$6.5M delivers residents much needed traffic noise relief
fter a 5-year campaign, the residents of the Southampton subdivision will finally receive much needed relief from I-75 traffic noise. The problem stemmed from a 2019 resurfacing project by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), which lowered the freeway bridge over Goddard Road and introduced grooved pavement. This resulted in a significant rise in noise levels affecting residents in the subdivision and surrounding areas.
In May of 2019, the City of Southgate was first made aware of the issue when representatives from the Southampton Homeowners Association addressed City Council on the matter. Gary Martin, Leonard Stewart, and
Charles Richardson all spoke on the tremendous increase in noise they were experiencing as a result of the MDOT project. They reported that
many of their neighbors found it difficult to even have conversations in their backyards at certain times of the
7
Gloria
but when I play
sometimes, she’ll start freestyling. She can also mimic my cell phone ring and has fooled me a few times.
Victoria Araj appointed newest city councilwoman
n August 28th, Victoria Araj was appointed as the newest member of the Southgate City Council. This appointment follows the recent resignation of Councilman Greg Kowalsky. Per Southgate City Charter, City Council must fill the vacancy before the lapse of the current term. The City Council used a prior established applicant pool process open to the public with guidelines that required the applicant to have lived in Southgate for at least 30 days and could not be in default on any payments to the City at the time of submission. Each applicant would then be interviewed by City Council. Sixteen applications were received, however, only fifteen were qualified contenders as outlined by the prior stated guidelines. Based on her application, supporting documents, and interview, City Council came to a consensus with Araj being selected as the latest addition to the Southgate City Council.
SEO-optimized content, conducted extensive fact-checking, and taught development sessions for internal teams and vendors.
Araj’s qualifications are underscored by her academic achievements, including an undergraduate degree in Journalism with an emphasis on Political Science from Michigan State University and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Michigan. “I’ve always
on to Aquinas High School, where she served as a student reporter for the News Herald. She worked at Ray Hunter Florist for five years, both during high school and summers in college. As an adult, she served as a lector at St. Pius X Parish for many years. She also served four years on the Parish Council, taught 7th grade catechism for seven years, and is currently on the Financial Committee for the church. Additionally, Araj
friends, traveling—often dressing to match her destination—photography, decorating for the holidays, attending sporting events, and listening to a wide variety of music. She playfully notes that she frequently responds to conversations with song lyrics, such as “How Bizarre ...”
On August 29th, Araj was officially sworn in as a Southgate City Councilwoman by City Clerk Jan Ferencz. Araj, a Southgate resident of 40 years, brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Her extensive background includes nearly two decades of leadership in editorial content creation and team management. Most recently, Araj served as a Team Leader for Editorial Content at Rocket Mortgage, where she managed internal and freelance writers responsible for the delivery of
been interested in public service,” Araj said. Her journey includes internships with Congressman John Dingell and Governor Jennifer Granholm before starting her career at Quicken Loans/ Rocket Mortgage. “I understand the importance of research, asking questions, and considering a broader vision when weighing how shortterm decisions could have long-term effects,” she noted.
Araj has deep roots in the Southgate community. She attended grade school at St. Pius Catholic School and went
served a term on Southgate’s Historical Commission and was president of her subdivision’s HOA for three years.
In her free time, Araj channels her creativity through a side business, Woodward Wreath Co., where she crafts unique wreaths, centerpieces, tabletop decor, and ornaments for every season and holiday. Her creations are featured at craft shows across Downriver and Southeast Michigan, and on Etsy. Araj also enjoys spending time with family and
Although the balance of the term on the City Council is just one year, Araj is determined to make the most of this opportunity to deepen her understanding of her hometown and continue the good work. “I plan to use this new role to learn even more about our community and how I can be an effective advocate for our residents,” she said. Her broader aim is to inspire people of all ages to view public service in any capacity as a noble calling. Araj concludes, “I want to help people understand that government isn’t boring, pointless, or problematic. Instead, it’s a conduit, supporter, and ally to the people it serves. I hope to encourage more people to engage with the community, interact with the City Council, and recognize the vital role we all play in fostering a vibrant Southgate and a thriving Downriver region.”
Southgate City Council Meetings are held on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month in the City Council Chambers. The Work Study begins at 6:30pm, which includes official’s reports, presentations, and discussion of the agenda. The City Council Meeting begins at 7:00pm.
Cecilia Araj holds the Bible for her daughter as City Clerk Jan Ferencz swears Victoria into City Council
From Wyandotte to Warsaw Stevenson’s crusade to aid Poland’s Ukrainian guests
By ASHLEI DANG
Can you imagine a world where everything you’ve built, everything you’ve known, is completely destroyed? Your entire life – vanished in a flash. That is exactly what happened to the people of Ukraine on February 24th, 2022. Millions of lives were turned upside down in an instant. Families who had been preparing dinner, helping their children with homework, and enjoying the simple comforts of home suddenly found themselves fleeing for their lives. Tanks rolled down the streets, bombs shattered the peace, and countless women and children were forced to leave everything behind, clutching only a backpack haphazardly packed, unsure of where to go or when they’d ever come back. The fear, the desperation, and the overwhelming grief of lost loved ones is just unimaginable, but it was these haunting images and tragic realities that spurred Leo Stevenson into action.
Many may recognize Leo Stevenson as one of the best financial advisors Downriver. A man who has spent decades mastering the art of wealth management, Leo is a Wealth Management Advisor and Managing Director at Merrill Lynch. With accolades like being named #2 of Forbes’ “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” and one of “America’s Top Wealth Advisors” in 2024, Leo’s professional achievements are well-known. However, what many might not know is how Leo Stevenson has taken his strategic vision far beyond the boardrooms; he also took it straight to the heart of the humanitarian crisis in Eastern Europe.
Unlike most of us who watched in horror from afar, Leo took a feet-on-theground approach. Without hesitation, Leo boarded a plane and traveled to Eastern Europe, a region he had never visited before.
“It was just driving me nuts, seeing these poor women fleeing the country and not having anywhere to go,” Leo recalled. “I couldn’t take it, you know? I had to go. I had to do something.”
That something was the beginning of his journey through Romania and Moldavia before eventually finding himself in Warsaw, Poland. At first, Leo, like many other volunteers, handed out food and blankets. But for him, that
wasn’t enough.
“If I would’ve walked away just making cheeseburgers and handing out blankets, I would’ve just had stories about how sad it is. I didn’t want that to have been my story.”
Leo’s journey was destined to be much, much more. Through what Leo describes as divine intervention, he crossed paths with the Pallotines, a global association dedicated to serving those in need. Conversations with the Head of the Pallotines quickly turned into something bigger than they could imagine.
“It seemed like a miracle to us in Warsaw when Leo first arrived after the war began. He had just arrived from Romania, looking to help the Ukrainian women and children fleeing from the war. It was his encouragement, his strategic vision, and his help financially which allowed us to build housing for these poor women and children, providing a new life after they have lost everything,” said Father Mejzner.
Leo’s vision and drive to make a difference led to the transformation of old seminaries into fully functioning apartments, capable of housing hundreds
promising project,” the Mayor wrote. He went on to highlight the collaborative efforts between local government and organizations to ensure the continued success of the center. For example, the Polish government now contributes funds to feed the Center’s residents, while international organizations like the American Dental Association and the International Medical Relief provide free medical assistance. Even the First Lady of Poland, Agata Kornhauser-Duda, regularly visits, bringing donations and moral support.
Stevenson’s humility shines through even in the face of such monumental achievements. He doesn’t seek recognition or praise for his work, preferring to remain an “unnamed stranger” in the background. For him, it’s about providing stability to those who have lost everything, about giving them the tools to start over in a world where they have been forced to recreate from nothing.
of displaced women and children. With some seed money and an idea of a mortgage from Leo, along with additional funding from the Polish government, they built around 100 small units, each roughly 300 square feet, that have since provided shelter for close to 400 women and children. These aren’t just places to sleep – they are spaces designed to foster community with kitchens, play areas, and services, like language instructors, to help these refugees integrate into Polish society. This Center, known as the Future of Ukraine, isn’t just housing these families – it is helping to rebuild them, providing the much-needed stability in a world turned upside down.
Leo Stevenson’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. In a letter dated June 20, 2022, Mayor Paweł Kanclerz of Ożarów Mazowiecki expressed his deep appreciation for the project, recognizing it as a beacon of hope in a time of darkness. “Since the beginning of the outbreak of war in Ukraine, the Borough and Municipality of Ożarów Mazowiecki have been giving help to the refugees from the east of the country. […] I think that it is a very good and
“The war has to end at some point,” Leo says, his voice tinged with both sadness and hope. “But these women and children, they have nothing to go back to. Their houses are gone, their schools, their churches, their jobs— they’ve lost it all. And that’s what we’re trying to help them do: to start all over again.”
Leo Stevenson’s story is not just about one man’s determination to help those in need; it’s about the power of community, compassion, and the belief that even in the darkest times, we can all be instruments of life, helping others rebuild what has been lost. And while he doesn’t wish to be remembered for his work, the impact of his efforts will be felt for generations.
All that is left to say is thank you Leo, for choosing to be a beam of light in the face of darkness.
For more information about the Ukrainian Refugee Housing Project and to follow updates on their progress, please visit the website set up by Leo’s daughter, Brooke, at ukrainianrefugeeproject.com, or scan the QR code.
Stevenson sits with a child at the center.
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day. While the City understood the residents’ concerns, there was little that the municipality could do alone to address the issue.
Mayor Joseph Kuspa recalls, “Although we did not have the jurisdiction or financial resources to correct the problem ourselves, we could bring together those who might be able to help.” On June 13th, 2019, a meeting was held at the Southgate Veterans Library with Southampton residents and MDOT representatives. Also in attendance were U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, State Senator Marshall Bullock, State Representative Frank Liberati, Mayor Kuspa, and members of his staff. During the meeting, MDOT explained their stance and why a sound wall was not included on the northbound (Southampton) side of the expressway. They noted that strict adherence to the project’s scope placed the subdivision just outside the criteria for a sound wall. This explanation did not sit well with residents, especially since a sound wall had been constructed on the southbound (Allen Park) side of the expressway as part of the scope of the project. Moreover, since the construction project was now closed out, MDOT had no additional funding available for another wall. If a sound wall was to be built, additional funding would need to come from the State of Michigan.
Throughout 2019, Senator Bullock and Representative Liberati worked to rally support for additional funding to install the sound wall. Gary Martin, now President of the Southampton HOA, significantly contributed as well by providing key information about the neighborhood and actively advocating for the project. At one point, Mr. Martin even bought a sound monitoring device at his own expense to measure the increased noise levels in the area.
The installation of a sound wall would be classified as a new MDOT project, necessitating a comprehensive study before any construction could begin. Phase 1 would involve a traffic noise study to evaluate the effectiveness and feasibility of noise reduction. Phase 2 would include an engineering review to assess soil conditions, constructability, material
options, and cost estimates. By early 2020, prospects for securing funding for the study appeared promising. But, within weeks, COVID-19 changed everything. Funding to deal with the pandemic took priority over anything else. Due to this, the project was stalled for about a year. Additionally, during this time, Southgate’s state representatives left office due to term limits and redistricting.
Representative Tullio Liberati ultimately replaced his brother, Frank in 2021. Soon after, Mayor Kuspa brought the need for the I-75 sound wall to his attention. Newly elected Representative Liberati immediately started to work on the issue. He remembers, “I would talk with the Mayor on a monthly basis. But, Gary Martin would also call for updates and provide any input that he thought would be helpful.” Even the Representative’s Lansing staff members, Ashley Cecil and Alex McDowell, got to know Gary on a first name basis. Representative Liberati went on to note that, “Mr. Martin attended every one of my district coffee hours, always with a smile, and always with a question: ‘How are we standing on the sound wall?’ Gary was a bulldog fighting for this wall.” By July of 2022, Representative Liberati secured a $2,000,000 State grant to fund the sound wall study. The study was completed earlier this year. The results verified that the easement would support the wall and that a 25-foot high wall would provide the required level of noise abatement for the community.
Although this was good news and a step in the right direction, the study only validated the effectiveness and feasibility of the wall. It did not provide the actual funding needed for the construction. With study in hand, Representative Liberati stepped up his advocacy. “I knocked on a lot of doors trying to find the funding and many were slammed in my face with a laugh or a hard ‘no’,” Liberati recounted, “But I was determined to get the funding because it was the right thing to do for my constituents.”
On May 25th, Representative Liberati was finally able to get a commitment from appropriations for the cost of the project. “The first call I made was to Gary Martin,” Representative Liberati said, “It was one of the happiest calls I’ve ever been on. Gary was so happy to hear the news. It was like an
incredible burden had been lifted off his shoulders. We then called Mayor Kuspa with the great news.”
During the budget approval process, Representative Liberati was joined by current State Senator Darrin Camilleri and State Representative Jaime Churches. Together, they were successful in including $6,500,000 for the cost of the wall in the 2024-2025 State of Michigan budget. Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the budget into law on July 24th.
On Wednesday, August 21st, the City of Southgate held an appreciation ceremony to thank all of the elected officials who worked to bring this wall into reality. Mayor Kuspa presented Senator Bullock, Senator Camilleri, Representatives Frank and Tullio Liberati, and Representative Churches with a special plaque commemorating their extraordinary advocacy for the sound wall project. “It was a five year journey, with many ups and downs,” Kuspa said. “The excessive sound issue was created by the 2019 MDOT project, not by our residents. It’s great to see the State agree to invest in a solution that will return a normal quality of life to the residents of the Southampton neighborhood.” He went on to thank each of the Michigan elected officials, “Tullio became the driving force for this wall in Lansing, but each of you made a major contribution in bringing this project to fruition.”
Mr. Martin was presented with an oversized $6,500,000 mock check as a souvenir of his five year commitment to the project. The memo line jokingly reads, “Gary Martin’s Home Improvement Project: 2019-2025.”
Many of the homeowners in the Southampton subdivision were also in attendance to show their appreciation. Gary Martin started his comments with a simple, “Thank you, thank
you, thank you!” He referred to Mayor Kuspa, City Administrator Dan Marsh, and himself as “The Three Musketeers,” working on this project to its completion. He also personally thanked Tullio for listening and leading the struggle to build this wall. Toward the end of his remarks, Mr. Martin shared a story about how the wall project began to affect his marriage. He recounted, “At one point, my wife said she didn’t want to hear the word ‘wall’ in our house again.” He humorously added, “I even thought I might need to consult with an attorney.” Nevertheless, he acknowledged that he could not have continued the fight without the support and encouragement of Connie, his wife of 48 years.
With the funding allocated and the bid process moving forward, the sound wall construction is slated to begin late this year or early spring. Residents of the Southampton subdivision and surrounding area are extremely thankful and are looking forward to a quieter neighborhood. As for Mr. Martin, many believe his commitment to this project is not quite over. His friends and neighbors can see it now… Gary, donning a hard hat and safety vest, “supervising” the wall’s construction, making sure the job is done right.
Southampton HOA President, Gary Martin, and his wife, Connie
Little feet, big move: Itsy Bitsy’s grand re-opening celebration
Itsy Bitsy, the beloved consignment store specializing in baby and toddler essentials, has recently celebrated its successful move and grand reopening. Originally opening in April of 2022 in the Galleria Plaza on Dix Toledo, Itsy Bitsy now occupies a larger, more accessible location at 19190 Eureka Road. The grand reopening on September 5th marked an exciting new chapter for the store.
Founded by Stephanie Whitney, Itsy Bitsy was created to assist families in managing the rising costs of children’s clothing and accessories. The store quickly became a community favorite, earning the New Business Award in 2022 for its outstanding service and commitment to Southgate. The new location allows Itsy Bitsy to build on this success by significantly expanding its offerings.
The larger space at 19190 Eureka Road will feature an enhanced selection of cribs, changing tables, dressers, gliders, and rockers. This expansion enables the store to better meet the needs of families and provide
a broader range of highquality baby and toddler furniture.
In addition to furniture, Itsy Bitsy continues to offer clothing sizes from preemie to 6T, shoes from newborn to 12c, and toys suitable for infancy through kindergarten.
The store also provides a variety of baby equipment, feeding and nursing supplies, linens, and bathing products.
Itsy Bitsy’s move reflects its on-going dedication to the Southgate community. The store remains committed to offering significant savings, with prices typically 50-70% off retail, and provides consignors with 40% cash back or store credit for items sold. The store’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its efforts to recycle and keep valuable items out of landfills, while also helping families save on
essential items.
The grand reopening was a vibrant celebration of Itsy Bitsy’s growth and commitment to quality service. The new location features a Wish List service, allowing shoppers to request items that are not currently in stock and be notified when they become
available.
As Itsy Bitsy settles into its new home, it remains a treasured resource for Southgate families, providing a welcoming atmosphere, expert advice on baby products, and a commitment to making parenting both easier and more affordable.
Downriver Federal Credit Union hosts Free Car Wash Fridays
By ASHLEI DANG
Since 2021, Downriver Federal Credit Union has been a pillar of support for the local community, particularly for its high schools. What started as an event for the Credit Union’s Grand Opening has now blossomed into a wonderful summer tradition: Free Car Wash Fridays.
Free Car Wash Fridays began as a simple idea from the President/CEO of DRFCU, Robert LaPalme, who wanted to give back to his community. “By supporting our local schools and organizations with their fundraising efforts, it demonstrates our commitment to helping people of all ages use money to accomplish great things,” LaPalme explains. “It is exciting to see how hard the students work toward their goals, and we want to be there for them when they become adults and need help reaching even bigger goals.”
Southgate Anderson High School was the first school to take the plunge, but thanks to the success of the event, other local schools got to be involved as well. The initiative has grown each year, now rotating among various high schools across the Downriver area.
This year’s Free Car Wash Fridays hosted nine car wash events, each run by a different school or group. From the Allen Park High School Band to
the Lincoln Park Swim Team, students spent their summer breaks balancing jobs, sports practices, and volunteering at the car washes. The best moment this year had to be students dressing as Patrick Star, the beloved character from “Spongebob Squarepants,” to attract cars to their fundraiser, exemplifying the creativity and enthusiasm that
makes these events special.
The credit union not only provides the space and resources for these car washes but also matches all donations up to $500! This summer’s events raised an impressive total of $8,000, with individual schools earning between $545 and over $1,100 each. The impact of these funds is significant, helping support various classes, teams, and extracurricular activities.
The success of Free Car Wash Fridays has generated a buzz among schools, with a waitlist now in place for those eager to participate in future events. The credit union’s website features information for any schools interested in joining in on the fun.
As Free Car Wash Fridays continue to grow, Downriver Federal Credit Union remains committed to fostering community engagement and supporting local schools. Their efforts are a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives and the differences they can make in the lives of students. For more information or to sign up for a future car wash, visit Downriver Credit Union’s website: downrivercu.com/carwash.
Megan Holly, Brooklyn Shuereb, and Madison Scully (Patrick Star)
A rip-roaring start Senior QB Sage rallies Titans past Trenton in opener
By HANK MINCKIEWICZ
So, I think we had all better keep an eye on this little Southgate-Trenton football rivalry that’s been brewing the past several seasons.
Since 2022, Trenton and Southgate have met four times. Trenton won the first two close meetings by a touchdown each. Anderson has won the last two, each by a single point.
In the 2023 season-opener, Southgate scored a two-point conversion on its final play to score a 28-27 victory.
On August, 29th at Wayne State University during the Xenith Prep Football Classic, three-year starting quarterback Jackson Sage found Isiah Daviston with a seven-yard scoring pass with just 12 seconds left in the game to lift his team to a 27-26 Downriver League victory over Trenton.
It was a thrilling battle that featured star players on each side of the line of scrimmage.
Sage, who has been great for Southgate since he became the starter as a sophomore, played another brilliant game and virtually willed his team down the field on its final drive. On the day, Sage passed for three and ran for one. He accounted for 247 of Southgate’s 310 total yards. He passed for 162 yards and rushed for 85 more. Of Sage’s rushing yardage, 38 came on the game-winning final drive.
In addition to Daviston’s TD pass, Sage also threw long scoring strikes of 78 and 30 yards to fellow senior Thomas Laskowski. Thomas clearly caught a third touchdown pass on Southgate’s final drive of the game, but the referees were so caught up with calling pass interference on the Trenton defensive back that it looked like neither bothered to look at Laskowski, the ball, and his feet. No matter, Southgate scored from the seven-yard line two plays later. On the Trenton side of the ball, Ashton Rooney was the cowbell workhorse. The senior running back,
who has an upright, gliding style that is reminiscent of former NFL great and Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson, opened 2024 with a bang, carrying the ball 21 times for 201 yards and two touchdowns. He also had a 50 yard-plus kickoff return. Rooney was nearly unstoppable, but the effort was diminished somewhat by the fact that he put the ball on the ground three times and lost two of the fumbles.
Trenton’s senior quarterback Drew Haddad rushed for 62 yards and scored twice for the Trojans.
Southgate, which fell behind 20-7 in the first half of the game, hung tough and rallied at the end, but Trenton made the path considerably easier for the Titans. In addition to the two lost fumbles, Laskowski picked off a Haddad pass to end the game.
Trenton ended the first half inside the Southgate five-yard-line and got no points. Another fruitless drive ended inside the Southgate 30.
Trenton also stopped Southgate on downs at the Southgate 39-yard line
with only about five minutes to play. Inexplicably, instead of going for the jugular and trying to score or at least pick up first downs, Trenton ran four very conservative plays and gave the ball back to Southgate on the 32-yard line with lots of time remaining.
And Sage and the Titans took advantage.
The game opened with plenty of fireworks.
Southgate punted away its first possession and on the second play of the Trenton possession, Rooney took his first handoff of the game and sailed 42 yards for a score.
Southgate answered three plays later with a long Sage-to-Laskowski scoring bomb.
Rooney later scored on a smooth 21-yard run and Haddad scored from five yards out as Trenton built its advantage. A missed point-after left Trenton leading 20-7.
Before halftime, Southgate found its offensive rhythm and set sail on a 14-yard play, 82-yard drive that ended
STAR
when Sage dove into the end zone from eight yards out.
Despite a 48-yard run by Rooney to the Southgate four-yard-line just before halftime, Trenton was unable to post any points and the score stood at 20-14 at the half.
The third quarter was scoreless, but early in the fourth Sage lofted a strike to Laskowski, who caught the ball without breaking stride in the end zone for the third Anderson touchdown of the day.
Trenton answered quickly with a 65-yard scoring drive capped by an 11-yard run by Haddad. The big play on the drive was a 34-yard dash by Rooney. A missed two-point conversion left the score 26-20.
Trenton stopped the next Southgate drive on downs and looked to be in control, but the Titans got it back and created a fantastic finish for themselves.
Photo by Dave Chapman
SOUTHERN
Downriver’s
Join us in a panel conversation featuring Wayne County Deputy Executive Assad Turfe, State Rep. Alabas Farhat (3rd District), and RTA Executive Director Ben Stupka. They’ll discuss the need for a unified regional transit plan to enhance talent recruitment and economic development in our communities. A lunch will be provided and a Q&A portion will follow the discussion. Tickets available at: https://swcrc.com/events/
Ron Hinrichs, CEO/President SWCRC
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!
TURNING
Bonfire
NEWS FROM OUR NEIGHBORS
gobigmultimedia.com/grosse-ile-grand
Putting on a show Country Club dazzles as host of annual MICSA swim championships
... The theme for the event was “On Island Time” and the attire of the competitors and spectators reflected the theme.
The meet brought 13 other country clubs from all over Metro Detroit for the annual swim competition.
On a daily basis, more than 1,200 spectators and 600 young swimmers came to Grosse Ile. It was the largest event ever held at the country club. Over the course of three days, guests enjoyed great hospitality, featuring an island tiki bar, tropical grill, island salad station, and food trucks provided by Galindo’s, Elizabeth Perk, and Kona Ice.
Many guests from other clubs said the event was “the best show ever.”
On page 8
Abundant
blessings
St. James Episcopal Church to launch “Blessing Box”
How many times have we heard the aphorism, “It’s better to give than to receive?” Or, have been poignantly reminded to “Count our blessings?” Well, the good people of St. James Episcopal Church have taken those sentiments to heart, and are putting words into action. Literally. They are installing a “Blessing Box” on the north side of their historic chapel to serve the needs of those who need it most. The Blessing Box is an outdoor mini-pantry that is stocked with non-perishable food as well hygiene items to help community members
in need. The box will be stocked, unlocked, and available for anonymous use 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The Reverend Phil Dinwiddie, Rector of St. James explains, “For over 30 years the people of Saint James volunteered once a week at the Spirit of Hope soup kitchen in Detroit. When it closed we knew we needed to find new ways to feed the hungry. This Blessing Box is one of those ways!”
“Church cannot only be about meeting spiritual needs. We also have to care about people’s practical needs. As Jesus said in Matthew 25, those who enter into the ‘joy of the Master’ are those who feed the hungry, clothe the naked, and visit the sick and imprisoned.”...
On page 11
gobigmultimedia.com/riverview-register
Concert on the Course is a smashing success
... The event was headlined by the Blues Brothers Tribute Band, accompanied by the Transit Brothers
Band, both of whom are highly popular local entertainers. The concert was kicked off by returning local acoustic guitar talent, Mr. Steve Washburn. A new addition to this year’s concert was a small car show featuring 2003/2004 Ford Mustang Supercharged Cobras from the Motor City Terminators Car Club, adding an extra layer of excitement for car enthusiasts in the crowd.
Concertgoers enjoyed two delectable dinner options: Poppo’s BBQ and Celly’s Food Truck. For those with a sweet tooth, Serendipity Cakery & Ice Cream Shoppe provided delicious ice cream. The Riverview Highlands Golf Course ensured that adult beverages were available to quench the thirst of
those 21 and over.
Nearly 500 attendees enjoyed three hours of family-friendly entertainment, making it a memorable evening for all who came. The event would not have been possible without the support of several generous sponsors, whose contributions were crucial to the concert’s success...
On page 15
Riverview senior transportation now available
Great news for Riverview seniors! Senior Transportation has returned to Riverview and the Recreation Department is ready to transport you.
The Recreation Department offers curb-to-curb transportation for Riverview seniors aged 60 and over who are unable to drive. This service will assist you in getting to doctor appointments, the pharmacy,
grocery store, and more. If you are under 60 and have a disability that prevents you from driving, you may also be eligible for this service with a physician’s verification.
The service area includes Riverview, Southgate, Taylor, Trenton, Woodhaven, and Wyandotte. Please note that the boundaries may not cover all parts of these cities.
The cost for standard transportation within the service area is $5.00 each way, while the wheelchairaccessible service is $20.00 each way...
On page 10
gobigmultimedia.com/trenton-times
TPS welcomes new athletic director
With the fall sports season fast approaching, Trenton Public Schools is excited to announce the hiring of Kristen Farkas as the new Athletic Director for grades 6-12. Farkas brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of excellence in athletic administration, making her an ideal fit for
the district.
Kristen Farkas is known for her dedication to creating a positive and inclusive environment for all student-athletes. Her commitment to the development and success of student-athletes aligns perfectly with the district’s values and vision. The district is confident that her expertise and enthusiasm will greatly benefit their athletic programs.
Born and raised in Detroit, Farkas earned her degrees from the University of Michigan and Lamar University, becoming a licensed teacher
and administrator. She spent 18 years teaching in elementary and middle schools, coaching softball and volleyball, and managing middle school athletic programs before transitioning to high school athletics administration, where she has spent the past three years...
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Golden age glory at Downriver Senior Olympics
... Participants competed in four different age classes: Class A for ages 55 to 64, Class B for ages 65 to 74, Class C for ages 75 to 83, and Class D for ages 84 and older. The Olympics featured a range of events, such as the softball throw, horseshoes, soccer kick, football throw, bean bag toss, car show, darts, swimming, and the spelling bee.
The festivities concluded on August 16th with the Unity Awards Banquet at Crystal Gardens, where participants received their medals and enjoyed lunch.
Trenton seniors made a notable impact at this year’s Senior Olympics, earning a total of 20 medals: 5 gold, 8 silver, and 7 bronze. Congratulations to all Trenton participants for their impressive performances and for representing the city with pride.
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76 years of strikes and spares rolls to a close
Biddle Bowl, an eight-lane bowling center that has been owned and operated by three generations of the same family for 76 years, closed on August 23rd.
Brother-and-sister owners Rob Woelkers and Judy Sadler said they are ready to retire and have sold the bowling center that was founded by their late grandfather, Fred, and then owned by their father, Robert, who is 96 years old.
Woelkers, who lives in Riverview, and Sadler, who lives in Trenton, announced the closing in a July 14th Facebook post that was met with hundreds of responses from saddened bowlers and well-wishing community members.
“Biddle Bowl has been sold!” the owners said in the social media post. “With sadness and joy, we will be closing on August 23rd. No more bowling. We sincerely thank you for all your support and friendship. We are very excited about this new chapter in our lives. Our memories of all of you will
be treasured for the rest of our lives… thank you!”
The new owner is Simeon Investment Co., which is expected to use the space for storage.
“Biddle Bowl is a staple in the city,” said City Treasurer Todd Browning. “They have been there for years… To think they’re retiring, I’m happy for them, but it’s like losing a family member. It’s truly bittersweet.”
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WFD and WPD face off in charity softball game
On August 9th, the annual charity softball game between the Wyandotte Fire Department and Wyandotte Police Department took place at F.O.P. Park. Admission was free but all proceeds from the event were donated to support Robyn Gates, the wife of
Officer Gates, as she battles Stage 3 cancer.
Last year’s game saw the Fire Department emerge as the winners. This year, despite a valiant effort, the Police Department fell short in a closely contested match once more, losing 24-21. The event was a testament to the community’s generosity and support for a worthy cause.
