Grosse Ile Grand, September 12 – October 11, 2023

A legend in Grosse Ile law enforcement has retired. The Grosse Ile Township Board accepted with regret, the retirement of Kenneth Pelland from the position of Deputy Chief of the Grosse Ile Police Department, effective Aug. 20, 2023.

Current Chief of Police Douglas Carmack commented, “Deputy Chief Ken Pelland has concluded his 31-year career serving the residents of Grosse Ile. In his three decades of service, Ken had an unwavering dedication to helping the Island youth and entire community. He improved department operations and worked with other law enforcement agencies throughout the Downriver area in doing great police work. We wish Ken the best in his future endeavors.”

Pelland began his career with the GIPD, starting at the rank of Patrolman on the Road SEE

FROM THE TOWNSHIP

Art and roadwork headline Summer accomplishments

JAMES BUDNY Township Supervisor

As usual, much is happening on Grosse Ile this year. I would like to touch on two projects that positively affect the residents and visitors on the Island.

The first would be our roads project.

The Grosse Ile electorate passed a road millage that will allow us to fix our roads island wide. We will be able to repave, reconstruct, joint seal, crack seal, replace slabs, or do whatever else we need to do to fix our roads over the life of the millage.

Most know that as a township the road upkeep is the responsibility of Wayne County. However, with fortythree communities in the County the road dollars are limited and there is no formula that necessarily gives us anything. Also, our residential roads would never be touched if we did not do this.

This summer alone we will be

resurfacing 10 highly traveled roads –parts of Southpointe Rd., Church Rd., West River Rd., Horsemill Rd., Canal, HCL Jackson Dr., East River Rd., Bellevue Rd., Parke Lane, the West River Ramp and various intersections throughout the island.

Already anyone coming to the island will notice a difference in the roads and there is more to come.

The second project that the residents and visitors will notice is in our business district on Macomb Street. It is our “Art on the Ile” project.

This is an ongoing project by our Downtown Development Authority to introduce sculptures and murals to the business district.

To date we have six buildings with murals of a muscle car to old ships to a map of the Island. My favorite is the first one you see turning onto Macomb Street which is a theme of Grosse Ile with boats, the bridge and the sun. We also have 13 sculptures along Macomb Street. Some are glass, others are metal, but all are eye-catching.

Zaid Beeai is new Rec Director

Greetings citizens of Grosse Ile, my name is Zaid Beeai and I am the new Recreation Director for the Township of Grosse Ile.

I want to take this chance to say how excited I am to work on the island and how much I appreciate this opportunity.

I come into this position as the former Parks, Recreation and Senior Director for the city of Ecorse, where I helped build their recreation department from the ground up.

Prior to that, I ran a large youth sports academy here in Michigan for close to a half decade.

I received my masters degree from Wayne State University in Sports Administration which I feel

really prepared me to work in the recreation field.

In my free time I teach and train Brazilian Jiu Jitsu which I have been doing for about nine years. Prior to that I wrestled for years, so athletics have always been a huge part of my life and continue to be to this day!

When I am not working or teaching, you can find me spending time with my wife and 7-year-old daughter traveling and participating in multiple outdoor activities. I love working in recreation and am very excited to work with the great citizens of Grosse Ile. My number one goal is to provide the best possible events and programs for you day in and day out!

The last mural of the summer, done by artist Beau Stanton on the side of the Zubke Plumbing building.

Grosse Ile Supervisor James Budny (center) accepts a $20 million dollar check to go toward the repair, refurbishing or rebuilding of the Grosse Ile Parkway Bridge. The money is not enough to complete the project, but it is a huge first step. The bridge underwent a long and extensive $9 million renovation just two year ago, but more problems have been found. State Rep Jamie Churches (D-Wyandotte) and Darrin Camilleri (D-Trenton) where joined at the ceremony by County Commissioner Joe Palamara, U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell and a representative from County Executive Warren Evans’ office.

University of Michigan Club of Downriver awards five scholarships

KATIE HARTWELL

At a “tailgate” style picnic, indoors at Arnoldo’s Banquet Center in Riverview on Aug. 22, the U-M Club of Downriver club met to award scholarships and kicked off a new season of U of M sports.

The scholarships of $1,000 each were awarded to hard working current students who maintain at least a 3.0 grade point average at one of the campuses of U of M. They must have completed at least two semesters at U of M and have graduated from a Downriver High school.

The following are the awardees.

1. Madia Adan is studying sociology at Ann Arbor in LS and A. She is a 2022 graduate of Grosse Ile High School. She works 10 hours per week year round as a research assistant in Ann Arbor.

2. Delaney Brown is in the Ross School of Business in Ann Arbor. She is a 2021 graduate of Carlson High School. Delaney has worked as a tennis instructor for city of Trenton Parks and

Recreation Dept. 20 hours per week in summers to defray the cost of her degree.

3. Marissa Jasinski is studying Elementary Education at Dearborn School of Education. She graduated from Riverview High School in 2021. She is working 12-16 hours/ week at Kohl’s year round and living at home to help finance her education.

4. Lilliana Johnson is studying prebusiness at UM Dearborn School of Business. She was a 2021 graduate of Woodhaven High School. She works for UMD as an orientation leader, athletic and recreation assistant and other duties as needed. She’s keeping her college loans very low by living at home and commuting to classes. It is her second year to win our President’s scholarship.

5. Samantha Rickard is a Media and Communications major in LS and A at the Ann Arbor campus. She was a 2019 graduate of Taylor High School. Here’s another student saving money by living at home and commuting. She has worked for the city of Taylor for several years in the Media Center and event specialist.

After the tailgate dinner and the scholarship awards, the audience was treated to a talk about the history of Wolverine football by Steve Sapardanis. Art Vuolo then presented two fabulous videos featuring great Wolverine victories last year over Ohio State and

Purdue.

The evening concluded with a rousing version of the Victors.

For more information about the club go to https://alumni.umich.edu/ communities- clubs/downriver/generalinformation.

Scholarship winners Marissa Jasinski (left), U-M Club of Downriver scholarship chair Katie Hartwell, Delaney Brown and Madia Adan. Not present: Lilliana Johnson and Samantha Rickard

Roaring 20s Bootleggers’ Bash Oct. 7

Grosse Ile Education Foundation plans annual fundraising gala

BILL STEVENSON

Press your pinstripe suit. Coif your best bob. Make sure your beads are straight, and get ready for the social event of the season.

The Grosse Ile Educational Foundation will hold its annual fundraiser on Saturday, Oct, 7 at the Grosse Ile Golf & Country Club. This year’s themed party is the Roaring 20s Bootleggers’ Bash.

Partnering with the Grosse Ile Historical Society, the GIEF is looking for everyone to have a Great Gatsby good time, and in the process raise money that will help support exemplary educational grants to both community and school-related projects.

Since its inception in 1995, the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation has donated over $1.7 million dollars in providing educational opportunities to Grosse Ile families. Within the last two years, the Foundation has awarded more than $200,000 in grants to such outstanding programs as:

~ The Grosse Ile Historical Society’s “Reimagined” Historical Museum —“A Small Town with a Big History”

~ The upcoming December 2023 Boar’s Head Festival

~ Comprehensive Orton-Gillingham Literacy Training and Equipment for all Parke Lane and Meridian Elementary Teachers and Administrators

~ Robotics Equipment Update, Competition Costs, and Evolution Swerve Wheel Systems for elementary and high school teams.

~ BookBreak School Author Series for both elementary schools

~ Weight Room equipment at GIHS

~ Scholastic Digital and Print subscriptions for elementary students

~ Biography and Historical Book Club books for all 4th graders

~ 5th grade Band instruments

~ Bookworm Vending Machines and books

~ Foreign Language Differentiation magazines for middle schoolers.

~ Supporting Academic Success and Personal Achievement program at GIMS.

This year’s Roaring 20s Bootleggers’ Bash recalls the glitz and glamor of the Jazz Age, and looks to be as exciting as past Foundation fundraising events such as the “Totally Awesome ‘80s,” and “Derby Day—Race for Music” galas.

The Bootleggers’ Bash will offer a swanky evening with a haute light repast, signature drinks, silent auction, outdoor cigar bar, bourbon tasting, and socializing with 400 of your closest friends.

Partygoers can cut a rug, or be a floor flusher with your favorite flapper, dancing to the live music provided by the 19-piece Gary Greenfelder Orchestra. The Greenfelder Orchestra specializes in big band, swing, and dance tunes through the 2000’s more recent

popular music.

Tiered sponsorships are offered and welcomed, ranging from the “Rum Runner” package for $250, the “Bee’s Knees” for $500, “Bootlegger” for $1000, “Daisy’s Diamonds & Pearls” for $2,500, and “The Great Gatsby” for $5,000.

For each level of giving, the attendant perks, reservations, and party gifts increase significantly. General admission is $75 per person or $125 per

couple.

Sponsorships or ticketing information can be found by visiting the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation website @gieducationalfoundation.org, or by sending a check to P.O. Box 34 Grosse Ile, MI 48138.

For further questions, please call Event Coordinator, Sarah Szymaszek at (734) 552-5123 or President Kurt Kobiljak at (313) 363-5853.

Jay Gatsby requests the honor of your presence.

Grosse Ile tradition, one of the best ever Steve Sims 5K Kickoff Run turns 21

BILL STEVENSON

Twenty-one years and still running. . . The road race that has become a late summer Grosse Ile tradition has solidified its place in Island history. The Simsonian 5K Kick-Off Classic and 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk hit a milestone this past Aug. 19 with its 21st annual rendition.

And judging by the sweat and smiles on more than 250 walkers and runners, the race proved to be one of the best yet!

This year’s 5K winner was Brett Carlisle, 22 year old runner from Monroe with an outstanding time of 16:19. The women’s overall winner in the 5K, who also won last year, was Jenna Pilachowski of Monroe Jefferson High, blistering the course with a time of 18:54.

The Simsonian Run, which began in 2003, has been held in honor of beloved teacher and coach, Steve Sims, who died unexpectedly of a dissecting aortic aneurysm at age 46. Later that year, his family and Friends of Sims established the Steve Sims Leadership Scholarship at Grosse Ile High School for an outstanding female scholar/athlete, since Steve mainly coached young women athletes.

Since last year, the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation, Inc. established an endowment for the scholarship, and has extended the opportunity to both outstanding male and female graduates.

All proceeds from the run go to the scholarship endowment.

The 2023 GIEF Sims’ scholarships were awarded to Tyler Swick and Samantha Justusson.

Again, most noticeable this year was the number of families who joined in the fun for both the 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk and the 3.1 jaunt.

You can tell future high school stars, as youngsters did their stretching, and bolted into form on the firing of the starting pistol.

Mothers with toddlers in strollers steadying their gait. Parents and grandparents cheering their victories, finishing on the Grosse Ile H.S. track. Former students of Sims, returning now to pay their respect, and test their strength and endurance—and to compete with runners of all ages. That fire is still burning inside them.

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SIMS

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The most poignant moment of the day came when Steve’s high school buddy from Greenville, who is terminally ill and in hospice care, righted himself and stepped to the starting line for the one mile walk. Accompanying him along the way, were Steve’s dear friends from “back home.”

Steve’s friend finished the race and held his arms in tearful triumph as he crossed the finish line. Talk about love and friendship and devotion.

Because that’s what this day is all about, and more.

After 21 years of Simsonian runs not many people at the race ever knew Steve Sims Heck, the high school kids weren’t even born yet when he died. But, his legacy lives on.

Before the first race starts, there is always a moment of silence. Not just for Steve, but for people to remember loved ones they have lost.

Just this past spring, Steve’s college roommate at MSU, Jim Kordupel succumbed to the ravages of leukemia at age 67. Again, gone too young, gone too soon.

But, after more than two decades, this race has become a celebration of life. It’s about building community—a community that cares.

Ingrained in our culture of giving back and passing it on. It’s always been a connection to the past, with a love of life in the present, in the hope of a better future. All through a shared experience focused on education.

And, when the last runner crosses the finish line to a standing ovation, it’s time to start the party! The awards ceremony kicks off with the Grosse Ile fight song, led by the Red Devil cheer team performing stunts before a spirited crowd.

Every entrant received a coveted T-shirt. The top three runners in eight different age

groups received gold, silver, or bronze medals. The winners in each category also won a specially engraved beverage glass with the Simsonian 5K logo.

The Grosse Ile tradition would not be possible without the continued support and dedication of our sponsors.

The presenting sponsors: The Grosse Ile Educational Foundation, Mans Lumber and Home, the Southland Eye Clinic, Colonial Tool Group, Inc., Monroe Sports Varsity Athletic, the Kobiljak Family, the Lewis Family, the Reno Family, the Hanley Family, and the Sullivan Family.

Thanks also to our supporters who donated raffle prizes, some year after year: Sibley Gardens, Total Runner, Gary and Chris Bailey, Dr. Marisa Twiner and Allen Park Family Chiropractic, Shane and Andrea O’Donnell, John and Patty Hanley, and Steve and Sarah Ford.

As always, Steve’s sister, Patty and brother, Bob Sims make the pilgrimage and show their Love and support, as well as his Greenville gang and MSU buddies, Craig Morford, John Adams, and Joe Budge.

Lots of Love goes to my dear wife for sharing all the pre-race activity months

beforehand, and assuring that there is fastidious attention to detail. Amazon has nothing on the Stevenson household in packaging and preparation.

Special thanks go to the Grosse Ile Township Schools, the Grosse Ile Police and Reserves.

Annette Tissot and Brian Payette of the Recreation Department for water station set-up and race day assistance. Thanks also to the GIEF and Grosse Ile Historical Society volunteers who handled the water station or served as course marshals to assure a safe and healthy race.

Race timing was quickly and efficiently handled by former EMU track coach, Brad Fairchild.

Year after year, DJ’s Mike Pehote and Patrick Rice provide the tunes that rock the party, and keep the crowd jubilant and happy.

A big shout out goes to members of the Grosse Ile cross country, girls’ basketball, cheerleading, and lacrosse teams and coaches for

their participation and help throughout the event.

It also speaks volumes when teams from other Downriver schools run the race. Thanks to Monroe Jefferson, Carlson and Gabriel Richard cross country athletes for making this an annual pre-season warm-up.

The Simsonian 5K Kick-Off Classic would not be possible without the indefatigable work and expertise of our running gurus—GIHS

Athletic Director Jim Okler, race master Ray Geist, and long-time friend and Coach Max Bailey. Their continued efforts help make this run the successful Grosse Ile tradition that it has become.

This year’s t-shirt slogan reflected the “coming of age” milestone and the challenges down the road. ‘Cause we never know what the future holds, so we keep on running.

Knowing that the good we do lives on long after we’re gone. . . Come join us for next year’s 22nd Annual Simsonian 5K Kick-Off Classic on Aug, 17, 2024.

A Grosse Ile mainstay: Perdino’s celebrates 40th Anniversary

BILL STEVENSON

Perdino’s, an ageless Grosse Ile fine dining restaurant is celebrating its 40th anniversary as a Macomb Street destination. And, like a rich and robust wine, it seems only to get better with age.

Owner and executive chef, Perry Tsipis opened the doors to the Downriver favorite on Oct. 23, 1983.

For those old enough to remember, the site chosen for the new restaurant was the old “Kickapoo,” a fun-filled, boisterous tavern known for its 70s “disco-ish” feel.

Tsipis wanted to “do something different,” and bring a European flair and more upscale dining to the Grosse Ile business district.

Tsipis recalls, “I’ve spent more than 50 years in the restaurant business. My family came to America from the northwestern part of Greece, the Epirus region near the Italian border, from a city known as Ioannia. The area is known for its beautiful mountains and access to the sea.

It’s also known for its historic and

unique cuisine.”

“I was here to study engineering at the University of Michigan, and learned cooking secrets and business from my family’s restaurant in Monroe—the Colonial House. As a student, I needed money and worked with my older brother Dino, in learning the trade.”

“Cooking and running the front of the house became my passion.”

And, the passion is still cooking after all these years. As is the grit and determination to run a successful business.

Perdino’s has weathered the throes of fortune in the restaurant business for more than four and a half decades, remarkably surviving the economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. But, people still come to Perdino’s for the personal touch and hospitality provided by Tsipis, as well as his creative renditions of steaks, lamb chops, and fresh seafood. Not to mention, his famous Chicken Perdino.

The late GIHS principal, Doug Yardley, a regular patron of Perdino’s definitively stated that the Chicken Perdino was the best chicken dish he ever ate.

And he kept coming back for more. For years Perdino’s has maintained the quiet, intimate atmosphere, blending a warm, welcoming bar, with the white linen dining room, crisply ready for service.

“The secret to our success is to offer quality food, with good portions, with good service—all at a reasonable price,” said Tsipis. “People come from all over for our Norwegian salmon, our rack of lamb, and what they tell me is the best filet mignon. And of course, our Chicken Perdino. We offer a King Crab feast monthly that people enjoy.”

In celebrating its 40th anniversary, Perdino’s (yes, it’s named for Perry and Dino) is seeing a post-pandemic uptick in business. With larger crowds, he is hoping to bring back local entertainment on weekend evenings. Long-time guests recall gathering around the grand piano for an after dinner drink, sharing a song or three with their favorite chanteuse, or the closest thing to Billy Joel, that Perdino’s had to offer.

Perdino’s is in the heart of the Macomb Street Business District, 8575

Macomb. The restaurant is open seven days a week, from 4 to 10 p.m. They also offer special parties anytime with lunch and dinner prix fixe menus, as well as catering and take out. Phone: (734) 676-8100.

Come celebrate this Grosse Ile gem, you’ll be glad you did.

Perry will greet you at the door.

Perry Tsipis

Open House set for Sept. 16 St. Thomas Lutheran church celebrates 60 Years

BILL STEVENSON

St. Thomas Lutheran Church, ELCA is hosting its 60th anniversary on Saturday, Sept. 16 from 1 to 6 p.m., celebrating faith and service to the entire community it has served over six decades.

The “Peace, Love, & 60” Community Festival is open to congregates, community members, and visitors who might be looking for a new spiritual home. The event will include Bounce Houses, Face Painting, Caricature Artists, Alpacas, “Touch a Truck,” Magicians, Vendors, Entertainment, Food, and Fellowship.

There will be a goodwill offering for those who would like to donate for the meal.

According to Ethyl Yops, a charter member of the congregation, “St. Thomas started when Pastor Herbert Reed and his wife, Joan came to Grosse Ile in the spring of 1962. The pastor and his wife went door to door sharing the Good News and inviting families to be part of a new mission church.

“On Sept. 9, 1962 the first worship service was held at Parke Lane Elementary School with 19 families and more than 30 children in Sunday school.

“Construction of a new building started in October of 1965 at 9393 Church Road and the corner of Meridian on 6.5 acres.”

Yops continued, “For the ground breaking ceremony, a plow was hooked up to a long rope and about 30 children were lined up to pull the plow through the soil. It didn’t exactly work out the way it was planned. When the children gave a mighty heave on the rope, they fell down in the dirt like dominoes. Of course,

they were dressed in their Sunday best. Quite the ground breaking.

“After Pastor Reed saw the congregation through its growing pains, he moved on to a new congregation and Pastor Ted Aller was called to serve in March, 1967. Pastor Aller and his wife, Marcia became a fixture in the Grosse Ile community, dedicatedly serving for 42 years. Pastor Aller retired but remained Pastor Emeritus of St. Thomas, while he continued working in Lutheran churches throughout the Downriver area.”

Pastor Sean Ewbank was called in June of 2010, and helped to modernize worship services and expanded the growth and outreach of the congregation. He was called to be the Assistant to the Bishop in the Southeast Michigan Synod of the ELCA in Detroit.

Pastor Sean was replaced by the Rev. Heather Oberlin, who served a short term from May, 2018 to September, 2020.

The current pastor, Rev. Kari Rinas was formally installed in November, 2022, and continues to serve as the spiritual leader of the congregation.

Church Council President Art Wahl expressed the excitement about the “Peace, Love, & 60 Celebration” saying, “This is a great opportunity to share a fun afternoon with friends, family, and our larger Grosse Ile community. We are looking forward to celebrating our presence and 60 years of mission to Grosse Ile and southeastern Michigan. This is a perfect outreach stewardship event to people who may not know much about us, or haven’t been around much recently. We look forward to the anniversary as a way of launching into our next decades of service and worship.

“This is a special day to count our blessings and share those with others.”

Fall is upon us and we still have buyers unable to find homes. List now while the competition is still low.

For a free value report, call us.

We’re raising our glasses to celebrate being named the Best Steakhouse in the Click On Detroit Vote 4 The Best Awards! Back to back winners of Best Steakhouse category!!! This achievement belongs to every member of our Vault family & to our wonderful patrons who have made this journey possible. The Vault strives to provide the best service while guests enjoy the freshest, highest quality dishes we are able to source. Here’s to more remarkable moments together! Thank you!

The Teller’s Room

What Our Patrons are Saying on Facebook:

William:

Always a great place to have a bite. Great food • Late-night dining • Casual • Daily specials • Cozy atmosphere

Meg: Had the fish dinner, and it was amazing! Best cod I’ve had this Lent season! We will be back even after Lent!! Plus I love the redo on the inside, it looks really good!

Hip atmosphere • Casual • Cheap eats • Child-friendly • Large portions • Chic décor

Kristen: Food is on point. I AM VERY IMPRESSED!

Tasting menus • Chic décor • Hip atmosphere

Libby:

It’s very nice inside with the wonderful owners. Healthy options

• Comfort food • Scenic views • Large menu • Farm-to-table

• Great food

Leticia: Warm and friendly atmosphere. The owners and staff are so kind and treat everyone so well. It’s nice and refreshing to see a business treat people like family and not just another dollar in their till! Awesome place!

Michelle:

Just had one of the most perfectly cooked “medium rare” burgers I’ve found since moving back. Will definitely be back for another. No pic as I was licking my fingers. Next time...

Tracey: Wonderful management!!!! If you have a concern he is right on the problem to fix it!!! Great fried shrimp!!! Thank you for coming to our table and talking with us.

Mark: Friendly atmosphere... The food is good and the beer is cold. Stylish interior.

Waterfowlers event slated for Sept 16-17

One of the longest running outdoors events in the state of Michigan is gearing up for another season.

The 75th annual Pointe Mouillee Waterfowl Festival will be Sept 16-17 at the Pointe Mouillee State Game Area, 37205 Mouillee Rd.

This family-friendly event has been a Downriver tradition since 1947. Nature lovers truly enjoy the outdoor events such as dog jumping competitions and archery challenges. The event proudly supports the conservation efforts to protect the Pointe Mouillee State Game area. All proceeds will benefit habitat at Pointe Mouillee State Game Area which is the largest freshwater marsh restoration project in North America located in the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge. So spend a day or two with us and bring the family to enjoy a day with Mother Nature at the Pointe Mouillee Waterfowl Festival. Be sure to bring along the little ones as the Huron Clinton Metroparks will be sponsoring a Kid’s Tent featuring games, face painting, crafts and popcorn.

Here are just some of the fun things to see and do at the event.

Duck Hunter’s Tournament

In 1947, a small group of duck hunters were discussing who cou;d

shoot the best, who can set decoys the fastest, row and punt the fastest etc., and after this friendly competition, the Michigan Duck Hunters Tournament was born!

Things have changed a bit, but the premise is the same. This is the most unique and oldest shooting event

around so come out and test your skills in our family-friendly, fun event!

Boats are provided and all participants must use the shells (12ga and 20ga) provided.

Senior entries are $20 and come with a box of shells and a hat. Junior entries are $10 and also include a box

of shells and a hat.

There is a maximum of 60 shooters. All proceeds will benefit the habitat at Pointe Mouillee State Game Area, which is the largest freshwater marsh restoration project in North America located in the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge.

Lake Erie Championship Layout Shoot

This simulates duck hunting out of a layout boat. It’s designed for you to work on your skills as a layout shooter. Shooters will get a box of she;lls and then 25 clay birds will be thrown at them.

Seniors (ages 16 and older) get a box of shells and a hat for $20, Juniors get a box of shells and a hat for $10. Because of youth duck season, shooters can sign up at anytime, during the event, but there field is a limited to 100 shooters

Waterfowl Works has donated an NXT GEN UFO Layout Boat (A $1650 boat!) as the grand prize to the winner of the Lake Erie Championship Layout Shoot!

Be sure to check out this website at layouthunting.com/

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Arts and craft show

This year will be an outstanding time to view and purchase wildlife artwork and crafts. Up-and-coming artists will display and sell their version of wildlife art as well. This year’s show will include:

~ Paintings

~ Hand carved decoys

~ Memorabilia

~ Taxidermy displays

~ Antique decoys

~ Crafts

~ Photography

~ Reference literature

~ Wildlife art and originals

~ Plus many other related items and supplies

Trading post

This is likely the largest outdoor swap meet of outdoor items that you are ever going to find. It is your onestop-shop for all hunting and outdoor items imaginable. Things such as:

~ Duck calls

~ Hunting boats, layout boats, etc.

~ Decoys

~ Clothing

~ Antiques

~ Fishing supplies

~ Ropes

~ Hunting boots/waders

~ Guide services

~ Anything you need for your hunting adventures!

Archery and BB gun shoot

This fun and free event is for all ages and is kid-friendly. The event will always have trained supervision at all times. This fun event shows the skills of archery in these areas:

~ BB gun skills

~ Archery shoot

~ Slingshot

~ Stop by and watch or even participate in this exciting event!

Duck calling contest

During the Festival, the Monroe Chapter of Ducks Unlimited will present “Live Duck” Calling Contest. This is a contest for everyone!

Open Live Duck (Main Event)

~ Open to all callers $40 entry fee.

~ 1st and grand prize is $500, plaque and Pointe Mouillee Waterfowlers hat

~ 2nd place $40, plaque and PMWF hat

~ 3rd plaque and Hat

The contest will follow the Open Two-Man Live Duck.

Open two Man Live Duck

~ Open to all callers. $60 per team entry fee.

~ Limit of two teams per person, per each calling event.

~ 1st for the Open Two Man Live Duck is $500, plaque and PMWF hat

~ 2nd $40, plaque and PMWF hat

~ 3rd plaque and PMWF hat

For much more information

about the 75th annual Pointe Mouillee Waterfowlers Festival, visit their website at ptemouilleewaterfowlfestival.org.

Pick up that something special at the live auction

As usual the Waterfowlers Festival will feature a live auction that is the perfect place to pick up that special outdoors item for yourself or for someone you love.

The live auction will be held Sept. 16 from 4-9 p.m. in the art tent. Here some of the things that will be up for auction: A taxidermy mount, fishing charter trip, Spring walleye fishing trip, camo paint from Kush Paint, custom handmade carved knives by Mighty Sharp Cuts, a musky rod, Fighting Island hunt raffle ticket, duck prints, gifts baskets and much, much more.

There will also be some specialized items that came from donors including:

~ Herman Koch 1940s and 50s decoys, H.H. Ackerman Bluebill Decoy – donated by Karen Koch and family, Gibraltar.

~ Jim Foote working 1948 Hen Bluebill decoy - donated by Jim Trombley, Riverview.

~ Ed Myers signed Canvasback decoy, wood duck, Jim Pinkstaff Drake Mallard decoy, Swan Decoy, 2002 Goose decoy signed by Charles Jobes – donated by Carl D Fischer, Grosse Ile.

~ Two smelt nets, framed G. Wykes Wood Ducks print, framed Cynthie Fisher print – donated by Chuck and Eileen Przybylo, Brownstown.

~ Diamond Jack’s four-person narrated Detroit River Tour.

What role for government in local-first push?

People older than I am need no education about the process one goes through as they age.

For me, the main consideration is that in the USA, the average life expectancy is 77.28 years, so most likely, I’ve got about 11 percent left on the fuel gauge.

I know, I know, “how pessimistic, how morbid, how defeatist.”

But that’s not it, friends.

The concept of “running out of time” is not some abstract, imaginary concept. The last 11 percent of my life has gone by fast and I know what that means about the 11 percent to come.

I have no way of knowing how I’ll fare in this game. I may get dead earlier than the average, or (perhaps less likely) I may not ever die at all. But the averages tell me that if I have stuff I need to do and say, I’d better get to it.

I think that by now, most readers have gotten the gist of why I write.

That I’m told so often by readers that they read every column is wonderful; it informs me that there is resonance.

There are points made that strike folks as flat out true.

Since my very first column (written only for the Grosse Ile Grand), my focus has been congratulating citizens for their understanding that economically for the region, localism provides better results for everyone, especially the residents of the region that rely on things being healthy and bouncy.

I have tried to educate about how important every purchase is, how much every single person matters in the equation.

Never forget: Three times more

money stays in the area, circulating and echoing with ripple-effect spending with purchases made at local and independent businesses, compared to national chains of any kind, and the comparison is far wider for internet purchases.

Three times more stays local, benefiting everyone that lives around here!

In the last couple of columns, I have directed commentary towards the local government’s role and impact on just about everything related to the health of the cities they govern. Considering that my words above are fact, not opinion, it makes a ton of sense that time each local government does everything it can, all the time, to maximize that truth.

Cities like Wyandotte (and Trenton, Grosse Ile, Riverview and much of Southgate) are heavily “local and independent” - oriented. In a world of national sameness and mediocrity, such towns can lay claim to being something very different, and very much better, in that what shoppers and diners do find in such towns is authentic, original, unique, and with meaningful connections to the cities they all serve.

The Indie businesses of our Downriver non-freeway cities are fortunate in being mostly guaranteed to not have the closeat-hand competition of national chains, but that doesn’t mean that those chains or internet sites don’t suck up a significant portion of the revenues that would otherwise flow to those locals.

Independent business is not easy, friends. The difference between survival and failure can be slim indeed. For all any of us know, the appearance of a going business may appear that way because the owner is not taking a salary, or is taking less than he/she wishes for all their work, perhaps to ensure that his

employees are paid well enough.

I can’t tell you how many happy, supportive posts we have done through Love Wyandotte and Love Local that have resulted in an appreciative call or note from the owner.

I hope you know I mention this not to brag but to illustrate that small businesses can always use kind words, and help in spreading their word. It takes seconds to be kind and maybe help. Making people happier is addictive, anyway! And I just don’t have a clue what “making a corporation happy” means.

In my perfect scenario, therefore, small cities that are so dependent on small, independent, and local businesses would enjoy the employ of countless employees and elected officials that were relentless in finding ways to help those businesses thrive, by official policy and by urging all involved to be a part of an excellent solution.

Constant hyping and cheerleading, with positive posts and references.

Finding ways to direct some money towards collective marketing that draws people to the towns they lead and serve.

Buying nothing for city needs in the way of supplies and services that could have been sourced locally.

Bragging about all these things, and exhorting the entire populace to truly accept the responsibility to help.

I remain totally enamored of more than just my own specific business.

I’m fascinated by the aggregation of businesses in a concentrated area, and how those downtowns vary in level of success, vitality, and force of nature. As such, I love to see who does it better than my town.

Not to criticize, but so as to emulate their path to greater success.

Almost always, I see only the surface

level as I visit other towns. I rarely get the chance to talk with the people that played a role in getting their towns to a higher plane, and then keeping them there, continuing to grow. I don’t have that much time, either. I experience what I do in a short time and come away with opinions on all manner of things that comprise the appearance and functioning of those places.

I get great pleasure from finding things that surprise me and energize me, and give me ideas to share and/or wish for. I live in a state of constant wishing for better, in my businesses and my city. Always looking for the weak link to improve.

Local and Independent business is always under the assault of national, stock-market companies that seek to capture as much of the local money as possible. It’s how the national economy works, but it can be pushed back against at the local level.

It took 20 years for Michigan to find the way to demand that Amazon (et al) collect Michigan sales tax, giving a state mandated 6 percent competitive edge to Amazon on purpose, and it’s not just Michigan.

I wish for a more perfect world, but I’ll take a better region and collective of cities that all “get it” and ensure that the policies they oversee are in sync with making damned sure that their local businesses thrive, not just survive, which makes property values rise and more people want to move to the city and spend money there….and so on and so on. It really is just that simple.

PETER ROSE

Grosse Ile Recreation Kids and Adult Education

Grosse Ile Recreation Events

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!

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.

Downriver Bass Association is based in Riverview

DAVE GORGON

Southeastern Michigan’s largest bass club is based in Riverview.

The Downriver Bass Association meets monthly at the Riverview Veterans Memorial Library. Members participate in special events on land and fish on waterways throughout the region.

The goal is to share fishing tips and techniques while creating camaraderie, friendships and opportunities among members and spreading their joy for a lifelong sport.

Meetings, which are open to the public, are held at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of the month. There are no meetings in December, although club members often meet socially that month.

“It’s a club about camaraderie and learning to fish,” said program director and board member Rick Fike. “We’re not competitive. There are no trophies, cash prizes or formal recognition of an angler of the year. We share a lot of information with one another before we fish, while we fish and after we fish.”

Fike takes his fishing seriously. He creates a Google data sheet after a day of fishing, charting such information as where members fished, what they caught, the size of the fish and the weather conditions of the day.

Fike said members learn a lot by listening to the success other members have had on a selected waterway. Fishermen with boats are partnered with fishermen without boats.

“If there are 10 boats on a lake and everybody says how they did it, it’s like me going to the lake 10 times,” he said. “It accelerates your learning curve. I feel like I’ve been fishing for 40 years, not 10. It’s pretty cool.”

The Downriver Bass Association has been in existence since the 1970s and currently has about 35 members, Fike said. Current club President Jeff Dobek is Riverview’s city manager. He runs the meetings at the library.

“We talk about the water and conservation and what’s new in the world of bass fishing,” Dobek said. “We talk about the upcoming lakes we’ll be fishing on, water temperatures, patterns, depths… It’s a science.”

Eric Kennedy is event director and treasurer. He collects the dues, which are $36 a year. Members receive a

monthly newsletter published by Fike, who serves as secretary.

Fike also schedules special guest speakers at the meetings from September through April. Speakers have included Kim Stricker from the streamed TV program “Hook and Look,” Lake St. Clair fishing guide Gerry Gostenik, touring professional fisherman Marcel Veenstra and Captain Wayne Carpenter.

This month’s speaker will be local tournament fisherman Dave Hasty. In October, there will be a discussion on how to winterize boats. In November, Bob Burns from the Friends of the Detroit River will speak.

Bass Club members participate in a variety of fishing events such as the recent Riverview Fishing Derby on Reflection Pond and the upcoming Sept. 23 fishing event during Riverview’s 100th anniversary celebration. Club members will work with autistic children and their families through Mimi’s Mission.

Dobek said participating in fishing events is a chance for club members to “give back” and get young people interested in fishing.

“We hope that by teaching them how to fish, the next generation will carry on,” he said. “It’s time away from the computer and gaming and off the

couch and a chance to get out and enjoy nature.”

Club members work with the Riverview Library to help maintain fishing equipment that can be borrowed by children and adults. Library Director Azita Frattarelli said the “very popular” program allows library card holders to check out fishing poles and tackle boxes containing lures, extra hooks, bobbers and pliers. The club also donates equipment to the library and as prizes for the Fishing Derby.

Dobek, who called bass “a great sport fish,” said he joined the club in January 1988 after meeting representatives at an event at the Southland Shopping Center in Taylor.

“I love fishing,” he said. “My mom said I got my fishing bug from my grandfather. When I joined the club, I didn’t have a boat, just the basic gear. I didn’t know the difference between a clothesline and a fishing line. The guys took me under their wings and showed me how to do it. It was great. I learned about different rods and lures.”

Dobek said he “trial tested” the equipment to improve his chances of catching fish. He bought his first boat in the early 1990s and his interest in fishing has only grown from there. He said the club is “100-percent catch and release.”

“People who have an interest in fishing but don’t have a lot of experience can get in other people’s boats and learn all about rods, reels, lines and lures and under what conditions. You get to go out with people with multiple years of experience. They know the water. A lot of times, guys let them use their equipment. It’s a great learning experience.”

Riverview Mayor Andrew Swift raved about the Bass Association and all that the members contribute to the community and each other.

“The Downriver Bass Association’s partnership with the City of Riverview is the perfect example of a win-win situation,” the Mayor said. “They benefit by getting the word out about their club and our community benefits by learning about an awesome family activity, fishing.”

Dobek said he always looks forward to his next time on a lake.

“I enjoy being on the water,” he said. “It’s a great getaway. It’s relaxing. I’ve met a lot of good friends from it. We do things socially. It’s a really good club.”

Fike added: “If you hunt or fish, it’s kind of your passion. Whether you bowl or golf, you enjoy doing it with your friends.

“You build friendships that last forever.”

Members of the Downriver Bass Association at the Riverview Fishing Derby. In the front row are Luke Yasuhara (left), David Benson, Jeff Dobek, Bruce Yinger and Rick Fike. In the back row are Paul Grech, Gary Lloyd and Ray Maggard.

Photo by Dave Gorgon

Estate Planning 101 Which plan do you need?

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!

Red Devils upended in first two football games

The Grosse Ile football team stumbled last season, losing four of its last five games. That skid carried over as the team opened the 2023 season with back-to-back losses to non-league Ida and Flat Rock. Both games were at Grosse Ile.

Against Flat Rock on Aug. 31, the Red Devils surrendered 35 straight points before finally scoring in the fourth quarter and they lost to the visiting Rams 31-6.

It was not a good offensive night for the home team as Grosse Ile piled up just 138 yards worth of total offense.

Sophomore quarterback Tanner Symons had 89 of those yards on a 9-for-18 passing night. He had one touchdown pass and one interception. Symons also rushed for 28 yards.

Senior Dom Cappellino was Symon’s favorite target and he caught three passes for 43 yards, including the Grosse Ile touchdown. Mason Crowley had two catches for 28 yards and Ethan Miller had one for 13.

Dominic Cucinella and Carson Pace keyed the defense with six and five total tackles, respectively.

The Devils opened the campaign with a 41-7 loss of Ida.

Although the Devils did a better job running the ball against the Bluestreaks, it was still a lackluster offensive performance that produced just one touchdown.

That lone touchdown came on a run by junior Evan Brown, who carried 11 times in the game for 34 yards. Crowley kicked the point-after to

account for all the grosse Ile scoring. Symons had a tough night in his varsity debut. He was 4-for-19 for 34 yards and had three passes intercepted. He rushed for 40 yards.

Junior Jeremiah Heard was the tam;s leading rusher with 52 yards on nine carries.

Grosse Ile had 186 total yards in the game.

Zac Berwald had 10 total tackles in the game and Brown and Aiden Rush had seven each.

The Red Devils (0-2, 0-1), have been outscored 82-13 in their first two games and they have averaged just 162 yards a game.

The Red Devils were at 1-1 Monroe St. Mary Catholic Central on Sept. 8 and they will host Milan on Sept. 15.

2023 Roster

2 Sophomore Tanner Symons

3 Senior Dominic Cappellino

5 Junior Evan Brown

6 Junior John Sorbo

7 Junior Mason Crowley

8 Senior Peye Moore

9 Senior Ethan Miller

10 Junior Deron Heard

12 Junior Jeremiah Heard

15 Sophomore Dominic Cucinella

17 Senior Jonathan Allison

20 Junior Evan McInerney

21 Senior Matthew Pizzo

50 Senior Zac Berwald

52 Senior Austin Wisler

54 Junior Samuel Flitt

55 Senior Aiden Rush

60 Junior John Boucher

62 Senior Sebastian Grace

65 Junior Joseph Christnagel

71 Senior Dylan Alexander

75 Senior Carson Pace

77 Junior Anthony Rayburn

Photo by Constance York

GIGCC Devil Rays cap another fantastic season

JESSICA PARKER

The Grosse Ile Golf & Country Club Devil Rays swim team once again had a fantastic season! A record number of swimmers joined the competitive team this year, totaling 112 athletes aged 5-18 with four of our high school swimmers completing their final year in the program. Madi Glover, Annie Dane, Breanna Dunn, and Abbey Moore were celebrated at our second home meet and will be missed next year!

The Devil Rays were again led by Max Monas, the long-standing head coach of the team. He was joined by returning coaches Emma Hutchinson, Alyssa Lauth and Zoe Neilson.

Two of our former swimmers, Nate Cobb and Andrew Johnson, returned to the team in their first year as assistant coaches. Both Nate and Andrew are former MVPs of the club program, and the club community is

grateful for their expertise this year.

The Devil Rays continued to have a competitive season with five wins and only one loss, thereby landing the team as the MICSA White Division CoChampions.

While all swimmers maintained a phenomenal season, Addison Burgtorf and Jake Moczulski were recognized at the 2023 Devil Ray MVPs and a new club record was set by Jake in the 8U 50 Freestyle with a time of 38.32 seconds.

An astounding relay team composed of Aiden Ranka, Tessa Robinson, Charlotte Burgtorf and Jake Moczulski also broke the existing club record for the 100 IM relay with a time of 1:33:54, a record that has been in place since 1997.

The team took 42 swimmers to the MICSA finals in late July where 22 of the swimmers advanced through the preliminaries to represent the team in the final heats for club points.

Heading into the event Tessa Robinson was favored to be the MICSA top swimmer in the 8U Breast and took home the first place title for the league.

Jake Moczulski took second in the 8U Freestyle, while Hendrick Korneffel and Aiden Ranka each took home third place medals in their respective events.

Addi Burgtorf swam to a second-place finish in the 9-10 Girls 100 Freestyle. Rounding out the winning team is Matthew Carbajo who placed 3rd in the Boys 13-14 50 Freestyle and Charlotte Burgtorf who placed 5th in the 8U Backstroke.

Several Devil Ray relay teams were able to advance into the top 12 and compete on behalf of the team in the final heats.

The Devil Rays are looking forward to hosting the 2024 MICSA finals here at the GIGCC next July. This will be a perfect opportunity for alumni swimmers and club families to come together “On Island Time” to show our Grosse Ile pride!

Tennis team ready for challenge of new year

The high school tennis season is about to begin in earnest and after a few warm-up matches, the Grosse Ile Red Devils are ready for another season. Here is the team’s schedule for 2023:

Sept. 7 at Carlson

Sept. 9 at Greenhills

Sept.12 Airport

Sept.14 Riverview

Sept. 19 Monroe SMCC

Sept. 21 at Milan

Sept. 27 Frankel Academy

Sept. 28 League meet at Riverview

Oct. 7 Honor and Glory

Oct. 8 at University Liggett

Oct. 11 MHSAA regionals

Oct. 20 MHSAA state finals

CHIEF

Continued from page 1

Patrol.

After more than thirty years, he became the senior officer of the force, serving in a number of capacities, building an extensive resume and earning stellar commendations.

Most residents know him for his outstanding work in establishing and delivering service through his community policing programs.

Pelland had been the DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) officer for more than 20 years. He was instrumental in the Party Patrol Task Force, which grew statewide in efforts to deter under aged drinking and parental responsibility. He was the School Resource Officer responsible for coordinating emergency drills, active shooter protocols, crisis response teams, and Safe Schools community events.

As the “face of GIPD,” Pelland served as the public information officer for media contacts as situations arose.

Behind the scenes, Deputy Chief

Pelland had been a detective for 20 of his years with the GIPD investigating and solving crimes involving citizens and property.

He was the commander of the Downriver Mutual Aid Hostage Negotiation Team, and a member of the Staff and Command executive leadership team in the training, supervision, and management of the Grosse Ile Police Department.

Throughout his career, he has been involved in almost every facet of policing within the department—from road patrol, traffic investigations, collaborating on policies and procedures, finance, and administration.

Throughout his storied career, Ken Pelland wrote, and Grosse Ile Township received more than $1million in grants to enhance equipment and operations, contributing to Grosse Ile named as “the safest community in Michigan.” A rock. A fixture. A straight arrow. A friend.

Thank you, Deputy Chief Kenneth Pelland for your dedication and service to the Grosse Ile community. Best of luck on your retirement.

Trent Chlebek

Kayden Johnson

Grosse Ile soccer team looking for its footing

Remaining 2023 schedule

Sept. 6 at Riverview

Sept. 9 at Williamston

Sept. 11 Airport

Sept. 13 at Flat Rock

Sept. 18 at Monroe SMCC

Sept. 20 Milan

Sept. 25 Huron League tournament

Oct. 9 Troy Athens

Oct. 11 MHSAA districts

Creative Art Society welcomes guests

The Creative Art Society, formally the Downriver Arts and Crafts Guild, will meet on Tuesday, Sept. 12, at 6:30 pm at the Southgate Veterans Memorial Library in the City of Southgate, 14680 Dix-Toledo Highway. Creative Art Society meetings are free and open to the public.

After a short business meeting, our special guests for the evening will be both Jenny Vaughn and Matthew Thornton, aka “emscript.”

JENNY VAUGHN

The TEAD One Memorial Artist in Residence Program is a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization that was founded by the family of Jordan Vaughn, aka TEAD to honor his memory and continue his artistic legacy.

The vision of the program is to promote and strengthen a diverse culture of art in the community by fostering a creative, supporting environment for local adult emerging artists to develop new work and creatively explore new ideas in a safe and inclusive environment.

MATTHEW THORNTON, AKA “EMSCRIPT”

Matthew Thorton will be discussing his ink, acrylic and spray paint work. He is a comic book illustrator and publishes his own comic book series. His favorite mediums are ink, acrylic and spray paint.

Additionally, he will be conducting an Ink and Acrylic workshop at the Fall Festival of the Arts on Saturday, Oct. 7.

Come and enjoy an evening of fun and meet new friends. We promote and serve artists of all mediums and we celebrate all arts and all levels of art.

In addition, we offer opportunities to exhibit our work. We have workshops that are low-cost and educational.

For the $30 membership fee, all of the above is included. Where else can you enjoy a social evening of interesting art demonstrations with our local art community? There is something for everyone with a Creative Art Society membership.

If you are a new or experienced artist, news of innovative techniques and all the classes and workshops offered will give your ideas of what you can create next...there is always something new to learn.

Don’t forgetthe Creative Art Society’s Fall Festival of the Arts 2023, Sept. 29 - Oct.19.

Please check out our new website “creativeartsociety.org.” Facebook: Creative Art Society, or contact Maureen at 734-777-6109 or mkeast1@aol.com or Kris Stanek at 206-605-1987 or sea_kris@yahoo.com.

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK –GROSSE ILE GRAND

NEWS FROM OUR NEIGHBORS Go to... GoBigMultimedia.com to read more news on our digital publications.

Happy 100th, Riverview City will celebrate its centennial in September

gobigmultimedia.com/riverview-register

Weed wins!

Riverview residents approve retail marijuana sales; Swift vs. Norton for mayor; six seek council seats

That ballot proposal went down to defeat on election night 1,758-1,599, meaning marijuana sales will remain legal in Riverview and shops may open as soon as the licensing and paperwork are complete.

One shop -- Kinship Provisioning. in the old Slip Mahoney’s bar -- has undergone dramatic remodeling and appears to be close to opening.

Also on the primary ballot were candidates running for Mayor and City Council.

... The event honors the founding of the Village of Riverview in April 1923 all the way up to the present-day City of Riverview. Current and former residents and employees are invited to attend. Most of the free family-friendly activities will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, September 23, in and around the community center in Young Patriots Park:

gobigmultimedia.com/southgate-star

Anderson’s Bridget Godbout

is figure skating state champion

Bridget Godbout put an exclamation point on her sophomore year at Southgate Anderson High School by earning a state championship in varsity figure skating.

Godbout took first place in one event and was runner-up in a second event during the U.S. Figure Skating high school state finals in Lansing. She was honored at a recent Southgate Board of Education meeting along with other figure skaters and dozens of other student athletes.

In the Mayoral race, incumbent Andrew Swift topped the voting with 1,770 votes. Councilman Chuck Norton drew 1,339 votes and resident Edmond Maas recorded 158 votes. Swift and Norton will meet in the general election with the winner becoming mayor.

In the council race, 10 people ran and the top six will appear on the general ballot in November.

The top six council vote-getters were incumbent Suzanne O’Neil with 1,334 votes, former councilman Elmer Trombley (1,012), Brian Webb (945), David Pray (872), Nicole Clark (848) and Heather Smiley (770).

On page 1

• A Riverview meet and greet will be a gathering place for past and present Riverview teachers, elected officials and other notable persons from the community, along with local faithful interested in interacting with them. Longtime Riverview historian Gerald N. Perry will be on hand to sell and autograph special 100th anniversary commemorative copies of his book Riverview Michigan – From its origin to the 1970s.

• Riverview’s own Bob Guiney, who earned fame on the TV show “The Bachelor,” will be in town to serve as host. Famed football coach Lloyd Carr and other Riverview personalities have been invited to attend.

•Special presentations will take place to the oldest Riverview resident, longest married Riverview couple, person with the oldest Riverview tree and oldest known house.

•There will be a chili cook-off, classic car show, dog contest, Riverview trivia contest and, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., old-time games for children. Entrants in the car show will receive dashboard plaques. Prizes will be awarded to contest winners...

On page 7

At age 15, Godbout has been skating for 14 years. As a one-year-old, she was taught to skate by her parents, Chad Godbout and Jennifer Rouse, who had competed in Mid-Sectionals as ice dancing partners. She has improved ever since under the guidance of Anderson figure skating Coach Julie Goddard and just completed her second season with the combined Anderson/Gabriel Richard varsity team, the highest level in which she has skated.

On page 1

Anderson/Richard figure skaters cap big year

Eight members of the combined Southgate Anderson/Gabriel Richard team earned a bronze medal in the Michigan High School Figure Skating state championship competition in the spring at the

NORTON SWIFT

on Sunday

Here are some on-going library programs starting the first in September (for youths and adults)...

On page 11

gobigmultimedia.com/trenton-times

Trenton Parks & Recreation Special Fall Events Program

gobigmultimedia.com/wyandotte-warrior

Suburban Ice Center in East Lansing.

The Level C team placed third out of 14 teams from all over Michigan. Skaters on the team were Adelynn Hales, Brianna Hales, Abbie Juco, Aidan Kennedy, Madelyn Reiss, Rebecca Smith, Lilly Truel and Maizey Urbanek.

The C team placed first, second and first and won the district championship for the 2022-2023 season with a strong lead of four points above the other teams.

On page 7

Anderson’s Swiney signs with U-M Dearborn

Southgate Anderson High School graduate Connor Swiney has signed a letter of intent to attend the University of Michigan-Dearborn and play for the college baseball team.

Swiney, 18, played baseball and soccer at Anderson. He played outfield and pitched for the baseball team, where he batted .300 and had a sub-2.00 earned run average on the mound. The Titans lost in the district championship game to Woodhaven, although Swiney made the all-district team.

A special insert in the latest Trenton Times

Trenton Veterans Memorial Library is a valuable resource

...You can borrow a hotspot, laptop or use our public computers and printers. We have free apps for eBooks, eAudioBooks, music, movies, magazines, TV shows and graphic novels.

Out for Trout

Something special always seems to happen at the stream

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.

Swiney had a 3.2 grade point average and was a member of the National Honor Society at Anderson. He plans to major in environmental science at U of M-D en route to becoming a wildlife biologist.

Swiney started playing ball when he was 4 years old in the Southgate Parks and Recreation program. He played both for school teams and travel teams in his journey to college baseball.

On page 15

A safe and friendly place for all! Including open area seating, study tables, silent study room, meeting room for non-profit groups, vibrant children’s area and knowledgeable, friendly staff to help all ages.

Please check our Events Calendar https://www. trenton.lib.mi.us/events-1#/events/ for the latest listings of programs for children and adults.

Library hours are Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday/Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed

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...

On page 4

New Rouge River Book Placed in 75 Libraries

in River’s Watershed!

Living up to its mission of helping children, the Colina Foundation provided a grant to place copies of the new book titled “Rouge River Revived: How People are Bringing Their River Back to Life” in 75 libraries in the river’s watershed.

The Rouge River flows through metropolitan Detroit and for over 50 years was considered one of the most degraded urban rivers in the country. Then in the mid-1980s a “tipping point” occurred that would change everything.

On page 11