Riverview Register, April 11 – May 8, 2024

On March 8th, 2024, the Riverview Hall of Fame and Scholarship Foundation celebrated outstanding contributions to community and education through a series of awards and scholarships. This Year’s Hall of Fame inductees were John Fracassa, Jeff Stergalas, Mike Vollmar, and James G. Weaks.

John Arnaldo Fracassa embraced hard work and dedication from a young age. He joined the family catering business at just 12 years old. His drive to lead and succeed expanded as he developed a passion for baseball and softball that flourished during his teenage years. This would lead him to become deeply involved in coaching and positively impacting young people.

Fracassa, a resident of SEE HALL, Page 8

Photos by Jim Jacek MaKaylee Knoll accepts the Sandy Meeks Scholarship

Gabriel Richard to Perform “The Phantom of the Opera”

Gabriel Richard Catholic High School will present Andrew Lloyd Weber’s Broadway classic, “The Phantom of the Opera,” on April 19, 20 and 21 at the school’s David Hartmann Auditorium.

The play, adapted from Gaston Leroux’s 1910 novel, tells the story of a beautiful and talented soprano who becomes the obsession of a masked musical genius living in the catacombs beneath the Paris Opera House. Junior Everett Knapik stars as the Phantom, and senior Sasha Murphy and freshman Natalia Shadik will split time as his young protege, Christine Daae. Other principal characters include freshman Cole Cornett (Raoul), senior Ella Bush (Carlotta Guidicelli), junior Brett Byrd (Monsieur Firmin), junior Aviana Gholdoian (Madame Andre), senior Ava Abrahamson (Madame Giry), freshman Logan Knapik (Meg Giry) and junior Brooks Natt (Piangi).

The play is directed by Brendan Delaney, along with music director Brittney Dimmitt and choreographer Shivonne Delaney. Together, the trio have directed several musicals at GR over the past four years, including “Into the Woods,” “Little Shop of Horrors,” and “Once Upon a Mattress.”

Brendan Delaney said he selected “Phantom of the Opera” as this year’s spring musical to showcase the vocal growth of the cast, as well as their exceptional dancing and acting skills. With such classics as “All I Ask of You” and “The Music of the Night,” the play is mostly sung, which can be daring to pull off

Murphy, whose role as Christine marks her sixth production on stage at GR, said the opportunity to portray the innocent soprano is both challenging and rewarding.

“With so many complex musical numbers, this is probably the most demanding role I’ve ever played,” Murphy said, “but I am excited to bring the classic to stage.”

In addition to lively music, the production also features elaborate costumes and props, including a crystal chandelier that “crashes” down upon the opera and a gondola that appears to glide along the water.

“I am excited for our students to provide the audience with an entertaining show that all involved will be proud of,” Delaney said.

Tickets to attend the performances are $10 for students, $15 for general admission, and $20 for VIP seating, and may be purchased online at gabrielrichard.org. Tickets will also be sold at the box office before each performance.

Gabriel Richard is located at 15325 Pennsylvania Road in Riverview.

FROM THE MAYOR

Millage matters and other community updates

My fellow Riverview residents, Spring is here, and I encourage you to get out and enjoy your local neighborhood parks. We are lucky to have so many parks to choose from without traveling very far. Our premier park, Young Patriot’s Park, provides a one-third mile stroll around the Reflection Pond. When you’re ready for a break, look out over the pond from the fishing pier to catch a glimpse of turtles sunbathing or relax under the Ceaser’s Pavilion.

ANDREW SWIFT

First up this month is the Public Hearing on the Special Assessment planned for Monday, April 22nd, at 7:00pm, in the City Council Chambers. You are encouraged to attend this meeting and provide the city council with your input on the Public Safety – Police Special Assessment Millage. Council wants your input on how to finance our police department without the income from the Riverview Land Preserve. City Manager, Mr. Jeff Dobek, and his staff have finished the budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year which starts July 1st.

The City Manager has determined that we have a 2-mill deficit in funds to fully finance our public safety. Those 2 mills equate to roughly $700,000. To fill this gap, he has suggested that the council approve a 2-mill special assessment and designate those funds to maintain our police department at current staffing levels. As you recall, the city manager originally planned to ask for 4 mills a year for a 10-year period. In October the City Council directed the city manager and his staff to go through the budget and determine exactly what we need, and we halted the planned 4 mill increase request.

A very important question is, “How did we get here?” The answer isn’t that complicated. Without the expected income from the Riverview Land Preserve (anywhere from 1.5 to 3 million dollars a year) we have a deficit to make up. The council

could choose to take that deficit from fund balance but that wouldn’t be the financially prudent thing to do. Plus, that would just be kicking the proverbial can down the road. Instead, this council has chosen to address the issue now - how do we finance our city services with the lack of a landfill expansion? So, while we determine just how much income we will receive from the excise tax collected by the State of Michigan for each dispensary and the amount of royalties collected from our partnership with DTE Vantage and NextEra Resources, the millage will fill in that financial gap. A quick sidenote, with the lack of ability to expand our landfill we have an estimated 8 to 10 years of capacity left. The landfill will need to keep all future profits to fund the post closure costs.

Estimated income from the dispensaries this year is $59,000 per dispensary. By the end of this year, we will have at least 4. According to the rules set by the State of Michigan, we don’t qualify for funds this year because no dispensaries were open by October 1st of last year. The unique partnership we have with DTE Vantage will provide the city with a minimum of $400,000 in royalties per year. The royalties are starting to come in, and it may possibly be much higher than the guaranteed amount.

There are those that say we could cut the library and recreation departments to make up for that loss. In this scenario we would still need to make personnel cuts in the police department if we cut both the library and recreation. The police department is over fifty percent of our budget. My opinion is, and likely yours too, I don’t want to live in a city without a library or an active recreation department. Besides, many of our recreation programs break even or make money.

Our first-class golf course is profitable and will likely host over 60,000 golfers this year. Our 3-day Summerfest will again be a money maker for us because of the awesome sponsorships we receive from our local businesses.

Our “Concerts in the Parks” has a sponsor this year so these costs will be covered.

Coming up quickly is our State of

the City address. This year it will be held on Wednesday, May 1st, 11:30am at Arnaldo’s Banquet Center. Again, it is sponsored by The Rotary Club of Southgate. This fundraiser event will provide scholarships to a student from Riverview Community High School and Gabriel Richard Catholic High School. It is truly an honor to address our residents, staff, business owners, and civic groups of all that the city has to offer. This event is where we highlight our challenges, accomplishments, and provide some direction for the future. Please consider attending to see for yourself that our awesome community is filled with so many individuals willing to work together for the betterment of all of us. To purchase tickets and for more information see the ad below.

Riverview continues to attract new businesses. In the last few weeks, we have had two new dispensaries open their doors to the public. Late last month Green Acres opened at the

corner of Fort St and King Roads. It is a beautiful new facility replacing the tired old gas station. Mr. Hasan Chami was kind enough to give me a tour of his store. It is a bright, friendly place with several staff members all willing to assist you. This new business is located at 20990 Fort St. Check out their website at www.greenacres.com. Contact them at 734-643-5017 or by email at riverview@greensacresmi. com.

The second Dispensary to open in March is JARS. This new business is located at 18580 Fort St in between Baffo’s and Midwest Truck. I haven’t toured this one yet, but I do have plans to do so. Stop in and say “Hello” to Jason Abro. Give them a call at 734-264-7564 or visit their website at jarscannabis.com/mi/riverview.

If you have any suggestions on subjects that you’d like me to address in this column, please email me at aswift@cityofriverview.com

Mayor’s State of the City Address

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.ForresterLawOffice.com

■ Business Law ■ Personal Injury

■ Wills & Trusts

■ Family Law

■ General Practice

■ Medical Malpractice

Taste of Downriver returning to downtown Wyandotte

Ron Hinrichs, CEO/President SWCRC

Join us for Downriver’s premier tasting event, the Taste of Downriver presented by Public Service Credit Union! Sample great food from eateries in downtown Wyandotte and throughout Downriver on Tuesday, August 13 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Current participating eateries include The Vault on First, Prestige Banquet Hall, Kudos Taproom and Fieldhouse, Smoothie King in Flat Rock, A Serendipity Cakery, Joe’s Hamburgers, H2O

Seafood, Grand Dad’s Side Bar, Sports Bar and Grill, the Grecian Center, and more to be announced!

Tickets are $25 and available at swcrc.com/taste2024. Join us for this exciting event and discover your new favorite restaurant. Thank you to our amazing sponsors including Public Service Credit Union, Kudos Taproom and Fieldhouse, Downriver Community Federal Credit Union, Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital, Community Focus Federal Credit Union, Wayne County Community College District, and Michigan Legacy Credit Union.

HALL

Continued from page 1 < John

Riverview for over 30 years, is a co-owner of Arnaldo’s Banquet Center. For decades, he has nurtured the business, created opportunities for local youth employment, and supported young adults with disabilities through on-the-job training initiatives. He also dedicates time to his community, volunteering at Riverview Community High School events and serving on the Riverview Hall of Fame Steering Committee.

Fracassa’s commitment to sports coaching continued as his children grew. He coached various Little League and Riverview school teams for over two decades. Even today, he finds joy in coaching his granddaughters, instilling in them the same passion for sports that has defined his life. In his leisure time, Fracassa enjoys moments spent by the pool, listening to Detroit Tigers games, attending Detroit Lions games, traveling with his family, and enjoying Disney cruises. Through his coaching, business leadership, and community involvement, John Arnaldo Fracassa has left a lasting mark on the lives of many individuals throughout the years.

Jeff Stergalas has dedicated his career to shaping young minds and coaching football. A 1976 graduate of Riverview Community High School, Stergalas pursued a career in education and football coaching after being inspired by the educators and coaches who influenced him. Stergalas began his teaching journey at Ecorse High School in 1980 before joining Dearborn Public Schools for a lengthy 28-year tenure. During his time as head football coach at Fordson High School, he secured multiple League, District, and Regional Championships. He also led the team to a Class AA State Championship in 1993. Stergalas’ dedication to coaching earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2002. In 2009, Stergalas returned to Riverview Community High School where he would finish out his career. Over the next twelve years, he would serve as the District’s Athletic

Director, leaving a lasting impact on Riverview’s athletic programs. Under his leadership, the schools saw significant improvements in their athletic facilities and numerous successes in various sports. Throughout his 42-year coaching career, Stergalas’ commitment to

mentoring young athletes extended far beyond the football field.

Michael J. Vollmar, a Riverview native, has forged a noteworthy and extensive career in college football administration spanning over three decades. Graduating from Riverview Community High

Fracassa

School in 1983, Vollmar excelled in basketball and track before pursuing higher education at Siena Heights University. Vollmar’s passion for football stems from his father’s legacy as a University of Michigan running back. Beginning his administrative career at Michigan, Vollmar served under legendary coaches Bo Schembechler and Gary Moeller, contributing to the Wolverines’ success in the Big 10 Championships and bowl games.

Transitioning to Syracuse University, Vollmar’s adept leadership in football administration led to notable achievements, including bowl victories and the recruitment of standout players.

While at Michigan State University, he oversaw the construction of the Duffy Daugherty Football Facility and saw multiple bowl appearances. After joining forces with Nick Saban at the University of Alabama, Vollmar played a key role in the Crimson Tide’s championship run and bowl game triumphs. Returning to Michigan, he facilitated additional bowl appearances and facility renovations. At the University of Tennessee, Vollmar’s oversight extended to football facility improvements and even more bowl game victories. He then assumed the role of Director of Football at IMG Academy in Florida. His vast track record includes contributions to 21 bowl games, a National Championship, and roles on prestigious football committees. Currently serving as the Senior Director of Capital Projects and Improvements for Football at the University of Kansas, Vollmar continues to impact college football’s landscape with his expertise and dedication to excellence.

Raised in a family deeply involved in Riverview’s history, James G. Weaks has dedicated his life to community service and volunteerism. After embarking on a career with Ford Motor Company in Ford Credit, Weaks balanced his professional endeavors with a profound

FAME

Continued from page 8

commitment to civic engagement. He served on the Zoning Board of Appeals Commission for twelve years and was subsequently elected to the Riverview City Council in 1989. During his tenure, Weaks played a pivotal role in various city initiatives, including the establishment of a Mobile Recycling Center and financial reforms to bolster the city’s stability. Weaks’ dedication to public service extended beyond his tenure on the City Council. He joined the Riverview Goodfellows, remaining an active member for over three decades.

Upon concluding his political career in Riverview, Weaks continued his community involvement in Grosse Ile, serving on the Grosse Ile Airport Commission and the Grosse Ile Brownfield Authority.

Transitioning to non-profit work, Weaks utilized his fiscal sharpness to contribute to organizations like the Guidance Center and Friends of the Children-Detroit. His efforts aim to address the region’s pressing needs, particularly concerning youth mentorship and community development. Through his extensive service, Weaks has not only made a profound impact on his community but also gained a deeper appreciation for Riverview’s role in shaping his life. His enduring commitment to making Riverview a “wonderful place to live and raise a family” reflects his unwavering dedication to community betterment.

It was a pleasant evening of paying tribute to esteemed local, school, and community leaders, while also commending our diligent students as they embark on their higher educational journeys.

The 2024 Civic Service Awards are as followed: City Employee of the Year: Cheryl Estrada; DPW Employee of the Year: Cindy G. Nagy; Land Preserve Employee of the Year: Jeff Kugelman; Goodfellow of the Year: Andrew Swift; Firefighter of the Year: Damon K. Sutton; Kiwanian of the Year: Dr. David Grachek; Legionnaire of the Year: Mike Marshall; Police Officers of the Year: Travis Lewis and Sean O’Neil; Senior Citizen of the Year: Don Kerr; Sons of the American

Legion Man of the Year: Jim Manning; and Business of the Year: Dr. James R. Cook, D.V.M. from Riverview Animal Hospital.

The Riverview Community Schools Excellence in Education Awards recognized outstanding educators. Teacher of the Year Awards went to Kim Degenkolb from Riverview Community High School; Tiffany Crysler from Seitz Middle School; Stacy Gajewski from Forest School; Patty Hunter from Huntington School; and Lisa Pappas from Memorial School. Support Staff Persons of the Year were also acknowledged, including: Teresa Zolynsky from Riverview Community High School; Adriana Singleton from Seitz Middle School; Tammy Tidwell from Huntington School; Melissa Dyorich from Forest School; and Kristy Warlick from Memorial School. Nicole Wittenberg was honored as District At-Large Employee of the Year.

A diverse array of scholarships were bestowed upon deserving students, each one a symbol of Riverview’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering success. Recipients are as followed: Sandy Meeks Scholarship: MaKaylee Knoll; Alpha Delta Kappa Scholarship: Isabella Connolly; American Legion Scholarships: Madalyn Dominski and Gavin Labadie; American Legion Auxiliary Scholarship: Audrey Cole; Judy Keier Memorial Scholarship: Keira Wood; Riverview Kiwanis Scholarship: Angelo Male; Frank Miklaski Memorial Scholarship: Trevor Gadwell; Nancy Sykes Finlayson Scholarships: Ciera

Corso and Vasiliki Paliotheodoros; Nancy Holloway Memorial School Alumni Scholarship: Gavin Ziliak; Charles F. Mikesell Memorial Scholarship: Autumn Bryant; Sons of the American Legion Scholarships: Maria Buettner, Grace Fleming, and Asia McGee; Cox, Stein, and Wrobleski Scholarships: Julianna Fell, George LaForce, and Chloe Senica; and Riverview Hall of Fame Scholarships: Nouman Abrar, Ava Allen, Caleb DiBrano, Hayden Holmes, and Logan Ruffner.

Mike Vollmar

James G. Weaks

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.

Riverview figure skater ventures into international figure skating circuit

By ASHLEI DANG

At just 13 years old, Adeline Chinavare, affectionately known as Addy, is already making waves in figure skating as she gears up to showcase her talent internationally. A student at Seitz Middle School, Addy is set to represent Team USA at the 8th Nations Cup. This is a prestigious international competition for theatre on ice and synchronized skating that is to be held in France at the end of April.

Addy’s dedication to her skating is evident in her rigorous training schedule.

The young skater spends close to 15 hours on the ice each week.

She splits her time between Skate Company’s Skating Club in Lincoln Park, MI and The Ice House Skating Academy in Hartland, MI, home to the Harmony Theatre Company. The organization’s senior team has secured six national theatre on ice titles, making them the most successful team in the nation.

downtime at the rink. Her teachers have shown great support, accommodating her skating commitments with understanding and flexibility. Off the ice, Addy stays active as a member of the cross-country team.

Looking ahead to the Nations Cup, Addy is excited to explore new places and meet fellow skaters worldwide. Addy’s coaches, Stephanie Ryker and Sandy Moss have played pivotal roles in her development as a skater. Ryker, who will also compete in France alongside Addy, continues to encourage her in setting motivational goals and pursuing competitive skating.

The City of Riverview proposes Special Assessment District

Addy has been honing her skills on the ice since she was four years old. While her three siblings are also involved in skating, her older sister has greatly influenced her in her competitive journey. Addy aspires to be as talented and recognized as her older sister, who, in Addy’s words, is “really, really, REALLY good.”

Despite her busy schedule, Addy maintains a solid academic record. She is often found working through assignments on her laptop when she has

The Riverview community has extended its steadfast support to the Chinavare family as they embark on their journey to France. Addy took the initiative to organize bake sales in order to help cover some of the travel expenses, which were a great success. Paula, Addy’s mother, deeply appreciates the overwhelming support from the community, feeling humbled by its generosity and kindness.

As Addy prepares to glide onto the ice in France, she carries the hopes and dreams of her community with her. Her talent, determination, and unwavering spirit will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on the global stage.

Riverview beams with pride to claim Addy as one of its own as she continues to carve out her own path in figure skating history with grace and elegance.

The City of Riverview is looking to make sure our community continues to be a safe place to live and raise a family. For decades, the City of Riverview has relied on revenue from its landfill to help offset and pay for Citywide services, such as police service/public safety, but those days are quickly coming to an end. While the landfill will remain open for the next eight years, revenue from the landfill will be used to fund both closure and post closure costs State mandated costs. This issue is a critical component of the City of Riverview’s budget, impacting all residents.

Establishing a Special Assessment District per Michigan law for public safety costs and expenses, which would be 2 mills over one year, is the proposed solution. All lots and parcels of land within the City of Riverview, County of Wayne, Michigan would be assessed. The revenue from a Special Assessment District would specifically be used to offset the increasing costs of the Riverview Police Department related to personnel, operations and capital outlay for police vehicles, apparatus, and equipment. In accordance with the Public Act 33, Riverview City Council will vote on and decide the outcome of the millage in May 2024.

consultants and vendors in the next budget and found revenue sources such as the investment income, nonemergent EMS ordinance fees, as well as raising fees charged to developers for building department services. Additional changes will be made to Department operations streamlining services and cost reductions to match available funds to current level operating costs. The City will continue to evaluate other enterprise fund opportunities; and, will consider the sale of City-owned property as an additional funding source for future capital projects.

On Monday, April 22nd a public hearing will take place at 7 p.m. in the City Council Chambers to discuss the Special Assessment District and the Special Assessment Roll. Citizens are encouraged to attend this meeting and provide comments on the Special Assessment Roll and provide input on

In 2023, the City proposed a 4 mill levy for up to 10 years, but after thorough review, many cuts, and evaluation of future income from cannabis licenses and natural gas sales to DTE Energy, the City realized a short-term plan was needed until other sources of income are determined.

The City Manager has cut costs with

Council approving the establishment the Special Assessment Roll to offset the public safety costs and expenses for the police department without the income from the Riverview Land Preserve. The City budget for 20242025 (fiscal year starts July 1) is available for viewing on the City’s website.

Riverview Board of Education recognizes athletic success

On Tuesday, March 19th, the Board of Education recognized the athletic accomplishments of Riverview winter sports teams. The Boys and Girls Varsity Basketball team were District Champions. Our Varsity Competitive Cheer team was an MHSAA Regional Qualifier. The Boys Varsity Swim team were SMISL Champions and had 10 swimmers qualify for the MHSAA State meet. Our Boys Varsity Bowling team saw a MHSAA State qualifier. Not only did our athletes reach a high level of competition, but many also received academic recognition. Go Pirates!

The Riverview Pirates pose after winning the SMISL championship

Riverview swimmers, divers have record-breaking season

The Riverview boys varsity swimming and diving team finished the season undefeated with a 15-0 dual meet record and were champions of both the SMISL and Huron Leagues.

The record-breaking season ultimately culminated with a 13th-place team finish at the MHSAA D3 State Finals.

At the state meet, the 200-yard Medley Relay of Ewan Todd, Dominic Fraley, Gavin Ziliak, and Nathan Johnson earned All-State honors, finishing fifth in the event with a new school record time of 1:38.96.

The same relay placed 10th in the 200-yard Free Relay and Ziliak and Fraley were joined by teammates Wyatt Pirtle and Angelo Male to finish 15th in the 400-yard Free Relay. Individually, Pirtle finished 20th in the 500-yard Freestyle in school record-time, swimming 4:59.35,

and becoming the first Pirate under five minutes in the event.

In the 100-yard Backstroke, Ziliak, Johnson, and Male finished 19th, 20th, and 27th, respectively. Johnson also placed 15th in the 100-yard Freestyle, while Todd finished 11th in the 100-yard Freestyle and 10th in the 100-yard Breaststroke. Fraley finished just ahead of Todd, placing ninth-place in the Breast, breaking his own school record with a time of 59.71.

Todd also had a record-breaking season, swimming school records in the 50-yard Freestyle (22.31) and 200-yard Individual Medley (2:02.40), bringing the Pirates’ total to five school records broken this season.

In addition to their undefeated dual meet record, the Pirates also came out on top at the Mason Invitational, SMISL Relays, Riverview’s Rock ‘N’

Relays, and the Downriver Classic (formerly known as The News Herald Invitational). It was at the Downriver Classic where the strength of the team really showed as the boys held strong against last year’s defending champions, Trenton, and the rest of the 10-team field.

Riverview won the Classic with 307 points, followed by Trenton (291.5), and Riverview (184) rounding out the top three.

Both of the Riverview’s freshmen divers, Connor Duke and Aaron Faybik, played a big role, scoring points that lacked the year prior when Riverview had no divers.

Duke and Faybik also qualified for regionals their first season diving. Now with their eyes set on reaching the state meet next year, they look to continue to grow Riverview’s representation at the state level.

Photo by Tanya Whitaker

Still hungry Riverview girls fall in regional

By HANK MINCKIEWICZ

After losing two of the top players in the area – Elyssa Kincaid and Cady Kaminske – to graduation after last season, few expected the Riverview girls basketball team to have another great season in 2023-24.

If we’ve learned one thing since then, it is to never bet against coach Rob Sauter’s Bucs.

Riverview put together another tremendous season this year, winning 18 games, going 11-3 in the Huron League and finishing second. The Bucs enjoyed an eight-game winning streak and a stretch where they won 11-of-12 games.

In the Michigan High School Athletic Association state playoffs, where the Bucs have shined for more than half a decade, it was more of the same.

Riverview beat Taylor 59-27 to win their first district game of the year and then battled Wyandotte down to the wire in the district championship game, pulling out a 45-43 win. The win over the resurgent Bears handed Riverview the Division 1 district title, Riverview’s sixth such championship in a row.

In the first round of regionals, however, the Bucs fell 47-36 to Temperance-Bedford.

In the process of losing to the Kicking Mules, Riverview may have found a

new offensive star as sophomore Kate Patterson went off for a team-high 20 points, her highest single-game output of the year.

Averi Westbay, Keira Logan, Caiya

Hunter, and Maia Perez also scored for Riverview in the regional contest.

Westbay, with 14 points, and Brooklynn Poe, with nine, were the offensive leaders in the win over Wyandotte.

Both Riverview and Wyandotte came out playing terrific defense in the district final and it took each offense a while to adjust to the aggressive defense.

Wyandotte got off first and led 13-9 after the first period. The Riverview exploded, scoring 19 second-quarter points to take a 28-18 lead into the locker room at halftime.

Things looked a little bleak for the Bears, but second-year coach Madison Hamilton made some adjustments and her team responded.

Wyandotte opened the second half on a 9-0 run and although the Bucs finally halted the Bears, the race to the finish was on.

Roosevelt grabbed a 38-37 lead midway through the fourth quarter, but Riverview got loose for a 5-0 run and that spurt was the difference as the Bears could never catch up again.

Pioneer’s great hoop season comes to a close

A truly great season for the Gabriel Richard basketball team came to a close on March 14, just one game shy of seeing the Pioneers in the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 3 state finals at the Breslin Center in East Lansing.

The Pioneers, who posted a 23-4 record this year, fell 43-41 in the D3 semifinals to Old Redford Academy on a buzzerbeating three-point shot from the corner.

Redford’s Arkell Boyd hit the game-winning triple as the game-ending horn sounded. The game-winning play took place with less than three seconds to play in the game.

Old Redford’s Kason Mayes had just missed the second of two free throw attempts, after making the first, leaving

a 41-40 Richard lead. A loose ball was ruled to be last off the Pioneers, giving the Ravens the ball under the basket.

Justin Austin found Boyd, who created some space away from Richard’s Nick Sobush in the corner. With Sobosh’s hand in his face, Boyd chucked up the triple and knocked it down just as the clock hit triple zeroes and the final buzzer went off. This was a slug-it-out kind of a game from beginning to end.

The largest lead at any point in the game was a six-point cushion for Old Redford midway through the third quarter.

Ther Ravens, Charter School League champions, then led for virtually the rest of the game until near the end when Richard slipped back in front.

Old Redford’s Ja’Quan

Stennis fouled out with just under four minutes to go in the game, which saw a scoreless drought that lasted nearly four minutes and allowed Richard to inch its way back in front.

The Pioneers finally took their first lead of the game at 2:01 to go when Sobush converted on a lay-up plus a foul, knocking down the freebie to give the Pioneers a 39-37 lead.

With Richard leading 39-37 and under a minute to play, Redford’s Mayes stole the ball and scored to tie the game.

Richard’s Luke Westerdale answered moments later with a driving basket to restore his team’s two-point advantage.

After a Ravens timeout, Mayes was fouled and went to the free-throw line. He split the pair, leaving the score 41-40

and setting up the thrilling finish.

“This was tough to swallow because I thought our kids played hard and went after it,” Daiek said. “But hey, it happens. It’s March Madness.”

Charles Kage had a teamhigh 15 points in the loss, adding in nine rebounds, while Sobush joined him in double-figures with 13 points. A traditionally sharp-shooting Pioneers squad finished just 2-for-15 from three-point range.

Mayes led all scorers in the game with 16 points, while Boyd finished with 15 points. The junior’s game-winner was one of just five made triples on 18 attempts for the Ravens.

The loss ended a sensational season for the Pioneers, who scored 60 or more points in 18

games this year, and 70 or more in 10.

The Pioneers lost just four games this season: Novi Detroit Catholic Central (74-47), Jackson Lumen Christi (62-49), Detroit Cass Tech (780-63), and Old Redford Academy.

The Pioneers had a sevengame winning streak this season, a six-game win streak, and two five-game streaks. Most of Richard’s key players will return next season.

In addition to sharing the Catholic League AADivision title with Lumen Christi, the Pioneers were Cardinal Division CHSL champs, beating Lumen Christi in the championship game. They were also district and regional champions.

Coach Rob Sauter draws up a play for his team

Photo by Dave Chapman

We are listening at 734-282-3939

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE

April 22nd at 7:00 p.m.

Riverview City Hall

14100 Civic Park Drive Riverview, Michigan 48193

TO ALL OWNERS OF THE FOLLOWING DESCRIBED LANDS: All lots and parcels of land within the City of Riverview, County of Wayne, Michigan.

TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to the provisions of Act 33, Public Acts of Michigan, 1951, as amended, a special assessment roll has been prepared and is on file in the office of the City Clerk for public examination. Said special assessment roll has been prepared for the purpose of assessing the cost of the purchasing of police motor vehicles, apparatus, and equipment and to defray the costs of maintenance and operations, including personnel, of the police department public safety.

PUBLIC NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council will meet on Monday, the 22nd day of April, 2024, at 7:00 p.m., at Riverview City Hall, 14100 Civic Park Drive, Riverview, Michigan, to hear comments on the distribution of the special assessment levy.

TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that appearance and protest at this hearing is required in order to appeal the amount of the special assessment to the State Tax Tribunal if an appeal should be desired. A property owner or party in interest, or his or her agent, may appear in person at the hearing to protest the special assessment or may file his or her appearance by letter delivered to the City Clerk by Monday, April 22nd at 7:00 p.m. and his or her personal appearance shall not be required. The property owner or any person having an interest in the property subject to the proposed special assessment may file a written appeal of the special assessment with the State Tax Tribunal within thirty days after confirmation of the special assessment roll if that special assessment was protested at this hearing.

RIVERVIEW CITY COUNCIL

Shane Anne Harrison, City Clerk

Riverview Public Safety Special Assessment District

Learn more

DTE Vantage, NextEra Energy collaborate with Riverview on renewable gas project

DTE Vantage is converting biogas from a City of Riverview landfill into renewable natural gas (RNG) which will soon fuel vehicles as a cleaner alternative resource. The project is the result of a collaboration between the City of Riverview and Riverview Energy Systems an entity jointly owned by DTE Vantage and a subsidiary of NextEra Energy Resources, LLC.

The project, which dates back to the late 1980s, converts an existing landfillgas-to-renewable-electricity project into a new facility that captures the biogas produced at the landfill and upgrades it to pipeline-quality natural gas. The RNG is then sent to a DTE Energy natural gas pipeline and attributed for use by transportation fuel customers.

“The greenhouse gas we capture and utilize at the Riverview Land Preserve landfill not only reduces carbon emissions in the area but also displaces higher-emissions transportation fuels for greater environmental benefit, all while generating additional income for the City,” said Kevin Dobson, vice president of biomass, DTE Vantage. “We are

working closely with City of Riverview officials to coordinate the ongoing project, which leverages DTE Vantage’s growing network of RNG resources and capabilities.”

NextEra Energy Resources, which together with its affiliated entities is the world’s largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun and a world leader in battery storage, develops renewable fuels solutions to meet customer needs. “This collaboration underscores NextEra Energy Resources’ commitment to developing solutions in pursuit of leading the energy transition,” said Ross Groffman, vice president at NextEra Energy Resources.

“Riverview Land Preserve is a leader in the solid waste industry. This dynamic partnership really demonstrates that when forward-thinking groups come together the community benefits,” said Andrew Swift, Mayor of the City of Riverview. “This is a win for the environment, DTE, NextEra Energy Resources, our city, and the residents of Riverview who will benefit from royalties generated.”

Riverview culinary students place in the top 5

Over 400 students participated in the Michigan ProStart Invitational, which is hosted by the Michigan Hospitality Foundation and is the highest-level competition for Michigan high school students training in culinary and hospitality careers.

Teams competing in the Pasta Category are given just 60 minutes to craft a handmade pasta dish before adding their own creative touch to create a stand-out pasta dish.

The Pasta Category was sponsored by KitchenAid. All top 5 placement winners of this category are invited to participate in the Beyond the Green program at the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship, where they will also participate in a showcase on May 22.

The full rankings for the Pasta Category, sponsored by KitchenAid, includes:

First Place: Bay Arenac ISD

Team A Second Place: RCTC Ypsilanti

Third Place: Gaylord High School

Team B Fourth Place: Allegan ESA

Team B Fifth Place: DCTC Riverview High School

The competition helps students gain firsthand experience in critical industry skills like food safety, business management, menu development and marketing. Annually, more than 6,400 Michigan students at 86 high schools and career centers participate in the ProStart curriculum. It is a two-year high school program that connects the classroom to the restaurant and foodservice industry.

A lemonade war

On Tuesday, March 12th, the war was on. Forest fourth grade students, under the guidance of Mrs. Grunwald were prepared for lemonade sales. Groups worked for days creating their business plan, developing a theme, advertising, and getting their add on items for sale. After the plan was created each team made their sales pitch to selected classes. Forest students were able to preorder lemonade ahead of time or purchase lemonade the day of from individual stands. The lemonade war generated $1,800 in profit and the proceeds will be donated to Alex’s Lemonade Stand and #HarperStrong. It was a beautiful day, everyone had a great time, and we thank everyone for the support!

Literacy

Night

On March 14th from 5:30pm-7:00pm, the Riverview Early Childhood Learning Center hosted the 1st annual Family Literacy Night. This event was open to all 112 families with students at the ECLC. We had an amazing turn out with 56 families attending, totaling 169 people. This year’s Literacy Night included Face Painting, Mystery Readers, Used Book Swap, Book Walk Game, Spin To Win Game, ABC Bean Bag Toss Game, Crafts, Special Snacks from the Give A Mouse a Cookie Series, Books with Brooks the Therapy Dog, and 17 amazing raffle baskets that were donated by our wonderful community.

March Reading Month fun at Huntington Elementary

“Thank you to all of our mystery readers!”

Let’s chat

Memorial’s Guiding Coalition (Leadership Team) put on a fantastic community night on March 14 for Riverview families that centered around games that focused on talking and strategies that help to further develop children’s oral language skills. Refreshments were offered along with Bingo for Books, and raffle opportunities for students to win games and books to take home. Thank you to our teachers, reading coaches, and RCHS NHS volunteers for making this night a success!

Poetry out loud

Congratulations to Sophia Layne on taking 2nd place in the state at the Poetry Out Loud Competition. Sophia left us awestruck last month when she performed her speeches at our local competition & showed off her amazing oratory skills again today. In addition to winning this huge trophy, she also earned a $750 scholarship for all her hard work.

Special thank you to Mrs. Jen Barczyk for preparing Sophia and accompanying her to Lansing. We are so proud of you!

Awesomeness Opening Soon

We are excited to start this journey with you! Our mission is to create a fun classy atmosphere with a ordable prices and excellent service! We hope you get as excited about it as we are. At the Tipsy Fish, we believe our sta , colleagues, and customers are the key to success. Meet the owners and operators of the Tipsy Fish: Rob and Rosanne Bruner and Shelby Langlands.

e Bruners are successful restaurateurs; they currently own and operate Mister Nick’s, the classic neighborhood

destination located in the heart of Trenton, MI. With Nick’s thriving, Rob and Rosanne decided they wanted to expand their wings and open a second restaurant. Within this new business, they wanted to capture the community a ection of Mister Nick’s and add the nuisance of a one-of-a-kind experience. So, they began manifesting their dream, e Tipsy Fish.

With 17 years of restaurant experience, Shelby Langlands, will be the General Manager of Tipsy Fish

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

publications.

gobigmultimedia.com/grosse-ile-grand

Polar plunge in Grosse Ile helps kick-off support for police suicide-prevention initiative

A group of individuals who regularly swim in the frigid waters off Grosse Ile have helped kick off a police suicide-prevention initiative.

The Lucas Foundation Polar Plunge drew support from the Island Ice Dippers and others who braved

freezing waters in the Detroit River at Sunrise Park on the east end of Grosse Ile on February 24.

The nonprofit LUCAS Foundation was started after the January 9 suicide of former Woodhaven native Lucas Sizemore, a young officer in the Police Department in Atlanta, Georgia. The late officer’s parents, Brian and Marie, started the foundation to “make an impact and erase the stigma of asking for mental health assistance.”

LUCAS is an acronym for Law Enforcements

United Crusade Against Suicide, which is on the rise at an “alarming” rate across the nation, according to statistics.

Grosse Ile resident and Wyandotte native Andrew Starzec, who is deputy police chief in Brownstown Township and a member of the Island Ice Dippers, organized the plunge to show support for the cause. He said about two dozen individuals – including police officers from all over Downriver and the officer’s

father Brian and brother Evan – swam in the frigid river for up to seven minutes while about twice that many individuals cheered them on from the shore.

“The Sizemores were looking for a connection with law enforcement and to do something to honor Lucas’ memory,” Starzec said.

On page 14

Downriver for Veterans receives $2,500 grant to support veterans

Downriver for Veterans has received a $2,500 grant from the Michigan Association of Health Plans (MAHP) to support local veterans and their families by providing essential products and services in times of need.

The funding is provided as part of MAHP’s Tackling Health Care Disparities in Michigan grant program, which encourages communitybased organizations to collaborate and deploy local initiatives aimed at creating better health outcomes and improving health equity.

Downriver for Veterans is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in Wyandotte that serves local veterans and their families. The veterans group provides food, household essentials, rent assistance, car repairs, and more. The funds from MAHP will be used to provide personal hygiene items to the veterans community within the 22 cities and townships in the region.

“There are more than 2,000 veterans living in our community and many of them rely on our services,” said Ann Rudisill, founder of the Downriver group. “This donation will be put to great use and we’re thankful for MAHP’s support.”

“Downriver for Veterans is an essential resource in the Downriver area,” said Dominick Pallone, executive director of the MAHP. “We’re honored to help fund a program that provides the necessary

services and support those who served our country.”

On page 23

gobigmultimedia.com/southgate-star

New city council member appointed

On February 1st, Ed Gawlik Jr. was appointed as the newest member of the Southgate City Council. This appointment follows the January resignation of Councilman Bill Colovos. Per Southgate City Charter, City Council must fill the vacancy before the lapse of the current term.

The City Council established an applicant pool process open to the public with guidelines that required the applicant to have lived in Southgate for at least 30 days and could not be in default on any payments to the City at the time of submission.

Each applicant would then be interviewed by City Council. Nine applications were received, however, only four were qualified contenders as outlined by the prior stated guidelines.

Of the four applicants, Ed Gawlik Jr. was the only one to be interviewed as all other applicants were absent. Based on his application, supporting documents, and interview, City Council concurred that he was the top choice overall. A motion was made to appoint Gawlik and it carried unanimously.

On February 5th, Gawlik was officially sworn in as a Southgate City Councilman by City Clerk Jan Ferencz. Gawlik, a resident of Southgate for 37 years, has a long history of both City and school district involvement. His volunteerism and leadership experience includes 12 years as a Southgate Band Booster, 12 years of service on the Southgate School Board, including 5 years as Board President, and most recently, 6 years as a member of the Southgate Planning Commission, with the last 3 years serving as Chairman. He has also volunteered throughout the years at community events, such as Heritage Days, and for non-profit organizations, like the Gibraltar Food Pantry.

On page 1

Anderson cheerleaders qualify for regionals

It was not a vintage year for the typically strong Southgate Anderson competitive cheerleading team, but although the Titans finished an uncharacteristic fifth in the league meet, the team did bounce back at districts, where they were one of the top four teams and thus qualified for the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 2 regionals

by Ypsilanti-Lincoln High School, the Titans squared off against a tough field that included eventual district champ Carleton Airport and state powerhouse Gibraltar Carlson.

Carlson held a pretty significant lead over the field after the first round and an even bigger lead after the second, but Airport, on the strength of a monster final round, roared into the lead and captured the district crown.

Anderson, meanwhile, was solidly in third place throughout much of the competition, but the Titans had a subpar final round and Riverview was able to pass the Titans for third place.

Carlson had 465.28 points heading into the final round. Airport had 454.38, Anderson had 441.1 and Riverview had 434.06.

On page 13

gobigmultimedia.com/trenton-times

Trenton’s own version of spring cleaning

by Mayor Steven Rzeppa

When many people around Trenton think of “Spring Cleaning,” they think about the Citywide Garage Sale (which will be held the weekend of May 18-19, by the way). But this year, our spring cleaning around town involves a much bigger lift than finally getting those shelves in the garage cleaned off or some old furniture from the basement brought to the curb. For us, we are laser focused on getting the demolition and cleanup work done at both the former Riverside Hospital site and former

DTE Trenton Channel power plant.

By the time that this article goes to print, my hope is that the last of the buildings will be down at the Riverside hospital site and, while demolition and cleanup will continue well through spring and summer at the DTE site, the “stacks” will be down, and major structures imploded.

On page 4

A skyline without the stripes

In advance, DTE removed all hazardous materials, verified by third party state inspectors. Air monitoring took place, and while shifts in winds aren’t much of a factor, severe weather can be, which was monitored on the day of demolition. High power misting machines were used to mitigate dust from leaving the site and clouds dissipated quickly.

“We’ve worked with Dykon Explosive Demolition on the Conners Creek demo, this is what they do and are the best,” assures Leo from Independence Excavating. “This procedure is the safest way to do it, it’s controlled and lessens the impact on the community.”

The Trenton community has been vocal about how to best serve the community, and the City Council has been listening. In December of 2020, Council approved the “Waterfront Revitalization” zoning code for former industrial waterfront areas, including DTE’s. Since then, various studies by MSU and U of M graduate students offered renditions of how to repurpose the land which inspired discussions with DTE.

On page 12

gobigmultimedia.com/wyandotte-warrior

Take a stroll through the Taste of Downtown by Mayor Robert DeSana

Come visit Wyandotte and enjoy our Taste of Downtown on Friday, April 19th – a new strolling food event where you can sample all your favorite local food spots, or try something new. Make your way throughout our beautiful Downtown District, sipping and nibbling, all within one of Michigan’s most robust Social Districts, complete with 25 licensed establishments within blocks of one another. Grab your favorite beverage and enjoy the outdoors while visiting our local businesses. Grab a craft cocktail from the Vault or a microbrew from the Wyandotte Beer Co., and take a stroll about town.

The Taste of Downtown is the perfect start to our Annual Restaurant Week running Saturday, April 20th through Saturday, April 27th. This is Wyandotte’s favorite time of year to showcase our prominent bars, restaurants, bakeries, sweet shops and the community at-large, offering an incredible set of packages, 2-for-1 specials, $15-$25-$40 deals, and tons more!

On page 3

Wyandotte girls close out fine season

The Wyandotte Roosevelt girls basketball team finished up its finest season in years on March 8, when the Bears fell 45-43 in a heartbreaker to Riverview in the finals of the Michigan High School Athletic Association district tournament at Allen Park High School.

The district championship game saw two of Downrvier’s more solid teams battling each other. Riverview, which was second in the Huron League, came into the game with a 17-4 record. Roosevelt, the third place team in the Downriver League behind Trenton and Woodhaven, came into the game with a 16-7 mark.

The clubs delivered a great game, with an outcome that was uncertain all night long.

On page 15

Fun-filled evening at Forest Elementary

On March 4th, there was a fun Specials Night at Forest Elementary. Families were invited to sing their hearts out to their favorite tune in the Music Room for some karaoke. A fierce game of team bowling took place in the gym. Parents took on the kids, but the kids came out on top. Students were also invited to create their own catapult in the Steam Room. There were stations set up in

the halls for students to test out their creation.

Delicious pizza and snacks were served in the lunchroom and two baskets were raffled off and money was raised to support the Gym and Steam programs. Congrats to Emmett Wong and Sophia Lopez Deneen, the lucky basket winners. Fun was had by all.

Riverview announces summer program dates for academic enrichment

Riverview is gearing up for a summer of educational enrichment with the announcement of its Summer Programming dates. Scheduled for June 17-20, July 15-18, and August 5-8, the sessions will run from 9:00 am to 11:45 am each day.

Designed to reinforce academic standards in math and English, the classes aim to provide students with additional support and learning opportunities during the summer break. With a focus on enhancing essential skills, these sessions offer a structured environment for students to stay engaged and prepared for the upcoming school year.

In addition to the morning classes, the City of Riverview will also be offering a variety of

recreation classes throughout the summer. Many of these activities will take place right at Seitz, providing a convenient option for families looking to combine academic enrichment with recreational fun. Be sure to explore the full range of offerings to make the most of your summer in Riverview!

A production of Godspell presented by RCHS Drama Club

The RCHS Drama Club enthusiastically debuted Godspell on March 14-16, 2024. They say, “it takes a village,” and this production was one fortified city! Our RCHS Pirates worked together as a team on production, blocking, choreography, music, props, costumes, building and publicity since January. We looked to each other to create, problem solve, encourage and nurture. We are ONE group.

The theme of Godspell permeates the ages: Be kind, turn the other cheek, and live the Golden Rule. It never hurts to remind ourselves of these messages every now again, because sometimes we forget. Our audience Learned these Lessons Well and hopefully will go back out into the world and be kind, turn the other cheek, and live the Golden Rule.