The 'Ville - December 2020

December 2020 | Vol.3 | Issue 12

Northville’s News and Lifestyle Magazine

TheFirst

Woman ofHockey

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Support The ‘Ville • If you enjoy getting The ‘Ville each and every month, please consider making a donation.

• Your financial contribution will help us survive and grow.

• Help insure local journalism is here to stay. Send us $10, $20 or any amount you can, and we will list your name in upcoming issues as being a supporter of The ‘Ville -- and local journalism.

LOCAL Matters!

Please send checks, cash or lucky charms to: Journeyman Publishing 16435 Franklin Northville, MI 48168 Thank you!

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!

Katherine & Todd Barber Nina Burkman Joann E. Dayton Alan & Sharon Ferrara Mary & Michael Glenn Deb & Bob Hart

Volume 3 Issue 12 DECEMBER 2020

Kurt Hofner Charlene Laginess Nancy & Hank Lenox Dianne & Don McCulloch Lloyd & Helen McKee Diane Walter

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.

maria taylor – Writer

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

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.

ALAN LUNDBERG - Writer

Alex got his start in the journalism business in 1992 as a reporter for the Plymouth Community Crier newspaper. Since then he has worked a variety of beats, covering communities all around the Detroit area, from Grosse Ile to Lake Orion.

BRYAN MITCHELL - Photographer

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

The ‘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

The Christmas Spirit In Action B

ill Demray, owner of Preservation Dental at the corner of Griswold and Main, has always gone above and beyond when it comes to the holidays.

If you’ve Visitors check out the lit up "tree of teeth." ever been to Photo by Bryan Mitchell Northville’s something to get into the Holiday Lighted Parade, you’ve holiday spirit. So, with the help surely seen his Volkswagen of his staff, he created a giant Bugs all lit up and decorated like tooth sculpture shaped like a Santa’s reindeer. They are always Christmas tree out in front of a crowd favorite. his business. You can’t miss it Like many other things lost when you drive into town from this year, the parade, which Northville Road. It’s hard to is always a harbinger of the describe. You have to see it for holidays around these parts, was yourself. cancelled due to the pandemic.

Demray and his team lit up his It was a blow to many of us, "tree of teeth" on Nov. 20, at a including Demray. small event that included music, Undeterred, he decided dancers, his beloved Volkswagen Northville needed to do

reindeer, and a bit of comedy.

Just what those who stopped by needed. No parade, no problem.

On the same evening, across the street at Corriveau Law, Joe Corriveau and his father, Richard, kicked off their annual Toys for Tots drive. They’ve been doing it for several years, and this year they believe it is more important than ever, considering so many people are out of work as a result of the pandemic. The goal is to make sure every child gets a toy for Christmas, surely a noble cause.

A few people did stop by and drop off gifts, and the Corriveaus thanked them for their generosity. They will be accepting new toy donations through Dec. 15. They are located at 324 E. Main Street (next to Starbucks). Please donate if you can.

These are just two examples of the Christmas spirit in action, and our local business community stepping up at a time

we need them most. And there are plenty of other examples around town, if you care to look.

There’s no use pretending we are living through normal times.

With Christmas approaching, there is a lot of anxiety out there, and with good reason as COVID-19 rages across the nation. I’d like to think that, if nothing else, this pandemic has taught us to give thanks for the things we hold dear in our lives, things we may have taken for granted.

Thank goodness there are people like Demray (and his team) and the Corriveaus to remind us about the true meaning of Christmas.

Merry Christmas from all of us at The ‘Ville! Please stay safe and care for your neighbors.

Kurt Kuban is Editor and Publisher of The ‘Ville. He welcomes your feedback at (734) 716-0783 or kurtkuban@ thevillemagazine.com.

Your Voice: Letters to the Editor 4 School Board race heads to recount after tie 12

'We're Still Here'

Past Tense: Opera House was a crown jewel 16

14

Breaking The Ice

6

Maybury State Park looking to add an entrance 20 Happy Jack vintage t-shirts have positive vibe 26

Christmas Comes to Town

22

Mayor’s task forces look to the future 28 Golf team leads successful campaign for NHS 30 Locals cautiously optimistic after landfill sold 34 It’s Your Business: The Northville Gallery 36

ON THE COVER: Northville resident Manon Rhéaume, the only woman to play in one of the four major pro sports, in downtown Northville. Photo by Bryan Mitchell

Your Voice Thanks for vote

Thank you to the residents of Northville Township for your vote of confidence on November 3rd. I am humbled by your support, and grateful for this new opportunity to serve our community.

Congratulations to Supervisor Mark Abbo, Clerk Roger Lundberg, and Treasurer Jason Rhines, along with fellow trustees, Scott Frush, Mindy Herrmann, and Chris Roosen. We will work together for continued fiscal responsibility, delivery of superior services to our residents, thoughtful development, and ensure all businesses operate in an environmentally responsible manner.

Thank you for the privilege to be your voice for the next four years.

Cyndy Jankowski

Time to move

I wasn’t surprised to see another article about landfill problems in last month’s issue. The real problem with the landfill is its location. When it started, almost 30 years ago, this area was pretty much in the middle of nowhere, with a landfill and some gravel pits. But that isn’t the case anymore. With homes, and a school now in its shadow along Six Mile and continued development in the future, it’s time for Arbor Hills to put a cap on its mountain and relocate somewhere else.

The Five Mile and Beck area is experiencing extensive development. With double tandem trucks constantly lumbering back and forth to the landfill, road space is going to get tighter. Arbor Hills needs to be told to prepare another site -- in the middle of nowhere. There’s plenty of room along M-14 between here and Ann Arbor.

During my time in the area, I’ve seen a lot of changes. The only thing that hasn’t changed is the dump.

Mike Erspamer

Idea for The Downs

I have an idea for when they tear down Northville Downs. We could set up a seasonal area so that in the fall and spring, we can expand the farmers market and set up booths or an activity to promote foot traffic and help support downtown Northville’s businesses. More people would come downtown. And people who go downtown will stay longer and thus be more likely to spend more money there.

For example, in the winter it could be an outdoor ice rink and bring in money for the town or a charity of some sort. In spring/fall it could be a farmers market or drive-in area. In summer it could be a basketball/sports area, and on holidays it could be transformed into an Easter egg hunting ground, a Christmas wonderland, a place for Fourth of July festivities, and more.

Natasha Kobelsky

SOUND OFF 4 The ‘Ville

Most support FAR

A letter in last month’s issue made statements about Northville’s newly adopted 0.36 Floor Area Ratio (FAR) ordinance that are, I believe, not accurate. FAR is intended to minimize huge “Bigfoot” homes by limiting overall mass, both horizontal and vertical. Home developers make more money by promoting a big home on a small lot, and Northville has been trying to resist overbuilding (mostly unsuccessfully) for decades with prior ordinances. Northville’s FAR affects only one and two family homes in residential zones R1B and R2, where lot sizes tend to be smaller.

The City of Plymouth implemented their own FAR in mid-2017. The letter states that Plymouth experienced a decline of property values due to FAR. Plymouth’s median single family home value in 2017 was approximately $275,000. In 2018, it was $282,000. In 2019, it was $280,000, a reduction of 0.7%. I did not consider 2020, as the economy has been influenced by COVID. Were the small reductions in Plymouth property values in 2019 due to FAR? When considering this question, one has to ask how many home buyers research the zoning ordinances of a city before they purchase? Very few, I think.

If a potential buyer is not aware of FAR, then it does not influence the selling price. I am certain that the data does not exist that would prove Plymouth’s FAR has negatively impacted home prices. Keep in mind that the home selling market varies. As an example, Northville’s home values decreased in 2018.

The letter also misses the point about garages and porches. FAR encourages rear garages by not counting floor area of an unattached garage. In addition, homes with rear garages are allowed to have a covered porch that extends four feet farther into the usual required front setback, and that area extending into setback is not counted as part of FAR. The City of Northville carefully considered the financial implications, held numerous public meetings, and used professional consultants to research FAR, both nationwide and in Plymouth. The citizens of Northville, well aware of the overbuilding problem we have (or had) here, are overwhelmingly in support of the new ordinance. I urge all interested readers to read the zoning ordinance or check with Northville officials to learn what FAR really does for our city.

Michael McClish

Please submit your letters by emailing Editor Kurt Kuban at kurtkuban@gmail.com.

Letters must be 150 words or less. We reserve the right to edit all letters.

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TheFirst

Woman ofHockey

By Brad Emons

Manon Rhéaume has broken plenty of barriers along her journey

T

he 28th anniversary of the first and only female ever to appear in a National Hockey League game occurred during this year’s delayed Stanley Cup playoffs. And the same team that gave Manon Rhéaume a chance in an exhibition game on Sept. 23, 1992 – the Tampa Bay Lightning – ironically went on to win their second championship in franchise history.

Rhéaume, who has made Northville her home the past 15 years after taking a sales and marketing position with the Central Collegiate Hockey Association (when it was based in Michigan), still remains the

6 The ‘Ville

only female to play in one of the four major pro sports.

The goalie has continued to be highly active in promoting the game as the Girls Program Coordinator for the Little Caesars Hockey Club, where she also coaches a 12-and-under team. She also works with the Detroit Red Wings’ youth hockey camps and is involved in its Learn to Play efforts.

Rhéaume, who once appeared on the David Letterman Show before retiring from the game in 2009, is still telling the unique story about her hockey journey.

In the 1992-93 seasons, while she was a minor leaguer in Atlanta, Manon wrote her first

autobiography – Manon: Alone in Front of the Net. She recently completed another book for children called Breaking the Ice with author Angie Bullaro, who has also been involved in a five-year movie project regarding Rhéaume’s life story, which is appropriately named – Between the Pipes.

“The idea for me – on my side – and why I was excited about this project was to be able to inspire young people to follow their dream,” Rhéaume said. “And if they’re

passionate about something and they work really hard, they can achieve anything they want to. And also, they don’t need to fit into a certain mold to be able to do something.”

The Lac Beauport, Quebec native also does speaking engagements and appears on a weekly TV show for the Réseau des Sports (RDS), a FrenchCanadian sister network of English language The Sports Network (TSN).

A DIFFERENT ROUTE How Rhéaume made it to Tampa Bay’s training camp is a remarkable story in itself.

She did come from a hockey family where she was coached by her father Pierre. And her younger brother Pascal played 318 games in the NHL (winning a Stanley Cup in 2003 with the New Jersey Devils).

She had the distinction of being the first female goalie to play for a boys’ team in the world famous 1984 Quebec International Peewee Hockey Tournament.

But the same goalies Rhéaume had played with and against in Bantam were afforded the chance to play at the next level, while she was forced to take a different route.

She even momentarily stepped away from the game at age 17 somewhat disillusioned and frustrated.

“My point was I was not given the same opportunity as the guys,” said Rhéaume, who eventually returned to a women’s league in Montreal despite a two-and-half hour drive back-and-forth from her home Lac Beauport.

Rhéaume, however, became the first women to play in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League with the Trois-Riviéres

When I went to Tampa Bay, I was probably the total opposite of what an NHL goalie should look like. I was small. I was a female. I barely fit into the angles, but that doesn’t stop me to go to camp. And that’s kind of the message we want to tell the kids. If you’re passionate about something, go for it, follow your dream.

Manon Rhéaume

Draveurs after coach Gaston Drapeau offered her a chance to practice with the team as an emergency goalie.

“He wanted to see what I could do against them and he realized I was able to hold my own, and he invited me to camp,” Rhéaume said.

In the 1992 IIHF World Women’s Championships, Rhéaume helped Canada to a

gold medal and was named an All-Star. (She won another gold for Canada and was an All-Star as well in 1994 Worlds.)

After watching her on tape, Tampa Bay general manager and NHL Hall of Famer Phil Esposito signed her to an NHL contract despite the fact that Rhéaume did not fit the physical profile of an NHL goaltender at 5 feet, 7 inches and 130 pounds.

“When I went to Tampa Bay, I was probably the total opposite of what an NHL goalie should look like,” she said. “I was small.

I was a female. I barely fit into the angles, but that doesn’t stop me to go to camp. And that’s kind of the message we want to tell the kids. If you’re passionate about something, go for it, follow your dream.”

Some took it as a publicity stunt and that Rhéaume was a token in Tampa. Esposito was also the first to admit that he wanted to bring more exposure to the new NHL franchise in Florida.

“Of course, you always hear those comments,” she said. “My response to all of this was when I was trying out for the highest level in Quebec. For about three years in a row coaches would tell my dad (Pierre), ‘Don’t bring her to the camp, we won’t take a girl even if she’s good enough.

They’re not going to take a girl on the team.’ And finally, when I was in Bantam, the coach didn’t care if it was a female or a male. He picked me on the top level, two years on the Bantam level, which was the top AA level in Quebec. And after that everybody was invited, but me, to the Midget AAA level because I was a female.”

In the preseason scrimmages with Tampa Bay, Rhéaume realized nothing was given. It had to be earned.

“We started right away with a small, mini tournament,´ Rhéaume recalled. “In my first game in camp, I didn’t allow any goals on 14 shots. And I was the only goalie in that game that did not allow any goals between all those NHL guys that were in training camp. I finished after the mini-camp Hockey continued on page 8

The ‘Ville 7

Hockey Continued from page 7

in the top three goalies in the goals-against average and save percentage. I remember after that first game that I played in the mini-tournament we had a press conference and the comment Phil said, ‘After the way she played today, you may see her in an exhibition game.’

I had to earn that spot. They just didn’t put me in and finish games. They would have never done that if I had not held my own during training camp.”

At the age of 20, Rhéaume made history playing one period against the St. Louis Blues making seven of nine saves. (One of the two players to score against her was former Red Wing and NHL Hall of Famer Brendan Shanahan.)

In 1993, she appeared in another NHL exhibition game for Tampa Bay against the Boston Bruins before embarking on a career in the minors with four different teams in the International Hockey League (IHL) and three in the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL).

Rhéaume also won a silver medal for Canada in the 1998 Winter Olympic Games in Nagano, Japan. She also played for the Minnesota Whitecaps of the Western Women’s Hockey League, along with stints in Roller Hockey International and West Coast Hockey leagues.

8 The ‘Ville

In her final year, she made an appearance with the IHL’s Flint Generals before getting into coaching and launching a business career in hockey.

Along the way she had two sons including Dylan, a senior goalie for Notre Dame and former member of the U.S. National Development Team Program, and Dakoda, who plays AAA Bantam for Honeybaked.

WOMEN MAKING STRIDES Meanwhile, the pandemic has put a temporary hold on women’s professional hockey.

In 2019, the Canandian Women’s Hockey League folded, but the Professional Women’s Hockey Players Association planned to

pursue a pro league this winter with a $1 million sponsorship coming from the deodorant company Secret. The PWHPA Dream Gap Tour, sponsored by Secret, was scheduled to start in 2021.

Meanwhile, the U.S.based National Women’s Hockey League, which was also scheduled to start its sixth season in January, expanded into Canada with a new franchise -- the Toronto Six. Women have been making strides, according to Rhéaume, but there is more progress to be made.

“You see the Canadian and U.S. national teams, both countries, are putting a lot of money in

their women’s program, which has allowed the girls to be able to train full time while they’re on the national team, which is a great thing,” Rhéaume said. “There are so many young girls that play hockey and they dream to play college hockey, and play for a national team, but what’s after? Having a league to support those women, that would absolutely be amazing.

The women wouldn’t have two or three other jobs and play hockey.”

When Rhéaume was growing up, it was a totally different hockey landscape. That’s why she was considered Billie Jean King of her sport as she tried to break down gender barriers.

“And people said, ‘Oh, you just got invited because you’re a girl or a female,’” Rhéaume said. “I would say to them, so many people told me no because I was a female when I was younger. I don’t care why they invite me, I’m going to have to prove myself. I’m going to have to perform. And that’s what I did.”

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A Dead Heat

School board election heads to recount after draw decides winner James Mazurek

W

hen the unofficial results of the Northville School Board election were announced on election night, James Mazurek had earned the fourth and final spot by the slimmest of margins – one vote – over Kimberly CampbellVoytal. He joined the other winners – Sarah Prescott, Lisa McIntyre and Lindsey Wilson.

However, when the official results were certified by Wayne County Board of Canvassers,

By Alex Lundberg “I got a call from the superintendent (Mary Kay Gallagher) 15 minutes before the meeting was going to start,” he said. “I would have been there in person if I would have known about it.”

He said two slips of paper were put into a box, one saying “elected,” the other saying “unelected” and he was determined to be the winner by the drawing. Campbell-Voytal was at the board of canvassers’

only a one-vote difference in the races, which was the day after election day. Too early, it turned out.

“I found out I had to wait until the votes were canvassed,” she said. “I couldn’t even ask for a recount until the county was done with them.”

She did request one and paid for the privilege. The statute that allows for a recount puts a per-precinct price on the exercise, payable by the

Kimberly Campbell-Voytal

to meet on Monday, Dec. 7 to layout the parameters of the recount.

If the election stands, Mazurek said he would focus his energies on giving the district’s employees the necessary tools to deal with COVID-19.

“I want to focus on academic excellence and I’m concerned the quality of education we offer has slipped dramatically,” he said. “I don’t think the staff has the expertise or experience to

I don’t even know who pulled for me. They said they sent an email. I didn’t realize an email counts as official notification these days. James Mazurek Mazurek and CampbellVoytal ended up tied. So, on Nov. 25, the two candidates were notified there would be a drawing. A Wayne County Board of Canvassers worker ultimately pulled a slip of paper out of a box, and Mazurek was declared the winner – for the second time.

Campbell-Voytal filed for a recount, so the race was still up in the air as of press time.

Mazurek, who previously served on the board, was not particularly satisfied with the process. He said he was notified of the Zoom meeting to decide the winner almost by accident.

12 The ‘Ville

meeting and pulled from the box herself.

“I don’t even know who pulled for me,” Mazurek said.

“They said they sent an email. I didn’t realize an email counts as official notification these days.”

He said the whole experience reminded him of the old saying about watching politics is like watching sausage being made.

“It’s not a neat process, but this is how it’s set up. These are the rules. It’s 2020, I’m not surprised by anything anymore,” he said.

Campbell-Voytal said she planned to ask for a recount as soon as she heard there was

petitioning candidate. The cost of the recount is dependent on the vote margin in question.

The higher the gulf between candidates, the higher the cost of the recount—a provision meant to discourage frivolous recounts.

Because the margin in this case is so low, zero votes separate the two candidates, the per-precinct cost is the minimum, $25 each. She has paid $975 for the recount.

Northville Superintendent Mary Kay Gallagher said the county notified her that the Wayne County Board of Canvassers were scheduled

do remote learning adequately.”

The Northville Public Schools is located in Northville Township, but voters in three counties (Wayne, Oakland and Washtenaw) including the city of Northville, Novi, Lyon Township, Salem Township and Plymouth Township cast votes in school board elections.

According to Gallagher, Wayne County will conduct the recount because most of the voters in the race are Wayne County residents.

Northville School Board members, who are unpaid, serve four-year terms.

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Brandon Bueter changes some lettering at The Marquis Theatre.

James Kuhl, Tipping Point’s artistic director, works on the ‘We’re Still Here’ sign on the theatre’s roof.

‘We’re Still Here’ Northville’s theatres optimistic their curtains will rise again

By Lonnie Huhman

D

espite the uncertain times, Northville’s theatres are here to stay.

Both the Marquis and Tipping Point theatres are facing challenges, like everyone else during the COVID pandemic, but they are optimistic and continue to look for ways to adapt, adjust and make it through by doing things like being true partners in the community.

Over at Tipping Point, which has been shut down since the beginning of the pandemic, the staff is doing everything they can to remind the community they haven’t gone anywhere. They recently installed the words “We’re Still Here” on their rooftop.

Natalie LaCroix-Tann, Tipping Point’s marketing manager, said they are focused on adapting to change.

“And this is a whole lot of change,” LaCroix-Tann said. “Things are tenuous and strained, but our outlook is optimistic. The theatre is filled with creative people, we have put a number of things in motion to help us out, and we have a loyal

14 The ‘Ville

patron base that will be there for us.”

The “We’re Still Here” sign is a bright reminder to all who see it of the importance of arts organizations and their continued resilience during the pandemic that brought their entire industry to a screeching halt.

“Michigan artists are some of the most hard working and passionate people that I know,” said James Kuhl, Tipping Point’s artistic director. “I am reminded daily of the John Steinbeck quote ‘The theater is the only institution in the world which has been dying for four thousand years and has never succumbed. It requires tough and devoted people to keep it alive.’ I am thankful that we have the artists and patrons that we do, because we are going to need that tenacity

now more than ever.”

While the small professional theatre has some savings from their successful 13 years of operation that have helped soften the initial shutdown, Tipping Point said it has been forced to seek out every additional avenue they can to save costs. The theatre has gone from nine full time staff members to two, negotiated compromises with existing contracts, and received a loan from the Payment Protection Program that was launched with the first federal stimulus package.

“But no shows means no income for Tipping Point and, unlike typical theatres of their size, they depend heavily on ticket sales,” the theater said in announcing the fundraisers. “Over 70 percent of their budget comes from revenue made off of sales while the nationwide average of similarly sized theatres tend to rely on donations. With their 13th Season ending 3 shows short of its expected run and their 14th Season on hold, Tipping Point is now asking for donations from their community to help them keep the lights on.”

A SPECIAL PLACE Over on Main Street at the Marquis Theatre the situation is very much similar, but also different in that the ownership of the theatre changed hands right before the COVID outbreak began having its impact.

The buyer was Northville resident Chuck Lapham, who with help from his grandson Brandon Bueter, both said at that time they were buying the iconic Marquis Theatre because of its historical value to downtown Northville. They said they hoped to keep it as a theater and rental venue while making some improvements to the building.

Once the pandemic hit, however, those plans slowed down. Among other things at the Marquis, the theatre had to cancel their summer camps as a precautionary, safety measure.

Bueter said they have been wading through it all, including the restrictions, and it’s been a challenge. However, he said there’s light at the end of the tunnel and

Brandon Bueter (pictured with is wife Kim and kids Luke and June) is concentrating on updating the Marquis Theatre.

they are moving forward on fixing up the historic building.

They’ve fixed the roof, which was a big and important repair, and now they are working on the inside and outside. Bueter said among different things the theater is getting new carpet, paint, lighting and a sound system. The restrooms and façade of the building will also see some repairs and updating.

The Marquis holds a special place in the community. The building was built in 1924 and for years it was a movie theater and then grew into a beloved live show theater.

The legacy of the Marquis grew even more over the years, especially through the thousands of children who saw a show on its stage or went to a summer camp there.

ECONOMIC IMPACT Both theatres have been more important than just the entertainment value. Patrons of the theatres come to town and typically spend more money at other businesses, including restaurants and stores. For example, Tipping Point said its 16,000+ patrons spend more than $503,000 annually in the local community before and after they attend performances.

Going forward, both theatres are looking to see how the COVID situation works out.

Some of the restrictions were eased a bit this fall.

When asked about the easing of state restrictions that allows performance venues to open to 20 percent capacity, Kuhl said “That is an encouraging step, but Tipping Point is a very intimate space.

It’s one of the things that our audiences love the most about the theatre that we do. At 20 percent capacity, there is no way for us to produce a profitable show. It’s not even close to breaking even at that point.

“We will open again to live shows when we can safely ensure a comfort and safety level for both our audience and artists, and there is a realistic possibility that we won’t lose our shirts by doing it,” he continued.

“Until then, we have to try to find new ways to create content, and depend on the generosity of our audiences while we continue looking for funding through grants or other stimulus initiatives.”

Bueter said the Marquis is looking forward to again being a home for live theater and other events. There’s no set timeline yet and with restrictions they have to get creative. He said they could be a small venue for weddings and plays.

In thinking about next summer, Bueter said the Marquis would love to see the kids and camps again bringing a vibrant energy inside the theatre, but it’s wait and see at this point.

In the meantime, the theatre is looking at other ways to showcase the historical building. Bueter said they are partnering with the Northville Art House. There’s expected to be a pop-up art gallery inside the front entrance area of the theater.

The TPTalks series featured on the theatre’s Facebook page and YouTube account feature local artists and what they

Tipping Point’s sign is lit up for everyone to see.

have been up to during the pandemic, outside of theatre.

On a much larger scale, Tipping Point said it’s creating a virtual fundraiser of the play “Hate Mail” by Bill Corbett and Kira Obolensky. The show, a parody of A.R. Gurney’s “Love Letters”, is written for a cast of two actors that only communicate through letters.

Streaming exclusively through Broadway On Demand from Dec. 31-Jan. 3, audiences will have the ability to cast the show from their choice of six different actors. This innovative idea allows patrons nine unique experiences for the price of one ticket and includes options for gender switching the roles.

More information is available at www.

TippingPointTheatre.com/hate-mail.

While they wait to open back up safely, LaCroix-Tann said Tipping Point has received a few grants from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs and Wayne County that they are immediately putting to use. Like the Marquis, it is undergoing some renovations -- in this case so it can provide social distanced seating as well as an overall improved experience.

“We’re not going anywhere, that’s for sure,” LaCroix-Tann said.

In the end, it’s about support, of the mutual kind.

“The arts are helping us all get through this pandemic, providing entertainment and a place to get lost in the midst of all of the crazy,” LaCroix-Tann said. “Whether you’ve been binge watching a show, picking up a new hobby, learning how to public speak over Zoom, or finding new music, the arts have been here for you through it all.

But, we need you to be here for us too, so we can continue to be there for you tomorrow.”

The ‘Ville 15

Past Tense

‘The Noblest Little Opera House’

Newspaper publisher led quest to build Northville’s crown jewel

By Michele Fecht

T

he three-story mixed-use building proposed for the southeast corner of North Center and Dunlap streets is on the site of Northville’s former opera house, a four-story edifice and once the village’s crown jewel.

In the decade following the Civil War when a war-weary populace craved cultural diversions and the nation’s burgeoning rail system laced the country, small towns and villages sought to appear more cultured and cosmopolitan. An opera house provided that sense of urbanity.

By the 1870s, the Village of Northville was humming with business and industry. The opening of the first train station in 1871 brought visitors to the village as well as a more efficient means for transporting goods.

Returning Civil War veterans, such as Benijah Parmenter, parlayed their pensions into business ventures. Charles Harrington and Francis Beal established the Michigan School Furniture Company that would eventually become a national and global enterprise.

Northville was becoming a destination.

It was against that backdrop that Samuel H. Little, founder and publisher of the community’s newspaper, The Northville Record, championed construction of an opera house.

Little, a former store clerk who established the newspaper in 1869 as The Wayne County Record (the name changed to

16 The ‘Ville

The Northville Opera House long past its prime. Note the Farmers Market on the structure's street level. Northville Historical Society

The Northville Record in 1870), was an unlikely advocate for such an ambitious undertaking.

He would prove tenacious in his quest.

NEWSPAPERS TO PLAYBILLS

Little launched The Northville Record with no newspaper experience, financial resources — or a press. In fact, the newspaper’s early editions were put together with cheap hand-set type in his home, loaded onto a wagon and hauled to Detroit (a half-day’s journey) where they were “struck off” on presses in the Detroit Free Press office. It was not until 1870 that Little was able to move his enterprise to an upperlevel office on Main Street, and through the generous donations of Northville citizens, purchase a press.

Race Historical Village) that he publicized in his newspaper.

The fund gained some traction among locals but was an exercise in endless solicitation.

The start of the opera house construction was noted in the November 18, 1876 issue of The Record: “The old yellow building on the corner of Twin and Center Street which has so long been an eyesore to residents of Northville has at last disappeared, being torn down to make room for the Northville Opera House.” Twin Street was a nickname for Dunlap. Local lore has it that it was coined “Twin Street” because at one time three sets of twins lived on the street.

Little provided updates in most issues of the newspaper throughout the three years of the building’s construction.

Architect for the 800-seat

While publishing a newspaper would seem enough of a challenge, Little had further ambitions. His quest to build “the noblest little opera house in Michigan outside of Detroit” was fueled by determination and enthusiasm.

His ambition, however, exceeded the staggering cost of the venture estimated by some to top $10,000.

Undeterred, Little launched A view from the balcony highlighting the stage, curtain and an “opera elaborate backdrop. Northville Historical Society house fund” structure was John V. Smith soliciting donations through of J.V. Smith & Company events such as grand concerts of Detroit, contractor was in the Young Men’s Hall (now James Dean of Dean Brothers the New School Church in Mill

in Detroit with foundation masonry work handled by Northville master mason Marvin Bovee.

On November 17, 1877, Little reported that “the opera house foundation is about completed and looks extensive enough for Barnum’s Hippodrome.

Without a doubt it is the largest piece of masonry in Plymouth Township.”

Despite Little’s ongoing efforts, fundraising for the

in Northville when the doors to the opera house finally opened.

He was no longer listed as editor and publisher of The Record after 1879.

TAKING THE STAGE

Little’s opera house eventually was completed, and its stage filled with a range of entertainments including magicians, hypnotists, elocutionists, musicians, theatre troupes and more.

Lyceum bureaus (booking agencies) offered season packages to small town opera houses looking to book musical performances, plays or lectures. “The Courtship of Miles The Northville Record occupied one of the street-level offices.

Standish” Publisher Frank S. Neal, far right, pictured with his staff, and “Uncle helmed the newspaper for 28 years. Northville Historical Society Tom’s Cabin” were among those listed opera house was an arduous on Northville Opera House slog. Construction was playbills. piecemeal depending on With the largest seating funds available to cover the capacity in the village, the cost of each building phase. opera house also served as a In September 1878, Little told community center for local readers that the gravel roof of events such as school recitals, the opera house was completed commencement exercises,

by B. Armstrong & Company club fundraisers and political of Detroit and the building was debates. expected to open by November Additional retail/office space 1. Two months later he wrote: on the street level was leased “Work on the Opera House to tenants. Frank Neal, who is progressing as fast as our would take over as publisher of limited means will allow.”

The Northville Record in 1891, Though construction leased the building’s street level remained unfinished, the Grand space for editorial operations.

Dedication Ball of Little’s opera In 1908, Neal purchased the house occurred on July 4, 1879 building for The Record’s with “very fair attendance.” It printing plant operations. is not known whether Little The Record’s editorial space attended the event or was still

An artist's rendering of the new project at the site of the former opera house.

in the building was taken over by the Ideal Milking Machine Manufacturing Company owned by A.C. Balden and Frank Shafer. It later housed the Farmers Market under the ownership of Samuel Pickard.

FINAL CURTAIN

By 1910, the village police and fire departments deemed the opera house auditorium unsafe for public gatherings condemning that portion of the building. Plans were brought forth to convert the site for other uses including a highend hotel, and factory space for an American Lady Corset Company’s branch factory.

Neither plan came to fruition.

Perhaps the best hope for saving the opera house came from Henry Ford who offered to purchase and dismantle the structure and then build it at Greenfield Village. Samuel Pickard, who then owned the building, refused Ford’s offer purportedly because it was less than his asking price. Pickard’s son, Ralph, purchased the

building in 1946 and by 1949 approached village leaders with plans for demolishing the opera house to build a mixed-use structure with seven apartments and four retail spaces. He retained the Walter Couse Construction Company to guide the project named the New Center Building.

In December 1949, just weeks before Christmas, hundreds of people lined up to get one last look at the interior of the once grand opera house. The following spring, Samuel Little’s opera house was demolished.

Postscript: The New Center Building never materialized.

Instead the site was leveled for . . . wait for it . . . a parking lot. It turns out the Village of Northville in the post-World War II years – when automobile production was moving into full gear and gas rationing was over – had a parking shortage. The village agreed to lease the space that could accommodate at least 20 cars for two years.

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Maybury Looking To Add Entrance Advocates want to see non-motorized entryway along Seven Mile Road

By Alex Lundberg

Friends of Maybury member Rich Duntley (with his dog Kooper) and Park Supervisor Traci Sincock stand near a possible location for a new entrance on Seven Mile near Ridge.

A

community group is raising money to try to open a new pedestrian-only entrance to Maybury State Park. They say if residents want this to happen, they need to step up and help fund the effort.

The Friends of Maybury, an all-volunteer non-profit organization dedicated to the park, is trying to raise $18,000 by the end of this year to perform an engineering study of the property. The engineering study will determine the expected cost of the proposed project to create a new, muchneeded entryway into the south side of the park.

Maybury State Park is about 1,000 acres of land between Seven Mile and Eight Mile roads bordered by Beck on the east and Napier on the west. It has picnic shelters, riding stables,

20 The ‘Ville

HOW YOU CAN HELP The Friends of Maybury State Park are trying to raise $18,000 for an engineering study to develop a new nonmotorized entrance on the park’s south side. There are two ways you can contribute: • You can donate online by visiting www.mightycause.com/ story/U22jff • You can mail a donation to The Friends of Maybury (with a reference to “Non-Motorized Entrance”), 49601 Eight Mile Northville, MI 48167 playgrounds and a fishing pier.

The Friends of Maybury want a new entrance along Seven Mile Road near Ridge Road. Chuck Murdock, president of the group, said the location they’re talking about is currently inaccessible.

“Right now there’s a 6-foot chain link fence there, it runs

around the whole park,” he said.

What the group wants, he said, is similar to what already exists at Eight Mile Road and Beck Road —a simple opening in the fence and an asphalt path leading in, too small for a car.

“You will be able to bring a bike or a wheelchair or rollerblades or just walk in,”

Murdock said.

The Friends of Maybury echo the feelings of most Northville residents. The state created a general management plan for the park in 2019, which includes an analysis of the entire park from assets and operations to revenues. The plan also included a survey of area residents’ wants and needs for the park and is used by park planners to focus on priorities and make plans.

Park Supervisor Traci Sincock said the residents who responded to the survey overwhelmingly wanted a nonmotorized opening on Seven Mile Road. Proponents of the plan sat down with Northville and Wayne County officials to get their blessing for the project. Northville Township, representing area residents, and

Eight Mile Road

Pedestrian/Bike Entrance

Main Entrance

Maybury State Park Proposed (non-motorized) Entrance

Beck Road

Car Only Entrance

Napier Road

Wayne County, in charge of the roads, both have standards that have to be met.

From there, the engineering study is the next step.

“The $18,000 figure is what it’s going to cost to get a DNR engineer quote,” Sincock said. “That represents the engineer’s work, soil boring, making sure the ground can support the construction, design work, permitting, bid specs and a cost estimate. We aren’t going to know what the actual construction is going to cost until we know what has to be done to connect this new entrance to existing trails.”

Friends of Maybury member Rich Duntley said the group is reaching out to residents in the area for funds, especially the ones closest to the proposed opening on the south side of the park. There are more elaborate plans, but those fell apart for the exact reason one would think.

“Things are different in the age of COVID-19,” Duntley said. “We were going to do a fundraiser in the park with New Holland brewery, but that got cancelled.”

He said promoters changed their thinking and realized they needed to go to the residents themselves. He said he was also hoping that maybe a resident with compatible skills, perhaps a civil engineer, could come forward and donate their expertise and defray some of the costs yet to come.

If residents want the new access point at the park, they’re going to have to make that happen themselves. Waiting on the government, he said, means waiting for years.

“If we’re going to wait for the county for the money to do this, it isn’t going to happen,” Duntley said. “They’re more

Seven Mile Road surrounding area was farmland and the fence was put up to keep off-road vehicles out.

Should the project move forward past the study, a lot more money will need to be raised to do the actual construction on the south side of the park. Murdock said people will be asked to donate again, but there will be more resources to draw upon.

“Construction is going to be much more expensive, but the state has grants for projects like this,” Murdock said. “If we can get the engineering study done in the winter Would you like to see a new of 2021 we might entrance to Maybury State be able to start construction the Park? If so, where do you next summer.” think it should be? Email Chain your opinions to Editor link fence Kurt Kuban at kurtkuban@ notwithstanding, thevillemagazine.com.

Maybury offers a lot of different kinds of access. On top of a mixture of paved and gravel The new entrance would connect to Maybury's existing trail network. Photo by P.A. roads, paved and unpaved Rech hiking and biking trails, it also has a track chair—an off-road a drive-to park,” Murdock said. concerned with the roads that electric wheelchair. The chairs, “Now there are subdivisions on need maintenance.” available by reservation, were the north and south sides.”

Back when the state took donated by Kali’s Cure for According to Sincock, over the land, pedestrian access Paralysis Foundation. previous to last year the last wasn’t a concern. Now that the More information about time a management plan was area is ringed by subdivisions, Friends of Maybury can be drafted for the park was in the needs are different. found at www.friendsofmabury.

1975 when it first opened as “There just weren’t that org. a state park. At the time the many homes in the area. It was

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

The ‘Ville 21

The ‘Ville In Focus - with Bryan Mitchell

Yes Northville, There Will Be A Christmas

D

espite the raging pandemic, there are still plenty of

signs of Christmas out there. You just have to go find it.

And that’s what we decided to do. We sent out our

photographer Bryan Mitchell to find a little holiday magic in downtown Northville, where the businesses have gone all out, as usual, with beautiful decorations to match the season.

Whether it was Preservation Dental’s “tree of teeth” lighting ceremony or at the Chamber of Commerce’s Holiday Greens & Winter Market, Bryan was able to capture scenes of Christmas through his lens.

He even headed over to Mill Race Village, where a fresh blanket of snow added to the magic. Time just seems to stand still at Mill Race, where you can connect with the roots of our town. It is dressed up for the holidays and looks gorgeous.

Kudos to the Northville Historical Society volunteers for keeping the holidays alive in such a special place.

We hope these photos inspire you to go out and find your own Christmas magic.

The Northville Historical Society has Mill Race Village decked out for the holidays.

The lit up Volkswagen reindeer drew plenty of fans big and small.

22 The ‘Ville

Mark Prielipp stacks evergreen boughs at the Holiday Greens Market.

A customer checks out a wreath at the Holiday Greens Market.

The Corriveau Law Toys for Tots caboose.

Bill Critcher and Marge Wisniewski were Santa and Mrs. Claus.

The Preservation Dental “tree of teeth” lighting included dancers and music.

The ‘Ville 23

Local Emergency Room Physician Encourages Northville Residents to Reduce COVID-19 Risk As we enter the Christmas season, local residents will spend more time bundled up indoors and in enclosed spaces with loved ones. During the winter months our community can expect higher transmission of stomach bugs and viruses such as the common flu, which are passed from individual to individual, and household to household. With COVID-19 now also widespread in Michigan, Patricia Paz Arabo, MD, chair of the Emergency Department at St. Mary Mercy Livonia, participated in a Q & A to offer her guidance on how Northville residents can best protect themselves and their family.

1. Is COVID-19 a threat to our community?

Yes, local residents should take the threat of COVID-19 very seriously. The number of positive cases in Michigan is much higher in comparison to the spring. The virus is widespread in our state. You can’t see it, hear it, or smell it, therefore some people are not taking this virus as seriously as they should.

Another reason we are seeing increased cases this winter is pandemic fatigue. People are tired of restrictions being placed on them. I empathize with this perspective. No one wants to alter how they live or how they interact with people. But everyone needs to understand that we are in this together and by taking these actions collectively as a community, we are saving lives.

2. Do you have any recommendations for the general public amid COVID-19?

Yes, wear a mask properly when with other people outside your household; wash your hands with soap and water regularly; avoid touching your face; and physically distance yourself at least six feet from others.

If you experience COVID-like symptoms, stay home and isolate yourself to protect others, especially older adults and immunocompromised family members. Do not go to work or out in the community if you have symptoms. Call your physician and follow his or her medical guidance.

3. Is COVID-19 like the flu?

COVID-19 symptoms and influenza symptoms are similar.

Both include fever, sore throat, fatigue, body aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and cough.

The reason why COVID-19 is a public health crisis is

that its fatality rate is much higher than the flu. We have learned that high-risk patients – 65 years and older, obese, diabetic, immunosuppressed – tend to experience more complications, even death.

4. What are you doing in the Emergency Department to safeguard patients from contracting COVID-19?

All entrances to our hospital have screening stations and temperature checks. All visitors and employees are required to wear a mask in our facility. Disinfectants are used in all areas of our hospital. Full personal protective equipment is worn by all clinical staff in order to protect them and our patients. In the Emergency Department, as in all areas of the hospital, we have designated areas for COVID-19 infected patients, which keeps them physically separated from the general patient population. We can then expedite their testing, assessment and care, including discharge home if they are well enough to recover in isolation. Additionally, before anyone has surgery or a procedure inside our hospital, they are first screened and tested for COVID-19. This is done for the safety of all our patients.

5. Is the hospital safe to seek care in for an injury or non-COVID illness?

Absolutely, the hospital is safe for you to seek medical care, including emergency care.

Since the spring we have worked nonstop to put processes and procedures in place to protect our patients.

If you are sick or injured and require medical care, St. Mary Mercy Livonia is here for you. You should not avoid or delay medical care, especially if you are experiencing an emergency. Doing so can lead to less optimal outcomes for patients and, in extreme cases, even death.

Patricia Paz Arabo, MD

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Happy Jack NHS grad spreads positive vibes with his vintage t-shirts

By Alex Lundberg “I’m not going to carry something I wouldn’t wear.”

With that as a guiding principle, former Northville resident Jack Harrigan is continuing his career as a retail entrepreneur as the proprietor of Happy Jack’s Vintage resale shop.

The resale shop, located within Bob’s Classic Kicks, 4717 Woodward in Detroit’s Midtown, has previously owned t-shirts and sweaters with classic ‘90s designs running the gamut from bands, TV shows, movies, classic brands and all other forms of pop culture from 30 years ago. There is also a line of original Happy Jack designs and collaborations with other artists.

“I’ve worked with some local artists to make vintage garments,” Harrigan said. “If someone is passionate about what they do, I’ll work with them.”

26 The ‘Ville

He recently had his own popup event at True North Detroit, 16th Street and Hancock, where he displayed 150 vintage t-shirts with either smiley faces (or the word “happy” or other messages of happiness). He said it took him nearly 10 months to collect all of the shirts he needed for the event.

Since then, he’s sold most of them.

He and a few friends had a small business in high school, buying and selling branded streetwear they would order online. As time went on, he moved away from the “tricky” business of a first come-first served gamble on what would sell out quickly.

He also said he was concerned about the environmental burden of the clothing industry itself. He said fast fashion uses up a lot of materials and isn’t as high a quality as people think.

He said there isn’t a need to keep creating new clothing.

Jack Harrigan is the proprietor of Happy Jack’s Vintage resale shop in Detroit’s Midtown.

“With vintage clothing, you’re not putting money into any businesses that aren’t good for the environment,” Harrigan said.

“This stuff is pre-owned, preloved and clothing made in the 80s and 90s were made in the USA at a higher standard.

There’s so much of it already around.

“The vintage market is better for me,” Harrigan said. “It’s more sustainable, it’s a better community to work in. It’s more of my own interest.”

He has an online shop, but he’s come to prefer selling

his classic-themed wares inperson. He said he likes being able to share his passion for the apparel with the customer and connecting with them personally. Over the past several months he’s been open to private, masked appointments (“It’s a weird time in retail,” he said) to make that connection with his clients.

He said passion is the key to sales.

“If you’re not in love with the product, it’s going to be hard to sell,” Harrigan said.

To check out his online store or for more information, visit https://happyjack.shop.

An artist’s rendering of a new walkway that could be constructed in Ford Field.

One task force will look at the future of the farmers market.

‘Make A Difference For The Future’ New groups focused on Ford Field, Farmers Market and potential Riverwalk

By Maria Taylor

I

n his day job as a data analyst, Northville Mayor Brian Turnbull is always looking five to eight years ahead. So, it’s no surprise that Northville’s bicentennial — 2027 — is already on his mind.

Ensuring a bright future for the historic city was his inspiration to create three new mayoral task forces, which he explained at a virtual town hall meeting on October 15.

The task forces focus on Ford Field, a potential Northville “Riverwalk”, and the Northville Farmers Market.

“These things are not new,” Turnbull said at a City Council meeting earlier that month. “If it was easy, all three of these things would be done right now.

Some of these concepts are a hundred years old — literally.”

Turnbull believes that the time for action is now, and the first-term mayor is eager to spur progress in these ongoing efforts.

“In Northville,” he said, “we have a chance to make a

28 The ‘Ville

difference for the future.”

As a local historian, Turnbull wants to re-establish Ford Field to its former status as Northville’s central meeting place.

Mayor Brian Turnbull

At one time, the area was set up like an amphitheater, and football games were held there from 1938 to 1962. Turnbull envisions the park as “a magnet” once again for families and young people across the area, with entertainment, events, and cultural activities.

“Ford Field is a great green space,” he said. But it’s not directly accessible from

downtown. “It’s so close — yet it’s so far away. It’s not inviting.”

Turnbull showed a sketch of a stone arch at a new entrance to the park from Hutton Street, near Poole’s Tavern, creating a walkable stretch from Mill Race through Ford Field to Main Street.

“I will do everything I can to have it connected in the town, to really make a city park out of it,” he said.

A new Northville riverwalk is another topic that’s been raised in the past — three times in the last 60 years, Turnbull recounted. Now he feels the time is right to finally get the project underway.

“Northville is the epicenter of rivers,” he said. “With the riverwalk, there’s seven different sections that could happen someday, from the historic area down to the park that we own, weaving behind Foundry Flask and the DTE center.” Other sections could connect it to Hines Drive, Fish Hatchery Park, and Northville

Downs. Turnbull said there’s been interest from stakeholders including DTE, which he said is “all in.”

The Rouge River runs underground beneath Northville Downs. Daylighting the river has long been one of the City’s goals for any Downs redevelopment.

“Something is going to happen on this development.

We have to do this concurrently,” Turnbull said. “[The riverwalk] is an exciting proposition, and we have the opportunity to make this come together because we own some of those properties.”

With the Downs redevelopment on the horizon, another priority becomes finding a spot for the city’s farmers market, a staple since it opened in 1924 behind the old opera house. Currently, it’s held every Thursday, May through October, in a parking lot just west of the Downs.

“We have one of the best [farmers markets] in the state,

and we’re looking for the next hundred years on this,” Turnbull said.

Market enthusiasts want a location with more space for entertainment and programming, potentially year-round with permanent facilities. Possible relocation options include Ford Field, the Foundry Flask site on Cady Street, the park next to the Water Wheel Centre, the Downs property (once redeveloped), or even the downtown social district, which Turnbull said “is for after COVID, too.”

“Initially, in my opinion, it helped the restaurants,” he said of the social district. “Then the retailers started to open later and stay open later, and they got some of that traffic. It’s great to see people coming into town and shopping. I think it passed the audition; we’re looking for what is the future.”

According to Turnbull, the three task forces are set. There are several dozen volunteers

who have stepped forward. DJ Boyd is leading the Ford Field task force; Nancy Darga and Barbara Moroski-Browne are leading the riverwalk task force; and planning commissioner Andrew Krenz (with help from Chamber Director Jody Humphries) is leading the farmers market task force.

“I was really overwhelmed with the interest from the community,” Turnbull said.

“These people are very passionate. They bring a lot of talents to the table. I’m very optimistic about the future.”

While the task force members are set and the groups have already met a couple times via Zoom, Turnbull said the monthly meetings will be open to the public, and he’s hoping many people take an interest in the progress and contribute to the efforts.

Visit the city’s website at www.ci.northville.mi.us for more information about the three task forces.

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Junior Jennie Line was the Mustangs’ top runner during the season highlighted by a 13thplace showing en route to All-State honors at the Division 1 finals.

Senior Matthew Freeman was the Mustangs’ No. 1 singles player who qualified for the MHSAA Division 1 individual singles draw reaching the semifinals.

‘dedication AND determination’

By Brad Emons

Golf state championship leads successful fall campaign for Mustangs

W

hen it comes to recapping the Northville High 2020 fall sports season, there’s one team that’s stands above the rest.

Under the direction of coach Chris Cronin, the Mustangs captured their third consecutive MHSAA Division 1 girls golf championship in a one-day shootout due to restrictions from the novel coronavirus

pandemic. (See our November issue.)

Northville seized the team title on Oct. 16 by rallying down the stretch as they overhauled runner-up Rochester Adams to win by nine strokes, 313-322, at Michigan State University’s Forest East Course in East Lansing.

All five Northville players earned a top 20 finish led by sophomore Samantha Coleman, Sophomore Emily Roden led the swim team to a KLAA title.

The Northville girls golf team hoisted their third straight MHSAA Division 1 championship trophy this fall. Pictured are (from left) Haesol Park, Avi Gill, Katelyn Tokarz, Megha Vallabhaneni and Samantha Coleman.

30 The ‘Ville

who tied for sixth individually with a 75. She was also named first-team Division 1 All-State by the Michigan Interscholastic Golf Coaches Association.

Also scoring in the state tourney were sophomore Avi Gill and junior Haesol Park, each whom tied for 14th with 79 each. Senior Katelyn Tokarz added an 18th with an 80 and was named Academic All-State.

Junior Megha Vallabhaneni,

the team’s No. 2 golfer all season, finished 19th with an 81.

She also earned first-team AllState honors.

Here is a look how the other varsity teams fared this fall.

GIRLS SWIMMING

Minus the COVID-19 delayed MHSAA Division 1 finals, coach Brian McNeff’s squad turned in another stellar season repeating as Kensington Lakes Activities

Association champions with a team-high 946 points while finishing 9-1 in dual meets and 8-0 to win the KLAA West.

“It was pretty amazing what these girls did all year, especially considering we had 90 plus swimmers and divers and not one of them tested positive for COVID,” said McNeff, whose team set three new pool records. “I think that speaks to the dedication and determination they had to finish out the season strong and healthy.”

Eleven Mustangs and one alternate diver qualified for the Division 1 finals.

At the KLAA meet, sophomore Emily Roden, the 2019 state champion in the 100yard butterfly, figured in three first-place finishes winning the 200 individual medley (2:07.09).

She also teamed up with senior Malayna Mancinell, junior Emily Lowman and junior Laurel Wasiniak to win the 200 medley relay (1:46.64).

The foursome of freshman Ocean Taylor, senior Charlotte Green, Wasiniak and Roden also captured the 400 freestyle relay (3:32.74).

Wasiniak added a first in the 200 freestyle (1:53.09) and a second in the 100 freestyle (52.29). Other seconds went to Tuinman in the 200 and 500 freestyles with times of 1:53.78 and 5:04.55, respectively, along with Roden (100 butterfly, 56.09) and Mancinelli (100 backstroke, 58.3).

Thirds went to Ella O’Brien (1-meter diving, 303.45 points) and Lowman (100 breaststroke, 1:06.32). The 200 freestyle relay team of Lowman, senior Charlotte Green, Taylor and Tuinman also placed third (1:39.45).

At the team’s time trial,

The Mustangs, under first-year coach Chauncey Nixon, captured KLAA and district championships before reaching the quarterfinals of the MHSAA Division 1 team tournament.

Lowman set a pool record in the 100 breaststroke (1:05.03).

Two relay pool marks also fell -- Mancinell, Lowman, Roden and Wasiniak in the 200 medley (1:45.64) and Roden, Taylor, Tuinman and Wasiniak in the 400 freesytle (3:32.52).

“This team has been through a lot this year, but handled the adversity every step of the way,” said McNeff, whose team was ranked No. 3 in Division 1. “At the beginning of the year we just preached to them about how we need to be thankful for the opportunities we have been given, and when we step on deck, the only thing that matters is the training and making ourselves better. The attitudes and confidence from the girls were tremendous and made this year one of the most memorable and fun teams I have ever coached.”

BOYS TENNIS

New coach Chauncey Nixon guided the Mustangs to banner season with a No. 5 final ranking in Division 1 and a quarterfinal berth in the MHSAA team finals Oct. 15-16 at Novi.

After defeating 13th-seed Holland West Ottawa, 8-0, in the Round of 16, the Mustangs were ousted by Troy in a 4-4 tiebreaker (based on total games won).

Northville was seeded fourth going into the MHSAA championships after defeating Hartland (8-0) and White Lake Lakeland (8-0) to rule the District 7 tourney.

During the regular season, Northville went 7-0 in the KLAA West Division highlighted by an 8-0 win over Novi and a 9-0 triumph over KLAA East champ Livonia Stevenson.

Northville’s No. 1 singles player Matthew Freeman, a senior, earned spot in the MHSAA’s individual tourney at Okemos as the fourth seed where he defeated Rochester’s Clayton Anderson in the opening round, 7-6 (7-5), 6-4), before falling to Troy Athens’ Gabe Brown in the semifinals, 6-2, 6-2.

Rounding out the talented Northville singles lineup were freshman Sachiv Kumar (No. 2), junior Aditya Pundhir (No. 3) and sophomore Abhi Attaluri (No. 4).

The doubles tandems included sophomore Deepak Laungani and Quinn Cassar, No. 1; junior Rahul Giridhar and senior Justin Yang, No. 2; juniors Nicholas Buettner and Nilan Nandish, No. 3; seniors David Ying and Julian Dong, No. 4; sophomore Varun Varre and freshman Kyle Brown, No. 5.

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Coach Nancy Smith’s squad repeated Regional 8 champions for the eighth year in a row en route to a seventh-place finish with 254 points in the MHSAA Division 1 finals held on Nov. 6 at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn.

Northville posted its 11 straight top 10 state meet finish under Smith.

Junior Jennie Line, the Mustangs’ top runner all season, earned All-State honors (top 30) with an individual 13th place finish at MIS with a 5-kilometer time of 18:31.65.

She was also runner-up at the regional and pre-regional, and fourth in the KLAA meet.

Other state finals scorers included senior Janie DeGroot (79th, 19:58.55), freshman Ella Christensen (80th, 19:59.13); senior Yasmine Mansi (111th, 20:19.58); junior Gina Couyoumjian (128th, 20:29.56).

Non-scorers included seniors Emily Gordon (165th, 21:02.22) and Keira Courtney (163rd, 21:00.93).

Mansi also placed fifth (18:45.3) at the KLAA meet at Huron Meadows as Northville won it for the 10th time in the last 11 years against four state-ranked teams. Meanwhile, Sports continued on page 32

The ‘Ville 31

Sports Continued from page 31

VOLLEYBALL

Coach Rick Vander Veer’s team finished 21-8-1 overall losing to only teams that were freshman Avery Peters finished ranked in the top 10 in Div. 1.

30th (21:01.9) in the Regional 8 The season ended in the meet at Detroit’s Chandler Park.

MHSAA District 22 opening round loss against host Novi, 3-2.

The Mustangs finished 6-1 in the KLAA West and 10-1 in the conference The girls cross country team earned their eighth straight led by Division 1 regional title and finished seventh at the state finals.

All-KLAA honorees Jenna Boksha, Livvy Setla and BOYS CROSS COUNTRY Jaden Rice – all seniors.

After a close runner-up finish, Senior Sydney Reed and 46-49, to KLAA West rival Novi sophomore Abby Reck earned in the Regional 8 meet, coach honorable mention All-KLAA Tim Dalton’s squad earned an honors.

11th place finish with 318 points at the Division 1 finals at MIS. Senior Jacob Meek paced BOYS SOCCER the Mustangs all season The Mustangs enjoyed a highlighted by a 41st in the state bounce back season in 2020 finals (16:16.64). He also took under longtime coach Henry fourth in the regional (15:54.0) Klimes, who completed his and sixth in the KLAA meet 30th season with a 9-4-2 overall (16:15.6). record.

Other state meet scorers for Northville finished 7-3-2 Northville included sophomore (fourth place with 23 points) in Brandon Latta (95th, 16:37.41); the KLAA’s tough West Division sophomore Brady Heron (111th, and were ousted in the Division 16:42.17); senior Jake Bulat, 1-District 5 semifinals by North 114th (16:45.22); and senior Farmington, 2-1.

Maximilian Uphaus (123rd, Junior midfielder Kyle Stoner 16:48.49). Non-scorers included earned honorable mention Allseniors Matthew Krahe (128th, State, All-Region and All-KLAA 16:52.45); and Nathan Hayes honors for the Mustangs.

(225th, 17:46.63).

Other All-KLAA honorees Hayes placed 10th (16:29.1) as included senior midfielder Northville finished runner-up Yianni Canelopoulos, who to Salem, 55-60, in the KLAA led the team with eight goals, meet. Other top finishers along with senior midfielder included Krahe (13th), Latta Harrison Neal, sophomore (14th) and Bulat (17th). midfielder Alexander Nevelos, senior midfielder Harrison

32 The ‘Ville

FOOTBALL

Junior Levi Miller during a game against Howell. Submitted by Coach Henry Klime

Neal, senior defender Javier Del Bosque, senior defender Jacob Lynett and junior defender Levi Miller.

Honorable mention AllKLAA went to Michael Chimienti, Jack Kresnak and C.J. Castiglione.

After three straight 3-6 seasons, coach Matt Ladach was pleased with his team’s turnaround in 2020 going 5-3 overall and 4-2 in the KLAA’s West Division (second place).

The Mustangs defeated rival Novi, 24-14, to take a 28-24 advantage in the all-time Baseline (Eight Mile) Jug series.

The season ended with a 34-0 setback to top-ranked Belleville in the Division 1-Region 3-District 1 semifinals.

Among the All-KLAA honorees for the Mustangs included seniors Jack Bugar (wide receiver), James Burbar (defensive back), Josh Kreder (defensive lineman), Nick Lauderback (running back) and Cayden Saunders (running back).

Junior honorees included quarterback Jack Holland, outside linebacker Parker Ladach and wide receiver Kai Saunders.

The football team, which won a playoff game for the first time in several seasons, has a lot of returning players from this year’s team. Photo by Vanessa Mandell

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Conservancy Initiative board member Dave Horan. Photo by Bryan Mitchell

Cautious Optimism Locals hope new landfill ownership will tackle nuisance odor issues

By Alex Lundberg

O

wnership of the landfill on the western edge of the township has changed hands, giving local municipal and activist group leaders hope that ongoing nuisances arising from the gigantic trash heap will be adequately addressed.

The Arbor Hills landfill was purchased by multistate refuse hauler GFL Environmental.

The hope is GFL will deal with odors, wastewater and traffic better than the old owner, Advanced Disposal Services.

Incoming Northville Township Supervisor Mark Abbo said he’s “guardedly optimistic” about the new owners, but he said he’s going to reserve judgement for now.

“I’m hoping they run the landfill more responsibly,” he said. “We need results. The odor problem is a big issue and it is not yet resolved. The company might have to put some capital there. Regardless, it must be addressed.”

Abbo is interested in various legislative efforts at the state level to bring the landfill under

34 The ‘Ville

“With the sale, we have someone to work with that has the finances to correct the situation,” said Conservancy Initiative board member Dave Horan.

Fellow board member Dave Drinan echoed that sentiment.

“We’re happy there’s been a deal since it’s been rumored for a year. GFL can’t possibly be worse,” he said, referring to Advanced Disposal Services.

Local residents have been complaining for years about odors coming from the landfill and leachate (water that percolates through landfill) contaminating groundwater.

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) has written more than 30 violations to the company over the past several years.

some kind of control and he said the township was going to do what it can on the local level.

Of course, the odor is the most apparent problem of the landfill’s operations, but it’s only the part you can immediately notice.

“This is harming the health, safety Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel (center), State Sen. and welfare Dayna Polehanki, and State Rep. Matt Koleszar all attended of Northville a press conference at Marv Gans Park in October announcing the state’s lawsuit against the Arbor Hills landfill. residents,” Abbo said. “We are going to take The situation came to a head whatever action is needed, and in October when Michigan litigation if we have to, to make Attorney General Dana Nessel sure the issue is resolved.” announced her office was Leadership of the anti-Arbor taking official action against Hills landfill advocacy group Advanced Disposal Services. At the Conservancy Initiative a press conference at nearby are also cautiously optimistic Marv Gans Park, she said the that new ownership will mean company was going to get their longstanding odor problems are act together, or else. going to be addressed.

“If we’re not able to come up

with a satisfactory plan, there can be significant financial repercussions,” Nessel said.

“You have to comply with the law. If you can’t operate safely, you shouldn’t operate at all.”

GFL did not respond to several inquiries to comment on this story.

Drinan said despite the fact a different company now owns the landfill, the violations written against it still stand.

Horan said it’s going be a lot of work for GFL to correct problems at the landfill.

“It could take them years,” Horan said.

Drinan said he was concerned that making good on the problems at the landfill will allow the company to put new life into a plan to expand landfill.

“I’m worried that they, as a new owner, are going to put on a good face, do a public relations push and try to expand,” he said.

“I’m worried they’ll expand and revert to the old practices of the old owners.”

The Conservancy Initiative was created in 2015 to foil attempts to expand the Arbor Hills landfill. Volunteer members of the group work with representatives of EGLE to monitor the facility.

For more information, visit conservancyinitiative.org.

Despite fears of expansion, there’s some room for optimism.

“We’ve got to wait and see,” Horan said. “We’ve never had a good relationship with the owners of the landfill. They’ve had five or six managers in the past five years, so we’ve never been able to establish a rapport or develop a good working relationship. Hopefully, that’s something that will get better.”

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It’s Your Business The Northville Gallery

Derek Blair is owner of The Northville Gallery.

Store manager Tracy Lampman and employee Joe Fontana frame a piece of art.

Framed For Success Gallery’s new owner delights in preserving memories

L

ocal entrepreneur Derek Blair was looking to open his own business last year when the perfect deal presented itself.

Dan Ferrara, owner of The Northville Gallery in the heart of downtown, was looking to sell. Blair loved the idea of owning an established business on Main Street, especially considering he lives just blocks away. They struck a deal, closed in January and Blair took over the keys.

“When the gallery became available, it just made sense,” Blair said. “I live in downtown Northville, and I wanted to invest in downtown Northville.”

He couldn’t have been more excited to get started.

And then the pandemic hit.

Suddenly all the joy was replaced with apprehension, especially when the first shutdown happened in the spring.

“The uncertainty of not knowing what was going to happen was definitely tough,” Blair said.

Well, as it turns out,

36 The ‘Ville

downtown to help business the pandemic led to some owners attract customers opportunities Blair did not during the pandemic. All anticipate. First, during the summer and fall, downtown initial shutdown the down Northville has been booming, time gave him a chance to recreating lots of foot traffic evaluate the business model, and leading and he made a to new few changes.

The Northville Gallery customers.

He created Owner: Derek Blair “The an online Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, 10 summer was store that a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. just amazing has helped Wednesday-Saturday with so spread the Address: 123 E. Main Street many people word about Phone: (248) 465-9630 coming the business. downtown. I’d He also Website/Online Store: www.northvillegallery.com like to see the utilized his city continue broadcasting to do this in the future,” said background – he spent 25 Blair, noting his quarterly sales years as a television producer are “significantly up over last for WDIV and Fox Sports year.”

Detroit – and began to market One of the main reasons the business across several the ownership transition has platforms. been so smooth is the fact that Blair also brought in a few Dan Ferrara has been around more artists, exhibiting and to answer questions and give selling their work in the gallery advice, and the store manager, and adding some fresh energy to Tracy Lampman, continued the place. on after Blair took over. She’s The Northville Gallery also the head designer for the really benefitted from the custom framing part of the Social District that was created

business, which is actually what brings in the most revenue for the store. It also has been booming this summer. With people staying home more, that’s where their focus has been.

“People have been looking up at empty walls in their homes and they want to fill the space. They’ve been finding old photographs and artwork, or family heirlooms that have been collecting dust,” Blair said.

“It’s been so gratifying they are bringing them in to us. They are trusting us to give them new life in a very classy, well-produced way.”

Lampman said she uses only museum-quality materials when framing.

“The whole goal is to preserve these pieces and make them look nice at the same time,” she said.

Things have been so good, Blair actually increased hours (he’s open until 9 p.m.

Wednesday through Saturday) and hired a new employee, Joe Fontana, who is a graduate of the College for Creative Studies in Detroit. He has been learning the ropes under Lampman’s tutelage.

As his first year of ownership is coming to a close, Blair said it certainly has been one to remember. He is optimistic about year two and beyond.

And he is just thrilled to be part of the vibrant downtown Northville business community.

“We’ve got a wonderful atmosphere in downtown Northville. It’s been fun to get to know the other business owners, and work with them.

Everyone is supporting each other. It’s been a great experience,” he said.

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Plain Language

New recreation policy prohibits political messaging by parks users

By Alex Lundberg

T

he Northville Parks and Recreation Commission has changed its rental policy to prevent user groups from making political appeals to their members in the wake of a political mailing sent out before the McGuirk August primary election.

The addition to the parks and recreation policy is twofold. First, residents who give over their contact information to organizations using parks assets should not be subject to political messages. Second, all entities contracting to use parks assets must abide by existing ethics policies of both the township and the city. It also requires the Northville Soccer Association (NSA) follow all IRS rules regarding political action by tax-exempt entities.

The new rental agreement language allows Northville Parks and Recreation to immediately terminate rental contracts for not complying.

The parks and recreation commission approved the language at a Nov. 18 meeting, the City of Northville and Northville Township Board approved it at subsequent meetings. Commissioner Barbara MoroskiBrowne said the change in rental language should bring all user groups up to speed easily.

“We’ve put down our expectations in plain language,” she said. “Some organizations are going to see this as appropriate behavior, the 501c3 organizations know what they need to do.

Just in case, this lets them know up front what they need to do.”

Moroski-Browne, who is on the

38 The ‘Ville

Incoming Northville Township Northville City Council, said she wasn’t Supervisor Mark Abbo said he thinks there sure how a breach of the rules would be are some problems with the new language dealt with — if an organization would lose and he would be reviewing it. all access to parks facilities immediately “I see problems in this,” he said. or not be allowed to extend a contract to a “Particularly it singles out the NSA and it subsequent year — in any situation she said appears to be politically motivated.” it would be a worst-case scenario.

Abbo said he was also uncomfortable with The letter at issue was an email sent out linking rental language to the township’s to all NSA parents by NSA President Steve ethics policies. Those policies are made for McGuirk ahead of the August Northville government employees doing government Township Board of Trustees primary. jobs and not groups doing business with the McGuirk unsuccessfully ran for a trustee township. spot. The letter advocated for his candidacy “I don’t think it’s right to turn customers and also for Mark Abbo’s run for the into contractors,” he said. supervisor’s seat. The letter stated explicitly He said that that supporting the two mentioning one candidates would further the WHAT DO YOU THINK? organization in NSA’s overall goals.

The Northville Parks and Recreation specific shows that At an Oct. 13 commission Commission just passed a new policy the new language is meeting held to discuss preventing the Northville Soccer overly specific and the issue, then Northville Association or any other entity that rents municipal facilities from engaging in his ultimate goal is to Township Supervisor political actions. Do you agree? Please have good working Robert Nix summarized the email your opinion to Editor Kurt Kuban relationships with commission’s attorneys’ at kurtkuban@ thevillemagazine.com. the groups and opinion of the case by saying organizations that the letter constituted a residents are members of. violation of IRS rules. By extension, it Will political letters to sports families be was a violation of the NSA’s contract with a new battle tactic for Northville elections? the township and an ethical violation.

He said enough isn’t known to make a Finally, despite the preceding opinions, determination. the commission was under no obligation to “I don’t have enough background, report this matter to the IRS. I believe this letter was sent out by an At that meeting, Trustee Samantha Heath individual,” Abbo said. “I don’t know how said the letter needed to have force behind you can prevent someone from expressing it. their free speech?”

“That we strongly encourage the NSA Nix said the NSA is an external board is not enough,” she said. “If steps organization, so the regular chain of aren’t taken, we should reconsider our command within the township can’t correct relationship with the NSA.” the problem administratively. They’re McGuirk said he didn’t know about any going to have to sort out their own house changes in policy, “Nobody has contacted themselves. us. I don’t think it’s worth taking time to “It’s a small organization. All we’re saying think about something that could change is that we don’t want another incident like soon.” this," Nix said.

HIGH SCHOOL CONFIDENTIAL

Holiday Traditions Students reflect on some of their favorite Christmas memories

A

s 2020 draws to a close with the holidays, we have a chance to reflect on the year, one incomparable to any other in which we have lived.

All of our lives have drastically changed over the past 10 months, and, in the future, we most certainly will remember 2020 as a frantic time period filled with unexpected news more often than not.

However, life continues, and, as we celebrate the end of 2020, Northville High School students have decided to take a step back and reminisce about some of their unforgettable holiday memories.

“Last year I wanted to get all my friends gifts, but I didn’t have the funds to do so. So instead I baked a ton of cookies. It took me well over five hours to make five different types of cookies and around 175 of them. I handed them out the C day before winter break. It was really fun to make something for all my friends especially for the winter holidays.”

- Alexandra Grabowski, Junior “During Hanukkah, my mom told all the kids we were going on a trip. She left rhyming riddle clues all around the house making us all go from the second story to the basement to the main floor and back.

We ended in the study with suitcases, and she said we were

Senior Andy Jiang enjoys skiing every winter with friends and family.

going to fly to the beach. On the plane after takeoff, the flight attendant handed us each a letter from Mickey Mouse asking us to prepare for an adventure full of Mickey Magic at Disney.”

- Bekah Weiskopf, Junior “Last year, four of my friends and I did a gift exchange. We each got each other cute presents like candy and accessories that we knew we all liked and put them in nice baskets or bags. It was really fun just to be together because we can never stop laughing around each other.”

- Ella Couture, Junior “During Christmas in 6th grade, my family decided to try skiing.

I assumed we were going on the bunny hill, but turns out most kids had already skied before, so we went on the lift and went

down an intermediate slope. I managed to stay upright, but it was probably one of the most nerve-wracking experiences I’ve ever had. Since then, I’ve always loved skiing/snowboarding and my family goes on a trip almost every year.”

- Andy Jiang, Senior “I remember my grandfather dressing up as Santa Claus for Christmas. My siblings and I believed it was him.”

- Alec Meyer, Junior “Last year, the day after Christmas Eve, my cousins and I went to walk around downtown Portland. We walked past an ice cream store known for making unique ice cream flavors. We ended up waiting for over an hour for our ice cream as it was a popular place. We were just

leaving the store when it started raining really hard. We decided to run through the freezing rain, trying our best to eat our ice cream before it melted. Our fingers frozen and noses red, we rushed to our car. Though it was quite uncomfortable, the moment was also super fun. I only see my cousins during the holidays, and we were all bowled over laughing as we attempted to eat our ice cream. It was very cold, but very merry.”

- Sivani Padala, Junior “Every year my aunt and cousin sleepover at our house but my cousin has been in Lebanon the past four years so he’s finally coming back this year to spend it with us.”

-Jolie Dabaja, Sophomore “I was playing tag in my basement with my cousins, and I slammed my head into the supporting beam in my basement. This left a large welt above my eye, which did not go away for a few months. I had to explain it to a lot of people.”

- Garrett Frost, Junior “Each year my brother and I would ask [my dad] to build a fort bigger than the last. [That year] we compiled a mountain of snow that towered over all of us, even my dad. It wasn’t very aesthetically pleasing, just a mound of snow with the inside hollowed out, but we built a set of steps up the side and were able to sled down it. It’s my most enjoyable winter memory even though I may have run into a tree once or twice.”

- Lauren Bailey, Junior

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, Alyssa Bachert, Tamsin Boyd, and Wesley Paradowski .

40 The ‘Ville

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BULLETIN BOARD C

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Teen Tackles Hunger

Township Board Sworn In

Peter Tepatti, a sophomore at Northville High School, knew the pandemic has created food insecurity for so many. So he decided to start a food drive to benefit Northville Civic Concern, our local food pantry. His goal was to collect 200 items -- either food or household goods.

After contacting neighbors, friends and local businesses, he was able to collect nearly 700 items over the course of a week. He delivered the items to Civic Concern on Nov. 18, just in time for the Thanksgiving holiday distribution.

“Many of us are quite fortunate in our community, that the last thing we worry about is having food on the table,” Tepatti said. “I value the importance of giving back, especially around the holidays and am proud to be part of a community that doesn’t hesitate to take action.”

Peter is pictured here dropping off the items with Civic Concern executive director Marlene Kunz, who said she was impressed with his efforts, especially considering he is so young.

“I am amazed by the generosity and initiative of this young man, who took it upon himself to make a positive difference in his community,” she said. “It gives me great hope that young people are becoming engaged, especially during these times. We are grateful for Peter’s support and for the support from our community.”

The members of the new Northville Township Board of Trustees were sworn in at a brief ceremony Nov. 20 at Township Hall.

Michigan Court of Appeals Judge Thomas C. Cameron swore-in new Supervisor Mark Abbo and Treasurer Roger Lundberg. Cameron also administered the oath of office to Trustees Scott Frush, Cyndy Jankowski, Mindy Herrmann and Christopher Roosen (top photo pictured left to right).

Judge Travis Reeds, of 52-1 Novi District, swore in new Clerk Jason Rhines. Reeds and Rhines are longtime friends.

Board members serve four-year terms. Pictured (bottom photo from left) are Frush, Jankowski, Lundberg, Abbo, Roosen, Herrmann and Rhines.

Coach of the Year Northville High School golf coach Chris Cronin has been named the Michigan Interscholastic Golf Coaches Association Coach of the Year.

Cronin led this year’s girls golf team to its third straight state title this fall. He is pictured with his squad hoisting the MHSAA Division 1 championship trophy on Oct. 16 at Michigan State’s Forest Akers East Course.

Cronin also coaches the NHS boys team.

42 The ‘Ville

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Dishin’ With Denise

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

The ‘World Gone Mad’ Year is Coming To A Close T

teeth” at the intersection of have as much he “world gone mad” year is Griswold and Main the Friday resilience as coming to a close, with little before Thanksgiving. Everyone those before resolve as to what’s next? I was masked up and doing their us. did a lot of soul searching all very best at social distancing.

I do not year long…on many fronts. I’ve Santa was a step above the know anyone tried to be mindful and to be youngsters posing for pictures. now who present. However, I feel like Dr. William Demray attempted hasn’t been I lived about 10 years in one. to light the tree with the help of in some way Thank goodness, I don’t have to his new associate, touched by count them all with a cake and Dr. Adam Jankovich, much the pandemic. candles. like Clark Griswold in National My grandkids Northville’s Ray Owens Members of VFW Post 1519 sing Happy Birthday to Owen.

Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. can explain celebrated his birthday on However, he didn’t completely cohorts and Dec. 1st and I’m not sure if there destroy Northville’s mirror tricky, but it seems like there contract tracing. I had to look were 99 candles to blow out – image of a Hallmark movie as is always a healthy size group up the definition of the word but the Northville community he called on the crowd to skip outside North Center Brewing. cohort. When I was nine years and beyond did come together the Christmas letter this year My family had carry out old I really only cared about a for a big blow out. Mayor Brian (because nothing happened) Thanksgiving from Edward’s trip to Arlan’s Turnbull and and instead invited them and Rocky from Rocky’s of Department VFW Post 1519, to write a heartfelt letter to Northville told me he served to buy along with someone sharing your feelings. more than 750 turkey dinners Barbie’s new family and So, here is curbside. holiday outfit. friends did a mine…

We are a If you grew drive by parade “Dear doggone loyal up in the to honor him.

Friends, I community.

Detroit area It was a big treasure We must keep you should surprise for bringing you it up, for their remember Ray who told a little dish sake and ours.

Arlan’s. me “It was each month. It If you drive Today local fantastic.” The Northville’s Ray Owen is my joy and through restaurants weather was my pleasure. I downtown and small businesses in town sketchy, but hearts were warm. hope it makes Northville need us all to survive.

Mayor Turnbull was on you smile. on a regular I am happy to report that on hand to deliver a proclamation Little Drummer Girls at the Tree It’s great to basis there is Small Business Saturday I went from the City of Northville. of Teeth Lighting (L to R): Ireland hear from you some really to Dear Prudence and saw so Northville residents Mary Perttunen, Emaline Kara, Meredith Martin with stories to important many people I knew shopping.

Namel and Roz Fink helped share. Please news. There It was hard to recognize organize the event with Ray’s keep ‘em coming. Together we are two intersections with new everyone in a mask – but it daughter, Mary Streeter. When make Northville a great place stop signs. We are all so busy didn’t matter. The mood was so I spoke with Namel she told me: to live, to work and to play. looking both ways before we convivial. It was the first time I “ It was an honor to do this for a Embrace this holiday season cross we forget what to do. It is ventured into blackbird by dear man who is so well respected.” as though it is the only one you now a four-way stop at Dunlap prudence and wow, they have Ray was a Naval aircraft carrier have – and to my Catholic and and Wing, and at Main and some really cool stuff! pilot during World War II. If you Christian friends…remember Rogers. Consider this your Please support our small are wondering about his secret and celebrate that very special public service “dish”. shops – they offer so much to a long life, Ray says, “Getting birthday on December 25th.”

There were many folks more than a screen shop. up each morning.” We can only on hand to light the “tree of The outdoor dining is a bit hope the generations to come

44 The ‘Ville

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