The Ville - February 2026

Happy Couples ONGRATULATIONS FROM

Kyle & Alexa

Joe & Meredith

Dan & Jen

Robert & Susie

Justin & Lauryn

Tait & Jen

Gabriel & Selena

LOCAL JOURNALISM MATTERS

Please consider a donation to support The 'Ville. Since we began publishing more than seven years ago, our goal has been to provide our readers with valuable information about the Northville community each and every month. Your support helps that mission survive and grow.

And while The 'Ville is sent to every address in Northville at no cost to readers, it is not free to produce.

LOCAL Matters! is the foundation of this magazine. If you find it of value, please consider supporting it. Every little bit helps! Please send donations to:

Journeyman Publishing 16435 Franklin Northville, MI 48168

You can also make donations via PayPal to kurtkuban@gmail.com. Thank you in advance.

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.

Publisher

Here is a list of people who contributed to local journalism last month.

We appreciate your support!

• Marilyn Alimpich

• Danny & Barbara Cook

• Brian Friel

• Luis Mendoza

• Joseph Nance

• John & Margaret Roebuck

• Robin Schleh

• Margie Sievert

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

KEN VOYLES – Writer/Photographer

Ken is an award-winning writer, photography and designer whose career has spanned nearly five decades in and around metro Detroit. Eons ago he kickstarted his journalism career in Plymouth, working for the Community Crier. He is the author of two books on Detroit history, loves to travel and has finished his first novel.

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.

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.

BRAD

EMONS - Writer

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

BRYAN MITCHELL - Photographer

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

The people who make our community go

If this month’s issue has a theme, I would say it is service to others.

It starts with our cover, which features Jenny Beyer, the longtime head chef/cook at Genitti’s Hole-in-the-Wall. She is the subject of “Spotlight On Service” – our new regular feature where we will highlight someone in the community, who our readers feel is deserving. It could be a waiter, a bartender, a hair stylist, a landscaper, a dental hygienist – or just about anybody who works with the public and never quite gets the publicity they deserve. Well, we want to put a spotlight on those people.

Beyer is the perfect person to kick off this new feature. Having worked at Genitti’s for 36 years, she is one of the main people making it all work at the event venue located in downtown Northville. So many of us have been to events there, yet most people don’t know Jenny, who is usually hard at work in the kitchen, making sure everyone gets fed. We thought she deserved to have the spotlight for once, though she is perfectly comfortable working behind the scenes. Check out the new feature on Page 28 And make sure to reach out to me if you would like to see someone get the spotlight they deserve. We are also looking for a sponsor for the feature.

Speaking of service, check out Page 10 where we have a feature story about James Holland, who spent three decades delivering mail in downtown Northville. Holland, who worked for the US Postal Service for 31 years before retiring last June largely due to health reasons, was known around town as the hippy mailman because of his distinct long, white beard and ponytail tied back under his hat.

Holland not only delivered the mail over the years, he got to know most of the customers on his route, who he said became like family members.

His philosophy about being a good mailman began with a smile, a “hello” and a dedication to providing good service to the customer.

“Work is an expression of love. When we do our work, we are saying to our customer, I’m doing this and I’m going to bring everything I can to it because I want you to know you are important and I love you, I care about you,” he said. “I carried that with me every day.”

Yes you did, James. And we all appreciated it, every day (except Sunday, when you were off).

Lastly, we have a story on Page 24 about the 2026 Northville Community Awards ceremony held Feb. 5. Put on annually by the Northville Chamber of Commerce, the event honors some of Northville’s top volunteers and businesses, who are listed in the story. The highlight of the night, of course, is the John Genitti Citizen of the Year Award, which this year went to Nancy Darga.

To be honest, Darga has been a champion for the Northville community for so long, I was kind of surprised she hadn’t already won the award. In addition to serving a dozen years on City Council, Darga has served on the Northville Parks & Recreation Commission, Northville Art Council, and Northville Housing Commission.

As the chair of the River Restoration and Riverwalk Task Force, Darga was one of the driving forces behind the daylighting of the Rouge River and the new River Park on the former Downs property.

When her name was announced as the Citizen of the Year recipient, nobody was as surprised as Darga. That’s not surprising, as Darga rarely seeks out credit for all the work she does. Her goal has always been improving the community. And she loves the direction the community is headed.

“The reason why Northville keeps moving forward is because the people in this community are amazing,” Darga said.

Darga is one of those amazing people. Just like James Holland and Jenny Beyer. Our community is better because of them.

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

ON THE COVER: Head chef Jenny Beyer has been a mainstay at Genitti’s Hole-in-the-Wall for more than three decades. She is the subject of our first Spotlight On Service, a new feature for The ‘Ville. See her story on page 28. Photo by Sean Power

An emotional Nancy Darga fights back tears after being named Citizen of the Year.

Your Voice

A caring community

I want to share a heartwarming experience I had recently in Northville. One dark rainy evening, my car slipped into a ditch filled with slush. As someone originally from Japan who is still gaining confidence in my English, I felt completely overwhelmed and terrified.

Almost immediately, a kind gentleman, Jim, in a white car pulled over. He called the police for me and let me wait in his warm car. When the police arrived, they were equally compassionate, letting me wait in their patrol car until the tow truck arrived. Everyone was incredibly supportive during a moment when I felt so vulnerable.

I truly felt that my late father and my Japanese charms were watching over me, but it was the kindness of the Northville community that truly saved me. I cannot thank the gentleman and the officer enough for their help.

To my neighbors: please stay safe on the dark and snowy or even icy roads. We are so lucky to live in such a caring community.

Ayumi Utsumi

Roundabout has delivered

Roundabouts provide improved increased traffic flow, safety and reduced emissions/noise.

So how is our new roundabout performing?

Pre roundabout, during the late afternoon rush hour northbound traffic

on Sheldon Road at 7 Mile was backed up to the top of the hill and beyond. With the new roundabout during the same time period traffic is now flowing freely in all directions without backups. The roundabout has allowed traffic to continually ease into and out of the circle. This continual movement has eliminated the previous stop and go situation, which led to backups.

After studying the published concept sketches, the project appears to be still incomplete. Several dedicated right turn lanes still have to be opened. These lanes will reduce traffic in the circle further improving flow. Adding the crossing markings shown in the sketches and the new islands in the center of each road will provide safety for pedestrians.

To me, the planners have delivered the promised goal: improved traffic flow and reduced driver frustration.

Arthur Deane

No national politics

Once again you are publishing letters in the “Your Voice” column that are political and biased. I’m referring to “A disgraceful reflection” in the January issue. While everyone is entitled to their opinions, I just don’t feel that this is the place to make comments about national politics.

I thought that the magazine The ‘Ville was about Northville. We have so much going on right now both in the city and the township and I would think those comments and opinions would take precedence over complaints about national news.

Rosemary Walton

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Downtown Northville Getting A Glow Up

$3.3 million investment will begin when weather breaks

By Wensdy Von Buskirk

Northville’s downtown is about to get a makeover. From fire bowls at the fountain and a revamped clock tower to public art and a pathway that connects the city center to The Downs, planned projects will set the city center up for decades to come.

The work will be funded through the Downtown Development Authority, city partnerships, and grant support, and start as soon as weather allows.

For Northville DDA Director Kate Knight, the work is about stewardship as much as improvement.

“We have a charge to build public space that is a reflection of how we feel about ourselves, and who we want to be in the future,” Knight said.

First Focus: Town Square

According to the city’s Capital Improvement Plan, the $3.3 million in downtown projects are planned, but not everything will happen at once.

The most visible changes are slated for 2026, starting

with maintenance and refurbishment of Town Square, where heavy use has taken a toll.

“We have the data saying that we had more than 485,000 visits to that plaza last year,” Knight said. “It’s a great problem to have, but it means the infrastructure needs care.”

One major update will be the reconstruction of the fountain, which will include a seasonal design that shifts from water features in warmer months to fire bowls at each end during the winter, replacing planting containers after the growing season.

“This is a design feature that really engages the public and supports year-round gathering,” Knight said. “Response has been strong and positive.”

Road Work and Clock Tower

Work in 2026 also includes reconstruction of Main Street at Town Square, featuring a raised “tabletop” crossing designed to slow traffic and make the plaza feel continuous across the street.

The project will also rebuild the traffic island and refresh the clock tower.

“It’s such a beloved iconic structure,” Knight said. “We’re looking at some ways to treat it with lighting and new plantscape, but really just rebuilding it in the same footprint.”

A mill-and-fill resurfacing of Main Street is planned at the same time.

“The street is in bad shape,” she said. “It will cost less to fix at this point than waiting for it to crumble any further.”

The Cady Connection

Beyond 2026, the DDA is also planning the Cady Street Connection, a fully accessible pedestrian connection between the historic downtown and The Downs, where more than 400 residential units and 20,000 square feet of commercial space are under development.

Slated for 2027–28 and supported by a SEMCOG Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant, the project includes safe pedestrian crossings that mirror the speed table design planned for Main Street improvements, consistent streetscape materials, wayfinding signage, drought-resistant landscaping, and new covered bicycle parking.

The work addresses a significant change in grade and establishes a safe, clearly marked pathway connecting Town Square, River Park, and the expanding regional trail system, while reinforcing downtown as a trailhead destination.

“One of the things it does is open up an obvious sight line between our historic downtown district and The Downs,” Knight said. “It draws a more accessible path that connects into the heart of downtown.”

Work is planned for Main Street and the island surrounding the clock tower. Photo by Vanessa Mandell

This map shows the area (shaded in green) that will be impacted by the improvements. Courtesy of the Northville DDA

Public art will also play a role in shaping the experience, with installations planned along River Park and the river walk, and artist-commissioned work supported by the DDA.

Building With Vision

Some residents have questioned why downtown projects move forward when other areas of the city also

We want to minimally impact

this business district.

We want to get in early, Michigan weather permitting, and then get right back out and maintain access to all of these businesses.”

Northville DDA Director Kate Knight, on the timing of the infrastructure projects

have needs. Knight says the answer lies in how the DDA is structured and funded.

“We’re a tax capture district, and we are legally required to spend the funds in the district,” she said. “That’s not within our purview to spend elsewhere.”

Knight says the DDA is careful about spending the taxes levied on properties within the district, which are approved annually by City Council to support downtown

maintenance, events, and infrastructure improvements.

“We try to spend $1 to make it worth $10,” Knight said. “That’s the kind of strategic, careful planning that allows us to align with city projects and land major grants.”

Timing also matters this spring.

“We want to minimally impact this business district. We want to get in early, Michigan weather permitting, and then get right back out and maintain access to all of these businesses,” she says.

For Knight, the goal isn’t change for change’s sake.

“We’re replacing things in their footprint as they are,” she

said. “We’re not rebuilding the entire public space. The result on the other side should set us up for multiple decades.”

As construction begins and plans unfold, the DDA hopes residents will see the work as investment in a downtown that continues to reflect Northville’s past, present, and future.

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

The Northville DDA will be spending $3.3 million to update the downtown infrastructure. What are some of the things you’d like to see take place to improve the downtown district? Email your opinions to Editor Kurt Kuban at kurtkuban@ thevillemagazine.com.

One major update will be the reconstruction of the fountain, which will shift from water features in warmer months to fire bowls in the fall and winter.

During his three-plus decades delivering mail in Northville, James Holland estimates he walked about 72,000 miles over the years. Give or take the length of a few driveways.

That long, strange trip – to quote the Grateful Dead, one of his favorite bands – came to an end on a cold Jan. 30 night at Genitti’s Hole-in-the-Wall, where many of the friends Holland met over the years gathered to send him off into retirement. While it may have been cold outside, there was nothing but warmth and love inside the downtown Northville venue.

Known for his long white

Words

Kurt Kuban

Community celebrates postman James Holland’s long, strange trip

beard, hair pulled back in a pony tail and his chill disposition, Holland made quite the impression on the people along

his routes over the years. And they made quite the impression on him. So much so, he considers many of them (most

of them, really) to be part of his family or tribe.

Over his 31 years delivering mail in Northville, Holland’s various routes went from Cady Street to Eight Mile, Center Street to Griswold. He delivered to Cabbage Town, Beal Town, the Historic District and downtown at various times.

More recently, the last 25 years or so, his route was centered in downtown Northville, where his distinct physical features made him recognizable to just about everyone. It’s fair to say he became part of the fabric of downtown Northville.

“It was an astonishing career.

by

Photos by Sean Power

Matt “Wheels” Wells hugs James Holland, who is holding a bottle of champagne signed by people at the Jan. 30 retirement party.

Two local legends: Former postman James Holland kisses Northville’s Neal Hartshorne.

I can’t believe they paid me to do it,” Holland said. “I genuinely feel there were many days I would have bought a ticket to do it – and they paid me. My job was to visit 500 of my friends every day.”

Although he admitted that by nature working for the Postal Service is “incredibly stressful,” for Holland, the term “going postal” has a whole different meaning. He just never let it get to him. He always focused on the positive, and did his best to provide the best service he could.

People along the route took notice.

One of those regular postal customers was Laura Genitti,

who threw the party for Holland, which included a performance by Dead at the Winery, one of his favorite bands. In fact, he is a regular over at Northville Winery, where the band routinely performs.

“James is the best, and I know he will be missed,” Genitti said. Holland, 61, officially retired in June, largely due to health issues. If it were up to him, he would have continued delivering the mail for many years. In retirement, he plans to collect books, perform magic (a long interest of his) and take a long road trip along US-2, which begins in St. Ignace in the Upper Peninsula.

He was touched by the turnout at the party, and it was obvious there was mutual admiration.

“It’s been hard not to spend the night crying. It’s incredible,” he said.

Fellow hippy and Deadhead Jody Bauman, who has gotten to know Holland over the years, said the world would be a better place if there were more James Hollands.

“This guy has more personality, more happiness to give to everyone around him, and he asks for nothing back,” Bauman said. “I think that’s why he makes a great postman and even a better friend. The guy will give you the skin off his back.”

For Holland, a simple philosophy guided him over his career.

“Work is an expression of love. When we do our work, we are saying to our customer, I’m doing this and I’m going to bring everything I can to it because I want you to know you are important and I love you, I care about you,” he said. “I carried that with me every day.

“I was able, through an act of God, to fall in love with hundreds of people in this town.”

The feeling is mutual, James. Good luck!

People at the party signed a poster for Holland, who took it home as a keepsake.

James Holland (center above) enjoyed listening to Dead at the Winery, one of his favorite bands, which played a couple sets at Holland’s retirement celebration (right photo).

The crowd at Genitti’s listens to James Holland talk about how he became a mailman.

Spencer Knickerbocker CFA, CAIA, CFP® Partner, Chief Investment Officer

Todd D. Knickerbocker Managing Partner

True To His Roots

Despite global business success, Sean Cain remains a big Northville supporter

By Tim Smith

Sean Cain travels the world for The Superlative Group, planting business seeds and helping water them for future sprouting. It’s an exciting quest to help clients land naming rights deals that can change perceptions and purpose in their communities.

For a recent example, his work helped the Novibased Vibe Credit Union become the new name of the longtime Suburban Collection Showplace.

Despite his global travels, when the 2014 Northville High School graduate is back home, it’s like he never left.

The 29-year-old Cain, whose parents are Melinda and Tim

Showplace to make sure all is going well with the branding change that took place last month.

“Hi Sean, are you having the usual?” asked a waitress before writing down Cain’s order of a coney dog – decorated with ketchup drizzle and heavy chopped onions – fries and a cola.

With a smile, Cain explained how much he and his family have enjoyed regular visits to the place he calls Joe’s for more than two decades.

“Yeah, the family’s been coming here for 25 years,” he said.

Cain continues to rise through the ranks with the Cleveland, Ohio-based Superlative, and now serves as the Vice-President of Corporate Partnerships and Development for the company.

Yet Cain’s smile and conversational ease among restaurant workers shows how much he remains true to his Northville roots.

Family stops at “Joe’s Coney”

(manager of the Northville Square mall and a veteran baseball coach at Northville High School), recently walked into Joseph’s Coney Island on Main Street for lunch – before heading over to the newly minted Vibe Credit Union

went from 5-foot-7 entering his senior year at NHS to a lanky, 6-foot-4 during his years as a varsity soccer player at Adrian College.

During those years at Adrian – and later, Ohio University, where he attended graduate school – he began figuring out what kind of career to pursue.

At first, he did some sportswriting and even fancied becoming a major league baseball play-by-play guy.

“It’s funny, my dream was to be Dan Dickerson, the play-byplay radio guy for the Tigers,” Cain recalled. “I was sitting one day and someone asked me ‘What do you want to do?’ I told him, but he went ‘You know, there’s 32 if you want to be in the MLB but only one if you want to be the Tigers’ guy, right?”

With that dream extinguished, Cain pivoted. The son of an accountant, Cain told his dad he wasn’t cut out of the same cloth.

But he met another student of the Ohio MBA program who sparked in him an interest in taking on big, corporate naming deals and all that is required to go from initial pitch to ribboncutting celebration.

“The two years there it was very much eye opening to that side of the business,” Cain emphasized. “And my new boss (Superlative President Myles Gallagher) graduated from the program as well, I connected with him in kind of a mentormentee capacity.”

wasn’t all that helped inform Cain’s youth, although the hot dogs certainly helped his growth spurt the summer before his senior year of high school.

“There was no looking back from there,” said Cain, who

From there, Cain learned the concept of picking up an idea and not putting it down until a deal was struck.

Sometimes, that takes 12-to-18 months of full-on salesmanship and persistence to earn a company’s trust.

Sean Cain, of The Superlative Group, stands near the newly-named Vibe Credit Union Showplace in Novi. The 2014 Northville High grad helped the Novi-based credit union acquire the naming rights. Photo by Kurt Kuban

Sean Cain with his parents, Tim and Melinda Cain. Photo courtesy of Sean Cain

For the Vibe agreement, Cain and Superlative worked out a partnership to continue the naming rights for more than 20 years with the Bowman family, who own the 305,000 square foot convention center in Novi.

And, so far, the Vibe Credit Union Showplace rebranding is resonating with locals.

“It’s always easier when the name makes sense, and it sounds cool,” said Cain, with a smile. “I think it gets people a lot more excited about it.”

Although Superlative’s headquarters is 170 miles away in Cleveland, Cain said the firm has recently dabbled in the Wayne-Oakland counties market, where he has a strong network, grounded from his Northville upbringing. The NHS alum, who was a National Honor Society member and multi-sport athlete, may have had a lot to do with tapping into that new customer base.

In another local deal, Cain helped in the 12-month effort to rename Community Financial Credit Union to Orsa, which was officially announced Jan. 28. He said his first bank account, credit card and car loan was from Community Financial’s downtown Northville branch, just down the street from Joe’s Coney.

“You always grow up

thinking, ‘How can I make a difference in the community I grew up in?’” he said. “So, to be able to come back and actually bring that to life is pretty special for me.”

Another important characteristic instilled in him by his parents was to always do his utmost best, just in case somebody might be taking notes.

“For me, it was learning at a very young age that it’s important that you carry yourself appropriately,” he emphasized, “(and) that you’re viewed publicly as a good person and applying that to the business side of it.

“If you do a good job for one person there’s a really good chance they’re going to talk highly of you when you’re trying to do a good job for another person.”

For Sean Cain, that is a “superlative” recipe to keep cooking as a business force for many years to come. But, be sure, he will never forget the lessons learned in Northville.

“Growing up in this community was really influential in the sense that, in my opinion, you can’t really get lost in it (Northville), because it’s small enough and tight knit enough that you kind of know everybody,” he said.

The Cain family: Seth, Melinda, Timothy and Sean Cain. Photo courtesy of Sean Cain

Northville collector displays the sweetest Valentines in town

By Wensdy Von Buskirk | Photos by Bryan Mitchell

Northville resident Aletta Holmes is known for going all out during the holidays, and Valentine’s Day is no exception.

Each February, the 1870 Queen Anne home she shares with her husband, Chuck, is transformed into a celebration of romance and nostalgia. Vintage Valentine memorabilia fills nearly every surface, carefully arranged in a kaleidoscope of red, pink, cherubs and kitsch.

Aletta has been collecting Valentinethemed keepsakes for decades and every room tells a tale. Guests enter the front door to a display of delicate greeting cards pinned to easels and propped on surfaces covered in lacy tablecloths.

The dining room is set for an elaborate dinner, with a champagne bottle perched in a silver bucket and a vintage Valentine’s

ball gown on a dress form in the corner. The kitchen is stacked with heart-shaped china, serving dishes and baking pans with delicate aprons and linens reflecting the theme. Even the bathroom is decked out with collectible perfume bottles, compacts, tins, figurines and other delights.

It takes weeks for Aletta to meticulously unpack and arrange the vignettes.

“It’s a labor of love,” she says.

HISTORY OF THE HOLIDAY

Valentine’s Day has roots in a pagan celebration of fertility that Christians eventually turned into a tamer affair. In what began as an oral tradition, people would recite romantic verses to their loved ones. With the advent of paper, they exchanged heartfelt messages written by hand.

By the early 1700s, handmade cards featuring hearts and flowers were common. The Victorian era brought an explosion of ornate designs, made possible by advances in printing and postal services.

In the United States, the holiday became a commercial success thanks largely to Esther Howland of Worcester, Massachusetts. After receiving an elaborate English Valentine in 1849, the 21-year-old began manufacturing cards at home using paper lace and flowers imported by her father. Her business exploded, and she is widely considered “the mother of the American Valentine.”

Aletta owns several treasured examples of Howland’s cards, including a heart-shaped affair displayed with its original embossed envelope, addressed in flourishing script to Mr. H. J. Bair of Bushnell, Illinois.

At this time of year, the Holmes residence is transformed into a celebration of romance and nostalgia.

Aletta and Chuck Holmes in the dining room of their historic 1870 Northville home.

A TRUE LOVE STORY

Aletta’s collection reflects the history of printing and papercrafts from threedimensional honeycomb Valentines made in Germany in the late 1800s, to elaborate die-cut designs. Mechanical cards from the mid-20th century feature moving parts, like a girl bending over to reveal her bloomers.

“Some of these are kind of suggestive,” Aletta quips.

The collection also evokes the couple’s own history. Aletta and Chuck met at Allen Park High School and have been married for 56 years. They have a grown son and daughter, and five grandchildren.

Aletta’s passion for antiques dates back to her time running Tea at Aletta’s out of the couple’s former historic home, which was built in 1850. Located in Northville on Beck Road, the Greek Revival served as an intimate setting for traditional English teas by appointment only. Guests were treated to Aletta’s homemade clotted cream, raspberry jam, lemon curd, tea sandwiches, and desserts served on vintage dishes with antique sterling silver.

After living there for 35 years, the couple moved within walking distance of downtown Northville.

“We had no idea someone would tear down that beautiful house we had,” Aletta

says. “Here in the historic district houses are protected. We know it will still be here when we aren’t the caretaker of it anymore.”

PRESERVING SWEET MEMORIES

That sense of stewardship carries over to her Valentine collection. Aletta carefully brings the fragile pieces out each year, sharing them with visitors. Last year, Mill Race Village invited her to set up an exhibit, and Chuck spoke about the history of the collectibles.

“Chuck is my eyes. I’m legally blind so I can’t look down at my notes. It’s easier for Chuck to talk for me,” Aletta explains.

Chuck may not share Aletta’s collecting obsession, but he’s a good sport about the hunt. He accompanies her to shops, estate sales, and even on out-of-state trips to track down special finds. Closer to home, the Royal Oak Sunday Flea Market is a favorite stop.

“I had an appreciation for antiques even when I was a child,” Aletta explains. “We didn’t have any, but when I became an adult I started buying them.”

When it comes to Valentines, she began collecting on a whim.

“I didn’t know anything about them. I bought them for their beauty then started learning about them and found the history is so interesting,” she says.

When asked if she has a favorite piece, she laughs.

“That would be like asking if I have a favorite granddaughter,” she says.

Vinegar Valentines

Holmes also has a collection of Vinegar Valentines. Popular in the 19th and early 20th century, the cards had nasty messages and were often left anonymously.

Aletta

Aletta Holmes has been collecting Valentine’s-themed keepsakes for decades.

Aletta and Chuck Holmes are known to go all out decorating for the holidays, especially Valentine’s Day.

Sachin Parikh, M.D.

Cardiologist

LASER

LASER

HAIR

LASER

Northville’s ‘Secret Weapon’

Nancy

Darga

By Kurt Kuban

Wnamed Citizen of the Year

hen you look back at the many ways Nancy Darga has worked on behalf of the Northville community over the years, you almost have to ask what hasn’t she done? You could fill a volume from front to back listing all the things she has done to help improve the community.

She served 12 years on the Northville City Council, two decades on the Northville Parks & Recreation Commission, 13 years on the Northville Art Council, and eight years on the Northville Housing Commission. She has been a longtime champion of Mill Race Village and the local environment, particularly the Rouge River. The list goes on and on.

Darga is currently serving on several city task forces, including as chair of the River Restoration and Riverwalk Task Force, which led the way to get the Rouge River daylighted on the former Northville Downs property. She was a guiding force for the new park

oftentimes were difficult, but Abbo said Darga came to the rescue time and again, acting as a go-between with the buyers (the city and township) and Snyder.

“I had my secret weapon – I had Nancy Darga on my side,” Abbo said. “We ultimately got everything done and resolved, and the deal was done.

“Nancy got us through. It’s likely we wouldn’t own the Farmers Market site if it hadn’t been for Nancy Darga.”

Not surprisingly, Darga was humbled and surprised by the award.

• City of Northville Volunteer of the Year: David Marold

As chair and leader of the Cemetery Renewal Task Force, Marold has been coordinating the efforts to repair and restore broken monuments and grave stones at the historic Oakwood Cemetery. The cemetery is expected to play a major role in the Northville Bicentennial celebrations in 2027.

• Northville Township Volunteer of the Year: Diana Wallace

straddling that section of the river.

For all her hard work and efforts over the years, Darga was named the 2026 John Genitti Citizen of the Year recipient. The award was announced Feb. 5 during the Northville Chamber of Commerce’s annual Community Awards Dinner, which recognized the community’s top volunteers and businesses.

Northville Township Supervisor Mark Abbo spoke about Darga’s many years of service to the community, noting her 27 years of experience as chief of design for the Wayne County Parks Division, and how invaluable that was for a number of community initiatives including the daylighting of the river.

Beyond her professional expertise, Abbo said Darga also possesses an ability to build bridges. In particular, he said she spearheaded the purchase of the Farmers Market property on Seven Mile. Negotiations with former owner Jeff Snyder

“The reason why Northville keeps moving forward is because the people in this community are amazing,” said Darga.

“My job is to remind you all that within you, you have a tremendous amount of power. It’s not like I did anything. It’s just that I allowed you to tap into that power and helped you contribute to Northville.”

Other awards announced at the Community Awards Dinner included:

• Northville District Library Volunteer of the Year: Doris Oltersdorf

A Northville Township resident, Oltersdorf has been a member of the Friends of the Northville District Library for more than two decades. She is responsible for setting up the staffing schedule for the Friends Used Book Store inside the library. That means working with more than 40 volunteers to keep the fundraising store operational for 52 weeks of the year.

“We are so lucky to have her on the library team,” said library director Laura Mancini, who called Oltersdorf “our rock of Gibraltar.”

The longtime executive director of the non-profit Northville Community Foundation, which operates Maybury Farm, Wallace also helped Northville Township launch its Golf-4-Good Charity Golf Outing, which raises money for the foundation and other causes.

“I’ve seen firsthand her skillset as a leader and her deep commitment to what’s best for Northville and what’s best for local families,” said Northville Township Trustee Chris Roosen, while announcing the award.

• Northville Public Schools Educator of the Year: Michael Rumbell

Rumbell has taught music in Northville for 53 years, and has been the guiding force for

Citizen of the Year Nancy Darga listens as Mayor Brian Turnbull reads a state proclamation in her honor. Photo by Kurt Kuban

Longtime Northville High School band director Mike Rumbell was named the Northville Schools Educator of the Year.

Photo by Bryan Mitchell

generations of instrumental music students at both the middle school and most notably high school level. He has wielded the baton for decades as Band Director at Northville

High School, building one of the largest and most enviable high school band programs in the state.

“I am absolutely stunned and humbled and honored at

this, and I’m looking forward to another 53 years,” Rumbell said.

The Chamber of Commerce also gave out several awards for its organization. They included:

• Chamber Volunteer of the Year: Stacy Pearson

• Servant Leadership Award: James Gietzen, Timothy Gilbert, Michael King and Jennifer Schembriz

• Small Business of the Year: Orin Jewelers

Antoinette Mazzoni Kramar, the third generation owner, accepted the award on behalf of the downtown business, along with her parents, Orin and Tina Mazzoni.

“It’s been 45 great years since we’ve been in Northville,” said Orin, jr., who took over the business from his father, also Orin. He discussed all the work they’ve put into the building at

the corner of Center and Main streets in downtown Northville, which he called a “labor of love.”

“It’s been a great pleasure to be part of this community. It’s been a great pleasure for us as a family to be able to get to the third generation,” he said.

• Large Business of the Year: The Davey Tree Expert Company

According to Chamber Director Jim Cracraft, the company really came through in 2025 by helping clean up the new Farmers Market site on Seven Mile, which was overgrown. The Chamber wouldn’t have opened the market on time for the season if not for the company, Cracraft said.

Chamber of Commerce Volunteer of the Year Stacy Pearson. Photo courtesy of the Northville DDA

Chamber Director Jim Cracraft (left) gives the Small Business of the Year Award to Orin Jewelers. They were represented by owners Orin Mazzoni, Antoinette Mazzoni Kramar, the third generation owner, and Orin's wife Tina Mazzoni. Township Supervisor Mark Abbo (center) looks on. Photo by Kurt Kuban

It's Your Business Lisa Reilly, Realtor

Where Real Estate Meets Heart

Realtor Lisa Reilly has a passion for giving back and her community ties

If there’s one word to describe Lisa Reilly, it would be community. Then again, it’s probably two words, with the second being dogs. The retired automotive executive now turned local realtor has a passion for helping homeowners and buyers, as well as caring for four-footed friends.

“I like working with people and helping animals,” says Reilly, who has lived in Northville for 30-plus years. She currently resides in The Ravines with her husband George and her beloved bull terrier, Bella.

After spending three decades in marketing positions that spanned sales, research and analytics, including 24 years with General Motors, Reilly decided to retire and start her second career in the real estate industry. Truth be told, though, she has dabbled in real estate over the years.

Proven Physical Therapy on Cady Street and its owner, Craig Serra, whose care helped her after an ankle injury suffered in a ski accident.

She also touts the work of John Kelly of the Kelly & Kelly law firm on Main Street, which opened in Northville in 1988.

“We worked with John on estate planning and trusts, although he handles many types of cases. I believe estate planning is important for everyone,” explains Reilly. “We did our first plan 15 years ago with John. You don’t have to wait until your 60s to do this. I don’t think there’s anyone better than John Kelly.”

12-year-old Bella, a rescue who belonged to her brother.

When her brother passed away a couple of years ago, the Reillys brought Bella home, and now the beloved bull terrier is well known around town.

“My husband, who is retired now, takes her on errands every day. He has an F-150 and she has a jump seat in the back. She even came to the office to meet everyone. She’s a Starbucks regular,” explains Reilly with a big smile.

“I was always doing real estate as a hobby, building two homes in Northville,” says Reilly, who grew up in Milan.

After earning her real estate license in August 2025, Reilly set up shop with @properties REMI | Christie’s International Real Estate at 200 North Center Street in downtown Northville.

“I spend a lot of time downtown, so it was easy to choose Christie’s,” explains Reilly. “They have great marketing materials and a nice conference room that makes for a 5-star experience for client meetings.”

Her deep marketing background is a natural fit for real estate. “When you are looking at comps, you take a deep dive into data. I really enjoy the analysis,” she says.

Reilly is an enthusiastic community cheerleader, which explains why she likes to shine light on various businesses in town. One of her favorites is

Those are just two examples of her ties to the Northville community, which she believes gives her an edge in the real estate market.

In addition to the strong market research and analytical skills she applies to her real estate practice, Reilly also brings compassion and understanding to her clients.

“I believe in being sensitive about people’s stages in life. When you are working with families who lost a family member or are placing a loved one in assisted living, it’s important to be very sensitive. I have been in that situation, so I understand it,” says Reilly.

Working with a variety of people brings joy to Reilly.

“You go from one spectrum to another, people just starting out with their first home and professionals who want a nice condo so they can walk into town to grab coffee on weekends,” she says. “It’s exciting because you meet all kinds of people and I like that.”

Then, of course, there’s her passion for dogs, especially

Reilly’s love for dogs is not just about Bella. She created a way for clients to participate in supporting man’s (and woman’s) best friend by donating a portion of her sales commission to a nonprofit animal rescue, which must be a no-kill shelter.

“I plan on rotating the donation to various groups, like the Huron Valley Humane Society and bull terrier rescues on both coasts,” she says. “I also know that it’s not all about me, it’s about giving back, so my client can decide where it’s directed if they have a favorite cause.”

Calling herself a “community advocate,” Reilly has truly combined her love of Northville, dogs and people into a rewarding second career.

“I like to stay active and that’s why I like real estate, because from day to day you don’t know where you’re going to be and who you are going to meet,” she says.

For more information about Northville realtor Lisa Reilly, visit www.atproperties.com/ agents/35074/lisa-reilly. To contact her, call (248) 4286124 or email lisareilly@ atpropertiesremi.com.

Realtor Lisa Reilly (right) and her dog, Bella, are well known around town, especially at Starbucks, where employee Kayla always has a pup cup at the ready. Photo courtesy of Lisa Reilly

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JJENNY BEYER Spotlight on Service

Head Chef/Cook, Genitti's Hole-in-the-Wall

enny Beyer was 30 years old when she decided to take a job at Genitti’s Hole-in-theWall in downtown Northville. She still remembers the day when Toni Genitti walked into the nearby former Holloway’s Bakery, where Beyer had worked as a baker for 10 years, to see if anyone was interested in a job washing dishes.

Looking to make a few extra bucks on the weekends, Beyer decided to apply, landing the part-time job. That was nearly 36 years ago.

“After talking to John and Toni for about 20 minutes, they said ‘we’ll start you out at $10 an hour and pay for your health care.’ That worked for me,” said Beyer, who also spent two-plus years working at Mackinnon’s (a restaurant located where Table 5 is now).

It wasn’t long before Beyer graduated from dishwashing and started making soups for John and Toni Genitti, and decided to come to Genitti’s full time. She rose through the ranks, studied culinary arts at Schoolcraft, and became the head chef/cook for the event venue, famous for its classical Italian-inspired dishes.

Today, Beyer, 65, can be found running a tight-knit operation in the close confines of the Genitti’s kitchen, which can be chaotic at times, with so many people coming through the doors on any given day. Now run by Laura Genitti, daughter of John and Toni, the venue feeds between 1,500-2,000 people during a normal week. That’s a lot of baked chicken, salads, sausage, potatoes, vegetables and pasta.

The kitchen can be like a combat zone on some days, and the wiry Beyer has the bruises and bumps to prove it.

Yet, Beyer approaches the job with a calm demeanor and dogged determination, which rubs off on the army of Genitti’s workers, mostly young men typically not known for those qualities. She makes it all work somehow.

Beyer is quick to give credit to the Genitti’s team. She feels they are all cogs in the same wheel, providing great service to parties ranging from weddings and sports banquets to birthday and graduation parties, not to mention dinner theater, concerts and even the occasional drag queen bingo.

Beyer, a South Lyon resident, will celebrate her 36-year anniversary at the venue in April (April 24th to be exact). She has worked with four generations of Genittis, and considers herself fortunate to work for – and with – such good people.

What is the key to your longevity at Genitti’s?

Beyer: Respecting the people you work with and respecting your boss. And then just working like it’s your name on the door and not somebody else’s.

What is the key to doing your job efficiently and successfully?

Beyer: Having a great staff. And timing, which is really important. And respect everybody. I tell the boys if I don’t have them, I can’t do my job. I need them to clean up my mess, or I wouldn’t be able to make a mess and get the job done. And I need a good waitstaff to serve the food. Without them, they don’t need me.

What is your favorite part of the job?

Beyer: The people I work with, and knowing they all have my back.

Do you like working behind the scenes in the kitchen?

Beyer: I’m very comfortable in the kitchen. I’m not a go in front of people person. I like to be in the background. I was always in the back of the bakery. That’s just the way I am.

It seems like it’s a little chaotic at times, with so many people coming in and out. Do you like that part of the job?

Beyer: It’s always chaotic. Every night is different. I like it though. It makes things go quicker.

Do you have a good story you like to tell people about your time at Genitti’s?

Beyer: Laura has always said you can never trust a skinny cook, but you can trust Jenny. That always makes me laugh.

WHO DESERVES THE SPOTLIGHT?

Is there someone you think deserves to be in the spotlight for their exemplary work? Email Editor Kurt Kuban at kurtkuban@thevillemagazine.com. If your business is interested in sponsoring this regular feature, call (734) 716-0783 or (313) 399-5231.

Jenny Beyer stirs the pot at Genitti’s Hole-in-the-Wall. Photos by Sean Power

Jenny Beyer with some of her Genitti’s team members -- Drew Genitti (from left), Mark C. Holden, Jake Schnorberger and Kam Kuban.

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Connecting Communities

Academic leader pushes Schoolcraft toward the future

Story and photos by Ken Voyles

It’s a bitterly cold day in January as Michele Kelly wanders around the lower level of what used to be known as the Waterman Center at Schoolcraft College (SC), and is now called the Vistatech Center.

There’s loud music, the smell of fresh popcorn, free stuff at every table. Oh, and students everywhere.

Today is the annual “Winter Daze,” part of a two-day open house for students who want to learn about the clubs, groups, resources and support programs that enhance life at the 60-plus year-old community college serving Northville, Plymouth and other western Wayne County communities.

As Kelly wanders about saying hello, and smiling, she runs into plenty of students, faculty members she oversees and school administrators who all seem to know her or have some kind of connection with the leader who is now the new Chief Academic Instruction Officer at Schoolcraft.

Like the college she helps lead, Kelly crosses community, geographic and cultural

boundaries. And like Schoolcraft’s mission she has an intense passion for fostering higher education, linking together students of all ages, longtime faculty and anyone else who has or wants a connection to the school.

Although she lives in Farmington and grew up in Sterling Heights, Kelly is also personally connected to both Northville and Plymouth, but more on that later.

“I think we’re living through three major disconnections right now,” says the 46-year-old who was recently promoted to her new job from being dean of liberal arts and sciences (think vice president and you get the idea of her new title). “People are disconnected from each other, disconnected from community, and disconnected from meaning and purpose.

“There are real reasons for that,” she explains. “We have fewer natural spaces for human interaction, more of our lives are mediated by screens and AI, and there are fewer ‘third places’ like churches and neighborhoods where people can simply gather, learn, and belong.”

Though that sounds like a mouthful, remember Kelly has been a lifelong educator who is thoughtful, passionate and a touch brainy.

“For a lot of people, it’s harder to feel hopeful about the future,” she continues.

“I see my new role as an intentional counterweight to that. I want to protect and design learning spaces where real human connection can happen. At Schoolcraft, students don’t just earn credentials. They build relationships.”

UNIQUE LEARNING SPACE

For Kelly, Schoolcraft is that place away from a very fragmented world, where people can connect to each other, to their community, and purpose. The student newspaper even has connect in its name.

“I love it when people come to our campus,” she says walking around the booths. “Even that became really hard during Covid. Just look at this now. It’s very exciting.”

A student comes up to her and shows off a small science project promoting the engineering club, another student shows Kelly books he has gathered to donate to

Michele Kelly speaks to Elaine Malafouris and Cara Harder at a recent Schoolcraft College open house.

Michele Kelly is the new Chief Academic Instruction Officer at Schoolcraft College.

children who don’t have access to them. In one corner is her colleague, Catreese Qualls, who has her own unique story, who wants a photo with Kelly. Another young woman who helps run the summer kids camps and diverse adult education classes says hello to her.

“Even if community isn’t in our name anymore, Schoolcraft is unique because it is especially involved with all our district communities,” says Kelly. “We serve this area and we have an enormous economic impact. People around this area are very sophisticated and they know when something is a good value.”

SC has been hosting students since 1964 (it was founded in 1961). Kelly, who has over 20 years in academia, joined the school in 2018. Today as chief academic officer she oversees all divisions within the college academic footprint. That includes 130 program majors, 700 courses and over 100 full-time faculty, plus another 800 parttime or adjunct faculty. There’s also at least 50 academic support staff who make things run smoothly.

“My partner in this is our chief of academic operations, Keambra Pierson,” says Kelly. “It’s our job to make sure faculty are prepared and satisfied in their work and ready to support their students, because that’s how I support the students and make sure our curriculum and classes give them what they need.”

With enrollment around 10,000 students each year, and no longer being in the classroom teaching herself, it can be hard for Kelly to interact with the students very much. And yet at Winter Daze everyone seems to know her.

“I’m really excited about what we’re doing here,” she says, scanning the crowded room. “I’m proud of the partnerships we’ve made and how Schoolcraft has and continues to be showing up in our communities.”

Kelly likes to cite a chart she shares that includes data about the thousands of jobs that exist in connection with the school annually, and from its graduates around all of the district including Northville and Plymouth.

Another chart shows that in 2024 Northville was the third largest feeder of students to SC, while Plymouth-Canton’s

I want to protect and design learning spaces where real human connection can happen. At Schoolcraft, students don’t just earn credentials. They build relationships.

MICHELE KELLY, Schoolcraft College’s new Chief Academic Instruction Officer

three high schools ranked fifth through seventh.

AN EDUCATOR FIRST

Born in Michigan, Kelly is proud of being the first generation college graduate. She has degrees from Central Michigan, University of Cincinnati, Bowling Green State and the University of North Carolina.

As a teacher, Kelly specialized in public speaking, communications and professional and business writing. She has taught in Ohio, North Carolina and Michigan. When she returned home to the state in 2014 she taught at Macomb Community

College before joining the Schoolcraft administration.

“I always wanted to be a teacher,” she says. “My family suggested I go to Macomb but I wanted something bigger so I landed at Central after touring some schools. I loved it.”

Kelly met her future husband Kevin at Central and later reunited with him at Cincinnati where he also worked. They have been married 21 years and have two daughters ages 12 and 13 who may don Ocelot gear themselves one day.

“I just added a calendar date for high school orientation soon,” she says. “They’ve been here on campus for camp. To think, we have students from everywhere and of all ages. We have summer programs and a strong dual enrollment population of high schoolers. They’re all trying to better themselves.”

Like many Schoolcraft leaders Kelly may live outside the district, but that doesn’t prevent her from making her own deep personal connections.

“We’re all active and care about these communities,” she says. “We may not live here, but we play here, we work here and we volunteer in the community, just like everyone else.”

For Kelly that includes a long list of service including for MI-ACE Women’s Network (she was a Distinguished Woman of the Year in 2023); Impact 100 Metro Detroit; as a board trustee of the Farmington Community Library; and a Leadership Detroit (XXI) graduate.

That’s just a few, but closer to here Kelly has been a board member of Plymouthbased Michigan Philharmonic since 2019 and a longtime member of the Rotary Club of Northville, a group she is also a past president of (2024-2025). She’s also been involved in the Rotary Club of Mt. Clemens.

When Kelly came to Schoolcraft she knew she wanted to find a good Rotary group nearby, and she did in Northville’s highly committed organization.

“We have over 60 members and we do tons of service to support the community,” she says. “The other local service close to

Continued on Page 32

Michele Kelly with Catreese Qualls, who works with Schoolcraft’s Student Activities Office.

Continued from Page 31

my heart is the Michigan Philharmonic. We’ve also even been able to do some cool partnerships between Schoolcraft and the symphony.”

Since Schoolcraft’s students come from communities like Northville and Plymouth Kelly says it is critical that she connect personally as well.

“These are really vibrant communities and we spend a lot of time in them,” she says. “When we came back home my husband was working for Rotary International and so we really focused on that and we’re proud of that.”

At Schoolcraft Kelly is also proud of the school’s center for experiential learning hub, transformative learning experiences, civic engagement institute and the many new and future partnerships she has been involved with helping create.

Even though it’s too early to say much, Kelly expects some exciting future announcements for the college sometime over the next few years. She says the campus is aging and needs a close study of its buildings to maintain its quality.

“We put tons of students through our main buildings,” she says. “We have to look at the future of our main academic buildings including our performing arts areas.”

For now though, Kelly is focused on meeting student needs and taking care of her young family.

“I think this is a great way to show how alive Schoolcraft is,” she says looking out across a room filled with dozens of college clubs, non-academic service groups, local

ACCELERATE YOUR JOURNEY

Advance your academic career this summer at Schoolcraft College. Registration for the spring and summer semesters opens March 27. Your Pride Awaits.

businesses even and many of the support programs that make up life at SC.

Editor’s Note: Writer/Photographer Ken Voyles received his first college degree from Schoolcraft. He played soccer there, and ran the newspaper. He still remembers his experience fondly.

See our #OCELOT PRIDE @schoolcraftnow

Michele Kelly speaks with engineering students Andy Haman and Sara Meeks about their project at a recent Schoolcraft College open house.

Michigan Doctor Diagnosed

with Late-Stage Cancer After Experiencing Just One Symptom

It’s the call no one wants to get. But for one local doctor, it became a mission to save others from the “Blind Spot” in modern medicine.

(Southfield, MI)

Softball Size Tumors Silently Grew

You feel fine. You have no aches.

A Father’s Legacy, A Son’s Mission: Full Body MRI Scans Without a Doctor’s Referral

You pass your annual physical with flying colors.

endured brutal treatments and cruel side effects. Tragically, the cancer later returned as a brain tumor.

your insides. Unlike CT scans or X-rays, this machine emits NO radiation and is completely non-invasive.

(South eld, MI) e late Dr. Warren Ringold knew rsthand the devastating impact of late-stage cancer diagnoses. As a respected family physician, he witnessed countless patients battling illnesses that could have been detected earlier. His own grueling battle with late-stage cancer ignited a passion, leading him to create Michigan’s rst MRI full body screening center called Bionicc Body Screening.

You think you’re safe.

But before he passed, Dr. Ringold left behind a legacy—and a warning—for the rest of us.

Full Body MRI Scans Without a Doctor’s Order

But what if something sinister is silently growing inside you right now, waiting to strike? That is the terrifying reality Dr. Warren Ringold faced. As a respected family physician for 40 years, he knew the rules of medicine better than anyone. He felt perfectly fine until a sudden onset of shortness of breath sent him to the ER. The diagnosis was a shockwave: Stage 4 cancer.

The “Dirty Little Secret” of modern medicine: Here is the hard truth your insurance company won’t tell you: The current healthcare system is reactive, not proactive.

Raising Awareness Today, his son Ryan carries on this mission. ough not a medical professional himself, Ryan’s dedication to his father’s legacy drives him to raising awareness of this service for families of Michigan.

“Every week I learn of another person who felt perfectly ne, only to wake up with an unexplained symptom and discover they have stage four cancer. Once symptoms manifest cancer is usually advanced,” says his son Ryan. “My father never wanted another family to su er the emotional and physical hardships that our family and he endured. He wanted to save lives.”

Dr. Ringold discovered he had stage four cancer with tumors as large as softballs silently growing inside his body after experiencing shortness of breath. His treatment was brutal. He su ered cruel side e ects. After his cancer went into remission, it returned a year later as a brain tumor. Dr. Ringold believed there had to be a better way. He envisioned a future where individuals could take control of their health and detect potential problems before they escalated. In his nal days, Dr. Ringold passionately advocated for MRI full body screenings, a proactive approach he believed could empower individuals to take control of their health.

Standard medical screenings (like mammograms and colonoscopies) only catch 29% of cancers. That means 71% of tumors grow undetected in areas doctors aren’t even looking at. By the time you feel a lump or pain, it is often Stage 3 or 4. As Dr. Ringold warned, “Once you have symptoms, cancer is usually advanced.”

Bionicc Body Screening o ers elective, full-body MRI screenings that provide a comprehensive picture of your internal health, going beyond what traditional checkups often reveal. State-of-the-art technology can detect tumors as small as a pea, aneurysms, risk of stroke and a multitude of other conditions that might otherwise go unnoticed. Screenings include scans of the head, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, hips, shoulders and spine.

A Life Saved

Mark B. and his younger brother decided to visit Bionicc Body Screening last spring for a proactive screening because cancer ran in their family. Mark was skeptical until his results returned a 3-centimeter mass on his lung, which tested positive for cancer. He had three-fourths of his lung removed. He credits the scan for saving his life. Meanwhile, his brother’s results were clean.

It scans the brain, neck, chest, abdomen, pelvis, and spine, looking for tumors as small as a pencil eraser. It can also detect silent killers like aneurysms and stroke risks before they become lifethreatening emergencies.

Scans are safe, non-invasive, emit no radiation and are available without a doctor’s referral.

Take Control: No Doctor’s Order Required The traditional medical system makes you jump through hoops. At Bionicc Body Screening, there is no red tape.

Scans are safe, non-invasive, emit no radiation and are available without a doctor’s referral. Scans can detect tumors, aneurysms, stroke risk and other conditions.

While he felt healthy on the outside, tumors the size of softballs had been silently growing on the inside. He

The Technology That Sees What Doctors Miss: Determined to stop this tragedy from happening to other families, Dr. Ringold founded Bionicc Body Screening in Southfield, Michigan’s first MRI full-body screening center. Using advanced MRI technology, Bionicc provides a “high-definition movie” of

• No Doctor’s Referral Needed: You are in charge of your own health.

LIMITED TIME OFFER - Learn more now. Visit BioniccBodyScreening.com to download a free Welcome Information Kit and $200 savings offer. Book an appointment by calling 1-833-BIONICC. (833-246-6422)

• No Insurance Hassles: This is an out of pocket, elective service for those who prioritize peace of mind and proactive care.

Located in South eld

• Immediate Answers: Don’t wait for a crisis to find out what’s going on inside your body.

Do not wait until you feel a symptom. A small tumor today could be a major problem tomorrow. The only difference between a tragedy and a survival story is early detection.

Michigan’s first MRI Full Body Screening Center –Located in Southfield

The late Dr. Ringold founded Bionicc Body Screening in 2022 after battling cancer twice. He believed MRI full body screenings could empower individuals to take control of their health.

‘Don’t Give Up’

Local opposition to new landfill ramping up

By Tim Smith

Time is of the essence for Northville residents to make their collective voices heard and attempt to block a proposed second landfill across the border in Salem Township.

That was a watchdog group’s message to around 300 concerned citizens who attended the “Stop Arbor Hills” community town hall meeting held Jan. 12 at Northville High School.

Hosted by The Conservancy Initiative, a Northville-based non-profit, the meeting provided details about Arbor Hills landfill owner Green for Life’s (GFL) proposal to build a second landfill not far from the existing, 50-year-old dump located along Napier Road between Five Mile and Six Mile roads. The group stressed urgency is needed to stop the proposal.

A recommendation from Washtenaw County’s Managed

Materials Planning Committee to the county commission is merely months away, according to the group.

“One of the things that came out of it was we really do want to get people to start trying to influence the Washtenaw County commissioners,” said David Drinan, vice president for The Conservancy Initiative.

The county commission meets twice a month (first and third Wednesday of each month) and there’s a forum at the beginning of every meeting to give public comments, Drinan said.

“And there’s always quite a few people there that give comments. We’re going to try and give them a little push to get them out over the next couple months,” he said.

State Rep. Jason Morgan (D-Ann Arbor), who is a former member of the Washtenaw County board, said the meeting

this time, then we would see the existing landfill closed. And I would see that as a huge win for the entire area.”

Northville Mayor Brian Turnbull said the town hall felt more like a call to action than an informational session. He was joined at the meeting by Northville Township Supervisor Mark Abbo, State Rep. Matt Koleszar of Plymouth, and other local officials.

Some of the topics at the meeting included the actual need for another landfill and the environmental and health considerations.

The latter is top of mind for many, with the proposed new landfill as close as 1,000-to2,000 feet from subdivisions near Six Mile and Napier. It is a hovering presence.

succeeded in getting people up to speed on the proposal as well as who the decision makers are and how they can “take action” to weigh in on the process.

“I felt the meeting went really great,” said Morgan, whose 23rd District includes portions of Northville, Plymouth and Salem townships. “I was so glad that so many people came out and they were supportive of the work that we’re doing to stop a new landfill. And I was just thrilled with the amount of energy focused on taking on that issue.”

Morgan said an engaged public made all the difference before, noting that community push-back a decade or so ago stopped an effort to expand the existing landfill.

“It is absolutely possible to prevent this landfill from happening and folks need to know that,” Morgan noted. “Don’t give up and I believe if we’re able to stop a new landfill

During the nearly two hours of public comments and questions, a mother of two young children in the Steeplechase subdivision (east of the Six Mile-Napier intersection) detailed major health problems among its residents, and said she was “very, very concerned about the health of my kids.”

Although the existing dump is in Salem Township, Turnbull emphasized that Northvillians bear the brunt of the environmental impact –including noxious odors wafting eastward, polluted water running into Johnson Creek, a cold water trout stream, and the noise and traffic generated by hundreds of trash-toting semi-tractor-trailers coming from around metro Detroit and Canada.

“Water and air, they don’t know their boundaries, do they?” asked Turnbull. “They will go where the wind goes or where the water flows.”

Northville Mayor Brian Turnbull speaks to the crowd during a Jan. 12 town hall meeting at Northville High School about a proposal to build a new landfill in Salem Township. He was joined on stage by State Rep. Matt Koleszar of Plymouth, State Rep. Jason Morgan of Ann Arbor, and Northville Township Supervisor Mark Abbo.

According to The Conservancy Initiative:

• From 2022 to 2024, more than 1,600 odor complaints against the landfill were submitted, more than any other location in Michigan.

• As many as 800 trucks per day cause congestion and increase maintenance costs in Northville and Plymouth Townships.

• Leachate disposal utilizes the Northville sanitary sewer system, not Salem Township.

• Salem is guaranteed $2.4 million per year in gas royalties, which will continue for decades while Washtenaw County will receive $1.5 million per year for hosting the proposed new landfill.

According to Drinan, it is hoped that members of the

Washtenaw Materials Management panel will consider that there is no need for a new landfill – especially when there is more than 20 years of available landfill space in Michigan and state lawmakers are pushing to increase the recycling rate from the current 20 percent to about 30 percent by 2029.

“If we reduce the amount of waste going to landfills, we’ll have even more than 20 years of capacity,” Drinan said.

Meanwhile, Morgan said he thought the amount of landfill space available in Michigan

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probably wouldn’t sway Green for Life to take the foot off the gas in its bid for a new facility.

“I suspect they are going to want an expanded or additional landfill no matter what things look like statewide,” Morgan explained. “That’s where it’s on us to make sure that folks know what’s happening and they can weigh in to push back against any landfill.”

Drinan and others were

Darren R. LaLondeIngrid Runnion

encouraged by the turnout at the meeting, and hope it leads to more pressure on Washtenaw County.

“It seemed like we had new people there, and there was that energy that they wanted to get involved and fight this thing,” Drinan continued.

To learn more about the Stop Arbor Hills initiative and how citizens can help, visit conservancyinitiative.org.

Green for Life (GFL) is proposing to build a second landfill across from the existing landfill near Napier and Six Mile roads.

BULLETIN BOARD BULLETIN BOARD

Builders Honor Turnbull

The Home Builders Association of Southeastern Michigan announced their annual awards last month, and Northville Mayor Brian Turnbull was given the Distinguished Service Award in Government.

Each year, the non-profit organization, which advocates for the home building industry, representing builders, remodelers, and suppliers, gives out its Industry Leadership Awards, encompassing about 20 categories. The Distinguished Service Award in Government recipient is honored for outstanding and distinguished service to government, and is reserved for elected officials.

Foundation Makes Big Donation to City

On Dec. 15, the Declan Carter Foundation donated $130,000 to the City of Northville to be used for the Ford Field Playground Project, which is currently underway and will be open by this summer, according to Mayor Brian Turnbull.

Declan Carter died in a tragic accident in September of 2024 at the age of 12. His parents, John, a city councilman, and Liz Carter created The Declan Carter Foundation in his honor. The organization is now a 501c3 non-profit, with the goal of supporting athletics, academics, and healthy living for the youth in and around our community. They raised money at two events last year -- Declan’s Dance and the Declan Carter Victory Run last fall.

John and Liz Carter, along with daughters Georgia and Ainslie, were joined by supporters to present a check for the new playground at the Dec. 15 City Council meeting. John Carter said the Ford Field playscape was one of Declan’s favorite places, which makes it the perfect recipient of the foundation’s support.

“We can’t thank the public enough for the continued support,” John Carter said.

The city is replacing the Ft. Griswold playscape, which was outdated, with a state-of-the-art playscape that will be all-inclusive. The city has received a number of donations for the project, and this is one of the largest.

To learn more about the foundation, including how to support it, visit www. declancarter.org.

Mustangs Making Miracles

A group of Northville High School students are competing in the Blood Cancer United’s Student Visionaries of the Year competition and could use the public’s help. Calling their 10-member team Mustangs Making Miracles, they are involved in a multi-team, 7-week competition that runs through March 14.

The teams are raising money through donations, sponsorships, events, and more. The team that raises the most will win.

The campaign ultimately supports Blood Cancer United, which provides cancer research, patient support, and advocacy.

According to NHS junior and team member Katelyn Conover, Mustangs Making Miracles are “particularly passionate about patient support and will be representing this area of Blood Cancer United during the campaign.”

The students are planning a few fundraiser events. To donate or to sponsor the team, find them on Instagram and Tiktok, @mustangsmakingmiracles. You can also visit https://pages.lls.org/svoy/mi/svoydetroit26/llamar.

Pictured are team members (from left) Sara Novak, Jane Schimper, Samantha Paredes, Katelyn Conover, Lauren Zoltowski and Charlotte Vanairsdale. Team members not pictured are Erin Baker, Melina Tsourapas and Marissa Hocking.

Stepien Named Firefighter of the Year

Sylvia Stepien was named Firefighter of the Year by both the Northville City Fire Department for Station 1 and the Plymouth Rotary club.

Stepien joined the Northville City Fire Department, which serves the cities of Northville and Plymouth, in May of 2018 as an EMT and earned her firefighter certifications in October 2020. She is currently a top responder, Field Training Officer, and senior member of the department.

She played a pivotal role in redefining the department’s Field Training Program and consistently demonstrates excellent command and decision-making skills. In addition, she has worked effectively with surrounding agencies, strengthening interdepartmental partnerships and coordinated response efforts.

From an early age, Stepien said she knew she wanted a career focused on helping others, and right out of high school she committed herself to the Fire/EMS field. Her work allows her to support residents during their most critical moments while being part of a team built on trust, accountability, and hard work.

“I’m grateful for the mentorship, teamwork, and support I’ve received from the members of this department,” said Stepien, pictured here getting her award with Chief Matthew Samhat. “No one earns recognition like this alone, and I’m proud to stand alongside such dedicated professionals. This award encourages me to keep learning, growing, and serving Northville to the highest standard.”

On the Road With

Touring Amsterdam

Paul and Sue Anker celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary on a recent trip to the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. The trip included visiting several museums, including the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh, and touring the canals and markets. “The highlight was a walking tour of the Jewish Quarter ending with a visit to the Anne Frank House,” according to Paul.

Here they are pictured holding their copy of The ‘Ville in front of the Rijksmuseum, which is the national museum of the Netherlands dedicated to Dutch arts and history and is located in Amsterdam and built in 1885.

Meeting New Penguin ‘Friends’

Northville’s Marita Smith spent the holidays on a cruise in South America. The cruise took her from Buenos Aires, Argentina to Uruguay, the Falkland Islands, and around Cape Horn, Chile. One of the highlights was a stop near Puerto Madrid, Argentina, at the Punta Tombo penguin rookery. “It is a breeding ground for penguins and most were four to six weeks old, with many of the babies still in the nest,” said Marita, pictured holding her copy of The ‘Ville at the Punta Tombo, with a few of her new “friends” in the background.

Winter Getaway in Quebec

What does a local family do in the middle of the coldest and snowiest winter in decades in Michigan? Northville’s Bill and Carole Jean Stockhausen took it up a notch. Last month, they traveled with their daughter Clara, daughter Juliet Culp and son-in-law Todd Culp, with their children Violet and Penelope, and daughter Rachel with her children Jonathan, Christian, and Kaia, up to Quebec, Canada where they stayed at hotel made of ice and snow.

They all flew into Quebec City, drove a half hour north to the town of SaintGabriel-de-Valcartier and stayed at Hotel Valcartier, a resort hotel with much to offer for winter sports like downhill tubing, mechanical-lifts, snow rafting, and ice skating. Located behind the Valcartier is the Hotel de Glace (Ice Hotel) that has 26 rooms, a chapel, an ice bar, an ice restaurant, an indoor ice slide, and several gathering rooms and outdoor hot tubs and sauna.

“The snow walls and ice sculptures of each room are individually theme sculpted making the whole hotel an art museum level quality structure,” Bill said. “It is the only annually rebuilt overnight ice/snow accommodation in North America.”

Here the group is pictured with their copy of The ‘Ville in front of Hotel de Glace.

West African Cruise

Northville residents Judy and Jim Kohl cruised along the West African coast from Barcelona to Cape Town over the Christmas and New Year holidays. They made many stops but one of their favorite highlights was visiting Walvis Bay, Namibia, which is the country’s main seaport on the Atlantic Ocean. Here Judy and Jim are pictured holding their copy of The ‘Ville at the Walvis Bay Lagoon, a natural area/sanctuary that attracts tens of thousands of birds, including many flamingos.

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.

out & about out & about out & about

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S HAPPENING IN NORTHVILLE THIS MONTH

French and the Fur Trade

Feb. 25

The Salem Area Historical Society will host a historical presentation by Charlie Shelton about the area’s fur trade at 7 p.m. on Feb. 25 at Salem Township Hall, 9600 Six Mile Road. Shelton, who works for Huron Clinton Metroparks, will discuss the French and the Fur Trade in the 1700s ‘New France’ area that is now the State of Michigan. The presentation will focus on what life was like in 1700s New France, including the people, the furs, the culture, and the commerce of 1750 Fort Michilimackinac. For more information, visit sahshistory.org or call (248) 486-0669.

Show Your Love Variety Show

Feb. 27

Living and Learning Enrichment Center’s “Show Your Love” Variety Show will take place 6-8 p.m. at Northville High School’s auditorium. LLEC’s members and partners in the special needs community are showcasing a variety of talents from dancers, actors, singers, poets, and other entertainers. This event will feature Baseline Studio and pop-ups featuring talented members with items available for purchase. Premier VIP Admission is $50, VIP Admission is $35, and advance general admission tickets are $15. Tickets can also be purchased the night of the event for $20. For more information, visit livingandlearningcenter.org/variety. If you are interested in sponsoring the event, contact Melissa Cooper at mcooper@llecmi.org.

Maple Syrup Tours

March 7-29 (weekends)

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

7th Annual Wines of the World

Wines of the World, the annual wine tasting event that benefits local Northville-based non-profit The Kids’ Table and the Miracle League of Plymouth, will take place from 6-9 p.m., March 14 at Northville Square. The event features wine, beer, and spirit tastings, food samplings, a silent auction, wine walls, and musical entertainment. Hosted by The Detroit Wine Organization, this will be the 7th year for the event.

The Kids’ Table provides resources to help fight food insecurity and the other developmental, social and emotional issues that stem from it. The Miracle League of Plymouth provides recreation programs, including baseball, for individuals with special needs and their families.

For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.thekidstablemi.org or plymouthmiracle.org. If you are interested in sponsoring the event, contact Krista Lang at executivedirector@detroitwine.org or (586) 219-7795.

stagecoach traveler might have done in the 19th century. What better way to celebrate Pi Day than with pie? If you have a pie recipe you’d like to share, organizers are looking for bakers to whip up delicious pies for the sale. Whether it’s a classic recipe or a creative twist, your pie can help make this event even sweeter. All proceeds benefit the Northville Historical Society. If interested, visit www. millracenorthville.org.

Irish Folklore

March 19

Join folk singer Enda Reilly in celebrating Irish culture with a performance of his original songs inspired by Irish myths from 7-8:30 p.m. in the New School Church at Mill Race Village. The event is being co-sponsored by the Northville District Library and Northville Historical Society. For more information, visit www.millracenorthville.org.

Hall of Fame DNA: Turkey Stearnes

Daddy Daughter Dance

March 14

The Northville Daddy Daughter Dance, hosted by Northville Parks & Rec, will take place from 6-8 p.m. at Hillside

Maybury Farm will host its annual Maple Syrup Tours on Saturdays and Sundays throughout March, from noon-3:30 p.m. (with tours departing at 12:30, 1, 1:30, 2 and 2:30). Tours include a wagon ride into the forest where visitors will learn how maple trees produce sap and how to collect it. The wagon will then go to the Sugar Shack, where there will be syrup making demonstrations and tasting samples. The cost is $10 for the tour if tickets are purchased in advance or $12 at the door. The store will be open and the Detroit Mini Donuts food truck will be on site. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www. mayburyfarm.org/events or call (248) 374-0200.

Middle School (775 N. Center Street).

Geared for girls between the ages of 5-13 and their dads, the event includes dinner, sweet treats, photoworthy moments, and plenty of fun. Keepsake items will be available for purchase. The cost is $49 for residents and $59 for non-residents. Limited space available. Pre-registration is required, by calling (248) 349-0203. For more information, visit www. northvilleparksandrec.org.

Pi Day

March 14

The Northville Historical Society will host this annual event from noon-4 p.m. at the Cady Inn at Mill Race Village. Stop by the Cady Inn and enjoy a cup of coffee and a slice of home baked pie, much like a weary

March 24

The Northville District Library will host author Vanessa Ivy Rose, who will discuss her book, Hall of Fame DNA: The Legacy of Norman “Turkey” Stearnes, from 7-8 p.m. in the Carlo Meeting Room. According to updated MLB statistics and five Hall of Fame inductions, Norman “Turkey” Stearnes is one of the all-time greats, yet many people have never heard his name. In her book, author and educator Rose gives the play-by-play to inform and inspire audiences about her grandfather’s greatness (both on and off the field). Copies of the book will be available for sale and signing. To register for the program, visit northvillelibrary.org.

IDishin’ With Denise

Denise Jenkins, who is a board member with the Northville Historical Society, is an avid writer and proponent of the arts. She is also plugged into what’s happening in Northville. Contact her at denisemjenkins@aol.com.

There’s So Much to Love in The ‘Ville

love the phrase: “Don’t you just love...(fill-in-the-blank).”

It’s such a great use of a superlative. In this day and age, it should be phrase-of-the-day every day. And considering February features Valentine’s Day, I thought I’d share some of the things I love about this community. For example:

“Don’t you just love a winning team?” I walked into Dime Store – a downtown Detroit eatery for breakfast one recent morning and noticed a whole team of Northville High School athletes seated at another table. I found out they were all there following a ceremony in the board chambers of the Wayne County Commission offices, which was spearheaded by Commissioner Terry Marecki, who represents Northville.

“I was so proud to recognize the Northville High School Boys Cross Country team at the Commission Full Board meeting. Winning four consecutive Division 1 state championships is historic and reflects the discipline, teamwork, and consistency that define this program,” Marecki said. “They bring tremendous pride to Wayne County and continue to inspire our entire

community.” I was duly impressed and couldn’t agree more.

Congratulations to Coach Tim Dalton, assistant coaches Chris Inch and Lauren Peck; and the D1 MHSAA state champs – Colton Blackburn, Brandon Cloud, Manny Coates, Ben Hartigan, Ethan Hertza, Jack Lewis, Lucas Mullan and Ryan Stojov. Parents Kim Cloud and Anne Hartigan were also on hand that day – my bet is that they represent a group of parents who have been cheering these young athletes on for years. Kudos to you, as well.

year the Northville Concours d’Elegance will be held at Mill Race Village – Sunday, July 12.

“Don’t you just love kids helping kids?” The young men from Northville Concours d’Elegance, in collaboration with the Detroit Auto Show, were proud sponsors of the Charity Preview Junior event – new this year. The special afternoon event transformed the C. S. Mott Children’s Hospital hallways into “highways of hope” for young patients and their families. The children had an opportunity to connect with cars and engage in hands-on activities through creative efforts of the Detroit Auto Dealers Association, community partners and supporters. Save the date…this

“Don’t you just love a good look?” The American Association of University Women is suiting up for the Michigan Fashion Designer Showcase Luncheon. It will be taking place on Saturday, April 25 at VisTaTech Center at Schoolcraft College. They will feature Michigan designers, with a wide variety of style and perspective. Think you have a style all your own? Local artisans of fashion will be on hand to accessorize your unique look. Tickets are available at aauwnn.org/mfds.

“Don’t you just love100 women who care?” It was a cold Monday night on Feb. 2 and the women with big hearts flooded Genitti’s.

Congratulations to my friends at the Northville Art House -- the recipients of 100 Women Who Care’s latest donation. Art House Executive Director Shannon Karol made a presentation, which highlighted various programs and projects for “art lovers from 2 to 102’ including some creative and inspirational options for those with memory loss.

The Northville Art House,

Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. In April they will host “A Night for the Arts” at Genitti’s Hole-in-the-Wall from 6-9 p.m. Tickets are available at northvillearthouse.org/nightfor-the-arts.

Virginia – we all knew her as Fay – Reeves passed away recently. She was married to Harold Reeves for 61 years (until his death in 2016). Harold served the Northville community as a police officer. Fay was the cashier at the A &P and well known for her beehive hairdo. They were quite the pair. She loved a celebration and had the joy of celebrating her 90th birthday last year with friends and family from all over. Whenever I had a chance to talk with Fay she would ask about others and rarely talked about herself. She was a kind and caring woman. Fay will be missed by many. My condolences and prayers go out to her family and those who cared for her. Blessings to all. Her passing is a reminder to hold close the things you love. BTW – I have one more fill in the blank. “Don’t you just love the little single serve mini-cup of Häagen-Dazs Dulce de Leche ice cream!” Yum!

Breakfast of Champions! Members of the NHS cross country team at Dime Store in Detroit.

Drew Lehnert and David Kibbey of the Northville Concours d’Elegance at the “Highway of Hope” event.

100 Women Who Care at Genitti’s.

“Jamey and his team did a

your needs to make your

thank you!!”