Parents face felony charges in son’s shooting

    Parents of a 5-year-old Westland child killed by a self-inflicted gunshot wound will face felony charges in the incident.

    According to Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, the handgun was not properly stored when the child found it in his home last week and fired it, fatally striking himself in the stomach. His parents, Timothy Gravel, 32, and Heather LeBlanc, 29, both of Westland, now are facing charges under the Michigan safe storage law, which went into effect in February. The law holds parents criminally responsible if their unsecured guns are found by minors who then kill or injure themselves or others with the weapon.
    “Another young child is dead because adults did not safely store their firearms — yes, that is plural. The death of this child was completely and totally preventable. This is the seventh one this year,” Worthy said in a statement announcing the charges.
    The incident took place at about 8:40 p.m. Nov. 7, according to Westland police reports, when officers responded to the family home in the 33000 block of Alamo Street. The child had apparently found the gun and fatally shot himself in the stomach, according to police. Officers immediately called for medical aid and the child was transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.
    The boy’s parents were arraigned on Monday in 18th District Court. Gravel received a $50,000 cash/surety bond; LeBlanc received a $25,000 cash/surety bond. The two are scheduled to appear at a probable cause conference today when a judge will determine whether there is enough evidence to send the couple to trial. If convicted, each faces up to 15 years in prison and/or a $10,000 fine.
    The new state safe storage law, which went into effect Feb. 13, requires individuals to keep unattended weapons unloaded and locked with a locking device or stored in a locked box or container if it is reasonably known that a minor is likely to be present on the premises.
    If an individual fails to store a firearm as required and a minor obtains the firearm and any of the following occur, they are guilty of specific charges relating to the incident. If the minor possesses or exhibits the firearm in a public place or in the presence of another person in a careless, reckless or threatening manner, gun owners can be charged with a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail or a fine of up to $500, or both. If the minor fires the weapon and injures themselves or another individual, felony charges punishable by up to five years in prison, a maximum $5,000 fine, or both can be filed against the gun owner or parents. If the minor child discharges the gun and seriously impairs a body function on themselves or another person, felony charges punishable by up to 10 years in a prison and/or a $7,500 fine. If the minor discharges the gun and kills themselves or another, felony charges punishable by up to 15 years in prison, and/or a fine of up to $10,000 can be filed against the gun owner or person responsible for safe storage of the weapon.

Fired Up

Romulus fire fighters join live training

    Members of the Romulus Fire Department joined crews from several other municipalities for a live fire training exercise last week. The training opportunity was made possible to the six communities

represented, including: Wayne County Airport Authority Fire Department and emergency dispatchers; Detroit Fire Department; Van Buren Fire Department; Wayne Fire Department and Huron Township Fire Department along with Romulus firefighters.
    Instructors began igniting fires at about 9 a.m. inside the abandoned structure and teams were set up to perform fire attack, Rapid Interventions Teams assigned and back up crews established, according to reports of the training. All operations complied with National Fire Protection Association 1403, the standard for Live Fire Training, a spokesman explained.
    By 1 p.m., the training culminated with allowing the small house to become fully involved, providing more serious training for firefighters. During the exercise, firefighters experienced several phases of training including fire attack, proper preparation of for “what-ifs” on the fire ground as well as learning what to anticipate when a fire develops beyond control including building collapse, flash overs and backdraft situations.
    Among those sponsoring the training were Group 10 Management;- 1(800)Board-up (BELFOR) for providing Little Ceasar’s Pizza; - Nicholas Relich from Relich Photography who provided most of the photos of the event; Tim Horton for providing coffee and donuts; IAFF 4126 Romulus Professional Firefighters for providing drinks and snacks.

No criminal charges filed in Wayne police shooting

    There will be no criminal charges filed against two Wayne police officers who shot and killed a man who had called 911 for help after stabbing himself more than 50 times during a suicide attempt during a mental health crisis.
    A statement from the office of Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, the circumstances of the incident indicate the officers were justified in their actions.
    The incident occurred at about 2:35 p.m. June 18 when the two Wayne police officers responded to an apartment building in the 35000 block of West Michigan Avenue for a reported attempted suicide. John Zook Jr., the resident, reported that he just tried to kill himself by cutting himself all over with a knife and said that his 4-year-old child was in the apartment with him. Zook told police that he had been diagnosed with schizophrenia, but that he was not on medication because he had stopped taking it some time ago, according to police reports of the incident.
    Police said Zook repeatedly refused to obey officers’ commands when they responded to his 911 call at his home. Officers found him shirtless brandishing a knife, according to reports. He was reportedly holding the knife in his right hand with the blade facing downward and officers observed several cuts on his torso while standing 6 to 8 feet from him. When officers repeatedly ordered Zook to drop the knife, he refused. Officers warned Zook they would use a taser on him but he continued to resist officers’ orders to drop the knife. Rather, he came toward the officers who were still in the hallway in front of his door. As Zook came forward toward them, one officer deployed his taser striking Zook during the 15-second encounter. The device had no effect, according to police accounts of the incident, and another officer fired his weapon, striking Zook four times. He then fell to the floor in the hallway of his apartment, still clutching the knife, police reports said.
    Officers immediately called for medical assistance although Zook succumbed to the gunshots. He had suffered at least 54 stab wounds to his neck, chest and abdomen, according to coroner’s reports.
    According to police, the child slept through the entire event and was immediately removed from the apartment. Worthy said that the officers were acting in self-defense based in part on a review of police body cam video. The two first responding officers wore body cameras, which according to Worthy, captured this encounter.
    “In Michigan, police officers have the same right to self-defense and defense of others as any other person,” Worthy said in a statement.
    According to Worthy, the legal standard in Michigan for the use of deadly force in self-defense or defense of others looks at whether the person using the force is reasonably in fear of imminent death or great bodily harm to them or someone else.
    The officers, she concluded, met this legal standard.
    “At the time officers used force they objectively knew that Mr. Zook was armed with a knife, which would be legally considered a dangerous weapon. Mr. Zook was apparently actively suffering a mental health crisis, was not acting rationally, and just attempted to kill himself,” according to Worthy’s prepared statement. “He was not responding to commands while standing armed a very short distance from the officers. They also knew that Mr. Zook’s young child was present in the apartment with him.”
    The officers have not been named by prosecutors, Worthy said, as her office does not name individuals who have not been charged.

Northville Township named as ‘Top Workplace’ for 2nd time

    Northville Township has once again been chosen as one of the top places to work in the area.
    The designation, awarded by the Detroit Free Press, which recognizes outstanding employers, is based on employee feedback through a confidential survey that measures six culture drivers that are critical to the success of an organization. Those include alignment, professional growth, empowerment, engagement, respect and value.
    Last year, Northville Township made history by being the first municipality in Michigan to win the award in the then 15-year history of the Top Workplaces program.
    “This award is exciting,” said Northville Township Supervisor Mark J. Abbo. “Back-to-back Top Workplace wins feels twice as nice. On behalf of the Board of Trustees and with gratitude to our staff, we are honored by this achievement.”
    Northville Township employees described their workplace culture as: supportive, team orientated, professional, friendly, flexible and work-life balance. Additional questions revealed 87 percent of staff members believe Northville Township operates by strong values. Similarly, 80 percent responded that the township is also going in the right direction.
    When asked if they would highly recommend working at Northville Township to others, 78 percent said yes. Of the 166 surveys sent, 157 staff members responded. This 94.6 percent response rate is 31 percent higher than the response rate by other local governments who tried for the designation.

Local area voters’ decisions favor incumbents

 While the national election was the focus of voters throughout the area, voters also chose local officials to lead their communities for the next few years. In addition, several communities and school districts had millage questions on the ballot, which will determine tax rates for homeowners

    Local voters returned several incumbents to office and seemed to overwhelmingly agree to tax increases to support schools and parks in the area.
    A few of the local results included:

In CANTON TOWNSHIP:

    Incumbent Township Supervisor Anne Marie Graham Hudak, a Democrat, who faced former Supervisor Pat Williams, won a return to the four-year office with 33,309 or 57 percent of the vote while Williams, a Republican was the choice of 23,079 or 42 percent of voters.
    Democrats were also the choice of voters to fill the board of trustee seats. Incumbent trustees Kate Borninski won 29.944 or 14.81 percent of the total votes; Sommer Foster was the choice of 28,983 or 14.34 percent of voters and Tania Ganguly received 28,930 or 14.31 percent of votes. Newcomer Ammara Ansari was the choice of 29,880 or 14.78 percent of voters.
    The Democrats were challenged by Republicans John Anthony, 20,826 votes; Tyler Grable, 19875 votes; Jeff Grauke, 19,885 votes and Marko Kozina, 18,764 votes.
    The newly-elected trustees will serve four-year terms.
    Incumbent Township Clerk Michael Siegrist and Treasurer Dian Slavens, both Democrats, were unopposed and both will serve four-year terms.

In NORTHVILLE TOWNSHIP:

    Voters chose four members to serve terms on the township board of trustees. Mindy Herrmann, a Republican, won 11,038 votes or 21 percent of the total; Scott Frush, also a Republican was the choice of 10,539 or 20 percent of voters; Roland Hwang, a Democrat, garnered 10,063 or 19 percent of votes; Chris Roosen, a Republican won 10,062 or 19 percent of voters. Roger Lundberg, a Republican, received 9,949 or 19 percent of votes cast.
    Jennifer Gustafson, Joseph P. Corriveau and Nicholas A. Vlisides will serve as members of District Library Board.
    Northville Public Schools Board of Education members chosen by voters were Lisa McIntyre, 13,048 or 21 percent of votes; Ron Frazier, 11,034 or 17 percent of votes; Jena Mabrey with 10,938 or 17 percent of votes and Meredith Riggan Maurer, 9,688 or 15 percent of votes. They were challenged by Philip DeLoach, 7,585 votes; Priya Marwah 7,534 votes and Aric Tosqui, 3,670 votes.

NORTHVILLE PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION:

    Voters chose four candidates to serve four-year terms on the board of education.
    Lisa McIntyre received 13,065 votes or 20.5 percent of the total; Ron Frazier was the choice of 11,060 or 17.4 percent of voters, Jena Mabrey won 10960 votes or 17.2 percent of votes cast and Meredith Riggan Maurer received 9,719 or 15.3 percent of votes.
    They were challenged by Philip DeLoach; Priya Marwah and Aric Tosqui.

IN PLYMOUTH TOWNSHIP:

    Chuck Curmi is the new Plymouth Township Supervisor after defeating incumbent Supervisor Kurt Heise in the August primary election. Also uncontested was incumbent Treasurer Bob Doroshewitz who defeated his challenger during the primary balloting.
    Incumbent Plymouth Township Clerk Jerry Vorva, a Republican, was elected to serve another four years. He received 9,761 votes, or 54 percent of the total while his challenger, former township clerk Nancy Conzelman, running as a Democrat, received 8,288 votes, or 46 percent of votes.
    Incumbent trustees Jen Buckley, a Republican, earned 9,391 votes, or 15.1 percent while John Stewart, also a Republican, was the choice of 9,338 or 15 percent of voters. They will serve four-year terms along with newly elected Mark Clinton, who received 9,268 or 14.9 of votes and Sandy Groth, who was the choice of 9,056 or 14.5 percent of voters.
    The Republicans were challenged by Bob Miller, Angela Nolan and Michael Westra.

JUDGE OF THE 35th DISTRICT COURT:

    Voters chose local attorney Joe Barone to fill the six-year term at the court. Barone received 37,774 votes, or 55.7 percent of ballots cast. His challenger, Michael Woodyard, was the choice of 30,065 voters or 44.3 percent of votes cast.

PLYMOUTH CANTON COMMUNITY SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION:

    Jennifer Vos was the top choice of voters to serve the single available six-year term on the board. Vos received 23,853 voters of 46.2 percent of the total. She was challenged by Patti McCoin who won 21,297 votes or 41.3 percent of votes and Faize M. El-Khali who received 6,428 or 12.5 percent of votes cast.

CITY OF PLYMOUTH PARKS AND RECREATION MILLAGE:

    The charter amendment for a 1.2 mill property tax for 8 years for parks and recreation funding failed to meet approval of voters. The proposal was defeated with 3,167 no votes or 52.7 percent of ballots. Yes votes on the question totaled 2,840 or 47.3 percent.

ROMULUS COMMUNITY SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION:
    
    Four candidates vied for the three available seats on the board of education in Romulus. Juday R. Kennard received 5,181 or 28.3 percent of votes; Moifa Kamaal received 4,472 or 24.4 percent of the vote and Debi Pyles was the choice of 4,427 or 24.1 percent of voters.
    Jozet Channey received Channey received 4,258 or 23.2 percent of the vote.

TOWNSHIP OF SUMPTER:

    Sumpter Township voters returned Supervisor Tim Bowman, a Republican, to office with 3,348 or 59.62 percent of votes. Challenger Nelson Po, a Democrat, received 2,236 or 39.81 percent of the 5,6,6 votes cast.
    Donald LaPorte, a Republican, was unopposed for the office of Sumpter Township Clerk. He received 95.10 percent, or 3,864 votes. Also unopposed was Treasurer Bart Patterson, also a Republican, who received 3,791 or 95.11 percent of votes cast.
    The four candidates for the Sumpter Township Board of Trustees were also unopposed. Republicans James Frazier, 3,357 votes; John Honey, 3,310 votes; incumbent Matt Oddy, 3,218 votes and incumbent Tim Rush, 3,242 will serve on the board.

CITY OF WAYNE CHARTER AMENDMENT FOR POLICE AND FIRE SERVICES:

    The extension of the 2-mil assessment for police and fire services was approved by 63 percent of voters who cast 4,386 votes in favor of the proposal. No votes on the proposal totaled 2,576 or 37 percent.

CITY OF WAYNE CHARTER AMENDMENT FOR PURCHASE AND SALE OF PROPERTY:

    An amendment to change the threshold of competitive bids for property sales and purchases was defeated by voters. No votes totaled 3,749 or 53.7 percent while 3,227 or 46.3 percent of voters were in favor of the change.

WAYNE-WESTLAND COMMUNITY SCHOOLS OPERATING MILLAGE PROPOSAL:

    Voters agreed to allow the school district to assess the statutory limit of 18 mills for schools operations. Yes votes totaled 22,573 or 61.2 percent while 14,333 or 38.8 percent of voters were not in favor of the tax question.

RENEWAL OF WAYNE COUNTY REGIONAL EDUCATION SERVICE MILLAGE:

    The renewal was approved by 487,299 voters or 68.1 percent of voters in Wayne County. No votes on the question totaled 227,928 or 31.9 percent of votes.

Winning Ways

    The Romulus Junior Varsity Flyers were crowned Peanut Bowl champions last weekend while the Romulus Flyers Cheerleaders placed 4th at their cheer competition. This latest victory adds to a long string of wins for the Romulus teams who 2019 Junior Varsity Champions;2021 Junior Varsity

Champions; 2022 Varsity Runner-Up; 2023 Freshman Champions; 2024 Freshman Runner-Up; 2024 Junior Varsity Champions and 2024 Varsity Champions. Helping support the teams were Superintendent of Romulus Community Schools Dr. Ben Edmondson and Barth Elementary School David Thompson who showed their team spirit at the championship game in Melvindale. The victory adds to the long history of Romulus athletic championships.
    

    The Romulus Lady Eagles won the Class A regional title for consecutive years and have been league champions in 2019, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024.
    Not to be outdone, the championship Romulus Varsity Boys Basketball team won their game against Arbor Prep High School by a score of 66-61 earlier this year.

Sounds good

Grant to fund new sound system at Penn Theatre

    The sounds of progress will soon be heard at the Penn Theatre in downtown Plymouth. The Friends of the Penn, the organization that operates the historic theater, was recently awarded an $8,000 grant from the Margaret Dunning Foundation to fund the installation of a permanent public address system at facility.
    Ellen Elliott, executive director of Friends of the Penn, expressed her gratitude for the continuing support of the community and the foundation.
    “The whole community has the potential to benefit from this project as an extension of the lighting project that was made possible by the generosity of the Margaret Dunning Foundation last year.
    “We host a mental health lecture series for the Plymouth-Canton Community School District that benefits our youngest citizens. We also collaborate with the Plymouth District Library to schedule author lectures for people of all ages. We work with other non-profit organizations, including Plymouth Pollinators, Keep Plymouth Leafy, Friends of the Rouge, and Plymouth Community Arts Council, to schedule programming that educates and inspires our residents.
    “This project will also help us better communicate with our audience during movie events that involve post-screening discussions. We are grateful to the Margaret Dunning Foundation for their assistance in helping us continue with our charitable mission of preserving and maintaining the historic Penn Theatre,” Elliott said.
    The Margaret Dunning Foundation was founded by Ms. Dunning in 1997 to support charitable programs primarily in western Wayne County. Ms. Dunning, a philanthropist, was a beloved member of the Plymouth community before her death at the age 105. Her foundation continues to fund multiple cultural and educational projects in the community.
    The historic Penn Theatre was built in 1941 exclusively as a movie theater and was saved from demolition by a grassroots community effort which has evolved into the Friends of the Penn organization.
    For more information about the historic Penn Theatre and Friends of the Penn, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, visit www.penntheatre.com
    For more information about The Margaret Dunning Foundation, visit www.margaretdunningfdn.org

Free Narcan seminar available

    The use of the life-saving medication Narcan will be the topic of a free seminar next week conducted by the Recovery Action Network of Michigan for those 18 and older.
    The training in use of the medication in the event of an opioid overdose will begin at 6:30 p.m. next Thursday, Nov. 21. m. at the Summit on the Park, located at 46000 Summit Parkway in Canton.
    The training will provide life-saving instruction on how to administer Naloxone, which is an opioid overdose reversal drug that is often referred to by the brand name Narcan™. No pre-registration is required to attend, and participants will leave with a free Narcan™ kit; while supplies last, organizers said.
    In an effort to help prevent overdose deaths in Canton and surrounding communities, a self-serve vending machine containing free Narcan™ and Fentanyl test strips is now available in the Summit on the Park, located on the west side of the facility near the Recreation entrance. The vending machine will dispense these items anonymously and free of charge.
    “It’s important for everyone to recognize the symptoms of an opioid overdose in others, as a quick response can save a person’s life,” said Greg Hohenberger, Canton Leisure Services director. “Having easy access to this life-saving medication and Fentanyl test strips without a prescription in our high-traffic facility can hopefully help save more lives and give a person another
    For more information, visit www.summitonthepark.org or call (734) 394-5460.

A Legacy of Loyalty and Service

National Veterans Day celebration set for next Monday, Nov. 11 

    As the fervor and excitement of the presidential election continues across the country, one of the most significant remembrances of true American patriotism will take place next Monday, Nov. 11.
    That special date is reserved as an opportunity for the entire country to celebrate the genuine patriotism alluded to in so much political rhetoric over the past few months. This year, Veteran’s Day, a day for all Americans to honor those who have served in the U.S. armed forces, comes as an aftermath of a contentious and divisive presidential campaign. This federal holiday designed to unite the country in a tribute to those who have served in any branch of the military, is observed on Nov. 11 to commemorate the armistice signed between the Allied powers and Germany which took place on Nov. 11, 1918, ending major hostilities of World War I.
    The theme for Veterans Day 2024 is “A Legacy of Loyalty and Service,” and to honor the service of so many, there will be no mail delivery and banks, and all non-essential federal and state offices will be closed, hopefully to remind all Americans of the sacrifices made by so many during both war and peace as they served in any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces.
    Originally known as Armistice Day, the day marks the formal end to World War I which ceased on the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918 when the Armistice with Germany went into effect. At the urging of major U.S. veteran organizations, Armistice Day was renamed Veterans Day in 1954. Legally, two minutes of silence is recommended to be observed at 2:11 p.m. Eastern Standard Time.
    Veterans Day is distinct from Memorial Day, a U.S. public holiday in May: Veterans Day commemorates the service of all U.S. veterans, while Memorial Day specifically honors those who have died while in military service.
    In 1945, World War II veteran Raymond Weeks from Birmingham, Alabama, had the idea to expand Armistice Day to celebrate all veterans, not just those who died in World War I. Weeks led a delegation to Gen. Dwight Eisenhower, who supported the idea of National Veterans Day. Weeks led the first national celebration in 1947 in Alabama and annually until his death in 1985. President Ronald Reagan honored Weeks at the White House with the Presidential Citizenship Medal in 1982 as the driving force for the national holiday. Elizabeth Dole, who prepared the briefing for President Reagan, determined Weeks as the “Father of Veterans Day”.[7]
    Congress amended the bill on June 1, 1954, replacing “Armistice” with “Veterans,” and it has been known as Veterans Day since.
    Canton Township will again honor area service men and women who have served or are currently serving in the Armed Forces during the traditional Canton Township Salute to Service set to begin with a 6 p.m. reception Nov. 11 at The Village Theater at Cherry Hill.
    This special event will also feature memorabilia displays presented in the vestibule of The Village Theater, followed by the program that will take place on the Main Stage. The stage program will begin at 7 p.m., officials said.
    “Canton’s Village Theater is proud to be the host site for this annual event honoring our area’s service men and women, and their families,” said Ben Frick, performing arts coordinator. “Every year, this special tribute brings together the community for a night of celebration and appreciation of those who have put themselves in harm’s way in order to protect our country.”
    Donations for the Veterans’ Administration Ann Arbor Health System will be accepted during the event. Suggested donations include winter hats, gloves, coats, T-Shirts, and underwear in various sizes. Additionally requested items may be found at https://shorturl.at/03I9E. Donations may also be dropped off at the Village Theater through Nov. 24 during regular box office hours. No tickets are required for this free general admission event and all ages are welcome to attend.
    The Village Theater at Cherry Hill is located at 50400 Cherry Hill Road, Canton, MI 48187. For more information, visit www.cantonvillagetheater.org or call (734) 394-5300.

Class act

    Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight joined students, teachers, administrators and parents at the special ribbon cutting officially opening the new media center at Romulus Middle School Oct. 29. In addition toschool officials, several students spoke during the dedication and McCraight said he was impressed with the students who were “really engaged and proud of their new center for learning.” He said he left the event inspired. “Great things are happening in the Home of Opportunity,” McCraight posted on social media.

Northville Township police launch new cell messaging service

    Northville Township police are as close as your cell phone.
    A new text messaging service, PowerEngage, was launched by the township police department last week to provide updates to individuals involved in a police incident. The township is one of the first in Michigan to access the new software designed to keep residents informed when experiencing a non-life-threatening incident.
    The new program also collects feedback to gauge residents’ satisfaction about the interaction with police, officials said, which allows the department to better connect with the community.
    “The Northville Township Police Department is always looking for innovate ways to serve, connect and engage with our community,” said Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police Scott Hilden.
    “In today’s on-demand society, we recognize the importance of sharing progress as it happens with those involved in a case. It comforts people knowing they are top of mind with our officers. Using this tool, helps us expedite the process and it allows us to discover how the public feels about the job we are doing.”
    A sample text may include notification when an officer has been dispatched to the resident’s location, the case number and pre-arrival instructions. Texts may include, “Officers are on the way to the crash you reported. If you were involved in the crash, be sure to wait in a safe location. Please move vehicles off of the roadway, if possible.”
    Text messages are sent minutes, hours or, if more investigation is involved, days after the incident and will ask citizens to take a quick survey about their experience with their call for service. It also will allow residents to provide their own comments or have an opportunity to thank the responding officer.
    “Of course, if our residents prefer to call or stop by with feedback, we welcome that as well,” Hilden said. “We now provide more options with the help of PowerEngage, and we want our residents to know that it’s not a substitute for a personal interaction or for calling 9-1-1 for any emergency or to report criminal activity.”
    Another benefit is the information provides key data to help police improve services, Hilden said.
    “With every initiative and innovation, we strive to leave Northville Township and our agency in a better place.”
    “We are embracing this technology because it will help our residents and that’s so important,” said Northville Township Supervisor Mark J. Abbo. “Information soothes you when you’ve been touched by an incident. It also helps because it shows the Northville Township Police Department is actively working to assist you. We strive to be helpful in everything we do and it begins with transparency and two-way communication,” Abbo added.

County funding OK’d for Westland and Friends of Rouge projects

    The City of Westland and the Friends of the Rouge are among 13 recipients of economic development funding recently approved by Wayne County Commissioners. The total funding approved by the commission last week was $19.8 million which augments some $170 million in community projects ranging from creating new residences and preservation of historic structures to development of walkways, greenways and recreation areas, according to a prepared statement.
    Other support for the projects will come from the state, local foundations and private individuals. The projects are separate from the American Recovery Act projects previously approved for funding by the commission and not subject to federal deadlines.
    “These projects fall into four categories: education, workforce development, affordable housing and parks and recreation,” Commission Chair Alisha Bell (D-Detroit) said.
    The Friends of the Rouge organization based in Plymouth will receive $4.59 million to help develop the Rouge Gateway Greenway, the second phase of a 20-year walkway project linking Detroit and suburban communities.
    The City of Westland was awarded $2.5 million to create the Nankin Square community center adjacent to city hall in the City Centre District.

Communities continue to battle nuclear waste dumping

    Canton Township officials, along with those from Van Buren Township, the City of Belleville, the City of Romulus, and Wayne County, continue to fight an expensive, uphill battle against the efforts of Wayne Disposal Inc., to bring radioactive waste to the area.
    The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers planned to send 6,000 tons of nuclear waste produced during the manufacture of nuclear bombs in the 1940s and 1950, The waste had been stored at a New York site which is planned for remediation.
    The local communities succeeded in securing a Temporary Restraining Order from circuit court preventing Wayne Disposal from accepting the waste matter from New York until a court hearing. Last week, however, Wayne Disposal, Inc. petitioned to have the case removed to federal jurisdiction in the U.S. District Court of the Eastern District of Michigan and dissolve the Temporary Restraining Order (TRO).
    The communities and Wayne County are fighting to keep the TRO prohibiting the disposal of radioactive waste in place while filing to remand the case back to state court. They are fighting to keep the restraining order in place until Wayne Disposal, Inc. has been re-licensed, which will not occur until a public hearing weighing public input has taken place. Wayne Disposal is currently an unlicensed facility in the state of Michigan. Attorneys for the communities have also argued that radioactive waste is a nuisance, which local fire departments are not equipped to handle should a radioactive fire or other hazardous event occur. The site currently accepts radioactive and toxic waste from other sources.
    “The Wayne Disposal site is near a very populated area in Wayne County, in the Huron River Watershed, with lakes, rivers and streams that all lead to the Great Lakes,” said Canton Supervisor Anne Marie Graham-Hudak. “The Great Lakes contain 21 percent of the world’s freshwater. Why would Michigan want to accept radioactive waste and expose our people and waterways to such dangerous pollution?”
    “This is not a local problem this is a state problem,” said Van Buren Township Supervisor Kevin McNamara. “Michigan is quickly becoming the dumping ground for the nation’s low-level radioactive waste. Our legislators need to stop Michigan from becoming the dumping ground of the nation.”
    Belleville Mayor Ken Voigt expressed a similar thought.
    “You couldn’t pick a worse location for a hazardous waste dump if you tried, let alone one that contains radioactive waste. In my opinion, this facility is a long-term existential threat to the entire State of Michigan.”
    Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight concurred.
    “The City of Romulus stands resolute with our regional neighbors and Wayne County in what looks to be another fight to protect our environment as well the quality of life of our residents.
    “The issue of hazardous waste coming to Michigan is an issue that affects the quality of life for everyone associated with the Great Lakes, not just southeast Michigan! It’s time for our judicial systems as well as our legislators in Lansing to support the initiative to keep these radioactive materials out of our landfills and protect the quality of life of the residents of Michigan! If it’s not good for New York, it’s not good for Michigan where it can possibly contaminate the largest supply of fresh water in the world,” McCraight said.

Salute to Service

Canton to honor veterans at traditional event Nov. 11

    Canton will again honor area service men and women who have served or are currently serving in the Armed Forces during the traditional Canton Township Salute to Service set to begin with a 6 p.m. reception Nov. 11 at The Village Theater at Cherry Hill.

    This special event will also feature memorabilia displays presented in the vestibule of The Village Theater, followed by the program that will take place on the Main Stage. The stage program will begin at 7 p.m., officials said.
    “Canton’s Village Theater is proud to be the host site for this annual event honoring our area’s service men and women, and their families,” said Ben Frick, performing arts coordinator. “Every year, this special tribute brings together the community for a night of celebration and appreciation of those who have put themselves in harm’s way in order to protect our country.”
    Donations for the Veterans’ Administration Ann Arbor Health System will be accepted during the event. Suggested donations include winter hats, gloves, coats, T-Shirts, and underwear in various sizes. Additionally requested items may be found at https://shorturl.at/03I9E. Donations may also be dropped off at the Village Theater through Nov. 24 during regular box office hours. No tickets are required for this free general admission event and all ages are welcome to attend.

    The Village Theater at Cherry Hill is located at 50400 Cherry Hill Road, Canton, MI 48187.
    For more information, visit: www.cantonvillagetheater.org or call (734) 394-5300.

Northville Township police can now use new texting service

    Northville Township police are as close as your cell phone.
    A new text messaging service, PowerEngage, was launched by the township police department last week to provide updates to individuals involved in a police incident. The township is one of the first in Michigan to access the new software designed to keep residents informed when experiencing a non-life-threatening incident.
    The new program also collects feedback to gauge residents’ satisfaction about the interaction with police, officials said, which allows the department to better connect with the community.
    “The Northville Township Police Department is always looking for innovate ways to serve, connect and engage with our community,” said Director of Public Safety and Chief of Police Scott Hilden.
    “In today’s on-demand society, we recognize the importance of sharing progress as it happens with those involved in a case. It comforts people knowing they are top of mind with our officers. Using this tool, helps us expedite the process and it allows us to discover how the public feels about the job we are doing.”
    A sample text may include notification when an officer has been dispatched to the resident’s location, the case number and pre-arrival instructions. Texts may include, “Officers are on the way to the crash you reported. If you were involved in the crash, be sure to wait in a safe location. Please move vehicles off of the roadway, if possible.”
    Text messages are sent minutes, hours or, if more investigation is involved, days after the incident and will ask citizens to take a quick survey about their experience with their call for service. It also will allow residents to provide their own comments or have an opportunity to thank the responding officer.
    “Of course, if our residents prefer to call or stop by with feedback, we welcome that as well,” Hilden said. “We now provide more options with the help of PowerEngage, and we want our residents to know that it’s not a substitute for a personal interaction or for calling 9-1-1 for any emergency or to report criminal activity.”
    Another benefit is the information provides key data to help police improve services, Hilden said.
    “With every initiative and innovation, we strive to leave Northville Township and our agency in a better place.”
    “We are embracing this technology because it will help our residents and that’s so important,” said Northville Township Supervisor Mark J. Abbo. “Information soothes you when you’ve been touched by an incident. It also helps because it shows the Northville Township Police Department is actively working to assist you. We strive to be helpful in everything we do and it begins with transparency and two-way communication,” Abbo added.

Northville home fire investigation leads to national appliance recall

    An investigation into a home fire in Northville Township played a significant role in a national recall of electric ranges, potentially preventing fires across the country.
    Earlier this month, representatives of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) attended a meeting of the board of trustees to express thanks to the township fire department for the July 2023 investigation of a home fire, which led to a recall of ovens which were involved in 250 fires, 18 of which caused extensive property damage and 40 injuries.
    The Northville Township fire was caused when one of two family dogs accidentally struck a button on the electric stove, turning on the appliance which then set fire to an air fryer on top of the appliance. Investigators recreated the ease of turning on the stove knob which led to the fire and then discovered other complaints about the same situation online. That investigation prompted a review of the stove safety during a year-long investigation by the CPSC and led to a national recall of more than 1.1 million Samsung slide-in electric ranges which had been sold at Best Buy, Costco, The Home Depot, Lowe’s and other appliance stores from May 2013 through August 2024.
    “We are so grateful for the work that Deputy Fire Chief Tom Hughes, Capt. Phil Sutherland and the team at Northville did to get the ball rolling, to bring this to our attention and to keep Northville and our whole country safe,” said Becky Barnhart, a CPSC supervisory product safety investigator, who attended the meeting with colleague Produce Safety Investigator Yolanda Tiano.
    They presented Hughes and Sutherland, the incident commander on the fire, with a certificate and challenge coin to further express the gratitude of the organization.
    Hughes noted every fire undergoes a similar investigation to determine its origin and cause.
    “Many people believe this is solely to address cases of arson or criminal activity; however, our investigations go beyond that, focusing on all potential factors involved, to prevent future fires,” he said.
    That’s because Community Risk Reduction, also known as fire prevention, is one of the pillars of the department.
    “This is a success story because we helped prevent possible future fires. It’s part of the things we do above and beyond to protect those around us.”

Nuclear waste disposal lawsuit sent to federal court

    The planned disposal of nuclear waste in Van Buren Township is now a federal case.
    Last week, attorneys for Wayne Disposal, Inc. moved the lawsuit filed by Canton and Van Buren townships along with the cities of Belleville and Romulus into federal court claiming the U.S. Constitution Commerce Clause does not allow states or local governments to unilaterally stop shipments of out-of-state waste.
    The radioactive waste matter in dispute was to be hauled by truck from the Niagara Fall site where it had been stored from 1944 to 1952. The material was created during the development of atomic bombs during both World War I and II. A remediation of the New York site is planned to allow for future industrial development at the site, according to legal filings.
    Currently, Wayne Disposal is receiving waste from an atomic development site in Ohio including radioactive materials from the 1940s and 1950s. That site, in Luckey, Ohio is currently under remediation by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
    Wayne County Circuit Court Judge Kevin Cox had initially halted the disposal of the waste pending a hearing last week. The case will now be under the jurisdiction of the U.S. District Court of the Eastern District of Michigan.
    In the court filings, Wayne Disposal, Inc. attorneys contend that the clause in the constitution “has long provided that the problems of waste disposal represent “a matter national in scope and concern” and does not allow states or local governments to unilaterally stop shipments of out-of-state waste. The court filings further argue that stopping the waste shipments would “fundamentally interfere” with the federal hazardous waste program and create a problem for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
    The lawsuit filed by the local communities in September was later joined by Wayne County. Local officials claim that the disposal of the waste matter which emits low levels of radioactivity was a serious health hazard and threat to local residents. The municipalities contend the waste matter puts residents in danger and further claim that local officials were not notified of the plan to truck the nuclear waste through the area to the Van Buren site and that the communities are not prepared to respond if the material is spilled or escapes. The lawsuit further noted that while public hearings and meetings were scheduled in New York detailing the routes the trucks carrying the waste matter would take, no information at all pertaining to the planned disposal in Michigan was ever provided.
    Wayne Disposal, owned by Republic Services has been importing and disposing of hazardous waste matter since 2006, according to court filings.
    The proposed shipment of 6,000 tons of radioactive waste to Van Buren drew hundreds of area residents to attend a September town hall meeting attended by local, county and state officials.
    The plan was vehemently denounced by residents at the meeting who cited health concerns and the impact on the area.
    State lawmakers, including State Rep. Reggie Miller, tried to intervene with plans to limit the waste allowed to be transported to and stored in Michigan and tighten the rules for hazardous waste facilities. Miller, a Democrat who represents Van Buren, introduced a bill to prohibit the disposal of the waste matter. State Sen. Darrin Camilleri, D-Trenton, said he planned to introduce legislation to increase the fees Michigan imposes on hazardous waste landfills and injection wells.
    No hearing date had been scheduled at press time.

‘Swatter’ suspect facing felony charges in false police call

    The man accused of sending police officers to a Canton Township home with a false report of a killing is facing criminal charges.

    According to police reports, Devin O’Leary, 34, of Commerce Township called Canton police in September sending officers to a home near Cherry Hill and Lotz Road after telling 911 dispatchers he had just “killed everyone in the house.”
    O’Leary was arraigned earlier this month at the 36th District Court on charges of filing a false report of a felony.
    Magistrate Malaika Ramsey Heath set O’Leary’s bond at $50,000, according to police reports. The charge is a felony offense and is usually referred to as “swatting” when a perpetrator calls 911 to falsely report a serious crime, sending multiple first responders rushing to the scene.
    According to court records, O’Leary has previously been charged with malicious use of a telephone, which is a misdemeanor. Police surmise that the same victim was targeted in both instances. Canton police detectives identified O’Leary as the suspected prank caller. O’Leary was arrested Oct. 3 by officers from the Canton Police Department Special Operations Group, along with assistance from Northville Township and Plymouth Township police departments.
    “I commend the outstanding response of our police officers and investigators who worked on this case,” Canton Police Chief Chad Baugh said in a prepared statement.
    “We are committed to utilizing all available resources to identify those responsible for disrupting public safety services through ‘swatting’ incidents.
    We appreciate the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office’s continued efforts to issue the necessary charging documents and hold individuals accountable for these crimes.”

Fun stuff

    The Romulus Public Library has some new attractions in the Children’s Area with new couches, a soft climber, playhouse, bean bag, and the brand-new Sensory Break Basket. Staff members can help visitors to use the new noise-cancelling headphones, a weighted lap pad, and choose from a wide variety ofsensory toys. Adult-sized sensory items are coming soon, library officials said. “At Romulus Public Library we are always striving to provide new materials and services to benefit our community. Our goal with our new additions is to increase our accessibility and enrichment for the young families in our community. Libraries are no longer dusty bookshelves, they are also a place for communities to connect, relax, gain new skills, and explore a world of information,” a library spokesman noted. The library is located at 11121 Wayne Road in Romulus. For more information, call (734) 942-7589.

Body discovered in Rouge River is identified

    The remains of a woman found in the Rouge River last week have been identified by Wayne police as a local resident missing for more than two months.

    In a prepared statement Monday, police said the corpse discovered by a kayaker on the Rouge River has been identified as Rosalind Taylor, 56, a resident of the city. Mrs. Taylor had been reported missing Oct. 18 by her family. The gruesome remains of her corpse were discovered as a person paddling a kayak in the Rouge River near Pershing and John R streets discovered the decomposing bottom portion of a human corpse tangled in the river embankment at about 5:15 p.m. Oct. 16.
    Police confirmed the remains as human and removed the partial corpse from the water. The upper portion of the same body was retrieved from the river the next morning, according to police reports.
    Both city of Wayne police and Michigan State Police were on the scene, according to police.
    The body was identified by the Wayne County Medical Examiner’s Office using dental records. No cause of death has been determined and an investigation into the death is under way, police said.
    Police said Mrs. Taylor had last been seen in downtown Wayne on the same day she was reported missing
    Anyone with information about the case has been asked by police to contact

tspringer@cityofwayne.com or call (734) 721-1414 ext. 1503.

Winners of Canton Art Exhibition remain on display

    Artwork from the 30th Annual Canton Fine Arts Exhibition will remain on exhibit only until this Saturday, Oct. 26 when voting for The People’s Choice Award with close.

    “This annual exhibition continues to gain a great reputation for featuring some of the best-emerging artists in Michigan,” said Elli Fassois, The Gallery at Cherry Hill coordinator. “We’re hoping that as many people as possible stop in before the exhibition closes on Oct.26, to select their favorite and vote for the People’s Choice Award.”
    Winners already selected this year include: Best of Show: Dean Rogers for ‘Draggin’ Down the Street’; Second Place: Brant MacLean for ‘Doty Park’; Third Place: Lydia Hannah Wilson for ‘Elegance of Indian Heritage’’; Honorable Mention: Alex Kautz for ‘Reaper’; Honorable Mention: David Petropoulos for ‘Integrating the Without, Within’; Merit Award: Chuck Schroeder for ‘End of the Road’; Merit Award: Anthony Dedakis for ‘Nature’s Embrace’; Merit Award: Jill McGinn for ‘Sea Dance’; and Merit Award: Elena Adam for ‘When Elf Looks at You’.

    This year 148 pieces were reviewed by juror Tom Hale, whose artwork has been shown extensively throughout the nation been exhibited in both national and international competitions. Hale has completed over 3,100 original paintings, which are in the hands of corporate, private, and individual art collections. His list of clients includes major corporations and individuals from all walks of life who reside in a number of countries including the Gold Medal of Honor from the American Watercolor Society (AWS) in New York City.
    Featured artists with work on exhibit include Elena Adam; Susan Aitken; Laura Cavanagh; Nancy Coumoundouros; Anthony Dedakis; Michelle DeLange; Robert du Nord; Alex Kautz; Brant MacLean; Jill McGinn; John Middlestead; Christine Panyard; Robert Perrish; David Petropoulos; Dean Rogers; Ronald Rutherford; Chuck Schroeder; Josephine Sheehy; Doug Stein; Pamela Stoddard; Alicia Vasseli; Nancy Wanchik; Lydia Hannah Wilson; and Victoria Wolf.

    The Canton Fine Arts Exhibition began in 1993 as an activity of Canton Project ARTS, a cultural programming body that provided various arts-related events and activities to the community. In 2004, Canton Project ARTS was absorbed by Canton Leisure Services and is currently guided by the Canton Commission for Culture, Arts, and Heritage.
    The gallery is located at 50400 Cherry Hill Road in Canton. For more information, call (734) /394-5300 or visit www.cantonvillagetheater.org.

Trucking of nuclear waste to Van Buren continues

    Truckloads of hazardous waste continue to travel throughout the area hauling toxic chemicals and nuclear waste matter to the Wayne Disposal Inc. landfill in Van Buren Township.
    Wayne County circuit Judge Kevin Cox issued a temporary restraining order on Sept. 18, halting the disposal of hazardous or nuclear waste at the local facility in response to a lawsuit filed by Van Buren and Canton townships and the cities of
    Belleville and Romulus. Attorneys from Republic Services which owns Wayne Disposal petitioned the court during a hearing Sept. 24 to limit the restraining order to only waste from the Niagara Falls Storage Site allowing the continued disposal of toxic waste at the local site.
    The hearing set for this week will determine whether the temporary injunction restricting the nuclear waste from the Manhattan Project will continue while the case is resolved.
    The radioactive waste matter in dispute was to be hauled by truck from the Niagara Fall site where it had been stored from 1944 to 1952. The material was created during the development of atomic bombs during both World War I and II. A remediation of the New York site is planned to allow for future industrial development at the site, according to legal filings.
    Currently, Wayne Disposal is receiving waste from an atomic development site in Ohio including radioactive materials from the 1940s and 1950s. That site, in Luckey, Ohio is currently under remediation by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The material, according to legal documents, exhibits an elevated level of radioactivity. According to the Army Corps, more than 175,000 tons of radioactive soil and other materials have been hauled to Wayne Disposal over the past 6 years. Material from another Ohio chemical plant where uranium was formerly developed for atomic weapons is also slated for transport and disposal Van Buren.
    Data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency shows that fewer than 100 people live within a 1-mile radius of only four hazardous waste facilities outside Michigan, while Wayne Disposal has 2,660 residents within that radius — and more than 150,000 residents within 20 miles of the site.
    State Rep. Reggie Miller has introduced a bill that would ban elevated radiation waste from Michigan landfills. Miller said multiple states have enacted similar legislation that has withstood legal challenges.
    According to the Army Corps, the waste will not exceed 50 picocuries per gram of radioactivity. One picocurie is roughly equivalent to background levels of radioactivity naturally occurring in the environment, according to a prepared statement.
    Melissa Quillard, senior manager of external communications for Republic Services said the landfill has safely received and managed radioactive material for many years.
    “The landfill meets or exceeds all regulations and is designed to safely manage this type of material, which can be generated through a variety of industrial and other processes,” Quillard said in a statement.
Miller, however, disagrees.
    “We are not discriminating; this is a health and safety concern. That landfill is a mile and a half from the largest lake in Wayne County, Belleville Lake. It is near a middle school and a few parks. It is in the most populous county in Michigan,” Miller said.

Ringers

Crowds vie for honors at annual horseshoe event

    The annual One Romulus Community Horseshoe Tournament brought crowds of elected officials, city

employees members of St. Johns Lodge #44, residents and friends to Elmer Johnson Park in the city
recently. Mayor Robert McCraight showed off his tossing skill and awarded ribbons to the winners of the day. The crowd enjoyed refreshments from Grahams Gourmet Hot Dogs during the nearly perfect fall day. The event is set for Sept. 13 next year and officials urged residents to mark their calendar for a day of community fun..

School board members appoint member to fill term

    Aamina Ahmed was appointed as the newest member of the Plymouth Canton Community Schools Board of Education during a meeting Oct. 1.
    Ahmed will complete the term of Shawn Wilson who resigned from the board in August. Ahmed was selected from a field of nine applicants who were interviewed for the position, according to information provided by district officials. Three finalists were asked to return for a second interview with current board members who then selected Ahmed to fill the vacancy.
    “We are grateful to all of the candidates who chose to apply to serve as a Board Trustee, and we are excited about the addition of Aamina Ahmed to the P-CCS Board of Education,” said P-CCS Board President Lauren Christenson. “We firmly believe that her professional experience, previous service to the district, and passion for public education will bring an important perspective as we continue to work to provide students with an education that prepares them for life success.”
    Ahmed, a graduate of Wayne State University who currently works as a grant manager, previously served on several district committees, including the board policy committee. She is the mother of three who all attended schools in the district, according to a prepared statement.
    “As a firm believer in the value of public education, I am excited to work collaboratively alongside the other Trustees and Superintendent Merritt to serve our district’s students, families, and staff,” Ahmed said.
    “I’m looking forward to learning as a member of the board and finding ways to make the district even better than it is right now.”
    Ahmed will serve until December, 2026 when the term expires.

Smoothing the way

Canton Township celebrates completion of park path projects

    Canton Township officials celebrated the official ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the completion of an extensive path improvement project in Canton Heritage Park funded by a Wayne County Parks Millage and the township.

    The popular destination, which averages more than 500,000 unique guests each year, will now be greeted by newly renovated paths that will provide improved avenues for physical activity and enhanced outdoor experiences.
    “It’s important for our community to have enhanced park amenities that increase both safety and accessibility of these recreational areas where all ages and abilities can come together to spend time outside, and to enjoy all that Canton has to offer,” said Canton Supervisor Anne Marie Graham-Hudak. “This path renovation project marks the first time in over 40 years that these paths have been majorly resurfaced and it would not have been possible without our partnership with Wayne County Commissioner Daub who worked together with Wayne County Parks Director Alicia Bradford to fund the majority of this project with Wayne County Parks Millage funding.”

    The path replacement project in Heritage Park included processing the old asphalt pavement and underlying sub-base materials, as well as the construction of a new 10-foot-wide asphalt path throughout 3,000 square feet of the park, as well as on the north side of the Summit on the Park. Further aspects of this $330,000 construction project, which was managed by the Canton Municipal Services Department, included the addition of several electrical service connection points, which were added throughout the park to provide electricity supply to previously ‘off-grid’ sections of the park to improve outdoor special events.
    Canton Supervisor Anne Marie Graham-Hudak led the festivities, which included special remarks by Wayne County Commissioner Melissa Daub (District 10).

Familiar names seeking election in Plymouth and Canton

    Voters in both Canton and Plymouth Townships will see some familiar names on the ballot Nov. 5.
    In Canton, incumbent Supervisor Anne Marie Graham-Hudak, a Democrat, is being challenged by Republican Pat Williams, who held the office from 2026 until he was unseated by Graham Hudak during the 2020 balloting. The supervisors job pays about $155,000 annually.
    In Plymouth Township, former Township Clerk Nancy Conzelman, a Democrat, is hoping to unseat incumbent Clerk Jerry Vorva, a Republican.
    Conzelman formerly campaigned and served as a Republican but has changed her affiliation to seek the clerk’s office as a Democrat.
    The two are competing for the clerk’s office which pays $120,000 annually along with a 15 percent contribution to a retirement plan.
    On the Canton Township ballot:
    Graham-Hudak is a 30-year resident of the township. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in engineering from Boston University and earned a master’s degree from Lawrence Institute of Technology. Prior to being elected supervisor in 2020, she served as a board trustee, on the planning commission.
    She was employed as an engineer and project manager at Ford Motor Co. and Chrysler auto suppliers. She is the current chair of the 35th District Court Authority, Vice Chair of the Western Townships Utility Authority, Vice Chair of SEMCOG and Treasurer of the Conference of Western Wayne.
    Williams currently works as a Realtor and is a 40-year resident of Canton. He has both bachelor’s and master’s degrees and is active in multiple community organizations including the Chamber of Commerce and Canton Cares, a charity fund he founded.
    On the Plymouth Township ballot:
    Vorva, 72, is a 50-year Plymouth Township resident. He has degrees including a Bachelor of Science with honors degree from Madonna University and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. He is a former Plymouth police officer, former City of Plymouth Commissioner, former state representative from the 20th District and a retired Realtor.
    He has been township clerk since 2016.
    Challenger Conzelman, a former Plymouth Township clerk, is a graduate of Marian High School, University of Michigan and Wayne State University Law School and is a licensed attorney. She has lived in Plymouth Township for 31 years.
    She was formerly employed as a corporate attorney, vice president and as chief legal counsel for a mid-size automotive supplier. She is a Certified Michigan Municipal Clerk and received Government Financial Officers Association Excellence in Financial Reporting Award.

Canton receives $7 million in state grants

    Canton Township celebrated the awarding of nearly $7 million in grant funding to be used for projects in the community.
    “I’m thrilled that State Rep. Ranjeev Puri and State Sen. Dayna Polehanki secured funding for these important community projects enhancing pedestrian safety, providing greater activity and programming space for seniors, and protecting abused and neglected children in Canton,” said Supervisor Anne Marie Graham Hudak, commenting on the proposed projects.
    “The Palmer Road pedestrian bridge will improve a treacherous path over I-275 traversed by hundreds of Canton residents each week. The new Canton Senior Center in the Summit will greatly expand the activity and programming space for seniors. And finally, renovating the Sheldon Brick School to house Kids Talk will serve abused and neglected children in all of Western Wayne County by giving them a safe space to be interviewed and hold perpetrators accountable. This project also returns this historic building to its original mission in Canton – serving children and their families,” Graham-Hudak said.
    The pedestrian bridge over I-275 was awarded $3,250,000 in state funding, Graham-Hudak said. Puri secured the funding that will be used to construct the pedestrian bridge on Palmer Road over I-275 for walkers and bikers. Officials said the path along Palmer Road is traversed by many residents attending the Muslim Community of the Western Suburbs (MCWS) of Detroit schools and activities east of the I-275 overpass, trying to make their way to the Medina Activity Center (MAC) on the west side of the overpass. This pedestrian bridge will serve all walkers and bikers alike passing over I-275 at Palmer Road, according to township officials.
    Puri also secured $2,500,000 in grant funding to be used to renovate approximately 10,600 square feet of space in the Summit on the Park in order to expand activity space for Club 55+, the Canton senior program, and make additional facility enhancements. Currently, Club 55+ operates in approximately 1,500 square feet. The expanded activity space and facility improvements will give seniors and other members of the community a place to enjoy billiards, shuffleboard, additional exercise classes, card games, cooking classes and expanded services and amenities, township officials said.
    “This budget cycle I worked diligently to bring home dollars directly to Canton,” said Puri. “I am so proud to have secured $5.75M for Canton Township to improve pedestrian pathways for bikers and walkers, and for Summit renovations. These are huge wins for our community – the funds will be felt directly right here at home and make a meaningful, lasting impact for our residents.”
    State Sen. Dayna Polehanki secured $1 million in grant money that will be used to establish a Kids-TALK Children’s Advocacy Center at Sheldon School on Michigan Avenue in Canton. This center will focus on the safety, social and emotional health, and stability of children and families throughout the region, officials announced. The location of the building is convenient for children and families living in all of western Wayne County and is also close to the new township Youth Center, where Growth Works, Inc. will be located in the future, they added.
    “KIDS-Talk is an invaluable resource for children and families in our region who have been impacted by abuse, and I’m proud to have secured $1 million in this year’s state budget to help facilitate the establishment of a new Kids-TALK Children’s Advocacy Center in Canton that will help their organization better serve those in need,” said Polehanki (D-Livonia).
    “I’m confident this transformative investment will make a tangible difference for our local residents, and I’ll continue fighting hard to deliver progress for the health, safety, and stability of families in our community,” she added.

A ‘maze’ ing

Maybury Farm Corn Maze is now open for fall season

    The annual corn maze at Maybury Farm in Northville is now open.

    The full 9-acre family friendly maze will take about 60 minutes to complete while the mini-maze, which is approximately 1-acre, takes about 20 minutes to complete. Each year the maze features a new design that includes a scavenger hunt. This year, the farm includes a mini maze for little ones. The popular flashlight corn maze will be open to the brave weekends beginning Oct. 25 and Nov. 1.
    Visitors will be taken to the maze by a tractor-driven wagon which are scheduled every 30 minutes. Parmenter’s cider and donuts will be available for purchase in the Maybury Farm general store. The barns will be open evenings until 7 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays for visits with the animals.
    Tickets are $15 per person if purchased at the door; $13 per person when purchased early online 48 hours in advance of the date/time reserved and $8 for members with valid identification. Private party rides are available for up to 25 people at $300.
    Children younger than 2 admitted at no cost with a paid adult but must ride on a lap in the wagon.
    For more information, call (248) 374-0200 press 2 for more information. 

State House Bill will return funds to local schools

    A state bill that will return nearly $600 million to public schools was signed into law by state officials last week.
    House Bill 5803, sponsored by State Rep. Matt Koleszar (D-Plymouth) permanently lowers the Michigan Public School Employees’ Retirement System fund contribution rate, freeing up millions for Northville, Plymouth-Canton and Livonia schools to put dollars back into classrooms and teacher’s salaries.
    Koleszar said he was proud to see his bill that puts his community’s local students and teachers first be signed into law by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
    “When teachers are in charge, we get things done. I know from conversations with the students and educators in this district that years of overpayment into the retirement fund has taken a real toll on our school’s resources. This is fiscally responsible legislation that empowers our schools to put their funding towards what matters most — students,” said Koleszar, chair of the House Education Committee.
    “Northville, Plymouth-Canton and Livonia schools are full of bright minds and dedicated educators. As a teacher-turned-legislator, I am beyond happy to get this legislation across the finish line to equip our schools with the funds they need for our students to succeed.”
    “I also want to extend my gratitude to my fellow Democratic legislators and Gov. Whitmer for their commitment to putting kids and teachers at the forefront of the work we do here in Michigan.”
    Local superintendents and teachers in Koleszar’s district celebrated the direct investments into local classrooms that the new law brings, ensuring their schools have a new, stable source of funding to uplift
students.
    “This is a big win for teachers across Michigan,” said Plymouth-Canton Community Schools teacher JJ Lockwood. “The permanent removal of the 3 percent teacher tax will have a real impact on my paycheck and those of my colleagues. This is why it’s nice having teachers like Matt Koleszar in Lansing to advocate for common sense changes that improve the lives of those in the classroom.”

Antisemitic flyers distributed in both Canton and Northville

    Police in both Northville and Canton townships are investigating the distribution of antisemitic literature left in driveways of several area homes.
    The materials in Northville were in plastic sandwich bags also containing corn kernels. The bags were left in the driveways of multiple homes in the Ridge Hill and Grande Vista subdivisions, according to police reports. While Northville police responded to the incident Oct. 6, Canton police received a complaint Tuesday morning notifying them of the literature.
    The bags contained flyers clearly demonstrating hostility toward or discrimination against Jewish people.
    “The Northville Township Police Department is committed to identifying those responsible for these actions,” the statement read. “Any residents with information related to this incident are encouraged to contact the department non-emergency line at (248) 349-9400.”
    Affected residents in Canton are also being asked to check their home surveillance camera systems and notify the police department if they have any video of the flyers being distributed.
    “We assure the community that our department takes the distribution of these flyers seriously, and we have launched an investigation to identify those responsible,” said Police Chief Chad Baugh.
    Canton Township Supervisor Anne Marie Graham-Hudak also commented on the incident.
    “Hate speech will not be tolerated in this community. Canton residents deserve to feel safe and respected in their homes and neighborhoods. We are taking these actions very seriously and I have full confidence that our Police Department will be diligently working with other departments in the area to make sure this does not continue or escalate.”

Re-Accredited

    The Romulus Police Department has earned reaccreditation through the Michigan Commission on Law

Enforcement Standards (MLEAC) accreditation program. The Romulus Police Department was one of the first 10 agencies in the state to initially win accreditation in October of 2021. While voluntary, reaccreditation is required every 3 years, officials said. Earning certification is a year-long process in which the department must adopt and prove that they have implemented, and are following, the best practices of the profession. It demonstrates a commitment to developing, having, and maintaining a highly professional police department, police officials said. To be re-accredited, the Romulus department was required to prove the standards were followed during the past 3 years. Of the 577 law enforcement agencies in Michigan, only 88 are currently accredited.