Trenton Times, July 27 – August 23, 2023

Trenton High School, with its participation in the Career Technical Education Program (CTE), and its Advanced Placement Capstone program, offers students a wide variety of career pathways. CTC offers courses in graphic design, marketing, woodtech, autotech, digital media, horticulture and criminal justice. Through the Capstone program, THS students can actually earn college credit. Trenton now offers 18 AP courses. Read more about what Trenton High School has to offer beginning on page 8.

We Provide Peace of Mind

Welcome back to Trenton Public Schools

fully staffed and our new website has been launched. It is responsive, has significantly improved page quality, high resolution images/pictures, and provides easy navigation.

DOUG MENTZER TRENTON SUPERINTENDENT

First and foremost, it is truly an honor and a privilege to be the Superintendent of Trenton Public Schools. This year marks my 30th in Trenton and I am as excited today as I was back in 1994 when I began my career as a high school teacher.

Additionally, I am grateful to our incredible educators that continue to answer the call of duty to help our students learn and our leadership team that over the years continues to support our children, lead our schools, and work with our community.

Most of all, on behalf of Trenton Public Schools, I am thankful for the endless support of our school board, families and friends. We know that our success is truly dependent on working together and finding a common purpose! To that end, our mission remains: “To Inspire Students Today For

Their Success Tomorrow!”

With the first day of school fast approaching, it is my hope that your summer was filled with good health and happiness!

We are ready for your children’s arrival; within TPS, the last few months have been extremely busy as we have maintained progress specific to school safety,

curriculum planning, facility improvements, summer cleaning, and whatever else that comes to the forefront of our attention. We are also fortunate to begin the year

As we look forward to Tuesday, Sept. 5, please note that our focus remains steadfast on community, collaboration, and communication! Through this approach, we have been able to continue our journey of being a premier school district in the region and state.

We are totally committed to being your partner! Your children and our students are our purpose!

We subscribe to a mission that encompasses ideals related to academics, athletics, and opportunity. Nothing could be more simple, and, at the same time, essential to our shared success!

On behalf of Trenton Public Schools, I welcome all of our families back to school! We are totally committed to being your partner in your child’s educational journey.

Trenton schools open for 2023-24 year on Sept. 5

DEBBIE RHOADES

Trenton Public Schools will open for pupils on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023, for morning classes only.

Classes for all pupils in grades kindergarten through five will begin at 8:30 a.m. and end at 11:30 a.m.

Classes for students in grades six, seven and eight will begin at 8:10 a.m. and end at 11:10 a.m.

Students in grades nine, 10, 11 and 12 will have classes beginning at 7:30 a.m. and ending at 10:30 a.m.

Children enrolled in special education classes will report on Tuesday, Sept. 5, 2023, to the same building as last year unless otherwise notified.

TRENTON HIGH SCHOOL: Freshmen (9th grade) will report to the Trenton High School Athletic Entrance on Thursday, Aug. 24, 2023 at 8:30 a.m. till Noon. Sophomores (10th grade) will report to Trenton High School on Monday, Aug. 28, 2023 at 12:00p.m. Juniors (11th grade) will report to Trenton High School on Monday, Aug. 28, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. and Seniors (12th grade) will report to Trenton High School on Monday, Aug. 28, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.

All new students should report with their respective grade level.

All high school students (returning students, 9th grade students, and new students) will attend a mandatory Trojan Pride meeting presented by the High School administrators highlighting important rights and responsibilities in the student handbook that students will receive. High School students will also be issued their student handbooks, locker

assignments and school pictures will be taken on the assigned dates and times listed above.

Information packets will be sent out electronically (or may be mailed) in early August with complete details.

Please note that Emergency Medical Information and Student updates must be completed online through the Parent Connect prior to the first day of school.

BOYD W. ARTHURS MIDDLE SCHOOL:

All incoming 6th graders and all new students are asked to attend the WEB (Where Everyone Belongs) Orientation on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at Arthurs Middle School. Please dress comfortably and bring a water bottle with your name on it. You may be dropped off in front of the school.

Also on Tuesday, Aug. 29, 2023, at 11 a.m. – 8th grade students with the last name beginning with A-L are to report for student pictures, schedules, locker assignments and Chromebooks. 8th grade students with the last name beginning with M-Z report at 11:30 a.m.

Seventh-grade students with the last name beginning with A-L are to report for student pictures, schedules, lockers assignments and Chromebooks at 1 p.m.; and M-Z at 1:30 p.m.

ANDERSON AND HEDKE ELEMENTARY:

There will be an Open House for all incoming Kindergarten students and parents on Wednesday Aug. 30, 2023 from 6-7 pm. Families will meet the teachers and tour the buildings.

There will be an open house for 1st through 5th grade on September 6 (6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.)

ENROLLMENT: Enrollment of new students for all grades will be accepted at the Neil E. Van Riper Administration Building, 2603 Charlton Road, Trenton, Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and from 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. by appointment.

To pre-enroll your child please click on the following link sisweb.resa.net/ Trenton/PreEnrollment. You may also reach the link through our website www.trentonschools.com where you would click on Parents and then Enrollment and then Pre-enrollment.

Once your pre-enrollment is complete you will be contacted through email with appointment opportunities. When arriving for your appointment to complete the enrollment process we will need to see your child’s original birth certificate (with seal) and official current and complete immunization records. Michigan law requires that only a parent listed on the birth certificate or the child’s guardian with court approved guardianship papers may register the child for school.

Students who have earned high school credits in other schools should have transcripts sent early.

Grade school and middle school students should bring report cards or promotion slips.

All new students are required to bring birth certificates and a Michigan Care Improvement Registry (MCIR) form or physical form with immunizations signed by a physician.

State law requires immunization against measles, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, rubella, mumps, poliomyelitis, hepatitis B, chicken pox, and meningococcal (one dose for children ages 11-18). Current laboratory evidence of immunity is acceptable instead of immunization with antigen.

All students attending the Trenton Public Schools must have immunizations up to date prior to the first day of school. An immunization waiver is accepted by the State of Michigan and can be obtained for medical or personal reasons. Personal waivers must be obtained from the Wayne County Health Department. Call 734-727-7125 for an appointment and location. Medical waivers must be obtained from a physician. All immunization waivers must be submitted to the school district central office (2603 Charlton Road) prior to the start of school.

Students entering kindergarten must have a complete and current Health Appraisal, immunizations up to date, a certificate of vision testing or screening or statements of exception under Section 9311. Your local health department offers this screening at no cost to families and children. Call 734-727-7125 for an appointment. In addition, kindergarten students must have a current physical examination (performed by a physician) on file with the school district prior to the start of school. State law prohibits a school district from admitting new entrants to school until parents provide proof that all required immunizations have been given, or have a waiver on file.

SWCRC Taste Of Downriver presented by PNC Bank

The SWCRC is proud to host Downriver’s annual premier tasting event, this year taking place in downtown Allen Park on Tuesday, August 15! Sample signature items from the best eateries of Southern Wayne County while enjoying a relaxing summer night with your closest friends and colleagues! Come as a group or enjoy a night out with your sweetie. Walk from eatery to eatery enjoying the best of our Downriver region.

The event runs from 6 to 9 p.m., attendees will purchase a wristband as their “ticket” and with a menu showing each participating restaurant and what they are serving. You will have the opportunity to sample signature entrées from each participating eatery! Wristbands can be purchased at the event or in advance at www.SWCRC.com/Taste2023.

Yum! Come and eat, drink and be merry! You will love this!

We extend a colossal thank you to our sponsors listed below.

THS offers a wide variety of career paths for students

THS

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) PROGRAM

Since 2019, Trenton High School has been approved to offer a new program titled: the Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone Diploma Program. This rigorous pathway revolves around students taking six AP courses, two required (AP Seminar and AP Research) and four other AP courses of their choosing.

To help support this new program, we have continued to expand our course offerings to include AP PreCalculus next year, bringing our AP course offerings to 18 approved AP courses.

This past years’ Seniors (Class of 2023) that completed the program, are the third cohort with the potential to earn an AP Capstone Diploma or Certificate. This cohort of students completed the first course in the program sequence in 2022: AP Seminar and have completed the second course in this sequence: AP Research. The class of 2023’s AP Capstone students were recognized at the THS Commencements Ceremony, for completing AP’s most rigorous pathway.

This past year we also successfully started another cohort of 9th grade students in the AP Capstone Program, by running an AP course (AP World History) exclusively for advanced freshmen students. This group of 9th grade students now have the potential to take 10 AP Courses before they

graduate, with the opportunity to earn college credit for passing each exam. For more info on Advanced Placement (AP) programming visit: https://apcentral. collegeboard.org/

SUGGESTED AP COURSE OFFERINGS BY GRADE LEVEL:

9TH GRADE AP WORLD HISTORY

10TH GRADE AP US HISTORY

AP BIOLOGY

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE*

11TH /12TH GRADE AP ART HISTORY*

AP CALCULUS

AP CHEMISTRY*

AP ENVIRONMENTAL

THS CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION PROGRAM (CTE)

AP GOVERNMENT

AP LITERATURE AP PRE CALCULUS AP PSYCHOLOGY AP PHYSICS* AP SPANISH AP STATISTICS AP STUDIO ART*

AP CAPSTONE PROGRAM AP SEMINAR AP RESEARCH

*Courses are subject to rotation.

THS participates in a nine member consortium called the Downriver Career and Technical Consortium (DCTC) and shares over 20 programs that students have the opportunity to participate in. During the 2023-2024 school year, we are planning to continue to strengthen our “in-house” Career and Technical Education (CTE) courses by advocating for funds from state and federal grants, to continue to fulfill program equipment needs in all programs. The programs that we offer include: Graphic Design, Marketing, WoodTech, AutoTech, Digital Media and Criminal Justice (Dual Enrollment Program offered through Wayne County Community College- Taylor where students can earn up to 24 college credit hours over a 2 year period).

Our Digital Media program continues to grow in popularity and plays a vital role in livestreaming the THS Commencement Ceremony and producing a weekly THS news program, Trenton News Today. This program also manages the THS Digtial Signage System that pushes out content to 10 monitors around the building to display digital announcements throughout the school day.

Our newest CTE program, Horticulture, is complemented by a state of the art greenhouse, as

SEE PATHS, Page 9

Through the CTE Program, Trenton offers horticulture courses, graphic design, marketing, woodtech, autotech, digital media and criminal justice.

PATHS

Continued from page 8

part of the 2018 bond initiative.

This course was state-approved during the 21-22 school year and gives students the hands-on experience and knowledge to prepare our students to enter a job in this industry or continue their education at the college level.

For the past two years in May the program has run a plant sale fundraiser, where students sell the plants that they have propagated right out of the greenhouse to community members.

This year in addition to selling plants, our THS Art Program (Graphic Design Program and Art Classes) and Marketing Program, ran a “pop up shop” alongside the greenhouse, selling artwork and Trenton gear.

In addition to this, the THS Auto Tech program “shop” has received a makeover from the 2018 bond, resulting in realigning the floorplan and refinishing the shop floor, to align with current standards.

In addition to the changes to the shop, we are expanding our curriculum, supported by grants, to expand our student’s knowledge base with EVs (Electric Vehicles). Our Auto Tech teacher has participated in training both virtually and on site at Weber State University in Utah, to develop curriculum and receive the latest training associated with EVs. Due to student interest within the consortium, the EV curriculum and to maximize funding, we are expanding our auto program from a two-hour block in the AM, to include a two-hour block in the PM as well.

We are excited to support the student interest in the program within THS and the other eight districts in the consortium.

We are also excited that our THS Marketing program has operated the new THS School Store (The Pit Stop) and provided opportunities to the community to buy Trenton Gear at football games and during a Holiday Sale in December. We are continuing to build up our stock for the 2023 fall sports season and plan to sell a variety of products, including Trenton gear (hoodies, t-shirts, hats, etc), for students and the community to purchase. We plan to sell THS gear at the first home Football Game and take cash and credit using our Square System.

The THS School Store is operated by 11th and 12th grade THS 9th GRADE SUPPORT

This year again at Trenton High School we continued to develop and pilot supports that revolved around freshmen (9th grade) students.

This initiative resulted in a “Focus on Freshmen” for the 2021-2022 school year and is intended to; provide academic support for struggling students, a smooth the transition from middle school to high school and engage our new class of students in the high school experience.

During the 2021-2022 school year, in preparation for this new initiative, we developed a 9th grade team of teachers that specifically focused on interventions to support students that were struggling academically.

The goal of this team is to identify struggling students at the entry level and implement interventions that they need, to be successful for the rest of their high school career.

In the spring of 2021, we piloted a math intervention course for remediation and support for students that struggled academically to complete 9th grade math. This course was expanded to three trimesters in 2021-2022 and renamed: Math Lab for 2022-2023. This important work has shown great success in keeping struggling students on track for graduation and will continue into the 23-24 school year.

In addition to this, we are planning to continue support for our Link Crew team, to give our freshmen a warm welcome.

Link Crew is a high school transition program that welcomes freshmen and makes them feel comfortable throughout the first year of their high school experience. Built on the belief that students can help students succeed, this proven transition program trains mentors from your junior and senior classes to be Link Crew Leaders who guide the freshmen to discover how to be successful during the transition to high school and help facilitate freshman success”. For more information on Link Crew: https:// www.boomerangproject.com/

In researching this program and speaking with other Downriver high schools, we identified that this program will help build leadership capacity within our upperclassmen and promote success with our freshmen.

CTE offerings

Trenton High School is a part of the Downriver Career Technical Consortium (DCTC) serving the school districts of Airport, Flat Rock, Gibraltar, Grosse Ile, Huron, Riverview, Southgate, Woodhaven, as well as Trenton.

The DCTC offers a program where local districts share their technical and academic programs. Students interested may participate at the beginning of their junior year and continue into their senior year.

The Trenton High School Technical Consortium plan of study is a coordinated secondary/post-secondary program that prepares students for the majority of jobs in the technical areas studied.

Emphasis is placed on integrating academic and career technical courses so that students are better prepared for the advanced courses required by technical programs following their high school education. Trenton High School CTE Program Offerings Include:

Auto Service Technology (Students may start in 10th grade).

Cabinetry and Furniture making (Students may start in 10th grade).

Digital Media (Students may start in the 10th grade).

Criminal Justice* (There is an application process).

Graphic Design (Students may start in 9th grade).

Horticulture ((Students may start in 10th grade).

Marketing (Open to students of all grade levels)

Level 2-4 courses require the entry Level 1 course in that specific program.

*Criminal Justice is a Wayne County Community College Dual Enrollment Program and requires an application process for admission which can be accessed at http://www.dctc-cte.org.

All career and technical education programs follow the Trenton Public Schools’ policies of nondiscrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, disability, height, weight, or marital status in all programs, services, activities and employment.

In addition, arrangements can be made to ensure that the lack of English language proficiency is not a barrier to admission or participation.

Welcome back Arthurs Middle School students

On behalf of the staff at Arthurs Middle School, I am happy to welcome you to the 2023-2024 school year!

Middle School marks a crucial period of growth and development in a young person’s life. It is a time for self-discovery, exploration, and building the foundations for future success.

Our dedicated team of educators is committed to providing a nurturing and stimulating environment that fosters academic excellence, personal growth, and social emotional wellbeing.

We understand that middle school can be a time of transition and adjustment, not only for students but also for parents. We are here to partner with you every step of the way.

We believe that a strong parentschool partnership is essential for your child’s success. Our open-door policy encourages communication and collaboration, and we welcome your involvement in school activities, events, and parent-teacher conferences. To stay informed and engaged, we provide regular updates through weekly bulletins through Parent Square, our school website, and social media platforms.

Here are some important highlights to review before school begins.

WEB (Where Everyone Belongs) Orientation for all 6th graders and new AMS students on Aug. 29 from 8:30-10:45 a.m.. The 8th grade WEB leaders will lead students through different get to know you activities,

tour the building, show how to read their schedules, how to use their lockers, and will take them to get their school pictures.

Picture and Orientation Day for all other students is also on Aug. 29. Sixth-graders, new students and WEB leaders will get their pictures taken during WEB orientation. If your child is an 8th grader and their last name begins with A-L they will come to pick up schedules, get lockers, and take pictures from 11-11:30 a.m. If your child is an 8th grader and their last name begins with M-Z they will come from 11:30 a.m.- noon. If your child is a 7th grader and their last name begins with A-L they will come from 1-1:30 p.m. If your child is a 7th grader and their last name begins with M-Z they will come from 1:30-2 p.m.

Open House will be Aug. 30 from 6:00-7:00. Parents and students are welcome to come.

A normal day begins with the morning bell ringing and the door opening at 8 am. Students have 10 minutes to enter, go to their lockers, turn in cell phones, and arrive at their first scheduled class. The second bell rings at 8:10 am to begin the school day. The school day ends at 3:00 pm. The building is locked between 8:10 a.m. and 3 p.m. with the only open access through the front doors. All visitors must report to the office.

Cell Phone Policy – The last two years we have been without cell phones and it couldn’t have gone better. Students will be dropping off their phones to their 7th hour teacher at the beginning of the day. All teachers have lock boxes to store the phones. They can pick it up at the end of the day. This has helped with online

bullying, sending inappropriate texts and pictures and helped to keep them focused during class time. They are not to keep the phones in their lockers because they will ask to leave class to check them throughout the day and are also tardy to class due to checking them. Anytime a student needs to reach a parent thAMS Principaey may use the phones in the office. We can also relay any messages from parents to their child.

Drop Off Loop - For the safety of all students, parents must access Arthurs for drop-off and pick up before and after school from Cora Drive. This is the back part of the service drive near the football field. You will enter and exit from Cora near Longmeadow. Only buses have access to Arthurs from Marian Drive for drop off and pick up. We appreciate you following these guidelines for the safety of everyone. If you need to drop something off or pick up your student during the school day you will enter the school from Marian Drive and park in the visitor parking lot.

Breakfast/ Lunch: The cost for breakfast is $1.50 and lunch is $3. If you believe you qualify for a free/reduced lunch please fill out the application that can be found on the website. The application must be filled out every

year.

Attendance Line: If you need to call in an absence, please call the main school phone number, (734) 676-8700, and press #1. An absence will only be excused with notes from a doctor, dentist, orthodontist, therapist, court, funeral home, or religious obligation. If your child needs to leave school early for an appointment please send a note with your child and direct them to take it to the attendance office before school so they can get a pass.

Once again, welcome to our middle school family! We look forward to getting to know you and working together to create an inspiring and enriching educational experience for your child. My door is always open so please do not hesitate to call (734676-8700) or email me (rhoadesd@ trentonschools.com) if you have any questions or concerns.

DEBBIE RHOADES AMS PRINCIPA

No cell phone rule has changed culture at AMS

DEBBIE RHOADES AMS PRINCIPAL

Middle School is already a really rough period of time in a young person’s life due to meeting new people, learning how to navigate friendships, rigorous academics, dealing with social media and going through puberty.

Over the years we have noticed that cell phones have only added stress to an overly stressful time of a child’s life. We have seen an increase of social media misuse, cyber bullying, sending inappropriate content online and the misuse of cell phones during school hours. These problems have continued to grow over the years and are causing a disruption of learning for many.

In 2021, we created a new cell phone policy, which banned cell phones during the school day.

They were not banned from school entirely because we have many students who come from dual homes and need them to communicate with their parents. However, each morning students are required to take their cell phone to their 7th hour teacher before the school day begins. Each teacher has a lock box in their rooms to store phones and students can retrieve them at the end of the day.

If families are worried about phones being stolen they may leave them at home.

We have phones in the main office that students

may use at any time. We will also deliver important messages to a child if needed.

One hurdle we had to overcome for some parents was the issue of student safety.

Some parents wanted their child to have access to their phones in case of a school emergency. However, according to an NPR report, security experts say that students having phones in a classroom during a lockdown makes them less safe, not more so. When they should be quiet, a ringer or vibration of a phone going off might alert an intruder where kids are hiding.

Also parents trying to reach their child during an emergency can jam communication and interfere with first responders.

Another reason is when they are constantly looking at their phones; they could miss vital instructions from the authorities.

Lastly, is the setup of our campus. We only have two roads leading in and out of our campus. If parents come to the school to check on their child they could potentially block our entrances thus keeping first responders from getting to our school.

Over the last two years, this new policy has been very successful and beneficial to our students. Some of the benefits include the following:

Reduced distractions: Cell phones can be a major distraction for students. Without cell phones, students are less likely to be tempted to use them for

non-educational purposes during class time. This can lead to improved focus and concentration on academic tasks, ultimately enhancing learning outcomes.

Improved classroom engagement: Without the constant presence of cell phones, students may be more engaged in classroom activities, discussions, and interactions with teachers and peers. They are more likely to actively participate in class, ask questions, and contribute to a collaborative learning environment. Promotes face-to-face communication.

Reduced cyber bullying and social pressures. Reduced academic dishonesty.

In the beginning I had one parent that stated they were not pleased with our new policy until he looked over his son’s phone and was shocked at what he found and surprised that a lot of it was being done during school hours. He then became one of our biggest advocates for this policy.

We put a lot of thought and research into this topic before putting this policy in place.

Over the past two years we have seen such success and have gotten so much support from parents that this policy is here to stay for years to come. It will take new students coming into our building a little time for them to get used to it, but in no time it will be part of their routine and will give them time to just be students again.

More Percentage Yield

By Chris O’Shea

What to know about APY

The term “Annual Percentage Yield” (APY) plays an important part in your finances. APY refers to the percentage of interest, you earn on your bank or credit union accounts. Let’s take a look at what you should know about APY.

What is APY?

APY uses compound interest to calculate the return on your interest-earning accounts. Depending on the account, the interest could compound daily, monthly, or annually. Compound interest is the interest added to your principal balance. Let’s say you earn $7 on your $20,000 balance this month. Next month you’ll

earn interest on $20,007.

APY vs APR

The terms APY and APR seem similar, but they are different. You can think of it this way: APY refers to the interest you earn, and APR — annual percentage rate — refers to the interest you pay.

APY Variables

Depending on what type of savings account you have, APY can vary. If you

have a regular savings account, the APY will fluctuate based on the market. If you have a CD, the rate will stay the same as when you purchased it.

Why APY Matters to You

APY matters because the more money you have saved, the more money you can earn. Compound interest might seem small, but it adds up over time. So when shopping for a savings account, be sure to find the best APY available. Check your local credit union as they typically offer better APYs for their accounts than big banks.

*Used by permission from Savvy Money in partnership with Downriver Community Federal Credit Union.

It’s that time of year: Fall sports at AMS

DEBBIE RHOADES

AMS PRINCIPA

Sports at Arthurs Middle School will kick off the week of Aug. 21.

Fall season will consist of Girls Volleyball (7th and 8th grade), Football (7th and 8th grade), Sideline Cheer (6th, 7th, and 8th grade) and Co-Ed Cross Country (6th, 7th and 8th grade).

In order for any athlete to participate or try out they must have an athletic physical on file with the middle school’s office before the first practice/tryout. The middle school office will be open starting Aug. 21 at 7:30 am.

Forms can be found on the trentonathletics.com website.The physicals must be dated after April 15, 2023. You can also see the game/meet schedule on the trentonathletics.com website.

There is a Participation Fee of $80 for all sports. Participation fee for all sports is due between September 5-15. Please make sure to pay online using Schoolpay.com, the window will open up once classes begin.

Sports will begin before school starts so here are the practice dates:

Week 1 (August 21-August 24) No Practice for any sport on Friday.

7th and 8th Grade Football will practice Aug. 21-24 from 3:30—5:30.

7th and 8th Grade Volleyball will have Open Gym on Aug. 22 and 23 from 12:001:30.

Week 2 (August 28-August 31) No Practice for any sport on Friday.

7th and 8th Grade Football will practice Aug. 28-August 31. 1 from 3:30-5:30.

Cross Country will practice Aug. 28 and Aug. 31 from 11-12:30

8th Grade Volleyball will have tryouts on Aug. 28 and Aug. 29 from 3:00-4:30.

7th Grade Volleyball will have tryouts on Aug. 28 and Aug. 29 from 4:00-5:30.

School Year Schedule:

7th and 8th Grade Football will practice from 3:30-5:30.

Cross Country will practice from 3:15-4:45.

8th Grade Volleyball will practice from 3:15-4:45.

7th Grade Volleyball will practice from 4:45-6:15.

We are so excited to see our athletes compete. Go Knights!

A fresh online face Trenton Public School’s website gets a digital makeover

JENNY COLEMAN DIRECTOR OF TECHNOLOGY

In an era where technology pervades every facet of our lives, we are thrilled to announce that Trenton Public Schools has taken a significant step forward by designing a brand-new, state-of-the-art website, which will go live on Aug. 1.

For the past several months, our technology department, with immense support from Superintendent Doug Mentzer and Assistant Superintendent Stephanie O’Connor, has collaborated tirelessly to craft an online platform that is both cutting-edge and easy to use. We firmly believe that this website will strengthen the connection between the school and the community, furthering our commitment to fostering an environment of inclusivity and transparency.

It goes without saying that the design of the website itself is an essential element of a good school website.

Ninety-four percent of first impressions are design-related, meaning new and returning website visitors make splitsecond decisions about your school or district solely based on how your website looks.

While an eye-catching design is essential, ensuring that the design works well on mobile devices is equally important. Parents and students are either on the go or using various and multiple devices, so ensuring that the mobile experience is as good as the desktop experience is key.

Designed with user-friendly navigation in mind, the new website offers easy access to comprehensive information about our district and each school. The information you use most will be at your fingertips in 1 or 2 clicks.

Our calendars are now easier to access and navigate. New calendar features include allowing you to select which schools, sports, and extracurricular calendar items are most important and relevant, then download

them directly to your phone.

Given all the exciting happenings in our schools, you no longer have to worry about missing a parent-teacher conference, a school fair, or your child’s sports and activities. Trenton athletics will soon be directly integrated into our new website instead of being housed on an external site.

We are introducing a ‘Talk to Us’ page where parents, students, or anyone who visits our website can offer suggestions, ask questions, exchange ideas, and foster a stronger sense of community. You will also be able to connect more easily with our faculty and staff through our new, intuitive, and searchable online directory. This is part of our ongoing effort to encourage open dialogue and build a more collaborative school environment.

In our commitment to fostering transparency and accountability, you will find vital information on our website regarding school policies, the school board, meeting minutes, and the

strategic plans for the coming years. We believe this will help parents better understand the rationale and reasoning related to operations and decisionmaking.

As the Director of Technology for Trenton Public Schools, I want to give a special shoutout to Pat Kujala, who has wholeheartedly dedicated her efforts to this project with me. We invite everyone to explore the new website, which will go live on Aug. 1 at trentonschools.com.

Throughout the month of August, we will be adding information and events for the upcoming school year, while continuing to develop and expand content on various pages, completing the final phase of website development.

Your feedback is instrumental to us. As you navigate the site, we encourage you to share your thoughts and suggestions, as they will help us continually refine and improve our digital presence.

Trenton schools welcomes six new educators

Trenton Public Schools welcomes the following new staff to our District for the 2023-2024 school year. We continue to work diligently to interview and recommend the highest quality candidates for our vacant positions and will share additional new staff in future publications.

VALARI AMBROSE (Elementary School

Counselor - Anderson and Hedke) joins Anderson and Hedke Elementary Schools as their new School Counselor. Ms. Ambrose graduated from Hillsdale College with her degree in Elementary Education and was a classroom teacher having taught in grades 3-6. While teaching she realized how passionate she was about helping students not only academically but also socially and emotionally. So, she pursued and earned a Master’s degree in School Counseling from Eastern Michigan University. She is excited about working with students, teachers, and parents of Anderson and Hedke Elementary Schools as their new school counselor!

JILLIAN HENDERSON (School Psychologist) joins Trenton Public Schools as the District’s School Psychologist. Ms. Henderson recently moved back to Michigan from Arizona where she was a school psychologist for ten years working with children in preschool through 8th grade. Prior to being a school psychologist, Ms. Henderson was a special education teacher for 6th and 7th grade students. While not at work, Ms. Henderson enjoys spending time with her family, especially her two young daughters!

RACHEL PANAGIOTOPOULOS (6th-8th Grade Spanish Teacher - AMS) joins Arthurs Middle School as a Grade 6-8 Spanish Teacher. Rachel earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Spanish from Michigan State University and has gone on to teach grades 6-12 in both Southeast Michigan and the San Francisco Bay Area. As she enters her ninth year of teaching, Rachel brings with her a passion for fostering an inclusive classroom for students to feel motivated to build interpersonal skills in

another language while developing an appreciation for cultural diversity. In her free time, you can find Rachel exploring local coffee shops and parks with her husband and their one year old son. She also enjoys teaching indoor cycling classes, attending live sporting and music events, and attempting new recipes. Rachel is looking forward to a collaborative and engaging school year within the Trenton Public Schools community!

SHERRY PURKISS (Cross Categorical Teacher - AMS) joins Arthurs Middle Schools as a Cross Categorical Teacher. She comes with 15 years of experience in education and has held positions as a

Teacher Consultant, Behavior Specialist, Resource Room Teacher and an EI Self-contained Teacher. Ms. Purkiss began her educational career as a paraprofessional and loved the field so much that she enrolled at Eastern Michigan University and earned a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, a Master’s degree in K-12 Administration and an Ed Specialist degree in Special Education Administration, all while raising five children with two who will be attending Trenton Public Schools in the fall. She has spent most of her career supporting students, families and staff in the area of special education and advocating rights for all. Sherry prides herself watching students grow and having them be and feel successful.

MELISSA SWEANY (5th Grade TeacherAnderson) joins the 5th Grade team at Anderson Elementary School. Mrs. Sweany graduated from Central Michigan University in 2012 with a degree in Elementary Education. She is entering her ninth year teaching and spent her last eight years at The Dearborn Academy. Living in Trenton since 2016 with her husband and son, Declan, she is excited to be part of Trenton Public Schools and to join the Anderson All-Star team!

ELIZABETH TRUSEWICZ (1st Grade Teacher

- Hedke) joins the 1st Grade team at Hedke Elementary School for her fourth year of teaching. A Wyandotte native, she received her Bachelor’s degree for Elementary Education at Michigan State University with a major in Language Arts and minor in TESOL (Teaching English as a Second Language). Mrs. Trusewicz is also currently working towards obtaining her Master’s degree in Literacy and Language Instruction at Michigan State. Previously, she taught 2nd grade at Munger Elementary-Middle School in Detroit. She enjoys cooking, gardening, and spending time with her dog Lu. Teaching is her passion and she strives to create relevant and meaningful learning experiences for all of her students. Mrs. Trusewicz is so excited to further her career at Trenton!

Ambrose Henderson

Panagiotopoulas Purkiss

Sweany Trusewicz

2023-24 Trenton Public Schools Safety Council/Safe Schools

On July 19, 2023, TPS will hold its annual full team Safety Council meeting and review our current state of affairs, topics of interest and a myriad of other agenda items.

As we enter the 2023/24 school year, our district leaders will also have updated action plans that will have outlined short, mid, and long term goals for creating and keeping Safe Schools. Moreover, these plans will be coordinated and overseen by our School Resource Officer, Trenton Police Department, and our TPS Safety Consultant.

Our pledge is to continue to keep safety at the forefront of our thinking and corresponding actions!

This is a list that I have shared before (along with updated items).

~ In August/September of 2021, TPS implemented a plan to improve our School Safety Drills. The training was specific to changing our approach from stationary and subdued to active and ALICE-like. We have succeeded in creating a foundation of identifiable action and have centered our recent activity on being adaptive to each situation.

~ In the fall of 2022, we completed an updated TPS General Lockdown Procedure Checklist along with an abbreviated quick reference guide.

~ In a November 2021 board meeting, our Trenton Board of Education approved an updated Trenton Public Schools Emergency Operations Plan. This Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) is the result of collaboration between The Trenton Public Schools and first response agencies and based on guidelines from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Department of Education.

~ Our older security cameras have been repaired and connected to our Exacqvision network. Moreover, we have added new cameras to buildings throughout the district and added another handful of cameras to one of our elementary buildings and will completely overhaul our network with a plethora of new cameras for 2023.24.

~ We renewed our contract in June of 2023 with the City of Trenton two years ago to keep our School Resource Officer on campus.

~ We have new security alarms in all of our buildings and public access during the school day has been restricted to only our main lobby entrances at each building. This has been reinforced with our implementation of an entry check-in system for all of our visitors.

~ Our Crisis and Mental Health Teams have completed updating our Crisis Guide to reflect current and best practice and have standing monthly meetings to review practice and protocols.

~ Created a quick-reference crisis guide for all staff.

~ We have created partnerships with community

leaders and determined safety evacuation plans relevant to various situations.

~ Our Trenton Police Department has provided support in many ways. Most importantly, our communication connection is highly efficient. Most

importantly, we have collaborated in implementing an “Adopt a School” program that involves regular visits to each of our schools.

~ Each squad car has access to digital mapping/ floor plans.

~ Police have access to all of our buildings.

~ Our weekly event schedule is shared with the TPD so that they may increase police presence and be prepared for emergency response.

~ TPS has a standing Safety Council with membership that includes Trenton Police, staff, and administration. We will continue our effort to review protocols and practices for our future.

~ An Executive Safety Council was also formed in August of 2022. This includes our SRO, Safety Consultant, City Emergency Manager, and our TPD Lieutenant of Operations.

~ Action Plans were submitted by TPS administration to make sure that each building is safe and secure.

~ In August of 2022, TPS hired a Safety/Security Consultant to work alongside our SRO and provide support at all of our buildings.

~ Starting in August 2022, TPS signed agreements with several retired administrators to provide building coverage when our administrators are away from the building.

~ We have partnered with United Image Inc. and have progressed to Phase 3 of entry/exit window security improvements. Part of this effort included First Response Signage for our fire and police SEE SAFETY, Page 17

DOUG MENTZER TRENTON SUPERINTENDENT

SAFETY

Continued from page 16

departments.

~ C-STAG - Comprehensive School Threat Assessment Guidelines/training has been completed by our Executive Safety Council, administrative team, Crisis Team, and Mental Health team, and some of our teaching staff. This nationally recognized threat assessment process will provide a foundation of language, process, and follow up for each and every situation.

~ Night shades were purchased for every mini-window (see into the classroom) door in the district.

~ Building level safety teams have been created to review action plans and review drill procedures.

~ For the upcoming school year, outside safety practices and procedures were reviewed and updated.

~ Prior to our departure for Spring Break in 2023, 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: aegixaim.com/about-aegix/.

We ended the 2022.23 school year with the ability to enact safety drills with corresponding “safe” identification and live chats. Moreover, this is done with real time assistance and support from our first responders.

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.

Safety Council Members: Paul Haley, City Emergency Manager; Mike Hawkins, TPD Police Chief; Jake Davis, TPD Deputy Chief of Police; Rick Tanguay, GPD Chief; Traci Oldani, SRO/TPD; Sean Szczepaniak, TPD; Steve Voss, TPS Safety Consultant; Ronald Diroff, THS Admin/Principal; Michelle Enochs, THS Admin/Assistant Principal; James Trush, THS Admin/Assistant Principal; Debbie Rhoades, AMS Admin/ Principal; Nichole Johnson, AMS Admin/Assistant Principal; Erin Eaton, Elementary Admin/Principal; Kelly Miller, Elementary Admin/Principal; Jill Simmons, HR Director/Director of Operations; Scott Cabauatan, City Council; Richard Lee, Teacher/TEA District Director; Anna Mierkowicz, School Board Member; Heather Lear, School Board Member/President; Douglas Mentzer, Superintendent; Julie Drabczyk, Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent; Stephanie O’Connor, Assistant Superintendent; Gail Farrell, Chief Financial Officer; Jill Simmons. Director of Human Resources/Operations; Nichole Zimmerman, THS Teacher; Melissa Behnan, Director of Hard of Hearing/Hearing Impaired; Andrea Thorn, Director of Special Education; Jennifer Coleman, Director of Technology; and Heide Waggoner, Social Worker.

Superintendent Leadership Councils for 2023-24

The Superintendent Parent and Student Leadership Councils were first created in 2021-22 to help create a better understanding of the underlying elements of the organizational process and connect both student and parent concerns to potential resolutions. Over the last two years, both groups have worked diligently to focus on making Trenton Public Schools a better place.

DOUG MENTZER TRENTON SUPERINTENDENT

Some of the SLC accomplishments include the following:

~ Updated bulletin boards/video monitor updates throughout the school and daily announcements that are read during the morning and afternoon.

~ Widespread use of our learning management system (Schoology) by staff so that students can benefit from having a consistent platform for communication specific to their class schedule and teachers.

~ A first ever Getting Involved Fair that was attended by both current and future students at THS. A rain garden is in the works at Hedke Elementary School.

~ A Newcomers Club is also in the works for new students at all of our schools.

The Parent Council also focused on utilizing Schoology in 2021-22, and out of their effort and feedback, Trenton Public Schools adopted a universal application for communication called Parent Square in the 2022-23 school year.

Last year, the group spent considerable time reviewing and discussing the impact of cell phone use on our students. By February, the group made a formal recommendation to TPS to revise and strengthen the K-12 cell phone policy, as well as influenced the district to take part in a federal lawsuit against social media companies for targeting minors with intentional algorithms to encourage addictive behaviors. Consequently, they also brainstormed ideas to confront the looming

statewide enrollment decline.

Ultimately, both entities will continue to aim to move Trenton Public Schools forward, strengthen communication, and provide a community forum for

a shared perspective and voice! If you are interested in joining or having your student’s voice heard, look for information on our new website once we return to school.

Canines:

TPS advertising campaign starts with familiar name

When Superintendent Douglas Mentzer officially became the Superintendent of Trenton Public Schools in the fall of 2020, the furthest thing from his mind was creating a marketing campaign for new facilities.

Instead, it was a time that was marked by navigating through the trials of a pandemic and trying to get students back into their respective schools!

Fast forward to 2023 and Trenton Public Schools is proud to announce a first-ever advertising and co-naming agreement with Gorno Ford Automobile Dealership.

The agreement was approved at the Trenton Public Schools’ Board of Education meeting on May 22, 2023 and will soon become an obvious reality as evidenced by the signage that will be visible at Gorno Ford Farrer Field.

“Looking back at the 2018 bond planning, I learned that there was considerable conversation among the planning committee and the Board that related to not only creating top notch athletic facilities, but utilizing the new and/ or renovated spaces to generate revenue,” Superintendent Mentzer said.

“Furthermore, though it is a new venture for our school district, it is something that we felt confident about for our future,” he explained. “As we look at long term planning, student enrollment across the state

of Michigan continues to decline, we have to be creative in how we deal with this new crisis, and it will be a crisis,” Mentzer predicted.

For those that don’t know, Governor Whitmer recently created a Population Task Force to deal with the population loss that Michigan has been experiencing. To put it in perspective,

Jefferson Road in Trenton and they have been serving Michigan car consumers ever since.

As a result, over the course of the last 80 plus years, the Gorno name has become synonymous with the city of Trenton. In fact, Mentzer’s grandmother played Pinochle with Grandma Gorno at their home on

opportunity to advertise along West Road. Beyond advertising.

“Advertising is one thing, but partnering with Trenton Public Schools is another and we are very excited to see what the future holds,” Jolliffe said.

Gorno-Czarnik added, “We are looking forward to a creative relationship that will have minimal boundaries, the sky’s the limit.”

“It’s an effort that we’re going to continue to pursue,” Mentzer said. “We’d like to branch out and utilize advertising opportunities in other areas of the campus as well. It’s a source of revenue we can definitely use.” The new natatorium, renovated baseball/softball fields, tennis courts, and the high school gym are a few other areas that are currently “up for sale”

in the last three years, Michigan has lost the equivalent of a sold out crowd at Comerica Park (+43,000 people) and having less students means less dollars.

When beginning the selling process, it was very apparent that Gorno Ford was a great fit for many reasons.

Dominic Gorno established their first dealership in 1939 on West

Grange Road back in the early 1950s and anyone familiar with the City would recognize the name immediately.

Ed Jolliffe and Cindy GornoCzarnik, the President and Vice President of Gorno-Ford were just as excited about the possibility of being a partner with Trenton Public Schools, not to mention the significant

When asked about conaming the field, Mentzer was quick to explain, “though there has been a lot of dialogue about renaming some of our facilities, this was not a consideration. Coach Farrer was a great man and did many great things for kids and our district. In fact, we rededicated the field to him last fall. His name will remain a part of the athletic complex.”

If you are interested in advertising with Trenton Public Schools, please contact Superintendent Douglas Mentzer via email or by phone (mentzerd@trentonschools.com / 734-676-8600).

Trenton Digital Advertising Program

Athletics and love for sports brings us together. Invest in the youth in your neighborhood by becoming a partner with us.

Trenton Athletics is offering the opportunity for local businesses to advertise on our digital scoreboards. This includes the “full video” boards at the stadium and natatorium as well as the LCD boards at the baseball and softball fields.

Why support THS Athletic Programs?

Your financial support directly impacts the lives of hundreds of student athletes.

Donations are tax deductible.

Reach out to thousands of consumers - THS Students, parents and employees at events, as well as all of the opponents’ families and visitors to our events. Your fundraising efforts will help supplement specific teams or THS Athletics as a whole. Many of our programs rely on fundraisers to help offset program costs.

Trenton Athletics wants to build long lasting relationships with our community partners.

We value your support!

For more information on partnering, email banners@trentonschools.com.

Riverview Community Schools

One community, every day, charting the course the Pirate way.

23-24 School of Choice

The Riverview Community School District is participating in the State of Michigan’s School of Choice program for the 2023-24 school year and is accepting enrollment applications from students who live in any Wayne County or adjacent county school districts.

Limited Openings in Grades: Young 5s, Kindergarten, 3rd 4th, 5th, 6th, 8th, 9th, 10th 11th

Elementary Schools: Forest, Huntington, Memorial Seitz Middle School, Riverview High School

Unlimited Openings: K-12

Riverview Virtual Academy

Online application process must be completed between August 7th and August 21st at 3pm

For more information and the link to apply, please visit our website:

It is the policy of Riverview Community School District that no discriminatory practices based on gender, sex, race, religion, color, age, national origin, disability, height, weight, or any other status covered by federal, state or local law be allowed in providing instructional opportunities, programs, services, or in policies governing student conduct and attendance.

Digital advertising is available at all of Trenton High School’s athletic facilities.

Trenton Summer Fun Continues!

Sam Sawnick Marketing Coordinator City of Trenton Parks and Recreation

Summer has been ying by, but we are making the most of it over here in Parks & Recreation!

We kicked o the season with the Trenton Summer Festival and have been going full-steam ever since.

Our Special Needs Activity Program has been going on eld trips, swims, skates, you name it.

e basketball and tennis camps have been having a blast on their respective courts.

e rink has been hosting plenty summer hockey camps, parties, sticks & pucks and the Learn to Skate classes. And the pool is busier than ever – with Trenton Swim Club, swim lessons, bubble blowers, parent tot swim and our Friday Funday pool parties.

Trenton Fit & Well saw the return of the Full Moon Aqua Yoga Pop Up, as well as some new additions to tness programming with Cardio Drumming and Saturday o erings. Senior Programs have been moving and grooving, with several free events like our free Hot Dog Stand, Lemonade Stand and Apple Pie & Ice Cream days drawing familiar and new faces out for the a ernoon!

While we are preparing to welcome the Hometown Harvest and get into fall mode, we’re not ready to say goodbye to summertime just yet.

We’ve got our free August Concert Series coming up at the Cultural Center, more information opposite page.

If you’re looking to book an end of summer pool or rink party, or if you want to see about renting the Cultural Center or West eld for an event, give us a call at 734-675-7300.

Stay tuned for updates on themed skates, end of summer pop ups and more!

If you aren’t following us on Facebook, we’re always posting and sharing.

You can also head to trentonmi.org/parskandrec to sign up for our newsletter, view the monthly ice schedule and register for tness classes!

Like Us On Facebook : TRENTON TIMES NEWS

Alternative revenue efforts: 2023-24 and beyond Trenton High School fall sports information

DOUG MENTZER TRENTON SUPERINTENDENT

As has been the challenge over the last couple of years, Trenton Public Schools, like the rest of the State of Michigan, has been faced with the pressures of a declining population.

For decades, more Michiganders have left the state than residents of other states have moved in, and that trend is projected to get worse.

By 2025, Michigan is projected to have a net loss of 14,000 in in-out migration annually, the equivalent of a busload of Michiganders leaving the state every day (Bridge Magazine, May 16, 2023).

Ultimately, this impact is already being felt by schools across the state. Having less students equates to having less school aid. Districts where growth has been consistent over the last decade are also experiencing the same thing.

For Trenton Public Schools, leadership has worked hard to maintain our enrollment numbers (even seeing increases over the last few years); however, we cannot change that Wayne County experienced one of the lowest birth rates in over 100 years in 2022. This lower rate has continued for over twenty years. In fact, based on current numbers, by the 2026/27 school year, Trenton High School could have less than 700 students (versus 888 in 2022/23).

What can be done to alleviate the anticipated revenue shortfall?

The TPS BOE has agreed and approved an effort to move forward with an Energy Bond(s). Ultimately, due to our efficiency related to the 2018 bond/millage, we will be able to sell energy bonds to supplement projects in excess of $6 million dollars ($2.1 million will come from our previous bond savings). This will be at no direct cost to taxpayers and will encompass a scope that includes replacing all of the rooftop units at AMS, lighting in all of our buildings, HVAC Armor & Controls, Sanitary Repair, and the plumbing in the athletic end of the high school,

etc. We will also be able to address many issues related to the high school auditorium.

TPS has signed a first ever sponsorship and co-naming agreement with Gorno Ford Auto Dealership. It is a 5-year agreement worth $175,000 ($35,000 x 5). Though it is not a significant amount of revenue specific to operations, it will allow us to maintain some of our facilities without dipping into our General Fund. If you know of anyone with a local business that would be interested in a bigger ticket for advertising, please let me know. We are looking for similar agreements for the baseball/softball, basketball, tennis, and swimming facilities.

TPS is moving forward with planning for an additional bond proposal for our community. We are considering a strategy where we drop the Hold Harmless Millage and add a Sinking Fund/Bond to minimize costs to the taxpayer.

A sinking fund is a “pay as you go” system which is generated by local voters. It provides school districts with funds to pay cash for repairs and improvements as needed. A sinking fund saves money by addressing infrastructure maintenance without incurring interest on loans or bonds.

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.

Please look for more information related to the Sinking Fund via our website (trentonschools.com) and communication through our school communication platform/Parent Square and the Trenton Times.

The 2023 Fall Sports season will officially start on Monday Aug. 7, 2023. A reminder that all student athletes must have a current physical on file in order to try out.

A current physical is any physical dated April 15, 2023 and after. Please have your student bring their physical to the first day of practice if you have not already turned it into the school. Coaches will collect these and turn them into the office.

Trenton Athletics has partnered with Trenton Urgent Care,2865 West Road (734-992-5252), in helping to alleviate the stress to schedule a physical. There is no appointment needed. Walk in anytime, as they are open seven days a week. The fee is $30, cash, charge or check is accepted. Checks can be made out to Trenton Urgent Care.

Physicals completed at Trenton Urgent Care will be shared with Trenton Athletics. There is no need to bring your copy to the school if you get your physical completed here.

The activity fee for the fall sports season is $130. This fee must be paid by the athlete’s first contest. The window for schoolpay will become active on Aug. 14 after tryouts have been completed (www.schoolpay.com).

Questions or concerns regarding to THS Fall Sports can be directed to the appropriate head coach. The THS Athletic Office will be available for contact on Aug. 21 at 734.692.4555.

TRENTON VARSITY COACHES:

Cheer - Mariah Figurski figurskim@trentonschools.com

Girls Golf - Laura Tetreau tetreaul@trentonschools.com

Volleyball - Jill Romaine romainej@trentonschools.com

Cross Country - Victoria Johnson johnsonv@trentonschools.com

Football - Reggie Glon glonr@trentonschools.com

Boys Soccer - Dave Demeter demeterd@trentonschools.com

Girls Soccer - Megan Dossey dosseym@trentonschools.com

Boys Tennis - Rich Menzel menzelr@trentonschools.com

Suicide & Crisis LifelineA number for help: 988

The phone number 988 has been designated as the new three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The 988 brand embodies the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline’s ideals and goals.

Built on a concept of connecting with those who are experiencing suicidal or mental health crises, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline brand primarily seeks to offer a sense of hope.

We want that hope to encourage people to call, chat or text 988 if they or a loved one are in a suicidal or mental health-related crisis.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) is the agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that leads public health efforts to advance the behavioral health of the nation. SAMHSA’s mission is to reduce the impact of substance abuse and mental illness on America’s communities.

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Thriving local business with local government: Unbeatable

National chain stores want nothing to do with locations that can only draw customers from 180 degrees of a circle, and that’s exactly what these Downriver cities offer, unless fish get counted as customers.

If cities like Wyandotte, Trenton, Grosse Ile, and others are to flourish at higher levels, they will do so through independent, local businesses, 100 percent.

As I have shared repeatedly, a much higher percentage of the money spent at local and independent businesses stays in that local community or region, compared to national chains.

And virtually all of the money leaves the region with online spending decisions. So local and small has the only real shot of greater success in cities with geographies like this sliver along the river, and therefore, cities are inordinately dependent on these micro engines.

Small also has the advantage of no internal red tape or hierarchy to cope with. Good ideas get implemented quickly, and change quickly as needed, because the owners are right here on the spot. Small has the advantage of passion and obsession, coupled with uniqueness and force of personality.

These advantages are not enough, make no mistake. Independent restaurants, clothing stores and other retail formats are held to the same standards as companies with bigger budgets.

National companies have massive budgets behind their buildouts, forcing smaller operators to pony up from much smaller resources in order to compete with them.

Internet competitors continue to take a larger and larger piece of the pie for many types of businesses. Costs like wages, services, shipping, and products offered keep going up.

When you see facebook postings (for instance) from Love Wyandotte and Love Local, you see the voluntary, unpaid effort of two people (my wife Janelle and myself) (especially Janelle, OK) to hype and promote businesses within our purview. I’m talking about pictures or even

slideshows, along with upbeat and supportive commentary, posted on more than one social media platform. We don’t have to publicly post about a nice meal or a nice experience, but we love to do it, and we know it makes a huge difference in a world in which far too many people love to share anything negative they can.

Taking a few moments to not only be nice, but to publicly say nice things about the businesses we patronize is more than just a kindness, though. It is taking responsibility as a member of our community to help businesses succeed where we live.

We are not the only ones doing this, and the more I see it, the happier I am; the more positive I feel about everything. What this amounts to is marketing for the local and independent businesses we value, admire and care about, by enthusiastic, personal, unpaid marketers that do it to help those businesses, which also helps to keep those businesses around so we get to continue to enjoy, and benefit from their portion of the economic engine that benefits us all, collectively.

All of us that do so have fun doing it. It feels very good.

While every city has a different combination of issues and conditions, the operating systems behind the scenes are universal and undeniable. There is no way around the real heart of the matter, which is irrefutable: Humming bee hives of local and independent businesses have to feature local governments that truly love local.

Government at the small city level is far more important than any other level.

So, how do local governments play their vital part in creating stronger towns? It happens in two ways, in my view.

First, it’s the observable participation in the local and independent commerce of the city by elected officials and employees of the city because they feel it, believe in it, and love it. There has to be a belief that they are highly visible

cheerleaders before the public, and examples for the cause that makes their city more of a compelling place to buy a home in, attract visitors and customers, and to enjoy as hubs of commerce.

Without exception, thriving, humming cities have the benefit of that engagement and support. It’s the active support of patronage, doing any part at all to make personal spending decisions that benefit the city, regardless of publicity or lack thereof.

But it’s the joining of that volunteer army of marketers I referred to above that really catapults independent businesses to new heights. It’s not just directly supporting the businesses, but bragging about it. Telling the world about it, and sharing those good experiences, knowing full well that the more that happens, the more people will come check out those businesses and do business there. It’s a disarmingly simple concept.

That’s true for everyone, of course. All of us should be so much more positive and encouraging and supportive of business endeavors that make a city bustle with activity.

The second way, simply put, is ensuring that policies, rules, and regulations reflect that love, support and insistence on nurturing.

It is telegraphed in many ways, but essentially, it just means having as few obstacles to the success of the business community as possible, calling for fewer and less costly fees and conditions.

Those in leadership need to understand that in nearly all circumstances, national chain stores are to be so severely restricted as to essentially render them illegal. The most successful examples of Love Local cities do as little as possible to hinder the doing of local, independent, and unique business, while still maintaining safety, law and order.

Standards should never be wielded as demands are not beyond appeal.

Enforcement should always be friendly and appreciative.

At the same time, policies should be trumpeted that make clear that

buying from local sources is not just a nice thought, but a mandate. That is, until such time as it can be proven unavailable, or that the price paid would be unacceptably beyond a reasonable alternative, including online options.

Imagine then if the city made it a priority to regularly remind its citizens that the city views those policies as standards that the citizens themselves would do well to emulate. That’s what I mean by love.

Local and independent business is not easy.

It exists and succeeds because owners insist, and refuse to be denied. The more that all of us, citizens, and governments, can do to push those businesses upward, the better for everyone that lives in these communities.

When it all works together, successful cities are electric and eclectic beehives of commerce that tilt playing fields towards local and independent because it is astoundingly better. It is the real thing that cannot be substituted.

When there is real synergy in a city, wherein citizens, businesses and government are all on the same page; when all recognize that without the urgent collaboration of all three, success is far more probable. Where such synergy exists, nobody wants to go elsewhere.

Achieving that goal is tricky and calls for cooperative spirits from all that play a role. The shared end result is where the focus has to be, and there can never be a time when there are no weak links. To that end, forums should be regular and routine, in which cities seek feedback, both good and bad, on the state of doing business in such cities.

My own private Idaho is unabashedly utopian. It is, perhaps, unreasonably Pollyanna-ish. Wishing for anything less seems defeatist, though. The things that could be better have to be named and fixed, one by one. Obsessively, compulsively… perpetually. Vive le Independence!

PETER ROSE

While every city has a different combination of issues and conditions, the operating systems behind the scenes are universal and undeniable.

Soroptimists to hold 19th ‘Save the Girls’ ride

Soroptimist International of Trenton Area and Downriver Area, which dedicates its volunteer efforts to improving the lives of women and girls, will hold its 19th annual women-sponsored charity motorcycle ride, “Save the Girls,” on Saturday, Sept. 9.

The Soroptimists are inviting bikers as well as the general public to participate.

All proceeds from this event will go to help domestic violence victims, human trafficking victims and awareness events, and women’s health issues (with the focus on ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, and breast cancer) and other Soroptimist service projects.

The ride begins at Motown Harley-Davidson, 14100 Telegraph Road in Taylor. Check in is from 9:30 –11:30 a.m. Kickstands up at 11:45 a.m.

The ride will be approximately 50 to 60 miles with police escorts and road captains from HOG. The ride ends back at Motown Harley with music, food, beverages, and raffle baskets. 50/50 tickets will also be sold. There will be a special raffle for a fire pit with four wicker chairs.

Pre-registration provided by mail or online (http:// formsmarts.com/form/1mdn). The cost is $25 per rider, $10 per passenger, and $10 for a non-rider for a meal ticket only. The cost the day of the ride is $30 per rider, $10 per passenger. Contact Cathy at (734) 934-8460 or by email: sioftrentonanddownriverarea@ gmail.com.

Follow us on Facebook at “19th Annual Save the Girls Charity Ride.”

The Soroptimists have a table at Motown Harley every bike night. Registration and more information for the September ride is available there.

The Trenton and Downriver Area Soroptimist organization meets the first Wednesday of the month. You may contribute to the foundation that the

Soroptimists support on krogercommunityrewards. com.

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

Pickleball explodes Downriver

Popular game is growing across the county, state, area

DAVE GORGON

It’s Monday night and a dozen Downriver residents are taking pickleball lessons on outdoor courts at Trenton’s Arthurs Middle School from Grosse Ile resident Tom Snider, known as the “ambassador of Wayne County pickleball.”

On the far end of the courts, Mike and Kim Pizzo of Woodhaven arrive with four friends to play. They said pickleball is so popular in Woodhaven that they couldn’t find court space, so they traveled the short distance to Trenton to play.

Four minutes away at Affholter Park, four friends are playing the sport

that “anyone can play” on an older, smaller venue.

In Wyandotte, dozens of players are either on the courts or waiting their turn in a pickleball league at the newly renamed Justin N. Lanagan Memorial Pickleball Courts at FOP Park.

Some of those players will compete

in games later in the week at Vreeland Park in Riverview.

Pickleball has exploded in the Downriver area, mirroring a nationwide trend. A report by CNN called pickleball “America’s fastestgrowing sport.” A report by the trade

SEE PICKLEBALL, PAGE 31

PICKLEBALL

Continued from page 30

group Sports & Fitness Industry Association says the number of people playing pickleball around the United States grew by 159 percent over three years to 8.9 million in 2022.

The game is considered easy to play, low impact and appeals to a wide range of people, from children to senior citizens. It’s a game resembling tennis in which players use paddles to hit a perforated plastic ball over a net and can be played outdoors or indoors. A typical game is doubles with two players on each side of the court.

The sport has become so popular that Island Athletics on Grosse Ile has expanded pickleball court time to meet the demands of members. Same with the YMCA in Southgate. And at the ceremonial groundbreaking of The Bank Tower in Southgate, the builder announced that pickleball courts would be part of the apartment’s outdoor recreational facilities.

Many Downriver players can’t get enough pickleball.

Grosse Ile resident Lisa BlanzyGlines, who has been playing for three years, now competes about five times a week: outdoors in Riverview, Wyandotte and Woodhaven, indoors at Island Athletics and sometimes in Ann Arbor for lessons and drills.

Lisa Wayne, CEO of the Downriver Community Conference, plays locally and enters tournaments throughout the region, in Michigan and other states.

“You can go anywhere and play,” the Riverview resident said. “You take your paddle. You dress for it. You can play pickup games with other people. That’s the great thing about it: You meet so many people. It’s good exercise and it’s fun.”

Jenee Osburne, owner of Daybreak Salon and Spas in Wyandotte, travels with her 13-year-old son Dominic to play in tournaments across the country. Dominic has been sponsored by the Selkirk paddle company since he was 10 years old.

As pickleball ambassador, Snider is charged with promoting the sport in the region – a responsibility he takes very seriously. He works with local parks and recreation officials to help spread the word, hosts clinics and helps organize leagues and tournaments. If you want to play pickleball, he can tell you where the

courts are located.

A certified instructor, Snider has watched pickleball grow in popularity. His popular classes teach everything from the basics to strategy to precision.

“Pickleball is a hybrid sport,” the Grosse Ile resident said. “It’s ping pong on your feet. It uses skills from tennis, badminton, squash and racquetball. Pickleball changes the better you get. It becomes a chess match on your feet.”

Snider said pickleball saved his life. After suffering a heart attack, his doctor told him he would have died if he had not been exercising by playing pickleball.

“People are very passionate about pickleball,” he said. “For lack of a better word, pickleball is almost a cult.”

Stacy Gajewski, a teacher at Forest Elementary School in Riverview, said playing pickleball has helped her recover from hip surgery and overcome breast cancer.

“Pickleball has been huge in my recovery,” the Trenton resident said. “It keeps me busy, keeps me active and being around all of the people keeps me with a positive attitude. I

have a tennis background and I took pickleball lessons a couple years ago. I fell in love with it.”

Indeed, local players enjoy the friendships they make and the camaraderie of playing pickleball.

“The pickleball community Downriver are genuine and truly the nicest people I’ve met,” said BlanzyGlines. “One of my newly widowed friends said that pickleball saved her life.”

Some local officials really understand the popularity of the sport. Sheryl Riley, superintendent of recreation in Wyandotte, said the city has plans for more pickleball courts.

“I think pickleball is a great thing,” said Todd Dickman, recreation director in the City of Riverview and an advanced level player himself. “I play a good amount. I’m 51. It’s a great sport for any age, actually. You can find competition at any level.”

Like Dickman, Trenton recreation coordinator Kenzie Roberts thinks it’s important to offer pickleball classes –by Snider – and quality facilities.

“We get a lot of requests,” Roberts said. “The classes fill up quickly. When we added a second class, we had a waiting list. Tom’s a great

teacher.

“I really like pickleball. Out of all of the racket sports, it’s the easiest one to pick up. It’s really fun.”

Bobbie Parsons of Island Athletics said staff converts tennis courts into pickleball courts because of the demand from members. She said a two-day pickleball tournament in April at her business drew hundreds of players and raised thousands of dollars to support a cure for multiple myeloma.

The Grosse Ile Golf and Country Club has brought back pickleball due to members’ requests. The club has two clay courts and two regular courts.

“I would say it’s been pretty active out there to say the least,” said Claire Walters, director of marketing and membership.

Ambassador Snider said more outdoor and indoor courts are needed in the all-weather state of Michigan.

“It’s getting more and more popular,” he said. “More courts are being built. There are more opportunities to play. When I became ambassador, my goal was to do my best to build up pickleball as much as I can. I’ve done a fairly good job.”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Festival time

The annual Trenton Summer Festival, which was held this year from June 23-25, was its typically successful self, drawing thousands to downtown Trenton to eat, drink, view arts and crafts and be entertained. The festival, which has been around since 1976, featured over 160 arts and crafts displays, food vendors, sporting tournaments, top entertainment and an area just for kids.Tequila Mockingbirds, Ghostrider DJ, Wisteria, Atomic Radio and others provided musical entertainment throughout the event and the whole show was capped with Saturday night fireworks.

Photos by Dave Chapman

What’s happening Trenton ...

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

Faith United Methodist Church will hold its Summer Vacation Bible School Aug. 13-15 at the church, 2530 Charlton.

On Aug. 13 the program runs 11 a.m.- 2 p.m. and lunch will be provided. On Aug. 14 and 15, hours are 5:30 - 8 p.m. and dinner will be served.

All are welcome.

Contact Linda Cleaver at 734-5889912 for more information.

CRAFTERS WELCOME

Crafters meet every Thursday from 10-11:45 a.m. in the social hall of St. Cyprian Catholic Church on Pennsylvania Rd, Riverview. We knit, crochet and sew a variety of items such as hats and scarves for all ages, baby items, lap blankets, quilts, stuffed toys, dishcloths, and adult bibs just to name a few to donate to local groups who support those in need such at our veterans, soup kitchen clients, a local hospice and the homeless.

AMERICAN FLAG DISPOSAL

Heart to Heart Hospice of Southgate is a local site for American Flag disposal. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, Heart to Heart will allow the general public to bring their tired and worn American flags to our Southgate office. The office is located at 1 Heritage Place, Suite 107, Southgate,in the Real Estate One building. For more information, call 734-282-0209.

TRENTON BAND BOOSTERS GOLF OUTING

At Taylor Meadows Golf Course, 25360 Ecorse Road, Taylor, on Sunday July 30, with a 7 a.m. check-in and 8 a.m. shotgun start. Lunch, raffle and prizes to follow. Includes: 18 holes with cart, hot dog, chips, drink at turn, and burger bar and beverages following round. Prizes Available: Longest drive, closest to the pin, special hole, 50/50 raffle, and putting contest. $125 per person, $500 for a foursome. To sign up or to sponsor, visit https://givebutter.com/TBBGOLF

CROSSWINDS MARSH

Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 3, from 2-3:30 p.m. Join the Crosswinds Marsh Wildlife Preserve for a nature walk and observation of local wildlife. We will start with examining bird calls, mammal pelts, and bones from local wildlife inside the library. Then take a walk around Coan Lake in Heritage Park to observe what’s living and thriving there now. Wear your walking shoes and get ready to explore. For more information, call 734-287-4840.

LEGO CLUB

Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 7, 14, 21, 28, from 6-7 p.m. Do you love Legos? Join our Lego Club. Every Monday we will challenge you to make something relating to that week’s theme. We will display your creation for one week and will tear them apart at the next event. This event is open to kids, tweens, teens, and parents. No registration is required, just stop in and build. For more information, call 734-287-4840.

HIKE IN THE AIRPORT NATURAL AREA

Every Sunday through October, enter at 28820 East River Rd, Grosse Ile, from 1-4 p.m. Grosse Ile Nature & Land Conservancy hosts will be available to open the trails of the Airport Natural Area every Sunday from May to October. Spend a few hours enjoying the trails, ponds, bays, lookouts, and woods of this hidden gem. For more information, email GINLC.GI@gmail.com.

LOVELY LOTUS WALK

At Airport Natural Area, 28820 East River Road,, Grosse Ile from 1-2:30 p.m., on Saturday, Aug. 12. Did you

know there is a species of lotus that is native to the U.S. and can be found here on Grosse Ile? Grosse Ile Nature and Land Conservancy invites you to a guided hike with us to the lotus beds in Gibraltar Bay. This time of year they are expected to be at their peak blossom. For more information, email GINLC.education@gmail.com

STORY TIMES

At the Bacon Memorial District Library, 45 Vinewood, Wyandotte. Babytime/Toddler, Tuesday, July 18, July 25 at 10 a.m. Join Ms. Lynne for stories, music, dance, and bubbles. This program is geared for babies and young toddlers. Family Storytime, Tuesdays, July 18, 25 at 11 a.m. Join Ms. Lynne for stories, music, dance and more.

This program is geared to families with children of multiple ages. Wild Things Storytime, Wednesdays July 19, July 26 at 11 a.m.Join Miss Lynne on the Front Porch of the Bacon House for a nature-inspired storytime. Weekly outdoor excursions that may sometimes get messy will follow each storytime.

Come prepared to get excited about our great outdoors. This is a family storytime intended for 36mo to 2nd grade. Registration is required for each week. register in person, online at baconlibrary.org, or by phone at 734246-8357.

ALL TOGETHER NOW

Kids Make & Take At the Bacon Memorial District Library, 45 Vinewood, Wyandotte. Pre-school –4th grade available every Wednesday. We are all part of this wonderful world. Join us for a nature inspired craft each week. Weekly kids’ crafts

are available every Wednesday in the Makerspace while supplies last. July 19: Stop in to make some silly fruit in celebration of the harvest. July 26: Stop in to make a chime then hang it on a tree in your yard. For more information, call 734-246-8357 or visit baconlibrary.org

MAD FOAMERS PROGRAM

At the Bacon Memorial District Library, 45 Vinewood, Wyandotte, July 20, from 1-2 p.m. It’s a “Foam Party” on our front lawn! Four feet of foam bubbles, dance music, and sprinklers. Great family pictures and great fun. For more information, call 734-246-8357 or visit baconlibrary.org

DOWNRIVER POETS & PLAYWRIGHTS

Tuesday, Aug. 1 at 6 p.m. At the Bacon Memorial District Library, 45 Vinewood, Wyandotte. For more information, call 734-246-8357 or visit baconlibrary.org

WYANDOTTE DOWNTOWN MARKETs

Wyandotte First United Methodist Church, 72 Oak Street, Wyandotte, will be holding two events this year during the Thursday Downtown Markets. Kids Summer Thursday Series, from 3-4 p.m., every Thursday, from June – August the church will be providing a different activity for kids ages 4-11, outdoor games, crafts, puppets, storywalk, music, science & more. Summer Concert Series, from 6-8 p.m., every Thursday, from June –August, there will be either music or a family movie scheduled on Thursday on the lawn of the church. For more information, visit wyandottefirst.org or email fumcoffice@sbcglobal.net

Area welcomes new Invasive Species Coordinator

The Detroit River-Western Lake Erie Cooperative Weed Management Area (DR-WLE CWMA) is excited to welcome Jess Davenport as the new Invasive Species Coordinator. Davenport graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Stout with a Master of Science in Conservation Biology in 2021 after which she worked for the U.S. Forest Service as a lead intern and biological consultant. During that time, her team crafted a comprehensive first-step marketing plan for the reintroduction of Red Wolves back into their historic range.

Jess is passionate about conservation biology and her marketing and education experience will be of great benefit to the DR-WLE CWMA.

Established in 2011, the DR-WLE CWMA is dedicated to the collaborative effort for the prevention and spread of invasive species in Wayne and Monroe counties.

The DR-WLE CWMA consists of 21 partners performing invasive species inventory, monitoring, and treatment across southeast Michigan.

Information exchange among partners and educational opportunities for Wayne and Monroe county community members are also a vital function of the DR-WLE CWMA and is

available as a resource for landowners looking to manage invasive species on their own property.

The Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge is proud to be an active member of the Detroit RiverWestern Lake Erie Cooperative Weed Management Area.

More information about the DRWLE CWMA is available online at: https://www.drwlecwma.org and on Facebook at https://www.facebook. com/drwlecwma.

For additional information, contact Wildlife Biologist Jessica Fletcher at 734-362-3729.

For more information about the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, please visit the refuge website: www.fws.gov/refuge/Detroit_River.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit fws.gov.

Trenton High School is a part of the Downriver Career Technical Consortium (DCTC) serving the school districts of Airport, Flat Rock, Gibralter, Grosse Ile, Huron, Riverview, Southgate, Woodhaven, as well as Trenton. The DCTC offers a program where local districts share their technical and academic programs. Students interested may participate at the beginning of their junior year and continue into their senior year.

The Trenton High School Technical Consortium plan of study is a coordinated secondary/post-secondary program that prepares students for the majority of jobs in the technical areas studied. Emphasis is placed on integrating academic and career technical courses so that students are better prepared for the advanced courses required by technical programs following their high school education

This is a Dual Enrollment Program housed instructors. Students participating in the program have the opportunity to earn up to 24 college credits upon completion of the two year program. Students will participate in class activities on site at Trenton High School and attend field trips to WCCCD

**New CTE program- State Approved in 21-22 school year.

Level 2-4 courses require the entry Level 1 course in that specific program. *Criminal Justice is a Wayne County Community College Dual Enrollment Program and requires an application process for admission which can be accessed at: http://www.dctc-cte.org

All career and technical education programs follow the Trenton Public Schools’ policies of nondiscrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, sex, disability, height, weight, or marital status in all programs, services, activities, and employment. In addition, arrangements can be made to ensure that the lack of English language proficiency is not a barrier to admission or participation

Statement of assurance of compliance with federal law

RON DIROFF THS PRINCIPAL

It is the policy of Trenton Public Schools that no discriminatory practices based on sex, race, religion, color, national origin, disability, height, weight, marital status, or any other status covered by federal, state or local law be allowed in providing instructional opportunities, programs, services, job placement assistance, employment or in policies governing student conduct and attendance.

Any person suspecting a discriminatory practice should contact: The Assistant Superintendent, Trenton Public Schools, 2603 Charlton Road, Trenton, MI 48183 Phone: (734) 676-8600.

GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

The Director of Human Resources and Operations is appointed the Civil Rights Coordinator regarding complaints of disability/handicap discrimination involving educational services, programs and activities.

The Director of Human Resources and Operations is also appointed the Civil Rights Coordinator regarding discrimination complaints made by students (grades Pre-K through 12) and/or their parent(s)/guardian(s), and involving sex, race, color, national origin, religion, height, weight, age, or marital status.

The Superintendent is appointed the Civil Rights Coordinator regarding all other complaints of discrimination. In the event the complaint is against the Superintendent of Schools, the VicePresident of the Board of Education is appointed the Civil Rights Coordinator.

The Civil Rights Coordinators can be reached at, Trenton Public Schools, 2603 Charlton Road, Trenton, MI, 48183. Phone: 734-676-8600.

The Civil Rights Coordinators, as specified herein, are designated to receive and resolve complaints from any person who believes that he/she may have been discriminated against in violation of this policy.

Any person who believes he/she has been discriminated against in violation of this policy should file a written complaint with the Civil Rights Coordinator within ten (10) calendar

days of the alleged violation.

The Civil Rights Coordinator will take, then, the following action:

First, cause an investigation of the complaint to be commenced.

Second, arrange for a meeting to occur with the complainant, which may include School District staff who are knowledgeable of the facts and circumstances of the particular complaint or who have particular expertise that will assist in resolving the complaint. Third, complete the investigation of the complaint and provide, in writing, a reply to the complainant.

If the Civil Rights Coordinator determines that a violation has occurred, he/she shall propose a fair resolution of the complaint and deliver the determination to the complainant and the Superintendent. In the event the complaint is against the Superintendent, a copy of the determination shall be delivered to the President of the Board of Education.

The complainant may appeal the Civil Rights Coordinator’s determination to the Superintendent, or, in the case of a complaint against the Superintendent, to the President of the Board, by notifying the Superintendent or Board President in writing within the (10) calendar days of the Civil Rights Coordinator’s determination. The Superintendent or Board President

may conduct additional investigation of the facts and circumstances surrounding the complaint. The Board Vice-President or

President may elect to secure the services of an outside party to investigate the facts and circumstances surrounding any complaint against the Superintendent.

The Superintendent, or Board President in the case of a complaint against the Superintendent, shall affirm or reverse the Civil Rights Coordinator’s decision and, if warranted, implement the Civil Rights Coordinator’s proposed resolution or a modification thereof. The Superintendent or Board President’s decision shall be final.

At any time a complainant has the right to file a complaint with the Office for Civil Rights, US Department of Education, Washington, D.C. 20201. The complainant should first be directed to the following address:

Office for Civil Rights 600 Superior Avenue, Suite 750 Cleveland, OH 44114 (216) 522-4970 phone (216) 522-2573 fax

Sherry Evans Publisher Will Evans Publisher Hank Minckiewicz Editor-In-Chief Blair Temple Director of Graphics Dave Gorgon Writer/Photos Pamela Frucci Writer Jim Jacek Business Delivery

Stevenson Writer

Peter Rose Writer Paula Neuman Writer Larry Caruso Writer/Photos

Pat McComb Graphic Designer Katrina Mason Graphic Designer

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NEWS FROM OUR NEIGHBORS

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Pickleball explodes Downriver

Popular game is growing across the county, state, area

gobigmultimedia.com/grosse-ile-grand

Totally street legal

Simsonian 5K celebrates its great tradition

... To date, more than $51,000 have been awarded throughout race history. All proceeds from the race go to the Steve Sims Leadership Scholarship.

The 21st annual Simsonian 5K Kick-Off Classic

...The game is considered easy to play, low impact and appeals to a wide range of people, from children to senior citizens. It’s a game resembling tennis in which players use paddles to hit a perforated plastic ball over a net and can be played outdoors or indoors. A typical game is doubles with two players on each side of the court.

The sport has become so popular that Island Athletics on Grosse Ile has expanded pickleball court time to meet the demands of members. Same with the YMCA in Southgate. And at the ceremonial groundbreaking of The Bank Tower in Southgate, the builder announced that pickleball courts would be part of the apartment’s outdoor recreational facilities.

Many Downriver players can’t get enough pickleball.

Grosse Ile resident Lisa Blanzy-Glines, who has been playing for three years, now competes about five times a week: outdoors in Riverview, Wyandotte and Woodhaven, indoors at Island Athletics and sometimes in Ann Arbor for lessons and drills.

gobigmultimedia.com/riverview-register

AT A GLANCE REGARDING PROPOSAL 1

Voting YES

Means: NO.

It’s up to you... Riverview! A ballot proposal regarding marijuana is on the Aug. 8, 2023, primary ballot.

will again offer both an in-person and virtual race option for all to enjoy.

The Grosse Ile traditional in-person race will be held Saturday August 19, 2023, at Grosse Ile High School 7800 Grays Drive. All participants can register before August 19 on runsignup.com. You can also sign-up on race day at the Grosse Ile High School track.

The One Mile (1) Fun Run/Walk begins at 8:30 a.m. with the 5K race starting at 9 a.m.

The course is a fast, flat course with views of the Detroit River and natural areas, with a finish on the Grosse Ile High School track. Runners receive a coveted T-shirt, DJ’d after race party, refreshments, and great raffle prizes (must be present to win).

For those who cannot join us in-person, the Friends of Sims are offering the wildly popular alternative Virtual Race experience, with the window of competition from Aug. 1 to Aug. 18, 2023. You can use your GPS to map your 5K and run, walk, or crawl your own race, at your own place, at your own pace. If you are not able to participate in the live or virtual events, supporters can donate and help advance this most worthy cause...

On page 7

Lisa Wayne, CEO of the Downriver Community Conference, plays locally and enters tournaments throughout the region, in Michigan and other states.

“You can go anywhere and play,” the Riverview resident said. “You take your paddle. You dress for it. You can play pickup games with other people. That’s the great thing about it: You meet so many people. It’s good exercise and it’s fun.”

On page 31

You DO NOT want pot dispensaries

Voting NO Means: YES. You DO want pot dispensaries

Cut and Save for Reference

The ballot proposal is a petition initiated by citizens seeking to initiate legislation pursuant to Section 6 of the Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act (MRTMA). The ballot proposal seeks to reinstate the city’s prohibition on marijuana and disallow the sale of marihuana in the city.

On page 1

Gearing up for some big summertime fun

Riverview-style

... We have concerts planned for every Wednesday in July and August. That’s nine awesome weeks of entertainment at Young Patriot’s Park from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. And leading the way just happens to be my favorite local band, Shakedown. There will be a food truck at each event for those who want a quick bite to eat during the show.

Returning again this year to the Riverview Highlands Golf Practice Facility is our popular “Concert on the Course.” Gates open for this free event at 4 p.m. on Sunday, July 16.

There are “no coolers allowed” as there will be

alcohol available for sale. We will have the Poke Ur Way food truck on site to provide an affordable dinner. A Serendipity Cakery and Ice Cream treats for dessert will be available for purchase.

This “Pine Knob” style concert will have an opening act by Acoustic Guitar Live, Mr. Steve Washburn. The performers for the main event are “Bonnie and the Working Girls” who specialize in 50’s and 60’s classic rock. This five member band will be providing the concert goers with two great hours of entertainment.

Please bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on. Later this month we will be hosting our annual fishing derby on the Reflection Pond located at Young Patriot’s Park. This event normally took place during Summerfest, but this year it has become its own event.

We have a very generous sponsor in the Downriver Bass Association. There will be bass boats for the children of all ages to touch and sit in and enjoy. There will be plenty of prizes to be awarded for three different age groups, ranging from seven years to 16.

Registration starts at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 29. The fishing completion starts at 9 and runs till 10:30 a.m.

On page 5

The structure, rebranded The Bank Tower with a nod to its past history, will become a 215-unit upscale apartment building.

The open house was held on a Wednesday; five days later there was tangible proof that the project was moving forward as asbestos abatement teams descended on the building and began remediation. The Bank Tower is expected to open in mid-2025.

On page 1

Weekly event a hit at Southgate’s Market Center Park

... Markets in the Park started June 20 and will continue through Sept. 12. Dozens of vendors are set up in a farmers market setting from 4:30 to 8 p.m. Concerts are held from 6 to 8 p.m.

Organizers in the Southgate Downtown Development Authority, the vendors and local shoppers and concert goers said they are enjoying the results.

Each Tuesday, there is a different band and a different theme.

Coming up in July are the Cody Boggs Band and a country western theme on July 11, the Toppermost Beatles tribute band and retro day on July 18 and the band Weekend Comeback and the Christmas in July theme on July 25.

gobigmultimedia.com/southgate-star

Introducing The Bank Tower Downriver’s biggest structure to become an apartment building

The 14-story former Security Bank building at 16333 Trenton Road in Southgate has been the topic of conversation for months since the empty building was purchased by Gordon-Begin Properties. The new owners, along with city and county officials, were on hand on June 21 to make a public announcement on the future of the iconic building.

There are five Tuesdays in August, featuring Beats with Ben and a Hawaiian luau theme on August 1, Acoustic Beer League and movie night on August 8, the Kielbasa Kings performing on Polish night on August 15, the Boogie Woogie Kid performing on kids day on August 22 and Ain’t Dead Yet performing on Ladies night, August 29.

The summer concert season concludes with Downriver Dan and a focus on local business on September 5 and the Southgate Anderson High School band performs on Titan pride night, September 12.

Kaylee Mondrella, director of the Downtown Development Authority, said changing the theme every week “gives the community a good reason to check us out each week.”

“Come for the market, shop around, stay for the concert and get dinner in between,” Mondrella said.

“It’s a nice Tuesday out.”

On page 5

gobigmultimedia.com/wyandotte-warrior

Brown Bag Blessings

Program feeds dozens of students during the summer

...Wyandotte students who qualify for free lunches during the school year do not have to go hungry during the summer months thanks to the Wyandotte Ministerial Association.

Brown Bag Blessings is the summer version of Blessing in a Backpack, a national program that provides lunch during the school year but is not available during the summer.

Brown Bag Blessings provides two days of food weekly to hungry kids in Wyandotte.

Pastor Tom Ferguson of St. Stephen Episcopal Church in Wyandotte said church members in the ministerial association collect different food items, pack the goods together and deliver the food to Roosevelt High School, Washington Elementary School and the Bacon Library – about 100 brown bags in all...

On page 6

‘Patt Slack Way’ becomes a reality

The Wyandotte City Council recently voted to approve the official naming and dedication of the alleyway and public right-of-way next to Frank’s Pizza as “Patt Slack Way” in recognition of Patricia “Patt” Slack for her contributions over the past 40 years to the City of Wyandotte.

A dedication ceremony was held June 15th in the new Patt Slack Way: the alley between the Yack Arena parking lot and Biddle Avenue, adjacent to Frank’s Pizza. There was a sign unveiling, ribbon cutting, small jazz band and refreshments provided to those attending...

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Totally street legal Simsonian 5K celebrates its great tradition

Runners, walkers, and health enthusiasts of all ages will take to the streets in late summer for the 21st Annual Simsonian 5K Kick-Off Classic. The 1 mile fun run/ walk, and the 5K race have become, ahem. . . a long running tradition on Grosse Ile.

The Friends and Family of Steve Sims have joined forces with the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation, Inc. to make this the best road racing fundraiser yet. The partnership with the GIEF, which began last year, offers a fun, family-filled event which shares a common bond—advancing the education of Grosse Ile’s outstanding male and female scholar/athletes at Grosse Ile High School.

This year’s scholarships were awarded to 2023 graduates, Tyler Swick and Samantha Justusson.

To date, more than $51,000 have been awarded throughout race history. All proceeds from the race go to the Steve Sims Leadership Scholarship.

The 21st annual Simsonian 5K Kick-Off Classic will again offer both an in-person and virtual race option for all to enjoy.

The Grosse Ile traditional in-person race will be held Saturday August 19, 2023, at Grosse Ile High School 7800 Grays Drive. All participants can register before August 19 on runsignup.com. You can also sign-up on race day at the Grosse Ile High School track.

The One Mile (1) Fun Run/Walk begins at 8:30 a.m. with the 5K race starting at 9 a.m.

The course is a fast, flat course with views of the

Detroit River and natural areas, with a finish on the Grosse Ile High School track. Runners receive a coveted T-shirt, DJ’d after race party, refreshments, and great raffle prizes (must be present to win).

For those who cannot join us in-person, the Friends of Sims are offering the wildly popular alternative Virtual Race experience, with the window of competition from Aug. 1 to Aug. 18, 2023. You can use your GPS to map your 5K and run, walk, or crawl your own race, at your own place, at your own pace. If you are not able to participate in the live or virtual events, supporters can donate and help advance this most worthy cause.

The 21th Annual Simsonian is held in memory of beloved teacher and coach, Steve Sims, who died unexpectedly of a dissecting aortic aneurysm in 2003 at age 46.

Steve was the winningest coach in Grosse Ile history in both Girls’ Basketball, and Girls’ Track

and Field. But, more so, he was known for his great sense of humor, his ability to inspire his students and athletes, and his passion for excellence. He was instrumental in developing strong, independent young men and women.

So, your participation and support go to advance the spirit and legacy of Steve Sims in paying it forward to another generation of promising youth--just what the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation, Inc. has done for almost 30 years.

Cost of registration for the Virtual Race is a flat fee of $30 (includes postage and handling) for all ages and categories. After registering, an email will be sent to you with all information you will need to upload your results and photos to see how you rank among the other racers. Cost for in-person participation for both Fun Run and 5K are:

Children ages 10 and under – $10.

Students 18 and under – $20.

Adults – $25.

Late (after August 13, 2023) or Race Day Registration – 10 and Under $15, Students $25 and Adults $30.

Awards for In Person Race: 5K first male/female overall. Gold, Silver, Bronze each Male/Female age group 12 & under; 13-16; 17-20; 21-29; 30-39; 40-49; 50-59; 60 & over.

Package pick-up will be at the Grosse Ile High School track on August 19, 2023, beginning at 7:15 a.m.

So, come join as you can to support a great time and an even better cause. ‘Cause, “That’s the Spirit that Made America!”

BILL STEVENSON