Romulus to honor veterans during Wreaths Across America

As has become a community tradition, a wreath-laying ceremony is planned for noon Saturday, Dec. 13 at Romulus Memorial Cemetery as part of the Wreaths Across America Day event. Organizers said donations to fund wreaths for the ceremony are needed.

The tradition began in 1992 when Worcester Wreath found themselves with a surplus of wreaths nearing the end of the holiday season. Remembering his boyhood experience at Arlington, owner Morrill Worcester realized he had an opportunity to honor our country’s veterans. With the aid of Maine Sen. Olympia Snowe (ret), arrangements were made for the surplus wreaths to be placed at Arlington in one of the older cemetery sections that had been receiving fewer visitors each passing year.

For more than a decade, the annual wreath tribute went on quietly and privately. Everything changed in 2005, when a photo of the stones at Arlington, adorned with wreaths and covered in snow, circulated around the internet. Suddenly, the homespun tribute from a small town in downeast Maine was receiving national attention. Thousands of requests poured in from all over the country from people wanting to help purchase and lay wreaths at Arlington. Thousands more wanted to emulate the Arlington project at their local National and State cemeteries

Unable to donate thousands of wreaths to each state, Worcester began sending seven wreaths to every state: One for each branch of the military and an additional wreath to pay tribute to POW/MIAs. In 2006, with the help of the Civil Air Patrol and other civic organizations, simultaneous wreath-laying ceremonies were held at more than 150 locations around the country.

In 2007, the Worcester family, along with the support of veterans organizations and a variety of other groups and individuals who had helped with their annual veterans wreath ceremony in Arlington, formed Wreaths Across America, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, to continue and expand this effort, and support others around the country who wanted to do the same.

The wreath-laying that began more than 30 years ago still takes place annually, on the second or third Saturday of December. 

In 2024, more than three million sponsored veterans' wreaths were placed on headstones of our nation's service members at 4,909 participating locations. More than four million volunteers helped place wreaths, a third of whom were children. This was accomplished with the support of more than 7,400 sponsorship groups, corporate contributions, and in-kind donations from the transportation industry across the country.

Organizers from Romulus said donations to fund wreaths for the local ceremony are needed.

Wreaths are priced at $17 each and donations to purchase one or more can be made through Romulus VFW #9568's Page at: https://wreathsacrossamerica.org/pages/32596/Overview

Order forms are also available at Romulus Public Library and will be accepted at the Community Development Office in Romulus City Hall, 11111 Wayne Road, Romulus.

More information is available at (734) 955-4539 or jhobbs@romulusgov.com.

Home invasion suspect apprehended by Plymouth Township police

A suspect in home invasions in both Plymouth and Bloomfield townships was arraigned Nov. 19 by Judge Joe Barone of the 35^th District Court and denied bond.

Antonio Draco Jones, Jr. is facing charges of home invasion first degree; stealing a financial transaction device and as a second offense habitual offender.

According to Plymouth Township Chief of Police James H. Knittel, Jr. dispatchers received a call from a homeowner in the Lake Pointe subdivision near Farrand Elementary School at 7 a.m. Nov. 4. The resident reported a home invasion in which cash and credit cards were taken while they were asleep in the home. The invasion and theft was not discovered until the following morning, according to police reports of the incident.

Police reported that no individual suffered any physical harm during the break in.

Plymouth Township investigators were able to develop a suspect within 48 hours, according to a statement from Knittel.

“Our detectives proceeded to monitor the suspect’s activity, while simultaneously building their case for eventual submission to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office,” he reported.

At about 3:51 p.m. Nov. 7, Plymouth Township detectives determined that the suspect was driving through a subdivision in Bloomfield Township.

Knittel stressed that the suspect had no known ties to this area.   

Plymouth detectives contacted the Bloomfield Township Police Department and the suspect was located and detained with a traffic stop by Bloomfield officers.

“It was determined that the suspect had committed another home invasion in Bloomfield Township, just prior to being stopped by the Bloomfield Township Police Department,” Knittel said. The suspect was subsequently placed under arrest and charged with Home Invasion in Oakland County.  He has been incarcerated at the Oakland County Jail with a $250,000 cash bond since his arrest.

In the Plymouth incident, Jones was charged Nov. 14 with home invasion – first degree; financial transaction device – stealing/retaining without consent 2 counts and as a habitual offender.

“These were very concerning incidents, as the families were home during both home invasions.  I commend the teamwork shown by investigators from the Bloomfield Township and the Plymouth Township Police Departments while tracking down leads and arresting this dangerous suspect” 

The Plymouth Township Police Department encourages anyone with additional information related to this case to contact Det. Sgt. Jason Hayes at (734) 354-3234.

Plymouth business owners facing federal charges in hiring of illegal workers

Moises Orduna-Rios, 36, and Raquel Orduna-Rios, 30, of Plymouth, were arrested last week and charged with federal crimes including conspiracy, transporting and harboring unauthorized aliens for commercial advantage or private financial gain, conspiracy to bring in, harbor, and transport unauthorized aliens, employment of at least 10 unauthorized aliens within a 12-month period, engaging in a pattern or practice of employing unauthorized aliens, and money laundering and conspiracy to commit money laundering. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of $3,000 for each unauthorized alien employed by the defendants. The charges were filed last week in a New York federal court.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, Orduna Plumbing Inc., is based in Michigan, with operations throughout the United States, including in New York, Michigan, North Carolina, and Ohio. Moises Orduna-Rios is the president of Orduna Plumbing, while Raquel Orduna-Rios is the treasurer and secretary.

Federal court filings allege that since January 2022, through December 2024, the defendants employed approximately 253 individuals. Of those, only six were confirmed to be legally present and permitted to work in the United States. The defendants collected the passports of the unauthorized aliens and housed them in overcrowded houses and hotel rooms, according to court documents. Investigators estimated that between Jan. 1, 2022, and Aug. 7, 2025, the couple generated approximately $74 million in customer revenue.  During the course of the investigation, U.S. Border Patrol agents and Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents arrested 23 unauthorized aliens employed by Orduna Plumbing, in Buffalo, Rochester, and Charlotte, North Carolina.

Federal authorities said the investigation uncovered messaging communications between Moises Orduna-Rios and some of the unauthorized aliens, during which they discussed payroll, proper care of company vehicles, proper use of company credit cards, concerns about being undocumented, switching housing locations to be less visible to law enforcement, and precautions that should be taken to avoid being apprehended. In one instance, on Feb. 1, 2025, Moises Orduna-Rios sent this message by way of a group chat stating, “Gentlemen, with all the controversy that is going on, it’s better to get ready, drive the speed limit, limit yourselves going to the store, only do minimal running of errands, and do not have any gatherings such as barbeques…” Orduna paid the workers $800 to $1,500 per week, according to authorities, and covered some living expenses.

In the summer of 2025, Border Patrol agents executed a search warrant at a Rochester residence that housed some of the unauthorized aliens believed to be working for Orduna Plumbing. Border Patrol found nine individuals, all of whom were illegally present in the United States, living in a small sparsely furnished residence, according to a statement from federal prosecutors.  

A financial review of Orduna Plumbing revealed the company paid hundreds of employees known to be illegally present in the United States through multiple bank accounts used and controlled by the defendants.

Moises Orduna-Rios and Raquel Orduna-Rios made an initial appearance last week in Federal Court in the Eastern District of Michigan in Detroit,  charged with conspiracy, transporting and harboring undocumented immigrants for commercial advantage or private financial gain, and money laundering. If convicted, they each face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of $3,000 for each undocumented immigrant they employed.

The couple were released on bond. Their next court appearance will take place on Dec. 2 in federal court in New York, where the criminal case was filed and will be prosecuted.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty, authorities stressed.  

On the job

Romulus Police Department celebrated the promotions of three new supervisors last week. Mayor Robert McCraight, far left, congratulated new Sgt. Chris Kososki, Lt. Matt Reese and Sgt.  Bryan Perkins. The officers were introduced by Police Chief Robert Pfannes, far right. The officers were officially promoted in a city hall ceremony that also saw four new officers sworn in. New officers include Logan Northrup, Jake Wolok and Samantha Barulic who recently graduated from the 17-week Wayne County Regional Police Academy, where each scored more than 91 percent on final examinations, Pfannes noted. Jeremiah Proctor, the fourth new hire is an experienced officer from the Detroit Police Department.

Identity theft suspect arrested in Northville

A California man is facing multiple felony charges following his arrest by Northville Township Police investigating an extensive tap-to-pay identity theft scheme.

Jian-Wei “Juan” Li, 40, was arrested following a multi-day surveillance operation that uncovered his involvement in more than 25 fraudulent tap-to-pay incidents at Meijer stores, dating back to May 2025, according to police reports. The scheme impacted retailers throughout Metro Detroit and nationwide, officials said.

The investigation began Nov. 11, police responded to multiple reports of an unidentified male suspect perpetrating the tap-to-pay scheme in local Meijer stores.  The Michigan Attorney General/Michigan State Police Focused Organized Crime Enforcement (FORCE) Team and Northville Township Police arrested Li following a multi-day surveillance operation, according to official reports.

Investigators determined that Li was participating in a tap-to-pay scheme involving organized groups who load stolen or compromised U.S. credit card accounts into mobile payment platforms such as Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay. He used these to purchase goods, including Apple devices, gift cards and other easily resold merchandise. He then shipped them out of state or overseas, police said.

Northville police investigators conducted intensive physical surveillance of Li, who was staying at a local hotel and driving a 2019 Mercedes SUV. Over the course of three days, investigators documented Li conducting more than 60 attempted transactions using more than 40 different card numbers across Meijer, Best Buy, Speedway, Lululemon, Macy’s, Home Depot and Trader Joe’s locations, police said.

On Nov. 18, Li was taken into custody leaving a Best Buy store without incident.

Following the arrest, investigators executed multiple search warrants. A search of Li’s hotel room recovered large quantities of gift cards, receipts for iPad purchases and documentation of declined transactions.

On Nov. 20, Li was charged through the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office with three 5-year felonies of identity theft. Offiicals said he was arraigned last Sunday and given a $100,000 cash bond and would be required to be on a GPS tether if bond is posted.

A probable cause conference is scheduled for Dec. 1.

 

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Santa arrives in Plymouth

Santa arrives in Plymouth tomorrow, Nov. 28, with a parade that begins at Kiwanis Park just after 5:30 p.m. The parade will continue on to 10 different city parks/areas.

Santa is expected to arrive at his last stop in Kellogg Park at just after 7:30. Holiday fun will begin in Kellogg Park at 6:30 with the Christmas tree lighting ceremony after Santa's arrival at approximately 7:45. For more details including route information, visit https://downtownplymouth.org/.../Santas-City-of-Plymouth...

 

Westland police hoping to stuff a squad car

Westland Police Department will be holding the 9th Annual Stuff a Squad Car event from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. tomorrow, Nov. 28.

The squad car will be parked at the Westland Meijer store at 37201 Warren Road.

The Stuff a Squad Car effort is a benefit for the Westland Goodfellows, “No Child Without a Christmas” program which helps supply local children with Christmas gifts. Free photos with Santa will be available for anyone who chooses to donate a new unwrapped toy.

           

Romulus to light up official holiday tree

The official holiday tree lighting ceremony will take place at 5 p.m. Dec. 5 at Romulus Historical Park, 11147 Hunt St. in Romulus.

Photos with Santa, hayrides, photo ops, activities, and entertainment for the whole family are planned at the free, family event. For more information, call Romulus Recreation at (734) 941-8665

Mistletoe Market set

The annual Mistletoe Market in downtown Plymouth is set for Dec. 12, 13 and 14 this year.

The event includes horse and carriage rides, the kids’ candy cane corner, live music and entertainment and free trolley rides around town to meet and greet holiday characters. 

Hours are 2 until 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 12 with entertainment beginning at 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 hours are 10 a.m. until 8 p.m. and on Sunday, Dec. 14, the event will be open from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.

More information is available at ChristmasinPlymouth.com

 

Max’s Vault is available

The Northville Township Police Department is once again helping keep “porch pirates” at bay this holiday season with Operation Max’s Vault — named for four-legged police Therapy Dog Max.

Township residents can have packages shipped to the Northville Township Police Department for safe keeping in Max’s Vault through Jan. 1, 2026. Packages should be addressed with the recipient’s name, c/0 Max’s Vault, 40911 Seven Mile Road, Northville, Mi 48167.

Packages should be retrieved within five days of delivery, officials said. This free program has become a community favorite providing safe shipping during the holiday season, officials said.

 

Village Potters Guild Holiday Market planned 

The Village Potters Guild Annual Holiday Market is planned for Nov. 21-23, the weekend before Thanksgiving. The annual event will take place in Plymouth at 326 N. Main St., just north of the railroad tracks in the building behind Sidecar Slider Bar.

Sales hours are 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday Nov. 21 and 22 and 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Sunday.

 

Farmers Market dates set

The Canton 2026 Off-Season Farmers Markets will take place at the Village Arts Factory, located at 50755 Cherry Hill Road. Markets are set for 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Feb. 15, March 15, and April 19.  For more information, visit www.cantonmi.gov/496 or @Canton Farmers Market on Facebook.

.

United Way collecting warm winter clothing

Plymouth Community United Way is collecting new men’s, women’s and children’s items including scarves, gloves, coats, blankets, boots, hats, and socks — to help ensure families and individuals in our community stay warm this winter. Donations can be dropped off at Plymouth Community United Way, 960 W. Ann Arbor Trail, Suite 2 Plymouth, MI 48170.

 

Local townships appeal budget cuts to governor

Late last week, a joint letter signed by 119 Michigan township supervisors was sent to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s office requesting both supplemental action on the recently signed October budget and a seat at the table as policy and appropriations that impact local governments are considered.

In the letter, supervisors from several townships including Anne Marie Graham Hudak from Canton, Chuck Curmi from Plymouth, Mark Abbo from Northville and Kevin McNamara from Van Buren, claimed that while the approved state budget has attributes that are beneficial to local governments, such as additional funding for roads and public safety, they have concerns as to how the budget will impact the operations of townships.

The township leaders expressed concern regarding the reduction of constitutional revenue sharing which decreases revenue critical to the ability of townships to provide services to the residents. This could mean reduction of services, higher local taxes, or a loss of firefighters to some, according to the mailing.

“This year’s state budget slashed funding to local governments representing over 52 percent of Michigan’s residents – hometown governments administering safe and secure elections, collecting trash and recycling, making sure our drinking water and buildings are safe, and caring for parks, natural spaces, and families throughout Michigan,” said Graham-Hudak. “These cuts to services in our hometown – many of which we take for granted – are wrong and must be fixed by Lansing.”

“If Lansing fails to act, hometowns throughout Michigan will experience a precipitous decline in quality-of-life issues not seen since the Great Recession. These state cuts to local services may lead some towns to raise taxes just to cover the basics – but it doesn’t have to be this way. Let’s get this right Michigan: restore the funding, so our hometowns keep running.,” she said.

The letter also encourages state leaders to consider approving a supplemental budget that backfills the sales tax revenue lost due to the redirect at the pump, thereby holding local units of government harmless.

The letter asks the governor to work in tandem to provide needed services for townships.

“Local governments are the most connected to the residents we collectively serve, and we are asking you to work in partnership with us to ensure that we can provide the critical services needed in our communities throughout Michigan,” the letter stated.

Winter Wonderland

2^nd annual Canton holiday walk and parade set for this weekend

The second Annual Winter Wonderland Walk & Parade will take place Saturday, Nov. 22, in Heritage Park, located behind the Canton Administration Building at 1150 S. Canton Center Road.

“The Winter Wonderland Walk and Parade are the perfect kickoff to the holiday season,” said Evan Sweet, recreation specialist. “We invite everyone to join us for a variety of festive activities and immerse themselves in the holiday spirit during this special event that has something for everyone.”

The Winter Wonderland Parade, presented by Papaya Fruit, Inc., will take place from 4-5 p.m. The parade will step off at the Trinity Health Medical Center of Canton and will travel along Veterans Way to Heritage Park Drive, where marchers will disperse at the North Pavilions. Spectators are encouraged to bring folding chairs, wear festive lighted attire, and watch the parade near the Canton Public Library and Canton Administration Building. Featured paraded participants include community groups, lively musicians and performers, as well as beloved characters.

The celebration will continue after the parade with the Winter Wonderland Walk from 5-7 p.m. around the Heritage Park Pond, featuring interactive activities, dazzling light displays, and more live entertainment. Snacks and dinner options will also be available for purchase on-site.

Participants can also enjoy a meet and greet with The Grinch and Olaf, an acoustic performance by Devyn Mitchell, fire ring show presented by the Detroit Circus, instant family holiday photos, and free hot chocolate (while supplies last). In addition, seasonal refreshments and personalized holiday items will be available for purchase.  A Build-A-Bear mobile trailer will also be on site.

This special event will take place outdoors, so participants are advised to dress for the weather.  Strollers and wagons are also recommended for the youngest participants. There is no admittance fee to attend.

This festive event is sponsored by Papaya Market, DTE, Central City Dance, National Heritage Academy, Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea, Expressions Music Academy, The Learning Experience, Behavior Frontiers, Kenz Coffee, and Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers. 

For more information visit www.cantonfun.org or call (734) 394-5460.

3 area men arrested in joint police pedophile operation

Three local men were among those arrested last week by Taylor police during an undercover operation targeting child sexual predators.

Among the 14 men arrested following the year-long investigation were Johnathan Lee McKissack, 30, of Romulus; Michael Joseph Miller, 33, of Westland and Jeffrey Brian Hellems, 38, of Canton Township.

The three men are awaiting court hearings on the charges. Police said the 14 suspects  thought they were chatting with girls as young as 13 on dating apps and some gaming platforms used to meet for sex. Some of the suspects brought weapons, sex toys and even their own children to a location designated as a meeting place for the minor girls an investigator said. Three of the men arrested have already entered guilty pleas with the court including charges of child sexually abusive commercial activity (attempt), accosting a child for immoral purposes and computer/internet communicating with another to commit a crime. The remaining 11 suspects, including the three local men, are awaiting court hearings, according to police.

Taylor Police Chief John Blair said the success of the undercover operation was enhanced using advanced technology, including Brinc drones, Flock Safety systems, Axon technology, and StarChase. These tools were instrumental in helping investigators safely identify, monitor, and apprehend suspects while maintaining officer and community safety, the chief said.

“Technology plays a critical role in modern policing, especially when it comes to protecting our most vulnerable citizens—our children,” said Blair, in a statement. “By combining cutting-edge tools like drones and license plate recognition with skilled investigative work and strong partnerships with our federal and regional task force partners, we are able to act quickly and effectively to bring these offenders to justice.”

Also involved in the investigation and arrests were Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Secret Service, the Metro Narcotics Enforcement Team, and the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office.

“These arrests reflect our department’s ongoing commitment to protecting children and holding accountable those who seek to exploit them,” Blair added. “We will continue leveraging technology, training, and collaboration to keep Taylor and surrounding communities safe.”

Off road

New vehicles improve police emergency accessibility

Northville Township police officers and firefighters are learning to navigate off-road terrain with specialized vehicles as they prepare to respond to emergencies in the expanding township park system.

The township recently purchased two utility task vehicles (UTVs) specifically designed to reach areas inaccessible by traditional emergency ambulances or trucks. During a recent training exercise, the new vehicles were deployed in wooded areas designed to simulate real emergency conditions. First responders practiced navigating hills, rough terrain, water areas and muddy conditions at various speeds with the new vehicles.

Police officials said the training comes at a crucial time with the opening of Legacy Park at the site of the former Maybury psychiatric hospital.

The specialized vehicles address a growing need as more hikers, bikers, and outdoor enthusiasts visit the parks, officials said. Traditional emergency vehicles struggle to access remote trail areas, potentially adding critical minutes to response times.

"We don't want each mile to equal several minutes for that person in need. We want to be able to go exactly where they are," explained Deputy Fire Chief Jesse Marcotte.

"It's nice for us to come together and train together so that we're both familiar with the equipment and know what each other is capable of," said Northville Township Police Lt. Joshua Pike.

"The gist of it is to make sure the first time somebody is driving, this isn't during an emergency incident. So we've come up with a few obstacles that are unique to the park," said Chris Wiggins, training coordinator for Northville Township Fire Department.

One of the new vehicles can transport patients, providing additional medical response capabilities in remote areas.

"They have this extra little insurance policy while they're out there having fun and enjoying the moment," Marcotte said.

The Northville Fire Department has operated a UTV at Maybury State Park for nearly 20 years for emergency response, Marcotte noted. The new vehicles expand that capability and standardize joint police–fire operations. 

Director honored

City of Romulus Downtown Development Authority Director Jerry Frayer has been named 2025 Director of the Year by the Michigan Downtown Association. Molly LaLone, director of the association, presented the award to Freyer during a recent meeting. Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight said, “This well-deserved recognition highlights his dedication, leadership, and commitment to strengthening and revitalizing Downtown Romulus. Congratulations, Jerry,” in a social media post. Founded in 1980, the Michigan Downtown Association (MDA) is a state-wide, non-profit organization and a driving force in the interest and growth of downtowns and communities throughout Michigan, according to the association website.

Register now for Shop With a Cop

Applications for the 2025 Shop with a Cop in Romulus are now available.

Those interested in participating this year should complete an application and include a detailed explanation of the reasons the child should shop for holiday gifts with a Romulus police officer this year. This event is an annual event funded by officers to help those with limited resources in the city during the holiday season.

Only Romulus residents are eligible and will be considered. Families already receiving holiday assistance from another organization will be ineligible, organizers said. Applications can be obtained and returned to the Romulus Police Department or emailed to mtalley@romulusgov.com.

The application is available online at https://bit.ly/RPDSWC25 and 𝐞𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐥 it to mtalley@romulusgov.com or print the document and return to Romulus police headquarters at t 11165 Olive St., Romulus.

3 new recruits, experienced officer join Romulus Police Department

Romulus Police Chief Robert Pfannes last week took to social media to officially introduce four new recruits joining the department.

Joining the Romulus force are Logan Northrup, Jake Wolok and Samantha Barulic who recently graduated from the 17-week Wayne County Regional Police Academy, where each scored more than 91 percent on final examinations, Pfannes noted. Jeremiah Proctor, the fourth new hire is an experienced officer from the Detroit Police Department.
Proctor is a Romulus native with family roots in the community, Pfannes said, and noted that Proctor is a wrestling coach.

The officers will be sworn in and will then begin a four-month field training program. 

The chief was especially pleased to introduce the new officers as he explained plans to put more police on the streets in the community. Pfannes had responded recently on social media to residents’ requests for more police officers in local neighborhoods.

Pfannes said he and the city administration agreed with that request and that the police department has been a priority with city officials.

“When I started here in 2020, the Romulus Police Department had 38 officers, a 100-year-old Police building that was falling apart, and public safety contracts that were not competitive enough to attract the few people who still wanted to be police officers,” Pfannes posted on Facebook in response to residents.

“Serious action has been taken since then. We are now Romulus Police Chief Robert Pfannes officially introduced four new recruits to members of the public last week.

Joining the Romulus force are Logan Northrup, Jake Wolok and Samantha Barulic, three recruits who recently graduated from the 17-week Wayne County Regional Police Academy, where each scored more than 91 percent on final examinations, Pfannes noted. Jeremiah Proctor, the fourth new hire is an experienced officer from the Detroit Police Department.
The officers will be sworn in and will then begin a four-month field training program. 

The chief was especially pleased to introduce the new officers as he explained plans to put more police on the streets in the community. Pfannes had responded recently on social media to residents’ requests for more police officers in local neighborhoods.

Pfannes said he and the city administration agreed with that request and that the police department has been a priority with city officials.

“When I started here in 2020, the Romulus Police Department had 38 officers, a 100-year-old Police building that was falling apart, and public safety contracts that were not competitive enough to attract the few people who still wanted to be police officers,” Pfannes posted on Facebook in response to residents.

“Serious action has been taken since then. We are now authorized for 55 sworn officers (which we are slowly working towards), the contracts are competitive with surrounding authorized for 55 sworn officers (which we are slowly working towards), the contracts are competitive with surrounding cities, and a new public safety headquarters is in the works,” he said.

“The city has invested in Flock cameras to help identify criminals (most of whom are not Romulus residents) when they come in or flee the city. It is a force multiplier.

“Overall crime has decreased every year since COVID. Action has been taken, and much more is in progress. The city is doing its part to get us back in your neighborhoods,” he posted.

“I want to end by personally thanking the city for making the police department a priority and you for the huge support you give your Romulus Police Department. We are #OneRomulus” he concluded.

Massive credit card fraud scheme leads to arrest of woman by Canton police

Canton Township police arrested a woman who attempted to make nearly 100 transactions using stolen credit card information last week.

Baixue He, 29, of California, was followed by Canton detectives as she repeatedly made multiple gift card purchases at big box stores in the area. Police followed her to 11 separate retail locations where she attempted to make transactions using stolen credit card information. Police believe the credit card information was obtained by He through an online fraud scheme.

Baixue is now facing 17 counts of identity theft following her arrest as part of a joint effort with the Canton police, the office of the Michigan Attorney General and the Michigan State Police who conducted a Nov. 5 “proactive organized retail crime blitz” according to a prepared statement..

Detectives suspect He used stolen data to buy high-value gift cards as part of the scheme.

He has been charged with 17 counts of identity theft by the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office each a five-year felony punishable by up to a $25,000 fine. She was arraigned on the charges Nov. 10 in 35^th District Court before Judge James Plakas. Bond was set at $50,000 cash. Her next court appearance on the charges is scheduled tomorrow, Nov. 21.

Canton police urged residents to exercise caution when shopping online and verify website addresses before submitting credit card information for payment. Police cautioned online shoppers to avoid unsolicited links and refuse to provide financial details to unverified sources.

Prosecutor Kym Worthy praised the efforts of Canton police and other law enforcement in protecting consumers from credit card schemes.

“During the holidays and really every day we must guard ourselves against criminals committing fraud. We are thankful that the Canton Police Department is working diligently with other law enforcement agencies to apprehend those who commit these crimes upon our citizens,” Worthy noted in a prepared statement.

Community calendar

Max’s Vault is available

The Northville Township Police Department is once again helping keep “porch pirates” at bay this holiday season with Operation Max’s Vault — named for four-legged police Therapy Dog Max.

Township residents can have packages shipped to the Northville Township Police Department for safe keeping in Max’s Vault through Jan. 1, 2026. Packages should be addressed with the recipient’s name, c/0 Max’s Vault, 40911 Seven Mile Road, Northville, MI 48167.

Packages should be retrieved within five days of delivery, officials said. This free program has become a community favorite, providing safe shipping during the holiday season, officials said.

 

 Donations sought to fund wreath for veterans’ ceremony

A wreath-laying ceremony is planned for noon Saturday, Dec. 13 at Romulus Memorial Cemetery as part of the Wreaths Across America Day event. Donations to fund wreaths for the ceremony are needed.

Wreaths are priced at $17 each and donations to purchase one or more can be made through Romulus VFW #9568's Page at: https://wreathsacrossamerica.org/pages/32596/Overview

Order forms are also available at Romulus Public Library and will be accepted at the Community Development Office in Romulus City Hall, 11111 Wayne Road, Romulus.

More information is available at (734) 955-4539 or jhobbs@romulusgov.com.

 

Village Potters Guild Holiday Market planned 

The Village Potters Guild Annual Holiday Market is planned for Nov. 21-23, the weekend before Thanksgiving. The annual event will take place in Plymouth at 326 N. Main St., just north of the railroad tracks in the building behind Sidecar Slider Bar.

Sales hours are 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday Nov. 21 and 22 and 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Farmers Market dates set

The Canton 2026 Off-Season Farmers Markets will take place at the Village Arts Factory, located at 50755 Cherry Hill Road. Markets are set for 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. Feb. 15, March 15, and April 19.  For more information, visit www.cantonmi.gov/496 or @Canton Farmers Market on Facebook.

 

United Way collecting warm winter clothing

Plymouth Community United Way is collecting new men’s, women’s and children’s items including scarves, gloves, coats, blankets, boots, hats, and socks — to help ensure families and individuals in our community stay warm this winter. Donations can be dropped off at Plymouth Community United Way, 960 W. Ann Arbor Trail, Suite 2 Plymouth, MI 48170

Development brings ‘daylight’ to Rouge River

A walk across a section of the Rouge River buried in concrete for more than six decades will soon be possible as part of the $350 million development in Northville.

Last week, two pedestrian bridges were installed in the new 1.5 acre riverwalk section of the ongoing 48-acre development of the former Northville Downs racetrack. The restoration, or daylighting of the section of the river is the centerpiece of the new park section of the development by Hunter Pasteur Homes, which will include 443 residential units, office and retail buildings.

The section of the river, uncovered from a concrete tunnel originally installed to allow for construction of the racetrack in 1962, is part of the new park where 1,400 new hardwood trees have been planted and native plants installed as park of the 10-acre park. Northville Mayor Brian Turnbull said the daylighting of the river in the park is “the biggest environmental investment Northville’s ever made.” Turnbull said the transformation of the former racetrack land is “almost unbelievable.”

The new park will be owned by the city and maintenance will be the responsibility of the Northville Parks & Recreation Department. Turnbull said the park is expected to open by the end of next year. The park and riverwalk will all be “public access” features and include regional trials into both Wayne and Oakland counties.

According to Turnbull, costs for the project included about $40 million in public and environmental funding; $18 million in brownfield cleanup, $14 million from Hunter Pasteur for the river park, $5 million in city infrastructure work and $2.5 million from Wayne County for daylighting of the river.

Original plans for the huge development did not include daylighting of the river, but former Northville City Council member Nancy Darga, a founding member of Friends of the Rouge, advocated strongly for the uncovering of the waterway. A landscape architect, Darga cited the effects of the buried river on other communities. She said the culvert caused erosion and flooding in Livonia, Westland, Dearborn Heights and Redford.

Darga said careful and meticulous engineering of the flow and alignment of the river will ensure a correct and natural flow of the river and allow for fish to flourish in the water. The new design includes a 2-acre detention basin, which will act as a filtering process for the river water.

More than 59 million pounds of demolished concrete debris created from the daylighting project will be buried next to the river channel, a plan criticized by members of the Northville River Advocacy group. The disposal plan to crush and bury the debris was approved by the Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) Water Quality Division, but critics want the debris removed from the site to prevent any impact on nearby groundwater.

Darga and representatives of EGLE note that the disposal of the construction waste “fully complies with all regulatory requirements.”

Seth Herkowitz, a partner with Hunter Pasteur, also assured residents of the safety of the project.

“The River Park has been designed, engineered, and built consistent with all governmental permits and approvals.” He added that the creation of the River Park as “a legacy project that will serve the City of Northville and surrounding region, for future generations to come.”

Turkey trot

Registration now open for annual race-walk

Area residents are encouraged to lace up their sneakers and work up an appetite for a good cause on Thanksgiving morning by participating in Canton’s 23^rd annual Turkey Trot for a Cause.

The chip-timed race and 1-mile fun run is a benefit event for the Epilepsy Foundation of Michigan, an organization dedicated to empowering individuals with seizure disorders. The event’s main sponsor is Gazelle Sports of Northville, which hosts bib    pick-up, and provides awards for this annual event.  

The race is set to start at the Summit on the Park, located at 46000 Summit Parkway, and will cover a picturesque, flat course that winds through the Pheasant Run Golf course, Heritage Park, ending back at the Summit. In addition, race organizers are again offering a virtual option, where runners can pick the time and location to suit their preferences.

This annual tradition was started in 2003 by Michael and Terri Murray after their son Justin was diagnosed with epilepsy. Wanting to do something in the fight against epilepsy to help stop seizures, find cures, and save lives, the couple worked with Canton Township to organize the first Thanksgiving Turkey Trot. Justin Murray, who has been seizure-free since undergoing brain surgery in 2007 to remove a seizure-causing growth, continues to give back by supporting and volunteering at the Canton Thanksgiving races, as well as volunteering at the Epilepsy Foundation’s office in Southfield. To date, the Canton Turkey Trot has generated more than $350,000 since its inception.

“For so many individuals in our community, Canton’s annual Turkey Trot has become a popular holiday tradition,” said Ann-Marie Carravallah, Canton Parks and Sports supervisor. “It’s a great opportunity for families and friends to come together, enjoy nature, and exercise, all while supporting such a great cause.”

Pre-registration is available online at csc.canton-mi.org or by calling (734) 483-5600 until 8 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 27, when onsite registration is available. Participants registered by Nov. 10, are guaranteed an event T-Shirt. Registration fees are $37 for the chipped 5K race and $32 for the 1-mile fun run or virtual run.

Main sponsor of the event is Gazelle Sports of Northville, which will hosts bib pick-up, and provides awards for the annual event.  

Pre-event shirt and bib pick-up is available from 5 until 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov.  20 at the Canton Sports Center, 46555 Michigan Ave. Participants can also pick up shirts and bibs at Gazelle Sports’ new Northville location at 117 E. Main St., Northville from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21 and from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22 and from noon until 6 p.m. Sunday Nov. 23. Bib/Shirt pick-up will re-open from noon until 6 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 26, in the Summit Banquet and Conference Center, located at 46000 Summit Parkway, Canton. For those unable to pick up shirts and bibs prior to race day, these items will be available on Thanksgiving morning from 8-9 a.m. at the Summit on the Park.

For event information, including the course map, visit csc.canton-mi.org or text 734/756-8383.