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Local Death Notices for the Novi, Michigan area

Crowd at the Detroit Sports Spectacular with athletes and memorabiliaCrowd at the Detroit Sports Spectacular with athletes and memorabilia

Detroit Sports Spectacular Returns to Engage Fans

May 31, 2025

News Summary

The Detroit Sports Spectacular is scheduled for May 30 to June 1 in Novi, bringing together sports enthusiasts and iconic athletes from various Detroit sports teams. Fans can meet legendary figures from the Lions, Pistons, Tigers, and Red Wings, and participate in autograph signings and memorabilia shopping. Despite online sales closing, tickets will be available at the box office. This event is an opportunity for community engagement and celebrating Detroit’s rich sports heritage.

Novi, Michigan – The Detroit Sports Spectacular is set to engage sports enthusiasts from May 30 through June 1, 2025, at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi. This three-day event celebrates its second annual occurrence, offering fans a unique opportunity to meet some of the most iconic athletes in Detroit’s sports history.

Tickets for the event are priced at $15 per day or $40 for access throughout the weekend. While online ticket sales have officially closed, attendees can still purchase tickets at the box office using cash only. In addition, fans can acquire separate tickets for autographs and photographs with their favorite athletes at the venue.

The event promises to be a star-studded occasion with various notable personalities from Detroit’s professional sports teams. Detroit Lions fans can look forward to meeting celebrated players such as Calvin Johnson, Barry Sanders, Aidan Hutchinson, Jared Goff, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jahmyr Gibbs, David Montgomery, and Brian Branch. Additionally, J.J. McCarthy, the current Minnesota Vikings quarterback and former University of Michigan star, will also be present.

Fans of the Detroit Pistons will be drawn to legends like Bill Laimbeer, Dennis Rodman, Rick Mahorn, and Mark Aguirre. The Detroit Tigers will be represented by hall-of-famers including Miguel Cabrera, Armando Galarraga, Alan Trammell, and Jack Morris, while the Detroit Red Wings will host icons such as Chris Osgood, Chris Chelios, Bret Hull, Adam Oates, and Mike Vernon.

Moreover, other diverse sports figures such as Reggie Jackson, Wade Boggs, and Christian Laettner will also participate in the festivities. The organizers highlight that the event is particularly special for Lions fans on Sunday, as it features both current stars and past legends, making for an unforgettable experience.

In addition to athlete meet-and-greets, attendees can explore the wealth of sports-related collectibles available at the event. A range of sports card and memorabilia dealers will set up booths, providing attendees the chance to discover and purchase unique items. Organizers encourage sports super fans to thoroughly explore all corners of the event to uncover hidden treasures and collectibles.

The Detroit Sports Spectacular is designed not only as a celebration of sports but also as an opportunity for the community to come together and share their passion for athletics. With its wide array of events and activities, it positions itself as a must-see occasion for all sports enthusiasts.

This year’s event promises to be an even bigger success than the inaugural edition, drawing fans from across the region to celebrate Detroit’s rich sports heritage. Whether through personal interactions with their favorite athletes or the thrill of discovering rare collectibles, attendees can expect a memorable experience throughout the weekend.

As the date approaches, excitement is building among fans eager to immerse themselves in the Detroit sports culture and connect with their heroes. The Detroit Sports Spectacular stands out as a highlight on the sports calendar, uniting past and present athletic excellence under one roof in Novi, Michigan.

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HERE Resources

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Redevelopment of Former Sears Store at Twelve Oaks Mall
Three New Retailers Set to Replace Former Sears at Twelve Oaks Mall
Michigan State Football Program Faces NCAA Allegations
Federal Trial Begins Over Labor Trafficking Allegations in Michigan
Novi Set for Mall Revitalization with New Entertainment Options
Pioneer High School to Face Novi High School in Baseball Showdown

Additional Resources

Novi City West Development Set to Transform Grand River Avenue

May 31, 2025

News Summary

Novi, Michigan, is about to embark on a transformative journey with the Novi City West development, a $270 million mixed-use project. This initiative aims to revitalize the Grand River Avenue corridor by introducing a vibrant urban district featuring a hotel, housing units, a grocery store, and restaurants. With a focus on enhancing community interaction and walkability, the project is supported by public funding through the Transformational Brownfield Program. Mayor Justin Fischer highlights its potential to position Novi as a key destination for national events. Completion is projected by 2030 or 2031.

Novi, Michigan is poised to undergo a significant transformation with the announcement of the Novi City West development, a $270 million mixed-use project designed to revitalize the Grand River Avenue corridor. Led by Blair Bowman, the owner of Suburban Collection Showplace, this ambitious initiative aims to create a vibrant urban district that will attract businesses, residents, and visitors alike.

The project is set to feature a range of developments, including a 225-room hotel, over 400 housing units, a grocery store, and a restaurant. These components are designed to enhance the quality of life for residents while fostering social interaction within the community. Additionally, a new pedestrian bridge over Grand River Avenue will connect different areas of the development, promoting walkability.

The city of Novi plans to support this large-scale project through public funding, specifically via the Transformational Brownfield Program. This program facilitates funding for significant developments by utilizing various state tax revenues aimed at brownfield revitalization.

Mayor Justin Fischer emphasized the strategic importance of the Novi City West proposal, projecting that it could position Novi as a prime destination for major national conferences and events. With an extensive eight-year planning process having already taken place, the development team addressed community concerns and sought input to ensure the project aligns with the needs of the residents.

The proposed entertainment district, dubbed “The Mix”, will feature repurposed historic buildings along with a farm-to-table restaurant and a brewery. The residential components of the project will include townhomes, active adult living communities, and rental apartments, catering to a diverse audience. This mix of housing options is intended to create an integrated community, embodying the walkable urban lifestyle that many modern developments prioritize.

As the development unfolds, existing infrastructure in the area will also see enhancements, particularly regarding traffic flow. The project is projected to generate 700 temporary construction jobs during its development phase, along with 150 to 200 permanent jobs in various sectors once completed.

Blair Bowman has been acquiring the approximately 50 acres of land targeted for this development since the late 1990s, underscoring his long-term vision for the area. The development is not only aimed at economic growth but also at fostering a sense of community through its design and features.

The timeline for completion extends to 2030 or 2031, with groundbreaking anticipated by summer 2026 if state incentives are secured. As plans continue to progress, Bowman will present the project at the upcoming Mackinac Policy Conference in an effort to garner legislative approval and additional funding support.

The Novi City West development signifies a pivotal step in enhancing the Grand River Avenue corridor and shaping the future of Novi. With its ambitious scope, the project promises to impact economic growth, community engagement, and urban development in the region.

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HERE Resources

Detroit Residents Rally Against DTE Energy’s Rate Hike Proposal
United Airlines Announces Unprecedented Fare Cuts
Novi’s Twelve Oaks Mall to Add New Tenants
Novi City West: A $270 Million Development Project
Novi City West: A New Mixed-Use Development Proposal
Novi to Launch $270 Million City West Development Project
Bison Causes Traffic Jam on U.S. 31 in Michigan
Tecovas Opens First Store in Michigan at Hudson’s Detroit
Buc-ee’s to Expand into the Midwest with New Locations
Lawrence City Commission Approves New Apartment Complex

Additional Resources

Transportation Secretary Hosts Fundraiser Amid Controversy

May 31, 2025

News Summary

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy will host a fundraiser for Republican Senate challenger Bill Huizenga in Michigan, raising concerns among allies of Donald Trump. Duffy’s actions may violate protocol, leading to worries about the upcoming Senate race and potential fractures within the Republican Party. As Huizenga pursues a Senate seat amid NRSC support for another candidate, the implications of the event could influence party dynamics and election outcomes in Michigan.

Transportation Secretary Hosts Fundraiser Amid Internal Party Tensions

Washington D.C. – Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy is set to headline a fundraiser for Republican Senate challenger Rep. Bill Huizenga in Michigan on June 4, an event that has stirred controversy among allies of former President Donald Trump. Duffy’s involvement has raised eyebrows as it goes against the interests of the National Republican Senatorial Committee (NRSC) and Trump’s 2024 co-campaign manager, Chris LaCivita.

Controversy Surrounds Duffy’s Political Engagement

Sources close to Trump have indicated that Duffy’s activities may not have received the necessary clearance from the White House political operations team prior to his announcement of support for Huizenga. This has led to concerns regarding Duffy’s political engagements and a potential crackdown on Cabinet secretaries participating in political campaigns. With Trump’s endorsement still pending for Michigan’s Senate race, his allies are particularly wary of internal divisions that could weaken Republican chances in the upcoming election.

Huizenga’s Senate Aspirations and NRSC Backing

Huizenga, who has been actively preparing for a Senate run, has garnered attention following meetings with state strategists and national donors, especially during a recent gathering held on Mackinac Island. Despite Huizenga’s enthusiasm, he is vying for the same Senate seat that former Rep. Mike Rogers is contesting, which has put him at odds with the NRSC’s support for Rogers. In his campaign narrative, Huizenga has questioned Rogers’ past track record, suggesting that the previous failure to secure the Senate seat may not yield different results this time around.

Implications of Election Timing and Representation

In a separate yet relevant political issue, Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II is advocating for Governor Gretchen Whitmer to call a special election for the vacant 35th Senate District seat. This district has been without representation for 144 days since Kristen McDonald Rivet assumed her congressional seat. Gilchrist emphasized that the authority to call the special election lies solely with Whitmer and has expressed hope for a swift decision.

The special election’s outcome is expected to hold significant implications for the balance of power within the Michigan Senate. Should Republicans successfully win the 35th District seat, Senate representation would shift to a tie at 19-19, granting the party veto power over legislative actions. This potential shift has heightened calls for Whitmer to expedite the special election, reinforcing the importance of representation for constituents in the affected areas.

Context of Political Dynamics in Michigan

The current political landscape in Michigan is critical, with both parties strategizing around pivotal Senate seats. The NRSC’s backing of Mike Rogers indicates a strategic choice meant to bolster Republican chances in challenging the incumbent Democratic Senator Gary Peters. Meanwhile, Huizenga’s campaign aims to distinguish itself against the backdrop of the NRSC’s support for Rogers, creating a competitive atmosphere that could lead to a divisive primary.

Furthermore, in the 2022 elections, former state Senator Kristen McDonald Rivet triumphed over Republican Annette Glenn by a margin of 6 percentage points, underscoring the competitiveness of Michigan’s political battleground. The outcomes of both the special election for the 35th District and the Senate race could have lasting impacts on the political landscape moving forward.

As developments continue regarding Duffy’s involvement and Huizenga’s campaign activities, the upcoming June fundraiser is expected to catalyze further discussions within the Republican Party about political engagement and party unity ahead of pivotal elections.

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Former Michigan House Speaker Faces Trial for Embezzlement

May 31, 2025

News Summary

Lee Chatfield, former Michigan House Speaker, and his wife, Stephanie, are set to stand trial for multiple felony embezzlement charges stemming from a two-year investigation. The couple has pleaded not guilty to all charges, which allege that they misused funds from their political nonprofit for personal expenses. The charges could result in significant prison time, with Lee facing up to 20 years if convicted. The trial’s outcome may impact Michigan’s political landscape and discussions about accountability in leadership.

Lansing, Michigan – Former Michigan House Speaker Lee Chatfield and his wife, Stephanie Chatfield, are set to stand trial for multiple felony charges related to embezzlement. Ingham County Judge Molly Hennessey Greenwalt made this determination following a preliminary exam held on May 30, 2025. The Chatfields have pleaded not guilty to all charges and are scheduled for an arraignment hearing on June 11, 2025, in Ingham County 30th Circuit Court.

The charges against the couple arise from a two-year investigation by the Michigan Attorney General’s Office, which began in 2021. The investigation revealed allegations that the Chatfields diverted funds from their political nonprofit and campaign finances for their personal use. Among the reported misuse of funds were purchases made at various retail outlets, including high-end shops like Coach, expenses at a strip club, and transactions at souvenir stores in Universal Studios.

Lee Chatfield is facing a total of 13 felony counts, which include serious charges such as conducting a criminal enterprise, conspiracy, and embezzlement. If convicted of the most severe charge, he could face a prison sentence of up to 20 years. Stephanie Chatfield has been charged with two felony counts of embezzlement, with potential penalties of up to 10 years in prison if found guilty.

Details from the investigation indicate that an overwhelming 99.4% of Lee Chatfield’s personal credit card expenses were reimbursed by funds from the nonprofit organization over a year-long period. Such reimbursements involved not only extravagant items but also everyday expenditures like haircuts, dry cleaning, and car washes. Attorney General Dana Nessel highlighted the extensive evidence uncovered during the investigation, which points to elaborate schemes designed for personal gain.

The initial probe into Lee Chatfield was prompted by allegations of sexual assault raised by his sister-in-law, Rebekah Chatfield. However, the Attorney General’s office stated that no charges were filed in connection with these allegations due to insufficient evidence. The legal misstep concerning his alleged misconduct does not deter from the embezzlement charges currently facing him and his wife.

Despite the serious allegations, the Chatfields’ defense lawyers assert that the accusations are politically motivated and intend to bring forward other politicians as witnesses to support their case. In a January ruling, Judge Greenwalt dismissed additional larceny charges against Lee Chatfield, citing a lack of evidence to prove that he took funds without consent from colleagues.

Lee Chatfield’s career included serving as the House Speaker from 2019 to 2020, where he was known for his significant fundraising capabilities, amassing millions through various political action committees. However, the unfolding legal troubles could mar his political legacy and public perception.

As legal proceedings continue, the Attorney General’s office remains devoted to tackling public corruption while promoting transparency within Michigan’s political system. While the trial is still pending, the outcomes of these charges could potentially reshape the political landscape in the state.

A pretrial date for the couple has not yet been established, leaving the community and political analysts awaiting the upcoming court hearings with keen interest. The ramifications of this case may extend far beyond the Chatfields, possibly influencing future discussions on integrity and accountability within Michigan’s leadership.

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Michigan Potash and Salt Company Receives EPA Permits for New Mining Facility

May 31, 2025

News Summary

The U.S. EPA has authorized the Michigan Potash and Salt Company to proceed with a new mining facility in Evart Township, which will extract potash and salt at an estimated cost of $1 billion. The project has received significant financial backing from federal and state sources but faces community concerns regarding environmental impacts and water safety. It aims to create 200 permanent jobs and has the potential to produce 800,000 tons of potash and 1 million tons of salt annually.

Evart Township, Michigan – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recently authorized the Michigan Potash and Salt Company to proceed with plans for a new mining facility in Evart Township by granting three new permits and modifying three existing ones as of May 16. This facility is aimed at extracting potash and salt and is projected to cost approximately $1 billion.

The facility will be situated near Schofield Road and 120th Avenue in Osceola County. The company has been shaping this project for more than a decade and has received substantial financial backing including a conditional loan approval from the U.S. Department of Energy amounting to $1.26 billion and an $80 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

In addition to federal financial support, the Michigan Potash and Salt Company has also secured a $50 million tax subsidy from state lawmakers and $225 million in tax-exempt bonds from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Previously, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy had already provisionally approved a permit for the operation of this facility.

With the new EPA permits, the company is now authorized to inject salt water underground specifically into Class I wells for disposal, where this salt water is classified as non-hazardous. The facility also plans to potentially establish additional wells in northern Mecosta County. The regulatory framework requires that all Class I well operators confine waste injection to deep rock formations situated below the deepest underground drinking water sources, ensuring that the integrity of drinking water supplies is not compromised.

The EPA has confirmed the robustness of the confining layers for the new wells, specifying that the injection zones will utilize the Dundee Limestone, with the Bell Shale acting as a protective barrier. However, the specific volume of salt water intended for underground disposal has not yet been disclosed.

In terms of sustainability, the CEO of Michigan Potash has indicated that the facility plans to recycle approximately 90% of its water usage. The EPA’s Underground Injection Control program oversees the regulation of these wells to help safeguard drinking water quality.

The permitting process was expedited due to an executive order from President Trump aimed at increasing domestic mineral production. However, this expedited process has faced pushback from local residents who harbor concerns regarding potential water pollution, excessive water extraction, and emissions generated from the facility. A public comment period was conducted wherein the EPA responded in writing to the significant concerns raised by the community.

The mining operation is anticipated to yield up to 800,000 tons of potash and 1 million tons of salt annually. The extraction method, referred to as solution mining, is noted to be energy-intensive and can be more costly compared to similar mining methods employed in Canada.

Concerns from the community also extend to potential impacts on local wetlands and apprehensions regarding groundwater contamination adopting a long-term perspective due to potential engineering failures. Michigan Potash has asserted that the mine will generate approximately 200 permanent jobs, alongside about 1,400 jobs during the construction phase, which is expected to span three years, aiming for the facility to commence operations by 2028.

This mining initiative, while promising job creation and economic benefits, continues to be a topic of contention among local residents who are cautious about its environmental implications.

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Federal Trial Begins for Michigan Farm Contractor Over Labor Violations

May 31, 2025

News Summary

A federal trial has commenced against Purpose Point Harvesting LLC, accused of trafficking and labor violations involving Guatemalan workers. The trial in Michigan’s Western District will examine allegations of illegal fees, excessive hours, and controls over the workers’ lives. Testimonies reveal oppressive working conditions, with the outcome potentially influencing migrant worker rights in agriculture.

Federal Trial Begins for Michigan Farm Contractor Accused of Trafficking and Labor Violations Against Guatemalan Workers

Lansing, Michigan – A federal trial commenced on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, against Purpose Point Harvesting LLC, a farm labor contractor accused of trafficking and violating labor laws involving Guatemalan workers. The trial is taking place in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan before Judge Jane Beckering.

The allegations against Purpose Point Harvesting and its operators, Emilto Moreno Gomez and Lucille Jean Moreno, stem from a lawsuit filed in 2022 by a group of Guatemalan farmworkers. The plaintiffs contend that the contractor charged illegal recruitment fees, coerced them into working excessive hours, and underpaid them between 2017 and 2019. The workers assert that their passports were confiscated, their bank accounts were controlled by the defendants, and they faced threats if they attempted to leave their employment.

In response to the allegations, the defendants deny any wrongdoing and have filed counterclaims against the workers, asserting that the lawsuit is untrue. The trial is expected to last approximately seven days, with a jury of eight members already selected to hear the case. The plaintiffs are set to present their evidence first.

Key Testimonies and Evidence

The opening statements from the plaintiffs’ attorney highlighted that the farmworkers were “deprived of freedom” and forced into a “web of control.” Witness testimonies included those from Rubicella Berumen, a representative from the Michigan Department of Labor, who conducted wellness checks for the workers.

One of the plaintiffs, Darwin Joel Fuentes Perez, shared his experience of being recruited in 2017, where he paid $2,500 in fees. He provided details of his grueling work schedule, which began at 2 a.m. or 3 a.m. and extended until 8 p.m. or 9 p.m. Fuentes claimed that his initial paycheck of $300 was significantly lower than expected based on the hours he worked, with working hours frequently reaching up to 19 hours a day, especially during the peak asparagus harvest season.

Another plaintiff, Luis Gomez-Echeverria, began his testimony shortly after Fuentes, adding more details about their circumstances. The defendants’ legal team plans to challenge the accuracy of the plaintiffs’ claims regarding average working hours as the trial continues.

Context and Implications

Purpose Point Harvesting has faced prior lawsuits and investigations concerning similar allegations of labor violations, raising concerns about ongoing issues of wage theft and labor trafficking within the H-2A visa program, which covers migrant agricultural workers. There has been a notable rise in the number of H-2A workers reported in Michigan, intensifying scrutiny over labor conditions and potential exploitation.

The outcome of this trial could have significant implications for the agricultural industry, particularly regarding how cases involving migrant workers’ rights are handled. The ruling may set a precedent that influences future cases and policies related to labor trafficking and exploitation in agriculture.

As the trial unfolds, the focus will remain on the testimonies and evidence presented that examine the working conditions and treatment of migrant laborers in Michigan’s agriculture sector.

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