Stalker of city official, state attorney facing new charges

    The man found incompetent to face trial for two charges of stalking Plymouth City Commissioner Alanna Maguire and Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel in 2024 has been charged with again

stalking the couple while he has been under the jurisdiction of the court.
    Wayne Country Prosecutor Kym Worthy has again charged Christopher Dean Baldwin, 42, of Flushing, MI with two counts of stalking the couple.
    Prosecutors allege that while under the jurisdiction of Wayne County Third Circuit Court Probate Division and housed in a secure facility, Baldwin, on Feb. 27, used the address of Maguire and Nessel’s home and Nessel’s phone number without permission to secure documents from 12th District Court in Jackson County.
    Baldwin was found incompetent to face trial in connection with an incident that occurred on March 7, 2024. In that incident, he was charged with two counts of misdemeanor stalking when Plymouth police arrested him sitting on the porch of the victims’ Plymouth home at about 8:34 a.m. In a second incident, Baldwin attended a March 4, 2024 Plymouth City Commission meeting where Maguire was present. According to police reports, Baldwin had also attempted contact with Nessel on a previous occasion.

    Baldwin was arrested in the 2024 incident and charged with two counts of misdemeanor stalking, charges that were transferred from criminal court to probate court when he was found incompetent to face trial.
    In the latest incident, he has again been charged with two counts of aggravated stalking.
    “We are alleging once again that the defendant in this case continues to harass our State Attorney General and her wife. This is criminal behavior and cannot be tolerated,” Worthy said in a prepared statement.
    Baldwin was arraigned on March 27 in 35th District Court and given a $200,000 cash/surety bond, with a tether ordered if he is released. His Probable Cause Conference is scheduled for tomorrow, April 4, before Judge James Plakas, and a Preliminary Examination is scheduled for April 11, before Judge Carl Barone.

Top cops

State Reps. Reggie Miller, Jim DeSana and Dylan Wegela attended the Romulus City Council meeting recently to personally honor the Romulus Police Department annual award winners. The officers received congressional “Special Tributes” for their performance on behalf of the residents of Romulus in 2024 from the state officials. Award winners this year included, third from left to right, Officer of the Year Mark Salazar, Command Officer of the Year Andrew Carriger, Rookie of the Year Jared Bundy and Detective of the Year Travis Rice.

City of Romulus mayor will seek reelection to second term

    City of Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight will seek election for a second term.
    McCraight announced his candidacy for reelection following his presentation during the Romulus Chamber of Commerce Monthly Business Luncheon in February.

    “I am extremely proud of the progress that our team has accomplished over the last three years, but there is still much more work to be done. I look forward to continuing the positive momentum as I kick off my campaign to seek a second term as mayor for the City of Romulus,” said McCraight. McCraight is currently in the midst of his first term after being elected as mayor in November of 2021.
    Before announcing his campaign, McCraight shared the city’s economic development efforts in downtown Romulus including property redevelopment, small business grants, place making, and programming. He expressed his excitement for the city’s trajectory and his anticipation of a strong second term.
    Representatives from the POLC – Romulus Command Officers Association, the IAFF Local #4126, and the AFSME Local #1917-36 were on hand during the luncheon, as well as City Treasurer Stacy Paige, to pledge their support with official endorsements of a second term for McCraight. City Clerk Ellen Craig-Bragg, who was unable to attend the luncheon has also given her endorsement.

Westland man facing charges in $1.2 million Corvette theft

    Westland resident Deantae Walker, 21, is facing multiple criminal charges in the theft of Corvettes valued at $1.2 million from the GM Bowling Green assembly plant.
    Police allege that Walker was one of nine men involved in the theft of the vehicles from the Kentucky plant on March 22. According to police, Walker has refused to speak to authorities after his arrest, but prior to receiving his Miranda rights, reportedly said, “If I would have made it back to Michigan, I would have been paid big.”

    Walker was arrested after a foot chase through a parking lot, according to police who responded to a 911 call from a transport driver who was hired by two men to transport a 2017 Corvette to Michigan. When he arrived at a parking lot to retrieve the vehicle, he told police, there were three 2025 Corvettes at the location. The transport driver said the men appeared to be in a rush and he called police when the transaction appeared “weird.” Walker was taken into custody at the scene, while two other men left the parking lot in a Jeep with Ohio license plates.
    Police had also previously responded to a 911 call from a local woman who noticed a brand-new red Corvette in the parking lot of her apartment complex. She told police that the car still had the price stickers in the window and that she did not recognize the driver of the vehicle who was dressed completely in black. Warren County Sheriff’s deputies discovered another brand-new Corvette in the apartment complex parking lot and another new Corvette in a lot across the street. Two more new Corvettes were found parked on a nearby street, police said.
    Assembly plant officials confirmed that the vehicles had been stolen from the facility. An inventory review discovered eight missing vehicles, according to police reports. Investigators believe the Corvettes were all stolen at the same time and driven from the plant using a hole cut in the security fence.
No other suspects have been arrested.
    Walker has been charged in Kentucky with third-degree criminal trespass, a misdemeanor; second-degree criminal mischief, also a misdemeanor; and theft by unlawful taking of a vehicle worth more than $10,000 but less than $1 million, a 5- to 10-year felony.

‘Prison Brides’ reality show participant accused of Amazon thefts

    Several Amazon deliveries missing in the Ridgeline Apartment Complex were recovered last month when Canton Township Police executed a search warrant at the apartment of Emma Barker, 34. Police said 10 to 15 packages addressed to people other than Barker were found in her apartment during the search.
    Barker, a foreign national from England, participated in a reality TV show documenting the lives of women in love with prison inmates. Police said the packages were taken from the apartment complex office or from the doorsteps of other apartments. The police investigation began about a month ago when Barker’s neighbors reported missing packages to police.

    Investigators believe that Barker previously received multiple gifts from fans of the TV show Prison Brides, which dealt with women in love with prison inmates. Her relationship with inmate Curtis Bradford was documented on the show. She would then display gifts from fans on social media.
    As the gifts continued to decrease, she resorted to stealing packages from other apartments, police said, to augment the number of “gifts” from fans she could display to keep up the appearance of popularity and encourage fans to send her more products.
    Barker has been charged with larceny in a building, a felony which carries a penalty of four years in prison, and receiving and concealing stolen property, also a felony, which carries a five-year penalty.
    Following her arraignment last month, Barker was released on a $25,000 bond and must wear a GPS tether.

2 veteran Northville Township Fire Department officers are promoted

    The Northville Township Fire Department has promoted two officers. Greg Ryan has advanced to the rank of captain and Capt. Adm Burton has been promoted to battalion chief.
    Ryan joined the Northville Township Fire Department in 2004. Before beginning his fire service career, Ryan earned a bachelor of Business in Marketing degree from Eastern Michigan University, where he was a three-year starter on the baseball team. His skills on the field led to him being drafted after his junior season and a minor league baseball career. Ultimately, he was inducted into the EMU Athletic Hall of Fame in 2016. He continues his love for the game by coaching young athletes as an assistant coach for Divine Child.
    Ryan has taken on numerous responsibilities beyond emergency response. He has been a dedicated mentor to new firefighters, helping them develop both skills and confidence, and has served on the IAFF Local 3961 Executive Board, advocating for his fellow firefighters, according to a prepared release from the department.
    Burton joined the department in 2006. He was promoted from lieutenant in 2017 to captain in 2023. He has taken on critical roles including as team leader for the Western Wayne County Hazmat Team for more than 10 years. Burton regularly teaches Hazmat response and rescue techniques to both firefighters and industry professionals.
    A former Firefighter of the Year, as voted by his peers, Burton is a graduate of the Eastern Michigan University School of Staff and Command and holds a degree in Public Safety Administration from Siena Heights University.

Historic Wilcox House in Plymouth is vandalized

    Political messages were scrawled in red paint across the side of the historic Wilcox House in downtown Plymouth last Thursday morning.

    The messages were pro-Palestinian and read, “Divest from Israel” and “Free Palestine” along with multiple inverted triangles, a symbol connected to pro-Palestine protests. The historic home, a Plymouth landmark, is now the office of First Financial Strategies an affiliate of Raymond James Financial, a financial advisory company. That office, at 505 Main St. in Plymouth, was also sprayed with red paint and slogans, according to police reports.
    Senior Vice President of Investments at the Raymond James office Carl Meyers is a member of the University of Michigan Board of Regents. Members of the board have been subjected to pressure from Palestinian activists protesting the university ties to Israel. Campus demonstrations have taken place since the war in Gaza began. Earlier this month, the home of college Provost Laurie McCauley was vandalized with spray painted messages supporting Palestine.

    The historic home at 676 Penniman Ave., across the street from Kellogg Park, is considered a historic treasure by Plymouth residents. The Queen Anne style home was built in 1901 by William Markham, owner of the Markham Air Rifle Factory, which produced the famous Daisy Air Rifle. The house was originally built as a home for Markham’s young mistress, Blanche Shortman. In 1911, the home was purchased by George Wilcox. The home was then owned by the Wilcox family for nearly 90 years. The late Mr. Wilcox established a foundation which continues to financially support multiple civic and charitable causes and events in the community.
    “We are working with law enforcement to investigate and are taking additional steps to ensure our associates, advisors, and their clients are safe,” read a prepared statement from Raymond James Financial said.
    The red paint has been removed from the home and the vandalism repaired. Plymouth City Police Chief Al Cox told other news media outlets that his office, along with state and federal agencies, was launching a “multilayered investigation” into the vandalism.

Romulus police officers mourn death of former lieutenant

    Members of the Romulus Police and Fire departments gathered last week to mourn the loss of former police Lt. Phillip Czernik.

    “Phil” John Czernik, 56, died March 12, 2025, in Huron Township.
    “Officer Czernik was not only a beloved member of our community, but more importantly a loving husband, father, son, and friend,” Romulus police posted on a social media site.
    Lieutenant (Ret.) Czernik served with the Romulus Police Department from July of 1989 through July of 2014 where he retired at the rank of Lieutenant. During his distinguished career with the City of Romulus, Lt. (Ret.) Czernik worked undercover in the narcotics division and was field training officer (FTO).
    Officer Czernik joined the Huron Township Police Department in 2014 through his final shift Wednesday, March 12. During the past decade, Officer Czernik represented Huron Township as the Summit Schools Resource Officer, Community Policing Liaison, and was named the 2019 Huron Township Officer of the Year.
    His life was celebrated and his death mourned by officers from the Michigan State Police, Sumpter Township Police Department, Metro Parks Police Department, Van Buren Township Police Department, Romulus Police Department, Woodhaven Police Department Chaplains, and Brownstown Police Department along with the entire board of trustees and supervisor of Huron Township.
    Among his survivors are his beloved wife, Jamie; their cherished twin sons, Matthew Lawrence and Andrew John; his mother-in-law, Pamela Wooden; sister-in-law, Donyale (Lyle) Paillon; an aunt, Nana; nieces, Amanda Villarreal (Casey Wheeler), Alexis Cosby (Brad), Maranda (Darrin) Moos, Ashlyn Paillon, Samantha Moos, Kyle Moos and Alyssa Paillon, and 15 great-nieces and nephews, along with his law enforcement family.

    Interment was at Michigan Memorial Gardens last Wednesday, attended by many of Lt. Czernik’s former law enforcement colleagues.
    “Phil will be deeply missed but never forgotten, as his spirit and legacy continue to inspire all who knew him,” the Romulus Police media post said.

Westland Planning Commission members approve new serpentarium

    Members of the Westland City Council will soon consider approval of some new neighbors in the community following approval of plans for a serpentarium by the planning commissioners.
    Members of the planning commission approved the plans for the reptile exhibition earlier this month. Michael Wilson requested the permit during the March 4 meeting and after some discussion was awarded his request to bring the new business to a 1,000 square-foot space at 958 Newburgh Road in the city. The location is in a retail plaza.
    Wilson told members of the commission that the reptiles, included snakes, monitor lizards and alligators would be sed in secure enclosures.
    He said a Florida-based partner would take any reptiles that outgrow the enclosures provided at the new space.
    According to current city zoning, amusement-based businesses qualify as special land uses under the CB3 General Commercial Business zoning. No objections to the request or plan was submitted by city fire. Police or legal departments and research presented found no additional regulations necessary at the city level.
    Following concerns from Commissioner Debra Fowlkes, Wilson outlined strict security measures designed to ensure that the reptiles would not escape. He said the animals and facility would include video surveillance inside the serpentarium.
    The proposal for the new business will now go before the members of the city council for consideration.

Taking care of business

    

The Plymouth Chamber of Commerce honored 10 local businesses in six categories during the 10th Annual Business Awards Dinner at Fox Hills Golf & Banquet Center last week. Named as Small Businesses of the Year were DJL Builders Inc; Specialty Pet Supplies, Inc and Highway Media. Names as Mid-Size Business of the Year was Karl’s Cabin Restaurant & Banquets in Plymouth and Large Business of the Year awards went to Saint John’s Resort and USA Hockey Arena. Legacy Awards were presented to businessmen Kirk Kohn and Don Soenen while Special Recognition honors went to Friends of the Rouge. The Plymouth Historical Museum was honored for Community Contribution during the ceremony.

Romulus city candidate information now available

    Candidate packets are now available for the 2025 Romulus election.
    This year, the 4-year terms of the mayor, clerk, treasurer and seven city council seats will be on both the primary election ballot set for Tuesday, Aug. 5 and the general election set for Nov. 4.
    City council meetings are scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of every month in the council chambers at city hall.
    Packets for potential candidates are available in the city clerk’s office located on the lower level of Romulus City Hall, 11111 Wayne Road. The deadline for filing for any term is 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 22.
    To be eligible for any office, candidates must be a registered voter in the city and have been a resident of Romulus for at least one year prior to filing for office. To complete the candidate packet, hopefuls will need to provide an affidavit of identity, a statement of candidacy and nominating petitions. The petitions must have a minimum of 100 signatures but cannot exceed 200 signatures of Romulus residents.
    The packets can be obtained at the clerk’s office and general election information will be available.
    More information is available at (734) 942-7540.

On the job

    Ofc. Merlin has joined the Canton Township Police Department as the newest canine officer. Merlin and his partner, Ofc. Jason Wilburn, successfully completed certification through the National Association of Professional Canine Handlers and will be joining Ofc. Brian Zinser and K9 Ofc. Tino on patrol.

Communities benefit from cannabis sales revenue

    Despite reports of declining prices for recreational marijuana in the state, area communities with retail cannabis stores have received hefty tax revenue from the businesses.
    According to the Michigan Department of Treasury, the city of Belleville received $58,228.66 from the only licensed dealership in the community. Inkster, with seven licensed businesses, received a whopping $407,600.62 while the City of Wayne received $232,914.64 from the four licensed marijuana outlets in that city. Westland, with one outlet, will receive $58,228.66 from 2004 reported marijuana sales, according to reports from the state. The state issues revenue sharing to each community in the amount of $58,228.66 for each licensed distributor in the municipality.
    The local distribution is a portion of the $100 million the Michigan Department of Treasury has rebated to local communities across the state.
    The funds provided by the state can be used for various community needs, including public safety initiatives, infrastructure improvements, and municipal services.
    Reports from a report from the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency, the average retail price for an ounce of recreational marijuana dropped to $65.21 in February, a nearly 30 percent drop from the $91.94 reported in February of 2024. Authorities said the sale price to growers continues to decline since recreational sales began in 2019.
    Total marijuana sales, according to the state reports, have dropped significantly, even though the total volume of sales reported was higher, due to the price decreases.
    Officials said marijuana sales usually decrease in January and February and the total sales numbers across the state are expected to increase this month and in April when the 4/20 holiday is celebrated. An increase is also expected from summer tourism in the state, officials said.
    There are currently 50 cannabis distribution centers in the state, according to official reports and Michigan is the largest market in the country, based on units of the drug sold. That number is increasing, according to a recently reported from Leaflink, a wholesale cannabis seller.
    Michigan has the highest sales per resident compared with all other states where recreational marijuana is legal. In Michigan, surveys found that each resident is spending about $327 for the drug while the national average sales per resident in $97.
    Michigan surpassed $10 billion in cannabis sales in January since legal sales began in the state, according to news reports.

Celebrate

 Annual Chinese culture celebration Saturday

    Chinese history and the Year of the Snake will be celebrated this Saturday through music, song and dance at The Village Theater at Cherry Hill in Canton Township.

    The celebration of Chinese culture will begin with a pre-show reception at 6 p.m. and performances by local Chinese artists and students at Chinese schools will begin at 7 p.m.The annual program is presented by the Canton Commission for Culture, Arts, and Heritage and members of the township Chinese Festival Subcommittee.
    Unique performances by: Ann-Hua Gongs & Drums Band; MNCCS Combination Choir; Ann Arbor Jade Dance Studio; MNCCS Adult Dance; Taiji Stream; LiRen Dance Team; Canton Philharmonic and Voice of Spring Choirs; Troy Chinese Music Guzheng & Pipa Team; JZ Dance Studio; Michigan Chinese Choir; Ann-Hua Music Ensemble; Canton YiRen Dance; Male Quartet Xiaoming Liu; Ming Bao; Gang Bi; Weixin Wu; Maggie Lau (Pianist); MNCCS Chinese Yo-Yo Youth Team; Huaqing Dance Group; New Century Dance; Heart Melody Group; Inner Action Dance; Ann-Hua Chinese Waist Drum Team are planned.

    Tickets for the event are $7. Family four-Packs are also available for $25. Purchase tickets online at www.cantonvillagetheater.org or by calling (734) 394-5300. Tickets can also be purchased at The Village Theater Box Office one hour prior to show time.
    The Village Theater at Cherry Hill is located at 50400 Cherry Hill Road in Canton. For more information visit www.cantonvillagetheater.org, or call (734) 394-5300.

New police lieutenant is promoted in Sumpter Township

    Sumpter Township Police Sgt. Brain Steffani has been promoted to the rank of lieutenant with the department.

    Steffani has been a member of the department since 2011. He was promoted to sergeant in January 2017 and has been a night shift supervisor since that time. Before becoming a police officer, Steffani served in the U.S. Army from 2003 to 2009 as an M1A2 Abrams tank crewman. After three combat deployments to Iraq, he completed his enlistment and received an honorable discharge as a staff sergeant.
    Throughout his career, the new lieutenant has received numerous departmental awards, including several life-saving awards and three valor awards for his actions in the line of duty. In addition to his night-shift supervisor responsibilities, Steffani is the department Accreditation Manager, Training and Professional Standards Supervisor, Property Room Manager, Alcohol Enforcement Coordinator, and lead Public Information Officer. He also chairs the Awards Committee, is a Response to Resistance Review Committee member, and has served as a Field Training Officer and Evidence Technician.
    Steffani holds a bachelor’s degree in public safety administration from Eastern Michigan University. Additionally, as part of the departmental vision for creating a highly trained and professional team of leaders, he attended and graduated from the Eastern Michigan University School of Police Staff and Command Executive Leadership Program in 2019.
    His promotion was effective last week.

State denies permit for proposed Topgolf development

    The proposed golf and business complex in Canton Township is on hold following the denial of a wetlands permit by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).
    The permit, necessary to any construction or development at the Interstate 75 and Ford Road site, was based on an objection from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which found the project did not comply with the Clean Water Act: adverse environmental impacts and an unacceptable disruption to aquatic resources; the project was not deemed to be in the public interest and the applicant did not prove that feasible and prudent alternatives to wetland destruction were unavailable, according to a Feb. 19 formal denial from EGLE. The denial cited significant environmental concerns and the applicant’s failure to meet federal and state regulations in the proposed Topgolf facility which includes parking and two fast-food restaurants.
    An objection from the Michigan Environmental Protection Agency was issued in December and allowed the developer 90-days to respond. The February denial from EGLE indicated that no response had been submitted from the developer, Broder Sachse Real Estate.
    Canton officials said the project remains in limbo and there has been no contact from the developer. If there is no appeal or revised application for the permits, the project could be permanently halted. The wetland permit was crucial to the Topgolf portion of the project as there was access from Ford Road to the north portion of the site that crossed wetlands, officials said.
    Consideration by members of the Canton Township Board of Trustees has halted. Among the materials still outstanding are revisions to the planned development agreement, easement details, and updated plan sheets.
    Sally Petrella, a watershed ecologist with Friends of the Rouge, said the organization is strongly in favor of the denial of the permit. She said the proposed Topgolf project would destroy 7.12 acres of forested and scrub shrub wetland in a county that has already lost 90 percent of its original wetlands. Wetlands, she added, provide essential ecosystem services including flood mitigation, water filtration, and biodiversity support.
    The denial has also been favored by the Detroit Bird Alliance, the Michigan Land Conservancy and the Wayne County Conservation District.

Romulus Deputy Clerk earns advanced rating

    D’Sjonaun Hockenhull, the deputy city clerk in Romulus, recently achieved a Level Two certification as a Michigan Professional Municipal Clerk (MiPMC) by the Michigan Association of Municipal Clerks
(MAMC). The MiPMC program encourages city, township, and village clerks to seek continuing education specifically related to the duties of Michigan clerks. The organization promotes a focus on education which helps ensure municipal clerks provide informed, quality leadership for their communities in the face of constant legislative change and increased demands on Michigan public servants.
    A clerk must invest a minimum of 20 hours of educational programming to qualify for a MiPMC Level Two, on top of the 120 hours invested to receive their original MiPMC Level One certification. Whether elected or appointed, municipal clerks serve a powerful role in coordinating public programs and influencing legislative initiatives a organization spokesman noted in a prepared statement.
    “Hockenhull is to be commended for the hard work, perseverance and commitment expended to attain a MiPMC Level Two and the dedication to providing quality service to the public and the municipality they serve,” the prepared release noted.

An Irish salute

    The St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Detroit last week honored Plymouth Township police officers TylerCannon, Raymond Naamou and Jonathon Stempin, along with Sgt. Michael Hinkle and Chief James Knittel as 2025 Hometown Heroes. The men were recognized for their courageous efforts in saving two Plymouth Township seniors from a November house fire in the Bradbury Park Homes complex

M-14 road reconstruction closes access ramps

    A 2-year, $140 million project to reconstruct M-14 at Interstate 96 is now under way through Plymouth Township and Livonia. Crews will reduce lanes as part of the preparation for the upcoming rebuilding of the eastbound side of M-14/I-96 from Sheldon Road to Newburgh Road through late 2025. Westbound M-14/I-96 will be rebuilt in 2026.

    State officials said that eastbound M-14 will have one lane open from west of Beck Road to Levan Road until late this year. Westbound M-14 will have two lanes open from Levan to Beck. Plans include reconstruction; replacing the drainage and storm sewer; installing signs; and water main relocation, according to an official statement.
    Drivers should be prepared for detours. Some ramps will be closed, including eastbound M 14 to northbound/southbound Interstate 275; northbound I-275 to westbound M-14; northbound/southbound Beck to eastbound M-14; and Sheldon Road to eastbound M 14. Access ramps from eastbound M-14 to northbound/southbound I-275 will be closed until late this year as will the northbound I-275 to westbound M-14. Northbound/southbound Beck Road to eastbound M-14 ramp will also be closed during the construction as will access from Sheldon Road to eastbound M-14.
    Traffic control for this project has been carefully considered for the approximately 125,000 drivers who use M-14/I-96 daily near the I-275 interchange, state officials said in a prepared statement. The Metro Trail will be rebuilt during the 2026 season. Project details and maps for that project can be found at www.M14Reconstruction.org.
    Based on economic modeling, this investment is expected to directly and indirectly support 1,336 jobs, according to officials.

Annual spring cleanup set at historic Romulus cemetery

    City of Romulus officials have scheduled the annual spring cleaning of Romulus Memorial Cemetery. All items such as wreaths and grave blankets must be removed by this Sunday, March 16, to facilitate the annual cleaning.

    The cemetery, once called Blair Cemetery, is located on Shook Road and the earliest recorded burial there was in 1833. The name change took place in 1901, according to city officials. Numerous burials, including 25 Civil War veterans, have been recorded at the historic site. Also buried in the Romulus Memorial Cemetery is Charles Cawetzka, who was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his actions during the Philippine-American War. In 1989, the Romulus Historical Society applied for and was granted approval to designate the Romulus Memorial Cemetery as a historical landmark.
    Regulations regarding the cemetery include the removal of all floral arrangements, which include wreaths and grave blankets must be removed by March 16, or the items will be discarded.
    Rules also require that any flowers, fresh and/or artificial, placed on gravesites must be in an unbreakable vase. Prohibited items placed or left upon gravesites will be removed and discarded.
Prohibited items include holiday decorations, yard ornaments, wind chimes, lanterns, solar lights and shepherd hooks.
    In addition, picket fences, decorative rocks, trees, shrubbery and vegetable planting are prohibited.
As always, the City of Romulus is not responsible for securing items left in the cemetery including those that in compliance with the regulations, officials stressed. Any items placed in the cemetery are left at one’s own risk.
    For questions or more information regarding the annual clean up of the historic site, contact Romulus City Clerk Ellen L. Craig-Bragg, (734) 942-7540 or clerk@romulusgov.com.

Safety officials warn public of latest fraudulent phone schemes

    Public safety officials are warning residents of a new Visa fraud which has been reported across the country.
    On-line and phone scammers bilked victims of $12.5 billion last year, according to the latest data released last week by the Federal Trade Commission.
    The total losses reported were at an all-time high and were 25 percent more than reported losses in 2023, officials said.
    In this latest telephone scheme, officers noted, the callers do not ask for victims’ card numbers, because they already have that information.
    The person calling identifies themselves as calling from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA. They even provide a badge number before telling the victim that their card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern, “and I’m calling to verify. This would be on your VISA card which was issued by (name of bank). Did you purchase an Anti-Telemarketing Device for $497.99 from a marketing company based in Arizona?” or some purchase example. When the victim denies making the purchase, the caller usually replies, “‘Then we will be issuing a credit to your account. This is a company we have been watching, and the charges range from $297 to $497, just under the $500 purchase pattern that flags most cards. Before your next statement, the credit will be sent to (gives the victim’s address). Is that correct?”
    The victim usually agrees to the address and the caller continues, “‘I will be starting a fraud investigation. If you have any questions, you should call the 1- 800 number listed on the back of your card (1-800-VISA) and ask for security. You will need to refer to this control number. The caller then gives the victim a six-digit number.
    The most important and crucial segment of the scam comes next when the caller claims to verify that his mark has the card in their possession.
    The caller will say there are seven numbers and the first four are part of the account number “and the last three are the security numbers that verify you are the possessor of the card.”
    That security code is the real purpose of the call. The real Visa Security Department warns that this is a scam and while the victims are asked for very little information, what they do provide is crucial to the fraud the caller will perpetrate.
    “Once you provide them with the three-digit security code, a new purchase of $497.99 (or whatever the caller cited) is charged to your account.
    What the Scammer wants is the three-digit PIN number on the back of the card. Don’t give it to them. Instead, tell them you’ll call VISA or Master Card directly for verification of their conversation,” VISA officials warned.
    “Real VISA representatives will never ask for anything on the card, as they already know the information, since they issued the card,” officials cautioned.
    Anyone receiving a call asking for personal or banking information should immediately hang up and call the number on the back of the credit card to verify the activity on their account, police said.
    The crooks are either out to get your money on a gift card or via cryptocurrency. Or they want to get your Social Security number or other personal information, officials warned.
    No government agency is going to call you out of the blue and demand you pay any fine. And they’re not asking that you send crypto or buy gift cards, officials warned.

Canton indoor Farmers Market set for this Sunday

    The Canton Farmers Market will return with special Off-Season Markets in March and April at a new location. The markets this year will take place at the Village Arts Factory, located at 50755 Cherry Hill Road in Canton. The markets, which are sponsored by Renewal by Andersen, will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, March 16 and April 13.
    A variety of local food growers and producers have signed on to participate in the off-season markets. Scheduled to participate are:
AJH Timbercrafts, - featuring cutting boards and wooden engravings; 

Be Well Be Whole - featuring vegan baked goods; 

Big White Dog Studio, LLC - featuring handmade beaded & gemstone jewelry; 

Bobilin Honey, LLC - featuring honey and bees wax; 

 Bougie Blendz - featuring soaps and skincare products; 

Canton Historical Society - featuring historical information; 

Cookies & More LLC - featuring custom cookie design; 

D&M Art Studio - featuring art supplies; 

Darling Decor Desserts - featuring frosted sugar cookies and more; 

Flowing Script Calligraphy - featuring custom English and Arabic calligraphy; 

Fowl Creek Farm - featuring fresh cut and locally grown flowers, seeds, and more; 

Freezie Fitz Candy - featuring freeze dried candy and fruits; 

Gateway Farm - featuring organic produce and microgreens; 

Girl Scout Troop 40947 - featuring girl scout cookies; 

Gleehead Baking Company - featuring assorted baked goods, coffee, tea, and more; 

Hazel Coffee- featuring specialty coffees and teas; 

Jerry’s Treats - featuring assorted cookies, cakes, and treats; 

Jump-A-Rama - featuring drop-in gym while parents shop; 

Kapolnek Farms LLC - featuring beef, chicken, bacon, brats, jerky, and pork; 

Knots and Stitches - featuring hand crocheted plushies and accessories; 

Lumiere Candle Co. - featuring soy candles; 

Mariposa Boutique - featuring handmade hair bows, kids clothes, and accessories; 

MSU Master Gardeners - featuring expert advice regarding gardening topics; 

Pat’s Creations - featuring microwave potholders, quick breads, and kitchen scrubbys; 

Pick MI Farms - featuring seasonal vegetables, pasture raised chicken eggs; 

Rose’s Best - featuring all natural skincare; 

SignWoodworks - featuring custom laser engraved and wood products; 

SkinCare Social Club - featuring boutique skin care products; 

Smokey Citrine - featuring custom jewelry and gemstone creations; 

SpiceGrrrl - featuring classic handcrafted spice blends; 

STEAP Specialty Tea Products - featuring loose leaf tea; 

Sweet Creations by Michele - featuring vegan baked goods; 

The Cheese People of Grand Rapids - featuring artisan cheese; 

The Print Shop - featuring 3-D printed items; 

Touch of Love Cookies, LLC - featuring homemade cookies; 

Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee of Belleville – featuring hot and cold beverages; 

True2You Candle Boutique - featuring drop-in candle making and candle sales; and 

Wild Wolf Coffee - featuring roasted coffee beans and coffee products.

    “We’re thrilled to be able to host this year’s off-season markets at the Village Arts Factory,” said Canton Farmers Market Supervisor Chelsea Straub. “These markets do a great job of filling a unique niche in our community by enabling marketgoers to shop for meat, winter root vegetables, honey, microgreens, baked goods, lotions and other amazing local goods during the winter months.”
    The new season of the outdoor Canton Farmers Market will begin Sunday, May 11,, and will continue most Sundays through Oct. 12, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The regular season will begin at the Village Arts Factory, located at 50755 Cherry Hill Road, through July 25, due to construction at Preservation Park.
    For additional Canton Farmers Market information, visit www.cantonmi.gov/496,
    contact the Farmers Market Coordinator at cantonfarmersmarket@cantonmi.gov, or call (734) 394-5375.

A high note

  Last week, members of the Plymouth Municipal Services Department staff began training on the set up of the new $246,110 bandshell in Kellogg Park in preparation for use during the upcoming event season. State Rep. Matt Koleszar was helpful in obtaining a $200,000 grant from the State of Michigan to fund the new bandshell which replaces the 26-year-old structure that was in need of substantial repair work, officials said. The selection of the new bandshell was made with input from many event sponsors who use the stage during the summer months, they added.

Townships OK study of new Salem wastewater plan

    Officials in both Canton and Plymouth townships continue their years-long opposition to a new Salem Township Sewer Treatment Plant proposed near their community borders.
    In separate meetings last month, a “feasibility study” was approved by members of each of the township boards of trustees to determine if the Salem Township plant could be connected to the Ypsilanti Community Utilities Authority (YCUA) rather than treat the sewage on site. The study will explore the possibility of a 12.5 mile pressurized pipeline as an alternative to onsite treatment of sewage at the proposed facility to be located near M-14 an Napier Road. The proposed pipeline would be underground in Van Buren Township, along with Canton and Plymouth.
    Since the announcement of the planned facility, residents in both Canton and Plymouth have expressed serious concerns regarding odors, flooding and environmental damage, along with the impact on residential values in the area.
    The proposed treatment plant is part of a planned Urban Service District in Salem Township. The development would be located in a 1,400-acre area near M-14 and Gotfredson Road and include commercial, industrial and residential development. While some infrastructure for the development is complete, neighboring townships continue to dispute the plan to treat wastewater on the site near their borders.
    An attorney for Salem Township, Ed Plato, warned members of the Plymouth Township board that the development was going to proceed. He noted that while Salem “doesn’t want” a wastewater disposal plant, the project would move forward. The plan to connect the Salem plant to the Ypsilanti facility for treatment would require Salem Township to provide and fund all maintenance.
    Plymouth Township trustees approved the study by a 5-2 vote with Treasurer Bob Doroshewitz and Clerk Jerry Vorva casting the dissenting votes.
    Vorva was vocal in his opposition noting that the plant “can be put someplace else.” He said he believed the Salem offiicals deliberately located the plan near the Plymouth border in an effort “intimidate” Plymouth officials and “force our hands.” Vorva’s suggestion to move the issue to a special meeting with notice to residents for their input did not receive support from the trustees.
    Doroshewitz agreed with Vorva and said he had doubts that Salem would treat wastewater in a plant so close to future residential development.
    “I’m having a difficult time believing that they would build a wastewater treatment plant and then try to sell 400 homes within a mile of it if this thing was going to be such an animal to manage, to build, and operate,” Doroshewitz said.
    Plymouth Township Supervisor Chuck Curmi was strongly in favor of the possible pipeline compromise as an effort to protect residents from the negative impacts of a treatment plant on the western border of the community and urged trustees to approve the study costs.
    Canton Township trustees, however, were unanimously in favor of the study noting that the treatment plant could impact the area which suffered severe flooding in 2023 along Fellows and Fowler creeks. Officials noted that the addition of a possible 850,000 gallons of treated wastewater per day from the proposed Salem plant would seriously impact flooding in the community.
    “I believe there are over 14,000 households on the Fellows Creek,” said Clerk Michael Siegrist, reminding board members that the August 2023 storm generated millions of dollars in property damage. “That’s 14,000 basements and I just can’t imagine another million gallons of water under a severe storm event going into those 14,000 basements,” he said.
    “This is important,” Supervisor Anne Marie Graham-Hudak said. “EGLE is basically about to issue the permit for this wastewater treatment facility…they don’t want to do this because it’s a small treatment facility, however, they said they really have no alternative at this point.”
    Salem Township previously explored connecting to the Canton-based Western Townships Utility Authority (WTUA), but that plan fell through. A previous agreement with YCUA also failed when Superior Township successfully blocked the sewer route in court.
    The feasibility study is expected to take several months and is designed to evaluate the technical and financial viability of the sewer pipeline proposal.
    “It is only giving consent to do the feasibility study,” Plymouth Township attorney Kevin Bennett said. “It is not granting consent for the installation of sewer pipelines.”

To the rescue

    Specialized team saves utility workers

    Firefighters from both Canton Township and the City of Romulus were called on Feb. 25 to aid in the rescue of two workers trapped in a collapsed trench in Wyandotte. The rescue effort was led by the Western Wayne County Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) team. First responders from several

surrounding communities were called to help rescue the workers trapped in the trench which collapsed as they were performing utility repairs.

    Romulus Director of Community Safety Kevin Kraus noted that the USAR team is one of the most skilled in the region. Every member is highly trained in multiple rescue disciplines and undergoes monthly training to continuously improve their skills. Their expertise includes building collapse, rope rescue, water rescue, trench collapse, confined space operations, and wide-area search, he explained in a prepared release.
    Canton officials noted that while the USAR team isn’t called upon every day, the team members are always ready. USAR serves as an insurance policy for municipalities throughout Wayne County and despite the rarity of their use, their work is incredibly specialized.
    “In critical situations like this, the return on investment is immeasurable,” Kraus said. “Two individuals were saved and can return home to their families and loved ones.”
    “The incident highlights the remarkable dedication and courage of our firefighters, as well as their unwavering commitment to saving lives. We are incredibly proud of their work and the critical role they play in keeping us all safe,” Canton offiicals said.

Move to new Northville Township Service complex begins

    The Northville Township Emergency Dispatch Department, along with the police detective bureau officially moved into the new essential services complex last week.

    The new complex, located on Traditions Drive off Seven Mile Road, is on property formerly occupied by the Northville Psychiatric Hospital which was demolished. The new, 96,000 square-foot public services building will be the cornerstone for enhanced public safety for Northville Township, officials said. The building will house the new police headquarters, Fire Station 2, a new Department of Public Works headquarters and a Northville Parks & Recreation Trailhead Building for Legacy Park, officials added.
    The Northville Public Safety Dispatch officers handle all 911 calls as well as non-emergency calls for both Northville Township and the City of Northville. All the necessary equipment has been transferred to the new location.
    Once construction progresses, the rest of the Police Department staff will shift to the new facility, officials said.

Dingell honored as ‘Champion’ by public broadcasters

    Congresswoman Debbie Dingell was recently presented with the Champion of Public Broadcasting Award by America’s Public Television Stations (APTS). The Champion of Public Broadcasting Award is the highest honor of the organization, given annually to champions in Congress and state government for their extraordinary support of public television. Dingell has shown unwavering leadership as a champion of public television for her entire Congressional career and beyond, recognizing the valuable services public broadcasting provides to the people of Michigan and throughout our nation, noted Kate Riley, president and CEO of America’s Public Television Stations.

    “Congresswoman Dingell has been a stalwart and effective supporter of public media. Time and again, Congresswoman Dingell has shown steadfast leadership on our issues by consistently supporting our annual funding requests, helping stations address pressing infrastructure needs, supporting the efforts of stations like Detroit PBS to meet the challenges of the COVID pandemic and provide the highest quality resources to their communities when they were needed most,” Riley said.
    “We greatly appreciate Congresswoman Dingell’s keen understanding of the unique role of local public television stations in the media marketplace and our extraordinary public services from education as demonstrated by the Michigan Learning Channel, to our role in public safety through the PBS WARN system and all that our local stations do to connect communities to each other and highlight the stories, history and culture that are uniquely theirs.
    “America’s Public Television Stations are profoundly grateful for Congresswoman Dingell’s leadership and support, and it is my honor to present her with the well-deserved 2025 Champion of Public Broadcasting Award,” Riley said during the presentation ceremony.
    “Public television stations provide an irreplaceable service by sharing public safety, educational and local programming, every day, for free, and remain among the most trusted sources of information for their communities,” said Dingell. “We must continue to invest in public broadcasting, which benefits every American, especially those in rural communities. I am honored to be a Champion of Public Broadcasting and will continue to advocate for strong federal support for public TV.”
    Dingell represents Michigan’s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Criminal charges pending in Canton, Wayne drug raids

    Drug raids last week in both Canton Township and the City of Wayne resulted in the seizure of nearly 9 pounds of methamphetamine and “an amount of crack cocaine” according to reports from the Michigan State Police.

    Criminal charges against a suspect arrested in the incident had not been announced at press time by Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy and the investigation remains under review.
    Officers from the Michigan State Police Metro Narcotics Enforcement Team executed search warrants in Canton and Wayne last Thursday, Feb. 20. The methamphetamine and “crack cocaine” were seized during the incident and one suspect was arrested, according to official reports. The street value of the drugs was estimated by authorities at $40,000.
    Officers from the Downriver SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) unit and Michigan State Police Metro South Post assisted in the raids and subsequent arrest, police said. Officials have not released the name of the suspect, the exact location of the arrest or the raids, pending charges from the prosecutor’s office.
    Information regarding the investigation and information leading to the warrants will be made public when criminal charges are filed, offiicals explained.
    The warrant service in Canton and Wayne last week follows other recent drug raids in Metro Detroit. According to media reports, last month, Michigan State Troopers and police seized seven handguns, a rifle, cocaine, prescription pills, methamphetamine, psilocybin mushrooms, marijuana and more than $1.2 million in cash after executing eight search warrants in Metro Detroit.
    In January, a police task force including troopers seized 5.3 kilograms of fentanyl, 5.7 kilograms of cocaine, 106 grams of ketamine, 3,229 Schedule 2 pills, six firearms — three reported stolen — and seized more than $70,000 after executing search warrants in Detroit.
    In a separate incident, troopers and police seized about 2,000 methamphetamine pills, 3.5 ounces of ketamine, several ounces of cocaine, almost an ounce of ecstasy, 2 pounds of psilocybin mushrooms, an assault rifle, a handgun, a vehicle and more than $19,000 in cash while serving search warrants in Detroit earlier this year.

Good neighbors

Romulus officials, including Mayor Robert McCraight and Police Chief Robert Pfannes, accepted a $100,000 check last week from the Romulus Public Safety Foundation. The funds will be used for the purchase of two new police vehicles, officials said. The money was donated to the foundation by Ashley Capita and the check was officially presented to McCraight by Ashley Capital Vice President Kyle Morton. “Creative partnerships with stakeholders that have a vision of Romulus that is aligned with ours is a tremendous benefit. A safer Romulus is a better Romulus for all of us,” McCraight commented. Founded in 1984, Ashley Capital is one of the largest privately held real estate investment companies in the country. The Ashley’ Capital current portfolio stands at approximately $30 million, with properties concentrated throughout the eastern half of the United States, according to the company website.

 

County closes Westland sledding hill following serious injuries

    Wayne County authorities have closed and barricaded Middlebelt Hill in Westland after recent sledding injuries left one woman in a coma and two other people injured.

    A Garden City mother of two remains in intensive care at St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ann Arbor after sledding down the hill with her 10-year-old daughter. According to reports, she lost control of the sled she was riding and crashed into a tree where she sustained life-threatening injuries. Her daughter witnessed the accident, family members said. The injured woman, Jessica Wollweber, remains in a medically induced coma after doctors removed part of her skull due to the injuries she suffered in the crash. According to her family, she will remain hospitalized for some time and her recovery is expected to take months. Relatives have started a GoFundMe page hoping to generate $25,000 for Wollweber and her family at https://gofund.me/c363aebb
    In a separate accident, a young child and a 30-year-old man were both reportedly injured at the same spot on the hill. Their current conditions remain unknown.
    The office of the Wayne County Sheriff confirmed the rescue earlier this month of two girls at the site. The sled the girls were riding slid past the tree line into a water filled ravine, according to reports of the incident. They were rescued by EMTs and Wayne County Sheriff deputies.
    Following the accidents, Wayne County parks officials issued a statement regarding the closure of the hill. “For the safety of our community, we have closed Middlebelt Hill at Hines Park in Westland. The well-being of our visitors is our top priority, and we are currently evaluating ways to improve safety measures before reopening. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to create a safer experience for everyone.”
    “We don’t want anyone to get hurt. It’s for your safety that we’re telling folks don’t go sledding in Hines Park. It’s very dangerous to do so. Some folks are going to get hurt and we’re trying to avoid any more individuals getting hurt,” said Wayne County Undersheriff Mike Jaafar.
    A smaller hill a half mile from Middlebelt Hill remains open for sledding.

Former treasurer, trustee named to Northville Township board

    Members of the Northville Township Board of Trustees voted unanimously to appoint Roger Lundberg to the open trustee position during the Feb. 20 board meeting. The vacancy occurred when Trustee Scott Frush died in January.

    Lundberg has a history of service in the township. While serving as township treasurer, he also served as a board trustee from 2020-2024. He narrowly lost his bid for reelection in November 2024, losing by 133 votes or about two-tenths of 1 percent, officials said.
    Lundberg will remain in the position until a successor is elected in the next general election, or November 2026. To retain his seat on the board Lundberg will need to be the prevailing candidate in the August 2026 primary to ensure his name is added to the November ballot for consideration. Those rules apply as the board vacancy occurred less than three months into the new term.
    This appointment process follows state law MCL 168.370, which governs how townships fill vacant offices.
    “We are so grateful that Roger accepted this appointment,” said Township Supervisor Mark J. Abbo. “He is an excellent public servant and has kept active in the community since he was last on the board, so that shows you what kind of dedication he has. Thank you, Roger.”
    “I am honored to be appointed by the board,” said Lundberg. “The unexpected passing of a trustee can leave a significant gap in leadership in an organization. I will enthusiastically serve on the board to ensure the continuity in decision making. I know the board and the community will dearly miss Scott Frush as he was an extremely talented individual. I will make every effort to ensure that the legacy that Scott Frush helped to build continues to thrive.”

Developer requests rezoning for Del Webb senior community in Canton

    Members of the Canton Township Planning Commission unanimously approved rezoning of 230 acres of property near Geddes and Denton roads as a first step toward the development of a new 541 unit Del Webb community at the site.
    The project, designed for seniors 55 and older, is a partnership between developers Del Webb and Pulte Homes. Planning commission members suggested there will be further questions and discussion regarding the development which is in the early stages.
    Pulte Group Vice President of Land Acquisition Joe Skore told the planners the project is in response to the high demand from older adults who are downsizing their homes.
    Skore told the commissioners that Del Webb developments are present many other states and are popular with retirees and active seniors. He said seniors are seeking homes without the responsibilities of regular maintenance but include social amenities and social connections.
    The proposed project would include tennis courts, walking paths and open space, Skore explained and feature a 17,000 square foot amenity center featuring a fitness area, golf simulator and indoor pool for residents.
    Commissioners heard concerns regarding the development from township residents who spoke at the meeting about increased traffic, water management and other issues. Commissioners reviewed the criteria for the rezoning from rural to single family residential homes and unanimously approved the application.
    Members of the Canton Township Board of Trustees will now consider the application for rezoning at an upcoming meeting.

Official seeks federal law to curtail ‘deed fraud’

    Wayne County Register of Deeds Bernard J. Youngblood was successful in persuading the Michigan State Legislature to approve House Bill 5598, making the forging of real estate documents a felony punishable by significant prison time.
    The 25-year county official has now appealed to President Donald J. Trump in an effort to make “deed fraud” a federal crime.
    Youngblood noted that currently deed fraud is the leading criminal activity in the nation, according to property law enforcement officials. The Register of Deeds noted that Michigan has already taken never-before legal steps to thwart these crimes and that his office provided 20 years of accumulated evidence to legislators in attempts to block the “criminal wave.” He noted the bold forgery of real estate documents for Graceland, the Elvis Presley estate in Memphis, TN, as an example of the widespread theft of property at every financial level.
    In response to the rise of fraudulent property activity, Youngblood helped create the property records fraud unit in Wayne County. The unit receives complaints, investigates, charges and prosecutes individuals responsible for criminal and fraudulent land record activity. The unit has helped return more than 300 homes to rightful owners, according to the county website.
    Owners cannot prevent someone from creating a phony deed and filing it with the county register of deeds office. Michigan law says that as long as a deed is properly filled out, it must be accepted by the county register of deeds. State statute section 565.201 “Recording Requirements Act of 1937″ 1(i)5 states, “ A register of deeds shall not reject an instrument for recording because of the content of the instrument if the instrument complies with the provisions of this act and any other act relating to the recording of instruments.”
    When a false deed is discovered, victims can contact the Wayne County Mortgage & Deed Fraud Task Force. All the members of the group have been trained in document research, specializing in document investigation, according to a posting from Youngblood’s office.
    A property fraud “HOTLINE” has been established for homeowners who suspect their property may be at the heart of possible fraudulent activity. The “HOTLINE” number is available 24 hours a day 7 days a week and is available at (313) 224-5869. Once a complaint has been received, a file is created, and the case is reviewed for legitimacy. If fraudulent activity is suspected, it is given to law enforcement units for a more thorough investigation. If fraudulent activity is proven, the file is forwarded for prosecution.
    Youngblood was successful in his efforts to have the Michigan State Legislature unanimously approve a bill making the forging of real estate documents a felony punishable with significant prison time.
    “Similar laws are needed across the nation to restore property ownership protection that Americans have known,” Youngblood said. He said he recognized the extreme “heartache and financial burdens placed on victims when ownership rights are stripped away.” The court restoration process, he said, is “cumbersome.”
    According to Youngblood, the International Association of Government Officials comprising registers/recorders from across the county agree that deed fraud is a national problem that needs to be addressed now.
    “Individual state action can be a lengthy process,” Youngblood noted in his appeal for federal action.

Sweet stuff

Annual Maybury Farm Maple Syrup Tours begin in March 

    The popular Maple Syrup Tours at Maybury Farm will begin next month.

    The tour begins with the traditional tractor drawn wagon ride out to the Sugar Bush section of the farm. When visitors arrive, they are guided on a short walk through the woods to learn about the maple trees, how to tap them, and then how to collect the sweet sap. Several visitors will have the opportunity to taste the sap right from the tree during the collection process, organizers said.
    Following the sap collection, visitors are transported back to the farm Sugar Shack, where the sap is converted into pure maple syrup. Tastes of the syrup are one of the tour highlights, organizers noted. When the tour is complete, visitors can enjoy hot drinks and snacks available for purchase inside the Maybury Farm General Store. Visits to the barns and farm area are included with the tour admission fee.
    Maybury Farm will be selling Pure Michigan Maple Syrup along with other maple products and the free “Cooking with Maple Syrup” recipes are available. The family friendly Maple Syrup Tours leave promptly at 12:30, 1, 1:30, 2, 2:30, 3, and 3:30 p.m. each Saturday and Sunday, beginning March 8 and continuing through March 30.
    To schedule a private Maple Syrup Tour for groups of 15 or more available at 11:30 a.m. each Saturday and Sunday, call (248) 374-0200, option two.
    The cost for a Maybury Farm maple syrup tour is $12 per person if booked in advance, $8 for foundation members, and $14 at the door. Children younger than 2 are admitted at no cost. Maybury Farm is located at 50165 Eight Mile Road in Northville. See www.mayburyfarm.org for more information.
    Maybury Farm is operated by the Northville Community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Maybury is a working farm with a mission to connect the community to animals and agriculture through hands-on experiences that are both engaging and educational. Maybury Farm is open to the public Tuesday-Sunday beginning April 7. The farm offers Farm Tours, story time, Farm Camp, unique events, birthday parties, and a fall Corn Maze. Maybury Farm is located at 50165 Eight Mile Road in Northville. It is 1-1/4 mile west of Beck Road on Eight Mile, one-half mile west of Maybury State Park. Enter at the Maybury Farm sign that does not enter the State Park. Parking is free at Maybury Farm. For more information, visit www.mayburyfarm.org or www.facebook.com/mayburyfarm.

Wayne Westland School district will offer Ramadan meals

    Wayne-Westland School District to Offer Prepackaged Meals for Fasting Students During Ramadan.

    The Wayne-Westland Community Schools Food Services Department is offering prepackaged meals for students observing Ramadan this school year. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a time of fasting from dawn to sunset, where Muslims refrain from eating or drinking as an act of spiritual reflection and self-discipline. To support fasting students, meals will be available for pickup at the end of each school day.
    In collaboration with the Michigan Department of Education’s waiver, the district will provide meals to students who are in attendance and have not participated in the school’s breakfast or lunch programs that day. Each school will have its own pickup plan, with further details to be communicated ahead of time. Families interested in receiving meals must complete a pre-registration form by Wednesday, February 26th.
    The registration link is here: https://tinyurl.com/2p87n2kx
    For any questions or concerns, families are encouraged to reach out to the Food Service Department.

Winners

Wayne-Westland STEM class wins state Samsung contest    

    Students from Franklin Middle School in the Wayne Westland schools have been awarded a $12,000 prize and will now move on to the national finals in the Samsung Solve for Tomorrow contest.

    The science and engineering students modified toys and games for preschool students as their entry are among only 50 winners chosen for the state finals. The contest challenged students to boldly solve pressing community issues using STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). This is the 15th annual Samsung Solve for Tomorrow national STEM competition. Each of the state winning schools has been awarded a $12,000 Samsung technology prize package, including a Samsung Video Kit to showcase their proposed STEM solution.
    “Congratulations to all the incredible State Winners in the 2024-2025 Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competition,” said Allison Stransky, chief marketing officer, Samsung Electronics America. “Solve for Tomorrow was born from Samsung’s deep belief in the power of STEM to improve lives and transform communities. “It’s truly inspiring to see these bright Gen Z and Gen Alpha innovators harnessing emerging technologies, with nearly half of their STEM solutions incorporating AI, to address critical societal issues with creativity, determination, and purpose.”
    Samsung Solve for Tomorrow engages middle and high school students to drive meaningful societal progress. Through hands-on, real-world experiences, the competition inspires young minds to see STEM as a pathway to becoming changemakers and pursuing fulfilling, impactful careers, Stransky explained. The State Winner honor marks a key milestone toward the ultimate prize—being named one of three national winners, each unlocking $100,000 for their school. Overall, Samsung will award more than $2 million in prizes to participating schools.
    The competition also provides a glimpse into the priorities of American Gen Alpha and Gen Z. As a group, the state winners are most concerned with environmental sustainability and climate disasters (28 percent), public health (26 percent), and accessibility (20 percent), followed by public safety and mental health.
    The competing entries embraced cutting-edge technologies like AI (42 percent), 3D printing (34 percent), and robotics (14 percent) to bring their ideas to life.
    For the next phase of the competition, state winners including the Wayne-Westland students, will receive a Samsung Video consisting of a Galaxy Book and a Galaxy Z Flip to help create a three-minute STEM solution pitch video. The video must demonstrate how STEM is being applied to address the community issue outlined in the student teams’ Activity Plans. Judges will review the submissions to select 10 National Finalists, who will be announced in mid-March and are invited to participate in a live pitch event in April 2025.
    Samsung employees will once again serve as one-on-one mentors to the state winners, guiding student teams through project development and prototype building. Using their professional expertise, mentors will also help teams create video pitches for their STEM solutions to advance to the national finalist phase.

Sumpter Township Police Department earns accreditation

    The Sumpter Township Police Department is now one of the 90 law enforcement agencies in the state to achieve accreditation by the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission (MLEAC).
    During a formal hearing in Grand Rapids on Feb. 4, the Sumpter Township department was awarded the prestigious certification from the state organization. Of the current 571 law enforcement agencies in the state, only 90 have achieved the level of professional standards required for official accreditation by MLEAC.
    Officials said accreditation is a progressive and proven method that helps agencies enhance their overall performance and service. The foundation of the program is the proven adoption and compliance with 108 professional standards that articulate clear professional objectives. Under these 108 standards, police agencies are required to provide evidence of compliance in multiple subcategories. Following an intensive investigation, the performance of the Sumpter Township Police Department demonstrated adherence to the established standards.
    Achieving accreditation status is a significant professional milestone, police officials said.
    It recognizes our implementation of policies and procedures that reflect best practices in law enforcement. This process has also enables police departments to better serve their community, reduce risk and liability for both officers and the department, and strengthen the trust and reputation police officers and the department holds in the community.
    In an official social media post, a spokesman for the Sumpter Police Department noted, “The MLEAC accreditation program encourages continuous improvement, accountability, and transparency within the law enforcement profession. Our department is committed to maintaining this as we begin the path of re-accreditation in three years.
    “We are incredibly proud of our department and extend our gratitude to Accreditation Manager Sgt. Brian Seffani and Assistant Accreditation Manager Capt. Patrick Gannon for their dedication and outstanding work towards this achievement.”

Area mourns death of education advocate Marda Benson, 92

    Marda Benson, 92, the first woman to serve on the Plymouth-Canton Community Schools Board of Education, died at her Plymouth home Feb. 4.

    Mrs. Benson, who served as president of the school board for two years during her four-year elected term, was a dedicated advocate for education and taught courses on racism and sexism at Wayne State University to help educate future generations. Her death came one day before her 93rd birthday.
    Her educational journey began at Eastern Michigan University, where she earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees. While pursuing her degrees, she met and married the love of her life, Paul Benson. She supported her husband as he completed his medical degree at the University of Michigan Medical School. Following his graduation, the couple started their family and were the parents of nine children. Their love story was cut short in 1971 when Dr. Paul Benson died at the age of 40 in a traffic accident. Mrs. Benson was left a widow with nine children under the age of 12.
    At the age of 52, Mrs. Benson embarked on a successful second career as a real estate agent. For nearly 40 years, she was a well-known and highly respected agent in the community. Her family said that Mrs. Benson truly enjoyed spending time with her family and friends, reading, and traveling.
    During her career as a real estate agent, Mrs. Benson continued to be an advocate for education, using her knowledge to educate future generations. Mrs. Benson made history when she was the first woman ever elected to the Plymouth Canton school board. Her leadership in that role established her as a trailblazer and a role model for many who followed her example of activism. She was outspoken in her beliefs, especially about education and gender equality, her family said.
    Mrs. Benson was born in Detroit to the late Ethel (née Lundgren) and Howard Jessop. She is survived by her nine children, Paul Benson, Jr., Kristin (Roman) Benson, Kara (Paul) Benson-Perez, Nels (Sonia) Benson, Maia (Katie) Burgoon-Benson, Lars (Kathleen) Benson, Per Benson, Maren (Charles) McKolay, and Kirsti (Udai) Rabban; grandchildren Paul (Katie) Benson, III, Morgan Benson, Krista Benson, Roman (Haley) Benson, Perry Benson, Paris Benson-Perez, Jack Benson, Brittany (Alex) Romano, Drew Benson Peters, Mara (Jeff) Baxter, Haley (Justin) Morrison, Riley Benson, Per Benson, Jr., Summer and Sydney Benson, Charles McKolay, Jr., Ava Rabban, Alexander Rabban, Vaughn Marda Burgoon, and eight great-grandchildren.
    Visitation will take place at Schrader-Howell Funeral Home, 280 S. Main St, Plymouth from 4 until 8 p.m. Sunday Feb. 16. Funeral services are planned from 10 until 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 17 at the funeral home. Interment will be at Arborcrest Memorial Park in Ann Arbor.
    Memorial contributions in Mrs. Benson’s name can be made to St. Jude Research Hospital, 2000 Town Center, Suite 1730, Southfield, MI 48075.