The 'Ville - December 2019

December 2019 | Vol.2 | Issue 12

Northville’s News and Lifestyle Magazine

Noel Northville Celebrating the arrival of Christmas

Happy Holidays FROM THE PREMIER LAW FIRM OF WESTERN WAYNE COUNTY

FAUSONE BOHN, LLP ATTORNEYS AT LAW

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Fausone Bohn, LLP would like to wish everyone in our community happy holidays and a prosperous 2020. We look forward to continuing to serve the legal needs of our community throughout the vast areas of practice that we offer. We are your neighbors, we attend your places of worship, and coach your children. We understand the importance

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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

VOLUME 2 ISSUE 12 DECEMBER 2019 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

Thank you!

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.

Publisher

MARIA TAYLOR – Writer

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

Edward and Kathy Huyck Ming Louie Judy Montgomery Jim and Martha Nield

Jim and Carolyn Roth Joe and Ann Sefcik Patrick Suman

Maria has edited Michigan History and The Active Learner magazines and reported for The Northville Record, Novi News, and Farmington Observer and (currently) BNP Media. She lives in Farmington and, as a self-avowed history nerd, routinely risks her life by standing in the middle of Grand River to take photos of 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.

BILL BRESLER - Photographer

Bill lied his way onto his high school's yearbook staff in 1971 and has worked as a photographer ever since. He recently retired after 39 years with Hometown Life, a newspaper group that includes the Northville Record. He's won many journalism awards for his work, and taught photography at Madonna University. According to Bill's wife, he's too young to retire, so he's happy to be part of The 'Ville.

JENNY PEARSALL – Graphic Designer

Jenny has been in the design and print industry for more than 20 years, holding various positions in graphic design, large format and trade show graphics, print buying, production and print management. One of her favorite memories is working for Colorquik Graphix in the historic Water Wheel building in downtown Northville.

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

Building Community By Giving Back

O

ne of the main reasons I love publishing this magazine is I get to put a spotlight on people who live and do business in this town, including many who put their heart and soul -- and hard work -- into making Northville a better place to live.

People like Lindsey Casterline Dogonski, the new John Genitti Citizen of the Year. You may have seen her riding in the Holiday Lighted Parade last month (see photo).

Lindsey is the third generation owner (along with her sister Courtney) of Casterline Funeral Home, which has been operating in downtown Northville since 1937. The Casterline family is a great example of what makes Northville so special. For three generations they have been helping local families navigate through times of grief by providing caring, thoughtful funeral services.

But Lindsey does so much more than operate a successful business. She also volunteers

Northville and solicit money to help local families in need during the holidays. If you are around, please consider donating.

You better bet Lindsey will be out there freezing her tail off volunteering to help others.

Lindsey and daughter Lucy

her time to many local causes.

Believe me, I know. I’ve seen Lindsey in action. I serve with her in Northville Rotary, an organization dedicated to community service. Lindsey is a driving force in the group, spearheading many of our initiatives, including the upcoming Goodfellows Newspaper Drive, which takes place from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Saturday, December 14.

During the Goodfellows drive, Rotary members stand on street corners in downtown

YOUR SUPPORT COUNTS If you’ve read this far, I’m guessing you care about Northville as much as I do.

That being the case, I hope you appreciate the product we mail to you every month. While it doesn’t cost you anything to receive The ‘Ville, it’s certainly not cheap to produce and mail it.

We depend upon our advertisers to cover the bulk of the costs. I hope you take a few minutes each month to check out the ads. They highlight local businesses and organizations that are invested in this town – just like you and me.

Please consider supporting them, because patronizing local businesses brings a return.

Lindsey is proof of that. She

knows how important Northville has been to her family, and she reciprocates. That’s what community is all about.

And lastly, I hope you will consider supporting The ‘Ville with a donation. If you look over at the facing page, you’ll see a list of people who donated to us last month. We have received some incredible donations. For those of you who have contributed, I can’t thank you enough.

Those donations have helped us survive to our two-year anniversary, which this issue represents. We hope to be around for another two years -- and beyond. You can lend a hand by sending a donation to: The ‘Ville, 16435 Franklin, Northville, MI 48168.

It will help us continue to highlight our community – and incredible people like Lindsey.

Kurt Kuban is editor and publisher of The ‘Ville. He welcomes your feedback at kurtkuban@gmail.com.

Your Voice: Letters to the Editor 4 Living and Learning inks deal for Massey estate 6

Christmas Spirits

Past Tense: History of our Post Office 16

14

High School Confidential: Holiday traditions 22 New AD Samulski takes the reins 24 Downtown parking decks showing their age 26

10

A Season of Success

Noel, Northville

18

On The Road with The ‘Ville 28 It’s Your Business: Orin Jewelers 34 Dishin’ With Denise 36

ON THE COVER: The Caroling Belles sing holiday songs on the steps of the J.M. Mead store in Mill Race Village. Members of the group are Brittany Dimmitt, Kelly Ryan, Shivonne Matthews, and Emily Crombez. Photo by Bill Bresler

Your Voice Thanks for the memories Keeping us informed

Use ‘system solution’

Thank you for your continuing coverage of the Seven Mile / Center Street roundabout question. I’ve read the many letters to the editor with interest. The primary discussion seems to center on if that particular intersection should have a roundabout or not. Perhaps we should approach the problem from a different angle.

Obviously, the large size of the Northville Downs development will impact ALL streets and roads in the Downtown Northville area. Seven Mile, Hines, Center, Main, Wing, River all will experience increased traffic flow. The entries and exits from all directions will be impacted as residents look for that “secret” way into and out of the city. Any solution needs to take into account all these routes and potential driver behaviors.

A “system solution” to this approaching problem needs to be looked at, with the entire Northville road network included into the answer. This means: 1. An expanded traffic study be done covering the entire City and all access routes, especially from the north and west.

2. This expanded study should include insights from a wide variety of players.

These will include the City of Northville, Northville Township, Wayne County, Michigan DOT, the site developer, Chamber of Commerce and citizens groups.

3. Look for additional ideas from the Center for Transportation Studies at the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor.

4. Approach our 11th District Congressional Representative Haley Stevens for potential federal money.

So, what does this all mean? Will the cost of the planning phase go up? Yes. Will the time involved in getting this plan developed and approved increase?

Absolutely. Will the site developer experience a reduced financial return if the number of housing units is sacrificed for wider access roads? Yes. Will City residents living away from the Downs site be impacted? Could be. Will Northville citizens see their local taxes increase? Probably.

The good news here is that we have a once in a generation chance to get our traffic patterns right, not just for today but for a long time to come. Let’s do it right, shall we?

Robert M. Santer

SOUND OFF 4 The ‘Ville

I want to thank the community for a wonderful experience of owning a business for the last 30 years in Northville.

My salon, the longest running salon in the City of Northville, has decided to close its doors and sell the building at 324 S. Main Street, known as Studio 324 Hair Salon since 1995. I began at 424 S. Main Street in April 1989 as the Studio 424 Hair Salon, then moved down the street when an opportunity allowed me to purchase 324 S. Main Street as a residence and transform it into a hair salon.

Thanks for the memories. I’m moving onto another chapter in my life.

Suemarie Klimek

I really appreciate all of your efforts to produce such a great quality magazine featuring news about our community. I love reading about the current events, and the history articles are fascinating. The ads are also great because it keeps us informed of places to shop and dine. The presentation is really excellent. Thank you ever so much, and please continue producing The ‘Ville. I look forward to reading it every month.

Barbara Straith

Fascinating history

We really enjoy The ‘Ville. It’s a great way to keep up with current events and the thoughts of our neighbors as expressed in “Your Voice.” Our favorite section is the “Past Tense” article by Michele Fecht.

We always enjoy reading about the fascinating history of our quaint town.

Keep up the good work!

Joe and Ann Sefcik

Covering Northville

Good suggestion

Jim McBreen’s letter in the November issue suggesting the old A & P grocery store location on Seven Mile for the Post Office relocation seems to me the best solution. It would be a crying shame to build over the Art House and Dog Park. The dog park participants have been so respectful of their residential neighbors.

Jane Clifford

Our thanks to the staff of The ‘Ville on a great magazine. We appreciate your coverage of Northville issues, especially regarding the plans for the Northville Downs property. It should be a people-related issue rather than a commercial development to increase residential population. Also more attention must be given to the bonded road program to insure that priority is given first to the roads that need repair rather than working on streets that have no immediate need for improvement.

Merl and Marion Grueber

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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NEW ABSENTEE VOTING INFORMATION FOR MICHIGAN 1. In November 2018 voters approved Proposal 3 to make voting more accessible to Michigan residents.

2. Proposal 3 allows any voter to obtain an absentee ballot without providing a reason.

3. Pictured are the NEW ABSENTEE VOTING ENVELOPES, which will replace the gold-colored envelopes of the past.

4. The Township will send voters the BLUE AND WHITE envelopes. Inside will be a GREEN AND WHITE envelope for voters to return absentee ballots to the Township Clerk’s office.

5. Be sure to SIGN THE BACK OF THE GREEN return envelope after voting.

6. Return the ballot by U.S. Mail (allow 7 days for delivery) or drop it off at Township Hall, 44405 Six Mile Rd., Northville, MI 48168.

7. For more information, contact the Northville Township Clerk’s office at (248) 348-5825.

Living & Learning inks deal for Massey property Sprawling estate to be preserved and become unique center for autism community

By Maria Taylor

T

he Massey estate at 8 Mile and Griswold, once home to Cadillac car dealer Don Massey, has sold, and contrary to some speculation, it’s not going to become McMansions.

It’s remaining a home, of sorts — a haven for the autistic community as a new campus for Living and Learning Enrichment Center, currently located just down the road at 315 Griswold.

Living and Learning is a 501(c)3 nonprofit founded by Rachelle Vartanian, a special education teacher, with the goal of helping teens and young adults with autism and related challenges reach their full potential in work, relationships, and in the community. The center opened in a storefront on Mary Alexander Court about five years ago, then moved to its current location, where it serves some 125 people a week.

That’s a lot of people for a 1920s farmhouse; space is tight.

6 The ‘Ville

Living and Learning founder Rachelle Vartanian with the Massey estate in the background. Photo by Bill Bresler

“It hasn’t even been two years yet, and we’ve already outgrown the facility,” Vartanian said.

The prospect of a big expansion started when a major donor came forward about eight or nine months ago. Vartanian had her eye on the Massey estate ever since it hit the market. But the price point, $3.5 million, was too steep for a local nonprofit.

“We’re on a shoestring

budget,” Vartanian said. “We couldn’t afford it to start this.”

Then she was contacted by a man who had read about the group and wanted to help.

“We met, walked the property, and he said, ‘I believe in what you’re trying to do,’ and he gave us a half million dollars,” she said. “That’s what really got the ball rolling.”

Fast forward to today and the purchase agreement has

been signed, with a capital campaign underway to complete the fundraising. As of late November, the total left to be raised by the closing date of Dec. 30 was $650,000.

Contributors include private donors, area businesses like Building Bridges pediatric therapy center, and companies like Masco Corporation (maker of Delta Faucet, Liberty Hardware, and KraftMaid).

Vartanian is confident that the fundraising efforts will prevail. “Every day, someone donates something,” she said.

In addition to Living and Learning’s programming, the 14-acre site will allow the group to operate a recycling program, four acres of lavender fields, a vegetable garden, an alpaca farm, a bee farm, and a dog daycare. Products produced on the property will be sold at Mod Market at 150 Mary Alexander Court.

“I keep calling it the ‘Holy

We’ll be able to help people live independently. We’ll have programs here during the day, places for people to work … and you can walk to everything from there. We’re going to create meaningful lives for them — allow for a social life, employment, and for the first time, living independently.”

Rachelle Vartanian Living and Learning founder

Grail’ — it was just perfect for what we needed,” she said. “It gives us enough room to do all our microbusinesses. Not only is it great for the community — a farm in the city — but it’ll be jobs for all our people.”

Vartanian did the final walk-through the week of Thanksgiving. What gets her most excited is that the property is walkable to multiple apartment and condo complexes. For Living and Learning’s clients, 90% of whom don’t drive, that’s huge.

“We’ll be able to help people live independently,” she said.

“We’ll have programs here during the day, places for people to work … and you can walk to everything from there. We’re going to create meaningful lives for them — allow for a social life, employment, and for the first time, living independently.”

Vartanian said Northville’s new addition will be the first of its kind in the country.

“What we’re doing doesn’t exist,” she said. “It’s really going to put the city on the map.

Our vision is to be the nation’s model … in helping individuals who have autism and related

challenges in the areas they need to be contributing members of society.”

And it will allow Living and Learning to help more people — “probably 50 times the number of families we’re helping now,” Kirt Manecke, PR director for Living and Learning, told The ‘Ville earlier this year.

Karen Wang’s 18-year-old son, a client at Living and Learning, is a prime example.

When he graduated from Northville High in June, Wang said he “went over the services cliff.” Now she’s scrambling to help him adjust to adult life. Living and Learning has helped fill that need — and also started his career as a nature photographer.

Once the expanded center opens, Wang’s son plans to move into an apartment nearby.

“The expanded center really gives them an opportunity to expand their independent living skills ... teaching people to do laundry and make beds and do housework, things like that,” Wang said. “It’s a very intense need for the autism community.

I think that it’s going to be a magnet for families who are in

Aerial photo of the Massey property. Note Eight Mile Road at top of photo.

the same position that I’m in right now.”

The sale closes December 30. Living and Learning plans to be at work the very next day, getting started on making

the site ADA compliant.

Programs will start in spring 2020. Anyone wishing to donate can do so online at www.mightycause.com/event/ Operation-Independence.

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A SEASON OF SUCCESS

By Brad Emons

Led by state champion golf team, NHS teams made their mark this fall

I

t was another highly successful fall sports season at Northville High School led once again by the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 1 champion Mustang girls golf team.

Under the direction of third-year coach Chris Cronin, the Mustangs captured every tournament and dual match they entered this fall including

the Kensington Lakes Activities Association pre-season and post-season tournaments, including the Regional 2 championship.

Northville won by a 32-stroke margin over Grosse Pointe South to repeat as state champion at Michigan State’s Forest Akers West Course.

Post season individual firstteam All-State honors went to senior Sedona Shipka, who tied for ninth in the MHSAA Division 1 finals, along with junior Katelyn Tokarz, sophomore Megha Vallabhaneni and freshman Samantha Coleman.

Senior This year’s Northville Division 1 girls championship golf Sufna Gill and team included (from left) coach Chris Cronin, Katelyn sophomore Tokarz, Sedona Shipka, Sufna Gill, Megha Vallabhaneni and Samantha Coleman.

Haesol

10 The ‘Ville

The tennis team earned their sixth straight top 10 finish at the MHSAA Division 1 finals in Midland by tying Clarkston for fifth place overall.

Park both earned Division 1 honorable mention All-State.

BOYS TENNIS

Under the direction of coach Trey Keating, the Mustangs earned their sixth straight top 10 finish at the MHSAA Division 1 finals in Midland by tying Clarkston for fifth place overall.

After finishing second in the KLAA’s West Division with a 6-1 dual match record, Northville

unseated rival Novi to win both the KLAA tournament and the Regional 4 championship.

Number one singles player Matthew Freeman, the regional champ, was seeded sixth in his flight at the state tourney and earned Division 1 All-State honors.

The Mustangs’ top doubles team of Ani Attaluri and Daniel Dong received honorable mention All-State.

The Mustangs edged rival Novi for the Kensington Lakes Activities Association championship this season. Photo by Katya Zhavoronkova.

The doubles combinations of by a first in the 100-yard Justin Yang and Anish Palli (No. butterfly (55.43) and a third in 3) and Rachit Jain and Rohith the 200 freestyle (1:51.68). She Kesamneni (No. 4) both reached also teamed up with sophomore their flight finals in Division 1, Laurel Wasiniak, senior Lulu while the No. 2 doubles duo of Mans and senior Lauren Cameron Mailley and Ryan Vig Heaven for a fourth in the 400 made it to the freestyle relay semifinals.

(3:32.25).

All four The Northville foursome doubles teams of junior were regional Malayna champions, Mancinelli, along with sophomore singles winners Emily Nico Buetter Lowman, Northville freshman Emily Roden made (No. 4) and Roden and All-State in four events, including Freeman (No. Mans added a first-place finish in the MHSAA Division 1 100-yard butterfly. Photo by 1). a sixth in the Malayna Mancinelli Meanwhile, 200 medley No. 2 singles player Abhi relay (1:46.86) to earn All-State.

Attaluri reached the Division Other state meet scorers 1 quarterfinals and No. 4 Nico include Heaven (11th, Buettner was regional runner100 butterfly; 12th, 200 up. freestyle); Lowman (12th, 100 breaststroke); sophomore GIRLS SWIMMING Lauren Bailey (16th, 100 Coach Brian McNeff keeps butterfly); senior Emma Phillips churning out championship (16th, 500 freestyle); and Mans caliber teams as the Mustangs (16th, 200 freestyle). earned their sixth straight top Meanwhile, the 200 freestyle 10 finish with an eight-place quartet of Heaven, Lowman, showing with 115 points in Phillips and Wasiniak took 15th. the MHSAA Division 1 finals Northville also captured held last month at the Holland the KLAA West Division dual Aquatics Center. meet title with a 7-0 record Freshman Emily Roden made highlighted by a thrilling 96-90 quite the splash in her inaugural victory over rival Novi. season making All-State (top The Mustangs then captured eight) in four events highlighted their fourth straight conference

crown at Brighton as Roden figured in three first-place finishes highlighted by an individual triumph in the 200 freestyle (1:51.60).

The foursome of Mancinelli, senior Riley Szara, Mans and Roden took the 200 medley relay (1:46.98), while the quartet of Wasiniak, Mans, Roden and Heaven captured the 400 freestyle relay (3:29.80).

Northville also repeated as Wayne County champions as Wasniniak captured two individual gold medals with Lowman and Roden each adding one gold, while Mancinelli contributed two silver.

Coach Nancy Smith’s team captured their seventh straight Division 1 regional title at Willow Metropark and placed sixth overall at the MHSAA championships at Michigan International Speedway. Photo courtesy of Nancy Smith.

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY

Coach Nancy Smith put yet another strong team out on the trails capped by a sixth-place finish in the MHSAA Division 1 finals held at Michigan International Speedway.

Junior Yasmine Mansi led the way with an All-State (top 30) placing of 19th individually with a 5-kilometer time of 18: 26.8. She was also third in the regional and fourth in the KLAA meet.

Other state meet scorers included junior Emily Gordon (35th), junior Keira Courtney (89th), freshman Onivas Tupa (101st) and senior Olivia Masse (121st).

And although the Mustangs had their lengthy streak of KLAA titles snapped by Brighton, the Mustangs rebounded the following week to win the Regional 6 crown for the seventh year in a row.

All-Conference placers included Mansi, Gordon, Courtney, Tupa, sophomore Gina Couyoumjian and sophomore Jennie Line.

BOYS CROSS COUNTRY Coach Tim Dalton’s squad earned another trip to the Division 1 finals at MIS after a third place finish at the Willow Metropark regional.

The Mustangs finished 19th overall at the MIS finals led by senior Josh Morrisey, who took 106th individually. Junior transfer Jacob Meek was next best for Northville in 131st place.

Morrisey led Northville with a 16th at the regional (16:13.9) followed by Meek (20th), junior Nathan Hayes (21st), senior Ben Steinig (23rd), senior Josh Hardy (28th) and junior Matthew Krahe (31st).

The Mustangs added a fourth in the KLAA meet while receiving All-Conference performances from Morrisey, Steinig, Hayes and sophomore Brian McCallum.

VOLLEYBALL

New coach Rick Vander Veer guided the Mustangs to a respectable 35-13-2 overall record despite missing two

Success continued on page 12

The ‘Ville 11

Success Continued from page 11

key starters to season-ending injuries including All-Stater Clare McNamara and Eleanor Knight.

The Mustangs placed third in the KLAA’s highly competitive West Division with a 9-2 record, but rebounded to earn

its second straight conference tourney championship with a 2-1 triumph over Brighton.

Northville’s season ended in Division 1 district championship final against rival Novi, 3-1.

All-Conference selections included senior libero Nyia Setla, the team’s digs leader; senior outside hitter Ellie

Despite a disappointing season, the Mustangs captured the coveted Eight Mile Jug over rival Novi with a 6-3 victory and now lead the overall series 27-24.

Czarnota, a mainstay in the right side; and junior middle hitter Jaden Rice, the team’s top hitter.

Junior outside hitter Jenna Boksha also made honorable mention All-KLAA.

FOOTBALL

The Mustangs endured through their third straight 3-6 season, including a 2-5 record in the KLAA’s West Division.

Coach Matt Ladach’s squad, however, captured the coveted Eight Mile Jug over rival Novi with a 6-3 victory and now lead the overall series 27-24.

All-KLAA selections included seniors Adam Saghir (linebacker), Mitch DeGroff (cornerback) and Nick Gattoni (linebacker).

Meanwhile, two-way

offensive lineman Demir Tagani was selected to play Dec. 1 in the 2019 Xenith Senior All-Star Game at the Legacy Center in Brighton.

BOYS SOCCER

Longtime coach Henry Klimes, who just completed his 29th varsity season, suffered through an uncharacteristic 4-11-3 campaign falling to eventual MHSAA Division 1 semifinalist Novi, 2-0, in the opening round of the newly seeded district playoffs.

The Mustangs, who finished 4-7-3 in the tough KLAA West Division, had four players make All-Conference led by seniors Jacob Pichler (defender), Kyle Zaya (midfield), Colin Stoner (midfielder) and Robert Damron (goalkeeper).

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Guernsey’s Spiked Egg Nog with Old Americana bourbon

Christmas Spirits Serve a taste of Northville at your holiday gathering Compiled by Wensdy Von Buskirk

I

Adam Boonstra, Lucy and the Wolf executive chef, holds his Cranberry-Applesauce dish.

t’s that time of year when we head out to our share of holiday parties -- and perhaps even host one or two. Certainly one of the great joys of the season is all the wonderful food and drink that we get to enjoy at these holiday gatherings.

While you probably have your own recipes and traditions, The ‘Ville team approached a few of our local chefs, mixologists and well-known businesses for some suggestions to knock the socks off holiday guests or to take to a party where you’ve been asked to bring a dish or cocktail to share.

People like Antoine Lamerato, general manager of Poole’s Tavern, Adam Boonstra, the executive chef at Lucy and the Wolf, and mixologist Katy Pierson at Rocky’s of Northville shared with us some great recipes that will add some Northville flavor to your holiday gatherings.

Enjoy!

Mix Guernsey’s egg nog and your choice of liquor in a glass pitcher or decanter (1 part spirit to 5 parts prepared egg nog). Stir to combine. Serve chilled with a sprinkle of nutmeg, a cinnamon stick, a dollop of whipped cream or a grating of orange peel.

—Guernsey Farms Dairy

THE DRINKS

BAILEY’S CHOCOLATE MARTINI - 2 oz. Trader Vic’s Chocolate liqueur - ½ oz. Kettle One vodka - 3 oz. Baileys Irish Cream

GUERNSEY’S SPIKED EGG NOG - 1 quart Guernsey’s egg nog - 6.5 oz. brandy, bourbon or dark rum

14 The ‘Ville

Pour all ingredients over one cup of ice in a martini shaker and shake well. Strain and pour into a martini glass with chocolate glazed rim.

— Katy Pierson, Rocky’s of Northville THE LAST WORD COCKTAIL - Green Chartreuse - Maraschino liqueur - London Dry Gin - Fresh lime juice Add equal parts of all ingredients into a shaker with ice and shake. Double strain into glass. Garnish with a Luxardo cherry.

— Antoine Lamerato, Poole’s Tavern

THE FOOD

LUCY AND THE WOLF CRANBERRYAPPLESAUCE - 2 12 oz bags fresh cranberries - 2 Gala apples, diced - 1 navel orange, juiced - 1/2 cup sugar - 2 cups marshmellow - 2 Tbsp. chopped rosemarry - 2 Tbsp. chopped sage

- Pinch salt and pepper Yield: Around 6 cups Combine all ingredients in a food processor until finely processed into a smooth consistency.

“I currently serve this on our chicken dish at Lucy and the Wolf. I have used it as a garnish on pumpkin pie pudding in the past. I will be serving it as a side dish at my family’s Christmas dinner.”

— Adam Boonstra, Executive Chef, Lucy and the Wolf

Form mixture into 16 pieces for appetizers or eight pieces for dinner portions. Place cakes on baking tray that has been lightly oiled.

Bake cakes at 350 degrees in preheated oven till golden brown about 10-15 minutes and brush with butter to glaze. Serve with chilled Mustard Sauce (recipe below) Mustard Sauce - 1 cup mayonnaise - ¼ cup Dijon mustard - ½ tsp. dry mustard - 2 Tbsp. lemon juice - 1 Tbsp. stone ground mustard Whisk all above and blend thoroughly.

Store refrigerated and covered until use.

— Chef Joseph Gardner, Rocky’s of Northville

ROCKY’S HOLIDAY CRAB CAKES - 1 lb. jumbo lump crab meat (canned/ pasteurized) - 1 egg, beaten - 5 Tbsp. mayonnaise - 1 Tbsp. fresh chopped parsley - 2 Tbsp. finely diced red bell peppers - 2 Tbsp. finely diced green bell peppers - 2 tsp. Worcestershire sauce - 1 tsp. yellow mustard - ½ tsp. salt - ¼ tsp. white pepper - ½ cup panko breadcrumbs - 2 Tbsp. melted Butter Drain the crab meat and place in a glass or stainless-steel bowl being careful to discard potential shells and not break up the meat doing so. In a separate bowl mix together egg, mayonnaise, chopped parsley, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, salt, pepper, red and green bell peppers. Gently fold breadcrumbs in with crabmeat using a rubber spatula. Fold egg mixture in with crab meat again, being careful to not break up crab. Refrigerate for one hour.

CAPRESE PIZZA - 4 pita breads - 2 cups fresh mozzerella - Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced - 4 sprigs fresh basil, thinly sliced - Extra virgin olive oil - Balsamic Glaze (available at various markets) Place pita breads on ungreased baking sheet, brush with olive oil. Top with ingredients, divided. Cook in 325 degree oven for 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted. Drizzle with balsamic glaze drizzle.

Slice like pizza. Serves 4.

— Antoine Lamerato, Poole’s Tavern GREAT HARVEST BLUEBERRY MAPLE BREAD PUDDING - 8 ½ cups Great Harvest white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (divide and reserve in 6 cup and 2 ½ cup amounts) - 4 large eggs - 1 large egg yolk - ½ cup brown sugar - ¼ cup granulated sugar - 3 Tbsp. maple syrup - 2 ½ cups whole milk - 2 ½ cups heavy whipping cream - 1 Tbsp. vanilla - ½ tsp. nutmeg - ½ tsp. cinnamon - ¼ tsp. salt

- 2 cups fresh blueberries, rinsed and dried (frozen blueberries also work — use them slightly thawed).

- ¼ cup melted butter - Cinnamon sugar (mix cinnamon and sugar in 4:1 ratio – 4 Tbsp. granulated sugar and 1 Tbsp. cinnamon. You will have some left over to sprinkle on your toast tomorrow!)

Butter a 9”x 13” baking dish or spray with nonstick cooking spray.

In large bowl, whisk together eggs, yolk, sugars and maple syrup until well combined. Add milk, cream, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon and salt. Whisk until well combined and spices are dissolved.

Add the 6 cups of bread cubes, stir gently to submerge and allow to sit for at least 20 minutes, but not more than 30. Add the blueberries and stir gently to combine without breaking up the bread too much.

Carefully pour contents into the prepared baking dish.

Scatter the remaining 2 ½ cups of bread cubes over the top in an even layer.

Brush the top of the cubes with melted butter, using enough pressure to partially submerge the bread. Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar.

Place in preheated oven and bake 45-55 minutes until top is golden brown, pudding puffs up and it barely jiggles when the pan is shaken. A knife inserted into the center should come out with crumbs on it but not liquid. Cool at least 30 minutes before cutting but serve warm with whipped cream, a drizzle of maple syrup, and additional fresh blueberries if desired.

Serves 8.

The ‘Ville 15

PAST TENSE

Mail Call Northville’s Post Office spans two centuries of service

By Michele Fecht

W

hile the City of Northville awaits word from the United States Postal Service about the expansion or relocation of the Northville Post Office at the southwest corner of South Wing and Cady streets, it seems an opportune time to consider the history of this storied institution whose roots date to the community’s earliest years.

Established in 1831, Northville’s first post office was housed in what pioneer David Clarkson described as a “board shanty” owned by brothers Jabish and Samuel Mead on the northeast corner of Main and Center (the current location of Orin Jewelers). Jabish Mead served as Northville’s first postmaster.

Clarkson, who came to Northville in 1831 with Captain William Dunlap, wrote a series of “sketches” in The Northville Record from 1874-78 describing the community’s pioneering years. His vivid account of the community’s early postal delivery is as follows: “The mail arrived once each week . . . (and was) put into small leather bags and securely locked with large iron padlocks; each postmaster had a key.

The Michigan stage company had the contract for carrying the mail. They used large heavy coaches hung on leather springs with a seat in front on the outside for the driver and the mailbags, and a large boot behind for the trunks and seats inside for eight to twelve

passengers. They were drawn by four horses. The driver had a whip, the stock of which was made of tough Michigan hickory, and a long lash of buckskin with a skein of silk braided on the end for a cracker, and when he wanted to wake up the leaders he would crack his whip which sounded like the firing of a pistol.

“Whenever the stage approached the post office, the driver would blow a tin horn so as to give notice of his coming.

He would drive up to the post office, throw out the bags which the postmaster would take in and unlock, empty out on the floor or table, sort out what was directed to his office, place the rest back in the bag, lock it securely and throw it back to

The Northville Post Office in the 1860s on the southeast corner of Main and Center streets.

(Photo courtesy of Richard Ambler).

16 The ‘Ville

the driver.”

Clarkson noted that in the early years, the entire receipts of the post office were not enough to pay the postmaster.

By 1875, the annual salary of the postmaster was several hundred dollars.

Cost of postage on letters in the early 1830s was 6-½ to 25-cents depending on the distance and was not pre-paid.

The postmaster collected the postage upon delivery. It could take as long as a month or more to receive a letter from New York or Boston.

Jabish Mead would serve as Northville’s postmaster until 1839. Between 1831 and 1965 (the year the current post office opened), Northville had 22 postmasters. Bertha Neal, widow of longtime Northville Record publisher Frank Neal, was the only female postmaster among the 22. Frank Neal was appointed postmaster in 1923, a few years after selling The Record. Upon his death in 1928, Bertha filled the remainder of his term until February 1930.

Though she was not postmaster, Angie Smith, who served as deputy postmistress from 1902-1910, clearly made her mark on the office. In a front-page article announcing her resignation, The Northville Record noted “Postmaster (Milo) Johnson as well as all the patrons of the post office will regret to lose Miss Smith who

has been one of the best post office deputies that ever handed out a letter or licked a stamp in Northville.”

The post office moved its location throughout Northville’s early decades. By the 1860s it was housed in a frame structure on the southeast corner of Main and Center (now Lucy & The Wolf ) across the street from its original Mead brothers’ site.

By the 1920s the post office relocated to 113 North Center Street next to what was then Schrader’s Funeral Chapel; the Schrader’s Furniture Store was to the south of the funeral home. The North Center Street location would be the post office home until the current South Wing Street structure opened in 1965.

In March 1946, Elmer Balko, a 1940 Northville High School graduate and decorated World War II veteran, started work as a substitute carrier at the post office’s North Center Street location. He would spend 35 years working for the Northville Post Office as a carrier, clerk and eventually supervisor of postal operations (formerly known as assistant postmaster).

He also did a short stint as interim director in Novi. He retired in 1977.

“I loved the people,” remarks Balko.

Elmer Balko “I was blessed to have a great crew.” Sitting in the Horton Street home built

by Elmer’s father and brother, Balko, 97, and his wife Ruth, 96, share memories of his early post office days as well as their life

together in Northville. The have been married 70 years.

When asked about his extraordinary service in Europe during World War II — he was awarded two Purple Hearts and two Bronze Stars for Heroism in Action —Balko modestly states, “I served my country.”

carry mailbags up to 50 pounds, pay for their own uniforms, deliver mail twice daily at 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. and work long holiday hours — 10-hour days, seven days a week during the Christmas season. At the North Center location, additional space was rented during the

and walked about four miles on his route each day delivering mail to about 500 homes. He notes that magazines often filled mailbags. Thursday was Life magazine day and Friday was delivery of The Northville Record. He still has extraordinary recall for city house numbers.

After 12 years as a carrier, Balko took on the position of clerk and eventually as supervisor of operations.

He worked for three different postmasters: Fred Van Atta, Leland Smith and John By the 1920s, the post office was housed at 113 North Center. It remained there until the Steimel. current post office opened in 1965.

It was Balko is among those honored Christmas holiday to store during his years as supervisor in the Northville Chamber of parcels, and an additional 10 that the current Northville Commerce Military and Veteran to 12 people (mostly college post office was constructed. A Banner program. students home on break) were dedication for the new structure When he hired to help deliver packages. was held in July 1965. Former returned from Ruth occasionally helped during U.S. Congresswoman Martha the service in the Christmas season.

Griffiths was praised for her 1946, Balko Balko also notes that he efforts in pushing for approval first took a job suffered a dog bite at least of the new structure. at Northville’s once a year, found a cookie left Nearly 55 years later, it is still Ford Valve for him in the mailbox every standing . . . at least for now.

Plant that Saturday by Thelma Schoultz paid $1.15 an hour. The opportunity “Family Owned for Four Generations” to work outside led him to the post office.

Though it only paid 84-cents an The Casterline Family providing quality care in the hour, the benefits were better, heart of downtown Northville since 1937 he notes. “We’re still living on 122 West Dunlap Street Northville, Michigan 48167 it,” quips Ruth.

(248) 349-0611 www.casterlinefuneralhome.com When Balko started his postal casterlinefuneralhome@gmail.com career, carriers were required to Courtney Casterline-Ross, Manager Lindsey Casterline-Dogonski, Manager Roxanne M. Atchison-Casterline, Owner Ray J. Casterline II – 1947-2004

The ‘Ville 17

Brownie Troop 40355 sings carols during Christmas in the Village. The Scouts are Brooklyn Edwards, Emma-Kate Voth, Sienna McClain, Brynn Somers, and Eliana Bacon. Leaders/parents are Sara Both, Tanya Edwards, and Karri Somers. Photo by Bill Bresler

Angela Jaafar and son Zane visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus in Town Square.

Mayor Brian Turnbull and DDA member Shawn Riley get ready to light up the Christmas tree n Town Square.

Members of the Northville Educational Foundation and Mayor Turnbull announced the winner of their big raffle.

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas Northville knows how to get into the holiday spirit

By Lonnie Huhman

N

orthville kicked off the most wonderful time of the year with some community classics. It all started Nov. 22 with the beloved Holiday Lighted Parade, organized by the Northville Chamber of Commerce and has been going for more than two decades.

“It’s Northville’s kick-off to the holiday season with lighted floats, marchers and live entertainment. It’s the quintessential small town parade that is one of the community’s favorite events,” said Chamber Director Jody Humphries.

18 The ‘Ville

This year’s parade culminated with a tree lighting ceremony in Town Square with new Mayor Brian Turnbull flipping the switch and 2019 John Genitti Citizen of the Year Lindsey Casterline Dogonski being recognized. Town Square was abuzz with holiday cheer with local churches providing hot chocolate, and of course, Santa arrived for some “face to face” time with his fans, Humphries said.

The Northville Educational Foundation also announced the winner of its annual Cash for College Raffle. This year’s

winner is Vandan Juvekar, a Northville father with two kids in the district. He is considering depositing the winnings in his kids’ 529 college savings plans.

“Thanks to everyone who purchased a raffle ticket,” said NEF Director Christa Howley.

“While Vandan is the lucky winner, so is Northville Schools.

We raised $13,700 to go towards teacher grants, social emotional learning and other needs in the district.”

Mill Race Village played host to the next big holiday event on Nov. 24. Attendees of Christmas in the Village put on by the

Northville Historical Society got the chance to go back in time as the historic village celebrated with a Christmas Tea in the Cady Inn, and The Caroling Belles and others performed Christmas music. Visitors got to celebrate a Victorian Christmas in the Yerkes Home while St. Nick strolled through the village speaking with children.

This event, including the decorating, is put on through the hard work of community volunteers, said NHS spokesperson Jennifer Luikart.

Linda Pike, a former Northville resident who retired

Robert Grant, dressed as Father Christmas, passes out candy to children. He’s a volunteer with the Stone Gang, a group that maintains and fixes whatever needs work in Mill Race Village. Photo by Bill Bresler

The Holiday Lighted Parade featured businesses like Preservation Dental, students like the Northville High School pom team and lots of laughter.

up north, was at Mill Race that day with her daughter and grandchildren, who live in Northville. “I just love it,” said Pike of Mill Race, as she was snapping a photo of the kids. “I love Northville.”

Another big holiday event at the historic village is the Christmas Children’s Workshop, scheduled to be held on Dec. 7 and once again spearheaded by the Stockhausen and Culp families.

Luikart said it was the 41st year of the event.

“What makes it so special is that all year long our volunteers

work to prepare seven gifts for children to make and assemble on the day of the event,” Luikart said.

As you read this, some of you may be thinking, ‘I missed the fun.’ Well, there is much more on tap for the rest of the season.

Here are a few more things you might want to catch: During the weekend of Dec. 13-15, there is the Tinsel and Treasures Holiday Market at the Northville Community Center, which has Handcrafters presenting 75 top-notch artists and crafts people.

Then on Dec. 20, there’s

Northville Parks and Rec’s Holiday Funtastic Night at the Community Center, where kids can enjoy a night of cookies, hot chocolate, a classic movie, holiday crafts and even get to write letters to the North Pole.

In fact, there will be a surprise visit from Santa. To register, call (248) 349-0203.

And there will be plenty of opportunities for the kids to meet with Santa. He will be at Town Square from 1-5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays in December up to Dec. 22. There is no charge and photos are welcome. Just remember to

bring your camera – and your letters for Santa!

Maybury Farm will also host Santa from 10 a.m.5 p.m. on Dec. 14 and 15.

Visitors will be able to stroll the farm, enjoy the holiday decorations, visit with Santa in the barn, engage with the animals, roast a S’more over the bonfire all while holiday music plays in the background.

And get the perfect holiday photo with Santa. For more information, visit www. mayburyfarm.org.

The ‘Ville 19

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HIGH SCHOOL CONFIDENTIAL

Holiday Traditions

Diverse student body celebrates the season in variety of ways

P

owdery white snow begins part of the celebrations for the to dust neighborhood Park family is food. A staple rooftops. Sparkling lights at their annual Thanksgiving spiral their way up the bare dinner celebration is Korean branches of trees. The smell of cinnamon and nutmeg wafts through the air.

Classic carols eminate from every shop in downtown Northville.

Though commonplace during the winter months, all of these carry a bit of magic in the air Sophomore Hamin Park and her family have a holiday with them. tradition of skiing with family and friends each For many Christmas break.

Mustangs, the winter months bring holidays barbecue, while at Christmas, and, with them, traditions they typically eat tteokguk, a unique to each family. traditional rice cake soup dish.

Sophomore Hamin Park As a Christian, sophomore and her family are atheists, Haley Brown celebrates but they still celebrate Christmas with her family. many holidays, including Brown’s religious beliefs play Thanksgiving and Christmas, a major part in the holiday, just in a non-religious manner. shaping the music and food When they celebrate, the of the festivities. One such Park family focuses on the food is goetta, a German meat family values that surround dish. Brown’s favorite part of the holidays, especially the holiday season is “giving when carrying on the annual homemade gifts to my grandma tradition of skiing with family and watching the joy in her and friends each Christmas face because there is a special break. Another significant meaning behind the gift.”

Many students find purpose a defining part of Vadrevu, a to the holidays aside from highly religious Mustang. presents. In fact, sophomore “My favorite part of these Faris Allaf’s family chooses holidays are doing the pujas or not to give any gifts during offerings to God by going to the Christmas. Every year, the temple and being part of a huge Allafs travel to Florida to eat community that celebrates it Christmas dinner with their together,” she said. entire family.

Sophomore Joshua Chacko and his family also travel during the holidays.

They head to the Canadian city of Mississauga, Ontario every year to visit cousins. They participate in Christmas caroling with their church and attend church on Christmas Sophomore Sanjana Vadrevu celebrates several Day to Hindu holiday traditions, including Diwali, Karthika celebrate Masam, and Pongal/Sankranti. the religious meaning behind these Despite celebrating different festivities. holidays and having unique Religion is an important family traditions, many part of the holiday season Mustangs believe that the best from October to December for part of the winter months are sophomore Sanjana Vadrevu. the festivities they participate Vadrevu, a Hindu, celebrates in. Lingering in each student’s Diwali, Karthika Masam, and favorite memories is the sense Pongal/Sankranti. Each of these of family and community holidays celebrates a different connecting them to the god or goddess. Celebrating celebrations during this beloved and praying to Hindu gods is season.

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.

22 The ‘Ville

2019-2020

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New Northville High AD Brian Samulski stands inside the new state-of-the-art fitness center.

Taking Over the Reins New AD Samulski looks to continue Mustangs winning ways

By Brad Emons

E

ven from afar, Brian Samulski always felt close and admired Northville High’s athletic programs.

And when Northville’s 17year athletic director Bryan Masi announced he was retiring following the fall 2019 sports season, Samulski believed he was the right successor for the job after spending the past 4 ½ years as Salem High’s A.D. “Ever since playing basketball at Canton and coaching at Canton, I’ve always been intrigued by Northville, the Northville community and Northville Public Schools,” Samulski said. “So it’s always been something that I’ve been interested in and a desire to work for. I loved my job in Plymouth-Canton. Northville was the one job that I would apply for and I was fortunate enough and honored to get it.”

Samulski’s familiarity with

24 The ‘Ville

the 16-high school Kensington Lakes Activities Association, in which Northville and the three Plymouth-Canton Community Schools are members, was certainly a plus for the 42-yearold father of two, who began his new position on Nov. 1.

A 1995 Canton High grad, Samulski played basketball there and went on to coach boys and girls basketball at his alma mater for 15 years.

“That’s one of the other things that intrigued me is that it’s a one high school town,” Samulski said of Northville.

“You’ve got two middle schools.

You know all those kids are coming here, so you can develop those relationships with those kids as they come here, get the elementary schools involved.

Everyone in town knows they’re coming to Northville High School, which I think is a huge, positive advantage.”

Meanwhile, right down the hallway from Samulski’s office is Northville High’s new fitness center, which recently opened.

It was just another thing that attracted Samulski to the job.

“Amazing, state-of-the-art facility,” the new A.D. said.

“One of the things l like to do is visit different facilities . . . that is the best fitness center I’ve

ever seen. That tops D3, and D2, and even D1 schools in this state. It’s a great opportunity.

It’s a great tool for not only our physical education teachers, our coaches, our students. It’s a great opportunity for all our kids here to work on physical health, which helps our mental health.”

With the help of the school’s new athletic secretary, Rosina Lamerson, along with Masi remaining on board during an interim basis, the transition period has gone smoothly.

“In terms of challenges, right now I’m just sort of taking everything in,” Samulski said.

“I’m meeting every head coach and surveying the studentathletes. When I went from Canton to Salem, I learned you just sort of have to come in and observe, and reflect, and take notes. I haven’t come across any huge challenges right now. It’s just reflecting and getting a feel, and then tweak things here and there. That’s sort of my process right now.

“Bryan Masi is a Hall of Fame A.D., so to be able to learn from him these past few weeks, and work with him . . . he’s obviously done an amazing job here with his leadership. So being able to

Brian Samulski is transitioning to his new athletic office at Northville High after spending the past four years at Salem.

follow in his footsteps – that’s a huge task, but I’ll continue to bounce ideas off him and work with him even after he’s gone, and just sort of try to continue to build what he’s built with my little tweaks here and there with my personality.”

After graduating from Canton, Samulski attended and graduated from Olivet College where he played basketball under coaches Gary Morrison and Steve Hettinga (now at Lake Superior State). From 20012015, Samulski taught sixth grade and also K-12 physical education in the WayneWestland Community Schools, while also coaching at his high school alma mater.

During his nine seasons coaching the Canton varsity girls basketball squad, Samulski guided the Lady Chiefs to six

district and three regional titles, including three Final Four appearances. His 2013-14 team reached the MHSAA Class A championship game before falling to Birmingham Marian.

After earning his Masters in Athletic Administration at Wayne State, Samulski became the A.D. at Salem replacing Tom Willette where he was able to continue to develop a tight-knit athletic culture. Along with the help of his athletic assistant Anna Britnell, Samulski also started a Salem High Athletic Hall of Fame.

Samulski, who resides in Canton, admits he’ll miss the people the most in his old district.

“Starting at Canton as a coach in 1999 all the way to 2014 – that’s a lot of years in that district -- so I was able to

develop a lot of good, positive relationships with kids, parents and staff, so that would be the biggest thing,” he said.

Despite his busy work schedule, Samulski hangs out with his two children. He coaches his son Connor’s fifthgrade basketball team and likes to watch his daughter Emma, an eighth-grader, during her cheer competitions.

He admits he has few hobbies.

“I don’t have a great work-life balance, but when I do, I try to golf, but I’m not very good at golf,” Samulski admitted. “But when I’m out, I like to visit other athletic facilities, check them out, compare and get other ideas and how to make ours work better.”

Samulski knew early on that he wanted have a career in education.

Brian Samulski with his two children, Connor (left) and Emma.

“I had great teachers like Bob Blohm and Dan Young, so when I left to go to Olivet I wanted to teach and coach,” he said.

“From teaching and coaching I knew I wanted to be an athletic director. The goal is to be here for 20 years and retire at 62.”

Thank You to Our 2019 Senior All Night Party Corporate Sponsors DIAMOND Koji Restaurant Cutco Promotional Marketing The ‘Ville Magazine PLATINUM Cyndy Jankowski Joe’s Produce and Gourmet Market Lasting Impressions Michigan Chickadee Northville Car Wash Northville High School PTSA Northville Stitching Post RE/MAX Leading Edge / Angela Jaafar Spillane & Reynolds

NHS 2020 Senior All Night Party May 31, 2020 • 9:00 pm - 3:00 am

This fabulous, fun filled evening is a popular Northville High School tradition and provides a safe, chaperoned way for our graduates to celebrate. Planned and organized by Senior parents, with the help of Junior parent volunteers and the support of many local sponsors, the SANP is truly a collaborative effort.

For information on Corporate Sponsorship for the 2020 Senior All Night Party, please email Cyndy.Jankowski@comcast.net.

GOLD Ajeless Medical Spa Community Financial John Goci & Associates Michigan Educational Credit Union Suburban Honda SILVER A Serendipity Cakery Cadillac of Novi Green Safe Products Hamlet Liquor & Wine Basket Morello Law Group Marathon Gas / Northville Outdoor Pizza on Site Remerica Hometown One / Patti Mullen State Farm / Cindy Fletcher Thornton and Grooms Tom Holzer Ford

The Cady Street parking deck (above left) recently underwent repairs, while the MainCentre parking structure(above right) is due for $300,000 in repairs.

Showing Their Age

Deteriorating downtown parking decks undergoing major repairs

By Lonnie Huhman

A

s new development continues in and around downtown, the city of Northville and its Downtown Development Authority know that parking is always a concern.

Therefore, it is important parking areas are kept in good shape.

Two areas in particular the city/DDA has looked at addressing are the city-owned parking decks -- the one at MainCentre and the other on Cady Street.

Both decks were built in 1994 to help encourage development, Northville’s DDA Director Lori Ward said. In 2018, Ward said the DDA staff prepared and issued a request for proposal for qualified consultants to perform a structural assessment of the decks, pedestrian bridges, and attached stair/elevator towers.

The assessments turned up both were a little worse for wear and needed some work. Some work has been done since that time, but both decks were and are in need of significant repair work in order to provide safe parking for the community.

The work on the Cady Street deck, with its 152 spaces, is now basically done as it saw some big

26 The ‘Ville

improvements over the past two months, which cost $250,000 and was paid for by the DDA. Among the repairs, the deck had its crumbling floors with steel rebar showing through restored.

With that done, the DDA has turned its attention to the one at MainCentre. This situation is slightly more complicated and has taken more time to sort out, as there was a development agreement with MainCentre, which is the home for some downtown residents and businesses, and is owned

by Singh Development.

Its upper deck has 91 parking spaces, which are open to the public, while the lower deck has 91 spaces that are reserved for MainCentre tenants and are only accessible through a key card gate. Ward said the original development agreement allowed MainCentre to control the lower level parking area, sell parking passes and keep the revenue, and there was no requirement that MainCentre contribute toward repair and maintenance of the deck.

However, that agreement with the city was terminated in 2016.

Over the years, Ward said the city did some repairs to the deck, including patching the concrete slabs that make up the driving and parking surface of the garage, sealing the deck, painting the railings, and other maintenance tasks. But now the deck is due for $300,000 in repairs and the city is planning to do these beginning in the spring.

Meanwhile, the city has been in discussions with Singh Development about a new lease agreement that would provide for an equitable contribution from Singh for the use of the lower level.

Right before Thanksgiving, Ward said the city continued to discuss options with Singh Development, but also began the process of potentially putting in place a special assessment district, which in itself could be a two month or so process that would include public hearings.

If an agreement couldn’t be reached then the SAD, if put in place, would ensure Singh would need to cover its share of the repairs and maintenance.

Either way, Ward said the deck will see repairs come

springtime.

Getting the deck repaired and keeping it in good condition is important, especially as development happens along Cady and eventually into the Downs area. Parking will become even more of an issue.

Ward said they understand that and noted the city/DDA have for a long time kept their eyes on parking.

Ward said currently the downtown area has ample parking spots, but it’s a matter of where they are and how far a person who parks wants to walk. Ward said it’s important to help motorists know where the different parking spaces are so all of the available public lots are utilized.

Looking forward to more development, Ward said the city wants to see all new development being self-parked, which mean they would provide their own parking spaces and not wholly rely on public spots.

However, she said they also understand that with new development come more needs, so they will continue to keep an eye on parking and see how things go.

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On The Road With

T

he ‘Ville has been all over Italy recently. Northville resident Mary Salmon, owner of The Lace Museum located in Northville Square, traveled to Italy in search of rare and handmade lace for the museum. She and daughter Elyse attended the International Lace Convention in the Cantu/Lake Como area. They then headed to nearby Malta, where they met the 9th Marquis Nicholas de Piro, who invited Salmon there to research their lace collection and discuss their handmade 19th century Maltese Lace. Here they are pictured at Valletta Grand Harbor Island of Malta (top).

“We are planning an exhibit of Cantonese and Maltese Lace at the museum in the winter,” Salmon said.

Northville’s Joe and Patti D’Avanzo also traveled to Italy back in September, and took us along for the trip. Here (bottom left) the couple enjoys lunch with The ‘Ville at a cafe in the northern city of Verona, famous for being the setting of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.”

We also traveled to some more exotic locales, including with Guy and Vicky Bardsley who vacationed on the Caribbean Island of Antigua. They spent their time sailing, sightseeing and lounging around the pool and at the beach. “Antigua is definitely becoming our favorite Caribbean island,” said Guy, pictured near their resort (middle left).

The Ludlum family (Mike and Holly, along with daughter Mallory) also had a Caribbean getaway, when the visited the Bahamas for five days. Here (bottom right) Mike and Mallory are pictured in the waters at Forbes Hill Beach on Exuma Island in the Bahamas.

Northville’s Mike Bink didn’t travel so far, but he still took us along for his recent Michigan adventure, which included walking across the ‘Mighty Mac’ – Mackinac Bridge – on Labor Day. “This was my first bridge walk,” the Northville resident said. “Among other stops on the trip, I played golf twice at The Loon Resort in Gaylord and visited the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum in Whitefish Point.” Here (middle right) Bink is pictured before making his way across the bridge connecting Michigan’s Upper and Lower peninsulas.

The next time you head out of town, take along a copy of The ‘Ville, snap a photo, and let us know where your travels take you. Our readers would love to know! Please email the photos to kurtkuban@gmail.com.

We’ll feature the photos every month.

28 The ‘Ville

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out & about YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S HAPPENING IN NORTHVILLE THIS MONTH SEND IT IN To get your items listed in Out & About, email editor Kurt Kuban at kurtkuban@gmail.com.

Twelfth Night Singers Dec. 10 This a capella singing group will perform at 7 p.m. at the Northville Community Center. They will be singing familiar Christmas carols and seldomheard seasonal songs, and they wear fabulous Renaissance costumes.

All ages welcome. This program is sponsored by the Friends of the Library. Registration is required, by calling (248) 349-3020.

Tinsel & Treasures Dec. 13-15 Handcrafters will hold this 40th annual holiday market at the Northville Community Center. Vendors will be selling handcrafted gifts for the holidays, including holiday décor, apparel, jewelry, fine foods and more.

Event will feature more booths and a larger space this year. Hours are 9 a.m.-8 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sunday. Admission is $4 (children 12 and under get in free). For more information, visit hcshows.com.

Meadowbrook CC Cookie Walk Dec. 14 Meadowbrook Congregational Church, 21355 Meadowbrook (between 8 Mile and 9 Mile), will host its 9th Annual Cookie Walk & Holiday Boutique from 9 a.m.-noon. There will be thousands of homemade cookies for sale – just $9 per pound. There will also be breads, fudge, candy and more individually priced. New this year there will also be a Holiday Boutique featuring unique gifts, decorations, tableware and more. For more information, call (248) 348-7757 or visit www.mbcc.org.

30 The ‘Ville

Holiday Funtastic Night Northville Parks and Recreation will host this annual event Dec. 20 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Community Center. Kids (ages 4-10) will enjoy a night of cookies, hot chocolate, a classic movie, holiday crafts and even get to write letters to the North Pole. There will also be a surprise visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Parents can drop off the kids and head out for a meal or some holiday shopping in downtown Northville. Cost is $8 per person. To register, call (248) 349-0203 or visit www.northvilleparksandrec.org. Registration deadline is Dec. 16.

FUMC Cookie Walk/Gift Marketplace Dec. 14 First United Methodist Church, 777 Eight Mile Road, will host this special Christmas shopping event from 8:30 a.m.-noon to help fund mission service work near and far. This year’s event features homemade cookies and baked goods, candied apples, and Fair Trade gift items from SERRV. org, Liberia wildlife calendars and a resale of gently used toys and books.

Refreshments will be available.

Olympus Fever Dec. 31 Tipping Point Theatre’s annual musical cabaret fundraiser is back with a special performance on New Year’s Eve. In this year’s production, Greek gods and goddesses navigate through their drama with the help of songs from your favorite artists of the 70’s. It features a cast of local performers. Doors open at 8 p.m. with a 9 p.m. performance. Tickets include the performance, drinks and

appetizers, and a champagne toast at midnight. Regular seats are $85 with cabaret table seats for $100.

For tickets and more information, call (248) 347-0003 or visit www. tippingpointtheatre.com.

First Day Hike Jan. 1 The Friends of Maybury State Park will host this group hike to celebrate the new year from 10-11:30 a.m. Use the Eight Mile entrance and meet at the Trailhead Building. This program is free, however a Recreation Passport is required for park entry. For more information, call (248) 349-8390 or visit friendsofmaybury.org.

Garden Club Meeting Jan. 8 Join the Country Garden Club of Northville at its monthly meeting beginning at 11 a.m. at Ward Church, 40000 Six Mild Road (enter via door 6 or 7). The speaker will be Cheryl English, who will present “Autumn Jewels.” Snacks will be provided. For

more information, call (248) 2021518. All are welcome to attend.

New Year’s Bingo Jan. 9 Come to the Northville Community Center from noon-2 p.m. and play Bingo hosted by Oakmont of Northville. Registration is required at the Community Center desk prior to the event.

American Girl Party

Jan. 17 This Northville Parks and Recreation event will take place from 6-8 p.m. at the Northville Community Center.

For children aged 4-10. Come dressed in your favorite pajamas and take part in all the fun with your American Girl Doll (or your favorite doll). Pizza, snacks and drinks will be provided. The cost is $12/person.

The registration deadline is Jan. 9.

For more information, visit www. northvilleparksandrec.org.

Superintendent Coffee Chat Jan. 23 Northville Schools Superintendent Mary Kay Gallagher will meet with parents, guardians, staff and community members from 6:30-7:45 p.m. in the Old Village School Globe Room, 405 West Main Street.

This informal coffee chat offers school families and community members the opportunity to ask questions, offer input and learn more about the district in a small group setting. Those attending are welcome to come and go at any time during the event.

Shop

Dine

PLAY IN DOWNTOWN

Northville

this Holiday Season downtownnorthville.com *Styles pictured may vary at locations due to availability/inventory.

Pictured clockwise: 160 Main; Dear Prudence

BULLETIN BOARD C

O

M

M

U

N

I

T

Y

Your New Mayor, Council Brian Turnbull is the new mayor of the City of Northville. Voters

Dads Come Through The Ridge

overwhelmingly elected Turnbull over incumbent Ken Roth, who served two terms as mayor.

Barbara MoroskiBrowne also is a new face on the City Council, as she received the most votes of the Courtesy of the City of Northville. three council candidates. Incumbent Marilyn Price was re-elected, narrowly defeating challenger Joe Corriveau.

Turnbull, Moroski-Browne and Price were sworn into office by 35th District Court Judge Mike Gerou at the Nov. 12 council meeting.

The full City Council (from left) is Patrick Giesa, Moroski-Browne, Sam Ekong and Marilyn Price. Seated is Mayor Turnbull.

Wood Dad’s Club celebrated some new additions to the school’s playground at a Nov. 2 ribbon cutting ceremony.

The non-profit organization raised $25,000 for some new equipment, including funnel ball, a rope course tower and a carousel spinner. The club was founded seven years ago with the goal of funding the Leader in Me program, but has since focused on finding other opportunities at the school located at Ridge and Six Mile. The group hosts fundraisers, including a golf outing and daddy daughter dance. Principal Beth Solensky (with the scissors) is pictured with members of the Dad’s Club, along with some happy Ridge Wood students. The members are (from left) Frederick Harb, Kevin Kowalkowski , David King, Principal Solensky, Lloyd O’Dell, Mark Micallef, and Robert Ghannam.

Firefighters Assist MDA The Northville Township Firefighters Charity Fund donated $4,250 to the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) last month. The firefighters participated in the MDA’s Fill the Boot program, collecting the money during their off hours in area parking lots. Fill the Boot is a fundraising campaign to help kids and adults with muscular dystrophy, ALS and related muscle-debilitating diseases live longer and grow stronger.

“People love seeing us out with the boots and stop to pitch in what they can. This work serves as a reminder that the community can work together to support those in need, and it doesn’t take much from an individual to make a difference,” said firefighter Kyle Lewis, who spearheaded efforts this fall.

“We support MDA because of the history and tradition established by firefighters, and want to continue that legacy. We see the impact firefighters have had with MDA and the families they help at a local level.”

For more information about the MDA, visit www.mda.org.

32 The ‘Ville

Color Run Raises $23K More than 250 people took part in the 2nd Annual 5K Color Run on Sept. 22. The event, hosted

by Northville High School’s Color My World, a mental health awareness and teen suicide prevention group, raised more than $23,000 for mental health awareness at NHS. The money will be used to pay for suicide prevention training for NHS staff and administration, and conduct monthly outreach activities.

Also at the event, Color My World founder and president Annie Heitmeier (pictured at far right) was surprised by State Sen. Dayna Polehanki and State Rep. Matt Koleszar, who presented her with a gubernatorial tribute for her efforts and work with the club. The tribute was signed by Polehanki, Koleszar, State Sen. Curtis Hertel, Jr. and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. She was also selected to be one of 10 board members across the state to serve on the University of Michigan’s Healthy Minds inaugural secondary schools’ research committee.

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It’s Your Business Orin Jewelers Vietnam War, Orin, Jr. took a move to the next generation.” forced hiatus from the store.

According to her father, Upon his return two years Antoinette brings a younger, later in 1968, Orin approached fresher approach to the store. his father about taking on an She is also studying to be a ownership role. He even toyed certified gemologist. with the idea of opening his own “I’m still learning so much store. from my dad, he has so many “My dad and I had some years of experience in this different ideas about the store. business,” she said. “But I I wanted to develop it into a definitely have my own style fine jewelry store,” Mazzoni and that reflects in what we buy said. “So we had a little talk, and and bring into the store.” made a simple deal. I could take Today, Orin Jewelers carries over the store, but I had to keep two major brands: Hearts of Orin Mazzoni, Jr. and daughter Antoinette Mazzoni-Kramar in their my mother on as bookkeeper.”

Fire, which is billed as “The Northville showroom.

In 1983, Mazzoni and his World’s Most Perfectly Cut wife, Tina, Diamond”, purchased and a historic Forevermark, OWNER: Orin J. Mazzoni, Jr. building in which offers ADDRESS: 101 E. Main Street downtown pieces that (Northville location); 29317 Ford Northville, can be traced Road (Garden City location) at 101 E. back to the PHONE: (248) 349-6940 Orin has built reputation on good service, fine jewelry Main Street, location their and opened diamonds HOURS: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. TuesdayWednesday; 10 a.m.-7 p.m. here’s no doubt about it – became a leading businessman their second were mined, Thursday-Friday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Orin Mazzoni, Jr. was fated in town. As he grew older, Orin, showroom. according to Saturday to be a jeweler.

Jr. took on a larger role with the They also Orin. But they WEBSITE: www.orinjewelers.com Born the son of a watchmaker store, especially working at the moved to also carry in West Virginia, Mazzoni bench engraving jewelry. town, and plenty of moved to Garden City in 1953 “Growing up in that still reside in Northville today. unique jewelry, as well. when he was a small boy. His atmosphere and looking up to During their more than three “We deal with a lot of small dad, Orin, Sr., opened a small my dad the way I did, I knew decades of operation, they have designers that you won’t find in jewelry store that had an expanded and many stores,” Orin said. upstairs flat where his family remodeled In addition, about 20 percent lived. Orin grew up in that the store, of their business is repairs, store, helping out in any way he and become engravings and other service could, including sweeping the very involved work. They do more than 6,000 floors and cleaning the store on in the local jobs each year between the two Saturday nights. business stores.

“I remember vividly having community.

Ultimately Mazzoni said he an intercom that ran from the Orin, has been blessed to work with store to the flat where we lived.

73, who is his family members and many My dad would be down there a certified fine people over the years, and Orin Mazzoni, Jr. next to one of his microscopes. and he’d call up, ‘I need some gemologist, is in an industry that brings joy to help.’ And down I would go,” it was something I wanted to still quite active in the business, so many people.

Mazzoni said. do with my life,” he said. “My but he is grooming his daughter “The greatest feeling is being In the process, he learned dad taught me if you could fix a Antoinette Mazzoni-Kramar, involved in special occasions in the business from spending watch and fix a ring, your family the youngest of his three people’s lives and we’re able to so much time in the store will never starve.” children (Orin and Gina being make them even more special and studying his father, who After graduating from high the others), to take over when by making sure they get the ultimately moved to a larger school and being drafted for he and Tina ultimately decide to right jewelry,” he said. location in Garden City and military service during the retire. “We would like to see this

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34 The ‘Ville

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Caring for the community is a huge part of who we are. We help create a clean, safe, healthy, and beautiful place to live. We embrace causes valued by our customers and employees such as new playgrounds and park improvements, local sports teams, historical societies, and other non-profits dedicated to improving the lives of others. We partner with dozens of local organizations and regularly give tours of our facilities to help future generations learn about the important role recycling plays in our everyday lives. We are Advanced Disposal.

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Dishin’ With Denise

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

That’s a Wrap: Saying Good-Bye to 2019 2019 will soon be neatly tied up with a bow

– Silver Springs Girl Scout Troops; Mayors Choice – and sent off into the history books. As the Corriveau Law Toys for Tots Float; and Best Parade Theme – present becomes the past there are a lot of Brownie Troop 40425. You can still see the Toys for Tots float celebrations to “dish” about. on Main Street in the Corriveau Law Office Let’s begin with the parking lot, fact that I love a parade! where you Northville’s Holiday Lighted can also drop Parade is so special and I of donations. believe each year we somehow Mildred raise the bar a little higher.

Madigan This year my observation is – turned 107 we are a “real-life” Hallmark years old last movie. First there was a giant month with lighted candy cane featuring a celebration Mia Genitti singing, with the at the new simply sweet sentiment that Anthology said it all: “Northville’s Lickin’ of Northville Mildred Madigan celebrated her 107th birthday with Good” (Get it…candy cane – Senior Living Mayor Brian Turnbull and family members. lickin’ good…must have been a Center in dentist’s entry). I loved Goldfish Dr. Demray’s, Rudolph and Northville Township. Mildred Swim School's presence. Santa Eight Tiny Reindeer (the celebrated with family and and Mrs. Claus arrived in an vintage VWs) round the corner friends and special guest, exquisite sleigh – special thanks anywhere along the route Northville’s new mayor Brian to the Boll family and Navigant and you can hear the crowd Turnbull. “Mrs. Madigan was Oak LLC. say “Oooh, here they come!” my 4th grade school teacher For me the highlight is It is magic. The winners this some 50 some years ago at when Dr. Disney’s, I mean year were: Best Holiday Spirit Main Street Elementary and me being a ‘lefty’ she tried her best to straighten out my writing skills. Today I can actually read my handwriting thanks to her,” Turnbull said. “Mrs. Madigan was and still is one of my favorite people in life. Her advice was always learn, do and give back.”

Happy birthday, Mildred, and congratulations to Mayor Turnbull on his victory.

Sadly, we celebrate the life of Kurt Kinde, who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 70. Mr. Kinde was a beloved The Silver Springs Girl Scouts won the Best Holiday Spirit Award.

36 The ‘Ville

Kurt Kinde liked to play Santa.

teacher at Northville High School for more than 45 years.

Generation after generation remember him as a favorite English teacher, the longtime announcer for NHS basketball games, the highly acclaimed actor in many area theatre productions, and in recent times he assisted Northville’s Downtown Development Authority in the role of Santa.

He touched many a life, and will be greatly missed.

As the days get shorter, and the hustle bustle goes full tilt I enjoy a good book, a cup of hot chocolate and a pile of wrapping paper, tape and ribbon. It’s so nice to shop at our hometown merchants where they graciously wrap your presents with a smile and offer a personal thank you. It’s not that I don’t appreciate the wrapping, I do, but wrapping is my personal form of therapy. I learned to make bows in Holden Hall at MSU. My very best wishes for a warm, wonderful holiday season wrapped up with family and friends. Cheers!

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