Grosse Ile Grand, December 15, 2022 – January 24, 2023

BILL STEVENSON

Not only did Grosse Ile High School’s Kaitlyn Molnar win the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 3 Diving championship at the Holland Aquatic Center on Nov. 19, but she also took a deep dive into school and local history.

Kaitlyn Molnar is the first state champion in diving in Grosse Ile history – male or female.

She is also the first women’s state champion diver from the Downriver area – ever.

Molnar, a junior at Grosse Ile High, dominated this year’s season, winning the Huron League and regional championships. She and fellow diver Evelina Hovis, both qualified for the MHSAA state finals.

At the state meet, Molnar, who was seeded second, led the dives wire-to-wire, from the prelims to the finals. She won the diving competition with 360.05 points,

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Happy holidays, Grosse Ile. It has been a good year

Merry Christmas and Happy Holiday’s to each and every one. This has been a good year for our community.

MOLNAR

Continued from page 1 ahead of Haslett’s Ali Viaches (340.00) and Hamilton’s Anevay Hager (336.5).

In another Downriver swim connection at the state finals, Flat Rock’s Lauren McNamara also became a state champion, winning the 100 meter butterfly.

Molnar’s co-coaches, Paul LaCroix and his daughter Rachael Hughes, provided background on her pathway to success.

“Kaitlyn started diving prior to her freshman year in high school. She was involved in a summer program at Trenton pools and showed real potential,” LaCroix said.

Given the fact that Grosse Ile doesn’t have a pool, it makes the accomplishments even more remarkable. Grosse Ile swimmers practice at Riverview High School, while divers from Flat Rock, Riverview, Allen Park, and Grosse Ile practice at Allen Park High School. Diving practices are generally twice daily, Mondays through Fridays, for two hours, with a Saturday practice of 2 ½ hours.

have a great chemistry, support each other and help each other in the technical aspects of their dives. Kaitlyn has a superior work ethic. Her attitude is ‘I’m gonna have more fun if I work at it.’”

And, work at it, she does.

With a repertoire of at least sixteen different dives of increasing skill and difficulty, Molnar is able to compete at an elite level.

Grosse Ile High School head swim coach, Katie Grzywa said, “Kaitlyn competed at the MISCA (Michigan Interscholastic Swim Coaches Association) Invitational at Calvin College this past October. This is an all division, all brackets meet for the best in the state, regardless of school size. Kaitlyn placed eighth overall in the diving competition.”

Looking back at the entire season, Grzywa further said, “We only had 10 swimmers this season and three divers. One of our divers never even dove a single meet this year. Kaitlyn held herself so gracefully in all situations, and excelled at the highest level.

“Kaitlyn is a star walking. I am so grateful to walk along with her.”

talks with the police. Again, something that hadn’t been done before, but I felt was necessary as we weren’t getting a good contract. I am happy to say that this negotiation not only went smoothly, but also was one of the shortest and both parties got something out of it.

LaCroix, who has 46 years of coaching, most of it in swimming and diving, said, “Kaitlyn Molnar is the quintessential teammate. All of the girls she dives with

Congratulations, Kaitlyn Molnar – state champion.

We passed a road millage that will, over the lifetime of the millage, touch all of us. Also, we passed a Fire millage that will benefit the firemen into the future.

JAMES BUDNY

The beauty of the road program is that we will be able to work on our residential roads. The main roads will be fixed, but the residential roads will be also. If we had waited for the county to do those roads they would not be done as the county doesn’t have the funds to do them anywhere in the county. So, thank you for voting the road millage in.

The other thing I want to emphasize about both of the millages that were passed is how hard we worked to make them as least impactful on the taxpayers as possible. The fact that there will be a short rise for a year and then a decrease in our overall taxes was of vital concern to us in going for the millage.

I am proud to say this was the first time that was factored into the thinking on this.

Earlier in the year I asked that we hire a negotiator to help with our contract

There are other things going on internally in the Township offices to make us more efficient than we have been in the past. Little things, done right the first time, add up to savings for the Township.

We have Art on Macomb St. and more on the way. This will increase the beauty of our DDA area.

There are many really good things that were accomplished this year and I am grateful to the residents and the employees for their support in getting them done.

So we have a lot to be thankful for in our community this year.

This is the season to be thankful and to enjoy what we have.

I would ask all of you to take a moment and reflect on all you have, family, friends and a wonderful place to live. We are fortunate to live on this island and I will continue to work hard to keep it that way.

A very Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year to all of you from myself and my family.

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FROM THE TOWNSHIP

Welcome to Grosse Ile

St. Thomas Lutheran welcomes new pastor

BILL STEVENSON

Grosse Ile’s St. Thomas Lutheran Church has a new pastor. At a formal installation ceremony held on Saturday, Nov. 4, the Reverend Kari Rinas was officially certified as the new spiritual leader of the congregation.

Former St. Thomas pastor and current Assistant to the Bishop, Sean Ewbank led the celebration of shared ministry between Pastor Kari Rinas and the church.

BILL STEVENSON

Among the celebrants at St. Thomas were family, friends, and local clergy.

The Pastor’s husband, Joshua, is also an ordained minister of the ELCA (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America), who was called and installed the next day as pastor of Faith Lutheran in Brownstown. The couple has two young children, and have made their home in Brownstown.

Pastor Kari hails from the Rochester, NY suburbs, and later moved to central Pennsylvania. She earned her undergraduate degree from Hobart and William Smith College with a major in Medieval and Renaissance history, with a double minor in European literature and Religious Studies.

After many years of “God tugging at my heart,” she was called to the ordained ministry and graduated from Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. She was ordained in June, 2011.

Prior to coming to St. Thomas, Pastor Kari served congregations in Willimantic and Portland, Connecticut. Most recently she was the co-pastor of St. Luke’s Lutheran Church in Temperance, Michigan.

Her top priorities in her early days at St. Thomas are “to establish relationships, strengthening and reconnecting ties that have been built over the years and building beyond the congregation.

“I am very excited as we ‘set sail’ together to explore with you where God is calling us, and how God will use us and the relationships we build

to share the Good News of God’s incredible love,” said Rinas.

“We are looking forward to creating a new future together doing God’s work, and making a positive impact on

Grosse Ile and beyond.”

Having grown up in the eastern United States, Pastor Kari is most impressed by her early impressions of Grosse Ile.

“I love it,” she said. “It is a fascinating community. Reminds me much of my experiences in upstate New York or New England. And has that small town, great community feel. The history here is just phenomenal.”

And, besides her congregation, Grosse Ile welcomed her by asking her to preach at the all-Island Thanksgiving Service, held at St. James Episcopal’s historic chapel.

Pastor Kari’s office hours are Monday through Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. until 7 evening service. Sunday worship is at 10:00 a.m.

Her email is: pastor@stthomasgi. com.

St. Thomas Lutheran is located at the corner of Meridian and Church Roads.

Welcome Reverend Kari Rinas to Grosse Ile!

Rev. Kari Rinas, her husband the Rev. Joshua Rinas and their children.

Incumbents, ballot proposals affirmed mid-term election results

Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg Address, Nov. 19, 1863

Voters cast their ballots in the November 8, 2022 General Election and the outcome will affect future laws and policies for years to come. Not only were elective offices filled, but all the ballot proposals at both the state and local levels were approved.

STEVENSON

About 4.5 million Michigan residents voted in Tuesday’s elections. State officials say that’s the state’s highest turnout ever in a midterm. Grosse Ile citizens turned out for the midterm election with 6,860 out of 9,657 registered voters or 71.04 percent exercising their right to the elective franchise. Increasingly, more voters are voting via absentee ballot, with 3,550 choosing that route, and 3,310 voting in person—for this election, about 50-50.

Interestingly, demographics and partisan politics played out with 2,047 voters choosing a Straight Party Ticket for the Republican Party (58.67 percent) and 1,410 voters voting Democratic Party (40.41 percent)

On the Island, voters continue to follow historic trends and at about a 60 to 40 percent split, vote solidly Republican. For this midterm that trend up and down the ballot did not translate into candidates elected in national, state, or county elections.

State-wide, incumbent Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D) defeated newcomer Tudor Dixon (R) by a vote of 2,427,985 to 1,958,311 (54.5 to 43.9 percent).\

In the race for Secretary of State, Jocelyn Benson (D) carried the day, and ousted Kristina Karamo (R) by 2,467,859 votes to 1,852,510 (55.9 to 41.9 percent) Benson also bested Karamo in the Grosse Ile vote.

Attorney General Dana Nessel (D) kept her seat by defeating Matthew DePerno (R) by 1,329,195 votes to 1,952,408 (53.2 to 44.6 percent).

In the newly drawn 6th U.S. Congressional district, long time Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D) defeated Whittney Williams (R) by a healthy margin 241,763 to 125,168 or (65.9 to 34.1 percent).

Term limited in the Michigan House of Representatives, Rep. Darrin Camilleri (D) chose to run for the 4th Michigan Senatorial district, which includes Grosse Ile. His transition was successful in grabbing 64,393 votes to Houston James’ (GOP) 51,963 (55.3 to 44.7 percent).

While Grosse Ile’s Jaime Churches (D) did not carry the Island, she was able to win a narrow victory over Trenton businessman Robert Howey (R) for the representative seat formerly held by Camilleri. The final tally Churches 21,384 to Howey 20,724 (50.8 to 49.2 percent).

In the only election for public office strictly for Grosse Ile residents, Katie Cihak and Jeffery Anderson

won re-election to the Grosse Ile Township School Board, running unopposed.

The big story of the day was the passage of all the state-wide proposals, and all of the local millages and bond issues offered.

For State Proposal 22-1Changes Term Limits And Financial Disclosure For Legislators

Grosse Ile: Yes 4,399 (68.6 percent) to No 2,014 (31.40 percent).

State: Yes 2,835,933 (66.45 percent) to No 1,431,744 (33.5 percent).

Proposal 2 - Expands Access To Early Voting, Absentee Ballots And Drop Boxes

Grosse Ile: Yes 3,550 (54.7 percent) to No 2,935 (45.3 percent).

State: Yes 2,583,882 (60 percent) to No 1,723,440 (40 percent).

Proposal 3 - Creates a Constitutional Right to Reproductive Freedom

Grosse Ile: Yes 3,516 (53.06 percent) to No 3,111 (46.94 percent).

State: Yes 2,480,000 (56.65 percent) to No 1,897,417 (43.35 percent).

Further reinforcing the adage that “all politics are local,” voters approved both tax levies for the Fire Department and Roads, and allowed the School District to sell bonds under two different proposals.

Millage to Maintain Current Fire Department Operations

Yes 4,654 (71.79 percent) to No 1,829 (28.2 percent)

Millage for Improvements to Roads

Yes 3,867 (60.06 percent) to No 2,572 (39.94 percent)

Schools Bonding Proposal I

Yes 3,658 (56.73 percent) to No 2,790 (43.27 percent)

Schools Bonding Proposal II

Yes 3,414 (52.65 percent) to No 3, 070 (47.35 percent)

For more detailed results, please visit the Michigan Secretary of State website @ mielections.us/election/ results/2022GEN_CENR.html, or, for the local Election Summary Report, access the Grosse Ile Township Clerk’s site @ www.grosseile.com/ government/clerk_s_office/index.php

.“that government of the People, by the People, for the People, shall not perish from the earth.”

BILL

Estate Planning 101

Which plan do

Time to clear up the confusion about Estate Planning ... The following definitions lack legal precision, but makes it easier to get a clear picture of what may be needed in your case.

■ Will – letter of intent of where you want your personal property to go – or not go.

■ Living Will – Documents your wishes during your final days including final healthcare choices and possibly your burial wishes.

■ Trust – This is a “company” that you start, and you become the CEO, “Trustee” and “Settlor.” The company outlives you, but continues to manage your assets as if you were alive by the successor CEO – whom you designate.

■ Power of Attorney – Financial and Healthcare – you need both – the first so someone can pay your bills, the second, sometimes called a Patient Advocate, designates someone to make “hallway at the hospital” decisions to take the stress off the family.

■ Ladybird Deed – probably the best thing that has happened to owning a home. I love these deeds – you grant yourself a life estate – in your own property - but retain the power to sell or borrow against the property. If you do not sell before you pass, this “springs” the house out of your estate, and your heirs have instant ownership, subject to any mortgage or taxes owed or similar.

Again, this is just a general description of the more popular terms – no one choice is a “silver bullet” but depending on how your estate gets planned out you can expedite a clean and clear process for the assets you worked a lifetime to save. Why wouldn’t you want to do that? Stop by or call and make an appointment and I’ll tell you what you’re going to need to do this right.

To my numerous former clients – thank you for allowing me to draft your estate plan!

www.ForresterLawOffice.com

Old fashioned Detroit muscle

Toys for Tots benefits from famous classic car drawing at Southgate Ford

Southgate to capture its arrival.

Mayor Kuspa has been asked to speak during the program. He said Detroit Lion Jamaal William and actor R.J. Mitte are scheduled to be part of the program.

“It is not very often that our city is featured in a television show,” Kuspa said. “So special thanks to Angela and Mark Babala for bringing such positive attention to our community and the entire Downriver area.

“This event is open to the public and I hope to see many of our residents there to support the Toys for Tots program. It is a great opportunity to witness the drawing, experience the production process, meet the special guests and be a part of the finalized program when it streams on the Peacock Network.”

The Mayor praised Southgate Ford and its many contributions to the local community.

DAVE GORGON

Representatives of the Southgate Ford dealership are excited to host a highly-touted drawing for a famous classic Mustang to benefit the Toys for Tots Foundation.

General Sales Manager Brian Bartholomew said everyone is welcome to stop by the dealership at 16501 Fort Street in Southgate on December 15. The program is scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. with the public raffle set for about 7 p.m.

The 1970 Ford Mustang Mach 1 was restored on the television program “Angel’s Garage” on the Peacock Network. The show’s producers selected Toys for Tots as the beneficiary of a raffle of the classic car.

Money raised will be used by the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation to purchase toys for families struggling to buy gifts for their children this Christmas. Raffle tickets start at $5 each with an added processing fee. Discounts are given for multiple

ticket purchases. Tickets are available now online at https://myevent.com/ toysfortots.

“The U.S. Marine Toys for Tots Foundation is an amazing organization that has brought joy to needy families for 75 years,” said Southgate Mayor Joseph Kuspa. “It is great to see Angel’s Garage not only donating the classic 1970 Mustang to this charity, but also have the raffle drawing at one of our outstanding Southgate businesses – Southgate Ford.”

Kim Felske, the Downriver coordinator of Toys for Tots, said Southgate Ford was chosen for the drawing since it’s a Ford dealership located in a more populated area. She said Ford dealerships are staunch supporters of Toys for Tots and it will be convenient for people to stop by the dealership to see the Mustang.

“The car is phenomenal,” said Felske, who lives in Brownstown Township. “Unfortunately, I’m not eligible to win.”

Felske said Michigan was chosen to host the raffle drawing event. Once

the Mustang was restored, the car debuted in the state at Soo Motors in Sault Ste. Marie on Oct. 25 before it was trucked to Fox Grand Traverse from Nov. 7-21. From Traverse City, it made a stop at the Ford Mustang plant in Flat Rock before its destination at Southgate Ford for the raffle.

At the event, Santa Claus will draw the winning ticket.

“This Mustang is a one-of-akind and raffling it to benefit the U.S. Marine Toys for Tot program is a wonderful gesture by Angel’s Garage,” Felske said. “Every child deserves to find a present under the tree on Christmas morning and Angels’ Garage is doing more than its fair share to help.”

Angel’s Garage producers are originally from Michigan and want to help showcase the state in their program.

“We’re proud of where we come from and we want to share this place with others,” said Angela Babala, who is “Angel” on the show. A production crew will accompany the car while in

“Owner Walt Oben and his family are great examples of businesses giving back to their community,” he said. “Over the years, they have provided several contributions to our parks and recreational programs. So it is very fitting that this drawing takes place in their showroom.”

Detroit-area pizza chain Chubby Charlies has partnered with the TV show to not only transport the Mach 1, but also helped fund rare parts needed for rebuilding the car, Felske said. Chubby Charlies and Promenade Artisan Foods in Trenton will be onsite in Southgate offering samples on December 15.

Felske said the mission of Toys for Tots is to collect new unwrapped toys and distribute those toys to less fortunate children at Christmas. The Marine Toys for Tots Foundation was created at the behest of the Marine Corps in 1991.

Now in its 75th year, the toy drive is part of a national campaign that was started by the Marine Corps Reserves. The toy collection is the largest in the country with 800 campaigns in all 50 states.

For more information on Toys for Tots, visit the website toysfortots.org

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays

This is a great time of year if you look forward to and love gatherings and ages-old traditions that allow, encourage, and almost force us to slow down, relax and love…if we let it happen.

To slow down and slip into a different mode, we have to want to. It seems to me that otherwise, the mad rush of time itself rushes us along in a tsunami flood, with too little if any time for appreciation. Or even noticing. Every generation copes with transition points in which people come to terms with change they don’t identify with. Many older folks make a good go of it. Most just can’t don’t want to. As a 68 year old person, I have no problem with tech, even though my brain is not wired the way 20some year-olds are. I do have issues with society that didn’t used to bother me. I won’t tell you about them because I hate hearing it from older folk, and sure don’t want to be one of those older folks. But it’s not minor stuff, you know? But I digress. Darn it, and so early in the column!

PETER ROSE

My business is and has always been all about helping people get what they want. We have always done our best to present clothing and other things in ways that communicate the essence of the brands we sell. We take seriously the mission of keeping our stores clean an orderly, and painted and kept up, day after day and year after year. But those things are the givens. What makes the difference for people’s experiences in stores is the person that assists.

Our job is to facilitate your shopping experience through product knowledge, comparative fits, etcetera. But that’s not the factor, either is it. The key to everyone’s experiences in everything we do is the people that represent the companies. When a nice, respectful, funny, and engaging, competent person is your contact point for the items you want, your experience is happier. It is the factor, across every genre of retail there is, that makes us love the places we go…or not.

Such interactions make us slow down, and relive

stress and tension, if only for a little while. But the experience I talk about almost reverentially is not unique to stores. The thing that makes for a nice experience in a store is the exact sort of nice experience we get when someone lets us merge in. When we smile at people and greet them as we pass by. You could rattle off a whole bunch of things that qualify for you, that serve perfectly to share in my point.

Retail at my level, at the level you experience in Wyandotte and Trenton and at so many scattered cool places through downriver and everywhere is what makes life happier. The unique assortment of wonderful items at Abundant Living, combined with help from the owner as she shares her passion…or the feeling of discovery as you enter a store that could be nothing but local and independent…is rewarding, my friends. More than rewarding in a world that is insanely stressed on every front (it often seems)….it is so powerful that it can change our day. Happiness.

I struggle every month to rephrase my thoughts about the topic. Having done so for so long now, the act of writing helps to think it through. The thing is the places we go that have NONE of what I’m talking about in terms of satisfying times shopping are woven into the experiences that are all about that good feeling.

Just as we have to be better at self-talk that inspires us or steels us or reassures us, we need to seek out places to go for the necessary things we wish to buy that make us feel good. And it DOES make me feel good, every time I let myself feel good about having shopped locally, with people I like and respect and need to be here down the road….for me to patronize. It does make me as little happier to

shop with the lunatics that are passionate about what they do.

And what is the difference for your shopping choices? Yes, you have been paying attention, it’s the difference between being a good merchant and simply just being a bean counter that cuts payroll even though it’s totally counterproductive. It’s local that is engaged in our community and folks everywhere around here vs national, which tries to mimic the real thing but with indifferent, uninterested help.

Folks, it’s that simple. Do yourself the favor of shifting even more of your shopping to local and independent, and see how you feel this holiday shopping season. My guess is that you’re happier. Let me know if you think I’m right, won’t you? Because we can use a lot more happiness in our everyday lives in which we go about, interacting with people we encounter.

From Chelsea, Willow Tree, Love Wyandotte and Love Local, I thank you for what you bring to the community in which we ply our trades.

Merry Christmas. Peaceful Christmas to all.

GET GREAT NEW GLASSES, SAVE SOME MONEY!

Many people - most, perhaps - go to an optometrist, get an eye exam and then follow the lady in the white coat over to the wall of frames and pick out a new set of glasses.

The story ends with the customer paying way more than he or she ever expected.

If that pretty much describes you, Bob Schmittou says there is something you should know: He can save you money, maybe lots of money.

Schmittou, a proud military veteran, owns New Eyes Optical, located on 1616 Ford Avenue, right at 16th Street in Wyandotte.

There are no doctors at New Eyes, just lots of frames and Schmittou, who can get you into fashionable new glasses for a lot less than all of the other chains and franchises out there.

Just bring your eyeglass prescription to him and see what kind of magic he can work for you.

“I am kind of like what the pharmacy is to your doctor,” Schmittou said. “Your doctor writes you a prescription. He doesn’t try to sell you the drugs. You go to the pharmacy. The same is true with us. You bring us a prescription and we will fill it.”

New Eyes Optical does not accept insurance, but their low prices mean that is often not an issue.

Schmittou has been in the eyeglass game for a long time. He enlisted in the Army after graduating from Lincoln Park High School and Uncle Sam sent him to school to learn how to make eyeglasses.

He did that in the Army for nearly four years and then worked for Lenscrafters and for private doctors after that.

In 2012 he opened New Eyes Optical and has been there ever since.

Schmittou said he has over 1,300 frames in his building and can make arrangements to get others if customers come in with a specific brand or style in mind.

For sunglass lovers, Schmittou said he has the largest selection of Ray Ban and Oakley sunglasses in the area.

If you come in, you will deal with Schmittou himself. He and his wife Pam are the only employees. Schmittou does the fitting of the eyewear, and Pam orders frames and keeps the shop looking fresh by arranging the frame displays and decorating.

So, if you are in the market for new glasses, would like a little personal attention and a really low price, give Schmittou a call at 313-587-4204, drop an email at neweyesoptical2012@gmail. com or contact them through their Facebook page, Facebook.com/neweyesoptical.

GROSSE ILE GRAND

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2nd Street Performing Arts Center

Former

church is new home to Downriver Actors Guild

Dave Gordon

A more than half-million-dollar investment has transformed the former St. Elizabeth Catholic Church and school into the 2nd Street Performing Arts Center in Wyandotte.

The center – touted as “the premier performing arts community gathering space” in the Downriver area – is a place for performing arts, dance, music and visual arts. It’s home to the Downriver Actors Guild, the Downriver Dance Academy, 2nd Street Sound (an A Capella group) and the podcast “Curtain Call.”

Located at 1123 2nd Street, the new facility opened on Oct. 14 after a more than $500,000 investment to transform the former church and attached school into a 10,000-square-foot state-of-the-

art theater with room for more than 250 seats and stage, plus an attached studio complex.

Housed in the studio complex are a dance studio, costume shop, scene shop, rehearsal space and storage for props, costumes and set pieces.

Audiences have already been entertained by “Legally Blonde, the Musical” and “The Little Mermaid.”

Regular performances are scheduled by the Downriver Actors Guild and other groups. Performances of “Matilda” began Dec. 9. “The Marvelous Wonderettes” begins Jan. 6. “Be More Chill” gets underway Feb. 10. Productions are planned through May 2023.

Joe Gruber, executive director of the City of Wyandotte Downtown Development Authority (DDA),

congratulated organizers for the acquisition and redevelopment into a “beautiful performing arts center and world class theater.”

Overseen by a Board of Governors, 2nd Street Performing Arts Center (doing business as Downriver Actors Guild) is a nonprofit organization providing “quality programming and performances that strive to be educational, affordable and enrich the arts within our diverse communities.”

Their mission statement says: “We build bridges between diverse members of our community through highquality arts entertainment in the region and the state. The objectives of the organization are to produce the highest quality arts entertainment, to be a positive impact on our community and to be an organization where everyone

is welcome, equal and can create in an open and accepting environment. We do this for the love of the arts.”

Artistic Director Debbie Aue, Director of Operations Joel Bias and Director of Development Denny Connors spoke with pride about the new facilities, which they say have been a long time coming.

The location is the fourth for the Downriver Actors Guild, which began as the Taylor Youth Theater under the auspices of the City of Taylor Department of Parks and Recreation. Aue said when the group lost its space in Taylor, the group eventually moved in 2010 to Out of the Box, a 130-seat venue in Wyandotte. After losing its lease, the group relocated in 2014-15 to Theater on the Avenue, which had 180

seats, at Biddle and Superior.

“We were doing great and were looking to expand when COVID hit,” Aue said. “That shut us down.”

Bias said an exploratory group was formed to look at alternatives.

“We had just a theater,” he said. “Our storage and dance studio were in different locations. We knew we wanted to start an educational program and wanted it all under one roof.”

With the help of insurer Joe Daly and the Archdiocese of Detroit, the guild was able to acquire the St. Elizabeth property. Organizers had a “test run” in August without seats, opened in September and had the grand opening on October 14.

She said funding has come through grants, small business

loans, selling buildings owned by the group, donations and fundraisers.

“We rely on the public,” Aue said. “We have no paid staff other than the dance instructors.”

She said all of the leaders of the 2nd Street Performing Arts Center got involved in the effort because “our kids were in it.”

“It’s a passion,” Aue said. “Once we lost our space for the Taylor Youth Theater, I reached out to five core families, invited them to my house in Taylor and asked ‘what do you want to do? Do you really want to take this on or keep renting places?’

“We had no idea what we were doing. We had no idea where we would end up. We’ve gone from my deck to here in 11 years. We had some money in the bank, but we have no major corporation donations at all, other than Joe Daly’s individual generosity.

It’s all grassroots funding. We’re excited when we get a $1,000 donation. To us, it’s like candy.”

Big expenses to get the building ready included the construction of infrastructure, plumbing, heating and cooling and electrical and boiler work.

Construction included the risers, walls, stage, seating and even building bathrooms, which was a major expense. Now, instead of worrying about their next home, they’re preparing for expansion, including the educational program, workshops, classes

and musical instrument lessons.

Why Wyandotte?

“Wyandotte has been good to us,” Aue said. “Joe Peterson was a strong supporter and put us in touch with Joe Daly. Opportunities always presented themselves to us. People always seemed to be looking out for us. We had a good relationship at the time with the DDA.

“Wyandotte is a very cultural and diverse community that is open to anything artsy. They love art, culture and music. It fits very well here.”

For more information on upcoming performances, call the ticket line at (734) 4077020.

Artistic Director Debbie Aue and Director of Operations Joel Bias.

Lasting legacy

Clifford St. Pierre honored for Open Space leadership

BILL STEVENSON

Long-time resident and former chairperson of the Greenways/Open Space Committee, Clifford St. Pierre was honored at the Nov. 7 Township Board meeting for his leadership and dedication to keeping Grosse Ile green.

Not one, but two proclamations were awarded to St. Pierre that evening.

The first formal accolade came from Representative Darrin Camilleri’s (D-23) office.

Newly elected to the Michigan Senate, Camilleri will be Grosse Ile’s next state senator and was

attending Senate orientation. In his stead, was Representative-elect Jamie Churches, who will fill Camilleri’s House seat, and read St. Pierre’s proclamation.

The second pronouncement was declared by Supervisor James Budny and the Township Board of Trustees.

Citing service to Grosse Ile spanning almost 30 years, St. Pierre was the chairperson of the Greenways/Open Space Committee for 22 years.

Under his leadership and working with many committee members, the total protected areas of Open Space on the Island grew to its current 601

acres, all on the main island.

Over the course of years, St. Pierre has helped guide the committee not only in property procurement, but in successful millage campaigns, educational programs and partnerships with other conservation groups.

He and the committee have worked together to coordinate Open Space programs with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the State of Michigan, the Grosse Ile Nature & Land Conservancy, and the Township Department of Public Services. He is still a valued member of the committee.

^ Clifford St. Pierre, his wife Pat and Grosse Ile Supervisor James Budny

< Celebrating Clifford St. Pierre’s achievements are (from left) Roberta Urbani, State Representativeelect Jamie Churches, St. Pierre, Pat St. Pierre, Bill Stevenson and Raymond Geist.

Reimagining our waterfront Downriver residents urged to continue to mull new ideas

Susan Pinkowski

On November 2 the graduate students, who are part of the Public Design Corps at Taubman College University of Michigan, continued the conversation about the possible futures of Trenton’s Waterfront in their quest to learn what the public would like to see developed in the future.

You may recall the previous article asking for your opinion through an online questionnaire.

Well, 265 of you graciously gave them the information that the students recently presented to a group of about 25 people at the Trenton Veterans Memorial Library, where participants

were able to voice what’s working and not working on Trenton’s waterfront.

Among those in attendance were Councilwoman Wendy Pate and Councilwoman Dora Rodriguez, along with scientist John Hartig and Pat Hartig, a former mayor of Trenton.

The handouts that the students had prepared were first class – two large multi-colored accordion-folded brochures that listed the results of the questionnaire – and explained the legacy of environmental pollution in the brownfields and superfund sites along the waterfront.

They also prepared a series of maps and a video summarizing the project so far. All this information and more

is in the website at storymaps.arcgis. com/stories

The results of the Community Questionnaire revealed that 70 percent of those responding visit the waterfront parks at least once a month, with, of course, Elizabeth Park being the most visited.

That number is only going to increase with Covid getting behind us and the festivals and concerts coming back.

The respondents would like to see improvements in the public facilities, more parks and public space, more activities and more water access opportunities. They are also interested in ways to reduce pollution and

increase environmental stewardship. They all agree on wanting more access to the river all year long.

The survey also inquired about residents’ use of the greenways (walking, biking, skating) and blueways (kayaking, canoeing, fishing).

The Downriver Linked Greenways is the most used trail, but residents would like more retail along all three trails and more public amenities. This is the idea promoted by the Great Lakes Way, a network of interconnected blueways and greenways from Lake Huron through Lake Erie.

Grosse Ile pets

GROSSE ILE GRAND

Would you like to see a picture of your pet in one of our monthly community newspapers? We can make it happen. Just send a photo of your pet, along with your name and the city you live in and we will get it published. Send information to Sherry@gobigmultimedia.com and we will do the rest. Thanks.

Downriver West Kiwanis group looking for helpers

Downriver West Kiwanis is a community service organization dedicated to improving the lives of children and our communities one at a time. We partner with local schools, churches, soup kitchens, senior groups, The Salvation Army, Toys for Tots, veterans groups, and other service organizations to make a big impact and positive difference in our community.

We are a motivated group of volunteers that achieves what one person cannot accomplish alone.

We focus on providing services and filling community needs in the Brownstown Twp, Flat Rock, Huron Twp, and other Downriver communities.

Downriver West Kiwanis meets every first and third Monday at 6:30 p.m. at the Brownstown Recreation Center.

Every third Monday of each month, we do a hands-on service project to help our local community. If you’d

like to join in and help out here is a list a of our upcoming projects:

January: Gloves of love

February: Coupons for troops

March: Busy bags for kids

April: Baby shower

May: Cereal drive

June: Partner appreciation dinner

July: Birthday kits

August: Backpack stuffing

September: Homeless care kits October: Halloween kits

November: Port pillows

December: Fleece blankets

You can find our more at their website, downriverwestkiwanis.net.

As students pointed out, with almost seven miles of shoreline along the Detroit River, the city of Trenton has a critical role to play in this project. Maybe a coffee shop or restaurant to while away the time and enjoy the view? How about a museum on the shipbuilding history of Trenton? Bike and kayak rental? Maybe a hotel and convention center where the multitude of birdwatchers could congregate in our world-class migratory birding corridor?

Another suggestion was made to recreate what Port Huron did 20 years ago when they re-envisioned their waterfront – a major investor put up a coffee shop and a boat viewing platform to watch the freighters and other boats glide by.

Another person suggested that we link up to the metroparks as their trails are very user friendly.

The ideas were flowing!

But of course, one hitch in the plan is that some land along the way is privately owned, so a workaround would have to be figured out.

Participants were keen on sharing their ideas and expectations about the future transformation of the waterfront.

The blueways are not as widely used as could be because access is limited but that could change in the future. Ideas that were offered up were the possibility of a yearly rowing regatta.

The canal that loops around Elizabeth Park could be opened up, and a kayak company or club could form and get more people out on the water. A larger marina would accommodate larger boats and could be a hub of activity on the water.

While a seasonal pastime, the fishing in this area is of major importance.

Someone mentioned that more fish are taken out of Lake Erie than all other lakes combined. It has perfect spawning capabilities and anglers from all over the world come here to fish. Being so close to the mouth of the Detroit River, surely, we can capitalize on that!

The quality of the water has tremendously improved over the years, thanks in large part to the work John Hartig has done. Industrialization

has gone way down so maybe it’s time for more recreational and environmentally sound retail and commercial businesses to take their place near the shoreline. The waterfront is a fantastic asset of Trenton and should be put to better use.

The bottom line is that Trenton lost a lot of its tax base when the large industrial complexes went out of business and left behind brownfields where future reuse will require costly environmental clean-ups.

We must welcome year-round revenue generating light industry back into the city, in an environmentally sound way. A mixed-use riverfront could encompass all the ideas listed above.

The last activity in the public session invited participants to prioritize all of these ideas about possible sites’ futures into short and long-term priorities. The assembled group created a mid-term category as well, all of which broke down as follows:

Short term goals

Technology jobs, robotics and other technological industries, service jobs, public art, industrial jobs, constructed wetlands, retail jobs, energy production, bike trails and related infrastructure, recreational programming, cultural programming, constructed wetlands, environmental recovery storytelling, more fishing piers, meadows and bird watching.

Mid-term goals

Small parks, large parks, playgrounds, indigenous peoples’ center/tours, kayak/canoe/waterrelated activities, retail development, green energy production, green infrastructure, and environmental jobs.

Long term goals

Hotels and other tourist infrastructure, museum/galleries, light industry, high tech industry, convention center, office jobs, research jobs, educational jobs, environmental jobs, and maybe a Trader Joes retail store with jobs for local residents.

What can you envision in Trenton? What would you like to be enjoying in five years? Ten years?

The students are continuing to compile information as the project continues.

Make your voice heard!

NEIGHBORS

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RIVERVIEW 100

Gerald Perry writes:

...ALERT!! ALERT Attention: All persons interested in participating in joining a committee to organize the 100th-year celebration of the city of Riverview can call 734-281-3340.

Please leave your name and phone number. Riverview City Manager Mr. Jeff Dobek has graciously offered his office phone for anyone interested in The 100th-year city of Riverview Anniversary Celebration Committee. Thank you, Mr. Dobek.

Now that we have a number, what’s holding you from calling?...

On page 26

overtime.

The winning goal in the regional championship game came off the head of Caden Demers, who headed in a corner kick from Oglecevac. Demers also scored his team’s other goal, tying the game on a header goal off a Jacob Bias throw-in.

The victory was one for the record books as it marked the first soccer district championship in school history for Riverview...

On page 31.

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Happy Harvest Festival

...Dec. 11-31 Market Center Park will be open from 5-10 p.m. with its Light Up the Park event; and on Dec. 31, Market Center Park will present Noon Year’s Eve from 11:30 a.m.until 12:30 p.m. Come on out and enjoy some holiday fun.

On page 8.

First Place in the Halloween Home Decorating Contest: The Rachel Family - 12690 Agnes

Angileri’s positive impact on our city for nearly three decades,” Kuspa said. “Everyone was there out of respect for what he has accomplished and to wish him well on his retirement.”

On page 1.

Photos of students from Riverview Community High Pre-homecoming photos at picturesque Heritage Park in Taylor is something of a tradition for students from across the Downriver area. Riverview Community High School is no exception.

Photographer Dave Gorgon was at the park during homecoming season and captured these Riverview students preparing for the big event.

On page 27.

Pirates enjoy eventful soccer playoff ride

...To claim its regional crown, Riverview knocked off Fenton, a team that came into the regionals with a 14-1-4 record. The Bucs won 3-1 and then went on to knock off host Dearborn Divine Child 2-1 in

Long-time employee honored by who’s who of elected officials.

... Mayor Kuspa said Angileri’s “employment encompasses over 45 percent of the City of Southgate’s history as a city. So he has been around for nearly half of our existence as a city.”

“It was a wonderful event that illustrated Mr.

Halloween happiness

At least 300 kids and their families participated in a trunk or treat on Oct. 8 at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post in Southgate. Bar manager and event coordinator Jill Thiel said VFW members, auxiliary members, veterans and friends took to the post parking lot to distribute treats and serve food for the attendees, many of whom learned about the successful event via social media.

gobigmultimedia.com/trenton-times

‘The Forgotten’ is the inspiration for Goodfellows

...The drawing was accompanied by the story of a young girl whose family could not celebrate Christmas because of financial hardship. Here we

Finance Director David Angileri retires

are, more than 100 years later, and her situation sounds very familiar.

Though simple, the drawing had a powerful impact on readers, who responded with donations to ensure

Trenton Parks and Recreation

... Park improvements are set to begin at Lexington Park in the spring of 2023 and new pickleball courts and nets have been installed at Affholter Park.

Trenton Transportation is available for senior Trenton residents during the week. Please call our office at 734-675-7300 if you or someone you know may be interested in learning more about our transportation services.

In addition to the senior programs and card clubs

environment and I’m so pleased to have them in our city,” Mayor DeSana said.

The Golden Leash started in the home of Wyandotte resident Alicia Stamper, a long-time supporter of the need of better treatment of dogs. Stamper combined that empathy with experience gained at a grooming salon for animals to open a doggy daycare to provide a place for fellow dog lovers who needed a place for their pets to stay...

On page 5.

Wyandotte Indians freshmen win DJFL ‘Peanut Bowl’

children in their communities woke up Christmas morning to find presents beneath their trees, as well as all the fixings for a holiday feast later that day.

Titled, “The Forgotten,” the cartoon generated donations the year after it appeared and marked the beginning of a service organization that would evolve to be known as “Old Newsboys” and “Goodfellows,” as we more commonly know them today...

On page 6

Making Christmas bright!

The Trenton Goodfellows are hard at work making sure they can fulfill their promise of “No child without a Christmas.” But to get the job done, the Goodfellows need your help through donations. You can do that by using the handy envelope inside today’s Trenton Times.

Planning this year’s holiday drive for the Trenton Goodfellows are Carrie Hancock (left), Debra Devitt, Chris Zboch, Trish Gearhart, William Jasman, Michele DeJulian, Mike Mace, Melanie Cvetkovski, Will Evans and Ron Diroff.

On page 1

Your kindness can make a child’s Christmas ... Although the method of collection has changed in recent years as we adjusted to the coronavirus pandemic, our focus has not wavered. We still have disadvantaged children who need help in your neighborhood. Your help is essential to helping us make sure that every child receives a present for Christmas and their families receive provisions for a holiday meal...

On page 3.

Christmas Skating Exhibition and Santa Skate

The ever popular afternoon event is Dec. 17 at the Kennedy Recreation Center, 3101 West Road. Figure skaters from the Parks and Recreation program will be showcased from 12:30 to 2 p.m., followed by the opportunity to skate with Santa from 2 to 4 p.m. Admission is $3 for the Exhibition; $4 to $7 for Santa Skate. Skate rental is $3. Participants can save a dollar on admission or skating by bringing a canned food item to “Stuff the Sleigh” for local food pantries.

On page 7.

that have resumed, the Loan Closet is back up and running weekdays from 1 – 4.p.m. at the Westfield Center. For a small deposit, Trenton residents can check out items such as wheelchairs, walkers and canes. The deposit is refunded when the item is returned to the Loan Closet.

The Trenton Community Gardeners have been busy growing to give produce to our residents while also adding beauty to our parks and facilities.

Our Fitness and Wellness programs have been well-attended and continue to expand in offerings, with several fitness pop-ups like Full Moon Aqua Yoga and Halloween Glow-Ga seeing a great turn out.

On page 9.

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Golden Leash doggie daycare honored by Wyandotte Mayor

...The tribute thanks Golden Leash for having a positive impact on the community while serving “as a steadfast and dedicated business in the City of Wyandotte.”

“It’s just an all-around beautiful operation and

On Nov. 12 in Taylor, the Wyandotte Indians Freshman Junior Football team beat Riverview 26-7 in the Downriver Junior Football League AFC Championship game, a game known to many as the Peanut Bowl.

To reach the championship game, the Indians, who finished the 2022 regular season with a 5-3 record, defeated Taylor 27-0. On the other side of the bracket, Riverview, the regular-season league-leader, beat Huron River 19-7 to set up the championship game in Taylor.

Although Riverview was the higher seed in the playoffs, the Wyandotte win was not wholly unexpected as the Indians had defeated the Junior Pirates 13-6 in the second week of the season...

On page 16.

Lending a helping hand Community service projects help bring Gabriel Richard football team closer

...A number of community service projects have stood out: Players came together to plant a garden of flowers and vegetables at the headquarters of Downriver for Veterans. They helped clean up the property of an elderly senior citizen. They helped clean up a cemetery over Labor Day weekend. They distributed food for the needy at a United Auto Workers office. And they helped with “trunk or treating” during an event for autistic children in Brownstown Township.

Coach [Dionte] Allen “has done a phenomenal job of implementing his vision and getting the kids on board for that,” said [senior captain Nic] DiSanto’s mother Elizabeth,a team parent and judge in the 27th District Court in Wyandotte. “It’s phenomenal. It gives kids an opportunity to do some things they might otherwise not be doing. It’s service outside of school. It gets the football team out in the community. The energy this has created has been fantastic at the school.”

GROSSE ILE GRAND

Red Devil athletes continue to excel; Grosse Ile fall sports awards

BILL STEVENSON

Grosse Ile High School Athletic Director, Jim Okler and Athletic Administrative Assistant Patti Duffett are pleased to announce the success of the outstanding teams and athletes who have competed in the Fall 2022 season.

Leading the way was state champion diver, Kaitlyn Molnar who became the first diver in Grosse Ile history to become a state champ.

At their Nov. 21 athletic awards night, sponsored by the Grosse Ile Athletic Boosters, the following teams and athletes were honored: Boys’ Cross Country, 6th in the Huron League; Girls’ Cross Country, 4th in the league; Football (5-5 season), 5th in the league; Swimming (5-3 season), 4th in the league; Volleyball (2-8), 7th in the league; Boys’ Tennis (8-6),1st in League, 2nd in the region and 10th in state; Equestrian, 1st in district, 2nd in region and 7th in State; Girls’ Golf, 1st in the region and 3rd in state; Boys’ Soccer (14-8), 4th in league, 1st in the district; 1st in region and 2nd in

state.

The following athletes received Most Valuable, Most Improved, and the Coach’s Award.

Equestrian: MVP – Cecilia Lind, Lakely Luton; Most Improved – Ava Abrahamson/

Boys’ CC: MVP – Jack Fox; Most Improved – Amav Verma; Coaches Award – Nicholas Griffin.

Girls’ CC: MVP – Alyssa Korte; Most Improved – Riley Kerr; Coaches Award – Michelle Roque.

Tennis: MVP – Luke Hargrove; Most Improved – Harry Simmons; Coaches Award – Caleb Johnson.

Golf: MVP –Lily Bargamian; Most Improved – Sydeny Botten; Coaches Award – Macy LaCourse.

Sailing: MVP – Serafim

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Dionyssopolous; Most Improved – Gillian Bellard; Coaches Award –James Souilliere.

Swimming: MVP – Kelly Antosiewicz; Most Improved –Madison Glover; Coaches Award –Jadyn Weatherly.

Football: MVP – Tyler Swick, Tyler Fraczek; Most Improved –Dylan Alexander; Coaches Award – Eian Rush.

Volleyball: MVP – Charissa James; Most Improved – Ava Kowal; Coaches Award – Chelsea Houghton.

Cheer: MVP – Marissas Trombley; Most Improved – Halle Brower; Coaches Award – Isabella Esposito.

Soccer: MVP – Cannon Kawadri; Most Improved – Issac Miles; Coaches Award – Tyler Slowik.

Athletic Boosters’ President Jay Frucci summed it up saying, “Not surprisingly, the Grosse Ile Athletic Boosters continue to believe that high school athletics are a critical part of the development of individual students, as well as the collective spirit of the student body, and of the community as a whole.”

GIHS Fall

MVPs

Grosse Ile High School recently announced its fall sports MVPS. They are (from front left): Lily Bargamian-Golf; Kelly Antosiewicz-Swim; Cecilia Lind-Equestrian; Alyssa Korte-Girls Cross Country; Charissa James-Volleyball; Marissa Trombley-Sideline Cheer. Back row: Luke Hargrove-Boys Tennis; Serafim DionysoppoulosSailing; Jack Fox-Boys Cross Country; Cannon Kawadri-Boys Soccer; and Tyler Swick-Football (Not pictured are Lakely Luton-Equestrian and Tyler Fraczek-Football).

Photo courtesy of Grosse Ile High School

Grosse Ile girls looking for more success on hardwood

After several down seasons, the Grosse Ile girls basketball team, under new coach James Frost, had a sensational 2021-22 campaign.

The Red Devils went 18-4 – with two of those losses coming against Riverview, a team that went to the MHSAA Division 2 quarterfinals – they finished second to Riverview in the Huron League and they reached the district finals before falling in a seven[point game to a good Carleton Airport team.

A few important parts from that team graduated, but enough key figures, including seniors Natalee Kirk and Cailey O’Farrell, return to have the Devils looking optimistically toward this season.

And the early results have been encouraging.

In their first two non-league games, the Red Devils went 2-0 against the Downriver League, beating Trenton 26-20 in their opener and coming back to beat Wyandotte 57-50 in a much higher scoring affair.

The Trenton game was an unusual one as the Red Devils fell behind early in the game

And trailed by as many as 9-2 in the first quarter. But the defense stiffened and the offense did just enough to get the job done. After scoring nine points in the opening minutes, Trenton scored just 11 the rest of the game.

Junior Kylee Wright led Grosse Ile with eight points. O’Farrell, Kirk and Chelsea Houghton each had four points

The Red Devil have a busy early portion of the schedule. After facing Trenton and Wyandotte they battled Gabriel Richard, Northville and Carlson.

The team opens Huron League play at Huron on Dec. 15 and they got to Riverview for a huge game on Dec. 19.

Dec. 22 at Cabrini

Jan.4 Trenton

Jan. 9 Jefferson

Jan. 12 Flat Rock

Jan. 17 Divine Child

Jan. 19 at Airport

Jan. 23 Milan

Jan. 26 at SMCC

Jan. 30 Huron

Feb. 2 Riverview

Feb. 6 at Jefferson

Feb. 10 at Flat Rock

Feb. 13 Airport

Feb. 16 at Milan

Feb. 21 SMCC

Feb. 24 Monroe High

Dec. 15 at Huron Dec. 19 at Riverview

Feb. 27 Districts at Grosse Ile

GROSSE ILE GRAND

Soccer team falls one game short of title

The Grosse Ile soccer team kept its state title game streak alive by reaching the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division Division 3 championship game for the fifth straight year.

But the Red Devils, who have won two of the state championship games, again fell one game short of their ultimate goal.

Last year the Red Devils lost to Grand Rapids South Christian 3-1 in the title game. This year it was another west-side squad doing the Islanders in as the Holland Christian Maroons beat Grosse Ile 2-0 in a game played at Comstock Park High School.

It came down to corner kicks.

Holland Christian converted twice, both during the second half, and took home its first title since 2003.

The Maroons Derek Huisman scored near the halfway point of the second half after a scoreless first and Michael Pierce put the game effectively out of reach on a header with just under 11 minutes to go. For Huisman, a senior defender, it was the first goal of his high school career.

That the Holland team held Grosse Ile scoreless was hardly surprising as the

Maroons allowed only two goals over their final 13 games, with 10 shutouts in a row.

The first half of the game was played in pretty nasty conditions with heavy winds driving falling rain.

The game-winning goal came at the 24-minute mark of the second half when a Holland corner kick, came into the box, hit the ground and Huisman slammed it home.

Pierce put the game out of reach with his ninth goal of the season 14 minutes later.

That was more than enough for the Maroons defense, which allowed just seven goals all year and posted 18 shutouts. The Maroons finished the year with a 20-1-3 record.

For Grosse Ile, 2022 was not a vintage year. The Red Devil lost their Huron League crown to Riverview, a team that advanced to the MHSAA Division 2 state semifinals, and they were just 8-8 as the state tournament started. The red Devils finished 14-8.

After the title game, Grosse Ile coach Jom Evans said he was pleased with his team effort and noted that the graduating senior on the team had been to the state final four straight years, winning two MHSAA titles.

What’s happening Grosse Ile ...

Table tennis, anyone?

Centennial Farm Banquet Hall is home to the Grosse Ile Ping Pong Club.

The table tennis club is free to all and is open to players from high school age on up through senior years.

The club welcomes everyone from beginners to the more advanced players and players support each other in learning more about the sport.

We are also open to all Downriver players. There is an atmosphere of friendliness, good play and healthy exercise.

Although singles play is available, there is emphasis on doubles play, which brings out a teamwork aspect, many times adding to enjoyability and fun.

Friendships have been built here and we have hosted holiday parties, the Downriver Senior Olympics Table Tennis Tournament and other events.

We hope you will visit us and see if it may be something you would like to try.

Our current schedule is: Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 3-5 p.m.

If you have questions please contact Viktor Brown by email at vbrown1377@gmail.com.

Santa’s Magic Forest

Fish & Loaves Community Food Pantry volunteers in partnership with the City of Taylor,

and with the help of Presenting Sponsor Masco, is presenting Santa’s Magic Forest at 1 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 18 at the Activity Center within Heritage Park in Taylor.

Families can view the immaculate displays and take photos with Mr. and Mrs. Claus. General admission is $3 per person. Children under 3 are free. Pictures with Santa are $8 and are professionally taken by Rosecrans Picture Perfect Photography.

All proceeds of this event directly support Fish & Loaves to help stock their shelves and provide fresh produce, dairy and meat products this winter season. For more information on the display, including hours of operation each weekend, please visit ww.flcfp.org.

Solstice Walk

Sponsored by the Grosse Ile Nature and Land Conservancy at Meridian Woods, eastside of Meridian Road across from Meridian Elementary School, Grosse Ile, from 1-3 p.m., on Sunday, Dec. 18.

Join the group for an educational walk on the (almost) shortest day of the year. Our focus will be on signs of winter, seasonal adaptations, and animal homes.

All GINLC programs are free to the public, but your donations make them possible. Dates, times, and locations are subject to change. For more

information, email GINLC.education@gmail.com.

Discount Annual Vehicle Passes

Huron-Clinton Metroparks 2023 annual vehicle passes are on sale now at a discount until the end of 2022. Passes are $35 or $24 for seniors 62+ until the end of the year. Beginning Jan. 1, 2023 passes will be $40 for residents ($29 for Seniors 62+) of the five counties served or $45 for non-residents ($34 for Seniors 62+).

Passes can be purchased at www.metroparks.com (look for the “Buy Annual Pass” button in the menu bar) or at any Metroparks toll booth or park office.

Take it Outside Photo Contest

Sponsored by the Grosse Ile Nature and Land Conservancy. Entry deadline is Thursday, May 11, 2023 at 5 p.m. The contest is open to high school students within Wayne, Washtenaw and Monroe Counties.

We are searching for photos captured locally (within Wayne, Washtenaw and Monroe Counties) that inspire us to appreciate and steward our environment: air, water, land, wildlife, resources, and ecosystems.

Categories are Dawn to Dusk; Fur and Feathers; Bark and Blooms. Total of $445 in prize money. For more information, visit see https://www.ginlc.org/photo-contes

Red Devils get new season off to hot start

Red Devils scored.

The other goal-getters against Huron were Karn, Cookson, Hubler, Symons, Cookson, Ashton Sobiechowski, Owen Hennessey and Noah Cole.

Thompson claimed the victory in goal.

The Devils went up north to the Gaylord Division 3 Showcase on Dec. 9-10 before returning for three games at Kennedy Arena before breaking for the holidays.

2022-23 roster

There is nothing like the feeling of starting a new season on a winning note, and that’s exactly what the Grosse Ile hockey team is enjoying today.

In its first five games of the 202223 season the Red Devils posted a 4-1 record with wins over Allen Park, Divine Child, Monroe St. Mary Catholic Central and New Boston United against just a 4-2 setback against Carlson.

Coach Jason Durbin’s squad has been racking up some pretty impressive numbers as they outscored those first five foes 31-11 and posted shutouts against Divine Child and SMCC.

The new season started with a 5-4 win over Allen Park at Trenton’s Kennedy Arena.

Allen Park scored the only goal of the first period and led 1-0 at the break, but the Devil roared back to score a 5-4 victory. It was 2-2 at the end of the second period, but the

Devils outscored the Jaguars 3-2 in the third period to chalk up the win.

Nolan Karn’s goal into an empty net with less than two minutes to play proved to be the game-winner. It was karfn’s second goal of the game.

Also scoring for Grosse Ile were Brendan Pace, Fisher Gurney and Travis Symons.

Junior goalie Wyantt Thompson stopped 22 shots to earn the win.

Three nights later the devils went to the Taylor Sportsplex and blanked host Divine Child 5-0. Freshman goalie Braden Chessor posted the shutout for his first varsity victory. He stopped 19 shots.

On the offensive end Gurney had a pair of goals to lead the way and Aiden Hennessey, Tate Hubler and Landon Siewniak had the others. It was actually not a bad performance by the DC goalie as the Devils peppered him with 51 shots on goal.

The day before Thanksgiving, Grosse Ile hosted Carlson and suffered

the only setback in its first five games.

The Red Devils actually outshot the Marauders 31-29, but only Hubler and Gurney could find the back of the net and that was not enough.

Grosse Ile bounced back from that loss with overwhelming wins over teams they should have overwhelmed.

SMCC fell 8-0 in a mercy ruleshortened game.

Gurney kept the hot hand with two more goals. Aiden Cookson also had two goals against the Falcons. Hubler, Karn, Symon and Jake Oliver had the others.

It was almost a night off for Thompson as he faced just 14 shots

On Dec. 3, Grosse Ile stepped out onto the ice at Kennedy Arena and punished New Boston with four firstperiod goals, which led to a 11-3 rout.

Gurney, who has been on fire since they first dropped the puck on the new season, was the first star of the game with three goals and three assists.

He had plenty of help as eight other

1 Braden Chessor 4 Travis Symons 5 Rocco Stoney 6 Aiden Hennessey 7 Brendan Pace 8 Mark Roman 9 Ashton Sobiechowski 10 Vince Colella 11 Fisher Gurney 12 Owen Hennessey 13 Jake Oliver 16 Dylan Alexander 17 Tate Hubler 19 Landon Siewniak 20 Aiden Cookson 22 Noah Cole 24 Gavin Worsley 25 Michael Olenchak 26 Nolan Karn 31 Wyatt Thompson

2022-23 schedule

Dec. 14 AA Richard Dec. 14 at Carlson Dec. 17 Wyandotte

Jan. 14 at Bedford Jan. 6 at Riverview Jan. 12 AA Pioneer Jan. 14 Livonia Franklin Jan. 18 at Riverview Jan. 21 Southgate

Jan. 25 at AA Richard Jan. 28 Allen Park

Jan. 31 at AA Pioneer Feb. 4 at Wyandotte

Feb. 8 SMCC Feb. 10 Divine Child Feb. 15 at Woodhaven Feb. 18 Huron United Feb. 29 Regionals TBA

Photo by Larry Caruso

Wyatt Thompson is back for his junior season between the pipes for the Grosse Ile hockey team. He started and won three of his team’s first five games

Jan. 10 Jefferson

Jan. 17 at Thurston

Jan. 20 at Airport

Jan. 24 Milan

Jan. 27 at SMCC

Feb.

Feb.

Feb. 28 at Dearborn ATA

Joe Molnar (2) brings the ball up court during Grosse Ile’s season-opening win over neighboring Trenton

Photos by Dave Chapman

Grosse Ile found just enough room to squeeze out a two-point victory over Trenton in the first game of the season.