Riverview Register, February 9 – March 9, 2023

Looking for leaders Thinking

Are you one of those Riverview residents with ideas about how the city’s future should unfold? Are you happy with the city government? Unhappy?

Now is the time to step up, make your voice heard and help steer Riverview in the direction you’d like to see it go.

There is a lot going on in the city. Marijuana dispensaries are around the corner. It looks as if the Riverview Sanitary Land Preserve renewal will not be granted, so there is a looming big hole in the city budget. How should these items and dozens of others be approached and tackled? You could be one of the decisionmakers.

The City Clerk’s Office is accepting nominating petitions for the upcoming Mayor and City Council election. The mayor and three council office terms

Will Closing My Credit Card Account Lower My Score?

By Robert P. LaPalme President/CEO of Downriver Community Federal Credit Union

Whether or not your score will go down as a result of closing a credit card account is an important question that you need to consider when you’re paying off debt and working to improve your credit score. It is important because your credit score is a common method used by financial institutions during the loan approval process to evaluate your expected future performance and to determine the interest rate that you will pay on such loan.

Generally speaking, when we refer to a consumer’s credit score, we are referring to their FICO® Score, so named because it was developed by the data analytics company Fair Isaac Corporation.

As with most things relating to your credit, there is no “one-size-fits-all” answer to the question addressed by this article. In fact, despite the myriad of companies, individuals, and credit gurus claiming otherwise, only Fair Isaac knows the true algorithmic formula used in their closely-guarded, proprietary analytic models.

What we do know, however, is that there are two factors which are given an enormous amount of weight when calculating your score: (1) the timeliness of your payments, and (2) the percent of outstanding balances you owe in relation to your total credit limits. This

latter ratio of balances-to-limits is sometimes called your “percent of revolving debt utilization”.

Since closing a credit card eliminates your “limit”, you may inadvertently reduce your score by increasing the ratio of balances owed to remaining open credit limits.

For example: a person who owes $1,000 against total credit limits of $5,000, has a revolving utilization of 20%, and still has 80% of their remaining credit lines available to them. If that person closed half of their open credit limits, but still owed the $1,000, they have increased their utilization to 40%, and decreased the remaining credit available. In very general terms, this action is likely to be detrimental to their score, since the algorithm prefers to see less balances owed on higher open limits.

Although many consumers intuitively believe that having less available credit is good, we show in our example that oftentimes the measurements considered in score analytics are complex and the results may not be what they expected. Each person’s situation must be analyzed carefully to determine the best course of action necessary to enhance their score results, and many personal finance companies provide free access to insightful tactics that can help consumers improve their scores over time, resulting in more affordable rates and terms on financial instruments.

At Downriver Community FCU, we’re committed to providing simple access to resources that help you

accomplish great things, and helping people improve their credit is one of the service benefits we provide! Not only will one of our Member Service Representatives sit down with you to review your current credit situation, but we’ll also set you up with Credit Sense, a valuable feature of our Online and Mobile Banking that helps you monitor, access, and improve your credit.

If you’d like to receive a free credit review designed to help you improve your score, please give one of our Member Services Representatives a call at 313-3862200, Option 4.

Downriver Community Federal Credit Union is a full-service financial institution founded in 1942 and is owned and controlled by over 13,000 members with three office locations, including Ecorse, Southgate, and Woodhaven. Services are available to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Wayne or Monroe Counties. Businesses or other legal entities located in these counties can maintain accounts at the credit union, as well. Once a prime share account is opened with a minimum deposit of $5.00, the member may enjoy all of the Credit Union´s services, including accounts, lending services, and workshops.

For more information about joining the Credit Union, please contact a Member Services Representative at (313) 386-2200 or visit www.DownriverCU.com.

A pat on the back for our hard-working DPW employees

My fellow Riverview residents, well it looks like winter and the cold it brings with it has finally arrived. And with the freezing weather comes water main breaks.

We’ve had a few breaks this winter, and our DPW crew does a great job getting them repaired in a reasonable amount of time.

Riverview has over 37 miles of water-main pipes they are responsible for. If I could be so bold to ask, could you give them a “Thumbs Up” the next time you see one of our DPW trucks to show your appreciation for their hard work.

In response to the enormous amount of inquiries I’ve had over the past few weeks, the city of Riverview, including members of the council, are not involved with a petition being circulated. A resident is circulating this petition to restore the moratorium on the sales of cannabis in the City of Riverview.

This would require a vote by our residents this November.

We received a total of nine applications to open a dispensary within the city borders.

These applications are lengthy and require an enormous amount of background work.

Our building department and city clerk are busy verifying the information provided by the applicants.

A couple of issues brought to my attention are the ‘Anti-Collusion” document included in the required application information and the number of dispensaries allowed. At the recommendation of staff an “AntiCollusion” document was added as it is a requirement of all contractors doing business with the city.

The dispensaries aren’t contractors of the city, but they are required to pay a large sum of money to the city annually in addition to the normal property tax.

The second issue is the question: Can we limit the number of dispensaries?

The short answer is “No.”

What the ordinance does do is limits where the dispensaries can be located, which in turn limits the number.

City staff and I have been working

with the Rotary of Southgate on introducing a new ordinance dealing with the disposal of prescription drugs. It involves the collection and disposal of prescription drugs to protect the public, particularly children, and the elderly and public employees who are at significant and unnecessary risk of poisoning due to the improper or careless disposal of prescription drugs.

With this ordinance, the City will implement a program to responsibly and safely collect unwanted pharmaceuticals from within the City limits, with the assistance of the Riverview Police Department and private pharmacies. Members of the City Council and I encourage everyone to get involved in their city and or school. There are limitless opportunities for all ages to help make Riverview a better place to live, work, and play.

Parent Clubs, booster clubs, civic groups, scouting organizations, and city committees all would appreciate having you as a member.

A few noteworthy are the Riverview Goodfellows who always need help during the Christmas holidays, the Kiwanis of Riverview who are active all year round working to help the children of the city, and a new one coming soon is the Rotary of Riverview. Please consider playing an active role in the next 100 years of Riverview. For more information email me aswift@ cityofriverview.com .

Our wonderful city will be celebrating our 100th Anniversary this year.

The Village of Riverview was established in 1923. To help celebrate this historical event we will be celebrating this accomplishment at several events throughout the year. Please watch the Riverview Register and the News-Herald for announcements about these events. We have formed a committee that is tasking themselves to focus on events that interest them and reflect Riverview’s small town feeling.

For my part I will be focusing on recreating the Riverview Review newspaper.

This paper is noted for covering the notable event of the Village of Riverview becoming the City of Riverview in May of 1959.

This is where we will need your help, especially from those who are long-term

residents. We are asking those residents who had relatives working for the city during its infancy either as a village or in the 1960’s send us an email about them.

If you have any pictures or newspaper clippings that you’d like to share, please email me at aswift@cityofriverview.

com or lcross@cityofriverview.com.

If you don’t have access to a computer and would like to use regular post office mail send them to City of Riverview / Mayor Swift, 14100 Civic Park Drive, Riverview, Mi. 48193. We look forward to your help in recreating a memorable part of our history.

Still serving the city

The Riverview Register recently signed a new three-year renewal with the city of Riverview to continue covering news and information in the municipality. Riverview Mayor Andy Swift offered his congratulations to owners and publishers Will and Sherry Evans, saying, “The Register will continue to provide top notch coverage of all the happenings in our fine city. Our residents will be able to stay on top of all our family fun activities offered by our Recreation Department, the Riverview Veterans Memorial Library, Golf Course, and much more. The Riverview Community school, our partners in this venture, will also be able to continue to spread the word on all that is taking place in our schools.”

ANDREW SWIFT

City of Riverview Needs You!

WAYNE COUNTY

Self Defense

For All Ages

5-12 Kids Self Defense

Wednesday, March 29, 2023

6:00-7:00 P.M. City Hall Gym

$20.00 per person

Students will learn easy to use self defense techniques that require little to no strength. These techniques will help to build confidence and allow them to not be intimidated by bullies.

Including:

Bullying and how to address issues • How to “stand up for yourself” • Who can help when you are at school, church and activities • De-escalation

Techniques:

13-18 Teen Self Defense

Wednesday, March 15, 2023

6:00-7:30 P.M. City Hall Gym

$20.00 per person

Young women and men are invited to learn easy to use self defense techniques that require little to no strength. These self defense strategies will build self confidence and allow young men and women not to be intimidated by bullies or those trying to hurt them in any way.

Including:

Bullying • Sexual assault

• Dating violence

https://secure.rec1.com/MI/riverview-mi/catalog

16+ Self Defense

Wednesday, February 22, 2023

7:00-8:30 P.M. City Hall Gym

$20.00 per person

Date rape

Wrist grabs

• Blocks

• Bear hugs from the front and from behind • Strangulation holds

Don’t let your kids miss this class!

Location:

• Red flags • Diffusing dangerous situations

• Exiting parties without being teased.

Techniques and how to avoid: Blocks • Shoulder grabs • Bear hugs Strangulations • Hair pulls from the front and behind • Wrist grabs • Question and answer session. Don’t let your teens miss class!

These are easy to learn techniques that require little to no strength and no knowledge of Martial Arts in a fun and safe atmosphere. Basic techniques that will increase your self confidence and feeling of security are the focus. Men and women are both encouraged to attend as well as young adults at least 16 years of age. Including: Situational awareness • How to avoid dangerous encounters • Domestic Violence • Weapons & Self Defense Tools • Basic defenses to enable you to ‘get away’:

Palm strikes • Hammer punches • Elbow strikes Wrist grabs • Hair grabs • Strangulation defense We will also discuss how to deal with dating violence, peer pressure, and other forms of abuse.

Jim and Shawnie Davies are experts in self defense and martial arts.

City of Riverview Recreation Department

RIVERVIEW SCHOOLS

RCHS students visit with Rep Debbie Dingell

Students in Ms. Lince’s CP Government classes had the honor to meet U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell at a Legislative Forum at Crystal Gardens on January 23, 2023.

We’d like to thank the Southern Wayne County Chamber of Commerce for organizing the forum, and especially Michael Ceaser of Ceaser Capital Management and Riverview Mayor Andrew Swift for sponsoring our two tables and breakfasts.

Congresswoman Dingell spoke about many important topics locally and in Washington D.C. She had a prepared speech but warned us she’d probably end scrapping it, which she did.

Students appreciated her candor, passion, and honesty. Nationally, she described the recent Speaker of the House election and the mental health crisis across the country, specifically the lack of facilities, treatment and physicians.

She talked about the debt-ceiling vote and how political parties hold our economy hostage for political showmanship, and her support for a bill to support law enforcement and defending police.

While at first she was skeptical of the telehealth, Representative Dingell saw its value during Covid and wants to ensure it is more accessible to Michiganders and all Americans.

She said she was proud to help pass the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022, ensuring that chips would be built in the U.S.

Locally, Mrs. Dingell spoke about Downriver’s Greenway Trail system, the wastewater treatment plant on Grosse Ile, the McLouth site and EPA redevelopment, Wayne County homeless shelters, local roads and bridges and her support for a statewide $14 minimum wage.

Overall, she said she wants to make sure federal funds reach communities and to secure more funding to make Downriver the best place to live.

This includes pollution and contamination cleanups. The Wildlife Refuge in Gibraltar is just one example, started by her late husband, John Dingell. In deference and honor to him, she proudly spoke of his project, which is very dear to her heart.

Finally, Representative Dingell spoke directly to all the high school students at the forum. She said they make up 20 percent of the population yet 100 percent of our future. She asked them to do good things and learn good things ~ a perfect motivational statement straight from the U.S. Congress!

Students truly enjoyed their morning with her!

Irish Beef Stew & Cheddar Garlic Soda Bread Cooking Class

Sunday, March 12th

1:00 – 3:00 pm

Whether you are Irish or not, you are going to love this popular comfort food. Served up with a slice or two of this hearty cheddar garlic soda bread. Food coma for sure!

• Please bring a knife for chopping vegetables. If you don’t have these, I have extras to borrow. All ingredients will be provided. Approximately 2 quarts of stew will be made. Freezes well.

• Pre registration fee of $10.00 must be paid by Saturday, March 11th. No refunds a er this date. Limit of 20 participants. No walk ins.

Register online!

https://secure.rec1.com/MI/riverview-mi/catalog or cityofriverview.com under the recreation tab.

Please make one account per household. Check or cash for In person registration at the Recreation Department. Call the Recreation Department if you have any questions regarding programs or issues with online registering.

• Supply fee of $25.00 cash payable to the instructor during class time.

Riverview City Hall/Senior Activity Room

14100 Civic Park Drive, Riverview, MI 48193 734-281-4219

Classes are for residents and non-residents. Age 12 & up. Children aged 6 -11 are welcome to sign up and must bring an adult helper. If the adult helper wants to participate and make their own Chili and Cornbread they must register and pay also. is is a perfect class for friends and family to get together and have some fun!

Seitz Middle School

Decoupage Jar Candle

Craft Class

Saturday, March 25th 4:00 to 6:00 pm

• Using several di erent types of mod podge mediums such as fabric, tissue papers, napkins, etc. we will be decorating jar candles into works of art. You will love how the light shines through your pretty, handmade candle jars. Cute ideas for gi s or shower/ wedding ideas or keep them for yourself.

• Please bring a hot glue gun with hot glue sticks, wire cutters and scissors. If you don’t have these, I have extras to borrow.

• Class registration fee of $10.00 must be paid by ursday, March 23rd. No refunds a er this date. Limit of 20 participants. No walk ins. Register online!

https://secure.rec1.com/MI/riverview-mi/catalog or cityofriverview.com under the recreation tab.

Check or cash for in-person registration at the Recreation Department. Call the Recreation Department if you have any questions regarding programs or issues with online registering.

• Supply fee of $20.00 cash payable to the instructor during class time.

Riverview City Hall/Senior Activity Room

14100 Civic Park Drive, Riverview, MI 48193 734-281-4219

Classes are for residents and non-residents. Age 12 & up. Children aged 6 -11 are welcome to sign up and must bring an adult helper. If the adult helper wants to participate and make their own Chili and Cornbread they must register and pay also. is is a perfect class for friends and family to get together and have some fun!

RCHS upcoming events

Districtwide

Monday, Feb. 13 – Riverview Resident Kindergarten and Young 5’s Preenrollment. Visit riverviewschools.com for link

Monday, Feb. 20 – NO SCHOOL – Presidents Day

Monday, March 27 - Friday, March 31 – NO SCHOOL – Spring Break

Friday, April 7 – NO SCHOOL – Good Friday

Wednesday, April 12 – Thursday, May 11 – School of Choice Application

Period

Riverview Community High School

Saturday, Feb. 18 – Winter Masquerade Dance. Visit riverviewcommunityhighschool.bigteams.com for all the athletic events

Seitz Middle School

Wednesday, Feb. 15 – Parent Teacher Conferences – 4-7 p.m.

Friday, March 3 and Friday, March 10 – Parent Club’s March Madness Tournament

Forest Elementary

Monday, Feb, 13 –2/17 – National Kindness Spirit Week

Wednesday, Feb. 15 – Girl Scout Info Meeting at 5 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 19 – Small and Tall Glow Ball (for all girls and their VIP guest) from 6-9 p.m.

Huntington Elementary

Feb 13 - 17 – National Kindness Spirit Week

Monday: Hats off to Love and Kindness

Tuesday: Red, Pink, White, and Hearts

Wednesday: Work-out Problems with Kindness, wear workout gear

Thursday: Peace, Love and Kindness, wear Tie-dye and bright colors

Friday: Pirate Pride, wear Maroon and Gold

Wednesday, Feb. 15 – Celebrating the 100 th day of school

Memorial Elementary

Thursday, Feb. 16 – 3 rd Grade Concert

March 2 - Memorial Community Night - Math/Science Night - Detroit Science Center - Traveling Science - STEM - 5 p.m.

Early Childhood Learning Center

Wednesday, March 1 – GSRP Pre-applications available (visit riverviewschools.com for more information)

Memorial elementary

Come, check out your Pirate varsity athletes

The winter athletic season is in full swing as we end the month of January. Check out some high school’s team highlights so far:

Boys Varsity Basketball is currently 9-2 (5-1 in the Huron League) with recent big wins over Dearborn High, Clarenceville and Carleton Airport.

Upcoming Home Games: Feb. 14, 17, 22 and 28.

Girls Varsity Basketball team is currently 12-2 (7-0 in the Huron League) with big recent wins over Madison Heights Bishop Foley, Birmingham Groves and Airport.

Upcoming Home Games: Feb. 13, 16 and 23

‘Focus’ All-Stars

Self-Control has been the focus for the month of January at Memorial Elementary School. These superstars from each grade level have been recognized for demonstrating their selfcontrol in the words they say to others and what they do while at school. It takes discipline, and these students are Memorial’s All Stars this month!

Competitive Cheer team has been hard at work competing in five competitions so far. In those five, their high score of 705.08 across three rounds helped them take first place at the Milford competition.

Varsity wrestling team has not just

been successful individually, but also as a team finishing fifth at the Sand Creek Invitational and several victories against the tough Huron League.

Boys Varsity Swimming and Diving team finished second out of 11 teams at the Downriver Classic Invitational with multiple state-qualifying times.

Upcoming Meet: March 4 at Dundee for SMISL Championship

Varsity bowling team continues to work hard competing in the Huron League, with a narrow loss against Huron.

The varsity Hockey team is currently 8-9 with recent big wins over Gaylord and Dearborn Divine Child.

Upcoming Game: Feb. 15 at Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard

For a complete schedule of all our athletic teams, visit our website at riverviewschools.com or visit riverviewcommunityhighschool. bigteams.com

Thanks, PTC!

Thank you to our Memorial PTC for kicking off our new year of 2023 with a hot chocolate/coffee/tea bar for our staff! It was the perfect welcoming from our break.

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! www.ForresterLawO

GET GREAT NEW GLASSES, SAVE SOME MONEY!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Forest Elementary Student sing during MLK Day celebration

Music was in the air at Forest Elementary the evening of Jan. 12. The second-grade classes performed songs in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. under the direction of Ms. Kruger. Guests were also treated to a variety of art projects created by Mrs. Gajewski’s STEAM classes. The evening was a great success.

MENTORING HELPS STUDENTS WITH FOCUS

The January Monthly Mentoring time was dedicated to help the students “focus.”

We would like to congratulate all our January Students of the Month!

DECA prepares emerging high school leaders and entrepreneurs

On Jan. 13, 21 RCHS students competed at Eastern Michigan University for DECA districts. To compete in districts, students had to take a 100-question multiple choice test and participate in role play.

Some of the preparation for the multiple-choice test and the role play had to be done outside of school hours.

Out of those students, 10 qualified for a spot to compete in the DECA State Career and Development Conference which will take place in Detroit in March. Students competing in states will try to qualify for the International Career Development Conference.

Congratulations to: Hailey Caudill, Connor Felice, Dylan Gergley, Ashlyn Kuzma, Samantha Plunkett, Skyler Stokes, Matthew Wong, Marissa Grundy, Charlie O’Day and Frankie Sudol.

SPANISH STUDENTS GET A TASTE OF HISPANIC CULTURE

On Tuesday, Dec. 20, Mrs. Weber and Mrs. Meeks took their Spanish 4 and Spanish 5 students on a field trip to Culantro restaurant in Ferndale. Students enjoyed empanadas, yucas fritas, tres leches cake, and other Peruvian specialties while practicing their Spanish over lunch.

The food was delicious, and this was a great way to experience Hispanic culture outside the walls of the classroom.

BEST OF DETROIT

with The Detroit Free Press

TOP NOMINATED BUSINESS FOR

• Best Fine Dining

• Best Romantic Dining

• Best New Restaurant

• Best Dining Experience

If you are looking for a place to have a great meal in a fun, interesting and unusual place, The Vault Restaurant is for you.

Located in Downtown Wyandotte on the corner of First and Maple streets, the fine-dining eatery is housed in the historic building that once housed the National Bank of Wyandotte, hence the name, The Vault.

The Teller’s Room

Book your next party in The Vault’s private banquet room. Up to 20 people

The Vault’s exceptional menu features prime cut meats, wild-caught seafood, locally raised chicken, locally-sourced baked goods, an extensive wine list and craft cocktails. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner six days a week and there is a lunch special featuring a $10 Wagyu beef burger.

If you haven’t yet been to The Vault, you owe yourself a visit. Their hours are:

Monday through Thursday 11:30am to 9:00pm Friday and Saturday 11:30am to 10:00pm Closed on Sundays.

For Reservations Call 734-88VAULT or Online at Resy.com

Built on honesty and integrity, the owner’s goal was to make an allergy-friendly fine dining experience in downtown Wyandotte.

food and cocktails filled with flavor and creativity. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options!

allergy-friendly with no compromises.

The

If that was the last time you walked through our doors, then it is an absolute must to come back! e completion of renovations in our whole restaurant, bar, and banquet facilities gives the whole place a brand new look. Ever since my wife and I took ownership in January of 2019, we have been striving to keep Mister Nicks at the heart and soul of our Trenton residents, as it has been since 1988.

upbeat setting of downtown balances the old roots of the bank you can still see today.

ThVl’

Downriver Toastmasters open house is Feb. 23

The Downriver Toastmasters have extended an open invitation to attend an open house from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 23, at the Downriver Community Federal Credit Union at 15261 Trenton Road in Southgate. Toastmasters International is a nonprofit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. Headquartered in Englewood, Colorado, the organization’s membership is about 280,000 in more than 14,700 clubs in 144 countries.

Since 1924, Toastmasters has helped people from diverse backgrounds become more confident speakers, communicators and leaders.

Organizers said an open house is a great time to visit a Downriver Toastmasters meeting. Participants have the opportunity to experience first-hand how a local chapter of Toastmasters works and how valuable it can be to one’s personal and professional Development.

To learn more about Toastmasters or to respond to the open house invitation, visit the website DownriverToastmasters.com.

Brooke Brock, PSA | ® Realtor BBR Realty, LLC, Broker/Owner

Thanks to our Children’s Christmas Party donors

A very special thank you to all our donating partners, who helped make the Children’s Christmas Party a success. Thanks to: M & M 10 Minute Oil Change, Full Moon, Riverview Towing, Parthenon Coney Island, Carl’s Roofing, Fabulous Finds, Industrial Wood Fabricating, C.E. Raines Company, Richard’s Insurance Agency, International Metal Trading, Allen’s Trophy, Advantage One Credit Union, Biundo Cement Company, Zorba’s Coney Island, Earthtone Spa, Riverview Animal Hospital, Special Care Obstetrics and Gynecology, Riverview Pizza Place, Michigan House Senior Living, Jones Chemical Inc., Doctors Rives And Brown Podiatry; Kandi Lambert Insurance Agency, Downriver Internal Medicine, Clipn’ Critters, Viking Aegean Ltd., Alastra Construction, Riverview Wash & Storage, Rivergate Salon and Spa and Vip Salon and Spa.

Catholic Schools Week is Around the Corner

By Lily Paschke, GR Senior

For many schools, the month of February symbolizes a slow in-between month, a month that drags between the return to school and the start of spring break, but not here at Gabriel Richard. For GR girls’ and boys’ basketball, bowling, hockey, dance, and wrestling, their seasons are in full swing. Also coming up the month is the “From Screen to Stage Concert” from the Gabriel Richard Glee club. Directed by Mrs. Brittney Dimmit, GR’s new music teacher, the concert will feature hits from famous musicals seen both on stage and on screen. Featured in this concert will include both members of the Glee club and featured members from the Thespian Guild. The concert will be held on the 24th of February at 6 pm in the Gabriel Richard cafetorium. The program will last about an hour and be filled with nostalgia for a younger day as well as fun memories for the whole family. We hope that you will join us to experience the premiere performance of a concert directed by Mrs. Dimmitt and help to support this talented group of performers through their winter concert.

RIVERVIEW FIRE LEARNS TO RESCUE

AMY DUNN

With the large amount of multi-level buildings in the area, firefighters are often called to respond to help in elevator rescues.

On Jan. 26 the Riverview Fire Department was able to sponsor an eight-hour elevator rescue class which included firefighters from Wyandotte, Southgate, Trenton, Detroit and Highland Park.

The morning was spent with classroom lectures and the afternoon was filled with hands-on training. We visited the Riverview Co-op, which is 12 floors and has two elevators, and American House which is three floors and four elevators. With multiple types of elevators, it is important to train at different locations. We also learned how to rescue trapped occupants in the most efficient way and without causing damage.

As a result of this training all of us are better prepared to handle elevator emergencies.

Our department would like to thank our fellow firefighters for joining us and look forward to more joint opportunities in the future.

Senior Computing Classes

Private computer classes for seniors ages 60 and older.

Classes are held on Mondays, Wednesday and Fridays at either 9:00 a.m., 10:00 a.m. or 11:00 a.m.

You may sign up for 4 classes at a time. Each class is $10. Register at the City of Riverview Recreation Office. Bring your own electronic device or we have desktop computers.

Classes begin Monday, January 16, 2023 and go thru May.

City of Riverview

Senior Computer Classes

Riverview Recreation

734-281-4219

secure.rec1.com/MI/riverview-mi/catalog

Cooking Class

Sunday, February 12th

1:00 3:00 pm

Is it the decadent chocolate or the gooey caramel that makes this brownie taste so good? Learn how to make these delicious brownies and take a pan full home for your loved ones or eat the whole thing yourself! ey freeze well for snacks, lunch treats or surprise for your coworkers. is class includes all supplies and samples to munch on during class, recipe and your homemade pan of brownies to take home. is class was a big hit last time and will ll up fast!

Final baking will be done at home.

• Pre registration fee of $10.00 must be paid by Saturday, Saturday, February 11th. No refunds a er this date. Limit of 20 participants per class. No walk ins.

Register online!

https://secure.rec1.com/MI/riverview-mi/catalog or cityofriverview.com under the recreation tab. Please make one account per household. Check or cash for in-person registration at the Recreation Department. Call the Recreation Department if you have any questions regarding programs or issues with online registering.

• Supply fee of $18.00 cash payable to the instructor during class time.

Riverview City Hall/Senior Activity Room

14100 Civic Park Drive, Riverview, MI 48193 734-281-4219

Classes are for residents and non-residents. Age 12 & up. Children aged 6 -11 are welcome to sign up and must bring an adult helper. If the adult helper wants to participate and make their own Chili and Cornbread they must register and pay also. is is a perfect class for friends and family to get together and have some fun!

734-282-3939

Shirley B s Famous Caramel Brownies

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

gobigmultimedia.com/grosse-ile-grand

offers several scholarships annually to female undergraduate students at Baker College, Henry Ford College, Lawrence Technological University and Wayne County Community College District. Interested students can pick up an AAUW application at their school’s counseling office. Candidates must have earned a minimum of 12 credits, be a United States citizen and a resident of the Downriver area. An essay is required. For more information, contact rjhart720@yahoo.com or visit downriver-mi.aauw.net...

On page 38

“Every community needs good leaders. Our community has a lot of active players. I’m working on lots of different things to develop community camaraderie.”

I’m Michelle Sorensen and I’m the new Store Manager at the Canvasback Nature Store inside the John D. Dingell Jr. Visitor Center.

I’m a lifelong downriver resident and a recently retired teacher a er 30 years in Trenton Public Schools.

If I’m not out on my bike or walking the trails all over Michigan, you will most likely nd me with a book in my hand, traveling, baking, or cross-country skiing.

I’m excited to bring my love of learning and passion for the environment to the store. Stop in to say hello and see the great items we have in stock.

I hope to meet all of you soon!

On page 15

What’s happening Grosse Ile ...

Take it outside Photo Contest

Sponsored by the Grosse Ile Nature and Land Conservancy. Entry deadline is Thursday, May 11, 2022 at 5 p.m. Open to high school students within Wayne, Washtenaw and Monroe Counties. We are searching for photos captured locally (within Wayne, Washtenaw and Monroe Counties) that inspire us to appreciate and steward our environment: air, water, land, wildlife, resources, and ecosystems. Categories are Dawn to Dusk; Fur and Feathers; Bark and Blooms. Total of $445 in prize money. For more information, visit see https:// www.ginlc.org/photo-contest

AAUW scholarships

The AAUW Wyandotte-Downriver Branch

gobigmultimedia.com/southgate-star

New Southgate DDA Director has job she prepared for [Kaylee] Mondrella will host an ice cream social for local business owners in the month of February. She said she wants to offer business owners and managers the opportunity to share their thoughts with her directly.

“Southgate is a great community,” she added.

On page 1

gobigmultimedia.com/trenton-times

Arthurs robotics team makes first-year splash

In its rookie season, the Arthurs Middle School robotics team achieved more than students imagined last fall when they joined the new extracurricular activity.

Within two months, TorqueNados JV built a robot that earned the team a spot at the 2022 FIRST in Michigan Tech Challenge State Championship-SE, held in early December at Macomb Community College in Warren...

“They did quite well (at states), finishing 14th in their division and among the top rookie teams in the competition,” said Jennifer Griffiths, the head coach. “They have had quite a season.”...

On page 3

A special craft show at Trenton High School

What started out as an economics unit for a group of Trenton High School students ended as something that will likely become a welcomed annual tradition. The students of the PAES classroom at Trenton High School, under the leadership of teacher Christina Grooms, embarked on an adventure that far exceeded their expectations.

New store manager at Dingell Visitor Center

The students set out to learn about some of the skills necessary to be a successful entrepreneur by designing, problem solving and creating a variety of products to offer to the staff at THS.

Their creations included products such as pencil holders, calming bottles, noise makers, fairy lights, pet beds, dream catchers, picture and chip holders and more. By the end of the two-day craft fair, all that was left were empty tables and full hearts from those involved...

On page 7

Elementary students learn principles of electricity, engineering

All Trenton students in grades one through five at both Hedke and Anderson elementary schools are assigned to an Encore class called STEAM. The term STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics. STEAM class took the place of Computers/Technology class two years ago and added to the existing focus of keyboarding, typing, computer skills and coding with a heightened emphasis on the engineering process and projects that combine other disciplines as well....

On page 8

Trenton student runner-up in Voice of

Democracy essay contest

An eighth-grader at Boyd Arthurs Middle School in Trenton won $200 and a trophy during the Veterans of Foreign Wars annual Patriots Pen essaywriting competition.

Amelia Doshoian, 13, finished runner-up in the VFW Fourth District contest and was presented her awards during the annual awards banquet on January 7 at the VFW Post in Southgate.

The 76 th annual competition encouraged middle school students to compete for prizes by writing essays. This year’s topic was “My Pledge to Our Veterans.”...

On page 32

On page 1

Events set for February, March at 2nd Street

Performing Arts Center

Several events in February and March are expected to be crowd pleasers at the 2nd Street Performing Arts Center in Wyandotte.

gobigmultimedia.com/wyandotte-warrior

Wyandotte’s pet whisperer

Woman has reunited dozens of lost dogs with owners

...“Dogs provide unconditional love you might not get anywhere else,” she said.

Lost dogs seem to gravitate to [Deanna] Grant’s home near the Jo Brighton Center. Maybe it’s the scent of her own pets that draw them there. Whatever it is, she does her best to reconnect dog and owner.

When she finds a dog, Grant checks for contact information on the animal’s collar and makes a connection with the owner if possible. Meanwhile, she keeps the visiting dogs safe and provides nourishment as they wait.

If no contact info is found, she posts a sign near her home announcing “I have your dog” or something similar. That seems to work, leading to dozens of joyous reunions.

“They need help,” Grant said. “They need somebody to get them back to their family...”

The center, called “the premier performing arts community gathering space” in the Downriver area is home to the Downriver Actors Guild, the Downriver Dance Academy, 2nd Street Sound and the podcast “Curtain Call.”

The facility, which opened on Oct. 14, 2022, is located at the former St. Elizabeth Catholic Church and School at 1123 2nd Street. The 10,000-squarefoot theater has room for more than 250 seats and stage, plus an attached studio complex.

For more information on upcoming performances, call the ticket line at (734) 407-7020...

On page 5

Wyandotte’s Nic DiSanto signs with Division 1 football team

...“Playing Division 1 football has been my goal,” DiSanto said. “Ever since the end of my sophomore year, I was really determined to play at the next level. Knowing Division 1 is the highest level for

college, why not strive for the best?”

DiSanto, the son of Joe and 27th District Court Judge Elizabeth DiSanto, has starred for the Pioneers in football, ice hockey and lacrosse.

At 6-foot-5 and 300 pounds, DiSanto was a twoway lineman for the GR football team, blocking for the quarterback and running backs on offense and going after the opponent as a nose guard on defense.

LEGAL NOTICES

CITY OF RIVERVIEW, WAYNE COUNTY, MICHIGAN REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES HELD ON MONDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2022

The Meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m.

Presiding: Mayor Swift

Present: Councilmembers Blanchette, Gunaga, Norton, ONeil, Robbins, Workman

Also Present: Various Department Heads, Attorney Hurley

Approved Regular Meeting Minutes of November 21, 2022 by unanimous vote.

Approve Renewal of the Video Service Local Franchise Agreement for WOW.

Approve Budget Amendment as presented.

Approved Bid and Agreement with R. W. Mercer Company for Repair of the Fueling Station at the DPW Building for the amount of $176,822.00, plus 10% contingency for a total of $194,504.20 by unanimous vote.

Waived Purchasing Manual Section XIII: “Ethics” to allow attendance at Riverview Towing Christmas Party by unanimous vote.

Authorized Clerk to give the First Reading, by title only, of Proposed Ordinance No. 737, an Ordinance to Amend the Code of Ordinances for the City of Riverview by the Repeal of Article XIV, “Prohibition of Marihuana Business and Establishments,” of Chapter 14 “Business,” and the Adoption of a New Article XIV, “Cannabis Business,” to Provide for the Licensing and Regulation by the City of Certain Adult-Use Cannabis Businesses Operated in Accordance with State Law and Subject to Restrictions on Location Pursuant to Certain Distance Requirements and to the City’s Zoning District Requirements.

AYES: Councilmember Gunaga, Norton, ONeil, Robbins

NAYS: Mayor Swift, Councilmembers Blanchette, Workman Motion carried.

CITY OF RIVERVIEW

PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO. 737

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CODE OF ORDINANCES FOR THE CITY OF RIVERVIEW BY THE REPEAL OF ARTICLE XIV, “PROHIBITION OF MARIHUANA BUSINESSES AND ESTABLISHMENTS”, OF CHAPTER 14, “BUSINESSES”, AND THE ADOPTION OF A NEW ARTICLE XIV, “CANNABIS BUSINESSES”, TO PROVIDE FOR THE LICENSING AND REGULATION BY THE CITY OF CERTAIN ADULT-USE CANNABIS BUSINESSES OPERATED IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE LAW AND SUBJECT TO RESTRICTIONS ON LOCATION PURSUANT TO CERTAIN DISTANCE REQUIREMENTS AND TO THE CITY’S ZONING DISTRICT REQUIREMENTS.

Approve that the Sale of Marijuana go to the Vote in the City.

AYES: Mayor Swift, Councilmembers Blanchette, Workman

NAYS: Councilmembers Gunaga, Norton, ONeil, Robbins Motion failed.

Approved that a Public Hearing be held on December 19, 2022, for the Purpose of Soliciting Input from the residents for their opinions on whether the City of Riverview should Opt In and Allow the Sale of Recreational Marijuana within the City Limits.

AYES: Mayor Swift, Councilmembers Blanchette, Norton, ONeil, Workman

NAYS: Councilmembers Gunaga, Robbins Motion carried.

The meeting adjourned at 7:49 p.m. by unanimous vote. DETAILED MINUTES/ORDINANCES AVAILABLE AT THE OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK.

Andrew M. Swift, Mayor Cynthia M. Hutchison, City Clerk

CITY OF RIVERVIEW, WAYNE COUNTY, MICHIGAN REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES HELD ON MONDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2022

The Meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m.

Presiding: Mayor Swift

Present: Councilmembers Gunaga, Norton, ONeil, Robbins, Workman

Excused: Councilmember Blanchette

Also Present: Various Department Heads, Attorney Hurley

The Mayor and Councilmembers ONeil and Norton recognized the 2022 Home Decorating Winners.

The Mayor opened the Public Hearing at 7:08 p.m. for the Purpose of hearing resident opinions to Opt In and Allow the Sale of Recreational Marijuana in Riverview.

Residents and Non-residents voiced their opinions.

Approved the closing of the public hearing at 8:29 p.m. by unanimous vote.

Approved Regular Meeting Minutes of December 5, 2022 by unanimous vote.

Approved Consent Agenda as follows by unanimous vote.

Accept the Annual Financial Audit Report for the City of Riverview for Fiscal Year Ending June 30, 2022.

Approve Change Order #2 for Additional Design, Planning and Proposal of Condensate Water Treatment System by Clear Water Services, LLC, at the Leachate Pretreatment Building for a cost of $39,054.62.

Approve Budget Amendment as presented.

Adopted Resolution Authorizing Execution of Wayne County Permit for Annual Pavement Restoration, Annual Maintenance Work in Right-of-Ways and Special Events by unanimous vote.

Adopted Performance Resolution and Performance and Indemnification Commitment for Government Bodies for the State of Michigan (MDOT) Annual Permit for Work on State Highways by unanimous vote.

Adopted 2023 Landfill Solid Waste Disposal Rates by resolution by unanimous vote.

Authorized Execution of Standby Letter of Credit Term Sheet with PNC Bank with one-time PNC Legal Fees of between $10,000 and $13,000, $100 Issuance Fee and $25 Courier Fee in concurrence with the Ad Hoc Land Preserve Committee at their 12/12/22 meeting, by unanimous vote.

Approved Three-Year Agreement with Spartan 6 Security for Security Services at the Land Preserve for an annual cost of $119,891.50, by unanimous vote.

Authorized Clerk to give the Second Reading, by title only, and Adoption of Proposed Ordinance No. 737, an Ordinance to Amend the Code of Ordinances for the City of Riverview by the Repeal of Article XIV, “Prohibition of Marihuana Business and Establishments,” of Chapter 14 “Business,” and the Adoption of a New Article XIV, “Cannabis Business,” to Provide for the Licensing and Regulation by the City of Certain Adult-Use Cannabis Businesses Operated in Accordance with State Law and Subject to Restrictions on Location Pursuant to Certain Distance Requirements and to the City’s Zoning District Requirements.

AYES: Councilmember Gunaga, Norton, ONeil, Robbins

NAYS: Mayor Swift, Councilmember Workman

EXCUSED: Councilmember Blanchette Motion carried.

PROPOSED ORDINANCE NO. 737

AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CODE OF ORDINANCES FOR THE CITY OF RIVERVIEW BY THE REPEAL OF ARTICLE XIV, “PROHIBITION OF MARIHUANA BUSINESSES AND ESTABLISHMENTS”, OF CHAPTER 14, “BUSINESSES”, AND THE ADOPTION OF A NEW ARTICLE XIV, “CANNABIS BUSINESSES”, TO PROVIDE FOR THE LICENSING AND REGULATION BY THE CITY OF CERTAIN ADULT-USE CANNABIS BUSINESSES OPERATED IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE LAW AND SUBJECT TO RESTRICTIONS ON LOCATION PURSUANT TO CERTAIN DISTANCE REQUIREMENTS AND TO THE CITY’S ZONING DISTRICT REQUIREMENTS.

LEGAL NOTICES (CONTINUED)

The meeting adjourned at 8:49 p.m. by unanimous vote.

DETAILED MINUTES/ORDINANCES AVAILABLE AT THE OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK.

Andrew M. Swift, Mayor Cynthia M. Hutchison, City Clerk

CITY OF RIVERVIEW, WAYNE COUNTY, MICHIGAN REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES HELD ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2023

The Meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m.

Presiding: Mayor Swift

Present: Councilmembers Blanchette, Norton, ONeil, Robbins, Workman

Excused: Councilmember Gunaga

Also Present: Various Department Heads, Attorney Hurley

Approved December 19, 2022, Regular Meeting Minutes by unanimous vote.

Mayor Swift offered Public Comments.

Adopted resolution for 2023 Council Meeting Schedule by unanimous vote.

Adopted resolution for 2023 Commission/Board/Committee Meeting

Schedule by unanimous vote.

Adjourned into Closed Session at 8:19 p.m. for the Purpose of Discussing Collective Bargaining and Pending Litigation by unanimous vote.

DETAILED MINUTES/ORDINANCES AVAILABLE AT THE OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK.

Andrew M. Swift, Mayor Cynthia M. Hutchison, City Clerk

CITY OF RIVERVIEW PUBLIC NOTICE

2023 MARCH BOARD OF REVIEW

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE Board of Review for the City of Riverview will meet in the Council Chambers at City of Riverview, 14100 Civic Park Drive, Riverview, Michigan on the following dates and times for the purpose of reviewing the assessment roll:

Meeting dates are as follows:

Date Day Appointment Time Petition

February 21, 2023 Tuesday 6 pm Organizational Meeting

March 13, 2023 Monday 1 pm - 9 pm Appeal Hearings

March 27, 2023 Monday 12 pm - 6 pm Appeal Hearings

Hearings are by appointment only. COMPLETED 2023 Board of Review

Petitions are required and must be submitted at to the Assessor’s Office prior to your appointment. The deadline for submitting petitions for all persons wishing to appeal in-person before the Board of Review is Monday, March 27, 2023 by 6:00 P.M.

Letter appeals are to be accompanied by a completed Form 618 Petition to Board of Review

L-4035. The Petition is available at www.michigan.gov/treasury - select Search Treasury - Forms [618]. Petitioner agents must submit, for each parcel individually, current letters with signatures from your client properly authorizing you to appear for the property owner.

All board of Review meetings are open meetings in compliance with the “Open Meetings Act.”

CITY OF

RIVERVIEW,

WAYNE COUNTY, MICHIGAN

REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES HELD ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 17, 2023

The Meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m.

Presiding: Mayor Swift

Present: Councilmembers Blanchette, Gunaga, ONeil, Robbins, Workman

Excused: Councilmember Norton

Also Present: Various Department Heads, Attorney Pentiuk

Approved January 3, 2023, Regular Meeting Minutes by unanimous vote.

Mayor Swift offered Public Comments.

Approved Consent Agenda as follows by unanimous vote.

• Authorized Additional Funding of $13,000.00 for the previously awarded Cooperative Bid Purchase for One (1) 2023 GAPVAX Sewer Truck be Approved.

• Authorized Three-year (3) Extension of the Current Contract for City Wide Advertising with Go Big Multimedia, LLC, through February 25, 2026.

• Ratified Emergency Sewage Pump Repair at Fordline Lift Station with Kennedy Industries for $10,790.00.

Adopted resolution Authorizing PNC Letter of Credit by unanimous vote.

Adopted resolution for the Riverview Land Preserve Deficit Elimination Plan by unanimous vote.

Adopted Amended resolution for 2023 Schedule of Board, Commission and Committee Meetings by unanimous vote.

Adopted Amended Performance Resolution for Municipalities from the State of Michigan (MDOT) Annual Permit for Work on State Highways by unanimous vote.

Approved Confirmation of Land Preserve Director, Mr. Kevin Sisk by unanimous vote.

Adjourned meeting at 8:09 p.m. by unanimous vote.

DETAILED MINUTES/ORDINANCES AVAILABLE AT THE OFFICE OF THE CITY CLERK.

Andrew M. Swift, Mayor Cynthia M. Hutchison, City Clerk

If you have any questions please contact the Assessor’s Office at (734) 2877116.

Cindy Hutchison, City Clerk

LEADERS

Continued from page 1

are up for election. All terms of office are for four years.

The city is looking for and is in need of strong leaders, especially leaders with real-world experience in fields like finance and management. Bring your open mind and a willingness to work hard because your city needs you.

To be eligible to run for office, an individual must be a resident and a registered voter in the City of Riverview for at least one year prior to the filing deadline.

Nominating petitions with at least 25 but no more than 40 registered Riverview electors and two affidavits of identity must be submitted to the City Clerk’s office for validation no later than 4 p.m. on April 25. If you change your mind, you can withdraw your name by April 28.

A primary election, if required, will be held on Aug. 8, 2023 and the general election on Nov. 7, 2023.

“Being on council is a great responsibility,” said Mayor Andy Swift, who is also on the ballot this

year. “We are a team that works together for the betterment of our constituents.”

Before he became Mayor, Swift was a City Councilman, first elected in 2005. He was reelected in 2009 and 2013 before winning the Mayor’s position in 2015. He was reelected Mayor in 2019.

Nominating petitions are available during regular business hours at the Office of the City Clerk in the Riverview Municipal Building, 14100 Civic Park Drive, Riverview, Michigan. Call 734-281-4240 for more information.

Note: you cannot run for elected office if you are arrears in city taxes or water bill payment.

Independent businesses are still compelling

One of the topics I zero in on in these writings is the experiences I’ve had in towns that have either somehow never lost it, or have recaptured the cachet that was lost during the 1970s, 80s, 90s and on into the 2000s.

I don’t like to tell you about towns that are either firmly dead or not yet recovered and vibrant. I like to relate things that energize me because these places are already energized, and exuding the stuff. Not so much from these columns, but other writings of mine have elicited challenges such as “How can you be so anti-business when you yourself are a businessman?”

These challenges are rarely, if ever, intellectual in nature, but aggressive, and pushing back hard against what I refer to. I’m never against business; I’m against business that is designed to take all the independent business, and all the money that was generated locally.

I happen to have a compelling argument in plain view now that was less compelling 10 years ago: Downtown Wyandotte.

Less developed but magnetic as well is Trenton, though many are slow to see what is happening and draw a favorable conclusion (slow down and focus on all the newness along Jefferson!)

These two towns were built in the 1800s, and as such, both were anchored by downtowns that were built to provide a concentration of commercial goods and services for sale.

In our Downriver area, I am hard pressed to include any other cities but Ecorse and River Rouge that were established on the same model. Such concentrations exist all over the place, with names like Milford, Plymouth, Brighton and Chelsea. Every single one of these places are excellent illustrators of the power of capitalism, providing entrepreneurs an opportunity to invest in the towns in which they live.

Every single bit of newness in those towns

(including Trenton and Wyandotte) has been funded by local, independent entrepreneurs that see opportunity in their neck of the woods.

Once a single operator hangs up a shingle, the groundwork is laid for additional businesses to follow suit, and in successful examples, what follows is a bustling energetic concentration of businesses in those towns, largely in the very locations that the original businesses occupied.

A perfect example of that “lone ranger” phenomenon is Corktown on Michigan Avenue in Detroit.

It didn’t happen overnight, but what happened with geometric increases in growth rate began with Slows Barbecue. Now, if Slow’s had offered up mediocre or worse food, the story would most likely have ended with that one investment risk.

But Slows was anything but mediocre.

They quickly built a cult-like following that served as a beacon to be noticed. Together with stalwart Detroit anchors like Nemo’s, a pulse was built. If you haven’t been, drive down there. It’s amazing, and begs for exploration. All because a local and independent restaurateur made an emphatic statement of belief in their own ability and the area in which they chose to establish themselves.

To be sure, Ford’s investment in the Detroit train terminal building has had a massive impact on the viability of the area, but the odds of Ford making that investment shrink to nothing if not for that one initial investment.

I don’t know who the investors are in all the condominium and apartment buildings that are everywhere down there. I like to hope that they too are local, but I am jaded. So far, all the retail and food is local, though.

Here in Wyandotte, I see no indication that big capitalism has us on their radar screen. That means that all the growth and improvement that is obvious has come from local people with a vision and

passion that are willing to risk it all.

The growth is still in full swing, but the investment already is astounding. A lot of local money has been parked in Wyandotte, which is generating more business being done in Wyandotte.

New restaurants, apartments, bars, retail (and now, a new, serious venue for live music and entertainment), all being created in a city that has hung in there over the decades, but that was largely up and down until this explosion of growth.

Again, watch Trenton; opportunity is there as well.

I love regarding these investments as retributive justice for all the damage done to the likes of Wyandotte over the decades.

There is a case to be made for that point.

Corporations created a staggering amount of retail and restaurant square footage in and around cities across the country, and the impact was game changing. As you’ve read, the list of lost local apparel and other retailers in our region is amazing.

When coupled with the truth that about three times more money stays local with purchases made at locally owned and independent businesses…

Do the math and consider what that assault meant. It means that big capitalism has siphoned off billions of dollars from owners that were once much more the beneficiaries. That money has left Michigan and has enriched the few nearer the top of the food chain.

So every glimmer and very bright spotlight of localism fighting back to a position of being able to provide something that can’t be provided by big is a huge win for all of us, folks. If you’re a localist, chances are I know you! For those of you that don’t think of such things. Try on these words for the fit of truth, see if you agree.

As I wrote this column, next month’s column nearly wrote itself. See you in March!

PETER ROSE

In our Downriver area, I am hard pressed to include any other cities but Ecorse and River Rouge that were established on the same model.

Riverview girls continue to cruise through season

From the beginning it looked like this was going to be a great year for the Riverview girls basketball team.

And it has been.

After beating Monroe St. Mary Catholic Central 51-41 on Jan. 30. The Bucs saw their season record climb to 13-2. They are 8-0 in the Huron League and looking like a lock for another league title.

The win over SMCC was Riverview’s eighth straight since a 63-60 loss to highly regarded Tecumseh way back at the end of December.

Riverview’s only two losses this year have been to Tecumseh and Redford Westfield Prep, which is the No. 3-ranked Division 2 team in the state.

Riverview senior star Elyssa Kincaid, reached the career 1,000-point plateau recently during a win over Airport, but she was held in check by SMCC on Jan. 30 and scored just six points.

No matter, Riverview has other weapons, many others.

Cady Kaminske led the way against the Kestrels with a game-high 21 points. She was 12-of-14 from the free-throw line.

Brooklyn Poe added 12 points in the winning effort.

Before beating the Kestrels, Riverview ripped off wins over Airport (68-25), Flat Rock (6034), Monroe Jefferson (67-6), Birmingham Groves (53-46), Huron (75-33), Milan (72-43) and Monroe (60-41).

The eye-popper, of course, was the Jefferson win in which Riverview held the Bears to just six points, while scoring 67.

The scary part of that for Riverview’s opponents may be the fact that two freshmen – Kate Patterson and Caiya Hunter – led the team in

scoring that night. Patterson had 20 points and Hunter had 13 as senior leaders Kincaid and Kaminske stepped back and let the ninth-graders shine.

The victory over Flat Rock on Jan, 23 may have been Riverview’s most hard-fought league win this year.

The Rams hung with the league-leaders for two quarters and trailed just 29-22 at halftime, but the Bucs turned up the defensive pressure in the second half and allowed just six points each in the third and fourth quarters.

This game followed a more traditional Riverview pattern with Kincaid and Kaminske leaving the way with a combined 40 points. Kincaid was the game’s high scorer with 25.

The Bucs played archrival Grosse Ile on Feb. 2 and Milan on Feb. 6. That leaves the team with just five games – four against Huron League opponents – until the start of the Michigan High SchoolAthletic Association state playoffs. Four of the last five regularseason games are at home.

Riverview hosts Huron Feb 9, Jefferson Feb. 13, Flat Rock Feb. 16 and Wixom St. Catherines on Feb. 23. They travel to Airport Feb. 20.

MHSAA district begin Feb. 27.

Riverview will play in a district at Southgate Anderson along with the host Titans, Allen Park, Lincoln Park, Taylor and Wyandotte.

The district champion will advance to regionals at Dearborn High against the winner of the Dearborn district. Teams in the Dearborn district are Dearborn, Edsel Ford, Fordson, Melvindale and River Rouge.

Buc cagers still stalking Flat Rock Rams

Basketball fans mark your calendars, the game of the season for Huron League followers is set for Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. at Riverview Community High School.

That’s the night the league-leading Flat Rock Rams visit for a game against the second-place Riverview Pirates.

Flat Rock is 12-2 overall this season and unbeaten in the Huron League. Riverview is 11-2 overall and the Bucs’ only league loss was a six point decision – 58-52 – against Flat Rock back on Jan. 24.

To get to the rematch unscathed, Riverview will have to get past league rivals Grosse Ile, Milan, Huron and Jefferson. If Flat Rock wants to maintain its edge over the Bucs, it has to beat

Monroe St. Mary Catholic Central, Huron, Grosse Ile and Milan.

Riverview plays the majority of its remaining games at home.

The Bucs recently tuned up for the rematch by spanking first Carleton Airport and then Monroe St. Mary Catholic Central.

The Bucs beat the Jets 7155 and the Falcons 60-43.

Against Airport, Riverview jetted out to a 13-7 first-quarter lead and a 31-19 halftime lead and kept the Jets at bay all night long. Airport cut the Riverview lead to single digits twice in the second half, but the Bucs simply pulled away each time.

Kolby Dorn had a huge first half. The senior made three three-point shots and

had 17 points in the first 16 minutes of the game. He had 10 more points in the second half and helped ice the game by making 6-of-8 free throws in the fourth quarter.

Shane McAlinden had 11 points and Evan Gallimore had 10.

Four nights later Riverview throttled SMCC. It was the Bucs’ second win this season against the Falcons.

Regardless of how the league standings shake out, Riverview and Flat Rock are likely not done with each other this year. The two teams are in the same MHSAA district tournament at Huron beginning March 6. Also at the district will be hoist Huron, Grosse Ile and highly regarded Summit Academy.

Exciting night at RCHS gymnasium

It was an exciting night of varsity girls basketball on Thursday, Jan. 26 as Riverview Community High School celebrated staff, coach and athletes.

Before the game, each varsity athlete honored an individual that has supported them at the annual Teacher Appreciation Night.

We also celebrated coach Rob Sauter for achieving his 300th career win as a girls coach and 400th career win combined for boys and girls.

As the game started, the Pirates came out flying high, dominating the Airport Jets in all phases of the game.

In the second quarter, the

celebration continued for the Pirates as senior Elyssa Kincaid became just the fifth player in Riverview girls basketball history to score 1,000 points in her career.

Elyssa has been a staple for the Pirates for four years, leading the team to multiple Huron League and district titles. She also helped capture the first-ever regional title in 2021- 2022 with a win over Dearborn Divine Child.

The Pirates continued their domination for the rest of the game defeating Airport 68-25, moving to 7-0 in the Huron League.

Richard cagers keep blazing along

It has been mostly a season of celebration for the Gabriel Richard boys basketball team, which through the first 13 games of the season racked up an 11-2 overall record.

Richard, which has won three straight Catholic High School League Cardinal Division championships, is in a good position to challenge for a title again.

The Pioneers are in first place in the CHSL AA Division, two games clear of second-place Dearborn Divine Child, the only league team to have beaten Richard this season.

The Pioneers faced Bishop Foley on Feb. 3 and have just two remaining

regular-season league games. The Pioneers will host Divine Child in a key rematch on Feb, 7 and finish the league at Royal Oak Shrine on Feb. 10.

Following the Catholic League playoffs, Richard will turn its attention to the Michigan High School Athletic Association state playoffs, The Pioneers will begin the postseason in a district tournament at Erie Mason. Joining the Pioneers there will be host Mason, Blissfield, Monroe St. Mary Catholic Central, Ottawa Lake Whitefield and Ypsilanti Arbor Prep

Photo by Dave Chapman

UpcomingEventsatYOURRiverviewLibrary

Saturday,February11@12≠1:30p.m.

Drop≠InCrafturday:Beads,Beads,Beads!

Stopinthecommunityroomtomakea bracelet,necklaceorkeychainwithbeads ofalldifferentsizes,shapesandcolors. Allageswelcome.Noregistrationrequired.

Wednesday,February15@11a.m.

EarlyLiteracyStorytime

Joinusforsongs,stories&games! Bestsuitedfor childrenages2≠5.RegistrationbeginsFebruary1. RegistrationrequiredbyFebruary13.

Monday,February20

ClosedinObservanceofPresidents'Day

Tuesday,February21@12p.m. AfternoonBookClub

Readerswillbediscussing TheMaidbyNitaProse.

CopiesofClubbookscanbe checkedoutfromthecirculation desk.18+welcome. No registrationrequired.

Wednesday,February22@11a.m.

EarlyLiteracyStorytime

Joinusforsongs,stories&games! Bestsuitedfor childrenages2≠5.RegistrationbeginsFebruary1. PleaseregisterbyFebruary20.

Thursday,February23@6≠8p.m.

OpenMicNight

Come&shareyourone≠of≠a≠kind writing,art,songordancewitha welcomingaudience.

Participants&attendeeswillalso enjoyadelishnachobar! Ages13+.Noregistrationrequired.

Wednesday,Marc h1@11 a.m.

EarlyLiteracyStorytime

Joinusforsongs,stories&games! Bestsuitedforchildrenages2≠5. RegistrationbeginsFebruary22. RegistrationrequiredbyFebruary27.

Monday,March6@6:30p.m. BookClub

ReaderswillbediscussingRadiumGirlsby KateMoore.CopiesofClubbookscanbecheckedout fromthecirculationdesk. 18+welcome.Noregistration required.

Wednesday,Marc h8@11 a.m.

EarlyLiteracyStorytime

Joinusforsongs,stories&games!

Bestsuitedforchildrenages2≠5.Registrationbegins February27.RegistrationrequiredbyMarch6.

Saturday,March11@12p.m.

Crafturday:LeprechaunTraps

Everydayitemswillbetransformed intoperfectly≠sizedtrapsthatmay justcatchaleprechaunthis St.Patrick'sDay. Allageswelcome. RegistrationbeginsFebruary28. RegistrationrequiredbyMarch9.

Wednesday,March15@11a.m.

EarlyLiteracyStorytime

Joinusforsongs,stories&games! Bestsuitedforchildrenages2≠5.Registrationbegins March1.RegistrationrequiredbyMarch13.

Wednesday,March1 5@5≠ 6:30p.m.

BookPageEmbroidery

Sewingexperiencenotrequiredtojoinusincreating adisplayablebookpageartpiece. Ages18+.RegistrationbeginsMarch1. RegistrationrequiredbyMarch13.

HoursSeptember6≠June4,2023

14300SibleyRoad,Riverview,MI48193

www.riverviewpubliclibrary.com|734≠283≠1250

LikeusonFacebook!

Monday≠Thursday,10a.m.≠7p.m. Saturday,10a.m.≠3p.m.

ClosedFriday&Sunday

RiverviewVeteransMemorialLibrary

Best rocker recliner or wall hugger recliner in stock as shown with brown top grain leather

Best small scale rocker recliner in stock as shown and available to order in several other colors at no extra charge.

Price

We have this England 85” x 85” sectional in stock as shown available for immediate free local delivery. It has a lifetime warranty on it’s frame & seat springs & and 10 year warranty on the seat cushions. Sale Price $1999 as stocked or in your choice of 50 fabrics. Custom orders from this vendor are taking about 8 weeks now.

We have this England 72” sofa in stock as shown available for immediate free local delivery. It has a lifetime warranty on it’s frame & seat springs & and 10 year warranty on the seat cushions. Sale Price $999 as stocked or in your choice of 50 fabrics. Custom orders from this vendor are taking about 8 weeks now.

Custom 36”x48” table with 16” leaf & 4 chairs $1999

The table is 36” x 64” with included leaf. Choose your leg style, chair style (wood or fabric seats), wood finish & fabric choice all at no extra charge.