The Ville - October 2025

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.

Publisher

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

• Eric & Marcia Booth

• Emily Guo

• John & Marge Roebuck

• Jurgen & Carolyn Schnepel

• Alan & Judith Somershoe

• William & June Weaver

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

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.

SEAN POWER - Photographer

Sean is a freelance photographer who is originally from Chicago, where he spent many years in the world of broadcast television. He and his family moved from Chicago to Northville in 2021. He lives with his wife, Angelique (a 2025 Detroit News “Michiganian of the Year”), daughter Sadie, a cat, and an English black lab.

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.

Leave the world a better place than

I

’m not a huge fan of social media. I don’t want to sound like an alarmist, but I’m beginning to think it is leading our society down a dark path. Study after study has shown what a negative impact certain social media platforms have on our youth, and it has become pretty clear certain platforms are being wielded to create fractures in our society.

Every once in a while, however, I’m reminded social media can also be a positive force. It offers the ability to reach a large audience, stay connected to old friends and family, and promote causes or products. Or just spread positive news and good will.

Take a post I recently watched on Twitter. A man was recounting how he was in an airport restroom one time, when he noticed a man wearing a very nice suit washing his hands. When he was done, the man in the suit, who was clearly of some importance, then took a couple paper towels and wiped down the entire sink and counter.

The man telling the story cracked a joke, asking him if he worked for the airport and how much he was getting paid an hour. The man’s reply? “I told myself long ago to always leave things better than I found them.”

The guy telling the story said it was a profound lesson he never forgot. It changed his own outlook on the world and how he lived his life.

I’ve been thinking a lot about that Twitter post, and what a great message it promotes. We can all do more to make the world a better place. In ways big or small. Find your niche.

Take Northvillian Terrie Karebian, for example. She is the one responsible for tying the teal ribbons to all the street posts in downtown Northville each September. She does this to spread awareness of ovarian cancer, which she has battled since 2003. It may seem like a small thing to some. But for Karebian, who has been “turning the town teal” for 13 years now, it is important. Her whole goal is to help save others, and make sure they don’t have to go through

you found it

what she has been through. Talk about taking a negative and turning it into a positive. She even had her granddaughter Isla help her this year. What a great lesson to pass on to the next generation.

The point is there are so many people like Karebian out there doing great things for others. Great things for society. Doing things to make the world a better place.

In an interview for Netflix earlier this year, Dr. Jane Goodall was asked what message she wanted to leave the world before she died. Her response is a good lesson for us all.

“Your life matters, and you are here for a reason,” said the British anthropologist known widely for her years studying and living among chimpanzees.

“Every single day you live, you make a difference in the world. You get to choose the difference you make,” continued Goodall, who sadly passed away Oct. 1. “We have to do everything in our power to make the world a better place -- for the children alive today, and for those that will follow.”

How do you want to be remembered?

CORRECTION: In my column last month, I wrote the Northville Mustangs won the state baseball championship in 2023. It was the 2024 team that won the school’s first state title. My apologies boys.

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

ON THE COVER: Breana, Emmelie, and owner Jennifer Bicknell (back row from left) with Gemma Shubell (front) pose in front of the circus-themed tent from The Hair Foundation Salon during the Skeletons Are Alive launch party on Oct. 4. Photo by Sean Power

Terrie Karebian and granddaughter Isla.

Your Voice

Overwhelmed by support

The Declan Carter Foundation and Our Lady of Victory held the inaugural Declan Carter Victory Run on Saturday, September 6. The event brought together 1,000 runners and hundreds of volunteers. We had over 30 sponsors with so many of our local businesses leaning in to help make it a success. All we can say is thank you. We were truly overwhelmed by all of the love and support. We exceeded our most optimistic fundraising goals and are now one step closer to a new playground at Ford Field. This is a special community and we are so fortunate to be a part of it.

John and Liz Carter

Where’s the time capsule?

Calling all Winchester Dragon Alumni! Winchester (along with other schools in the district) is celebrating 50 years this year. There is record of a time capsule buried on the Winchester property but no map or clues as to where. We conducted a dig on Oct. 1, but we were unable to find it. We may try again in the spring, but we are still looking for clues as to where to look. If you attended the school during the time capsule burial or know its location, please reach out to winchesterdadsclub@gmail.com so we can unearth a part of Northville history.

Bill Tuckfield Winchester Elementary Dad’s Club

Keep future in mind

Both sides of the street closure debate seem to be missing some context. Metro Detroit sprawl will soon reach as far west as US-23, and as far north as M-59. Northville is not an island. It is only a matter of time until Northville either becomes the next Birmingham, or the next South Lyon. Either a thriving destination city where people want to raise their families and spend their time, or a quaint reminder of the past that is an annoying choke-point in their commute elsewhere. Either way, Northville voters, and city leaders, must proactively manage inevitable change more successfully with the future in mind, or be left behind. What kind of community do you want Northville to be? Whatever your answer, it won’t be the community it has been, or is today.

Mike Walker

Little piece of turf

I am glad I have a yard; a small slice of terra firma that is mine to oversee, maintain, and enjoy. I appreciate it now more than ever after seeing the utter lack of green space being allocated to the condos in developer Hunter Pasteur’s new vision for The Downs.

The amazing thing to this lover of the outdoors is the willingness on the part of clients to pay top dollar for residences, with the residence being an end in and of itself, and a lawn or anything resembling a parcel, conspicuously out of the picture. Just look at the condos on the northwest corner of 7 Mile and Center, in particular.

That Hunter Pasteur tapped into this preference for ostentatious interiors over land was shrewd. Everywhere else I look in this town I see them - old fashioned lots where kids have a place to wander and play. This development does not hew to the Northville model - it looks so out of place that I have to remind myself that yes, this is the same town in which I have resided for the past 45 years. I feel sorry for the children who will never know their own little piece of turf.

Ken Kilpatrick

Northville deserves better

In 1970, Holloway Sand and Gravel opened the Arbor Hills Landfill— when regulations were lax and Northville had just 2,600 residents. Today, our community has grown to over 31,000—and so has the landfill, now one of the largest and most frequently fined in the Midwest.

Now, Green for Life (GFL), the current owner, wants to build a second landfill next door. The decision lies largely with Washtenaw County officials — not Northville’s. But we are not powerless.

We must speak up to protect Johnson Creek — already contaminated with PFAS from landfill discharges — as well as our health, property values, and quality of life. The Conservancy Initiative (conservancyinitiative.org) will soon share how to make your voice heard. This isn’t just about odors and waste. It’s about water. It’s about our community’s future.

Let’s stand together to stop a second landfill before it begins.

David Drinan Vice President, The Conservancy Initiative

Getting the answers

In a recent issue, John Webster wrote a necessary submission in “Your Voice” about “our current authoritarian government.” In the same issue, “Dishin’ with Denise” author Denise Jenkins notes she doesn’t watch the news anymore. I assume she consumes news some other way, but my point is, yes, if you are aware of what’s going on in our national government, as John Webster is, you can absolutely feel helpless and hopeless.

For those of you who “no longer watch the news,” here’s something you might have missed…you no longer live in a democracy. But you can still sleep at night. Join indivisible.org, the ACLU, or Voters Not Politicians. These organizations will help you with the questions John Webster poses from children and grandchildren…you’ll have an answer.

Maggie Einhaus

SOUND OFF

Please submit your letters by emailing Editor Kurt Kuban at kurtkuban@thevillemagazine.com. Letters must be 150 words or less. We reserve the right to edit all letters.

Winchester Elementary staff and students during an unsuccessful Oct. 1 dig for the school’s lost time capsule.

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Lost goat lands at local couple’s historic Imagine Acres farm KELLYS RESCUE

Story | Photos by Ken Voyles

This is the story of a goat. It’s also about a young husband and wife and their business; about saving a historic farm; and about getting back to a more natural lifestyle, enjoying the outdoors to create a kind of modern oasis on the western edge of Northville.

But first for the goat. No, we are not talking about acronym for “greatest of all time.” Our protagonist is actually a young

hornless Nigerian dwarf goat who stumbled into the hearts of Jack and Carly Kelly after the Northville police called the couple one day, desperate for their help.

You see “Ford” (that’s the name Carly eventually gave him after the rescue) was apparently lost and hiding under the bleachers at the Northville High School football field in early August. The police had

tried for five hours to capture him with no luck, but then they remembered Jack Kelly.

Born and raised in Northville, with a longtime landscape and design business, and plenty of friends and family throughout the community, Jack Kelly also happens to own a herd of goats. There are 10 in fact as part of the farm that he and his wife Carly own along Currie Road (more on that later). One of the officers who knew him called for help and Jack sprang into action, capturing the goat with the help of his cousin in less than 10 minutes.

Ford now calls “Imagine Acres” – the name of the Kelly farm - his temporary home, though he has to be separated from the other goats because of his lack of horns (a sensitive subject for those who know all about goats apparently).

“Jack heard there was a goat in need,” says Carly, “and he knew he had to step in. He threw on his cowboy boots, grabbed a rope and went to help. He wrangled the goat under the

bleachers just like that.”

Jack said the little animal was pretty scared by its wandering adventure, so he carried it in his arms all the way back to the farm. They gave him a bath, called a vet and within days Ford was enjoying a relaxing life on the 10-acre property. The historic location is a lovely place on Currie with a historic stone home fronting the road, several orchards, a small stream, barns, chicken coops and plenty of gardens and an outdoor family gathering space. Beyond the original grounds and complex renovation of some of the buildings, everything else you see was designed by the Kellys.

“I love animals and the outdoors,” says Jack. “Goats are cool. They’re kind of funny and goofy and they seemed perfect for our farm.”

So far no one has claimed Ford, but the Kellys can’t keep him since he is unlike the others in their herd. They think he could have been a pet, but it seems unlikely since he lacks the social skills obvious with their goats who are as friendly as their owners.

“If anyone is missing their goat we’d love to reunite it with their family,” says Carly, adding that the owners could contact the Northville police at (248) 349-1234. If not claimed, the Kellys will work hard to find it a good home somewhere.

IMAGINE ACRES

Long before Ford landed in their lives, the Kellys started caring for goats when Carly surprised her husband with a birthday gift of four of the animals. It was a perfect addition to their new farm (they purchased the property in 2021) and the herd quickly grew as several were already pregnant.

Jack and Carly Kelly with the goat they named “Ford.”

Jack Kelly (right) holds the goat they captured underneath the football bleachers at Eight Mile Stadium. Kelly is with his cousin, Dominic Buchanan, who helped capture the lost goat.

The Kellys fondly remember helping birth several baby goats, bottle feeding them and taking care of them as they grew, and the herd expanded.

The Currie farm dates back to early 1900s with the original buildings dating to around 1910. It was owned by the Currie family but has since seen a number of owners. Though located in Salem Township, the property has a Northville mailing address.

Carly loves to share some old photos showing the farm, Currie Road and the property that were given to her by the former owner.

“I think part of why this feels special to us is because what Imagine Acres represents,” says Carly. “The farm is historic and beautiful. When we first stepped onto the property we knew we were meant to carry on the legacy of beauty here. And our business played a big part in creating what this is.”

The couple long considered themselves city dwellers, having grown up and lived in the heart of Northville with their families (they each attended private school but their families have been longtime Northville residents). While this isn’t “green acres,” the couple still found it difficult to let go of city life, but quickly embraced the

rural lifestyle.

“We were hesitant at first,” says Jack. “Now we see this as a cool chapter in our lives. It’s a peaceful place but there’s plenty to do. We love it. I like being able to look out to the west and see the sunsets, and there’s hardly a sound of cars going by.”

A graduate of Michigan State University with a horticultural degree, Jack Kelly opened his own landscaping business over 15 years ago, but has since worked hard to expand and develop a new approach to creating outdoor spaces as well as interior renovations and restoration projects.

“We are kind of pioneers in our industry,” says the owner of Imagine Design & Build. “We want to transform outdoor living as we know it and how people think about it. It’s cool. We live in this dual world. We’re here on a farm and yet we work on million dollar properties and do sophisticated and modern stuff all the time.”

As Carly adds, the couple relishes in who they are as business owners, as a family and as farmers, if you dare to describe them that way.

“We like to say we are a husband and wife team that has integrated every part of our life together in business and family and this farm. All of our

experiences together,” she says. “People look at us and expect us to be this modern couple, but we’re kind of laid back.”

OUTDOOR LIVING

Imagine Design and Build is considered a full-service firm and with experience in the landscape industry, but well beyond that now with experience in major interior design and going beyond landscaping into a design for outdoor living. The Kellys say they are best known for a “limitless imagination and distinctive design style,” through visionary and awardwinning projects.

The Kelly design group focuses on turning barren landscapes into organic masterpieces, utilizing green solutions and incorporating elements into each design using natural materials and sustainable sourcing. You can see some of that on their Imagine Acres farm and the company’s business property on Gerald Avenue (off of Seven Mile), which includes an outdoor showcase space they have dubbed a “peace park.”

people.”

Carly adds, “A natural way of living is good for everyone. People are focusing more and more on that no matter where they live.”

While most may not be into owning a herd of goats, or wrangling a wandering animal, plenty of people in Northville can appreciate what the Kellys are talking about.

“We’ve learned that

sometimes the very thing that feels scary at first is what you’re truly meant to do,” says Carly.

Jack Kelly shows off his bright smile and nods his head.

“This has become so much more than a farm,” he explains. “It’s a 200-year-old story of history, resilience and soulful living.”

LOOKING FOR FORD?

“Our whole thing is outdoor living and making it accessible to anyone,” says Jack who grew up near Mill Race Pond and remembers skating on it as child. “Any backyard can be special, a modern oasis for

If you are the owner, or perhaps know the owner, of the young Nigerian dwarf goat, now known as “Ford”, please contact the Northville police at (248) 3491234. Jack and Carly Kelly would love to see him reunited with his owner.

Imagine Acres is the farm owned by Jack and Carly Kelly. Located on Currie Road, the farm dates back to around 1910. They purchased it in 2021.

Jack and Carly Kelly with their son, Cross.

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What A Relief

or isn’t funding schools,” said Tabor, about what caused the brief impasse. The former contract expired Aug. 23. “They had concerns about what the numbers were going to be. We had a different view of what their financial projections were.”

A strong turnout of teachers –an estimated 200 – at the Sept. 9 school board meeting proved to spark the negotiations to a new gear.

agreement was announced in a joint statement from the union and district, posted on Northville schools’ website.

“While the negotiation process presented challenges at times,” the statement noted, “the parties never wavered in working together – in fact meeting together on 17 different

teachers and district reach deal to end contract impasse

By Tim Smith Northville

Acollective exhale could be heard all throughout Northville Public Schools Sept. 23 when the school board unanimously ratified a twoyear contract with the district’s teachers’ union.

The contract ratification arrived three weeks into the 2025-26 school year, ending an uncertain period when teachers continued showing up for work despite not having a new deal in place.

“It was adding stress to what is always a stressful time for teachers, going back to school and getting everything started,” said Richard Tabor, president of the Northville Education Association and a computer science teacher at Hillside Middle School.

The contract was approved 341-11 on the teachers’ side

with the school board quickly ratifying the pact later the same day, Tabor said.

“They (district negotiators) definitely had some concerns about school finance moving forward, the way in which things may or may not change in terms of how the state is

“It was definitely a turning point and (showed) them how organized we were and how committed we were to getting the contract done,” Tabor noted. “The board shared their concerns as well at the meeting, and I think, from there, we were able to meet with the district’s negotiating team. We re-set, re-focused and were able to get things done a lot quicker after that.”

Tabor said union members remain “appreciative of the movement that the district was able to make in our direction. But, also, just the relief of ‘Alright, this is done, I can focus on the things I want to focus on which are building relationships with my students and focusing on my classroom.’”

The collective bargaining

occasions – in an effort to reach a contract agreement that not only continues to support and uplift the district’s outstanding teaching staff, while also considering financial responsibility and sustainability.”

RJ Webber, superintendent for Northville Public Schools, said he was “pleased that we were able to come to an agreement with our teachers” but pointed to delays in the state legislature approving the 2025-26 public education budget (a $24.12 billion behemoth) – which was due July 1 but not approved until Oct. 3 – as playing a crucial role in negotiations going more slowly than anticipated.

The K-12 budget features a 4.6 percent boost in per-pupil funding, free school meals and funding for at-risk students.

“The school aid budget

Richard Tabor, president of the Northville Education Association and teacher at Hillside Middle School teacher, said the teachers and district reached a good contract. Courtesy of Richard Tabor

The community showed a lot of the support for the teachers, who began the school year without a contract in place.

In addition to ratifying a new contract with the teachers, the board of education announced a state budget deal will allow the district to continue offering free breakfast and lunch to all the district’s students. Photo courtesy of Northville Public Schools

should have been to us by July 1,” said Webber, explaining that the district wanted to have more information about future financial projections before proposing a new contract to the NEA. “That is the statutory obligation of the legislature. So we had three months before we got it.

“So we were negotiating in a moment where we didn’t know what we were going to get.”

Webber stressed that the district still needs to bargain contracts with other employee groups, adding that “the responsibility the board of education has, that I have and our team has in working with all of our bargaining groups is, when we look at negotiations we take the entire landscape of the district in whole.”

Without accurate financial projections as to what the district will receive from the state, that can hamper the

success of any contract talks, Webber continued.

But in the end, the district and union agreed on a deal that will increase teacher salaries 3 percent in 2025-26 and between 2-3 percent in 2026-27.

The current fund balance stands at about 32 percent with projections of about 27.8 percent in 2026. Tabor said the scale will be moved up 3 percent for the contract’s second year should there be a fund balance of 25 percent or more.

“There are definitely some financial concerns, with the Covid money completely going away,” Tabor said. “And there are concerns about student growth across the state of Michigan. In Northville it’s still been pretty decent. But (generally) student numbers (state-wide) are on the downward trend.”

Student counts for 2025-26

were recently conducted, and Tabor predicted Northville’s numbers will stay in the 7,200to-7,300 range, which is close to the district’s enrollment in recent years.

One of the positives of the state approving its school aid package is the funding of the universal meals program, which provides no-cost breakfasts and lunches to public school students in pre-K through 12th grade regardless of family income.

“Since the two years it’s been instituted, on chicken and mash day about 80 percent of the kids do that lunch,” said Webber, chuckling, when asked about the program’s popularity. “I want to say our numbers have doubled as far as students utilizing lunches or breakfasts in the past two years.”

The state approved the universal meals program, which provides no-cost breakfasts and lunches to all public school students in pre-K through 12th grade. Photo courtesy of Northville Public Schools

State’s New Mental Health Center Taking Shape

State-of-the-art facility at former Hawthorn Center site to serve youth and adults

By Scott Spielman

The State of Michigan’s commitment to behavioral health is emerging along Haggerty Road in Northville Township.

Located at the site of the former Hawthorn Center off Haggerty Road just south of Seven Mile Road, a new facility is under construction that will serve adults and youth when it opens by the end of next year.

Work on the $325 million, 410,000-square foot facility started in the fall of 2023.

When it is complete in 2026, the new facility will house adults and youth, according to Elizabeth Hertel, director of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). Patients and staff from the Walter P. Reuther Psychiatric Hospital in Westland as well as youth from the former Hawthorn Center—now housed temporarily in separate floors at Reuther—will be transferred there.

“The modern facility will allow MDHHS to continue providing quality,

are outdated and need to be replaced due to aging infrastructure; the Hawthorn Center opened in 1956, while Walter Reuther began operations in 1979. They are among five mental health hospitals in the state.

The new facility is larger as well as more modern. It will have 264 beds—72 for youth and 192 for adults—an increase of 54 beds.

compassionate care to both children and adults,” she said.

“The consolidation of two of our current hospitals will also allow for efficiencies in administrative and support services while maintaining separate living and treatment facilities for adults and children.”

Funds for the project were allocated in the 2023 FY budget as part of the state’s continued commitment to providing behavioral health services to Michigan families, she added.

Hawthorn and Reuther served about 200 patients, combined. Both facilities

“The new facility is a perfect example of how the state is leveraging one-time resources for long-term strategic investments,” said State Budget Director Christopher Harkins. “We are thoughtfully and deliberately building the new facility on the current Hawthorn Center site, which is a convenient location for staff and patient families, and sustains a relationship with the community of Northville, which has long been a partner to the State of Michigan. This project will provide benefits for years into the future.”

The new psychiatric complex will serve all ages, but the youth and adult areas will be distinct facilities with separate living and programmatic spaces for children and adults. The complex, however, will include shared administration and food service.

Including Hawthorn and Reuther, the State of Michigan operates five inpatient hospitals that serve nearly 650 patients. The others are the Caro Center in Caro; the Kalamazoo Psychiatric Hospital and the Center for Forensic Psychiatry in Saline, which provides diagnostic services to the criminal justice system and psychiatric treatment for criminal defendants adjudicated incompetent to stand trial or acquitted by not guilty by reason of insanity.

Northville Township Supervisor Mark Abbo said he welcomed the new facility.

“Mental health, especially for children, is an urgent need in our region,” he said. “We are pleased to have the opportunity to work with the State of Michigan to develop a stateof-the-art facility to help those in our region in need, get the highest possible mental health care.”

The construction manager for the project is Christman Company, with design services provided by Integrated Design Solutions LLC. Construction. It is on track to be complete and open next year, according to Michelle Lange, director of the Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget (DTMB).

“DTMB is proud to be a part of this effort to improve the lives of Michiganders most in need of care,” she said. “Our team of construction experts are eager to exercise their skills to ensure that the new psychiatric facility is completed on time and on budget and is a top-notch facility that meets the needs of both the patients and staff.”

Work continues on the $325 million, 410,000-square foot facility started in the fall of 2023. Photos courtesy of the MDHHS

An aerial view of the new state mental and behavioral health facility, located on the former site of the Hawthorn Center on Haggerty south of Seven Mile.

Ask the Doctor

QUESTION:

Hey Dr. Jacobi, my doctor said I have moderate macular degeneration and diabetic retina damage. My doctor said my condition is moderate, but it feels pretty severe to me. I’m writing because it is almost impossible for me to do my crosswords even though I use large print puzzles and a magnifying glass. Having to hold my magnifier with one hand and trying to write has me so frustrated! What can you do to help me return to doing my crosswords? —Carl N., 78 years old

ANSWER:

To begin, it is encouraging to at least hear that your retinal doctor believes you have moderate tissue condition. You need to understand there is a difference between the amount of tissue damage compared to the impact on your ability to see and function.

There are three key steps that are needed when someone needs help being able to see and write at the same time:

1) proper magnification

2) a comfortable distance to work at that allows you to write (not as close as you are used to)

3) the free use of your hands

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Past Tense

The Brothers Schrader

Establishing the family trade in furniture and funerals

By Michele M. Fecht

At the turn of the 20th century, at a time when undertakers conducted postmortem work in the residence of the deceased, and “viewings” were held in the family parlor, brothers Nelson C. and Frederick D. Schrader went into the furniture and mortuary business.

In 1904, the brothers purchased what were then Plymouth’s two existing undertaking and furniture operations — Millspaugh Bros. and Bassett & Sons. The Schraders would set-up their business on Penniman Avenue (formerly Sutton Street) with the furniture business on the ground floor and embalming operations in the basement. Nelson brought undertaking experience to the partnership with Fred providing the financial backing.

In 1907, Nelson Schrader headed to Northville to set-up identical operations in the former M. A. Porter Furniture and Undertaking business at 111 North Center Street. The Schrader Brothers remained partners in both businesses until 1925. By that time, both the funeral and furniture operations were well established, and the two Schrader brothers were leading citizens in their respective communities.

REVERED CITIZEN AND BUSINESS OWNER

Born in 1884 on the Schrader farm in Canton Township,

Nelson C. Schrader proved to be a quick study and an astute businessman. Just 20-yearsold the year he opened the Northville store, he was selected that same year to serve on the

inquest jury of the 1907 Pere Marquette Railroad collision in Northville Township, Michigan’s worst passenger accident.

In 1913, he was elected Village

President and would serve a one-year term. Though he did not opt to run for a second term, Schrader turned to other civic pursuits. He would head the Northville-Wayne County Fair for a decade and was a founding member the Northville Driving Club. He was one of the original incorporators and members of Meadowbrook Country Club and served as a director of the Lapham State Savings Bank. On the business side, Schrader replaced the frame building to the south of his store (109 North Center) in 1927 with a brick structure. The pre-1860s frame building once housed the Randolph drug store, the first of its kind in Northville. It also was the gathering spot for war news . . . Civil War news. That section of North Center would come to be known as the Schrader Block.

A 1909 calendar cover showcases the Schrader Brothers' two store locations.

Schrader's Furniture and Funeral Chapel, circa 1946. All photos courtesy of the Northville Historical Society

More expansion would come in ensuing years.

On February 7, 1936, the Northville Record announced on its front page the death of Nelson C. Shrader who was vacationing in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to regain his health. Though in ill health for several years, the news of his passing left the community in mourning. His body was transported back to Michigan for a funeral at Schrader’s Funeral Parlor and burial at Riverside Park Cemetery in Plymouth. Northville businesses closed their doors during the hours of his funeral.

THE NEXT GENERATIONS

A few days before Nelson Schrader’s funeral, the Northville Record announced that Raymond L. Casterline, a 17-year employee of Schrader’s, was named manager of Schrader’s furniture and funeral operations. Nelson Schrader, Jr., successor to his father’s business, continued his studies at Michigan State until November 1937, when he returned to Northville to take over the business.

An outstanding athlete, Schrader was a tackle for three years on Michigan State’s football team. An article in the November 17, 1937, Northville

Record noted that Schrader’s “outstanding playing during his college career had led to an invitation to go professional and play for the Detroit Lions next fall.”

Schrader said that “with the responsibility of taking care of the business here, professional football is out of the question.”

Nelson Schrader would follow in his father’s footsteps on the civic front as well as the retail end. He served consecutive years as president of the Northville-Wayne County Fair and was a founding member of the Northville Retail Merchants Association. He also was involved in the Northville Driving Club for 40 years and served on the Northville Board of Education.

The “Schrader Block” would grow with the acquisition of additional space on Center Street. By the late 1960s, the store encompassed some

42,000 square feet of display area compared to less than 4,000 square feet in both stores half a century earlier. In 1965 Schrader’s would expand its footprint further by adding Carpetland to the building that once housed the Northville Post Office. The business was incorporated in 1968.

The funeral business, which was moved in the early 1940s from its Center Street location to 404 West Main Street, would eventually be sold to Phillips and Bonmiller. The funeral chapel remained on Center Street through the 1940s but would eventually close. The Schrader-Howell Funeral Home remains a mainstay in downtown Plymouth.

Nelson Schrader III started working in the store during high school. A 1962 Michigan State University graduate with a degree in business, he started in the family firm by managing the

furniture stores in Plymouth. When his father retired, they sold the two Plymouth stores but retained the Northville store. In the mid-1980s the store had about 20,00 square feet of display area. It catered to a large segment of shoppers from across the metro Detroit area. Nelson Schrader, Jr. died October 23, 1979.

END OF THE LINE

In 1987, Nelson Schrader III, then 47, made the decision to close shop. The final sale days in early January 1988 marked the end of the 81-year, threegeneration business. Though its closing was bittersweet, Schrader said he made his decision to sell largely on the offer that came from architects Gary George and Dan DiComo whose plan was to divide the large expanse of the furniture store into several smaller stores.

Though a variety of businesses have occupied those “small store” spaces on North Center Street over the last 35 years, the Schrader name still resonates for many. The Brothers Schrader and the generations that followed made their mark in Northville beyond the retail and funeral business. Those that walked through their doors were not just customers, but neighbors and friends.

Schrader's final close out sale in 1988.

Rise of the Skeletons

Annual event draws thousands to our downtown

This year’s Skeletons Are Alive launch party was the biggest yet, attracting as many as 10,000 people, according to Mayor Brian Turnbull.

“It was an incredible night, with so many people in our downtown. It was the most I’ve ever seen for the event. We had food trucks -- people were using all the tables we put out for the event. And the restaurants were packed.”

This was the 14th year for the event, which celebrates the 200-plus skeletons placed around downtown. Every year, the DDA adds a few more to the collection. Each of the skeletons, which are sponsored by local businesses and organizations, is created by the team over at Begonia Brothers, specifically designed by the

“mad scientist team of Mike McDonald and Paul Taylor,” according to Kate Knight, executive director of the DDA.

The DDA, capitalizing on the event’s popularity not only with locals but many who come from outside of town, came up with a new logo and began branding and selling Skeletons Are Alive T-shirts (they are available at Northville Gear) and other merchandise. Profits from the sales will be used for public art in the downtown.

The skeletons weren’t the only scary things at the event.

Many people dressed up in costume to show off their Halloween spirit, something Northville has embraced in recent years.

“This Northville tradition has been running 14 years, but in the last two, the growth and

cultural evolution have really exploded. Stacy Pearson on our DDA team runs the project, and it’s a well-organized, creatively-curated event,” said Knight, who estimated a much larger crowd than last year’s 6,000 visitors.

The launch party also featured artists painting live, strolling performers and dancing from the renowned Ballet Folklorico Lindo, a traditional Mexican dance troupe, which opened the evening’s fun.

“It was a big, joyful event -- live art, live music, acrobats, fire-hooping, ghost-busting, professional actors witching from our own Tipping Point Theatre… all with the backdrop of our beautiful small town’s historic architecture and public spaces,” Knight said.

The event also gave a big boost to the downtown businesses, including a couple newcomers. Cannelle had a line out the door, and Kiloh + Co stayed open later to take advantage of the heavy foot traffic.

“Cultural tourism is a big engine for infusing dollars into our local economy. While hosting this volume of visitors is a pleasure for our community, it also brings stellar exposure for our downtown merchants,” Knight said. “Seeing Frankenstein walk down Main Street with a social district beverage, showing off the Dan Campbell candle he just bought at the gift store… that warms my downtown heart.

“We’re already looking toward 2026.”

Tumbleweed from the Detroit Circus towers over the crowd at the Skeletons Are Alive launch party.

The kids really enjoyed the "silent disco" on Center Street.

Frankenstein's monster and his bride (aka, Jeff and Tina Brown) stand outside the Marquis Theater.

Missy Simmons shows off her undead alter-ego "Ophelia."

An aerialist from the Detroit Circus delights onlookers while suspended above the intersection of Main and Center.

Charles and Conner Prichard from Ghostbusters Detroit were on hand to address any paranormal hijinks.

Yasmina Khreis and her two younger siblings Lorena and Kareem enjoyed the festivities.

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HIGH SCHOOL CONFIDENTIAL

Homecoming 2025: From a NHS Student’s Eyes

By Ian Lee & Keira Gallagher

The air turns crisp. Orange and black paint the Northville High campus. The sound of the band playing Notre Dame Victory March echoes through the halls.

For a Mustang, this can only mean one thing: it’s Homecoming.

This year, Homecoming Week kicked off with a series of spirit days, starting with Pajama Day, followed by ‘Dress like Adam Sandler’ day, and, per tradition,

ending with Orange and Black Day on Friday.

At the end of the school day on Friday, October 3, the annual Homecoming pep rally hyped the Mustangs up, featuring performances from the Northville choirs, band, and a variety of performance groups. Classes competed in friendly competitions of tug-of-war and mattress slide races as the entire school cheered them on.

Members of the Homecoming Court were also included in the festivities, entertaining the crowd with short skits. This year’s court consisted of Ariana Ajluni, Rachel Asher, Rose Connors, Adriana Schwartz, and Ellie Scott; and guys Max DeFore, Chase Gilbertson, Austin McGarrow, Qays Merrick, and Jace VanLoo.

After the dismissal bell,

NHS students gathered downtown for the annual Homecoming parade, waving on the homecoming court as the marching band led the way. Cheers of the community’s children filled the air as members of the NHS Student Congress (STUCO) tossed bundles of candy to the crowd

as they marched their way to 8 Mile Stadium for the annual Homecoming game.

On the field, the Mustangs faced off against the Canton Cobras in a dominant showing. The game began with an impressive 35-0 start in just the first quarter before ending in a resounding 63-0 victory for the

EDITOR’S NOTE: High School Confidential is a collaborative effort by the Stringers Journalism Club made up of NHS students Ian Lee, Keira Gallagher, Aoi Ono, Keertana Ventatesh, Saamaja Krishnan, Sarah Khalid, Stella Maue, Mary Sullolari, and Jiahn Kim.

The NHS band performed at halftime.

Photo by Jordan Tolstedt

Seniors Rachel Asher, Rose Connors, Adriana Schwartz, Ellie Scott, and Ariana Ajluni pose as this year’s Homecoming court. Photo courtesy of Rose Connors

Homecoming Queen Rose Connors smells the winning rose. Courtesy of Rose Connors

Senior Andrew Cassin preforms during the pep rally alongside Backbeat. Photo by Yuanxi Chen

Junior Mio Watanabe wears her spirit wear for the “Country” theme. Photo by Aoi Ono

The Mustangs huddle up during the Homecoming game, which they won 63-0 over Canton. Photo by Yuanxi Chen

Mustangs. A special mention goes out to the Northville Cheer team, inviting the opposing Canton Cheer team to perform an impromptu routine together in a true display of Homecoming spirit.

At halftime, Rose Connors opened a mystery box containing the red rose that would reveal her as

Homecoming queen. Renata Diaz, the 2024 Homecoming queen, added excitement to the ceremony, dancing around the male Homecoming court with the king’s crown before stopping behind Qays Merrick to crown him Homecoming king.

Saturday evening, the Mustangs returned to

Northville High for the muchanticipated Homecoming dance. This year’s theme, Under the Sea, transformed NHS into a vibrant, ocean-themed venue that set the tone for the evening. Students danced the night away with their friends and dates in a grand celebration of school pride. As the clock struck 10, the dance wound down, marking the end of this year’s exuberant

Homecoming week.  Homecoming is always a special time of year for a Mustang. Beyond the dance, the festivities, and the memories made, Homecoming serves a larger purpose. It reminds us that no matter where we go beyond our high school journeys, we’ll always find our way back to the community we call home: Northville.

NHS seniors participate in a tug-of-war contest during the annual pep rally. Photo by Yuanxi Chen

The NHS Varsity cheer time performs during the pep rally. Photo by Yuanxi Chen

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On the Road With

Moroccan Dreams

Craig Molter and Tricia Custer toured the country of Morocco where they glamped  and rode camels in the Sahara, visited a nomad community, learned how to cook Moroccan tagine and shopped in souks, where merchants sell everything from leather to spices, carpets to jewelry.

They visited the towns of Marrakesh, Fes and Rabat, staying in ryads, where their room surrounded a garden courtyard within restored mansions. Here they are holding their copy of The ‘Ville in front of the Hassan II mosque, which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean in Casablanca.

Chasing Waterfalls in Iceland

The Lee family of Northville Township took along their copy of The ‘Ville during a July trip to Iceland, where they drove the entire Ring Road route around the island. Here Randy and Debbie Lee (a photo taken by their son Connor Lee) stand in front of Seljalandsfoss, a 210-foot-high waterfall. “The land of fire and ice is filled with stunning scenery and landscapes with lava fields, mountains, black sand beaches, Icelandic horses and sheep, and hundreds of waterfalls,” said Debbie Lee.

Biking the Coeur d’Alenes Trail

A group of Northville residents took along their copy of The ‘Ville on an epic 184mile bike ride along the Coeur d’Alenes Trail through Idaho. They also rode on the Hiawatha Trail in Idaho outside of Spokane, Washington. The group included (from left) Gary Banish, Patti Mullen, John Kelly, Michele Kelly, Matt Stahr, Julie Stahr and Michelle Kerns.

Honeymooning on the Na’Pali Coast

Northville Residents Brad and Allie Sauchak traveled to Hawaii’s Na’Pali Coast in Kauai where they spent their honeymoon. The couple got engaged last summer in downtown Northville. They spent two weeks in Hawaii, visiting both Maui and Kauai. “It was amazing! Brad’s highlight would be the eight-mile hike to a waterfall, while my highlight was snorkeling with sea turtles,” Allie said.

Seeing Scandinavia

Tom and Michele Benson went on a trip to Scandinavia over the summer. The trip consisted of visits to all of the national capitals of the region (Helsinki, Stockholm, Copenhagen and Oslo). They utilized every form of transportation, including plane, train, boat, bus, car, tram and funicular. It even included a kayak trip in the fjords of Norway. Here they are pictured with their copy of The ‘Ville in Helsinki, the capital of Finland.

Shiawasee Stampede

The Northville High School varsity equestrian team competed at the Shiawasee County Fairgrounds, Sept. 27-28, to secure a spot at state finals, which were scheduled for Oct. 9-12. The 2025 team, shown here holding their copies of The ‘Ville, is composed of several grooms (assistants), and 15 riders who compete in dozens of events across several disciplines, including hunt seat, western, saddle seat, bareback, jumping, ranch, reigning, gymkhana, showmanship, and trail. The varsity team’s coach, Emma Buck, is an alumna of Northville High School and was a member of the Equestrian Team herself. In addition to the high school team, Northville Public Schools has a middle school Equestrian Team, coached by Sharon Hall, that competes each June, and accepts students from grades 5-8. The Equestrian Team may be found @ NorthvilleEqTeam on Instagram and Facebook.

Feeling the Freeze in Iceland

Northville’s Bryan and Megan Kutz traveled to Iceland this summer, where they experienced hiking to glaciers, walking the black sand beaches and exploring many of the waterfalls. Here Bryan and Megan, who is a teacher at Northville High School, hold their copy of The ‘Ville with some ice bergs in the background. “It was a beautiful country,” Bryan said.

Paris in the Summer

The Delonis family of Northville traveled to Paris, France this summer, where they were able to take in all the famous landmarks. Here siblings Lillian and Robert Delonis hold their copy of The ‘Ville near the Eiffel Tower.

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.

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Channeling The Past

Scenes from the 2025 Victorian Festival

Photos By Sean Power

3rd grader Matthew Kneifel walks in the parade.

Shiela Sigro, the Miss Wayne County Pageant Director, stands with reigning Miss Wayne County Ameera Hashwi, the first woman to ever take the crown while wearing a hijab.

The NHS marching band walks in the Victorian Parade.

Ms. Georgoff's 3rd graders from Silver Springs pose for a photo at Mill Race Village.

A young volunteer can't stop laughing as Ming the Magician attempts to charm a stubborn snake. Ming performed his comedy/ magic act at Mill Race Village.

A group of 3rd grade girls cheer the arrival of another friend at the Victorian Parade staging area.

The Shawn Riley Band performed in Town Square.

A Greenfield Village Lah-De-Dah "striker" swings at an incoming pitch. The hometown Northville Eclipse Base Ball Club would ultimately win the rainsoaked game at Ford Field Park. Volunteers get ready to start the duck race at Mill Race.

Mayor Brian Turnbull gives a thumbs up.

The TrebleMakers and BackBeat (the NHS choir a capella groups) perform a song together at Mill Race.

Living Out His Dream

Judge John MacDonald remembered as a fair jurist, pillar of his church

By Brad Kadrich

When Carol Richardson first went to work for John MacDonald in his first law office in Wayne in 1977, she may not have thought it was a career-making decision.

But when MacDonald, who had by then been elected as a judge in 35th District Court in Plymouth, retired in 2008, there was Richardson, right by his side.

It was the man, not the career, that had Richardson in a reflective move after MacDonald passed away late last month.

“I am deeply saddened by his passing,” said Richardson,

MacDonald’s longtime court reporter. “I was trying to get up to see him … but I found out he’d taken a fall and was in rehab … so I didn’t get to see him before he passed.”

Judge MacDonald, who had moved to Holland, Mich. in recent years, died Sept. 28 at the age of 90. He was born on December 18, 1934 in Flint, the son of Raymond and Frances (Finch) MacDonald.

MacDonald met the love of his life, Ann Woodruff, on Mackinac Island where they both worked during their summer breaks from college. They married in June 1958,

and shared 59 years of loving devotion until her passing in October 2017.

He resided in Detroit and Livonia before establishing his home in Northville in 1969, where he devoted many years to the community. In 2018, he moved to Holland.

He was a devoted member of Ward Presbyterian Church, where he faithfully served as both elder and deacon. John’s strong faith was central to his life, and his commitment to helping others was a reflection of his deep devotion to God.

Scott McKee, the senior pastor at Ward Presbyterian, called MacDonald “a pillar” of the church.

“He was very wise and peacefilled, and a great asset to the church,” said McKee, the senior pastor at Ward since 2009. “He was a dedicated judge … and he also honored a higher law. He really cared about people.”

MacDonald was a graduate of Mackenzie High School, Class of 1952, serving as class president. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Michigan before attending Wayne State University Law School, where he received his Juris Doctorate degree. He had been a member of the Michigan State Bar since 1961.

MacDonald began his legal career with Tinkham & Snyder Law Firm in Wayne, where he devoted countless hours to building his practice and earning the respect of his peers. He was named partner which was a true testament to his dedication and skill.

In 1984, while serving as Northville Township Supervisor, MacDonald decided to run for judge in 35th District Court, where he would serve for 24 years, including 18 years as

Chief Judge.

It was his dream, according to Richadson, who moved with him to the courthouse, which oversees the cities of Plymouth and Northville, and Plymouth, Canton and Northville townships.

“He wanted to be involved in the community, and this gave him five communities to be

involved with,” Richardson said. “There are so many memories, but my favorite will always be the day he took the bench in 1985. He was so excited. He wanted to listen to defendants and to his civil cases, and he wanted to be fair. That’s a memory I’ll never forget.”

Richardson said MacDonald and her mother, both born in 1934, were also close. They used to banter back and forth about who was older.

“He always teased her that she was older, because he was born in June,” Richardson recalled. “He was like a second dad to me.”

Although he retired in 2009, he continued to serve as a substitute judge until the age of 82.

Judge Mike Gerou joined the 35th District Court when the

Carol Richardson and John MacDonald during a recent visit. Richardson was MacDonald’s longtime 35th District Court reporter.

John MacDonald served as judge in the 35th District Court for 24 years.

Michigan Legislature approved the addition of a third judge for the court, which is still the case today. Gerou was elected and took the bench on January 1, 2003.

The third judge was something MacDonald got behind. Gerou said there’d been a “slight dip” in the court’s caseload right before the third judge was added that had judges a little nervous.

“(MacDonald) was definitely in favor of it,” he said. “Back then Canton was largely

When he was elected in 2002, Gerou asked various judges, including MacDonald, if he could sit in their courtroom and observe.

He said he learned from every one of them, but remembers a lesson he learned from MacDonald that he still keeps with him to this day.

“He told me it’s hard to put people in jail, but if you feel that somebody needs a jail sanction, he was a firm believer to only give him nine days in jail, which really means one week,”

He was very wise and peace-filled, and a great asset to the church. He was a dedicated judge … and he also honored a higher law. He really cared about people.

SCOTT McKEE, the senior pastor at Ward Presbyterian, describing John MacDonald, who he called “a pillar” of the church

farmland, and Plymouth and Northville weren’t built out yet. Everybody just assumed that the caseload would continue to grow and grow. (MacDonald) definitely wanted the third judgeship.”

Gerou remembers MacDonald as a good jurist who would listen to the people who came before him.

“John listened well,” Gerou said. “He was respectful. He didn’t lose his temper. He was firm. I think those were all good traits.”

Gerou recalled. “He said most people hate going to jail. You give them a taste of one week in jail, and they learn from it and they make better choices going forward. And that’s something I’ve carried with me all along.”

MacDonald was a member and past President of the Wayne Kiwanis Club, as well as a past member of the Wayne Chamber of Commerce. His civic involvement included service as a Northville Township Trustee and Supervisor.

Within his profession, he

served as President of the Livonia Bar Association and was an active member of the Wayne County District Judges Association.

MacDonald is survived by his children, Thomas (Karen) MacDonald, David (Lori) MacDonald, and Susan (Michael) Magante; his brother, James (Jan) MacDonald; his sister, Julia (the late John) Roberts; his grandchildren, Anne (Danny) O’Connor, John

(Maddy Lyons) MacDonald II, Sharon (Michael) Marchbanks, Michael MacDonald, Thomas MacDonald, and David Magante; and his great grandchildren, Everett, Louise, Blair, and Morgan. He was preceded in death by his parents and his wife.

A funeral service was scheduled for Oct. 13 at Casterline Funeral Home, in Northville. He will be laid to rest at Rural Hill Cemetery.

John MacDonald at his home in Holland, Mich. He died Sept. 28 at the age of 90.

out & about out & about out & about

YOUR GUIDE TO WHAT’S HAPPENING IN NORTHVILLE THIS MONTH

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

Halloween Spooktacular

Oct. 22

Dress in your best costume and join Northville Parks and Recreation for this spooky event for all ages from 5-7 p.m. at the Northville Community Center. There will be plenty of activities for all the little ghouls to enjoy, including crafts, a spooky maze, dancing, cider and donuts, and more. For more information visit www. northvilleparksandrec.org

Coffee Connection

Oct. 22

Join city and chamber of commerce leaders from 8-9 a.m. at the Northville District Library, and learn about the latest Northville news. Register online or RSVP to maddy@northville.org.

Pumpkin Give-A-Way

Oct. 25

Remerica Hometown One will host their 36th annual Pumpkin Give-a-way from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The public is invited to stop by the office at 44785 Five Mile Road and pick out a free pumpkin. The event will also feature cider and donuts, face painting, balloons and other Halloween-themed activities. For more information, visit www. pattimullen.com.

The Mysterious and Macabre

Oct. 29

The Northville Art House will present The Mysterious and Macabre in Art History from 6-7 p.m. at the Northville District Library. Shannon Karol will present. For more information, visit www.northvillearthouse.org.

Music Bingo Halloween Edition

Oct. 30

Join Northville Senior Services for Golden Oldies Bingo with a Halloween Twist from 1-2:30 p.m. at the Community Center. The event will

Library Community Forum

The Northville District Library (NDL) Board of Trustees and Library Director Laura Mancini will host a forum, the second of two this fall, on Nov. 10 to help plan for the library’s future. The forum, which runs from 7-8:30 p.m. at Northville Township Hall (44405 Six Mile Road), will include a presentation on the current and anticipated challenges related to the NDL’s location, space, and layout; and the options the Board has identified for addressing those challenges. Each forum will include a moderated question and answer period, as well as time for public comment.

“The board has made no decisions about the future of the NDL’s space and location,” Mancini said. “Over the past five years the board has engaged in extensive information gathering. Some of the due diligence undertaken includes a community survey conducted as part of the most recent strategic planning process, a space planning study performed by library architecture firm Quinn Evans, and research from Plante Moran Realpoint commercial real estate advisors. It is time to present these findings to the community for their education, and to seek feedback on the options thus far identified by the Board. We look forward to hearing from our patrons.”

For more information, visit www.northvillelibrary.org or call (248) 349-3020.

feature classic tunes from the past that will have everyone singing along, laughing, and making memories. Enjoy festive fun, light refreshments, and a chance to win while celebrating the season with friends. Cost is $8 for residents and $10 for non-residents. To register, visit https://npar. info/4pUIzB7.

Mini Monster Mash

Oct. 31

Northville Public Library will host this “spooktacular” dance party followed

by Trick-or-Treating in the Library, from 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. The event is for ages up to 5 years old with a caring adult. Costumes are encouraged. To register, visit www.northvillelibrary.org.

History Tree Documentary Screening

Nov. 6

Join Northville Tree Champions for a screening of the History Tree Documentary from 7-8 p.m. at Northville City Hall. You’ll learn about how the tree carving in the city park behind the library and City Hall came to be, the community groups and leaders involved, and meet the young filmmaker/ Northville High School student who produced it. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion.

The Little Prince Nov. 20-22

The Northville High School drama students will perform The Little Prince, Nov. 20-22. The Little Prince offers many touching lessons about listening to your heart, appreciating the simple things, nipping problems in the bud, keeping an open mind, and more.  There are four opportunities to see the show: 7 p.m. on Nov. 20-22, plus a 2 p.m. matinee on Nov. 22. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for seniors and students, and are available at the door and online at NHStheater.Ludus.com.

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Members of the Northville District Library Board of Trustees: (from left) Joseph Corriveau, Jennifer Gustafson, Deborah Stanifer, Karren Yurgalite, Carol Doyle, Alan Somershoe and Nicholas Vlisides. Courtesy of the NDL

BY ROBERT HAWLMARK

BY CARY GITTER

BULLETIN BOARD BULLETIN BOARD

Kunz Named Senior of the Year

At the Sept. 30 Old Timers Luncheon at Genitti’s, Northville Civic Concern director Marlene Kunz was named Northville Senior of the Year. The award recognized her many contributions to the community over the past decades, and her leadership with Civic Concern, which provides assistance to those in need in the community.

Pictured is Mayor Brian Turnbull reading a resolution recognizing Kunz. Photo by John C. Heider

Young Hero Winner

Northville High School student Srihan Sankepalle was recently named a 2025 Gloria Barron Prize for Young Heroes winner for developing a system to remove microplastics from water.

The Barron Prize annually honors 25 “outstanding young leaders” who have made a significant positive impact on people, their communities and the environment, according to a press release. Fifteen top winners each receive $10,000 to support their service work or higher education.

Singer Wins Contest, Session with Charlie Puth

Northville

native Ava Camaj was recently chosen out of over 130 submissions to be a finalist in a celebrity-driven songwriting campaign in partnership with BIC. She won the contest with her song “Make Me Whole.”

After being selected, Camaj was flown to New York City to perform her song in front of singer/songwriter Charlie Puth, and receive a $10,000 check from BIC to further her creative career.

The songwriting contest, dubbed INKubator, challenged consumers and brand fans to ignite that creative spark we all have within us. Camaj’s song stood out for its thoughtful composition as well as through her powerful voice, which she often shares at local venues in Northville. Her song was inspired by her closeknit community and the songs sung at her local church. Ava ultimately won the contest, winning a one-hour private mentorship session with Puth.

Camaj said she dreams of one day performing at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. Studying music production at University of Cincinnati’s Conservatory of Music, she plans to use her winnings to help pay for school.

You can find her on Instagram at www.instagram.com/avagrace.music.

Voyager Scholar Winner

Northville High School alum and current Michigan State University student Ashlin Stover has been selected as MSU’s first recipient of the Voyager Scholarship through the MSU Honors College.

Sankepalle, a junior at Northville High School, said his system involves coating a biodegradable piece of foam with nanoparticles called titanium dioxide. He said that when ultraviolet light from the sun hits the particles, they release other particles called hydroxyl radicals and superoxide anions. He said the particles will slowly degrade plastic.

Congratulations Srihan!

Stover is a thirdyear student in MSU’s James Madison College, majoring in international relations while minoring in business and European studies. She is a laboratory leader in the Human Rights Data Science Lab, an undergraduate project investigating and documenting human rights violations, threats to international security, and war crimes.

The Voyager Scholarship, created by the Obamas with the CEO and co-founder of Airbnb, provides up to $50,000 in financial aid, a 10-year travel stipend, and $10,000 with free Airbnb housing to pursue a summer work-travel experience.

Northville native Ava Camaj (left) performs her winning song in New York City.

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Maybury’s long-awaited non-motorized entrance opens on Seven Mile

By Tim Smith

It took many months and plenty of heavy lifting from Friends of Maybury. But finally, all roads – and entrances – safely lead to Maybury State Park.

With about $300,000 in donations, largely through the fundraising efforts of Friends of Maybury, a non-motorized entrance along the park’s southern border opened on

New Maybury viewfinders REALLY bring out the colors

Not everybody can see the forest from the trees, let alone the sharp and spectacular views contained therein.

In fact, one out of every dozen men are suffering from red-green color blindness, totaling three million in the United States alone who can’t see what too many sometimes take for granted.

It is for that reason that Friends of Maybury purchased two EnChroma Viewfinders for the state park located in Northville Township.

“Men are missing a chromosome,” said Joe Wrobel, president of Friends of Maybury which spearheaded a fundraising effort to help raise money needed for purchase and installation of the viewfinders – a tab of nearly $9,000. “It’s amazing how many people, since starting the project, tell me they are color blind. Some people are color blind but don’t even know it.”

One look into the apparatus will give people the chance to finally and fully experience the fall colors.

Sept. 17.

At the new entry point, along Seven Mile Road between Grande Vista Drive and Honeytree Lane, a HAWK beacon signal is up and running for pedestrians and bicyclists.

Those looking to enter the state park from the entrance simply press a button and cross Seven Mile, a Wayne County controlled road, before the 15-second period expires.

HAWK is an acronym for “high-intensity activated crosswalk beacon.” The device was essential for the Wayne County commission to grant a right-of-way permit required for the project to proceed.

“When you press the button, it starts the yellow flashing for motorists and then it turns to a solid red,” said Barb Krizman, treasurer for the non-profit Friends of Maybury.

Krizman added that the

“The big draw is this allows them to see the fall colors, that would otherwise appear as grays to them,” said Kale Leftwich, supervisor of Maybury State Park, where one of the viewfinders is stationed a short walk from headquarters in Bluebird Meadow. “We had them installed in April, but we thought it would be better to wait and try to get some media exposure in the fall, because of the fall colors.”

The second viewfinder is located at Maybury Pond, on the southeast side of the fishing hole on the boardwalk near trail marker No. 8.

At the Sept. 13 ribbon-cutting ceremony, the EnChroma Viewfinders were ready for use and Friends of Maybury co-founder and original secretary Bill McKnight – who is one of those with red-green color blindness – peered through the magnifying device, trained on the Bluebird Meadow stand of trees

community had been firmly behind such an entrance becoming reality, and on Sept. 17 (the day the HAWK officially was turned on) she estimated there were about 1,200 views on Friends of Maybury’s Instagram page.

“I think it was the number one requested item by the public,” said Joe Wrobel, president of Friends of Maybury. “I think it’s going to be a great addition once the sidewalks are completed down Seven Mile.”

Wrobel said the reaction has been very positive, with motorists honking horns and “giving thumbs up” when arriving at the HAWK location.

The entrance will enable many residents who live between Six Mile and Seven Mile roads an opportunity to walk or bike over to Maybury, instead of driving around to the

several hundred yards away.

“He (McKnight) was the first secretary of Friends of Maybury and commented ‘That’s what red looks like’,” said Barb Krizman, treasurer of the group.

The commitment by Friends of Maybury was a main catalyst for getting the project done, with a $2,000 grant and a sizeable private donation crucial to getting the viewfinders in place for community members to experience.

“They reached out to those donors and made it happen,” Leftwich said. “Park staff had to just pick two pretty spots. I got a beautiful view of this tree line right here at Bluebird Meadow behind headquarters. And then the pond is a beautiful view as well.

“And for able-sighted folks, it doesn’t change the view at all. But it still zooms in. So, for anyone else, it’s a great wildlife viewer, they can go and look for birds in trees.”

-- By Tim Smith

Maybury State Park’s new non-motorized access on Seven Mile. Photos courtesy of Friends of Maybury

Bill McKnight tries out one of the new EnChroma Viewfinders at Maybury.

park’s main entrance on Eight Mile Road.

One of the problems encountered in recent years, noted Wrobel, was “people just throwing their bikes over the fence and we had some police issues, damage to different parts of the park. This should help alleviate that and just make it a more enjoyable park experience for everybody.”

Concurring was Maybury State Park Supervisor Kale Leftwich, who reiterated how important improving access was in getting the entrance over the finish line. This year the park has seen about one million visitors to date; the HAWK signal should entice more to make the short trip over. Although the park does not charge an admission fee, those who drive to Maybury must have a $19 annual vehicular pass.

“I think the Seven Mile (entrance) will definitely boost attendance,” Leftwich said. “More importantly, it’s going to show our commitment to the community that we’re trying to stay on top of recreation trends, that we’re committed to making sure people can get into our park and utilize our park.”

Friends of Maybury conducted two community fundraising efforts dating back to 2022 in order to help pay for the entrance and HAWK signal. Those efforts followed a 2019 review of the park management plan, with much community input, Leftwich explained.

The total project came in at just under $320,000, Krizman said, with “a very large donor” key to hitting the fundraising target. Other community members also chipped in.

An official “opening ceremony” for the entrance is being planned for spring 2026, Leftwich said.

For now, Leftwich stressed the importance of people becoming educated about the HAWK signal and also about what motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians ought to keep top of mind.

That process might take a little more time along with prodding from regional and local law enforcement. Both the Wayne County Sheriff’s Department and Northville

Township Police are aware of potential issues at the location.

“They’ve shared it on their social media to let the community know there’s a new light there,” Leftwich continued. “We have had some complaints from the public that some folks are apparently not stopping. Maybe they’re not used to a signal being there. We’re hoping that through these education efforts and some police presence that we can continue to get a little bit better.”

New Non-Motorized Entrance

ODishin’ 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.

Changing Seasons and Home Comings

ctober is traditionally the month of changing seasons and colors, and pleasures of the new TV seasons and homecoming-dances and literal home-comings. I don’t mind change. Which is fortunate, because as you get older you sure see a lot of it.

When I started writing Dishin’ my intention was to be the Page Six from the New York Post – spotlighting celebrities amongst us. Well… this month I had the pleasure of attending the Academy Award winning Saturday, 5 o’clock mass at OLV when they dedicated the new organ. Music director, Johnny Kash assembled a group of horns and voices, as they say, “to beat the band”.

Fr. Denis Theroux delivered a sermon about the historic parable about “faith – the size of a mustard seed.” It was the parish feast day, and he shared the history. In the 1800s there was not necessarily a need for a Catholic church in this area. Only 20 people showed up for the first Mass. Recently the

Archdiocese of Detroit showed records of more than 3,200 families registered at OLV –making it one of the largest parishes in the diocese. My, how times have changed for ‘ye of little faith.’

Mass was followed by an organ concert featuring one of the most sought-after organists of her generation – Dariia Lytvishko. Dariia was born in the Ukraine, and recently moved to Vienna. She has performed in renowned churches and major festivals – among them Westminster Abbey, the Protestant Temple Oratoire du Louvre in Paris, concert tours in Germany, Austria, Italy, Monaco, Spain, Poland – and her debut album is scheduled for release this month (move over Taylor Swift). The nine-piece program included songs that entertained and inspired. I was astounded at the agility (and athleticism) it takes to play an organ.

The layers of keys from top to toe – the ability to move and cross your hands – and feet – in such a rhythmic pattern while concentrating on notes. She shared a secret – winking at her tablet to turn electronic pages. (Speaking of changes…) One of the songs was composed by Ms. Lytvishko’s boyfriend, “Good Year Anthem”. He spends time in Ukraine, the country at war. She

told the audience for many it is scary – but to get through, folks must be “grateful for the small things.” Fr. Denis assured her we were grateful to have her and offered thoughts and prayers until we can all be at peace. In the audience were many of Northville’s long-time residents (local celebs) – the Stockhausens, Woodsums, Ferraras, D’Avanzos, to name a few. After the concert, Dariia graciously signed autographs and offered encouragement to piano students and young vocalists, like sisters Claire and Emma.

When it comes to homecoming…sometimes it’s a new home ‘to come home to’ that makes life easier and more manageable. Senior living has changed over the years. Recently my team at Preservation Dental had the opportunity to remind folks at Willow Pines how important healthy teeth are to eat, talk, smile. Willow Pines is part of Resort Lifestyle Community, a family-owned company, established more than 20 years ago. The all-inclusive Willow Pines, located in Northville Township, is designed for 55+ looking for comfort, safety and

enjoyment. Every location is staffed with live-in managers, a 24/7 emergency alert system, concierge service, gourmet chefs and more. Erin Maten is the Lifestyle Director: “I started when Willow Pines opened in Northville…it is the most rewarding career,” she said. “Each of the residents brings so much joy to my own life. It’s easy to give them an exciting, well-balanced life for their mind, body and spirit.”

I don’t mind saying the older I get, the happier I am… maybe because of the people around me. I’ve learned I don’t want to take anything for granted. As I sign off, I want to offer heartfelt congratulations to Rachelle Vartanian celebrating 10 years of owning and operating the Living and Learning Enrichment Center – what a difference she has made to so many! Where did the ten years go? And kudos to Dennis Engerer for 40 years of Northville Physical Rehabilitation. He puts a whole new spin on keeping in shape… just check out his billboards (by Guernsey on Novi Road). They always make me laugh, and laughter is the best medicine –that will never change.

Organist Dariia Lytvishko and OLV Music Director Johnny Kash

Rachelle Vartanian of the Living and Learning Enrichment Center.

Mary Scanlon (from left), Renee Panther, Avery Rentz, Rebecca DiAngelo, and Linda Wilkinson visit Willow Pines.

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