Voters to decide fate of county bus system Aug. 4

All Wayne County residents will be asked to approve a proposed millage to fund county-wide transportation services on the Aug. 4 ballot.

Property owners in 17 communities which do not use the SMART (Suburban Mobility for Regional Transportation) services will be asked to approve a millage to fund the service. Locally, Belleville, Canton Township, Northville and Northville Township, Plymouth and Plymouth Township and Sumpter Township which have opted out of the service will be asked to approve a new millage to fund public transportation services in the county. Currently, 26 other communities in the county do use the SMART service, including Inkster, Romulus, Wayne and Westland. Communities using the current service would not see a tax increase if the Aug. 4 ballot proposal is approved.

The ballot question would allow the county to levy up to a maximum rate of just under 1 mill, or 0.9831 mills, which translates to $0.98 cents per $1,000 of taxable value for a 10-year term. The tax would become effective during the 2026 tax year and remain in place until 2035. Estimates are the new millage would cost the owner of a $100,000 home about $8 annually, or $80 for the course of the levy. Approval of the millage would extend the tax in communities which currently use the service and levy a new tax in those who previously opted out of the service. 

Last year, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed a bill ending the ability of Wayne County communities to opt out of funding SMART.

The proposed transit millage prompted a group of Wayne County residents to file a lawsuit claiming a lack of transparency surrounding the question and opposing the tax as too costly. The court filings claim that the members of the Wayne County Transit Authority approved the language for the August primary ballot during a secret March meeting that was not properly publicly posted. The court filing also alleges the ballot language is designed to “confuse voters.” 

County officials deny those claims and say the meeting was posted in accordance with the law and that the language was approved by county election officials.

Supporters of the millage claim the funding would close service gaps for communities without SMART service. They claim the funding would allow for expanded services connecting area communities and providing an affordable option for seniors and those with disabilities.

SMART General Manager and CEO Tiffany Gunter said the millage, if approved, would allow for continue existing service and add service in the communities which previously opted out of the service. If approved, SMART would add eight new routes, five new route extensions and on-demand service over the course of approximately three years, though that depends on being able to get new vehicles to provide additional service, Gunter said.

Smaller transit providers funded through SMART, such as Nankin Transit, which serves seniors, would get additional money as well to shore up services, Gunter added.

Gone fishin’

Sumpter Fishing Derby ‘reels in’ huge crowd of young anglers

The 2026 Sumpter Township Kids Fishing Derby drew a crowd of 500 children and adults to Banotai Park last Saturday for a morning full of fun and, of course, fishing.

Organized by the Township Parks and Recreation Department, junior anglers from ages 8 to 17 were welcome to compete for nine awards including the largest and smallest fish in each of three age groups and the most fish caught for each age group. Multiple awards and prizes were awarded at noon.

The biggest fish of the day measured an impressive 16.5 inches and was caught by an 11-year-old angler.

Those younger than 15 had to have a parent accompany them at the derby. Rules allowed adults to assist children with activities, but the youngster had to be the one to hook and reel in the fish to receive credit for the catch.

The free event didn’t require a fishing license as it aligned with the Michigan Free Fishing Weekend across the state.

The Wayne County Fishing Derby set for the same date at Waterford Bend Park in Northville was cancelled due to high water conditions. That annual event is sponsored in cooperation with the Vietnam Veterans of America, Plymouth/Canton Chapter 528.

33^rd Annual Canton Liberty Fest begins 3-day celebration today

The three-day Annual Canton Liberty Fest will fill Heritage Park tomorrow, Friday and Saturday with live entertainment, carnival rides and midway games, arts and crafts, festival food, and beer garden, as well as the Annual Liberty Run, a car show, and even more family friendly festivities for all ages.

The festival carnival and midway areas will open at 10 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. each evening

This year’s presenting sponsor is Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers. Additional sponsors include Boost Mobile, IKEA, LeafFilter, Schoolcraft College, State Farm, Trinity Health IHA Medical Group, and WeatherGard.

Festival visitors can enjoy the lineup of carnival rides, games, and special attractions and the special Family Zone.

As always, parking and admission to festival grounds are free.  Designated sensory hours will take place daily, designed for guests who are sensitive to loud noises and flashing lights. This year sensory hours will be offered daily from 10 a.m. to noon.

Hydration stations will be available throughout the park to help festivalgoers cool off. Visitors are encouraged to bring a refillable water bottle.

The Canton Liberty Fest mobile app for Apple and Android users is available and information regarding entertainment schedules and performer information and Carnival Zone details is available. 

Event organizers strongly discourage visitors from bringing pets onto festival grounds.  However, dogs attending the festival must remain leashed, be under their owner’s control.

Festivalgoers are reminded that all bikes must be parked in a bike corral.  For more information, visit www.cantonlibertyfest.org or call (734) 394-5360.

Old Glory

Romulus celebrates annual Flag Day

The traditional Flag Day ceremony in Romulus took place last week at the Pavilion at the Romulus Historical Park.

Roberto J. Scappaticci, director of Romulus Public Services and Works, acted as emcee during the memorial ceremony and City Clerk Ellen Craig Bragg sang the national anthem. The memorial event was attended by a crowd of residents and several city officials and also featured the Romulus VFW Post 78 Color Guard. The annual celebration of the official adoption of the American flag by the Second Continental Congress in 1777 is a long standing tradition in Romulus.

Nationally, Flag Day also honors the flag as a unifying emblem of freedom and national identity and also marks the birthday of the U.S. Army. Congress approved the first Flag Act June 14, 177 stating the flag would have 13 alternating red and white stripes and 13 white stars on a blue field. The national celebration of the flag began in 1916 under President Woodrow Wilson. In 1949, President Harry S. Truman signed an Act of Congress making National Flag Day an official, permanent observance although it is not a federal holiday.

Romulus Community Schools and the City of Romulus also marked the occasion by encouraging all residents and staff to fly the American flag proudly from their homes to honor those who have served in the military.

Barricaded man surrenders to police

A Van Buren Township man who barricaded himself and two hostages in his home remains hospitalized pending medical examination.

The incident began at about 4 p.m. Monday, June 15, when Canton Police Department dispatchers received a call reporting a driver, armed with a gun, heading into Canton with the possible intent of harming himself or others. When located by a Canton officer, the driver refused to comply with the officer’s attempts to stop the suspect’s vehicle.

Police said a short pursuit led to the driver’s residence in the 6000 block of Sandalwood in Van Buren Township. The suspect ran into the home and barricaded himself inside, taking two family members as hostages, according to police reports. Officers from Canton and Van Buren Township responded and secured the scene around the residence. After approximately one hour of negotiations, members of the Canton Crisis Negotiation Team were able to convince the suspect to release the hostages, both physically unharmed.

The Western Wayne County Special Operations Team also responded and provided assistance with additional tactical officers, along with officers from the City of Wayne Police Department and the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, police said.

The suspect surrendered himself into police custody at 8 p.m. He was transported to a local hospital for a medical evaluation.

An investigation report will be submitted to the office of the Wayne County Prosecutor for a review and determination of charges, police said.

On the air

Rotary Foundation funds student-run radio station

The Plymouth Rotary Foundation recently awarded a $200,000 check to the Plymouth Canton Community School District and WSDP Radio, after the student-run and operated station successfully met the Rotary Challenge Grant for a total project value of more than $500,000. WSDP Radio, an award-winning student station, plays a vital role in preparing students for careers in broadcasting and other industries, a Rotary spokesman said. The station Amplification Capital Campaign, made possible by the Rotary grant, will renovate existing space into a cutting-edge broadcasting facility. Among those celebrating the grant were student station members, Superintendent of Plymouth Canton Schools Monica Merrit, Rotary Foundation Board members and retiring Station Manager Bill Keith.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

 

Juneteenth celebrated in Romulus Saturday

A community celebration of Juneteenth is set for noon until 5 p.m. this Saturday, June 20, at Romulus Historical Park, 11120 Hunt St..

Vendors, food, and entertainment are planned during the event.

For more information, contact the Romulus City Clerk’s office at (734) 942-7540 or email clerk@romulusgov.com.

 

Trailwood Garden Walk tickets now on sale

The Trailwood Garden Club Garden Walk will take place from 11 a.m. until 7p.m. Tuesday, June 23

Five home gardens throughout Plymouth and nearby neighborhoods—will be on display.  Advance tickets priced at $12 are on sale at several downtown shops including Sideways, Specialty Pet Supplies, Wild Rose Boutique, and Vitrine.

Tickets are priced at $15 the day of the event. For more information, visit trailwoodgardenclub.com

 

Blood Drive planned

A Red Cross Blood Drive to help meet the critical shortage of donations is set for 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 7 at the Plymouth Cultural Center at 525 Farmer in Plymouth.

To schedule an appointment visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter sponsor code: plymouth.com or call 1-800-733 2767.

 

Farmers Markets are open

The Northville Farmers Market will open from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. each Thursday through Oct. 29.

The market takes place at 550 Seven Mile Road.

The Canton Farmers Market is open Sundays offering weekly access to fresh food, local goods and family-friendly activities at Preservation Park. Located at 500 N. Ridge Road. The market runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on most Sundays through Oct. 11, rain or shine.

Red Cross declares blood shortage emergency

The American Red Cross is urgently calling for blood and platelet donations ahead of the “100 Deadliest Days” of summer after a sharp drop in donations caused the national blood supply to fall by several thousand units in just one week.

A representative from the Red Cross recently told members of the Plymouth Noon Rotary Club that scheduled donations  which account for about 90 percent of all blood donations, have declined significantly in recent weeks as the country enters the dangerous stretch between Memorial Day and Labor Day commonly referred to as the “100 Deadliest Days.” 

According to AAA, fatal crashes involving teen drivers rise by 30 percent during this period. The summer months often bring an increase in severe injuries caused by car crashes, ATV accidents, sports injuries and other seasonal activities, the Red Cross spokesman said.

“A single person injured in a serious car accident can require up to 100 units of blood,” she added.

“For a person suffering from severe bleeding — and the emergency medical responders caring for them — stopping the bleeding and stabilizing them is a race against an unforgiving clock,” said Dr. Emily Coberly, medical director for the Red Cross. “Every minute matters.”

Coberly said the risk of death increases by 11 percent for every minute a patient experiencing hemorrhagic shock goes without a blood transfusion.

The nonprofit said summer travel, school breaks, extreme heat and severe weather can all disrupt blood drives and make it harder to maintain a stable blood supply during one of the busiest trauma periods of the year.

A blood drive is planned from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. July 7 at the Plymouth Cultural Center, located at 525 Farmer.
Donors can schedule an appointment through RedCross Blood.org and enter sponsor code plymouth.com or call 1-800-Red Cross (1-800-733 2767). Streamline donation time by visiting RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass to complete a pre-donation reading and health history question.

To be eligible to donate, individuals must be in good health and feeling well and must be at least 26 years old and weigh at least 110 pounds.

Donations can be made every 56 days, up to six times each year.

While all blood types are needed, the Red Cross is urgently seeking donors with type O, A negative and B negative blood. O positive, the most frequently transfused type, is compatible with 85 percent of patients, while O negative, the universal blood type, is critical in emergencies. B negative, found in less than 2 percent of the population, and A negative, found in only 6 percent, are both rare and essential because patients with these blood types can only receive transfusions from donors with the same type or O negative blood.

Celebrating liberty

33^rd Annual Canton festival set for next Thursday , Friday, Saturday

The 33rd Annual Canton Liberty Fest will take over Heritage Park from June 18-20, offering exciting live entertainment, carnival rides and midway games, arts and crafts, festival food, and beer garden, as well as the Annual Liberty Run, a car show, and even more family friendly festivities for all ages.

Beginning this year, the festival carnival and midway areas will implement significant changes, including earlier start times daily at 10 a.m. and closing at 8 p.m. each evening.  In addition, Canton’s community fireworks will now take place on Thursday, July 9, during the special event, “Canton Ignites the Night”, which is an “America 250” celebration marking the 250^th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

This year’s presenting sponsor is Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers. Additional sponsors include Boost Mobile, IKEA, LeafFilter, Schoolcraft College, State Farm, Trinity Health IHA Medical Group, and WeatherGard.

Festival visitors can enjoy the lineup of carnival rides, games, and special attractions and the special Family Zone.

To enhance safety and crowd management, the entire carnival area will be fully fenced, with two entrances. To access this area, guests must present a valid wristband, mega band, or ride ticket.  Parents or responsible adults attending with their minor child are not required to have a wristband, mega band, or ride tickets (unless they are going on the rides, as well). Bag checks will be performed only at the carnival entry areas. Although not required, attendees with clear bags may experience quicker inspection for entry. These safety protocols and adjusted hours are intended to enhance Liberty Fest’s family-friendly atmosphere while prioritizing the safety and comfort of attendees, volunteers, performers, and staff.

As always, parking and admission to festival grounds are free.  Designated sensory hours will take place daily, designed for guests who are sensitive to loud noises and flashing lights. This year sensory hours will be offered daily from 10 a.m. to noon.

Hydration stations will be available throughout the park to help festivalgoers cool off. Visitors are encouraged to bring a refillable water bottle. KultureCity sensory-friendly Rest & Relax Tents will also be available on the north side of Heritage Park, providing a safe space for those with sensory challenges to rest.  In addition, Parent Tents will be available to serve as changing or feeding tents with furniture sponsored by IKEA.

The Canton Liberty Fest mobile app for Apple and Android users will also be available prior to the event.  The app will allow festivalgoers to access everything about the event, including entertainment schedules and performer information, Carnival Zone details, and festival food and drink information.  Users will also receive news and updates during the three-day festival.  

Event organizers strongly discourage visitors from bringing pets onto festival grounds.  However, dogs attending the festival must remain leashed, be under their owner’s control, and behave well at all times. Due to the large crowds and significant traffic congestion expected during Liberty Fest, there will be no designated drop-off or pick-up location within Heritage Park.

“We strongly encourage all festival attendees to plan ahead and coordinate drop-offs and pick-ups at locations outside of the park. Identifying a safe and convenient meeting spot in advance will help ensure a smoother experience for everyone,” organizers said.

Festivalgoers are reminded that all bikes must be parked in a bike corral.  For more information, visit www.cantonlibertyfest.org or call (734) 394-5360.

Northville Township water rate hike to begin July 1

Northville Township Board of Trustees members have approved a 3 percent increase in water and sewer rates, effective July 1.

This will be the first rate increase for water and sewer services in a decade, a township spokesperson noted. “The proposed rate will return our customers to their 2016/2017 rates,” she added. The increase adds approximately $20 per year for an average user or about $1.70 per month for each homeowner. That’s about a nickel a day.”

Current water and sewer rates of $6.33/1,000 gallons of water and $4.94/1,000 gallons of sewer service will be increased to $6.50/1,000 gallons for water and $5.10/1,000 gallons for sewer service. The rates were rounded to the nearest $0.05 due to phase out of the penny, the spokesperson noted.

The increase was recommended to the board members following a rate survey completed by a third-party specialist in 2024. The increase will ensure adequate capital investments and reserves are maintained for our public infrastructure,” a prepared statement from the township noted.

“The 3 percent increase is less than the 5.62 percent increase the township will be paying for our wholesale water from GLWA (Great Lakes Water Authority), so Northville Township is absorbing some of the cost to assist residents,” the statement concluded. 

$11 million county drain project begins in Sumpter Township

Three Sumpter Township road crossings will be replaced as part of the $11 million infrastructural upgrade to the North Branch Big Swan Creek Intercounty Drain. The drain spans Monroe, Wayne and Washtenaw counties and is being managed by the Intercounty Drainage Board. The project is an effort to clear logjams, excavate open channels and replace failing infrastructure to reduce flooding along the 18.1 mile stretch of drain.

In Sumpter Township the Willis Road crossing, located approximately 1,500 feet west of Sumpter Road, was scheduled to be replaced beginning June 1, according to a notice from project managers.

Clean-up and channel maintenance are under way and upcoming work on the Willis Road crossings in Sumpter Township will require rolling detours and road closures, according to officials overseeing the project. The project is scheduled to continue until late fall

The total project cost is divided between Wayne County which is paying 80.5 percent of the cost;  Washtenaw County paying 15.75 percent, and Monroe County paying about 3.75 percent of the fees. Property owners within the drainage district are being assessed to fund the infrastructure repairs.  Assessments will be collected via winter tax bills, though many homeowners had the option to pay in full to avoid long-term bond interest, according to the drain project management.

For details on property assessments, project maps, and road closures, check the Sumpter Township North Branch Big Swan Page or the official updates from the Wayne County Treasurer.

Fired up

Student moving on to EMT classes

Sumpter Township firefighters were among those who helped Landon Hall, shown with his parents, celebrate his high school graduation last week.

Township fire department officials said Hall, “has already shown incredible dedication to the fire service, completing his Firefighter I & II certifications through Schoolcraft College during his junior and senior years—an outstanding accomplishment while still in high school.”

Hall will continue his emergency service journey by attending Wayne County Community College to earn his EMT certification, with the full support of township fire department officials. “His commitment, work ethic, and passion for serving others make him a tremendous asset to our team,” a spokesman noted.

On the trail

Nature area dedicated during ceremony

Canton Township hosted the official naming ceremony of the Zheshkwédokan Nature Area and celebrated National Trails & River Day last week. The ceremony featured a welcome by Canton Supervisor Anne Marie Graham-Hudak, a brief history of this land and the culture of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi, provided by culture keeper Madalene Big Bear and Representations Outreach Board Member Julie Dye, and dance performances with drum accompaniment. Members of the Friends of the Rouge were on hand to offer kayaking opportunities, and participants also enjoyed educational and other recreational activities during the afternoon event.

Granted

Westland Library receives program funds

The William P. Faust Westland Public Library has been awarded grant funding to help combat loneliness and social isolation among seniors in the community.

The funding comes through Molina Healthcare of Michigan as part of a larger statewide effort supporting libraries and senior-focused programs, officials said.

Library officials said the library will use the grant to create “Traveling Library” program kits designed for seniors who may face mobility challenges. The kits will include activities such as puzzles, bingo, trivia, crafts, and hands-on workshops aimed at keeping seniors socially engaged and mentally active.

Library staff also plan to bring programming directly into senior living communities throughout Westland.

“By bringing engaging, accessible programming directly to senior living communities, our Traveling Library Program kits will reduce isolation, foster meaningful social connection, and ensure all seniors—regardless of mobility—can benefit from lifelong learning opportunities,” said Katelin Smith of the library. “We thank Molina for making this initiative a reality.”

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

 

Romulus celebrates Flag Day

The Romulus VFW Post 78 Color Guard will present the colors during the celebration of Flag Day at 11 a.m. tomorrow, June 12 at Romulus Historical Park.

The event is a commemoration of the adoption of the United State Flag which occurred June 14, 1777. The park is located at 36095 Goddard Road in the city.

 

Festival ride tickets available

Canton Liberty Festival visitors can enjoy the lineup of carnival rides, games, and special attractions during the June 18, 19 and 20 events.

Single Day wristbands that allow all access for one day only to all the carnival rides are now on sale for $30 and can be used for any full day if purchased at www.cantonlibertyfest.org before 9 a.m. Thursday, June 18.

Mega Bands that are good for unlimited rides for all three days are priced at $100 and can only be purchased online before 9 a.m.  June 18.  All online sales require a per ticket fee. Wristbands will be available for purchase on-site (cash only) on Thursday for $35 or Friday and Saturday for $40. All sales are final.

For more information, call (734) 394-5360.

 

Farmers Markets are open

The Northville Farmers Market will open from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. each Thursday through Oct. 29.

The market takes place at 550 Seven Mile Road.

The Canton Farmers Market is open Sundays offering weekly access to fresh food, local goods and family-friendly activities at Preservation Park. Located at 500 N. Ridge Road, the market runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on most Sundays through Oct. 11, rain or shine.

Judge bans radioactive waste at local landfill

A Wayne County judge last week permanently banned the Wayne Disposal landfill in Van Buren Township from accepting radioactive waste.

Wayne County Circuit Court Judge Kevin Cox granted a permanent injunction prohibiting Defendant Wayne Disposal, Inc. (WDI) from accepting any TENORM (radioactive waste) from the Niagara Falls Storage Site in Lewiston, New York, and Formerly Utilized Sites Remedial Action Program material (FUSRAP) from any other site. His decision in a lawsuit filed Sept. 16, 2024 was issued May 27.

The suit was filed jointly by the City of Belleville, Canton Township, the City of Romulus, Van Buren Charter Township, and the Van Buren Township Fire Chief. On Oct. 3, Wayne County subsequently joined as an intervening plaintiff. The waste which prompted the lawsuit originated from a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site where it had been accepted and stored from 1944 until 1952. The waste was generated from the Manhattan Project, which developed atomic energy and weapons.

About 6,000 cubic yards of radioactive waste was scheduled to be transported to the Van Buren Township facility, prompting the local communities to file the lawsuit seeking to prohibit the federal disposal plan.

Cox’s written opinion addressed concerns regarding public health, environmental impact, transportation, and the proximity of the waste facility to residential neighborhoods, schools, waterways, and public infrastructure. Cox ruled that accepting the radioactive waste constitutes a public nuisance and poses irreparable harm, citing that “existing monitoring, engineering controls, and emergency readiness are insufficient for this volume of toxic waste.”

“Judge Cox’s ruling made it clear that the communities and citizens that fought against the disposal of any sort of atomic waste in a highly populated area contiguous to the Huron River watershed which feeds into the Great Lakes were right to be opposed to this foolish idea.  By fighting this issue, our communities made it clear that we would not quietly accept the importation of atomic waste in our backyard, which by its proximity to 21 percent of the world’s fresh water is in truth, everyone’s backyard.  We appreciate the efforts of everyone who stood together on this issue,” said Belleville Mayor Ken Voigt.

Evidence Cox cited in the ruling included data showing statistically significant increases in cancer rates near the Niagara Falls storage site; rising radiation levels at the perimeter of Wayne Disposal every year since the facility began accepting radioactive waste in 2017; lead detected in groundwater; allegations that Wayne Disposal manipulated monitoring thresholds and baselines at the site and testimony from area mayors noting declining property values and economic harm.

"We are absolutely overjoyed by this ruling. This victory belongs to the residents, Wayne County communities, and leaders who spoke up as one voice. It shows the incredible power we have when we stand up for our environment and our health. Safe fresh water is our legacy, and we will stay strong together to protect it." said Canton Supervisor Ann Marie Graham-Hudak. 

"The coalition expresses immense gratitude following Judge Cox’s favorable ruling. This outcome stands as a testament to the robust collaboration between Wayne County residents, local municipalities, and elected leadership. Moving forward, the group remains dedicated to protecting Michigan's freshwater infrastructure and ensuring long-term environmental safety." she continued.  

“This is an important moment for each of our communities and residents who worked tirelessly to make their voices heard,” stated Van Buren Township Supervisor Kevin McNamara. “I want to thank the hundreds of residents, community organizations, and neighboring communities who stood together throughout this process. Your advocacy, persistence, and commitment truly made a difference.”

McNamara also expressed appreciation for the efforts of community advocates, including Jeanine Rippey, Chris Donley, and members of Michigan Against Atomic Waste, as well as the many residents and organizations who supported the legal effort during the past several months.

“This victory reflects what can happen when communities come together and remain engaged,” McNamara added. “We are grateful to everyone who participated, attended meetings, shared concerns, and helped support this effort from beginning to end.” 

State Rep. Reggie Miller said her reaction to the decision was “pure joy.”

“This posed a real risk to public health and our environment, and this didn’t happen overnight. As you know, it happened because people spoke up, stayed engaged and refused to back down, Miller said.

Roman Blahoski, a spokesman for Republic Services, which owns Wayne Disposal, said the company disagrees with the court decision and will appeal. The landfill is a safe, well-managed facility specifically designed to handle such waste,” he said. “This ruling sets a troubling precedent that undermines protections afforded to interstate commerce and impedes site remediation,” he said.

A copy of the Court’s Final Opinion and Order is available through Wayne County Circuit Court records.

Family fun

Dominguez Circus appears at 33^rd Canton Liberty Festival

The 33^rd Annual Liberty Fest in Canton Township set for June 18-20, will offer an abundance of family entertainment including gravity defying motorcycle stunts and high wire acrobatic circus acts.

This year, the festival will feature performers from the Dominguez Attractions Circus, a renowned, third generation traveling big top. Hailing from Bogotá, Colombia, they are famous for their high-energy, death-defying stunts, including the legendary Globe of Death and high-wire acts including the Wheel of Danger.

As seen on America’s Got Talent and the NBA Half Time show, the Dominquez Family delivers entertainment for all ages.

A native of Bogotá, Colombia, Jorge Dominguez is a third-generation circus artist. He and his family came to the United States in 2004, where their “Globe of Death” act (motorcycles running together in a steel globe) was featured in the 132nd edition of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Alcira, Jorge’s wife, hails from Peruvian circus family with whom she came to the United States in 2006 to perform with Carson & Barnes Circus.
Circus performances are scheduled at noon, 3 and 6 p.m. at the Schoolcraft College LIVE! Entertainment area during all three days of the festival. The Liberty Fest also includes the annual Liberty Run, a midway, carnival rides, car show, and even more festivities for all ages to enjoy.

Beginning this year, the festival carnival and midway areas will implement earlier start times daily at 10 a.m. and closing at 8 p.m. each evening. 

This year’s presenting sponsor is Raising Cane’s Chicken Fingers. Additional sponsors include Boost Mobile, IKEA, LeafFilter, Schoolcraft College, State Farm, Trinity Health IHA Medical Group, and WeatherGard.

As always, parking and admission to festival grounds are free.  Designated sensory hours will take place each day, designed for guests who are sensitive to loud noises and flashing lights. This year, sensory hours will be offered daily from 10 a.m. until noon.

 Death of former Plymouth mayor is mourned

Former City of  Plymouth Mayor Phil Pursell, 65, died May 30, 2026.

Mr. Pursell served as a Plymouth City Commissioner from 2001 until 2007 and as Plymouth mayor from 2007 until 2009. In that role, family members said, he made a lasting impact on the city.

Mr. Pursell was born on Jan. 23, 1961, in Wyandotte, the son of Congressmen Carl D. and Peggy Pursell, who preceded him in death.

Mr. Pursell owned the popular Main Street Auto Wash of Plymouth from 1991-2017. He passed on his legacy to his daughter Sarah and son-in- law Joe when he retired.

Among his survivors are his loving wife, Paula; his beloved children: Kim Reiher (Tim), Sami Werman (James), and Sarah Maltese (Joe). He was “Papa Phil” to Eleanor Maltese, Annabelle Werman, Paige Reiher, Noah Reiher, Hailey Perez (Cameron), Anthony Robinson, and Jack Robinson. He is also survived by his brother Mark Pursell (Barb) and Kathy Martin (Brad) along with nieces and nephews.

A visitation  is planned from 1 until 4 p.m. Sunday, June 7 at the Schrader-Howell Funeral Home located at 280 S. Main St., Plymouth.

In lieu of flowers, family members have suggested those who wish to honor Mr. Pursell’s memory consider a contribution to VFW Post 6695, 1426 South Mill St., Plymouth, MI 48170. Contribution envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Lucky ducks

Romulus firefighters avoided a “quack-mire” last week as Firefighter Anthony “Goose” Pegouskie lived up to his nickname with the rescue of seven tiny feathered fluffballs from a parking lot storm drain.

Pegouskie successfully led the daring duckling rescue mission to save the “quack squad” which had fallen into the drain attempting to cross the lot. Firefighters joked that Goose managed to use a fishing net provided by nearby resident Drew Ladach “while maintaining more composure than most of us do in the breakroom when the coffee pot is empty.”

Charges in airport SUV crash pending

The 67-year-old Southgate man who drove his Cadillac SUV into the Evans Terminal at Detroit Metro Airport last Friday morning has not been criminally charged as the investigation into the incident continues.

Authorities said criminal charges from the office of the Wayne County Prosecutor are pending but noted the man appeared disoriented when he drove into the terminal at about 9:41 a.m. May 29. Officials said the man told them he was at the airport to “meet Tom Cruise to save his dad” according to incident reports.

The driver entered the airport going the wrong way toward the departure gates, then maneuvered his vehicle through gaps in several concrete barriers, drove over the sidewalk and crashed through the glass doors near entrance number four, according to investigators. 

Authorities said this is the second vehicle crash at the airport since January.  No serious injuries were reported in the most recent incident although one woman experienced a minor injury to her leg while attempting to avoid the oncoming vehicle. Authorities said she refused medical treatment and boarded her flight.

Airport police arrested the driver at the scene according to Tadarial Sturdivant, vice president of public safety at the airport.

This is the second crash into airport doors since January.

Northville deputy director awarded top state honor

Northville Township Deputy Public Services Director Brad Lear was named the 2026 Michigan Rural Water Association (MRWA) Person of the Year, one of the most prestigious honors in the water and public works industry.

MRWA revealed the winner at the annual association conference, noting Lear’s talents, including his outstanding leadership, deep technical expertise, and his commitment to delivering high-quality public services to the community.

“In practical terms, Brad’s work helps keep water safe, services dependable and costs under control,” said Northville Township Manager Glenn Caldwell.

Lear oversees Northville Township public works operations, including water and sewer services, solid waste collection, and the recycling programs. His leadership supports critical infrastructure that serves nearly 32,000 residents and businesses across 170 miles of water main, while also contributing to the management of a regional wastewater system used by neighboring communities, officials said. He has 10 utility maintenance workers on his team.

“Being nominated and voted on by peers is truly an honor,” Lear said. “However, this award is a reflection of the hard work of an entire Northville Township team and not just myself.”

Notable projects under Lear’s leadership included the installation of the half-million-gallon Legacy Park water tower to reduce peak hour water demands from the Great Lakes Water Authority. Upon completion, it translated to significant rate savings and lower costs for residents.

Lear also expanded the Trimble Cityworks asset management system, which tracks the township infrastructure, allowing a dedicated maintenance schedule and an easy method to catalog equipment, all of which improves service delivery.

Since joining Northville Township in 2021, Lear’s career reflects decades of hands-on experience and leadership in public works, having worked his way through every level of the profession, from field operations to executive management, officials noted. He’s currently mentoring the next generation of public works professionals.

“I have worked with Brad for 27 years, and he is a true leader in the public works field,” said Northville Township Director of Public Services Bob Belair. “His knowledge of infrastructure systems, their operation, and the requirements to maintain these systems is top of class. He is the true definition of a public works guy and has worked his way through every phase of the industry—from mowing lawns, working in the trenches, operating heavy equipment, to now running the department. He has done it all. Brad is an amazing asset to have on our team, and Northville Township is lucky to have him. He is so deserving of this award.”

Township Supervisor Mark J. Abbo agrees.

“Brad’s recognition as MRWA Person of the Year reflects not only his professional excellence, but also his dedication to serving our residents every day,” he said. “His leadership ensures that Northville Township continues to deliver reliable, efficient and forward-thinking infrastructure services. We are incredibly proud of Brad and grateful for the expertise and integrity he brings to our organization.”

Community Calendar

 

Naming ceremony planned

Zheshkwédokan Nature Area Naming ceremony is planned for 11 a.m. this Saturday, June 6 at the Lower Rouge Trailhead, located at Michigan Avenue and Morton Tayor Road in Canton Township. The special event will include a welcome by Canton Township Supervisor Anne Maire Graham-Hudak, as well as a brief history of the land and culture of the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Native Americans. The ceremony will include a Potawatomi elder prayer, and a dance performance with drum accompaniment. The event is free and open to the public. 

 

Romulus celebrates Flag Day

The Romulus VFW Post 78 Color Guard will present the colors during the celebration of Flag Day set for 11 a.m. June 12 at Romulus Historical Park.

The event is a commemoration of the adoption of the United State Flag which occurred June 14, 1777. The park is located at 36095 Goddard Road in the city.

Community bike ride planned

Start summer with a free, family-friendly bike ride through the scenic paved trails of Maybury State Park. In partnership with the Northville Township Police Department, the event offers routes for all ages and skill levels. The ride will take place from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. this Sunday, June 7 at the Maybury State Park Trailhead.

A recreation passport is required for entry.