‘Guilded’

Plymouth Potters Guild planning annual holiday sale

"Snowman Plate"
by Kathy Sandberg

The annual Village Potters Guild of Plymouth Holiday Market is set for Nov. 17,18 and 19 this year.

The guild, a decades old organization. was formed to promote and develop the art of ceramics. The common interest of members is to bring handmade ceramic items to everyday life.  As a community pottery workspace in Plymouth, Village Potters Guild members strive to promote and develop the art of ceramics and support area artists. For more than 28 years, the guild has conducted outreach activities to encourage participation, awareness and appreciation of ceramics as an art form.  

Plymouth voters to decide 1.75 recreation millage

Plymouth voters will be asked next month to approve a charter amendment to allow a new 1.75 mill tax to fund new recreation opportunities in the city.

The new tax, if approved on the Nov. 7 ballot, would be in effect for 12 years and would generate an estimated $1.3 million annually for recreational expenses in the community through 2035. The new millage would cost homeowners about $1.75 for every $1,000 of market value of their property. Homes with a $300,000 market value would pay an increase of approximately $260 if the measure is approved. 

Honored

The Norwayne Community Citizens Council presented several community service awards during the Annual Norwayne Founders & Volunteer Recognition Dinner last week. During the event, former Westland Mayor William R. Wild, left, was inducted into the Norwayne Hall of Fame. Council members said Wild has been a consistent guide and collaborator with the citizens council. "During his 16 years as mayor he helped implement the investment of over $10 million for affordable housing, infrastructure and park improvements and the development of the Jefferson Barns Community Vitality Center," a spokesman said.

Investigation into Canton teen wounded in face continues

The police investigation into the accidental shooting of a 14-year-old Canton Township boy is ongoing, according to officials.

The teen, who apparently accidentally wounded himself in the face with a handgun just before 1 p.m. last Thursday, Oct 19, was transported to a local hospital for treatment by Canton Firefighter/Paramedics last week.

Canton Township police responded to a 9-1-1 call reporting a gunshot victim at an apartment complex near Warren and Lilley roads. When officers arrived, they found the 14-year-old boy suffering from "an accidental, self-inflicted gunshot wound to his face," according to police reports.

Trustees seeking solution to recycling service

Recycling was again the topic of discussion by members of the Sumpter Township Board of Trustees during the Oct. 10 meeting.

During the study session prior to the regular meeting, Township Manager Tony Burdick explained that the current situation with the drop off location for recycling had become problematic as the lack of volunteer help left the site unattended. He told the trustees that during the recycling service the previous weekend, no volunteers were on hand. He said the Boy Scout, Girl Scout, Brownies and Cub Scout troops that previously took on oversight at the recycling site were no longer in existence or available. 

Eureka Road construction will alter traffic lanes

The resurfacing of Eureka Road between Middlebelt and Inkster in Romulus was set to begin last Monday with the closure of the outside lanes of traffic.

Romulus officials were informed by representatives of the Wayne County Roads department that the scheduled construction on the roadway would begin this week. The paving is scheduled to be complete by Nov. 1, according to a county representative.

Final shift

Romulus will soon say goodbye to a 25-year-veteran of the city police force. Deputy Chief Derran Shelby will retire from the department this month, following his quarter century long distinguished law enforcement career. City officials said Shelby was always an advocate for the city and residents and that his "professionalism, wisdom and experience" would be missed as they congratulated him on his retirement.

Faith and Blue

Local residents were entertained with free equipment demonstration, crafts for children, access to police vehicles and giveaways during the first "Faith and Blue" event Oct. 6. The day was part of the community outreach effort. Part of a nationwide Department of Justice initiative. 

Spring action

While the weather delayed the annual planting of tulip bulbs in the Main Street median in downtown Plymouth last week, members of the Noon Rotary Club along with family helpers arrived early Sunday morning complete the job. Club members plant hundreds of tulip bulbs every fall for a grand opening of colorful blooms the next spring. 

Salvation Army emergency services is meeting topic

Julie Brown - Special Writer

Salvation Army Emergency Services volunteers
and supervisor Charles McDougall were on hand at
a recent Detroit emergency, helping feed firefighters. 

Charles McDougall and The Salvation Army emergency service volunteers he supervises were recently at the scene of a tragic suicide in downtown Detroit, feeding first responders for more than 12 hours as the scene unfolded. After 12 hours, the event ended tragically as the woman took her own life, McDougall told members of the Westland Rotary Club during a recent luncheon.

“There's Emergency Disaster Services teams all over the world with The Salvation Army,” he told the audience. He said he has been at scenes involving barricaded gunmen, helping feed police and emergency personnel attempting to end the standoff. Most of those scenes, he said, end peacefully.

Flipped out

The 18th Annual Breakfast With Firefighters in Wayne recently attracted a large crowd of hungry residents who were there to help support and thank the emergency responders. The all-you-can-eat breakfast is a tradition in the community and all funds generated benefit the Wayne Professional Firefighters Public Education Fund, which goes directly back to the Wayne community, officials said. Several lucky guests won raffles including Wayne Director of Community Development/Planning and DDA Lori Gouin, who won the Michigan football basket, with a football by coach Harbaugh  and stuffed with Michigan apparel.  

Shooting suspect is arrested

A suspect who fled the scene of a shooting was arrested last week.

The man, Andre Williams, Jr., 37, was arrested at about 8 p.m. Oct. 10, according to police reports. He is suspected of shooting his girlfriend in her neck on Saturday, Oct. 7 at a home on Biltmore Street near Stollman Drive. An argument led to the shooting which took place at about 9 p.m., police said. The victim was listed in critical condition at press time.

When Inkster officers arrived at the scene, they believed Williams was still inside the home.  When SWAT team officers entered the home, they discovered that the shooter had fled, according to police reports. An immediate search for Williams, suspected as the shooter, was instituted. Police considered Williams armed and dangerous and warned the public not to approach him. 

Absentee ballots already arriving at clerk’s office.

Northville has reported many absentee ballots already returned to the city clerk's office by those who chose to vote early and by mail or by using the drop-off box at city hall.

In person early voting for the Nov. 7 election will begin this Saturday.

Voters have three options for casting their vote. They can vote during a nine-day early voting period before Election Day at specified polling places; vote by absentee ballot or vote in person at their regular polling place on Election Day. 

Michigan voters approved a constitutional amendment in November 2022 that allows both early and in person voting before statewide and federal elections. The city of Northville is providing early voting for all elections starting with Nov. 7 ballot.

Township employee is awarded memorial education scholarship

Melissa Raikes, who is pursuing her master's degree in business administration at Wayne State University Mike Ilitch School of Business, has been awarded a Robert R. Robinson Memorial Scholarship through the Michigan Townships Association.

Three individuals aspiring to careers in public service were chosen for the annual awards, available to a junior, senior or graduate student in a Michigan college or university who who aims to encourage students to seek future public service aspirations. 

Raikes, who has been on staff at Northville Charter Township for nearly 10 years, said she hopes to use her advanced degree to serve as a finance director in a Michigan municipality. She said that in her decade serving township residents, her goal has remained the same.

Mastered

Northville Township Fire Department Lt. Michael Obermiller recently earned his Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management from Columbia Southern University. The prestigious honor requires several years of post-graduate study, officials said.

Fine Arts Exhibition winners selected by juror

Best of Show by Debbie Grifka Chaos and Calm

Winners in the 29th Annual Canton Fine Arts Exhibition include Debbie Grifka who was awarded best of show for her work, Chaos and Calm. Second prize went to Ava Doyle for 'Ludo' while third prize was awarded to Lidia Natanail for 'The Importance of Being Yourself'. Honorable mentions were awarded to  Loralei Byatt for 'Neima' and Alex Gilford for 'Tugboats near Zug Island', Merit award winners were Robert du Nord for 'The White Robe', Michael Morelli for 'Jesus in the Storm on the Sea of Galilee’, Lori Ann Zurvalec for 'Ancient Bur Oak No.2' and Larry Hoxey for 'Radiant Portal'.

“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. 29, to select their favorite and vote for the People's Choice Award.” 

Calm and cool

Public safety officials from both the police and fire department in Canton Township recently honored third-grade student Rylynn Hill. Rylynn was lauded in front of her fellow students for her quick thinking and action during a medical emergency at her home.  When her mother experienced a severe medical emergency, Rylynn immediately called 9-1-1 and remained calm as she directed emergency personnel to her home. She provided her address, unlocked the door for faster access by responders and ensured that the family dogs were caged so as not to interfere with getting help for her mother. “We encourage the community to use this experience as a teachable moment and encourage you to take the time to help teach your young members of the community the importance of learning their address and phone numbers in case they ever have an emergency,” officials said in a prepared statement. 

Sweet streets

Halloween holiday celebrations planned throughout communities

Next week, angels, princesses, superheroes and maybe even a vampire or two will begin to appear on neighborhood streets throughout the area as Halloween celebrations begin.

While the fun has always included the sweet treats distributed to all ages from neighbors, civic organizations and at community events designed to keep the smallest costumed Dracula or Hulk safe, there are a few doubtful facts of little known value associated with the holiday. 

The holiday dates back more than 2,000 years and started as a pre-Christian festival celebrating the last day of the fall harvest and spirits crossing over, since the Celts believed the veil between the living and spirit world grew thinnest at that time. People in Ireland, the United Kingdom and Northern France used to ward off ghosts by lighting sacrificial bonfires, and - you guessed it - wearing costumes to trick the spirits, according to History.com.

Day of Remembrance marked by trustees

A special display was placed at the front of the meeting room in Sumpter Township Hall just prior to the Sept. 26 meeting of the board of trustees. 

The Missing Man Table or Fallen Comrade Table was set to remind the public of service members who remain missing and those labeled as prisoners of war. Sumpter Township Manager Anthony Burdick and Vietnam veteran LeRoy Paige spoke to the board members and the public about the special remembrance celebration established to honor both Prisoners of War (POW) and Missing In Action (MIA). National POW/MIA Recognition Day has been established as the third Friday of every September to remember the 81,409 servicemembers who remain unaccounted for. The Missing Man table is a symbol of those service members who have not returned.

Water advisory in effect

Bottled water was distributed to residents affected by
 both the boil water advisories in Romulus last week.
Firefighters handed out water from fire headquarters. 

A second boil water advisory has been imposed in the City of Romulus.

The latest advisory, issued by the city on Tuesday, Oct. 17, advised residents who live between Huron River Drive and Inkster Road not to drink the water unless they first boiled it for one minute and then let it cool. The boiled or bottled water was recommended for drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes or preparing food.

 Bottled water is available for affected residents at the Romulus Fire Department Headquarters located at 28777 Eureka Road. Proof of residency within the impacted area is required.  

28-year veteran township firefighter retires

 Not every fire Capt. Chris Madzik put out throughout his 28-year career with the Northville Township Fire Department involved flames. 

On one memorable run to Northville High School several years ago, he assisted a student who “was having a bad day, a really rough day” behavior wise, Madzik explained. He transported him in an ambulance to the hospital, where he learned the teen had ADHD. 

“I talked to him the whole way there,” said Madzik, who is a father of two, and immediately made a connection with the stressed student. 

“When we got to the hospital, I grabbed the upset mom and I just said, 'You know, I have ADHD, too. And I'm okay. Your son is going to be okay. He's going to be fine. He just had a bad day. Everything is going to be okay.' Hopefully, I made their bad day a little better,” Madzik recalled. 

Madzik's concern for others is part of the legacy he left when he retired from duty Oct. 16, after nearly three decades of helping township residents. 

It's one of the reasons, at 53, he is ready to pass the baton after being one of the first full-time township firefighters. He cares about the next generation of Northville Township firefighter/paramedics, he said.

“It's time to clear some space for other guys to grow and develop and advance their careers,” he said. “I mean, I've been here more than 25 years. It's just time to let other people have their shot.” 

The thought of becoming a firefighter/paramedic didn't occur to Madzik until he was 25, fresh off a radio job in Washington, D.C. He returned to his hometown of Livonia and a friend of his sister's was a firefighter. 

“I liked that every day was different,” he said. 

Northville Township Fire Department
Capt. Chris Madzik, one of the first full time
 firefighters in the department, officially
retired Oct. 16 after 28 years on the job.

He joined Northville Township in November 1995 because they were offering free training for a three-year commitment to the department as a paid on-call firefighter. He became a full-time firefighter in April 1998. In 2002, he was promoted to sergeant, then to a lieutenant in 2003. He became a captain in 2017. 

“At that time, there was the building boom going on,” Madzik said. “Northville Township was one of the leaders in population growth, so I knew that the fire department was going to have to change and grow, and I wanted to be there when it did.” 

Mother’s insanity plea accepted in death of toddler

The Inkster mother found by police kneeling over her two severely injured children has been found not guilty of felony murder charges by reason of insanity.

Sara Boles, 47, was discovered at about 9 a.m. Jan. 1, 2022 by police officers who forced their way into her home on the 29500 block of Grandview Street in Inkster. Officers were responding to a requested welfare check. The officers discovered Boles in the bathtub of the home kneeling over her two small children whose throats had been slit, according to police reports. A knife was found in the tub with the severely injured 3-year-old girl and 1-year-old boy, according to police reports. Both children were transported for emergency medical care and the toddler later died of the injuries.

Lights, camera, action

Inkster resident Robert Turley, along with Dr. Leslie Small, the director of several Kevin Hart films, multiple Emmy award winning screenwriter Marcia McKenna and cinematographer Hamid Torabpour are filming a documentary about the City of Inkster. Turley is the co-producer of the film, titled For the Love of Inkster and said pre-production has been completed on the movie. Turley added that any money he might make from the movie will be donated to the We Rise organization in the city. He praised the group for the multiple efforts to help Inkster children and elders and said he hopes the community will support the film and continue to support the We Rise efforts.

$1 million to be used for Nankin annex project

The City of Westland will use the $1 million grant awarded by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to fund the Annex at Nankin project. The grants were part of the state Revitalization and Placemaking Program and Westland was awarded the maximum amount possible under the program guidelines.

The program addresses the COVID-19 impact and community revitalization needs in Michigan communities by investing in projects that enable population and tax revenue growth through rehabilitation of vacant and blighted buildings and historic structures, rehabilitation and development of vacant properties, and development of permanent place-based infrastructure associated with social zones and traditional downtowns, outdoor dining, and place-based public spaces, according to the state guidelines.

Packing it in

Seniors in the John Glenn High School Class of 2024 took a trip down memory lane last week and wore their favorite "kid" backpack to school. The students then donated the backpacks and additional school supplies to the Wayne-Westland Family Resource Center for students in need. The Family Resource Center can assist district families with school supplies, backpacks and many other items. To request service, access: https://forms.gle/kVPkPus3ttmMjQwo9

Granted

Court program awarded state funds  

 Judge Breeda O'Leary and the 29th District Western Wayne Regional Behavioral Treatment Court (RBTC) have been awarded a $231,500 grant to fund the area Mental Health Court. This grant, awarded by Michigan Mental Health Court Grant Program (MMHCGP) will play a pivotal role in enhancing the services and resources available to individuals struggling with mental health challenges within the western Wayne community, officials said.

Planners reject proposed project at Sparr’s site

The proposed growth of an apartment complex at the site of Sparr's Greenhouse and Nursery in Plymouth Township hasn't flourished with planners or the public.

The proposed building would be constructed on the 5-acres at the corner of Joy and Lilley roads where Sparr's Greenhouse and three houses have stood for five decades. The budding plan which includes 68 units in three apartment buildings, was first presented to township planning commission about six months ago by property owners Mohammad Nawwas and Naji Kahala. Planning commissioners at that time suggested multiple changes to the initial plan which would include a smaller, renovated Sparr's Flower Shop.

Safety lessons

October is Fire Prevention Month and members of the Canton Township Public Safety Department stopped by Primrose Academy last week for a special visit with preschool and preK classes. The firefighters taught the children about 911, stop, drop, and roll, and what to do in case of emergency. The firefighters also demonstrated their equipment and showed the students how they gear up to respond to a fire.

Diwali event is set

Canton Township will celebrate the triumph of good over evil during the Third Annual Diwali Community Celebration this month. Canton Leisure Services is again partnering with several community groups to present this special event, which is an Indian cultural celebration of lights that symbolizes the “victory of light over darkness.”  Sponsors this year include miindia.com, Schoolcraft College, and Piysh Dave Realtor.   

Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II will serve as the keynote speaker for this special event, which is open to the public. Program activities planned include Indian cultural performances, music, and dancing, as well as a children's activity and free henna designs.  Indian snacks will also be available to purchase, and vendors will be on hand offering various merchandise. The community celebration will culminate with a short fireworks display.  

Inkster mayor indicted on bribery charges

Patrick Wimberly

Inkster Mayor Patrick Wimberly, 49, has been indicted on federal bribery charges, and is accused of receiving $50,000 from a developer to guarantee the purchase of city-owned property.

Wimberly, who was elected to his first term as mayor in 2019, is currently campaigning for re-election. Wimberly previously served on the Inkster City Council and as mayor is $105,000 annually. If convicted of the felony charges, he could face 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. 

According to the federal indictment, Wimberly first suggested on 2022 to the unnamed developer that he could ensure the successful purchase of the city-owned property. The indictment claims that in September of 2022, Wimberly demanded $100,000 from the developer to guarantee the sale of the unidentified site, telling the developer he could control the necessary approval vote of the seven-member city council. The developer allegedly agreed to pay Wimberly $5,000 a month, increasing the payments to $10,000 monthly, the indictment claims. Wimberly is accused of accepting $5,000 from the developer at that 2022 meeting.

Courtroom canine

New county advocate offers support to victims, witnesses

Jellybean provides a special level of comfort to 
victims and witnesses in her new job with
the Wayne County Prosecutor's office. 

Witnesses and victims have a new advocate in the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office who offers a unique skill set along with her sweet nature and calm demeanor.

Jellybean, the first canine court advocate in the county office, is described as half black Labrador and half Golden Retriever. In February 2023, Mark Hindelang, the chief of information and technology at the prosecutor's office, along with his wife and three sons, adopted Jellybean. She rides to work with Hindelang daily and reports to her “boss,” Child Advocate Jamie Buchholtz. When her tail slows down to a manageable wag after greeting Buchholtz and the other staff members, Jellybean dons her neckerchief and begins her workday. She meets with victims and walks them to court. With a loving look and maybe a small pat she helps to assuage the anxiety of both child and adult victims and witnesses, Buchholtz said. 

Wayne, Westland awarded state development grants

The cities of Wayne and Westland were among those awarded Revitalization and Placemaking grants from the State of Michigan last week.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer and representatives from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MDEC) announced the grant awards last week. Grants to 10 state communities totaled $99.2 million.

The City of Wayne was awarded $458,990 and Westland will receive $1 million as part of the program.

Schools welcome new police resource officer

Northville Township Police Ofc. Robert McFadden has been appointed as the School Resource Officer (SRO) in partnership with the Northville Public Schools district.

 McFadden served as a deputy sheriff in Washtenaw County for more than five years before joining the Northville department. During his tenure there, “he demonstrated a strong commitment to youth programs, further solidifying his qualifications for this crucial position within our school community,” school officials said.

McFadden officially assumed his responsibilities as an SRO Sept. 25 and is now stationed at Meads Mill Middle School. He has the capacity to provide support and coverage to any of the Northville Public Schools facilities within Northville Township, according to a statement from the school administration.

‘Library of Things’ is now available in Northville

The Northville District Library offers much more than the traditional books, CDs, and movies that most people might expect. 

The newest collection available in the Northville facility is the Library of Things. The library has offered T-Mobile hotspots for years, as well as webcams, and more recently tabletop telescopes. In the last year STEM kits for children were added. This summer fishing poles for adults and children were added and this month sees the addition of even more items to this special collection including: Birding Kits, Disc Golf sets, Personal CD Players, Portable CD players, a Sony Blu-Ray Player, and a Travel Chess Set, librarians said.

Heroes on Hines

Northville Township Firefighters Pete Michalak and Kevin Pietrasinski laced up their running shoes and hit the pavement for the 2023 Heroes on Hines 5K last week. The annual charity run drew a large crowd of runners again this year, organizers said. The event highlights physical fitness and fees generated fund ongoing maintenance and preservation of the First Responders Memorial, located at the intersection of Hines Drive and Haggerty Road in Plymouth Township.

Voice of experience

Officer Erik Kaledas has joined the Northville Township Police Department. Kaledas has more than a quarter century of law enforcement experience as he served for 25 years on the Canton Township Police Department before joining Northville. Prior to his service in Canton, he served in the Michigan Army National Guard, officials said.

Smooth operation

Paving of the new municipal parking lot on Ann Arbor Trail and Deer Street was under way last week as crews installed the base coat of asphalt. Officials said the concrete work would be completed before the final paving at The Saxton's Municipal Lot. The installation of the Electric Vehicle (EV) chargers has been requested from DTE energy, the added, while the light poles for installation of lighting of the lot and walkways remain on back order. No date for completion of the downtown city parking project has been announced.

Sentencing date set in home arson case

A Plymouth Township man will be sentenced Oct. 17 after being found guilty of arson in the fire that destroyed his home in 2019.

Patrick Nolan, 42, is facing life in prison following the guilty verdict in Third Circuit Court of one count of arson of an insured dwelling and one count of second-degree arson. Each charge also carries a potential fine of $20,000 or three times the value of the destroyed property, whichever is greater, according to court records. 

Following the 2 a.m. fire Jan. 1, 2019 at a home Nolan owned in the 50000 block of Sheffield Court, investigators from both the fire and police departments determined that gasoline had been poured throughout the home and deliberately ignited at three areas of the house. Fires had been started in the master bedroom, a basement storage room and in a hall at the top of the basement stairs, according to prosecutors from the office of Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel.

Hydrant maintenance under way

The Department of Municipal Services crews will be performing their annual, routine hydrant flushing and testing in the City of Plymouth during the month of October. Residents may experience lower than normal water pressure and/or discolored water in their homes for a brief time as the regular maintenance continues. Officials suggest that residents run the cold water for several minutes to flush out the plumbing if the situation occurs. Discoloration that may occur is due to natural minerals in the water being stirred up in the hydrant flushing process, officials noted. The water will remain safe to drink at all times throughout this process, they added. For more information, contact the Plymouth Municipal Services Department at dms@plymouthmi.gov or (734) 453-7737.

Mayor stresses progress in State of the City

Michael Londeau

Westland Mayor Michael P. Londeau used his first State of the City address to honor three residents for their outstanding commitment to improving the quality of life in the city.

Londeau honored former Mayor William R. Wild for his past work as the leader of the city and his continued involvement in community efforts. He also recognized the dedication and accomplishments of City Clerk Richard LeBlanc and the work of Senior Resources Director Barbara Marcum, noting that each of them has contributed greatly to the improvement of the community.

More than 350 individuals attended the address at the Senior Friendship Center last week and applauded the community honorees. 

Londeau spoke to the crowd reminding them of the accomplishments in the city during the past year. He noted the approval of the balanced 3-year budget that preserves a “rainy day” fund balance of nearly $6.5 million with no tax increases and the saving of millions of dollars in pension fund contributions with the receipt of a grant in the amount of $26 million from the State of Michigan Department of Treasury.

Veterans holiday meals available

While Halloween pumpkins and decorations are appearing throughout the community, Wayne and Westland officials have Thanksgiving on their minds.

Westland Mayor Michael Londeau, Wayne Mayor John Rhaesa and Wayne Ford Civic League President Vic Barra are already planning the 10th Annual Holiday Meals for Wayne-Westland veterans, surviving spouses, and families of active duty service members.

Canton Fine Arts exhibition features local talent

A variety of works now on display in the
29th Annual Canton Fine Arts Exhibition at the
Gallery at Cherry Hill in The Village Theater at Cherry Hill. 

Recently created art in a variety of media is on display during the “29th Annual Canton Fine Arts Exhibition,” at The Village Theater Gallery at Cherry Hill. 

The popular exhibit contains works in a variety of media from some of the finest artists in the area, organizers said. The display includes works in:  oil, acrylic, photography, cutwork, watercolor, graphite, inks, charcoal, conte/pastel, pen and ink, sculpture, and mixed media. A total of 150 works were submitted, and 34 entries were accepted by juror Jeff Cancelosi as part of the exhibition, which will continue through Oct. 29 in The Gallery at Cherry Hill. 

“Once again we are so pleased to showcase the works of these highly talented artists in Canton,” said The Gallery at Cherry Hill Coordinator Elli Fassois. 

Cancelosi, an artist, curator and photographer widely recognized for his photographic portraits of national, regional and local artists. His artwork has been juried into shows across the United States by curators from the Whitney Museum of American Art, the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, the DIA Art Foundation of New York, the Berkeley Art Museum, and others.

‘Cabaret’ to benefit American Cancer Society planned

Rehearsals are under way for the Oct. 25 Canton Cabaret,
a benefit for the Canton and Plymouth Relay for Life.

A cabaret of entertainment is planned Oct. 25 at the Village Theatre in Canton Township to benefit the American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Canton and Plymouth planned for next spring.

Relay for Life of Canton and Plymouth members are organizing the ACS (American Cancer Society) evening of song, dance and entertainment set to begin at 7 p.m. Oct. 25. The ACS Telethon Cabaret will feature vocal numbers from the complete American songbook, utilizing the talent and dedication of singers, musicians, dancers and actors from the community.

Roommate sought in stabbing death

Inkster police are searching for Yanko Romero, 40, who is considered a person of interest in the death of a 34-year-old Inkster resident.

Officers were dispatched to a home in the 1400 block of Meadow Lane in Inkster at about 9:45 p.m. Oct. 4 in response to a request for a welfare check by family members who had not been able to reach the resident for several days. When officers arrived at the home they discovered the resident deceased in the garage, apparently the victim of a stabbing, according to police reports. 

March on

Members of the Romulus High School Marching Eagles will participate in the 97th America's Thanksgiving Parade® presented by Gardner White in downtown Detroit. This year, the parade celebrates A Heart of History and all floats and marchers will promote the theme. The parade will be shown on Channel 4 WDIV beginning at 8:45 Thanksgiving morning Nov. 23. At the end of the parade, viewers can vote for the best marching ensemble.

Vendors Market and Bake sale is planned

Some sweet bargains will await visitors at the Sumpter Community Center this month.

The Sumpter Township Fall Vendors Market and Bake Sale will take place from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Friday Oct. 27 and Saturday, Oct. 28. Some table rentals, priced at $10 may still be available for vendors. For table rental information, contact Maryann Watson at the Sumpter Senior Center, (734) 461-9373.

The Community Center is located at 25301 Sumpter Road.

Trunk or Treat event set

Sumpter Township will again host the popular Trunk or Treat Halloween celebration in the parking lot of the Community Center.

The annual event is planned from 6 until 8 p.m. Monday, Oct. 30. Those who wish to take part in distributing candy to costumed children need to make a reservation for a parking spot from which to hand out treats.

To reserve a parking spot, call (734) 256-4406. The best decorated trunk at the event will be awarded a prize, organizers said.

The community center is located at 23501 Sumpter Road.

Construction closes Middlebelt

Some drivers in Romulus received a surprise last week as their regular route along Middlebelt Road was interrupted by construction work.

Wayne County Road Commission officials have closed the roadway between Northline and Eureka for about another month, officials said. The closure began Oct. 2 and will continue for an estimated 45 days.

Drivers are being rerouted to Inkster Road as an alternate route during the closure of Middlebelt.

$400 million plant coming to Plymouth Township

A Norwegian hydrogen manufacturer will invest $400 million in a new Plymouth Township facility and bring 517 new jobs to the area.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced last week that Nel Hydrogen will locate a new automated gigafactory in the township. The factory produces electrolyzer technology for green hydrogen production. Hydrogen can be produced from water and renewable energy. As the most abundant and lightest element in the universe, hydrogen can play a significant role in accelerating a clean-energy transition away from fossil fuels, according to a state spokesman.

“Plymouth Township is honored to have been selected by Nel Hydrogen for this revolutionary facility that will help bring a new source of clean, sustainable energy to power the future of the auto industry and beyond,” said Plymouth Township Supervisor Kurt Heise. “This $400 million investment by Nel will bring over 500 new jobs to our community and will be the centerpiece of our Michigan International Technology Center Redevelopment Authority - converting vacant prison properties into engines for jobs and economic development.,” Heise said.

Height of safety

Sophisticated drone being used by fire, police departments

Northville Township police officers are
trained to pilot the sophisticated drone
being used in public safety situations.

Public safety in Northville Township has reached new heights of advancement using technology and innovation. 

The Public Safety Department has been using a sophisticated drone purchased earlier this summer with partial grant funding from the Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority (MMRMA), officials said. 

The advanced technology of the drone includes a camera, spotlight, infrared capabilities and a megaphone, all of which have already proven valuable, according to officials. 

The infrared camera recently located multiple trespassers at Legacy Park and completed night surveillance in areas where cars have been stolen or riffled through, police said.

Hazardous waste well license renewal approved by state

Despite the continued objections of city officials and public criticism, a 10-year hazardous waste management license for the deep-well waste injection site in Romulus was approved by the state Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE).

According to a statement issued by EGLE representatives, all safety violations at the hazardous waste disposal firm have been resolved by Republic Industrial and Energy Solutions, the current operator of the facility.  Outrage erupted throughout several communities earlier this year when hazardous material from a train derailment in East Palestine, Ohio was transported to Michigan and disposed of at the site without notification to local officials or citizens. 

City awarded $5.7 million fire safety grant

The City of Westland Fire Department has been awarded a Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant (SAFER) through FEMA in the amount of $5,709,867. The grant will fund the employment of 15 firefighters for a period of three years. Unlike years past, this year the grant award required no city matching funds, officials said. 

SAFER grants are awarded to communities to ensure compliance with National Fire Protection standards that relate to the staffing of fire stations, response times, and overall assembly of force to efficiently deliver service more effectively and safely. The grant assists fire departments with staffing and deployment capabilities to respond to emergencies and assure adequate protection from fire and other hazards, said officials. 

Only a small percentage of the thousands of departments who apply are awarded SAFER grants.

Annual Halloween sale set

The Halloween spirit will be on full display Saturday as the Westland Historic Village Park hosts the annual Haunted Yard Sale.

The sale, set for 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., will feature tables of decorations, costumes, movies, books and other holiday items. Organizers said the sale annually draws hundreds of shoppers to Perrinville School at 31755 Cowan Road where the event takes place.

Vendor spots may still be available, organizers said. More information is available at

https://www.facebook.com/events/1291317545055073?ref=newsfeed

Westland departments win technology awards

The City of Westland Department of Innovation and Technology was recently honored with two awards during the recent Michigan Government Information Management Sciences fall conference.

“The department was recognized for continuing excellence in driving service for our residents and staff,” said Mayor Michael Londeau. The awards included the “Impact of the Year Award” for the departmental work integrating multiple software systems to communicate better, creating more efficiencies and better reporting for various departments, Londeau said.

Martinsville Cemetery renovations under way

The restoration work and upgrades at Martinsville Cemetery in Sumpter Township was the topic of a comprehensive report to the members of the board of trustees during their regular meeting last month.

Township Finance Director Scott Holtz and Deputy Clerk Karen Armatis spoke to the trustees regarding the progress at the historic site. In July, trustees approved the use of up to $250,000 in American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) funding to upgrade the deteriorating cemetery which includes graves from 1866. Many prominent historic figures and founders of the area which became Sumpter Township are interred at the cemetery located on Willis Court. 

Game on

Romulus resident Dan Brown presented a pair of custom corn hole boards to the Romulus Police Department recently. Officers said the boards were appreciated and would be heavily used during the numerous community events the department hosts and participates in during the year. 

Batter up

Mayor to serve pancakes at One Romulus meeting 

Robert McCraight

Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight will demonstrate his skill at the grill during the next One Romulus community meeting set for 9 until 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 7.

McCraight will be flipping pancakes for everyone in attendance at the Romulus VFW Post #78 at 39270 Huron River Dr. He will step away from his grilling duties at 10 a.m. to provide updates on city news and announcements and then take questions from those in attendance about current events in the city.

The event is free, but pre-registration is requested to ensure enough pancakes and syrup are on hand. 

To register, call McCraight's office at (734) 942-7571 or register online at vtoliver@romulusgov. com.

Historic ‘cabin’ restoration nears completion

Restoration at one of the oldest and most popular spots in Plymouth is well under way and on schedule, according to the Poulous family, owners of Karl's Cabin which was damaged by fire in February.

Peter Poulous recently updated the status of the 76-year-old restaurant where entertainment legends performed and families celebrated multiple occasions. He said "substantial progress" has been made and all the rough mechanical, electrical, insulation and plumbing are complete and approved by inspectors.

Fitting tribute

Inkster Mayor Patrick Wimberly and Police Chief William J. Ratliff were among the officials and residents  to officially celebrate the dedication and grand opening of "The Alex A. Chapman Community Policing & Training Center" Sept. 21. The building at 4310 Middlebelt Road had been vacant for many years prior to the renovation into a law enforcement training center, officials said. The totally renovated facility will also serve as a mini police station, officials noted during the dedication. The building is named in memory of the late Deputy Auxiliary Police Chief Alex Chapman who served the city for more than two decades prior to his death last year.

Pumpkin Palooza returns Oct. 22

The annual celebration of spooky season is set for 11:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 22 in downtown Plymouth.

Pumpkin Palooza the traditional free Halloween themed event usually brings hundreds of children of all ages, including the young at heart, to downtown streets for a day filled with costumes, games and trick-or-treating fun.

Many downtown streets will be closed during the event to ensure the safety of the event for children. Costumes are encouraged and several costume contests are planned, including a contest for pet Halloween costumes.

High notes

The Wayne Memorial High School Marching Zebras placed first in their flight with caption awards in Overall Best Music and Overall Best General Effect at the Michigan Competing Band Association competition at Lakeland High School. The Michigan Competing Band Association (MCBA) is a sanctioning body for high school marching band field contests in Michigan, established in 1974. The association is a non-profit corporation dedicated to the development of instrumental music education in Michigan schools. The MCBA hosts a number of local competitions around the state and organizes the only statewide marching band championships in Michigan. 

Halloween activities planned for all ages

As the calendar inches closer to Halloween, Canton Leisure Services has organized several events to help celebrate the 'spooky season'.

This Saturday from 10 a.m. until noon Oct. 7, the Village Theater at Cherry Hill will host an informative free “Scream-tastic Halloween Special Effects Workshop” led by special effects professional Dave Hettmer, whose work has appeared in classic movies including, “Army of Darkness.” During this workshop for ages 14 and older,, participants will learn how to take their Halloween display, costumes, or theater productions to the next level, organizers said. Participants will discover the trade secrets to creating amazing authentic-looking props and masks. Participants will also see various props, as well as videos and photos of previous builds created by the instructor and discuss the different techniques and materials used to create them.  Pre-registration is required at www.cantonfun.org/register.  For more information or to register call (734) 394-5374. 

Annual beautification awards are presented

The 34th Annual Northville Beautification Awards were presented during the luncheon meeting of the Northville Rotary Club Sept. 26. 

Northville Mayor Brian Turnbull presented the awards to the city honorees and Township Supervisor Mark Abbo introduced the township winners. Thirty-two awards were given to city recipients and 24 were given to township businesses and civic organizations. The Lifetime Award from Northville Township was presented to Meadowbrook Country Club., Deadwood Bar & Grill received the Best in Township Award and Home 2 Suites by Hilton garnered the Corporate Pride Award. 

Beautification Commission Chair Diane Pittaway reminded the audience that group members are active in the city and complete and maintain many of the garden areas in the community, including the small garden in front of Northville City Hall.

New Cricket patch now open at Millenium Park

The new Millenium Park
Cricket patch is now open.

Northville Township may now host games of cricket at Millennium Park. 

Northville Township Board of Trustees members and the Northville Parks & Recreation Commission separately approved the construction of a cricket pitch between fields 1 and 2 at Millennium Park. 

The work was completed this week, officials announced. 

Northville Cricket Club, under the umbrella of the Michigan Cricket Association hosted a grand opening of the pitch Sept. 30 at followed by the opening game. 

Construction of the 10 feet wide by 102 feet long pitch consisted of excavation, and installation of a concrete pad and approved turf on an oval-shaped field. 

Local players have been requesting a pitch in Northville Township for about five years, said Derek O. Smith, director of Northville Parks & Recreation.