GROSSE ILE’S LARGEST CRAFT BEER SELECTION
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Macomb, Grosse Ile
GIPD’s annual drive Books for brighter minds
The Grosse Ile Police Department is proud to announce that Dispatcher Justyna Erd is once again leading the annual Book Drive. For the third year, Justyna is collecting books for Downriver public schools that are unable to purchase them.
From now through Labor Day, the department will be accepting lightly used books for children from pre-K to 8th grade. Donations can be dropped off in the collection boxes located in the lobby of the Grosse Ile Police Department.
Thanks to the community’s generosity, a total of 4,500 books have been donated to local schools. Let’s continue this wonderful tradition to help our young readers grow and thrive.
A big thank you to Justyna for her dedication and hard work in making this Downriver effort a success!
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!
FROM THE TOWNSHIP
The Grosse Ile experience Community, service, and public safety
Community is a combination of people working together to create and maintain what I describe as the Grosse Ile Experience. It encompasses an appreciation and respect for our fire, police, and schools, as well as our clergy, youth, and elderly. It’s about taking care of each other.
Understanding the Grosse Ile Experience begins with upholding community values and service, particularly in the realm of public safety and the new era of policing. Officers and dispatchers are not simply hired to patrol 140 miles of road and issue tickets. They receive continued education and advanced training to stay current with evolving laws, technologies, and best practices to meet changing community expectations and needs. This includes conflict resolution and strategies to defuse volatile situations involving mental health crises, drug use, alcohol abuse, and domestic violence.
Scenario-based training prepares officers for a range of emergencies, from man-made issues such as active shooters, hazardous material spills, vehicle accidents, and missing persons to natural disasters like tornadoes, downed power lines, and blizzards. These drills develop quick and effective decision-making responses to both predictable and unlikely emergencies. Regular legal updates ensure officers and dispatchers are informed of changes in the law, enabling them to make legally sound decisions.
The rapid advancement of technology requires continuous training with the latest tools and equipment. This includes body cameras, computers, in-car cameras, radar, digital evidence management, license plate readers, LIEN updates, infrared equipment, advances in accident investigation and reconstruction, drones, and criminal investigation techniques. Moreover, partnerships with our schools help ensure a safe learning environment, promote crosswalk safety, and offer educational programs such as DARE. Additional services provided include the Grosse Ile Safe Key program, which is an online platform where residents can securely store emergency information accessible only by dispatchers. The police also utilize medical devices such as AEDs and LUCAS for heart attacks and Narcan to reverse drug overdoses. CODE Red is used for public announcements and emergency alerts, and the police offer vacation security checks to residents. Further, animal control services are supported by a volunteer-run “nokill” animal shelter. These programs and services collectively contribute to making Grosse Ile a unique and wonderful place to live.
These innovative operations come with a cost, however, and require financial support from the community. This begins with the August millage renewal request, which accounts for 17.3% of the police budget. When casting your vote in the August primary, please reflect on the dedication of our men and women in uniform and the essential services they provide to our community.
CARL BLOETSCHER III Township Trustee
Grosse Ile Parkway Bridge construction update
Wayne County has provided an update on the upcoming 2025 repairs for the Grosse Ile Parkway Bridge (GIPB), a historic structure connecting Grosse Ile Township to mainland Trenton across the Trenton Channel in the Detroit River.
BACKGROUND
Originally built as a railroad bridge in 1873, the Grosse Ile Parkway Bridge opened to vehicle traffic in 1932. Over its history, the bridge has undergone periodic maintenance and significant repairs to ensure its structural integrity and safety.
RECENT AND PAST WORK COMPLETED
In 2020, critical superstructure repairs were initiated after underwater inspections revealed severe issues with certain piers. These repairs, completed in 2021, addressed immediate safety concerns and paved the way for ongoing maintenance and upgrades. Earlier work in 2019 included emergency repairs that temporarily closed the bridge, and in 2021, $9 million was spent on the oldest piers, reopening the bridge in December.
CURRENT PLANS FOR GIPB
The current phase of work focuses on several key areas:
• Underwater Design: Enhancements for protection of island and piers.
• Structural Improvements: Upgrades to steel components, electrical, and mechanical systems.
• Regular Maintenance: Ongoing upkeep to sustain bridge functionality and safety.
FUTURE WORK AND TIMELINE OVERVIEW
In 2023, local leaders secured $20 million from the Michigan state budget for further repairs and upgrades. Design and permitting phases for protection island and pier rehabilitation are scheduled for this year, with final design plans expected by late fall 2024. Construction is anticipated to commence in early summer 2025 for protection island, piers, and backup generator installations, extending possibly into 2026.
FAQs
Q: Will the $20M state allocation cover all planned repairs?
A: The allocated funds are insufficient for all necessary repairs but will initiate construction post-design finalization.
Q: When will construction begin, and what are the anticipated impacts?
A: Construction starts after design completion, focusing on pier and protection island upgrades.
Q: Are there weight restrictions currently, and will they change?
A: The bridge currently supports Class A Truck traffic; restrictions will likely lift post-repairs
Q: What will the scope of work entail compared to previous repairs?
A: Focus shifts to additional pier renovations, protection island rebuild, backup generator installation, and various system enhancements.
Q: How will marine traffic be affected during construction?
A: Certain restrictions will apply during construction, with ongoing coordination with regulatory agencies.
Q: How often is the bridge inspected, and by whom?
A: Routine inspections occur annually, with underwater assessments every year. Additional checks are conducted biannually for structural conditions.
Q: How will updates and progress be communicated to the public?
A: Regular updates via the Grosse Ile Township Supervisor’s Office and Wayne County’s public platforms, with community engagements on traffic impacts and project milestones.
Stay tuned for more updates on this critical infrastructure project, ensuring the continued safety and efficiency of the Grosse Ile Parkway Bridge.
Primary election is August 6th Changes will determine Grosse Ile’s future
By BILL STEVENSON
The State of Michigan Primary Election Day is set for Tuesday, August 6th, 2024. While there are crucial elections for United States Senator, U.S. Representative, State Representative, Wayne County officials, and nonpartisan Judge of the 3rd Circuit Court, voters may remember the words of the late Speaker of the House, Thomas “Tip” O’Neill, who famously said, “All politics is local.”
When Grosse Ile citizens vote on August 6th, there will be some notable differences in the race for Township Board positions. Absent will be the names of long-time incumbents, and new candidates will fill governing leadership roles unopposed.
In somewhat of a clear attention grabber, Supervisor James Budny, Clerk Ute O’Connor, Treasurer David Nadeau, and Board Trustee Carl Bloetscher III, did not file for re-election. Budny served two terms as a Trustee and as Supervisor for the last four years; Nadeau has been the Treasurer for one four-year term; Bloetscher has served eight years as a Trustee; and O’Connor has the longest tenure, with 23 years as the Grosse Ile Township Clerk. Candidates running unopposed in the primary are
essentially assured the elective position in November. Three candidates will be running unopposed for leadership positions: former GIPD Chief of Police and current Trustee Joseph Porcerelli for Township Supervisor; current Trustee Jamison Yager for Township Clerk; and newcomer to Township office Kevin Flavin for Township Treasurer.
There is competition within the ranks of those running for Township Trustee. Incumbent Kyle Alexander de Beausset is the sole candidate running for the office within the Democratic Party, and is guaranteed a nomination by the Democrats in the November election.
In the Republican primary race for trustee, voters will “not vote more than 4” among the five contenders: Michelle Bartlett, Craig Bielecki, Bill Heil, Mark A. Mills, and Margaret A. Shelton.
As our old Government teacher taught us, “Primary elections are intraparty elections, designed to nominate candidates by the political parties for the general election in November. There is no crossover voting in primary elections.”
Also, on the primary ballot under the “Proposal Section” are two Wayne County propositions: Prop P is a Parks Millage Renewal, and Prop A on amending the charter to allow the County’s
independent external auditor to serve for a term of three years or more.
There are three millage renewals, specifically for Grosse Ile Township:
• Millage Renewal To Maintain Current Fire Department Operations
• Millage Renewal To Maintain Current Police Department Operations
• Grosse Ile Township Schools Sinking Fund Millage Renewal Proposal
Deputy Clerk Bryan Friel reminds all voters that early voting starts Saturday, July 27th and runs through Sunday, August 4th. For further information on elections or early voting, go to www.grosseile. com, click on Government, then Clerk’s Office. Find your answers in the drop down menu.
Most important, make your voices heard. Remember, “Democracy is not a spectator sport.” Vote August 6th.
Summer 1949 revisited
A tale of mud and memories
DAVID DYER
My son, David-Scott, recently asked me a simple yet thought-provoking question: “What was your favorite toy as a child?” Reflecting on this question at 85 years old, I realized I couldn’t recall any toys from my childhood, let alone a favorite. His question sparked a memory I’ve always wanted to write about—the wonderful year of 1949. To preface, I have two brothers, Jim, who is 87, and my late brother Wayne, who would have been 84. Our father left us and our mother in 1942 when we were just 2, 4, and 6 years old. With few options available, our mother turned to her own parents for help. They were only able to take in Jim, so Wayne and I were sent to live elsewhere. Wayne and I were staying with my Aunt Audrey and Uncle Stu on Hurlbut Street in Detroit, while Jim lived just three blocks away with our grandparents. One April afternoon, after school, Wayne and I
decided to walk over to our grandparents’ house to visit Jim.
As we began walking, I spotted a tennis ball covered in mud in a ditch, likely lost or discarded by someone. I picked it up and rubbed off most of the mud and dirt, transforming it into what you could call a toy. This simple find led us to a lifetime of joy and wonderful memories. I bounced the ball a couple of times and then threw it to Wayne. He did the same and then threw it back. We played catch for a while until he suddenly threw it hard, sending it over my head. I chased after it and finally caught up with it in front of a party store on the corner of Kercheval and Hurlbut.
As we stood there, we heard loud cheering coming from an outdoor speaker connected to a radio inside the store. It was the Detroit Tigers’ first baseball game of the season, and the cheering was for an inside-the-park home run by the Tigers’ centerfielder, Johnny Groth, which had just put the Tigers ahead. Wayne and I, both fond of playing a little softball at school, stood on that corner and listened for a while, soaking in the excitement.
We continued to our grandparents’ house, and as we walked inside, we could hear the same game playing on their radio. Believe it or not, Johnny Groth was up to bat again, and he hit another home run—two home runs in the opening game of the year! The Tigers went on to win the game, with Hal Newhouser as the winning pitcher. My Grandpa, a longtime Tiger fan, shared many stories about baseball and the Tigers with us. From that day on, Wayne and I became lifelong fans.
My mother remarried a man named Bill in the summer of 1949. Bill had his challenges and could be difficult to live with, but a few good things came from this. We moved to a house on Moross on the east side of Detroit, and Bill’s mother owned a cottage in Sombra, Ontario. We would go there most weekends in the summer. Sombra had a baseball team that Wayne and I followed closely. During their batting practice, we would run the bases for them. There was also a gas station in Sombra owned by another Bill, who always had the Tigers’ games on the radio. We would listen to the games whenever we could.
Back on Moross, we met a few kids and started playing baseball with them at
Lanark Park. Everyone loved the Tigers, although it was clear they weren’t going to win the pennant. By the last weekend in September, we were at the cottage in Sombra. That Sunday marked the final game of the season. The Tigers’ third baseman, George Kell, had a batting average of .340, while Ted Williams, considered by many to be the greatest hitter in baseball history, was batting .343 in Boston. Williams had already secured the home run and RBI titles and was on the verge of winning his third triple crown. Harry Heilmann, the Tigers’ announcer, kept us updated on Ted Williams’ progress. We gathered at Bill’s gas station in Sombra, cheering for George Kell. Williams didn’t start the last game in Boston, assuming Kell would need a couple of hits to catch up. Remarkably, Kell went two for three, forcing Williams to pinch hit and get at least one hit to secure the batting title and his third triple crown. Williams ended up going 0 for 2, and Kell won the title by less than one percentage point. That marked the end of the 1949 baseball season, but the beginning of our lifelong devotion to baseball and the Tigers. So thank you, whoever you are, for losing that muddy old tennis ball.
Simsonian 5k celebrates great tradition Still chasin’ the dream
By BILL STEVENSON
Twenty-two years ... and still running.
The 22nd annual Simsonian 5k Kick-Off Classic will be held on Saturday, August 17th, 2024 at Grosse Ile High School. Over the past two plus decades, the charitable race has been established as a long-standing Grosse Ile tradition. Moreover, growing support of the event reinforces what many have known for even a longer time—Grosse Ile is a generous and caring community that values education and the future of their children.
On that third Saturday in August, the Friends and Family of Steve Sims, in partnership with the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation, Inc. will offer a fun, familyfilled event in either a One Mile Fun Run/Walk or the 5K Race. Each shares a common bond—raising money to advance the education of Grosse Ile’s outstanding male and female scholar/athletes at Grosse Ile High School.
All proceeds from the race go to the Steve Sims Leadership Scholarship.
To date, more than $56,000 have been awarded. This year’s scholarships were awarded to 2024 graduates, Jack Calcut and Kaitlyn Molnar. Calcut and Molnar were valedictorians of their class. Calcut excelled in tennis and track & field, while Molnar was the state champion in both track & field and women’s diving. They both exemplified selfless leadership in school and community service.
The 22nd annual Simsonian will again offer both an in-person and virtual race option for all to enjoy. All participants can register before August 17 on runsignup. com. You can also sign-up on race day at the Grosse Ile High School west entrance.
The One Mile Fun Run/Walk begins at 8:30AM, with the 5K race starting at 9:00AM. The course is flat with views of the Detroit River and island natural areas. Due to the construction at the GIHS new football field, the course has been modified to finish before a boisterous crowd in front of Grosse Ile High School. Runners receive a coveted t-shirt, DJ’d after race party, refreshments, and great raffle prizes (must
be present to win).
For those who cannot join us in-person, the Friends of Sims are offering the wildly popular alternative virtual race experience, with the window of competition from August 1st to August 17th. You can use your GPS to map your 5K and run, walk, or crawl your own race, at your own place, at your own pace. Over the years, virtual runners have run the Simsonian in such places as Seattle, Chicago, Miami, Washington, D.C., London, and even Saudi Arabia, making it a truly international charity event. If you are not able to participate in the live or virtual events, supporters can donate and help advance this most worthy cause.
For many who may not be aware of this event’s history, the 22nd Annual Simsonian is held in memory of beloved teacher and coach, Steve Sims, who died unexpectedly of a dissecting aortic aneurysm in 2003 at age 46. Steve was the winningest coach in Grosse Ile history in both Girls’ Basketball and Girls’ Track and Field. But, moreso, he was known for his great sense of humor, his ability to inspire his students and athletes, and his passion for excellence. He was instrumental in developing strong, independent young men and women.
Your participation and support go to
advance the spirit and legacy of Steve Sims in paying it forward to another generation of promising youth - just what the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation, Inc. has done for almost 30 years.
Registration for the Virtual Race: Flat fee of $30 (includes postage and handling) for all ages and categories
In-person registration for both Fun Run and 5K:
Children ages 10 and under: $10
Students 18 and under: $20
Adults: $25
Late (after August 13th) or Race Day
Registration: 10 & Under: $15
Students: $25
Adults: $30
Awards for the in-person race include: first place male and female overall in the 5K category, as well as gold, silver, and bronze awards for males and females in each age group: 12 & under, 13-16, 17-20, 21-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, and 60 & over.
Package pick-up will be at the Grosse Ile High School West Entrance on August 17th beginning at 7:15AM.
So, come join as you can to support a great time and an even better cause. ‘Cause, “That’s the Spirit that Made America!”
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Devils’ valiant effort in 2024 state championship
By HANK MINCKIEWICZ
In 2023, the Grosse Ile girls soccer team went all the way to the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 3 state championship game. There, the Devils met Hudsonville Unity Christian, and Grosse Ile lost 3-0.
In 2024, after again storming through the MHSAA playoffs, coach Kyle Lesperance’s team hit the wash, rinse, and repeat button.
The Red Devils reached the title game again.They faced Unity Christian again. And they lost 3-0 again.
“(Unity Christnian is) just so dangerous. They’re so fast-paced,” Lesperance told an MHSAA reporter after the match. “They’re technical on the ball, they’re very well-coached in their positions and off-the-ball movements. They’re a beast in this division.”
Fortunately for Grosse Ile and the rest of the Division 3 teams, after winning back-to-back D3 state titles, the Crusaders will be moving up a division next season.
After scoring 37 goals and facing minimal challenges through the first five games of the state tournament,
Grosse Ile had little luck offensively, and a tough time stopping Unity Christian star Ava Ludke.
The junior Lutke, who is already committed to play college soccer at Michigan State University, had 11 shots at Grosse Ile goalie Monica Arndt.
Lutke scored one of her team’s three goals and assisted on the other two.
Lutke set up Unity Christian’s first goal, taking a ball down the wing and turning it inside, which drew three Grosse Ile defenders toward her. She found the supporting run of Emma Vruggink in the box, and Vruggink smashed the ball into the open net 14 minutes, 27 seconds into the first half.
Unity Christian (22-1-1) consistently put pressure on the Grosse Ile defense, pinning the Red Devils back into their own end for much of the game. But between Arndt, who had 12 saves, and some timely defending, the score remained 1-0 through the first 10 minutes of the second half.
A ball that bounced off a Grosse Ile defender found Lutke later in the game and she buried it for a 2-0 lead. Unity Christian’s final goal came from Tessa Ponstein, who curled home a left-footed shot from outside the box.
Grosse Ile, which finished the year with a 17-3-5 record, managed just three shots at the Hudsonville goal. Aubree Korody had two of them and Mallory Botten had the other. Unity Christian has 32 shots in the game, 15 of them on goal. Arndt made 12 saves.
Unity Christian has now won 12 state soccer titles, tied with Royal Oak Shrine for the most in MHSAA history.
To reach the championship game Grosse Ile edged Beverly Hills Detroit Country Day 1-0 in a shootout in the MHSAA Division 3 semifinals.
In the districts, Grosse Ile dominated Taylor Prep 15-0 and then hammered Huron League foe Flat Rock 9-1 in the district championship game.
At regionals, Grosse Ile knocked off a good Ann Arbor Greenhills team 2-1 and then beat Ovid-Elsie 4-2 in the regional final.
The Red Devils will lose 10 seniors to graduation this year, leaving a core of 14 returning players to try and make it three state finals in a row.
At the conclusion of the season, Lesperance posted a thank-you on Facebook saying, in part, “thank you to my family and friends, soccer families, the Grosse Ile High School
administration and staff, and everyone who has supported us over this exciting playoff run. Your support has not gone unnoticed and is greatly appreciated.”
We are proud of you girls. What a great run!
2024 Roster
1 Monica Arndt, junior
2 Mallory Botten, junior
6 Morgan Kwiatkowski, soph
9 Addison Nemeth, senior
10 Alexandra Stefan, senior
11 Cassidy Eblin, senior
12 Alicia Shelton, soph
13 Chelsea Houghton, senior
14 Alana Korody, junior
15 Alyssa Korte, soph
16 Olivia Zuccaro, senior
17 Madelyn McNeil, senior
18 Ella Gotti, junior
19 Lindsey Rice, senior
20 Maria Dionyssopoulos, soph
21 Abrielle Kulik-Heim, senior
22 Aubree Korody, junior
24 Lila Pascuzzi, junior
25 Katherine Gilroy, senior
26 Maelyn Matthews, freshman
27 Courtney Flood, junior
28 Grace Houston, junior
29 Samantha Bohl, senior
32 Whitney Laura, freshman
Supporting excellence and innovation Educational Foundation advances its mission
By BILL STEVENSON
School may be out for the summer, but the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation continues the cycle of philanthropy throughout the year, celebrating its successes and looking forward to new challenges ahead. Staying true to its mission, the volunteer organization is “committed to life-long educational experiences for the students and families of Grosse Ile through financially supporting creative and exemplary educational opportunities throughout the community and the Grosse Ile Township Schools.”
Since its inception in 1995, the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation has donated more than $1.8 million through grants providing educational opportunities to Grosse Ile families. Over the last two years, the Foundation has awarded more than a quarter million dollars to various outstanding programs. These include robotics equipment updates and FIRST Robotics Competition costs for elementary and high school teams, the ‘French Fur Trade in Michigan’ by Oakwoods Metropark for Meridian Elementary, an immersive interactive room, a multisensory virtual reality classroom at GIHS, travel assistance for school trips to Washington, D.C., New York City, Italy, and Japan, solar glasses to enable all students to view the recent eclipse, and The Grosse Ile
Historical Society’s “Reimagined” Historical Museum exhibit titled, “A Small Town with a Big History.”
GIEF President, Kurt Kobiljak, reflects, “The Foundation historically has been blessed with great community support of our mission over all these many years. What was great to see in relation to our most recent 1920 fundraising gala was the Foundation forging a close relationship with the historical society to help generate a tremendous amount of money so as to help fund the historical society’s rebranding so as to make their facility much more informational while also allowing the Foundation to support community educational opportunities. The time, talent and investment in the event by the Foundation and Historical Society Board members was amazing to watch transpire over the months leading up to the event.”
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit funding organization, the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation welcomes local community non-profits, teachers, or administrators to apply for grants within its guidelines. The financial support of sponsors, local businesses, and community members allows the Foundation to continue to fund future educational opportunities.
The Grant Coordinator for the Foundation, Andrea O’Donnell, spends a great deal of time in the schools, and works closely with teachers and administrators as grants are fine tuned. O’Donnell said, “As a parent with
Celebrating success
The Grosse Ile Educational Foundation proudly announces Jack Calcut and Kaitlyn Molnar as the recipients of the 2024 GIEF Steve Sims Leadership Scholarship, each awarded a $2,500 scholarship for their outstanding achievements as scholar-athletes. Congratulations to both Jack and Kaitlyn on this welldeserved honor!
kids in our district, I appreciate the wonderful teachers who go above and beyond to write the grants that make these extra programs possible for our students. They are always the things my kids come home excited to tell us about and the added value that makes for a well-rounded education.”
“During my time on the GIEF board I have continuously been blown away by the support and generosity that is shown towards the Foundation from the members of our community. They always come through and because of that we can continue to fund programs that enrich our community and schools.”
And so, the wheel keeps turning. For the next several months the Board members of the Foundation will be busy planning and preparing for our upcoming annual fundraising gala. As those who attended last year’s 1920s Bootleggers’ Bash or the previous Totally Awesome 80s blow-out can attest, the Educational Foundation knows how to throw a party. And, Grosse Ile knows how to party for a good cause.
This year’s fundraising gala will be a “Monster Bash,” set for Saturday, October 12th at the Grosse Ile Golf & Country Club. Mark your calendars now and start thinking about what you’ll wear for a “terrifyingly fun night of food, live music and dancing, silent auction, and Red Devil revelry.” As they unfold, more details will follow.
By BILL STEVENSON
•
With Nick’s
Rob and Rosanne decided they wanted to expand their wings and open a second restaurant. Within this new business, they want to capture the community a ection of Mister Nick’s and add a new sense of a one-of-a-kind experience. So, they are manifesting their dream, e Tipsy Fish.
YOU WILL LOVE IT!
The Teller’s Room
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NEWS FROM OUR NEIGHBORS
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Restored
The Roosevelt High School Auditorium welcomed back its cherished murals, lovingly restored to their former glory. Created in the early 1940s by artists Henry Roberts and Walter Speck, five oil on canvas masterpieces had weathered the passage of time,
showing signs of wear and tear. But with restoration efforts from the RHS Mural Restoration Committee, conservators, donors, and all who made this restoration possible, the community eagerly anticipated the grand unveiling. On May 12th, supporters gathered for a celebratory ceremony, witnessing the resurrection of these historic artworks.
On page 14
Michigan robotics team takes on VEX Worlds
In a thrilling display of skill and determination, the boys’ robotics team 3547J “The Juggernauts,” sponsored by Monroe County Community College, and part of the VEX Virus 3547 organization, made their mark at the prestigious VEX Robotics World Competition. As just one of seven teams from Michigan, the team proudly represented their program, embarking on a journey filled with challenges and triumphs.
The competition unfolded over three intense days in Dallas, Texas, where Tyler Kowalski, Quentin Kreyger, Colin Swift, and Tristan Sypula competed in 10 qualifying matches against other
skilled opponents from across the globe. They had the chance to collaborate with other teams, strategizing maneuvers to excel in each match. The team demonstrated their expertise in autonomous programming skills events, making a lasting impact on the global stage.
Despite facing stiff competition, team 3547J demonstrated resilience and skill, ultimately securing an impressive 38th place out of 82 teams in their division. Their remarkable performance fell just shy of the finals rounds, with a narrow margin of 9 points separating them from further advancement...
On page 23 gobigmultimedia.com/southgate-star Anderson High School students take over city hall
On Wednesday, May 15th, students from Anderson High School stepped into the shoes of Southgate government officials for Student Government Day.
This annual event offers a unique opportunity for young people to experience the inner workings of municipal government, fostering a deeper understanding of civic duties and responsibilities.
The day began with breakfast at the Southwinds Golf Course Clubhouse, where students and city officials gathered for an informal meet-and-greet.
Following breakfast, City Clerk Jan Ferencz administered the Oath of Office to the honorary officials, officially instating them in their roles for the day.
Participants then embarked on a comprehensive tour of the municipal campus, including the Police Department, District Court, and Fire Station. These tours provided students with an inside look at the essential services that keep the city safe and operational.
After the morning tours, everyone returned to the clubhouse for lunch. During this time, the honorary officials had the chance to sit with their real-life counterparts and discuss their roles and responsibilities...
On page 1
Southgate alumni skaters make new memories
... Memories came flooding back as skaters converged for the 3rd Annual Southgate Hockey Alumni Game on May 18th. A mix of graduates from four Southgate High Schools (Anderson, Aquinas, Schafer and Southgate) teamed up with former youth players in the Southgate Hockey Association.
“As long as we keep playing, reminiscing and hanging out, the memories of our awesome youth days in Southgate, along with the greatest game, will keep us forever young,” David Blanton, a Southgate Hockey youth player and Trenton High School ‘87 graduate.
While many skaters still live in the Downriver area, David Blanton flew in from Georgia to play in his second game. Said Blanton, “Already looking
forward to next year!” Added Dan Drys, Anderson ’86, playing in his third game, “Gets better every year...
On page 7
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Safe-cracking superhero to the rescue
... The Trenton Historical Museum houses a vintage safe from 1906 by Hall’s Safe Company, Cincinnati, Ohio. Once property of the Village of Trenton, this safe served City Hall for many years before being donated to the museum. For years, the museum’s commissioners possessed the combination to the safe and stored a variety of record books inside. However, over time, the
combination was lost. It was rumored that the combination could have been written inside the cover of an accounting book. However, despite extensive searching, the necessary combination remained a mystery. Luckily, the safe was left open when the combination was lost. To prevent accidental locking without a means of opening it, blocks of wood were wedged in the door. Locksmiths were contacted, but they either couldn’t handle such requests or the cost was considered too high. Despite additional searches, the sought-after combination remained undiscovered.
In September of 2023, one of the museum commissioners noticed several colorful safes displayed in a driveway with a sale sign and a contact phone number listed. Curious inquiries were made, leading to a conversation with Ron Beasse, a longstanding Trenton resident and the owner of the antique safes. During the exchange, the story of the museum safe and its lost combination was shared. Could he advise us who to contact to figure out
the missing combination? Turns out he was the man....
On page 15
Celebrating 50 years out of high school
The Trenton High School Class of 1974 is excited to announce plans for their 50-year reunion. This milestone event will take place over the weekend of October 11-12, 2024, with a series of activities designed to reconnect classmates and celebrate their shared history.
Friday, October 11, 2024
The festivities will kick off with attendees gathering to support the Trenton High football team. The game is set to begin at 7:00 pm. Following the game, classmates are invited to continue the evening at Del’s Pizzeria, located at 2833 W. Jefferson, Trenton.
Saturday, October 12, 2024
Saturday’s events will start with a Memorial Service at Trenton High School, beginning at 10:00 am, to honor and remember the classmates who have passed away. This will be followed by a tour of the high school at 10:30 am, providing an opportunity to revisit old memories and see the changes that have taken place over the years. The highlight of the reunion will be the dinner held at the Chateau on the River in Elizabeth Park. This event will take place from 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm. Tickets for the dinner are priced at $74.00 per person...
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Pasta Anyone?
Lunch Wyandotte is excited to announce the opening of The Spaghetti Hut. This new addition to their series of restaurants along Biddle, including Lunch Wyandotte and Simply Hot Dogs and Ice Cream, features a walk-up window for quick and convenient service.
The Spaghetti Hut specializes in classic Italian dishes such as spaghetti and meatball subs, all crafted with the highest quality ingredients. They pride themselves on using the best pasta, homemade
sauce, flavorful meatballs, and authentic Parmesan cheese imported from Italy.
Visit The Spaghetti Hut at 3050 Biddle.
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Retirement leads to appointment of new Wyandotte police chief
On June 14th, 2024, the city bid farewell to Police Chief Brian Zalewski. After thirty-three years of distinguished service to the Wyandotte Police Department, Chief Zalewski has retired. “I have been blessed to work with some of the finest professional police officers in the occupation. I am humbled to have had the opportunity to serve this city, my hometown, as police chief, and greatly appreciate the trust you have placed in me.” Zalewski said.
At the June 3rd, 2024 City Council Meeting, the City Council concurred with the recommendation of Mayor DeSana, as well as the Police and Fire Commission, to appoint Deputy Chief Archie Hamilton as Police Chief.
Deputy Chief Hamilton has nearly twentytwo years of service with the Wyandotte Police Department, including the last seven years in the administrative position of Deputy Chief.
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