The Southgate Community School District will hold a Special Election on May 6th, to consider three significant proposals aimed at maintaining and improving the district’s educational infrastructure and operations. The three initiatives on the ballot include a Zero Tax Rate Increase Bond, NonHomestead Operating Renewal, and a 2-Mill Hedge on the Non-Homestead Operating Renewal.
The Southgate Community School District is placing these proposals before voters to ensure that the district has the necessary funding to support ongoing projects and daily operations. If approved, these initiatives will help the district continue to provide a high-quality educational experience for students while improving its facilities.
If any of these initiatives pass, the residential tax rate on primary residences will not increase. However, if the bond millage does not pass, the millage rate could decline over the next few years.
Approving the bond millage in the special election locks in the current rate,
ensuring that taxes will not rise from the last levy. The Non-Homestead Operating Millage, which is assessed on commercial properties and second homes within the tax boundary, does not apply to primary residences. The additional hedge ensures that the district can collect its full 18-mill rate on commercial properties and second homes, even if fluctuations in rules could otherwise reduce the amount collected.
The District would retain nearly $5 million from the Non-Homestead Operating Millage Renewal to cover employee wages, benefits, and annual operational costs. A 2-mill hedge on the Non-Homestead Operating Millage Renewal ensures that the District can collect its full 18-mills from NonHomestead properties. While school
districts are permitted to levy up to 18-mills against these properties, certain rules may result in the District being able to collect less than the full 18-mills. To account for this, the District seeks taxpayer approval to collect up to 2 additional mills, ensuring that the total amount collected remains at the full 18-mills required for the District’s operations.
The millage funds will be allocated to a variety of important projects within the district. These include the installation of air conditioning and HVAC systems across all buildings, the creation of a tennis and baseball pavilion at AHS, and the construction of a new maintenance building. The funds will also support upgrades and renovations to the DMS athletic facilities, as well as improvements to the Gerisch and Asher buildings, including parking lot renovations at Asher, and plans to update the flooring at AHS.
To learn more and view the ballot breakdown, visit southgateschools.com
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!
Southgate’s newest chiropractic care option
On March 27th, CranioCervical Care Center, located at 1 Heritage Pl, Suite 130 held its grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony. The center is led by Dr. Brandon Brock, an upper cervical chiropractor who has returned to his hometown to serve the community he grew up in. Dr. Brock, a graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic, always knew that he wanted to bring his expertise back to Michigan, where he could make a direct impact on the health and wellbeing of the people in the Downriver area. After experiencing the power-
ful benefits of upper cervical care himself—specifically finding relief from migraines and neck pain—Dr. Brock was inspired to establish the area’s first upper cervical chiropractic practice.
At the CranioCervical Care Center, Dr. Brock and his team offer specialized care for a wide range of conditions, including vertigo, dizziness, migraines, and much more. By bringing his expertise home, Dr. Brock is dedicated to helping his hometown thrive through personalized chiropractic care.
Home Equity Loan or Line of Credit?
Homeowners often find themselves in a position where they have significant equity built up in their homes, yet they may not realize the financial potential they hold. When it comes to borrowing against and tapping into the equity in your home, you have two main options: a home equity loan or a home equity line of credit (HELOC).
Both can be valuable tools for financing home improvements, debt consolidation, or other major expenses. However, they have distinct characteristics that make them suitable for different financial situations.
When to Choose a Home Equity Loan
A home equity loan might be a good option if:
- You need a lump sum of money for a specific purpose.
- You prefer a fixed interest rate and predictable payments.
- You’re comfortable with a longer loan term.
Ideal Scenarios: Home equity loans are excellent for projects with a clear budget, such as remodeling a kitchen or consolidating high-interest debts. The fixed rate ensures your payments remain consistent, which can be beneficial for long-term planning.
Benefits and Considerations: The main benefits of a home equity loan are predictable payments and a set payoff timeline. However, it’s important to consider the total cost, including interest, over the life of the loan.
When to Choose a Home Equity Line of Credit
A HELOC might be a better choice if:
- You need flexibility to borrow funds as needed.
- You’re comfortable with variable interest rates.
- You anticipate needing funds over a shorter period.
Suitable Situations: A HELOC might be more suitable if you’re unsure of the exact amount you’ll need or if your funding needs will shift over time. This flexibility is advantageous for projects with varying costs, such as ongoing home repairs or educational expenses.
Benefits and Considerations: The flexibility of HELOCs can save money if you only borrow what you need. However, the variable interest rates mean your payments can change, potentially increasing your overall costs. Plan accordingly and ensure you can handle fluctuations in payment amounts.
To learn more about Home Equity Loans, contact a Home Loan Specialist from Downriver Community Federal Credit Union today at 313-386-2200 x1137 or visit DownriverCU.com/HomeEquity.
Bags for Benefits Cornhole Tournament Draws Community Support
The Downriver Family YMCA hosted the Bags for Benefits Cornhole Tournament on Saturday, March 29th. The event brought together competitors and spectators for an evening of friendly competition, all in support of two local organizations: the Rotary
Club of Southgate and the Detroit-Downriver Student Film Consortium. Participants competed in two divisions— Advanced and Novice—vying for prizes and bragging rights.
In the Advanced division, Adam Walker and Chris Bone secured first place, followed by Mike Flynn and Don Childers in second, and Randy Coleman and Matt Szymoniak taking third. The Novice division saw Chris and Harry Steves claim the top spot, with Stephanie McNees and John McNees finishing second and Lisa and Stephan Rulrig placing third.
A highlight of the evening was the Mayor vs. Mayor showdown between Southgate Mayor Joseph Kuspa and Riverview Mayor Andy Swift. Mayor Kuspa emerged victorious, earning the inaugural Mayors Cup.
With strong community partici-
pation and all proceeds supporting local initiatives, the event was a resounding success, reinforcing the impact of collaboration and charitable giving in Downriver.
Dr. Pomponio, Southgate’s longestserving Board of Education member, was recently honored by the Board of Education and Superintendent Irvine for her 14 years of dedicated service to the Wayne County Association of School Boards (WCASB). Having retired as President of WCASB, her contributions to local schools and
students were celebrated at a recent meeting. The district expressed pride in Dr. Pomponio’s representation of Southgate at the WCASB level and her ongoing support of the commu nity and its students. Her leadership and commitment have made a lasting impact on the district.
Is Your Drug on TV?
Modern medicine offers solutions for many health concerns, but the price may be out of reach.
Has your doctor recommended an expensive drug for diabetes, stroke prevention, cardiovascular disease or congestive heart failure? Health plans may be available to you that substantially lower your costs.
See us Monday to Friday 11am to 5pm.
Elizabeth M. Abshire Licensed Insurance Agent
Shaun Z. Abshire Licensed Insurance Agent
Southgate florist showcases talent at floral expo
At the Great Lakes Floral Association Floral and Event Expo, Jedidiah Daddow, a certified florist and owner of Floral Designs of Southgate, was one of the featured design presenters. He conducted a floral workshop, sharing his expertise with attendees and demonstrating his creative approach to floral arrangements.
With just over six years in the floral industry, Jedidiah has already made signficant strides in his career. As a certified florist through the Great Lakes Floral Association, he credits the certification program as a key factor in his professional development. The program has been instrumental in helping him refine his skills and grow within the competitive floral industry His work has been recognized in several publications, including a bouquet featured on the cover of The Professional Florist magazine and he has also contributed an article to the same publication.
Jedidiah places a strong emphasis on education, seeing it as essential for growth and improvement. He is dedicated to continually refining his craft and creating personalized floral designs that reflect the unique needs and preferences of his clients. His success is a testament to his commitment to both his craft and the Southgate community, where his talents are greatly appreciated.
Varsity girls basketball team closes season
The Southgate Varsity Girls Basketball Team wrapped up their season during the second round of the Division 1 District 18 games on March 5th, hosted by Allen Park. The team earned a hard-fought 4039 victory over Lincoln Park in their first matchup but fell to Riverview 38-61 in the following round. Finishing the regular season with a record of 8-16, the team showed resilience and effort throughout the year. While their tournament run ended earlier than hoped, their growth and determination were evident
on the court. The Titans can be proud of their hard work this season and look forward to continuing their development in the seasons ahead.
Lady Titans 2024-2025 Roster
1 - Scarlett Sage - Sophomore
2 - Marina Borg - Senior
3 - Acelynn Cantineri - Sophomore
4 - Mariah Crump - Sophomore
5 - Aniya Jackson - Senior
Winter Guard season in full swing
The Winter Guard season is officially underway, and the Southgate teams are off to a strong start.
At the recent Michigan Color Guard Circuit competition on March 16th at Stoney Creek High School, the Southgate Winter Guard teams gave it their all. Southgate Anderson Winter Guard (SAWG) placed 3rd in Scholastic A with a score of 65.600. This year, SAWG is competing up a level, qualifying them for Worlds after the press date for the Southgate Star in April. The team has been pushing themselves through new routines, showing remarkable dedication and hard work.
The Southgate Titan Winter Guard finished 10th in Scholastic Regional A with a score of 57.100. Meanwhile, the Southgate Viking Winter Guard secured 4th place in Junior Regional A with a score of 47.200. These impressive performances highlight the incredible commitment of each team, and their efforts are making the Southgate community incredibly proud. The Winter Guard season is off to a fantastic start, and all eyes are on these talented teams as they continue to push forward in their journey.
10 - Melody L. Ballinger - Senior
12 - Laila N. Horner - Senior
13 - Abbiegayle Juco - Junior
14 - Lydia Duran - Junior
15 - Jenna Hinzmann - Senior
22 - Reese Randall - Junior
23 - Olivia A. Priestley - Senior
33 - Riley Janes - Sophomore
Titan spring sports: Mark your calendars
Boys Varsity Baseball
April 1: 4:15 PM vs Annapolis
April 2: 4:15 PM vs Leslie
April 5: 12:00 PM vs Ecorse
April 7: 4:30 PM at Franklin
April 9: 4:30 PM vs Edsel Ford
April 10: 4:00 PM at Trenton
April 12: 10:00 AM vs Melvindale
April 12: 12:30 PM vs Riverview
April 14: 4:30 PM at Lincoln Park
April 16: 4:30 PM vs Carlson
April 17: 4:00 PM at Taylor
April 19: 11:00 AM vs New Boston Huron
April 23: 4:30 PM at Allen Park
April 24: 4:30 PM vs Woodhaven
April 26: 12:00 PM vs Grosse Ile
April 28: 4:30 PM vs Wyandotte Roosevelt
April 30: 4:00 PM vs Detroit Edison
May 1: 4:30 PM at Edsel Ford
May 3: 11:00 AM vs Escanaba
May 3: 1:30 PM vs Cass Technical
May 5: 4:30 PM vs Trenton
May 7: 4:30 PM vs Lincoln Park
May 8: 4:30 PM at Carlson
May 10: 11:00 AM vs Salem
May 12: 4:30 PM vs Taylor
May 14: 4:30 PM vs Allen Park
May 15: 4:30 PM at Woodhaven
May 19: 4:30 PM at Wyandotte Roosevelt
May 22: Pre Districts
May 24: 10:00 AM vs Davison
May 24: 12:30 PM vs Tecumseh
May 24: 3:00 PM vs Berrien Springs
May 31: Districts
Boys Varsity Golf
April 9: Jamboree 1 at Lake Erie Metro Golf Course
April 16: Jamboree 2 at TBD
April 17: Downriver League Tournament 1 at Riverview Highlands
April 23: Jamboree 3 at Lakes of Taylor Golf Course
April 25: Wyandotte Scramble Tournament at Riverview Highlands
May 1: Jamboree 4 at Taylor Meadows Golf Course
May 2: Downriver League Tournament 2 at Taylor Meadows Golf Course
May 7: Jamboree 5 at Lake Erie Metro Golf Course
May 14: Jamboree 6 at Lakes of Taylor Golf Course
May 15: Marauder Invitational at Lake Erie Metro Golf Course
May 20: Downriver League Tournament 3 at Fellows Creek
Girls Varsity Soccer
March 20: 5:30 PM at Plymouth
March 31: 5:00 PM at Flat Rock
April 1: 6:00 PM at Gabriel Richard
April 3: 6:00 PM vs Clarenceville
April 7: 6:00 PM at Woodhaven
April 9: 6:00 PM vs Taylor
April 16: 6:00 PM vs Trenton
April 18: 6:00 PM vs Plymouth
April 21: 6:00 PM at Lincoln Park
April 23: 6:00 PM at Wyandotte Roosevelt
April 28: 6:00 PM vs Edsel Ford
April 30: 6:00 PM at Allen Park
May 1: 6:00 PM vs Melvindale
May 5: 6:00 PM vs Carlson
May 12: 6:00 PM Position Round
May 13: 6:00 PM vs Jefferson
May 14: 6:00 PM Position Round
May 19: 6:00 PM vs Detroit Western
May 26: Districts
Girls Varsity Softball
April 1: 4:30 PM vs Warren Mott
April 2: 4:30 PM vs Trillium Academy
April 3: 4:30 PM vs Annapolis
April 4: 4:30 PM vs Belleville
April 9: 4:30 PM vs Edsel Ford
April 10: 4:00 PM at Trenton
April 11: 4:30 PM vs Canton Prep
April 14: 4:30 PM at Lincoln Park
April 16: 4:30 PM vs Carlson
April 17: 4:00 PM at Taylor
April 23: 4:30 PM at Allen Park
April 24: 4:30 PM vs Woodhaven
April 26: 12:00 PM vs Grosse Ile
April 28: 4:30 PM vs Wyandotte Roosevelt
April 30: 4:30 PM vs Lutheran Westland
May 1: 4:30 PM at John Glenn (Westland)
May 2: 4:30 PM at Edsel Ford
May 5: 4:30 PM vs Trenton
May 7: 4:30 PM vs Lincoln Park
May 8: 4:30 PM at Carlson
May 12: 4:30 PM vs Taylor
May 14: 4:30 PM vs Allen Park
May 15: 4:30 PM at Woodhaven
May 17: 10:00 AM at Clarenceville
May 19: 4:30 PM at Wyandotte Roosevelt
May 22: 4:30 PM vs Dearborn
May 31: Districts
Girls Varsity Tennis
April 5: 8:00 AM Southgate Tennis Quad
April 8: 4:00 PM at Trenton HS
April 10: 4:00 PM vs Lincoln Park
April 15: 4:00 PM vs Taylor
April 17: 4:00 PM vs Wyandotte Roosevelt
April 24: 4:00 PM vs Carlson
April 29: 4:00 PM vs Woodhaven
May 1: 4:00 PM vs Allen Park
May 3: 8:00 AM Trenton Invitational
May 6: 4:00 PM at Edsel Ford
May 14: Regionals
May 19: Downriver League Meet
Varsity Track and Field
March 21: 10:00 AM EMU Huron Relays
April 5: 8:45 AM Allen Park Co-Ed Relays
April 8: 3:30 PM Quad Meet at Roosevelt
April 12: 9:00 AM Warrior Classic
April 22: 3:30 PM vs Edsel Ford
April 25: Marauder Invitational
April 29: at Allen Park
April 30: 3:30 PM at Allen Park
May 2: Golden Triangle at Saline
May 6: 3:30 PM vs Taylor
May 10: Metro Classic at Carlsonl
May 15: MHSAA Regionals
May 16: MHSAA Regionals
May 20: Downriver League Meet
May 20: Downriver League Championship
May 22: Freshmen Invitational at Trenton
Local artists on display in May
The Artistic Creators Guild is hosting its annual Fine Art Show and Sale at the historic Ford-McNichols House, located at 2610 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte, on May 3rd and 4th. From 11:00 AM to 4:30 PM each day, visitors can explore a wide variety of original works from local artists, including pastel, oil, watercolor, and acrylic paintings, jewelry, cards, painted bulbs, and more. Whether you’re looking for the perfect
Mother’s Day gift or hoping to fill that empty spot on your wall, this event has something for every taste, with prices starting at just $5. Admission is free, and each purchase comes with a complimentary raffle ticket. Free tours of the historic Ford-McNichols House will also be available. Don’t miss the chance to support local artists and find something special at this unique community event.
Downriver Soroptimists will host their third golf outing fundraiser, a four-person shotgun scramble, on June 7 2025, at Wesburn Golf & Country Club, 5617 S. Huron River, in South Rockwood. Registration begins at 7:00 A.M., and tee-time will start at 8:00. The cost is $100 per person, which includes the greens fee, catered lunch, and door prizes. A variety of raffles, gift baskets and gift cards, 50/50 raffles, and prizes are also a part of the event. Preregister at formsmarts.com/form246i.
The Soroptimists are asking for support through a $100 Hole Sponsorship. This sponsorship includes a customized sign at the sponsored hole, social media recognition shared by our club and its members, inclusion of your logo and a mention in the event program, and acknowledgment during announcements on the day of the event. Find information at: formsmarts.com/form/29v9.
The proceeds are going to help fund the Soroptimist educational scholarship programs to Downriver women, as well as funds for the various service projects that help support women and girls in a variety of ways that include human trafficking awareness, education, healthcare, and domestic violence. Fallon Belisle is the golf outing chairperson. Downriver Soroptimist is a volunteer group that offers service by way of fundraising and donations, public awareness/educational programs, and
hands-on assistance; as well as presenting yearly monetary awards to individuals to help support and further their future. These women give their time and talents to local food pantries, Vista Maria, First Step, Sparrow Project, Stanford House, Alternatives for Girls, and to area women’s health institutions. They host annual charity fundraisers and programs such as “Save the Girls” motorcycle ride, “Save the Girls” charity golf outing, and the “Dream It, Be It” program for adolescent girls.
You can help improve the lives of women and girls in the Downriver area and around the world by donating to Soroptimist International of Downriver. Your donation will help fund our service projects. This is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Make an online donation via Venmo or by sending a check to Soroptimist International of Downriver, 1644 Vernon, Trenton, MI 48183.
The Downriver Soroptimist organization meets at 6:30 P.M. 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 Downriver Soroptimists and our other activities, email us at siofdownriver@ gmail.com or contact us on Facebook at facebook. com/SoroptimistInternationalOfDownriver.
Did you know the contaminants in our local drinking water exceed the EWG health guidelines by 312xs?
STA JROTC cadet
Cadet Major Ethan Solo was awarded the prestigious JROTC Bronze Medal by the Monguagon Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution on March 14 during the 18th Annual Titan Battalion Military Banquet at the Grecian Center in Southgate. The award was presented by Kathy Gibson, the chapter’s National Defense Chair.
Ethan, a student at SouthgateAnderson High School, holds the position of Executive Officer for the Titan Battalion and co-captains both the Raider and Drill Teams. He is also an active member of the Color Guard and Honor Guard. With aspirations to attend the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, he credits JROTC for instilling discipline and resilience in him. His parents, Jerry and Michelle Solo, joined over 260 guests, including Southgate Mayor Kuspa, who served as the event’s guest speaker. The Titan Battalion is led by Cadet LTC Yalitza Stench, with Army Instructors LTC (Ret) Jason Dye and SFC (Ret) Brian Cumper.
Soup Day 2025
The annual Soup Day event, hosted by The Grecian Center on March 12th, brought together several hundred guests to sample and enjoy over 30 soups prepared by local restaurants, all while supporting the Salvation Army. The event, which is always a highlight of the year, featured an impressive variety of soups, showcasing the talents of chefs from across the Downriver area.
A big thank you goes to all the vendors who donated their time, staff, and culinary expertise to make this event such a success. Participating vendors included Big Bear Lodge, Famous Dave’s Bar-B-Que, Hungarian Rhapsody, Jo Brighten Skills Center, Leon’s Family Dining, McCaffery’s Bar, Michael’s on the River, Nona’s Diner, Pipers Restaurant, Prush’s Bar and Grill, Sabina’s Restaurant, Taza Fresh Grill, The Biddle Hall, The Grecian Center, The Meat Guys BBQ Shack food truck, The Salvation Army Soup Kitchen, The Thirst Parlor Saloon, TV’s Deli and Diner, and Vic’s Casual Dining.
After an afternoon of tasting and mingling, the winners were announced, earning bragging rights for their delicious contributions:
- Best Overall Soup: TV’s Deli and Diner with their Classic Lobster Bisque
- Most Unique Soup: The Thirst Parlor Saloon with Dill Pickle Soup
- Best Dessert Soup: Jo Brighten Skill Center with Chocolate Dessert Soup
- Best Display: Big Bear Lodge
The event not only highlighted the creativity and skill of local chefs but also reinforced the spirit of community as they supported the Salvation Army’s ongoing efforts. A heartfelt congratulations to all the winners, and a huge thank you to everyone who participated and made Soup Day 2025 such a memorable success!
VIEW 25-26
RIVERVIEW 25-26
SCHOOLS OF CHOICE
YAWETARIPEHTESRUOCRUOYTRAHC
SCHOOLS OF CHOICE
SCHOOLS OF CHOICE
CHART YOUR COURSE THE PIRATE WAY
Online applications for the 2025-26 school year will be accepted April 7 through May 6.
There
Online applications for the 2025-26 school year will be accepted April 7 through May 6.
Online applications for the 2025-26 school year will be accepted April 7 through May 6.
for
Online applications for the 2025-26 school year will be accepted April 7 through May 6.
Online applications for the 2025school year will be accepted April 7 through May 6.
There are limited openings in grades K-11 for students who live in Wayne County or a neighboring county. RVA
SCHOOLS OF
There are limited openings in grades K-11 for students who live in Wayne County or a neighboring county.
There are limited openings in grades K-11 for students who live in Wayne County or a neighboring county.
CHART YOUR COURSE TH RIVERVIEW 2
RVA is accepting unlimited applications in grades K-12 for 100% online learning from students living in Wayne County or contiguous counties.
RVA is accepting unlimited applications in grades K-12 for 100% online
There are limited openings in grades K-11 f students who live in Wayne County or a neighboring county. RVA is accepting unlimited applications in grades K-12 for 100% online learning from students living in Wayne County or ti ti
Online applications for the 2025-26 school year will be accepted April 7 through May 6.
At their March 24th regular meeting, acting on the recommendation of the Fire Commission, the Grosse Ile Township Board approved Fire Marshal Robert R. Roscoe to be the next fire chief, replacing retiring chief John Camilleri. After 18 years of service, Camilleri is stepping back from the leadership position, but will remain as an EMT in the department.
Roscoe comes to the position, having served for 13 years, starting as a volunteer firefighter/EMT, and moving through the ranks as a sergeant, fire marshal, and lieutenant.
He’s certified in Michigan Fire 1 and 2, EMT-B, Ice Rescue, Open Water Advanced, Pump Operator, CDL-A training. Roscoe has served on the Downriver Dive Team for the past several years, and is a NFPA certified fire inspector, and Michigan state fire inspector.
He is a graduate of Schoolcraft College’s Firefighter School, earning his Emergency Medical Technician status at Wayne County Community College, and advanced Fire Inspector training at Schoolcraft. Roscoe and his wife Julia, have a teenage daughter and make their home on Grosse Ile.
SEE PAGE 4
GI middle school students relish week-long trip to D.C.
The 8th-grade class at Grosse Ile Middle School recently embarked on an unforgettable weeklong trip to Washington, D.C., filled with history, exploration, and fun activities. The adventure began with a visit to the Udvar-Hazy Space Museum, where students were able to explore impressive displays of aviation and space history. The group also participated in a night tour of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial, offering a chance for reflection on the nation’s past.
The next day was action-packed, starting with a visit to the Spy Museum, where students engaged with interactive exhibits and learned about the world of espionage. This was followed by a trip to Arlington National Cemetery, where students witnessed the solemn Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Four GIMS students had the honor of placing a wreath at the tomb, paying tribute to the fallen soldiers.
The next day was action-packed, starting with a visit to the Spy Museum, where students engaged with interactive exhibits and learned about the world of espionage. This was followed by a trip to Arlington National Cemetery, where students witnessed the solemn Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
SEE PAGE 3
Roosevelt girls win district quarterfinals, fall in semifinals
The Wyandotte Roosevelt girls’ basketball team kicked off their playoff run on March 3rd with a solid victory in the district quarterfinals. In a Division 1 district hosted by Allen Park, Wyandotte Roosevelt faced off against Taylor. The Bears came out on top, winning 36-20. Annie Zieger led the way with 12 points, Emma Jordan added 8, and Madison Noe contributed 7 points to help secure the victory and advance to the district semifinals.
On March 5th, Wyandotte Roosevelt took on Allen Park in the district semifinals. Despite a hard-fought game, the team fell short, losing 29-35, and their playoff journey came to an end.
Following Wyandotte Roosevelt’s loss, Allen Park went on to win the district finals against Riverview. However, their postseason run ended in the regional semifinals when they were defeated by Temperance Bedford.
SEE PAGE 10
Green thumbs wanted
Applications are now open for gardeners looking to join the Wyandotte Community Garden for the 2025 season. The Wyandotte Garden Club, originally founded in 1924 and one of the oldest in the state, is excited to partner with Wyandotte Family Church this year to bring new life to the garden. Together, they aim to create a vibrant, flourishing space that serves as a valuable resource for the community.
The 2025 garden season promises to be an exciting one, with a focus on nurturing a variety of flowers, plants, and fresh produce. This partnership will not only enhance the beauty of the garden but also provide fresh, healthy food to local organizations and residents, improving access to nutritious options.
SEE PAGE 5
Trojans
capture regional title, fall in State quarterfinals
On February 26th, the Trenton Trojans clinched the Division 2 Regional title with a commanding 7-0 victory over Temperance Bedford. Although the Trojans
struggled to score early in the game, they soon found their groove and cruised to their eighth consecutive regional championship.
The Trojans started the game by generating multiple scoring opportunities, though they couldn’t capitalize on them in the first period. It wasn’t until just under five minutes into the second period that Trenton finally broke the scoreless tie. That goal sparked an offensive surge, with the Trojans scoring four goals in the second period, two of them coming just 77 seconds apart. Trenton took full advantage of their power-play chances, converting on every manadvantage opportunity as Bedford committed only three penalties throughout the game.
In the third period, Trenton added three more goals, including one just eight seconds in, securing the victory. Nine different players recorded at least one point, and seven different players scored during the game.
SEE PAGE 16
Hedke Elementary takes over Little Caesars Arena
On February 23rd, Hedke Elementary School had the incredible honor of being named the School of the Game at the Detroit Red Wings game. A spirited group of 260 students, families, and staff attended, making for an unforgettable experience.
Each student received a special t-shirt to commemorate the event, and the entire group took a memorable on-ice photo to capture the night’s excitement. Additionally, 10 students had the exciting opportunity to form the High Five Tunnel, cheering as the Red Wings players took the ice. The night was extra special for one lucky student, Xander, who had the thrill of riding on the Zamboni.
SEE PAGE 3
Riverview Gabriel Richard takes home first D3 state title
Riverview Gabriel Richard achieved a historic milestone, securing its first-ever MHSAA Division 3 State Championship with a dominant 79-63 victory over the Arts and Technology Academy of Pontiac (ATAP) on March 15th, . The Pioneers (25-2) showcased exceptional teamwork and a wellbalanced offensive attack, with five players finishing in double figures. Senior leaders Charles Kage and Bryce White led the charge, each contributing 18 points, followed closely by Luke Westerdale with 17, Drew Everingham with 16, and Nick Sobush with 10. The senior-heavy roster made the win even more special, as these players capped off their high school careers with the ultimate prize: a state championship. The game got off to a competitive start, with Gabriel Richard holding a narrow 12-11 lead after the first quarter. However, it was in the second
quarter where the Pioneers truly took control. An explosive 18-4 run stretched their lead and gave them a double-digit advantage that they would not relinquish for the rest of the game. The Pioneers’ defense and disciplined offense were key factors in this surge, as they capitalized on ATAP’s missed opportunities and took full advantage of the Lions’ shooting struggles. ATAP missed several close-range shots, including multiple layups late in the first half when the Pioneers were up 32-20. These missed opportunities proved costly, as Gabriel Richard closed out the half with a 34-20 lead
SEE PAGE 14
Art and Literacy Night brings school community together
On Thursday, March 13th, Memorial Elementary School hosted a pirate-themed art and literacy night. The school was transformed into a pirate and underwater paradise using student artwork that was created during their STEAM class.
The night featured a variety of activities highlighting literacy and creativity. Each family received a pirate map to guide them through the night’s events.
Among those events were a student art show that showcased handmade sculptures, pirate selfportraits, student-drawn pirate maps, and underwater themed paintings. For the literacy portion, students and families engaged in literacy games for all
learning levels that focused on each of the 5 pillars of literacy instruction: phonics, phonemic awareness, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. The event was reminiscent of the school carnivals that use to take place at Memorial using fun games such as Tic Toc Crock and Walk the Plank. The pirate themed games were fun, engaging, and educational.
*RIDGE® XR CREW HVAC models feature 116 horsepower. RIDGE® CREW HVAC models feature 92 horsepower. This vehicle's HP was measured according to ISO standard 4106. This ISO standard measures HP differently than the SAE standards by which the horsepower of many cars is measured, and as a result the referenced HP measurement may be higher than if it were measured by an SAE standard. 6-passenger seating is available on RIDGE® CREW models only. Seating capacity varies by each RIDGE® XR CREW trim.
