Family demands police camera tape of fatal shooting

    Protests regarding the fatal shooting by police of a Wayne man curtailed the meeting of the members of the Wayne City Council last week.

    Mayor John Rhaesa adjourned the meeting after only 4 minutes as audience members continued to demand the release of the body camera video of the of the shooting of John Zook Jr., 40, who was shot and killed by a Wayne police officer June 18.
    Zook called the Wayne Police 911-line June 18 to report that he needed help as he was suicidal and having a mental health crisis, according to official accounts of the incident. Police arrived at Zook’s Newberry Square Apartment in about 2 minutes and found Zook armed with a kitchen knife. Officers reported that Zook has cut himself several times in a suicide attempt.
    Wayne Police Chief Finley Carter told reporters that the responding officers made multiple requests for Zook to drop the knife. When he did not respond to verbal commands, officers twice used a taser on Zook, according to official reports of the incident. As the situation escalated, Zook was shot with a handgun six times, killing him at the scene in front of his 4-year-old son. Police claim that he lunged at the officers prompting the fatal response.
    Zook’s family, friends, and community members have demanded the release of unedited body camera footage, and the name of the officer or officers involved in the shooting, but their demands have been refused or ignored by city and police officials. A recent rally took place outside Wayne police headquarters on Michigan Avenue, demanding the video and more information about the death of Zook. Family members have repeatedly stated that they believe the situation could have been handled differently and have repeated their questions regarding the six gunshots Zook suffered in the situation.
    Attorney Todd Perkins, representing the Zook family, said that training could have resolved the situation and that it could have ended with Zook going to the hospital instead of the morgue. He said he and the family have filed a Freedom in Information Act request for all records of the incident.
    Community activists, family members and friends repeatedly shouted “shame” at a previous city council following the failure of a motion by a councilmember to release the body camera footage, the 911 call and the results of the Michigan State Police investigation. Zook’s father, a retired Highland Park police sergeant, his wife and Zook’s sister have seen only an edited version of the taped confrontation. The family is demanding to see the entire record of the confrontation and shooting. Zook’s father told reporters than the footage the family viewed does not match the police accounts of the incident or police claims that his son charged at the officers with a knife.
    Perkins said the family has learned that an investigation by the Michigan State Police has been completed and the file referred to the office of the Wayne County Prosecutor. A spokesman from that office said the investigation would be reviewed for any charging decision. Zook’s father said he expects charges against both the shooter and another responding officer.
    “When they (prosecutors)look at evidence, I think they (the officers) should be charged,” John Zook Sr. said.

Fish story

 Federal, state and local officials celebrate hatchery restoration

    U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow, U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell and John O’Meara, executive director of the Alliance of Rouge Communities were among the crowd who officially celebrated the completion of the habitat restoration and Johnson Creek Fish Hatchery Park.

    The $1.2 million project was funded by the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative through the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Fish Hatchery Park holds historical significance as the former site of the first federal fish hatchery in the U.S., once one of the largest in the country. Johnson Creek is now the only remaining cold-water fishery in the Rouge River, officials said. The restoration project, initiated in 2018, aimed to address the loss of fish and wildlife habitat.
    Stabenow, who originally drafted the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative to address the greatest threats to the Great Lakes ecosystem, helped plant a native tree at the site.
    The restoration included removal of 2,000 cubic yards of accumulated sediment in the pond to create deeper water for fish habitats; planting of more than 250 native trees and 300 native shrubs to filter stormwater runoff; creation of a fish passage channel between the pond and Johnson Creek and removal a concrete wall, stabilizing and naturalizing 1,250 feet of streambank.
    During the ceremony, officials discussed the site long history of the site and the significance of the project in removing the Rouge River from the list of Areas of Concern (AOCs). Northville Mayor Brain Turnbull, Northville Township Supervisor Mark Abbo, Crawford White of the Environmental Protection Agency and John O’Meara, executive director of the Alliance of Rouge Communities.

Canton Township ceremony marks International Day of Peace

    The International Day of Peace will be marked in Canton Township with a special ceremony set for 10 a.m. until noon Sept. 21 at the Heritage Park Peace Pole Plaza.
    The event is hosted by Canton Township, Canton Rotary, Plymouth-Canton Community Schools, and the Canton Chamber of Commerce. The plaza is located at the intersection of Civic Center Boulevard and Veterans Way in Canton.
    Established in 1981 by a unanimous United Nations resolution, the International Day of Peace provides a globally shared date to commit to peace above all differences and to contribute to building a culture of peace. Every year on Sept. 21, the United Nations invites the world to mark the International Day of Peace, as it encourages all to: “…strive even harder to promote dialogue, empathy, and human rights in a world mired by conflict, inequalities, and discrimination.”
    “It is important to come together as a community in the spirit of peace and harmony to demonstrate a commitment to foster peace in the world,” said Canton Supervisor Anne Marie Graham-Hudak. “It is so fitting to celebrate this global day of peace in the Heritage Park Peace Pole Plaza, where the universal symbol of peace bearing the message “May Peace Prevail on Earth” stands proud. Now more than ever before, everyone’s individual and collective responsibility should be to act as catalysts for change and agents for peace.”
    To celebrate the official International Day of Peace, this free event will include a reflective walk around the Heritage Park pond, a meditation activity, messages of peace, and more.
    The program will also feature a welcome from Canton Supervisor Anne Marie Graham-Hudak, as well as special remarks by Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06). Students from Plymouth-Canton Community Schools will also provide a kids’ choir performance.
    No preregistration is required. Light refreshment samples will also be served.
    For more information, visit www.cantonmi.gov or call (734) 394-5185.

On the B.L.O.C.K.

Canton youth leadership programs now accepting applications

    Applications are now being accepted for the Canton Township Lead #LikeAGirl, Be A #ModelMan, and Youth Advisory Council Programs for the 2024-2025 school year. The free programs are available through The B.L.O.C.K. Youth & Teen Center for local youths who are interested in developing life skills, such as self-confidence, interpersonal communication skills, stress management, and leadership skills.
    Lead #LikeA Girl was developed in 2015 by The B.L.O.C.K. Youth & Teen Center. This free program enables participants to challenge themselves, discuss relevant issues that young girls face with their peers, and foster relationships with female role models within the community. This award-winning program serves a diverse group of young women ages 11-16 and is designed to change the way that these participants, and the community-at-large, think about what it means to Lead #LikeAGirl…and ultimately live #LikeAGirl.
    Be A #ModelMan, established in 2016, aims to grow six core values, including: integrity, empathy,
compassion, inner strength, courage, and respect. Monthly themed workshops take place from October through May and are designed to inform program participants ages 11-16 about healthy masculinity, leadership, and community involvement. In addition, this program curriculum encourages participants to interact and foster relations with public servants and community model men, who embody the program’s core values.
    The Canton Youth Advisory Council is an influential group of area high school students who truly make a difference in their community. Members participate in community service projects, lead special events, participate in local decision-making, and award annual grants to organizations that benefit Canton Youth.
    “The B.L.O.C.K. staff are excited to challenge these young individuals with unique experiences that will help them develop new skills and confidence,” said Chelsea Straub, Youth Recreation Specialist. “All of these opportunities help inspire participants to become real change-makers to help make a difference in their communities.”
    Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through The B.L.O.C.K. Youth and Teen Center. Applications are currently available on The B.L.O.C.K. Youth & Teen Center website at www.cantonmi.gov/theblock and must be submitted by Sept. 20. Program space is limited, so applicants are encouraged to apply early.
    Local volunteer and financial support have helped these programs expand their positive programming opportunities, officials said. Some current and past sponsors include: MASCO, Community Financial Credit Union, Eastern Michigan University, and the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan. Sponsorship opportunities are still available for individuals, businesses, and foundations to assist in the development of future sessions. To become involved, contact Laura Mortier at (734) 394-5376 or email
laura.mortier@cantonmi.gov.
    The B.L.O.C.K. Youth and Teen Center, located on the third floor of the Canton Administration Building at 1150 S. Canton Center Road in Canton.. For more information about Lead #LikeAGirl, Be A #ModelMan, The Youth Advisory Council, or The B.L.O.C.K. Youth and Teen Center, visit www.cantonmi.gov/theblock or call (734) 398-5570.

Canton Blues, Brats and Bands event set for this Saturday

    Only the location of the annual Brews, Brats, and Bands will change this year while the popular features will remain the same.
    The event is set for 6 until 9 p.m. this Saturday, Sept. 14 at the new location in the Heritage Park amphitheater, located behind the Canton Administration Building. This year, Brews, Brats, and Bands will be hosted by Canton Leisure Services and the Village Arts Factory. Sponsors are Schoolcraft College, Provision Senior Living Communities and Beerfests.com.
    “Any event involving drinking craft beers, eating brats, and listening to music with friends and family is bound to be a good time,” said Kevin Ryan, Village Arts Factory program director. “It’s important to note that with construction taking place in our usual location of Preservation Park, we are temporarily relocating this popular fall event to Heritage Park, which is the only change to this annual event that will feature over 50 specialty beers, ciders, and seltzers in one location.”
    Proceeds from the event will benefit the Village Arts Factory, which is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that serves as a nexus for the arts, culture, music, and community engagement, as well as the Canton Cares Fund, which supports the Canton community by providing financial assistance to disaster relief, therapeutic recreation, youth, and senior programs.
    Admission includes seven tasting tokens each good for beer, cider, or seltzer tasting samples, as well as two grilled brats with fixings (vegetarian option available), a snack from the pretzel necklace-making station, water, chili cook-off tastings, and a commemorative mug. The brats will be provided by Maraschinos Pub. Musical entertainment will be provided throughout the evening by Atomic Radio, billed as “Detroit’s Premier Cover Band.”
    Tickets are $45 online at Beerfests.com (search Canton, MI) or at the door (cash only). Designated Driver tickets are also available for $15. Pre-purchasing tickets is highly recommended, as there are a limited number of tickets available for purchase onsite at the event. Additional beer-tasting tickets are available on-site for purchase; receive four additional tickets for $5. Limited chairs and tables will be provided, so attendees are encouraged to bring their own folding chairs.
    For more information, visit www.cantonmi.gov/678.

Northville to host Seniors Health and Wellness Expo on Oct. 10Northville to host Seniors Health and Wellness Expo on Oct. 10

    Northville Senior Service will host a Health and Wellness Expo from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 10 at the Northville Community Center.

    The purpose of the new event is to engage and educate older adults on the benefits of maintaining an active lifestyle, as well as address health concerns that arise with aging, officials said. New programming offered by the Senior Services will also be introduced during the event. Similar to previous events, registrants will enjoy vendor tables, but new this year are fitness class demonstrations, a Kroger Health vaccine clinic, door prize raffles and live entertainment from Suzi Marsh. Lunch also will be provided.
    “We are still going to have dancing and the party atmosphere,” said Senior Services Supervisor Debbie Giulianelli-Smith. “We are excited for this new emphasis, which has an educational element to it.”
    Senior Services recently added several fitness classes and enrichment programs for social well-being to the curriculum. The Expo will draw attention to some of them in hopes of promoting healthy lifestyles while having fun. Officials said the Health & Wellness Expo comes at an opportune time. Currently, a quarter of Michigan’s population is 65 or older. The state is in the midst of what’s called the “silver tsunami,” where 4.1 million Americans are poised to turn 65 this year and every year through 2027.
    This represents the largest surge of retirement-age Americans in history. The population in Northville is growing older and by 2045, the largest population growth area will be those 85 and older with an 86 percent increase, according to SEMCOG. That’s why Senior Services is putting a new emphasis on well-being, Giulianelli-Smith said.
    “By having this in October, which is often the start of flu season, we are giving those who want it the opportunity to get vaccinated,” she said.
    Northville Senior Services is a division of Northville Parks & Recreation. The Northville Community Center is at 303 W. Main St. The day-long event is priced at $15 for residents and $18 for non-residents. To register, visit https://npar.info/3SC57HM.
    “Our community is so active that this new Expo makes sense,” said Northville Parks & Recreation Director Derek O. Smith. “We expect the community to embrace this magical day planned just for them.”

Penn theater wins tax exemption battle

    It took nearly 3 years, but The Penn Theatre in downtown Plymouth has prevailed in a long battle for a property tax exemption.
    The financial burden of the tax could have become a factor in sustaining operations at the theater, according to Friends of the Penn Executive Director Ellen Elliott who spoke to an assembled crowd of concerned citizens during an informational meeting in August of 2023.
    Friends of the Penn used private donations to save the theater from demolition and returned it to operation in 2006. The non-profit group took full ownership of the theater in December of 2021 after leasing the building for many years, paying about $25,000 annually in property taxes. With full ownership of the theatre by a non-profit, the theater should have been granted a property tax exemption, Elliott said. She said 16 other non-profit theatres in the state currently enjoy the property tax exemption.
    The city of Plymouth denied the exemption, claiming the theater had not met the qualifications required of a non-profit group for tax-exempt status. Subsequently, Friends of the Penn appealed the decision to the Michigan Tax Tribunal prompting months of hearings and deliberation. The tax tribunal judge ruled last week that the Friends of the Penn does, in fact, qualify as a charitable institution and that the Penn qualifies as a non-profit theater.
    Friends of the Penn purchased the building in 2021 for $1.2 million and put another million dollars into the renovations, according to Elliott.
    Penn Theatre is open Thursday-Sunday. For showtimes, visit Penn Theatre’s website.

Road warrior

Romulus mayor accepts gruelling Hoka Key Motorcycle Challenge

    Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight has proven he is a man who enjoys a challenge.

    For the next week or so, he will have a chance to demonstrate those skills as one of a selected group participating in the Hoka Hey, an event designed to test the limits of physical and mental endurance while traveling across the country on a motorcycle. The 100 riders, selected from hundreds of applicants, are prohibited from using electronic navigation devices, highways or hotels or motels.
    The Hoka Hey Motorcycle Challenge, considered the toughest motorcycle endurance race in the country takes place every two years and features travel on terrains designed to push riders and machines to the limits of their mental, physical and mechanical abilities. The event is steeped in Native American traditions and is similar to the ancient challenge faced by young Native American men to prove their worthiness and earn their designation as a warrior.
    Riders in the Hoka Hey select a charity and accept pledges and donations as support for their participation in the challenge. McCraight, an avid motorcycle enthusiast and ardent supporter of veterans’ causes, selected Foundation 14 as the charity he will ride for contributions.
    Foundation 14 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to keeping veterans riding motorcycles. Founded eight years ago, Foundation 14 has helped 26 veterans by either providing them with specialized motorcycles that fit their specific disabilities or by assisting with a costly repair on an existing motorcycle. The goal is to get the veteran riding again and into positive social contact.
    McCraight and the other riders began their challenge at the southernmost point on Aug 4 and are not told of their designated route to the northernmost point of the country. Some directions are provided at the starting point and further routes provided at specific checkpoints as the ride continues until Aug. 14.
    “Simply put, I will be sleeping outside next to my bike for the duration of the event, using a compass and old school maps to find my way on the back roads,” McCraight said. His goal, he said, is to generate $14,000 in contributions for Foundation 14. McCraight explained that Foundation 14 is a healthy alternative to some of the negative attitudes that sometimes come with serving in a forward armed forces combat unit. These negative behaviors can range from depression, seclusion, alcohol or drug abuse.
    “During my years at Foundation 14, I have witnessed firsthand the efforts of Foundation 14 and how their work can change lives,” McCraight said.
    Donations to support McCraight’s efforts can be made at shorturl.at/XlgYx.

Crowds, officials welcome first Michigan Sheetz

    Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight declared Tuesday, Aug. 27 as “Sheetz Day” in the city during the grand opening celebration of the new facility last week.
    Hundreds of area residents joined McCraight and several other elected Romulus officials in welcoming the new store to the community. Travis Sheetz, CEO of the Altoona, Pennsylvania-based gas station and convenience store chain, presented $5,000 checks to Special Olympics Michigan, Forgotten Harvest and Romulus Parks and Recreation during the opening ceremony. This is the first Sheetz location in Michigan.
    Sheetz said the company is planning more Michigan locations, expanding the 752 stores the company now operates across the country.
    Crowds packed the location during the opening and filled the Wick Road parking lot with several people arriving as early as 5:30 a.m. hours before the scheduled 8 a.m. event.
    "We felt like there was a void in the market for our type of offer, because it is unique with gas and food and everything else," Sheetz said during the grand opening. "And we like that it’s a community-based area, because that’s how we are. We’re very attached to our community — we’ve been since the beginning — and we want to go to an area that resonates in that way.”
    Officials said the popularity of the well-known convenience store should help spur development in the new Romulus Trade Center nearby.
    The store will be open 24/7 every day of the year, officials said. In addition to both indoor and outdoor dining the Romulus locations will feature a drive-through window. Grocery items will be available as will a menu of made-to-order foods and beverages, from breakfast to subs, pizza, and specialty drinks. The location, near Detroit Metro Airport, also features one of the largest EV (electronic vehicle) charging networks in the country.
    The Romulus store is on a former vacant lot at 33380 Wick Road, off Interstate 94 and next to the Romulus Trade Center.

Family time

Children join 15-year barbeque volunteer

    The Rotary Chicken Barbeque this Sunday during the Plymouth Fall Festival is a real family affair for Ron Schmyr and his entire family.

    Schmyr, 65, his wife, seven children and his sons-in-law have been volunteering at the charity event for more than 15 years and they will be there again Sunday, manning the barbeque grills as more than 8,500 chickens are cooked to perfection.
    “It’s amazing to me that decades ago some engineer figured out how hot the grills had to be, how far from the coals the chickens should be and exactly how long it would take to get them to the perfect temperature,” Schmyr said. He said he and his family had been fascinated by the barbeque for decades as they live close to downtown Plymouth and the enticing aroma on Fall Festival Sunday would fill the air. “The kids grew up smelling the chicken,” said.
    When he moved his financial services business to downtown Plymouth, he joined the Rotary Club. That led to his first volunteer effort behind one of the enormous charcoal pits used to grill the chickens. He has eagerly maintained that position for more than 15 years and has been joined by two of his sons-in-law, his daughters and soon, he expects, three of his 11-year-old grandchildren. A sense of being able to give something back to the community is ingrained in his family, Schmyr said.
    He explained that when his family moved to Plymouth from downtown Detroit decades ago, he was amazed that a place like Plymouth even existed. He was used to the rigors of Detroit which at the time was experiencing serious unrest. “I saw tanks in the street when I was 8 years old” he recalled, “so coming to Plymouth was an explosion of senses.”
    He subsequently met his wife Julie when she was in the 5th grade and he in 7th and after their graduations they married and made their home in Plymouth where they raised their family.
    “There is no other way to say it, this is just a very special community and I am very proud to be a part of it. I simply can’t phrase it any other way, this is just a love affair with Plymouth,” he said.
    After 15 years, Schmyr has earned his spot near the head of the pit where he will man the grill from about 8 in the morning until 4 in the afternoon this Sunday, Sept. 8.

Canton Center Road closed for ‘essential’ repair work

    The Wayne County Department of Public Services has temporarily closed Canton Center Road over Willow Creek, south of Joy Road in Canton Township to perform emergency repairs. The closure is necessary, according to officials, to address critical issues with the culvert and ensure the safety and functionality of the road.
    Motorists are advised to use detour routes to navigate around the closure. Northbound traffic on Canton Center Road can proceed straight through the intersection of Canton Center Road and Sheldon Center Road, turn right onto Sheldon Center Road, then onto Sheldon rod. Continue north of Sheldon Road to Joy Road and then turn left onto Joy Road and continue west to Canton Center Road.
    Southbound traffic on Canton Center Road should turn left onto Joy Road and travel east to Sheldon Road. Turn right onto Sheldon Road and proceed south to Sheldon Center Road and turn right onto Sheldon Center Road and continue to Canton Center Road.
    Officials said the essential repairs would be completed as quickly as possible. For more information, contact the 24-hour customer service center at 888-762-3273.

Honored

    Last week, the City of Westland honored former Community Media Director Craig Welkenbach who

passed away earlier this year. Mr. Welkenbach served the community for more than 25 years earning many awards and the love and respect of everyone he came in contact with, officials said during the dedication of the plaque marking the renaming of the building. “In recognition of all that he did for the city and for the friend he was to so many people, the WLND Studios have been dedicated in his honor and are now officially called The Welkenbach Studios,” noted officials before a large crowd who attended the ceremony in memory of Mr. Welkenbach.

 

Fatal crash takes lives of father and son

    A Go-Fund-Me account has been established to help the survivors of a horrific car crash that occurred last weekend, claiming the lives of a Plymouth father, his youngest son and critically injuring his wife.

    According to the latest posted information, Dan and Anna Hordov of Plymouth and their two children, were returning from a Grand Rapids soccer tournament on Sunday, Aug. 18 when the accident occurred.
    According to multiple reports, Hordov and his son, Wyatt, succumbed to their injuries while his wife, Anna, sustained a serious spinal injury and remains hospitalized. Their oldest son, Zachary, has been released from the hospital after being treated for minor injuries. He is reportedly with family members.
    Zachary is a member of the Plymouth Reign Soccer Club which regularly plays at Edward Hines Parkway, the fields of Robert Bosch and Lake Pointe Soccer Park.
    Dan Hordov, 44, was a member of the Plymouth Noon Rotary Club where he led the
    Interact program at the high school campus. He was employed as an insurance agent- broker with the Kennedy Nemier Insurance Agency of Plymouth. Members of the Rotary Club have expressed their shock and sorrow at the incident, noting what an active member of the club Mr. Hordov had been and how well regarded he was. Rotary Club members have pledged to aid the family as soon as more details are available.
    Currently, donations are being collected for the family at a Go-Fund-Me account under the family name.
    Monday morning more than $96,000 had been donated to help the family.

Helping hands

 68th Annual Plymouth Fall Festival to begin next week

    The 68 Annual Plymouth Fall Festival will fill the downtown streets with more than 85,000 visitors next weekend, as crowds enjoy free stage entertainment, Bingo, a car show and a craft show on the streets. In addition, the Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast is set for Saturday morning, along with the pet show which includes both a parade and a dog training lesson this year.

    The Sept. 6, .7 and 8 festival in Plymouth is an effort to support all local civic and charity groups in the community. Every exhibitor, booth or participant must be there and registered to support a civic or school group.
    “It’s the one time of year every group comes together and works together to help everyone,” said Festival President Andrea Gerber. She noted that the festival had the best year ever last year with increased participation at the carnival and at the booths and shows. “We’re hoping to match that this year,” she said. “We just need good weather.”
    “There really is a close-knit core group of prominent people, volunteers, public officials, business leaders and members of service clubs that keep this festival going,” Gerber said. She added that many civic leaders and officials can be found quietly volunteering at various jobs throughout the festival events. “You never know who you might see,” she added.
    The Plymouth Canton Vietnam Veterans will be grilling spareribs Friday afternoon and the Plymouth-Canton Little League sponsors the popular Bingo event on Friday evening. On Saturday, the morning Rotary Club members serve their renowned Spaghetti Dinner and of course, the Rotary Club Chicken Barbeque takes over Kellogg Park most of the day on Sunday.
    This year, according to Barbeque President Eric Joy, the club will prepare more than 8,500 chicken dinners, grilled on the huge charcoal pits the club members construct the night before in the parking lot behind The Gathering on Penn Avenue.

    To accomplish the effort, more than 700 volunteers man the pits which are lit as early at 7 a.m. When the coals are “just right” the seasoned chickens are on the grills until perfect, then boxed along with chips, an ear of corn, a bottle of water, a roll and butter and a cookie. The menu hasn’t changed for many years, and crowds continue to fill the park all afternoon picnicking, although the drive-through take out location at West Middle School is almost as popular, Joy said.
    The Party Tent behind E.G. Nick’s restaurant on Forest Avenue is the site of both the Rotary Spaghetti Dinner and the Vietnam Veterans barbeque spareribs. After those event, the popular tent hosts live music from popular bands along with beer and wine service. In addition, Chef Frank Agostini from the restaurant, advises both groups and, as a long-time Rotary Club member, helps oversee the chicken barbeque.
    “We started doing the tent as a way to add something to the festival, to have fun. It has now grown to add the veterans and the Rotary spaghetti. We donate the space to the groups as a way to give back to the community,” Agostini said. “We do it because it is fun, everybody has a great time and it’s a way to help out so many people,” Agostini said.
    His sentiments were echoed by James Gietzen of JAG entertainment who produces the event and works with the charity groups to help plan the event. “This is one of my favorites,” Gietzen said. “It really is an event that helps the entire community.”

A complete guide to the Plymouth Fall Festival can be found at Associatednewspapers.net.

Westland man charged with murder in stabbing

    A local man is facing murder charges in the stabbing death of a Westland resident Aug. 18.

    Police arrested Richard Waltiere, Jr., 48, also of Westland at about 4 a.m. Aug. 19 after an investigation of the incident. Westland police officers were called to the area of Grand Traverse and Missaukee Court at about 8 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 18 following a report of a man down.

    When officers arrived on the scene, they found 58-year-old Donald Soulliere of Westland lying on the ground unconscious but breathing, according to police reports. Officers determined that Soulliere had been stabbed and immediately began life saving attempts. The Westland Fire Department arrived and transported Soulliere to Beaumont Annapolis Hospital where he eventually succumbed to his injuries.
    Westland police began an immediate investigation and were quickly able to establish a suspect’s name and description, police reports said. Officers who were actively searching the location for the suspect, Waltiere, were able to locate him and place him under arrest at approximately 4 a.m. a.m. Monday, Aug. 19.
    Police said Waltiere was taken into custody without incident. The suspect was arraigned in the 18th District Court Aug. 21 in front of Magistrate David Wiacek on one count of homicide – murder- second degree. Waltiere was issued a bond of $1,000,000 cash or surety and ordered to reappear for his Probable Cause Conference at the 18th District Court on Aug. 29.

Grant to help fund renaming of school mascot

    The Plymouth-Canton Community Schools district will receive $145,894.40 from the Native American Heritage Fund to help fund the change of team names and mascot at Canton High School.
    The mascot and team names will be changed from the Chiefs to the Cobras. The longstanding Chiefs identity was considered defamatory by some students who advocated a change, approved by members of the school board amidst controversy and complaints from alumni. Canton High School students conducted surveys of potential new names, before a majority of students voted for the Cobras designation in November. Officials said the rebranding initiative is within the district policies.
    The Native American Heritage Fund is a Michigan public body that distributes grants to schools, colleges and universities, and local governments to support initiatives to improve curricula and resources related to Native American issues, and mascot or imagery revisions. Funding from the grant will be used to support the estimated cost of updating uniforms, logos and other paraphernalia related to the mascot rebrand.
    “Plymouth-Canton Community Schools is grateful to the Native American Heritage Fund for its generous support as we prepare to launch an exciting new phase for Canton High School that builds toward the future,” said Plymouth Canton Community Schools Superintendent Dr. Monica L. Merritt.
    The grant was approved by the board members of NAHF along with grants to 10 state entities, the largest award to Plymouth Canton schools.
    “Over the past several years, we have helped 15 schools retire and rebrand their mascots,” said NAHF chairperson Dori Rios, who is also the tribal council chairperson of the Nottawaseppi Huron band of the Potawatomi. “In 2018 we started with six R-word (redskins) mascots. After this year, will have zero in Michigan.”

Legacy Park water tower could help lower water rates

    The new Northville Township water tower in Legacy Park is now fully operational and is providing critical data to officials regarding water use in the township.

    The data will be used to determine the rate paid to Great Lakes Water Authority (GLWA), the water provider for the community. In addition to redundancy and pressure stability, the 500,000-gallon water tower lowers the water demands during peak-use periods, normally in the morning and evening. Officials said the demand is reduced by filling the water tower at night — or off peak — particularly during the high-demand summer season. It takes approximately five hours to fill the tank.
    “By showing GWLA that we did lower our demand during peak-use times, hopefully we can negotiate a better water rate after the proving period is complete,” explained Public Services Director Bob Belair.
    He explained that following the township irrigation restrictions when using the public water system is an important factor. The extra effort by system users also helps reduce the demands during peak times. Township residents may only water their lawn between midnight to 6 a.m. on odd or even dates, which coordinate with their odd or even number address.
    “By watering at night, we all work together to keep our peak usage in check and that will keep water rates from rising more quickly than necessary,” Belair said.
    The total cost to build the tower was $8 million. Officials said that cost is expected to be recouped within the next five to seven years because of the stabilization of demands and lower wholesale rates.
    “This project has been in the planning stages for many years, so it’s great to see it operating so well, helping our residents out,” Belair said.

Brews, Brats and Bands will move to Heritage Park this year

    Only the location of the annual Brews, Brats, and Bands will change this year while the popular features will remain the same.
    The event, is set for 6 until 9 p.m. Sept. 14 at the new location in the Heritage Park amphitheater, located behind the Canton Administration Building. This year, Brews, Brats, and Bands will be hosted by Canton Leisure Services and the Village Arts Factory. Sponsors are Schoolcraft College, Provision Senior Living Communities and Beerfests.com.
    “Any event involving drinking craft beers, eating brats, and listening to music with friends and family is bound to be a good time,” said Kevin Ryan, Village Arts Factory program director. “It’s important to note that with construction taking place in our usual location of Preservation Park, we are temporarily relocating this popular fall event to Heritage Park, which is the only change to this annual event that will feature over 50 specialty beers, ciders, and seltzers in one location.”
    Proceeds from the event will benefit the Village Arts Factory, which is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that serves as a nexus for the arts, culture, music, and community engagement, as well as the Canton Cares Fund, which supports the Canton community by providing financial assistance to disaster relief, therapeutic recreation, youth, and senior programs.
    Admission includes seven tasting tokens each good for beer, cider, or seltzer tasting samples, as well as two grilled brats with fixings (vegetarian option available), a snack from the pretzel necklace-making station, water, chili cook-off tastings, and a commemorative mug. The brats will be provided by Maraschinos Pub. Musical entertainment will be provided throughout the evening by Atomic Radio, billed as “Detroit’s Premier Cover Band.”
    Tickets are $45 online at Beerfests.com (search Canton, MI) or at the door (cash only). Designated Driver tickets are also available for $15. Pre-purchasing tickets is highly recommended, as there are a limited number of tickets available for purchase onsite at the event. Additional beer-tasting tickets are available on-site for purchase; receive four additional tickets for $5. Limited chairs and tables will be provided, so attendees are encouraged to bring their own folding chairs.
    For more information, visit: www.cantonmi.gov/678.

Northville resident loses $300,000 in Bitcoin scam

    One Northville Township resident lost nearly $300,000 in a Bitcoin scam operation recently, prompting a warning from police authorities.Residents are being cautioned following a recent surge in fraudulent scams targeting unsuspecting individuals involving Bitcoin and even gold bricks, according to a prepared statement from police.
    In these scams, perpetrators falsely represent themselves as law enforcement officials to intimidate victims into making immediate payments under false pretenses, police said. Victims usually receive calls from unknown individuals claiming to be police officers. These callers inform victims that they are under investigation for alleged crimes or have warrants for their arrest.
    Victims are coerced into staying on the phone and are instructed not to disclose the situation to anyone. The caller often exerts pressure and demands immediate payment, typically requested as bitcoin or cash transfers.
    In the recent Northville Township resident, suspects made contact with the victim multiple times, obtained nearly $300,000 in cash, Bitcoin and ultimately came to the victim’s home and retrieved where gold bricks, police said.
    Email phishing cases are also on the rise during which victims receive an email and are misled into believing they have overpaid their PayPal or similar account. The victims are directed to provide immediate access to their accounts to rectify the supposed overpayment. In July, a resident became a victim to one of these emails phishing scams, resulting in the loss of $50,000 in cash and an additional $50,000 in Bitcoin.
    In this case, too, the suspects came to the resident’s home to collect the payment then fled the area. Northville Township investigators utilized License Plate Reader (LPR) technology and the suspects were apprehended in Ohio and $50,000 recovered.
    “We want to remind our residents that law enforcement agencies do not request payments over the phone, especially in the form of Bitcoin. If you receive a call or email claiming you are under investigation or have warrants, and the only way to resolve the issue is by making an immediate payment, it is undoubtedly a scam,” cautioned Northville Township Deputy Police Chief Matthew MacKenzie.
    To safeguard against these fraudulent schemes, residents are cautioned to verify callers and remember that law enforcement agencies do not demand payments over the phone. Residents should cautious of unsolicited calls claiming legal issues requiring urgent payment and never grant remote access to your computer to unknown individuals.
    If instructed to stay on the phone and not disclose the situation while making a payment, it is likely a scam, officials warned. Genuine entities do not pressure for immediate payments via unconventional methods such as Bitcoin or gift cards, they added. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious communications to local authorities promptly.
    For further information or to report a potential scam, contact the Northville Township Police Department at (248) 349-9400.

A step in time

 Polish National Association dancers mark 44th year at Plymouth Fall Festival

    It’s about tradition and heritage and when the Polish National Association Centennial Dancers (PNA) take to the Kellogg Park stage during Fall Festival this year, they bring centuries of history with them.
    The twirling skirts and festive ribbons that adorn the bright costumes are symbols of a treasured ethnic heritage being passed from generation to generation through dance.

    Marie Boyle, director of the group, noted that the 44-year long history of the PNA dancers at the Fall Festival has been helpful in allowing the group to continue to preserve their heritage.
    The PNA Centennial Dancers are a children’s Polish folk-dance ensemble serving the Polish American communities in Wayne, Oakland and Livingston counties. Formed in 1980 by the Polish National Alliance (PNA) Lodge 53, formerly PNA Lodge 3240, the dance ensemble has been educating students, ages 3-18, and sharing Polish heritage and culture through music and dance for four decades.
    Boyle, who has been involved with the group for 32 years, danced with the troupe herself from the age of 3 until she was 18 and now her daughter Gabriella, 5, has joined the dancers. Her tiny costume includes the same traditional skirt Boyle wore when she danced on the Kellogg Park stage. Boyle said many families in the group even pass down the costumes which are authentic to their Polish heritage. She added that her youngest daughter, Hannah, who is 2, is eager to start dancing with the group this year.

    “Each year our dancers learn both regional and national dances of Poland as well as Polish American polkas. Our co-choreographers are Pani Paulina Kowalczyk and Pani Natalia Jackson, together they choreograph nearly 15 dance numbers a year and teach them to our more than 60 dancers. We also offer beginner Polish language classes for children ages 6 and older which are taught by Pani Ania Doman,” Boyle explained. She added that this year the dancers are a mix of both girls and boys.
    “The boys have their own traditional unique steps in the dances,” she said, “Authentic Polish dances are partner dances, so it’s good to have the boys.”
    In addition to the colorfully clad dancers performing on stage at the Fall Festival every year, the group hosts the famous Polish Kitchen, usually at the corner of Main Street and Penniman, where genuine Polish recipes are available for sale. The families all volunteer at the booth which is the main fundraiser of the year and supports the group’s operating budget and ability to buy and create new costumes for the dancers. Boyle said her husband, Andrew would be manning the booth with the other volunteers.
    “It’s critical for us, so we are very grateful for the ways the community comes out to support us each year,” Boyle said. “I also would be remiss to not thank our food supplier, Srodek’s Quality Polish Food. They have been a wonderful partner with our organization for many years,” she added.
    “We are so grateful to the Fall Festival,” Boyle said. “We love being there.” She added that some of her happiest childhood memories are of performing on the Kellogg Park stage.
    “There are several families in the group who have passed down the traditions,” she said. “We have a corps of alumni families like my father, John Stawasz and Ron and Barb Martin, who have been mainstays of the group for years. They play such a critical role in our group, but now they are trying to pass the responsibilities on to the next generation,” she said.
    The dancers will appear on the Kellogg Park stage at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept.7 during the three-day Plymouth Fall Festival which begins Friday, Sept. 6.

Luxury condominiums proposed for Canton Township farmland

    Members of the Canton Township Planning Commission unanimously recommended a request to rezone an 11-acre farm near the intersection of Cherry Hill and Beck Road to accommodate construction of luxury condominiums.

    Pulte Homes plans a 68-unit detached single family condominium development on 34.68 acres of property, which is among the last property zoned as farmland in the township. The planning commissioners found that the rezoning request presented last week by Mike Noles, a spokesman for the The Umlor Group, met the 10 requirements for rezoning.
    The proposed condominiums will range in price from $400,000 to upwards of $500,000, Noles said. He suggested that members of the homeowner’s association in the new condominiums would pay about $1,800 for snow removal and landscaping maintenance.
    The project will now go to the Canton Board of Trustees for consideration. If approved by the board, the developer will prepare a site plan for the project which includes another two parcels of land abutting the farmland already zoned for residential use. As presented, exit and entry would be from both Beck and Cherry Hill roads, a concern of some commission members aware of traffic on Beck Road.
    Noles said if the site plan process was approved, construction at the site could begin in approximately one year.

Plans for first Northville traffic roundabout discussed

    Plans for the proposed planned traffic roundabout at Seven Mile and Sheldon roads in downtown Northville were presented at a recent open house meeting at the city Community Center.

    Northville Department of Public Works Director Mike Domine and representatives from OHM Advisors discussed the new traffic feature, one of the first in Wayne County, during the public meeting Aug. 12.
    The roundabout was approved by members of the city council July 15 following a presentation by engineer John Katers landscape architect Stacy Tober from the design and engineering firm OHM Advisors. The plans presented included landscaping, crosswalks, costs and scheduling. The cost of the roundabout is estimated at $2.55 million with $2.17 million to be funded by federal grants and a grant match of $375,000 to be paid by the city.
    Construction is scheduled to begin in July 2025 and be complete in three months, according to officials. The proposed roundabout will create a well-defined, one-way circular intersection, according to city officials. The planned configuration will address concerns with the existing intersection and benefit the city, they said.
    Among the benefits addressed by officials were the lower speed limits of 15 to 25 m.p.h. due to curb lines and curvature of the roundabout. Safety for pedestrians is also a feature of the new installation, officials said, as currently a pedestrian must traverse 75 feet of pavement while exposed to right and left-turning vehicles.
    With the proposed roundabout, the crossing distance is reduced to 13 to 18 feet with only one direction of traffic to watch at each crossing.
    The roundabout will include a dedicated space for bicyclists that will either tie-in to paved shoulders or provide a shared travel/bicycle lane. Bicyclists will have the option to ride with traffic or use entrance and exit ramps to navigate the roundabout, according to current plans.
    Engineers believe the roundabout will reduce the number of locations where vehicle and pedestrian paths cross since opposing traffic is separated and circulates in a one-way direction, officials said. In comparison, the current condition includes several vehicle turning paths, especially at the pedestrian crossings.
    The roundabout is expected to provide an additional benefit of less vehicle idling, reducing air pollution, and reduced noise, according to consultants.
    For more information submit questions by Sept. 3 at the OHM website. Questions will be compiled into a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) page and posted on the city website.

Verbal dispute ends in neighbor’s fatal shooting

    A neighborhood dispute in Canton Township left one man dead and another facing first-degree murder charges.

    Devereaux Christopher Johnson, 47, has been charged in connection with the fatal shooting of his neighbor Nathan Morris, 25, during an altercation Aug. 10. According to police reports, officers were called to the 250 block of Cornell Street near Cherry Hill and Sheldon in response to a report of a shooting. When officers arrived on the scene at about 11:48 a.m. last Saturday, they found Mr. Morris lying in the street in front of the home suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Canton firefighter/medics arrived and transported the victim to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.
    Witnesses told police that the shooting followed a confrontation between the two men which apparently began when Mr. Morris and his family were walking in the neighborhood. The verbal altercation may have been prompted by one of Mr. Morris’ young daughters playing with mulch in Johnson’s yard, according to early reports of the incident. Witnesses said Johnson threatened the family prompting Mr. Morris to send his wife and daughters home. He was reportedly attempting to ameliorate the situation when Johnson produced a handgun and began firing at the victim. Mr. Morris, who was unarmed, was struck several times, according to police reports.
    Immediately following the shooting, the suspect barricaded himself inside his home. After issuing multiple commands, officers successfully engaged the suspect who ultimately surrendered to police custody, according to police reports.
    Johnson has been charged by the Wayne County prosecutor with first-degree murder, felon in possession of a firearm, and two counts of felony firearm.
    “This was a senseless act of violence toward the victim,” said Canton Police Chief Chad Baugh. “The Canton Police Department sends our deepest condolences to the victim’s family, and to the neighbors who may have witnessed this tragic event.”
    Mr. Morris was an engineer who earned his degree at Michigan Technological University. He is survived by his wife and two young daughters. He served as the secretary for the Michigan 6th Congressional District Republican Party. An online fundraising effort for the family has been established.
    “Mr. Nathan Morris was a family man, first and foremost,” the online fundraising effort reads. “He will be missed by the hundreds of people who knew him, loved him, and enjoyed his can-do spirit and strong focus on the work and responsibilities, which he took on at the cost of precious family time, especially reading to his children at bedtime.”

Dream job

New Maybury State Park director has deep Northville roots

    Kale Leftwich feels right at home in his new position as Maybury State Park supervisor.

    Leftwich, who was named to the position following the retirement of former supervisor Traci Sincock early this year, grew up across the street from the park near Napier and Eight Mile. His family moved to the home when he was 10 years old and the nearby park became his playground with a magical forest to explore. He and his wife and children now live in a home they built on a portion of the land owned by his parents.
    A 2001 graduate of Northville High School, he said he and his teen friends spent a lot of time riding the mountain bike trails in the 944-acre park which includes woodlands, meadows, a fishing pond and walking/running, bicycling and horseback trails. After studying industrial technology management for two years at Central Michigan University and working in commercial construction for 10 years, Leftwich said he decided to follow his heart and pursue a career in park work. He began his career at Maybury in 2010 doing summer work. Three years later, he became a ranger at Seven Lakes State Park in Holly. Park rangers are commissioned park officers, who can make arrests and write tickets. In 2017, he served as head ranger at Brighton Recreation Area. While there, he was interviewed by the Rose Lake District supervisor panel and landed his dream job at Maybury.
    Leftwich is now responsible for park financials and operations and reports directly to the Rose Lake District supervisor. He works closely with Friends of Maybury, Northville Parks & Recreation and other agencies on programming, fundraising and applying for grants for park projects. Major infrastructure planning and funding for Maybury starts at the state
    “The park is wild without being intimidating,” Leftwich said. When it became a park in 1975, Maybury was at the far edge of development; now it is surrounded by neighborhoods of luxury homes.
    “This place becomes more relevant with the development around it,” Leftwich said.
    The park will mark the 50th anniversary of the facility next year and marked 801,447 annual visits in 2023.
    The park is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Leftwich said night visitors light their way and continue riding bikes, walking or running along the pathway or trails and also come to look at the night sky, which is one of the darkest places in the area for celestial viewing.

Resident seriously injured as car careens into driveway

    The driver of a car that repeatedly smashed into several vehicles and seriously injured a man who became trapped under his own parked car has been charged with multiple felonies in the incident.
    Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy has charged April Marie Graves, 43, of Westland with multiple felonies in connection to the incident that took place at about 7:17 p.m. last Saturday, Aug. 10.

    Westland police officers were dispatched to the area of Wildwood and Florence in response to reports of a serious car crash. When officers arrived at the scene Graves was sitting in her car after having collided with several other vehicles, causing major damage and severely injuring 32-year-old Luke Vinsko who became pinned underneath vehicles parked in his driveway. Members of the Westland Fire Department arrived on the scene and removed the victim from under the vehicle before transporting him to a local hospital for treatment. Police reports said alcohol and drugs appear to have been a factor in the incident.
    Vinsko and his wife, Hailey, were reportedly unloading items from their vehicles when Graves rammed her car into their driveway at a high rate of speed, trapping Vinsko between the two parked cars. Hailey Vinsko was also injured in the incident. Witnesses told police Graves appeared to be deliberately driving into other vehicles along the street.
    Graves has been charged with two counts of assault with intent to murder, two counts to assault with intent to do great bodily harm, one count of operating while intoxicated causing serious bodily impairment, one count of reckless driving causing serious bodily injury, two counts of felonious assault, two counts of malicious destruction of property over $1,000, two counts of malicious destruction of personal property over $1,000, and one count of open alcohol in a motor vehicle.
    “I cannot think of a more stunning example of alleged criminal behavior of a driver behind the steering wheel of a motor vehicle. The result is severe injuries to two Wayne County citizens that will be with them for their lifetimes,” said Prosecutor Kym Worthy.
    Graves was arraigned on all the charges Tuesday before Judge Sandra Cicirelli at 18th District Court in Westland. She was given an $850,000 bond and remanded to police custody. She collapsed and fell to the floor during the proceedings and had to be helped from the courtroom. An online GoFundMe page established by Matthew V. Tacia, a friend of the Vinsko family, said that the couple had just returned from their first “date night” following the birth of their 2-month-old twin sons when the incident occurred.
    Vinsko remained in the intensive care unit at the hospital following an emergency amputation of part of one leg. Both his legs were severely damaged in the crash, according to the social media page established to help the couple with medical and ongoing expenses.
        Hailey Vinsko told reporters that she and her husband did not know Graves and had no connection to the woman.

Volunteers work wonders in Banotai park

    Volunteers made significant improvements at Banotai Park in Sumpter Township recently.
    Anita Honey Dunbar noted the volunteers worked tirelessly to spread mulch throughout the playscape. The efforts were so successful, the group used all the mulch on hand and more has been ordered to complete the task, Dunbar said.

    “This effort not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the park but also promotes the health of its green spaces,” she posted on Facebook.
    During the volunteer effort, new swings were installed to ensure children’s safety and several playground features underwent repairs and received fresh coats of paint.
    Volunteers and supporters of the efforts included Township Manager Anthony Burdick, Trustee Don Laporte, John Honey, Trustee Matt Oddy, Trustee Tim Rush, Erica Campbell, Dave Behrendt and Treasurer Bart Patterson. Dunbar noted that the commitment and dedication of the volunteers “exemplifies the spirit of community and demonstrates the power of collective action in making positive changes.” Dunbar also thanked Faras at Littletown Pizzeria for providing pizza to the volunteers.
    “I am incredibly grateful for the support of volunteers and the ongoing contributions of our community members. Together, we are making Banotai Park a better place for everyone,” Dunbar posted.
    “My hope is that sharing our story will inspire others to get involved and contribute to the enhancement of public spaces in Sumpter Township. Together, we can continue to make a meaningful difference in our community's recreational areas and strengthen our sense of unity and pride,” she concluded.

Plymouth voters choose new township supervisor

    Plymouth Township voters chose long-time board trustee Charles J. Curmi as the Republican candidate for supervisor besting incumbent Supervisor Kurt Heise.

    With no Democratic opponent, Curmi will be unopposed on the Nov. 5 ballot.
    Curmi received 2,609 votes or 56.63 percent of the votes cast while Heise was the choice of 1,995 voters with 43.30 percent of the vote
    The four-year term as supervisor pays $130,000 annually along with a 15-percent contribution to a retirement plan.
    Voters also chose incumbent clerk Jerry Vorva over challenger Andrew Miller.
    Vorva, who received a total 2,411 votes, will now face Democratic Party challenger Nancy Conzelman on the Nov. 5 general election ballot. Miller was the choice of 1,942 or 44.59 percent of voters. The township clerk is paid $120,000 annually along with a 15 percent contribution to a retirement fund.
    Voters also selected incumbent treasurer Bob Doroshewitz as the Republican candidate on the Nov. 5 ballot. Doroshewitz received 2,594 votes or 59.24 percent of the total votes while his challenger, Janai Stepp received a total of 1,783 votes, or 40.72 percent of the Republican votes.
    With no Democratic challenger on the general election ballot, Doroshewitz will remain in the position which pays $120,000 annually, along with a 15 percent retirement plan contribution.
    Democratic candidates for the office of trustee were unopposed during the election Tuesday. Bob Miller, Angela Nolan and Michael Westra will face incumbent Republican candidates incumbent John Stewart, the top voter choice who received 2,232 or 15.07 percent of the votes and Mark Clinton who received 13.60 percent or 2,013 votes.
    Sandy Groth who received 1,920 votes or 12.97 percent of the total will move on to the November ballot as will incumbent Jen Buckley who received 2006 votes or 13.55 percent of the total cast in the Republican primary Tuesday.
    Candidate Daniel E. Callahan received 1,823 votes or 12.31 percent; Audrey Monaghan received 1,781 votes or 12.03 percent; Paul Schulz received 1,672 votes or 11.29 percent of the votes while Gregory Bill received 1,354 votes or 9.14 percent of the votes cast.
    The top four Republican finishers, Stewart, Clinton, Growth and Buckley will move on to the November election.
    Plymouth Township trustees attend an average of two board meetings per month and earn $13,200 annually.

Canton incumbents are top choices in primary vote

    Voters in the primary election in Canton Township selected eight trustee candidates from a field of 11 to appear on the general election ballot Nov. 5.
    Of the six Democratic candidates on the ballot, three incumbents were the top choices of voters.
    Incumbent trustee Sommer N. Foster was the top vote getter with 8,209 or 22 percent of the votes; incumbent Tania Ganguly received 8,097 or 22 percent of the votes. Incumbent Kate Borninski was the choice of 8,090 voters with 21 percent of the vote and newcomer Ammara Ansara garnered 6,562 or 17 percent of the votes.
    David Harris received 4,727 vote or 13 percent of the total while Syed Infran Jafry was the choice of 1,973 or 5 percent of the voters.
    On the Republican side of the ballot candidate Jeff Graunke received 3,681 votes as the top choice with 24 percent of the votes cast. Former born members John Anthony received 3,454 votes or 22 percent of the total while Tyler Grable was the choice of 3,289 voters or 21 percent of the total. Marko Kozina received 2,856 or 18 percent of votes cast.
    Leander Richmond received 2,363 votes or 15 percent of the total.
    The top four Democrats, Forster, Ganguly, Borninski and Ansari will face the four Republican candidates, Graunke, Anthony, Grable and Kozina on the Nov. 5 ballot for the four open four-year terms on the board of trustees. Canton Township trustees are paid $1,150.41 monthly
    Also on the Nov. 5 ballot is the contest between incumbent Township Supervisor Anne Marie Graham-Hudak and Republican challenger, former Canton supervisor Pat Williams.
    Williams, 63, served as supervisor from 2016-2020. He is currently working as a real estate agent.
    Graham-Hudak, 62, a Democrat with a background in electrical engineering, challenged Williams in 2020 and received more than 55 percent of the vote.
    Canton Township Clerk Michael Siegrist and Treasurer Dian Slavens, both Democrats, are unopposed in their bids for reelection.

Hot deal

 State budget includes funding for new $1.5 million Northville fire truck

    Northville Township Manager Todd L. Mutchler wasted no time in ordering a new fire truck which will be primarily funded by a state grant.

    The $1.5 million was secured for the Northville Township Fire Department by State Rep. Matt Koleszar, who visited the township last week to discuss the funding, earmarked for public safety. The new $1,572,515 fire truck will be assigned to the second township fire station, set to open next spring. The budget appropriation will fund 95 percent of the cost.
    “This was actually a very difficult budget year,” said Koleszar. “Because of that, we had to fight extra hard, and this was my No. 1 ask in the budget — to get funds for another fire truck. I'm really excited that I was able to get it because it's for the betterment of the community. It's for public safety.”
    “We feel safer already,” said Northville Township Supervisor Mark J. Abbo. “Rep Koleszar has worked effectively on behalf of Northville Township since he took office in 2018, and we appreciate his

willingness to champion our public safety needs. This fire truck will help reduce response times, provide better service to our residents, and make us a safer community” Northville Township is opening a second fire station in 2025 as part of the new Essential Services Complex (ESC) being built on Seven Mile Road at Traditions Drive. The 96,000-square-foot public services building creates a cornerstone for public safety. In addition to the second fire station, the ESC will have a new police station and Public Safety Headquarters, a new Department of Public Works Headquarters and a Trailhead Building to Legacy Park. Because of its specialized equipment, the build-to-delivery time for the new truck is 44- 48 months.
    “This is a rewarding day, but the real reward will be when the new fire truck is here in the garage and it's ready to go,” Koleszar said during his visit to the township fire department.

New $12 million park planned near Westland Mall site

    A 3.9-acre parcel of land near Westland Mall will open as a new city park next year.

    A groundbreaking on the property, located on the land between the Westland Community Health Center, 35700 Warren Road, and the main city fire station at 35701 Central City Parkway, is expected this month, officials said.

    The $12 million project, called Nankin Square, is expected to be complete in September 2025. Officials said the project is an effort to help revitalize Westland Mall and increase public use in the area.
    Westland Chief Business Development Officer Alex Garza said the park could be a catalyst for the mall property. "With that property being what it is, we’re looking for the mall ownership to hopefully redevelop the property,” Garza said."
    The park project will include an amphitheater, play areas for children, a walking path, a grand lawn, space for food trucks and other attractions, according to current plans. Officials expect the park to be used for outdoor fitness events, concerts and other community events.
    Garza told reporters that city officials believe that the installation of a premier park like the one proposed will attract developers of mixed-use projects to the Westland Mall site. Garza said the plan would help in the effort to create a downtown area in the city around Warren Road. He said this park project is “a big part” of that effort and help attract new residents to the city.
    The Westland Tax Increment Finance Authority has dedicated $8 million to the $11.6 million project, and the city has secured grants from the State of Michigan and Wayne County to pay the remainder of the costs, officials said.

‘Peeping Tom” suspect arrested: police seeking other victims

    A 42-year-old man is facing multiple criminal charges in both Canton Township and Van Buren Township, accused of recording up unsuspecting women’s skirts in various stores.

    Police are still seeking possible victims of the man who allegedly used a cellphone to record under the skirts of women shopping at local Walmart stores.
    Willie Eugene Davis, 42, of Van Buren Township, was arraigned July 19 in 35th District Court on charges of using a computer to commit a crime and installing or using a device for eavesdropping, both felonies. He was arrested by Canton police July 17 and is facing charges of using computers to commit a crime and eavesdropping—installing/using device.
    Canton police said confiscated video shows numerous women were targeted, several apparently at the Walmart store on Ford Road.
    “There are many more victims out there that don’t know they were victimized,” police said. Women who suspect they might have been victimized can call Canton Police at (734) 394-5400.
    Davis' bond in the Canton incident was set at $75,000.
    In a separate incident, Van Buren Township police officers was dispatched July 4 to the Walmart store on Belleville Road on a report of a male subject using a camera attached to his shoelaces to look up the skirt of a female customer, according to police reports. The woman told officers she was startled by a man standing very close to her in the store which caused her to drop an item. When she bent to retrieve the item, she saw the camera on the man’s shoe, according to police reports of the incident. She reported the incident to store security personnel, who notified police.
    Following a warrant search at the suspect’s home, Van Buren police reportedly discovered electronic evidence of videos taken up the skirts of multiple women throughout southeastern Michigan. Van Buren officers contacted multiple police agencies regarding the incidents.
    Davis was formally charged by Van Buren with a six-count felony warrant, including
two counts of capturing/distributing images of an unclothed person, a 5-year felony; two counts of eavesdropping-manufacture/possession of a device, a 2-year felony and two counts of using a computer to commit a crime, a 7-year felony.
    Bond in the Van Buren charges was set at $100,000, cash or surety.
    Women in the Van Buren community who suspect they may be victims, are asked to contact Det. Scott Griggs at (734) 699-9289.

5 Northville officers awarded state medal of valor honor

    Five Northville Township police officers have been honored with the prestigious Medal of Valor by the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police for their extraordinary bravery and dedication. The officers entered a burning apartment building to ensure the safety of residents last November during a blaze at a local apartment building.
    The Medal of Valor is a testament to their selflessness and commitment to protecting our community under the most challenging circumstances, a spokesman noted. Honored for their exemplary heroism were Lt. Chris Rowley; Sgt. Todd Seipenko; Ofc. Jennifer Johnson; Ofc. Mark Foster and Ofc. Andrew Prieskorn.
    “Their bravery demonstrates the highest standards of law enforcement, and we are incredibly proud to have such exemplary individuals serving our community,” noted a police department spokesman.

Early primary election voting is under way

    Voters do not have to wait until Aug. 6 to cast ballots in the primary election. Early voting is now under way and will continue through Sunday for registered voters across the state. Voters can find their local sites and hours at Michigan.gov/EarlyVoting.

    “Every citizen has the power to make their voice heard at the ballot box,” Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson said. “It’s important for Michigan voters to know they have convenient options for casting their vote in the Primary. Early voting kicks off this weekend – that’s two Saturdays, two Sundays and a whole week in between to walk in and vote. No matter which option you choose to cast your ballot, Michigan’s clerks and bipartisan election workers will make sure the process is safe, secure, and the results reflect the will of the voters.”
    Early voting sites operate similarly to Election Day polling places – voters walk in, receive a ballot, mark the ballot, and put it in tabulator. Tabulators count ballots throughout the early voting period, but results are not known or released until election night. A voter’s early voting site may not be the same as their regular polling place. Additional information is available at Michigan.gov/EarlyVoting.
    In November 2022, Michigan voters overwhelmingly approved Proposal 2, a constitutional amendment giving voters the right to early voting for at least nine days before statewide and federal elections. The Feb. 27 Presidential Primary was the first in-person early voting election with more than 78,000 Michigan voters choosing this option.
    Onsite voter registration is not available at most early voting sites – citizens who plan to vote early should make sure they are registered at their current address. Michiganders can check their registration status at Michigan.gov/Vote.
    Voters who have requested and received an absentee ballot can bring their completed ballot to their early voting site to be tabulated, or they can hand-deliver the ballot to their local clerk’s office or secure ballot drop box. Absentee ballots must be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day. To avoid postal delays, the department does not recommend mailing an absentee ballot this close to Election Day. As always, only one ballot per voter will be accepted, tabulated, and counted.
    Election Day is Tuesday, Aug. 6. Polls will be open statewide from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
    Registered voters from the city of Northville have two early voting site options: Novi Civic Center, 45175 W. 10 Mile Road in Novi, and Waterford Oaks Activity Center, 2800 Watkins Lake Road in Waterford. These sites are being offered in cooperation with Oakland County and the city of Novi.
    Voters with questions can contact the city clerk’s office at (248) 349-1300 or email clerk@ci.northville.mi.us
    In Plymouth Township, early voting is available at Risen Christ Lutheran Church, 46250 Ann Arbor Road at McClumpha. The voting site will be open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Officials said the Early Voting Center will be fully staffed, allowing voters to cast ballots in person and have your ballots tabulated as they would on election day.
    Questions about Plymouth Township should be referred to the clerk’s office at (734) 354-3229.
    In Westland, early voting is available at Westland City Hall, 36300 Warren Road. In Sumpter Township, early voting is available at Sumpter Township Hall, 23480 Sumpter Road in Belleville.
    Register voters in Canton Township can vote from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Sunday at Summit on the Park, 46000 Summit Parkway or at Village Art Factory, 50755 Cherry Hill Road.
    For locations in other communities, contact the local municipal clerk’s office.