Threat of child sex predators prompts new police effort

The increasing number of sexual predators victimizing children has prompted a Michigan State Police effort designed to focus awareness of the looming danger to young people in the digital environment.

Sexual predators use social media, messaging apps and gaming platforms to gain access to children and the use of these tools can be like opening a door right into your child’s bedroom, according to the new public awareness campaign aimed at teaching parents and children how to safely navigate the digital world.

“At any given time, there are tens of thousands of predators online looking to exploit children,” said Col. James F. Grady II, director of the Michigan State Police (MSP). “Any child who is online can be a target – even yours, so it’s important to have conversations with your children about what to do if they encounter a stranger online.”

To talk to your child about online predators, start with open, age-appropriate conversations and make it clear you're a trusted resource they can come to without fear of anger or punishment. Establish a "no friends before meeting in person" rule, set clear tech boundaries and privacy settings, and teach them how to recognize risky situations and what to do if they encounter one. Reassure them that if they encounter a predator or see inappropriate content, it's not their fault, and you'll help them are suggestions from the Child Rescue Coalition.

Counselors urge parents to learn how to use parental controls and privacy settings and educate themselves about popular sites. Teens need to understand the permanent nature of online data and the dangers of sexting and inappropriate content. With younger children, psychologists suggest parents use "stranger danger" analogies. Explaining to younger children that "tricky people" can act differently online than they do in real life is suggested. 

Children should learn to never share personal information such as their address online and to 9 ways to protect your child from online predators.

The internet offers multiple expert resources for parents offering ways to help keep children safe from internet predators.

The “Opening the Door” campaign, led by the Michigan Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, includes a video public service announcement drawing attention to online predatory behavior like grooming and sextortion, and encouraging adults to be proactive in talking to their children about online dangers. Using federal funds, the video will be shared through a paid social media campaign that began this week and will continue through December.

“Education is your best defense against online predators,” said Capt. Lizabeth Rich, commander of the MSP Intelligence Operations Division. “We encourage parents to work with their children to create a plan for internet use that includes parental controls. They should get comfortable talking about online dangers and familiarize themselves with how to report any odd activity they encounter.”

Report child sexual exploitation or abuse, including grooming or harm, to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s (NCMEC) CyberTipline at www.cybertipline.org or by calling 1-800-THE-LOST.

Prepare youth for what can happen and what to do if something scary or harmful occurs by visiting www.michigan.gov/ICAC.

The Michigan ICAC Task Force is part of a national network ​of 61 coordinated task forces representing over 4,500 law enforcement agencies who are continually engaged in proactive and reactive investigations and prosecutions of people involved in child abuse and exploitation involving the ​internet.

Romulus Pumpkin Festival

The 27^th Annual Romulus Pumpkin Festival begins tomorrow and continues Saturday and Sunday.

The event will begin tomorrow night with the traditional  Romulus Rotary Parade of Lights.

Festival events will take place at the Romulus Historical Park, located at 11147 Hunt St.

The annual Pumpkin Festival is a three-day event that traditionally begins on the third Friday in September. The highly anticipated Romulus Rotary Parade of Lights features participants from bicycles to cement trucks, all brightly festooned with as many lights as possible. Thousands of people line Goddard Road to cheer as the parade entries pass by.

The weekend festival offers music, food, crafts, and games for all ages. Festivities include a Classic Car Show, a Craft and Vendor Show and live music in the park all three days.

“The festival is a celebration of friends and family; a harvest celebration that generates an enthusiastic spirit and regenerates our sense of community, organizers said.

Tomorrow, will feature Bingo games, a Bounce House and the Pumpkin Pub for those 21 and older along with live music and other attractions. Saturday will begin with the annual Fire Department Pancake Breakfast and then Punkies 5K Run Walk will take place. The Classic Car Show will continue, and the Pumpkin Painting tent and Fun Zone will be open. There will be live entertainment all afternoon and the traditional Pumpkin Chuckin’ Competition will begin with the Romulus Ministerial Alliance Worship in the Park and continue with the Romulus Talent Show, the Hometown Heroes Ceremony, Pumpkin painting and a special one day only Zip Line, Nerf zone attraction.

Admission to the Pumpkin Festival is expected to draw crowds to the event.

Sunday is free although there are fees at food vendors and craft merchants.

Northville Victorian Festival

For decades, the annual Northville Victorian Festival has recognized and celebrated the historic significance of the community.

Since the celebration began in 1989, the event has been designed as more than just a gathering, organizers said. “It was designed to be the cornerstone event, a celebration of our community's identity, and a vital fundraising opportunity for local nonprofits and community groups. This festival, named in honor of the Victorian architecture that graces our beloved town, has become a cherished tradition, bringing together residents and visitors alike to enjoy all things Northville,” states the website promoting the event.

Now called the Northville Heritage Festival, the event is a celebration of the Victorian architecture preserved throughout the community. The festival begins with the annual Victorian Parade through downtown with marchers in authentically styled costumes from the Victorian ages and horse drawn carriages helping visitors take a trip back in time. The parade begins at 7 p.m. at the intersection of Main and Center streets this year.

The weekend continues with themed activities like vintage baseball games and educational programs at Mill Race Village .the village is a living history exhibit, with restored 19th-century buildings. It serves as a central location for educational activities, historical tours, and events like Victorian weddings and cream teas. 

Power Play

Activities like the Victorian Saloon beer tent and the Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast help raise funds for local causes, while students participate in field trips and educational programs centered around the history of the town.

Events tomorrow include the opening at 5 p.m. of the nonprofit, craft, and vendor Booths. Power Play Detroit will entertain on the Town Square State at 7 p.m. The Marquis Theater will host the Rockin’ Country Party with the Neon Crows at 8 p.m.

On Saturday, the Northville Rotary Club will serve pancakes from 9 a.m. until noon at the American Legion Hall. The horse and carriage rides begin at 11 a.m. and the Northville District Library will host Step Into a World of Wonder with Magician Christopher on the Town Square Stage at 11:30 a.m. At 1 p.m. Guy Lewis will entertain and the Eclipse Vintage Baseball game begins at Ford Field. Al Carmichael will perform on the Town Square Stage from 3 until 5 and the popular Shawn Riley Band will entertain from 6 until 8:30 p.m.

Sunday will include entertainment beginning at 10 a.m. on the Town Square Stage where Steve Pichan will entertain beginning at 3 p.m.  Carriage rides will be available at 11 a.m. starting at city hall. Mill Race Village will be open from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. with activities and games along with live music. The anticipated Duck Race will take place at 3 p.m.

The festival will close at 5 p.m. Sunday.

Canton Township man facing murder charges in death of wife

A Canton Township man is facing life in prison if convicted of first degree premeditated murder charges in the death of his wife.

Michael Shaonan Shen, 30, is accused of the strangulation death of his wife, Yu Zhao, 30. Shao of New York, N.Y. and Shen were living in Canton at the time of her death. According to police reports, Canton police officers were dispatched to a home in the 200 block of Pinehurst Drive at about 3:30 p.m. Sept. 8 in response to a report of a person not breathing.  

Responding officers reported observing the victim in a bedroom of the home. She was unresponsive, according to official reports, and when township medics arrived she was transported to a local hospital where she was pronounced dead.

Following an investigation, prosecutors allege that Shen strangled his wife at about 1 a.m. Sept. 8 causing her death. Shen was arraigned Sept. 11 before 35^th District Court Judge James Plakas and remanded to jail without bond.

Wayne man accused of shooting in Sumpter Township

A 22-year-old Wayne man will return to court next week facing multiple felony charges.

According to police reports, the charges stem from an incident reported to Sumpter Township Police at about 11 p.m. Sept. 10.
Officers were dispatched to the 46000 block of Reed in response to a reported shooting. When officers arrived, they found a 40-year-old man who had been wounded by gunfire, once in the left upper chest and another graze wound to his right cheek.

The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment by Huron Valley Ambulance medics.

Investigators determined that the defendant, Dominic Michael McBride, had encountered his former girlfriend and another man at the Emagine Theater in Canton Township. Investigators were told that following contact with the pair, the defendant began following them as they left the theater. The suspect followed the two approximately 18 miles to the residence on Reed where the victim and the suspect had a brief encounter. The couple had called the victim to explain the situation, prompting him to leave the house, police said. After telling the assailant to leave, the shooter allegedly produced a handgun while seated in his vehicle and shot the victim, who was standing in his yard.

Police said the suspect drove nearby to await officers' arrival and was subsequently taken into custody. The handgun believed to be used in the shooting was recovered, police said.

McBride was arraigned in 34th District Court on charges of assault with intent to murder; assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder; assault with a dangerous weapon and felony firearm. He was given a $500,000 or 10 percent bond and must wear a GPS tether. His next court appearance is set for Sept. 24.

ARToberfest returns to Canton Township Sept. 27

The popular one-day ARToberfest will return to Canton Township from noon until 6 p.m. Sept. 27.  The event will be sponsored by Blink Eye Care, Edward Jones of Cherry Hill Village, Expressions Music Academy, Jacob Matthew Jewelers, StoryPoint Canton, Uptown Salon, Village Church, and The Village Dentist.

Festivalgoers will have a chance to fully immerse themselves in art and fall fun in and around Preservation Park, located at 500 N. Ridge Road, as well as on the Village Arts Factory campus, located at 50755 Cherry Hill Road.  Shuttles will also be available between Preservation Park and the Village Arts Factory, organizers said.

Additional festivities include an artisan marketplace, live music, food trucks, along with beer and adult beverages for the 21 and older crowd.  In addition, cider, donuts, seasonal snacks and more will be available.

The Cherry Hill Potters Guild Fall Exhibition and Pottery Sale at the Village Arts Factory, providing festivalgoers with a chance to peruse and buy one-of-a-kind creations. The Third Youth Art Fair featuring the work of promising student artists aged 8 to 18 will also be under way Preservation Park.

“The interest in this popular family fall festival that celebrates the arts has been amazing,” said Kevin Ryan, Village Arts Factory Program Director.  “Each year ARToberfest keeps developing into a perfect fall destination that not only offers a full range of creative works and merchandise available for purchase but also features a variety of family-friendly artistic and creative activities that showcase the arts.”

In addition, an Oktoberfest beer tent that is hosted by Maraschinos Pub, plus a stein-holding contest.  Live entertainment will also be featured.  Additional activities include a range of engaging fall-themed activities tailored specifically for children, including the Detroit Institute of Arts kids’ craft tent that is available, as well as lawn games hosted by Oak Pointe Church Canton.

Festivalgoers will also be able to view the 31st annual Canton Fine Arts Exhibition, on display throughout October in the Gallery at Cherry Hill inside the Village Theater, as well as the Village Arts Factory Fine Art exhibition inside its facility.  Both of these venues showcase a broad range of artistic styles and interpretations in a variety of mediums from emerging and well-established Michigan artists.

Admission to ARToberfest is free. For additional information, visit www.cantonfun.org or call (734) 394-5360.

Public police academy planned

The Plymouth Township Police Department will host the fall 2025 Citizen Police Academy. This free 8-week program is designed to provide students with an inside look at the operations, challenges and technology that define modern policing.

This is a hands-on, interactive experience where students will learn directly from the officers and professionals, a spokesman noted. Those attending will go behind the scenes at the dispatch center, learn about patrol tactics and equipment, and understand the national police accreditation process.

In addition, the academy offers deep dives into traffic enforcement and accident investigation to crime scene processing and criminal investigation. The work of specialized units like the Drug Enforcement and Homeland Security task force will be covered along with discussions on use of force, legal precedents and decision making.

Students will have an opportunity to test their skills and judgment in the firearm simulator and learn about the workings of the justice system. The final sessions will include the SWAT team procedures and other special operations within the department.

This is a unique opportunity for residents and space is limited. Sessions will take place from 6-8 p.m. Thursdays Oct. 2 through Nov. 20 at the at the Plymouth Township Hall - Multi-Function Room - 9955 N. Haggerty Road. Applications are available on the Plymouth Township Police website.

Going gold

Romulus athletes brought home a total of 54 medals in the 2025 Downriver Senior Olympics. The annual event took place in Southgate this year and concluded with a banquet for all the athletes. Romulus seniors medals were in various competitive activities and games throughout the weeklong event.

Community Calendar 

Hazardous waste permit hearing is tonight

A public hearing regarding the pending hazardous waste management facility operating license for Wayne Disposal, Inc. is set for Sept. 18.

The hazardous waste facility in Van Buren Township is currently seeking a state permit to expand disposal capacity, sparking significant community opposition.

The public informational meeting and hearing is set for 5 until 9 p.m. Sept. 18 at Wayne County Community College District, Ted Scott Campus, 9555 Haggerty Road in Van Buren Township. The public meeting will be followed by a public hearing from 7-9 p.m. where interested individuals will have an opportunity to submit oral or written comments. Public comment can be made by mail or email until 5 p.m. Sept. 29. To attend online, register at https://bit.ly/MMD09182025.

Mayflower repairs planned

A reconstruction project at the Mayflower building at Main Street and Ann Arbor Trail is under way. Lane closures will be necessary on both roads Monday through Thursday through October. Sidewalks will be intermittently closed., Access to some businesses or buildings may be affected.

Romulus Youth Council applications now due

Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight’s office is now accepting applications for appointments to the new Mayor’s Youth Council, a group of students in grades 9–12 interested in sharing ideas, learning about local government and developing leadership skills.

Applications are due by Sept. 22. Monthly meetings will take place in the Romulus City Hall Council Chambers from 2:30 until 4 p.m. every third Tuesday from October 2025 through May 2026. There will be no meeting in February 2026.

More information is available by contacting Julie Wojtylko, Chief of Staff, Office of the Mayor,  at jwojtylko@romulusgov.com or by phone at (734) 955-4501

 

Stage performance set

Once Upon a Mattress, the hilarious musical twist on the classic story of “The Princess and the Pea,” is coming to The Jack Wilcox Theatre at the PARC Sept. 25, 26 and 27. The show is presented by Ovation Performing Arts

Tickets can be purchased online for $15 or $17 at the door. Advance booking is recommended. ADA seating is available. For tickets and more information, visit plymouthmusiclessons.com

City-wide sale planned

The free fall City-wide Yard Sales in Romulus will take place Sept. 25-28. Rain dates will be Oct. 2, 3, 4, 5. Residents wishing to have a yard or garage sale without a permit fee should sign up with the city clerk’s office at https://www.romulusgov.com/FormCenter/Clerk-Encrypted-Forms-17/FallSpring-CityWide-GarageYard-Sale-Regi-141. Registrations received by Friday, Sept. 19 will be included in a list of participating addresses published in "The Eagle" newspaper.

For more information call (734)942-7540.

Fire station open house is planned in Plymouth

The Plymouth Fire Department will host the annual Fire Safety Open House from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 11 at Fire Station 1, 9955 N. Haggerty Road, Plymouth.

A full day of fire safety activities and demonstrations is planned.

Local high schools named among best in Michigan

Four high schools in the area ranked among the top educational performers in the state according to ratings from U.S. News & World Report which prepares the prestigious annual survey.

Criteria considered in the evaluations included factors such as graduation rates, college readiness, test performance, and student demographics, according to a statement from the publication, which ranked 1,136 Michigan public high schools by student success. The annual report evaluates public high schools nationwide, statewide, and by metro area, factoring in graduation rates, college readiness, and test performance. It also tracks the percentage of minority and economically disadvantaged students at each school.

Northville High School was ranked seventh in the state and 351 in the nation. The ranking reported an enrollment of 2,489 students with a student/teacher ratio of 23:1. Students have the opportunity to take Advanced Placement coursework and exams. The AP participation rate at Northville High School is 68 percent. The total minority enrollment was reported at 34 percent, and 8 percent of students were reported as economically disadvantaged

Plymouth High School was ranked at 32 in the state and 1,119 nationally. Enrollment was reported to be at 1,903 and the student/teacher ratio as 19. Minority enrollment at Plymouth High School was reported at 38 percent. Graduation rate was 98 percent, and the overall score was 94/100.

Salem High School earned a statewide ranking of 33., The national ranking was 1,237. Enrollment was reported as1,878 and student/teacher ratio at 21. Minority enrollment was at 41 percent and economically disadvantaged students reported at 21 percent. The overall graduation rate was 97 percent with an overall score of 93/100

Canton High School earned a statewide ranking of 36 and a national ranking of 1,303. Enrollment was reported as 1,906 and the student/teacher ratio at 20:1. Minority enrollment was reported at 39 percent and economically disadvantaged students at 20 percent. The graduation rate reported was at 95 percent. The overall score was 93/100.

Annual Pumpkin Festival rolls into Romulus next week

The 27^th Annual Pumpkin Festival will roll into Romulus Sept. 19, 20 and 21, led off by the traditional Romulus Rotary Parade of Lights.

The festival will take place at the Romulus Historical Park, located at 11147 Hunt St.

The annual Pumpkin Festival is a three-day event that annually begins on the third Friday in September. The festival begins with the Parade of Lights, where everything is aglow, from bicycles to cement trucks. Thousands of people line Goddard Road to wait for the fun. The street festival offers music, food, crafts, and games for all ages. The weekend includes a Classic Car Show, Craft and Vendor Show and live music all three days. The festival is a celebration of friends and family; a harvest celebration that generates an enthusiastic spirit and regenerates our sense of community, organizers said.

Friday will feature Bingo games, a Bounce House and the Pumpkin Pub for those 21 and older along with live music and other attractions. Saturday will begin with the annual Fire Department Pancake Breakfast and then Punkies 5K Run Walk will take place. The Classic Car Show will continue, and the Pumpkin Painting tent and Fun Zone will be open. There will be live entertainment all afternoon including Bingo and the traditional Pumpkin Chuckin’ Competition is expected to draw crowds to the event. Live entertainment will continue all day and into the evening.

Sunday will begin with the Romulus Ministerial Alliance Worship in the Park and continue with the Romulus Talent Show, the Hometown Heroes Ceremony, Pumpkin Painting and a special one-day-only Zip Line, Nerf Zone attraction.

Admission to the Pumpkin Festival is free although there are fees at food vendors and craft merchants.

Michigan Avenue landmark being demolished for parking lot

After nearly half a century, a landmark along Michigan Avenue in the City of Wayne is being demolished to make way for a parking lot.

The five-story structure, completed in 1979 during an urban renewal program, was funded with $1.9 million in federal funds. Demolition began last month for the construction of a surface parking lot to be funded with a $700,000 Community Development Block Grant.

Demolition of the aging structure at 35015 East Michigan Ave. was not without controversy. Bahy Hammoud, owner of the property, has been in a long court battle with the city regarding the future of the site. In March of 2022, Hammoud was ordered by city inspectors to correct several safety and building violations at the structure. The City of Wayne subsequently sued the owner in 2023 seeking to demolish the building based on unsafe structural conditions. The building was subject to tax foreclosure proceedings that same year. Following litigation and appeals, a decision earlier this year from the Wayne County Circuit Court allowed the city to proceed with demolition at the site.

The parking structure has been permanently closed since a fire department training exercise earlier this year exposed serious structural concerns, officials said.

In addition to the parking structure at Michigan Avenue and Wayne Road, the 45-foot peace memorial built in 1975 at a cost of $90,000 will also be removed to facilitate the new parking lot. Officials said the new surface lot “will better serve the community.” The property is adjacent to the Wayne Public Library which will not be impacted by the demolition.

Romulus Mayor seeking candidates for new Youth Council

Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight is looking for a few young residents interested in learning how local government works.

McCraight’s office is now accepting applications for appointments to the new Mayor’s Youth Council, a group of students in grades 9–12 interested in sharing ideas, learning about local government and developing leadership skills.

Selected applicants will serve a one-year term, meeting monthly from October 2025 through May 2026 and work with elected officials and city administrators to better understand local government and share ideas on issues that affect young people in the community. Applications are due by Sept. 22. Monthly meetings will take place in the Romulus City Hall Council Chambers from 2:30 until 4 p.m. every third Tuesday from October 2025 through May 2026. There will be no meeting in February 2026.

To be considered, students must reside in Romulus and be enrolled in 9-12 grade classes. Applicants must commit to participation guidelines and submit a completed application which includes attachment of required documents including a one to two page handwritten or typed essay and a letter of recommendation prepared by a teacher, school counselor, school administrator, or community leader as outlined in the application. Applicants must also submit a consent and release form signed and dated by a parent or guardian.

More information is available by contacting Chief of Staff Julie Wojtylko at jwojtylko@romulusgov.com or by phone at (734) 955-4501

MURDER BEFORE Supper at Rustic Tavern book release party set

The official book release of MURDER BEFORE Supper at Rustic Tavern is planned for 5 until 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 17 at Karl’s Cabin restaurant.

Actors from the dinner event will again star, autographing copies of the original mystery written by W. Edward Wendover, former publisher of The Community Crier. 

"Photographs from the event really shine in this completed book," Wendover said, "more than 60 dinner attendees may be surprised and amused that they've become such historical, colorful characters."

Peter Poulos, a co-owner of Karl's said he expects the evening to be entertaining.

"The Book Release Party will be another fun, evening even for those who couldn’t attend the dinner because it sold out. We're offering special book pricing for this Sept. 17 party and -- like the dinner -- proceeds from this will go to the Culinary Program in the Plymouth Canton Schools."

Louis Poulos, co-owner and executive chef, added, "Karl's is very proud this book includes recipes and photos from our 1940s classic roadhouse dinner and an historic look at The Cabin. For our Book Party, we're offering half-priced select appetizers and several drink specials."

More than 100 color prints taken at the dinner by Bill Bresler will be on display and "for sale" by donation to the nationally recognized Plymouth Canton Educational Park Culinary Program.

In January, the book party introducing MURDER BEFORE supper generated $10,000 for the school district culinary program.

MURDER BEFORE Supper at Rustic Tavern is the finale of Wendover's nine prepositional murders published by Greko Printing and Publishing in Plymouth. The former Wendover family farm in Salem Township was but a short horse ride to Rustic Tavern -- now Karl's Cabin. Other mysteries in that series including MURDER AT The Penniman Deli will also be for sale at Karl's "killer" book event or later at PrepositionalMurders.com.

Reservations are strongly recommended for the Sept. 17 book party and especially for dinner after the book release.

Suspect in fatal car crash re-captured after escaping police custody  

A man who attempted to escape police custody after treatment at a local hospital is facing multiple criminal charges in the death of a pedestrian.

The charges are related to the report of a car crash received by Inkster police at about 12:50 p.m. Sept. 2. When officers arrived at the scene near Inkster Road and Lucerne Street, they discovered Nicholas Cogswell, 44, of Garden City lying in the roadway. Cogswell was unresponsive, according to police reports, and had suffered a severe head injury. Emergency medical responders transported Cogswell to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy has charged Antonio Dewayne Hollingsworth, 47, of Wayne, in connection with the incident. According to police reports, Hollingsworth was taken into custody at the scene of the crash by responding officers. Prosecutors allege that Hollingsworth failed to yield when exiting a parking lot in the 1300 block of Inkster Road before fatally striking Cogswell.

According to police reports, Hollingsworth was transported by Inkster police officers to a local hospital after he reported experiencing chest pain. After medical treatment, according to prosecutors, the defendant escaped police custody and fled the hospital on foot. Officers considered him dangerous and cautioned the public not to approach him.

He was located by Garden City police officers in the area of Ford Road and Inkster Road at about 4 p.m. the same day and was remanded to the custody of Inkster police. According to court records, Hollingsworth absconded from parole on charges of robbery. He had also been previously arrested after a traffic crash involving a motorcycle. In that incident, one person was left in critical condition, according to officials.

Hollingsworth has been charged with possession of a controlled substance – less than 25 grams; moving violation causing death; escape from lawful custody and driving while license suspended, revoked, or denied.

Hollingsworth was arraigned Monday in 22^nd District Court and received a $100,000/10 percent bond. The Probable Cause Conference is scheduled for Sept.17 before Judge Sabrina Johnson.

Community Calendar

Brews, Brats & Bands returns to Heritage Park

Brews, Brats, and Bands will return to the Heritage Park Amphitheater in Canton Township from 6 until 9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 13.  The amphitheater is located behind the Canton Administration Building at 1150 S. Canton Center Road. 

Admission is limited to those 21 and older. The fundraiser is presented by the Village Arts Factory.

Tickets are $45 plus a per ticket service charge and can only be purchased online at Beerfests.com by searching Canton, MI. For additional event details, visit www.cantonfun.org.  

 

Hazardous waste permit public hearing is Sept. 18

A public hearing regarding the pending hazardous waste management facility operating license for Wayne Disposal, Inc. is set for Sept. 18.

The hazardous waste facility in Van Buren Township is currently seeking a state permit to expand disposal capacity, sparking significant community opposition.

The public informational meeting and hearing is set for 5 until 9 p.m. Sept. 18 at Wayne County Community College District, Ted Scott Campus, 9555 Haggerty Road in Van Buren Township. The public meeting will be followed by a public hearing from 7-9 p.m. where interested individuals will have an opportunity to submit oral or written comments. Public comment can be made by mail or email until 5 p.m. Sept. 29.
To attend online, register at https://bit.ly/MMD09182025.

 

Drain work is underway

A Wayne County contractor will be performing drain cleaning and maintenance work at Banotai Park, located at 24000 Sherwood Rd, Belleville this week. The park will remain open and the public is reminded to stay at least 300 feet away from all equipment and work zones while crews are on site. This distance helps ensure the safety of park visitors, workers, and the surrounding community.

City-wide sale planned

The free fall City-wide Yard Sales in Romulus will take place Sept. 25-28. Rain dates will be Oct. 2, 3, 4, 5. Residents wishing to have a yard or garage sale without a permit fee should sign up with the city clerk’s office at https://www.romulusgov.com/FormCenter/Clerk-Encrypted-Forms-17/FallSpring-CityWide-GarageYard-Sale-Regi-141

Registrations received by Friday, Sept. 19 will be included in a list of participating addresses published in The Eagle newspaper.

For more information call (734) 942-7540.

Library renovations continue

Renovations at the Plymouth District Library began in June and continue. The library launched a drive-thru service last month so users can easily pick up books on hold. Renovations will continue throughout the summer. The library will be closed for main level renovations through Sept. 14. The main and upper levels will reopen Sept. 15 while lower-level renovations begin.More information is available at info@plymouthlibrary.org

Public hearing set for hazardous waste permit

Area residents will have a chance to be heard regarding the pending hazardous waste management facility operating license for Wayne Disposal, Inc. during a public information meeting and hearing set for Sept. 18.

The hazardous waste facility in Van Buren Township is currently seeking a state permit to expand disposal capacity, sparking significant community opposition. Residents and elected officials have expressed concerns regarding the disposal of radioactive waste from the East Palestine, Ohio, train derailment and World War II-era Manhattan Project sites. Members of the public have protested the expansion and past waste shipments, advocating for increased transparency and stricter state regulations to prevent what they call a "bargain bin for dumping waste". 

The waste disposal facility is located at 49350 North I-94 Service Drive and is currently licensed to dispose of hazardous waste by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). There has been significant community opposition for the expansion proposal and past acceptance of radioactive waste.  A lawsuit by local governments has already halted shipments of contaminated soil and rubble from the construction of the atomic bomb during the Manhattan Project. That radioactive waste was eventually shipped to another disposal site following the public outcry regarding the proximity of the disposal near Belleville Lake and residential neighborhoods.

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EGLE) representatives have already given notice of intent to approve the permit and licensing for expansion at Wayne Disposal Inc. (WDI). The facility is proposing expansion of disposal volume and the addition of hazardous waste storage capacity. The new permit would allow WDI to begin storing hazardous waste in containers, and to continue disposing of hazardous waste, certain radiological materials, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) waste generated offsite.
The Sept. 18 in-person public informational meeting and hearing set for 5 until 9 p.m. Sept. 19 at Wayne County Community College District, Ted Scott Campus, 9555 Haggerty Road in Van Buren Township, will start with an open house from 5-6 p.m. for residents to come and talk to EGLE and U.S. EPA staff one-on-one, ask questions and learn about the facility in general, according to an announcement from the licensing agency.
The open house will be followed by a presentation from 6-7 p.m. about the application and draft license, and a session with a panel. The public meeting will be followed by a public hearing from 7-9 p.m. where interested individuals will have an opportunity to submit oral or written comments on the draft license into the formal record. Public comment can be made by mail or email until 5 p.m. Sept. 29.
To attend online, register at https://bit.ly/MMD09182025 and participants will receive a confirmation email containing information about how to join the meeting. For those who do not have internet access and would like to join by phone only, use the following phone number: (636) 651-3142, and conference code 374288. Pre-registration is not required to attend. The draft license, application, and associated materials for more detailed information are available at the Belleville Area District Library. All individuals attending the public hearing in person who intend to speak are requested to register by filling out a comment card.
Comments may be given at any time before the end of the comment period at 5 p.m. Sept. 29. Participants may provide comments on the draft license in person at the public hearing; by email: EGLE-MMD-HWS@Michigan.gov or by U.S. mail: EGLE, Materials Management Division, Attn: Christine Matlock, P.O. Box 30241, Lansing, MI 48909-7741
For questions about the application or draft license, contact Matlock at (517) 290-4612, MatlockC2@Michigan.gov or EGLE-MMD-HWS@Michigan.gov.

Glowing reception

Romulus Rotary hosts annual Pumpkin Festival Parade of Lights

The 27^th Annual Pumpkin Festival will roll into Romulus Sept. 19, 20 and 21, led off by the traditional Romulus Rotary Parade of Lights.

The festival will take place at the Romulus Historical Park, located at 11147 Hunt St.

The annual Pumpkin Festival is a three-day event that annually begins on the third Friday in September. The Parade of Lights which traditionally signifies the opening of the event, takes place Friday evening when every entry in the parade is aglow, from bicycles to cement trucks. Thousands of people line up along Goddard Road to enjoy the creative talents on display as the lighted vehicles pass by.

During the weekend, the Pumpkin Festival offers music, food, crafts, and games for all ages. Residents can visit or enter the Classic Car Show, Craft and Vendor Show, or join the fun, relax and enjoy the live music. The annual festival is a celebration of friends and family; a harvest celebration that generates an enthusiastic spirit and regenerates our sense of community, organizers said.

The Rotary Parade of Lights is now accepting entry applications available on Facebook as Romulus Rotary or the Romulusgov.com/Pumpkin Festival sites. A complete set of rules is also available. There is a $10 donation requested per entry and there will be a $50 cash prize for the winners in several categories. Preregistration is appreciated but not required, Rotary organizers said. Audiences can vote for favorite entries on the Romulus Rotary Facebook page. Winners will be announced on Sunday, Sept. 21 and will be invited to a club meeting to be recognized for their creativity and awarded prize money. 

The six categories this year are: Commercial, Motorized, Non-Motorized (People/Animal Powered), Classic Cars, Live Music and Schools.

The most important rule, organizers stressed, is that all entries must be decorated with an abundance of working lights. No entries without plenty of lights will be allowed to participate. Glow sticks are not sufficient lighting for a float or participants.

The more lights, the better, organizers said.

Parade of Lights line-up will begin rain or shine at 6:30 p.m. Sept. 19 directly on Goddard Road, west of Wayne Road. Entries must enter off of Wayne Road for staging. For complete rules and ab an application visit https://tinyurl.com/2025ParadeofLights 

69^th Annual Plymouth Fall Festival will begin tomorrow

One of the most popular and highly anticipated events of the season will return to Plymouth this weekend, transforming downtown city streets into a celebration of community, food, and fun.

This is the 69^th year of the event, and the festival will again offer entertainment for every age — while raising vital funds for dozens of local non-profit organizations.

“This event is about more than rides and music,” said Festival Manager James Gietzen. “It’s about the power of neighbors coming together and supporting the groups that make our community such a great place to live.”

The festivities begin tomorrow, Sept. 5,  with the ever-popular Vietnam Veteran’s Association Rib Dinner from 3 until 6 p.m. behind E.G. Nicks. Evening activities include Bingo at the Plymouth Gathering from 6 until 9 p.m. leading into a live performance by Geff Philips and Friends at 7 p.m. on the Kellogg Park Main Stage.

Saturday Sept. 6 begins with the traditional Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast from 7 a.m. until noon followed by the Optimist Pet Show at 9 a.m. Entertainment fills the Kellogg Park Main Stage all afternoon

Car lovers will have two chances to browse the festival Car Show, open from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday featuring a collection of classic and custom vehicles.

The weekend wouldn’t be complete without the Plymouth Noon Rotary Club famous Chicken BBQ, served starting at 11 a.m. until nearly 9,000 dinners are sold.

Canton man charged in traffic death of 2 sisters

A Canton Township man has been charged in an automobile crash that killed two children and left a teen seriously injured.

Amir Khalid, 41, was arraigned last week in 36th District Court in Detroit on three charges, according to a prepared statement from the office of Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy. Khalid is charged with two counts of reckless driving causing death, and one count of reckless driving causing serious injury.

Prosecutors claim that Khalid was responsible for the crash which took place at about 12:39 a.m. Aug. 23 on Gratiot near Houston Whittier in Detroit. According to police reports, a young girl was found by officers trapped in a vehicle located on the sidewalk in front of a gas station in the 12600 block of Gratiot. The child was later identified as Savannah Allen, 8.

The girl was extricated from the vehicle and transported along with two other girls who had been in the vehicle to a local hospital. Both the 8-year-old and her 15-year-old sister, Syiana, were pronounced dead a short time later. A 16-year-old was also injured in the crash and received medical treatment at the hospital, police said.

The girls’ grandmother was reportedly driving them home. She also suffered injuries in the crash, according to reports.

Prosecutors allege that Khalid was recklessly driving and speeding north on Gratiot when his vehicle collided with the car occupied by the victims. Police said Khalid’s vehicle was traveling at about 80 mph in a 35-mph zone when the crash happened.  The family of the young girls launched a GoFundMe page in an effort to fund funerals for the children.

"Losing one child is heartbreaking beyond words but losing both sisters on the same day has left our family shattered," Katherine Yancy wrote on the page which she organized. "They were vibrant, loving, and full of life, and they will forever remain in our hearts."

Khalid was arraigned on Aug. 25, in 36^th District Court before Magistrate Joseph Boyer and received a $250,000 cash/surety bond with a GPS tether and conditions of a 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. curfew, and no driving.