Grosse Ile Grand, August 11 — September 11, 2023

Chorus: “Rumor has it (rumor), Rumor has it (rumor), Rumor has it (rumor) ...” Adele

On a small island, word spreads like ... you live on a small island.

The big talk around town is that the Township is considering the purchase of the Grosse Ile Toll Bridge. Indeed, at their July 24 regular meeting, the Grosse Ile Township Board of Trustees approved and authorized the execution of an exclusivity agreement with the Grosse Ile Bridge Company.

Under the terms of this exclusivity agreement, both the Township and the Company, “agree

FROM THE TOWNSHIP

CIVIC

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to continue discussions regarding a potential transaction involving the acquisition of substantially all of the assets of the Grosse Ile Bridge Company.”

“The Company will negotiate exclusively with the Township in respect of the transaction, during the ‘Exclusivity Period,’ beginning upon the execution of this Agreement and continuing through 11:59 p.m. (Eastern Daylight Time) on October 15, 2023.”

But before Island residents get too excited, the clear understanding is that the Township Board is exploring the possibility of buying the toll bridge.

Township Supervisor James Budny explains, “We are in the beginning stages of this process.

“The exclusivity agreement means they will not look for anyone else (to purchase the bridge) while we do our due diligence. It is going to be something that will take a long time in studying, and we certainly want to do it right—for all the reasons mentioned by citizens in their public comments.

“This impacts Grosse Ile. It does give us some benefits, but it has to work all the way around.

It cannot be an impediment but an asset to our community. We will spend our time and our money in doing that properly.”

Budny continued, “We are also bound by a confidentiality agreement, which does not allow us to say too much at this time. But down the road, long before anything happens, as we are able, we will make matters public.”

Under the exclusivity agreement, in conducting their due diligence of the Bridge Company’s assets and liabilities, the Township will be given, “reasonable access at all reasonable times to the Company’s personnel, facilities, machinery, equipment, inventory, and other assets and to the Company’s contracts, agreements, and financial, legal, tax and other data and information.”

According to a history of the Grosse Ile Toll Bridge, provided by the Company, “The toll bridge was financed, designed, and constructed between 1912 and 1913 by the Grosse Ile Bridge Company.

The GIBC was established as a Michigan corporation on May 1, 1912 with Grosse Ile land owner and business magnate Edward W. Voigt as its primary incorporator, majority stockholder, and founding president.

Voigt directed the construction of the Toll Bridge and opened the span to the general public on Nov. 27, 1913 (Thanksgiving Day). The Toll Bridge was the first automobile bridge to the Island.”

The current president and owner of

Retiring Finance Director Ann Darzniek will be missed

Ann Darzniek is retiring from her position as Finance Director of Grosse Ile Township. Ann is leaving us as a Township employee, but will remain with us as an islander. Her husband works on the Island and her daughter goes to GIHS.

of Grosse Ile.

the GIBC is Paul J. Smoke, Edward Voigt’s great-grandson.

Island residents are well aware of the consequences of the year and a half closure in 2020-2021 of the Wayne County owned “Free Bridge” which still stings recent memories. There are major concerns with a projected 2025 or 2026 date for further pier replacement and bridge maintenance by Wayne County.

Another issue that impacts a possible purchase of the Toll Bridge is the redevelopment of the former McLouth Steel site, currently owned by Crown Enterprises, the development arm of the Moroun companies. There is talk about a proposal to build an intermodal shipping port on the McLouth site.

And, of course, among all the myriad factors under consideration is the cost— on a whole gradient of levels.

The possibility of the Township purchasing the Toll Bridge poses one of the most complex and complicated decisions facing the health, safety, and welfare of all the citizens of Grosse Ile.

Budny reiterated, “At this time all I can say is we are doing our due diligence on looking into the possible acquisition of the toll bridge. We need to know if it is feasible and that it will make sense for the community.”

JAMES BUDNY Township Supervisor

Ann is moving into retirement from her township employment and on to new adventures.

I have had the pleasure of working with her for my 11 years on the Township Board. We are a township of one person jobs with no backups. Ann was always ready to assist with whatever the financial task. If she didn’t have the answer, she got the answer. She kept us going from the finance side and she will be missed.

The following is the Board’s farewell to Ann which was read at our last Board meeting.

The Township Board hereby accepts with regret the retirement of Ann Darzniek from the position of Finance Director with the Township

Whereas, Ann Darzniek has served over 27 years as a dedicated employee of the Township of Grosse Ile; and Whereas, during her employment with the Township of Grosse Ile, Ann Darzniek has served the Township in various capacities including the position of Deputy Clerk, Interim Township Manager and finally, as the Township’s first ever Finance Director and Whereas, Finance Director Darzniek provided tremendous support and leadership to the Township in the most professional and conscientious manner throughout her tenure with the Township of Grosse Ile; and Whereas, the Township Board of Trustees regretfully accepts the retirement of Finance Director Darzniek; now Therefore, on this date, July 24th, 2023 I, James Budny, on behalf of the Grosse Ile Township Board of Trustees, Do honor Finance Director Darzniek for her commitment and dedication to the Township of Grosse Ile and to our Island Community. On behalf of the whole community, we wish only the best for you Ann.

Ile

co-workers. I want to thank everyone I have worked with over the years. I will always cherish the memories, laughs and friendships that were made.

ANN M. DARZNIEK C.P.A

I want to thank Grosse Ile Township for everything it has given to me and my family. I worked there for half of my life and I know it has had a major impact on who I am today.

I have met so many great people along the way, both residents and

I can honestly say that I loved my job. “Don’t get me wrong-Fridays were great but Mondays were ok too. But with that being said, for all that I have given, I only hope that in return I helped to make Grosse Ile a better place to live.

Good-bye, and thank you, Grosse

SWCRC Taste of Downriver is Aug. 15

The Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber is proud to host this year’s Taste of Downriver presented by PNC Bank in beautiful downtown Allen Park on Tuesday, Aug. 15!

Join us for a great night on the town with wonderful food from some of Downriver’s top eateries.

Participating SWCRC member restaurants this year include A Serendipity Cakery, The Big Salad, Prestige Banquet Hall and The Grecian Center. Downtown Allen Park participants include May’s Bakery, Culver’s, Chicago Pizza, and more.

The event runs from 6 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $25 and available at swcrc.com/taste2023.

Sponsors for this event include Presenting Sponsor PNC Bank; Menu Sponsors Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital, Public Service Credit Union, and Wayne County Community College District; Eatery Sponsor Downriver Community Federal Credit Union; and Registration Sponsors Downriver For Veterans, Soroptimist International of Trenton and Downriver Area, and Stor-Room.

Art on the Ile, an ambitious three-year project designed to promote art on the Island, is well into its second year and really beginning to bear fruit.

The goal of the program is to install 33 permanent and rotating public art works along Macomb.

Grosse Ile DDA’s “Art on the Ile” initiative first launched in 2022 and wraps in 2024. The project aims to install a mix of 33 murals, rotating and permanent sculptures, historical markers, student artworks, and crosswalk paintings over the course of 2022, ‘23, and ‘24.

In 2022, organizers successfully installed two murals, six rotating sculptures, and one permanent

“G.I.” sculpture. The murals were painted by local artists Dustin Cook and Michelle Tanguay.

This year, the Grosse Ile Downtown Development Authority has plans to complete three more murals downtown, including a mural on the Grosse Ile Hardware Store, on Lloyd’s Bar & Grill and on Zubke’s Plumbing.

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) has accepted Art on the Ile into its placemaking initiative, Public Spaces Community Places. As part of the initiative, should organizers successfully raise $29,500 through a crowdfunding campaign, the MEDC will contribute a $29,500

matching grant. Funds raised through the campaign will support the program’s mural installations, corresponding events, and associated costs.

“The Grosse Ile Downtown Development Authority is excited to collaborate with MEDC’s Public Spaces Community Places program to bring public art and placemaking to Macomb Street,” Grosse Ile Downtown Development Authority Community and Economic Development Director Ross Querro says in a statement.

“With their help, we’re bringing an overall identity to our business district, by utilizing murals to reflect the character of our island community.”

ways

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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 2,000 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 Garden Club … we get around

You may or may not be familiar with the Grosse Ile Garden Club, but you sure have seen their work.

The club maintains eight community gardens on the Island, which are: Welcome to Grosse Ile, Blue Star Memorial, Four Corners, Wildlife Sanctuary, Historical Marker-Treaty Tablet and Rosie’s Garden and the Butterfly gardens at Centennial Farm.

The Flowering of Macomb was initiated by the Garden Club in 2017. That project is currently supported by the Grosse Ile Downtown Development Authority. You may have noticed the large lite Christmas Tree as you come on to the Island via Grosse Ile Parkway, that is their doing also.

Started in 1927, this organization has a long history of beautifying the community, and during the year it holds charitable events benefiting local non-profits.

Whether it’s digging in the dirt, planting, nurturing,

caring for the earth, educating yourself and the public about best gardening practices, they are always busy helping to make this a better world.

The Grosse Ile Garden Club is a member of The Michigan Garden Club and the National Garden Club and benefits from the classes and opportunities offered by the state club. Membership to both is only $30 per year.

For the past six years, the club has given a scholarship to a deserving Grosse Ile High School senior.

Membership meetings are held from September through April on the second Monday of each month at St. James Episcopal Church Galloway Hall with coffee at 9:30 a.m., the meeting at 10 a.m. and a guest speaker at 11 a.m., followed by lunch.

Meetings will start up again on Sept. 11 and

everyone is welcome.

Garden tours and clean-ups take place periodically throughout the summer months.

This non-profit organization is 75 members strong and they are always looking for new members. It’s a fun group with novice gardeners to master gardeners.

“Grosse Ile Garden Club is always looking to expand its membership with fun, interesting, sociable, sharing and gardening people. We are looking forward to meeting you,” said Club President, Beth McNeely.

If you want to know more about the Grosse Ile Garden Club, join their Facebook page: Gardeners of Grosse Ile.

Donations are needed and welcomed to keep up their great work in the community. Please send to: The Grosse Ile Garden Club, PO Box 413, Grosse Ile, MI 48138.

FROM THE HELM

Grosse Ile boat second in Bayview to Mackinac

Welcome to From the Helm, a monthly column dedicated to all things sailing. This is a column for all you out there who love the waters around Grosse Ile and destinations near and far.

These are your stories, the triumphs you’ve received, the challenges, the heartbreaks, and everything in between.

We will highlight “all things nautical”, from the youngest sailor to those octogenarians who still are called to feel the wind in their face, and the beauty of nature at its fullest. If you are a sailor, racer, kayaker, love to fish, and have stories to tell – share them here!

It’s going to be a wild ride – are you in?

Every sailor has that one race that he or she dreams of in the dark days of winter, that “rite of passage” that defines a sailing career. For Michiganders that race is the BayviewMackinac Race.

I’ve heard on good authority that this regatta holds the title of the “longest-run continuously sailed freshwater race in the world” with obstacles like WWII and COVID not deterring determined racers from the starting line in Port Huron.

It must be the fickle winds, unpredictable

weather and dangerous Lake Huron currents that attract racers from as far away as Texas, New York and Maryland to our beautiful corner of the world.

This year’s race, the 99th, attracted over 200 entries with 1,600 crew.

Enter Kevin Lamonds and his crew on “Janine,” a J/109, who came in second in Class F and second overall! Congratulations to Kevin and his crew. You rock!

Lemonds is no newcomer to the BayviewMac.

He has completed over 25 of them, and this year’s crew included three Old Goats: Kevin, Roger Pollack and Jim Bourgault. For those of you who don’t know about “Old Goats,” the official title is the Society of Mackinac Old Goats – Detroit. This Society was formed in the 1950’s to recognize sailors who had completed 25 or more Bayview Mackinac Races.

In addition to the Old Goats, Lemonds crew includes his two sons and a nephew. How good is that? The entire crew on Janine was Kevin Lemonds, Jim Bourgault, Ryan Wilkinson, Matthew Lemonds, Roger Pollack, Kent Picknell, Jean-Paul Bourgault and Thomas Lemonds, and Kevin Burke.

Lemonds’ first Bayview-Mackinac was

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back in 1993 and they came in fourth in their class, with “gorgeous winds the second day, then thunderstorms with 40 knots in fog.” And yet he came back year after year for the excitement and the dream of a podium finish – and now he is an Old Goat with a secondplace overall finish.

What was the secret to Lemonds’ success? They had a plan and stuck to it.

“We knew we were doing very well six hours into the race. It was kind of stressful holding on to that lead for 48 hours,” Lemonds said. “It’s great racing with family and friends.” Then he added, “It’s all about the crew.”

Of course, it’s about the crew, but what Lemonds, in his quiet, modest manner, would never say, but I will, “Kevin Lemonds is one great skipper.”

Two other races beg mentioning.

The Grosse Ile Yacht Club Historic Downriver Race was held Saturday, July 29. In its heyday, this race attracted so many boats that the start south of Belle Isle became so crowded it was difficult to tack.

These days the race has less boats, but not less enthusiasm. According to GIYC Commodore Cortney McCarthy, “The Downriver Race has been a time honored GIYC event for 65 years. It is wonderful to have support from the surrounding clubs and sailors that come to enjoy this race year after year.”

Top boats: JAM/JOG: 1. BANGARANG, Bryce Boardman, West Shore Sail Club. SPINNAKER A: 1. B 32-83299, John Armyot, Grosse Ile YC/LaSalle Mariners YC. SPINNAKER B: 1. MUNGO TIKI, Tony Berends, LaSalle Mariners YC.

SPINNAKER C: 1. GAUNTLET, Cary Diehl, Ford YC. Full Results: noticeofrace.net/seriesresults.

The series results for the Ford Yacht Club Midsummer Series 2023 (AYC Counter): PHRF JAM: 1. DRAGONLADY, Brenda Woodruff, West Shore Sail Club/Ford YC. PHRF SPINNAKER A: 1. HAT TRICK, Matt Dubois, Grosse Ile YC. PHRF SPINNAKER B: 1. GAUNTLET, Gary Diehl, Ford Yacht Club. Full results: noticeofrace.net/seriesresults

SAVE THE DATE

The Michigan Sports Hall of Fame has announced their 2023 Inductees. Dawn Riley, a native of Detroit, is one of nine so honored.

Dawn is the most honored woman in the history of United States sailboat racing as a team captain, skipper and America’s Cup crew member and competitor in around-the-world races. The 2023 Induction Ceremony will be held Sept. 14 in Detroit at the Sound Board Theater at MotorCity Casino Hotel.

“This year’s class spans generations and represents a diversity of champions and pioneers from the best in Michigan sports history. Congratulations to the Class of 2023,” said Scott Lesher, Hall of Fame chairman.

For more information and to buy tickets: michigansportshof.org/2023announcement/

It gets even better! When I called Dawn to congratulate her, one thing led to another, and Dawn has agreed to speak at the Grosse Ile YC on Friday, Sept. 15. More details to follow – but mark your calendars now for Sept. 14 and Sept. 15 and help us give Dawn a rousing “well done!”

An honorable farewell

VFW

part of

DAVE GORGON

efforts to retire 1,000 American flags during special funeral

One thousand old and worn American flags were retired in style and with dignity during a patriotic funeral service, thanks to the efforts of the Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Southgate and the Michigan Memorial Funeral Home.

The flags were collected from the Veterans Court at the 28th District Court in Southgate and placed in two large cremation boxes. On July 16, dozens of veterans gathered at the VFW on Dix-Toledo Road, where the boxes were placed in a Michigan Memorial hearse and driven in procession to the funeral home in Huron Township.

After a complete funeral service, during which the boxes were strapped together and draped with a large American flag to look like a casket, the flags were cremated onsite.

The events of the day were orchestrated by Bill King, commander of the Southgate VFW, and Craig Roe, vice president and general manager of the funeral home. Participants included dozens of members of the VFW and VFW Auxiliary, the Downriver Veterans

Honor Guard, the VFW District 4 Riders and other interested observers. Some served as pallbearers; some were moved to tears during the ceremony.

“It was treated from beginning to end like a funeral,” Roe said. “It flowed very nicely. Everything tied together perfectly. We’re so happy with how the day went.”

King had approached Roe with the concept, saying it was important for the flags to be retired properly. King said the post wanted to honor the flags’ service.

“As a veteran, you go into the military and pledge your allegiance to the flag when you enlist,” said King, who served 20 years in the Army. “When you’re in the military, you serve that flag. And that same veteran will someday rest under that flag. I think because of those reasons, the flag is very important to the veteran and the flag should be equally important to every citizen.”

King and Roe worked out the details. The Michigan Memorial hearse contained military decals. Motorcyclists from the District 4 Riders served as escorts for the hearse, turning heads of other drivers along the way to the

funeral home. Honor Guard members stood guard. Veterans filled the funeral home during the ceremony. Flags from all military branches flanked the flag-covered boxes of flags. Bill Peters, chaplain of Post 9283, honored the flags with a reading about “Old Glory.” Honor Guard members fired a 21-gun salute and played Taps. After the cremation took place, Michigan Memorial provided food and beverages for the participants.

“Michigan Memorial Funeral Home and its owner are very patriotic and believe in the respect the flag deserves,” Roe said. “We support the veterans and very much appreciate their service to our country. That’s what the flag represents.

“It was a great honor to be asked by these veterans to do this. We feel very privileged to be allowed to be part of this service with them.”

King said the vision of the VFW and the funeral home came together for a wonderful event.

“A couple guys said being there and watching it all take place touched them as much as when they have to go to a funeral for a friend,” King said. “They were really touched by it.”

King said the dignified ceremony was a change from other much simpler ceremonies in which flags are burned.

“There was nothing that wasn’t done right,” he said. “Everyone was touched by the reverence and the honor that was afforded the flags… It gave a really good idea that being in the military is more than a guy carrying a gun.”

Bill Schaffer, president of the 4th District VFW Riders, said his members from throughout the Downriver area were honored to participate as both escorts and pallbearers.

“This was a first for us,” he said. “It was nice to see somebody do it right. Frank Mentzer, treasurer of the Downriver Veterans Honor Guard, said “Michigan Memorial really stepped up. It was really, really nice.”

Plans called for at least some of the ashes to be placed by the veterans memorial outside the Southgate post, where bricks honor Southgate veterans who were killed in the Vietnam War.

“I think it’s just one more way to say that those flags served our country, and we will always protect them,” King said. “We will make sure the flag is honored always.”

Participants in the flag retirement ceremony gather around the boxes containing 1,000 flags outside the Veterans of Foreign Wars post in Southgate.

Photo by Dave Chapman

SWCRC August Legislative Forum Featuring the Michigan Chamber of

Our Forum series offers a critical look at both business and legislative issues affecting the entire region, from job providers to the workforce. The August Legislative Forum on Monday, August 28, features an update on what’s happening at the state Capitol courtesy of Jim Holcomb, the President and CEO of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce. Holcomb will discuss the state budget, legislation affecting staffing agencies and temporary workers, and more critical issues that will have a major impact on the Downriver community.

Ron Hinrichs, CEO/President SWCRC

Tickets are available at swcrc.com/miupdate23 or call us at 734-284-6000. The forum takes place at Prestige Banquet Hall in Allen Park and runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., with the program followed by a question and answer session. Lunch is included for attendees. Book your ticket today and stay in the know on important issues from Lansing.

Considering a Lease Buyout? Here Are Four Things You Should Know!

By Mark Tremper, Vice-President, Downriver Community Federal Credit Union

If you’ve been driving a leased vehicle and you’re nearing the end of your lease, a lease buyout could be a great option! Now you may be asking, “but how do I know if it is a good option for me?” Well, everyone’s situation is different, so here are a few things you should consider before you make that decision:

1. Know your wants and needs

If you love the vehicle you’re driving and can’t see yourself in anything else, there can be significant advantages of retaining the vehicle you’re already familiar with, including first-hand knowledge of your vehicle’s maintenance record and your own comfort level with the various features and amenities. Although, you should be sure to consider any potential life changes on the horizon that could affect your future needs! If you are expecting a new addition to the family, have teenagers who will be driving soon, or will be taking on a new job that would require a longer commute, then you may need to consider turning in your lease and getting a different vehicle!

2. Know the terms of your lease agreement

Does your lease agreement have a disposition fee, and if so, what are the criteria for that fee to be imposed? Are you subject to mileage overage fees if you’ve gone over the allowable number of miles? Does your vehicle have excessive wear fees due to any “unique” driving habits that you may have? Does your lease contract even allow for an endof-lease buyout? Be sure to carefully review your lease agreement for all of these important details, as they are crucial factors when deciding whether or not to buy your vehicle at lease-end.

3. Know what your vehicle is worth

Once you have determined what the lease buyout amount will be—normally established in your lease agreement and is based on the forecasted residual value at the end of your lease—you need to find out your vehicle’s market value. An estimated market value can be found online from sites such as Kelley Blue Book (www.kbb.com) or Edmunds (www.edmunds.com). If the lease buyout amount is lower than or comparable to what you could buy a similar vehicle from the used car market, then a lease buyout could very well be a financially smart decision!

4. Know your budget requirements

Leasing a vehicle has been a popular option because it provided the opportunity to drive the latest models without the long-term commitment of owning a vehicle or the oftentimes higher payment of financing the full purchase of a vehicle. Unfortunately, even though you may be comfortable with your current lease payment, lease terms aren’t as attractive as they once were, so your monthly car payment could be going up regardless of whether you take on a new lease or finance a lease buyout. Reviewing your budget ahead of time is the best way to be prepared for making an informed decision when comparing the various lease and financing options available to you.

Do you still have questions, or are you ready to get started on your lease buyout? Please contact one of Downriver CU’s Member Services Representatives by calling 313-386-2200, Option 4, and they would be happy to discuss your financing options!

Soroptimists to hold 19th ‘Save the Girls’ ride

Soroptimist International of Trenton Area and Downriver Area, which dedicates its volunteer efforts to improving the lives of women and girls, will hold its 19th annual women-sponsored charity motorcycle ride, “Save the Girls,” on Saturday, Sept. 9.

The Soroptimists are inviting bikers as well as the general public to participate.

All proceeds from this event will go to help domestic violence victims, human trafficking victims and awareness events, and women’s health issues (with the focus on ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, and breast cancer) and other Soroptimist service projects.

The ride begins at Motown Harley-Davidson, 14100 Telegraph Road in Taylor. Check in is from 9:30 –11:30 a.m. Kickstands up at 11:45 a.m.

The ride will be approximately 50 to 60 miles with police escorts and road captains from HOG. The ride ends back at Motown Harley with music, food, beverages, and raffle baskets. 50/50 tickets will also be sold. There will be a special raffle for a fire pit with four wicker chairs.

Pre-registration provided by mail or online (http:// formsmarts.com/form/1mdn). The cost is $25 per rider, $10 per passenger, and $10 for a non-rider for a meal ticket only. The cost the day of the ride is $30 per rider, $10 per passenger. Contact Cathy at (734) 934-8460 or by email: sioftrentonanddownriverarea@ gmail.com.

Follow us on Facebook at “19th Annual Save the Girls Charity Ride.”

The Soroptimists have a table at Motown Harley every bike night. Registration and more information for the September ride is available there.

The Trenton and Downriver Area Soroptimist organization meets the first Wednesday of the month. You may contribute to the foundation that the

Soroptimists support on krogercommunityrewards. com.

If you are interested in learning more about the Trenton and Downriver Area Soroptimists and our other activities, check out our page on Facebook@ SoroptimistInternationalOfTrentonAndDownriverArea or sioftrentonanddownriverarea@gmail.com.

Submitted for your approval: Mina, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel at the Mackinac city dock getting ready to get on the ferry for Mackinac Island.

collie and I love chasing balls and will do it all day long! I like watching TV, too. Especially when there are other dogs on there.

8297 HAMPTON ROAD, GROSSE ILE

19026 PARKE LANE, GROSSE ILE

28694 SWAN ISLAND DRIVE, GROSSE ILE

23722 EAST RIVER ROAD, GROSSE ILE

18099 PARKE LANE, GROSSE ILE

23322 GOLFVIEW DRIVE, GROSSE ILE

Protecting a city’s ‘golden geese’ is not a game

Every now and then, the topic of food trucks arises in conversations with brickand-mortar restaurants, or with people defending those restaurants.

Not being in the food business, I can’t know what it feels like directly, but here’s my guess: There is absolutely a time and a place for food trucks, and most restaurateurs don’t hate them. What they have a really hard time with is having them show up at events in their city so as to make more money for the thirdparty event producer while siphoning off some of the business they ordinarily get.

Sometimes, events are planned and executed in a downtown for the profit of an event-planning business, without regard or the remotest concern for the wellbeing of the restaurants whose owners have huge investments. They take place with active, paid support of the powers that be of those cities (Mayors and Councils and DDAs and such).

Such events that hurt brick-and-mortar businesses seem to be seen by those decision makers as more important than damages suffered by the businesses that make their cities what they are, yearround, contributing to the tax base and creating a draw to the city.

It is not the food trucks per se that exasperate the restaurants, it is that indifference, that tone-deafness despite repeated voiced concerns and complaints that deflates and rankles.

Deflating and rankling don’t really come close to describing it, though.

You know, it’s one of those “if you

have to explain it, there’s no point in explaining.” It makes one weary to keep addressing the problem, and yet, there is no other recourse. If it happened to you, you’d understand.

I visited a food truck park in Sisters, Oregon last summer. The entire park was a business, part of which was a (very cool) bar/beverage building that could accommodate the food truck patrons in inclement weather.

They had a playground, fenced in, and controlled, and it featured three food trucks (there was room for more). Lights strung across the yard over picnic tables and smaller tables, a small, covered stage for small musical acts or poetry readings. Otherwise, Spotify or some other music source.

I thought it was awesome.

It was operated by a landowner with a business that he augmented on his property. It was unique and compelling (although we ate at a restaurant). and, a very different environment for evaluating food truck viability.

There are places Downriver that would easily accommodate such an idea, and there are local entrepreneurs that would do well to copy that model. Food trucks are not allowed under normal conditions, and should not be allowed, period, in such environs.

There are circumstances when food trucks are great. For weddings or parties, who the heck would think anyone could judge one way or the other? It’s like criticizing a bride for her dress, fer crying out loud.

Personally, I would prefer it if the owner had a local brick and mortar as well, but at least it can be said that for such occasions, the food trucks are not the invasive species that they are seen as

in cities with restaurants.

I’ve actually seen it happen that food trucks are placed right in front of restaurants during a special event. I’ll tell you this: It would be intolerable to me if it happened in the clothing business, a truck parked in front of my store. They wouldn’t want to stay there, let’s leave it at that.

Here’s a different tangent of the same basic topic: Protecting and nurturing indie businesses.

Last month, I wrote about the crucial element of city leadership being staunch, avid activists for all things local when it comes to businesses in the towns they govern. It means that local businesses are protected and advocated for by those who make the rules. It means that independent businesses that give cities and towns their flavor and charm (and magnetism that draws shoppers and diners) are seriously loved and treasured and advocated for, openly and consistently by the town’s leaders, who are, after all, cheerleaders for the towns they serve.

Well, Plymouth is in the news these days, and not in a way it should be (Hometimelife.com). With no inclusion or warning, their City Commission discussed raising sidewalk café fees by 900 percent, and restaurateurs got wind of it.

Mind you, there are no national chains in downtown Plymouth, so fees like this come right out of the revenue stream of the local and independent restaurants that make Plymouth a cool city to eat and shop in.

In Plymouth, there are also additional flat fees for outdoor cafes. Some of those that would be affected by these changes say that now, after having invested in the

tables and barriers and décor to create their vibe outdoors, they would be better off not being outdoors at all.

Also being discussed there is demanding the shrinkage of space restaurants can use, and again, after the restaurants were permitted and greenlighted earlier. All of this makes clear that this Commission not only doesn’t love their businesses; they couldn’t care less if they are successful or not. Or if they fail or not, leave or not.

I was on the Wyandotte DDA board for a few years, and a few years back. One of the board members then wanted to go so far as to compel restaurants to be out on the street – it’s that much of a reason to stop and do business there (and I know that from personal reaction in cities I visit). That didn’t fly (and it shouldn’t), but the point made was strong. How do you get people to stop as they drive through a town? How do you elevate the “cool factor,” and most to the point: How do you help businesses flourish in the town you govern?

The answer is crazy simple, and it applies no matter what city we’re talking about, and yet… it is also crazy elusive.

Local and independent needs a leg up; needs boosting and love, and local and independent do not have stock market pockets.

You have no idea of how much money it takes to operate a restaurant. You have no idea if the restaurant is in business only because the owners are not taking a paycheck, or a reduced amount.

Paving the way for success beats toll booths and obstacles. And being a paver fosters love and support in return, not to mention a greater resolve to knock it out of the park in the city that loves them dearly.

PETER ROSE

SIMSONIAN 5K Kick-Off Classic #21

5K Race & 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk • In-Person and Virtual

Saturday, August 19, 2023

Grosse Ile High School

7800 Grays Drive, Grosse Ile, MI 48138

1

1-mile Fun Run/Walk @ 8:30 a.m.

5K Run @ 9:00 a.m.

In-Person Awards: 5K rst male/female overall Gold, Silver & Bronze- Male/Female age group

12 & under; 13-15, 16-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60 & over

Ra e Prizes (Must be Present to Win)

Virtual: August 1 through August 18, 2023

Register On-Line or Sign-up on Race Day In Person!

Register at runsignup.com

All proceeds go to the Steve Sims Leadership Scholarship Fund

Detroit River Hawk Watch entering 41st year

The Detroit River Hawk Watch (DRHW) is excited to announce the upcoming 41st year of monitoring diurnal raptor and turkey vulture migration at the mouth of the Detroit River beginning Sept. 1. This season will be the 26th year of consistent coverage at the Lake Erie Metropark and the seventh season the DRHW is welcoming back professional hawk counter Kevin Georg.

For the joy of reading

Book Club of Grosse Ile turning the page

BILL STEVENSON

Are you a known bibliophile? Or, perhaps, an open lectiophile? Do you crave the weight and sensuous feel of the written word turning between your moistened fingers? Might you seek perspicacious conversations with stimulating sister savants?

Well, the Book Club of Grosse Ile is looking for more than a few, fine women during their membership drive, now through October.

According to their website, the Book Club of Grosse Ile “was established in 1934 by Rose Marie Karmazin as a response to the lack of a library on Grosse Ile. The Book Club of Grosse Ile has developed a distinct, unique identity, composed of scholarly women who are looking for the challenge and stimulation only quality literature can bring.”

Former past president Katie Hartwell explains, “We are getting ready to celebrate our 90th anniversary next year, and wish to invite women with a shared literary interest to join our group.

“We are the oldest and largest book club on the Island with over 75 members. Books are rotated once a month. We only circulate books that are the latest, published in the current year (2023). Our list includes fiction

and non-fiction. Because of our rotation, not everyone is reading the same book at the same time. This allows for members to read 20 new books per year.”

Hartwell continued, “With our membership, we have three groups on the Island—north, central, and south divisions. Three times a year we have speakers, most of whom are authors, who talk about the writing process, or answer questions regarding their work.

“In addition, we have two book discussion meetings which allow for great literary sharing, thoughtful analysis, and joyful, spirited conversation among our members. We couldn’t meet in person during COVID, but members mastered Zoom meetings in their virtual discussions.”

The Book Club of Grosse Ile has expanded its cultural outreach in creating a scholarship at Grosse Ile High School awarded to an outstanding female student in English Language Arts.

This year’s recipient of the Book Club scholarship, awarded at Senior Recognition Day is Abigail Gu.

If you are interested in joining the Book Club of Grosse Ile, get your nose out of that book, and visit their website at gibookclub.com. Welcome to the club.

Last season, with the help of dedicated volunteers, Kevin conducted 573 hours of data collection over 87 days and tallied an astounding total 145,577 turkey vultures and raptors across 15 different species. This total was 16% above the Long-Term Average (LTA) of roughly 125,048 raptors counted by the Detroit River Hawk Watch at Lake Erie Metropark between 2013-2022. We compared this season’s totals to the respective LTA for each species since 1998.

In 2022, turkey vulture (26%), broad-winged hawk (13%), American kestrel (10%), merlin (59%), and peregrine falcon (28%) were the only species counted above the LTA. Osprey (-84%), bald eagle (-42%), northern harrier (-12%), sharp-shinned hawk (-2%), Cooper’s hawk (-77%), northern goshawk (-87%), red-shouldered hawk (-24%), Swainson’s hawk (-100%), redtailed hawk (-4%), rough-legged hawk (-88%), and golden eagle (-52%) were lower than their respective LTA. Two northern goshawks and zero Swainson’s hawks were counted this year. There were no “unknown” raptors counted this past season.

Because DRHW is located in a major flyway, our site’s numbers represent only a sample of the overall migration. A lower count at DRHW may mean an elevated count at a neighboring site! Raptor count data are entered into a database managed by the Hawk Migration Association of North America to facilitate collaboration and allow more accurate estimates of raptor population health than assessing one raptor count site alone could offer.

You can visit the Detroit River Hawk Watch daily from Sept. 1 through Nov. 30 near the boat launch at Lake Erie Metropark located at 32481 West Jefferson, Brownstown, MI 48173.

The Detroit River Hawk Watch 2022 Season Summary is available for viewing at detroitriverhawkwatch. org/. Results for individual species are presented, as well as non-raptor and monthly highlights and photos and narratives from the Detroit River Hawk Watch Facebook page at facebook.com/ groups/detroitriverhawkwatch.

DRHW is a community science initiative of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge. It is a partnership among the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, International Wildlife Refuge Alliance and the Huron Clinton Metropolitan Authority. More information on DRHW is available online at: detroitriverhawkwatch.org/.

For additional information, contact Wildlife Biologist Jessica Fletcher at (734) 362-3729.

For more information about the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, please visit the refuge website: fws.gov/refuge/Detroit_River.

ABOUT FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit fws.gov.

Turkey vulture numbers were up 26 percent in the 2022 count.

APPLY IN PERSON AT OUR ROMULUS WAREHOUSE

TUES-FRI FROM 8-3

What’s happening Grosse Ile ...

TWILIGHT HIKE

At Airport Natural Area, 28820 East River Road, Grosse Ile, from 7-8:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 9. Join Grosse Ile Nature and Land Conservancy for a guided hike at twilight. We’ll bring a bat detector to help us locate and identify bats and look for signs of other nocturnal wildlife, too. For more information, email GINLC.education@gmail.com

Hike in the Airport Natural Area: Every Sunday through October, enter at 28820 East River Rd, Grosse Ile, from 1-4 p.m. Grosse Ile Nature & Land Conservancy hosts will be available to open the trails of the Airport Natural Area every Sunday from May to October. Spend a few hours enjoying the trails, ponds, bays, lookouts, and woods of this hidden gem. For more information, email GINLC.GI@gmail.com.

NALOXONE TRAINING

Rotary Club of Southgate is holding Naloxone training classes teaching participants how to give Naloxone at 6 p.m. on Aug. 23 at Downriver YMCA, 15777 Northline, Southgate. The is free and uses Naloxone-Kloxxado, which prevents overdoses. This is hands-on training that lasts about an hour. Registration is required and limited. For more information, call Stephen Ahles 734-658-8991 text or email chiefahles@aol.com.

HURON RIVER FISHING ASSOCIATION

General meetings are held the first Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the Flat Rock Community Center, 1 McGuire St. in Flat Rock. The general meetings include seminars and speakers related to river fishing, fly fishing, ecological concerns and environmental concerns. A fly tying meeting is held every third Monday of the month where you will learn how to tie a specific fly. For more information, visit the group’s Facebook page at https://tinyurl.com/ ycx4tkwf.

FREE POP-UP CLOTHING CLOSET

Sponsored by the Salvation Army Downriver Corps Community Center, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., on Aug. 12, at The Salvation Army Downriver Corps Community Center, 1258 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte. For more information, call 734-282-0930 or email shawn. sutter@usc.salvationarmy.org

CRAFTERS WELCOME

Crafters meet every Thursday from 10-11:45 a.m. in the social hall of St. Cyprian Catholic Church on Pennsylvania Rd, Riverview. We knit, crochet and sew a variety of items such as hats and scarves for all ages, baby items, lap blankets, quilts, stuffed toys, dishcloths, and adult bibs just to name a few to donate to local groups who support those in need such at our veterans, soup kitchen clients, a local hospice and the homeless.

Community Meals at Southpoint Church: Free to go

hot meal for those in need Tuesday nights 6:30-7:30 p.m. at Southpoint Church 5699 Fort St., Trenton.

LOVELY LOTUS WALK

At Airport Natural Area, 28820 East River Road,, Grosse Ile from 1-2:30 p.m., on Saturday, Aug. 12. Did you know there is a species of lotus that is native to the U.S. and can be found here on Grosse Ile? Grosse Ile Nature and Land Conservancy invites you to a guided hike with us to the lotus beds in Gibraltar Bay. This time of year they are expected to be at their peak blossom. For more information, email GINLC. education@gmail.com

FOOD PANTRY

Every Thursday DownRiver Church hosts an emergency food pantry for a one-day food supplement for individuals and families living in the DownRiver Communities. The pantry is open every Thursday between the hours of 10 a.m. and noon. Participants must bring their drivers license or state issued id to participate. DownRiver Church is located at 14400 Beech Daly, Taylor. For information, call the church office at 734-442-6100.

CHRISTIAN BUSINESS MEN’S CONNECTION

Luncheon that meets the third Monday of every month from noon to 1 p.m. at Ramsey’s, in Trenton, 2747 Jefferson just north of West Road. Lunch, guest speakers, open discussions, non-denominational. Lunch is free for first time attendees. For more information, call John at 734-692-1421 or Milton at 734-675-8999.

a.m. The ride will be approximately 50 to 60 miles with police escorts and road captains from HOG. The ride ends back at Motown Harley with music, food, beverages, raffle baskets, 50/50 tickets. There will be a special raffle for a fire pit with four wicker chairs. The cost is $25 per rider, $10 per passenger, and $10 for a non-rider for a meal ticket only. The cost the day of the ride is $30 per rider, $10 per passenger. Pre-registration provided by mail or online at http:// formsmarts.com/form/1mdn. For more information, contact Cathy at 734-934-8460 or by email: sioftrentonanddownriverarea@gmail.com

LEGO CLUB

Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 14, 21, 28, from 6-7 p.m. Do you love Legos? Join our Lego Club. Every Monday we will challenge you to make something relating to that week’s theme. We will display your creation for one week and will tear them apart at the next event. This event is open to kids, tweens, teens, and parents. No registration is required, just stop in and build. For more information, call 734287-4840.

SOUTHGATE

DDA PRESENTS: A FAMILYFRIENDLY CONCERT WITH MATTHEW BALL

The Boogie Woogie Kid Piano & Song man. American songbook favorites from New Orleans and The Swing Era bring your lawn chair with songs like: “In the Mood,” “Let’s Call the Whole Thing Off,” “It Had to be You,” “When The Saints go Marchin In,” “Basin Street Blues,” “On the Sunny Side of the Street,” “Bumble Boogie,” and more. The concert is at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 22 at Market Centre Park, 13631 Eureka Road Southgate.

SAVE THE GIRLS CHARITY MOTORCYCLE RIDE

Sponsored by the Soroptimist International of Trenton Area and Downriver Area with the proceeds going to help domestic violence victims, human trafficking victims and awareness events, and women’s health issues (with the focus on ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, and breast cancer) and other Soroptimist service projects. The ride will take place Saturday, Sept. 9 and begins at Motown HarleyDavidson, 14100 Telegraph Road in Taylor. Check in is from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Kickstands up at 11:45

STOP MOTION ANIMATION WORKSHOP

Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 14, from 4:30-5:30 p.m. Every participant will build their very own custom, stop-motion puppet and bring it to life using the art, and the magic of stop-motion animation. Participants can choose from a variety of puppet templates or create one of their own! Participants will work together to create a series of animated scenes that follow the theme of Kindness and Friendship! Includes a free DVD of all the animations for each participant. This program is for 20 participants ages 8-18 and is a ticketed event. Stop in to get your ticket starting August 1st. For more information, call 734-287-4840.

CHALK ART

Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 16, from 12-2 p.m. Help decorate the outside of the library by showcasing your best sidewalk chalk art! Chalk will be provided, but feel free to bring your own as long as it is washable. All ages are welcome! For more information, call 734-287-4840.

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Out for Trout

Something special always seems to happen at the stream

Still rarer these days is the opportunity to trout fish with my boys, who live out west with wives of their own. We only get to fish together every few years, but it’s a tremendous thing when it happens.

more ingredients folded in.

With the hot afternoon sun finally beginning to sink toward the western horizon, my brother Jimmy and I were headed into the woods to do a little trout fishing before darkness arrived.

For me, there are several types of trout fishing, and each has its own appeal, while differing greatly in its feel and approach.

There’s trout fishing by myself, which usually offers great moments of introspection, solace and peace.

I experience all the various stimuli nature has to offer – from the touch of cold waters to the smell of summer blossoms, the ebullient and delightful songs of the river and the birds to the sights and tastes of the seasons, like blueberries, blackberries and apples.

There’s also hitting the stream banks with my longtime brook trout fishing buddy, the Coaster King. The camaraderie we share is truly special to me, as we continue to pursue our childhood-borne pursuit of small-creek brook trout fishing.

Another, rarer pleasure is fishing with the Queen of Sheba, my lovely wife. While she is often too busy to follow this trout bum out into the woods, when we do get to arrange a day on the water together, we have a wonderful time.

She often catches more fish than I do, and I am happy to clean them.

I taught them how to fish when they were very young, like my dad and mom taught me. It’s very rewarding to know that they still love to fish themselves and do so often, chasing fish like cutthroat trout that I’ve never seen in real life, much less caught.

I recall one summer when they came here to Michigan for a visit, we spent a few days in the western part of the peninsula, fishing for trout and spending evenings at a cabin we’d rented.

On that trip, I taught the boys how to pan-fry their brook trout and how to debone the fish once they were cooked. They helped clean up afterwards and participated in the whole process, from tying on and baiting their own hooks to giving the countertop a last wipe.

I was proud of them then, and I am proud of and impressed with the men they have become. I just wish we lived a little closer to each other. I hope to get to help teach my grandchildren to fish, too.

I used to love to fish with my dad, but those days are gone. He’s now leaving me a spot next to him along the big trout waters in the sky. I wonder who he’s getting to clean his fish for him now that I’m not around.

Finally, there’s fishing with my brother. Fishing with him is kind of like a mixture of some of all the other types of trout fishing I just talked about, with a few

We used to fish together all the time when we were young boys. He is four years younger than me. Our boyhood fishing ended abruptly when our parents got divorced when I was 13.

He moved to Canada with my mom and my two sisters, and I stayed in Michigan with my dad, the only child old enough to decide. Though we did fish a couple of times during those “missing years,” it wasn’t like the old days.

But when we get together now, it is.

As I used to do in those now-ancient times, I often serve as the guide, trying to find my little brother a good place to fish. I know that if he gets fish, he’ll be happy and that will make me happy.

It will also make my fishing experience better.

In some ways, I see a lot of my dad in my brother when fishing. Like my dad, he seems to be more bothered by mosquitoes than I am and gets frustrated more easily.

However, like my dad, he still toughs it out and is willing to stay out there as long as I am – which is usually a very long time. My brother also enjoys horrible puns. Clearly, he is his father’s son and his nephew’s uncle.

We parked my Jeep and got out, splitting up to each find a trout hole to fish. I urged my brother to head downstream, and I went upstream.

In any fishing partner pairing, I am most often SEE TROUT, Page 31

JOHN PEPIN

Deputy public information officer, Michigan DNR

TROUT

Continued from page 30

the one to be using a spinner or other lure of some type. But tonight, before leaving the house, I decided to toss a container of Canadian crawlers into my bag, just in case.

I decided to start with a worm, as there happened to be a hook tied on the end of my line from the last time I was out. In about a half-dozen casts, I had three or four bites from small trout.

Just as I was realizing that there was nothing of any real size biting in this hole, my brother called out to me from the road beyond a big green wall of trees.

“Are you there?”

“Yeah, what are you doing?”

“There’s a couple of nice-sized fish over here that I can’t reach with my lure. I thought you might be able to get them with a worm.”

I followed him back downstream, and with two casts, I had both fish in my bag. I was obviously pleased with the beautiful catch, and he was happy to have been my guide to the fish.

“The roles have been reversed for once,” he said.

In a few more minutes, I landed another nice trout, and he hadn’t caught any yet.

I told him that it looked like a night for crawlers, and he should consider switching up his offering to the brookie trout gods.

He put a worm on his hook and was soon catching fish and catching up to me.

By the time we had moved to a couple more places on the creek, I had caught my limit of five trout. My brother had two.

I was now in guide mode once again, putting my fishing pole away in the Jeep.

I suggested he get down very low to the ground to be able to sneak a cast over some branches and into a deep hole.

When he said he didn’t think he could get his line in there without snagging it, I offered to cast it for him. I was surprised he accepted the offer. I casted and then quickly handed the rod off.

On that first cast, a fish hit, but got off the hook on the retrieval. A few more casts led to a few more hits, but no trout landed.

We moved on to the next hole, where Jimmy put another fish in his basket.

With the nighttime approaching, he said we could quit now, and he’d be fine with that.

I urged him to continue. I said we could pass a few less-than-premier holes to get to one that I often had great luck with, especially as night was falling.

He agreed to follow me through the brush.

Arriving at the hole, he took one cast and then another. I think it was the first or second cast that he got his first bite. He then snagged his line on a submerged log.

He tried to pull the hook free, and his line snapped loudly, the concussion rippled through the warm, night air. Again, he was ready to call it quits, as it was getting darker, but I told him I could see just fine and would tie another hook on for him.

I baited that hook and he casted his line into the hole. Within a few short minutes, he had landed two more beautiful trout. The last one was our biggest fish of the night.

We both had caught our brook trout limit. I led us back through the woods to the Jeep, my brother trailing me with a flashlight.

It was great fun and reminded me so much of the times I would fish as a kid along the creek banks near our house, with my little brother tagging along.

On the drive home, several woodcocks flew up off the dirt road, and a great horned owl afforded us a chance to see it with a flashlight trained on it.

At home, my brother headed for the shower and left me to clean our sink full of fish.

“Like father, like son,” I mumbled as I got my fillet knife out of the drawer. But I didn’t really mind.

It’s been about a week since that night, and time has since enveloped the entire evening within a memory packed away tightly inside our hearts and heads.

Demands and commitments of the dizzying world have once again crept in and consumed us, cementing the importance of taking the time to get out fishing together when we can.

Even just a couple of hours can prove to be incredibly fulfilling and helpful to our spiritual, psychological and physical well-being.

Though we’re older now, and perhaps a little gruffer around the edges, it’s incredible to be able to spend times like these together again – out for trout.

Take The Ride of Your Life:

Max Flight offers a variety of tours that show off different parts of the city and range from 10 minutes to over an hour. From downtown Detroit to Grosse Ile, downriver and even to Ann Arbor, there is much to explore! Sunrise to sunset, 7 days a week, 365 days a year—Max Flight is ready to take you for a joy ride!

From Downtown…

Soar over the City of Detroit to experience its rich history, beauty, and skyline in a new light. With so much to explore downtown, the only way to see it all is up and away. Our pilots and tour guides will share deep knowledge of iconic buildings and landmarks and take you to see highlights of the city including Ford Field, Comerica Park, Belle Isle, the Renaissance Center, Grand Central Station, the Ambassador Bridge and more!

To The Burbs…

Breeze through beautiful suburbs around Metro Detroit. Depart from Grosse Ile Airport in a state-of-the-art Robinson R-44 helicopter and develop a curated flight path to view areas like Novi, Birmingham, Southfield, and tour the Grosse Pointe mansions.

To The Big House…

Are you a Michigan fan or just love the quaint beauty of Ann Arbor? Take a tour to see the University of Michigan campus with incredible views of The Big House, main street, and Lake Erie. Perfect for U of M fans and alumni!

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK –GROSSE ILE GRAND

NEWS FROM OUR NEIGHBORS

Go to... GoBigMultimedia.com

to read more news on our digital publications.

alcohol available for sale. We will have the Poke Ur Way food truck on site to provide an affordable dinner. A Serendipity Cakery and Ice Cream treats for dessert will be available for purchase.

gobigmultimedia.com/riverview-register

AT A GLANCE REGARDING PROPOSAL 1

Voting YES Means: NO.

It’s up to you... Riverview! A ballot proposal regarding marijuana is on the Aug. 8, 2023, primary ballot.

This “Pine Knob” style concert will have an opening act by Acoustic Guitar Live, Mr. Steve Washburn. The performers for the main event are “Bonnie and the Working Girls” who specialize in 50’s and 60’s classic rock. This five member band will be providing the concert goers with two great hours of entertainment.

Please bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on.

Later this month we will be hosting our annual fishing derby on the Reflection Pond located at Young Patriot’s Park. This event normally took place during Summerfest, but this year it has become its own event.

You DO NOT want pot dispensaries

Voting NO Means: YES.

You DO want pot dispensaries

Cut and Save for Reference

The ballot proposal is a petition initiated by citizens seeking to initiate legislation pursuant to Section 6 of the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act (MRTMA). The ballot proposal seeks to reinstate the city’s prohibition on marijuana and disallow the sale of marihuana in the city.

On page 1

Gearing up for some big summertime fun

Riverview-style

... We have concerts planned for every Wednesday in July and August. That’s nine awesome weeks of entertainment at Young Patriot’s Park from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. And leading the way just happens to be my favorite local band, Shakedown. There will be a food truck at each event for those who want a quick bite to eat during the show.

Returning again this year to the Riverview Highlands Golf Practice Facility is our popular “Concert on the Course.” Gates open for this free event at 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 16.

There are “no coolers allowed” as there will be

We have a very generous sponsor in the Downriver Bass Association. There will be bass boats for the children of all ages to touch and sit in and enjoy. There will be plenty of prizes to be awarded for three different age groups, ranging from seven years to 16.

Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 29. The fishing completion starts at 9 and runs till 10:30 a.m.

On page 5

gobigmultimedia.com/southgate-star

Introducing The Bank Tower Downriver’s biggest structure to become an apartment building

The 14-story former Security Bank building at 16333 Trenton Road in Southgate has been the topic of conversation for months since the empty building was purchased by Gordon-Begin Properties. The new owners, along with city and county officials, were on hand on June 21 to make a public announcement on the future of the iconic building. The structure, rebranded The Bank Tower with a nod to its past history, will become a 215-unit upscale apartment building.

The open house was held on a Wednesday; five days later there was tangible proof that the project was moving forward as asbestos abatement teams descended on the building and began remediation.

On page 1

Weekly event a hit at Southgate’s Market Center Park Markets in the Park started June 20 and will continue through Sept. 12. Dozens of vendors are set up in a farmers market setting from 4:30 to 8 p.m. Concerts are held from 6 to 8 p.m.

Organizers in the Southgate Downtown Development Authority, the vendors and local shoppers and concert goers said they are enjoying the results.

Each Tuesday, there is a different band and a different theme.

Coming up in July are the Cody Boggs Band and a country western theme on July 11, the Toppermost

The Bank Tower is expected to open in mid-2025.

Beatles tribute band and retro day on July 18 and the band Weekend Comeback and the Christmas in July theme on July 25.

There are five Tuesdays in August, featuring Beats with Ben and a Hawaiian luau theme on August 1, Acoustic Beer League and movie night on August 8, the Kielbasa Kings performing on Polish night on August 15, the Boogie Woogie Kid performing on kids day on August 22 and Ain’t Dead Yet performing on Ladies night, August 29.

The summer concert season concludes with Downriver Dan and a focus on local business on September 5 and the Southgate Anderson High School band performs on Titan pride night, September 12.

Kaylee Mondrella, director of the Downtown Development Authority, said changing the theme every week “gives the community a good reason to check us out each week.”

“Come for the market, shop around, stay for the concert and get dinner in between,” Mondrella said. “It’s a nice Tuesday out.”...

On page 5

This can lead to improved focus and concentration on academic tasks, ultimately enhancing learning outcomes.

Improved classroom engagement: Without the constant presence of cell phones, students may be more engaged in classroom activities, discussions, and interactions with teachers and peers. They are more likely to actively participate in class, ask questions, and contribute to a collaborative learning environment.

Promotes face-to-face communication.

Reduced cyber bullying and social pressures.

Reduced academic dishonesty.

In the beginning I had one parent that stated they were not pleased with our new policy until he looked over his son’s phone and was shocked at what he found and surprised that a lot of it was being done during school hours. He then became one of our biggest advocates for this policy...

On page 11

Trenton Summer Fun Continues

We’ve got our free August Concert Series coming up at the Cultural Center, more information opposite page.

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THS: A pathway for all students

Trenton High School, with its participation in the Career Technical Education Program (CTE), and its Advanced Placement Capstone program, offers students a wide variety of career pathways.

If you’re looking to book an end of summer pool or rink party, or if you want to see about renting the Cultural Center or Westfield for an event, give us a call at 734-675-7300.

Stay tuned for updates on themed skates, end of summer pop ups and more!

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War II was a time of unprecedented global conflict, a battle fought on every front, a struggle for the very essence of humanity. In the face of unparalleled adversity, these young men and women stood tall, ready to defend the ideals upon which our great nation was founded. They fought not only for their families, their communities or their comrades, but for the future of liberty itself.”

He added: “The 11 names we add today, though late in their arrival, are now forever woven into the fabric of this memorial. They join the ranks of the courageous, the honored and the unforgettable. Their spirits join the chorus of voices urging us to be worth heirs of their sacrifice.”...

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Happy Birthday, America!

CTC offers courses in graphic design, marketing, woodtech, autotech, digital media, horticulture and criminal justice. Through the Capstone program, THS students can actually earn college credit. Trenton now offers 18 AP courses...

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No cell phone rule has changed culture at AMS

...Reduced distractions: Cell phones can be a major distraction for students. Without cell phones, students are less likely to be tempted to use them for non-educational purposes during class time.

gobigmultimedia.com/wyandotte-warrior

Wyandotte honors 11 of its fallen in World War II Memorial

...Congresswoman Dingell called World War II veterans “the greatest heroes in the world” who “knew what the flag stood for.” Her late husband, U.S. Rep. John Dingell, served in World War II.

“These names, like the countless others inscribed on this monument, embody the courage, valor and unwavering commitment to freedom that defined an entire generation,” said the VFW’s Martin. “World

For 86 years the city of Wyandotte has celebrated our nation’s birthday the same way, with an old fashioned Independence Day Parade right down the middle of Biddle Avenue. Thousands lined the streets as bands, clowns and veterans groups paraded past. The Shriners were there, of course, and there was lots of candy passed out to the grateful children. Wyandotte is proud to recognize and honor our veterans and servicemen and

servicewomen and provide a quality family event to Downriver citizens. Since this is the largest Fourth of July Parade in the area, it is viewed by thousands of citizens over Wyandotte’s cable network and along the main street. For nearly one hundred years people have gathered in Wyandotte to celebrate the founding of the United States of America and the tradition is still going strong.

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