GIG May 2020

We miss you!

See you soon and SHOP MACOMB

RITA COLE Agent

The greatest compliment you can give is a referral.

Business Association of Grosse Ile

Grosse Ile Grand celebrates third birthday Time flies when you are having fun.

May 2020 marks the third anniversary of the Grosse Ile Grand and it has been a fun and enjoyable ride.

It has been a rewarding 36 months of bringing community news and information to our readers and offering a tremendous platform to our advertisers.

We’ve covered fun items - the Islandfest and an unbeaten high school football season - and frustrating items - multiple free bridge closings - but through it all it has been our pleasure to bring it to you.

This is just the beginning. We plan to be here for the long haul, highlighting community organizations, township news, high school sports and all the things that make Island life what it is.

We have continued publishing throughout the shutdown and we will be there when it finally ends to bring you information and provide a forum for advertisers to get back to business.

8146 Macomb St. Grosse Ile, MI 48138-1574 Bus: 734-675-6870 Fax: 734-675-0492 rita@ritacole.com

May 20 - June 19, 2020 • Gi-GrandNews.com

Test, track and attack!

Grosse Ile Health Organization leads pandemic assault Bill Stevenson Grosse Ile Grand

This might be the biggest story to hit Grosse Ile in our lifetimes. On a day that would have seen a huge crowd for the old News-Herald Track and Field Championships or reminiscent of the traffic jam of cars at the old naval base for the soccer tournament or annual Island Fest gathering, the serpentine line of cars snaking their way through the Industrial Park were here for a much more somber and telling issue COVID 19 testing for the entire Island.

The “event” was organized and brought to us by the Grosse Ile Health Organization, an entity born in response to the global pandemic that is still ravaging our world, both large and small.

Formed by “concerned and caring physicians,” Dr. Holle Janeski, Dr. Marla Price, Dr. Susan Chamberlain, Dr. Karla Kasza, with further support

from Dr. Joyce Vaclav, Dr. Vicki Athens, and Dr. Saba Cossor, the group’s battle cry is: “Test, track and attack!”

Dr. Holle Janeski explains, “We have been told that only those with symptoms should have testing. Despite this, many who have had symptoms of COVID-19 were turned away from testing. We know now that those who are transmitting the disease are asymptomatic people, that is, those who do not show any outward signs of the infection, but who are still highly contagious. Other people who do show signs of COVID-19 with significant fever, cough, and shortness of breath are home trying to survive or they are hospitalized just trying to live.

“The biggest risk to us right now as a community is the asymptomatic person who goes to the store or the gas station and can transmit the virus to 40 to 50 people. The time is now to target tests to all to determine who has COVID-19

You can call the office from our parking lot, and we will send someone out to swab you. asymptomatically so that we can do proper contact tracing to curb the continuation of this disease.”

On the first weekend of May, working with Supervisor Brian Loftus and Board Trustee, Carl Bloetscher, the Grosse Ile Health Organization, performed the nasal swab test for COVID-19 on all police, fire, recreation department personnel and SEE TEST, Page 3

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Page 2 • May 20 - June 19, 2020

GROSSE ILE GRAND

in 2020 leo Stevenson has been recognized by: Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” list

in 2019 leo Stevenson was recognized by: Forbes “America’s Top 250 Wealth Advisors” list

2019.

2019

GROSSE ILE GRAND

May 20 - June 19, 2020 • Page 3

Photos by Bill Stevenson

Drive up testing was available to Grosse Ile residents

TEST Continued from page 1 their families as a test run for the much larger island-wide response.

The following weekend was the “Big Day.” From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., doctors and nurses braved frigid, unseasonable weather to administer the 2,500 test kits acquired to meet the exigencies of the day. With no appointment necessary and at no cost to the patients, the toughest thing one had to do is fill out the on-line testing form, identifying name, address, date of birth, race, medical history, signs/symptoms, and insurance information.

In order to do the testing, the GIHO partnered with the FDA-approved Vibra Health Lab, facilitated by Dr. Vicki Athens. Most insurances had agreed to pay 100 percent of all COVID-19 testing, waiving deductibles and coinsurance for testing. Those without insurance would be covered under the Natural Disaster Act. Armed with the form, you simply drove down to the Grosse Ile airport with about 500 of your closest friends and followed the Cedar Point-like queue, in one of two lanes, staying in your vehicle.

You were met by Trustee Bloetscher, who explained the FDA-approved test procedures and the follow-up phone call you’d be receiving from Dr. Susan Chamberlain within the next couple of

days.

The line then branched out to four lanes on Midway Avenue, looking south towards Township Hall.

Directing traffic, Dr. Marla Price was firm in her assertion that, “we must kill the beast.”

She said, “I am fortunate to join such forward thinking physicians who have come up with a plan to get our island tested. Grosse Ile is a unique community, as you know, that can be

of the test, all the time while you’re staying in your car. You put the swab in your nose up to an inch, and swirl it in each nostril. The claim is, “If you can pick your nose, you can do the swab.”

The immediate sensation afterwards might show a sniffly nose or watery eyes. For our family of three, the total COVID-19 testing experience took less than 90 minutes, from arrival at 8:45 a.m. to drive-off.

Dr. Janeski posted on FaceBook

form to send into the lab. You can call the office from our parking lot, and we will send someone out to swab you.”

She continued, “There is an empowerment to know you are negative to COVID-19. If you test and know you are negative, you know the actions you have taken personally are effective.

You will know that you have done all that you can do to prevent the disease.

This is how we stop this virus!”

studied in regards to a community with quite strong demographics. This effort on large scale COVID-19 testing will make a very good study of a community that, while being part of Michigan, still has a defined boundary with set borders.

“I am very proud of this day.”

Moving to the testing stations, a doctor or nurse, fully garbed in PPE, takes your forms and heads to a makeshift tent set up for data and sample collection. They return with a glass vile and a swab for self-administration

that, “We will be considering doing another round of testing, likely in a couple of weeks. Testing yesterday was hard on the testers and volunteers due to the weather.

“Anyone who wants testing for this Grosse Ile initiative can still get tested Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at my office: Metro Shores Internal Medicine 18580 Fort Street in Riverview, Michigan. Phone number, 734 479-8800.

“You would not need an appointment. You still need to bring the

The next step in “killing the beast,” is large scale antibody testing, which would tell whether or not one has had the coronavirus in the past. This next phase in testing would take an even larger scale of operations to plan, mobilize and execute.

But, if what we have seen so far, such caring, heroic efforts on the part of the Grosse Ile Health Organization, local government officials, first responders, and a willing community working together for the good of all.

That is the spirit that made America.

Page 4 • May 20 - June 19, 2020

Coast Guard issues ‘Notice to Mariners’ The Grosse Ile Parkway Bridge was officially closed to vehicular traffic on Wednesday, May 6, 2020.

It was originally anticipated that there would be a brief overlap with the Jefferson Avenue Bridge project; however, the Jefferson Avenue Bridge was fully re-opened prior to the closure of the Parkway Bridge.

As a result of the closure, a Notice to Mariners has been broadcasted by the United States Coast Guard (USCG) regarding changes to the marine traffic schedule and clearances. These changes have been put into effect for the safety of the onsite construction personnel.

Most notably the following changes are in effect for marine traffic: n The bridge will only operate with a two-hour advance notice of arrival between the hours of 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. daily. Mariners must contact the bridge tender on Marine Channel 16. (This is for both commercial and recreational, the bridge will no longer open on the :15 and :45 of each hour from 7:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m.) n Scaffolding will be in place under the bridge, extending no more than five feet below low steel, there will be lights in place to warn mariners; however, those recreational vehicles that normally pass under the bridge without a need for opening should take extra caution ensuring that they account for a reduction in the vertical clearance under the bridge. If these recreational vehicles are no longer able to pass under the bridge due to the scaffolding, they must call for a bridge opening, following the procedure for the two (2) hour call ahead.

For additional updates and questions, the public can contact the Wayne County Roads Division at 888.ROAD CREW or residents and visitors can subscribe to email notifications of bridge updates, construction and maintenance updates and news in their communities via waynecounty. com.

GROSSE ILE GRAND

FROM THE SUPERVISOR

So far in 2020, nothing is going as planned Normally at this time of the year I would be returning from the Michigan Township’s Association Conference, full of fresh ideas and knowledge about how to provide you with better government.

I would also be getting ready for boating and fishing and getting yard work done. Nothing going as planned (except for yard work), that’s my brian best explanation of my loftus world at the moment.

First, Wayne County – what a great asset we have in both Wayne County Public Health and Wayne County Emergency Management. I’m on two separate weekly conference calls with these two agencies regarding how this pandemic affects Wayne County and what is being done, also how the County is marshalling resources to help fight the disease.

I have also received four calls from Warren Evans’ staff and my heart stops each time. This is our notification that a member of our community was lost to COVID 19. Usually I do not have a name, but ours is a close neighborhood and every loss is a lost friend.

My other conference calls are hosted by Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, much more expansive as she invites leadership from throughout Michigan’s 12th Congressional District. The perspectives are very broad and, unfortunately, the discussions get political very quickly.

Mine is a small voice – I am focused on the welfare of my fellow residents, not looking for a brighter spotlight. I listen politely.

I wrote last month about emerging from the pandemic and how local governments would be expected to “pick up the pieces” of daily life throughout Michigan and the entire nation. The squabbling, confrontations and protests in Lansing will not make our jobs any easier.

At this point I’m assigning most of the blame for the confusion to our legislature – unsurprisingly, their constitutional mandate is to legislate, not sit back and let the governor decide which laws she intends to follow or issue by decree.

Rather than draw ideological battle lines, why not do your jobs? Research

the available medical science, debate the issues and pass legislation that makes sense and enforce the intended limits of PA 390.

By the way, when that Act was passed in 1976, Michigan had a Republican Governor and both houses were majority Democrat, the opposite of today.

Doing our part to fight the pandemic A group of local physicians recently banded together to begin organized testing of Island residents for the presence of the virus (not the antibody test).

Trustee Carl Bloetscher and I spent a Saturday afternoon (2 May) guiding drive-through swab testing, primarily for our first responders - we would like to know if any have been exposed so we can take appropriate preventive measures.

I learned a lot about this virus and also a lot about epidemiology from the doctors I spent that afternoon with. Granted, I’m not doing much to eliminate this virus, but the testing and the knowledge collected could make a difference in our understanding of this and future pathogens that will undoubtedly challenge us. Expect expanded testing in the future.

This is an election year! `I was following some of the social media responses to the list of candidates for Grosse Ile Township Board of Trustees as all positions are on the ballot this coming November.

There was much concern that no one had filed as a Democrat candidate and what that will mean to our democracy. Short answer, it means that those who support Democrat Party positions will have to file as a Republican if they want to serve in an elected position.

The important fact is that there are NO partisan issues at the Township level. Why we have a partisan primary still baffles me, I have queried our state representatives through the years but attempts to get legislation to remedy this seems to get no interest in Lansing.

Speaking for myself, at the lower end of the state’s political food chain, I have to deal with every level of state

government. Over the past 12 years I have worked with Democrats and Republicans in the state house, state senate and the Governor’s office.

Kathleen Law (D) was followed

by Deb Kennedy (D) who was followed by Pat Sommerville (R) who was followed by Darrin Camilleri, currently in office.

In the State Senate, Patrick Colbeck (R) was followed by Coleman Young II (D) (through redistricting) and now Stephanie Chang (D). Do you see the trend here? Anyone in a Township Board position who cannot or will not put partisan issues aside will not be an effective advocate for our Township.

I have had a cordial relationship with all former and current office holders and remain in contact with many of them. My wife and Deb Kennedy remain good friends.

By the time you are reading this – remember I wrote this on May 4th – we Township residents are relying on one bridge to connect us with the rest of the world. Hopefully the mayhem that inevitably occurs on the first few days has subsided and you have begun to plan your commutes around this inconvenience. Improved signage, retiming of traffic lights and your acquisition of bridge passes (you did get your bridge pass, didn’t you?) will make all of our transits smoother.

Chief Warnick and Deputy Chief Hardin will continue to try to improve traffic flow for the duration of the closure.

I was somewhat surprised when the repair dates were expanded through December, no real reasons were given and we’re all hoping for completion as soon as possible.

Key members of our Township and I have been involved in pre-construction meetings for the Parkway bridge and also the West River Road overpass, somewhere in contract discussions the dates changed.

That said, none of us want to see another closure next summer for repairs that were not done this year.

The conflict with repairs on Jefferson were made known just weeks before the bridge closure, Commissioner Palamara and I were unable to convince the contractors to modify SEE SO FAR, Page 5

GROSSE ILE GRAND

May 20 - June 19, 2020 • Page 5

‘New Normal’ caring responses

Grateful on many levels an impromptu parade of now-familiar yellow Priority Waste garbage First, it was a “drivetrucks made their way to by” surprise 50th birthday the Kroger parking lot, party for a dear friend and staged a gratitude who was recovering from picket line. multiple life-threatening Shockingly, some illnesses. More than forty rumor-mongers took to cars full of well-wishers, Twitter, that there was brandishing banners some kind of “problem” and signs, yelling and going on in the front honking, waving and of Kroger, and that the sending their Love to the workers were protesting family, gathered on their and going on strike. front lawn.

In an on-site interview, The caravan was one of Mitch Daly, Priority the first virtual birthday Waste spokesperson said, parties at the early stages “Our workers are so of the pandemic. Thanks thankful to the people of to the Grosse Ile Public Grosse Ile for welcoming Safety Department, them during this it’s become a still cool incredibly hard time for recognition of Island natal Photo by Bill Stevenson our community. We hope days. this little parade would Workers from Priority Waste said a loud, visible thank you to Kroger Then, on Easter provide some positivity and Kathy’s Cafe. morning, who should to the community in this appear on every street on blaring and caterwauling time of chaos.” “thank you,” to a “thank you” Grosse Ile - the Easter Bunny. horns, Bunny spread joy and And in this time of misery from the workers and staff EB made his grand entrance brought a smile to many a and uncertainty, a little love of Kroger and Kathy’s Café to the neighborhoods, seated disbeliever. and human kindness go a long for providing the sanitation on a regal throne in the back On April 20, the men way. workers food and allowing of the Public Safety pick-up and women who work for them to use their restrooms. truck. Heralded by sirens Priority Waste wanted to say So, around noon that day,

Bill Stevenson Grosse Ile Grand

Dreams Dashed: Class of 2020 perspective on pandemic Paige Allen

Special to Grosse Ile Grand

“I hate high school” is a sentiment I’ve heard time and time again within four years at Carlson High School. I’ve even said it myself. Wake up at six, sit in class for hours on end, do your homework to maintain that GPA, just to do it all again the next day. At a glance, it seems mundane, almost trivial; you spend all four years begging to get out, raring to go, ready to rip that diploma right out of your principal’s hands and run for the hills.

Until it ends.

You wake up at six, shower, grab your lunch, and suddenly your world of repetition is rocked to its core. A natural disaster has occurred, and you will never have that high school experience back.

Everything has come crashing down

all too soon as you are told that your final musical will never see the stage, that you’ll never get to sit and laugh with your friends at lunch again, that prom and a true graduation may no longer be in the realm of possibility.

You’re pleading for that boring normalcy to come back, as the fear of sickness and leaving your home set in hard; the realization of all the little things you took advantage of becomes more and more clear.

This is the reality I have been faced with this spring.

I never appreciated all the good times I had and could have had until they were gone. I may not get a chance to see many of the people I love again - whether they might move away, lose interest in me, or get sick within our current climate - and

I find myself wondering if I took every chance I could to make memories with them, if I did a good enough job showing them how much I loved them.

It’s almost poetic, in a way: I had to lose the tail end of my senior year to fully understand how much I loved high school.

I’ve been told ever since I was a freshman to appreciate this time while it lasts and I tossed the idea aside, believing that high school was just another hurdle to jump, so I should run as fast as possible.

Now, with the world on lockdown, the proverbial idea of “appreciate what you have before it’s over” is clearer than ever.

I’ve never missed the simple high school shenanigans, those band concerts and hallway talks I’ll never get back, as much as I do now.

SO FAR

Continued from page 4 their schedules as the contracts were written separately.

Disappointing, but keep in mind this is a Wayne County contract for a County road in another community.

I’ll close with information of local importance - At 10:19 AM Tuesday, 28 April, Grosse Ile Fire and Rescue responded to a residential house fire on St. James Drive. Chief Bodrie and Fire Marshall Kevin Langley, along with seventeen firefighters, arrived at the scene to find a home fully engulfed in flames. The firefighters immediately set up operations and began suppressing the fire.

As neighboring homes were in danger due to the intense heat, Chief Bodrie called Downriver Mutual Aid for support, both Trenton and Woodhaven responded with men and equipment.

The home in which the fire originated was completely destroyed and a neighboring home suffered significant damage due to the intensity of the fire. Because of the prompt, professional response of our Fire and Rescue personnel, damage was kept to a minimum and no one was injured. After the scene was declared safe, neighbors assisted the displaced residents with collection of personal effects and salvageable household goods. Rumors of hydrant and equipment failure are absolutely false.

Obviously a lot is still happening on and around our Island, I have tried to focus on the events that will help you with your decisions and future planning. Please continue to be careful, stay safe and stay healthy.

Also, let’s all be careful on the roads and bike paths and keep them safe for all enjoying springtime on Grosse Ile. Best wishes to all.

Page 6 • May 20 - June 19, 2020

GROSSE ILE GRAND

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GROSSE ILE GRAND

May 20 - June 19, 2020 • Page 7

Photoa by Larry Caruso

Free bridge closure likely to last through December The Grosse Ile Parkway Bridge - the free bridge is officially closed. It is expected that the bridge will remain closed for an extended period throughout the summer and into the fall with a projected reopening in December 2020, barring any unforeseen delays or inclement weather.

“We understand that we’re in the midst of unprecedented times, however, safety and integrity remain as top priorities of our administration” says Beverly J. Watts, Director of the Department Public

Services.

“We have a responsibility to the citizens of Grosse Ile to uphold our commitment to improve the Grosse Ile Parkway Bridge and with the help of our consultants, constituents and colleagues, we’re able to do so safely and cohesively.”

The Grosse Ile Bridge is a 90-year-old historic bridge. The County performed emergency repairs on the bridge back in November 2019. The upcoming rehabilitation will increase the life expectancy of the

bridge and lift current weight restrictions.

Wayne County has 232 bridges within its 43 communities. For updates and questions, the public can contact the Wayne County Roads Division at 888.ROAD CREW or residents and visitors can subscribe to email notifications of bridge updates, construction aCnd maintenance updates and news in their communities via waynecounty.com.

Page 8 • May 20 - June 19, 2020

GROSSE ILE GRAND

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May 20 - June 19, 2020 • Page 9

Westcroft Gardens & Farm is open and focused on the future For eight generations, descendants of Gen. Alexander Macomb — his statue is in Detroit’s Campus Martius Park —have owned and operated Grosse Ile’s Westcroft Gardens & Farm.

Now the 27-acre farm, sometimes called the “jewel of Grosse Ile,” is poised for the future with a new business plan, which includes an

PAULA NEUMAN

Grosse Ile Grand

orchard of sweet cherry trees and a field of flowering lavender. Visitors will be able to harvest the cherries and lavender themselves.

The plan was devised by Erica Lee Jackson, who has been the manager of the farm since 2017. She’s a direct descendant of Macomb, who purchased the land from the Potawatomi Indians in 1776.

The farm on West River Road opened for this year’s season May 1, and gardeners can safely get the products the place is famous for, including azaleas, rhododendrons, annuals, perennials, organic vegetables, herbs, trees, shrubs and a specially blended soil conditioner.

“In order to ensure the safety of you and our staff in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, we have phone ordering, virtual personal shopper appointments and curbside pickup in place,” Jackson said.

Visit westcroftgardens.com or the farm’s Facebook page to order or learn more about ordering.

Westcroft grows its own hybrid varieties of azaleas and rhododendrons created by Macomb’s great-grandson Ernest Stanton. He returned from serving in World War I and gradually converted the farm’s fields of hay into landscaped botanical gardens and added its first greenhouse. During World War II, the farm had another temporary change, when Stanton was asked to produce food for the military.

“He raised thousands of turkeys until V-J Day, after which he never wanted to see or hear a live turkey on the farm again,” according to Westcroft’s written history.

The farm’s new business plan has no provision for turkeys in its future,

but it does have a pollinator garden “My background is more in business “We are estimating that the trees will that will be ready this summer with operations,” she said. “I’m very be of harvestable size around 2025,” a seating area so visitors can enjoy numbers oriented.”

Jackson said. butterflies, birds and bees.

In spite of that, she found that she Next year, she plans to have a field of “Eventually, we would like the area loves the outdoor work involved in the lavender planted, as well. to become a certified wildlife habitat farm’s operation.

“Not only is lavender beautiful and by the National Wildlife Foundation, “It’s very satisfying and very versatile in its uses, it also is not and be able to provide educational components that teach the ecological benefits of habitat gardening,” Jackson said.

Also new this summer will be a greenhouse, dubbed Azalea House, for use by the community. The space will be available to rent for weddings, graduation parties and other events.

“We are also looking into providing the space to community-benefiting organizations on certain days free of charge,” Jackson said. “We will also utilize the space to increase our educational and workshop offerings to our customers that will allow all of us to grow together.”

Jackson grew up in Connecticut and as a child, visited the Grosse Ile farm on holidays and summer vacations. She has a degree in international environmental policy, and a head for business.

“I knew the history of the farm and the family legacy, so after I graduated, I decided to move out here and just learn more about it,” Jackson Erica Lee Jackson in the Westcroft Garden greenhouse said. “I was going to work there for a year and move on.

I’ve been generally around ever since. beautiful,” Jackson said. “You can liked by deer, which is always a large I came back, left again and came actually see what you’ve done, and concern here on Grosse Ile,” Jackson back again, as is the nature of a lot of you get a sense of accomplishment.” said. “The lavender will provide family businesses. When it was time She has hired a horticulturist and staff another potential pick-your-own area for my aunt (Stanton’s granddaughter that have experience and expertise in addition to creating the opportunity Denise De Beausset who ran the farm with growing the farm’s prized plants. to provide lavender crafting for 30 years) to retire, I was the only “I’m very lucky to have such good workshops and products like sachets one in my generation who had ever staff that love what they do,” Jackson and essential oils.” worked here, so they asked me if I said. “They are really the ones that It’s not always easy to balance the wanted to come back and take over.” keep our standard stuff going.” farm’s financial needs with the weight At that point, Jackson had about seven

In addition to the “standard of the family legacy, she said, but “it’s years of experience with the farm’s stuff,” this year Westcroft staff will very rewarding work.” operations. As its new manager, she plant 66 sweet cherry trees to grow “We are proud of our history and found she still had a lot to learn, and into a pick-your-own orchard for cannot wait to remain a place of joy made many calls to her aunt, she said families to enjoy the fruit and also the and pride for everyone that comes.” with a laugh. spring cherry blossoms.

Page 10 • May 20 - June 19, 2020

GROSSE ILE GRAND

CULINARY CAPERS

No yeast? Buttermilk cornbread is an easy alternative

When I couldn’t buy a loaf of bread last month because the stores were sold out, I thought to myself, “No problem. I can use my bread machine that’s been collecting dust in the basement for the last the 20 years.”

Problem: I had forgotten that the recipes in the book that came with the bread machine call for powdered milk and yeast, and the stores were also sold out of both.

(According to the April 24 edition of the Wall Street Journal, sales of yeast have increased 410 percent , and powdered milk, 180 percent since the coronavirus crisis. In addition, the price of baking powder is up 180 percent; EVELYN CAIRNS rice, 106 percent; pasta, 104 percent; Grosse Ile soup, 100 percent; and frozen pizza, 84 Grand percent. No wonder!)

I always have a good supply of cornmeal on hand, so at least I could bake cornbread. I found a recipe online at Café Delights.com that is easier and equally as delicious as Once Upon a Chef Jennifer Segal’s Corn Muffins (the muffin recipe was published in my February 2019 Culinary Capers column. I enjoyed the cornbread recipe, authored by Katrina, with low-cal Curried Shrimp and Butternut Soup, another quickie recipe. I’ve made Katrina’s recipe twice and like it best using white granulated sugar instead of brown sugar.

The soup contains only 180 calories (10 from fat, 1 g. total fat, 9 g. saturated fat and 95 mg. cholesterol).

Because I couldn’t find 8-ounce packages of frozen pureed squash, I puréed frozen butternut cubes in my food processor. An immersion blender would have worked even better. The soup was ready to eat in less than a half hour.

I suggest adding only half the amount of curry and tasting the soup before adding more. Also, be sure the shrimp have no tails, or remove them.

EASY BUTTERMILK CORNBREAD 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 cup yellow cornmeal ¼ cup light brown sugar or white granulated sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda ¼ teaspoon salt 1 cup buttermilk (shake before measuring) ¼ cup honey 2 large eggs, lightly beaten ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly (or 1/3 cup cooking oil)

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. and position a rack in the middle. Lightly grease a 9-inch square baking pan with butter. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In another bowl, combine the buttermilk, honey and eggs. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the buttermilk mixture. Combine the two mixtures, mixing well, then add the slightly cooled butter or the cooking oil. Mix until just combined.

Don’t overmix. Add to the pan and bake 20 to 25 minutes or until the cornbread begins to brown and a toothpick comes out clean.

CURRIED BUTTERMILK AND SHRIMP SOUP 2 8-ounce packages frozen pureed buttermilk squash (may be labeled cooked squash or cooked winter squash) 12-ounce can evaporated fat-free milk (I used 2 percent) 2 teaspoons sugar 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 8 ounces cooked shrimp 1 tablespoon curry powder (taste soup while adding in small amounts) Salt and freshly ground pepper to taste 2 teaspoons flaked coconut In a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, bring squash and milk to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer 5 minutes. Add sugar and pumpkin pie spice and continue to simmer 5 minutes. Add shrimp, curry powder, salt and pepper and cook 1 more minute. Add the coconut and ladle into individual bowls and top with equal portions of the shrimp.

(Do you need a special recipe, or do you have a favorite recipe or cooking tip you would like to share with Culinary Capers readers? Please email your requests, questions or culinary contributions to Evycairns@aol.com. Please include your phone number.)

If you want help, be sure to put your oxygen mask on first My daughter and I were playing a video online while she was at her dad’s last week. The video game, Astroneer, is set in space, and the characters are on a foreign planet.

To get anywhere, the characters either have to stay connected to the oxygen tether or fill up their portable oxygen tank. As we were playing, I disconnected from the tether to explore.

Before I knew it, my character had died because I hadn’t filled up my portable oxygen tank.

I told my daughter what happened and said, “That will preach.”

Rev. Heather K. I heard a loud sigh over the headset. “Mom,” Oberlin she said in a voice that told me her eyes were Pastor, St. Thomas firmly rolled in the back of her head, “do you have Lutheran Church to be a pastor ALL the time?”

Why, yes. Yes, I do.

Back in the good old days, when we could be crammed together like sardines on an airplane, there was one thing I would always do: listen to the safety instructions, no matter how many times I’ve flown before. Before I settle into a good book and some music, I make sure that I know where the exit is, and I visualize remaining calm while I put on my oxygen mask.

That rule always gives me pause; even if you’re flying with someone, put on your own mask first. To me, that sounds counter-intuitive. It’s hard for me to imagine flying with my children and putting my own mask on before helping them with theirs.

So why the rule?

We can’t help others if we ourselves are gasping for air. To be the most helpful and effective, we need to be able to breathe. Taking care of your very real needs is not intended to be a Hunger Game, where the strongest survive. Rather, taking care of our needs provides us with the opportunity to rest and recharge.

When this all began in March, I was hopeful that we’d be able to worship in person by Easter. This, I thought, was simply going to be a two- to three-week sprint before things returned to normal.

What began as a 100 yard dash became a mile, which became a 5k, which turned into a half marathon, which developed into a marathon. It’s hard to tell if we are at mile 14 or mile 26.1 in this marathon. We’re running a race we’ve never run before, and the course is uncharted.

Not only is this a marathon, but it’s also a roller coaster (maybe we could add that feature to the Sims Run next year?). Nightmares have become so widely prevalent that major media outlets are writing articles about the phenomenon. Statistically, cases of substance abuse and domestic violence are on the rise. We have really good days, and we have days where everything seems like too much.

Taking care of ourselves is not a luxury; it is an absolute must. It is not selfish to do things that refresh your spirit. Go fishing, spend the day on your boat, take a nap…whatever your “oxygen mask” is right now, do it.

Please take care of yourselves. While I’m not a licensed counselor, I am available for conversation. If needed, I can make referrals to appropriate doctors. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of harming themselves, please call 911 or the Suicide Prevention Hotline (1-800-273-TALK [8255]). It is a United Statesbased suicide prevention network of 161 crisis centers that provides a 24/7, toll-free hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.

GROSSE ILE GRAND

May 20 - June 19, 2020 • Page 11

Partnership to aid World Medical Relief

Whatever you did to the least of these Editor’s Note: This story was written at the early onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, and highlights a partnership that had begun prior to the current emergency situation we find ourselves in. The activities of the donation program for durable medical equipment and all volunteering have been suspended and will resume when the crisis is over.

Relief in Detroit to “serve the sick and poor, locally, nationally, and internationally.”

World Medical Relief was founded in 1953, during the Korean War, by a native Detroiter, Mrs. Irene M. Auberlin. After watching a television program about blue-eyed, biracial Korean orphans, she mobilized her family and friends to collect food, baby clothing, cribs, and medicines to ship to South Korea. By the time In the year 1623, John Donne, Dean of St. Paul’s they were through, they were able to provide assistance Cathedral in London, was stricken with an epidemic to more than 400 needy, seemingly hopeless children at fever that swept through Europe, killing thousands. the Star of the Sea Hospital and Orphanage in Inchon.

As he lay in his bed, fighting the pestilence, he began As word of her efforts became known, the mission to compose, Devotions expanded to collecting and distributing recycled Upon Emergent medical and dental equipment, medical supplies, and Occasions. Upon hearing medicines to aid thousands of ill and poor people the death knell in the around the world.

BILL distance, he penned Tirelessly, Mrs. Auberlin asked doctors, hospitals, STEVENSON Meditation XVII. He and pharmaceutical companies to help her turn “the Grosse Ile Grand wrote: sins of waste into the miracle of mercy worldwide.”

“No man is an island, entire of itself; every man Perfect good, yet outdated medical equipment is a piece of the continent, a part of the main; if a were donated and her husband, Lester did the clod be washed away by the sea, Europe is the less, refurbishing and repairs. Hospital beds, surgical as well as if a promontory were, as well as if a manor equipment, wheelchairs, bedpans, operating tables, of thy friend’s or of thine own were; any man’s death insulin, antibiotics, and x-ray machines flooded the diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind, and humanitarian effort. therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; With the support of the Kresge Foundation, the it tolls for thee.” mission of World Medical Relief expanded, and moved Today, John Donne’s words take on greater to an eight story warehouse in Detroit to fulfill the meaning. growing needs of a suffering world. Volunteers from Long before the fear and reality of the Covid-19 local churches and philanthropic organizations helped load shipping containers with surplus medical resources, shipping them to almost every continent where there was a need.

The outreach grew year after year, supplying more than 100 different countries throughout the world.

In 1966, World Medical Relief worked with the United Way in Detroit to establish a local Prescription Program for Senior Citizens.

The program is still in operation today, providing prescription medical assistance for low-income seniors without health Former Deputy Police Chief Skrocki and Pastor Heather Oberlin insurance. coordinate World Medical partnership.

Most recently, the local virus, people of goodwill have come together to make connection with World Medical Relief began with their little corner of the world, or others in faraway the Southeastern Michigan Synod of the Evangelical places, a better place to live.

Lutheran Church in America. ELCA churches So, in these troubled times, it’s good to know throughout the region raised more than $20,000 last that connective efforts have been in place between year to send a shipping container of medical supplies Downriver’s Beaumont Hospital-Trenton, St. Thomas to Haydom Hospital in Mbulu, Tanzania through Lutheran Church on Grosse Ile, and World Medical World Medical Relief. For the cost of the shipping and

container, more than $450,000 of medical and dental equipment, lab instruments, medicines, and supplies were sent to meet the needs of the Mbulu community.

Every ten dollars donated garnered $218 worth of supplies.

Hearing of the container project effort at St. Thomas Lutheran Church, former Grosse Ile Deputy Police Chief, Al Skrocki became intrigued. Since his retirement from the GIPD, he had been working in the Security Department of Beaumont SouthshoreTrenton.

Skrocki recalls, “I saw an internal newsletter at Beaumont that talked about World Medical Relief, and efforts on the part of the hospitals in Wayne, Taylor, and Trenton to gather used or surplus medical equipment, and a bell went off about our efforts at church to send the container to Tanzania.”

“I contacted Kari Szczechowski, [Magnet Program Coordinator for Beaumont-Trenton], and said ‘we can extend our footprint and work together in a common cause for World Medical Relief.’”

Kari Szczechowski said, “We are happy to partner with World Medical Relief and St. Thomas Lutheran and act as a facilitator in this important work. By our efforts, we can make a difference in the lives of those sick and poor throughout the world. In these troubled times, let us not forget that we are not the only ones suffering. There are people in the world much worse off on a day to day basis, than we can ever imagine.”

So the call went out to members of St. Thomas to donate gently used and clean hospital beds, wheelchairs, shower chairs, walkers, canes, crutches, and commodes. Additionally, medical supplies that were unopened and not expired were part of the ask. Wound dressings, IV kits, tubing, tape, rolled bandages, syringes, colostomy supplies, adult diapers, blue pads, and other personal hygiene items were on the list.

And, the response was tremendous. The first collected shipment went out on December 1st, with others planned for once a month pick-up. And then, life as we know it, changed. . .

Rev. Heather Oberlin, pastor of St. Thomas was moved by the local response, “I am really excited to partner with Beaumont Hospital. As Christians, we are committed to helping the poor, the sick, the disadvantaged, the widowed, and orphans, it is a blessing that we are able to help those in need not only in our communities, but throughout the world.”

We remember, ”Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or need clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?”

“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

Page 12 • May 20 - June 19, 2020

LISTENING IN ON THE ISLAND

Residents come up with ways to overcome pandemic As Jack and I sit in our sunroom overlooking the Detroit River, we have spent hours in “isolation,” except for occasional trips to Kroger, a run to pick up my repaired sewing machine, and dropping off bundled cardboard at the Taylor yard waste and PAMELA A. FRUCCI recycling center.

Grosse Ile Grand Besides the regular passing of cars on the roads, we see many more folks (whole families) on bikes, walking dogs, and pushing strollers---taking a break to enjoy better weather and getting outdoors.

Luckily, if we can’t enjoy personal contact with friends or go to church (other than a service via computer,) we still have a phone to talk to family and friends. At least the Corona-virus can’t be transmitted via telephone wires!

50-year-old sewing machine ground to a halt Fifty years ago I bought a used and refurbished Singer sewing machine that came out of a home economics classroom back when home economics was a course that a lot of girls took many years ago.

It served me well for all those years until this March when sewing on a project it made a grinding sound and came to a halt..

Not good, I thought and when I took it over to A-OK Vac & Sew repair shop in Taylor, the repairman said, “The gears are stripped; its days are over.”

I’m not the seamstress my mother Bernice Marsh was, but I do a lot of sewing. When she died in 2002, our granddaughter Emily got her sewing machine in a cabinet that ended up as a night stand in her bedroom.

Emily’s now a graduating senior at the University of Michigan and I got the sewing machine. It hadn’t been used for over 30 years but I was hoping it still might have some “life” in it and could replace my deceased Singer.

A-OK Vac & Sew got it up and running and proclaimed it in great

working order. It’s made with metal and not with plastic parts that sewing machine companies are using now.

The repair cost far less than buying a brand new sewing machine and I will have sentimental pleasure sewing on my late mother’s refurbished machine.

Jack’s 90-year-old baby blanket back in our hands Here’s another item that brings me sentimental pleasure.

My husband Jack’s sister in Lansing brought up from their basement a blue and white checkered baby blanket she’s been keeping that was Jack’s when he was a baby 90 years ago.

Other than a ragged binding and a large hole in one side, it was in pretty good shape.

With a little tender care, I removed the tattered binding and trimmed the blanket where the hole was obvious.

It needed a new binding and I was lucky to find just the right shade of blue and white blanket binding which I hand stitched to the blanket.

I’m hoping that some future great grandchild will someday be the recipient of this blue and white family “heirloom.”

We serenade 104-year-old Our daughter has made a friend of a former actress/singer in New York City, whose 104th birthday was March 21. Jack and I called her and sang “Happy Birthday.” She told us Trader Joe’s had just de--livered a huge box of treats for her.

Every time she shops there, she exits singing “New York, New York” and she sang it to us over the phone.

Glider goes back ‘home’ Fifty years ago when we moved inland from 20310 East River, we took a glider off the porch with us.

It’s going back home with the new owners Tom and Gina Dudash who recently bought the house.

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Staying safe and healthy uuring coronavirus As circumstances change around us, rest assured our practice stands with you during this global crisis.

While we’ve always been committed to painstaking sanitation and implementing disease mitigation strategies, we’re taking extra special precautions these days.

As chiropractors, we have a role to play in helping “flatten the curve” and follow sound, scientific public health advice to slow the spread of the virus.

To help you stay healthy and safe, we thought we’d pass along a few tips: n Wash your hands with soap, for at least 20 seconds n Eat a well-balanced, nutrient rich diet n Maintain recommended social distancing n If you’re feeling ill, stay home – and reach out to your medical provider As always, we’re here for you and we’ll do everything we can to help.

Hydration Strategies It’s an essential building block for life and something we need to keep us going—yet so many people across the world don’t drink even half of the daily recommended amount of water to keep dehydration at bay.

Why is water so important?

It helps our bodies function better in nearly every way. And as chiropractors, we care about how your body performs day in and day out.

Here are three simple ways that you can help your body take in more water each day: 1. Drink water through a straw. Why? Taking in water through a straw allows

you to drink larger amounts in a shorter time.

2. Add fruits and veggies to your diet like watermelon, pineapple and tomato—all of which are more than 90 percent water.

3. Add ice to non-water drinks. This adds water to your beverage and keeps it cool.

Natural Sciatica Relief As the largest nerve in our bodies, it’s no wonder that so many people find themselves dealing with sciatic pain at some point in their lives.

Many reach for pills to manage this dull-to-sharp pain that can radiate from the legs, buttocks, and back. But you should know that many find relief with natural methods.

While you may think that movement causes more pain, discomfort caused by sciatica actually worsens from prolonged sitting or standing in a fixed position.

Taking a brief 15-minute walk can bring relief to your sciatic nerve.

Other natural methods for relieving pain brought on by sciatica include ice packs, moist heat packs, yoga, and massage.

Chiropractic care regularly helps those suffering with sciatica and leg pain. If you know someone in misery and has been threatened with back surgery, make sure they give us a call first. Remember, chiropractic first, drugs second and surgery last. ~ Cousineau Chiropractic

Page 14 • May 20 - June 19, 2020

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May 20 - June 19, 2020 • Page 15

Community Gardens receives $5,000 GIEF grant BILL STEVENSON Grosse Ile Grand

At its virtual Zoom board meeting held the day after Easter, the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation approved a $5,000 grant to the Community

non-profit farm utilizing high tunnel, “hoop house” farming for agricultural education and a mechanism to provide food for the community.”

In explaining the grant program objective, Danielle West stated, “Our objective is to create an agricultural learning space and deliver learning content to expand our already existing educational footprint in the community. In receiving this grant

We believe in our mission: Teach.

Grow.

Give.

The Community Grown Garden received $5,000 from the GIEF

Grown Gardens, located on the grounds of historic Westcroft Gardens and Farm 21803 W. River Rd. After listening to an earlier presentation by Executive Director Danielle West, and reviewing the grant application, the GIEF Board of Directors were excited to advance the cause of the local philanthropic organization whose mission is “Teach.

Grow. Give.”

Founded in 2015, by brothers Michael and Bob Johnson, the Community Grown Gardens is “a

from the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation, we will be able to finish the construction of our classroom space, and will evaluate and select curriculum to be used with our student groups.”

“There will be two curriculum focuses: creating a career pathway to sustainable agriculture, and establishing healthy relationships with nature through cultivation of fruits and vegetables.

We are greatly appreciative of the GIEF in their support of our

initiatives.”

The classroom construction project will include the materials and labor costs for a “Wash and Prep Station.”

The wash and prep station are areas to work with harvested vegetables to get them ready for human consumption.

The food prep process is a component of the career pathway to agriculture, and even more important in this current and post-pandemic era.

Additionally, the GIEF monies will be used for teacher/director review and selection of the American Heart

Association curriculum as it relates to developing good eating habits and a healthy relationship with fruits and vegetables. Also for review and adoption will be lessons from the American Farm Bureau Agricultural Literacy Library to be used with various groups attending the farm.

Among those impacted by the expansion of the Community Grown Gardens are students and families of the Grosse Ile Township schools, home schooled families, garden/ herb society members, church youth groups, boys and girls scouts, community garden volunteers, master gardeners, and Downriver food pantries.

Director West best sums it up saying, “We have been actively building our environment, supporters, volunteer base, knowledge, and other necessities for the past five years, and are excited to bring this project further into the Grosse Ile community.”

“We believe in our mission: Teach.

Grow. Give.”

For further information about volunteering or attending the Community Grown Gardens, Visit their website at teachgrowgive@gmail.com

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Page 16 • May 20 - June 19, 2020

GROSSE ILE GRAND

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Jim Okler honored as regional Athletic Director of the Year Michigan’s professional organization of school athletic directors, the Michigan Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (MIAAA), has selected Jim Okler of Grosse Ile High School as Region 12 Athletic Director of the Year.

Okler was one of only 14 administrators state-wide to be honored by the MIAAA. Okler has served as athletic director Grosse Ile since 1995. He began his career as a coach, teaching aid, and athletic department assistant at New Boston Huron, where he was for 14 years.

Okler graduated from New Boston Huron High School, received his associate degree in child development from Schoolcraft College and a BS/BA in administration and management from the University of Phoenix.

He is very active in professional affiliations. He has been an active member of the MIAAA (Public Relations Committee and region alternate), has served on many Michigan High School Athletic Association committees, is a Past President of the National High School Athletic Coaches Association and continues to serve on that board.

He is past president of Michigan Interscholastic Track and Cross country Coaches Association and has been the Executive Director of the Michigan High School Coaches Association since 2015.

Okler has received numerous awards, including Monroe County and News Herald newspaper Coach of the Year in the sport of cross country, MITCA Hall

of Fame, NHSACA Cary McDonald and Dwight Keith recipient and an MHSCA Distinguished Service Award.

Okler has been married to his wife Christine for 34 years.

The MIAAA is a 62-yearold association with nearly 700 members serving as athletic administrators in numerous high schools and junior/middle schools in Michigan. As partners with the Michigan High School Athletic Association, the MIAAA works to promote the educational value of interscholastic athletics and the roles and profession of athletic administrators.

The MIAAA is proud to spotlight the work of Jim Okler - a person whose work and values best mirror those of the association.

Jim Okler

Grosse Ile woman celebrates birthday in a different way Although that didn’t quite happen, as Gronda was outside early that day, doing yard work and other Special to Grosse Ile Grand things outside, later when the signs did go up, she Jeanette Gronda of Grosse Ile celebrated her April was very pleasantly surprised.

“Tom and Kate have a couple of younger children 28 birthday a bit differently this year. that they’re working with schooling right now. I “Usually for my birthday my son Scott, who lives really wasn’t expecting anything.” here on Grosse Ile, would take me out to dinner. My More than once during the day, sons who live in Grand Rapids and Maryland would give me a the King family came outside to sing happy birthday to Gronda. call and send flowers, nothing Later, her son Scott and grandson fancy,” said Gronda.

Dylan stopped by to help with getting That changed this year. Under her lawnmower and sprinklers ready quarantine, people with spring for the summer.

They also came birthdays have had to make some bearing cupcakes. changes.

“We each had our own cupcake Birthday festivities have and stayed a safe distance from each sometimes moved online, while other,” she said. others have enlisted friends and She also got many calls and family to drive by their home with Facebook messages from other friends signs of support and love. and family.

Gronda’s neighbors, Tom and “It was a great birthday. I had the Kate King and their children, set best gifts just staying right at home,” out to make her 76th birthday she said.

“And I just want to say a a very special one, even under very happy birthday to Kate King, quarantine. who will have celebrated her birthday The King family made Jeanette Gronda’s neighbors wished her a happy birthday while keeping a May 11.” decorated signs to place on social distance Shannon Rossi

Gronda’s driveway, with the messages “Happy Birthday Mrs. Gronda” and “We Love You.” “Tom and Kate and their kids made crafty decorated signs, that were even laminated for weather protection,” Gronda said. “They tried to get the signs outside before I got up for the day, so I would see them first thing.”

May 20 - June 19, 2020 • Page 17

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May 20 - June 19, 2020 • Page 19

SPORTS A baseball-themed life

University of Michigan product Mario Garza brings his love for the game to Grosse Ile Tom Tigani Grosse Ile Grand

Boys’ baseball at Grosse Ile High School, like sports at all Michigan high schools, isn’t being played and won’t be this school year.

But the 2020 season - if it would have started - would be the fifth under Coach Mario Garza, who started his tenure with a district championship in 2016, and would have been an interesting one for the Red Devils and their coach.

Garza has worked to re-energize baseball at GIHS, where it had become sort of a forgotten sport for years because of a glut of spring sports, too few athletes and a weak feeder system.

“It is interesting to come to a place like this,” he said. “My first year, I Mario Garza played for this Southgate staff in 1994 and the team reached the state championship game. didn’t know a lot about kids around Garza played high school baseball at here. I didn’t know a lot of people or Michigan from 1998 to 2001, and his mentor. players. I just did what I’ve always been Southgate Anderson High School. brother Bobby pitched there from 2001 “My wife and I went to watch his “I was very fortunate to play for a taught to do: believe in competition and to 2004. His brother Tom wrestled there team play in the summer of 2015, and fundamentals. group of coaches that not only were in 2002. that’s when he approached me about “It took me a little bit to realize I had great teachers of the game, but were also Garza also spent two seasons learning applying for the opening,” Mario Garza a great group of kids and our baseball great competitors that taught us to be from Ace Adams, a mentor who said. team had a great run in 2016.” winners,” he said. “Scott Ferrante and encouraged him to keep working and “It took a little while that first year, Brad Gratz are still mentors that I rely to never quit. He met Adams during but the team made my life easy at the on. I realize now, more than ever, how the summer after his senior season at end of the program,” he said. “We ended good those teams that I played on in Southgate Anderson through Andy up winning a district championship.

1993 and ’94 were.”

Green, his American Legion baseball We’ve had our ups and downs. We’re The Titans won a regional coach in Allen Park. a small school, with baseball going up championship in ’93, and in ’94 they “Along the way I played with some against tennis, golf, and soccer every played in the state championship game, great players too, some of which remain spring. losing to Birmingham Brother Rice. mentors and resources to me today,” “If we lose players to something else Garza went on to play college Garza said. “Having a network of they want to do, we’re going to be in baseball at the University of Michigan, former coaches and teammates to reach trouble. We don’t have 45 trying out and again was exposed to some great out to is so important.” every year. We’re going to have to deal coaches.

And he’s done a lot of reaching out with what we get every year.”

“Bill Freehan and Geoff Zahn were during his 10 years of coaching youth In order to get the pipeline going, both fierce competitors,” he said. “From baseball, including nine years of travel Garza has drawn on his experience as a a pitching perspective, I was able gain baseball coaching with the Michigan player at Southgate Anderson, where he invaluable knowledge from Coach Wildcats. But it was one of Garza’s recalled how his coaches were always Zahn.” former managers who reached out to out in the community trying to grow Garza, the oldest of four children in a him to take the Grosse Ile job after the game. He’s implemented a similar baseball-obsessed family, was a pitcher Garza moved to the island in 2015. program on the island, where his youth at U of M from 1994 to 1998. He won Jim DeSana is manager of the camp for a local baseball league drew one Big 10 championship, and studied Michigan Monarchs of the Great Lakes more than 75 kids last year. engineering while playing as a walk-on Collegiate Summer League. Garza and “It continues to grow and build who had to make the team every year. his brother Bobby played for him, and Mario Jr. (left), Mario Sr. and Ty Garza His sister, Christina, played softball at SEE GARZA, Page 20 Garza considers DeSana a friend and a

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GARZA

Continued from page 19 momentum,” he said. “We’re trying to create some excitement here.”

Garza realizes that the success he had his first year on the island isn’t an automatic thing.

“Last year was a challenge because we had a big underclass,” he said. “We started three freshmen and lost the district championship to Trenton. It was a tough heartbreaker of a game that went to the last out.”

Garza said he had a number of good players coming in this year, including two college-bound seniors, Nick Chittum, who will attend Eastern Michigan, and Matt Groat, who’s headed to Wayne State. Chittum continues to throw in the high 80 to mid-90 mph range and Groat keeps throwing 80 to 90.

“We also have three sophomores from last year who are just outstanding players,’ Garza said. “They’ve really stepped up to be leaders. And we have good pitching and really good defense.

The three sophs are infielder Mike Madrigal, who started at third base last year; Ty Garza (Mario’s son), who

started at second last year; and catcher Ben Carter.

“Those three really got thrown in there last year. Ty was second or third on the team in hitting. They really got a good learning experience last year, and we’re looking for big things from them this year.”

Besides preventing practices, the statewide school shutdown also has created issues for colleges who want to get a live look at some of Garza’s players.

“Obviously the game pales in comparison to what’s going on, but (the shutdown) has created some draft issues,” he said. “For example, colleges are looking at Nate Brown.”

But because a lot of player vetting is done by video and by email correspondence, Garza said everybody has a plan.

“A lot of players worked with travel teams to get ready, now it’s all on hold,” he said, adding that the interrupted season is “a challenge for sure.”

“We just try to provide online information on training to our players about what they can do at home and at the gym, and just hope they’re’ staying on top of it.”

Playing for dad has advantages, but also plenty of challenges This year once again finds Grosse Ile High School baseball Coach Mario Garza coaching his son, Ty, which creates a unique situation that requires adjustments on both their parts.

“There’s no doubt that growing up as the son of a coach provides advantages, but that also comes along with some real challenges for the player,” Mario Garza said. “We’ve Tyler Garza always had a good understanding of when I’m coach and when I’m dad.

“We both work hard to make sure we allow the proper amount of time for both, especially the dad part.

“As a coach, I look to peers that I trust to help me evaluate him as a player and provide me with an unbiased view. So far, it’s worked well for us.”

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Ready to carry on the tradition

Tennis coach Bill Riggs to follow mentor John Shade’s formula Tom Tigani Grosse Ile Grand

Riggs

Thanks to health concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic, Coach Bill Riggs’s first season as coach of the Grosse Ile High School girls varsity tennis team has been a short one.

“We had four days of practice, then they shut it down,” he said.

The 2020 season had promised to be an interesting one, with Riggs

Helena Formentin, senior

as one of the successors of longtime GIHS girls and boys Coach John Shade, who presided over a very successful 47-year run for both teams. Shade’s daughter, Audrey Shade, who was the top singles player for four years on her father’s teams, starred in college and has coached the junior varsity for the last 10 years; she now is the varsity boys coach.

“I’m honored to come here and take over the girl’s

team for my mentor,” said Riggs, who graduated from Allen Park High School in 1986. “He ran his programs the way I modeled my program at Allen Park.”

Riggs took lessons from Shade at the old Downriver Racquet Club before beginning his high school tennis playing days at Allen Park in 1983. He graduated in 1986 and then became assistant coach right after he graduated in 1987 while continuing as a player in

college. He took over as girls coach in 1995 and stayed until last season.

“We had eight regional championships. 16 league championships and 18 consecutive years qualifying for state finals,” Riggs said. “Allen Park wasn’t known as a hotbed for tennis, but we put in a lot of work to make the boys’ and girls’ programs a powerhouse in the Downriver area.”

Riggs watched before the season as his current group of girls took lessons and tried to get into game shape.

“I had a pretty good idea of what we had to work on before we started practicing, and they were in tennis condition,” Riggs said. “Now I know they’re really not getting play, but they’re still trying to stay in shape.

Riggs has the advantage, however, of stepping into some highly successful shoes, and doesn’t plan on making a lot of big changes.

“We’re not reinventing the wheel here,” he said.

“We’re going to keep grinding along and compete for the state title.”

There was a lot of talent on this year’s team, which returned four seniors: singles players Helana Formentin and Jessica Schutt, who was a champion last year; and Annabelle Cunningham and Rylee Linting, who were all-state as a doubles team.

He plans to continue Shade’s MO of playing a highly competitive schedule, with all of the Red Devils’ non-league matches against stateranked opponents.

SEE RIGGS, Page 22

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Bill Riggs career highlights n 22 league championships, six with boys’ teams and 16 with girls n 11 regional championships, the most recent in 2018 n 28 state championship appearances, 10 with boys’ teams, the most recent in 2018; and 18 with girls, the most recent 2019 n 16 all state academic teams n Most victories in Allen Park tennis history (484), 236 boys wins and 248 girls n Named to the Michigan High School Tennis Coaches Hall of Fame in 2016

RIGGS

Continued from page 21

Rylee Linting

“The expectations are still the same,” Riggs said.

“We were going to battle for a state title, and there’s plenty of talent on this team to get it done.

“It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon, but by the end of the year we’ll be playing for the state title.”

Riggs said for years while coaching at Allen Park that he would only take two jobs, a college job or Grosse Ile. “It was the only way you could pry me out of Allen Park,” he said. “The college opportunity came up a few years ago, but it wasn’t the right situation and I had to turn it down.”

Then the chance to succeed a local legend and a mentor turned up, along with the chance for Riggs to consult with that mentor as he begins at Grosse Ile. “John and I have known each other a long time,”

Riggs said. “We still talk about players and lineups.

Even though he’s retired and I’m calling the shots, he’s still kind of minding the store. I bounced a couple names off him and asked what he thought as I got started.

“I’m so glad (GIHS Athletic Director) Jim Okler

2020 Grosse Ile High School girls’ tennis team Helena Formentin, senior Jessica Schutt, senior Annabelle Cunningham, senior Rylee Linting, senior Grace Kuzmiak, sophomore Grace Mans, sophomore Sara Whitty, sophomore Natalia Cusumano, sophomore Payton Thayer, sophomore Allie Heckman, sophomore Livvie Heckman, sophomore Hayden Kobiljak, freshman let me take the reins. They’re big reins to hold onto.”

Helping him hold those reins is assistant coach Kurt Kobiljak.

“He has done a tremendous job of helping get the girls ready for the season, Riggs said. “You are only as good as your assistant coaches. I’ve always believed in having an assistant coach.

“I’ve very rarely coached without one. Our success this season will have a lot to do with Kurt’s involvement with the girls.”

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Athletes look to the future

2020 Red Devils take the next step James M. Okler, CMAA Grosse Ile Athletic Director

The Grosse Ile Red Devil class of 2020 had 65 boys and 61 girls participate in one or more of our athletic programs during their school careers.

This number is an astounding 90% of the senior class. We will have 14 senior athletes who have signed to continue their careers next fall by participating at the collegiate level, while another four boys’ soccer players are awaiting the final process.

Grosse Ile High School offers 14 varsity sports for girls and 13 for boys along with 20 sub-varsity sports (JV and freshmen). The Middle School offers 11 sports for seventh and eighth grades (Our sixth graders participate in the Grosse Ile Township recreation programs). This is from a district enrolling 571 high school students and 282 middle school students (excluding sixth graders).

This past spring, relating to the pandemic, has been a life alteringtime in my 20-plus years involved with interscholastic athletics.

It is truly sad that senior athletes had to end their careers earlier than anticipated. I know how hard their fellow student athletes, coaching staff, parents and our community have worked to make the last year for our seniors a pleasant and rewarding experience.

The following is a list of Grosse Ile High School senior athletes who will continue on with their athletic careers after graduation as of April 24, 2020.

1. John Blanzy – Football / Northwood 2. Nicholas Chittum – Baseball / Eastern Michigan University 3. Meghan Dieball- Track / DePaul University 4. Ellise Flessland – Rowing / Michigan State University 5. Helana Formentin-Tennis / Hillsdale College 6. Matt Groat – Baseball / Wayne State University

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While life as we know it has changed dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic, members of the Rotary Club of Grosse Ile have changed with the times.

Rotarians have begun holding meetings using the Zoom app, which allows them to see each other on their computer screen or cell phone while sitting in the comfort of their homes – or any location, really. Meetings also are broadcast live on the Rotary Facebook page.

“While many organizations and clubs have gone inactive or are just figuring out what to do, I push myself and other Rotarians for creative and innovative ideas to keep our o“I think it’s working out great. The key is Rotary is still active. We’re just doing things differently and still serving the community in putting service above self.”

Burgan hosts the meetings and can see the faces of everyone dialed into the meeting. Members can take turns commenting, using either the microphone on their computer or talking into their mobile phone.

A majority of the 36 Grosse Ile Rotarians took part in the April 23 meeting, which featured a keynote address by Rotary International President Mark Maloney, an attorney from Decatur, Alabama. Burgan said it was the first time that a Rotary International president – the top officer in Rotary’s worldwide parent organization – spoke directly at a meeting of the Grosse Ile club.

Maloney praised the Grosse Ile club for “making the pivot, making sure that you are still connected with fellow Rotarians and still accomplishing service projects.”

He said he was impressed that the club has stepped up during the pandemic in a variety of ways.

When the coronavirus was becoming evident, the Rotarians provided free masks to frontline workers at the Grosse Ile Kroger store, a gas station, Lloyd’s Bar and Grill, a hardware store, other businesses on the Island and staff at town hall.

None of us planned for this Rotary year to end the way it is ending They provided gowns and rubber gloves to staff at Henry Ford Hospital, Wyandotte. They also provided scrubs to staff at Applewood Nursing Home, which had just opened a COVID-19 unit.

Burgan said some of the club’s projects have been delayed or postponed, while others are getting done with “social distancing.”

He said the club has received a grant and is contributing to the Community Grow Gardens, including irrigation and fencing.

The club’s fundraising efforts and some projects hit a roadblock. The annual golf outing has been cancelled.

The citizen of the year awards gala has been postponed indefinitely.

A July boat ride for students at Jo Brighton will likely be cancelled.

The annual bicycle ride Tour de Ile will go virtual this year, said Burgan, who chairs the popular event. He is asking participants to get pledges and donations and ride on their own.

Burgan said the Zoom format and the address by Maloney were “well received” by club members.

Leadership from other Downriver clubs and state officers also participated. In all, 45 individuals were part of the meeting on Zoom, plus those on Facebook.

“It’s important to stay connected,” Burgan said. “You don’t know how proud I am. We have an older club and technology isn’t their strong point. I’ve worked very hard to reach out and coach them and get out to our meetings.”

“None of us planned for this Rotary year to end the way it is ending,” Maloney said. “No one anticipated the theme ‘Rotary connects the world’ would have the meaning it has now…

“This is what Rotarians are doing all over the world. We are truly connecting the world.”

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TELESCOPING THE TOWNSHIP

Fast friends find a creative way to beat virus blues

You often see cars parked at the parking lot in front of St. Anne’s PAMELA A. Chapel on East River FRUCCI Road, enjoying the view Grosse Ile Grand of the water. But a totally different sight caught my eye as I drove by on April 28.

There were two hammocks hung between trees and two girls were lying in them and catching up with each other. Long time friends Lauren Bader and Kaitlyn Kibble noticed the trees at the right distance of six feet between them to hang the hammocks and communicate.

Buddies since middle school and now that Lauren’s at Wayne State and Kaitlyn’s at MSU, they had some catching up to do. They sometimes hang up their hammocks in Elizabeth Park, but this local spot appealed to them.

Isolation spared Shakespeare From Bubonic Plague Back in 1564 In the Detroit Free Press on April 10, an article mentioned that back in 1564 the parents of William Shakespeare isolated themselves and their threemonth-old child in their home in Stratford, England when the bubonic plaque was a menace.

Since they had already lost two children to the plague, they wanted to make sure they didn’t lose their son. Luckily, Shakespeare lived to become a world renown writer and playwright.

Terry Eifert redirects lobster bisque to appreciative fans Terry Eifert splits his time between his native Maine and Grosse Ile. Every year he brings from Maine a load of lobster for the Knights of Columbus popular fish fries.

There were only three out of the seven events this year when everything shut down.

What to do with the leftover lobster? Terry, whose T-shirt says “Soupaman” across the front, appealed to his fellow members of the Knights of Columbus and the ping-pong group and got enough positive responses that he’s been able to make 10-gallon vats of lobster bisque and sell it.

He even made a sale to Lynn Stewart, who happened to walk by his home at 8833 Voigt and sampled his soup. She liked it so much she returned and bought 15 pints to give to her nursing staff at a local hospital.

Joe Porcarelli takes on a whole new line of work Unlike former fire chief Duncan Murdock, who stepped down as fire chief this year to enjoy retirement, former police chief Joe Porcarelli left police work to become a substitute teacher for the township schools.

Since he’s been a longtime assistant coach for the hockey team, he’s worked with young people and finds the transition from police work to education a lot less stressful.

He’s been hired as a long-term substitute and when a teacher needs a sub, Joe is called and ends up teaching a variety of subjects.

He’s qualified to teach the emotionally impaired at Meridian Elementary. When asked why the change in careers, Joe said, “You know when it’s time to retire from police work.” Right now his old uniforms are tucked away. Himself a graduate of Grosse Ile High School, Joe says he really likes his new line of work.

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May 20 - June 19, 2020 • Page 27

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