Southgate Star, September 12 – October 11, 2023

The public is invited to remember military veterans who were prisoners of war or missing in action on National POW/ MIA Recognition Day at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 15, at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9283 in Southgate.

The event will honor those who were held captive and returned from war as well as those who remain missing from past conflicts.

“All branches of service live to the ethos, ‘Leave no one behind,’” said Southgate VFW Commander Bill King. “The soldier depends on the person ahead of you, your flanks and the soldier behind you.

“The American people have demanded the elected government move mountains to gain release of all POWs and the full accounting of all missing in action over the last seven wars of our nation.”

Nationally, the third Friday in September is recognized as POW/MIA Day, a time to remember the sacrifices of prisoners of war (POW) and service members who are missing in action

Southgate Markets in the Park and Concert Series is a huge success

DAVE GORGON

The return of the Southgate Markets in the Park and Concert Series put smiles on faces throughout the summer at Market Center Park in the Southgate Shopping Center.

Operated by the Southgate Downtown Development Authority, the weekly series featured music, vendors and family fun. Each Tuesday had a different theme.

“This year’s summer concert series was a huge success,” said DDA Director Kaylee Mondrella. “We are already looking forward to next year so that we can make each event bigger and better.”

Mondrella said the market was the first since 2019. There were approximately 25 vendors each week. The DDA hosted 11 concerts in the park; a 12th had to be canceled due to flooding from rainfall in the park.

“We’re very appreciative of our market and concert sponsors,” she said. Sponsors included Floral Designs, TL Financial Group, Downriver Community Federal Credit Union, Jabro Carpet One, Beltone Hearing, The Tutoring Center, Advia Credit Union and the Downriver Family YMCA.

The DDA director is fielding theme ideas, food truck requests and band suggestions for next year at her email address, kmondrella@southgate.mi.gov.

These seven children had a blast and made new friends during Kids Day at Southgate Markets and Concerts in the Park.

Photos by Dave Gorgon

Free face painting was available on Kids Day at Southgate Markets and Concerts in the Park. The faces of sisters Heaven and Ava Lee became works of art thanks to Veronica Brumbaugh of Honey B Face Painting.

VETERANS

Continued from page 1

(MIA). The day was established in 1979.

The Southgate event will honor two veterans who were natives of Ecorse and served in World War II:

• Army Air Forces Lt. Peter Timpo, a past MIA whose remains were recently identified and are now buried with honors at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington DC.

Authorities say Timpo served with the 564th Bombardment Squadron. On Aug. 1, 1943, he was the bombardier aboard a B-24 Liberator that took part in the air raid of oil refineries in Romania, where it was shot down over Ploisti. Timpo and the rest of the crew were killed in the crash.

• Navy veteran John Jacobs, who will be honored for his military service from 1944 to 1946 and all he endured. King said Jacobs went on to become an Ecorse police officer and rose through the ranks to chief of detectives. Now 96 years old, Jacobs and his family members have been invited to attend.

King said the Southgate ceremony will feature local VFW and auxiliary leadership, members of the Downriver Honor Guard and city officials. A number of elected officials at all levels have been invited to attend, along with veterans from other posts and family members of veterans. The post is located at 16200 Dix-Toledo Road.

The POW/MIA flag is intended to be flown just below the United States flag. The Southgate ceremony will feature an explanation of the post’s “Missing Man Table,” which is a tribute to prisoners of war and those missing in action.

The US Department of Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency says more than 83,000 service members are missing from conflicts from World War II to present time. Of that number, the majority – more than 73,000 – are missing from World War II. The number of POW/MIAs from the Korean conflict number just above 7,000. The Vietnam War has more than 1,600 listed. Of the 83,000, approximately half are “presumed lost at sea.”

Trunk or Treat at Southgate VFW Post

VFW has special parking space reserved for a Purple Heart recipients

DAVE GORGON

Members of the Southgate Veterans of Foreign Wars Post have a special place in their hearts for recipients of the Purple Heart award. Now they have a special parking space for them, too.

The Purple Heart is a United States military decoration awarded in the name of the President to those wounded or killed while serving in the U.S. military.

Sharon Lewinski, who is auxiliary president of the Downriver Chapter of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Unit 127 and auxiliary senior vice president of the Michigan Department of the Purple Heart, came up with the idea for the parking spot. She approached Southgate post Commander Bill King, “who ran with it.”

“I thought it would be an honor for Purple Heart veterans,” said Lewinski, who has been senior vice president of the Southgate Auxiliary for 14 years and served as president before that. “This parking spot is something special for veterans who were wounded. We need to honor them.”

Lewinski’s late brother, Gerald Callahan, was wounded in the abdomen during the Korean War and earned a Purple Heart. Their relationship led to her involvement in the Purple Heart organizations. When he died about 10 years ago, Callahan still had shrapnel in his body.

“The Purple Heart is earned by the combatant that has taken a round,” post Commander King said. “There are less and less of those guys around. We wanted to make sure we created a parking spot that was restricted only to those who hold the Purple Heart.”

The Purple Heart “is a point of honor,” King added. “It’s a special award. You’ve taken a round or taken shrapnel. This is a very responsible thing for us to do.”

VFW Past Commander Frank Puente is a Purple Heart recipient in the post and is eligible to park in the special spot outside the post. Puente served in the Army’s 1st Infantry Division from 1967 to 1969 during the Vietnam War. He was shot three times on duty and earned a Purple Heart.

Ron Allen, department commander

of the Michigan Military Order of the Purple Heart, was wounded in 1968, when shrapnel from an incoming rocket struck his arm and leg in Vietnam. He also is a Purple Heart recipient.

Allen, who is a past VFW District

4 commander, met with Lewinski and King and wound up being the first Purple Heart recipient to park in the spot.

“It’s a great thing they’re doing,” Allen said.

Lewinski said that a sign on the post building explaining the purpose of the parking space is “very unique.”

She has posted on the social media site Facebook that Purple Heart recipients are invited to park in the spot when they visit the Southgate post. She said she admires businesses and other locations that create special parking spaces for veterans only.

“More people are acknowledging our veterans,” she said, “which is long overdue.”

Everyone is invited to the annual Trunk or Treat hosted by members of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 9283 in Southgate. The post is located at 16200 Dix-Toledo Road. Hours are 5 to 7 p.m.

Ron Allen, department commander of the Michigan Military Order of the Purple Heart, at the parking space.

Spooky happenings Downriver woman promotes Trenton Exchange Club Halloween

DAVE GORGON

With Halloween just around the corner, the annual Trenton Exchange Club 5K has a Halloween theme this year.

Runners and walkers can wear costumes as they compete in the Blue (Boo) Ribbon Run, which gets under way the morning of Sunday, Oct. 8, at the Woodhaven Community Park, 23101 Hall Road.

The Spooktacular One Mile Trot for Treats starts at 9 a.m. The Ghostly 5K Run and Walk follows at 9:30. Running up the tall sledding hill – aka The Casper the Friendly Hill portion of the race—is optional. Bib holders will receive treats.

Registration is ongoing at the website runsignup.com/Race/ MI/Woodhaven/BlueRibbonRun.

Admission is $35 for the Ghostly 5K. It’s $20 for the one-mile trot for treats up to Oct. 7. Donations to the Exchange Club of Trenton also are accepted for the prevention of child abuse and neglect.

Race director Deborah Eskridge

of Southgate stressed that costumes are optional, not mandatory. She said the 5K is being held early enough in the month that it won’t interfere with the annual trunk or treat event at Woodhaven High School. She said the event is a “friendly” race in which dogs on leashes and strollers are welcome, the latter for the one-mile race only.

Eskridge, a mental health and substance abuse counselor, is both a runner and volunteer. While volunteering at a substance abuse and prevention camp in Southgate, Eskridge was asked to become race director by Trenton Exchange Club member Marge Sharlow. Since Eskridge believes in the cause, she accepted Sharlow’s invitation.

Seven years later, the race is a Downriver fixture.

The Exchange Club of Trenton is a service organization that has been active in the Downriver area since 1927. The club is dedicated to helping the community be a better place to live.

The prevention of child abuse has been the national project of the Exchange Club since 1979. The

Southgate club provides a variety of public materials to inform and increase awareness. The club supports the Kid’s Talk program of forensic interviewing and legal assistance.

Club members contribute time and resources to the Western Wayne County First Step Domestic Abuse Shelter and the group’s activities.

The club’s latest “claim to fame” was sponsoring a successful two-day workshop for police and school personnel that identifies and intercepts school violence through cyber investigation. Sharlow, who is club secretary, said the workshop led to instant success as a Flat Rock school resource officer apprehended a suspected drug dealer within 24 hours of the class.

Other funds go to community service and special events. The club targets homeless Michigan veterans through the Eleven/Eleven at Seven program and provides American flags to children in elementary schools to wave in parades. Club members have sponsored Trenton Boy Scout Troop 1721 since its founding in 1927 and

sponsors an annual fire prevention poster contest for fourth- and fifthgraders that awards prizes of $100 and $50.

The Exchange Club provides a yearly scholarship called the A.C.E. Award to a graduating senior at Trenton High School. A.C.E. stands for Accepting the Challenges of Excellence and goes to a student who has shown dramatic resiliency during his or her high school years. The student may be overlooked for his or her accomplishments.

Sharlow, who is a retired schoolteacher, said this past year Trenton graduate Ella Masserant won the Trenton Exchange Club scholarship of $500, plus the Michigan Exchange Club scholarship of $1,500. Masserant is attending Saginaw Valley State College.

This year, the Trenton club will provide scholarships to graduating seniors at both Trenton and Woodhaven high schools.

Sharlow said the proceeds from the race go to great causes and “the race is a lot of fun.”

Race Director Deborah Eskridge and her dog Katie at a recent event in Taylor.

Trenton High School grad Ella Massarant, who earned Exchange Club scholarships before graduating and heading to Saginaw Valley State College

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Schmittou said he has over 2,000 frames in his building and can make arrangements to get others if customers come in with a specific brand or style in mind.

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

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

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

What role for government in local-first push?

People older than I am need no education about the process one goes through as they age.

For me, the main consideration is that in the USA, the average life expectancy is 77.28 years, so most likely, I’ve got about 11 percent left on the fuel gauge.

I know, I know, “how pessimistic, how morbid, how defeatist.”

But that’s not it, friends.

The concept of “running out of time” is not some abstract, imaginary concept. The last 11 percent of my life has gone by fast and I know what that means about the 11 percent to come.

I have no way of knowing how I’ll fare in this game. I may get dead earlier than the average, or (perhaps less likely) I may not ever die at all. But the averages tell me that if I have stuff I need to do and say, I’d better get to it.

I think that by now, most readers have gotten the gist of why I write.

That I’m told so often by readers that they read every column is wonderful; it informs me that there is resonance.

There are points made that strike folks as flat out true.

Since my very first column (written only for the Grosse Ile Grand), my focus has been congratulating citizens for their understanding that economically for the region, localism provides better results for everyone, especially the residents of the region that rely on things being healthy and bouncy.

I have tried to educate about how important every purchase is, how much every single person matters in the

equation.

Never forget: Three times more money stays in the area, circulating and echoing with ripple-effect spending with purchases made at local and independent businesses, compared to national chains of any kind, and the comparison is far wider for internet purchases.

Three times more stays local, benefiting everyone that lives around here!

In the last couple of columns, I have directed commentary towards the local government’s role and impact on just about everything related to the health of the cities they govern. Considering that my words above are fact, not opinion, it makes a ton of sense that time each local government does everything it can, all the time, to maximize that truth.

Cities like Wyandotte (and Trenton, Grosse Ile, Riverview and much of Southgate) are heavily “local and independent” - oriented. In a world of national sameness and mediocrity, such towns can lay claim to being something very different, and very much better, in that what shoppers and diners do find in such towns is authentic, original, unique, and with meaningful connections to the cities they all serve.

The Indie businesses of our Downriver non-freeway cities are fortunate in being mostly guaranteed to not have the closeat-hand competition of national chains, but that doesn’t mean that those chains or internet sites don’t suck up a significant portion of the revenues that would otherwise flow to those locals.

Independent business is not easy, friends. The difference between survival and failure can be slim indeed. For all any of us know, the appearance of a going business may appear that way

because the owner is not taking a salary, or is taking less than he/she wishes for all their work, perhaps to ensure that his employees are paid well enough.

I can’t tell you how many happy, supportive posts we have done through Love Wyandotte and Love Local that have resulted in an appreciative call or note from the owner.

I hope you know I mention this not to brag but to illustrate that small businesses can always use kind words, and help in spreading their word. It takes seconds to be kind and maybe help. Making people happier is addictive, anyway! And I just don’t have a clue what “making a corporation happy” means.

In my perfect scenario, therefore, small cities that are so dependent on small, independent, and local businesses would enjoy the employ of countless employees and elected officials that were relentless in finding ways to help those businesses thrive, by official policy and by urging all involved to be a part of an excellent solution.

Constant hyping and cheerleading, with positive posts and references.

Finding ways to direct some money towards collective marketing that draws people to the towns they lead and serve.

Buying nothing for city needs in the way of supplies and services that could have been sourced locally.

Bragging about all these things, and exhorting the entire populace to truly accept the responsibility to help.

I remain totally enamored of more than just my own specific business.

I’m fascinated by the aggregation of businesses in a concentrated area, and how those downtowns vary in level of success, vitality, and force of nature. As such, I love to see who does it better than

my town.

Not to criticize, but so as to emulate their path to greater success.

Almost always, I see only the surface level as I visit other towns. I rarely get the chance to talk with the people that played a role in getting their towns to a higher plane, and then keeping them there, continuing to grow. I don’t have that much time, either. I experience what I do in a short time and come away with opinions on all manner of things that comprise the appearance and functioning of those places.

I get great pleasure from finding things that surprise me and energize me, and give me ideas to share and/or wish for. I live in a state of constant wishing for better, in my businesses and my city. Always looking for the weak link to improve.

Local and Independent business is always under the assault of national, stock-market companies that seek to capture as much of the local money as possible. It’s how the national economy works, but it can be pushed back against at the local level.

It took 20 years for Michigan to find the way to demand that Amazon (et al) collect Michigan sales tax, giving a state mandated 6 percent competitive edge to Amazon on purpose, and it’s not just Michigan.

I wish for a more perfect world, but I’ll take a better region and collective of cities that all “get it” and ensure that the policies they oversee are in sync with making damned sure that their local businesses thrive, not just survive, which makes property values rise and more people want to move to the city and spend money there….and so on and so on. It really is just that simple.

PETER ROSE

What Our Patrons are Saying on Facebook:

William: Always a great place to have a bite. Great food • Late-night dining • Casual • Daily specials • Cozy atmosphere

Meg: Had the fish dinner, and it was amazing! Best cod I’ve had this Lent season! We will be back even after Lent!! Plus I love the redo on the inside, it looks really good! Hip atmosphere • Casual • Cheap eats • Child-friendly • Large portions

Chic décor

Kristen: Food is on point. I AM VERY IMPRESSED! Tasting menus

atmosphere

Libby:

It’s very nice inside with the wonderful owners. Healthy options

• Comfort food • Scenic views

Large menu

• Great food

• Farm-to-table

Leticia: Warm and friendly atmosphere. The owners and staff are so kind and treat everyone so well. It’s nice and refreshing to see a business treat people like family and not just another dollar in their till! Awesome place!

Michelle:

Just had one of the most perfectly cooked “medium rare” burgers I’ve found since moving back. Will definitely be back for another. No pic as I was licking my fingers. Next time...

Tracey: Wonderful management!!!! If you have a concern he is right on the problem to fix it!!! Great fried shrimp!!! Thank you for coming to our table and talking with us.

•

Mark: Friendly atmosphere... The food is good and the beer is cold. Stylish interior.

Estate Planning

101

Which plan do you need?

Time to clear up the confusion about Estate Planning ... The following definitions lack legal precision, but makes it easier to get a clear picture of what may be needed in your case.

■ Will – letter of intent of where you want your personal property to go – or not go.

■ Living Will – Documents your wishes during your final days including final healthcare choices and possibly your burial wishes.

■ Trust – This is a “company” that you start, and you become the CEO, “Trustee” and “Settlor.” The company outlives you, but continues to manage your assets as if you were alive by the successor CEO – whom you designate.

■ Power of Attorney – Financial and Healthcare – you need both – the first so someone can pay your bills, the second, sometimes called a Patient Advocate, designates someone to make “hallway at the hospital” decisions to take the stress off the family.

■ Ladybird Deed – probably the best thing that has happened to owning a home. I love these deeds – you grant yourself a life estate – in your own property - but retain the power to sell or borrow against the property. If you do not sell before you pass, this “springs” the house out of your estate, and your heirs have instant ownership, subject to any mortgage or taxes owed or similar.

Again, this is just a general description of the more popular terms – no one choice is a “silver bullet” but depending on how your estate gets planned out you can expedite a clean and clear process for the assets you worked a lifetime to save. Why wouldn’t you want to do that? Stop by or call and make an appointment and I’ll tell you what you’re going to need to do this right.

To my numerous former clients – thank you for allowing me to draft your estate plan! www.ForresterLawO

Waterfowlers event slated for Sept 16-17

One of the longest running outdoors events in the state of Michigan is gearing up for another season.

The 75th annual Pointe Mouillee Waterfowl Festival will be Sept 16-17 at the Pointe Mouillee State Game Area, 37205 Mouillee Rd.

This family-friendly event has been a Downriver tradition since 1947. Nature lovers truly enjoy the outdoor events such as dog jumping competitions and archery challenges. The event proudly supports the conservation efforts to protect the Pointe Mouillee State Game area. All proceeds will benefit habitat at Pointe Mouillee State Game Area which is the largest freshwater marsh restoration project in North America located in the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge. So spend a day or two with us and bring the family to enjoy a day with Mother Nature at the Pointe Mouillee Waterfowl Festival. Be sure to bring along the little ones as the Huron Clinton Metroparks will be sponsoring a Kid’s Tent featuring games, face painting, crafts and popcorn.

Here are just some of the fun things to see and do at the event.

Duck Hunter’s Tournament

In 1947, a small group of duck hunters were discussing who cou;d

shoot the best, who can set decoys the fastest, row and punt the fastest etc., and after this friendly competition, the Michigan Duck Hunters Tournament was born!

Things have changed a bit, but the premise is the same. This is the most unique and oldest shooting event

around so come out and test your skills in our family-friendly, fun event!

Boats are provided and all participants must use the shells (12ga and 20ga) provided.

Senior entries are $20 and come with a box of shells and a hat. Junior entries are $10 and also include a box

of shells and a hat.

There is a maximum of 60 shooters. All proceeds will benefit the habitat at Pointe Mouillee State Game Area, which is the largest freshwater marsh restoration project in North America located in the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge.

Lake Erie Championship Layout Shoot

This simulates duck hunting out of a layout boat. It’s designed for you to work on your skills as a layout shooter. Shooters will get a box of she;lls and then 25 clay birds will be thrown at them.

Seniors (ages 16 and older) get a box of shells and a hat for $20, Juniors get a box of shells and a hat for $10. Because of youth duck season, shooters can sign up at anytime, during the event, but there field is a limited to 100 shooters

Waterfowl Works has donated an NXT GEN UFO Layout Boat (A $1650 boat!) as the grand prize to the winner of the Lake Erie Championship Layout Shoot!

Be sure to check out this website at layouthunting.com/

SEE EVENT, Page 13

EVENT

Continued from page 12

Arts and craft show

This year will be an outstanding time to view and purchase wildlife artwork and crafts. Up-and-coming artists will display and sell their version of wildlife art as well. This year’s show will include:

~ Paintings

~ Hand carved decoys

~ Memorabilia

~ Taxidermy displays

~ Antique decoys

~ Crafts

~ Photography

~ Reference literature

~ Wildlife art and originals

~ Plus many other related items and supplies

Trading post

This is likely the largest outdoor swap meet of outdoor items that you are ever going to find. It is your onestop-shop for all hunting and outdoor items imaginable. Things such as:

~ Duck calls

~ Hunting boats, layout boats, etc.

~ Decoys

~ Clothing

~ Antiques

~ Fishing supplies

~ Ropes

~ Hunting boots/waders

~ Guide services

~ Anything you need for your hunting adventures!

Archery and BB gun shoot

This fun and free event is for all ages and is kid-friendly. The event will always have trained supervision at all times. This fun event shows the skills of archery in these areas:

~ BB gun skills

~ Archery shoot

~ Slingshot

~ Stop by and watch or even participate in this exciting event!

Duck calling contest

During the Festival, the Monroe Chapter of Ducks Unlimited will present “Live Duck” Calling Contest. This is a contest for everyone!

Open Live Duck (Main Event)

~ Open to all callers $40 entry fee.

~ 1st and grand prize is $500, plaque and Pointe Mouillee

Waterfowlers hat

~ 2nd place $40, plaque and PMWF hat

~ 3rd plaque and Hat

The contest will follow the Open Two-Man Live Duck.

Open two Man Live Duck

~ Open to all callers. $60 per team entry fee.

~ Limit of two teams per person, per each calling event.

~ 1st for the Open Two Man Live Duck is $500, plaque and PMWF hat

~ 2nd $40, plaque and PMWF hat

~ 3rd plaque and PMWF hat

For much more information

about the 75th annual Pointe Mouillee Waterfowlers Festival, visit their website at ptemouilleewaterfowlfestival.org.

Pick up that something special at the live auction

As usual the Waterfowlers Festival will feature a live auction that is the perfect place to pick up that special outdoors item for yourself or for someone you love.

The live auction will be held Sept. 16 from 4-9 p.m. in the art tent. Here some of the things that will be up for auction: A taxidermy mount, fishing charter trip, Spring walleye fishing trip, camo paint from Kush Paint, custom handmade carved knives by Mighty Sharp Cuts, a musky rod, Fighting Island hunt raffle ticket, duck prints, gifts baskets and much, much more.

There will also be some specialized items that came from donors including:

~ Herman Koch 1940s and 50s decoys, H.H. Ackerman Bluebill Decoy – donated by Karen Koch and family, Gibraltar.

~ Jim Foote working 1948 Hen Bluebill decoy - donated by Jim Trombley, Riverview.

~ Ed Myers signed Canvasback decoy, wood duck, Jim Pinkstaff Drake Mallard decoy, Swan Decoy, 2002 Goose decoy signed by Charles Jobes – donated by Carl D Fischer, Grosse Ile.

~ Two smelt nets, framed G. Wykes Wood Ducks print, framed Cynthie Fisher print – donated by Chuck and Eileen Przybylo, Brownstown.

~ Diamond Jack’s four-person narrated Detroit River Tour.

Creative Art Society welcomes guests

The Creative Art Society, formally the Downriver Arts and Crafts Guild, will meet on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 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 guests for the evening will be both Jenny Vaughn and Matthew Thornton, aka “emscript.”

JENNY VAUGHN

The TEAD One Memorial Artist in Residence Program is a 501(C)(3) non-profit organization that was founded by the family of Jordan Vaughn, aka TEAD to honor his memory and continue his artistic legacy.

The vision of the program is to promote and strengthen a diverse culture of art in the community by fostering a creative, supporting environment for local adult emerging artists to develop new work and creatively explore new ideas in a safe and inclusive environment.

MATTHEW THORNTON, AKA “EMSCRIPT”

Matthew Thorton will be discussing his ink, acrylic and spray paint work. He is a comic book illustrator and publishes his own comic book series. His favorite mediums are ink, acrylic and spray paint.

Additionally, he will be conducting an Ink and Acrylic workshop at the Fall Festival of the Arts on Saturday, Oct. 7.

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. We have workshops that are low-cost and educational.

For the $30 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.

Don’t forgetthe Creative Art Society’s Fall Festival of the Arts 2023, Sept. 29 - Oct.19.

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.

Downriver Bass Association is based in Riverview

DAVE GORGON

Southeastern Michigan’s largest bass club is based in Riverview.

The Downriver Bass Association meets monthly at the Riverview Veterans Memorial Library. Members participate in special events on land and fish on waterways throughout the region.

The goal is to share fishing tips and techniques while creating camaraderie, friendships and opportunities among members and spreading their joy for a lifelong sport.

Meetings, which are open to the public, are held at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of the month. There are no meetings in December, although club members often meet socially that month.

“It’s a club about camaraderie and learning to fish,” said program director and board member Rick Fike. “We’re not competitive. There are no trophies, cash prizes or formal recognition of an angler of the year. We share a lot of information with one another before we fish, while we fish and after we fish.”

Fike takes his fishing seriously. He creates a Google data sheet after a day of fishing, charting such information as where members fished, what they caught, the size of the fish and the weather conditions of the day.

Fike said members learn a lot by listening to the success other members have had on a selected waterway. Fishermen with boats are partnered with fishermen without boats.

“If there are 10 boats on a lake and everybody says how they did it, it’s like me going to the lake 10 times,” he said. “It accelerates your learning curve. I feel like I’ve been fishing for 40 years, not 10. It’s pretty cool.”

The Downriver Bass Association has been in existence since the 1970s and currently has about 35 members, Fike said. Current club President Jeff Dobek is Riverview’s city manager. He runs the meetings at the library.

“We talk about the water and conservation and what’s new in the world of bass fishing,” Dobek said. “We talk about the upcoming lakes we’ll be fishing on, water temperatures, patterns, depths… It’s a science.”

Eric Kennedy is event director and treasurer. He collects the dues, which are $36 a year. Members receive a

monthly newsletter published by Fike, who serves as secretary.

Fike also schedules special guest speakers at the meetings from September through April. Speakers have included Kim Stricker from the streamed TV program “Hook and Look,” Lake St. Clair fishing guide Gerry Gostenik, touring professional fisherman Marcel Veenstra and Captain Wayne Carpenter.

This month’s speaker will be local tournament fisherman Dave Hasty. In October, there will be a discussion on how to winterize boats. In November, Bob Burns from the Friends of the Detroit River will speak.

Bass Club members participate in a variety of fishing events such as the recent Riverview Fishing Derby on Reflection Pond and the upcoming Sept. 23 fishing event during Riverview’s 100th anniversary celebration. Club members will work with autistic children and their families through Mimi’s Mission.

Dobek said participating in fishing events is a chance for club members to “give back” and get young people interested in fishing.

“We hope that by teaching them how to fish, the next generation will carry on,” he said. “It’s time away from the computer and gaming and off the

couch and a chance to get out and enjoy nature.”

Club members work with the Riverview Library to help maintain fishing equipment that can be borrowed by children and adults. Library Director Azita Frattarelli said the “very popular” program allows library card holders to check out fishing poles and tackle boxes containing lures, extra hooks, bobbers and pliers. The club also donates equipment to the library and as prizes for the Fishing Derby.

Dobek, who called bass “a great sport fish,” said he joined the club in January 1988 after meeting representatives at an event at the Southland Shopping Center in Taylor.

“I love fishing,” he said. “My mom said I got my fishing bug from my grandfather. When I joined the club, I didn’t have a boat, just the basic gear. I didn’t know the difference between a clothesline and a fishing line. The guys took me under their wings and showed me how to do it. It was great. I learned about different rods and lures.”

Dobek said he “trial tested” the equipment to improve his chances of catching fish. He bought his first boat in the early 1990s and his interest in fishing has only grown from there. He said the club is “100-percent catch and release.”

“People who have an interest in fishing but don’t have a lot of experience can get in other people’s boats and learn all about rods, reels, lines and lures and under what conditions. You get to go out with people with multiple years of experience. They know the water. A lot of times, guys let them use their equipment. It’s a great learning experience.”

Riverview Mayor Andrew Swift raved about the Bass Association and all that the members contribute to the community and each other.

“The Downriver Bass Association’s partnership with the City of Riverview is the perfect example of a win-win situation,” the Mayor said. “They benefit by getting the word out about their club and our community benefits by learning about an awesome family activity, fishing.”

Dobek said he always looks forward to his next time on a lake.

“I enjoy being on the water,” he said. “It’s a great getaway. It’s relaxing. I’ve met a lot of good friends from it. We do things socially. It’s a really good club.”

Fike added: “If you hunt or fish, it’s kind of your passion. Whether you bowl or golf, you enjoy doing it with your friends.

“You build friendships that last forever.”

Members of the Downriver Bass Association at the Riverview Fishing Derby. In the front row are Luke Yasuhara (left), David Benson, Jeff Dobek, Bruce Yinger and Rick Fike. In the back row are Paul Grech, Gary Lloyd and Ray Maggard.

Photo by Dave Gorgon

Like Us On Facebook :

University of Michigan Club of Downriver awards five scholarships

KATIE HARTWELL

At a “tailgate” style picnic, indoors at Arnoldo’s Banquet Center in Riverview on Aug. 22, the U-M Club of Downriver club met to award scholarships and kicked off a new season of U of M sports.

The scholarships of $1,000 each were awarded to hard working current students who maintain at least a 3.0 grade point average at one of the campuses of U of M. They must have completed at least two semesters at U of M and have graduated from a Downriver High school.

The following are the awardees.

1. Madia Adan is studying sociology at Ann Arbor in LS and A. She is a 2022 graduate of Grosse Ile High School. She works 10 hours per week year round as a research assistant in Ann Arbor.

2. Delaney Brown is in the Ross School of Business in Ann Arbor. She is a 2021 graduate of Carlson High School. Delaney has worked as a tennis instructor for city of Trenton Parks and Recreation Dept. 20 hours per week in summers to defray the cost of her degree.

3. Marissa Jasinski is studying Elementary Education at Dearborn School of Education. She graduated from Riverview High School in 2021. She is working 12-16 hours/ week at

Kohl’s year round and living at home to help finance her education.

4. Lilliana Johnson is studying prebusiness at UM Dearborn School of Business. She was a 2021 graduate of Woodhaven High School. She works for UMD as an orientation leader, athletic and recreation assistant and other duties as needed. She’s keeping her college loans very low by living at home and commuting to classes. It is her second year to win our President’s scholarship.

5. Samantha Rickard is a Media and Communications major in LS and A at the Ann Arbor campus. She was a 2019 graduate of Taylor High School. Here’s another student saving money by living at home and commuting. She has worked for the city of Taylor for several years in the Media Center and event specialist.

After the tailgate dinner and the scholarship awards, the audience was treated to a talk about the history of Wolverine football by Steve Sapardanis. Art Vuolo then presented two fabulous videos featuring great Wolverine victories last year over Ohio State and Purdue.

The evening concluded with a rousing version of the Victors.

For more information about the club go to https://alumni.umich.edu/ communities- clubs/downriver/general-information.

Experience

City at 100 Mph, 1000 Ft In The Air!

Take The Ride of Your Life:

Max Flight offers a variety of tours that show off different parts of the city and range from 10 minutes to over an hour. From downtown Detroit to Grosse Ile, downriver and even to Ann Arbor, there is much to explore! Sunrise to sunset, 7 days a week, 365 days a year—Max Flight is ready to take you for a joy ride!

From Downtown…

Soar over the City of Detroit to experience its rich history, beauty, and skyline in a new light. With so much to explore downtown, the only way to see it all is up and away. Our pilots and tour guides will share deep knowledge of iconic buildings and landmarks and take you to see highlights of the city including Ford Field, Comerica Park, Belle Isle, the Renaissance Center, Grand Central Station, the Ambassador Bridge and more!

To The Burbs…

Breeze through beautiful suburbs around Metro Detroit. Depart from Grosse Ile Airport in a state-of-the-art Robinson R-44 helicopter and develop a curated flight path to view areas like Novi, Birmingham, Southfield, and tour the Grosse Pointe mansions.

To The Big House…

Are you a Michigan fan or just love the quaint beauty of Ann Arbor? Take a tour to see the University of Michigan campus with incredible views of The Big House, main street, and Lake Erie. Perfect for U of M fans and alumni!

Scholarship winners Marissa Jasinski (left), U-M Club of Downriver scholarship chair Katie Hartwell, Delaney Brown and Madia Adan. Not present: Lilliana Johnson and Samantha Rickard

Titans stub toe in loss to Allen Park

Last year, when the Anderson football team beat eventual league champ Carlson, the Titans snapped a four-year losing streak against the Marauders.

On opening night this year, senior running back Chase Barbosa scored a late touchdown and a two-point conversion, giving Anderson a 29-28 win over Trenton. That win halted a five-year, six-game losing streak against the Trojans.

On Aug. 31, Allen Park came to town and the Titans saw a chance to end an ugly 11-game skid against their neighbors to the north. But it did not happen.

Anderson scored on its second drive of the game and played most of the first quarter in Allen Park territory. But once the Jags found their footing, they were basically unstoppable and rolled to a 37-13 victory.

After a solid first half that saw the Titans outgain the Jaguars 194 yards to 173, the offense all but stopped for Anderson in the second half. The Titans had just minus-3 yards in the third quarter and just 72 yards in the entire second half. Seventy-five of those yards came on the final drive of the night with both lineups riddled with reserves.

Trailing 37-7, Anderson scored on its final possession of the night when Seth Bodary took a

shuffle pass from Sage and wove his way 60 yards though the Jaguar defense to the end zone. A bad snap botched the extra point attempt.

The game started promisingly for Anderson as they showcased the quarterback Jackson Sage-toThomas Laskowski connection.

On its first drive of the night, Anderson reached the Allen Park 10-yard line, mostly on the strength of a 60-yard bomb from Sage to Laskowski. The drive stalled there, but six plays and a punt later, Anderson had the ball back and they drove 83 years for the game’s first score.

SEE STUB, Page 18

Photos by Dave Chapman

Andrew Porter (11) makes a tackle.

HANK MINCKIEWICZ

Have an Event or Fundraiser? Let

STUB

Continued from page 17

But it was not easy.

Laskowski again figured prominently as he caught passes of 56, 16 and eight yards to help get the team near the Allen Park goal line.

From there, it took Barbosa four tries to score the touchdown. He added the PAT and Anderson led 7-0.

The cheering basically stopped for the home team after that as the Jags scored on their next five possessions to take control of the game. They were helped in their efforts by three pass interceptions and a bad punt snap that was downed the end zone for a safety.

Allen Park finished the night with 331 total yards, while Anderson had 267.

After a brilliant first half that saw him catch six balls for 192 yards, Laskowski was shut out by the Jaguar defense in the second half. Most importantly for Allen Park, they kept him out of the end zone.

The loss came on the heels of a season-defining win in the 2023 opener against Trenton on Aug. 24.

Last year, Trenton beat Southgate during the regular season and then did it again in the first round of the playoffs, making the 2023 victory even sweeter for the visiting Titans.

Barbosa’s last-minute touchdown and two-point conversion were the difference that night.

The Titans grabbed an early 13-0 lead when Sage hit Isiah Daviston

Senior Chase Barbosa (27) has scored touchdowns in each of Southgate’s first two games, including the gamewinner against Trenton

with a 27-yard scoring pass and followed it with a 22-yard scoring strike to Andrew Porter.

Trenton rallied to take a 14-13 lead and the teams went to the second half.

Southgate and Trenton traded third-quarter touchdowns with Connor Ensign going over from eight-yards out for Southgate and Trenton responding to tie the game.

In the fourth quarter, with time running down, Trenton scored on a 30-yard pass to grab a 28-21 lead with less than three minutes remaining.

But the Titans had one more bullet left in the gun.

Barbosa kick-started the gamewinning drive with a 35-yard run and he finished it with a one-yard charge over the goal line. He scored on a direct snap, then ran the same play to score the two-point conversion and hand his team the win.

The Titans were at non-league Livonia Clarenceville on Sept. 8 and they will host Taylor on Sept. 15.

Downriver Area Soroptimists’ Scholarship Awards

The Downriver Area Soroptimists’ Club, part of an international volunteer organization working to improve the lives of women and girls in local communities and throughout the world, annually awards several scholarships.

The organization is currently seeking applications for those scholarships.

THE SOROPTIMIST PRIME AWARD recognizes young women who are engaged in volunteer activities within their communities or schools. High school girls residing in Allen Park, Brownstown, Ecorse, Gibraltar, Grosse Ile, Lincoln Park, Melvindale, Riverview, River Rouge, Southgate, Taylor, Trenton, Woodhaven, or Wyandotte are eligible.

Two $1,000 awards will be given. Deadline to apply is Nov. 15. Contact Pat Bryan at soroptimistprime@yahoo.com.

THE LIVE YOUR DREAM AWARD assists women who have the primary financial responsibility for their families to obtain the skills/training and education necessary to improve their employment status and standard of living for themselves and their families.

Judging is based on effort toward education, scholarship, extracurricular activities, and financial need. First place: $2,500; second place: $1,500. Deadline to apply is Nov. 15. Applicants are encouraged to apply through the Soroptimist International portal: http://bit.ly/LYDA-apply. For questions, contact Nancy Nagle at 734-558-7942 or nagle.nancy6@gmail.com.

THE VIRGINIA WAGNER AWARD. Women who are attending a college or university in pursuit of a bachelor’s or master’s degree are eligible to apply. Judging is based on effort toward education, scholarship, extracurricular activities, and financial need. The scholarship amount available is $2.500. Deadline to apply is January 15, 2024.

Contact Fallon Donovan at 734-308-5466 or fdonovan811@gmail.com.

The Trenton and Downriver Area Soroptimist organization meets on the first Wednesday of the month at the Woodhaven Community Center.

All women are welcome to attend. You may contribute to the foundation that the Soroptimists support on krogercommunityrewards.com.

If you are interested in learning more about the Trenton and Downriver Area Soroptimists and our other activities, contact us at sioftrentonanddownriverarea@gmail.com or check out our page on Facebook@SoroptimistInternationalOfTrentonAndDownriverArea.

Like Us On Facebook :

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

Slip Mahoney’s bar -- has undergone dramatic remodeling and appears to be close to opening. Also on the primary ballot were candidates running for Mayor and City Council.

gobigmultimedia.com/grosse-ile-grand

Art on the Ile

... The goal of the program is to install 33 permanent and rotating public art works along Macomb.

Grosse Ile DDA’s “Art on the Ile” initiative first launched in 2022 and wraps in 2024. The project aims to install a mix of 33 murals, rotating and permanent sculptures, historical markers, student artworks, and crosswalk paintings over the course of 2022, ‘23, and ‘24.

In 2022, organizers successfully installed two murals, six rotating sculptures, and one permanent “G.I.” sculpture. The murals were painted by local artists Dustin Cook and Michelle Tanguay.

the year it holds charitable events benefiting local non-profits.

Whether it’s digging in the dirt, planting, nurturing, caring for the earth, educating yourself and the public about best gardening practices, they are always busy helping to make this a better world.

The Grosse Ile Garden Club is a member of The Michigan Garden Club and the National Garden Club and benefits from the classes and opportunities offered by the state club. Membership to both is only $30 per year.

For the past six years, the club has given a scholarship to a deserving Grosse Ile High School senior.

On page 11

gobigmultimedia.com/riverview-register

In the Mayoral race, incumbent Andrew Swift topped the voting with 1,770 votes. Councilman Chuck Norton drew 1,339 votes and resident Edmond Maas recorded 158 votes. Swift and Norton will meet in the general election with the winner becoming mayor.

This year, the Grosse Ile Downtown Development Authority has plans to complete three more murals downtown, including a mural on the Grosse Ile Hardware Store, on Lloyd’s Bar & Grill and on Zubke’s Plumbing....

On page 7

Grosse Ile Garden Club … we get around

...Started in 1927, this organization has a long history of beautifying the community, and during

Weed wins!

Riverview residents approve retail marijuana sales; Swift vs. Norton for mayor; six seek council seats

That ballot proposal went down to defeat on election night 1,758-1,599, meaning marijuana sales will remain legal in Riverview and shops may open as soon as the licensing and paperwork are complete.

One shop -- Kinship Provisioning. in the old

In the council race, 10 people ran and the top six will appear on the general ballot in November.

The top six council vote-getters were incumbent Suzanne O’Neil with 1,334 votes, former councilman Elmer Trombley (1,012), Brian Webb (945), David Pray (872), Nicole Clark (848) and Heather Smiley (770).

On page 1

Happy 100th, Riverview City will celebrate its centennial in September

... The event honors the founding of the Village of Riverview in April 1923 all the way up to the present-day City of Riverview. Current and former residents and employees are invited to attend. Most of the free family-friendly activities will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, September 23, in and around the community center in Young Patriots Park:

• A Riverview meet and greet will be a gathering place for past and present Riverview teachers, elected officials and other notable persons from the community, along with local faithful interested in interacting with them. Longtime Riverview historian Gerald N. Perry will be on hand to sell and autograph special 100th anniversary commemorative copies of his book Riverview Michigan – From its origin to the 1970s.

NORTON SWIFT

• Riverview’s own Bob Guiney, who earned fame on the TV show “The Bachelor,” will be in town to serve as host. Famed football coach Lloyd Carr and other Riverview personalities have been invited to attend.

•Special presentations will take place to the oldest Riverview resident, longest married Riverview couple, person with the oldest Riverview tree and oldest known house.

•There will be a chili cook-off, classic car show, dog contest, Riverview trivia contest and, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., old-time games for children. Entrants in the car show will receive dashboard plaques. Prizes will be awarded to contest winners...

On page 7

Trenton Veterans Memorial Library is a valuable resource

...You can borrow a hotspot, laptop or use our public computers and printers. We have free apps for eBooks, eAudioBooks, music, movies, magazines, TV shows and graphic novels. A safe and friendly place for all! Including open area seating, study tables, silent study room, meeting room for non-profit groups, vibrant children’s area and knowledgeable, friendly staff to help all ages.

gobigmultimedia.com/trenton-times

Trenton Parks & Recreation

Special Fall Events Program

Please check our Events Calendar https://www. trenton.lib.mi.us/events-1#/events/ for the latest listings of programs for children and adults.

Library hours are Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Friday/Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed on Sunday Here are some on-going library programs starting the first in September (for youths and adults)...

On page 11

gobigmultimedia.com/wyandotte-warrior

Out for Trout

Something special always seems to happen at the stream

With the hot afternoon sun finally beginning to sink toward the western horizon, my brother Jimmy and I were headed into the woods to do a little trout fishing before darkness arrived.

For me, there are several types of trout fishing, and each has its own appeal, while differing greatly in its feel and approach.

There’s trout fishing by myself, which usually offers great moments of introspection, solace and peace...

On page 4

New Rouge River Book Placed in 75 Libraries in River’s Watershed!

Living up to its mission of helping children, the Colina Foundation provided a grant to place copies of the new book titled “Rouge River Revived: How People are Bringing Their River Back to Life” in 75 libraries in the river’s watershed.

The Rouge River flows through metropolitan Detroit and for over 50 years was considered one of the most degraded urban rivers in the country. Then in the mid-1980s a “tipping point” occurred that would change everything.

On page 11