Southgate Star, March 10 – April 11, 2023

‘We are Plarners’

Group creates mats for the homeless while creating a bond with one another

A group of volunteers that turns used plastic shopping bags into comfortable sleeping mats for the needy just celebrated its sixth anniversary of making a difference throughout the Region.

Members of “We Are Plarners” have converted countless clean bags into “plastic yarn” – or “plarn” –and ultimately into thousands of mats that are used by the homeless, seniors and others who otherwise struggle to provide suitable warm bedding or furniture for their families.

The group’s mission statement is “help others while helping the environment.”

Founder

Rita LaRosa Carioti of

Southgate said each 3-by-6foot mat keeps 650 to 700 plastic bags out of landfills.

“The benefit is extraordinary,” Carioti said. “If we can take plastic bags out of the landfill and make it purposeful, it’s win-win.”

Carioti, who has been married 38 years and is the mother of three, said she grew up in a “charitable family” in Wyandotte.

After leaving a job at a Taylor school, she started crocheting mats at her home and then considered how “much faster and better” it would be of there was a group of volunteers working together. Group meetings started at Christ the Good

SEE PLARNERS, Page 3

DAVE GORGON

Southgate Anderson Titan cheerleaders cap another strong season

Sophomore Jackson Sage finishes fourth at MHSAA Division

Downriver Business’ Best Kept Secret?

Mark Tremper, Vice-President of Marketing & Business

Development

Downriver Community Federal Credit Union

Hundreds of Downriver businesses have found tremendous value from the “Grow Your Business” Workshop Series, yet this unique opportunity hosted by the Downriver Community Federal Credit Union seems to be the best kept secret available to Downriver businesses. Each workshop in the series features topics relating to sales, marketing, and personal development, and is presented by a local, national, or international personal and business growth expert on the 3rd Wednesday of each month from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

FEBRUARY 28, 2022, SOUTHGATE, MI

For over 15 years, hundreds of Downriver businesses have found tremendous value from a monthly workshop presented by the Downriver Community Federal Credit Union called the “Grow Your Business” Series. The series is normally held on the 3rd Wednesday of each month from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM and is designed to help people gain the knowledge and skills they need to grow their business in both prosperous and challenging

economic times. Each workshop is presented by a local, national, or international personal and business growth expert on a topic relating to sales, marketing, and personal development

To date, there have been well over 200 workshops featuring a diverse line-up of speakers and topics, such as Michael Angelo Caruso, “Being the Best”; Billye Thompson, “Build Your Business Using LinkedIn”; Kurt David,“Face Change Like a Champion”; Josh Linkner, “Disciplined Dreaming: How to Drive Breakthrough Creativity”; Shawn Duperon, “Demystifying Media: The Real Scoop on How to Get Free Press & Publicity”; and many others.

This year’s topics have or will include “Building a Stand-Out Brand with Behavioral Marketing” (Jay Johnson); “The Book Exchange: Books to Help You Grow Your Business, “Adding a Spark of Disney to Your Company” (Richard Paul), and “The Importance of Career Planning and Long Term Success” (Jim Jump).

“Downriver Credit Union is committed to providing resources that help people accomplish great things in their personal and business lives,”

says Robert La Palme, Downriver CU’s President & CEO, “and these workshops have made a positive impact on hundreds of people in our community for many years now.”

The workshops are held at Downriver CU’s Southgate Office (15261 Trenton Rd) in their Community Room, a multi-purpose room used for both Credit Union and community-oriented events, as well as by local community organizations such as the Downriver Business Association, Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber, Southgate Rotary, Downriver Toastmasters, and others.

A small registration fee of $5.00 is being charged for those who would like to attend the workshops, which includes breakfast, networking, and the workshop. Anyone with an account at Downriver Community Federal Credit Union may attend at no charge.

For more information about the workshop series, please contact Mark Tremper at 313-386-2200 x1202 or visit www.DownriverCU.com/GrowYourBusiness.

PLARNERS

Continued from page 1

Shepherd Church in Lincoln Park. Now they meet in the basement of First Baptist Church of Wyandotte and seven other locations in the area.

“I think what pushed me to create a plarning group is that we all have talents and can use them,” Carioti said. “I loved to just be real crafty. It’s where my joy was. I know there is a lot of homelessness in the Detroit area. I volunteered for Christnet. I met homeless people that needed comfort. If we can do a little bit to bring warmth to them then it’s a win.”

She said the mats are comfortable, provide a barrier between the body and the ground and help retain body heat while sleeping. If they get dirty or muddy, they can be easily cleaned. And bugs don’t seem to like the plastic.

The First Baptist group comes together from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursdays. Volunteers work as a production-line team in stations, starting with sorting plastic grocery bags by size and Color.

The body of each bag is cut into 3½inch strips. The strips are cut into loops, which are strung together to make a plarn ball.

Using a size Q crochet hook, each member works to create a mat one at a time. Many members also work on their mats at home. The end result is a strong but lightweight, easy-to-carry mat that can be rolled up with a handle for transporting. The mats are stored at the church and delivered to various locations, many of which are documented on the We Are Plarners Facebook page.

Beneficiaries have included Wyandotte-based Downriver for Veterans, Wayneright Community Meals (Wyandotte Soup Kitchen), Crossroads of Michigan Detroit, All Saints in Pontiac, Capuchin Soup Kitchen, the Out-Wayne County Continuum of Care, Little Dresses for Africa and other locations.

In March, 300 mats were delivered to Motor City Mitten Mission. Mats also have been delivered to the Downriver elderly and have served as community service projects for Downriver youth.

Gathering together in one location has led to friendships and even counseling between one another.

Patty Lennon of Taylor said she relied on the kindness of volunteers at her group at First Baptist after the passing of her husband Patrick two years ago.

“It’s actually been therapy for me,” said Lennon, who is in charge of flattening and sorting bags. “I have lupus and it keeps my hands moving and my mind

The sixth-anniversary party at First Baptist Church drew dozens of contributors who enjoyed food, beverages and each other’s company, while demonstrating to newcomers how plarning works. Lead Pastor Kenny Beasley said he is happy to host a group that makes such a difference.

“It’s amazing we’ve been together for six years,” Carioti said. “It has brought me so much joy. I think we have the best volunteers ever.”

Diane Slagle of Riverview said she was introduced to the group by a friend. “Honestly, I was overwhelmed by what I saw,” Slagle said. “By the time the meeting was over, I knew this was something I needed to do. A lot of the women here will tell you they came for the activity and became incredibly good friends. It’s like a therapy group. You get so much more than you bargained for when you work with a group that is for the greater good.”

Carioti said that while We Are Plarners has plenty of plastic bags, they always need volunteers. “Not all of us crochet,” she added. “You can always sort bags, cut bags or string them. If you crochet, that’s a plus.”

active. I have met some beautiful people. We have become a little family.”

Lennon and Peggy Kanowski of Wyandotte were two of the original six volunteers in the group. Kanowski said she became a plarner after multiple sclerosis led to her losing her job as a respiratory therapist at Henry Ford Hospital’s main campus.

“Rita asked me if I wanted to come,” Kanowski said. “It became so much more than Plarning, it became family. This group has seen a lot of hardships. It turns into something bigger than volunteering.”

Meetings can be found almost every weekday. On Thursdays, plarners gather at First Baptist Church of Wyandotte, located at 1925 Ford Ave. (Northline Road), from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and at Atria Kinghaven Assisted Living at 14800 King Road in Riverview from 2:20 to 4:30 P.m. Monday meetings are held from 6 to 8 p.m. at St. Joseph/St. Vincent Pallotti Parish at 344 Elm St. in Wyandotte. St. Cyprian Catholic Church at 13249 Pennsylvania Road in Riverview hosts meetings from 6 to 8 p.m. every other Tuesday. Other Tuesday meetings are held at St. Rock’s Catholic Church in Flat Rock and St. George Episcopal Church in Milford.

Additional meetings are held from 10 a.m. to noon the first and third Wednesdays of the month at Our Lady of the Woods at 21892 Gudith in Woodhaven and from 9:30 to 11:30.a.m. every Wednesday at the Ford Senior Center at 6750 Troy in Taylor.

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Your morning in paradise starts with sipping your coffee sitting at your nautical teak table overlooking lush tropical landscaping on your private balcony or taking a short stroll to the tiki hut at the end of the pier to watch the sunrise over the Atlantic. The perfect start in paradise.

After a fun filled day of boating, fishing, scuba diving or soaking up the sun relaxing by one of the largest pools in the Florida Keys or relaxing by the pool overlooking the marina and Atlantic ocean, or even sinking your toes in the sand like the song says “only worry in the world is the tide going to reach your chair” on our private upland sunning beach. There is always something for everyone!

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American Legion looking for program participants

Downriver students who are finishing their junior year of high school are being recruited to participate in the Michigan American Legion Auxiliary Girls State and the American Legion Boys State programs that are scheduled for June 18-24, 2023.

Girls State will be held on the campus of Michigan State University; Boys State will be held at Grand Valley State University. Annually, more than 20,000 high school students across the country participate in the programs.

Students, known as “citizens,” participate in a week-long summertime citizenship and leadership program. They receive guidance from trained instructors who give them the tools they need to run their own model state.

The activity is born out of a need for youth training in practical citizenship and leadership in addition to instilling a working knowledge of the structure and operation of government.

ALA Girls State and AL Boys State citizens campaign, hold rallies, debate and ultimately vote to elect their city, county and state officials. Once elected to office, delegates are sworn in and perform their prescribed duties. Attendees not elected to office are given appointments and visit the offices of those elected to share their viewpoints as citizens.

Thousands of dollars are given in the form of scholarships.

Famous alumni include astronaut Neil Armstrong, President Bill Clinton. Michigan U.S. Senators

Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters, TV journalists

Tom Brokaw and Jane Pauley, basketball legend Michael Jordan, football coaching legend Nick Saban, Superintendent of the U.S. Air Force Academy Lt. General Michele Johnson and thousands of “America’s best and brightest.”

Wyandotte resident Beryl Robbins is the Michigan state chairwoman of the ALA Girls State program. She said she recently received an email from 1950 ALA Girls State alumni Patricia Lee Gauch, who said, “Attending ALA Girls State was a life-changer for me. I suddenly had a different idea of myself and my responsibilities to the nation and the world at-large. I stood taller, took leadership, became fearless in the possibilities I then recognized. I went on to assume major leadership roles at Miami University, which I attended as an undergraduate, and became a publisher, editor and author of children’s books, producing winning books for 25 years.

“For the first time, I met young women from every culture, every economic level, every race. It was thrilling for me and it gave me an image of myself that was new. I wanted to be the young woman ALA Girls State told me I could be. It has all kinds of ramification as I went the following year in college, eventually becoming the first woman editor of the Miami University Newspaper.”

The primary sponsoring organization is the American Legion Family, although other

organizations such as the Kiwanis, Lions Club, Exchange Clubs, private businesses and relatives of students have supported the program in the past, Robbins said. Robbins is a member of the Trenton American Legion Auxiliary Unit 426, where she serves as auxiliary president and chairwoman of Girls State and Membership. She also serves on the executive board of the 16th District group of legion auxiliaries, which serve the Downriver Area.

Robbins said the cost to sponsor one student is $400, a small investment in the future. She said the students leave ALA Michigan Girls State and AL Boys State with the knowledge and desire to get involved in their communities and continue to work hard to achieve.

She said some of the girls and boys come right out of the program and get involved in politics, “if they’re not already.”

Anyone interested in attending or sponsoring a student to ALA Girls State should call Beryl Robbins at (313) 318-6845 or send email to berylrobbins1980@gmail.com. Delegate applications and sponsor reservation forms are available at www.michalaux.org (click on Girls State).

Those interested in AL Boys State can contact Director Garrett Veihl at (616) 502-8190 or eggman1483@gmail.com. For additional information or forms, visit michiganleagion.org.

Downriver Community Band will dance!

The Downriver Community Band (DCB) is honored to present their annual spring concert “Music in Motion” - Friday, March 24, 2023, 7 p.m.

The concert will highlight dance inspired performances, including songs from Grease, Beer Barrel Polka, Can Can, Singin’ in the Rain and many more.

Joining the band will be dance performances by members of Downriver Youth Performing Arts Center (DYPAC). Wyandotte’s beloved personality, Ted Budkin, will be the show’s emcee. With Ted’s light hearted style, it’s likely there will be an opportunity for some fun audience participation during the show.

“Dance themed concerts are so much fun”, says band president Denise Doede. “The music alone is inspiring, but when you add the energy of the dancers, it really makes for a powerful performance. I’m sure the community will love it!”

The band has a magical way of covering so many genres in their performances. This year’s selections will cover dance music that includes Polka, Irish dance, Ballet, Waltz, Tap, Pasodoble and others.

“I’m so glad to once again have kids from DYPAC join us. They provide

such energy and passion in all their performances and really makes for a crowd-pleasing event.” Say DCB’s director Patrick Jensen.

DCB welcomes everyone in the community to come and support the

fine talent Downriver area has to offer.

Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for children, kids three and under are free.

The concert will be held at Flat Rock Community Auditorium, 25600 Seneca St, Flat Rock, Michigan. To

purchase tickets, call 734.589.0322 or visit TheDCB.org.

About The Downriver Community Band

Founded in 1989, Downriver Community Band (DCB) is a volunteer wind ensemble of adult musicians with a mission to promote music within the organization and the community.

DCB is composed of players of various skills from all walks of life. DCB performs locally for civic, charity and fundraising events and has performed in Hawaii, New York, Washington DC and Indiana.

The band’s repertoire consists of marches, big band, classical, jazz, show tunes, contemporary and original compositions.

DCB’s conductor, Patrick Jensen, is an active musician in the Detroit area. He teaches music at both Wayne State University and Henry Ford College and has been associated with Detroit Symphony Civic Orchestra, The Dearborn Symphony, Henry Ford College Big Band and Frank Zappa tribute band. Sponsorship for the group comes solely from community supporters.

For more info, go to TheDCB.Org.

Ted Budkin will MC the event.

We let it get away from us, friends

These columns are all about the vibrancy of local economies. The matters I write about are not exclusive to these Go Big publications, but in writing them, they certainly help me focus on saying exactly what I mean.

I have written a lot about the same topic, and I can’t express how good it feels to have people tell me that they read (and like) what I write.

Most that say anything say they agree with it all. Some consider me to be just too darned “liberal”, which is, for the record, one of the silliest “descriptors” I’ve ever heard. So is “conservative.” Neither one conveys anything at all. Seriously, literally nothing. Still nonetheless, that specific word is used to describe me by some that happen to support Small almost exclusively.

Even people that disagree with some of what comprises my views are ardent followers of what I espouse.

The advocacy for small is rooted in my history in my market. No question, my views developed as I looked back on my experience, wherein Big overran small by design.

In my field, that truth led to a revolting diminution in caliber of service and offerings to the American public. My “Baby Boom” generation insisted on it, we wanted it. Malls became the hip place to shop, and billions were raked from our community to achieve a world in which Small was drastically reduced in number.

Downtowns became tragically abandoned (coming back now!).

Funny, no matter how many times I write that in any of the variable ways I have, I never feel that I have explained the incredible phenomenon we watched wash over America and the world. We actually allowed, even demanded, more and more sameness with less and less service.

For all but the investors, we didn’t connect the dots and come to the correct conclusion: We were living through and eagerly accepting a

massive transfer of wealth from countless small businesses to publicly traded companies elsewhere.

Innocuous garbage was foisted on the American consumers, and we eagerly sucked it up. What a plan, what a scheme.

It was not just retail in which this transfer took place. In virtually every business niche we can rattle off, Big realized the riches to be captured and they brilliantly succeeded to create a very different world.

It happened systematically, not suddenly.

We didn’t really understand what was happening, but now, looking back, we can see it and understand it if we want to.

It is my generation’s contribution to the commonwealth – the creation of monolithic businesses that took advantage of the “trickle down economic theory” propaganda to mainstream their mission.

Trickle Down became so all pervasive that it was all we recognized anymore. The idea being to give more money and control to Big, which would then (in theory) trickle some of it back to the working public.

Of course, they kept 99 percent of it, and we just kept being lemmings.

Most do not consider the stranglehold that Big has on America, and that’s why this is more than just a sideline gig for me.

Most do not recognize that there has been a profound impact on local wealth as a direct result of the assault of Big.

It simply cannot be dismissed that in the 1970s, there were men that worked at places like Ford or McLouth Steel (for instance) and with that single income, they afforded a home, two cars, a decent comfortable living, with enough money to send two kids to college. This is related here anecdotally, but this really was the way things were.

It is not the way things are today.

Society has changed dramatically: The percentage of women in the workplace was dramatically lower 50 years ago, and that second income was not seen as a necessity.

Consider this: In 1965 the ratio of average American CEO pay to that

average worker above was 20-1. In 2021, that average ratio had become 399-1, a staggering change in the way those at the top are paid.

Now, before I get too far afield in the populist rhetoric, please understand that my point here is not the individuals in the examples that troubles me for purposes related to this explanation.

What obsesses me is this simple question: How much more disposable income would be floating around, circulating in our local economy if families still flourished like that today? Can you even imagine?

Being spent at local businesses because of my other obsession that asks how much different would our local economy be compared to 50 years ago if all those malls hadn’t sucked so many dollars out of the state to be shared by CEOs at countless publicly traded companies based elsewhere, that did not exist 50 years ago?

Look to other fronts, too. Almost all the local independent drug stores have been supplanted by CVS, Walgreens and Rite Aid, and all the corporate money that now leaves our state to feed their corporate machines elsewhere used to stay here,

circulating and benefiting us all.

Worse, those behemoth companies then collude with pharmaceutical companies to control supply, pricing and availability at remaining local and independent pharmacies. How much more money leaves the state through national restaurant chains than did in 1972? How much more money leaves the state through Walmart than did before that cancer wreaked havoc on the American local business scene, while making the Waltons the richest family in America?

How about the truth that 50 years ago, our entire health system did not include the healthcare insurance companies that now decide who lives and dies, while capturing a massive amount of money for their corporate infrastructures?

Lots of questions. They’re not rhetorical questions. They may be hard to definitively answer, but the general gist is really not hard to get if we simply look closer and consider how dramatic the change has been, by design of people that could get away with it.

They took control.

I, for one, want it back. I’m a capitalist that is disgusted with how we’ve failed to use that tool

PETER ROSE

Southgate cheerleaders cap solid 2022-23 season

The Southgate Anderson competitive cheerleading team finished the 2022-23 season by reaching the second round of the Michigan High School Athletic Association state tournament.

The Titans were third at the Division 2 district hosted by Adrian High School last month, thereby qualifying the team for the regional tournament at Holly High School.

At regionals, the Titans were fifth and failed to qualify for the state finals.

Downriver League and statelevel powerhouses dominated the regional tournament as Allen Park won the event by .02 points over runner-up Carlson, Dearborn Divine Child was third and fourthplace South Lyon was the final team to qualify for the state finals.

At the district level, Anderson finished third in the 13-team field.

Carlson won the district crown with 781.16 points and South Lyon East was second with 742.38. Anderson was next with 735.5, followed by Trenton, the final regional qualifier with 734.92.

The Titans claimed fifth place at the Downriver League meet held at Carlson High School prior to the start of MHSAA tournament.

Carlson edged Allen Park at the league meet with each team scoring over the 780 mark. Wyandotte was third and Woodhaven fourth before Southgate finished fifth, The Titans, who were hit with a thirdround penalty, scored 731.36 points. Trenton, Lincoln Park and Taylor rounded out the league meet scoring.

Photos by Dave Gorgon

Titan girls finally break into the win column

It was a tough year for the Anderson girls basketball team, which suffered a near seasonlong losing streak before finally breaking into the column.

Anderson lost 21 straight games before beating Downriver League rival Lincoln Park 49-23 in the regular-season final. The 49 points was by far a

season high for the Titans.

The win felt good enough that the Titans did it again three days later, beating the Railsplitters again this time 39-23 in the first round of the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 1 state tournament.

The second win over the Rails lifted the Titans

into the regional semifinal against undefeated Huron League champion Riverview and the Pirates prevailed 69-8.

The 1-1 tournament record left the Titans with a final mark of 2-22 and 1-15 in the Downriver League. They finished one game behind Lincoln Park in the final standings

Photos by Emily Caruso

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

Cagers season comes to close

5 STAR ★★★★★ REVIEW

■ Business Law

■ Personal Injury

■ Wills & Trusts

■ Family Law

■ General Practice

■ Medical Malpractice

A long, tough season came to a close for the young Southgate Anderson basketball team on March 6 when the Titans hosted and lost to Roosevelt in a firstround Michigan High School Athletic Association district basketball game.

The Bears beat the Titans 7562 to advance to the semifinals against a tough Lincoln Park team.

Taylor and Allen Park met in the other district semifinal.

For Andrson, which finished the year with a 3-20 record, it was the third loss this year to Wyandotte.

Anderson was 2-12 in Downriver League play this season with wins over Allen Park and Dearborn Edsel Ford. The team’s other win came against non-league Cabrini.

Photos by Dave Chapman

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NEWS FROM OUR NEIGHBORS

Go to... GoBigMultimedia.com to read more news on our digital publications.

The Grosse Ile Recreation Department manages a number of Township facilities including the Water’s Edge Pool, Golf Course, and Centennial Farm. The following are significant dates associated with these facilities:

gobigmultimedia.com/grosse-ile-grand

Grosse Ile Recreation: Much planned for spring and summer

~ Mother & Son Bowling night - Friday, February, 24, 2023 from 6:30-8 p.m. Annual

~ Easter Event - Saturday, April 8, 2023 at 10 a.m. at Centennial Farm

~ 1st/2nd grade basketball Program - April 12May 3 from 7:10-8 p.m. at Parke Lane

~ Sign Language class for grades 3-5 - April 19May 24 from 3:15-4 p.m. at Meridian School

~ St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon - March 15 at 12:30 p.m.

~ Back by popular demand will be the annual Cinco de Mayo Senior Party- Details to follow at a later date.

~ Summer 2023 - Evening pool movies events and Christmas in July (currently being planned/details to follow).

~ Let’s not forget...ISLANDFEST, June 2, 3, 4.

The Recreation Department offers numerous fitness classes currently ongoing and include the following:

~ Open Table Tennis -M-W-F from 3:30-5:30 p.m.

~ Island Walkers- M-F 6:45-7:45 a.m.

~ Jazzercise- M-W-F- 8:15-9:15 a.m.

Grosse Ile Recreation offers numerous senior events including the following:

~ Senior Chair Yoga

~ Full Body Fit

~ Flow Yoga

~ Cardio Drumming

~ Senior Citizens Club meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 1 p.m. at Centennial Farm, come join the Club!

Punch cards are now available for fitness classes for those that wish to participate in more than one of these events.

Grosse Ile Recreation offers Senior Transportation Services as well! Eligible individuals can call 734216- 4905 if you need a ride to the grocery, hair or doctors’ appointments. Rates are $5/round trip on island, $6/round trip off island.

~ January 1, 2023- Summer boat slip rental requests starting being accepted

~ June 15th -Water’s Edge Pool Opens (a Last Day of School pool party is currently being planned)

Early Spring- Water’s Edge Golf Course opens (Carts will be available starting April 24th)

~ June 22nd - 1st Water’s Edge Summer Concert Events (continues on Thursday nights throughout the summer)

~ All summer long- Centennial Farm Recreation Building rentals are available for your special event

On page 7

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Wednesday,March8@11a.m. EarlyLiteracyStorytime Joinusforsongs,stories&games! Bestsuitedforchildrenages2≠5.Registrationbegins February27.RegistrationrequiredbyMarch6.

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Wednesday,March15@11a.m. EarlyLiteracyStorytime Joinusforsongs,stories&games! Bestsuitedforchildrenages2≠5.Registrationbegins March1.RegistrationrequiredbyMarch13.

Wednesday,March15@5≠6:30p.m. BookPageEmbroidery Sewingexperiencenotrequiredtojoinusincreating adisplayablebookpageartpiece. Ages18+.RegistrationbeginsMarch1. RegistrationrequiredbyMarch13.

HoursSeptember6≠June4,2023

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

RCHS students visit with Rep Debbie Dingell

Students in Ms. Lince’s CP Government classes had

the honor to meet U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell at a Legislative Forum at Crystal

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

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

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

On page 5

Gardens on January 23, 2023...

gobigmultimedia.com/trenton-times

$1M grant for Kennedy Aquatic Center

The Kennedy Aquatic Center is in need of renovations, especially with the increased traffic the facility has seen post-covid. The 20-year-old facility offers swim lessons, lifeguarding classes, parenttot classes, swim up movies, summer pool parties, triathlons, day camp destinations, day camp home bases, relaxing entertainment, swim competitions for all caliber swimmers, fundraisers, water aerobics, senior exercises, pool side yoga, gardening and so much more.

gobigmultimedia.com/wyandotte-warrior

Wyandotte Soup Kitchen

Waynewright Community Meals serves dozens twice a week

same volunteers will be joined by others a few days later to do it all over again.

“For me, it was important to be called ‘community meals’ from the beginning,” Pettigrew said. “Our philosophy is ‘everyone is welcome.’ If you’re just passing through or someone who is lonely or a senior citizen with limited income or someone with special needs, you’re invited to be our guest.

“A lot are struggling, whether with poverty or homelessness or the working poor. We see people struggling with mental health issues, drugs and abuse. We may see them one time and then never again. We also have regulars and people who only visit when their resources dry up.”

On a normal Wednesday or Saturday, guests line up outside the church between noon and 1 p.m. to receive a hot meal, complete with a main entrée, side dishes, vegetable, dessert and bread or salad – all served in a restaurant-size to-go box. They also receive a sack lunch for later, along with non-perishable food items, hygiene items and more, depending on the donations the soup kitchen has received.

As long as you’re in line by 1 p.m., you’ll be served, Pettigrew said. There are no papers to fill out; no identification or proof of income or proof of residency to show.

On page 1

The goal is to add ADA compliant pool lifts, replace uneven concrete, repair gutter systems, rework current locker room facilities, create a sensory integration space, repair deck drains, create new signage, and create a new entrance that will be barrier free for ease of access.

New statewide outdoor recreation plan offers wealth of insights

The overall goal of the 2023-2027 SCORP is to “ensure that Michigan’s outdoor recreation assets are equitably distributed, developed and managed to provide convenient and welcoming access to the outdoors for healthful, outdoor physical activity; and while sustaining our lands, waters and wildlife for current and future generations, drive broad-based economic and quality-of-life benefits to people and communities.”

SCORP strategies to achieve the goal include:

• Improve collaboration: Outdoor recreation stakeholders collaborate and cooperate to ensure that Michigan’s recreation system meets the needs of residents and visitors.

• Improve and expand recreational access: Recreation opportunities are connected and accessible to residents and visitors of all backgrounds, abilities, means and geographic locations.

• Enhance health benefits: Outdoor recreation increases the physical activity and health of Michigan’s residents and visitors.

• Enhance prosperity: Outdoor recreation advances economic prosperity and supports a high quality of life as well as talent retention in Michigan’s communities.

On page 36

Wyandotte resident Sarah Pettigrew and her “amazing network of volunteers” have been providing meals for “guests” for more than 16 years. They arrive early to the fellowship hall, get ready for the day, serve the visitors and stay after to clean up. Some of the

Wyandotte cheerleaders 3rd at league meet

The Roosevelt competitive cheerleading team went to Carlson on Feb. 8 and finished third at the Downriver League meet.

The only teams to top the Bears were 2020-23 league champ Carlson, which was Division 2 state runner-up last season – and Allen Park, which was the D2 champ a season ago.

Wyandotte was third after the opening round, third after the second round and the Bears held third position through the third round.

On page 19

Sage keeps on winning

It’s been a pretty good year so far for Anderson’s Jackson Sage.

The sophomore quarterbacked the Anderson football team to five victories, including a win over coleague champ Carlson and helped the team earn a MHSAA state playoff berth.

When the calendar flipped, Sage donned his wrestling singlet and things got even better.

Sage won 48 wrestling matches this year for the Titans and capped the season with a fourth-place finish in the 157-pound division at the MHSAA Division 2 state wrestling tournament at Ford Field.

At the finals, Sage won his first match, pinning Gaylord’s Jake Willobee. He then lost to Zach Jacobs of Jackson Northwest. Jacobs would go all the way to the championship match where he fell to 157-pound state champion Cory Thomas of Pontiac.

After falling into the loser’s bracket, Sage dominated his next two opponents, winning a shutout majority decision over Andrew Byerle of Lakeshore and then pinning Tim Simons of Carlson to reach the match for third and fourth place.

In that match, Sage fell 5-2 to Kyan

Larson of Sparta.

The win over Simons was especially sweet because the Calrson wrestler, a Downriver League rival, had beaten Sage of the regional championship the week before. Simons pinned Sage at regional and Sage returned the favor at the state meet.

Sage was also second at districts where he lost to – you guessed it –Simons.

Sage’s teammate Lavelle Hughes also reached the state finals.

The 165-pound Huges wrestled twice and fell to Trey Myers of Fremont and Sam Rucker of Niles. Hughes was second at districts and second at regionals, losing each time in the finals to Jack Mills of Carleton Airport. Mills went 3-2 at the state meet and finished seventh.

In girls wrestling, Anderson’s Brooklyn Sage finished sixth in the state at 155 pounds. Sage won her first two matches of the day before falling in the loser’s bracket, where she fell in the fifth-sixth place match to Shawna Subndholm of Gwinn.

In her first two matches, Sage pinned Ava Kink of Capac and beat Lillian Pylman of Pine River.

Guidance Center presents social media film

The Downriver Guidance Center in conjunction with Stop Underage Drinking and Drugs (SUDDs) will present the film “Like – A documentary about the Impact of Social Media on Our Lives” at 6 p.m. on March 21 at Crystal Gardens.

The one-hour film will be followed by a question and answer session with the narrator of the film, Max Stossel. The event is free, but you must register. Pizza, popcorn and soft drinks will be served.

Like breaks down why we find social media so irresistible, examines who is controlling who and gives viewers the tools to pivot to a more balanced and contented relationship.

It features Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, including the co-inventor of the “like” button,experts in brain science and regular teenagers.

The filmmakers of “Like” inspire kids and teens to consider a life of JOMO (the Joy of Missing Out) rather than FOMO (the Fear of Missing Out).

The filmmakers use their proven 4E formula: Entertainment, Empathy, Enlightenment and a heavy dose of Empowerment, arming their audiences with easy-to-execute strategies to change their habits that very same day. Contact the Guidance Center at 734-785-7700.

Friends of the Detroit River dinner April 1

On Saturday, April 1, the Friends of the Detroit River (FDR) will be holding its annual “Keep-the Boat-Afloat” fundraising dinner at the Wyandotte Boat Club. The event is sponsored by Environmental Consulting and Technology, Inc. and SmithGroup.

This year FDR will be celebrating the 20th anniversary of the start of the Detroit Riverkeeper program. The dinner event is held each year to support the work done by the Detroit Riverkeeper and FDR. The Riverkeeper is responsible for patrolling the river by boat, looking for water pollution and other related problems affecting the river and its natural habitats.

This year the dinner program will highlight some of the many accomplishments that have been achieved over the last 20 years, as well provide an update on current activities being undertaken to improve and protect the

Detroit River.

A key update will include a presentation on current efforts being made to improve the water quality of the Ecorse Creek, a tributary to the Detroit River, whose discharges have had a long history of impacting the water quality of the river.

Along with this presentation, the event includes an opportunity for social networking, a catered dinner by Truago, live entertainment, door prizes and a silent auction. It is always a pleasant evening with good food, good friends, and a great view of the Detroit River from the Wyandotte Boat Club.

If you are interested in attending this event, you can purchase tickets on FDR’s website at www.detroitriver.org or call the FDR office at (734) 288-3889 for additional information.

Strides for Adam 5K set for March 26

The fourth annual Strides for Adam 5K Run/ Walk will be held on March 26 at Young Patriots Park.

This event is in memory of Adam Holten, who, at the young age of only 16 years old, lost his fight with depression, the day after Christmas, 2018.

All proceeds go to the Strides for Adam 501c3, which funds the Adam Holten service scholarship, offered to students at Gabriel Richard and Riverview High Schools. Remaining proceeds are donated to the annual Kevin’s Song Conference on Suicide each January.

You can also sign up to run the event virtually.

If you can’t make the race and still want to participate, simply sign up and you will receive a race packet. Then run your virtual race between March 19-26.

The is also a one-mile “reflection walk” for non-runners who would like to take part.

A finisher medal and race t-shirt are guaranteed to the first 500 registered participants.

You can easily sign-up for the Strides for Adam event at RunSignUp.com/Race/MI/Riverview/ StridesforAdam.

See you at the park

Annual Miss Amazing Pageant scheduled for May 6

It’s almost here!

The annual Michigan Miss Amazing Pageant is set for Saturday, May 6 at Novi Civic Center.

It’s open to girls ages five and up with a disability and there’s no fee to participate.

Spread the word! You can find out more about the organization, and sign up to participate or volunteer here: https://missamazing.org/chapters/MI

To kick it all off we have a prepageant event planned.

Tina Brossia, owner of Rags to Riches Designer Consignment Boutique in Brownstown, has generously offered to close their doors the evening of Tuesday, March 7 so participants can pick out a free dress. Participants must be signed up before March 7 to receive a free dress and free jewelry set.

The pre-pageant “Dress for Success” event will include special guests:

~ Miss Amazing registered participants.

~ Michigan Miss Amazing Directors: Rachael Dooley - National Director, and Rachael Hunter - Morning Show 99.5 WYCD/Country Music Hall of Fame Recipient.

~ Jewelry Giveaway - Amy Douglas, Michigan Miss Amazing 2020

Senior Miss - Commercial Model, Actress and Spokesperson for people with disabilities.

~ Contenders Assistant and Encouragement Coach - Mrs. Michigan USA 2022 - Rachael Adams LogsdonActress, Model, Motivational Speaker, Entrepreneur.

~ Photographer - Joe Maroon Photography, special events photographer to the stars.

Scholarship honors legacy of Maureen Fielder

BILL STEVENSON

Downriver students now have a new scholarship to help pay the costs of college, and advance the legacy of one who died too soon.

The family of the late Maureen Fielder has established a scholarship in her memory and will offer the opportunity to a high school graduate or college student who “demonstrates the same passion for life, determination, work ethic and community spirit” that she did throughout her life.

Maureen Fielder, died suddenly in January, 2022 at the age of 43.

Maureen was an outstanding scholar and athlete who graduated from Grosse Ile High School, known for her tenacity, sharp wit, and leadership abilities. But, behind her fierce, competitive persona was a kind, sensitive, empathic soul who devoted her life to helping others.

One of her dearest mentors was Steve Sims, who brought out the best in her, and led her to great success in her own career as a teacher and coach.

She received her Bachelor of Science degree from John Carroll University and a Master’s from Marygrove College in the Art of Teaching.

Maureen taught mathematics at Best Middle School in Dearborn, Southgate Anderson, Grosse Ile Middle School, Marian H.S., and Gabriel Richard H.S., touching hundreds of lives in her students.

She later worked in the restaurant business, and real estate, bringing her dedication, work ethic and professionalism to those she served.

When she died unexpectedly last year, her students gave tribute, saying, “Ms. Fielder was always quick with her humor and sharp with her math. She taught her students in a unique way by breaking the complicated concepts into ‘Ms. Fielder’s Simple Steps’ that were far more manageable.

I had her (for) three of my four years of high school. She truly made a difference in the lives of her students,” said one student.

“She taught more than math, and coached more than distance running. She really cared about us and wanted all of us to succeed,” said another.

Fielder also excelled in distance running, finishing many marathons, and qualified for and competed in the Boston Marathon in addition to coaching track and cross country. She was a fixture in the News-Herald Track and Field Championships, both as a prep competitor and as a mentor to young athletes.

Gone, too soon. Sudden death.

Such pain and anguish to all who knew and loved her.

So out of the depths of grief and sorrow, her parents, Keith and Ann, and brother John Paul thought: “What can we do to honor the life and legacy of our dear Maureen?”

And, the Maureen Fielder Legacy Scholarship was born.

The $2,500 scholarship, will be awarded annually to an applicant who must be:

~ A student in their senior year of high school, or a freshman, sophomore, or junior in college.

~ Accepted and attending a two- or four-year college, university, or technical school.

~ In good academic standing (overall GPA 3.0 or above) with no serious disciplinary issues.

~ A student who demonstrates a passion for life, a strong work ethic, determination, and community-centric values.

~ Respected by their peers, teachers, and coaches (if applicable).

The deadline for applications is April 11, 2023. Application forms can be found at: maureenfielderscholarship.com.

We should all remember Maureen’s life in her favorite line from the Oak Ridge Boys’ song: “When you give it away, it all comes back tenfold they say.” too.

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Wyandotte Soup Kitchen

Waynewright Community Meals serves dozens of clients twice a week

DAVE GORGON

Without food from the Waynewright Community Meals at the First Congregational United Church of Christ, Vincent said he would not know where he would get his next meal.

Vincent hasn’t been the same since his mother died. He is “an actor, a student and kind of homeless right now.” On this Wednesday, he is first in line when the “Wyandotte Soup Kitchen” opens to serve hot meals to dozens at the church at 98 Superior Road.

“I’m thankful to God that a church gives out this stuff,” said Vincent, an Air Force veteran in his 40s. “It’s one of the only bright spots in my life right now.”

Wyandotte resident Sarah Pettigrew and her “amazing network of volunteers” have been providing meals for “guests” for more than 16 years. They arrive early to the fellowship hall, get ready for the day, serve the visitors and stay after to clean up. Some of the same volunteers will be joined by others a few days later to do it all over again.

“For me, it was important to be called ‘community meals’ from the beginning,” Pettigrew said. “Our philosophy is ‘everyone is welcome.’ If you’re just passing through or someone who is lonely or a senior citizen with limited income or someone with special needs, you’re invited to be our guest.

“A lot are struggling, whether with poverty or homelessness or the working poor. We see people struggling with mental health issues, drugs and abuse. We may see them one time and then never again. We also have regulars and people who only visit when their resources dry up.”

On a normal Wednesday or Saturday, guests line up outside the church between noon and 1 p.m. to receive a hot meal, complete with a main entrée, side dishes, vegetable, dessert and bread or salad – all served in a restaurant-size to-go box. They also receive a sack lunch for later, along with non-perishable food items, hygiene items and more, depending on the donations the soup kitchen has received.

As long as you’re in line by 1 p.m., you’ll be served, Pettigrew said. There are no papers to fill out; no identification or proof of income or proof of residency to show.

Prior to the COVID-19 global pandemic, guests were invited into the church hall and served at tables. Volunteers continued serving during the pandemic, but the process was changed to a carryout meal. Now, visitors line up on a ramp leading to the hall. A warm

volunteer greets them at the door wearing a mask starting at noon.

Pettigrew knows most of the guests by name. Many of them seem to have a story to tell. A local woman with baking skills talks about a cake she recently baked. Pat, a retired DTE worker, picks up meals and delivers them to others, calling it his “good deed for the day.”

“My gramma always said, ‘what are we here on earth for if not to help one another?’” said Susan Medley, Pettigrew’s mother and the cook who created the day’s homemade spaghetti sauce. “I have tried to pass that on to my children and grandchildren.”

As the Allen Park woman works over the hot stove in the kitchen, other volunteers from the Downriver area are nearby, working in assembly-line style to create sandwiches and combine them with a fruit, snack and drink in a sack lunch to go. They also gather donated goods so Pettigrew can take handfuls at a time to the arriving guests outside.

The visitors have battled chilly winter temperatures and strong winds to get there, many by foot, others by bus. They are allowed to take what they can use – what they need.

“What makes it very special and unique is that Sarah has a relationship with so many of the people that come to the soup kitchen and their families,” said Sakura Keast, a Wyandotte resident who volunteers. “She can go above and beyond when people need food, whether it is a resource or a jacket or something she remembers has been donated, like pajamas for kids. She’s very good at connecting people with things they need.”

Grosse Ile resident Liz Carter brings her own group of volunteers to the church on one Saturday a month. Over the years, some 150 different volunteers of all ages

have accompanied her to feel the joy of feeding those who need it most.

They bring everything to create a “hot meal to go” for an estimated 75 people. The needs include paper goods, plasticware, side dishes, juice boxes and more. Last month, they made sloppy joes and homemade macaroni and cheese, mixed vegetables and cookies for dessert.

“It’s one of my favorite things to do,” Carter said. “I’m grateful God brought Sarah into my life… Every month, I’m always blown away by God’s provisions for whatever is needed… It’s beautiful to see it come together: the ability to serve the community. With the way the economy is, there’s lots of people who need the help just to get by. They are grateful.”

Carter and Keast raved about the Christmas party that the organization hosts each year. They helped collect upwards of 125 gift cards to distribute along with toys for children and gifts for adults.

“This year, all of the toys were donated by people from the community,” Carter said. There were hygiene items, stockings, and a basket of non-perishable items. Someone knitted and crocheted winter gear.”

An estimated 400 to 500 individuals are helped through Christmas events at the church. Carter called it “a huge endeavor.”

Pettigrew said she was volunteering at a soup kitchen in Detroit when a minister, Father Jerry Brohl, asked her to help start a similar venture Downriver. The place is named “Waynewright” by combining the first name of the Rev. Wayne McKenney, pastor of the church for 28 years, and a “wainwright,” a tradesman that made wheels for carts and wagons.

The minister suggested Pettigrew get the soup kitchen up and running, stay a year and hand it off to someone else, although that wasn’t her intention. Pettigrew and a host of volunteers, friends and even family members have been there ever since.

“Kindness is free,” said volunteer Renae Affholter of Wyandotte. “We are blessed.”

No one gets paid for his or her efforts, but the reward is huge.

“My favorite thing about it is watching people’s generosity and graciousness come together every month and every week,” Liz Carter said. “It’s quite the amazing family.”

Volunteers are always needed. Donations are always accepted. For more information, email Sarah Pettigrew at teampettigrew24@gmail.com and follow the Waynewright Community Meals Facebook page.

“Everything we have is due to the generosity of our volunteers and community members,” Pettigrew said. “We couldn’t do it without them.”

Sarah Pettigrew giving a hot meal and more to guest Vincent.

Photo by Dave Gorgon

Guest artist Allen at Creative Art Society

The Creative Art Society, formally the Downriver Arts and Crafts Guild, will meet on Tuesday, March 14 at 6:30 pm at the Southgate Veterans Memorial Library in the City of Southgate, 14680 Dix-Toledo Highway.

Creative Art Society meetings are free and open to the public. After a short business meeting, our special guest for the evening will be Valerie Allen, a visual artist, curator, teaching artist and podcast host from the greater SaginawMidland-Bay City area.

She is an abstractionist working in mixed media, acrylic, printmaking and encaustic. Collaborations with other visual artists and performing artists is of interest to her.

In February of 2020, she painted live with the Saginaw Bay Symphony led by conductor Fouad Fakhouri. The paintings created during the rehearsals and final performance have become part of her “Composer’s Campaign” series. The musical selections were composed by Haydn, Michael Torke and Aaron Copland.

She is a Certified Working Artist for Golden Artist Colors.

Her territory is Michigan, Northern Ohio and Indiana. She gives presentations on art materials to art groups and associations as well as art schools. She also conducts intensive workshops in painting with acrylics throughout this area. Golden Artist Colors commitment to educating artists and consumers is stellar.

Come and enjoy an evening of fun and meet new friends, we promote and serve artists

of all mediums and we celebrate all arts and all levels of art.

In addition, we offer opportunities to exhibit our work and we have workshops that are low-cost and educational. For the $25 membership fee, all of the above is included. Where else can you enjoy a social evening of interesting art demonstrations with our local art community?

There is something for everyone with a Creative Art Society membership.

If you are a new or experienced artist, news of innovative techniques and all the classes and workshops offered will give your ideas of what you can create next...there is always something new to learn.

Questions? Please check out our new website “creativeartsociety.org”, Facebook: Creative Art Society, or contact Maureen at 734-777-6109 or mkeast1@aol.com or Kris Stanek at 206-605-1987 or sea_kris@yahoo. com.

Allen

GET GREAT NEW GLASSES, SAVE SOME MONEY!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gabriel Richard Presents Little Shop of Horrors

By: Marohn Campena,

GR Senior

Over the last year, the Thespian Guild at Gabriel Richard Catholic High School has shown many amazing productions. From the fairylike “Into the Woods” to GR’s Murder Mystery Event featuring “Three Doors to Death” and “Murder at the Banquet,” the Thespian Guild has truly worked hard to deliver breathtaking shows.

Currently, Gabriel Richard is preparing for its production of “Little Shop of Horrors.” This musical tells the story of a meek flower shop worker named Seymour Krelborn as he attempts to win over his co-worker crush, Audrey, and get out of the slums of Skid Row. In addition to dealing with his crabby boss Mushnik and Audrey’s toxic boyfriend Orin, Seymour must face the greatest threat of them all, a man-eating plant named Audrey II that attempts to take over the rest of the world. “Little Shop of Horrors,” is Gabriel Richard’s first-ever show featuring a double cast. Gabriel Richard’s Skid Row cast, featuring Everett Knapik (Seymour), Sasha Murphy (Audrey), Autumn Stevens (Mushnik), and Brooks Natt (Orin), will star in “Little Shop of Horrors,” at 7:00 PM on Friday, March 31 and at 2:00 PM on Saturday, April 1. Gabriel Richard’s Downtown cast, featuring Marohn Campena (Seymour), Ava Abrahamson (Audrey), Brett Byrd (Musnik), and Logan LaPere (Orin), will take the remaining two shows at 7:00 PM on April 1 and at 4:00 PM on Sunday, April 2.

Please join us and watch “Little Shop of Horrors” this spring!

People’s Choice: Hungarian Rhapsody

Hungarian Rhapsody is a Southgate staple that feels the love from the region. Known for its chicken paprikash, cabbage rolls and goulash, the restaurant features a charming atmosphere, friendly service and authentic Hungarian food. Diners enjoy unique meals and large banquets.

“This is due to the level of detail and service offered by the Szatmari family,” said Council President Zoey Kuspa. “It is not unusual for customers from across the country to travel to Southgate to enjoy meals at this restaurant. This goes to show that their appeal goes far beyond Downriver.

“Over the years, they have seen numerous awards and recognitions for their restaurant” – now including the People’s Choice Business Award, which was selected by participants in a social media poll.