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SouthgateStar.com
OCTOBER 24 - NOVEMBER 23, 2019
Complimentary
Not just horsing around
Anderson’s equestrian riders making a name for themselves TOM TIGANI Southgate Star
Southgate Anderson High School might seem an unlikely place for an equestrian team, until you realize one team member is all you need to start one. So in 2003 when Ashley Clapp asked her mother, Kimberly Clapp, if she could represent the school in Michigan Interscholastic Horsemanship Association meets, mom made it happen. Anderson athletic director Dave Pinkowski agreed, saying he would be happy to support an equestrian team and agreed it could be a varsity sport. Ashley participated in 2003 as a junior and 2004 as a senior. It was a case of the apple not falling too far from the tree; Ashley had been riding since age 9. “She asked if she could start taking riding lessons” Kimberly said. “I guess all the stories I had about my horse-riding years sparked an interest. She took lessons and not long after we bought her a horse.” Kimberly, who grew up in a not-very-rural portion of Flat Rock, has been a Wayne County 4H
Leader for 20 years and the Southgate Anderson equestrian team coach since 2003. She also has served on the MIHA board for three years. “My love for horses began when I was somewhere around 9 years old,” Kimberly said. “I’m not really sure how I became obsessed with horses, but I knew I wanted to ride them. I begged my parents enough that they finally let me take riding lessons. I was hooked from then on.” Kimberly’s dad told her she could have a horse of my own after she learned how to take care of one. “I would go to the barn every day after school and clean stalls and brush horses,” she said. “My dad finally let me get a horse.” Because she lived in a subdivision in Flat Rock, there was no way they could keep a horse at their house, so they found a boarding facility nearby. Kimberly joined 4H and participated at the Wayne County Fair in Belleville for a few years. After some time passed and she had a family of my own with her husband, Tom, and moved to Southgate, SEE EQUESTRIAN, Page 3
Serving Downriver Since 1975
Kate Clapp started her career at Southgate Anderson and at 25 she is still competing at high-level competitions.
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Page 2 • October 24 - November 23, 2019 • SOUTHGATE STAR
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SOUTHGATE STAR • October 24 - November 23, 2019 • Page 3
EQUESTRIAN
Continued from page 1 horses were no longer a priority in her life anymore. When Ashley began riding at age 9 (sound familiar?), they had to board her horse. During this time she was also in 4H and rode at the Wayne County Fair just as her mom had. Most of Ashley’s “horse” friends were competing at the MIHA meets in the fall of 2003, so she asked her mom to find out how she could represent Southgate Anderson in those meets. Fast forward a few years and Kate Clapp, Kimberly’s youngest daughter, who also started her riding career in 4H, reached the ninth grade in 2008 asked if she could represent her school at the MIHA Meets. She rode as a one-person team her freshman year. As Kate was starting her sophomore year, Southgate Anderson senior Chelsea Owen asked Kimberly about riding, so in 2009 both girls rode. Kate was on her own again during the 2010 and 2011 seasons. Now 25, she recently competed at the All American Quarter Horse Congress in Columbus (the largest all-breed horse show in world) in the Queens contest. Gabbriella Cowan was 9 or 10 when she met Kimberly at a barn where the Clapps were boarding their horse. “I joked that she was going to be my next Southgate Anderson equestrian team,” Kimberly said, “and that she was.” Cowan came to her has a freshman in 2016 and wanted to ride for Southgate Anderson, so Kimberly contacted Pinkowski again and he
Coach Kim Clapp (right) and her 2019 Anderson team.
happily let Cowan represent her school at the MIHA meets. Now a senior, Cowan competed at three district meets in September in the D Division (teams with one or two riders) and won the championship title, clinching a spot in the regional competition. She then won the reserve championship title, earning a spot at the MIHA state championships held Oct. 12 and 13 weekend in Midland. Cowan was invited to escort the Southgate Anderson football team onto the field at its last football game of the season Friday, Oct, 18. She has won four division titles and one regional title in her high school career. Over the years, the Southgate Anderson equestrian team has won eight district titles, five regional titles and one reserve state title in 2011. As Kimberly has become more involved in running the MIHA meets,
assistant coach Alena Foster has donned the green boots the last few years. All told, there were about 900 middle school riders in the state last spring and 1,250 high school riders this fall. Other Downriver communities with high school equestrian teams include Grosse Ile, Trenton, Woodhaven, Flat Rock and Allen Park. Kimberly said MIHA provides a friendly, competitive atmosphere amongst all the participating schools. “Horses encourage responsibility and allow children to build a relationship with an animal that involves trust and respect, Kimberly said. “Kids learn responsibility. “It’s a lot of hard work, but they’re very heartwarming animals. “What I really like about it is all the people and friends you meet. You root for one another. We have a great time
I’M NOT REALLY SURE HOW I BECAME OBSESSED WITH HORSES, BUT I KNEW I WANTED TO RIDE THEM. and we cheer other riders on. When you have a horse kid, they know all the other horse kids.” Kimberly said she’s unaware of any other up-and-coming riders in Southgate, but plans to continue volunteering at 4H, and coaching at Southgate Anderson for as long as kids are interested. “It’s not a sport that just anybody can do,” Kimberly said. “You don’t just walk on. You need a horse, you need to know how to ride it, the right things to do and the transportation to get it there.”
Page 4 • October 24 - November 23, 2019 • SOUTHGATE STAR
SOUTHGATE STAR • October 24 - November 23, 2019 • Page 5
Titans celebrate
Southgate Anderson High School celebrated Homecoming 2019 the weekend of Oct. 11. There was the traditional parade with the band, floats and the crowning of the court. There was a football game, too, unfortunately that did not go the Titans’ way as Trenton won 42-0.
Photos by Larry Caruso
Page 6 • October 24 - November 23, 2019 • SOUTHGATE STAR
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Roger Putnam and Caroline Demou are the 2019 Homecoming King and Queen.
Finishing the 2015 bond projects JILL PASTOR Special to the Southgate Star
The final projects of the 2015 Bond projects are to be completed this fall. In September, the renovation of the restrooms outside of the auditorium at the high school were completed. Several exterior doors have been replaced since August that include the following buildings: Shelters, Grogan, Davidson and Anderson. The remaining projects will include some HVAC, plumbing and electrical systems. SOUTHGATE DISTRICT LOGO We have asked students and staff to help create a district logo. We are
looking for a new brand. The contest ends near the end of October and a winner will be selected. ATLAS SOUTHGATE ONLINE LEARNING PROGRAM The Atlas program began at the end of January last year and since then has been able to support students who need 100 percent online education for a variety of reasons. We have had 17 students earn their diploma from Atlas since last January! 2019 HOMECOMING Congratulations to the Southgate Anderson Homecoming King and Queen: Roger Putnam and Caroline Demou!
SOUTHGATE STAR • October 24 - November 23, 2019 • Page 7
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Those bright orange stacks of pumpkins at markets and grocery stores remind us that Halloween is just around the corner, and that Thanksgiving is not far behind. So now’s the time to stock up on ingredients — especially canned pumpkin — for baking pies, cakes, cookies and other treats. A member of the squash family, pumpkin is considered a fruit because it contains seeds and grows on a vine. Not only is it high in potassium, which has a positive effect on blood pressure, but it also is one the best sources of the antioxidant Vitamin A, known to help prevent degenerative damage to the eyes. Besides, one cup of pumpkin contains only 49 calories, zero fat and zero cholesterol. The following two recipes are amazingly easy and DEE-licious! I added dried cranberries and chopped pecans to the cookie recipe, but raisins and walnuts would be good, too. The second recipe is also very easy, addictive, and tastes even better the second day. OLD-FASHIONED SOFT PUMPKIN COOKIES 2½ cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg ½ teaspoon salt ½ cup butter (1 stick), softened 1½ cups granulated sugar 1 cup pumpkin (not pie filling) 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla ½ cup chopped pecans ½ cup dried cranberries Glaze Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease baking sheets or line with parchment paper. Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt in a medium-sized bowl. In a large bowl, with an electric mixer, beat butter and sugar until well blended. Beat in pumpkin, egg and vanilla until smooth. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Stir in pecans and dried cranberries. Drop by rounded tablespoons onto prepared
baking sheets. Bake for 15 to 18 minutes until edges are firm. Cool for 2 minutes, then remove to wire racks to cool completely. Drizzle with the following glaze, or frost with the glaze and center with candy pumpkins or a few candy corns. GLAZE 2 cups sifted powdered sugar 3 tablespoons milk 1 tablespoon melted butter 1 teaspoon vanilla Combine sugar, milk, butter and vanilla in a small bowl, stirring until smooth. PUMPKIN SPICE CAKE WITH CREAMY ICING 15-ounce can pumpkin (not pie filling) ¾ cup cooking oil 2/3 cup dark brown sugar, firmly packed 1 cup granulated sugar 3 large eggs 2 teaspoons cinnamon Dash ground cloves Dash ginger 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour Icing Preheat oven to 350 degrees. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer at medium speed, combine pumpkin, oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, cinnamon, cloves, ginger, salt, baking soda and baking powder until well blended. Stir in the flour, blending well, with the wet ingredients. Pour the batter into a 9x13-inch pan that has been sprayed with an aerosol spray product. Bake 30 minutes, or until the cake tests done with a toothpick. Cool completely on a rack, then frost with the following icing: ICING: 8 ounces cream cheese at room temperature ¼ cup unsalted butter 1 teaspoon vanilla 2 cups powdered sugar ¼ teaspoon cinnamon Blend cream cheese and butter until smooth at low speed. Add vanilla. Add powdered sugar gradually until well blended. Add cinnamon. Add more powdered sugar or milk if necessary. DEAR READERS: Please consider sharing some of your favorite holiday appetizer recipes. Contact me at Evycairns@aol.com.
Page 8 • October 24 - November 23, 2019 • SOUTHGATE STAR
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Page 10 • October 24 - November 23, 2019 • SOUTHGATE STAR
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When people drone on and on, those that could listen tend to tune out. I concern myself about that truth as I begin each column for these publications. There are still important points to be made and so many still don’t connect the dots of our community and adjust their behavior. So I still feel compelled to share the perspective of a small, independent and locally owned business owner. And I still try hard to tell you emphatically that these words, while self-serving on the surface, are addressing societal issues across the nation. The issues I obsess over are so much bigger than whether or not people are shopping at my stores. I still like to take Jefferson and Fort Street into Detroit when I have the time to do so. I feel like I know what’s going on much more than if I just blow by as fast as I can. As we traveled last week to Historic Fort Wayne to attend a Vintage Market Fair put on by our friends at Wyandotte’s Vintage Market Home, we drove through Ecorse and River Rouge. Further North is Del Ray, the catastrophic worst case example in the realm of commercially viable communities. What I saw should not have had the impact on me that it did this time; it’s not as if it’s been years since I last did it. But it did.I’m speaking to Wyandotte business owners much more these days, and the talking points always refer to exactly what I saw. And what I saw made me glad I’m talking about it so much. Things don’t have to stay on the same rail; it doesn’t have to be this way. Both River Rouge and Ecorse are cities filled with residents that need businesses to serve their needs. Both cities are trying hard to fight back against the entropy that occurs in the absence of driving forces, both collective and individual. When I realized that entire blocks of their business districts are boarded up and not bustling, it hits me as if they were my blocks in Wyandotte. It is not OK. It is the way it is, yes, I know, but it
doesn’t have to be that way. Detroit has lots of examples of businesses that never gave up. One in particular that personifies my point is Nemo’s on Michigan Avenue in Corktown. Had Nemo’s shut down with Tiger Stadium, would Slow’s have opened? Now, how many thriving spots can you rattle of in that area of town? One stalwart business made another one think they could do it, too, blocks apart, but in the same neighborhood. When you visit Corktown now, you feel the success of each unique and cool place, which together comprise that hustle and bustle area, exploding now because of Ford’s investment. Had people abandoned Nemo’s, none of this would have happened. It is that simple, it is that powerful. Many people simply don’t let that statement really sink in and become a part of their operating system. Most are not indifferent, most care, but, most don’t think their little old meal or drink or shirt at a local place matters all that much. And that, my friends, is why entire cities implode or simply fade away. It is a huge subject. I don’t have the time to be as well versed as I could be or should be. But I know that support equals businesses staying open. Every diversion away from a local and independent business hurts a little bit. It’s such a fundamental truth, but we don’t behave as if we understand it. We don’t want to hear that every national chain, and every on-line company reduces the traffic in areas like Grosse Ile, Trenton, Wyandotte, Ecorse and River Rouge. Yet “Whalburger” opens and people can’t wait to go. Insert whatever name you want for Whalberger,, it’s the same thing. All of these coastal cities are virtually all local and independent. They all live and die by the sheer will and tenacity of single people or families. Every quirky place you see has a quirky person steering the ship, contributing to the vibe of their city. It can’t be duplicated. It is real, it is personal, and it is connected to the community in which it operates. Chances are they know your name when you walk in because you love what they do. Support that, nourish that, extend that. It’s beautiful and magical, and fragile.
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SOUTHGATE STAR • October 24 - November 23, 2019 • Page 11
A tradition on excellence
Anderson marching band burnishes it’s fine reputation TOM TIGANI Southgate Star
The tradition of excellence continues for the Southgate Anderson High School Marching Band. The band captured best in show at Wyandotte Roosevelt’s Downriver Fanfare Oct. 1 in an 11-band competition and won for best music and best percussion earlier this fall at St. Clair Shores Lakeview High School. The wins came under the leadership of Marching Band Director Brendan Walter and Assistant Band Director Zachary Novicki, who have been running things since 2017 and continuing the legacy of longtime Band Director Jim Skura. “It’s been super great,” said Novicki, who joined the staff in 2015 and became one of the directors in 2017. “One of our biggest philosophies is to use music to create better people. We use band to teach life skills these kids are going to have to use when they graduate. That philosophy has led to success on the field.” Southgate Anderson finished third a few years back in state-level completion and in eighth place last year. “We’re hoping to keep building on that success,” Novicki said. One of this year’s wins, at the Lake Orion Dragon Invitational earlier this fall, was somewhat unexpected; it featured 11 bands, two in Southgate Anderson’s flight (band size). “We weren’t expecting to win,” Novicki said. “We were penalized even though we were a little under time, and ended up winning best visuals, best music and best general effects.” He said the timing issue arose because the band cut seven minutes out of its show for competition season. This year’s show is called “Circle of Balance,” which features representations of the different elements of nature. Woodwinds begin the set, symbolizing trees, leading into fire, brought to life by drums.
Fire creates Earth, which bears metal, featuring the percussion instruments. “Then everyone kind of rocks out at the end,” Novicki said. The metal portion of the show contains water and coral, represented by blue flags to create the backdrop, before completing the full circle back to wood. Wind instruments play as the water moves. “It even pulls in feng shui,” Novicki said. “It’s deeper than we usually go.” All of the music the band plays is original, and the show is mapped out at the beginning of each year by the directors and music writer Nick Pourcho. Novicki said music writing has become increasingly important in recent years because of copyright issues, but that the band hasn’t missed a beat. “We have an excellent music writer,” he said. “That way we don’t have to worry about paying anyone else for songs.” The philosophy of creating better
people through music has worked out well so far in 2019. “Everyone wants to work really hard,” Novicki said. “Some bands are all out to win, but that doesn’t always create the most positive culture. “But we had 70 members last year (and) 83 this year, and it’s been a great year. People have really embraced the culture.” “People” includes the Southgate community, as a number of businesses have offered to sponsor the band program. Their names have appeared on their back of band T-shirts, and Granader Family Restaurants donated $1,000 to the band and invited it to play at their Fort Street McDonalds location. The band also played at the Grecian Center for this year’s Greekfest. One member’s employer even donated prop materials, and parents have been sewing flags almost every day since the band got back from band camp.
“The support from them has been incredible and keeps us going,” Novicki said.
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Page 14 • September 26 - October 23, 2019 • SOUTHGATE STAR
Have an Event or Fundraiser? Let us know at 734-282-3939
Hospital encourages residents to use its services Here are some upcoming and recurring events held by Henry Ford Hospital -Wyandotte: MEDICATION TAKE BACK DAY Turn in your expired or unused medications for safe disposal during a Medication Take Back Day from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 26 at Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital. Any medications (pills) used by people or pets will be accepted. Liquids, needles and sharps will not be accepted. The event is free. Call 734-246-6057 for more information. DIABETES AWARENESS SEMINAR Learn about the risk, prevention and management of diabetes during a free Diabetes Awareness Seminar from 6-7 p.m. Nov. 13. Healthy refreshments will be served. Registration is required by calling 734-246-6057. FLU SHOTS It’s not too early to prepare for flu season. Walk-in flu shots are offered beginning in the fall during normal business hours at Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital and Henry Ford Health Center-Brownstown while supplies last. The $25 cost is covered by Medicare and HAP. Please bring your insurance card and driver’s license. Call the Flu Hotline at 734246-9822 for details. Other ongoing events include: CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP WHEN: 6 p.m. Nov. 21 WHERE: Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital – Cardiovascular Outpatient Classroom A free support group is available for anyone who provides care for a loved one and is interested in support, information and connections with local resources. Learn more at henryford. com/caregiversupportgroup or call 313-874-4838. BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENINGS WHEN: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.Nov. 13 and Dec. 11 WHERE: Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital – Main Lobby No appointments necessary.
$10 CHOLESTEROL SCREENINGS WHEN: 8-10 a.m. Nov. 11 and Dec. 9 WHERE: Lobby, Henry Ford Health Center-Brownstown, 23050 West Road WHEN: 12-2 p.m. Nov. 13 and Dec. 11 WHERE: Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital – Main Lobby No appointments necessary-Total and HDL. BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT GROUP WHEN: 1-2:30 p.m. Nov. 21 and Dec. 19 WHERE: Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital – 3 Allen Conference Room If you’re grieving a loved one, a free support group is available the third Thursday of each month. Call 586276-9570 with questions. STAND STEADY SEMINARS WHEN: 4:30-6:30 p.m. Nov. 7 WHERE: Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital – Multipurpose Room Learn the impact of falls, how to make yourself and your home safe and simple exercises to do at home at this free fall prevention seminar. Register at henryford.com/standsteady or call 734-284-4499. BARIATRIC SURGERY SEMINARS WHEN: 6-7:30 p.m. Nov. 14 and Dec. 12 WHERE: Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital – Multipurpose Room Bariatric surgery can give you a new outlook on life and lifelong benefits. Join us for a free weight loss seminar and learn about preparation for bariatric surgery, postsurgical care, diet and exercise. Call 734-285-7420 to RSVP. MANTRA MEDITATION WHEN: 5-6:15 p.m. the second and fourth Thursday of each month WHERE: Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital – Multipurpose Room Introduction and benefits of meditation. Learn mantra meditations and take a stress reduction break. Everyone is welcome. Call 734-2466057 to RSVP.
Information Center Bash
The Information Center, located in Taylor, held its 2019 Gala at Crystal Gardens in Southgate On Oct. 12. The event was attended by residents from throughout the Downriver area. The Information Center, Inc., is a private, non-profit organization that provides information and referral and senior services to residents of southeast Michigan, with the objective to connect people with the human service resources that fit their individual needs. Through a variety of programs, The Information Center has been dedicated to the goal of connecting people with resources since 1975.
Information Center Executive Director Edward D’Angelo tells the Gala attendees about the nonprofit organization.
Kevin Bowlby and wife Sharon Schlimmer. Sharon is a member of the Southgate Rotary Club
Photos by Dave Gorgon
Shannon and Al Branch of Southgate. Shannon wore her Motown T-shirt in honor of Phase 5 and orchestra, which performed Motown hits throughout the evening.
SOUTHGATE STAR • September 26 - October 23, 2019 • Page 15
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A free public screening of the documentary titled “The Indian Schools, the Survivors’ Story,” will take place at 7 p.m. on Nov. 12 at St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 2441 Nichols St., Trenton The screening is sponsored by the American Association of University Women Wyandotte-Downriver Branch. Doors open at 6:30. Dr. Kay McGowan, cultural anthropology instructor at Eastern Michigan University and co-producer of the film, will be present for commentary. In the film, Native Americans now living in Michigan relate their memories of being taken from their families and placed in boarding schools, the purpose of which was to facilitate assimilation of the Native population through replacement of their traditional ways with those of the majority of Americans. For most, it was a painful and humiliating experience, and the detrimental effects are still felt today within a large segment of the indigenous population of this country. Inspiration for the film came to
Fay Givens, director of the American Indian Services agency located in Lincoln Park. Within a “talking circle,” participants shared recollections of their formative school years at various Indian Schools with each other. Givens and her sister, Dr. McGowan, both of Choctaw and Cherokee heritage, recognized a need to record these stories while the people were still here to tell them, and to bring this tragic chapter from American history to light. The Wyandotte-Downriver Branch of AAUW is comprised of both college graduates and anyone, male or female, who supports gender fairness and equity, individual rights and social justice for a diverse and inclusive society. For information, contact Branch President Sheila Blair, at (734) 674-2246 or blair.s@live.com. The group’s web page, downriver-mi. aauw.net, contains an overview of the organization, and links to our Facebook page and state, national and associated sites.
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May 9 date set for opening of Wildlife Refuge Gateway Earlier this month Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI), the U.S. Department of the Interior and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, announced that on May 9, 2020, there will be an event to mark the Grand Opening of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge Gateway and visitor center. The Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge is the first and only international refuge in North America and stretches along the shoreline of the Detroit River and western Lake Erie. The refuge focuses on conserving, protecting, and restoring habitats for 30 species of waterfowl, 117 kinds of fish, and over 300 species of birds, while providing quality opportunities for people to connect with nature. It is home to a variety of ecologically important bird species, including bald eagles, osprey, peregrine falcons; fish species including whitefish, sturgeon, salmon, perch, and walleye. “This refuge and conservation mattered so much to John. It was his vision for a place to gather, learn and protect the wildlife and natural resources that make our region unique,” said Dingell. “After decades, and the incredibly hard work of many, I look forward to celebrating the Grand Opening of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge Gateway and visitor center in May. Being at the refuge truly reinforces one’s appreciation of the outdoors, and I hope everyone can join us for the occasion.” “This visitor center will provide a place for all to develop a love of the great outdoors through education and exploration,” said Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt.
THE DETROIT RIVER INTERNATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE IS THE FIRST AND ONLY INTERNATIONAL REFUGE IN NORTH AMERICA AND STRETCHES ALONG THE SHORELINE OF THE DETROIT RIVER AND WESTERN LAKE ERIE. “We are proud to announce that we will be opening the new John D Dingell Jr. Visitor Center to the public on May 9, 2020,” said U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Regional Director Charlie Wooley. “We appreciate our partner’s and the community’s patience as we near completion of this beautiful, new facility. “This will be a wonderful gathering place and beginning of a new chapter for the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge in the Downriver community and we hope everyone will come out and help us celebrate this spring.” In the early 2000s, then-Representative John Dingell joined then-Canadian Deputy Prime Minister Herb Grey to form a group of local, regional, state, and federal agencies to establish a wildlife refuge along the lower Detroit River ecosystem.
Dingell grew up hunting and enjoying the outdoors in these same areas and made it his mission to establish the refuge. The process formally began in 2001 when President Bush signed legislation written by Dingell to create the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge. Since that time, the refuge has grown from a couple of small tracts of land into a 6,200-acre refuge that spans 48 miles of the lower Detroit River and western Lake Erie. The Refuge Gateway embodies the vision of the refuge. Co-managed by Wayne County and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, it includes restored native habitat on the site of a former factory, a 700-foot fishing pier into the Detroit River, and a state-of-theart LEED-certified visitor center and offices. The Refuge Gateway will provide public access to the river in Trenton and is the gateway into the hiking trails of the refuge’s Humbug Marsh, the last undeveloped mile along the U.S. side of the river. In 2017, the visitor center was named after John Dingell as a tribute to his decades of service in establishing and expanding the refuge. In early October Congresswoman Dingell (D-MI) and Margaret Everson, Acting Director of US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), toured the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge. “Seeing the area and work being done matter to me, the community, and the whole region,” said Dingell. “After decades, and the incredibly hard work of many, I look forward to celebrating the Grand Opening of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge Gateway and visitor center in May.”
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SPORTS
Anderson runners grab area bragging rights The Gabiel Richard Downriver meet - known for years as the NewsHerald Invitational - has long been a source of bragging rights and local pride among area cross country teams. The meet now includes teams from outside the Downriver area, but local squads still compete with each other and this year top honors belong to the Anderson boys, who finished second behind Dearborn. Dearborn scored 70 points, followed by Anderson’s 90. Allen Park, Riverview, Woodhaven, Roosevelt, Trenton, Carlson, Grosse Ile and Divine Child rounded out the top 10 teams. Dearborn runners claimed the top two individual spots, running sub-17-minute times, but Anderson’s Terry Towell was third in 17:13. Brendon Buckner was seventh (17:20) and Steven Porter finished just outside the top 10 runners (11th,17:37). Connor Eccleton and Roger Putnam finished the scoring for the runner-up Titans. For Anderson’s girls team Lena Hales was the top finisher. In Downriver League action, the Titans find themselves in a dogfight at the top of the standings. Anderson beat Roosevelt in the first league jamboree, but at the second jamboree on Oct. 3, the Bears turned the tables, beating the Titans 50-59, setting up a showdown at the league championship meet, which was run Oct. 17. Roosevelt grabbed the top two spots in the meet, but the Titans grabbed three of the top eight as the teams battled back and forth. In the end, Roosevelt’s strong finish at the top of the standings was too much for Anderson to overcome. Porter was his team’s top finisher (4th, 17:46), followed by Towell (6th, 18:07), Buckner (8th, 18:18), Putnam and Joe Rodriguez.
Titans running into league’s big boys HANK MINCKIEWICZ Southgate Star
Photo by Larry Caruso
After winning three of its first five games this season, the Anderson football team has run into the meatgrinder portion of its schedule, as the Titans knew they would. The final four teams on Anderson’s schedule this season were a combined 31-13 last year and all four went to the Michigan High School Athletic Association state playoffs. And two of the four have already shown the Titans how good they really are. On Oct. 4 defending Downriver League champ and currently league leader Woodhaven beat Anderson 35-0. A week later, Trenton went even further, spoiling the Titans’s homecoming night with a 42-0 beatdown. After being shutout on back-to-back week, the Titans could use a bit of a break, but it won’t be forthcoming. On Oct.
18 the Titans welcomed Roosevelt, a team on track to record it’s 14th straight state playoff appearance, and then they close with Allen Park, a team that has been to the playoffs 25 of the last 30 years and one almost assured to go gain this year. The last time the Titans scored was the last time they won, back on week five of the season when they built a big lead and hung on to bet nonleague Royal Oak 19-14. Anderson went up 19-0 in the game on touchdown runs by Aaron Jaciuk, Roman Bell and Matt Thomas. It was 19-0 heading into the final quarter of play when the visitors scored twice to make the final score close. Anderson is attempting to avoid it seventh consecutive 3-6 season, but they need a win over Wyandotte r Allen Park to do it.
Anderson soccer squad finishes up season A long and tough year came to a close for the Anderson soccer team with a firstround loss in the Michigan High School Athletic Association district tournament. The Titans, who won just two games this season, fell to Riverview 2-0 in the first game of the 2019 tourney. The Pirates then went on to lose 3-1 to Melvindale. Melvindale and Allen Park played for the district championship on Oct. 17. Allen Park reached the finals by beating district host Trenton 2-0. Trenton had advance by beating Carlson. The Trenton district winner moved on to face either Tecumseh or New Boston Huron in the first round of regionals.
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Titans tennis season ends at regionals A largely successful, bounceback kind of a tennis season by the Anderson boys program ended at the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 2 regional hosted by Allen Park Oct. 11. The Titans only won a pair of matches at the tournament. The wins came from the No. 1 doubles team of Brayden Johnson and Andrew Calhoun, who beat Dustin Adkins and Anthony Pallone 6-3, 6-1 of Lincoln Park, only to fall to eventual flight champs Mark Gorham and Cal Raymond of Carlson. And the No. 2 doubles team of Brendan Steichen and John Demou, who beat Puwaden and Puwanat Sapprasent of Lincoln Park 6-1, 6-0 before falling to the Wyandotte duo of Dorian Soto and Nick Cowger. Others competing for the Titans at regionals were doubles players Zach Staten and Gavin White and Kevin Lucas and Luke Piscitelli and singles players Dylan Faber, Andrew Photo by Larry Caruso Wright, Zach Koerber and Jason Craig. Andrew Calhoun and his No. 1 doubles partner Brayden Johnson won a match at the regional tournament at Allen Park.
State tournament right around the corner for spikers As the regular season draws to a conclusion area teams start to turn an eye to the upcoming Michigan High School Athletic Association postseason and for volleyball teams that means districts. Anderson finds itself this year in a Division 1 district hosted by Woodhaven. The Titans will play the winner of the Trenton-Woodhaven match on Nov. 6, with the winner advancing to the district finals. The other side of the bracket has Carlson playing Riverview with the winner going to the finals. The district champ will advance to regionals to play the winner of the Lincoln Park district. That district consists of Lincoln Park, Allen Park, River Rouge, Roosevelt and Taylor. Photos by Larry Caruso
Happy Hauntings The Halloween spirit infected Southgate early this year with residents throughout the city decking their homes with ghoulish delight. This selection of Halloween homes were found on Fordline, Drake and Melba Jean streets.
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Dementia expert shares his story, trains staff in elder care PAULA NEUMAN Southgate Star
Dementia specialist David Currier gained his expertise in perhaps the hardest way possible. In 1988, both of his parents were diagnosed with dementia — his father Ralph with Alzheimer’s disease and his mother Fern with a combination of vascular and Lewy body dementia. Currier was their caregiver for 5 1/2 years. “They were in their late 50s at this point,” said Currier, who came to Riverview recently to speak and to give trainings to staff members at Rivergate Terrace and Rivergate Health Care Center. “My father came home one day and said he had retired early. It turned out he was fired because he couldn’t remember how to do his job anymore.” Eventually, the ravages of Alzheimer’s made his formerly gentle, loving father very aggressive. Both parents had to put into nursing homes. “My mother died in 1994,” Currier said. “I went in to tell my father, and he punched me in the face. I remember going home, crying.” But some caretaking moments were enlightening and fulfilling, and Currier learned ways to cheer his ailing parents and make them smile for a while. A former drummer with the rock band Boston, Currier was working then as a songwriter on movie soundtracks. He found that music and drumming tapped positive emotions for his parents. “It’s a crazy road for somebody to go from being a drummer and songwriter to being a trainer of CNAs (certified nurse aides) and nurses and activity people,” Currier said. “It’s been a pretty marvelous journey.”
Finding his pathway to his Habilitation therapy is now individualized playlists of their current position, gained in widely accepted, and Currier favorite music, and to get them 2000, as dementia specialist travels his region teaching it to involved in programs suited to and program development nursing home staff. He spoke their abilities at the same time for the northeast division of on the habilitation approach every day. Life Care Centers of America on Sept. 5 at Rivergate Health Alzheimer’s affects the (owner of the Riverview Care Center, and about how brain’s memory capacity, but nursing homes and many others Alzheimer’s patients perceive creating meaningful routines across the country) also came the world at Rivergate Terrace helps reduce patients’ anxiety, about in perhaps the hardest on Sept. 4. keeps them active and more way possible. He also trained caregivers engaged, and gives them a “I found out my ex-wife there about ways to use the better quality of life, he said. had been unfaithful to me the therapy. Currier also helps facilitate whole time I was taking care “I was very excited about the drumming circles at some of my parents,” Currier said. “I training we did at Rivergate,” facilities. Drumming in a group told my doctor helps patients I was going find joy, he to commit said. They suicide. I was may forget committed five minutes to a hospital. later that One night I they were looked out the drumming, window, there but the at a streetlight, emotion stays and I realized with them, he that God was said. A few lighting the years ago, darkness for he brought me. I realized in David that my parents Mattacks, did not die in Paul vain if I could McCartney’s help other former people.” drummer, Released to join in a from the nursing home hospital, drumming Currier began circle. volunteering for “He was the Alzheimer’s almost Association. brought to Dr. Paul Raia, tears seeing a gerontologist David Currier, formerly a drummer for the rock band people who and were in a Boston, is now an expert on dementia, who helps train psychologist fetal position caregivers around the country. listened to respond so Currier sharing some of his he said. “The management much to the music,” Currier hard-earned insights with said afterward that the staff said. “He’s going to join us family members of Alzheimer’s was very excited about it. The again in a couple of weeks.” patients, got to know him, and basis of the training is that you If you’re caring for a told him to go to work as a can’t rehabilitate someone with dementia patient, try not to program director. Alzheimer’s or other types of correct the person. “Dr. Raia is my mentor,” dementia. You can’t reverse the For instance, his mother Currier said. “He’s my angel.” damage. But you can get them would point out the window Raia developed a systematic involved in programs that use in July and say, ‘Look at approach to dementia care their life experiences.” the beautiful snow,’ he said. called habilitation therapy, He trains nursing home staff Instead of telling her there was a technique that focuses on to get and keep on file personal, no snow, he learned to say the patient’s emotions and individualized information something like ‘Snow really is their remaining capacities. on each patient, to create lovely, isn’t it?’
“We inadvertently make life much tougher for the person with dementia by trying to hang on to what they were before,” he said. “Don’t point out what they’re doing wrong. As time goes by, they don’t know what season it is, what they’re supposed to be doing. Their world gets smaller and smaller. We shouldn’t say that they’re forgetful. When the brain’s hippocampus isn’t recording stuff, is it really being forgetful?” And their brain issues eventually change their vision. When that happens, patients can’t see the bottom of the bathtub or where their next step is taking them. Shiny floors may look like water or ice to them. Alzheimer’s patients need 50 percent more lighting than someone without the disease, he said. Also, if you’re caring for a dementia patient, go to a support group, Currier advised. “You can’t be a good caregiver if you’re not taking care of yourself,” he said. “Support groups are wonderful. You find out you’re not alone.” He finds that the best part of his job is training CNAs and activity staff members at nursing homes, Currier said. “My heroes are the CNAs,” he said. “They’re unsung heroes. They do so much! To be able to give them techniques on how to bathe people without a battle, to make their jobs a little less stressful — that to me honors my parents. I miss my parents every day.” And the CNAs and other caregivers have the constant strain of watching their patients — often people they have come to love — slowly fade away. “It’s a terminal disease,” Currier said. “No matter how hard you try, they are going to die. These wonderful staff members mourn. And the next day, there’s someone new and you start all over. I’m honored to be able to train them.”
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