite locations in Ohio and Indiana. Suminski said it will help to have extra eyes on the scene as they search for spirits at NDL. “We’ll run different experiments and see if we can get some action going,” he said. “If we’re in a particular part of the library and a book flies off the shelf they can tell us, and we can go look while it’s still active.” Registration is open now for the Teen Virtual Lock-In, and it’s just one of many Halloween
Three Cedars Farm
Halloween Happenings in the Ville
happenings this month in The ’Ville.
SKELETONS ARE ALIVE! Downtown Northville Once again, Northville’s famous skeleton crew is making mayhem in the streets. This year, downtown roads are closed as part of Northville’s Social District effort, making it even easier to check them out up close. Grab an adult beverage to-go from a participating restaurant, and stroll through the boneyard, with 120 life-size sculptures in all manner of fun vignettes sponsored by local businesses, nonprofits and families. While you’re at
it, stop in Northville’s eateries and shops and see what they’ve scared up for the season. MAYBURY FARM Corn Maze 5-9 p.m. Fridays; 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturdays; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sundays through Oct. 25 This Maybury tradition is the perfect way to visit the farm and enjoy the beauty of fall. Wagon rides leave every 30 minutes for the corn mazes. Choose the full 10-acre maze (about 60 minutes long) or the mini-maze (about 20 minutes). Afterward, opt to purchase Parmenter’s cider and donuts from the general store. The barn is open for animal viewing until 7 p.m. for an additional fee. The wagon ride and maze are $10 per person (kids under 2 are free). Spooktacular 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 31 Celebrate Halloween at Maybury Farm’s first Spooktacular fundraiser.
Festivities include farm animals (some in costumes), a Halloween craft, a candy trail, bonfire, family-friendly games and a photo booth. Parmenter’s cider and donuts are available for purchase. Costumes are encouraged. Tickets, $9, must be purchased in advance. Kids under 2 are free.
PARMENTER’S CIDER MILL Cider and Donuts To Go This year things may look a little different at Parmenter’s but they taste the same — delicious. The cider mill has gone completely drive through due to COVID. Place your order, wear a mask and stay in your car. The donut squad will deliver goodies right to your window. Order online at northvillecider.com or through the Clover App (search Northville Cider Mill). For more information, visit www. northvillecider.com. THREE CEDARS FARM It’s a fall fiesta at this Northville institution, which offers U-Pick pumpkins, hay rides, train rides and a 7-acre corn maze in addition to cold cider and fresh donuts. Barn and bonfire rental packages are also available for safe, sociallydistanced gatherings. Visit https://threecedarsfarm.org for more information.
signs around the library to read a skeleton-themed story page by page. For more information, visit https://northvillelibrary. org.
FARMERS MARKET 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursdays through Oct. 29, Corner of Seven Mile Road & S. Center Street Home is where the haunting’s at this year, so do it up with decorations from the Northville Farmers Market. Among vendors selling fall produce and plants is Mark Prielipp Farms Greenhouse, a staple at the market for more than 40 years. Through October, the greenhouse will offer cornstalks, hearty mums, asters, straw bales, gourds and ornamental cabbage and kale, along with Jack O’ Lantern pumpkins, pie pumpkins and heirloom pumpkins in various sizes and colors. “We’ve got tons of pumpkins,” said Sydne McMullen, operations manager for the greenhouse. Look for a bounty of seasonal produce as well, including tomatoes, cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, zucchini and peppers. “There’s really something special about this time of year,” says McMullen. “We’re seeing all the work from the spring and summer and sharing that harvest with our customers.” NORTHVILLE DISTRICT LIBRARY BookWalk Through Oct. 31 All month long, get ’dem bones down to the library for a free, interactive outdoor reading adventure. Follow the
Kids Craft Through Oct. 31 While supplies last, pick up a free kids craft at the library — a real tiny pumpkin with a face decorating kit.
Pet Costume Contest Dress your furry friends in some Halloween finery and snap a pic. Send it to svanvlerah@northvillelibrary. org or post it to Northville District Library’s Facebook page. Winners will receive a gift card and have their photo displayed in the library during the week of Halloween. Spooky Storytime 7 p.m. Oct. 27 (virtual) Join local author T.M. Doran as he reads his new, original story “The Dead End House,” illustrated by Plymouth Artist Elaine Attridge. Doran says it starts out like a traditional haunted tale, but takes many twists and turns along the way. “As the main character, Jake, moves through the story things began to change pretty radically from what he first expected when he walked into the house,” Doran says. The novelist was inspired to write the short story for his own three children and seven
grandchildren, as trick-ortreating may be curtailed. He is delighted to bring “The Dead End House” to a wider audience through the library event. “Chiefly I wanted to do something that would delight young people this Halloween,” he said. “If it does that, I will consider it mission accomplished.” The story is suitable for ages 11 and up. Register now. For more information, visit northvillelibrary.org. Teen Scary Stories 8-9 p.m. Oct. 27 (virtual) It’s a night of scary stories and microwave s’mores around the virtual campfire. Pick up supplies at NDL, dim the lights, and gather ’round with a scary story to tell — or just listen. Registration is open now by visiting northvillelibrary.org.
Terry Lynch
Haunted History for Adults 7-8 p.m. Oct. 29 (virtual) Sit back and hear chilling tales of famous Midwest hauntings brought to life by Terry Lynch of HFK Presents. Learn about the ghosts of the S.S. Eastland, Brookfield Zoo, John Dillinger and the Fort Dearborn Massacre — if you dare. Registration is open now by visiting northvillelibrary.org.
The ‘Ville 13
T
he race for supervisor, clerk and treasurer of Northville Township seemed all but wrapped up at the conclusion of a highly contested August Primary election. Or so most voters thought. It turns out the drama was just getting started. In that partisan election, the Republican incumbents for all three offices were defeated by Republican challengers – by very narrow margins. Current Supervisor Robert Nix lost to Mark Abbo, who served previously as supervisor, by 39 votes, while Clerk Marjorie Banner fell to Roger Lundberg by 34 votes and Treasurer Fred Shadko lost to Jason Rhines by 284 votes. Since there were no Democrats running for any of the seats, Abbo, Lundberg and Rhines – who all ran as a slate -- are the only names on general election ballot. Not so fast say Nix, Banner and Shadko. All three filed to run as write-in candidates, meaning voters can still support them, they just have to mark the write-in oval and physically write their names on the ballot. Nix said he was reluctant to run the write-in campaign, but a couple things changed his mind. First, he says he was approached by many residents angry about the amount of disinformation and negative campaigning by Abbo and his team. “What I discovered after speaking to these groups is that because of the covert disinformation campaign launched by Abbo our citizens felt they and their neighbors had been misled,” Nix said. “It is because of them I am running.” The second factor in his decision was a memo Abbo’s team delivered to Todd
14 The ‘Ville
Round
2
Township election not over as incumbents file as write-ins By Lonnie Huhman Mutchler, the current township manager. In the memo, delivered by Abbo’s “transition team manager” John Werth (the township’s former Public Safety Director), Abbo requested lots of documents, including current labor contracts, a detailed review of all departments, and a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats)
analysis. They also wanted all employees made available to interview with Abbo and Werth. The memo also included a flow chart listing Abbo on top, with Werth below him, and then departments or categories headed by the following: • Economic Development: Julie Garavaglia, wife of Abbo supporter Michael
Along with Jason Rhines and Roger Lundberg, we’re making the same case that resonated with the voters in the primary. We remain committed to our campaign promises of eliminating the 1 percent administrative fee on collecting taxes, fully funding and supporting public safety, working to eliminate the odor coming from the Arbor Hills landfill, and implementing the 7 Mile Master Parks Plan adopted by the citizens advisory committee.
Mark Abbo
Garavaglia, who is the former chairman of the Wayne County Airport Authority • Legal: Mike Cox, former Michigan Attorney General • Public Safety: John Werth, retired Northville Township Public Safety Director • Parks and Recreation: Steve McGuirk, the president of the Northville Soccer Association, who just lost in his bid for township trustee in the Primary election • Senior Services: Kevin Kelly, director of Wayne County’s Senior Services Department • Landfill: Alan Helmkamp, the former Wayne County assistant executive under Bob Ficano The memo was the final straw for Nix, Banner and Shadko, who all launched their write-in campaigns in its wake. “I initially had concerns that Abbo had a conflict of interest due to his prior employment under Bob Ficano and current employment with Wayne County,” Nix said. “When there is a divergence between what’s best for Northville Township and what’s best for Wayne County, Abbo will be hard pressed to side with Northville Township against Wayne County, his employer.” Nix said, “This fear was further confirmed when I received his transition flow chart which clearly set forth his plan to place political operatives in charge of township departments. It created an alarm that the unsavory elements of Wayne County politics are making their way into Northville Township through Mark Abbo.” For Abbo, who serves as the financial advisor to the Wayne County Commission, the reaction since the primary
has been surprising and disappointing. “After the primary election, and with the expectation that I would be running unopposed in November, Todd Mutchler reached out to me to discuss the transition,” Abbo said. “I formed a transition team and submitted a request for documents and request to meet with department directors. Such transition preparations are a common occurrence when governments change administration, with intent for a smooth transition. “Also, we potentially were looking at adding four or more new members to the township board and were hoping to get them background information to make them more effective at the time they take office,” Abbo continued. Abbo said there was nothing unusual about the memo his team delivered to the township. He said the names on the memo represent a team of experienced volunteers from varied backgrounds, who he said would not be compensated, and would assist him with the transition. “We wanted to speak with department heads, not from an employment perspective, but from an operational perspective. We wanted to have their recommendations and determine if they have the resources needed to perform their responsibilities. Basically, we wanted to hit the ground running to better serve the residents rather than wait until taking office on November 20,” Abbo said. Nix, on the other hand, found the memo to be anything but normal, and said it crossed the line for a person not yet elected by the people. “I found his request for
What I discovered after speaking to these groups is that because of the covert disinformation campaign launched by Abbo our citizens felt they and their neighbors had been misled. It is because of them I am running.
Bob Nix information curious given Abbo’s previous experience in government,” Nix said. “Abbo certainly should be aware that the majority of the documents requested contained confidential employee information, were subject to attorney client privilege and if released would have made the township vulnerable to lawsuits for the release of protected information. Furthermore, Abbo was proposing to release this confidential information to persons who were not elected township officials nor township employees. In one case he was proposing to release confidential information to a candidate who lost their bid for election (Steve McGuirk).” Nix also said, “My role as long as I am in office is to be a steward to the community. I have an ethical and fiduciary duty to protect our citizens and our township employees from the release of their personal files to the public. Until I leave office, I intend to do everything I can to ensure that the people in my community are protected.” Shadko pointed to the negative mailers many in the township have been getting, paid for by an out of town political action committee
(PAC) called People Not Politics, which is based in Lansing. In addition, he noted most people listed on Abbo’s campaign finance documents are not Northville residents. “For the huge amount of money that was spent, they are going to want something in return,” Shadko said. Again, Abbo deflected the criticism, both of his political donors and the people listed on his transition team, who have ties to Wayne County government and Lansing. “Criticism of those professionals and their motivation to assist is unjustified,” Abbo said. Obviously, there is a lot of drama going into November 3, but the candidates still want to convey a positive message. For the write-in candidates, they said they stand on their records. “I feel an obligation to the community that it continues on a stable and sustainable path going forward,” said Banner. “I think our board has provided outstanding financial leadership in the last eight years. We have fought, and continue to fight, expansion of the landfill, maintenance of water rates, and continued outdistancing public safety and park and recreation
services.” Nix also points to fiscal responsibility and improvement during his time as supervisor. “They should know that the township’s finances are in better shape than they were eight years ago,” he said of one point the community should know and noted such things as the commercial tax base getting better and the police and fire pensions being fully funded.” As for Abbo, he’s staying positive moving forward toward the Nov. 3 vote. “Along with Jason Rhines and Roger Lundberg, we’re making the same case that resonated with the voters in the primary,” said Abbo. “We remain committed to our campaign promises of eliminating the 1 percent administrative fee on collecting taxes, fully funding and supporting public safety, working to eliminate the odor coming from the Arbor Hills landfill, and implementing the 7 Mile Master Parks Plan adopted by the citizens advisory committee.” He said he “would appreciate the opportunity to again serve the citizens of Northville Township and respectfully request the support of the voters.” The question of what should voters know about doing a write-in vote was posed to Banner, who, as clerk, oversees the election process in the township. As examples, she said voters should know that they may cross over and vote on both sides of the partisan aisle, that they can vote a straight party ticket and still write in candidates without invalidating their ballot, and that their votes – whether absentee or in person – will be counted on election day.
The ‘Ville 15
Six candidates vying for four Trustee seats
W
hile all the attention for the Northville Township Board of Trustees race seems to be on the contentious races for Supervisor, Clerk and Treasurer, the campaign for the four Trustee seats is also up for grabs. The four Republicans who emerged from the Aug. 4 Primary election are Mindy Herrmann (3,123 votes in Primary), Chris Roosen (2,863 votes), Cyndy Jankowski (2,719 votes) and Scott Frush (2,639 votes). Frush, Herrmann and Roosen are all current members of the board. Jankowski currently serves on the Northville School Board. They are being opposed by Democrats M. Aslam and Tanya Lundberg. Aslam was the only Democrat on the Primary ballot, earning 3,432 votes. Lundberg filed as a write-in candidate in the weeks before the Primary, and garnered enough votes to earn a spot on the Nov. 3 ballot. In our July issue, we profiled all the Republican candidates. Here is snapshot look at the two Democrats who want to serve on the Board of Trustees. For a look at the Republican candidates, visit https://issuu.com/journeymanpub/docs/jp-thevillejuly20_hr/10.
M. Aslam
Age: 49 Political experience: Former board member, Northville Democratic Club Professional experience: Small business owner for 20 years, servicing two locations in Wayne County. Other community service: Sponsor of Inkster Boys and Girls Club; member of Rayyan Center; volunteer at food banks for the poor in Inkster/ Westland What are the biggest issues facing the township? 1. The financial fallout that will occur as a result of the global pandemic. 2. Fighting the rogue landfill with its noxious odors and the continuing environmental impact to our local economy. 3. Fiscal responsibility and transparency of the township’s checkbook to ensuring that no tax hike is imposed on the citizens during this pandemic. How do you propose to deal with those issues? The anticipated shortfalls in the township’s operating budget may require some budget readjustment. My hunch is, short of laying off or trimming down the employee hours, the board might be looking at the first responders. Frankly, this will not be a time to “defund” the police, fire and ambulance operations. I will push hard to review all items on the Capital Improvement Plan and force some creative ways to accomplish the readjustments. As for the landfill, I will work with the local
16 The ‘Ville
and state authorities to oppose its expansion and ensure that violations are corrected. I will advocate for the township checkbook be placed online so residents can see exactly where their hard-earned tax dollars are being spent. Such transparency will ensure that all line items are accounted for and if need be, reallocation are accomplished appropriately. Why should township voters choose you to serve as their Trustee? Leadership, vision, and integrity. I elected to run because I want to use my business expertise to help maintain the quality of life, education, safety, and green space in our community. Also, continuing to advocate for a strong relationship with Wayne County and the state. What is one thing voters don’t know about you that helps define who you are? I’ve been married for 20 years and have four children. A resident of Wayne County for 26 years, I along with my wife settled in Northville for the small-town experience it offers. I know and love this community.
Tanya Lundberg
Age: 40 Political experience: Campaign volunteer, Northville Democratic Club member Professional experience: Almost nine years in private practice as an attorney; four years in law school administration, including two
years now as Assistant Dean for Career Services & Outreach at Detroit Mercy Law Other community service: Northville Stallions and Winchester PTA volunteer; numerous community service projects, including Humble Design, Empty Bowls, Keep Belle Isle Beautiful, and Cass Park Clean-Up. What are the biggest issues facing the township? Environmental concerns, the COVID-19 pandemic, and future development. How do you propose to deal with those issues? We must continue confronting the Arbor Hills landfill and work across the aisle with officials at all levels of government to protect our residents and visitors, as well as public and private property. I believe the township board should play a large role in mitigating the impact of the landfill. We must continue encouraging everyone to practice good public health habits, use creativity to sustain businesses, and handle a potential budget shortfall without interrupting municipal services. And we must be thoughtful in approving future residential and commercial development, keeping in mind the needs and wants of our community, our limited space, and existing and potential infrastructure support. Why should township voters choose you to serve as their Trustee? My family loves Northville Township and is invested in ensuring it is a thriving place for years to come. We need to protect Northville from environmental threats, weather the COVID-19 pandemic, thoughtfully approve development, and value all our residents and visitors. I’d like the opportunity to put my skills and experience to work for our community, and be the voice that has been missing from our board. What is one thing voters don’t know about you that helps define who you are? I was raised by a single mom who valued education and taught my sister and I that we could accomplish anything we set our minds to. This deep-seated belief propelled me through undergrad, law school, and a career transition. I pulled myself up by the proverbial bootstraps to build the life that I wanted here in Northville Township. Now I want to help make Northville Township the best community it can be for all of its residents and visitors.
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The
Dean Northville By Brad Emons
of
coaches F
Henry Klimes is in his 30th season coaching the varsity boys soccer team at Northville.
22 The ‘Ville
Northville has been one of the top boys soccer programs in the metro Detroit area under the direction of coach Henry Klimes.
After 30 years, Klimes still gets a kick out of coaching at NHS
or some people, the term “30-and-out” signals a benchmark age for retirement. But for Northville varsity boys soccer coach Henry Klimes, who began coaching the Mustangs in 1990, it’s not part of his vocabulary quite yet. The 55-year-old Klimes, who has been able to stand the test of time, is the undisputed dean of all Northville High coaches. He’s gone through four different athletic directors during his 30-year run and doesn’t have any thoughts of handing in his retirement papers any time soon. It’s “the love of the game” that keeps him coming back. “I was privileged to have some great coaches growing up, and hopefully I can give back to some of the kids in that regard,” he said. “It’s a special game.” Playing in perhaps the strongest leagues and soccer areas in the state, Klimes has been able to hold his own as Northville transitioned from three different leagues including Kensington Valley Conference, Western Lakes and Kensington Valley activities associations. Along the way he has had only five losing seasons, while capturing five MHSAA district, one regional, eight division and four
conference championships. His 2007 squad reached the Division 1 state semifinals before losing 3-2 to eventual winner East Kentwood. “I still think I’ve got some years in me,” Klimes said. “I know it’s 30 years, but it doesn’t seem it. The guys keep me young.” Klimes, whose mother was from Chile and father from the Czech Republic, played varsity soccer and graduated in 1982 from North Farmington High. He got his coaching start with the Under-18 Michigan Wolves, a high-powered club program. It was there he was mentored by the late Paul Scicluna, who gave Klimes a chance to coach in 1988 as an assistant at Detroit Catholic Central, which at the time was located in Redford. In 1989, Klimes took over on an interim basis for one season at his alma mater, North Farmington, when Jim Duggan stepped down. The following two seasons he was the head coach at Farmington Hills Mercy where he guided the Marlins to a Class A girls semifinal berth in the spring of 1990. He took over that position for the late Gene Fogle, who was a mainstay for many years as a newscaster at WJR-Radio 760.
“Gene asked me and thought it was a good fit, even though I never coached girls,” Klimes said. In the fall of 1990, Klimes was elevated to the varsity coaching position at Northville after serving as an assistant under Bobby Paul, who later became the CEO of Compuware. “I’m thankful to Dennis Colligan (then Northville’s A.D.) for hiring me,” Klimes said. “I give him a lot of credit for giving me the opportunity.” Klimes said he learned a great deal about coaching not only from Scicluna, but as well by some of the old Detroit Express pro players such as Brian Tinnion, Gus Moffat and Steve Sargeant. They provided a great foundation, according to Klimes, who has been able to adapt to the changing times. “The boys definitely have a little more skill and have the technique,” Klimes said. “Back in the early days the boys had that, but they played a lot stronger, harder defense. I see the game today maybe a little quicker, but the skill level has definitely improved big time.” Northville varsity assistant Andy Cosenza is Klimes’ right hand man. He has been with Klimes for 26 seasons of his 30-year run.
“He’s stuck to the same principles he’s always had as far as coaching,” said Cosenza, a former Salem High player who joined forces with Klimes in 1995. “He likes to keep possession of the ball. He always likes to play team game. And it’s his passion for the game, he enjoys teaching kids how to play the sport he loves. The parents understand and respect him. They know he’s been around a long time.” Klimes and his six-man coaching staff feature four former Northville players including Conrad Bush and Jacob Tremonti at the varsity level, along with Scott Hammerlee (JV) and Michael O’Brien (freshman). His other assistant is Kevin Fraeyman. “I’m proud to have four players that played gravitated back and want to coach, and be around Northville soccer,” Klimes said. “That’s really cool.” There’s a proud legacy Klimes has crafted not only among his coaching staff, but also the players. “I’ve been able to have siblings, brothers . . . from big brother to little brother like the Kelleher family,” Klimes said. “I had an opportunity to coach four brothers in the game, then the Mitchell family. It’s like family, it’s awesome.” Klimes has coached his fair share of All-Staters, most notably the Alashe brothers. Latif, who helped lead Northville to
Assistant coach Andy Cosenza has been with Klimes for 26 seasons.
Freshman coach Michael O’Brien is one of four former players working for Klimes this season.
that 2007 Final Four berth, was an AllBig Ten player and team captain at the University of Michigan as a midfielder. Meanwhile, his younger brother Fatai, an All-American at Michigan State, has made more than 100 appearances in Major League Soccer (MLS) including stints with the San Jose Earthquakes, Cincinnati FC and now the Columbus Crew where he is a midfielder. “In my 30 years we’ve had a ton of talent,” Klimes said. “I always get the years mixed up when they graduate . . . but, yes, I’ve had some great players from the Kellehers, to the Sclabassis, to the Beasons, to of course Fatai and his brother Latif. A lot, a lot of great players that I have been blessed with . . . Jess Cheslik at Oakland University . . . so many.” Klimes continued on page 24
This year’s team is off to a great start.
The ‘Ville 23
Klimes continued from page 23
He has produced a total of seven AllStaters during his run, and could have had a few more had not it been for Academy club soccer. “Every school would be better if their Academy kids could play with their school,” Klimes said. “Hopefully one day they’d consider that because I think it’s special to play for their school.” Even at age 55, Klimes still laces up his soccer boots. He remains active playing for the Livonia Bullets in the men’s over-40 to -55 leagues. “I enjoy the game, knock on wood that my health is still there,” Klimes said. “Other than that, I’m still working at Trading Post (a sporting goods store in Plymouth), which I enjoy and love. I’ve been there almost 30 years as well.” During his 30 seasons, Klimes served under four different athletic directors including Colligan, Larry Taylor, Bryan
It’s been a different environment coaching during the novel coronavirus pandemic for Northville boys soccer coach Henry Klimes. By Brad Emons
Masi and now Brian Samulski. Masi, who retired in the fall of 2019 as Northville’s A.D., has lobbied to put Klimes into the Michigan High School Soccer Coaches Association Hall of Fame someday.
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The two formed a strong bond during Masi’s stint as A.D. from 2003-19. “I think he’s got a real connection with kids and real good relationships,” Masi said. “He teaches the fundamental game and more control. You see that at the higher levels and college level, so I think his kids are fundamentally sound a lot of times. Through the years he’s built strong relationships with the kids and kids like playing for him.” Klimes remains steadfast in the belief that the game has not passed him by, but he knows someday there will be a time to call it quits. “It comes and goes, sometimes I thought maybe I’m too old and the kids wouldn’t relate to how I coach and the certain style that I like to coach,” Klimes said. “But I just want to prove that the game can be played in some different ways. It doesn’t always have to be straight up the field or a 4-3-3. The game can be played differently for sure.” How does 40-and-out sound coach?
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The ‘Ville In Focus - with Bryan Mitchell
Capturing Autumn’s Beauty at Maybury Here’s 5 fall color photography tips you can try out at our state park
W
ith the pandemic this year Maybury State Park has seen a dramatic increase in use. And now is the best time of year to stroll along the trails with fall color ablaze in the woods. The leaves changing and fall color has come early this year compared to the last several years. By the time you are reading this our area may be at peak color if not a little past peak. Either way, there will still be nice fall color to be found and photographed out at Maybury. Here are some tips to help with your photography. 1. Go at the right times for nice light. Early morning, the first hour or so, and late evening, the last hour or so, are known as the “Golden Hour” for a reason. Giving the photographer warm, golden light that can make the leaves pop in the photo. Don’t be afraid of pointing the camera into the sun streaming through the trees either. Try using the leaves, or a tree trunk, to black part of the sun and let the light “wrap” around creating glare and a burst effect. 2. Bad weather is good photography weather. Don’t be afraid of making photos on cloudy days and even better yet, light rain or drizzle. The even, flat lighting on a cloudy day creates a giant softbox of light. Overcast lighting can eliminate harsh shadows and highlights which allows the color to saturate more, especially with wet leaves. Also, morning fog or frost can add an extra element of interest to your photograph. And don’t forget about the first snow contrasting with the last of the fall colored leaves if that happens. 3. Use water as an element in composition. At Maybury, the pond and the stream at the west end of the pond are great with leaves reflecting in the water or leaves covering the ground and rocks surrounding the flowing stream. 4. Use different angles than just your height. Look straight up when on a trail in the woods for compositions of the trees reaching
30 The ‘Ville
into the sky. A blue sky day is a bonus with the sun backlighting the colorful leaves. Or get the camera real low to the ground to show the forest floor covered with colorful leaves. Also getting close to a single leaf or group of leaves photographing more close up detail can be a nice option. 5. Don’t just look for good fall color on the edges. I find many fall color reports base observations on what the trees look like along the roads or from scenic overlooks. As the fall season moves along the edges of the forest at the parking area, roads and pond will be past peak color or leaves have fallen already. Get into the woods. Color changes a bit slower on the interior trees even when the trees on the edges have lost most their color. Bonus: For fall, or anytime of the year. Sunset photos with an empty sky are boring. Clouds add texture and color to your sunset photos. If it has been storming throughout the day and seems to be breaking up as sunset approaches, that’s when I get excited. Clearing enough for the sun to break through doesn’t always work out but when it does, the last rays of light and color can be spectacular. Along with this, wait a bit after the official sunset time. 20-30 minutes later can often give you the most dramatic skies to photograph.
The ‘Ville 31
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Past Tense
Preservation Standouts
Integrity and stewardship prevail in these historic homes By Michele Fecht | Photos by Bill Bresler
I
f Andrew Jackson Welsh and Elijah Hartshorn were alive today, they would have no trouble locating the houses they built in two distinct neighborhoods in downtown Northville. Their signature workmanship is just as visible in 2020 as it was in 1883 and 1921 respectively. As the city (hopefully) nears completion of its more than two-year effort to adopt a comprehensive Historic District Study Report, there has been considerable focus on preservation and how it defines our community’s character. While there are several fine examples of neighborhood homes and commercial district structures that have retained their historic integrity, two
residences are particular standouts — one within the historic district, the other just outside its boundary. Both sets of owners purchased their homes in 2015 and have spent the better part of the last five years undertaking restoration. They share a mission of stewardship — upgrading their homes to modern standards without comprising the historical architectural integrity.
512 Dunlap
Therese Grossi and Paul Sklut Paul Sklut and Therese Grossi first considered taking on an “old house” project in the early 1980s while looking at homes in the storied Boston Edison and University District areas of Detroit. At that time, Grossi’s corporate job required multiple transfers making it difficult to purchase a home that required a lot of work. By the mid1990s, they had settled in Northville Township. As they morphed Paul Sklut and Therese Grossi at their home at 512 Dunlap, into empty built in 1883. nesters,
34 The ‘Ville
The 1883 house still has a lot of original details, including the fireplace, coved ceilings in the two parlors and dining room.
the couple began looking at properties in the downtown area to be close to the city’s commercial district. In 2015, the two-story towered Italianate 1883 home at 512 Dunlap came on the market. The house was built by Andrew Jackson Welsh, a Novi farmer (obviously a rather prosperous one) who purchased two Dunlap lots for construction of the house he would use as his retirement home. “We loved the house when we saw it,” Grossi said, adding that part of the appeal was its large open rooms with high ceilings, atypical of many Victorian-era homes. “The house still had a lot of its original details,” Sklut added, including the fireplace, coved ceilings in the two parlors and dining room, and handturned balusters and handrail on the staircase. The original pocket doors that divided the two parlors were found in the basement.
After purchasing the house, the couple resided in their township home for the first 18 months while tackling interior work on the Dunlap structure. Tasks included dismantling 13 radiators, removing three to four layers of wallpaper, ripping out carpet, refinishing wood floors, and reconfiguring the rear of the lower level and removing a back staircase to create a large modern kitchen. The upper level renovation included the addition of a full bathroom as well as combining a hall and bedroom to create a master bathroom. An additional 200 square feet was added to the second story for a closet and master bath. All plumbing and heating was replaced and air conditioning added. Once interior work was completed, work on the exterior began including replacing the one-car garage. The compromised foundation of a side porch addition was rebuilt to the same footprint.
“Thank goodness Paul is a retired shop teacher,” Grossi noted. Sklut taught industrial arts at Meads Mill and later Hillside as well as drafting at Northville High School before retiring in 2015, the same year they purchased the Dunlap house. It was a short retirement. Sklut, who also is trained as a machinist, copied and replaced many of the exterior’s rotted trim pieces including the corbels and cupola scrollwork. “What I did was the stuff that was difficult to bid on,” said Sklut. “Anything structural was reviewed by engineers. It became a full time job. I would arrive at the same time as the contractors.” Grossi and Sklut were committed to keeping the front of the house as original as possible. They turned to Northville glass artisan John Zawadski of Tiffany Art Glass on Main Street to make the stained glass windows for the front door and cupola. Aside from a half-bath in the basement that needs finishing, major project work has been completed on the house. “This is our eighth or ninth house,” Sklut noted. “It is the only historic house we have ever owned. We view this as more than ownership. We are taking care of the house for whoever comes next.”
306 South Rogers
Manfred and Lisa Schon It was the daily commute between Canton and his downtown Northville office that gave Manfred Schon his first look at the blond brick Arts &Crafts bungalow on Rogers Street. With its distinctive full-length front porch, porte cochere (car port / passageway) and deep setback, the house has
of craftsmen who worked on the while making design changes house. that align with the Arts & The most challenging project Crafts style of the house. was the basement. They dug the Appropriately, their mantra is basement floor down 12-inches Respect and Renew. to gain height and added a full “About 95 percent of the bath, sauna, laundry room, and house is a utility room that houses the original, geothermal system. The house save for the originally had steam radiators kitchen and that the Schons replaced with a bathroom,” geothermal heating and cooling Lisa noted. system supported by a solarAmong powered water heater. the most “At one point, the house was stunning on stilts,” Manfred said. In features is the addition, radiant heating was living room installed in the new basement fireplace, a slab and retrofitted to the first focal point of floor beneath original wood the room. The Manfred and Lisa Schon at their home at 306 South Rogers, flooring. Original singlefirebox was built in 1914. pane windows were replaced reconstructed with energy-efficient, low-E and converted from gas to Elijah Hartshorn built the windows, and are glazed with wood burning (which it was house in 1921 as a wedding bird-protection glass. originally). Colleen Crawley of gift to his granddaughter, There are several future Motawi Tileworks designed the May Holcomb Babbitt. May, projects on the drawing board surround using the company’s a 1914 Northville High School including converting the distinctive tiles. The glass graduate, would go on to original basement cistern to a doors on bookcases flanking teach in the Northville Public wine cellar and working toward the fireplace are the work of Schools. May’s granddaughter, a goal of net-zero sustainability Northville artist John Zawadski Cheryl, and her husband, Chris by generating as much of Tiffany Art Glass. Gazlay, would eventually take electricity as they use. Manfred, whose construction ownership of the house. “We are not owners of trade knowledge was honed in The Schons passed on this house, we are stewards,” his native Germany, served as the house when it originally Manfred said. “This house has project manager and general went on the market in 2014. a history of its own. It’s our contractor for the project. Committed to environmental responsibility to preserve that He credits longstanding sustainability, they worried history.” relationships with a multitude that they could not incorporate the needed technology without comprising the home’s architectural integrity. When the “for sale” sign went back up in 2015, an architect friend convinced them that the nearly century-old house could support their sustainability requirements. That sealed the deal, making them the third owners of the house. Since purchasing the 1921 bungalow, the Schons have carefully navigated the The Schon home has plenty of beautiful woodwork that has been restored. integration of new technologies been a mainstay at the corner of South Rogers and Thayer streets for nearly a century. It is located just a street-width outside the Northville Historic District.
The ‘Ville 35
Historian Katie Remensnyder photographed many of the buildings in the Historic District in 2018 as part of the study.
A Detailed Inventory Historic District study report moves toward adoption By Michele Fecht
I
make an effort to implement an historic preservation program to encourage property owners to preserve the old and mellow flavor of this city.” Nearly a half-century after his initial appeal, the city appears about to deliver on Burkman’s hope for a complete inventory of historic district properties.
Ordinance. n 1972, John Burkman, It is Burkman’s further chairman of the Northville comments that are particularly Historic District Study noteworthy today. Committee, presented to city “Other than those properties council the group’s report listed, there are many equally establishing the city’s historic worthy,” Burkman stated. “Time district boundaries and the did not permit research on 61 properties “worthy of each and every building in the preservation for their historic district. We hope at a later date and architectural value.” to be able to make a complete The efforts of the committee inventory of all properties with resulted in the designated the boundaries of the district.” properties being listed in the In closing his report, he National Register of Historic noted “the committee’s Places, and Northville City deliberations lead them to Council’s adoption in 1974 of O F N Othat R THVILLE Northville should the Northville Historic DistrictC I T Y believe
516
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200
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108
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115
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501
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236 235 228 229 226 222 223 218 216 213 212 304 314 310
CHURCH ST
102
THAYER BLVD
514
520
321
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548
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128
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121
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COMPREHENSIVE STUDY For the past two years, the city has been engaged in an intensive historic district survey of 411 resources — H I S T O R I C D I S T R ICT BOUNDARY predominantly buildings both residential and commercial — within the 144acre Northville Historic District. Beyond buildings, there are contributing resources such as Oakwood Historic District Boundary Parcel Boundary Cemetery and Historic District Parcels Road Centerline the dam on Griswold. A For two years, the city has conducted an intensive historic district survey of 411 features, mostly residential and commercial buildings. seven-member
µ
1 inch = 400 feet
W W W. C I. N O RT H VILLE.MI.US
36 The ‘Ville
Geographical data provides a spatial representation only. The City of Northville and Northville Township do not assume any damages or liabilities due to the accuracy, availability, use or misuse of the information provided. PU BL IC AT IO N D ATE : J ANUARY 24, 2018
Local Historic District Study Committee appointed by city council has been working with Commonwealth Heritage Group, consulting architectural historians selected for the project, to produce a comprehensive study report of the district’s resources as well as it boundaries. The result of the more than two-year effort is a voluminous 874-page document detailing all resources within the historic district. In addition, there are some changes — both omissions and additions — to the historic district boundary. Jim Allen, chair of the historic district study committee and also chair of the Historic District Commission (HDC) said the report is an invaluable resource for the city. “We haven’t had this level of information to determine whether a structure is contributing or noncontributing,” he said. Not having metrics to determine a structure’s historical integrity has been a challenge for the commission, he added. Here are a few key takeaways from the report: • A comprehensive study of all properties with details of architectural style, history and ownership (if available), exterior photographs and designation as contributing or non-contributing resources. Elaine Robinson, senior architectural historian and team leader, noted that listing contributing and noncontributing resources was to gain an understanding of the resources that added value to the historic district, as well as those resources that were part of the setting but did not necessarily add historic value. Approximately 60 percent
of the district’s resources are contributing. • A designated period of significance from 1830-1968. Current Northville historic design standards state: “The architectural theme for the Northville Historic District is Victorian, in the era from mid-1850’s to the latter 1800’s. More specifically, the greatest concentration of notable buildings is ‘Gothic Revival’ style." The new designation follows the National Park Service guidelines that the historic period ending is within fifty years of the listing date, and considers styles beyond Victorian such as revival bungalows, four-squares, and mid-century ranch houses (yes, there are ranch houses in the district and were a source of much discussion at public hearings). • First detailed survey of Northville’s commercial district structures. The original 1972 report only included four non-residential structures, one of which was the First Baptist Church, and the other Oakwood Cemetery. The Masonic Temple building and most of the structures on the south side of Main Street are among the city’s oldest commercial buildings with storied histories. Also included in the district are iconic structures such as the Marquis Theatre (opened in 1926) and the Water Wheel Centre (formerly the Ford Valve Plant), a 1936 Albert Kahndesigned building. GRANT FUNDS SURVEY The Local Historic District Study Committee began meeting in early 2018, shortly after the city received a $30,400 federal grant from the Michigan State Historic Preservation
Office (SHPO) to conduct the intensive level survey. The grant funding the study was one of only five awarded by SHPO in 2017 to communities who are Certified Local Governments. The City of Northville is one of only 32 CLG communities (Northville Township is as well). Over the course of the project, there have been seven meetings, three of which were public hearings, outreach to property owners within the historic district, a dedicated section on the city’s website about the project including a timeline, meeting minutes, a Q & A and more. The committee approved a final draft of the report on June 6, 2019. It was then turned over to SHPO for its approval and recommendations before going to city council. Council approved the report in August of this year but rescinded its motion in September on advice of the city attorney in order to permit further comment and clarify issues for technical compliance with state law. Council referred the Local Historic District Study Report back to the Historic District Study Committee for the sole purpose of approving the meeting minutes from the June 6, 2019, meeting, and ensuring that an amendment to the report and a draft of the proposed revision to the current City of Northville Historic Ordinance are included in the report. The amendment / disclaimer added to the report’s introduction states that the study is a “living document” that allows for additional information to be considered as it becomes available. Councilmember Barbara Moroski-Browne, who serves as
council liaison to the HDC and helped draft that amendment, noted that the “the value of the document should not be that it is a Bible but rather that it is more akin to a Torah. It changes as we gain more information.” The study committee is scheduled to meet Oct. 26. The study report will then go back to council for approval. Once the study report is approved, the boundary changes to the City of Northville Historic Ordinance will require a first and second reading by council. WHAT’S NEXT? The historic district study report may seem like an unwieldy document filled with terms like bargeboards, corbels, bullseyes and sashes. Yet much of the narrative goes beyond the bricks and mortar. It is the story of the people who shaped our community — from the ice haulers and foundry workers to the schoolteachers and shop owners. It is their stories that inspire us to preserve our heritage. Historic preservation is a community effort. We know that a room full of preservation advocates armed with passion and historic data can be formidable. Consider the former boarding house / American Legion headquarters
The former boarding house at 341 East Main is now in the process of being moved only a few feet to rest on a new foundation.
at 341 East Main. Brought before the HDC for demolition approval it was unanimously turned down by the commission after impassioned pleas from citizens to save the structure. It is now in the process of being moved only a few feet to rest on a new foundation, a costly and time-consuming endeavor. Three cheers to the Guidobono Building Co. for not abandoning the project — and saving a slice of our history. The historic district study report will be invaluable asset for not only the members of the HDC, but for all who value our community’s history and its old and mellow flavor.
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The ‘Ville 37
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HIGH SCHOOL CONFIDENTIAL
Virtual Hybrid? or
Students dealing with pros and cons of this new era of education
I
n stark contrast to our past educational experiences, students have been taking their learning to the screens. The change in medium of our social interactions with respect to teaching has had a dramatic impact on what Northville students require to succeed and grow. In contrast to last spring, the online learning is now much more regulated with students and teachers all using Schoology. Depending on a student’s individual learning style, we found most were either thriving in these newfound circumstances or couldn’t wait for the day students can return to school. With a glimpse into multiple perspectives, one can begin to understand the distinct positives and negatives of the virtual and hybrid learning paths students have chosen. Joshua Chacko supports the new distance-learning plan. He has chosen to do the virtual route “since my family felt that was the safest choice for us and it would best allow us to do our part in stopping COVID-19.” He has also enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere, in which he is able to finish his homework with his friends over the phone. In addition, he and his friends “make a point of texting or calling each other whenever we can” to fill in for the social interaction virtual learning prevents. He does admit, however, that this atmosphere
40 The ‘Ville
can also be increasingly distracting, as it is far easier to miss key points from teachers when learning through a screen. Andrew Xiong favors faceto-face interaction with his teachers and fellow students -and thus has entirely different views on the matter. He has decided to pursue the hybrid method of schooling, as he finds “the in-person environment much better and I also like seeing my friends at school and interacting with each other.” This perspective has also been influenced by the vast “technical issues there were and just the general confusion of getting used to a new system.” Because of technical glitches, Andrew said he was dropped several times from his English class over the course of an hour, making learning and hearing lectures difficult. By returning to school in early October, he hopes to solve many of these
NHS junior Jack Piasentin during a virtual class.
other students – including issues and remove distractions. Aaron Weiskopf, Megan These two polarized Moriarty, Rebekah Weiskopf, viewpoints represent students and Emily Bambenek – who who strongly agree or disagree have all with the chosen to current WHAT’S YOUR EXPERIENCE? take the methodology, If you are a Northville parent or hybrid route but the vast student, we’d love to hear from you. for a variety majority of Did you choose the virtual or hybrid of reasons, students are learning path? Why? Email your comments to Editor Kurt Kuban at ranging in the midst kurtkuban@thevillemagazine.com from online of these two difficulties arguments. and improved teacher Harini Kandi, a junior, interaction to an increased is choosing to stay virtual, attention span. although she looks forward While the long lasting to potentially returning to impacts of these new forms the classroom in the spring of engagement have yet to be semester. We spoke to many played out, both students and staff can find comfort in the knowledge that all of us are experiencing such change for the first time. Once this year comes to an end, we will be able to reflect on what the best choice was. Until then, students will continue to trailblaze this new reality and look optimistically to the future of their education.
The NHS parking lot was virtually empty during the first month of school.
EDITOR'S NOTE: High School Confidential is a collaborative effort by the Stringers Journalism Club made up of Northville High School students Maria Cowden, Maggie Kuban, Chethan Magnan, Navya Meka, Lauren Sprow, and Audrey Zhang.
VOTE NOV 3
RETAIN
Prescott Sarah
Endorsed by Northville’s Teacher’s Union in 2016 and 2020.
Northville School Board BECAUSE THERE’S NO PL ACE LIKE HOME
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I want to strengthen our health and safety systems, work on infrastructure and prevent the sale of county park land to developers. Nancy Darga The candidates have a different view of the county's recent sale of three historic mills, including the Phoenix Mill. Photo by Fred Shadko
Darga vs. Marecki
Sale of county park land front and center in commission race By Alex Lundberg
T
he candidates running for the District 9 Wayne County Commission seat have similar long histories in their communities and in the county, but very different ideas about how to best guide its resources. Current District 9 Commissioner Terry Marecki, a Republican, was elected to the post in 2015. She is a former Livonia city councilwoman, council vice president, Livonia
city clerk and member of the Livonia board of education. She currently chairs the county’s public services commission. She is also on the Health and Human Services and Ways and Means committees. Marecki said she worked to straighten out the county budget, improve parks and roads and other county assets when COVID-19 struck in March. As with a lot of other
I am very helpful. If I can get answers for people or remove obstacles, I’m available. I’m easy to work with. I’m the only Republican surrounded by 14 Democrats.
Terry Marecki
42 The ‘Ville
things of late, the next budget is up in the air. “We’re in the budget process now,” she said. “We’re working to keep services like public health and the sheriff’s department funded, those are set, but I don’t know what’s going to happen with the budget. Depending on the tax collection, I think next year will be the harder hit.” Since the state went into
lockdown, she said she’s been working with the commission and in her capacity as a member of the Back to Work Task Force to lend assistance where she can. So far, she said the county has given out $50 million in small business grants to businesses that are fighting to stay afloat. Former City of Northville Mayor Pro-Tem Nancy Darga is the Democrat running for the seat. She has already worked for the county as the chief of design for the Wayne Country Parks system for more than 25 years, during which time she helped found Friends of the Rouge. She was the first executive director of the Ford Piquette Plant, a founding member and managing director of the Motor Cities National Heritage Area and currently works with the National Park Service on the
Rouge Gateway Project. She said she has a vision for revitalizing Wayne County. “I want to strengthen our health and safety systems, work on infrastructure and prevent the sale of county park land to developers,” Darga said. That last point she’s particularly passionate about. Darga said the county has a nationally-significant parks system (Hines Drive is part of the Underground Railroad, Elizabeth Park in Trenton has connections to the War of 1812) and county residents have approved higher taxes to pay for their upkeep. Darga was a leader in the opposition to Wayne County’s sale of the Phoenix, Wilcox and Newburgh mills, three Henry Ford-era industrial facilities. “I am vehemently opposed to
selling off parks land,” she said. “I would have public hearings before the sale or lease of park land.” Marecki said she was passionate about the parks as well, but has a different approach to preserving them. She said all three of the mills are showing 70 years of neglect. She said the roughly $10 million the county has for parks would disappear if they were renovated at a cost of $1.5 to $3 million each. Marecki said that considering two of those mills are in Plymouth and fixing them on the public’s dime wouldn’t be the fairest use of the whole county’s money, she said the plan being pursued now will take that financial pressure off Wayne County and renovate those spaces.
“The county decided to do a public/private partnership to restore them and open them to the public,” Marecki said. “One of the conditions for that will be that the land will have to remain open to the public for use during the hours the park is open.” She said the current plans call for a restaurant (Phoenix), an art center (Wilcox) and a brewery (Newburgh). In the case of the latter, the developer will only get the deed to the mill after he builds a horse stable for the animals on the property now. If the developer were to sell the property, the same conditions would pass to the new owner. Darga said she should be elected to the county commission because she will always put people first, not
party, and will respect the trust that people put into their elected officials. She also said she would bring her years of experience to help the county move forward. “I have years of experience turning obstacles into opportunities,” Darga said. “When I was in the city government, I learned how to do things with a busted budget.” Marecki said her willingness to help is why she said she should be retained. “I am very helpful. If I can get answers for people or remove obstacles, I’m available,” Marecki said. “I’m easy to work with, I’m the only Republican surrounded by 14 Democrats.” District 9 comprises Northville, Northville Township and part of Livonia.
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Unify our diverse community to increase equity for all students in our schools, improve support and diversity among staff, and embrace a broader definition of success. Paid for by Friends of Lisa McIntyre - PO Box 5248 - Northville MI 48167
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☑ Founded the Downtown Business Coalition to ensure local business owners could provide direct input on safe reopening practices and supported the creation of the Northville Social District
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WILSON NORTHVILLE SCHOOL BOARD
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Navigating through the COVID-19 crisis together - putting the safety of students, teachers, and families first - without politicizing the issues Unwavering focus on student mental health, happiness and inclusion - we cannot be distracted or lose sight, especially in the midst of this crisis and beyond Building on our long tradition of academic excellence by providing a positive and healthy school experience for ALL our students and teachers Driving greater awareness regarding the significant financial constraints we face Proudly endorsed by: Northville Education Association NPS Board Member Angela Jaafar
I
am a scientist at heart and a lawyer by trade. I am driven by a strong sense for standing up and fighting for the right causes. I believe our school district, its kids and its teachers are worth fighting for. I am trained to absorb the complex facts, to see the bigger picture, and to be decisive, even with imperfect information. I WILL advocate and fight for what is right. I respectfully ask for your vote.
• Northville resident for 9 years • Married to Julie, and proud father of four, with children at Amerman, Hillside, and Northville High School • Attorney for a Fortune 500 corporation based in Michigan • Former federal prosecutor and trial attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice • Northville Baseball-Softball Association head coach and assistant coach • Board Member and Secretary of the Amerman Elementary School Dad’s Club Facebook: @LindseyWilsonforNorthvilleSchoolBoard Instagram: @LindseyWilson4NPS Web: LindseyWilsonforNorthvilleSchoolBoard.com Email: LindseyWilson4NPS@gmail.com
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MEET THE CANDIDATES Your Guide to the Northville School Board Race By Lonnie Huhman
T
he board of education vote on Nov. 3 for Northville Public Schools is another important one, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, and its impact on everything from local opinions to how the district will move forward for the rest of the school year and beyond. The election is important as it will bring new leaders to the school board as three incumbents have chosen not to seek another term. There are four total seats up for grabs on the ballot. Of the incumbents, Matt Wilk, Cyndi Jankowski and Laurie Doner are not running while incumbent Sarah Prescott is. The pool of candidates grew to 10 in the aftermath of controversial remarks and social media posts made by Wilk in relation to the pandemic. The candidates vying for the four seats, including Prescott, are Kimberly Campbell-Voytal, Jonathan Edison, Harihar T. Kulkarni, Blake Mathie, former board president James Mazurek, Lisa Peterson McIntyre, Lindsey Wilson, and Sherrie Winfield. Douglas Miller, who initially was seeking a spot on the board and whose name appears on the ballot, said he has decided not to pursue a seat on the board. We contacted each of the other nine candidates, asking them a few questions that we feel will be pertinent to voters. Here are their responses:
Kimberly Campbell-Voytal Kids in the district: We raised two NHS graduates, and are the grandparents of a child at Old Village who will start kindergarten in fall 2021.
46 The ‘Ville
Profession/Qualifications: I am professor of family medicine and public health sciences at Wayne State University where I directed graduate and undergraduate programs in public health. My public health practice is in disease prevention and I have applied this expertise in the areas of policy, programs, and primary care. I retired this February after 20 years at Wayne State. I am a teacher with three decades of experience in the classroom and as an educational leader. Finally, I am clinical nurse specialist working in school health with a focus on kids with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes and obesity. Why are you running? We are in an unprecedented moment for public education. We are redefining our vision for safe, quality education while confronting continued decline in school funding. I am concerned with the extraordinary pressure on teachers’ and childrens’ health. Teachers and parents have shared with me their hope that we will come together to reduce the factors that divide us. As a long-time resident of Northville, I strongly believe that we share an obligation to contribute to community. I have public health expertise that will strengthen skillful analysis of public health evidence to inform board decisions. My educational leadership and previous board experience prepares me as a prudent manager of district funds. My work in school health leaves no doubt in my mind the stakes involved for kids and families as we return to school. Do you agree with the district’s COVID plan? I am impressed with the work of more than 130 parents, teachers, administrators and students to develop balanced options for returning to school. Families will ultimately choose the option that best meets their needs. It is up to all of us to follow the rules and keep community levels of virus low so our kids can go to school.
Jonathan Edison
Age: 46 Kids in the district: Jonathan, Jr. (8th grader) and Ava (6th grader) Profession/ Qualifications: Motivational speaker; author; success strategist. Founder and Chairman of I’m Rocking These Socks non-profit for the homeless. I’m a volunteer coach for the Northville Stallions. In 1993, I graduated with an associate’s degree as a part of the Urban Teacher Program from Wayne County Community College. In 1995, Jonathan continued his education at Wayne State University, earning a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in teaching and educational leadership. After teaching for four years, at age 27 I became the youngest assistant principal in the history of Detroit Public Schools. In 2004 I launched my motivational and training development company. Since then, I have authored 10 books and have designed a leading total school transformation curriculum for school districts all over the country. My clients include: Alabama State Department of Education, CVS, Daimler Chrysler, FBI, Idaho State Department of Education, State Farm Insurance, Wyoming State Department of Education. Why are you running? I believe that my diverse background, education, business experience and firsthand knowledge of working within schools will be an asset to the Board and the students of Northville. I am running because I was challenged by my 11-year-old daughter to “practice what I preach.” I’ve taught her that if there is something out in the world that makes you uncomfortable and you do nothing about it, then it’s your fault. Quite frankly, the former President of the Board made me
very uncomfortable with his remarks and I was compelled to do something about it. Do you agree with the district’s COVID plan? Given the challenging times that we are in, I 100% agree with the plan. It provides parents and students options that are focused on the well-being, health and safety of our community.
Harihar T. Kulkarni
Age: 76 Kids in the district: Two grandchildren in elementary school Profession/ Qualifications: Ph.D. in mechanical engineering, University of Knoxville, Tennessee; M.S. in aeronautics, Indian Institute of Science, India; technical manager at Ford Motor Company for 44 years in research, product development, and manufacturing divisions. I developed new technologies and implemented them in global plants while managing resources and improved simultaneously, both overall cost in millions of dollars and quality of the product. I’m the recipient of two Henry Ford technology awards and two USA patents. Why are you running? 1. Use my educational engineering and interpersonal skills in Northville Schools for the benefit of students and community. 2. Elevate Northville’s current ranking among Michigan’s school systems, which will enhance available resources, community standard and motivate students to develop their future successful careers. 3. Institute hands-on technical programs – robotic games, digital innovations, etc. as part of curriculum. 4. Prioritize available resources to ingrain students with new challenging academic programs. 5. Alleviate community’s tension concerns of hitting breakpoint between meeting student’s safety, educational and social needs, and paying for them while sustain economic impact in COVID-19 environment. 6. Set up on-line guidance software programs to educate them about various professional requirements, to select proper
curriculum at high school level and to discuss their concerns with counselors. Do you agree with the district’s COVID plan? I do agree with recommended Schoology approach developed by school board members, with input from teachers and parents, to reopen Northville Schools. Specifically, Option 1 and Option 2 selected for elementary, middle and high School, respectively, are good. I commend painstaking efforts of school board members to develop this reopening plan. As mentioned, this plan is a living document and will be updated for individual school building, based on the state and local health expert’s guidance and number of COVID cases.
Blake A. Mathie
Age: 48 Kids in district: 2 Profession/ Qualifications: I joined the United States Marine Corps Reserves in 1990 where I became a network communications technician. Following my Marine experience, I pursued a career in telecommunications helping to build the infrastructure we rely on for many of the broadband services we use today. In 2004, I enrolled at Wayne State University where I received a bachelor’s degree in biomedical physics, followed by a master’s degree in biomedical engineering. In 2014, I co-founded Talem Technologies where I continue to invent assistive exoskeleton technology to improve the lives of people suffering from disease or injuries. I am currently a Ph.D. candidate at WSU working on my dissertation in biomedical engineering. Why are you running? I recently became aware that our schoolboard is being influenced by leadership, charged with making the best choices for our children and community, who are rigidly entrenching themselves in political ideology and making critical decisions in the absence of hard science and facts. Such closed mindedness and partisan politics have put our status as a national leading school system in jeopardy and the safety of our community at risk. If we as a community expect our children to
become the leaders of tomorrow, we have no choice but to lead the way for them today. This is why I am running for the Northville Board of Education. Do you agree with the district’s COVID-19 plan? I believe that the committees involved in developing the plan did excellent work. I also believe that their directive from leadership was fundamentally flawed. They were charged with providing the safest environment possible in the context of maximizing educational opportunities. In my opinion, this was precisely backwards. We should have been maximizing educational opportunities in the context of providing the safest environment possible. Academic accomplishment doesn’t matter if we lose students, staff, and teachers to COVID.
James Mazurek
Kids in district: A daughter at Northville High School Profession/ Qualifications: Bachelor’s in engineering, University of Michigan; Master’s in engineering, U of M Rackham Graduate School; MBA, Michigan State University Executive Management Program; currently VP Sales and Business Development for Neusoft America; previously held various management positions at Ford Motor Co (18 years) and Visteon (10 Years); served 6 years on the Beckenham Homeowners Association Board; 8 years previous experience on Northville Board of Education (2010-2018) Why are you running? I’ve been an active parent, volunteering for my kids’ school and extra-curricular activities. I know our district from the time spent at Thornton Creek, Hillside, Northville High School as well as Kids Club programs at TC, Ridgewood, and Meads Mill. As a former Board member I worked through the district’s tough times when we were at risk of insolvency in 2010 and participated in making the difficult decisions to help us become one of the strongest districts in the state from both an academic and financial perspective. I believe we are now facing
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another set of significant challenges. We need to provide our families and staff a safe school environment, and deliver the same level of educational excellence we have achieved in the past (to both Hybrid and Virtual students). We need to keep academic achievement for all students as our #1 priority. Do you agree with the district’s COVID-19 plan? I believe that every family’s situation is unique and only they can determine what is best for their children. Given that, I do think having both Virtual (online) as well as a hybrid (in school) options are appropriate. I do have some concerns. Full online learning while providing protection is not suited for all kids. It requires solid discipline and ability to focus on a computer screen for long hours. Honestly not an easy task whether young or old. I believe a little over 30% of families chose this option, I am hoping we all understand the level of effort required of kids and teachers to make this successful. The skills to teach full online and even hybrid are different from traditional in class learning. We need to put significant effort into providing training, tools, and assistance to help each of our teachers achieve a high level of proficiency in this type of educational approach. We also need to do a much better job of explaining what the expectations are of students as well.
Lisa Peterson McIntyre
Age: 49 Kids in the district: Three children in the district have attended Ridge Wood, Amerman, Hillside and Northville High School. Profession/Qualifications: A licensed clinical counselor, my mental health and education background provides an important perspective for continued health and well-being. I have developed and implemented wellness programs for youth and educators focused on successful outcomes. Through my non-profit experience, I understand the impact of funding on
48 The ‘Ville
the ability to maintain high quality programming. Within the community, I am engaged as a member of the RidgeWood PTA Board since 2017 and am actively involved as a parent volunteer in the local gymnastics community. Why are you running? Our connected community of students, parents, educators and administrators faces difficult challenges. I believe the board must oversee and encourage collaboration between these groups to ensure that our diverse student population has access to the most complete and competitive academic opportunities. I want to be part of the board to help ensure we do exactly that in the safest, smartest and most equitable ways possible. It is critical the board deliver creative solutions to address issues that interfere with learning, especially during a pandemic. I want all students to succeed; I want all parents to be proud of their children and the Northville Schools; I want the best teachers; and I want the best leaders. Do you agree with the district’s COVID plan? Resilience as a school district requires comprehensive, flexible plans for a successful return to education during the pandemic, implementing stringent safety measures and equitable access to educational material for all learners. The models chosen and offered by semester, while not perfect, offer great flexibility. Improved communication about meeting students’ unique needs in tiered re-entry is essential. The slow start offers a realistic chance to integrate the newly adopted education management system at one time for all students, families and educators, under the safest possible conditions, to be prepared for changes that impact school closures in our region of Michigan.
Sarah Prescott
Age: 42 Kids in district: Three (ages 6, 9 and 10) Profession/ Qualifications: I am a Harvardtrained lawyer and recognized expert in employment law and civil rights. We founded
our law firm in Northville, on Main Street, so I am vested in this community as a parent, and a home and business owner. I have served on the Board of Education since 2015; I have also been the president of Michigan’s Employment Lawyers Association; I sat on the State Bar Ethics Board, and since 2013, Michigan’s Advisory Board to the US Civil Rights Commission. These positions amount to more than 15 years of public service. Why are you running? Personnel costs reflect more than 70% of our district operating budget. I have seen other districts make costly mistakes in personnel management, so they not only harm stakeholders, but they waste money on defending lawsuits. I looked at what they were doing wrong and thought, “Not in my district.” I serve to help make sure we treat our people legally and avoid wasting time and money. My kids will be in the district more than a decade, and I want every dollar we have to be invested wisely. Do you agree with the district’s COVID plan? After extensive public hearings and reading hundreds of letters, and after considering all the scientific information I could put my hands on, my vote was: yes on the Middle School plan because it allowed 100% in person teaching on all core content areas while honoring CDC recommendations for distancing. I voted yes at Cooke because it was the only feasible plan presented. I voted no at the elementary and high school levels. I felt we could do more for safety at K-5 and more live teaching and/or face-to-face instruction at the high school. I believe it’s really important that our Board honors the decisions we make, once they are voted in. To me, the goal once you “lose” on any given vote (as I sometimes do) is to pivot to asking, “OK, how can I make this the best it can be?” rather than “Ok, now how can I get my way?” Our community needs all oars rowing in the same direction, even when we disagree. In this way, I honor Board decisions, even if I do not agree with them.
Lindsey Wilson
Age: 50 Kids in the district: My wife Julie and I have three kids in Northville Schools. Profession/ Qualifications: I am a scientist at heart and a lawyer by trade. I have a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Michigan and a law degree from the Michigan State University College of Law. I am a lawyer for a Fortune 500 corporation. I have also been an attorney with two major law firms based in Silicon Valley and in the Midwest. I have served as a Board Member and Secretary of the Amerman Dad’s Club and was a head coach and assistant coach for more than five years with the Northville Baseball-Softball Association. Why are you running? Our school district is our crown jewel — it has given so much to me and my family, and now is the time to give back to it. We are facing enormous challenges, and I would like to join the board in navigating through both the COVID-19 pandemic and the rising tide of student well-being and health-related issues, which I believe will only be exacerbated by this crisis. We can get through this together as a community, with common sense and levelheadedness — putting the safety of students, teachers, and families first, without politicizing the issues and without losing critical focus on student health, happiness and inclusion. Do you agree with the district’s COVID plan? I respect the district’s hard work, dedication and deliberations, and I respect its decision and planning. The district’s plan is in line with the various approaches other jurisdictions have taken to school reentry and there is no time now for additional distractions. Our kids’ time is now, so let’s focus on making the school year a great and safe experience for the students, teachers, staff. While the district’s plan could not make every stakeholder happy, it provides families with choices and is a workable balance and a solid path forward through this
crisis together, given the edicts from our governor. From my perspective, the decision and plan has been made. In the spirit of togetherness and our collective desire to do the best for our kids, I believe we should turn now to focusing on making the return to school, and the entire school year, a great one.
Sherrie Winfield
Why are you running? I possess essential and relevant skills that qualify to be a strong advocate for all our children. I represent a story, a voice and a demographic that is presently missing from the board. I intend to focus on engaged, transparent and accountable leadership delivering real results for all of our children. My platform has three main points. W for Wellness: Promoting Mental Health Awareness and Resources to address the increasing pressure students are facing today. I for Inclusion: Fostering a climate where each child feels safe, valued, and respected. And N for Nurture: Ensuring that each child feels safe and protected while learning during the pandemic and beyond. Do you agree with the district’s COVID plan? Yes, I think the district has been thoughtful and intentional in providing a comprehensive plan that offers options while striving to maintain academic standards and keeping safety as a priority for our children.
Age: 51 Kids in the district: A sophomore (Victoria) at NHS and one graduate (Rachel) from NHS in 2018 Profession/ Qualifications: B.S. in management (1990) and MBA (1992), Tulane University. I’ve worked at Ford Motor Company as a Senior Human Resources Manager for 28 years. I’ve developed and honed skills that are transferrable to the board of education. My more relevant skills include: • Developing Corporate COVID-19 Health and Safety Protocols. • Creating and delivering educational curriculum • Developing and facilitating Diversity, Inclusion and Anti-harassment policy and instruction • Leading labor contract DEMO CLEANUP • RESIDENTIAL CLEANUP negotiations • Managing multiLABOR HIRE • YARD WASTE million-dollar COMMERCIAL CLEANUP • JUNK REMOVAL budgets • Certified in LICENSED & INSURED • NORTHVILLE RESIDENT Organization Development and Change Management
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Hillside Almost Ready Big addition will be ready for students in late fall By Michele Fecht
50 The ‘Ville
D
espite a two-month construction shut down due to COVID-19, the addition to Hillside Middle School is expected to be ready for students and staff in late fall. Work on the $35 million project, a significant part of the $104 million bond issue approved by voters in 2017, has picked up since late spring, said Steve Banchero, the district’s director of operations. Interior work has been ongoing with placement of new furniture under way starting October 12. The most imposing part of the project are the three grade-level, two-story academic core additions on the west side the current building. A new entrance will be on the north side with the office on the axis to the Eight Mile bridge. A new parking lot will be located on the footprint of the current structure. Banchero said any demolition will not take place until students are out of the building in June. Other forthcoming changes include a second-level media center with views to the north, outdoor learning studios, dining space in the commons area. The existing gyms will remain. Despite the COVID construction delays, students and staff returning to in-person
learning found upgrades in several district schools including: Meads Mill: • New office and secured entry vestibule completed. • A flexible music space created along with the reconfiguration of the Art, Project Lead the Way and Choir classrooms. • New windows in all classroom and new student furniture. Moraine and Thornton Creek: • Renovated office areas with a secure entry vestibule • Renovated media centers with an addition of a makerspace. • New mechanical systems and lighting upgrades in all classrooms Winchester New pavement in the parking lot. Paid through the Sinking Bond Project. Design Stages: Currently in the design phase are Silver Springs Elementary, Winchester Elementary, Ridge Wood Elementary and Cooke School.
Northville Rotarians Vicky and Guy Bardsley have been promoting the group’s Tour de Ville event, which will be a virtual endeavor this year.
‘We’re Scared Right Now’
Non-profit service clubs struggling to stay afloat during pandemic By Tim Smith
W
ith the wrath of COVID-19 not going away anytime soon, Northville non-profit service organizations are struggling to do their trademark projects, fundraisers and goodold community service. When a bid to purchase the landmark Massey Estate finally was approved in January, for about $3.5 million, Northville Living and Learning Enrichment Center president and founder Rachelle Vartanian began mapping out some impressive plans for the rest of 2020 – all to help provide new opportunities for teenagers and adults with autism and other special needs to grow both personally and vocationally. Vartanian was ready to get going on a cluster of microbusinesses to be based on the sprawling property located at 801 Griswold Street near the border of Northville and Novi. Among those were a chicken coop, doggie day care center and
52 The ‘Ville
lavender farm. When the pandemic happened, the projects were put on hold or didn’t happen at all. Money wasn’t generated, either. “We had all these events scheduled, and all these galas to raise money,” said Vartanian about fundraising plans earlier this year to help pay off the $3.5 million mortgage. “And all of it got cancelled. August 8 would have been our gala on the property. “All non-profits are scared right now.” Things are at a standstill for the Northville Lions, too, with club members not permitted to stand on public sidewalks and streets collecting for the sale of white canes, their annual fundraiser. “We contacted the city,” said Debra Beard, president of the local Lions club. “When they opened the sidewalks in the city in downtown Northville, so people could dine outside, we had hoped the city would allow
us just to maybe stand on the corner and do collections. But they would not let us do that.” And as a result, the Northville Lions’ budget is seriously depleted. Beard just hopes the group can ride it out until brighter days —hopefully – emerge perhaps in early 2021. Donations are down 95 percent from what they would be in a
“normal” year, Beard said. “We’re going to be down to zero by the end of the year,” Beard lamented. “We’re going to have nothing in our till.” The club sends donations to needy organizations such as Northville Civic Concern, Seedlings Braille Books and the Beaumont Silent Children’s Fund, among others. “We’ve done a little bit of that this year, but we’re working off of last year’s monies that we collected,” Beard said. “But if we continue to give our money to these organizations, which we will, we will be down to zero.” A VIRTUAL TOUR The Northville Rotary Club’s biggest fundraiser also got stuck in the mud due to COVID, forcing the group’s annual Tour de Ville bicycle marathon to become a “virtual” endeavor. Instead of participants navigating routes anywhere from 10 to 75 miles, they are paying less to merely ride bikes in and around Northville – encouraged to take photos or videos at historic landmarks for posting on social media. Instead of the usual $25,000
Volunteers have been instrumental in helping the Living and Learning Center’s efforts at the former Massey Estate.
in profit from sponsorships and rider fees, this year’s scaled down event –spanning two months, ending Oct. 31 and rebranded as the ‘TDV Covid Cruise’ – will be fortunate to bring in half that, said Rotary president Guy Bardsley. “We’ve had people post photos or video onto the Facebook page,” Bardsley said. “My wife and I went out this week, we did our ‘Covid Cruise’ and we stopped at a number of sites in Northville and took photos. “Despite what’s happening, as a club I think we’ve adapted to this new normal as best as we could. I mean, it definitely isn’t ideal. But we’ve continued to hold the club together.” The Rotarians do have a reliable backup plan to see them through, though. “We have a foundation, a 501(c)3 component of our club,” Bardsley explained. “We have a reasonably large amount of money that sits in there. We’re able to draw money off that. “Basically, we draw off the interest from that each year, to allocate to everything from service projects we support to scholarships. For the last number of years we gave three $1,000 scholarships to Northville High School collegebound students,” Bardsley said. “We support everything from (Northville) Civic Concern to Living and Learning.” MEET AND GREET With in-person gatherings either banned or restricted throughout much of the pandemic, non-profit clubs have had to help members get up to speed on Zoom technology in order to tackle monthly agendas. Recent outdoor gatherings – with mask
Northville Lions Club members Debra Beard and Clay Galarneau put up posters inside Meads Mill Middle School, as part of the club’s Peace Poster Contest for sixth graders.
wearing and social distancing rules applied – were a welcome respite. But as October turns into November, groups will need to return indoors or perhaps opt to go back to Zoom. “Our typical meeting location is the Northville Sports Den,” Beard said. “We may go back to that. Not everyone in our group wants to be there. Some have pre-existing conditions and don’t want to put the risk out there.” Rotary Club’s Bardsley noted that Sept. 22 was the club’s first in-person meeting, on the grounds at the Living and Learning Center, since March. “We had about 18 people show up. It was good to see everybody again,” Bardsley said. “It may be the last time we’ll be able to do it. “We’re just like everybody else, fingers crossed that (a COVID-19 cure) comes,” Bardsley noted. “I think being realistic we’re definitely looking into next year. We’ll just continue to operate and do the best we can, really. We’re still able to serve.” The club has been able to keep plugging along with various projects, despite the pandemic. In August, they volunteered at Crossroads in Detroit, a food service
organization that feeds up to 800 people. Rotary also helps provide food for those who need it closer to home, with member Marita Smith collecting nonperishables and household goods and finding a unique delivery system, repurposing their “Little Free Library” near the Chamber office as a “Little Free Pantry.” “She (Smith) stocks that at least three times a week,” Bardsley said. “Not just food, she’ll put in plastic bags filled with toothpaste and a toothbrush, or shampoo and a conditioner. We hope everyone who takes is needy. That’s been a nice little project we’ve done.” THE BIG PICTURE Vartanian still has high hopes and big plans for the Living and Learning Center (for now, programming continues to take place out of the current facility at 315 Griswold, on the grounds of Mill Race Village), and won’t let a global health crisis get in the way. “We’re moving forward with everything, it’s just that money is very tight,” she explained. Planned improvements to the new center include building handicapped ramps and making facilities ADA (Americans with
Disabilities Act) compliant. One of her bigger goals is to convert the Massey carriage house into an oasis for her clientele. “Before we got the property – we tried to get this for two years – I promised a parent, her son went to Cooke School, for your most severe,” Vartanian said. “I don’t have the space at our other place to offer programs for them. So I promised her that if we got this building that the carriage house I’d use solely for the people that need the most support. I just want that up and running for those parents, so they have a place to bring their kids, too.” In the meantime, to bring in important revenue, Vartanian has begun renting out the 100-year-old home and grounds for special events – and for photo shoots such as for weddings. “We have two fire pits out here, we want the community out here,” she said. “We open the gates at 9 a.m., close them about 9 p.m. Monday through Sunday. Just pull your car in, wear your mask and just walk around the property. It’s so beautiful.”
NORTHVILLE NON-PROFITS
Many Northville non-profit organizations are struggling to raise money because of COVID-19. Here are a few that could use your help. Northville Rotary, www.northvillerotary.org Northville Lions Club, www.northvillelionsclub.org VFW Post 4012, vfw.vfw4012.us American Legion Post 147, centennial.legion.org/michigan/ post147 Living & Learning Center, www.livingandlearningcenter.org Northville Civic Concern, northvillevolunteer.wixsite.com/ civicconcern
The ‘Ville 53
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Members of the Sisterhood of the Traveling Wine meet at a local restaurant.
Sisterhood of the Traveling Wine uncorks good cheer and generosity By Wensdy Von Buskirk
D
uring the darkest days of COVID, a rash of ding-dong-ditch swept through Northville neighborhoods. It wasn’t teenagers defying quarantine to pull pranks, but grown women dropping off care packages on each others’ doorsteps, ringing doorbells, then making a run for it. With the ringing of those doorbells, the Sisterhood of the Traveling Wine had arrived in Northville and Novi. As part of a word-of-mouth phenomenon, private social media groups have participants “wining” each other across the nation. The name comes from the novel and movie Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, in which a group of best friends find a pair of jeans that inexplicably fits them all perfectly, and brings them good fortune as they swap them back and forth across the miles.
56 The ‘Ville
SPREADING GOOD CHEER Longtime Northville resident and Ford Motor Co. engineer Kristin Borsenik found out about the traveling wine trend through a friend and decided to launch a group in Northville. The concept is
simple: If you love wine and want to spread kindness, request to join the Facebook group “Sisterhood of the Traveling Wine Northville Novi.” According to Borsenik, the only requirement is that you live in town. Once accepted, you’ll fill out a spreadsheet with your name, address, wine preferences, occupation, kids, pets, and favorite color. Then, when you least expect it, goodies appear on your porch. “It’s really informal,” Borsenek said. Currently, the Northville Novi group has around 200 members, and though rules are few and gifting is random, somehow it works out that everyone gets “wined.” “It’s all about trust,” Borsenik said. Borsenik has been shocked at the goodies left on her stoop. In addition to her favorite Cabernet Sauvignon, she’s gotten candles, lotions, bath bombs, wine-themed kitchen
towels, a Michigan-shaped cutting board, and a wine tumbler in her favorite color blue. Once she received a bottle of pricy Veuve Clicquot champagne. “I’ve been blown away by the generosity,” she said. “When I look around my home now I see so many things that remind me that I’m not alone during the pandemic. It’s been a game changer for me.”
“We decorated her porch in white tulle and left a mountain of snacks, gifts and candy. Nice things to make her feel special during an incredibly difficult time for her as a bride,” Borsenik said. When another was homebound after knee surgery, she was showered with flowers and cards. An essential health care worker got supplies to keep her going on the frontline. “You may be at your wit’s end trying to homeschool, or just got
Kristin Borsenik delivers a gift box of wine as part of the Sisterhood of the Traveling Wine initiation. By Bryan Mitchell
around town. Moreover, it’s been a welcome diversion. “My husband is a retired
new friendships. Walking clubs and book clubs have also spun off from the Sisterhood.
It’s been a lot of fun and it brings people a lot of joy. You have no idea what people are going through and it’s great to make their day. Someone you don’t know, someone you’ve never met, it’s just nice to spread the Kathy Blair love like that.” Member, Sisterhood of the Traveling Wine Northville Novi PANDEMIC PANACEA With people feeling isolated and stressed due to COVID, Borsenik said the group couldn’t have come at a better time. More than bringing women, wine and snacks, it’s brought them together. When one member’s wedding was postponed for the third time due to the coronavirus, the Sisterhood staged a sociallydistanced bridal shower.
some bad news from the doctor. You find a surprise gift and it’s just what you needed,” she says. “It’s really amazing how the bags come at the exact right moment for so many people. It’s become a support group, even though we don’t really know each other.” For Kathy Blair, who moved to the area from Chicago last fall, the group has helped her meet people and learn her way
New members get "wined" with a basket of goodies on their porch. By Bryan Mitchell
police officer and we have a number of friends and family in Chicago. With all the social unrest it’s been a wonderful distraction,” she said. Blair put together patriotic baskets for Memorial Day, and is known for her dog-themed baskets stocked with organic treats. “It’s been a lot of fun and it brings people a lot of joy,” she said. “You have no idea what people are going through and it’s great to make their day. Someone you don’t know, someone you’ve never met, it’s just nice to spread the love like that.” ONLINE TO IRL Memberrs who’ve been “wined” share photos of their baskets online, and as lockdown lifts, the Sisterhood has begun meeting in real life. They’ve gathered for happy hours at Granite City and Rusty Bucket, and set up camp chairs at Waterford Bend Park to toast
For Borsenik, who says she is single, extremely social and a natural gift giver, the group has been an invaluable outlet. She’s enjoyed filling her home with treats and ordering wine by the case to shower people around her with a little good cheer. “I wined a guy who sits next to me at work,” she said. “Wining people is like my new thing now, even if you’re not in the group.” Closer to home, Borsenik said she has built bridges in the community and gotten to know wonderful people, including a neighbor she discovered just five doors down. “She’s an amazing friend. I never would have met her if it weren’t for the wine group,” she said. “I’m meeting women all around me that I never knew were there.” Sisterhood of the Traveling Wine Northville Novi is free and open to all local residents. Simply search for the group on Facebook and request to join.
The ‘Ville 57
Return to Health Don’t Delay the Care You Need
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Northville Needs Nix! BE INFORMED ON YOUR LOCAL GOVERNMENT ISSUES
Don’t let fictitious and divisive political ads be your information source. TRANSPARENCY, CHARACTER and RESPONSIBILITY are the leadership qualities of Supervisor Robert Nix.
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Dishin’ With Denise
Denise Jenkins serves on the board of directors for 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.
Get Ready For A Halloween Blue Moon
H
alloween in Northville may look a little different this year, but Mother Nature will do her part to keep it “spooky’ with a Blue Moon right on Halloween night. Sometimes called the Hunter’s Moon, it’s really the second of two full moons in a single calendar month. (The first was on October 1st.) While some Halloween traditions remain in place (the skeletons have returned), Streets of Treats and some others have sadly been canceled. Hopefully, the spooky moon will make up for it and be visible for photo ops. Another annual event gone to the wayside is Northville Rotary’s benefit bicycle ride, the Tour de Ville. Over the last six years the tour has returned more than $90,000 in grants, scholarships and donations. “This year we are looking at a signification funding shortfall, which will limit the projects we can support,” said Rotary Foundation member Patrick Giesa. “So we started a 2020 Tour de Ville Covid Cruise. You
Northville Rotary Foundation member, Patrick Giesa
60 The ‘Ville
Tuscan Cafe conceptual drawing
choose your route, distance and date to ride, make a small donation at our website and they’ll send you a 2020 TdV Covid Cruise neck buff for your generosity.” When you finish your ride, post some pictures on that same website: tourdeville.org. If you’re wondering, a neck buff is also known as a neck gaitor. If you are still wondering, like me, what that is here you go…it’s a cloth tube that goes over your head and around your neck. It has multiple uses. I think it could serve as a mask. I know Dishin’ with Denise could lend itself to restaurant reviews, but I don’t have the palate for tasty dishes that deserve review and recognition. I’m my father’s daughter – meat and potato girl, who has made picky eating an art form. Although I love to cook, I enjoy eating out – the ambiance, the customer service, and the ability to satisfy all palates – vegan, gluten-free, vegetarian and even me, are quite impressive. One of the “hidden gems” in Northville has been Tuscan Café. It is one place
that’s open when many are not. Tuscan will soon be on the move as it is redeveloping the building formerly home to My Little Paris Café and Next Chapter
Bookstore. “We’re very thankful our customers have stood by us during these challenging times,” said Will Hundley, secondgeneration owner of Tuscan Café. “We’ve been a proud member of this community for 25 years. In our new location we will continue serving gourmet coffee, giant-grilled deli sandwiches made with love, beautiful salads, home-made soups…everything that belongs in a café and deli.” Northville residents and movie buffs remember the space as the location for Wes Craven’s classic horror sequel “Scream4,” which starred Courtney Cox, David Arquette and Neve Campbell. They are scheduled to open before the end of the year, but the current location remains ready to serve. There’s more big news on Main Street with Orin Jewelers moving their “world headquarters” into its Northville showroom. The family jewelry store has been headquartered in Garden City for more than 67 years. Orin Mazzoni Jr., president and CEO is experiencing a full range of
emotion as he says good-bye to the store his parents founded. He is confident the family legacy will continue at the Northville location with the help of his youngest daughter, Antoinette. Tina and Orin Mazzoni are preparing for the next chapter and describe Antoinette as the ideal personality to take the family business into the future. She, like her father, grew up
Antoinette Mazzoni Kramar and Orin Mazzoni, Jr.
with her siblings in the family business. “I traveled a lot, lived in Italy and Chicago, and in 2014 my husband and I decided to move back to Michigan to raise our children,” she said. “I have always had a true love for my family’s jewelry business, and now have the opportunity to learn all I can from my dad.” I’ll leave you with a trivia question. Who recorded the song “Blue Moon”? Was it Frank Sinatra, Mel Torme, Elvis Presley, Billie Holiday, Sam Cooke, Cyndi Lauper, Rod Stewart, The Supremes or The Mavericks? If you guessed all of the above you are correct. And there are even more. Now, that’s scary!
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