NORTHVILLIANS,
This past week’s events have been pretty amazing … locally, regionally & nationally. In downtown Northville, you may have heard by now that our DDA is readying outdoor eating and vending areas that include special structures (called “Heat in the Streets”) that are even more important since Gov. Whitmer’s emergency announcement Sunday night. See details below.
Additionally, the discussions nationally on election results have been on everyone’s minds. But as the smoke clears, let’s focus our thoughts on the local scene. This is a time for Northville unity, to come together and work for the future of our community. That’s what we all have in common – the betterment of the Ville. That’s why this week, I will take a quick look at some of the local support groups, then and now, who don’t see things in political Red & Blue, but in Orange and Black, all for Northville.
Today, we have many things to unite us as Northvillians, whether it’s promoting thoughtful development, supporting our local merchants, making nearby River Walks a reality, or enhancing our parks & family gathering areas. What we do locally goes beyond just us, it’s for the benefit of our children and our grandchildren.
On that note, I want to thank all citizens for signing up for the various task forces (Rouge Restoration/River Walk, Ford Field and Farmers’ Market) – the response has been overwhelming. Council approved participants Monday night, 11/16. These task forces along with the Sustainability Team will gather monthly. Their meetings are open to the public for your input and comments. See the City website for details.
Now, let’s take a look at the LATEST NEWS …
- From the Governor’s office Sunday night, the following was announced by the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services:
- What’s Open (11/18 – 12/8): Indoor gatherings (2 households, 10 people), Outdoor gatherings up to 25 people, Retail stores, Pre-School to 8th Grade (local district choice), Childcare, Manufacturing, Construction, Public Transit, Hair Salons, Gyms (individual exercise), Restaurants (outdoor dining/takeout), Professional Sports (no spectators), Parks & Outdoor Recreation, Funerals up to 25 people, Health care.
- Not open (11/18-12/8): High Schools & Colleges (in-person learning), workplaces where it can be done from home, theaters, indoor dining, bowling, ice skating rinks, casinos, organized sports (except professional), group fitness (for more detailed info, see Michigan.gov/Coronavirus).
- Leaders from several of Michigan’s largest hospital systems are gathering in a virtual news conference as they call on residents to heed warnings about the surge of COVID-19 cases. This spike has resulted in increased hospitalizations and pressure on our health care infrastructure across the state (ClickonDetroit.com).
- As we wait for mass production of a COVID-19 vaccine from Pfizer, University of Oxford/ AstraZeneca & Moderna (all within the 90%+ effective rate) and others who are prepping for a global launch, we must continue to mask up, wash up and social distance as much as possible (Wall Street Journal).
- Scientists suggest that by wearing a mask to prevent spreading the virus, you may be protecting yourself, too. Further evidence indicates that masks benefit both wearer and others (Washington Post).
- With a COVID-19 vaccine drawing closer, public health officials across the country are gearing up for the largest vaccination efforts in U.S history— a monumental undertaking that must distribute hundreds of millions of doses. The push could begin as early as next month (AP News).
- The US/Canada border continues to be closed until 11/21. However, shortly before this expiration, the Canadian Government could extend the closure for 30 additional days. (CANADIAN GOV.- CBSA-ASFC.GC.CA)
- U.S. Health officials continue again this week to urge Americans to get flu shots in hopes of thwarting a “twindemic (Scientific American).
COVID-19 CONFIRMED CASES: Northville has had 90 cases/7 fatalities, Township 726/30, Michigan 297K/8.5K, Nation 11.4M/252K. Global 56M/1.4M.
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SUPPORT GROUPS YESTERDAY AND TODAY
Now, let’s look at how some Northvillians have been coping with COVID & Zoom fatigue through various groups & organizations that have been providing support for years.
As I have written in the past, many groups that have historically assisted us locally are still here today. Notably, these noble organizations include the Rotary Club, Northville Woman’s Club, VFW & the American Legion, Civic Concern, and the Masons (this list is by no means complete).
Our religious organizations, along with counseling centers, have always played a key role in coaching and helping the community, dating back to the 1800s when circuit rider pastors would stay above the Wagon Wheel, at a home on Dunlap Street or at the old Gold Cure boarding house. Not only during recent times have these various historic churches (Presbyterian, Methodist, Baptist, Lutheran & Catholic) been there to assist the town’s folks, but their efforts go back to the Great Depression, WWII, the death of President Kennedy, the Riots in Detroit, 9/11, just to mention a few historically difficult times.
The Pandemic has been another time of trial & tribulation for all of us. Statistics show that close to 40% of Americans are experiencing some stress reactions from COVID-19 and have reached out for assistance in one way or another (CDC).
It’s up to us to slow down and listen to those around us who might be hurting (seniors, family, first responders, our medical professionals, our youth, Civic Concern, our businesses & others in the community). Last Wednesday, I had the good fortune to spend time at the VFW Hall & the American Legion on Veterans Day. It was my honor and privilege to be there with those that have given so very much for all of us. I urge you to reach out today and connect … to a friend or those in need, for their & your own well-being.
Together, and only together, will we get through this difficult stretch of time, keeping in mind the betterment of our community along with the well-being of our families & our country!
Keep that Northville Faith!
Brian Turnbull
Mayor – Northville
[email protected] / 248.505.6849
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