Welcome Back, Grosse Ile community!
By AUDRIE KALISZ Superintendent Grosse Ile Township Schools
As the new school year approaches Grosse Ile Township Schools extends a warm welcome back to all students, families, staff, and community members. The beginning of the school year always brings a sense of excitement, new opportunities, and a renewed commitment to learning and growth. This year, the district is particularly thrilled about the many exciting developments happening across all schools.
Each school in the district has been hard at work preparing for the upcoming year, and they are eager to share some of the highlights:
GROSSE ILE HIGH SCHOOL:
• GIHS welcomes Andrea Dishon (Assistant Principal) to the high school team, a familiar face in the district who previously served as a Middle School teacher, Instructional Coach, and Student Advancement Coordinator.
• Exciting progress continues on the stadium renovation. While some athletic competitions will be held off-site for the fall of 2024, the district eagerly anticipates the many
Managing obesity often involvesmaking lifestyle changes, and in many cases, medical treatments or surgery are required.
At the Downriver Clinics in Grosse Ile and Trenton, we recognize the importance of addressing all all the factors contributing to obesity.
FROM THE TOWNSHIP
A look into the GITB
BY DAVID R. NADEAU Township Treasurer
As most residents are aware, Grosse Ile Township is currently investigating the feasibility of purchasing the Grosse Ile Toll Bridge (GITB). One of the many factors being reviewed for this undertaking is the financial impact on the Township and on the residents and taxpayers. This is in addition to other criteria, including financial structuring, engineering reports on the bridge condition, the timing of the purchase, legal reviews, and the general pros and cons of ownership. I want to outline some of the financial considerations that will affect both taxpayers and the Township if a decision is made to move forward with the purchase. An overriding consideration is that the Township is subject to a NDA with the current owner that precludes some of this financial information from being disclosed in a public forum.
passage of other traffic including gas tankers, heavy delivery trucks, ambulances, school buses, waste haulers, etc. This would seriously impact life as we know it today.
The Township (working with its financial consultants) has explored several options for financing this project. The proposal being placed on the November ballot is the culmination of a thorough review of these options. The key points of the proposal are:
1) The GITB would continue to operate as a toll bridge. All users of the GITB would continue to pay tolls and the tolls have been assumed to remain at the current level.
2) The Township would issue bonds in the amount of approximately $60 million to purchase, upgrade, operate, and maintain the bridge. A millage of 1.67 mils ($1.67 per $1,000 of taxable value) would be levied on all property within the Township.
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As a result, a proposal wqill be placed on the November ballot for the voters to give approval to the Township to proceed with issuing bonds to finance this potential purchase. This proposal (if approved) will allow the Township to issue bonds in the amount of approximately $60 million to cover the cost of purchasing the bridge and to make upgrades to the bridge. The upgrades recommended by our bridge engineering firm will allow the GITB to handle most of our community needs in the event the WCB is closed for an extended period of time for either maintenance and/ or repairs.
Currently, the GITB has a weight limit of 7.5 tons which is only sufficient to permit passenger vehicles and light trucks to utilize that bridge. When the WCB is closed for repairs, the Grosse Ile community would be without a bridge that would allow the
3) Both the bond proceeds and the toll revenues will be used for making necessary bond payments.
The millage amount was designed to spread the total costs as thinly as possible among all taxpayers on the Island.
Taxpayers who are infrequent users of the GITB would benefit from the upgrades necessary to increase the functionality of the bridge when the WCB is closed. The Township also reviewed a scenario that included elimination of all tolls. This would require a millage of 3.3 mils for all property taxpayers and this was deemed to be excessively high.
As presented at the August 12th Township Board meeting, the proposed millage of 1.67 mils (to be assessed in 2025) will not increase the total Township millages above the total millages in 2022. The above chart reflects the levels of Township millages from 2022 through 2031.
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community.
• Grosse Ile High School is thrilled to announce the addition of our “Immersive Interactive Classroom” - a virtual learning space that is fully interactive and multisensory - allowing learners to be anywhere in the world without the use of goggles or headsets!
• GIHS is continuing our Work-Based Learning program which allows students to apply current skills and learn new skills through the expansion of the classroom out into the community. Our community partners are helping grow a future skilled workforce which will have a tremendous impact on the regional economy. This year’s community partner placements include Grosse Ile Urgent Care, Watch Us Grow Pediatrics, Dr. Christine Crawford, Dr. Sami Abbasi, Island Realty, River Oaks Realty, and Bloom Salon.
GROSSE ILE MIDDLE SCHOOL:
• GIMS welcomes a new principal, Emily Teen, a familiar face in the district, known for her years of service as a middle school math teacher and longtime coach.
• The 8th grade WEB (Where Everyone Belongs) leaders, underwent training over the summer to become student leaders. These dedicated students ran the 6th-grade orientation and will continue to welcome and support new students throughout September and beyond.
• The “Parent on Patrol” initiative, where committed parents dedicate an entire school day to being an extra set of eyes and ears within the building, will carry on into the 2024-2025 school year. These involved individuals contribute by checking that doors are securely locked, and monitor the hallways and bathrooms, ultimately enhancing the school community.
• For the 33rd consecutive year, our eighth graders will embark on an enriching trip to Washington, D.C. This long-standing tradition offers students a unique opportunity to explore the nation’s capital, deepening their understanding of American history and government while creating lasting memories.
MERIDIAN AND PARKE LANE ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS:
• Meridian and Parke Lane Elementary introduces Nicole Garza as the principal of both buildings. Joining her is new Assistant Principal Michele Barringer, a long-time dedicated teacher in the district, now stepping into an administrative role.
• Exciting progress continues with bond work at Parke Lane Elementary, the future site of Grosse Ile Elementary, as we actively coordinate the merger of Meridian and Parke Lane Elementary Schools, set to take place in the fall of 2025.
• The Watch DOGS (Dads of Great Students) program, where committed dads dedicate an entire school day to being an extra set of eyes and ears in the building will continue for the 2024-2025 school year. These dads do everything from ensuring doors are securely locked to playing catch on the
playground and reading with students, making a positive impact on the school community.
• Starting at the third-grade level, students can join our FIRST Lego League Robotics Teams. Our third-grade robotics teams are guided by coaching mentors, research worldwide problems such as food safety, recycling, or energy; and are then challenged to develop a solution. They design, build, and program a robot using Lego Mindstorms, then compete on a table-top playing field. Students also create a team science board showing their understanding of the issue they studied. At the competitions, they have a chance to practice their presentation skills to interested adults explaining what they have learned.
• Meridian Elementary is excited to now have a Student Council. Their Student Council consists of third through fifth-grade student leaders who collaborate with others to impact our school community. Student council helps share STUDENT ideas, interests, and discuss and plan ways to help our school and community. Being on the Student Council is something that will help students become more responsible and active members of the community.
GITS encourages everyone to stay connected throughout the school year. The district extends its gratitude for the ongoing support and partnership of the entire community. Most recently with the renewal of the Sinking Fund. Here’s to a fantastic school year filled with learning, growth, and community pride!
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 Wyandotte to Warsaw Stevenson’s crusade to aid Poland’s Ukrainian guests
By ASHLEI DANG
Can you imagine a world where everything you’ve built, everything you’ve known, is completely destroyed? Your entire life – vanished in a flash. That is exactly what happened to the people of Ukraine on February 24th, 2022. Millions of lives were turned upside down in an instant. Families who had been preparing dinner, helping their children with homework, and enjoying the simple comforts of home suddenly found themselves fleeing for their lives. Tanks rolled down the streets, bombs shattered the peace, and countless women and children were forced to leave everything behind, clutching only a backpack haphazardly packed, unsure of where to go or when they’d ever come back. The fear, the desperation, and the overwhelming grief of lost loved ones is just unimaginable, but it was these haunting images and tragic realities that spurred Leo Stevenson into action.
Many may recognize Leo Stevenson as one of the best financial advisors Downriver. A man who has spent decades mastering the art of wealth management, Leo is a Wealth Management Advisor and Managing Director at Merrill Lynch. With accolades like being named #2 of Forbes’ “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” and one of “America’s Top Wealth Advisors” in 2024, Leo’s professional achievements are well-known. However, what many might not know is how Leo Stevenson has taken his strategic vision far beyond the boardrooms; he also took it straight to the heart of the humanitarian crisis in Eastern Europe.
Unlike most of us who watched in horror from afar, Leo took a feet-on-theground approach. Without hesitation, Leo boarded a plane and traveled to Eastern Europe, a region he had never visited before.
“It was just driving me nuts, seeing these poor women fleeing the country and not having anywhere to go,” Leo recalled. “I couldn’t take it, you know? I had to go. I had to do something.”
That something was the beginning of his journey through Romania and Moldavia before eventually finding himself in Warsaw, Poland. At first, Leo, like many other volunteers, handed out food and blankets. But for him, that
wasn’t enough.
“If I would’ve walked away just making cheeseburgers and handing out blankets, I would’ve just had stories about how sad it is. I didn’t want that to have been my story.”
Leo’s journey was destined to be much, much more. Through what Leo describes as divine intervention, he crossed paths with the Pallotines, a global association dedicated to serving those in need. Conversations with the Head of the Pallotines quickly turned into something bigger than they could imagine.
“It seemed like a miracle to us in Warsaw when Leo first arrived after the war began. He had just arrived from Romania, looking to help the Ukrainian women and children fleeing from the war. It was his encouragement, his strategic vision, and his help financially which allowed us to build housing for these poor women and children, providing a new life after they have lost everything,” said Father Mejzner.
Leo’s vision and drive to make a difference led to the transformation of old seminaries into fully functioning apartments, capable of housing hundreds
promising project,” the Mayor wrote. He went on to highlight the collaborative efforts between local government and organizations to ensure the continued success of the center. For example, the Polish government now contributes funds to feed the Center’s residents, while international organizations like the American Dental Association and the International Medical Relief provide free medical assistance. Even the First Lady of Poland, Agata Kornhauser-Duda, regularly visits, bringing donations and moral support.
Stevenson’s humility shines through even in the face of such monumental achievements. He doesn’t seek recognition or praise for his work, preferring to remain an “unnamed stranger” in the background. For him, it’s about providing stability to those who have lost everything, about giving them the tools to start over in a world where they have been forced to recreate from nothing.
of displaced women and children. With some seed money and an idea of a mortgage from Leo, along with additional funding from the Polish government, they built around 100 small units, each roughly 300 square feet, that have since provided shelter for close to 400 women and children. These aren’t just places to sleep – they are spaces designed to foster community with kitchens, play areas, and services, like language instructors, to help these refugees integrate into Polish society. This Center, known as the Future of Ukraine, isn’t just housing these families – it is helping to rebuild them, providing the much-needed stability in a world turned upside down.
Leo Stevenson’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. In a letter dated June 20, 2022, Mayor Paweł Kanclerz of Ożarów Mazowiecki expressed his deep appreciation for the project, recognizing it as a beacon of hope in a time of darkness. “Since the beginning of the outbreak of war in Ukraine, the Borough and Municipality of Ożarów Mazowiecki have been giving help to the refugees from the east of the country. […] I think that it is a very good and
“The war has to end at some point,” Leo says, his voice tinged with both sadness and hope. “But these women and children, they have nothing to go back to. Their houses are gone, their schools, their churches, their jobs— they’ve lost it all. And that’s what we’re trying to help them do: to start all over again.”
Leo Stevenson’s story is not just about one man’s determination to help those in need; it’s about the power of community, compassion, and the belief that even in the darkest times, we can all be instruments of life, helping others rebuild what has been lost. And while he doesn’t wish to be remembered for his work, the impact of his efforts will be felt for generations.
All that is left to say is thank you Leo, for choosing to be a beam of light in the face of darkness.
For more information about the Ukrainian Refugee Housing Project and to follow updates on their progress, please visit the website set up by Leo’s daughter, Brooke, at ukrainianrefugeeproject.com, or scan the QR code.
Stevenson sits with a child at the center.
Downriver Federal Credit Union hosts Free Car Wash Fridays
By ASHLEI DANG
Since 2021, Downriver Federal Credit Union has been a pillar of support for the local community, particularly for its high schools. What started as an event for the Credit Union’s Grand Opening has now blossomed into a wonderful summer tradition: Free Car Wash Fridays.
Free Car Wash Fridays began as a simple idea from the President/CEO of DRFCU, Robert LaPalme, who wanted to give back to his community. “By supporting our local schools and organizations with their fundraising efforts, it demonstrates our commitment to helping people of all ages use money to accomplish great things,” LaPalme explains. “It is exciting to see how hard the students work toward their goals, and we want to be there for them when they become adults and need help reaching even bigger goals.”
Southgate Anderson High School was the first school to take the plunge, but thanks to the success of the event, other local schools got to be involved as well. The initiative has grown each year, now rotating among various high schools across the Downriver area.
This year’s Free Car Wash Fridays hosted nine car wash events, each run by a different school or group. From the Allen Park High School Band to
the Lincoln Park Swim Team, students spent their summer breaks balancing jobs, sports practices, and volunteering at the car washes. The best moment this year had to be students dressing as Patrick Star, the beloved character from “Spongebob Squarepants,” to attract cars to their fundraiser, exemplifying the creativity and enthusiasm that
makes these events special.
The credit union not only provides the space and resources for these car washes but also matches all donations up to $500! This summer’s events raised an impressive total of $8,000, with individual schools earning between $545 and over $1,100 each. The impact of these funds is significant, helping support various classes, teams, and extracurricular activities.
The success of Free Car Wash Fridays has generated a buzz among schools, with a waitlist now in place for those eager to participate in future events. The credit union’s website features information for any schools interested in joining in on the fun.
As Free Car Wash Fridays continue to grow, Downriver Federal Credit Union remains committed to fostering community engagement and supporting local schools. Their efforts are a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and the differences they can make in the lives of students.
For more information or to sign up for a future car wash, visit Downriver Credit Union’s website: downrivercu.com/carwash.
Megan Holly, Brooklyn Shuereb, and Madison Scully (Patrick Star)
A nostalgic trip Revisiting the past and impacting the future
I have a cherished story from 2011 that I’d like to share. My late brother, Wayne, was back home in the Detroit area for a speaking engagement, and with a free day to spare, he invited me to join him on a trip down memory lane. We revisited our old cottage in Sombra, Ontario, and the boarding house where we had lived in Mount Clemens during the 1940s. While those places brought back many memories, the highlight of our journey was yet to come.
We went to the small townhouse duplex on Moross Road where we had lived on the Eastside of Detroit. When we knocked on the door, Wayne introduced us and mentioned that we had lived there in the 1950s. The current occupants, a friendly family, welcomed us in. The father, who we’ll call William, and their sixteen-year-old daughter, who we’ll call Mary, were very gracious. William had recently been laid off, and his workers’ compensation was nearing its end. Mary was a junior at Denby High School, which we had all attended in the 1950s. She also worked part-time at McDonald’s to help her family. The mother wasn’t home at the time, as she was working hard at a job that unfortunately paid quite modestly for her efforts, but they assured us she would have been delighted to meet us.
Walking through that house was a profoundly memorable experience. Mary had the small upstairs room, about nine by nine feet, all to herself. It was the same room that we three siblings had shared, but being in it again, it suddenly felt cramped even for just one person.
The attic where our mother used to hide Christmas presents was
still there, along with the terrace connecting the kitchen and dining room. My brother told William that we never needed a key to get into the house. He recounted how we would climb to the roof, then make our way over to the terrace roof, and enter through the bedroom window.
The refrigerator was in the same spot, and the kitchen table and pingpong tables were the same ones we had left behind. I told Mary about the caramel cakes we used to enjoy.
As we strolled through the basement, I told William of the many Detroit Tigers baseball games we listened to from that very spot, including Virgil Trucks’ second nohitter of 1952. I also pointed out the basement steps where we used to sit and shine our shoes.
Wayne talked at length with Mary and of her future aspirations. She mentioned that she thought her future would probably include working fulltime at McDonald’s, with hopes of eventually moving into a management position.
As we were getting ready to leave, Wayne pointed out to William that he had noticed something that looked like a dollar bill in the driveway. William picked it up and was surprised to unfold a $100 bill. Wayne remarked that if he had found that, he would treat his family to dinner. William was visibly moved and the tears he shed were real. He could hardly believe his luck - he thought he was dreaming.
As we reached the car, Wayne turned back, saying he had forgotten something. We returned to Mary, and Wayne told her, “Since you are living in my house, sleeping in my bedroom, and going to my school, you just can’t stop now.”
He then presented her with a scholarship to his alma mater, Wayne State University. Watching her face light up with disbelief and joy, I found myself overcome with emotion. It was now my turn to shed a few tears.
DAVID DYER
Still chasin’ the dream Simsonian 5K continues success after more than 2 decades
By BILL STEVENSON
After 22 years, even Yossarian would say it was great! And that was the general consensus of almost 200 runners and walkers at the 22nd Annual Simsonian 5K Kick-Off Classic, held Saturday, August 17th, 2024.
This year’s 5K winner was Brett Carlisle, a 23-year-old runner from Monroe, who bested his winning performance last year with an outstanding time of 16:11. The women’s overall winner in the 5K was 38-year-old racer Laura Pierce with a speedy time of 20:13.
The Simsonian 5K Kick-Off Classic, which began in 2003, has been held in honor of beloved teacher and coach, Steve Sims, who passed away unexpectedly of a dissecting aortic aneurysm at age 47. Sims was the winningest coach in Grosse Ile history in both girls’ basketball and girls’ track and field. In the classroom he was noted for building strong, independent young women and young men. Upon his death, his family and friends established the Steve Sims Leadership Scholarship at Grosse Ile High School for an outstanding female scholar/ athlete, mainly because Steve coached young women athletes.
In 2022, the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation expanded the scholarship to include outstanding male graduates who excel in the classroom and their respective sport. All proceeds from the run go to the scholarship endowment. Over the years more than $56,000 have been awarded to GIHS seniors. This year’s GIEF Sims’ scholarships were awarded to Jack Calcut and Kaitlyn Molnar.
In what has become a late summer Grosse Ile tradition, the 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk welcomed some of the youngest future stars as they assumed their sprinting positions for the start of the race. Also at the starting line were mothers with their babies in strollers, along with spry grandmothers and their trusty canine companions.
At the start of the 5K, members of the GIHS band, under the direction of maestro Elise Berner, played the national anthem, which drew raving applause from the spectator gallery. Most impressive was trumpeter Jack Fox, who deftly finished the music,
handed his instrument to a fellow band member, and then promptly ran the 5K.
After more than two decades, very few of the race participants knew Steve Sims, or who he was. But, through the annual event, his legacy lives on. It’s more than just a memorial run for Steve, but a remembrance of those we all carry with us who have gone before us. We remember those connected to the race — Dick Spratt, Patti Bennett, Kevin Wilson, Maureen Fielder, and Steve’s old school buddies, Jim Kordupel and Joe Budge.
It’s a shared community experience focused on fun times, good health, passing on traditions to future generations, and the value of education.
And, after the last walker crosses the finish line to rousing applause, it’s time to start the party! The awards ceremony (which hasn’t changed in 22 years) starts with the Red Devil Cheer team leading the crowd with the Grosse Ile fight song.
Every entrant in both races receives a commemorative t-shirt with the top three runners in eight different age categories winning gold, silver, or bronze medals. The winners also receive a specially engraved beverage glass with the Simsonian 5K logo.
This annual Grosse Ile tradition would not be possible without the continued support and dedication of our presenting sponsors: The Grosse Ile Educational Foundation, Mans Lumber and Home, the Southland Eye Clinic, Colonial Tool Group, Monroe Sports Varsity Athletics, the Kobiljak Family, the Lewis Family, the Reno Family, the Hanley Family, and the Sullivan Family.
Special thanks go to the Grosse Ile Township Schools, the Grosse Ile Police Department, and the Grosse Ile Recreation Department, especially Chad Novak, Wendy Kearney, and Brian Payette.
Race timing was quickly and efficiently handled by former EMU track coach, Brad Fairchild.
Every year, DJ Mike Pehote spins the tunes that keeps the party hoppin’ from start to finish and keeps the crowd happy and upbeat.
Kudos go to members of the Grosse Ile cross country, girls’ basketball, cheerleading, and lacrosse teams and their coaches for their participation and help throughout the event. Also, a big shout out to the teams from Monroe Jefferson, Gibraltar Carlson,
Riverview, and Gabriel Richard for making this a preseason kick-off, year after year.
The Simsonian 5K Kick-Off Classic would not be possible with the tireless work and expertise of GIHS Athletic Director Jim Okler, starter Ray Geist, and longtime friend and coach, Max Bailey.
Of course, my biggest thanks and lots of love, go to my wife, Andrea, for putting up with not only me, but the race prep and execution since day one.
This year’s t-shirt slogan, “Still Chasin’ the Dream” is what it’s all about ... Love, Luck, Peace, Joy, Striving. Looking ahead, knowing that the good we do lives on long after we’re gone ...
Join us for the 23rd annual Simsonian 5K Kick-Off Classic next year on Saturday, August 16, 2025. In the meantime, “keep chasin’ the dream.’
Photos by Jim Jacek
Turning pages for 90 years
In November of 1934, six women met at the home of Rose Marie Karmazin to plan a new book club for the Island of Grosse Ile. Ninety years later, it’s still going strong!
This year, The Book Club of Grosse Ile will celebrate its anniversary with a special dinner at the Grosse Ile Yacht Club in a few months, hosted in collaboration with the Grosse Ile Historical Society.
In 1934, library services were quite different from what we have today, prompting the founding members to create a unique system that has endured over the years. The club introduced a rotating book system that remains in place today. The island is divided into three geographical groups: North, Central, and South. Each group receives twenty books at the start of the year, distributed among its members. Every
two weeks, you pass the book you’ve just finished to a neighboring member and receive a new one in return. This system allows you to enjoy twenty books by paying for just one.
The Book Club of Grosse Ile also hosts meetings featuring speakers on a variety of topics and holds two book discussions each year. Members who prefer not to participate in the book circulation can choose to join as associate members, allowing them to attend the meetings without taking part in the book exchange. This summer, the club made an effort to engage with the community during Island Nights, and the response was highly positive. There are still a few openings for the 2024-2025 year. Interested in joining? Go to gibookclub.com and sign up before October 1st.
Blessing Box officially opens
A heartfelt thank you to Bill and Andrea Stevenson for making the Blessing Box Project a reality! The Blessing Box at St. James Episcopal Church was officially inaugurated on Sunday, September 1st.
Grosse Ile residents were the lucky beneficiaries of the Stevensons’ vision. Through their dedicated research, leadership, and perseverance, the Blessing Box was set up and ready for use. Residents in need could now visit the box to take what they needed, ensuring that no one had to go to bed hungry.
Want to get involved? Join the Blessing Box Team and make a difference! St. James Episcopal Church is located at and can be reached at 25150 East River and can be reached at 734-676-1727 or office@saintjamesgi.net.
Popular ‘Dump the Junk’ event is scheduled for October 19
By BILL STEVENSON Chairman of The Greenways/ Open Space Committee
The Greenways/Open Space Commission and the Department of Public Services is happy to announce that the popular “Dump the Junk, Find a Treasure” event will be held on Saturday,
October 19th from 9:00AM to 4:00PM at the DPS yard located at 8555 Groh Road. The two-fold “Dump the Junk, Find a Treasure” activity is designed to eliminate illegal dumping on Grosse Ile vacant lots or preserved Open Space properties, and to recycle, reuse, or repurpose “slightly used” treasures to those who have a discerning eye.
This event is open to Grosse Ile residents only, and excludes any commercial contractors or their refuse haulers. Proof of residency must be shown upon request for admission. For the “Dump the Junk” disposal, dumpsters will be provided by Priority Waste and are available for residents to
dispose of items that cannot be picked up through normal curbside pickup.
For those residents of apartments and condos without curbside pickup, you will be allowed to bring refuse or furniture for the junk dumpsters only. Apartment or condo residents must be prepared to show proof of residency to the apartment or condominium in which you reside.
Acceptable items for disposal include yard waste, large logs, shrubs, wood, building materials such as tile, marble and drywall. Bricks, concrete, or cement blocks are allowed and must be placed in the 20 yard dumpsters.
Unacceptable items include mattresses, couches, trashed furniture—those can be dragged to your curb on your normal trash day
for Priority Waste pick-up. Toilets, electronics, televisions, refrigerators, freezers, any freon-bearing appliances, railroad ties, or any hazardous waste materials like paints, solvents, or chemicals are prohibited.
Fritz Enterprises will provide a dumpster that will take dishwashers, stoves, metal patio furniture, tire rims, or other metal items that can be scrapped.
Pomp’s Tire Service will accept and will recycle auto or small trailer tires—
provided they are off the rims. No semi-truck or commercial tires may be brought to the DPS yard.
For the “Find a Treasure” opportunity, residents can drop off or pick up gently used furniture like old tables and chairs, end tables, bikes, scooters, working household items, and other artistic collectibles.
Mark your calendars. Time to do your fall cleaning. Get rid of the clutter. Minimize your life. And, in the long run, keep Grosse Ile clean.
White Furniture’s 78th Anniversary Sale
White Furniture has been serving Southeast Michigan since 1946. Our longevity is only because you and so many others who support us and refer friends and family. We’re known for high quality custom furniture at competitive prices and that tradition continues today. Please come celebrate with us during our 78th Anniversary Sale with sale prices throughout the store and free local delivery and 2 year interest free financing* or 2 year free lay-a-way. Our showroom is full of furniture & accessories. If we don’t have exactly what you’re looking for in stock, we’re happy to special order from any of over 100 brands.
Monday: 9:00am - 5:30pm Tuesday: 9:00am - 5:30pm
9:00am - 5:30pm
9:00am - 5:30pm
9:00am - 8:30pm
Grosse Ile Educational Foundation to hold annual fundraiser on Oct. 12
By BILL STEVENSON
The Grosse Ile Educational Foundation is holding their annual fundraiser on Saturday, October 12th at the Grosse Ile Golf & Country Club. Doors open at 6:30PM. This year’s party will be the Monster Bash, “a terrifyingly fun night of food, dancing, auctions, and more.”
Since its inception in 1995, the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation has donated more than
$1.8 million dollars in providing educational grants to both community and school-related projects. Within the last two years, the foundation has awarded more than a quarter million dollars in providing exemplary educational opportunities to Grosse Ile families.
The annual fundraiser is the primary revenue source for continued foundation grants, so your sponsorship and attendance makes a difference in our community.
and other Halloween activities. There will be a contest for best costume. Music and monster mashing will be provided by the Killer Flamingos, “Detroit’s biggest and best party band.”
Tiered sponsorships are offered and welcomed, ranging from the “Igor” package for $250, the “Werewolf” for $500, “Tutankhamun’s Mummy” for $1,000, “Count Dracula” for $2,500, and “Frankenstein’s Monster” for $5,000. For each level of giving, the attendant perks, reservations, and party gifts increase significantly.
General admission is $80 per person or $150 per couple.
with everyone. If Gloria accosts you by putting her paws on your chest and trying to lick your face, do not be alarmed.
The Monster Bash will offer a really scary evening with food, signature drinks, a silent auction, raffles, bourbon tasting,
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) 3635853.
Thu, October 3, 9am to 4pm Fri, October 4, 9am to 4pm Sat, October 5, 9-Noon.
DONATIONS GRATEFULLY ACCEPTED September 18-28th. Drop off behind the church at garage doors. Call Blanche for local pickup 313 657-1726 saintjamesgi.net
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BBQ
&
Bonfire
Q Friday, 27 September 2024 at 6 PM
$100 Minimum Donation, adults 21 and over only, casual attire, cash bar. Donation Includes BBQ dinner, bourbon flight, bonfires, yard games. Register here: https://michiganscouting. org/bbq-and-bonfires
The Teller’s Room
Book your next party in The Vault’s private banquet room. Up to 20 people
ThVlt’
Closed on Sundays.
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Concert on the Course is a smashing success
... The event was headlined by the Blues Brothers Tribute Band, accompanied by the Transit Brothers Band, both of whom are highly popular local entertainers. The concert was kicked off by returning local acoustic guitar talent, Mr. Steve Washburn. A new addition to this year’s concert was a small car show featuring 2003/2004 Ford Mustang Supercharged Cobras from the Motor City Terminators Car Club, adding an extra layer of excitement for
car enthusiasts in the crowd.
Concertgoers enjoyed two delectable dinner options: Poppo’s BBQ and Celly’s Food Truck. For those with a sweet tooth, Serendipity Cakery & Ice Cream Shoppe provided delicious ice cream. The Riverview Highlands Golf Course ensured that adult beverages were available to quench the thirst of those 21 and over.
Nearly 500 attendees enjoyed three hours of family-friendly entertainment, making it a memorable evening for all who came. The event would not have been possible without the support of several generous sponsors, whose contributions were crucial
to the concert’s success...
On page 15
Riverview senior transportation now available
Great news for Riverview seniors! Senior Transportation has returned to Riverview and the Recreation Department is ready to transport you.
The Recreation Department offers curb-to-curb transportation for Riverview seniors aged 60 and over who are unable to drive. This service will assist you in getting to doctor appointments, the pharmacy, grocery store, and more. If you are under 60 and have a disability that prevents you from driving, you may also be eligible for this service with a physician’s verification.
The service area includes Riverview, Southgate, Taylor, Trenton, Woodhaven, and Wyandotte. Please note that the boundaries may not cover all parts of these cities.
The cost for standard transportation within the service area is $5.00 each way, while the wheelchairaccessible service is $20.00 each way...
On page 10
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Running for World Peace
The Sri Chimnoy Oneness-Home Peace Run once again passed through Southgate on August 1st. Founded in 1987, the Peace Run is a biannual worldwide relay run. Runners carry an Olympic style “Peace Torch” that is passed from hand to hand, person to person, and from nation to nation.
Over the 37 year history of the run, the Peace Torch has been carried over 370,000 miles. Over 7 million people have held the Torch in over 150 countries and on all seven continents. The Torch has also passed through the hands of numerous international figures, including: Pope John Paul II, President Nelson Mandela, Carl Lewis, Mikhail Gorbachev, Mother Teresa, Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Queen Elizabeth II. In 1996, Cosmonaut Gennady Strekalov carried the Peace Torch into
outer space and presented it to the American astronauts on the Space Station “Mir.” Mir is the Russian word for peace.
The Peace Run is dedicated to building bridges between people of all religions and cultures to strengthen the human bond that connects all people from all backgrounds. Founder Sri Chimnoy (19312007) dedicated his life to the fulfillment of the dream of world peace. He was highly regarded for a variety of creative accomplishments that promoted peace and harmony through music, art, and poetry....
On page 1
Officer Kresslein awarded purple heart
Officer Jacob Kresslein was given the Purple Heart Medal and Ribbon for his exceptional bravery in the line of duty.
This recognition follows an incident on the night of July 30th, 2023. At approximately 10:30PM, Officer Kresslein was investigating a disabled vehicle on Northline Road. While he was conducting his investigation, in a fully marked patrol vehicle with overhead lights activated, an intoxicated driver crashed into the rear of his patrol car.
The collision resulted in Officer Kresslein sustaining a thoracic spinal fracture, which required invasive spinal surgery and months of intensive physical therapy. Despite the severe nature of his injuries, Officer Kresslein showed remarkable resilience and unwavering dedication to his duty.
This award acknowledges his courage and the sacrifices Officer Kresslein made while serving his community, exemplifying the highest standards of law enforcement.
On page 14
gobigmultimedia.com/trenton-times
TPS welcomes new athletic director
With the fall sports season fast approaching, Trenton Public Schools is excited to announce the hiring of Kristen Farkas as the new Athletic Director for grades 6-12. Farkas brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of excellence in athletic administration, making her an ideal fit for the district.
Kristen Farkas is known for her dedication to creating a positive and inclusive environment for all student-athletes. Her commitment to the development and success of student-athletes aligns perfectly with the district’s values and vision. The district is confident that her expertise and enthusiasm will greatly benefit their athletic programs.
Born and raised in Detroit, Farkas earned her degrees from the University of Michigan and Lamar University, becoming a licensed teacher and administrator. She spent 18 years teaching in
elementary and middle schools, coaching softball and volleyball, and managing middle school athletic programs before transitioning to high school athletics administration, where she has spent the past three years...
On page 3
Golden age glory at Downriver Senior Olympics
... Participants competed in four different age classes: Class A for ages 55 to 64, Class B for ages 65 to 74, Class C for ages 75 to 83, and Class D for ages 84 and older. The Olympics featured a range of events, such as the softball throw, horseshoes, soccer kick, football throw, bean bag toss, car show, darts, swimming, and the spelling bee.
The festivities concluded on August 16th with the Unity Awards Banquet at Crystal Gardens, where participants received their medals and enjoyed lunch.
Trenton seniors made a notable impact at this year’s Senior Olympics, earning a total of 20 medals: 5 gold, 8 silver, and 7 bronze. Congratulations to all Trenton participants for their impressive performances and for representing the city with pride.
On page 17
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76 years of strikes and spares rolls to a close
Biddle Bowl, an eight-lane bowling center that has been owned and operated by three generations of the same family for 76 years, closed on August
23rd.
Brother-and-sister owners Rob Woelkers and Judy Sadler said they are ready to retire and have sold the bowling center that was founded by their late grandfather, Fred, and then owned by their father, Robert, who is 96 years old.
Woelkers, who lives in Riverview, and Sadler, who lives in Trenton, announced the closing in a July 14th Facebook post that was met with hundreds of responses from saddened bowlers and well-wishing community members.
“Biddle Bowl has been sold!” the owners said in the social media post. “With sadness and joy, we will be closing on August 23rd. No more bowling. We sincerely thank you for all your support and friendship. We are very excited about this new chapter in our lives. Our memories of all of you will be treasured for the rest of our lives… thank you!”
The new owner is Simeon Investment Co., which is expected to use the space for storage.
“Biddle Bowl is a staple in the city,” said City Treasurer Todd Browning. “They have been there for years… To think they’re retiring, I’m happy for them, but it’s like losing a family member. It’s truly bittersweet.”
On page 1
WFD and WPD face off in charity softball game
On August 9th, the annual charity softball game between the Wyandotte Fire Department and Wyandotte Police Department took place at F.O.P. Park. Admission was free but all proceeds from the event were donated to support Robyn Gates, the wife of
Officer Gates, as she battles Stage 3 cancer.
Last year’s game saw the Fire Department emerge as the winners. This year, despite a valiant effort, the Police Department fell short in a closely contested match once more, losing 24-21. The event was a testament to the community’s generosity and support for a worthy cause.
On page 7
