The 'Ville - May 2023

LadiestheLeading Way

A tribute to the women who make the Northville business world go round

Vita Vizachero

Vita Vizachero

Vita has lived in the Northville / Novi community since 1989. Some of her local favorites are Table 5, Pooles, Rocky’s, and Cantoro’s on Haggerty.

Vita has lived in the Northville / Novi community since 1989. Some of her local favorites are Table 5, Pooles, Rocky’s, and Cantoro’s on Haggerty.

vvizachero@billbrownford.com

John DesOrmeau

John DesOrmeau

John has lived in the Northville / Novi community since 1987. Some of his local favorites are Rocky’s, Custard Time, Guernsey’s and the Pizza Cutter.

John has lived in the Northville / Novi community since 1987. Some of his local favorites are Rocky’s, Custard Time, Guernsey’s and the Pizza Cutter.

jdesormeau@billbrownford.com

vvizachero@billbrownford.com

Office:(734) 524-2711

Office:(734) 524-2711

Office:(734) 524-2720

jdesormeau@billbrownford.com

Office:(734) 524-2720

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Publisher

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

Carol Doyle

Bob & Valerie Griffith

Dick Henningsen

Jerol & Karen Olson

James Elie Salley

Lisa & Manfred Schon

ADVERTISE IN THE ‘VILLE

Our locally-owned publication is an affordable way to reach the Northville Market. We direct mail to all 21,000 addresses in the 48167 & 48168 zip codes.

To secure space in The ‘Ville, contact Scott at (313) 399-5231 or scott@streetmktg.com.

SCOTT BUIE - Advertising Director/VP of Sales

For more than 20 years Scott has worked with clients in Metro Detroit to create advertising campaigns to grow their business. After managing sales for radio stations in the Detroit Market for 17 years he purchased Street Marketing where he works closely with a variety of businesses and events. Scott and his family have lived in the Plymouth and Northville area for 25 years.

16435 Franklin, Northville, MI 48168 • 734.716.0783

KURT KUBAN – Editor/Publisher

Kurt Kuban is an award-winning journalist, having served as a reporter and editor for several local newspapers and magazines, including The Northville Record, over the course of a career spanning more than two decades. Kurt lives in Northville with his wife, Cheryl, and their three children, all products of Northville Public Schools.

CRAIG WHEELER – Creative Director

Craig has been in the creative industry for over 30 years. He has developed a diverse background in that time, but publication design has been his passion during the past 20 years. Craig enjoys chasing his young daughter and providing moral support to his lovely wife.

MICHELE FECHT – Writer

Michele Fecht is a longtime journalist whose first post-college reporter position was at The Northville Record before moving on to The Detroit News. A 30-plus year resident of the City of Northville and historic (old) house owner, she is an author, researcher, local history enthusiast, and community activist/advocate.

WENSDY VON BUSKIRK – Writer

Wensdy graduated with a degree in journalism from Wayne State University. Her first job was working as a reporter for The Northville Record. Now, as a freelance writer and editor, she works for a variety of magazines, and is excited to get back to her roots in The ‘Ville. -Photo by Kathleen Voss

MARIA TAYLOR – Writer

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

TIM SMITH - Writer

Tim brings a penchant for telling powerful and personal stories that run the gamut from news to sports. During more than 35 years in journalism, he has earned numerous state and national awards. The Wayne State grad is a published author and rec ice hockey player.

LARRY O'CONNOR – Writer

Larry is a metro Detroit area journalist whose work has appeared in The Detroit News, Jackson Citizen Patriot and the Observer & Eccentric Newspapers. When he’s not meticulously chronicling people or events, he’s avidly rooting for his favorite soccer teams –Manchester United and Glasgow Celtic.

JOHN C. HEIDER – Photographer

John is a 25-year veteran of the Northville Record and other Detroitarea newspapers. In addition to his photography, he's an amateur gardener, poet and fly-fisherman. He also claims to have invented the metric system.

BRYAN MITCHELL - Photographer

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

A View From The ‘Ville

A Parade Like No Other

You know the old saying about everyone loving a parade. If there’s any place where that’s true, it’s here in Northville. While many towns have a signature parade they put on every year, we’ve got a bunch.

There’s the Independence Day Parade on the 4th of July, where the stars and stripes fly proudly as we celebrate America. The Victorian Parade in September is always fun, as those marching in the parade dress up in historical clothing including most of the 3rd graders in town (what a wonderful tradition!). One of my favorites has to be the Holiday Lighted Parade, which kicks off the holiday season along with the lighting of the Christmas tree in Town Square. It definitely puts you in that Christmas spirit.

All three of those parades are typically well attended and part of the fabric of life here in Northville.

Yet, the most important parade that we have in town, in my opinion, is the Memorial Day Parade. It’s a much more solemn affair, of course, and it should be. The reason we have Memorial Day is to honor the soldiers and

sailors who have perished fighting for America over the course of two-plus centuries. The freedoms we hold dear would not be possible without those sacrifices.

Northville has a long history of Memorial Day parades. It is considered a sacred day and event by so many here who understand its meaning. That’s because we have several cemeteries containing the names and remains of some of those who served and did not come home.

Take for example, Lloyd Harvey Green. You may recognize the name. Our local American Legion post is named after him.

Lloyd Green was like countless other American young men (and women) who were eager to join the military to defend our nation when called upon. In 1917, when he was just 17 years old and still a year away from graduating from Northville High School, Green joined the Michigan National Guard. A year and a half later he became the first Northville soldier killed in World War I. His grave is in Rural Hill Cemetery.

Our Memorial Day Parade ends at Rural Hill where local political

figures and military veterans hold a memorial service for those who never made it back home. It’s held in the section of the cemetery reserved for military veterans. The ceremony is quite moving and a reminder that we are all the beneficiaries of so many sacrifices.

The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. on Griswold Street and proceeds west on Cady Street, briefly stopping at Oakwood Cemetery, Northville’s oldest cemetery containing the graves of 35 veterans (the earliest being William Gregory, who fought in the American Revolution). It then proceeds south on First Street, ending at Rural Hill Cemetery. The memorial service is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m.

I know a lot of people go out of town for Memorial Day weekend. But, if you are still in town, take an hour or two of your Memorial Day

and go watch the parade. It’s a great opportunity to teach children what it means to be American. With all the negativity in the media, I think we sometimes forget that lesson, so it’s good to be reminded.

If you do go to the service, you will be rewarded with a free Guernsey ice cream thanks to the McGuire and Casterline families -- a 60-year tradition that will take place at Rural Hill this year instead of at Casterline Funeral Home. Just another reason Northville is such a great place to live.

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

ON THE COVER: Northville is home to a large number of female business owners. A group of them gathered recently in downtown Northville. Pictured are (front row from left) Nicole Cicala, Megan Atkinson, Alesandra Daskal, Roxanne Casterline (middle row from left) Tami Pederson, Angela Carson, Toni Genitti, Stephanie Porter, Tita Daskal, Jessica Poole, Lindsey CasterlineDogonski, Thea Lewis, (back row from left) Melissa Halpin, Amy Parravano, Laura Genitti, Kristen Kolasa, Lauren Romeo, and Baily Talbot. Photo by Kara Adkins, owner of Stackwood Studios (stackwoodstudios.com), located at 446 South Main Street.

Northville’s 1919 Decoration Day Parade.

Your Voice

Outstanding performance

Oh oh, what a show, I hate to see that it had to go!

The costumes were colorful and props so Seussical, And geez that Orchestra- incredibly musical! The Actors were energized, and the Crews just wowed, They left the audience clapping and us parents so proud!

Bravo to the Northville High School Drama Club for a Broadway quality show, Seussical the Musical! The acting, singing and dancing were yet another proof point of the quality of the NHS performing arts program. Special thanks to the Vocal Director Mr. Walters, Director Mr. Guay and to the phenomenal orchestra led by Mr. Rumbell. Bravo!

Lori Costew

Denialism alive and well

Well, it looks like denialism is alive and well in Northville. Even though City Council used fair, open and transparent democratic processes to determine a course of action regarding the street closures, there’s people who simply don’t like the results. Instead of accepting that you’re not always going to get what you want in a democracy—they deny. When the point is the democratic process is more important than winning or losing, they take out ads in The ‘Ville, they post signs all over town, they come to Council meetings and claim that the survey was rigged. Apparently, we’ll never have an election, a vote, a decision of any kind without the deniers claiming foul. It’s rigged, it’s flawed, we don’t recognize the authority. Lest we forget, businesses, we as consumers also vote with our dollars.

John Roach

Decision was compromise

We applaud City Council’s decision to have the downtown streets closed seasonally. There are many friends and neighbors that find themselves on opposite sides of the street closure question. We respect everyone’s point of view and their right to express it. That said, we were disappointed listening to the recent City Council meeting. Some people were embarrassingly disrespectful with their comments.

There are many people in town that want the streets open. There are many that want them closed, including some of us that live downtown. We would have hoped that the compromise reached unanimously by City Council would have been welcomed by all. It’s disappointing that the “Let’s Open Northville” group believe there is little room for compromise.

In our opinion, our Northville charm is not being lost because of the physical street closures, it’s being lost by an unwillingness of some to compromise. We would ask everyone consider that no one group of people own the town and that agreeing to compromise will keep the small town charm Northville is known for.

Therese Grossi and Paul Sklut

Finding common ground

Regarding the road closures, I think we can all find common ground around three things that are important to everyone: money, safety, and liability. As soon as someone can create a clear, airtight plan around one of those three, we will all concede and agree that it makes very good sense. Hopefully our elected leaders can pull things together and make something concrete. Then this chapter in Northville can come to a close.

Dave Maloney

Stores are less accessible

Our family has lived in Northville since 2005 and we love it here. We live near Six Mile and Beck roads. I don’t need to drive a lot to downtown. But I did feel the inconvenience the road closure brought us and the quietness in downtown on weekends. My family loved to dine at Center Street Grille and Koji. My daughter is a milk tea lover and a frequent guest at Tea Gather. I believe the opening of the road year round will benefit both drivers and shop owners in downtown. When you don’t drive by, you don’t see those stores and they are out of your mind.

We went to the restaurants in Novi more than Northville’s for the past couple of years, because they are just more accessible. Closing the roads during the summer and opening them during winter won’t completely solve the problem. So please, open the roads in downtown and give us back the lively town we loved to spend our weekends and holidays. Or at least put the issue in the ballot and let us vote.

Emma and Frank Zhang

What are the facts?

Some want the streets closed, others want them reopened. One side says businesses are inaccessible, neighborhoods are too congested, while others feel it’s welcoming and relaxing without traffic and exhaust. These are opinions, not facts. If this decision was so detrimental, someone please publish the following data to prove it. Let’s see what is actually happening. Otherwise it’s just both sides whining to get what they want.

-How many businesses have closed, and how is this to similar downtowns that don’t have road closures?

-How many businesses are experiencing significant losses and how do these compare to other downtown areas?

-Have city planners assessed traffic on side streets? How is it different than prior to the pandemic?

If there are negative effects, are they a result of road closures, or just effects of the pandemic, economy and changes in peoples’ preferences?

Amanda Marie

Not a good look

I’m writing because I think closing the downtown is a bad idea. This experiment has caused many to not go to Northville. It is not comfortable when walking on Main Street with all the games and tables.

Please reconsider this action. It is not a good look for Northville.

Carolyn Norris

Northville Township Department of Public Safety recently hosted its sixth annual Recognition of Excellence Ceremony and gave out 60 awards, commendations, citations and certificates to its fire and police teams. The top awards went to:

Ladies Leading the Way

By Maria Taylor

For Theresa Schierloh, having a store was always her dream job.

In 1995, she opened Dancing Eye Gallery in downtown Northville. Right now, the boutique is stocked for spring -- plants and soaps, quirky socks and handmade glass jewelry, locally sourced candles in scents like Sea Salt Pear, and plenty of Northville-centric prints and pieces, all showcasing the creativity of local artists.

“Northville is a wonderful small town, and I am very lucky to own a store here,” Schierloh said. “I’d still work here if I retired.”

Theresa is just one of dozens of women who run the shops, services, storefronts, and eateries that make up the Northville business scene. Here are some of their stories.

A FAMILY AFFAIR

With a town history dating back two centuries, it’s no surprise Northville has a strong tradition of businesses that

have endured from generation to generation.

The women running these businesses come from a wide variety of fields- from Antoinette Kramar, carrying on the legacy of Orin Jewelers after her dad opened the Northville

location in 1983, to Allison Long, third generation at Long Mechanical and president and majority owner of the firm, started by her grandparents as a mom-and-pop HVAC/plumbing shop out of their Northville home in 1949.

In family businesses, sometimes you choose the job, and sometimes the job chooses you. Lindsey Dogonski knows that. She’s the fourthgeneration funeral director with Casterline Funeral Home. The business was founded in 1937 by her great-grandfather and passed to her grandfather, her father, and now is owned by her mother, Roxanne Casterline, while Lindsey and her sister, Courtney Ross, are the managers and run day-today operations.

Granted, it wasn’t her plan at first. When Lindsey went off to college, she had no intention of joining the family business — until she picked up some hours there on summer break 1997.

“But when I began working at the funeral home, I knew I was meant to work there,” she said. She started shadowing her dad, learning everything from lawn care to caring for the deceased and their family, and became a licensed director in 2001 after completing mortuary school at

A tribute to the women who make the Northville business world go round

Theresa Schierloh is owner of the Dancing Eye Gallery. Photo by Kathleen Thompson

Megan Atkinson of MEGANROSE Interiors Jessica Poole of The Little Salumi Alesandra Daskal of Studio 170 Antoinette Kramar of Orin Jewelers

Wayne State.

With more than 85 years in the community, there’s a lot of history. That’s Lindsey’s favorite part of the business.

“When I meet people who knew my great-grandfather, grandfather, and father and they share stories and memories of them with me, it truly makes my day,” she said.

Attorney Ryan Kelly, of Kelly & Kelly, P.C., started out in her family’s business at a young age as well.

“As part of a family business, I started answering phones in this office as a young girl, and learned to copy and scan,” she recalled. Now there are times when her 9-year-old daughter has the same responsibility.

Ryan’s parents, John and Michele Kelly, started the firm in 1988 with the intent of serving the community where they lived and raised their family. Ryan’s dream job as a kid may have been a dermatologist, but by law school she had decided to join the family business and carry on that legacy in the community where she now raises her own family.

What does it take to succeed as a woman in the legal field?

“Work harder than anybody else,” she said.

Toni Genitti — the first of multiple generations at Genitti’s Hole in the Wall — knows a thing or two about business longevity.

“This is our 52nd year,” she said. “We started as a soup and sandwich shop. Now it’s a dinner theater and lots of fun.

“My daughter’s taken over,” she added, pointing to Laura Genitti, “and she’s my boss!”

Meanwhile, her son’s son is involved too and loving it, rounding out the third generation at this Northville

staple.

When it comes to running the business, “If it feels good, do it,” Toni said. “Because it’s a lot. You’ve got to put everything you’ve got in it.”

Over at Studio 170, one could say Alesandra Daskal is following those words of wisdom.

Owner Tita Daskal is her mom; the salon/spa/boutique has been in business for 22 years in downtown Northville, and Tita’s on the cusp of retiring — although she’s still going to run the boutique. Alesandra started working there her freshman year as cleaning girl and worked her way up to receptionist and then manager and buyer, for which she regularly travels to Chicago, LA, and New York.

“Obviously I’ve had my eye on some other passions as well, but I’ve always wanted to [run the salon], deep in my heart,” she said. “I love doing what I do.”

Alesandra is a junior at Wayne State’s Mike Ilitch School of Business and plans to pursue a master’s in business administration.

STARTUP SUCCESS

Across America, as cities shut down during the pandemic, new business cropped up as people struck out on their own — some because jobs disappeared with the shutdowns, others to finally drop a dull 9-to-5 and embrace their passion.

One of those is Steffanie Porter, whose business TidySmart Organizing Solutions started as a hobby and a passion for home projects. As she started telling friends, the work started to grow, and now she has a team of eight.

“Our business really took off in 2020, when people started to purge a lot in their homes, not being able to leave,” she said. “Then also, the real estate market went in a very good direction. People realized how much help they needed when they were moving.”

Megan Atkinson, owner and principal designer of MEGANROSE Interiors, used to work in real estate. When the pandemic hit, showings ground to a halt. Home sales slumped in early 2020, and Megan was

looking for a way to help her clients.

“I had already kind of been consulting them on return-oninvestment improvements to make to their kitchen for resale, and helping my buyers envision how they could transform a new space,” she related. “So I started to transition into design, and then I never looked back.”

Entrepreneurship runs in her blood. Megan is Ryan Kelly’s sister; their parents launched their law firm the year Megan was born.

“I never thought I would have a traditional 9-to-5, and I don’t have a traditional 9-to-5,” she said.

While Megan doesn’t have a degree in interior design, she hasn’t let that stop her, and that’s her best advice for anyone starting out.

“Don’t dim your light — try to explore every creative outlet you can find, like don’t settle for something because you feel like you have to start at the bottom,” she said. “Know your worth. And I think that’s challenging when you have a small business, because you don’t necessarily want to walk away from clients or projects that may not be a good fit, but you should never try to convince someone of your value.”

Angela Carson, owner of Angela Carson Photography, is no newcomer to the Northville business community — she’s had her studio on Wing Street for 37 years — but she has a recent addition, too.

“Recently I’ve added Airbnbs to the back of my building, and that’s been a lot of fun,” she said. She has three separate units, and they’re booked about 70%

Continued on Page 8

Roxanne Casterline (seated) and her daughters Courtney Ross (left) and Lindsey Dogonski operate Casterline Funeral Home.

Continued from Page 7

of the time.

“I’ve met a lot of really cool, nice people; it’s worked out really well,” she said. “People just love being in downtime Northville.”

Meanwhile, the three women of The Kindling Project — Melissa Halpin, Amy Parravano Drummond, and Monica Inestroza Curtis — are working to help more women pursue their passion projects and turn them into reality. The three started a podcast in July 2020 and had 20 episodes their first season. Today their platform has grown to include virtual and in-person meetups, retreats, and a video workbook series centered around mind-bodyspirituality for women.

Melissa, Amy, and Monica have been friends for 17 years. They raised kids together, supported each other’s careers — Amy is a music therapist,

Monica is a writer, Melissa has a design agency — but, like many of the women they work with, always felt like there was something else to do.

“We hear, ‘I’m a stay-at-home mom, but I want to write that book,’ or ‘I’ve been working at DTE for 20 years but I want to have that food truck,’” said Melissa. “It’s all about stoking that fire and listening to those whispers because a lot of women, when they turn 50 — maybe they’ve been in a career, or they’ve been doing something for maybe 20, 30 years — they’re going, ‘Wait a minute, what about me?’”

WORK, LIFE, NORTHVILLE

Whether they’re running a long-established business or a newer venture, one thing is constant: hitting that work-life balance. It can be hard enough coming home and ‘turning off’ work for time with family. It’s even trickier when work follows you home.

Tami Pedersen, owner of mptdesigns, worked from home before working from home was a thing. Back when her kids were young, they were the captains of their sports teams, and Tami always had to pick up the teams’ uniforms, swag, and logo wear. But her work didn’t end there.

“The boxes

were ripped up and nothing was sorted, folded, organized, and I had to do all that,” she said. “I thought, why can’t I do this?”

So she turned her garage into a studio and started doing screen printing, embroidery, and promotional products herself. Twenty-two years later, the kids have grown and the business remains.

Tami’s biggest business tip is having set hours.

“Especially if you’re homebased, because if people catch you one time at six o’clock, seven o’clock, they think you’re always available,” she said.

Nicole Cicala, owner of Performers Edge Dance Company, spends her down time dancing. By day, she’s the global director of emobility procurement at Eaton Corporation in Southfield. In the evenings, she teaches dance — and she’s a mom of three.

“For me, I think work-life balance is finding something that you’re really passionate

about to reenergize you, and that is the dance studio,” she said. “I love being around the kids. I love the artistic side of it. And just watching them grow and develop as dancers, but also grow up as strong individuals in our communities, is really important and it recharges you to go in the next day.”

Nicole’s business has been around 74 years; she purchased it 12 years ago, when she was teaching at Miss Harriett’s dance studio and the owner decided to close.

Her students perform in Northville parades and down at the stages during summer and Halloween. Along the way, they’re learning more than dance moves.

“Dance teaches you how to manage your time, and be able to be organized and responsible, and work together as a team,” Nicole said.

COMMUNITY SPIRIT

No matter what their field,

Laura (left) and Toni Genitti are two generations of owners of Genitti’s Hole in the Wall.

The mother-daughter team of Michele (right) and Ryan Kelly of the Kelly & Kelly law firm.

the women of Northville’s business community share a love for their hometown that’s evident in how involved they are and how they give back.

Angela Jaafar, in addition to leading a RE/MAX Dream Properties firm, owns with her husband the Northville City Car Wash, and can often be found at Lava Grille, which is owned by her sister Karry Bazzi. She also volunteers with the PTA and even ran for elected office, serving first on the Northville School Board and now on the Schoolcraft College Board of Trustees.

“It’s the best community ever,” said Kristin McKinnon, owner of LoveWell Home Care and a Northville resident since the age of 6. “Everyone knows each other. Everyone wants to help each other.”

Kristin, who has a background in senior services, started LoveWell in 2010

after having a “not-so-great experience” with hiring a home care company for a family member.

“There’s a lot of people here that supported me, Laura Genitti being one of them,” she said. “She let me waitress there to earn money when I was

starting my business.”

Her work paid off. Today, LoveWell has a staff of 40. Kristin attributes a lot of it to having good mentors: a personal mentor, a business mentor, plus overall listening more than you talk.

At Shade Simple, owner Lauren Romeo is focused on window treatments, but her interests in Northville are widespread. Shade Simple started five years ago, but Lauren grew up in the restaurant business. Her family owned Poole’s Tavern, which is now Exchange Bar & Grill. Lauren and her mom are partners in Lake Street Tavern in South Lyon; and her sister, Jessica Poole, owns The

“We’ve just kind of been entwined in the community forever and kind of do a lot,” Lauren said. “As women especially, it’s pretty cool.”

Lauren has a degree in business marketing and worked in fashion for a long time.

“I think that’s where my love of design and style came from,” she said. “I wanted something where it was a little bit more tactile, and I’m kind of a social person. So for me, doing in-home consultations and working with fabrics and really helping finish and create a space is super fun.”

She also runs the Northville nonprofit Main Street League, which works with food banks, the schools, and offers financial support on a local level for things like car repairs, rent, and utility bills.

“I wanted to do something creative — wanted to give back and do something of my own,” she said.

Lauren said owning a business works best if you don’t sweat the small stuff.

“You can’t be everything to everyone. So choose wisely and don’t overextend,” she said. “Enjoy the moment and enjoy the ride too, because it’s a good one.”

Little Salumi sandwich shop in downtown Northville.

Amy Parravano Drummond, Melissa Halpin, and Monica Inestroza Curtis started The Kindling Project, which includes podcasts and other platforms.

Steffanie Porter is owner of Tidy Smart Organizing Solutions.

Dear Neighbors, WE NORTHVILLE!

We, Let’s Open Northville, would like to further clarify our mission regarding Main and Center. When the decision to permanently close the streets was made on August 1, 2022, many began asking why? Given neither the forum to discuss the matter, nor evidence to support the reasoning, our grass roots movement began. We love Northville, both City and Township, and are concerned with the future long-term effects of this decision. So we continue to ask the City to address our concerns in the same urgent manner made to close the streets in 2020. As we see it, the concerns are as follows:

Legal There are legal challenges which may be raised. The City could be forced into protracted litigation. The City needs to address the revenue lost by so many Northville businesses.

Economics. City needs to have a budget/funding to make the necessary improvements.

Traffic . We must have a plan to eliminate traffic congestion in surrounding neighborhoods. This plan must also address compounded traffic concerns with The Downs development.

Safety . There is no viable plan to mitigate traffic and pedestrian safety in our neighborhoods, the Social District, and the bus routes.

Occasionally . Both objectives can be accomplished by closing the streets occasionally like summer weekends or for special events, as the DDA (downtown business owners) recommended.

Pandemic . The sole consideration given for closing the streets was to aid selected businesses during the Pandemic. The pandemic is over: so should the temporary fix.

Equity . The current plan favors only certain businesses to the detriment of others.

Needs . The needs of all people to access the downtown must be weighted more heavily than the wants to keep the streets closed.

We are local Northville community supporters

We are residents and businesses who follow the established processes. We attend and share our views at meetings, write letters, and meet with our elected officials. We DO ask questions. Recently, we found it necessary to formally compel the City to respond to many questions and provide documentation.

Please join our effort to provide a platform to convey common sense resolution to these issues.

We welcome all assistance, volunteer or otherwise. Contact us at LetsOpenNorthville@gmail.com and “LIKE” and follow us on Facebook, Let’s Open Northville. Our website, LetsOpenNorthville.org, is in the works.

Show your support by hosting a PINK sign.

Pre-shutdown Main Street

Talk to us about:

• EV CHARGER INSTALLATIONS

• HOW YOUR EV CAN PROVIDE YOUR HOME WITH POWER WHEN THE LIGHTS GO OUT!

• THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS IN COST SAVINGS

• REBATES

Voters Say Yes To Bond

By Tim Smith

The foot soldiers proved to be MVPs in getting Northville Public School’s $134.4 million bond proposal over the finish line and into the winner’s circle on May 2.

The hard-working members of the “Say Yes for NPS” committee made sure voters understood the reasons for backing the bond – to enhance, modernize and upgrade school buildings, technology and infrastructure while fortifying district programs and services.

Their efforts were rewarded when voters approved the bond proposal – which enables the current debt millage rate of 3.4 mills to remain unchanged – by an overwhelming margin of 5,977-to-2,344 (71.83 to 28.17 percent). It is expected that bonds will begin to be sold over the summer, with projects to begin shortly thereafter.

“I think it’s been good for the whole community to work together, the whole district,” said Genna Davis, parent and chair of the Say Yes committee, during an election night watch party at The Sports Den in Northville Square.

Davis said the committee

flooded the zone on Tuesday, too. Just to make sure the message and its importance were not forgotten.

“It was a little bit different because we only had one thing on the ballot,” Davis emphasized. “I went around to three or four of them (precincts), but we didn’t do any volunteers at the precincts. We were all out in the community (restaurants, stores, public places) making sure people got there.”

The committee really put collective boots on the ground in early 2023, following school board approval to put the measure on the May 2 ballot – a decision informed by a series of community meetings last fall.

Rebecca Pek, district assistant superintendent for human resources, praised the ‘Say Yes’ team for delivering common-sense messaging to residents. A vote for the proposal essentially wouldn’t cost them extra tax money while providing everything from uberwi-fi in classrooms to improving and expanding the bleachers at the football stadium complex on Eight Mile Road.

“This is a table of parents that live in the district, PTA members, board members,” said Pek, glancing over toward a group waiting for more precincts to report results. “Everybody lives here and most everybody you see around here are members of this community who have kids who go to school here. They helped to inform us what it is that they need for their children.”

The bond approved by voters allows the district to spend $134.4 million on a long list of items. Every school will see improvements, including innovation centers for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (aka STEAM) to be installed at Meads Mill Middle School and Northville High School.

Other highlights include energy efficiency upgrades, with HVAC systems boosted up to ASHRAE air-quality standards; new canopy entrances at Meads Mill and Amerman, Moraine, Silver Springs and Winchester elementaries; Chromebooks and iPads stocked in every building with sufficient bandwidth to power those

devices; bleacher replacement and expansion (to 4,500 seats) at the football stadium on Eight Mile; renovations to the high school natatorium plus installation of synthetic turf on NHS’s baseball and softball fields.

District Superintendent RJ Webber said new artificial turf for athletic fields might seem like a “luxury item” until you realize how many students are involved in sports and other activities that will be impacted by the new bond.

“I believe seven of 10 kids at the high school are in some kind of athletic pursuit or club. The auditorium and fine arts are getting something as well, which is important,” Webber said.

School board secretary Kimberly Campbell-Voytal, one of several elected officials on the ‘Say Yes’ committee, gave thanks to the community for supporting the district. She credited the committee’s messaging and communication with voters during the run-up to the election.

“This is a really complex and wonderful community,” Campbell-Voytal said. “Everybody’s got a stake in the schools. They might not think about it. So our job was to help them think about it and consider the benefit of taking care of our buildings and our kids and the programs we offer that keep this a wonderful place to live.”

All in all, there were a lot of smiling faces at the ‘Say Yes’ election night party.

Davis, a Northville High alum with two children attending Amerman, said the whole experience has been gratifying and proves “there’s a lot of love for the school district.”

Members of the “Say Yes for NPS” committee were all smiles at an election night party at The Sports Den. Pictured are (back row from left) Jena Mabrey, Lindsey Wilson, Matt Hickey, Jodie Roden, Kelly Masters, Kristia Williams, Roland Hwang; Front row (from left) Genna Davis, Ron Frazier, Kate Rundell, Tanya Pitkin, Lisa McIntyre and Kimberly Campbell-Voytal. Photo by Tim Smith.

YOUR PR I DE AWAIT S .

W E ’RE R E A DY. AR E YO U ?

#OCELOTPRIDE

R e g is ter f or spring no w.

Classes s tart M o nda y, May 8 .

sc ho o l cra f t.ed u/get-started

Getting the call of his life

Jake Moody’s NFL dream comes true as 49ers draft local kicker

By Brad Emons

As Day Two of the NFL Draft was winding down, Jake Moody and his family sat patiently in their Northville home watching it unfold near the end of the third round.

And then Jake’s phone rang just before midnight on April 28.

It was no telemarketer, it was San Francisco 49ers General Manager John Lynch, who informed the most decorated kicker in Northville

High history and 2021 Lou Groza Award winner from the University of Michigan as the 99th pick overall.

“We thought somebody was pranking him,” Jake’s mother Lisa said. “And we looked at him, and we said, ‘Is that real? He looked and said it was California. So then, we all were just kind of in shock.

My stomach had butterflies and we were so excited. I had tears in my eyes. I called his agent and he’s like, ‘Yep, they called me,’ to let them know that they were picking him. And then we watched it on TV and it was probably seconds after they announced it they were already calling him again and he whisked himself off to the basement because he had to

among the 100 picks since 2016.

“I’m just happy I got picked, not expecting Day Two for sure, but it was a pleasant surprise,” Moody said. “I would have been happy going anywhere. Staying home would have been nice too, but I’m very happy to be a 49er.”

Teams such as the Patriots, Packers, Titans, Jaguars, Cowboys and even the hometown Lions had reached out and shown predraft interest, but it was San Francisco, where Moody has never visited before, that pulled the trigger.

Shrine Bowl after booting four field goals, two each from 51 and 35 yards, in a 12-3 victory for the West.

“With one of the three thirdround picks they thought I was worthy of one, so that was pretty cool,” said the two-time All-American and All-Big Ten selection.

After learning he had been picked, Moody took refuge for a couple of hours in the basement fielding calls from other officials of the 49ers including head coach Mike Shanahan and special teams coordinator Brian Schneider.

“So we didn’t see him for awhile and it was kind of like anticlimactic,” Lisa Moody said. “I didn’t get to hug him until he came back up because they called him immediately to get him ready for interviews and then stuff like that. Then he had a bunch of interviews. I probably went to bed around 2. I didn’t sleep well. I was still wired.”

‘MONEY’ MOODY

It was certainly all a blur for Moody, U-M’s all-time leading scorer and highest drafted specialist in Wolverines’ history.

make sure he could hear them.”

Moody, who once kicked six field goals in a game while setting 13 game, season and career kicking records at U-M, was only the second kicker to be

The 49ers, who didn’t have a fourth-round selection, apparently didn’t want to wait and jumped on the opportunity to select a kicker who made 69 of 84 field goals, including a long of 59 yards in the Fiesta Bowl. Moody also converted all 148 of his extra point attempts during his U-M career, and 213 of 374 kickoffs (57 percent) going for touchbacks.

San Francisco scouts got to see Moody’s kicking ability firsthand when he won Offensive MVP honors in the East-West

The next night at Genitti’s in downtown Northville, Chad and Lisa Moody held a draft party for Jake, inviting relatives, friends, along with U-M teammates and fellow students. Tables were adorned with 49er table napkins for the celebration.

And Lisa Moody was still trying to process it all.

“Obviously, I’m excited that he got picked in the third round,” she said. “It’s amazing. He was excited, we were all excited. I’m sad that it’s so far because I know I won’t be able to go to all the games. The away

Jake Moody was a two-time All-State and Dream Team member when he was kicking for Northville.

Jake Moody (center back row) and his family celebrated his selection by the San Francisco 49ers at Genitti’s during a draft night party.

games seem to be closer, so I’ll probably hit more of those than I will the home games his first year maybe until I retire. It would be nice if he were close to home, but they seem like really good people and he’s very excited and comfortable with them and they’ve already reached out to him. That makes me feel good.”

The legend “Money” Moody began during his freshman year at Northville High where he began to show his kicking prowess. The former soccer player started out at as a wide receiver, but took over the full-time kicking duties as a sophomore.

Moody spent the rest of his football playing days as a scout team quarterback because head coach Matt Ladach didn’t want to ruin a good thing. Moody was also the starting third baseman for two years and helped the Mustangs to a runner-up finish in the 2017 MHSAA Division 1 baseball finals.

Over his stellar career at Northville, Moody converted 39-of-53 field goal attempts including distances of 50, 52, 55, 57, and 58 yards. And there was that infamous game his senior year against Grand Blanc when Moody teed it up at his own 20yard line after the Mustangs had

taken a safety and landed his kickoff on the fly in the end zone for a touchback. The two-time All-State and Dream Team selection of the Detroit News and Free Press owned the second, third, fourth and seventh longest field goals in Michigan High School Athletic Association history.

Ranked nationally as a 5-star player by both Kornblue Kicking (No. 1 overall) and Kohl’s Kicking (No. 14), Moody gained some interest from some Division I schools, but his most firm scholarship offer came from Central Michigan University.

Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh made three visits, but wasn’t quite ready to offer a full-ride, opting to suggest what is called a “Grey shirt” or “Blue Shirt” where Moody could wait and not enroll until second semester of 2019, or arrive in the fall of 2018 as a walk-on.

But by the time preseason camp was starting at Michigan, Moody had the coveted football scholarship in his possession.

“I almost ended up at

Central,” Moody said. “But in the end I grew up a Michigan fan and I would have been really, really mad at myself now that I had chosen to go to Central over Michigan – not that’s Central bad – but I loved Michigan growing up and just to have the opportunity try and be on the team was pretty cool.”

For his first two seasons at U-M, Moody shared the kicking and kickoff duties with Quinn Nordin. And during the disastrous 2020 COVID-19 season where the Wolverines finished 2-4 overall, Moody made only 1 of 4 field goal attempts missing three in one game against Minnesota. But the 2021 season proved to be Moody’s breakout party as he tied a school record with six field goals in one game, helped the Wolverines exorcise its Ohio State demons, earn a trip to the College Football Playoff while winning the illustrious Lou Groza Award as college football’s top kicker.

With a U-M diploma already in hand, Moody contemplated going to the NFL after his banner 2021 season.

“Can you string together more than one good year?” Moody asked himself. “So I just wanted to prove to everybody that I am ready for the NFL. So, I went back and had another good year in college.”

Moody gambled on himself

and won the bet as Michigan returned to the CFP and won the Big Ten championship for the second straight year. He was also among the three nominees for the Groza Award again in 2022.

GIVING THANKS

When it comes to mentors, Moody doesn’t hesitate naming Victor Bodrie, the former Northville standout who went on to kick at Ferris State, as first and foremost on his list.

“He’s the one that taught me how to kick, just from the start, all the basics,” Moody said. “He’s the one that got me rolling. And Brandon Kornblue -- I went to all his camps and he continued to develop me. I worked with him this off season preparing for the (NFL) Combine. He’s been a really good mentor as well. And lastly, I’d say Robbie Gould, the former 49ers kicker, because we have the same agent (Jim McIvler of Sportstars). We’ve built a pretty good relationship and now especially me going to his team, he’s going to give me some tips. He’s excited for me and he thinks I’m really going to enjoy it.”

Moody reported to the 49ers on May 11 ahead of its OTAs, which start May 22 followed by the mini-camps June 13-15. Meanwhile, the Moody family will have to build up their frequent flyer miles in order to see their son play with him being all the way over on the west coast.

“I’m excited to go,” he said. “It’s a little farther than Ann Arbor but it’s going to be worth it, I think. Obviously, they (his family) can’t come to every single game, but regardless they’ll make a few games every year and it will be really cool.”

At Michigan, Jake Moody won the Groza Award for being the top kicker in the nation. Photo courtesy of U-M Athletics

The 49ers surprised many by selecting Jake Moody in the 3rd round of the NFL Draft. Courtesy of the San Francisco 49ers

R o o t e d i n c r e a t i n g s p a c e s y o u l o v e , b e c a u s e w e b e l i e v e y o u r h o m e i s w h o y o u a r e .

How to spot migraine symptoms early

So you can take action sooner

If you suffer from migraine headaches, you’re not alone—at least 1 in 6 people in the U.S. experience these severe headaches that can stop you in your tracks.

Migraine headaches typically start slowly and build up to a throbbing pain. They often start on one side of the head, but can generalize to include both sides of the head. During a migraine headache, you may also experience nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. These symptoms, which you’re more likely to experience if you’re a woman or have a family member who has migraine, can last for a few hours to several days.

“The good news is that there are many treatment options for migraine sufferers,” says Kendra Hamilton, M.D., a neurologist at Henry Ford Health. “The key is

to recognize the early stages of migraine, when treatment can be most effective.”

Migraine aura

A flash of light, spots or blurring in your vision are some of the classic symptoms (known as auras) that can occur hours before a migraine headache sets in. These symptoms may not be

Adults and children should be on the lookout for these changes so they can take steps to prevent or reduce the severity of a migraine episode.”

Understanding migraine triggers

Another way of preventing or limiting migraine headaches is to understand what can trigger your headache.

“People who experience migraine headaches have brains that are more sensitive to changes within their bodies and environment,” Dr. Hamilton says.

You may not be able to control body changes that trigger a headache, but it’s helpful to know if you’re at increased risk so you can avoid some triggers and find the right treatment.

• Loud noises or strong smells

• Skipping meals

• Stress and anxiety

“There are some lifestyle changes that can help prevent migraine headaches or reduce their frequency,” Dr. Hamilton says. “Get a good night’s sleep, eat a healthy diet, stay hydrated, and practice relaxation techniques and meditation to combat stress. Regular aerobic exercise also reduces your risk for migraine headaches.”

Migraine headache treatments

as-needed medications should be discussed with your doctor.

noticed or may be tough to ignore.

About 75% of migraine sufferers don’t experience aura. Instead, they may experience “prodrome” symptoms that include fatigue, food cravings, more frequent urination and mood changes.

“Aura and prodrome symptoms vary from person to person,”

Dr. Hamilton says.

“It’s important to pay attention to what you experience prior to a migraine headache.

In women, hormonal changes can trigger migraines. Pregnant women may experience more migraines at the beginning of pregnancy. Women in perimenopause have fluctuating estrogen levels and are also more likely to get migraines. While there’s not much you can do about normal hormonal swings, there are other triggers you can avoid or minimize, including:

• Alcohol

• Caffeine and some foods (chocolate, processed meats and aged cheese)

• Dehydration

• Fatigue

Your primary care physician or a neurologist can help identify the right treatment based on your medical history and the frequency and severity of your headaches. There are two main types of treatment:

• As-needed: If you experience occasional migraine headaches, over-the-counter pain relievers—such as ibuprofen or prescription medications to block nerve pathways that cause migraine headaches—are most effective when taken as soon as the first signs appear. In addition, a new generation of wearable devices provide electrical stimulation to reduce or stop headache pain, as an alternative to medication. The frequency of using

• Preventive: For people with frequent or severe migraine headaches, you may take a daily pill or have monthly or quarterly injections. The newest migraine-specific medications, CGRP (calcitonin gene-related peptide) monoclonal antibodies, have been effective in reducing migraine episodes. Some patients may also benefit from treatments such as Botox. Both disrupt different nerve pathways in the brain that trigger migraines. “There’s no reason to suffer,” Dr. Hamilton says. “When migraine headaches get in the way of everyday life, see your doctor to find a treatment that provides relief.”

Henry Ford Medical Center – Plymouth is located at the corner of Ann Arbor Road and N. Haggerty. To make an appointment, call (734) 928-1600, or visit henryford.com/ plymouth.

Introducing the new Henry Ford Medical Center – Plymouth.

Whether you live in Plymouth or nearby, we’re proud to bring world-class specialty care closer to you, including orthopaedics, cardiology and neurology. Our facility was built just for you. And it’s just minutes down the road.

See a full list of services at henryford.com/plymouth

Robb Weir, M.D. Orthopaedic surgeon

Corner of Ann Arbor Road and N. Haggerty

We believe all your healthcare solutions should live where you do.

Multi-class reunion bash planned for NHS grads

By Michele Fecht | Photos by Bryan Mitchell

It was the decade of Watergate, the first pocket calculators, Hank Aaron breaking Babe Ruth’s home run record, the debut of Saturday Night Live, bell bottoms, platform shoes, prime time TV shows like All in The Family and The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Billboard hits from Led Zeppelin to Elton John.

Flash forward a half-century and Saturday Night Live is still on the air, platform shoes and bell bottoms have made a comeback (good grief!), and many would argue that Led Zeppelin and Elton John never went out of style.

It’s against this backdrop that a team of Northville High School graduates from the Classes of 1971 to 1975 has planned an August multi-class reunion – a celebration to mark a half century (or close to it for some) since graduating from the school on the hill (now the site of Hillside Middle School).

Team members — many of whom still reside in Northville and have deep roots in the community — first gathered in 2012 and again in 2018. “We try to shoot for every five years,” said Rick Ambler, Class of ’72. “We’re a bit behind because of Covid.”

STAYING CONNECTED

Other reunion team members include Kim Bingley Peragine (’75), Sally Johnson Flayer (’74), Dave Marino (’72), Jeff Moon (’72), Terry Lapham Taylor (’73) and Keith Price (’75).

“After all these years, we realize how fortunate we all were to grow up in Northville,” said Karen McDonald, Class of ’75, noting that the reunion is not only an opportunity to reconnect with former classmates but also to celebrate their hometown.

“There was a place for all of us at Northville High School,” McDonald said. “The town was

still small enough back then that we all knew each other.”

The multi-class bash is planned for August 19 with a pig roast at the 1880s barn of Jeff Moon on Eight Mile Road. Festivities will get underway at 3 p.m. and last until “the moonshine’s gone.” The 70s team members are welcoming ALL Northville High School

graduates regardless of graduation year to attend the event. At the 2018 reunion — held at the same venue — there were nearly 200 in attendance.

The reunion organizers each play a role in planning the festivities; food and libations are provided by local favorites Genitti’s, Guernsey and Good Time Party Store. Cost for tickets is $43 per person with payment due by July 1.

DEEP NORTHVILLE ROOTS

That many of the reunion organizers stayed in Northville and raised their families here is testament to the community’s appeal as well as their legacy of giving back to the community. Sally Johnson Flayer’s four siblings all graduated from Northville — Chris (‘73), Greg (‘75), Tim (‘78) and Tish (‘83).

Chris Johnson, who at 21 was the youngest person elected to the Northville Board of Education when he won a seat in 1976, signed his sister Tish’s diploma. He was secretary of the board at that time. He would serve on the school board for three terms before being elected Mayor of the City of Northville in 1987, a position he

Members of the committee organizing the upcoming all class reunion include (from left) Kim Bingley-Peragine, Karen McDonald, David Marino, Terry Taylor, Rick Ambler, Jeff Moon, Sally Flayer, and Keith Price.

David Marino (left) listens as Rick Ambler discusses some old times at Northville High School.

would hold for 28 years.

Others on the committee also share deep connections to the community. Terry Lapham Taylor continues her parents’ long tradition as a business owner; Jeff Moon’s longtime work for Northville Parks and Recreation has now transferred to Maybury State Park reuniting him with former colleague and park supervisor Traci Sincock; Karen McDonald spent 18 years working for the Northville Public Schools.

NHS Multi-Class Reunion

SPONSORS: Classes of 1971-1975

WHEN: Saturday, Aug. 19

WHERE: Jeff Moon’s Barn (51825 Eight Mile)

COST: $43 per person (includes food, beer, wine and pop)

DEADLINE: July 1

PAYMENT: Zelle at (248) 921-1413 or Venmo at poolorphan. Checks can be sent to Terry Taylor, 48724 Windfall Road, Novi, MI 48374

And then there is Rick Ambler, whose family roots in Northville date to 1854. The front page of the June 8, 1972, Northville Record pictured Rick in his cap and gown with his great grandmother Metta Ambler (age 103), her daughter Leota Ambler (NHS Class of 1912), Rick’s parents Richard and Jean Ambler (both 1939 NHS graduates) and his sisters Diana Smeed (Class of 1966) and Nancy Ambler (Class of 1970). Deep roots indeed. While the high school

building of the 1970s has been replaced, the memories haven’t vanished. “School was our social center,” McDonald noted. Sitting on the radiators, sliding down the hill on lunch trays, buying penny candy from Granny Grunt on Baseline (her prices beat the 5 & Dime downtown) were all a part of their NHS experience.

All agree that the academics were challenging. “We really had a great grounding in the

liberal arts,” noted Price. “Our parents had high expectations and we felt we were well prepared for college.”

And so, on August 19, the NHS Classes of 1971-75 (and any others who want to join the party), will once again gather together to share memories.

With apologies to Van Morrison, it should be a wonderful night for a Moondance.

Q: How can I prevent skin problems while gardening?

Gardening can be a wonderful way to connect with nature and enjoy the outdoors, but it can also expose you to a variety of potential skin problems. To prevent skin problems from gardening or yard work, Dr. Kartono recommends the following tips:

1. Wear sun protective clothing. Touching certain plants can cause an allergic skin reaction. To protect your skin, wear pants, long sleeves shirt, socks, shoes that cover your feet, and thick gardening gloves.

2. Protect your skin from the sun. It’s easy to remember sun protection— including gardening. Before going outdoors, apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 and I recommend to reapply every two hours. Avoid being out between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are the strongest.

3. Look out for poison ivy, oak, and sumac. These plants cause a rash in about 85 percent of people who come into contact with their oil. Consider using a skin care product called an ivy block barrier to reduce likelihood of a rash. If you fear that you may have come into contact with these plants, immediately wash your skin areas with an extra degreasing dishwashing detergent or soap formula.

4. Take precautions against pests. If you find a bug on your skin, flick it off rather than kill it, as this can prevent the bug from biting or stinging. You can also use insect repellent; however, avoid products that contain both insect repellent and sunscreen.

If you need further help with your rash, schedule an appointment with board certified dermatologist Dr. Kartono at MI Skin Center at (248) 963-5915 or info@drkartono.com

, DO Board Certified Dermatologist

Dr.

Kim Bingley-Peragine (from left), Karen McDonald, Sally Flayer, and Keith Price stand near the barn where the NHS class reunion will take place in August.

Francisca Kartono

Looking For Opportunities To Shine

Living & Learning members proving stigma about autism is all wrong

By Tim Smith

The stereotypical image of those with autism is of someone unable to communicate or contribute to society in a meaningful way. But the reality is much different. When given the opportunity to shine, many with autism spectrum disorder actually are some of the most reliable, capable and enthusiastic people around.

The Northville-based Living and Learning Enrichment Center is working to change the stigma through its vocational programming for individuals with autism, linking them with local businesses where they are thriving.

Take, for example, Christian Salice, who works at the Northville Dogtopia as a canine coach. He was recently presented with that store’s Employee of the Month Award.

“It (the award) is because of the fact he’s been really good, he’s had so much growth,” said Christian’s supervisor, Dogtopia assistant manager Janae Jacoby. “He’s just getting more personable with the dogs, he’s

comfortable with our team.”

Christian also is always early for his late afternoon shifts and goes the extra mile to complete his duties, a characteristic many people who have autism share.

“Honestly, he works no differently than anybody else,” Jacoby said. “He has a structure, a way of how he likes to do things. He does cleaning tasks, so he’ll clean the walls, crate trays, mops up the room, keeps up the tidiness of everything and making sure everything’s sanitary for the dogs. And he’s very reliable. He’s only missed two days and those were due to weather conditions, so I don’t even count those.”

Living and Learning

vocational team leader Emma Rich, who works with a team of job coaches and counselors, said the center has helped members get jobs at a variety of places around town that people might not expect, including Dogtopia,

Stemville and Brown Dog Barlor (“in their warehouse … packaging up pints and getting ice cream rolling out”).

“We wanted to break that stereotype of people with special needs getting jobs as custodians,” said Living and Learning Center founderpresident Rachelle Vartanian, who also has a son with autism. “She (Rich) has done a great job getting them jobs at BMW, the Inn at St. John’s, different restaurants. A variety of opportunities for them to have job skills.”

EXPLORING OPPORTUNITY

In fact, myth-busting and smashing of stereotypes happens with every successful interaction between Living and Learning Center members, who fall from one end of the autism spectrum to the other.

“I mostly work on the

business side,” said Rich, who noted they have partnered with more than 70 local businesses. “Finding businesses and being like ‘Hey, let’s give them a chance, let’s show what we can do.’ It’s really cool to see when we can prove them wrong and that these people are hidden gems.”

Rich and those in the vocational department have partnered with more than 70 businesses in Northville and surrounding communities. For most of the Living and Learning Center “team members” who do land jobs, it is more about feeling useful, valued and appreciated more than earning a paycheck.

“I think the biggest thing is just to educate more businesses,” about what those with autism are capable of, Rich emphasized. “I go out and ask businesses every day if they want to work with us.”

Sometimes, perhaps eight out of every 10 attempts, the answer is no. But being rejected doesn’t doom her quest to help match people with suitable positions.

Job development coordinator Ethan Erlandson’s job is help members land more permanent jobs. The people he tries to help are further along the spectrum, including some with college

Christian Salice, who works at the Northville Dogtopia as a canine coach, was recently presented with that store’s Employee of the Month Award.

Living and Learning Center founder and president Rachelle Vartanian. Photo by Bryan Mitchell

degrees.

“His job is finding employment for people that’s appropriate for them and (they are) excited about,” Vartanian said. “Not just being a custodian or something.”

Vartanian’s son, who was diagnosed at 5 years old with Asperger’s Syndrome (a form of autism), also landed a job with the help of Erlandson.

“He got him a job, the company contracts with (social media platform) Tic-Toc,” Vartanian said. “My son, all day long, five days a week, watches videos and flags the inappropriate ones. He loves this job.”

The key is educating those potential employers about how people with autism can be wonderful additions to their staffs. Changing preconceived notions about the autistic and thus ratcheting up their potential is something Erlandson hangs his hat on.

“There’s a difference between being open to hiring people with disabilities versus intentionally hiring people with disabilities,” Erlandson said. “And doing it on purpose for your company to be diverse and learn and grow with

your staff.”

Erlandson’s own awareness about those with autism began being uplifted during his high school years.

“As you get older, you go off to college and go get jobs,” Erlandson said. “You do all this type of stuff that’s just normal things in life. Then you have your peers (with autism) who are not going off and doing those same things as you.

“So that’s what really drove me to get involved in this field and start helping people get employed, so they can have meaningful, purposeful lives and make a difference in society.”

EXEMPLARY EMPLOYEES

For some, Erlandson explained, the obstacle is

effectively communicating during a job interview. Once that hurdle is cleared, they show “they have all the necessary skills to be completely successful in these jobs.”

Consider Dogtopia’s Christian Salice, 23, who Erlandson helped land a 15-hour-per-week job. Just a few months later, the young man’s job performance has helped increase his weekly workload to about 20 hours.

“When we were doing interviews, I was hesitant on him being able to handle all these jobs, because it’s a lot,” Erlandson stressed. “When you’re in the room there’s like 40 dogs barking and jumping. Well, he just got employee of the month there.”

Dogtopia’s Jacoby is more

than happy with the job Christian has been doing, along with recent Living and Learning Center recruit Sydney Derkos, another canine helper.

“Everyone that either falls on the spectrum or not is more than capable of doing any job,” Jacoby said. “You just have to have the patience. And he’s exceeded all of my expectations. Christian is very comfortable, he’s grown so much with his comfort zone while working at Dogtopia.”

Rich, meanwhile, goes to bat for people more in the middle of the spectrum – not requiring one-on-one support but also not developmentally and socially advanced enough to be handling full-time gigs. She underlined the confident contributions being made by some Living and Learning members who volunteer in the emergency room at St. Mary’s Hospital in Livonia.

“Think about that,” Rich said. “We have people who get overstimulated quickly (more so) than the typical person and they’re in a high-paced

Continued on Page 26

Living & Learning Gala Set For June 2

Northville’s Living and Learning Enrichment Center will host its annual Hopes & Dreams Gala, 7-11 p.m. Friday, June 2. Proceeds are used for the center’s programing for people with autism.

“We are dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities,” said Pamela Travis, Living and Learning executive director. “As of last month, we are now serving people with special needs from nine counties and over 70 cities in Michigan. Proceeds from this event will enable our organization to expand and assist even more families across the state.”

The event promises “delectable food,” wine tasting, live entertainment (Fifty Amp Fuse), dancing and a silent auction.

Last year about 475 people enjoyed the experience on Living and Learning’s 12acre campus at 801 Griswold Street. It is projected that this year’s attendance will be a sell out with about 600 attendees.

Event sponsors include Masco, The Manat Foundation, Dearborn Sausage Company, the Sergei Fedorov Foundation, Fox Auto Group, Feldman Auto Group,

For information, contact Melissa Cooper at (248) 308-3592. ext. 125 or MCooper@livingandlearningcenter.org. For more information about sponsorships or the auction should reach out to Jim Harb at (734) 502-0645.

Patti Mullen of Remerica, Mike Miller Building Company, Mama Mucci’s Pasta and Dwellings Michigan.

Living and Learning provides vocational programming for individuals with autism, linking them with local businesses where they are thriving.

Stemville, a children’s play facility in Northville that focuses on science, technology, mathematics and engineering (STEM), is another business where Living and Learning Center members are enjoying success and camaraderie.

environment, around a lot of people, with everything going on. They’re able to complete their tasks. To see the growth and confidence grow is just mind-blowing. They’re stocking medical supplies.”

Stemville, a children’s play facility in Northville that focuses on science, technology, mathematics and engineering (STEM), is another business where Living and Learning Center members are enjoying success and camaraderie.

“They help with organizing toys, interacting with kids, working their coffee bar,” Rich said. “One of the biggest things I saw was inclusion and bringing awareness to that younger population of ‘Hey, there’s people in this world who don’t look like you and me or don’t act like you and me.”

One Living and Learning Center member, William, did so well working at Stemville that he recently started a job working in a latchkey position at an elementary school in Farmington Hills.

“It was perfect,” Erlandson interjected. “He got his experience there (at Stemville), he figured it out and now he’s got a job.”

The CDC’s Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network estimates 1 in 36 children now have been identified with autism spectrum disorder. That rate is greater than just three years ago, when the ratio was 1 in 54.

Medical improvements such as early detection is one of the main contributors to the increase of those numbers.

“It’s always been there,” Vartanian stressed. “But when I first started my master’s degree in autism it was 1 in 120. By the time I finished it was 1 in 67. I mean, this is an epidemic.

“We try to be ambassadors, no matter where we’re at. And we’re just trying to gently help people think of it a little bit differently.”

Living and Learning Enrichment Center is located at 801 Griswold Street in Northville. For more information, visit livingandlearningcenter.org.

BEST

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Detroit City Distillery Tasting Thursday, May 25th, 5-7 pm

Living and Learning provides vocational programming for individuals with autism, linking them with local businesses where they are thriving.

New Restaurants Join the Social District

160 Main - 160 E. Main / 248-924-3007

Brown Dog Barlor & Restaurant - 120 E. Main / 248-675-8596

Center Street Grill - 135 N. Center / 248-924-3135

Exchange Bar & Grill - 157 E. Main / 248-349-1715

Genitti’s Hole-in-the-Wall - 108 E. Main / 248-349-0522

Great White Buffalo Brewing Company

101 W. Main / 248-924-2607

Lava Grille of Northville - 133 W. Main, Suite 201 / 248-938-4120

Le George - 124 E. Main / 248-924-2016

Los Tres Amigos - 144 Mary Alexander Ct. / 248-773-7945

Lucy & The Wolf - 102 E. Main / 248-308-3057

Marquis Theatre - 135 E. Main / 248-349-8110

Northville Sports Den - 133 W. Main, Suite 102 / 248-347-5993

Simply Wine - 109 N. Center / 248-380-9463

Table 5 - 126 E. Main / 248-305-6555

The Garage - 202 W. Main / 248-924-3367

Toria - 115 E. Main / 248-924-3793

Open Daily

12 pm – 10 pm

For event details visit downtownnorthville.com

Scan

Moving Indoors Win e s of theWorld

New venue and charity highlight changes to 4th annual event

Wines of the World will be back in Northville for its 4th year on June 9. The event, which previously took place outside at Mill Race Village, is moving indoors to the top floor of Northville Square (133 W. Main Street).

Organized by the Detroit Wine Organization, the event will feature more than 100 wines, spirits and cocktails, a strolling dinner, live music and a silent auction. It will raise funds for two local charitable organizations, including the Miracle League of Plymouth, which organizes a baseball league for kids with disabilities, and a new group called The Kids’ Table.

Martha Michalak has been instrumental in the planning of Wines of the World. She is also

one of the founders of The Kids’ Table. Here’s what she has to say about the event and the new charity.

The ‘Ville: How will Wines of the World be different this year?

Martha Michalak: Wines of the World 2023 will be very much as it has been the last few years, with wine tastings from around the world (Italy, France, New Zealand, California, South America and more), spirits and beer tastings, food samplings from area restaurants like Genitti’s, Toria, and Fleming’s, and a fantastic jazz quartet, as well as a silent auction and wine walls. But we will have a new addition this year -- a 360 degree video experience for all attendees to enjoy.

The ‘Ville: Why the venue change?

Martha Michalak: Every year at Mill Race, we have had to worry about weather, wind, and either mud or dirt on the lane.

With the transition to this new venture (The Kids’ Table) this seemed to be a good year to also move this event to a place where a lot of that worry is taken off our shoulders. Rain or shine, we will be dry and comfortable in a spacious venue.

The ‘Ville: This is the first fundraiser for The Kids’ Table. Tell us about it.

Martha Michalak: The Kids’ Table is a nonprofit 501(c)3 that is focused on helping to fill the gaps for kids with food insecurity. We are a community of wealth, but also a community of need. No one charity can do everything for every child who needs help. So far, we are partnering with Northville Civic Concern and the Northville Public Schools to help the kids whose needs aren’t being met. Will we feed them all? No. But we will help as many as possible and that is a win for everyone.

The ‘Ville: What sparked you to start the organization?

Martha Michalak: I have had a lot of experience on boards and most of those involved kids and the schools. Kids are kind of my passion. And it hurts my heart to know that so many kids, and

their families, are struggling. I feel a responsibility to the next generation to give them as firm a base as possible to stand on. Plus, I’m a mom. Moms want to feed kids. I’m lucky to have a group of like-minded moms who were eager to join me on this mission.

The ‘Ville: How much are you hoping to raise at Wines of the World?

Martha Michalak: We will be co-beneficiaries with Miracle League of Plymouth. They are a great organization that does such good work, and we are delighted to be working with them. We are each hoping to receive $10,000-$15,000 from this fundraiser. We will start using that money right away, on our first special event on Saturday, June 17th -- a food drive to help stock Northville Civic Concern for the summer months. The money we raise from Wines of the World will go toward our costs to put on this event, as well as toward food to donate.

Wines of the World tickets are $125 each or $225 for a pair. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www. kidstablemi.org.

Martha Michalak

Wines of the World, put on by the Detroit Wine Organization, will feature more than 100 wines, spirits and cocktails, a strolling dinner, live music and a silent auction.

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It's Your Business MacFarland Painting What You See Is What You Get

Accountability has equaled success for MacFarland Painting

By Larry O’Connor

Once John MacFarland brushed aside his parents’ expectations, he turned his painter’s cap frontward and poured his passion into building a model home improvement business.

Nearly two decades later, MacFarland Painting is a testament to the contractor’s credo: Take care of the customer and the business will take care of itself.

The Livonia-based company specializes in upscale painting and carpentry work for home and commercial structures. MacFarland’s expertise extends from exterior and interior painting — including cabinets — to staircase remodeling and trim carpentry.

The firm’s website (www. macfarlandpainting.com) features a gush of glowing customer reviews.

MacFarland Painting serves southeast Michigan, including Northville where the newly minted contractor encountered his first daunting job.

In November, the company celebrated a

major milestone, opening a 4,000-squarefoot showroom at 30881 Schoolcraft Road. MacFarland Painting also has a base in Highland Township.

MacFarland Painting has come a long way since the founder first wielded a soft bristle.

Like many, MacFarland honed his home improvement skills by painting houses to earn money while going to college. The 2000 Livonia Stevenson High graduate attended Wayne State University, majoring in criminal justice and political science.

His parents Bill and Grace MacFarland — both longtime educators — wanted their son to pursue an academic profession. Yet John felt more grounded in the building trades.

“I liked the independence, the problem solving,” said MacFarland, 41, who transferred to Eastern Michigan and earned a bachelor’s in construction management. “So, I started to work my own jobs.”

While learning his trade, though, MacFarland often found himself among a hastily assembled group of laborers who

were paid under the table. The crew could be less than dependable.

MacFarland vowed his company would be a tightly run, above-board outfit.

On his first big commercial assignment, MacFarland was somewhat overwhelmed. He enlisted a supervisor from his former painting troop to see the job through.

Studio 324 Hair Salon at 324 S. Main Street in downtown Northville received the MacFarland treatment.

“That was a little intimidating because it was a larger project and it had a lot of exposure right there on the street,” MacFarland said. “And, there were certainly some hiccups with it being a very old wood-constructed building that, you know, needed some serious love.”

MacFarland Painting doesn’t use subcontractors, which is a tenet in sustaining a smooth operation. The firm employs 60 people.

“I like to own the product that we sell,” the owner said. “So, our people seeing us at the beginning and end of every day is a level of accountability. With subcontractors, they’re just transient by nature at times. If someone’s hiring MacFarland Painting, I think you should be paying MacFarland Painting staff to do the work and not just a middleman.”

Those shopping for home improvement services should weigh customer reviews, MacFarland said. Google and social media testimonials have almost eliminated the need for references.

The state stopped requiring painters to be licensed in 2019, which adds a twist to the process.

“They did away with that; I don’t really understand why,” he said. “I think that it increased some accountability.”

MacFarland Painting has remained on top of the trends in an evolving industry. High-tech materials have long replaced those deemed environmentally unsafe. Paint products are more precisely mixed, matching color palettes to suit customer tastes.

As he reflects on the company’s success, MacFarland thinks of his late parents.

MacFarland recalls his mother Grace meticulously going through a mountain of

MacFarland Painting specializes in upscale painting and carpentry work for home and commercial structures, including exterior and interior painting.

paperwork every morning at the kitchen table, a byproduct of her job as Livonia Public Schools director of student services. She died in 2019. MacFarland gained his organizational prowess from her.

The craftsmanship gene came from his father Bill, who was a shop teacher before becoming principal at Livonia Churchill High.

Bill MacFarland retired as an assistant superintendent at Dearborn Heights Crestwood School District. The senior MacFarland, who died in 2020, added an addition to the family home by himself.

Neither parent approved of his decision to become a full-time contractor when he was in college, though. They thought their son was entranced by dollar signs.

His father later worked for him in retirement, helping sell some projects as business peaked.

“I took great pride in handing him his business card and saying, ‘Remember when you told me I was an idiot for not going down the political science path and staying in the academic world?’ MacFarland said. “And he’s like, ‘Yeah, I don’t want to talk about that…’”

For more information about MacFarland Paining visit www. macfarlandpainting.com or call (734) 564-6664. Their Livonia Showroom is located at 30881 Schoolcraft Road.

On the Road With

A Rio Reunion

Northville’s Marita Smith traveled to Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where she met up with Nicole Nagib, a former Rotary Exchange Program student. Nagib is a 2019 Northville High grad who lived with Smith during her stay in Northville. She lives in Brazil a short distance from Rio, and welcomed Smith to her home in April. Not only did they do some sightseeing, but then they also went on a cruise to Spain together.

The close relationship they maintain is a testament to the Rotary Exchange program, according to Smith. “Rotary youth exchange not only changes the lives of the students, but also the lives of the members of the local hosting Rotary Club members,” she said.

The two are pictured holding a copy of The ‘Ville in front of the famous Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio.

Hangin’ at Margaritaville

Christine Verleye of Northville Township was on a cruise on the Norwegian Joy over the March Spring break. Her family (seven of them) visited  Honduras, Belize and Cozumel. Here she is with her granddaughter, Lexie Fox, proudly showing The ‘Ville at Margaritaville.

Our Nation’s Capital

The Wang family of Northville took along The ‘Ville on their recent spring break trip to America’s capital city. Jerry and Amy, along with daughters Alexa and newborn Ayla, who took her first road trip. They did plenty of sightseeing and had a great time.

“In D.C. cherry blossoms and a spring-vibe filled the city,” Jerry said. “We visited Capital Hill, the Library of Congress, and many museums.” This is the photo they took on the National Mall with Capital Hill as the background.

A Japanese Dream

Northville’s Albert Vellucci took along a copy of The ‘Ville on an April trip to Japan. He said he’s been on more than 40 overseas trips with his wife, and said this one was the “most enjoyable, emotionally uplifting, and heartfelt trip we’ve taken.” They experienced many cultural activities including writing Japanese calligraphy, preparing sushi, dining at restaurants in kimonos and sandals, and participating in a traditional tea ceremony. They also visited Buddhist and Shinto temples, rode a bullet train and had an emotional visit to ground zero in Hiroshima where an atomic bomb was dropped in 1945.

He said the people of Japan were amazing hosts and he was impressed with their way of life.

“People were respectful, self-disciplined, and warm towards visitors and each other. We didn’t experience a single altercation, traffic issue, raised voice, or a cross word from anyone. We could learn significant lessons from this orderly, regimented, society,” said Vellucci, pictured here during Japan’s Cherry Blossom Festival.

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 in an upcoming issue.

The Art of Studying

While May is a time for welcoming spring as flowers bloom, for many students it also brings the stresses of AP and IB exams. As students prepare for their upcoming assessments, many look for new study strategies to maximize their efforts.

Though these study habits vary from student to student, there are some commonalities amongst how students best prepare themselves for any assessment using the resources and advice offered at Northville High School.

One of the most utilized resources for studying at NHS is Seminar. Every other school day starts with Seminar at 7:20 a.m. where students can seek support from teachers, fixing errors in tests and completing assignments.

“Having it at the beginning of the day allows students to start fresh by talking to teachers if

they need to. They might have homework they need to do that they weren’t able to get done the night before, and they can get that done before they get to class,” NHS Principal Tony Koski said. Because Seminar happens so frequently, students can reliably use it to their advantage.

Many students do their best studying outside of school.

“I like to study in coffee shops. I feel more productive when I reward myself with my favorite drink from Tuscan (Café), Red Dot or Starbucks,” junior Tori Thompson said.

Small coffee shops provide a different atmosphere than studying in school, and some students prefer the peace and quiet to studying in group settings.

When studying, it’s important to consider not only where to study, but whom to do it with. While some students like

studying on their own, others find it more productive to study in groups.

“I prefer to study with people around. I like being in the presence of others because if I’m stuck on something, I have someone who can give me a fresh perspective,” junior Meera Sankar said.

Beyond a fresh perspective, studying with others can be a useful tool to help increase comprehension. “I like helping my friends out because teaching them the material helps me study as well. It’s a way of knowing if I really understand the material,” Thompson said.

Resources are available to help students study, and teachers are a great place to turn. Whether it be review sessions or study guides, teachers do what they can to improve the studying experience for their students.

History teacher Michael Malley shared his tips when creating study guides for his students. “The trick is to phrase the terms and questions in a way that leads them to kinda know the information well without giving the exact questions away,” he said.

While study guides can be helpful preparation before a test, understanding the content along the way is also vital. “I think something that benefits

all students is trying to do quality learning as the unit goes along, whether you start studying for a test three days in advance or the night before,” chemistry teacher Mrs. Melanie Obrigkeit said.

NHS even offers classes to help teach students ways to study effectively. Study Skills and Notetaking is a class which teaches students memorization and organizational skills and how to study for tests. Study Skills teacher Melanie Korczyk recommended students use an accountability partner in their studying who makes “sure you’re really doing what you’re supposed to be doing.” She also added that, “It’s scientifically proven that on your own, you’re not going to be as effective as you are sitting right next to [someone], even if [they] don’t say anything to you.”

Amidst continued forms of assessment, studying is a key skill that students need in order to succeed academically. From Seminar to study guides to the Study Skills and Note Taking class, NHS offers many resources to help students build good study habits. Whether it be alone or together, inside or outside of school, students work to discover the method of studying that is most effective for them.

Sophomores Ryan Young and Haitem Al-Zoubi studying in Seminar.

Alli Pawlak utilizes Seminar to do much of her studying. Photos by Tamsin Boyd

EDITOR'S NOTE: High School Confidential is a collaborative effort by the Stringers Journalism Club made up of Northville High School students Brian Zhang, Chive Paradowski, Alyssa Bachert, Diya Kannappan, Adeline Snook, Lucas Yessayan, Sneha Hedge, Tamsin Boyd, and Pranavi Oruganty.

Students must find what works best while preparing for end of the year tests

BULLETIN BOARD BULLETIN BOARD

Elite Vocals

Congratulations to Beth Richert, choir director, for leading two Northville High School vocal ensembles to top honors in the state of Michigan. The TrebleMakers and Chamber Choir were chosen by a panel of judges to perform at the prestigious Michigan Youth Arts Festival held at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo. Only 13 groups in the entire state were selected for this elite honor, so it’s quite an achievement to get two of our local groups selected.

Members of the TrebleMakers include Lauren Baligian, Brooklyn Blaskay, Sophia Dober, Elizabeth Felosak, Natasha Kobelsky, Lily Lawing, Aubrey McCurdy, Makenna McInally, Meera Sankar and Katie Swallow.

Members of the Chamber Choir include Lauren Baligian, Molly Baughman, Brooklyn Blaskay, Sophia Dober, Sungwook Hong, Laila Jasinkiewicz, Natasha Kabelsky, Vishal Kumaravel, Lizzie Lewis, Isaac Luebke, Aubrey McCurdy, Noah Minard, Harrison Ozog, Ryan Poulos, Blake Presley, Meera Sankar, Katie Swallow, Varun Varre, David Whitaker and Shuya Zheng.

Photos courtesy of VSN Photography

Orin Rocks!

Orin Jewelers, located at 101 E. Main Street in downtown Northville, is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year. To celebrate, owners Orin Mazzoni, Jr. and his daughter Antoinette Kramar will be hosting their annual Orin Rocks Block Party from 6-10 p.m. on Saturday, May 27 along Main Street in downtown. The family-friendly event will feature live entertainment and various food vendors.

The Love Junkies will perform on the Town Square stage. Sweet Brew and Spice and Pizza Cutter will be in the huts in Town Square, while Kona Ice and a hot dog vendor will be on Main Street. Mod Market will be selling popcorn and some of their items, while the Northville Art House will have an artist on site. Orin will also have a tent featuring games, coloring and jewelry giveaways every hour.

For more information, visit www.orinjewelers.com.

One ‘Passionate Designer’

Northville High School senior Rocco Morales has won his second consecutive Stellantis Drive for Design competition. The Auburn Hills-based auto company named Morales the grand prize winner of the 11th annual design competition. He also won the contest in 2022 and placed second in 2021.

Morales submitted a design for the Ram Stadion, which would “create a new segment of pickup trucks.” In Morales’ winning design, a fully capable off-road machine could easily transform into a relaxing place to hang out with stadium seating and a deployable canopy.

This year’s contest challenged students in grades 10-12 to sketch the next-generation Ram EV truck. The creative submissions revealed brand-new concepts and a glimpse into the minds of up-and-coming designers. Morales’ grand prize includes a summer design internship at the Ram Truck Exterior Design Studio and a Wacom MobileStudio Pro 16 tablet.

“Rocco is clearly a passionate designer with a bright future ahead of him,” said Mark Trostle, head of Ram Truck and Mopar exterior design for Stellantis. “It will be great having someone eager to learn and experience a professional design studio.”

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out & about out & about out & about

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S HAPPENING IN NORTHVILLE THIS MONTH

Northville Flower Sale

May 26-27

This 36th annual event takes place from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. May 26-27 in downtown Northville at Town Square and along E. Main Street. Find a wide array of locally-grown flowers and plants. Vendors will be selling perennials, herbs, annuals, roses, shrubs, exotic plants, and trees. For more information visit the Northville Chamber of Commerce website at www.northville.org or call (248) 3497640.

Memorial Day Parade

May 29

The annual Memorial Day Parade begins at 10 a.m., and will march through the south end of town. The parade starts on Griswold Street and proceeds west on Cady Street, briefly stopping at Oakwood Cemetery. It then proceeds south on First Street, ending at Rural Hill Cemetery where there will be a memorial service starting at 11 a.m. The parade is an observance to honor U.S. military personnel who died in war. Spectators line the streets in a show of support. For more details, visit www.northville.org or call (248) 349-7640.

Bobcat Bash

June 2

The community is welcome to attend Amerman Elementary School’s annual Bobcat Bash from 5-8 p.m. for a family-friendly night of fun. Wristbands are available for purchase in advance or on the day of event and are required for kids aged 5 and up. Admission includes bounce houses, carnival games, a dunk tank, face painting, ice cream and cake walk. Food truck and raffle tickets will be sold separately. For more information, visit Amerman’s PTA website at https://amerman.memberhub.com/w/

Calling All Car Aficionados

If you are a car enthusiast and appreciate exotic and high-end American performance vehicles, you’ll want to check out Cars and Coffee, held every second Saturday of the month from 8-10 a.m. behind the Northville Schools Board of Education building (204 W. Main Street). Founded and organized by Alexander Hamka, owner of Alexander’s of Northville, and supported by Kevin McLoughlin of Roush, Mayor Brian Turnbull, and Lori Ward of the Northville DDA, has no admission cost and offers complimentary dark roast coffee provided by local business sponsors. Participants can connect, share insights about their vehicles, and enjoy a sense of camaraderie. Stay informed about upcoming dates and details by following Alexander’s Cars and Coffee on Instagram @alexanderscarsandcoffee.

bash or send an email to President@ amermanPTA.com.

Farm Fest at Maybury

June 3

Maybury Farm’s annual spring festival runs from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Come out and see the farm’s baby animals, learn to plant seeds properly for a successful start your garden and enjoy family-oriented activities. There will be lots to see and do, including face painting, children’s games and activities, live music by Bridge County Bluegrass Band (noon-3 p.m.), farm-life demonstrations, food trucks, BBQ, wagon rides, farm animals, and much more. There will be weaving, blacksmithing, beekeeping, gardening and composting demonstrations. Farm Fest admission is $12 ($15 to

add wagon ride). Children under 2 are free. For more information, visit www. mayburyfarm.org.

Movies in the Park

June 9

Northville Parks & Recreation will be hosting the first of two movie nights in the park (July 7th is the other) at Ford Field. Movies begin at dusk. For more information, visit www. northvilleparksandrec.org. For weather cancellation, call (248) 449-9951.

Northville’s Fish Hatchery

June 10

Learn about the history of Northville’s fish hatchery from 10 a.m.-noon at Mill Race Village. Presenters will include Mayor Brian Turnbull, who will discuss the history of the hatchery,

which began in 1874 when Nelson Clark began breeding fish (it remained in operation until 1935). John O’Meara and Alice Baily from Environmental Consulting & Technology (ECT) will discuss the ongoing restoration efforts. Paul H. Young Chapter of Trout Unlimited, Friends of the Rouge, and the Northville Historical Society jointly sponsor this event. The presentation is free and open to the public. Visit www. millracenorthville.org to RSVP.

Gigantic Garage Sale

June 12-16

Northville’s annual gigantic garage sale, which benefits the Northville Historical Society and the Dr. Karl Stockhausen Medical Scholarship, runs from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. MondayFriday at the historic home at 218 Dunlap Street, Northville. Any and all donations are appreciated. Drop off your donations at any time starting June 10 at 218 Dunlap. For more information, contact Carole Jean Stockhausen at (248) 349-2833 or visit www.millracenorthville.org.

Arts & Acts Festival

June 16-18

This annual fundraiser for The Northville Art House takes place along West Cady Street from 3-8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m.3 p.m. Sunday. The festival includes the 35th Annual Art in the Sun Juried Art Fair, showcasing the contemporary art, handicraft work and unique creations by fine artists and crafters from Michigan and around the country. Other highlights are the Northville Art House Chalk Festival, live music and other creative experiences. For more information, visit www. northvillearthouse.org/artsandacts.

get your items listed in Out & About, email editor Kurt Kuban at kurtkuban@gmail.com.

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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.

May I? Can You?

According to Merriam Webster: “May is a more formal word, and a safe choice. It’s used to ask permission. Can is the verb of choice for ability. You may use can if you wish, and you can use may if it makes you feel better.” May I remind you of a few things happening around town, many are long standing traditions.

Doing a little spring cleaning? Can you for part with that chair that hasn’t been sat in for years? What about that extra set of dishes you are keeping “just in case”? Trust me…your kids won’t want them. The annual garage sale at the Stockhausen homestead (218 Dunlap in downtown Northville) is coming up June 12-16. Drop off items to donate for the sale starting on Saturday, June 10. Proceeds from the sale benefit the Northville Historical Society and the Dr. Karl Stockhausen Medical Scholarship fund. For information contact Carole Jean Stockhausen art (248) 349-2833.

Copenhagen, but Northville’s Binky Tree is famous. It was featured on the television show Under the Radar (Episode 322). Check it out.

Speaking of trees… the Northville Tree Champions are looking for residents of both the city and the township to send them photos of flowering trees that are inspirational. They are asking for a photo of your favorite and would like you to add a line or two about how it inspires you. Be sure to include the location (it must be in an area open to public viewing) and the species, if known. Send them to NorthvilleTreeChampions@ gmail.com.

the simple pleasure of the automobile. Indeed, something that has had an impact on all our lives here in SE Michigan. The next gathering is scheduled for May 27th from 8-11 a.m. You can read more about them on their Facebook page ECC Cars & Coffee.

New Hope Center for Grief Support is getting ready for Kids Camp. I have heard firsthand from many that it is an incredible program. New Hope Center for Grief Support was founded more than 20 years ago. They provide grief support to children, teens, and adults who have lost loved ones. The camp is July 20-21, but they fill up fast and need help as the number of young people attending keeps growing. The camp offers soccer with the Michigan Jaguars, yoga, song writing with Lost Voices, art therapy, equestrian horse therapy and more. For information how to sign up or help out, contact them at (248) 348-0115 or griefhelp@ newhopecenter.net or visit their website at newhopecenter.net.

There is a group of folks in town now studying Ford Field. It’s unbelievable to me, but the “Binky Tree” in Ford Field celebrated its’ 20th birthday a few weeks ago. And it’s still as popular as ever. If you haven’t seen it (and you need to) it is right next to the Fort Griswold playscape. There have been generations of children who celebrated a “rite of passage” at that tree. The original idea came from Frederiksberg Gardens in

My Mom told me if I don’t have something nice to say, say nothing at all. Well, the older I get, the better that plays true. I went to my first ECC Cars & Coffee event at ZF North America (Northville Township off Beck and 5 Mile roads) last month. Wow! It was so cool and the people so polite. Hundreds of cars turning in off Beck Road – two at a time, waiting their turn and smiling. Everyone laughing and enjoying

And speaking of Mom… look at the lovely mother and daughter team Janeen Holdwick and Sophia Holdwick. They were kind sponsors at the ECC Cars & Coffee in April – and I owe Janeen an apology. She is the new owner of the Tuffy Muffler shop in town. Last month I told you the open house was on May 11, and it was May 12 – I simply made a mistake. It happens to the best of us. If you went the day before, hopefully you were able to come back the next day… thank goodness I didn’t reverse the days the other way around and you missed it. Anyway, it’s my fault and I’m sorry – to you, and to Janeen.

Manners are a powerful thing. May I say, most of us have Mom to thank for teaching us to say please – and thank you Mom for everything.

New Hope Center for Grief Support's Kids Camp.

The "Binky Tree" in Ford Field. ECC Cars & Coffee

Janeen and Sophia Holdwick

-Paula Zhou & John Wu