Trenton Times, April 27 – May 24, 2023

Get your spring plants from THS greenhouse

SHEILA R. MCAFEE

Trenton High School horticultural students have a few ideas for your spring plans and projects.

See what they have to offer on Saturdays next month, May 6, 13 and 20, at the THS greenhouse. The sale runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. all three days.

Those who stopped by the last sale will notice an expanded selection of hanging baskets, patio pots, succulents, houseplants and vegetables. Flowers will also be available.

“The greenhouse is already full to the max and we have many more plants to transplant still,” said Trenton High School biology teacher Meghan Potter, who has been instrumental in the greenhouse’s addition to the

high school complex. The state-of-the-art facility was built in the spring of 2021 as part of the $57.1 million bond for school improvements that voters approved in the 2018 election. The 30x60-foot space was one of the final projects at the high school, which included renovations of the athletic complex, a new natatorium, technology infrastructure and the auto body shop.

Potter, a fourth-generation farmer at Tuckers Farm in Bedford, said that since the greenhouse was built, the course has doubled in size. The science classes cover plant biology and propagation, horticultural practices and landscape design, all uniquely enriched by work in the greenhouse. Students have been actively engaged in the greenhouse

SEE PLANTS Page 7

Your Elected O cials

Mayor Steven Rzeppa

Email: srzeppa@trenton-mi.com

Councilwoman

Timber R. Baun-Crooks

Email: tbauncrooks@trenton-mi.com

Councilman

Nelson Perugi

Phone: 734-931-0327

Email: nperugi@trenton-mi.com

Councilman

Richard Benedetti

Email: rbenedetti@trenton-mi.com

Councilwoman

Wendy Pate

Phone: 734-692-7729

Email: wpate@trenton-mi.com

Councilwoman

Dora Rodriguez

Email: drodriguez@trenton-mi.com

Councilman

Scott Cabauatan

Email: scabauatan@trenton-mi.com

Council and Commission

Meetings at Trenton City Hall

Civic Commission Meeting

May 1, 2023, 6:30 PM

Council Regular Meeting

May 1, 2023, 7:00 PM

City Beautiful Commission Meeting

May 3, 2023, 7:00 PM

Traffic Safety Commission Meeting

May 3, 2023, 7:00 PM

Planning Commission Meeting

May 10, 2023, 7:00 PM

Council Public Hearing: Proposed City Budget

May 15, 2023, 6:30 PM - 7:00 PM

Council Regular Meeting

May 15, 2023, 7:00 PM

Recreation Commission Meeting

May 16, 2023, 7:30 PM

Cultural Commission Meeting

May 20, 2023, 10:00 AM

City Department Contacts

Administrator’s Office

Dean Creech, City Administrator

Phone: 734-675-6500

Email: dcreech@trenton-mi.com

City Assessor’s Office

Joanie Barnett, MAAO, City Assessor

Phone: 734-675-6810

Email: jbarnett@trenton-mi.com

Building Department

Virgil Maiani, Building Official

Phone: 734-675-8251

Email: vmaiani@trenton-mi.com

Clerk’s Office

Debra R. Devitt, City Clerk

Phone: 734-675-8600

Email: ddevitt@trenton-mi.com

Controller’s Office

Karen Sall, City Controller

Phone: 734-675-6510

Email: ksall@trenton-mi.com

Department of Public Works

Kevin Sargent, DPW Director

Phone: 734-675-8470

Email: ksargent@trenton-mi.com

Downtown Development Authority

Mayor Steven Rzeppa, DDA Liaison

Phone: 734-675-6500

Emergency Management

Paul L. Haley, Emergency Management

Coordinator

Phone: 734-675-6500

Emergency: 734-676-3737

Email: phaley@trenton-mi.com

Engineering Department

C.E. Raines Company

Souheil Sabak, Engineer

Phone: 734-675-8251

Email: ssabak@charlesraines.com

Fire Department

Keith Anderson, Fire Chief

Phone (Non-Emergency Contact):

734-676-1314

Emergency: 911

Email: kanderson@trenton-mi.com

Human Resources

Elisabeth Sobota-Perry, Human Resources Director

Phone: 734-675-8585

Email: eperry@trenton-mi.com

Parks & Recreation

Tim Beaker, Director

Phone: 734-675-7300

Email: tbeaker@trenton-mi.com

Police Department

Mike Oakley, Police Chief

Phone: 734-676-3737

Emergency: 911

Email: agilstorf@trenton-mi.com

Treasurer’s Office

Michael McCullough, City Treasurer

Phone: 734-675-6510

Email: jcooper@trenton-mi.com

Waste Water Treatment Plant

Julie Willison, Superintendent

Phone: 734-676-0646

Email: jwillison@trenton-mi.com

Visit

TRENTON SCHOOLS

Trenton Public Schools – State of the Schools 2023

First and foremost, it is truly an honor and a privilege to be a part of Trenton Public Schools and a leadership team that over the years has consistently come together to support our children, lead our schools, and work with our community!

Additionally, I am grateful to our incredible educators that have continued to implement innovative strategies to help our students learn each and every day!

Most of all, on behalf of Trenton Public Schools, we are thankful for the endless support of our families and friends.

We know that our success is truly dependent on working together and finding a common purpose! We also know that we must do what’s best for all students.

To that end, our mission will remain: “To Inspire Students Today For Their Success Tomorrow!”

This brief overview of our district is to help our stakeholders (parents, grandparents, step-parents, guardians, children/students, etc.) better understand the basic “state” of our school district.

● Bond construction at the elementary schools was completed to start the 2020-21 school year. In each building, there is the grandeur of a new media center, gymnasium with a scoreboard/timing system, comfortable cafeteria, spacious music room, additional classrooms, and office space to support student learning.

● The middle school has also been transformed. The media center was updated to meet modern day expectations and our cafeteria was reconfigured to serve our students more effectively. We have a new track, pickleball and tennis courts.

There are new lockers, a teacher workroom, and a student centered learning lab, and our band/music room was outfitted with new casework and shelving.

● At the high school, our lobby was renovated and provides an exciting entry into the building. Auto lab upgrades were completed to encourage student learning, as well as a state of the art greenhouse that houses our horticulture classes. The media center has undergone a tremendous renovation and now houses a virtual learning center. Specific to the arts, a “little theater”/black box has been created in our old weight room. This performance space is located

alongside our newly- renovated and welcoming Trojan Cafe. On the south side of the building, the new eleven-lane pool (natatorium), track, multiuse athletic field, baseball and softball fields, as well as, concession/welcoming center are open for full use. Moreover, there is a new athletic entrance that connects to our gymnasium and auditorium complete with a new concession area. Though the original scope of bond work is almost complete, we are still finding it difficult to close out work related to our high school doors, card scanners, and middle school band room.

● On an extremely positive note, prudent spending along with complimentary timing has

less dollars than we did 14 years ago (simply in relation to our student count).

Unfortunately, our recent projections reflect that this decline may continue to unfold over the next several years. By simply moving our current numbers forward, our enrollment could decline by another 300 students in just four years. This would result in another $3 million loss in revenues and a high school of less than 700 students.

For a comprehensive report/update, click here: Trenton Public Schools: State of the Schools (Student Enrollment 22.23 and Beyond).docx

Currently, TPS leadership has continued to utilize opportunities that are available through grants and funding from the state and national government to provide additional support to our students. Additionally, our enrollment has allowed us to maintain our current operations. Most recently, we learned that Trenton Public Schools qualified as an approved district for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Renew America’s Schools grant. Schools can now apply for the first round of the Renew America’s Schools grant, up to $80 million of the $500 million program, to make energy improvements.

Though these opportunities may not come to fruition or qualify as recurring revenue, we know that strategic planning is vital to our future (we recently were made aware that we did not receive the grant - updated 4.7.2023).

allowed us to circle back to completing three major projects that were not projected to be completed: the replacement of our high school boilers, roof replacement, and plumbing infrastructure. Ultimately, our facilities will be top notch for the next several years.

As we look ahead, I feel compelled to reach out to our community and share a concern that has weighed heavily on my mind and heart since I became the Superintendent.

Student enrollment has declined in the State of Michigan, Wayne County, and Trenton Public Schools for many years. For those that do not know, student enrollment is the basis for school funding and has been for almost 30 years. In essence, the more students in your district, the more money that comes from the School Aid Fund.

To help illustrate this point, in 2008, TPS had 2874 students. Today, we are around 2,500. This means that we operate our schools with $3.5 million

We have also continued to aggressively promote our district through media campaigns over the last two years (through various social media platforms), partnerships with our local newspapers, and advertisements/commercials on local television. Promoting a positive perspective of our district is also an important and vital part of our efforts to bring families to the city of Trenton and correspondingly to Trenton Public Schools.

It is obvious that there are potential challenges ahead, however, it is imperative that we work collectively to keep our district strong. This means that a unified approach to problem-solving and putting kids first is imperative to our decision making.

In Trenton, we have always maintained a tradition of excellence and we must continue to provide our students with every opportunity to experience success.

DOUG MENTZER TRENTON SUPERINTENDENT

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Trenton Public Schools – Safety update

It is hard to believe that we are moving into the month of April. In the world of education, this is what we refer to as the “final stretch.” With joy and a bit of hesitation, we will soon be wishing our 2023 graduates a fond farewell!

In the meantime, there is a tremendous amount that still needs to be done and many great memories to be made! Speaking of things that are getting done, please remember that you can access each and every Superintendent Report to the Board of Education on my webpage – (www.douglasmentzer.com.) District events can easily be followed on my Twitter account, (https://twitter. com/douglas_mentzer), as well as our Trenton Public Schools website –(www.trentonschools.com.)

I am reaching out today to remind our community that we remain vigilant to the goal of keeping our students and

staff safe. Just this week alone, we met with our leaders of the Trenton Police Department regarding security access and we completed another Scenario Crisis Meeting recently (our topic was related to the tragedy at Northwestern High School).

Prior to our departure for Spring Break, we began the last steps of our adoption process of a Crisis Communication Platform that will allow us to communicate and provide information during an incident from any electronic device, while also alerting the proper emergency personnel/first

responders of what is going on. We are the first public school district to sign a contract with Aegix Global – see their website here: https://aegixaim.com/ about-aegix/.

Though we are satisfied with our progress over the last two years, we will continue to look at our safety plans and work on continuous improvement. Status quo is not an option. For your reference, I have provided an updated list of action items related to safety measures that we have implemented

PLANTS

Continued from page 1

from the start, giving input about the placement of planting/growing benches, what to grow and maintenance.

Proceeds from the event are earmarked for landscape projects the students have planned for the school grounds. With funds from the last sale, hydroponic systems and lawnmowers were purchased, along with the materials to add a fountain to the lunchroom courtyard.

since the 2021-22 school year. We are currently analyzing seven additional action steps for next year (access the list here: Updated Safety List 2023).

In the end, in Trenton, our effort needs to stay focused on a “We vs Me” approach to safety; safety is a collective responsibility and by working together, everyone is in a safer place! Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.

To develop a community garden, Potter said, an irrigation system has been installed for the raised bed outside the greenhouse. This will allow the group to plant over the summer for harvest at the start of the 2023-24 school year.

Future student-led initiatives include the creation and installation of a water garden in the science courtyard, according to Potter.

Access the greenhouse from the high school entrance on West Road, between Edsel and Westfield roads.

DOUG

Erin Eaton is the new Principal at Hedke Elementary

Erin Eaton, a graduate of Riverview Community High School and Eastern Michigan University, began her teaching career in 2004 with the Gibraltar School District.

Erin spent 14 years teaching elementary school at Chapman Elementary.

During her time at Chapman, she obtained her Master’s Degree from Marygrove College and later her Education Specialist degree from Central Michigan University.

Upon completion of her Education Specialist degree in 2018, she was hired by the WayneWestland Community School District as the assistant principal of Adams Upper Elementary.

She became the principal of the Upper Elementary School the following year before the school transitioned to a Middle School. Erin currently serves as the principal of Adams Middle School and is looking forward

to returning to her elementary roots as the Principal of Hedke Elementary School.

Erin currently resides in Southgate, Michigan with her husband, Ken, and two middle school aged children, Evan, 14, and Stella, 11.

She said she looks forward to proudly serving the Hedke and Trenton School community.

Erin, Ken, Evan and Stella Eaton.

Erin Eaton

Trenton roots run deep for three Hedke educators

Hedke Elementary School is celebrating the recently announced retirements for three of the most veteran educators in the Trenton School District.

Each of these three educators has not only worked for the district for over 30 years but also is a graduate of the Trenton Public Schools as well.

They are the top three most senior educators on the seniority roster as of this school year.

Hedke Principal Vince Porreca is retiring after 32 years with the district.

He has worked at all three levels, including nine years as a social studies teacher at the high school, three years as the assistant principal at the middle school and is currently finishing his 20th year as the Principal at Hedke.

Vince is fond of telling people that his four sons are the 4th generation of his family to graduate from Trenton High School and quoting the cheer “We’re from Trenton! Who could be prouder?!”

When asked which level of schooling he preferred Mr. Porreca answered, “I loved something about every level of schooling.

“At THS it is fun to mentor the older students as they become more independent and are making more of their own choices about how to spend their time. I loved coaching and sponsoring the clubs at THS.”

About the Middle School he said, “during my time there we transitioned from Monguagon to AMS and changed our mascot, school colors, completed building renovations, adjusted the curriculum and moved 6th graders back to the middle school from the elementaries. It was a busy but exciting time and I was so proud of the teachers I met there who came alongside students during some of the most challenging years of their lives.

“At Hedke I have loved seeing the teachers work with our youngest students and how excited and passionate they are about student growth. The staff at Hedke truly believes all kids can learn and refuse to give up on a child. I think I am patient, but elementary teachers regularly put me to shame.

“It is important to ‘tend to’ our youngest students so they always feel supported because youth is full of mistakes and if we learn to fear failure we won’t reach our potential.

“I want to thank the teachers and students who I have worked with over the past three decades. I became a teacher because of some great teachers I had in my time at Trenton and as my sons went through I was proud to see that tradition continue with each of my own sons finding a special teacher or group of teachers who supported and mentored them.”

Andrea (Zimbalatti) Woody is a second grade teacher at Hedke.

After graduating THS in 1982 she went to the University of Michigan where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in psychology and sociology. She completed her Masters Degree in Elementary

Education from Eastern Michigan while teaching at Hedke.

In 1991 she returned to her hometown and was hired by Cliff Mace to teach 5th grade. She taught that grade for three years before moving to second grade.

During her career she also taught first and third grades, but most of 34 years she has been in the 2nd grade.

Andrea taught with humor and loved interacting with her students the most.

She retires to spend time with her husband (working in their family business) and her own children.

She looks back at her time in teaching and has many fond memories including all of the staff she has worked with over her time here.

Teaching in Trenton, she said, has been a dream of hers as she loved growing up here as a child and always wanted to come back to work with kids.

It is hard to believe but Vince and Andrea are the babies of this group with Mrs. Lynne (Schendel) Herman retiring after over 38 years with the Trenton Public Schools.

Mrs. Herman graduated from Trenton in 1979 where she was a multi-sport athlete excelling in tennis. She received an athletic scholarship to play tennis at Western Michigan (WMU) where she was a four-year letter winner and where she received her Bachelor’s in elementary education.

She returned to Trenton where she began her

teaching career at Anderson Elementary School as a fifth grade teacher.

In her career she taught at Anderson, the middle school and for the last 25 years has taught at Hedke as the PE teacher.

Lynne gave back through coaching as well. She served as a tennis coach at THS for 30 years with 26 of them as its head coach. In the summers she worked for the Trenton Parks and Recreation department where she ran the summer tennis program for “more years than she can remember.”

As an adult athlete she modeled what she taught as a coach and has continued to compete in tennis and golf and has won five club championships at Waters Edge golf club.

Though she never taught or coached for the recognition but did it because she “loved the kids,” she was also inducted into the City of Trenton Sports Hall of Fame for her contributions to Trenton’s tennis program and community throughout her career.

Mrs. Herman has always lived by her favorite quote “You can’t kid a kid so teach them well.”

She says that gave her motivation to, “remember to work hard every day as if you don’t, the students will be able to tell you aren’t giving your best.”

The Trenton schools will miss the over 100 years of experience of these educators. More than that however we will miss their deep ties and love for their community and the schools they were raised and educated in.

Florida Keys Vacation!

Beautiful Two Bedroom

Luxury Condo in Key Largo

Ahhhhh, you’re on vacation…

Your morning in paradise starts with sipping your coffee sitting at your nautical teak table overlooking lush tropical landscaping on your private balcony or taking a short stroll to the tiki hut at the end of the pier to watch the sunrise over the Atlantic.  The perfect start in paradise. After a fun filled day of boating, fishing, scuba diving or soaking up the sun relaxing by one of the largest pools in the Florida Keys or relaxing by the pool overlooking the marina and Atlantic ocean, or even sinking your toes in the sand like the song says “only worry in the world is the tide going to reach your chair” on our private upland sunning beach.  There is always something for everyone!

Paradise isn’t over yet as you walk through your own private courtyard, a bricked patio garden with relaxing furniture, then up just one flight of stairs, your private oasis awaits you…where you can unwind from a fun filled day.  You can cook your fresh day’s catch in your fully equipped new kitchen with lots of natural light glistening off the solid surface countertops and the stunning stainless steel appliances and eat in comfort.  Or go “out on the town” and relax in some of the best restaurants in the area where you are pampered as your fresh catch is being prepared to your specifications as you relax drinking a glass of wine watching the beautiful Florida Bay Sunset.  The perfect end to a wonderful day in paradise.

After dinner retreat to your 1480 sq. ft. Newly Decorated Beautiful two bedroom townhouse with a smart open floor plan, 14’ vaulted ceilings.  Relax with ELEGANT Tommy Bahama furnishings and a 65” HDTV in the great room. Now time for a perfect night’s rest as you enjoy a wonderful view from the master bedroom giving the feeling of nestling in the trees.  A beautifully tropical draped four-poster, king size bed with ultra comfort mattress assures a perfect night’s sleep and offers the ideal spot to view the 48” flat screen TV.  An en suite bath features a corner spa tub, the perfect way to end a day of sightseeing.

Welcome to 901 Mariners Club!

We are glad to have you here!

GET GREAT NEW GLASSES, SAVE SOME MONEY!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Mad Science at Anderson Elementary

Electric Emily from Mad Science amazed the students of Anderson at the Up, Up and Away Assembly. This spellbinding show introduced the students to the principles of air pressure and flight featuring hot air balloons, flying toilet paper and hovercrafts in action!

Dictionaries for 3rd gradersThank you Woodhaven Kiwanis

Woodhaven Kiwanis made a generation donation of dictionaries for the third graders of both Anderson and Hedke Elementary Schools. This is something that the Kiwanis Club does each year, donations of books to the students at the school. Every third grade student in Trenton received one of the books from the Kiwanians.

The students were super excited to receive their very own dictionaries.

March was reading month

Reading is such an important part of a child’s education. The elementary schools look for ways to encourage and celebrate reading as often as we can.

“In honor of Dr. Seuss’s birthday, the month of March was designated as National Reading Month - a month to motivate Americans of all ages to read every day.

Reading is fun and has many benefits, regardless of your age. It’s a key component of education and professional development.

March Reading Month was fully embraced at the Elementary Schools with a calendar packed with daily reading challenges. The month offered many fun ways to enjoy reading for all ages including a book swap and a night of book

bingo.

Thank you to the many guest readers from parents, grandparents, friends, Mayor Rzeppa, State Senator Camilleri, State Representative Churches, Superintendent Mentzer, School Resource Officer Szczepaniak, parents, grandparents and many, many more.

The students just love the guest readers

Trenton High School – Get Involved Fair

Have you been looking for a night of fun, filled with information about opportunities?

Well look no further!

On April 24 from 6 - 8 p.m., Trenton High School will host the first-ever TH “Get Involved Fair.”

This event has been created by students from the Superintendent’s Student Leadership Council -

Delaney King, Addison Fitzsimmons, Brooklynn, Taylor, Maya Vines and London Williams.

At this student-led event, clubs and sports teams will be set up throughout THS, with tables of information, student representatives and activities.

Clubs will be located in the cafeteria and sports teams will be located in the gym. This event is open to everyone

(including potential school of choice students), and we strongly encourage anyone who may be attending Trenton High School to come. This will be a great opportunity to see the extracurricular opportunities available at the high school, and to get excited about upcoming years at THS!

Students will have the opportunity to meet all clubs, teams and coaches,

and then complete an interest form to gain more information about the groups they would like to join.

This will help to establish a contact between club supervisors or sports coaches, and any students interested.

We hope to see you there!

The award-winning THS Symphony Band

The THS boys swim team is the defending Downriver League champion

The 2022 state champion Robotics team

How Can My Child Become Financially Successful?

Mark Tremper, Vice-President of Marketing & Business Development Downriver Community Federal Credit Union

April is National Credit Union Youth Month and it is a time when Credit Unions across the country focus their attention on helping young people improve their financial literacy. This is a noble endeavor worthy of our time and attention because it can have a significant impact on the future of a young person.

The importance of financial literacy was even recognized this past year as Michigan House Bill 5190, a bi-partisan bill, was signed into law on June 16, 2022 by Governor Gretchen Whitmer. According to the press release issued by the Governor’s Office on the date of signing, this legislation will “add a half-credit personal finance course as a high school graduation requirement, starting with ninth-graders in 2024” (www. Michigan.gov).

Is there a way that parents can ensure that their child is on the path to financial success even before they reach high school? Definitely! Parents

have the greatest opportunity to impact their child’s future by taking the time to teach them about money at a very young age. While many parents may feel ill-equipped to tackle this initiative—especially if they haven’t had any personal finance training themselves—a local credit union can be a parent’s Most Valuable Partner and a savings account can be one of the most helpful tools!

What are the benefits of opening a Youth Savings Account at an early age? Here are just 3 of the many benefits to consider:

Helps a child keep track of their money

A piggy bank can be a great temporary holding place for money, but a savings account provides an accurate accounting of their savings progress. As a parent and child review the monthly statements, the child begins to understand what it takes to accumulate specific amounts of money required for desired purchases or long-term goals, and they are able to see it in writing!

Helps a child become familiar with financial tools

Not only does a child become familiar with the afore-mentioned statements, but they begin to have opportunities to utilize other tools such as online

banking and mobile banking, and eventually checks, payment services, digital wallets, and more! As they begin to save, they will also become familiar with the concept of interest and how it compounds over time, which is an exciting thought when viewed in contrast to paying interest to borrow money!

Helps a child avoid the path of going into debt

Because a child learns how to save for future goals, they develop a habit of knowing what things cost and how much they need to make those purchases. As they develop a savings mindset, they will find it less likely to be in situations where they will need to borrow, or in the case of larger purchases, such as a house, they will not need to borrow as much! This will ultimately result in them becoming more selfreliant and experiencing a life of financial freedom.

Of course, there are so many other benefits, but we’ll stick with those three just to keep it simple and easily attainable for any parent who wants to start their child down the path to financial success! If you have questions, or want to open a savings account for your child, go visit your local credit union! It’s definitely a great place to start!

Trenton High School hosts CAP program

JAMES TRUSH

On Saturday, April 8 2023, Trenton High School hosted a MHSAA CAP 2 class.

CAP, which stands for Coaching Advancement Program, was developed by the Michigan High School Athletic Association to provide extra support for coaches throughout the state of Michigan.

Beginning in 2016 all new varsity coaches are required to take at least one CAP class prior to coaching. The April class in Trenton provided these services to 20 coaches from the Downriver area (with four of them being Trenton coaches).

The CAP 2 class focuses on the psychology of coaching.

Topics that were discussed involved understanding the importance of planning, developing a plan for supervising all aspects of a sports program, understanding motivation and why youth participate in sports, recognizing that studentathletes are motivated by both internal and external factors and situations, and to better individualize interactions with student-athletes and parents to help fuel their intrinsic motivation.

The class ran from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. and breakfast and lunch was provided by our TPS food service.

The feedback received by coaches in attendance was very positive, as they commented how valuable

and beneficial the class and dialogue among other coaches was.

Trenton plans to host another CAP class in the

Fall of 2023.

No matter when you go, it’s always an interesting and enjoyable adventure!

Local students hone persuasive writing skills

Each spring, Woodhaven Kiwanians challenge fourth graders in WoodhavenBrownstown and Trenton School Districts to participate in their annual Essay Contest.

With the dual goals of teaching both persuasive writing skills and building an altruistic citizenship, the Kiwanis Club of Woodhaven sponsors their persuasive writing contest. Yearly, the topic is: “If I had $100 to donate to a charity, I would choose ____________ because ...”

At the Club’s Meeting on Wednesday, April 5, the author of the winning essay from each school, along with their parents and representatives from their school attended the Woodhaven Kiwanis Meeting and Awards Presentation.

Students read their individual essay to the crowd and present a check for $100 from the Kiwanis Club of Woodhaven to their charity.

Madeline Henige from Anderson Elementary School wrote about the Special Olympics. Sue Campbell, representing the Special Olympics, received the check. Madeline and her family have supervised Special Olympic events.

LeiLani Whiting from Bates School wrote about the CureSMA. SMA is Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Her $100 will go to support Research.

Gabriel Nunez from Erving Elementary School wrote an essay that supported The Bottomless Toy Chest. Gabriel benefited from the Bottomless Toy Chest as a patient at Childrens’ Hospital of Michigan. Since then his family has supported the Project

Wegienka Winner, Liam Cusumano, wrote about the Woodhaven-Trenton Animal Shelter. Animal Control Officer Melissa Lawler was on hand to hear Liam’s essay and accept the check for $100 on behalf of the shelter.

Cirea Evans from Yake Elementary School wrote about the valuable support her family receives for the American Association of Kidney Patients. Her father is a kidney patient.

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!

Anderson School essay winner Madeline Henige with (left to right) Sue Campbell from Special Olympics, Paul Elsey and Woodhaven Kiwanis President Bob McCoy

Fifth-grade camp makes impact and memories for our kids

For over 20 years every Trenton fifth grade student has had the chance to attend outdoor education camp as part of their fifth grade experience.

For many of these years we have attended Camp Michindoh in Hillsdale.

The camp is a favorite memory for many students as they attend a variety of hands-on classes and spend time with their chaperones, the camp staff, and the fifth graders from both Anderson and Hedke.

Students make new friends as they mingle in the dining hall and during free choice activities before dinner.

Between meals students attend classes in reptiles and amphibians, team/confidence courses, shelter and fire construction, Michigan settlers (a living history event), pioneer crafts and games, drama and rock wall climbing among others.

Students also get to participate in evening programs like campfire songs, skit night, and wacky Olympics.

The attendance at camp serves many goals: first is to allow fifth graders from each school to meet each other and break the ice before joining each other at the middle school.

Many of the classes also review science or social studies topics that they have learned in previous grades. Lastly, students get a chance to participate in an independent experience away from home, many for the first time.

Another great year for Trenton Robotics

This year the Trenton High School Robotic program grew to become the Trenton Public Schools Robotics Program with the addition of the new Boyd Arthurs Middle School TorquNados junior varsity Team.

The FIRST Tech Challenge team had a strong rookie year and is already planning for next year.

In sports we talk about having a “building year” after a large pool of senior talent graduates. Which was the case for this year’s TorquNados Team 5090 at Trenton High School.

“We came into the season after losing 12 seniors in 2022, leaving only one student with build room experience and one former programmer,” said coach Katherine Nelson.

Members who previously worked on the business and media side of the team along with 12 new rookie teammates stepped up to the challenge.

For the first time in team history a complete CAD design of the competition robot was completed before building began. This allowed the team to use engineering principles to do proof of concept modeling.

Each competition structure consists of 40 qualifying matches played by 40, quarterfinals, semifinals and finals.

Each match is a 3-on-3 game where student teams of difference schools have to quickly strategize game play in order to both win the match and make the most ranking points possible.

After regular match play alliances are chosen based on ranking and data gathered from scouting matches. The top eight highest ranking teams choose their alliance partners for the rest of the

matches that will be played to determine a winning alliance. This means only the 32 teams chosen to be in an alliance move on to the quarterfinals.

At the FiM District Jackson Event at Spring Arbor College, Team 5090 finished 18th out of 40. The TorqueNados were the second pick for the #3 Alliance consisting of the Dexter Dreadbots and the Livonia Warriors.

With this strong Alliance they made it to the semifinals but were knocked out by the #1 Alliance. Due to our CAD work the team built the most complex robot in our history and pushed our engineering skill to new levels.

Due to their innovative use of sliders, their new swerve drive chassis impressed the judges and the TorquNados

took home the Creativity Award.

Between their Week 1 and Week 3 competitions, they worked on their robot extensively. During the course of the competition, various parts of the robot broke. While they were easy fixes, it did take time.

During their second match, one of the grippers broke, making it nearly impossible to pick up game pieces and score above the low tier, although immediately after the match, the gripper was replaced.

After the competition it was discovered that the epoxy, that held the upper mechanisms to the chassis together, had cracked and caused additional sway and instability. The slider slowly detached and eventually there was almost nothing keeping the upper

portions of the robot from coming off.

Between competition events the TorqueNados removed the upper mechanisms and changed the glue, used J-B weld, and also added tension cables to make everything more secure and relieve stress from the new, stronger epoxy.

Along with repairs, they also added new features and greatly improved some old ones.

First, they changed the entire design of the grippers, to make it easier to pick up game pieces, and specifically cones from the human player station.

They reprogrammed the arms of the robot to be more stable driving back and forth, and increased arm ratio from 100:1 to 318:1 to make the arm more stable and predictable, making it easier and more likely to be able to

line up cones for the high bar. Weight was added to lower the center of gravity and increase the speed of the robot overall.

Due to those changes, the cycle time was reduced by 50 percent.

A light was also added that would signal the human player as to which item to prepare for the robot.

However, the physical aspects of the robot were not the only things improved.

Programmers worked hard to improve the coding for the autonomous part of the competition. The auton had gone from attempting to drop a cone on the high bar but only scoring about half the time, to going around the mid peg and placing the cone on the SEE ROBOTICS, Page 19

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Continued from page 18

high bar and backing up to get in position to pick up a cube.

With all these improvements the TorqueNados went to their next and final competition, FIM Belleville District Event at Belleville High School. These improvements immediately proved useful, and at the end of the qualifying matches, they were ranked 8th in the 40-team field.

The team was the first pick of the 5th Alliance, and alongside Ypsilanti Grizzly Robotics and the Southfield TechnoJays.

Although their Alliance was good, they were knocked out in the semifinals by the number 8 Alliance.

Due to our continued upgrades and improvement the TorqueNados were given the Excellence in Engineering Award.

While falling 7 District points shy of competing at this year’s State Championship the TorqueNados had a season of extreme growth.

“I am extremely proud of all 23 students and we couldn’t do this without the support of our mentors and sponsors,” said coach Nelson.

TPS supports the robotics program by giving both teams a space to build in both the middle school and high school, but otherwise the TorqueNados are a self-funded program. The average season costs about

$40,000 and the business team works hard every year writing grants and asking for sponsorships.

The TorqueNados would like to give a special ‘thank you’ to Trenton Forging for their tremendous support this year.

“When I sent a letter out to all our past sponsors explaining our need for funding, especially with growing our program, Trenton Forging immediately came to me with an offer to match donations. I can’t express how truly grateful I am to the community support we have received,” Nelson said.

Other major sponsors include State of MI Education Grant, Ford, GM, IBEW Local 54, and Smith and Mihas Law.

If you are interested in sponsoring the program please contact Katherine Nelson at kkcnelson2002@ gmail.com.

Both teams will be at student open houses to introduce themselves to new students and are preparing the “candy robot” for the city of Trenton Memorial Day parade!

Varsity

PLAYMAKER PRO

II

Inside Kennedy Arena

Roy Parker Owner | 734-362-6200

CHEESE!

Hello, this is my 10 week old Pomeranian puppy Bruno! He sure keeps us hopping!

He just loves his toys, treats and his mom and dad. Thanks for looking.

These are our babies, Chloe and Lucy. We adopted Chloe at 6 weeks old and a year and a half later, the rescue called us that someone turned her sister/litter mate in and did we “know anyone who might want her”. We were in the car the next day picking Lucy up.

Markings are identical. However the lengths of their legs are quite different.

TRENTON PARKS & RECREATION

Summer’s back

And the City of Trenton Parks & Recreation Department is READY for to bring you some fantastic programming & events to bring all the sunshine and good times!

We’ve got our May at a Glance Calendar for you to look at –with kid’s crafts, Mother’s Day Teas, Mother Son Luaus, a free cheesecake pop up for seniors at Westfield, and a special yoga pop up just in time for Teacher Appreciation Week! Miss Barb will be hosting Tap into your Inner Bliss, with discounts for district staff and city employees, in support of our teachers and to encourage health and wellness in the community.

The City Wide Garage Sale will take place May 13th and 14th, with maps for sale ($1) at the Kennedy Recreation Center in the office on Friday May 12th from 8:30am – 5pm. On Friday

May 13th the maps will be for sale in the parking lot of the Kennedy Recreation Center. Please call our office at 734-675-7300 with any other questions.

The Memorial Day Parade will begin at 10am on May 27th, with the route following West Road into Westfield.

And then we’ll be making our way, feet first into June! We’re looking forward to hosting lemonade stands and picnics, kids crafts, s’mores nights at the Cultural Center, the Trenton Summer Festival (June 23, 24, 25), pool nights, SNAP camp, Art of Play, basketball summer clinics, summer skates, taking some of our fitness classes outdoors and attending our first Come Out & Play at the Capitol with mParks! We have extended the deadline for those applications, so if you have a

child who might be interested in attending please give our office a call at 734-675-7300 to learn more.

We can’t wait to see you get up, go out and do something this

summer! And when you see our Fitness Coordinator Heather Lear at yoga classes or out at the pool, be sure to congratulate her on being awarded Trenton’s Outstanding Woman of the Year!

We have this England sofa in stock available for immediate free local delivery. It has a lifetime warranty on it’s frame & seat springs & and 10 year warranty on the seat cushions.

Sale Price $799 as stocked

Custom orders from this vendor are taking about 8 weeks now.

Serta stock and floor sample closeout Made in Michigan

Best rocker recliner or wall hugger recliner in stock as shown with brown top grain leather seating areas. Available to order in other colors.

Rocker recliner in stock as shown and available to order in several other colors at no extra charge.

We have this England 72” sofa in stock as shown available for immediate free local deliv-ery. It has a lifetime warranty on it’s frame & seat springs & and 10 year warranty on the seat cushions. Sale Price $999 as stocked or in your choice of 50 fabrics. Custom orders from this vendor are taking about 8 weeks now.

Downriver for Veterans starts tiny homes initiative

DAVE GORGON

An initiative by the nonprofit group Downriver for Veterans calls for the creation of a series of tiny homes for area veterans.

Ann Rudisill, founder of the Wyandotte-based organization that serves former members of the armed forces, said the first tiny homes would be built in Flat Rock and the first resident would be Bob Harris, a World War II Army veteran from Southgate.

Rudisill said veterans would be selected for placement in other tiny homes and that the agency hopes to expand the initiative beyond Flat Rock to other Downriver communities.

Meanwhile, Downriver for Veterans has scheduled a number of fundraising events to help pay for the project and is seeking sponsors.

The organization also is working toward partnering with the City of Flat Rock to hold a summer barbecue to introduce the tiny homes concept to residents in the vicinity of Moses Street near Telegraph Road.

“We’re hoping to put a shovel in the ground next March or April,” said Rudisill, an Air Force veteran during the Vietnam War era. “This will be the first tiny homes project Downriver. Flat Rock is ecstatic to have us. We need sponsors, we need funding and we need people to help spread the word. We hope this gets out and other cities will do this as well.” Tiny homes have been popping up in recent years in conjunction with a movement about downsizing living spaces, simplifying and “living with less.”

Rudisill said the initial plan is for two tiny homes – about 350-square-feet apiece – to be built on small lots on acreage that has been donated for the project, plus a community center that would allow residents of the homes to welcome company for special events. The lot sizes will be 220 by 110 feet and 110 by 50 feet.

“Our goal is to get six tiny homes,” Rudisill said. “We’re happy starting with two.”

The agency plans to raise $50,000 to prepare the land for the homes with electricity and water service. She said it would take only two days to put a tiny home on the site.

Bob Howey will serve as architect and builder, Rudisill said. Quint Plumbing

will participate in the process. TLC Property Management will install landscaping.

The homes would be fully furnished by Downriver for Veterans. Rudisill said church members have volunteered to help decorate the homes. The veterans would bring their own personal belongings.

The first recipient was chosen by the Downriver for Veterans board of directors. Rudisill said Harris currently lives in an apartment in Southgate, paying $700 for monthly rent, of which $300 is paid by Downriver for Veterans.

Harris would pay $350 a month to live in a tiny home, which Is what he can afford. Downriver for Veterans will pay the utility bills, she said.

Rudisill said Harris’ awareness is good, he’s self-sufficient and he can afford to pay part of the rent. A veteran hoping to be selected cannot be homeless, an alcoholic or drug user. They have to keep the place clean and pay rent on time.

A veteran would sign a year-to-year lease. After seven years, he or she would own the home.

A number of fundraising events have been planned to support the project. A concert by Blues Brothers tribute band American Made is scheduled for July 22 at UAW Local 387 on Telegraph Road in Flat Rock. The all-female band Pink Pumps will perform on August 29 at the Grecian Center in Southgate. Other fundraisers are posted on the Downriver for Veterans Facebook page.

Rudisill, who lives in Wyandotte, said she founded Downriver for Veterans six years ago because there was no other such agency in the region. The 501(c)(3) nonprofit is dedicated to supporting local veterans in a variety of ways.

“We’ve paid the bills for veterans that needed teeth, we’ve given away 48 cars, we’ve provided a mobile home for a veteran and his wife and we’ve paid for countless number of attorney fees and medical fees,” she said. “We’ve probably spent over $200,000 since we started.”

Now located in a former church building at 2322 Ford Avenue in Wyandotte – a building that was donated to the group, Downriver for Veterans also serves as a gathering place for the organization as well as a hub for services and goods needed by veterans.

For more information, visit the website www.downriverforveterans.org and follow the group on Facebook.

BEST OF DETROIT with The Detroit Free Press We are One

FINALISTS

If you are looking for a place to have a great meal in a fun, interesting and unusual place, The Vault Restaurant is for you. Located in Downtown Wyandotte on the corner of First and Maple streets, the fine-dining eatery is housed in the historic building that once housed the National Bank of Wyandotte. Hence the name, The Vault.

The Teller’s Room

The Vault’s exceptional menu features prime cut meats, wild-caught seafood, locally raised chicken, locally-sourced baked goods, an extensive wine list and craft cocktails. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner six days a week and there is a lunch special featuring a $10 Wagyu beef burger.

If you haven’t yet been to The Vault, you owe yourself a visit. Their hours are:

Monday through Thursday 11:30am to 9:00pm Friday and Saturday 11:30am to 10:00pm Closed on Sundays.

Let us know at

734-282-3939

Troop 1261 honors four new Eagle Scouts

THE SCOUT OATH

On my Honor, I will do my best to do my duty to God and my country and to obey the Scout Law; To help other people at all times; to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.

Grosse Ile Boy Scout Troop 1261 recently held its Eagle Scout Court of Honor at Sacred Heart Church on the Island.

Honored were four new Eagle Scouts – two from Trenton and two from Grosse Ile. The newly minted Eagles were Carl Pate, Aaron Glass, James Quinlan and Connor Perricane.

Each of the boys has been involved in Scouting for years.

Carl Pate started Scouts 12 years ago as a Tiger Scout when he was in elementary school. Through the years, he said he enjoyed the field trips and camping and learning how to talk and interact with people.

“With the help of my parents, my past scoutmasters, and my fellow scouts, I finally achieved the rank of Eagle and am proud to say I did it. If I could, I would do it all over again,” he said.

James Quinlan also began in elementary school as a Tiger Scout. He has been amazingly active as a Scout, attending five summer camps, as well as serving Quartermaster (twice), Scribe, Librarian and

Webmaster for the troop.

James is currently a junior at Grosse Ile High School and he plans to attend college after high school.

Aaron Glass has found that Scouting has taken him all over the country, from kayaking in northern Minnesota and lobster fishing in Key West and many places in between. Aaron said some of his best memories are of summer camp with war canoes, Pinewood Derbies, Scuba diving, skiing and dozens of other fun and thrilling activities that have left him with a million memories.

Connor Perricane started Scouting as a second grader just to be with friends. It turned into a great adventure. Connor said the many campouts and two trips to High Adventure Camp have been the highlights of his Scouting career. Connor has served his Troop as Bugler, Chaplain’s Aide, Den Chief, Patrol Leader and Senior Patrol Leader.

“Scouting has helped develop my leadership skills,” he said.

CARL PATE’S EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT

My Eagle Scout project was a re-beautification of an area of the Kennedy Recreation Center.

For some background, I spend a lot of my time at the pool whether it’s swimming, coaching, or working as a lifeguard, I would say a majority of my summer is spent at the Kennedy.

However, it was starting to look run down and not very inviting which is where I thought of the idea for my project. It consisted of painting a brick wall to match the new building’s paint and putting up five murals representing the pool (Trenton Swim Club logo, lifeguards, competitive swimming, relaxing, and playing).

I held a painting event where everyone came to help, and with the best help of my mom, the project was finished in early March.

The murals will be up in late spring/ early summer when weather permits so, please go give them a look when you visit the pool!

JAMES QUINLAN’S EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT

I decided to replace the boardwalk at Waters Edge Marina in Grosse Ile as it was in a bad condition. The boardwalk had been underwater in 2019 and 2020, as a result of that, many planks were warped, damaged or weak.

I began to ask for donations from local businesses and clubs. After I received my first donations, Mans Lumber allowed me to purchase lumber at cost.

In October we began by removing the old planks and resecuring the understructure to the seawall and added brackets for support. We then repaired the PVC SEE HONORS, Page 29

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Continued from page 28

piping for the marina pump-out, which runs under the boardwalk.

In November we began laying out new planks, 60 feet each weekend through December. We removed 6,000 screws and put in 6,000 new screws. Seven hundred planks were installed.

In February after most snow had melted, the planks were trimmed even and a final inspection was done for missed screws.

I sincerely thank my Eagle Mentor, Jim Allen and my Dad, my Eagle Coach for all their time and encouragement.

AARON GLASS’ EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT

My project first began from the idea of working with the American Legion, and I wanted to do this to hopefully encourage future scouts to keep ties with them, as we have a long history of collaboration.

Ultimately my Dad and I decided to work with Post 217 in Wyandotte, who had graciously offered to fund the

majority of the project.

With a few months of planning, we finally came to a proper layout. The biggest part of the project would be pulling back the river rock on either side of the parking lot, replacing the old weed barrier with a fresh one, and laying the river rock back on again.

These areas on either side were about 110 ft by 4 ft long on average, and it took

about six hours per side, splitting them up one day each.

We also added about 1 ½ total yards of extra river rock to even out the surface.

From there we beautified the rest of the front entrance in many creative ways. This included posting up flower boxes along the fence line, adding flowers and mulch to the flower beds, as well as de-weeding and tidying up the entire lot.

There were also many paint jobs, which included the base of the flagpole, a self-made stencil of a “Welcome Riders’’ message by the bikers’ lot, and a fresh coat of paint for the soldier statue out front.

This project took four months of planning and preparation, and 2

weekends worth of physical labor, totaling 145 labor hours.

Overall, I think this project gave me a mountain of leadership, and I am blessed and thankful to have such wonderful friends and family to help make this project happen.

CONNOR PERRICANE’S EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT

My Eagle Scout Project was building a Dog Agility Course. I did research on dog agility courses and decided it would be a good project because I like dogs, especially my dog Boone.

I made a presentation to the Township Recreation Committee, and they approved the idea. We were approved to use a portion of the Grosse Ile Dog Park in Centennial Farms. The township put a fence in to separate the Dog Agility Course from the rest of the dog park.

I was able to raise funds for the project by setting up a table in front of the Grosse Ile Hardware store and Island Pet and Garden Supply. I also set up a Go-Fund me account. I had a big pile of wood in my driveway. We spent several days in my driveway just painting and cutting

the wood and pipes. We painted the supplies in my driveway, so we could focus on building the obstacles at the dog park.

My dog agility course has seven obstacles: Adjustable hurdle jumps, a ramp and elevated walk, weave poles, an “A” Frame, a hoop jump, teetertotter and a tunnel.

It took us a few days to install the different obstacles. I gave the people a plan for their obstacle and a bag with all of the parts. When we were almost done, we spray painted dog paw prints on some of the obstacles. I think this made it look really good. We used a lot of paint for obstacles. For some of the obstacles, we mixed sand in with the paint so the dogs wouldn’t slip and get hurt.

This project took me about 10 months to complete. It was the hardest thing I’ve done. I am glad that people and their dogs like it.

I appreciate all the support I received from the Recreation Committee, the community, and all the volunteers who helped me build it. I’d personally like to thank my parents and my family for helping me reach my goal of becoming an Eagle Scout.

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St. Cyprian Crafters make a difference for many

DAVE GORGON

About 13 years ago, Anne Gilhool of Riverview suggested to Sister Anne, a nun at St. Cyprian Catholic Church, that they start a knitting group in the parish.

“I said, ‘I knit and I would like to knit with other people,’” Gilhool recalled. “She said ‘no.’ Six months later, someone donated 100 skeins of yarn.”

And the St. Cyprian Crafters were born.

Today, 40 women who knit, sew and crochet are making a difference and bringing joy to people and groups in the Downriver area. Their creations range from neonatal hats for tiny infants to blankets for wheelchair-bound veterans and senior citizens.

The crafters meet from 10 to 11:45 a.m. Thursdays at the social hall at St. Cyprian in Riverview. Besides infant caps and blankets, they create hats and scarves for people of all ages, baby items, quilts, dish cloths, adult bibs and even stuffed toys – whatever the need is that day, Gilhool said.

“Everyone has their own special gift and talent,” Gilhool said. “When I challenged the ladies two months ago to make toys for Easter, they responded by making 191 bunnies.”

About 30 of the bunnies were donated to the Wyandotte Soup Kitchen to distribute to “guests” and their families who visit weekly for food.

Others went to food pantry clients at St. Cyprian, Downriver for Veterans, children in shelters and others in need, said Southgate resident Deborah Knight, who crochets and sews and is always on the lookout for those in need of the crafters’ talents.

Gilhool, a retired school teacher, called Knight “a real go-getter in finding clients.” “I would say we made about 2,700 things last year,” Gilhool said. “I’m a firm believer that we don’t make anything to sit on our shelves. I want it to go and be used by people right away.”

“Linus-type blankets” and duffle bags have gone to the Downriver Foster Closet in Southgate,” Gilhool said. Hats and scarves have gone to hospitals. Bibs went to special needs children in Wyandotte.

“There is just a whole variety of things,” she said. “Some people will make the same things over and over and over again, like hats or baby blankets. They’ll say, ‘this is what I like to do.’

Other people make all kinds of things.”

Knight, who crochets and sews, said the crafters enjoy making a difference. She created gathered skirts to donate to the group Dresses for Africa, which provides dresses needed by young girls to attend school in Africa.

“Being part of this group gives you purpose,” the former banker said. “You think you’re sending positive energy into the world. You only can do so much with one person, but collectively look at what you can do.”

Darlene Swift, the wife of Riverview Mayor Andrew Swift, said she learned how to knit just before she retired from the Ford Motor Co. She joined the crafters when the group started.

“Everybody in there has a good attitude,” she said. “This is a time to get together and socialize. It’s a good group. We bring in more people all the time.

“If you get stuck, someone is always there to help. You learn new techniques. It keeps your fingers nimble. It keeps you active and you’re helping someone in need. It’s bringing a smile to somebody’s face. When we make something that goes to somebody in need, many times we get thank-you cards back so we know it’s appreciated.”

Wyandotte resident Sarah Pettigrew, who runs the soup kitchen, said the bunnies were just what her group needed.

“We are distributing Easter goodie

bags to our guests so they can fill Easter baskets for their children, and the adorable bunnies that the St. Cyprian group shared will really make the bags extra special,” she said. “I think some of don’t realize that some people don’t have loved ones who make handmade items for them and these types of gifts continue to cheer you when you’re feeling down. It’s an honor to pass these beautiful gifts along on behalf of the St. Cyprian Crafters.”

Tiffanie Plackowski, preschool director of the Early Childhood Learning Center in the Riverview Community School District, praised Gilhool and her volunteer group, saying the “crafting ladies generously and fastidiously hand-made scarves and hats for the pre-K students” for the fourth year in a row. The recipients are 4- and 5-year-olds.

“Every year,” Plackowski said, “the teachers are grateful and the students are thrilled.” Nothing seems to get the crafters off course. Knight said during the COVID-19 pandemic, crafters got their vaccines and wore masks while meeting in Gilhool’s backyard. During a recent three-hour power failure, Knight made more than a dozen hats with an Easter Bunny on top.

Knight said you’re never too young or too old to learn how to knit, sew or crochet. She taught her daughter Stephanie how to crochet when she

was 9 years old. Now a copywriter, Stephanie makes lap blankets that are given to veterans and those in hospice care.

Her 78-year-old aunt, Barbara Chernick, who is living at American House in Southgate, made 150 hats using a circular loom last year.

Gilhool said she wanted to start the crafter group after her daughter said she participating in “Knitting for Peace” while attending the University of Michigan and her son gave her a book on the topic.

“The writing was on the wall, so to speak,” she said.

Volunteers can craft from home, but being present for weekly meetings at the church creates many opportunities for socialization among the members.

Gilhool said they get together for potluck lunches a couple times a year and exchange news when a grandchild is born and when relatives pass away.

“We’ve been happy with each other and sad with each other,” she said. “I’d say about a third of our members are widows.”

Gilhool said anyone interested in helping the cause can join the St. Cyprian Crafters. “You just walk in,” she said. “You don’t have to be Catholic or a parish member. If you don’t know how, we can teach you.”

St. Cyprian is located at 13249 Pennsylvania Road in Riverview.

St. Cyprian Crafters founder Anne Gilhool (right) and members Maryann Diebold and Mary Jane Fitzgerald. Photo by Dave Gorgopn

Baseball team off to another solid start

The Trenton baseball team has a reputation for being a tough team to beat and the 2023 versions seems to be living up to that standard. The Trojans won six of their first eight games, including a thrilling walk-off win over Roosevelt and a streak of four straight victories.

The walk off win came on April 12 when Trenton beat Wyandotte 4-2 on a home run by Jaoquin Maldonado clubbed a two-run homer in the bottom of the ninth to give his team the win. It was Maldonado’s first career high school homer.

Trenton had led for most of the game, but Roosevelt scored a single run in the top of the seventh to force extra innings. Earlier in the game, Trenton had scored on a passed balland on a double by Zack Hitchcock. Senior Alex

Stepaniak poached six innings and struck out 10.

A few days after the Wyandotte win, Trenton swept a doubleheader from n on-league rival Grosse Ile. It was Grosse Ile that knocked the Trojans out of the state playoffs in a district final last year. This time the Trojans won 11-1 and 11-6.

Trenton won the first game big, banging out 11 hits and scoring four runs in the first inning and five in the fifth, but the story of the game was Ashton Rooney’s pitching. The righthander allowed one run on no hits, while fanning nine.

Trenton was keyed in the second game by Reece Omodio, who knocked in five of his team’s 11 runs with two singles, a triple and a home run.

It was a back-and-forth game during the early going and Trenton led just 5-3 when it exploded for five runs in the fourth inning, Omodio, Rooney and Grayson Bender all drove in runs during the decisive rally.

On April 18, Trenton got back over the .500 mark in Downriver League play with a 7-3 win over Taylor.

This one was never in doubt as Trenton led 7-0 heading into the fifth inning before the Griffins pushed across a couple of runs.

Rooney drove in five runs in the game with three hits and Joel Mator struck out 12 batters in six innings of work.

The win improved Trenton’s record to 6-2 overall and 2-1 in league play.

2023 ROSTER

0 Zack Hitchcock

1 Zach DeChane

2 Matt Jividen

3 Caleb Kidd

4 Joaquin Maldonado

5 Ashton Rooney

7 Blake Boike

9 Reece Omodio

10 Joel Mator

11 Grayson Bender

18 Danny Rodriguez-Nutter

22 Alex Stepaniak

REMAINING SCHEDULE

April 26 Belleville, 4:30 p.m.

April 27 At Allen Park, 4 p.m.

April 29 Algonac, TBD

April 29 Cheyboygan, TBD

April 29 Pioneer, TBD

May 1 Edsel Ford, 4 p.m.

May 3 At Roosevelt, 4 p.m.

May 4 Carlson, 4 p.m.

May 6 At Berkley (DH), 11 a.m.

May 8 At Taylor, 4 p.m.

May 10 Anderson, 4 p.m.

May 11 At Woodhaven, 4 p.m.

May 13 Melvindale (DH), 11 a.m.

May 15 Divine Child, 4 p.m.

May 17 Lincoln Park, 4 p.m.

May 18 Allen Park, 4 p.m.

May 20 Crestwood (DH), 11 a.m.

May 22 At Edsel Ford, 4 p.m.

May 24 At Churchill, 4:30 p.m.

May 27 U-D Jesuit, 11 a.m.

May 27 Owosso, 12:30 p.m.

May 27 Richmond, 3 p.m.

May 30 At Dearborn, 4:30 p.m.

June 3 Districts at Trenton, TBD

Photos by Dave Chapman

Softball team slugging the ball around the park

There have been no shortage of hits and runs for the Trenton softball team so far this young season.

The Trojans, who broke from the gate with a 4-1 record, averaged nearly 15 runs per game in their first five outings.

Only New Boston Huron was able to hand the Trojans a loss, and even in that game, Trenton pounded out 11 runs on 17 hits. Unfortunately for Trenton, Huron managed 14 runs on 23 hits.

Kendyl Gearhart had four hits in the Huron game and Gracie Rickman, Maddie Dobbs, London Williams, Molly Edmunds, Aleah Tanguay and Analy Guth had two hits each.

In the closest game the Trojans have played this year, Trenton doubled up Calrson, winning 6-3. Edmunds led the way as she had two of Trenton’s six hits and drove in three runs. Annika Segedi also had two hits and Hannah Fiejoo, who watched her team make several great defensive plays behind her, was the complete-game winning pitcher.

In their other three games so far, Trenton beat Monroe St, Mary Catholic Central 14-2, Wyandotte 22-7 and Taylor 21-4.

Against SMCC, the Trojans opened the season with a 14-hit, 14-run outburst against the kestrels. Segedi was 3-for-4, including an inside-the-park

home run and freshman Lexi Klonica hit a three-run home run over the left field fence.

Rickman, Gearhart and Williams each had two hits.

Feijoo, Bri Thomas and Amber Duffy all pitched for the Trojans and they allowed only a combined five hits.

In the win over Wyandotte, the offense was even more explosive, scoring 22 times on 22 hits. Edmunds led the offense with a 4-for-4 afternoon. Segedi and Williams each had three hits and Rickman, Tanguay, Dobbs, Gearhart and Guth had two each

The offensive fun continued on April 18 as the Trojans lit up the Taylor Griffins.

On a cold and windy afternoon, Trojans smacked 17 hits, scored 21 times and ended the game after three innings because of the mercy rule.

Klonica drove in three runs with her three hits and Dobbs and Guth also each had three RBI. The ball was flying at Biedenbach Field and two Tropjans took advantage as Edmunds and Guth each hit home runs over the leftfield fence.

Dobbs, Edmunds, Gearhart, Rickman and Tanguay all had two hits in the Trenton rout.

REMAINING SCHEDULE

April 26 At Lincoln Park, 4 p.m.

April 27 At Allen Park, 4 p.m.

April 29 At Essexville-Garber, 10 a.m.

April 29 At Gaylord, noon

May 1 Edsel Ford, 4 p.m.

May 3 At Roosevelt, 4 p.m.

May 4 Carlson, 4 p.m.

May 5 Bedford, 4 p.m.

May 8 At Taylor 4 p.m.

May 10 Anderson, 4 p.m.

May 11 At Woodhaven, 4 p.m.

May 13 At Flat Rock (DH), 1 p.m.

May 15 Whiteford, 4:30 p.m.

May 17 Lincoln Park, 4 p.m.

May 18 Allen Park, 4 p.m.

May 20 Michigan Challenge, TBD

May 21 Michigan Challenge, TBD

May 22 At Edsel Ford, 4 p.m.

May 27 At Airport (DH), 10 a.m.

May 31 Gabriel Richard (DH), 4:30 p.m.

June 3 Districts at Grosse Ile, TBD

Photos by Connie York

Trojan soccer team continues its winning ways

The state-ranked Trenton girls soccer team opened the year with a 2-1 victory over visiting Riverview on April 3 and has built a 3-1-1 record in the time since that win.

The Trojans lone loss was a 2-1 decision to Stevensville Lakeshore in the finals of the Marshall Sportsfest Tournament. The tie came in a 0-0 game with stateranked Cranbrook.

Trenton has defeated Riverview, Lincoln Park 8-0 and DeWitt 2-1.

Against Cranbrook, Trenton keeper Leila Gorno stopped all five shots she faced to keep the Cranes off the scoreboard. Trentron had eight shots on the Cranbrook goal and the Cranes netminder stopped them all.

Gorno stopped the only two shots she faced in the season-

opening win over Riverview and Claire Gonyea scored both her team’s goals, both in the first half. In the loss to Lakeshore, Trenton carried the play in the first half, but could not score. It was 0-0 at intermission. In the second half, Gonyea scored on a pretty feed from Ava Carson, but that was it for the Trojans. Lakeshore tied the game minutes later and then scored with about 12 minutes to play to seal the win.

In the rout of Lincoln Park, it was a scoring fest for the Trojans, led by Kate Haveman, who scored four times. Gonyea, Kira Johnson, Alyssa Berger and Anais Garcia had the other goals for the winners. Gorno stopped everything Lincoln Park sent her way and earned another shutout.

Photos by Emily Caruso

Trenton swimmers were Downriver’s best in 2022-23

It was a great season for the Trenton boys swimming team, which won all of its Downriver League dual meets, won the Downriver Classic meet and then topped it all by winning the Downriver League Meet and with it the outright league championship.

Trenton won the league meet with 816 points, easily outdistancing Woodhaven (594) and Wyandotte (514), who were second and third, respectively.

The Trojans had three individual league championship swims.

Freshman Zach Schoen was a twotime league-meet winner. The ninthgrader won the 200 free in 1:51.54 and the 500 free in 5:01.19.

Trenton’s other league champion was Enrique Alcantar, who won the 100 butterfly in 54.47.

It was a big meet for Alcantar as in addition to his win in the fly, he was second in the 200 IM in 2:03.42, second in the 400 free relay (3:28.32) with Schoen, Ethan Dorey and Sean Laney and third in the 200 free relay (1:35.90) with Austin Kettler, Mitchell Caldwell and Drew Martin.

Trenton grabbed second and third in the 200 free as Ryan Bradburn (5:18.12) and Carl Pate (5:23.34) followed Schoen home.

A 2-3 finish in the breaststroke came courtesy of Kaeleb Cunnien (1:04.45) and Aaron Glass (1:08.35).

In diving, Trenton’s Will Taylor (313.70) finished in third place. Placing third in the 200 medley relay was the group of Dorey, Laney, Martin and Cunnien (1:46.81).

The Trojans also won the

Downriver Classic in thrilling fashion.

Woodhaven won the 400 free relay, but second-place Trenton out touched third-place Riverview in the 400 free relay and that win allowed the Trojans to edge the Pirates for the meet championship. Trenton’s time was 3:29.64 and Riverview’s was 3:29.66.

Trenton won the meet with 260 points

Laney, Schoen and Brandon Watkins. Divers Taylor and Jacob Smith also competed at the finals.

Trenton was coached this season by first-year head coach Megan Dossey. Dossey, who was a high level swimmer at Trenton in the early 2000s and swam for four years at Olivet College, had been a Trenton

training on their own before the season, so they came in in great shape. They had team- and culture-building things every weekend.”

Of the 10 swimmers that went to the state finals, five – Schoen, Cunnien, Laney, Watkins and Kettler will return next season. Laney is just finishing his sophomore year and Schoen and Watkins are freshmen.

Six Trenton swimmers made the all league team. They are Schoen, Alcantara, Laney, Dorey, Kettler and Ryan Bradburn.

Three swimmers – Pate, Alcantar and Helal Humeidan are among the top 10 in Trenton’s 2023 graduating class. Pate is the valedictorian.

and Riverview was second with 254.

The win was redemption for the Trojans, who had lost by a mere nine points in an early season dual meet against Riverview.

At the end of the season, Trenton sent 10 swimmers to the MHSAA Division 3 state swim finals. The state-meet qualifiers were Alcantar, Dorey, Martin, Cunnien, Kettler,

assistant the past three seasons before ascending to the head job, said her seniors were the key to a successful season.

“You need everyone to swim well to win a meet,” she said. “But our seniors really led. They set a standard for what they wanted this team to be.

“They did the work you need to do every day. They started dry land

The full 2022-23 Trenton swimming team is: Enrique Alcantar, Anthony Anderson, Owen Bainbridge, Jonah Beaudrie, Kyle Begeman, David Bencher, Ryan Bradburn, Ethan Buhl, Mitchell Caldwell, Seth Chadwell, Kaeleb Cunnien, Ethan Dorey, Ethan Drake, Caden Emmons, Tyler Franzel, Daniel Gerometta, Aaron Glass, Brendyn Green, Sigmund Hevron, Kornsoraya Hronnuy, Helal Humeiden, Sayef Humeiden, Grant Jiminez, Hunter Julian, Austin Kettler, Jacob Koralewski, Sean Laney, Nick Lear, Jared Lipa, Drew Martin, James Metric, Matthew Metric, Miles Mullins, Lelan Napier, Carl Pate, Ethan Popp, Zach Schoen, Bryan Simon, Colin Smith, Jacob Smith, Nick Srabian, Adriano Stringa, Nick Szalay, Doug Tank, Will Taylor, Josh Tittle, Hojiakbar Turdiyev, Brandon Watkins, Anthony Weirling and Jack Wilds.

Outdoor Wilderness Living Workshops help teach kids outdoors skills and much more

Today, the teachings of primitive skills needed for living outdoors are a difficult education to find for our children and young teenagers.

These courses will show your children the foundations and building blocks of these forgotten skills of our past. Operators of OWL feel a responsibility to guide their youth to learn and master these skills from ancestral elders and their wisdom.

The prime focus will be based around these four necessities for living outdoors: Fire, Shelter, Water and Food. Gaining knowledge from all they encompass.

They learn to understand them and respect them in the ancient traditional ways of living in balance with the Earth.

The goal for this class is providing the tools, skills and formulas to the children today, so they will find the safeties and the enjoyments one can find in Nature. To bring them back to the protection and adventure that can be found within every day and night. To help them find true purpose within themselves and their families. Nature is there every day with her discipline and honor. It’s only waiting to be embraced and enjoyed. The Guidance is through Outdoor Wilderness Living with Mother Earth.

“The most exciting thing for me are days when I get up, see the sun rise and I am able to slow down, breathe deeply and center myself,” said one of the workshop leaders. “Then, later, when I may be stressed, I take time to think back to that morning and recapture the feeling. These are the types of skills we also want to pass on to our students.”

The things taught at OWL are based on the teachings of Tom Brown Jr., one of America’s most acclaimed outdoorsmen. Brown founded the Tracker School back in 1978, a program based on the teachings of Stalking Wolf, the Apache elder from whom Tom learned his skills when he was just seven years old.

After learning from Stalking Wolf, Brown spent the next 10 years wandering the wilderness throughout the

America’s with no manufactured tools – in most cases not even a knife – perfecting these Grandfather’s skills and teachings.

Here are the practical matters that OWL will cover:

FIRE

They will show two ways to make fire. The traditional bow drill and hand drill. Specifics for this subject will focus on types of woods, wet wood vs. dry wood, cautions and precautions for the respect for fire. What woods and plants not to burn.

What ancient grass burns were used for rejuvenating soils with nutrients? How and where to build a proper fire structure to prevent destruction, root fires and forest fires. The properties of ash and the benefits and dangers in relation to dry ash vs. wet ash from a fire.

How and why to build five different fire structures based on the conditions of wet, dry , humid, dark, hot, light, snow and cold environments.

WATER

Finding water. Purifying water. Finding springs. Natural catches, dew collection, solar still, body ratio to water and the relation to the planet and the

freshwater locations vs. salt water.

SHELTER

Clothing, debris hut, high speed movement, camouflage, air pockets, lattice pockets, snow huts, pits, and materials needed for the weather conditions in comfort in the woods.

FOOD

Fox walk, stalk walk, tracking, identifying trails, runs, secondary runs and escape routes of animals and their tracks.

How to make primitive traps, hunting tools and cordage. Cooking in nature, edible plants, poisonous plants, fungi’s identification and guidance. Approaching, honoring, sitting and respecting where and how to obtain food and plants.

One OWL leader explained, “With the Four basic rules of Fire, Water, Shelter and Food we will also introduce the ‘Temples of Nature’ within us and how it relates to nature outside of us. This will allow us to help the youth and their body’s understand the calm, ebb and flow movements nature shows us.”

They continued, “We just need to slow their internal clock down to see it. So they can find their personal involvement they are a part of. To show them how important their participation is needed from nature and how nature is waiting for them to understand their true role as nature’s caregivers to our planet.”

The workshops are being run in conjunction with St. James Episocopal Church, but times and exact locations have not been determined. The cost will be between $20 and $40 per class.

If you are interested, call 734-790-4942 and leave a message. Information will be mailed to you.

Local independent businesses are under siege

You might have gleaned that Peter Rose has a “thing” against national entities going toe to toe with local businesses that occupy a niche. You may have sensed that.

Folks, it isn’t about me raging against the machine for the menswear and womenswear industry fighting the invaders that dumbed down an industry while eliminating the players that served their regions far better. It’s a fairly accurate comparison to refer to Ukraine under siege by Russia. Ukraine may or may not prevail, but even if they do ... can you begin to comprehend how a nation comes back together when cities are rubble? How many viable, humming businesses are now history?

Likewise, countless good merchants here buckled under the overwhelming force of capitalism at its predatory worst. There really is no difference between the marauding Russians and the marauding capitalists.

People still challenge my view on capitalism. “How can you be so anticapitalist, being a capitalist business yourself?!? How can you be such a hypocrite, Peter?”

I always challenge the question because I believe most challengers know better, and if they don’t, they learn, as quickly as I can tell them. That is my job, after all.

But the truth is, most of them know exactly what I mean as they read it. They just hate having to think about it.

My view is simple and direct. If you allow businesses at the local level to

thrive and prosper, the benefit flows up to the greater, broader good.

If you allow “big” to steal the business from those local businesses, you hurt the very constituency that you are here to protect and help flourish.

If you try to get away with selling America that “Trickle Down” is viable, you lose America. You have lied, you have sold out, you have wrecked what should have been beautiful.

Nobody has warm fuzzy memories of their warm, fond experiences at national companies – no one.

We remember virtually everything about the connectivity of America when it was local and independent. But we have accepted the bilious crap that we’ve been sold, haven’t we!

What, you can’t fight city hall? Nonsense.

You just have to want to fight “city hall”.

Walmart’s mission statement was to invade a territory, and take all the business that was once handled by local businesses, connected to their communities. Their strategy was to lowball the prices until the competition capitulated, then raise those prices.

America bought it. America made the Waltons one of the wealthiest families in the nation by destroying countless communities of businesses across the nation.

Amazon took that model and added steroids. Amazon has aims for every form of commerce there is.

They don’t want to dominate a market, they want to be the market.

Seriously, you guys, you have to let that sink in and realize what that means.

Dollar Tree (which owns Family Dollar, too), and Dollar General

are exploding all over the nation at breakneck speed. Every single one of them takes business from the local providers in their area. The profits from those operations leave the region, leave the state.

Looking at these few large examples alone, the picture is instantly clear. The strategy is to replace the sales of the local versions with their national versions.

The strategy is to put as many siphon tube hoses into as many local economies everywhere, so as to suck as much money out what used to stay local, where it benefited local people.

With every door they open (and website they launch), the Wall Street economy gets stronger … at the direct and damaging expense of the “Main Street” economies across America.

Each city is a “Main Street” economy. Grouping them together as we do in our circumstance to create a larger local economy (Downriver) still forms a local economy. When we flourish here, without any meddling and siphoning off, we retain more circulating capital. We have more people doing well, which tilts the playing field for all for the residents that live here.

It really isn’t a difficult concept to get one’s arms around at all. Yet the indifference is astounding, especially among those that benefit the most from my scenario vs the “siphons scenario”.

We happen to be watching a new niche being tackled by national. I’ll mention just one, because frankly, I don’t want to lend any credence to any of them.

In Southgate, sort of across Eureka Road from the A&T Car Wash, a huge project is underway, declaring that

Tommy’s Express Auto Wash is coming soon.

Yes, a national chain of car washes now. More than one.

Now, A&T happens to be an excellent car wash with an excellent reputation. But if you think that no one will switch to the shiny new model across the street, you really don’t want to believe what I’m talking about.

Who knows how big of a hit will be delivered to A&T?

I know what kind of a hit Men’s Wearhouse was to Chelsea quite a while ago, that forced us to learn how to survive on less volume, and they were just one of the shiny new models to tempt the public.

I know that carving 20 percent off the top for any independent business is traumatic, and … shall we say … unwelcome.

If a new, local car wash opens up, I can’t make the same argument. There is such a thing as legitimate competition. But no local can do what this national can do with their deep pockets full of money from people elsewhere.

So, are we just supposed to accept unfair competition, beyond our ability to do anything about it?

It is not OK, friends. It will never be OK. And think about it: What’s going to happen to the little pharmacies around Downriver when Amazon enters the prescription drug fray?

Are you going to be OK with having your choices whittled down to only national options? It’s coming, believe me. Might I suggest that we all collectively start screaming to our governmental officials, making it clear that a lot of us are disgusted and fed up, and that we stand opposed?

Seaway Chorale to present ‘Most Anything Goes’ May 5-6

After a successful return in December to Flat Rock Community Auditorium, the Seaway Chorale and Orchestra will be presenting its spring concert on Friday May 5 and Saturday May 6.

The title of the concert is “Most Anything Goes” and it truly lives up to its name. The group will be singing a potpourri of musical genres with selections from the realms of classical, spiritual, jazz, Americana, rock, pop, folk music and barbershop. The group will also sprinkle in some movie favorites along the way.

The Seaway Orchestra will be performing their own instrumental pieces and, for the first time, the Dearborn Youth Choir will join the group with a couple of Disney numbers. So, there will certainly be something for everyone to enjoy, including an all-cash raffle!

The concert begins each night at 7:30 p.m. at the Flat Rock Community Auditorium. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students and children. Children under 5 are free.

Advance tickets are available through the website at www.seawaychorale.com and from Chorale members. Information is also available by calling 734-552-3645.

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

Leads were played by seniors Christopher Connolly and Rahne Olson; juniors Ava Allen, Keila Gonzalez and Benny Miller; and sophomores Jason Kolbusz, Alex Rodd and Kira Saiti.

gobigmultimedia.com/grosse-ile-grand

Hometown hero honored

Veteran of Foreign Wars site is named for Joseph P. Berkey

...At a March 15, 2023 dual ceremony,Grosse Ile VFW building was officially named after Joseph P. Berkey for his life of service, dedication to our country, and his tireless efforts on behalf of VFW Post 7310, and the greater community it serves.

Wind chills hovered around 11 degrees, but that did not stop the more than 1,000 runners from hittin’ the streets to Rock Cystic Fibrosis.

Overall winner in the half marathon was Andrew Bowman of Rochester Hills with a blazing time of 1:06:03. Not far behind, the women’s champion in the half was Sydney Devore of Ferndale in a scorching 1:16:19.

In the 5K, Christopher McFarland of Cleveland, Ohio was chill with a time of 19:20, while Lauren Couls from Brighton was really cool in 21:14.

On page 10

Cast and Crew totaled 55 students who sang and danced their hearts out to audiences who sang and danced along with them.

The Winners Took it All in a weekend that proved Riverview’s got talent all over the place!

Thank you to all who supported Drama Club’s efforts!

On page 11

St. Cyprian Crafters make a difference for many

About 13 years ago, Anne Gilhool of Riverview suggested to Sister Anne, a nun at St. Cyprian Catholic Church, that they start a knitting group in the parish.

“I said, ‘I knit and I would like to knit with other people,’” Gilhool recalled. “She said ‘no.’ Six months later, someone donated 100 skeins of yarn.”

And equally officious— veterans, family, friends, and dignitaries also celebrated his centennial birthday. Remarkably, to top it off, his wife Ann also celebrated her 100 th birthday!

Longtime friends and fellow veterans, Gary Latendresse, Bill Iverson, and Post 7310 Commander Barry VanEngelen led the team that helped make the day possible, and keep it a secret from Berkey.

Even though the United States Navy doesn’t have an offi cial motto, the one most often used is Non sibi sed patriae—“Not self but country.” Other sources claim that “Semper Fortis,” is the Navy’s unoffi cial battle cry— “Always Courageous.” Whatever the case, those words aptly describe the life of Joe Berkey...

On page 1

Runners brave a frosty 2023 Rock CF race

...The 12th annual Rock CF Rivers Half Marathon and 5K races were held on Sunday, March 19 in what had to be the coldest race ever on Grosse Ile.

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Mamma Mia! What a show!

The Riverview Community High School Drama Club turned us all into Dancing Queens and Kings from March 16-18 at the high school!

Students began rehearsals in mid-January and transcended a bounty of obstacles to premiere three joyous, hilarious, entertaining performances to packed houses every night.

And the St. Cyprian Crafters were born.

Today, 40 women who knit, sew and crochet are making a difference and bringing joy to people and groups in the Downriver area. Their creations range from neonatal hats for tiny infants to blankets for wheelchair-bound veterans and senior citizens.

The crafters meet from 10 to 11:45 a.m. Thursdays at the social hall at St. Cyprian in Riverview. Besides infant caps and blankets, they create hats and scarves for people of all ages, baby items, quilts, dish cloths, adult bibs and even stuffed toys – whatever the need is that day, Gilhool said.

“Everyone has their own special gift and talent,” Gilhool said. “When I challenged the ladies two months ago to make toys for Easter, they responded by making 191 bunnies.”

On page 15

gobigmultimedia.com/southgate-star

Art Ambience Show and Sale call for artists

The 34th annual Art Ambience Show and Sale will be April 28-30 and the show is reaching out to area artists to participate.

Southgate Rotary invites the community

Free shred day on April 29 at Dick Genthe Chevrolet

The annual Free Community Shred Day hosted by the Rotary Club of Southgate is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 29, at Dick Genthe Chevrolet, 15600 Eureka Road. The service will be provided on site by a secure mobile document shredding company. Monetary donations will be accepted for a veterans project. Non-perishable food items will be collected for a local food pantry.

There is a limit of five boxes of paper. Permissible items include standard office paper, computer printouts, credit card receipts, envelopes, binders, photocopies, photographs and checks. Non-permitted items include books, magazines, X-ray film, computers and accessories.

Kenny Beesley has played a lot of sports in his lifetime, but he has never been as close to professional athletes until now.

Beesley is a ballboy during Detroit Lions home football games.

As the Rev. Kenny Beesley Jr., he also is lead pastor of First Baptist Church of Wyandotte.

The pastor oversees a 10 a.m. Sunday worship service at the church at 1925 Ford and then heads to Ford Field in Detroit on days when the Lions are playing there. Some days, he cuts it close, but he has never missed the start of a game yet.

Beesley and fellow Wyandotte native Rob McMahon, who has been a friend since kindergarten, are part of the game-day staff...

On page 1

Annual Miss Amazing Pageant scheduled for May 6

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

It’s open to girls ages five and up with a disability

This is a unique show since it highlights only the Downriver artists. There is a juried fine art show and sale and a non-juried smaller works show and sale.

Dick Genthe Chevrolet is the sponsor of the day. Rotarians said last year’s shred day had a “huge turnout.”

For more information call Fran Waszkiewicz at (313) 633-9916.

On page 1

and there’s no fee to participate.

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

On page 25

Three Bears place at wrestling state finals

Last year there were more than 150 pieces of original artwork on display. Cash Awards are over $800.

The Fine Art section will be juried by a qualified artist who resides outside the Downriver area. This art exhibit show and sale will be held at the beautiful Woodhaven Community Center 23101 Hall Road

On page 9

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Wyandotte church pastor is a ballboy for the Detroit Lions

Three Roosevelt wrestlers went to the Michigan High School Athletic Association state wrestling meet at Ford Field and all three placed.

Senior Christian Byrne led the way with a fourthplace finish at 144 pounds. Junior Michael Stathakis (175 points) and Max Biundo (157 pounds) each finished up sixth.

Byrne lost his first finals match 8-4 to Ethan Wood of Byron Center. He then embarked on a four-match winning streak to get himself into the match for third place.

To get there he beat Milford’s Grant Stec 10-4, he pinned Romeo’s Zach Zehnder, he beat Jake Ferguson of Macomb Dakota 3-2 and he won by forfeit over Evan Harriman of Davison.

In the third-fourth place match, Byrne ran into Rockford’s Jak Keller and lost by pinfall.

Byrne concluded his senior year with a 43-4 record. At 175 pounds, Stathakis won his first two matches before running into undefeated and eventual state champ Josh Barr of Davison. Barr won by technical fall, sending Stathakis into the match for fifth-sixth place. There Stathakis lost by forfeit to Brock Trevino of Clarkston.

Trenton Rotary Shamrock Shindig is a Hit!

On March 11, 2023, Trenton Rotary held its biggest fundraiser of the year, the Shamrock Shindig, held at the Bentley in Wyandotte.

Over 200 people attended this event with an Irish dinner, drinks, games and a large raffle drawing with over 20 amazing prizes awarded to raffle ticket holders.

All proceeds from this event go to local charities in our community who are in need of assistance. Trenton Rotary Club is a dynamic service organization comprising of business and professional leaders who live or work in our community.

For more information please visit trentonrotary.net.

Please support our generous sponsors and donors for the Shamrock Shindig: Feldman Chrysler Jeep, U.

S. Representative Debbie Dingell, Jabro Carpet One, Discount Drinks, Meijer Fun Services of Michigan, Labadies Patio Furniture, Vonda Grant – Raymond

James Financial Services, JSP Dental, Kroger, First Merchant Bank, Malek Al Kabob, Martenson Funeral Homes, Trenton Business Association, Homespun

Furniture, DTE, Allegra Marketing, Expert Heating and Cooling, Certified Alarm, Gorno Ford, Finazzo

Construction, Carefree Lawn Center, Jocks and Associates P.C., Drinks Saloon, Kearney Financial Services, Susan LePage, Woodhaven Pediatrics, Vreeland Market, Abundant Living Gallery and Gifts, West Grange Pharmacy, Advantage One

Credit Union, Apex Hearth & Outdoor Systems, Beverage Express, Movement Physical Therapy, Big Al’s Greens and Grille, Lisa and Wayne Titus, Bovitz CPA, The Vault, Colors by Kim, The Vintage Mercantile, Kathy and Matt Kane.

Photos by Jim Jacek