The parents of a deceased 5-year-old boy will face criminal charges in his death.
Timithy Gravel, 32, and Heather LeBlanc, 29, were ordered to stand trial on charges of violating safe gun storage laws during a court appearance last week.
The charges stem from a police response to a call from Corewell Wayne Hospital at about 8:40 p.m. Nov. 7 reporting a 5-year-old shooting victim. A police investigation subsequently determined that the 5-year-old son of the couple had access to an unsecured firearm inside their home and accidentally shot and killed himself with the weapon.
The parents will appear for a hearing in Wayne County Third Circuit Court today following a hearing in 18th District Court in Westland. Judge Mark McConnell bound the pair over for trial following the waiver of a preliminary court examination on the charges.
LeBlanc’s defense attorney Nijad Mehanna said it is a tragic situation. “Everybody is overwhelmed and sad about what transpired. Mom is heartbroken.”
Each of the defendants is charged with one count of violating the Michigan safe storage firearms law, causing death. The charge is a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison.
McConnell granted a $25,000 personal bond to LeBlanc while Gravel was ordered to obtain a $50,000 bond. Both will be confined to their home and required to wear a GPS tether if released from the Wayne County Jail.
Police sources confirmed that the investigation found the shooting occurred inside the home on the 33000 block of Alamo Court and “the gunshot was self-inflicted after the child was able to access an unsecured firearm inside the home.”
Wednesday, December 11, 2024
Hometown heroes
Plymouth Noon Rotary Club ceremony honors first responders
For nearly three decades, the Plymouth Noon Rotary Club has honored area public safety and first responders for exemplary job performance during the year.
A brief account of the heroism of each those honored was met with resounding applause from the crowd.
Honored this year from Plymouth DMS were Aaron Micek, DMS Team Lead and Water Operations. His award was presented by DMS Manager Chris Porman.
HVA Senior Paramedic James Brown was honored for his work. His award was presented by HVA official Karl Rock.
Plymouth City Fire Chief Matthew Samhat presented the award to Firefighter Adam Rice while Plymouth City Police Chief presented Ofc. Greg Dimaio with the honor for exceptional police service.
Plymouth Township Fire Chief Patrick Conely presented honors to two firefighters this year, Andrew Loudon and Joseph Tacoma, chosen for their exemplary service.
Plymouth Township Police Chief James Knittle honored the performance of four officers this year who performed heroically in a life-threatening situation, saving the lives of two senior citizens. Honored were Sgt. Mike Hinkle; Ofc. Raymond Naamou; Ofc. Tyler Cannon and Ofc. Johathan Stempin.
Driver survives 100 mph crash that breaks Tesla in half
The 67-year-old driver who crashed a Tesla going 100 mph on Ann Arbor Road in Plymouth last week is expected to survive the violent collision which broke the vehicle in half.
Witnesses said the driver appeared to be alive when paramedics removed him from a portion of the automobile. The crash took place Dec. 5 near South Main Street and Ann Arbor Road. Video, obtained from local security cameras, shows the car striking a mailbox and then colliding with a telephone pole. The velocity of the impact broke the car in half and parts of the car were strewn throughout the area, according to witnesses.
Utility workers were called to the scene as a precaution, police said. The driver apparently experienced a medical emergency just prior to the collision, according to police reports.
In a second vehicle incident, one person was killed and another injured in a single-car crash which took place at about 1:40 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 8 on northbound I-275 in Romulus. According to police reports, a 2021 Ford Edge was traveling northbound on I-275 when the driver drove off the left side of the road and struck a concrete bridge pillar at a high rate of speed.
The vehicle caught fire, and the driver was unable to escape and was pronounced dead at the scene by responding rescue workers, The passenger, riding in the front seat, was ejected from the car, police said. The passenger was taken to an area hospital for treatment.
State police said the investigation is ongoing.
Utility workers were called to the scene as a precaution, police said. The driver apparently experienced a medical emergency just prior to the collision, according to police reports.
In a second vehicle incident, one person was killed and another injured in a single-car crash which took place at about 1:40 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 8 on northbound I-275 in Romulus. According to police reports, a 2021 Ford Edge was traveling northbound on I-275 when the driver drove off the left side of the road and struck a concrete bridge pillar at a high rate of speed.
The vehicle caught fire, and the driver was unable to escape and was pronounced dead at the scene by responding rescue workers, The passenger, riding in the front seat, was ejected from the car, police said. The passenger was taken to an area hospital for treatment.
State police said the investigation is ongoing.
Driving force
Dunning Foundation grants$43,000 to auto program
The late Margaret Dunning’s passion for automobiles has continued with the recent $43,000 grant from her foundation to the Plymouth-Canton Community Schools for the purchase of electric vehicle and tire changing equipment.
The Packard convertible won the Classic Car Club of America Trophy at the Concours d’Elegance in Pebble Beach, California, in 2012. Ms. Dunning died at the age of 104 while attending a 2015 car show in California.
“Plymouth-Canton Community Schools is very grateful for the generous support of the Margaret Dunning Foundation, which will help our students keep up with and excel in automotive technology that is constantly evolving,” said Plymouth Canton Community Schools Superintendent Dr. Monica Merritt. “Thanks to the Dunning Foundation’s grant, our district’s auto program can better prepare our students for good-paying jobs, especially as they consider careers in the auto and manufacturing sectors now and into the future.”
The grant will be used to purchase the district second Switch Lab electric vehicle, allowing the district to expand the current Electronic Vehicle program with two vehicles now ready to be used for training. District students build, refine, update and test the Switch Lab EVs — vehicles that can be assembled and disassembled from reusable kits — during the semester. The district launched the EV program in the 2023-24 school year with its first Switch Lab vehicle.
The Dunning Foundation grant will also be used to replace outdated tire changers and purchase an up-to-date tire changer to accommodate and keep pace with new rim designs that auto manufacturers use today. With the new tire changer, students will be less likely to damage rims, saving costs, school officials said. The Dunning Foundation grant was awarded in October.
“We’re really excited to receive the Dunning Foundation grant because it will help us expand our EV program here at Plymouth-Canton Community Schools and prepare our students so they’re ready to support Michigan’s automotive sector, which is always innovating,” said Gerald Lickey, career and technical education automotive instructor. “Our students are getting a world-class education right here and we’re thankful for the tremendous support we get from all our community partners.”
Westland police offering help, food to homeless in city
The recent cold temperatures at night have prompted a reminder from the Westland Police Department that officers will check on any homeless individual about whom they receive a call or notice during their regular patrols.
Officers urged residents to notify the department if they see someone in need, or if they might be struggling with homelessness. Residents are urged to contact the Westland Police Department at (734)457-5623 and ask to speak to a community police officer for further information.
To help those in need, donations are accepted at https://covenanthousemi.org/donate/. Hotel voucher assistance is also available at: American Red Cross: (313) 833-4440; Salvation Army, (313) 897-2914 and United Way, 211
Jennifer Grzymala, the co-response clinician for the Westland Police Department, is also concerned with those less fortunate, particularly during the cold temperatures. Grzymala has been working to distribute essential items—such as hats, gloves, socks, blankets, scarves, and snacks—to homeless individuals living in various areas of the city.
She said snack food are a real need and noted that items like Pop-Tarts, granola bars, and protein bars have been particularly useful to provide immediate nourishment to the less fortunate. Grzymala relies on donations from her friends, family, and local businesses to keep her car stocked with supplies.
Grzymala emphasized the importance of community involvement in helping the homeless and said she would distribute any donated items during her regular route in the city. She urged others to join the effort to provide help. Grzymala’s role as a co-response clinician includes building relationships with homeless individuals, connecting them to resources, and providing on-the-spot support. However, she acknowledged the challenges of getting people to accept help and make meaningful changes.
Community members looking to contribute can donate items or reach out to Grzymala directly at (734) 467-5623. “It’s hard to get people to want the help and change,” she noted, “but every little bit makes a difference.”
Officers urged residents to notify the department if they see someone in need, or if they might be struggling with homelessness. Residents are urged to contact the Westland Police Department at (734)457-5623 and ask to speak to a community police officer for further information.
To help those in need, donations are accepted at https://covenanthousemi.org/donate/. Hotel voucher assistance is also available at: American Red Cross: (313) 833-4440; Salvation Army, (313) 897-2914 and United Way, 211
Jennifer Grzymala, the co-response clinician for the Westland Police Department, is also concerned with those less fortunate, particularly during the cold temperatures. Grzymala has been working to distribute essential items—such as hats, gloves, socks, blankets, scarves, and snacks—to homeless individuals living in various areas of the city.
She said snack food are a real need and noted that items like Pop-Tarts, granola bars, and protein bars have been particularly useful to provide immediate nourishment to the less fortunate. Grzymala relies on donations from her friends, family, and local businesses to keep her car stocked with supplies.
Grzymala emphasized the importance of community involvement in helping the homeless and said she would distribute any donated items during her regular route in the city. She urged others to join the effort to provide help. Grzymala’s role as a co-response clinician includes building relationships with homeless individuals, connecting them to resources, and providing on-the-spot support. However, she acknowledged the challenges of getting people to accept help and make meaningful changes.
Community members looking to contribute can donate items or reach out to Grzymala directly at (734) 467-5623. “It’s hard to get people to want the help and change,” she noted, “but every little bit makes a difference.”
‘Porch Pirate’ theft prevention program again offered in Northville
Porch pirates have found their nemesis in Northville Township.
Again this year, the Northville Township Police Department will offer Operation Max’s Vault, a he free program, named after the department therapy dog, allows residents who online shop to send their purchases to the police department instead of their home address.
The program is available until Jan.1, 2025 and is an effort to reduce the opportunity for theft by “porch pirates” stealing delivered items from homes.
In a 2023 survey by SafeWise, an estimated 119 million packages were stolen in the United States in the past year. In November and December 2023, Northville Township Police reported nine incidents of theft of mail or packages, while the Oakland/Western Wayne/Washtenaw area recorded 81 incidents.
The temporary package storage solution, offered for the second year in the township, permits purchases under 50 pounds to be sent to the police department in care of Max’s Vault. The parcels are stored in a secured area and must be retrieved by the owner within five days of arrival. In 2023, the police department logged 31 uses of Operation Max’s Vault.
Deliveries cannot contain hazardous materials, flammable liquids, illegal contraband, live animals, weapons or ammunition.
To ship a package, use the addressee format:
[Recipient Name]
c/o Max’s Vault, 41600 Six Mile Road, Northville, MI 48168.
Any unclaimed packages after Jan. 1, 2025, will be held at the police department for one week and attempts will be made to contact the owner. If the resident doesn’t respond, the packages will be returned to the sender.
Again this year, the Northville Township Police Department will offer Operation Max’s Vault, a he free program, named after the department therapy dog, allows residents who online shop to send their purchases to the police department instead of their home address.
The program is available until Jan.1, 2025 and is an effort to reduce the opportunity for theft by “porch pirates” stealing delivered items from homes.
In a 2023 survey by SafeWise, an estimated 119 million packages were stolen in the United States in the past year. In November and December 2023, Northville Township Police reported nine incidents of theft of mail or packages, while the Oakland/Western Wayne/Washtenaw area recorded 81 incidents.
The temporary package storage solution, offered for the second year in the township, permits purchases under 50 pounds to be sent to the police department in care of Max’s Vault. The parcels are stored in a secured area and must be retrieved by the owner within five days of arrival. In 2023, the police department logged 31 uses of Operation Max’s Vault.
Deliveries cannot contain hazardous materials, flammable liquids, illegal contraband, live animals, weapons or ammunition.
To ship a package, use the addressee format:
[Recipient Name]
c/o Max’s Vault, 41600 Six Mile Road, Northville, MI 48168.
Any unclaimed packages after Jan. 1, 2025, will be held at the police department for one week and attempts will be made to contact the owner. If the resident doesn’t respond, the packages will be returned to the sender.
Wednesday, December 4, 2024
Courts rule for city in Wayne officer’s lawsuit
Both the trial and appellate courts have disallowed Wayne Police Sgt. Abraham Hughes’ claims against the city and former City Manager Lisa Nocerini.
While the courts ruled that pursuant to the city charter the city manager has the exclusive authority to appoint or dismiss the police chief, Hughes, through his attorney John Peters, argued that Nocerini used that authority to corrupt the objective testing process after establishing a “score and score only” process for the promotion. Hughes further claimed in his lawsuit that the city breached an implied contract dictating that the highest score on an examination conducted by an independent testing agency would be the sole criteria for the promotion.
Hughes said that during a private meeting both Nocerini and Mayor John Rhaesa told him that Ryan Strong would never become the chief in Wayne because he did not investigate incidents they has asked him to. Strong was appointed as acting police chief following the resignation of the former chief, who retired. Hughes said he was informed that the only criteria for the promotion would be the independent testing.
Both Strong and Hughes completed the four-hour assessment testing with a three-person assessment panel from EMPCO hired by the city in March of 2019.
Hughes remains confident, he said, that he attained the highest score on the testing and says he is in possession of a tape of an EMPCO official validating his claim that he received the top score. Based on the agreed-upon criteria, Hughes said he should have been named to the chief’s job. It was Hughes’ contention that Nocerini interfered with the hiring process after verbally guaranteeing that only the test scores would determine the new chief based, in part, on personal animosity against a local resident, Mark Blackwell.
Strong, while acting as interim chief, obtained a warrant to arrest Blackwell on March 12 of 2019. On March 13, 2019, Hughes met with Nocerini and Personnel Director Alyse Lesle and was informed that Strong had obtained the highest test score and would be named chief. Hughes was ordered to participate in an internal investigation of the hiring process and claims he was threatened with termination if he refused to participate. Hughes said the investigation, conducted by the city attorney, was not objective as the attorney worked for Nocerini and the city council. That investigation resulted in a statement from an EMPCO official addressing the announcement that Hughes was the top scorer. “Any allegations regarding the results of the assessment were misinterpreted or misconstrued,” the EMPCO official wrote as part of the probe by the city attorney.
Hughes attorney said the court ruling enables a public official immunity from improper motives or intentions as long as they are acting within the scope of their authority. In court, Peters argued that Nocerini exceeded her authority by interfering with the agreed-upon criteria for personal reasons, although the courts disagreed.
“The second highest court in the state is quoting the highest court of our state for the proposition that in Michigan, as long as you are the highest elected or appointed official of your branch of government, you have absolute immunity from the consequences of any act you take as long as it is within your job description,” Peters said.
“Personally, I think that is a horrifying situation and one I guarantee most residents of the State of Michigan are completely unaware of. Since the Legislature passed this as a law, the Legislature can change it, but that first requires that an informed public push for such a change,” Peters added.
While the courts ruled that pursuant to the city charter the city manager has the exclusive authority to appoint or dismiss the police chief, Hughes, through his attorney John Peters, argued that Nocerini used that authority to corrupt the objective testing process after establishing a “score and score only” process for the promotion. Hughes further claimed in his lawsuit that the city breached an implied contract dictating that the highest score on an examination conducted by an independent testing agency would be the sole criteria for the promotion.
Hughes said that during a private meeting both Nocerini and Mayor John Rhaesa told him that Ryan Strong would never become the chief in Wayne because he did not investigate incidents they has asked him to. Strong was appointed as acting police chief following the resignation of the former chief, who retired. Hughes said he was informed that the only criteria for the promotion would be the independent testing.
Both Strong and Hughes completed the four-hour assessment testing with a three-person assessment panel from EMPCO hired by the city in March of 2019.
Hughes remains confident, he said, that he attained the highest score on the testing and says he is in possession of a tape of an EMPCO official validating his claim that he received the top score. Based on the agreed-upon criteria, Hughes said he should have been named to the chief’s job. It was Hughes’ contention that Nocerini interfered with the hiring process after verbally guaranteeing that only the test scores would determine the new chief based, in part, on personal animosity against a local resident, Mark Blackwell.
Strong, while acting as interim chief, obtained a warrant to arrest Blackwell on March 12 of 2019. On March 13, 2019, Hughes met with Nocerini and Personnel Director Alyse Lesle and was informed that Strong had obtained the highest test score and would be named chief. Hughes was ordered to participate in an internal investigation of the hiring process and claims he was threatened with termination if he refused to participate. Hughes said the investigation, conducted by the city attorney, was not objective as the attorney worked for Nocerini and the city council. That investigation resulted in a statement from an EMPCO official addressing the announcement that Hughes was the top scorer. “Any allegations regarding the results of the assessment were misinterpreted or misconstrued,” the EMPCO official wrote as part of the probe by the city attorney.
Hughes attorney said the court ruling enables a public official immunity from improper motives or intentions as long as they are acting within the scope of their authority. In court, Peters argued that Nocerini exceeded her authority by interfering with the agreed-upon criteria for personal reasons, although the courts disagreed.
“The second highest court in the state is quoting the highest court of our state for the proposition that in Michigan, as long as you are the highest elected or appointed official of your branch of government, you have absolute immunity from the consequences of any act you take as long as it is within your job description,” Peters said.
“Personally, I think that is a horrifying situation and one I guarantee most residents of the State of Michigan are completely unaware of. Since the Legislature passed this as a law, the Legislature can change it, but that first requires that an informed public push for such a change,” Peters added.
From scary to merry
New Holiday light show debuts at former mental hospital site
The historic Eloise Hospital, known for spooky Halloween events, is swapping scary for merry this holiday season with the debut of “MI Bright Lights.” The immersive drive-thru light show, featuring a dazzling display of more than 250,000 synchronized lights set to holiday music, is set to continue through Dec. 23.
Organizers have added an ice skating rink to complement the drive-thru experience and Santa Land following a brief delay in opening originally set for last weekend.
They have reduced the per car price to $20. Organizers emphasized their commitment to creating an unforgettable holiday experience, noting that this effort comes from a family-run operation, not a large corporation.
“While we are best known for bringing the scary during the Halloween season, we are excited to embrace the merry with an all-new holiday light show,” said John Hambrick, owner of Eloise Hospital. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to come together, create lasting memories, and celebrate the joy of the season – all from the comfort of their own car.”
After the drive-thru portion, guests can visit the newly created walk-thru Santa Land. Here, they’ll have the chance to meet Santa Claus and his friends, enjoy hot cocoa and S’mores at warming stations, and purchase professional holiday photos.
Located at 30712 Michigan Ave., MI Bright Lights operates daily from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets priced at $20 per vehicle and additional information are available at www.mibrightlights.com.
Northville Township manager will retire this week
Northville Township Manager Todd L. Mutchler will end his 38-year public service career Dec. 6.
Mutchler, the top-ranking non-elected official in the township for 5 years, submitted his resignation which was reluctantly accepted by members of the township board of trustees during the Nov. 21 meeting.
Described as a “titan” by his peers, township officials said Mutchler has made Northville Township a better run community. They noted that his leadership emphasized adopting policies and procedures for each department and credited him with the move to have the Northville Township Police Department accredited. Officials also noted Mutchler’s history of building strong relationships with neighboring community leaders and his relentless determination to ensure that every decision, program and plan followed the core purpose, mission, vision and values of Northville Township.
“I can’t take credit for all our successes but our team can,” Mutchler said. “This team has really come together and shown interest in helping to make Northville Township what it is, as far as the services that we offer, and what a great place it is to live, work and play.”
Mutchler has been mentoring his successor, Assistant Township Manager/Director of Human Resources Glenn Caldwell, for more than a year. Caldwell will step into the manager’s position, while passing his human resources director baton to Chelsea K. Ditz, who began Nov. 18.
Mutchler joined the Northville Township Police Department in 2016, first serving as police chief, after working at the Canton Police Department for 28 years. Six months after his arrival, he became the director of public safety, a title he maintained until January 2024.
He said his decision to pursue a law enforcement career was prompted by a ride-along with his uncle, a police officer, he experienced as a teen. The decision was amplified when he caught sight of the print that hung in his uncle’s office – Norman Rockwell’s “The Runaway.” The 1958 Saturday Evening Post cover shows a state trooper perched at a diner counter talking with a young boy, who has a pack at his feet, indicating he’s running away from home. Like the officer in the print, Mutchler said he helping someone in need at their most vulnerable moment and has done so his entire career.
He began his career as a police officer at the Eastern Michigan University Department of Public Safety, later joining the Milan Police Department before wearing the Canton Police badge. During his early career, he completed stints as a S.W.A.T member, a mountain bike officer and a policy and procedures developer. In that capacity, he wrote a policy related to inmate clothing, which helped officers understand religious head coverings. This policy was used as a model at police agencies around the nation, including Washington, D.C.
Some of the many accolades he’s received include the Peace and Justice Award from the Council on American Islamic Relations and the Pioneer Award, a prominent civil rights award from the International Association of Chiefs of Police for his work in creating the Canton Response to Hate Crimes Coalition. Mutchler also attended the prestigious Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy, Session 257 (Class of 2014), in Quantico, Va. The National Academy, a 10-week intensive training course, is a premier professional development program for law enforcement leaders across the globe.
When Northville Township Police Lt. Josh Pike graduated in June 2024, Mutchler and Public Safety Director/Chief of Police Scott Hilden drove eight hours to attend the graduation and then drove eight hours back the same day because of their busy schedules. Mutchler said he knew how important an achievement the graduation was and he wanted to honor Pike.
“Todd is revered by his team and respected by the board of trustees, who he welcomed when the new board was elected four years ago,” said Township Supervisor Mark J. Abbo. “He has spearhead so many projects, including the building of the new Essential Services Complex, the removal of the decaying state psychiatric hospital buildings at Legacy Park and winning the Top Workplaces honor two consecutive years from the Detroit Free Press. He is an excellent champion for Northville Township.”
Mutchler said the timing is right for his retirement. With his succession plan in place, he’s ready to spend time with those who supported him through his entire career: his family.
“My career happened because a lot of people sacrificed and gave and supported me and my family, and so while I still have good health, I want to make sure that I’m recognizing that by spending valuable time with them,” he said.
He said he is looking forward to hopping into his motor home with his wife, Kay, to travel to see their family members who live across the country, from Oregon to Boston. The couple hopes to visit their three children and three grandchildren. Mutchler said he will also stop at the best trout streams to fly fish and best ski hills to downhill ski.
What are his plans for his first day of retirement? “I’m going to sleep in if my dog will let me,” he said with a smile.
Mutchler, the top-ranking non-elected official in the township for 5 years, submitted his resignation which was reluctantly accepted by members of the township board of trustees during the Nov. 21 meeting.
Described as a “titan” by his peers, township officials said Mutchler has made Northville Township a better run community. They noted that his leadership emphasized adopting policies and procedures for each department and credited him with the move to have the Northville Township Police Department accredited. Officials also noted Mutchler’s history of building strong relationships with neighboring community leaders and his relentless determination to ensure that every decision, program and plan followed the core purpose, mission, vision and values of Northville Township.
Mutchler has been mentoring his successor, Assistant Township Manager/Director of Human Resources Glenn Caldwell, for more than a year. Caldwell will step into the manager’s position, while passing his human resources director baton to Chelsea K. Ditz, who began Nov. 18.
Mutchler joined the Northville Township Police Department in 2016, first serving as police chief, after working at the Canton Police Department for 28 years. Six months after his arrival, he became the director of public safety, a title he maintained until January 2024.
He said his decision to pursue a law enforcement career was prompted by a ride-along with his uncle, a police officer, he experienced as a teen. The decision was amplified when he caught sight of the print that hung in his uncle’s office – Norman Rockwell’s “The Runaway.” The 1958 Saturday Evening Post cover shows a state trooper perched at a diner counter talking with a young boy, who has a pack at his feet, indicating he’s running away from home. Like the officer in the print, Mutchler said he helping someone in need at their most vulnerable moment and has done so his entire career.
He began his career as a police officer at the Eastern Michigan University Department of Public Safety, later joining the Milan Police Department before wearing the Canton Police badge. During his early career, he completed stints as a S.W.A.T member, a mountain bike officer and a policy and procedures developer. In that capacity, he wrote a policy related to inmate clothing, which helped officers understand religious head coverings. This policy was used as a model at police agencies around the nation, including Washington, D.C.
Some of the many accolades he’s received include the Peace and Justice Award from the Council on American Islamic Relations and the Pioneer Award, a prominent civil rights award from the International Association of Chiefs of Police for his work in creating the Canton Response to Hate Crimes Coalition. Mutchler also attended the prestigious Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy, Session 257 (Class of 2014), in Quantico, Va. The National Academy, a 10-week intensive training course, is a premier professional development program for law enforcement leaders across the globe.
When Northville Township Police Lt. Josh Pike graduated in June 2024, Mutchler and Public Safety Director/Chief of Police Scott Hilden drove eight hours to attend the graduation and then drove eight hours back the same day because of their busy schedules. Mutchler said he knew how important an achievement the graduation was and he wanted to honor Pike.
“Todd is revered by his team and respected by the board of trustees, who he welcomed when the new board was elected four years ago,” said Township Supervisor Mark J. Abbo. “He has spearhead so many projects, including the building of the new Essential Services Complex, the removal of the decaying state psychiatric hospital buildings at Legacy Park and winning the Top Workplaces honor two consecutive years from the Detroit Free Press. He is an excellent champion for Northville Township.”
Mutchler said the timing is right for his retirement. With his succession plan in place, he’s ready to spend time with those who supported him through his entire career: his family.
“My career happened because a lot of people sacrificed and gave and supported me and my family, and so while I still have good health, I want to make sure that I’m recognizing that by spending valuable time with them,” he said.
He said he is looking forward to hopping into his motor home with his wife, Kay, to travel to see their family members who live across the country, from Oregon to Boston. The couple hopes to visit their three children and three grandchildren. Mutchler said he will also stop at the best trout streams to fly fish and best ski hills to downhill ski.
What are his plans for his first day of retirement? “I’m going to sleep in if my dog will let me,” he said with a smile.
Christmas in the Village is set for this Saturday
Christmas in the Village returns to the Village Arts Factory with new additions and even more holiday cheer from 3 until 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 7.
Presented by Greenland Market and Saj Bakery, this family-friendly event will transform the Village Arts Factory, located at 50755 Cherry Hill Road in Canton into a winter wonderland, featuring a live petting zoo attraction, caroling musicians, free kids’ craft activities, cookie decorating, and a bustling Old-World Christmas Market featuring over 25 artisan vendors with unique merchandise for all your gift-giving needs, according to a prepared statement from the township.
Additional event highlights include free visits and pictures with Santa Claus courtesy of Oak Pointe Church; holiday ornament-making at Cold Stone Creamery; kids’ hair tinsel and holiday boutique at Indigo Salon; as well as a tree lighting ceremony at 7 p.m. at the Village Arts Factory. The Cherry Hill Potters Guild will also be on hand, joining more than 25 craft and artisan vendors selling unique crafts.
A special IKEA Uppvärmning Lodge will be erected on the event grounds, featuring complimentary warm cinnamon rolls and Swedish Glögg - while supplies last. Additional tasty food options will be available for purchase, including hot chocolate provided by Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea and holiday coffee beverages from Hazel Coffee Co. A variety of food trucks will also be onsite, including Famous Hamburger, Cilantro Mexican Food, and Impasto Italian-Inspired Wraps.
The holiday event, organized by the Village Arts Factory, and Canton Leisure Services, is free and open to the entire Canton community, as well as surrounding communities. Additional sponsors include AlphaGraphics of Canton; Comcast; Edward Jones of Cherry Hill Village; Expressions Music Academy; IKEA; Jacob Matthew Jewelers; Kumon; Primrose Schools; Schoolcraft College; Trinity Health IHA Medical Group; Tucker Insurance Agency; Uptown Salon; and the Village Grocery.
Event participants are reminded to dress for the weather. On-site parking will be limited, so participants are advised to utilize area public lots listed at www.cantonmi.gov/1384. In addition, shuttles will be available at the Cherry Hill United Methodist Church, Workman Elementary School, and the Canton Dog Park.
Following the conclusion of Christmas in the Village, the 21+ crowd is invited to continue the festivities with a special holiday afterglow hosted by Maraschinos Pub in Cherry Hill Village with seasonal decor, music, and holiday-themed drinks.
For more information, visit www.cantonfun.org/678, villageartsfactory.com, or call (734) 394-5460.
Presented by Greenland Market and Saj Bakery, this family-friendly event will transform the Village Arts Factory, located at 50755 Cherry Hill Road in Canton into a winter wonderland, featuring a live petting zoo attraction, caroling musicians, free kids’ craft activities, cookie decorating, and a bustling Old-World Christmas Market featuring over 25 artisan vendors with unique merchandise for all your gift-giving needs, according to a prepared statement from the township.
Additional event highlights include free visits and pictures with Santa Claus courtesy of Oak Pointe Church; holiday ornament-making at Cold Stone Creamery; kids’ hair tinsel and holiday boutique at Indigo Salon; as well as a tree lighting ceremony at 7 p.m. at the Village Arts Factory. The Cherry Hill Potters Guild will also be on hand, joining more than 25 craft and artisan vendors selling unique crafts.
A special IKEA Uppvärmning Lodge will be erected on the event grounds, featuring complimentary warm cinnamon rolls and Swedish Glögg - while supplies last. Additional tasty food options will be available for purchase, including hot chocolate provided by Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea and holiday coffee beverages from Hazel Coffee Co. A variety of food trucks will also be onsite, including Famous Hamburger, Cilantro Mexican Food, and Impasto Italian-Inspired Wraps.
The holiday event, organized by the Village Arts Factory, and Canton Leisure Services, is free and open to the entire Canton community, as well as surrounding communities. Additional sponsors include AlphaGraphics of Canton; Comcast; Edward Jones of Cherry Hill Village; Expressions Music Academy; IKEA; Jacob Matthew Jewelers; Kumon; Primrose Schools; Schoolcraft College; Trinity Health IHA Medical Group; Tucker Insurance Agency; Uptown Salon; and the Village Grocery.
Event participants are reminded to dress for the weather. On-site parking will be limited, so participants are advised to utilize area public lots listed at www.cantonmi.gov/1384. In addition, shuttles will be available at the Cherry Hill United Methodist Church, Workman Elementary School, and the Canton Dog Park.
Following the conclusion of Christmas in the Village, the 21+ crowd is invited to continue the festivities with a special holiday afterglow hosted by Maraschinos Pub in Cherry Hill Village with seasonal decor, music, and holiday-themed drinks.
For more information, visit www.cantonfun.org/678, villageartsfactory.com, or call (734) 394-5460.
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