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How big of an impact did Nic DiSanto have as a true freshman playing Division 1 college football? As a true freshman at Eastern Illinois University, a year removed from Gabriel Richard High School in Riverview, DiSanto not only cracked the starting lineup at offensive right tackle in his secondever college game, but he also impressed his coaches so much that they let him start nine of the season’s 11 games. An EIU team that went 2-9 in the 2022 season finished 8-3 this year as DiSanto and his teammates nearly made the playoffs in the FCS, the Football Championship Subdivision of NCAA Division 1 football. It was the school’s best record in a decade. In fact, the Panthers stunned Tennessee State University, 30-
17, in the next-to-last game of the season to eliminate the Eddie George-coached team from playoff contention. One of the nation’s leading tacklers, who played for TSU, was shut down by Eastern Illinois’ offensive line. For DiSanto, who lives in Wyandotte, getting an early start and never quitting paid off with a stellar season. He said players bought into what Head Coach Chris Wilkerson was saying when he adopted the motto “flip the switch” and the Panthers did just that. “Everyone wanted it more,” DiSanto said. “We were predicted to finish eight of 11 in the (Ohio Valley) conference and we finished third.” Once DiSanto reached his goal of signing with a Division 1 college, he couldn’t wait to get started. He SEE DISANTO, Page 19
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City of Riverview honors oldest homestead with special recognition On Monday, January 8th, at 1:00 pm, the City of Riverview bestowed a distinguished honor upon James and Alwilda Vreeland. A beautiful plaque was presented, officially declaring their property as the oldest existing homestead in Riverview. The Vreeland family, deeply rooted in the community, received this special recognition for the historical significance of their residence. The ceremony highlighted the enduring legacy and historical value that the Vreeland homestead represents.
City officials expressed gratitude for the Vreeland family’s commitment to preserving a piece of Riverview’s history. The plaque serves as a testament to the rich heritage of the city and the Vreeland family’s long standing role in its development. The City of Riverview takes pride in recognizing and preserving its historical landmarks. The Vreeland homestead, with its rich history and enduring charm, stands as a symbol of the city’s commitment to honoring its roots.
Page 4 • JANUARY 15 — FEBRUARY 12, 2024 • RIVERVIEW REGISTER
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RIVERVIEW REGISTER • JANUARY 15 — FEBRUARY 12, 2024 • Page 5
FROM THE MAYOR
Upcoming Arkema site meetings and more
Riverview Police and Fire Departments:
2023 A Year of Service and Safety RIVERVIEW POLICE DEPARTMENT: In the past year, the Riverview Police Department demonstrated unwavering commitment, covering a total of 12,828 incidents. Responding promptly to emergencies, they attended to 150 accidents, ensuring swift and efficient support during challenging times. The department’s proactive approach to maintaining order on our streets is evident in their actions. They impounded 227 vehicles, enforcing traffic regulations to enhance public safety. In the spirit of community engagement, the officers gave 899 traffic warnings, aiming to educate and promote responsible driving behavior. Enforcing the law is a crucial aspect of their duty, and the statistics speak volumes. In 2023, the Riverview Police Department issued 2,260 traffic tickets, addressing a total of 3,485 traffic violations. This dedication to maintaining traffic safety contributes significantly to the overall well-being of our residents. RIVERVIEW FIRE DEPARTMENT: The Riverview Fire Department, an integral part of our community’s safety net, responded to a remarkable
2,976 calls throughout the year. Their swift and effective response to emergencies has undoubtedly made a positive impact on countless lives. Currently staffed with four paramedic-firefighters on shift each day, the department is equipped to handle a variety of situations. With a team of 9 full-time members and 8 part-time members, the Riverview Fire Department ensures that our community is well-protected around the clock. Beyond their emergency response duties, the Fire Department plays a vital role in fostering community resilience through public education programs and outreach initiatives. Their dedication goes beyond the call of duty, creating a safer and more informed community. As we celebrate the achievements of the Riverview Police and Fire Departments in 2023, let us express our gratitude to the men and women who tirelessly serve and protect our community. Their unwavering dedication to ensuring our safety and well-being is a testament to the spirit of service that defines Riverview. Here’s to a safe and prosperous year ahead, thanks to the vigilant efforts of our local heroes.
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My fellow Riverview residents, we hope you and your families had a wonderful Christmas holiday, and we wish you a ‘Happy New Year.’ 2024 promises to bring us new challenges, and with your help, we will meet those challenges. We’re sure you’d agree it was nice to take life a little easier during the holidays and spend more time with friends and family. ANDREW There are a SWIFT few meetings on the horizon that you should be aware of, all of them dealing with the Arkema property. The first is an Arkema Site Environmental Status Meeting. This meeting has been in the planning stages for a few months and is finally coming to fruition. The meeting is held by the Downriver Community Conference (DCC). The DCC has an Economic Development Administration grant for those communities affected by the closing of the two coal-fired power plants— River Rouge, Ecorse, Wyandotte, Riverview, and Trenton. The DCC Administration Grant Committee is tasked with identifying and planning for the redevelopment of the two retired coal-fired power plants, as well as additional industrial and underutilized brownfield sites along the West Jefferson Corridor and the Detroit River. The meeting will be held at the Riverview Community Center on Wednesday, January 17th, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. You are invited to share ideas for redeveloping former industrial sites in our community. The second meeting that is still in the planning stages is a town hall-type meeting put on by Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, our 6th Congressional Representative. It is scheduled to take place later this month at the Westfield Center in Trenton. Although an exact date and time are yet to be worked out, there will be representatives from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) from the State of Michigan. You are encouraged to send your questions and concerns to Ms. Dingell ahead of time using her email address, d2@
debbiedingell.com. Please check the Official City of Riverview Facebook page or the city’s website at www. cityofriverview.com for more details available soon. The New Year will bring many new programs offered through our Recreation Department and the Riverview Veterans Memorial Library. Our Recreation Department has exercising, cooking, Valentine crafts, and a casino trip coming up. The Library is offering an afternoon and evening book club, early literacy storytime, puzzle night, and much more. It is essential to check this paper each month for programs and times of these events. The tradition will continue this year as in the past of closing this article with good news about our community. We would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the great work by one of our many great civic organizations. First up is the Riverview Goodfellows. This year, the civic group’s President is Mr. Tim Bohr. Tim also serves as the President of the Riverview Community School District Board of Education. Tim recently wrote, ‘I’d like to send deep and heartfelt thanks to all the volunteers of our community who come together every year to craft the Riverview Razzberry, and the individuals who volunteer and stand out in the shivering cold to sell newspapers.’ The volunteer in charge of shopping this year for the group was Ms. Sue Kowalski. Sue was quoted as saying, ‘I just wanted to say thank you to all who helped shop for toys at Meijer for the Riverview Goodfellows. We had a total of 44 families this year. We had the most volunteers ever, and it really made it easier to have so much help.’ The Goodfellows also wanted to thank Go Big Multi-Media for their help in getting the Riverview Razzberry published. The sale of the Razzberry is the primary source of funds for the Goodfellows. The publishing cost of the Razzberry was reduced by 50 percent with the help of the publishers of this paper. This makes more funds available to the Goodfellows to help those who need it.”
Page 6 • JANUARY 15 — FEBRUARY 12, 2024 • RIVERVIEW REGISTER
Thank you to our Downriver businesses for generously supporting some of our Memorial families during this holiday season. Thank you to the following: • Century 21 Curran & Oberski Joanne Mich and Abe Cadoura • Piramal Pharma Solutions of Riverview • Riverview Police Department • Riverview Kiwanis • Memorial Elementary Staff
Memorial Elementary Upcoming Events January 8 – Classes resume for students and staff January 7 – Memorial PTC Dine to Support – Buddy’s Pizza – Woodhaven January 15 – No School for Students – MLK Day January 17 – Memorial PTC Meeting – Memorial Library – 6:00 p.m. February 1 – Third Grade Valentine Concert – Memorial Gym – 6:00 p.m.
• Anonymous Riverview Family
February 2 – Memorial PTC Dine to Support – Panda Express – Southgate
• Members of Riverview Discussion Board (Facebook)
February 8 – RCSD Elementary Conferences Scheduled Times for Families
• Southgate Little League
February 9 – Memorial PTC Daughter Dance – Crystal Gardens
Santa’s Workshop at Memorial Elementary Memorial has been a busy place this month with visits from Santa’s elves and our annual Memorial PTC Kris-Kringle Mingle that took place on Friday December 17. Thank you to our Memorial PTC, Memorial staff, and our Memorial families for their generous donations.
RIVERVIEW REGISTER • JANUARY 15 — FEBRUARY 12, 2024 • Page 7
Kindness Club Third through fifth grade students at Forest Elementary have the opportunity to join the “Kindness Club”, led by 3rd grade Forest teacher, Carla Avery. Students meet once a month and work to spread compassion and empathy throughout the school and community. Students are making new friends and learning how to make others aware and increase kindness.
Kiwanis rings the bell Dr. David Grachek, Kiwanis of Riverview Secretary, is joined by three members of the Riverview Community High Schools Key Club in Bell Ringing for the Salvation Army.
Page 8 • JANUARY 15 — FEBRUARY 12, 2024 • RIVERVIEW REGISTER
RIVERVIEW REGISTER • JANUARY 15 — FEBRUARY 12, 2024 • Page 9
Page 10 • JANUARY 15 — FEBRUARY 12, 2024 • RIVERVIEW REGISTER City of Riverview
senior computer 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 15, 2024 and go thru May. There are no refunds and no rescheduling of classes.
RIVERVIEW RECREATION 734-281-4219
HEALTH FAIR JANUARY 24, 2024
Hearing Screening Diabetes Screening Blood Pressure Checks Balance Screening
RIVERVIEW CITY HALL-SENIOR AREA 14100 CIVIC PARK DR.-RIVERVIEW
TIME 2-4 P.M Local Medical Professionals MORE INFO: 734-281-4219 kroberts@cityofriverview.com
Riverview ww Senior rr Travelers s Presents….. Riverview Senior Travelerss Presents…..
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City of Riverview is Looking for Senior Citizens 55 and older The Riverview Senior Citizen Club is looking for members. Club meets on Tuesdays from 12:30-3:00 p.m. The cost is $12.00 per year. They play cards, dominos, etc. You do not need to be a Riverview resident to join the Club. Club is held in the Senior Activity Rooms at the Riverview City Hall. The Riverview Seniors are also looking for seniors to play BINGO on Thursdays from 12:30-3:00 p.m. You DO NOT need to belong to the club or be a resident of Riverview to join us for BINGO. BINGO is held in the Senior Activity Rooms at the Riverview City Hall.
Facebook: Riverview Recreation Department Recreation Department 734-281-4219
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Departs: 12:00 p.m. Highlights Tour: 1:00-2:00 p.m. Register online! Self Guided Tour: 2:00-3:00 p.m. Depart DIA: 3:00 p.m. Return Time: 3:45 p.m. Sign up deadline: Tuesday, February 13 Limit: 34 people, so sign up early. Any Questions Call 734-281-4219
RIVERVIEW REGISTER • JANUARY 15 — FEBRUARY 12, 2024 • Page 11
Kindergarten nature walk On December 7th, 2023 Mrs. Mathews’ and Mrs. Tsipras’ kindergarten classes went on a nature walk during gym class with Ms. McCarthy. Huntington Elementary School is lucky to be surrounded by beautiful Michigan nature. The kindergarteners took advantage of a sunny winter day, to go and explore behind Huntington.
Hard work pays off at Seitz Middle School!
Recently, 88 students were recognized at Seitz Middle School for their commitment to academic excellence for the first trimester. We celebrated their hard work and dedication with an invitation to the Principal’s Breakfast. In order to qualify for the Principal’s Breakfast, a student must meet the rigorous requirement of a 3.75 GPA or above. Students were treated to a pancake or waffle breakfast, where they were able to choose their own toppings from a variety of tasty options. Celebrating good grades acknowledges their commitment to their education, and we hope it inspires them, and others, to continue to strive to do their best. The habits and work ethic that these students are developing here at Seitz Middle School will lay the groundwork for success in high school and beyond. Congratulations to all of you who earned this distinguished honor! We look forward to recognizing students in the future and appreciate the support from the community, which values and prioritizes education. The positive partnership between the school and the community will create a brighter future for everyone involved.
Do You Want to Build a Snowman?
Every year, third graders at Forest Elementary create a sock snowman as a gift for their families. Students measure rice to add to the sock and teachers help to hot glue on the face and buttons that the students choose. It has become an 18+ year tradition this time of year with Mrs. Kissel, Mrs. Avery, and Mrs. LaFehr. Parents of former students that currently have a third grader always look forward to adding a member to their snowman family.
Page 12 • JANUARY 15 — FEBRUARY 12, 2024 • RIVERVIEW REGISTER
Valentine Heart Wreath Craft Class
Riverview Riverview Recreation Ri Recreation Re Exercise Exercise Classes Ex Classes Cl City Hall Gym Drop in Classes $5 per person per class
Tuesday, January 23 6:45 – 8:30 pm
• This beautiful wreath is a heart shaped wire form filled with roses of red, pink, and burgundy accompanied by miniature flowers and romantic embellishments. Finished off with a beautiful bow or ribbon.
• 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 fee of $25.00 must be paid by Friday, January 19th. No refunds after this date. Limit of 15 participants. No walk ins.
Location: Riverview City Hall Senior Activity Room 14100 Civic Park Drive, Riverview, MI 48193 734-281-4219 • cityofriverview.com
Register online! https://secure.rec1.com/MI/riverview-mi/catalog
Check or cash for in-person registration at the Recreation Dept. Call the Recreation Dept. if you have any questions regarding programs or issues with online registering. One account per household. A perfect class for friends and family to get together and have some fun! 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.
ACTIVITIES
TIME
Monday Classes With Sue
Classic Cardio Plus Weights
No Class Feb. 1 or 26
Tuesday Classes With Lisa
Stretching For The Stars Cardio Drumming Gold
Wednesday Classes With Sue
Cardio Rhythm Walking
Thursday Classes With Lisa
Fit For Me Cardio Drumming Express Gold
6:30-7:30 p.m. Begins Jan. 8
9-9:45 a.m. Begins Jan. 9 No class Feb.27
10-11 a.m. Begins Jan. 9 No class Feb. 27 9-10 a.m. Begins Jan. 10 No class Feb. 21 or 28
6-7p.m. Begins Jan. 11 No Class Feb. 1 7:10-7:50 p.m. Begins Jan. 11 No Class Feb. 1
Riverview Recreation 734-281-4219 For more info check out Civic Rec at https://secure.rec1.com/MI/riverview-mi/catalog
Soup Bowl Saturday Cooking Class Saturday, February 10 2:00 – 4:00 pm
• Enjoy a bowl of homemade Mexican Street Corn Soup in a bread bowl (4-6) that you have made fresh. A fiesta in your mouth!! Learn a new recipe and make some amazing food! • Please bring a baking sheet for your bread bowls and a crockpot bowl or a 4 quart pot or container for the soup. Final baking/cooking will be done in your home.
• Class fee of $35.00 must be paid by Friday, February 2nd. No refunds after this date. Limit of 20 participants. No walk ins.
Location: Riverview City Hall Senior Activity Room 14100 Civic Park Drive, Riverview, MI 48193 734-281-4219 • cityofriverview.com
Register online! https://secure.rec1.com/MI/riverview-mi/catalog
Check or cash for in-person registration at the Recreation Dept. Call the Recreation Dept. if you have any questions regarding programs or issues with online registering. One account per household. A perfect class for friends and family to get together and have some fun! 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.
RIVERVIEW REGISTER • JANUARY 15 — FEBRUARY 12, 2024 • Page 13
RCHS Inducts 54 Students into National Honor Society
On November 30th, we had the pleasure of inducting 54 members into Riverview’s National Honor Society chapter. These students exemplify the qualities of scholarship, leadership, character and service and we are so proud of them. Thank you to NHS Sponsor, Mr. Gwardinski for organizing this special ceremony, to Ms. Corso & Ms. Zolynsky for their preparations, to Chef Katie and her Culinary students for providing the delicious treats, and to our current members for their attendance and example. It was a beautiful night. Pictured below are: Mr. Gwardinski with officers Jarret Cameon, Celsey McGrath, Emma Genig, and Ciera Corso.
RCHS Band & Choir put on a holiday show On December 6th, the Seitz auditorium was filled with the sounds of the season as the RCHS symphonic band and both the Seitz and RCHS choirs, under the leadership of Directors Pickell and Stark presented their annual holiday show. The band energized the crowd with selections from The Nightmare Before Christmas, Ye Banks & Braes O’Bonnie Doon, music from Loki, and Iron & Ice: A Viking Adventure and our choir performed the soothing sounds of Due Pupille Amabili, A La Nanita Nana, and holiday classic, Carol of the Bells. It was a wonderful evening to kick off the holiday season and highlight the talents of our hard working students.
RCHS Senior Logan Ruffner headed to UNC
On December 6th Logan Ruffner signed his letter to commit to the University of North Carolina- Greensboro to continue his academic and athletic career as a D1 athlete. He is believed to be the first Riverview athlete of any sport since 2011 to earn a D1 scholarship! Congratulations Logan!! We can’t wait to see you on the track add to your accomplishments in the spring of 2024. GO BUCS and Go Spartans!! Logan is pictured with Coach Shupe & Coach Hughes
Page 14 • JANUARY 15 — FEBRUARY 12, 2024 • RIVERVIEW REGISTER
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What exactly is Localism?
ANYWAY, and as I was saying, despite having written seventy-eight columns for these papers, I feel as if I have not even come close to sharing my concerns. Through the years, and amplified for sure during the holiday shopping period, countless people tell me they read my pages in the Go Big publications. PETER So far, there haven’t ROSE been any “yeah, but” comments, just general concurrence with the points I make in various ways. Thanks to all of you that say something, anything, to let me know you are reading. If enough people read these thoughts, the possibility of betterment in our society is elevated. I like hearing from people like this. It’s not an ego thing; it’s more like reassurance that sanity is not lost. If you are reading my articles, it informs that my points resonate with people. Resonating does not automatically result in the changing of habits, of course. Advertising people like to tell possible advertisers that it takes seven impressions for people to decide that they want to actually explore what is trying to be sold. It takes a while for ideas to formulate, and for those ideas to begin to coalesce into new habits. Meanwhile, reality rules. Through the 1970s and 80s, retail underwent a massive sea change that I have documented repeatedly on these pages. Money of a much grander scale was unleashed and deployed as any invasion would. Through the advent of malls, Wall Street began a blitzkrieg
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assault on the American retail industry, seizing control so rapidly that it still startles me. The effect on local retail operations was astounding. My perspective on the topic is limited to the Detroit Metro area. The assault was not limited to Detroit, of course. The scope is incredible to contemplate. Across the nation, American shoppers were lured by the shiny new retail meccas of malls. I was there, I opened stores on day one at Briarwood and Fairlane. Just to give a tangential fragment of food to chew on, my company spent a mint to build out stores on property we did not own. Think about just that: how much money got poured into the real estate of malls. We were all begging to be allowed to pay crazy rents in buildings we didn’t own. Wow. But that isn’t my focus here and now. The topic is big, with many facets to explore and learn more about, but the topic of “local economies” is what I pay a lot of attention to. In the interest of speeding up the story, I’ll ask that you consider what happened to the amount of money being spent in towns like Wyandotte as all those malls were built. The likes of this town are EVERYWHERE, nationwide. All of them had to cope with the reality of new shopping choices that sucked people OUT of their towns. As that happened, the bustle of small towns dwindled dramatically, and many never recovered. I’m very fortunate to be a part of a city that DID find a way back to offer a vastly superior alternative to the machinery of national chain stores. I’m relentlessly emphatic about
my obsession for local retail and commerce, no matter where I go. When I visit Howell, for instance, I spend my time and money at the locally owned eateries and shops that make Howell unique. As a shop owner in Wyandotte, can’t express well enough how satisfied and fulfilled I am when people from Howell find MY store in the thriving city of Wyandotte, and ask for recommendations for places to eat or get a glass of wine. Neither visitor seeks out the stupid mall close by, where we can see the same stupid stores we’d find at our own version, or anywhere else in the country. Seriously, how did it come to be that we accept this creepy, mindless, soul-free version of commerce that has been foisted on us? And THAT is the point of my articles. National corporations sucked wind out of the sails of countless cities everywhere that were bustling hubs of commerce. Years later, some very talented restaurateurs and local real estate owners invested heavily in this town. That’s what makes Wyandotte feel so alive and vital today, along with merchants both newer and older that add their flair to the offerings here. That’s called localism. When what they provide acts as a magnet, local people flock to what they see as authentic options for food and drink. And THAT’S called localism. When businesses invest locally to create something they believe local people will enjoy and value, and cities do what they can to support those investors, and people actually DO enjoy those efforts and support them, we see localism working as it should,
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and THAT is magic, too. Property values are higher where this synergy is strongest. The “coolness” factor is immeasurably higher. I believe this to be true as well: The people that live in places like this, that shop or dine in places like this, are happier. It’s January 2nd as I write article 78. Might I suggest that it is a good time to consider other habits besides weight and other things that need resolutions. A resolution to shift YOUR shopping to locals makes you happier and benefits them for sure, but besides you and them, it also provides lift for those businesses to share that uniqueness for others to enjoy. You become the community in which you live, and which you love. You might even pick up the trash you see on the sidewalk, because it’s ugly and you don’t want your community looking like that. It really isn’t hard, when you’re thinking like this, to envision at least a local example of a world that is just plain more pleasant, less mean. In one of my earliest articles, I mentioned the dots that many people have lost the ability to connect. The dots that connect us are everywhere. All you have to do is realize what they are, and connect them, wherever you go. Then tell everyone you know about what you found. I honestly think it’s my responsibility to share these ideas. I’m not selling, I’m not lecturing. I’m sharing, and that makes me happier, too. Have a Happy and Local New Year!
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RIVERVIEW REGISTER • JANUARY 15 — FEBRUARY 12, 2024 • Page 19
Continued from page 1 got to campus on June 11, enrolled in a class and “worked out with them and ran every single day.” Coming from a high school of about 250 students to one of 110 players on a college football team, DiSanto admitted he was “a little fish in a big pond” who didn’t know what to expect, but he wasted no time learning the system. “I knew what I had to do,” he said while being back Downriver during the Thanksgiving break. “I had to grind every single day.” He went from third string in fall camp who had hoped to make the travel squad as a freshman to being ready to go when a starting lineman bruised his hamstring. When Assistant Coach John Cannova called him into his office and said he would be starting against Bowling Green, word got out and about 40 Downriver family members, friends and fans made the trip to Ohio for the game. The Panthers lost, but after a week out of the starting lineup, DiSanto started all the rest of his team’s games – eight games in a row. While coaches originally considered redshirting the 6-foot-5, 320-pounder his first season, DiSanto had other ideas. “I was thinking if I’m able to do it, then do it,” he said. “If the coach had confidence in me and I have confidence in them and they trust me to play, then I’m going to play. DiSanto stayed after practice and got in extra work, learning the plays and practicing his steps and sets.
“I just wanted to be different,” he said. “I didn’t want to be like everyone else. I wanted to continue to play and improve my season to build on that for next season and the seasons after that.” “The last five weeks I played the best football I’ve played.” Eastern Illinois offensive linemen are graded on how they guard and protect the quarterback and running backs. They are faulted if there is a sack by the opposing defense or missed assignments or tackles for loss or quarterback pressure, he said. On the plus side are “pancakes” (how many opponents are put on the ground) and knockdowns. DiSanto’s numbers improved throughout the season. They also watched film to help prepare for players they would go up against. The player projected to be the most imposing was Tennessee State’s Terrell Allen, who would go on to be named his conference defensive player of the year, recording one of the best individual seasons in TSU history after recording 65 tackles (44 solo, 21 assists), leading the conference in sacks, tackles for loss, forced fumbles and a conference record 28 tackles for loss. His worst game of the year came against EIU. Allen had no sacks, no tackles for loss and only four tackles against DiSanto and the Panthers. “Nic has been an awesome addition to the team,” Assistant Coach Cannova said. “He surpassed our expectations. To start nine games as a true freshman on the offensive line doesn’t happen very often. He’s fired up to be with us. He’s been great… “He’s extremely competitive – that always helps. He is very confident in what he could do. He wasn’t cocky about it. He worked every single day and got better throughout the season.
“He’s a real special football player. He’s got a great head on his shoulders and he works his ass off. You can’t ask for more from a guy… He had a huge impact on our season.” Nic’s parents, Joe and Elizabeth, were able to see all but one of his games, including the home games in Charleston, Illinois, which is about 400 miles southwest of the Downriver area and about three hours downstate from Chicago. They saw how hard he worked and how much he improved – how much pride he had in his play and how successful he was in the classroom. “He was just very fun to watch,” said Elizabeth DiSanto, a judge in 27th District Court in Wyandotte. “It’s one thing for people to say they’re going to play Division 1 football or any sport, but until you’re in it, you don’t realize what the commitment is and you don’t realize how much more work and time is required than your sport was in high school. To see all of that and to see how he has been focused and locked in and performing and analyzing and preparing, it’s just been phenomenal to watch.” Nic, she said, “I think surprised a lot of people with how locked in he was and how he was able to hold his own against guys with five years of experience and five years of muscle strength as well. Were also surprised there were 24 linemen on the team. He’s coming in as a freshman and has to learn all the plays and the strength they need. “I credit him for going down in June and giving the time to get acclimated and learning more as well to be prepared as much as he could be. Even when he was home, he was hitting the gym and doing yoga… Its definitely an around the clock job.” SEE FRESHMAN, Page 20
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FRESHMAN
Continued from page 19 Nic, who also played hockey at Gabriel Richard, asked during the season if he could bring his hockey equipment to the arena and play – and he did. Judge DiSanto said “his hockey is integral with the footwork he’s been able to maintain, given his side. At the tackle position, footwork is huge. He doesn’t want to lose that.” So many people have noticed Nic appears much more muscular than he did when he left Downriver. “He’s toned up everything,” his mom said. “He was a bigger kid to begin with in stature, but he’s much more muscular than when he left.” Nic is required to include study hall into his weekly classroom schedule and “definitely learned how valuable time management skills are,” she said. The player communicates regularly with his uncle and local trainer Jeffery Johnson, who works out with him during visits home “and is a constant
source of support for him,” she said. The most recent visit came during the Thanksgiving break, when Nic brought home a teammate from the west coast home for dinner. While Nic was home, he reconnected with Downriver friends and even took in a Gabriel Richard hockey game. “People look at me when I say we’re going to a game in Illinois,” Judge DiSanto said. “They say it’s such a long drive. But some of these players miss being home. Even if they can see you for 20 minutes after a game, that’s a good sense of home. They can tell you they’re doing OK, but it’s also good to lay eyes on them.” Judge DiSanto said the coaches and other parents on the team “have been great and very welcoming to us.” “The families we have met have been fantastic,” she said. “We’ve had a very positive experience on all of it from the tailgates, to hanging out and the friendships we’ve made.”
Riverview COME SEE NICK
A Division 1 college football player from Wyandotte has reached another goal in his young playing career. Nic DiSanto, a true freshman offensive tackle at Eastern Illinois University, has been named to the Phil Steele FCS Freshman All America Fourth Team. The 2023 graduate of Gabriel Richard High School in Riverview, who was originally slated to redshirt the season, instead started nine games. He blocked for a passing offense that was 25th in the FCS while ranking 46th in total offense. During the season, DiSanto and his teammates also blocked for running back MJ Flowers during a pair of 200yard rushing games. Flowers earned his second Freshman All-America honor when he rushed for 854 yards, ranking second among FCS freshman running backs. He also was named runner-up for this year’s Jerry Rice Award presented to the nation’s top FCS freshman
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player. EIU turned around a 2-9 record in 2022 to finish 8-3 this year. Earning All-America recognition as a true freshman was especially exciting for DiSanto. He said he had set three goals and all of them were achieved. He wanted to make the travel squad, play on the field in 2023 games and then make the Freshman AllAmerica team. The All-America team includes both true freshmen like DiSanto and redshirt freshmen like Flowers. The Phil Steele All America Team is a list of college football players who have been recognized as the best in their respective positions in the nation. The team is selected by Phil Steele, a well-known football analyst and writer. Players are selected based on their performance throughout the season and their potential to play at the next level.
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RIVERVIEW REGISTER • JANUARY 15 — FEBRUARY 12, 2024 • Page 21
BY HANK MINCKIEWICZ The Riverview basketball team, a club with just two seniors, opened the season in late November with a fourpoint, non-league loss to non-league neighbor Trenton. Since then, it has been mostly Ws for the Pirates. After losing that first game, the Bucs have gone 7-2 and they are 2-1 in Huron League games. On Jan. 8, the Bucs lost to nonleague Carlson 47-36, but they bounced back the very next night to drill archrival Grosse Ile 52-42 in a close and entertaining game. On paper, it did not look like much of a game as Grosse Ile entered the contest with a 2-7 record and had not won a game since Dec. 11. But the Red Devils came out tough and determined and made Riverview earn the victory. It was a back-and-forth contest from the outset. Grosse Ile won the first quarter. Riverview won the second. Grosse Ile won the third and Riverview won the fourth quarter and ultimately, the game. After trailing 27-19 at halftime, Grosse Ile roared out of the locker room and scored the first seven points of the third quarter and trailed just 37-33 at the end of the period. The Grosse Ile charge continued early in the fourth quarter as the Devils outscored Riverview 6-2 and finally caught the Bucs. Grosse Ile tied the game at 39-all on a Matt Pizzo bucket with just under six minutes to play. And then Riverview took over. The entire complexion of the game changed with 3:46 to play. Grosse Ile was whistled for a foul and then a Grosse Ile player was hit with a technical foul. Riverview missed the two technical free throws, but sophomore Noah Swearingen calmly stepped to the stripe and made his two free throws. Because of the technical foul Riverview got possession of the ball and SEE SOLID, Page 23
Photos by Dave Chapman
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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!
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RIVERVIEW REGISTER • JANUARY 15 — FEBRUARY 12, 2024 • Page 23
Continued from page21 Swearingen then drained a three-point shot to give his team a 44-39 lead. After a quick Grosse Ile misfire, Riverview senior Evan Gallimore, who led all scorers in the game with 23 points, canned a triple and suddenly Riverview’s lead was back up to seven points. On the next trip down the floor, Gallimore drilled another three-point shot and for all intents and purposes, the game was over. Following Gallimore on the scoresheet for Riverview was fellow
Wyandotte Roosevelt 52-46. Huron League play began for Riverview on Dec. 15 and the Bucs fell to Airport 66-57. But the Riverview squad rebounded four days later to beat old nemesis Monroe St. Mary Catholic Central 40-35. Over the holiday break, Rivervierw beat Tecumseh 55-51 at the Airport Holiday Tournament before starting the new year with a loss to Carlson 47-36. The season is, of course, very young, but the Bucs find themselves among the Huron League leaders, Through the first three games, Flat Rock and New Boston Huron were each 3-0. Riverview and Airport were 2-1. The other four league schools were all under .500 with Grosse Ile and Milan being winless.
After the Grosse Ie game, the Pirates face a tough stretch with four straight Huron League road games. The Bucs are 5-0 at home, but just 1-3 on the road this season. Riverview was at Milan Jan. 12, will travel to Huron Jan. 19, go to Jefferson Jan. 23 and to Flat Rock – which could be a huge showdown – on Jan. 26. When the Michigan High School Athletic Association basketball tournament rolls around at the end of the regular season, Riverview will find itself in a Downriver Division 1 district at Allen Park along with the host Jaguars, Lincoln Park, Southgate, Taylor and Wyandotte. MHSAA districts begin Feb. 26. Regionals begin March 5.
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SOLID
senior Caleb Dibrano with 11 points and Swearingen finished with seven. Also scoring for the Bucs were Trevor Spencer, Ian Adams, Tyler Collins and Jack Doyle. Junior Dominic Cappellino led Grosse Ile with 18 points and Pizzo had 10. It’s been a fun ride so far this young season for first-year coach Tim Stamper and his team. After losing that first game of the year to Trenton, the Bucs embarked on a four-game winning streak – all against non-league teams. Riverview first squeaked past Southgate Anderson 50-48, then beat dearborn Heights Annapolis 67-39, Temperance Bedford 65-44 and
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GET GREAT NEW GLASSES, SAVE SOME MONEY! Many people - most, perhaps - go to an optometrist, get an eye exam and then follow the lady in the white coat over to the wall of frames and pick out a new set of glasses. The story ends with the customer paying way more than he or she ever expected. If that pretty much describes you, Bob Schmittou says there is something you should know: He can save you money, maybe lots of money. Schmittou, a proud military veteran, owns New Eyes Optical, located on 1616 Ford Avenue, right at 16th Street in Wyandotte. There are no doctors at New Eyes, just lots of frames and Schmittou, who can get you into fashionable new glasses for a lot less than all of the other chains and franchises out there. Just bring your eyeglass prescription to him and see what kind of magic he can work for you. “I am kind of like what the pharmacy is to your doctor,” Schmittou said. “Your doctor writes you a prescription. He doesn’t try to sell you the drugs. You go to the pharmacy. The same is true with us. You bring us a prescription and we will fill it.” New Eyes Optical does not accept insurance, but their low prices mean that is often not an issue. Schmittou has been in the eyeglass game for a long time. He enlisted in the Army after graduating from Lincoln Park High School and Uncle Sam sent him to school to learn how to make eyeglasses. He did that in the Army for nearly four years and then worked for Lenscrafters and for private doctors after that. In 2012 he opened New Eyes Optical and has been there ever since. Schmittou said he has over 2,000 frames in his building and can make arrangements to get others if customers come in with a specific brand or style in mind. For sunglass lovers, Schmittou said he has the largest selection of Ray Ban and Oakley sunglasses in the area. If you come in, you will deal with Schmittou himself. He and his wife Pam are the only employees. Schmittou does the fitting of the eyewear, and Pam orders frames and keeps the shop looking fresh by arranging the frame displays and decorating. So, if you are in the market for new glasses, would like a little personal attention and a really low price, give Schmittou a call at 313-587-4204, drop an email at neweyesoptical2012@gmail. com or contact them through their Facebook page, Facebook.com/neweyesoptical.
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RIVERVIEW REGISTER • JANUARY 15 — FEBRUARY 12, 2024 • Page 27
BY JOHN HARTIG
Southwest Detroit has long been known for its heavy industry. In recent years, the Boynton and Oakwood Heights neighborhoods have teamed up with Marathon Petroleum Corporation’s Detroit refinery to strengthen and revitalize these communities, including a plan to create some much-needed green space. Combined, Boynton and Oakwood Heights occupy 2.8 square miles within the 48217 zip code. With a population of about 9,000, these neighborhoods are the only ones in Detroit located south of the Rouge River and are bisected by the I-75 freeway. Oakwood Heights is the smaller of the two and borders Melvindale to the west and the city of Dearborn to the northwest. Boynton is bordered by Dearborn and Melvindale to the north and west, River Rouge and Ecorse to the East, and Lincoln Park to the south. They also are bounded by major industries, like Marathon, which refines up to 140,000 barrels of crude oil per day, as well as Corby Energy Services, which provides utility and infrastructure services. On the northern edge of Boynton sits the Oakwood pumping station and combined sewer overflow control facility that pumps, stores, and disinfects stormwater and wastewater during heavy rains. A short distance northeast is the Detroit regional water resource recovery facility – the largest single-site wastewater treatment plant in the United States. Marathon’s interest in creating a green buffer near its refinery combined with neighborhood interest in expanding greenspace led to a proposal for a 100-acre Marathon Gardens. It will include an urban forest, wetland and prairie habitats, urban agriculture, and park-like space with public amenities like trails and picnic areas, and will improve public access to the Rouge River. Marathon jump-started the creation of this green oasis in 2011 with a property purchase program to clean up blighted areas and provide opportunities for residents to sell their properties and move elsewhere. All land acquired through this program is now part of Marathon Gardens, creating quality greenspace with significant environmental, social, and economic benefits to surrounding neighborhoods. “Marathon Petroleum Company LP is committed to working with community partners and state agencies like the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Michigan Department of Transportation to realize the vision of Marathon Gardens that will become part of the community fabric of the Boynton and Oakwood Heights neighborhoods,” said Kevin Lepak, advanced environmental specialist at Marathon in Detroit. “Giving back is important to Marathon because it is one of our core values to be a good neighbor to our surrounding community and it is something our employees really care about.” Marathon Gardens’ location is important. It’s at the intersection of regional greenways like the Joe Louis Greenway, Downriver Linked Greenways, the IronBelle Trail, and The Great Lakes Way in the heart of
industrial Detroit. Guiding the creation of Marathon Gardens is a master plan that addresses stormwater runoff, oversees natural areas and other greenspace development, and establishes outdoor recreational amenities. However, this oasis remains a work in progress. With help from community and employee volunteers, the Marathon Detroit refinery has planted hundreds of native trees like sycamore and burr oak that soak up rainwater and reduce stormwater runoff into the Rouge River. Marathon and its partners have also created habitats for cavity-nesting birds, turtles, and even bats. The gardens have been recognized and certified at the highest level by the Wildlife Habitat Council for habitat conservation on corporate lands through partnerships and education. Marathon continues to collaborate with Wildlife Habitat Council staff and neighborhood partners to expand and maintain the gardens’ habitats via planting and stewardship events. Another part of this green oasis is the Fort Street Bridge Park, which opened in 2020 to commemorate history and provide much-needed public access to the Rouge River. It is a good example of place-making that creates public spaces to improve urban vitality and promote people’s health, happiness, and wellbeing. The Fort Rouge Gateway Coalition, Downriver Delta Community Development Corporation (which promotes regional collaboration for economic development, quality of life, and social equity in the Downriver Area), Marathon, MotorCities National Heritage Area, Friends of the Rouge, and many other partners came together to design, fund, and construct this unique southwest Detroit destination. This park commemorates the Ford Hunger March. On March 7, 1932, more than 3,000 people marched from southwest Detroit to Dearborn’s Ford Rouge plant to demand jobs, better work conditions, and relief for laid-off workers. A confrontation with police officers and firefighters at the Fort Street bridge failed to stop the march. When the protesters reached gate four at the Rouge plant, police officers and Ford security personnel attacked them, firing several hundred shots and killing four marchers. A fifth died later of injuries. Other amenities of Fort Street Bridge Park include a gathering plaza with a sculpture that features salvaged parts for the original bridge, seating
and porous pavement, an interactive stormwater management demonstration with fountains and rain garden, native plantings, habitat enhancements, and interpretive signage featuring the Rouge River’s story of degradation and restoration. A kayak launch and rest area for the Lower Rouge River Water Trail are planned for the next phase. On the edge of the Oakwood Heights neighborhood in the Rouge River sits an eight-acre uninhabited island called Fordson Island. Following a $150,000 marine debris removal project in 2010 that removed sunken boats, barges, and debris, partners are now exploring how this island could be transformed into a community park for passive recreation. Anchoring the Boynton neighborhood is the Kemeny Recreation Center and Park, which went through a $9.5 million renovation in 2019, including a $1.4 million grant from Marathon. The RollerCade, a family-owned skate center, in operation since 1955 and still crowded today with lessons, free skating, and birthday party celebrations, is also a local landmark. Coupled with Marathon Gardens and its accompanying trails, they will strengthen revitalization efforts in these two neighborhoods. The Downriver Delta Community Development Corporation continues to work with Marathon and other partners to explore ways to better connect the Boynton-Oakwood Heights neighborhoods and Marathon Gardens with the regional trail system. The next steps in strengthening these connections include: Providing a safe off-road trail along Fort Street in Marathon Gardens Greening trail connections to I-75 pedestrian crossings that reconnect the two neighborhoods Increasing tree plantings along the I-75 freeway as a buffer Enhancing safe trail routes by exploring how vacant land might be incorporated into the regional trail system “The Boynton and Oakwood Heights communities once were made up of trading posts and ribbon farms, followed by the industrial age,” said Wanda Lowe-Anderson, community organizer and member of the Downriver Delta Community Development Corporation’s board of directors. “Today, although these communities are located near industry, I believe a rebirth is taking place through the creation of green buffering solutions such as Marathon Gardens, parks, and trails, all reducing the environmental impact of industry while creating more healthy recreational opportunities for our residents.” John Hartig is a board member at the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy. He serves as a Visiting Scholar at the University of Windsor’s Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research and has written numerous books and publications on the environment and the Great Lakes. Hartig also helped create the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, where he worked for 14 years as the refuge manager. This article was published with the permission of Great Lakes Now.
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Great Lakes Moment: Creating a green oasis in southwest Detroit
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‘Happy campers Fifth-graders learn life lessons at Storer Camp ...On arrival, they were divided into groups of a dozen or so in their assigned bunk house, accompanied by their high school student counselors. While they may have had a friend with them in their rooming assignments, the challenge of “learning to live with others” became very real, and a part of their personal growth. And, that’s one of the goals.
Welcome Christmas Southgate residents did not let a cold drizzle dampen their spirits and Mayor Joseph Kuspa threw the switch and lit the Christmas tree at Kiwanis
Girls Golf – Hanna Hargrove Boys Soccer – Landon Bourdage and James Duke Girls Swim – Madison Glover Boys Tennis – Trent Chlebek Volleyball – Chelsea Houghto. On page 23 Katie Molnar All-State – again! Grosse Ile multi-sport star takes bronze in diving ...For Grosse Ile High School athlete Kaitlin Molnar the results of the equation “2 x 2 =” are very different than for others. The senior diver competed at the MHSAA Division 3 Diving Championship at Oakland University’s Aquatic Center on Nov. 17-18. She came away with a third place, bronze medal, adding to her historic
Train Park on Dec. 1. Kiwanis Train Park is home to The Great Lakes Live Steamers, who had their trains up and running during the weekend to give train rides around the decorated park. Also on hand, of course, was Santa Claus, who set up shop in the park to hear the wishes of the train-riding children. On page 9
Meridian Principal Nicole Garza explains, “Grosse Ile schools have had tremendous success throughout the years in the 5th grade camp. Our camp tradition not only enhances our educational standards, but strengthens interpersonal relationships, promotes independence, and instills critical values in our students as they actively participate in outdoor experiences.”... On page 1 Grosse Ile High School names fall MVPs ...”We are very proud to honor these outstanding student athletes.” The 2023 fall season Most Valuable Players are: Boys Cross Country – Jack Fox Girls Cross Country – Alysa Korte Sideline Cheer – Elizabeth Adamczyk Equestrian – Lakely Luton Football – Matthew Pizzo
prep career. Last year, Molnar became the first state champion in diving in Grosse Ile or the Downriver area – ever. Male or female. This past spring, she won the Division 2 long jump with a school record leap of 18’5.75”, improving on her third-place performance the year before... On page 3
Kid power Kindergartners star in art show at Fish & Loaves Community Food Pantry .For the second straight year, kindergartners in Southgate were stars of a food-themed art show held at the Fish & Loaves Community Food Pantry in Taylor. Thirty-six pupils painted or colored various food items on paper during art classes at Fordline, Grogan, Shelters and Allen elementary schools. The shapes and colors were transported to the pantry on Northline Road in time for a show on Nov. 8. The artwork hung on walls of the warehouse portion of the pantry, which provides food to residents
RIVERVIEW REGISTER • JANUARY 15 — FEBRUARY 12, 2024 • Page 29
of Southgate and other Downriver communities, “ensuring no one goes hungry.”... On page 1
Work will make TPS more sustainable and resilient We are thrilled to share some incredible news that will undoubtedly have a positive impact on our schools and community – the commencement of our highly-anticipated Energy Bond Work. As part of our strategy to be proactive, plan for the future, and maintain a standing of excellence, on Sept. 14, we completed our bond offering through
Local veteran celebrates 100th birthday! War heroes are never too old to be celebrated with a birthday party. Michael Mitroka, a former Southgate resident, was the guest of honor on November 20 – his 100th birthday – at Hampton Manor in Woodhaven. The party was organized by family members, staff of the Hampton Manor and Michigan Memorial Funeral Home, Downriver for Veterans and others. Mitroka was both surprised and grateful.
Attendees included family and friends, other residents of Hampton House and government officials. He received a proclamation from the office of U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell that was read out loud on the floor of the Congress. Mitroka was both surprised and grateful, thanking everyone in attendance. “I’m glad to see you all,” he said. “Thank you all for coming out.” Born on November 20, 1923, in Dowell, Illinois, Michael was one of eight children of Mike and Julia Mitroka and lived on his family farm for 19 years. He was inducted into the U.S. Army on February 23, 1943, and served in World War II in New Guinea and Luzon, Philippines. According to family members, during his time in the Philippines, Mitroka rescued five young girls and a woman who were hiding from the fighting. He also was responsible for climbing a hill to hand deliver a letter to the Japanese military saying that the war had ended.... On page 15
turkeys, there were marathon shopping days for toys, and crafty residents created special gifts to tuck in the baskets, which were packed by Scouts and senior groups. On page 12
gobigmultimedia.com/wyandotte-warrior
JW Baird. This resulted in $4.5 million dollars in proceeds to be used for a significant scope (list) of energy and facility improvements. This Energy Bond Work represents a significant step towards a more sustainable, resilient and environmentally friendly future for all of us that will result in significant cost savings to our district. In fact, it is because of this realization of savings that these improvements will be at no cost to our community... On page 8 Student Council members inspire as role models A unique connection has blossomed between high school student council members and their elementary counterparts. Serving as beacons of leadership and inspiration, the high school representatives took on the role of mentors and spent time with our elementary representatives guiding the emerging leaders of tomorrow in the elementary student council. Our elementary students were able to gain insight into the role of high school student council members and seek advice on how they can make a positive impact on their elementary school community as they learn to develop leadership skills. entrances, preschools collected coins to provide
A space for makers at Bacon Memorial Library ... The supplies are free and the machines are readily available to use, except for the heat press, which must be checked out from the front desk. A heat press is similar to an iron that creates heat transfers of designs onto materials that you provide. The space is available to both residents and nonresidents, according to Laura Gramlich, library director.... On page 11 Community embraces new ‘Dotte mural ...The program aims to help people explore, express and build a stronger sense of community through a communal art experience. Fel300ft, the Wyandotte artist who was chosen to create the mural on location, said he selected scenes to include – the street art fair, the gazebo, the clock tower, the water, the seasons of the year and others – because he thought they were important and helped show his love for the community.
“Wyandotte’s blossoming art scene has filled us with pride as we join the city’s artistic movement,” fel said. “This mural is a testament to Wyandotte’s lively energy and unique charm. It’s an absolute pleasure to collaborate with the DIA and its PIPA program, which allows us to spread the beauty of public art to communities around us.”.... On page 1
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Thank you Hank Decades of local sports coverage and community engagement
Embarking on a new chapter within our local community newspapers, Hank Minckiewicz, our esteemed Editor, concludes a remarkable career spanning several decades. Hank, who graduated from Southgate Chaffer in 1977 and later studied journalism at Wayne State University, has been an integral part of our newspaper’s history. His journey in journalism began in September 1981 when he contributed his first story to the News Herald, while pursuing journalism at Wayne State University. His early dedication to the craft earned him a full-time position with them in January of 1982, though it was short-lived as he faced a temporary setback. Undeterred, Hank would return full-time in May of the same year where his journalistic endeavors found their stride as the Riverview reporter. Later he would transition to the sports section of the newspaper, where he eventually took on the role of Sports Editor in 1986. Throughout his tenure there, Hank saw several restructuring within the News-Herald, including the merger of the older News-Herald and Mellus newspapers that was orchestrated by the late industrialist Heinz Prechter. Hank would continue to cover a Southgate Mayor Joseph Kuspa, our departed editor Hank Minckiewicz, and Riverview Mayor Andrew Swift variety of sports in the downriver area until 2014 when the paper underwent a large Devils in the NHL. as a testament to the community’s engagement and the restructuring, leading to his then lateral move as a Not only did Hank excel in covering mainstream newspaper’s commitment to spotlighting local talent. paginator. sports, but he also found joy in showcasing the less Moving forward Hank Minckiewicz will be taking a In June 2018, a new opportunity presented itself celebrated. “As I began covering cross country I found lateral step from Editor to being our sports contributor. when Hank was approached by Go Big Multi-Media. myself falling in love with the sport, and the kids who His legacy of dedication to local journalism, While he was initially approached for his well known do it…” said Hank, “There’s little glory standing at the community engagement, and passion for documenting expertise in local sports editorial, a bigger opportunity finish line after a race, covered in mud. Being able to the stories of our residents will undoubtedly leave an would emerge and Hank found himself at the helm as highlight the young athletes who often go unnoticed enduring mark on our newspaper’s history. You will an editor once again. Hank has served brilliantly in the was an amazing part of my career.” continue to find his byline on a monthly basis within 5 years since then as our Editor in Chief. In addition to his editorial role, Hank has played our high school sports articles. Reflecting on his career, Hank emphasized his an integral part in community initiatives, such as the Hank is married to Kathleen Marie Minckiewicz passion for documenting local history. He recalls News Herald Invitational 5k. Starting in 1982, the (Hamrick), his wife of 42 years. The two first met in covering the early days of Steve Avery from Taylorinaugural event brought 7 local teams together at Civic junior high as new students in the Southgate school Kennedy High School, before his MLB career and Center Park in Woodhaven, creating an opportunity for system. They are proud parents of four sons: Mike, National League Championship MVP title in 1991. healthy competition and recognition. This gave athletes Craig, Doug, and Drew, and grandparents to four Another standout athlete Hank spent time reporting the opportunity to compete against other downriver grandchildren. Hank cherishes fond memories of on was Andy Greene from Trenton High School, who athletes they normally wouldn’t see due to high school covering each of his sons’ athletic endeavors as hockey would one day find himself captain of the New Jersey division and league. Hank fondly recalls this initiative players for Southgate-Anderson High School.
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