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Three individuals were formally inducted into the Trenton Educational Foundation Wall of Fame. Ann Marie Lipinski (left), Joe Hoshaw Jr. (right) and Clifton Mace were added to the shrine during the 13th annual Signature Event, held Nov. 17 at Crystal Gardens in Southgate. The late Mr. Mace was represented by his widow, Beth Ann. The event serves as a fundraiser that enables the foundation to invest in a variety of programs to promote excellence in education.

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Page 2 • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • TRENTON TIMES

While you may not be a pediatric surgeon volunteering your topiary talents at a children’s hospital – your life is just as unique. Backed by sophisticated resources, a Raymond James financial advisor can help you plan for what’s important to you. That’s LIFE WELL PLANNED. Lawrence J. Kearney, Jr., CRPC®, RICP® Financial Advisor 2675 W. Jefferson Avenue Ste 2 Trenton, MI 48183 T 734.676.3807 / F 734.676.0791 lawrence.kearney@raymondjames.com www.raymondjames.com/kearneyfinancial

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TRENTON TIMES • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • Page 3

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Page 4 • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • TRENTON TIMES

Steps you can take to still reduce your taxes in 2023

BY ROB BOVITZ CPA As the end of the year approaches, now’s a good time to think about steps you can take to reduce your 2023 federal taxes.

Heading into an election year, a lot of Congressional attention is focused on things other than passing new tax legislation. If tax legislation occurs after next year’s November election, any changes will most likely be prospective.

Here are some things to think about doing before the end of 2023.

BUNCHING ITEMIZED DEDUCTIONS You can deduct the greater of your itemized deductions (mortgage interest, charitable contributions, medical expenses, and state and local taxes) or the standard deduction. The 2023 standard deduction is $13,850 for singles and married individuals filing separately (MFS), $27,700 for married couples filing jointly (MFJ), and $20,800 for heads of household (HOH).

If your total itemized deductions for 2023 will be close to the standard deduction, time your itemized deduction items between now and year-end.

“Bunch” your itemized deductions so they exceed your standard deduction every other year.

MANAGE INVESTMENT GAINS AND LOSSES Sometimes, it makes tax sense to sell appreciated securities that have been held for over 12 months.

The federal income tax rate on longterm capital gains recognized in 2023 is only 15 percent for most individuals, but it can reach the maximum 20 percent rate at higher income levels. The 3.8 percent Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT) can also apply at higher income levels. Even so, the highest tax rate on long-term capital gains (23.8 percent) is still far less than the 37 percent maximum tax rate on ordinary income.

And, to the extent you have capital losses that were recognized earlier this year or capital loss carryovers from earlier years, those losses may absorb any additional tax if you decide to sell stocks at a gain this year.

MAKE YOUR CHARITABLE GIVING PLANS Donate appreciated assets that were held for over a year. If you give such assets to a public charity, you can deduct the full fair market value of the donated asset while avoiding the tax you would have paid had you sold the asset and donated the cash to the charity.

Charitable gifts of appreciated property to a private nonoperating foundation are generally only deductible to the extent of your basis in the asset. There’s an exception for qualified appreciated stock (publicly traded stock), which can qualify for a deduction equal to its fair market value if it’s donated to a private nonoperating foundation.

If you are married, you and your spouse can elect to gift split, so that a gift that either one of you makes is considered to be made one half by each spouse.

CONVERT TRADITIONAL IRAS INTO ROTH ACCOUNTS Converting makes the most sense when you expect to be in the same or higher tax bracket during your retirement years. If that turns out to be true, the current tax hit from a conversion this year could be a relatively small price to pay for completely avoiding potential higher future tax rates on the accounts’ postconversion earnings.

EMPLOYING FAMILY MEMBERS Employing family members can be a useful strategy to reduce overall tax liability. If the family member is a bona fide employee, the taxpayer can deduct the wages and benefits, including medical benefits, paid to the employee on Schedule C or F as a business expense, thus reducing the proprietor’s self-employment tax liability. In addition, wages paid to your child under the age of 18 are not subject to federal employment taxes, will be deductible at your marginal tax rate, are taxable at the child’s marginal tax rate, and can be offset by up to $13,850 (your child’s maximum standard deduction for 2023).

However, your family member must be a bona fide employee, and basic business practices, such as keeping time reports, filing payroll returns, and basing

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE GIFT TAX EXCLUSION The annual gift exclusion allows for tax-free gifts that don’t count toward your lifetime gifting exemption.

For 2023, you can make annual exclusion gifts up to $17,000 per done, with no limit on the number of donees.

IF YOU OWN A BUSINESS, CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING STRATEGIES. Establish a Tax-favored Retirement Plan If your business doesn’t already have a retirement plan, now might be the time to take the plunge. Current retirement plan rules allow for significant deductible contributions. Contact us for more information on small business retirement plan options, and be aware that if your business has employees, you may have to cover them.

pay on the actual work performed, should be followed.

DEPRECIATION For qualifying property placed in service in tax years beginning in 2023, the maximum allowable Section 179 deduction is 1.16 million. Most types of personal property used for business are eligible for Section 179 deductions, and off-the-shelf software costs are eligible too.

Section 179 deductions also can be claimed for qualified expenditures for roofs, HVAC equipment, fire protection and alarm systems, and security systems for nonresidential real property. To qualify, these items must be placed in service after the nonresidential building. has been placed in service.

YEAR-END BONUSES Year-end bonuses can be timed for tax effect. Cash basis taxpayers should pay bonuses before year-end to maximize the deduction available in 2023 if they expect to be in the same or lower tax bracket next year. Cash basis taxpayers that expect to be in a higher tax bracket in 2024, due to revenue increases, should wait to pay year-end bonuses until January.

This letter only covers some of the year-end tax planning moves that could potentially benefit you, your family, and your business. Please contact us if you have questions, want more information, or would like us to help in designing a year-end planning package that delivers the best tax results for your particular circumstances.

TRENTON TIMES • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • Page 5

German Club visits Frankenmuth On Thursday, Nov. 30, 27 members of THS’s German Club went on a field trip to Frankenmuth, Michigan’s “Little Bavaria.” While on this trip, they visited the Bavarian Inn, where they got to learn how to roll pretzels authentically, sing the famous Schnitzelbank song and enjoy a German lunch of Hähnchen, Kartoffelbrei, Mais, Würstchen, und Brot (chicken, mashed potatoes, corn, sausages and bread). They then had time to explore the city on their own. Everyone came home with a new memory and had a great time.

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As the holiday season approaches, I wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for the trust you’ve placed in me throughout the year.

It has been my pleasure to assist you on your journey to finding or selling your home, and I am truly thankful for the opportunity to be part of such a significant chapter in your life. I look forward to continuing to serve you, your family, and your friends in the coming year!

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This Christmas, may your home be adorned with the warmth of love, the laughter of family and friends, and the joy that comes with creating lasting memories. Whether you’re celebrating in a new home or cherishing the traditions of your current one, I hope this festive season brings you immense happiness and peace.

Wishing you and your loved ones a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year filled with prosperity, good health, and the comforts of home.

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Page 6 • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • TRENTON TIMES

TRENTON TIMES • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • Page 7

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Page 8 • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • TRENTON TIMES

Work will make TPS more sustainable and resilient

BY DOUG MENTZER TPS SUPERINTENDENT

We are thrilled to share some incredible news that will undoubtedly have a positive impact on our schools and community – the commencement of our highly-anticipated Energy Bond Work.

As part of our strategy to be proactive, plan for the future, and maintain a standing of excellence, on Sept.

14, we completed our bond offering through JW Baird. This resulted in $4.5 million dollars in proceeds to be used for a significant scope (list) of energy and facility improvements.

This Energy Bond Work represents a significant step towards a more sustainable, resilient and environmentally friendly future for all of us that will result in significant cost savings to our district. In fact, it is because of this realization of savings that these improvements will be at no cost to our community.

Our first step in this work started recently at Trenton High School. The

contractors will be in the building each day starting at 3 p.m. and working roughly until 1 a.m.. They will be installing new lighting in our classrooms, hallways and offices. There is a lot more to come!

Ultimately, the overall goal is to improve the energy efficiency of existing structures through upgrades to insulation, lighting, HVAC systems, electrical systems and plumbing. In fact, some of our projects will be downright big (think Arthurs roof top units and the high school HVAC).

Additionally, there will be an installation of smart grid technology such as advanced control and metering systems and other similar technologies to optimize energy usage and distribution.

Throughout the duration of the Energy Bond Work, we will maintain open lines of communication with regular updates and progress reports.

Thank you for being an integral part of our community, and we look forward to the positive changes that the Energy Bond Work will bring.

Trenton Public Schools expand safety team Trenton Public Schools is pleased to announce the addition of two new members to its safety team as part of the ongoing commitment to ensure the safety of both students and staff.

Our new team members bring a wealth of experience and expertise from both law enforcement and corporate and private security; their respective qualifications further strengthen our commitment and dedication to creating a safe and secure environment.

The newly appointed safety team members include: Mr. Johnathan Crowley Currently employed by General Motors Global Security with previous experience working with Renaissance Security Police and the Woodhaven Fire Department.

Tactical Response Team, CPR Certified, Private Security Police Officer, Firefighter, Hazmat First Responder Awareness and Operations, Emergency Medical Technician, CPR Certified.

Mr. Todd Tincher Retired police officer (36 year career

with both Detroit and Trenton PD).

Command Lieutenant, Tactical Experience, Homeland Security, Related Protective/Detective Services.

These individuals will serve in a part time manner and work closely with the existing Executive Safety Council (ESC) to implement and enhance safety protocols, conduct regular assessments, and provide ongoing training to ensure all employees are well-prepared and informed about safety procedures.

Our current ESC is made up of Trenton Police Chief Michael Hawkins, Lieutenant of Operations Andrew Grignon, CIty Emergency Manager Paul Haley, SRO Tracy Oldani, Safety Consultant Steve Voss, our two new members, and Superintendent Doug Mentzer.

Trenton Public Schools remains dedicated to fostering a culture of safety and continuous improvement. The expansion of the safety team reflects our proactive approach to maintaining a secure environment.

TRENTON TIMES • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • Page 9

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Page 10 • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • TRENTON TIMES

TRENTON PARKS & RECREATION We wanted to take a moment to say, “THANK YOU!” to all of our staff and volunteers for everything they’ve done throughout the year to help make 2023 a fantastic year for Trenton Parks & Recreation! It takes a lot of people to run our programs and facilities. And everyone who has worked or volunteered, everywhere from the rink to the cultural center to our gardens, SNAP camp, concessions, the pool, the Westfield Center, basketball, tennis, crafts, ALL OF IT, we thank you for being such an important part of what makes Trenton a great place to live.

As we look forward to the new year, we’re excited to start working on our spring programming, park improvements, pool and facility improvements as well as debuting new programs. We hope you enjoy your holiday and have a great new year ahead!

TRENTON TIMES • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • Page 11

Page 12 • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • TRENTON TIMES

Life lessons learned through canned goods collection

At Anderson and Hedke a heartwarming initiative took place this holiday season, teaching young students life lessons beyond the traditional classroom setting. Collecting canned goods for the St. Phillips’ food bank has proven to be a powerful educational tool, instilling qualities such as empathy and teamwork in the hearts of our youngest learners.

Elementaries name Students of the Month ANDERSON The Student of the Month Program at Anderson is off to a great start.

Each month, we acknowledge student efforts with our Student of the Month program.

In October, students shone brightly as the embodiment of Respect, Responsibility and Safety, showcasing a conscientious and accountable approach to their academic and personal responsibilities.

Moving into November, our focus shifted to Perseverance, and once again, students were honored who faced challenges with determination, showing an unwavering commitment to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

Congratulations!

HEDKE Forgiveness is a powerful force that contributes to a healthier and more supportive learning environment at Hedke Elementary. It teaches students valuable life skills such as conflict resolution and the ability to move forward positively from challenging situations.

Congratulations to our students who are our November Student of the Month recipients for embracing and demonstrating forgiveness.

Student Council members inspire as role models A unique connection has blossomed between high school student council members and their elementary counterparts.

Serving as beacons of leadership and inspiration, the high school representatives took on the role of mentors and spent time with our elementary representatives guiding the emerging leaders of tomorrow

in the elementary student council.

Our elementary students were able to gain insight into the role of high school student council members and seek advice on how they can make a positive impact on their elementary school community as they learn to develop leadership skills.

TRENTON TIMES • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • Page 13

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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.

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Page 14 • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • TRENTON TIMES

Estate Planning 101 Which plan do you need?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Again, this is just a general description of the more popular terms – no one choice is a “silver bullet” but depending on how your estate gets planned out you can expedite a clean and clear process for the assets you worked a lifetime to save.

Why wouldn’t you want to do that? Stop by or call and make an appointment and I’ll tell you what you’re going to need to do this right.

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

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TRENTON TIMES • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • Page 15

Students from Gabriel Richard High School.

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Master of Ceremonies Kathy Kane at the annual Prayer Breakfast. About 640 people were on hand for the annual Downriver Prayer Breakfast held December 1 at Crystal Gardens in Southgate. The keynote speaker was Dave Wilson, who served as chaplain of the Detroit Lions for 33 years and, along with his wife, founded Kensington Church, which became the largest Christian church in Michigan.

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Five members of the board of the Fish & Loaves Community Food Pantry, plus Executive Director Stephanie McNees of Southgate.

Guests sing “How Great Thou Art.”

Page 16 • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • TRENTON TIMES

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TRENTON TIMES • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • Page 17

Simply “Sharing the cheer” is the best A photograph of Winkleman’s women’s clothing store in Downtown Detroit showed up on Facebook recently. Of course, it ignited a train of thought for me.

Winkleman’s was one of the competitive driving forces of Willow Tree in the 1970s. Along with Gantos, they were watched carefully by PETER my parents as they ROSE grew Willow Tree from a basement segment of Chelsea (in the basement that soon became The Downunder Shop) to a full-fledged operation that they grew to a 16-store chain before market forces contributed heavily to a period of retraction in the 1990s that ultimately brought us back to our single, original store, along with Chelsea (which reached a total of seven stores in Metro Detroit during the same period of time.

Hindsight isn’t exactly 20/20. I guess if one could sit here today and look back, understanding everything that happened that contributed to the sea change in the consumer realm of the United States economy and looking forward to charting a course with one’s past and accurate vision of the future, one might have a chance. I don’t have that capacity, but I can look back and analyze what happened to my company and thousands of others across the nation.

I’ve processed my stream of consciousness with writings for 6 ½ years now. I don’t wallow, but I do hash it over in my head, trying to make sure my take on things is accurate. I don’t

CHEESE!

feel sorry for myself, for instance; I feel sorrow about what happened to America over the course of my nearly 52-year career.

I happened to be in the same crosshairs that destroyed over a century of real retail, and I can’t let it go because that experience informs where we go from here.

Not just Chelsea and Willow Tree, but all retail. It’s important to not shy away from how bad things became, not so I can bemoan it, but strategize for the short- and long-term future.

I’ve told you about many experiences of shopping at independent stores, from various towns I visit in my travels for business and pleasure. I’ve shared positive impressions and rushes of discovery that we don’t get when we shop at national options. I’ve talked with a lot of store owners, seeking perspectives that may differ from mine, but that can help me understand more, and therefore be able to explain more to you and others I encounter.

Mind you, the vast majority of people that are in my stores are just that: In my stores, shopping locally.

For these good folks, my mission is not to cajole them to “shop local”. What I want them to hear is the tangential aspects that they may not focus on.

The ripple effect, the echo shopping that happens with the same dollars they spend at one locally owned store. It’s no joke, it’s no small thing.

Independent business owners are generally on the same page as I am, expressing the sentiment that they just don’t spend money and national chains or online. That means that for each one that feels that way, very little money

leaves the state as cash taken in and profitability are sent to the headquarters elsewhere.

My wife Janelle and I took a circuitous route on a return trip from Lansing for the showing of one of our brands for (ack) Fall, 2024. It was too late to go back to Willow Tree and Chelsea, so we took our time, driving smaller roads through many small towns. The last one we stopped at was Milan.

Now, Milan has a much smaller downtown than Wyandotte or even Trenton’s original area on Jefferson.

But they’ve done a very good job of banding together to create a quaint twoblock area where there are no lighted store signs, just “old-town” stick out signs, all the same general theme with personal variances. We stopped in to one, nosed around and bought some Christmas decorations that we had wanted to find but hadn’t thought of Milan for getting them.

As we were leaving, we told the owner that we’re retailers that seek out indie shopping areas and shops in particular. With fondness, she made sure we knew to check out a few specific shops before we left town, shops that were unique and interesting and special.

What is that worth? We did do that, and we did spend more money in Milan as a result.

That happens here as well. It’s what we do all the time, and it’s what our neighboring businesses do as well.

Each one of us is a “brand” ambassador for the Wyandotte brand, and for other indie shops and restaurants in our entire Downriver area.

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Do you think anyone at national chains does that?

We don’t expect pats on the back, that misses the point altogether. It makes us happy to say nice things about other independent businesses. Not just me and Janelle, but most of our fellow business owners, everywhere we go.

Spending money with any of us often results in the spending of more money at other local businesses.

Christmas time in particular is a time for spreading cheer. Indies love our businesses and love talking to people, love sharing, love taking advice and giving advice for where to go next. All of us believe in the power of personal touch, and shared experiences.

Shopping for Christmas gifts is supposed to feel warm and joyful, and independent stores make sure our visitors feel that way about their trip to our own quirky stores and the fact that they got nice, neighborly treatment and advice while they were with us.

After 52 years of plying this trade, I still get a lot of satisfaction from doing what I do as well as I can. Of always trying to find the weak links in my shops; Of laughing with people, letting them take a moment to truly enjoy their shopping time with a store owner that says Thank You and means it.

I’m not unique among indie operators, you all know that. But I like being among that good company. We all share the cheer; it’s what we do.

Thank you to those that know why I’m thanking them. To all of the rest of you (there must be several dozen out there), I invite you to come visit and find out why your neighbors do.

Merry Christmas, friends.

Would you like to see a picture of your pet in one of our monthly community newspapers?

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Just send a photo of your pet, along with your name and the city you live in and we will get it published. Send information to Sherry@gobigmultimedia.com and we will do the rest. Thank you and have a grrrrreat and purrrrrfect day!

Page 18 • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • TRENTON TIMES

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TRENTON TIMES • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • Page 19

Page 20 • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • TRENTON TIMES

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A space for makers at Bacon Memorial Library

BY WILLIAM GRAY TORRENCE “It’s all good praise for this place,” said Steve Shubert, 41, of Wyandotte.

Every week, Shubert takes his two children, ages 7 and 10, to The Bacon Memorial Library, located on 45 Vinewood Street, to enjoy the offerings of its Makerspace, a craft area geared towards children and teens.

“It’s a transformative space the kids can lose themselves in,” said Shubert.

“I’ve seen kids with nowhere else to go get out of the cold and spend many hours in that space. It’s nice to see that kind of hospitality.”

Makerspace occupies the Edwina de Windt Room of the historic Ford-Bacon home, originally built in 1897, and is equipped with a variety of tools, such as two button-press machines, a die cut

machine and embossing machine, as well as enough crayons, markers and glue to supply an art school.

The supplies are free and the machines are readily available to use, except for the heat press, which must be checked out from the front desk. A heat press is similar to an iron that creates heat transfers of designs onto materials that you provide.

The space is available to both residents and non-residents, according to Laura Gramlich, library director.

Although Makerspace was first created nearly five years ago, it was closed, along with the library, during the pandemic. Since its reopening, its popularity has surged, according to Paula Evans Neuman, library board member.

Gramlich agreed. “The response (to

the space) has been great,” she said. “It sees near constant, everyday use.”

Many themed events and workshops are on the calendar for interested participants for the rest of the year. No need to register for a spot. The space is open from 10 a.m. until fifteen minutes before the library closes. The library is open Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and is closed on Sundays.

Not interested in working within the themes of some of the events? Utilize the space and create at your will during the rest of the week.

Have anything you want to make with outside supplies or materials? Feel free to bring those in as well.

Some of the upcoming events include Bead it at Bacon on Nov. 29, where

you can create your own jewelry with or without provided patterns; Lego Wednesday on Dec. 6, where you can take advantage of the library’s huge stash of Legos and build some of your own ideas from scratch; and Race the Space: Hot Wheels on Dec. 20, where you can design and build your own custom racetracks and race the library’s collection of Hot Wheels cars.

With a nod to the upcoming holidays, one event to keep an eye on is Reindeer Sweater-making on Dec. 10, where you design an original sweater for a reindeer.

Be sure to get in while supplies last.

For more information on tools, events and dates, be sure to check out their online page at baconlibrary.org/ makinatbacon.

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Page 22 • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • TRENTON TIMES

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TRENTON TIMES • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • Page 23

Page 24 • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • TRENTON TIMES

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The soul of Wyandotte’s infant swimming resource

BY SUSAN PINKOWSKI A horrible drowning tragedy struck Erin Petrowski so hard that she totally changed her life.

Prior to this 2016 incident, Erin, a mom of four, worked as a dispatcher for a trucking company. It was a good job, she had good benefits and she’d been there over 22 years. While it was steady, it just wasn’t very fulfilling.

She wanted to do more but how do you give up that security so easily?

Erin’s very close friend, Katrina Hart, was the mom of Temperance, a beautiful four-year-old who drowned at a family/friends’ house party.

Temperance chose to go back into the swimming pool after a bathroom break, instead of heeding directions

to go over to her mom to get back into her flotation device first. We all know how fast something like this can happen, and how the lives of those close by are forever changed.

How do you make sense of something like this? How do you possibly go on?

Katrina and Erin talked often about finding a pool facility that could teach life-saving methods, not just swimming. Their research led them to Infant Swimming Resources (ISR) in Ann Arbor. infantswim.com/splashzone.

Erin decided to take her youngest daughter there for lessons. It was a six-week course, Monday through Friday, for only ten minutes a day.

Yes – just ten minutes.

After that six-week course, though, her now three-year-old was swimming independently, going underwater, jumping in from the side, and whenever she needed air, she would just rotate on her back and float.

All that in less than six hours in total!

While Erin continued to work with the trucking company, she became determined that other children should get this training in lifesaving skills and learn how to survive in the water.

The desire to get involved in ISR almost became an obsession for Erin.

The lady that taught Erin’s daughter, Julia, became Erin’s mentor and suggested she get involved and become a trainer. This idea kept building and evolving and convincing

Erin that this was her new path forward to a more fulfilling life.

The more Erin researched ISR, the more interested she was in bringing this program to Wyandotte.

She learned all she could about the company and then applied online. She had an over-the-phone job interview but then didn’t hear from them for some time. She felt it was vitally important that she make a bigger difference in her career choice and get involved in teaching this skill.

She was relieved when they finally contacted her, but the training they laid out was daunting. She’d have to stay in Grand Rapids for three months at a cost of $11,000!

SEE SOUL, page 25

SOUL

Continued from page 24 After the initial sticker shock, she soon realized that every penny of that would be worth it to potentially save the lives of toddlers and avoid future tragedies.

Katrina, seeing the success of the ISR program, started a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in Temperance’s honor. She wanted Erin to teach toddlers how to swim using ISR’s successful teaching methods, so this wouldn’t happen to another Downriver family.

The swimming program wasn’t cheap, so she decided to raise money to provide scholarships for families who couldn’t afford the cost.

The Remembering Temperance Foundation was created.

Their website is floatswimsurvive.org. Erin is on the board of Katrina’s non-profit.

Another friend with four children, Nickole Reinhardt, joined in the mission and became the treasurer. They started raising money right away to get the scholarship funded. The first was a mom-tomom sale, where they rented a hall and sold tables.

They’ve also had bowling fundraisers. Yearly, they celebrate Temperance’s birthday with a gift basket raffle and pass out water safety information to those attending.

Thorn Park in Brownstown was the site of the birthday party for two years as well as the site of the big fundraiser. It would be nicer to have these events closer to home in Wyandotte.

The foundation board members have 17 kids between three of them, and none of them knew the details about surviving in water as taught by ISR. Katrina and Erin did more research and found a Facebook group with other families who lost a child to drowning, which is the leading cause of accidental death in children aged 1 to 4.

They were blown away having been parents for so long and not knowing this.

Once the non-profit got started, and raised enough money for the first scholarship, they had a hard time finding someone to take the scholarship and travel to Ann Arbor every day ... for six weeks for a 10-minute daily lesson.

So Erin gave up her secure dispatching job, cashed in her profit sharing, and started training in November of 2018 so Downriver toddlers could have access to this special program. The following January she was certified.

Erin’s first training session was in March 2019 when she taught five toddlers at Romulus Recreation. Eventually Covid hit and things ground to a halt.

She now must rent pool space, which has been the most difficult part in this journey to save lives. She can teach in her home pool in the summer but must rent space in the cooler (and cold!) months.

Right now, her temporary home is at the Flat Rock Community Center. Erin said they are amazingly helpful there and are working well with her. Her concern is every year there is talk about

closing that pool so she never knows if her business will continue.

It’s been a logistical nightmare over the years, from Romulus, to Jefferson Rec, on to Flat Rock.

She lives in Wyandotte and would love to get something in the area but there aren’t any public pools to her knowledge.

She found out the hard way that when you rent pool space, you must adapt to the facility’s schedule, which doesn’t always work out with the clients’ schedules. It’s a lot of juggling.

There are other swimming programs Downriver where you must “level up” which can take years.

What Erin teaches can be learned in only six weeks.

The ISR group has 57 years of science-based research behind their methods.

This program works, as the children are building muscle memory because they’re coming every day for 10 minutes. Through the course of their lessons, they will occasionally practice their skills fully clothed because 80 percent of the accidents happen during non-swim time.

On the last day, Erin will have the parent get in the pool with their child and show them how to work with them to continue practicing on their own.

She has the swimmers come back about 6-8 months after their initial lessons for a two-week refresher, because kids grow at such a rapid rate, she wants to make sure that their float is still successful in a bigger body.

Alternatively, some parents put their children on a maintenance schedule once a week which really results in a more confident swimmer. Once the kids are fully competent, they can move on to more fun things, like learning to snorkel!

Erin now has complete job satisfaction and believes she is making the difference she sought.

The non-profit makes Katrina feel like Temperance’s death wasn’t for naught.

Erin has taught a handful of other families who have been affected by drowning and it’s always a very emotional time.

She usually keeps the kids in the program until they’re about 6, depending on their development.

Then they can move on to bigger things. She has a hard time letting go because she gets attached to these kids! (moms tend to do that).

These two organizations are worth the community’s support and a year-round pool should be located somewhere in the Wyandotte area for this purpose.

Erin’s pool at home could become enclosed and heated which would solve the problem, but she doesn’t have a money tree in her backyard.

This program is guaranteed to save lives.

You can reach Erin through her website, floatswimsurvive.org, via email at e.petrowski@ infantswim.com or call her at 734-231-4231.

Your children will be glad you did!

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TRENTON TIMES • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • Page 25

Page 26 • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • TRENTON TIMES

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TRENTON TIMES • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • Page 27

Page 28 • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • TRENTON TIMES

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Success story with local roots

Dingell-led Endangered Species Act turns 50

T

he Endangered Species Act was championed by metropolitan Detroit’s very own Congressman John D. Dingell and Senator Harrison Williams of New Jersey and signed into law by President Richard Nixon on December 28, 1973.

It recognizes that both at-risk species and the ecosystems where they live need protection and that endangered and threatened species need worldwide protection through international treaties and conventions. The Center for Biological Diversity calls it one of the world’s most powerful legal tools for protecting species at risk of extinction.

According to the U.S. Department of Interior, which is responsible for endangered species conservation, the act has saved 99 percent of listed species from extinction. It credits this success to the collaborative actions of federal agencies, state, local, and Tribal governments, conservation organizations, and private citizens.

On the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act, it is good to reflect on some of its successes here in metropolitan Detroit’s backyard.

BALD EAGLE In the early 1900s, bald eagles were evenly distributed throughout Michigan. The population declined through the mid-1900s due to the loss of nesting habitat and human persecution – largely shooting, poisoning, trapping, and electrocution.

During the 1950s, the birds’ decline accelerated and by the 1970s, they were on the brink of extinction. This period of decline was largely due to the increased use of organochlorine compounds such as DDT and PCBs following the Second World War. Birds exposed to these contaminants suffered reproductive failure, sterility, deformities such as crossed bills and eggshell thinning, altered foraging abilities, increased susceptibility to disease through immune system dysfunction, and in cases of acute poisoning, death.

In response to the ensuing public outcry, Michigan became the first state to ban DDT in 1969. It was banned nationally in 1972. In 1976, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed the bird as endangered in the lower 48 states.

Nesting pairs have since increased from 417 in 1963 to 71,400 in 2020. But for over 25 years, starting in the

early 1960s, not a single bald eagle reproduced along the Detroit River and western Lake Erie shoreline. By the late 1980s, their reproductive success increased to the point where there were at least 25 active nests in 2012-2015.

In response to the birds’ recovery across the United States, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service removed the bald eagle from the endangered species list in 2007, although it’s still protected under the U.S. Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. The U.S. Department of Interior notes that “the recovery of the bald eagle is a testament to the effectiveness of the Endangered Species Act in conserving and recovering imperiled species.”

Today, bald eagles can be spotted in metropolitan Detroit on Belle Isle, Humbug Marsh, off Dingell Park in Ecorse during winter, Lake Erie Metropark, Pointe Mouillee State Game Area, and Sterling State Park.

OSPREY Osprey were also heavily impacted by organochlorine compounds following the Second SEE SPECIES, page 29

SPECIES

Continued from page 28 World War. Monitoring in Michigan showed the population declined precipitously during the 1950s through to the 1970s. By 2002, there was only one active nest in the southern part of the state. In response, ospreys were listed as threatened in Michigan.

They were first reintroduced in metropolitan Detroit in the late 1990s.

The population expanded substantially and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ goal of 30 nesting pairs in the southern half of the Lower Peninsula was achieved in 2010.

In response, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources upgraded osprey from threatened to “species of greatest conservation need” in 2009.

Throughout the United States, it is also still protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918.

Monitoring by a citizen conservation organization called Michigan Osprey has documented 38, 50, and 52 nesting pairs in metropolitan Detroit in 2015, 2016, and 2017, respectively.

The Michigan Wildlife Council has noted that “few wildlife restoration programs have been more successful than Michigan’s effort to strengthen the state’s osprey population.”

Today, these birds can be spotted on Belle Isle, at Humbug Marsh and in the wetlands behind Gibraltar’s Carlson High School.

PEREGRINE FALCON Peregrine falcons were similarly decimated by organochlorine compounds during the 1950s. By the 1960s, the birds were experiencing complete reproductive failure in the Detroit River watershed and in the early 1970s, they were listed as endangered.

Peregrine falcons prefer perching and nesting on tall structures such as cliffs, bluffs and skyscrapers where they can scan the horizon for prey.

Following the banning of DDT and

strict limitations on other organochlorine compounds, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources released five young in hacking boxes – wooden boxes designed to simulate nests – in downtown Detroit skyscrapers in 1987.

After a slow start, reproduction picked up and now 30 peregrine young fledge each year throughout metropolitan Detroit.

In 1999, the peregrine falcon soared off the list of federally endangered species.

BirdWatching notes the peregrine falcon’s recovery is one of the

plying the river.

During the mid-1860s their economic value was recognized when their eggs became sought after as caviar and their smoked flesh craved as a delicacy. This led to the development of an important commercial fishery.

During the late 1800s, the waters from Lake Huron to Lake Erie were one of the most productive for lake sturgeon in North America.

Predictably, they experienced a population crash, plummeting to one percent of their former abundance by the middle of the 20th century. The

Endangered Species Act’s most dramatic success stories.

Today, they can be seen at the Fisher Building in Detroit, the Old Main Building at Wayne State University, the Detroit Zoo’s water tower and the Ambassador Bridge to Canada.

cause was overfishing, loss of spawning habitat and water pollution.

From the 1970s to 1999, there were no reports of spawning lake sturgeon in the Detroit River. In response, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources identified it as threatened in the 1990s. Ontario listed it as threatened in the 2000s.

Then in 2001, lake sturgeon spawned on a coal cinder pile near Zug Island in the Detroit River.

Fishery biologists and managers concluded that in the 2000s lake sturgeon reproduction was more limited by habitat than by environmental quality. In response, 10 spawning reefs for lake sturgeon and other rock-loving spawning fishes were constructed in the Detroit River. Today, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service fishery biologists

LAKE STURGEON Fishery biologists call lake sturgeon a “living dinosaur” because it thrived when dinosaurs roamed the earth.

Before the 1860s, commercial fishermen slaughtered lake sturgeon as a nuisance fish because they became entangled in nets and because they sucked up spawn.

During this era, lake sturgeon were also stacked like firewood and left to dry on the banks of the Detroit River.

The mummified bodies of these oily fish were burned as fuel in steamboats

estimate the river’s sturgeon population at over 4,400.

Lake sturgeon can live more than 100 years and reach a length of seven feet.

They are considered a good indicator of ecosystem health and are culturally significant to First Nations.

Although not out of the woods, the current size of their population is a promising sign.

The species’ recovery in the Detroit River is a result of the combined influence of the Clean Water Act, the Endangered Species Act, and strong linkages and efforts among fishery research scientists, fishery managers, and conservation organizations.

A good place to get up close and personal with a lake sturgeon is at the annual Sturgeon Day at Milliken State Park on the Detroit RiverWalk, sponsored by the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

REFLECTIONS ON THIS ANNIVERSARY According to the U.S. Department of Interior, the Endangered Species Act has saved hundreds of species from extinction and continues to protect and preserve some of our most beloved animals and plants.

This act has also helped create a better understanding of how human activities can impact ecosystems of at-risk species. It has gifted us an awareness that what we do to our ecosystems we do to ourselves as well as to other species, and a greater appreciation for the need for all of us to work together to protect our ecosystems as our home.

John Hartig is a board member at the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy.

He serves as a Visiting Scholar at the University of Windsor’s Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research and has written numerous books and publications on the environment and the Great Lakes. Hartig also helped create the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, where he worked for 14 years as the refuge manager.

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TRENTON TIMES • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • Page 29

Page 30 • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • TRENTON TIMES

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Area students take part in Good Citizen Award Night

Photo by Peggy Antio

Good Citizen Award winners Pat Hooper, (front left) Iea Ahmed, Anna Toboy, Alivia Schmer, Mia Liangos, Olivia Bowman, Lauren McNamara, Lucy Snyder, Amanda Musgrave (not pictured: Mya Gazdecki, Samarah Saggers)

On Nov. 13, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (NSDAR) Monguagon Chapter held its annual Good Citizen Award Night overseen by Amanda Musgrave, Regent and Pat Hooper, DAR Good Citizen Chairman.

Nine Downriver schools participated.

The seniors were to submit an essay on Americanism.

The winner from each school was awarded the Good Citizen Medal and Honor Cord.

One essay was chosen from the nine and received a $500 scholarship. The scholarship

this year was sponsored by the family of the late Carol Klingel, one of the founding members of the Monguagon Chapter in her memory.

Olivia Bowman from Riverview High School was the scholarship winner!

Good Citizen winners were: Flat Rock - Lauren McNamara; Riverview – Olivia Bowman; Romulus – Iea Ahmed; Southgate – Mia Liangos; Taylor – Lucy Snyder; Trenton – Mya Gazdecki; Trillium Academy – Alivia Schmer; Woodhaven – Samarah Saggers; Wyandotte – Anna Toboy.

Photo by Lawrence Cross

Riverview’s Reflection Pond stocked with fish

BY DAVE GORGON Hundreds of fish have been added to Reflection Pond as the City of Riverview encourages fishing in Young Patriot’s Park.

City Manager Jeff Dobek said perch, catfish, minnows and other fish were added to the pond in November. A second delivery, in the spring, will add sunfish, bass and crappie.

“It’s a conscious effort to increase the fish population,” Dobek said. “We’re trying to grow the pond population and increase the size of the sport fish, which creates more recreation for catch-andrelease fishermen.”

Parks and Recreation Director Todd Dickman said Harrietta Hills Trout Farm poured the fish into the pond, a move that had to be certified by the Department of Natural Resources.

“It helps those who like to fish in the pond,” Dickman said. “It gets them better fish and more species. If you put the right variety of fish in the pond, it makes the pond healthier. There are some fish that help clean the bottom of the pond. Others help keep the species down.”

The stocking of the pond was sponsored by the Riverview Veterans Public Library, which makes fishing equipment available to check out throughout the year.

Dobek is president of the Downriver Bass

Association, which meets at the library at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of the month, except December.

The club’s goal is to share fishing tips and techniques while creating camaraderie, friendships and opportunities among members and spreading their joy for a lifelong sport. Meetings are open to the public.

The most recent Riverview Fishing Derby, held July 29 on the shores of Reflection Pond, drew 69 young people, many of whom went home with fishing equipment and other prizes. The event was presented by Riverview Parks and Recreation and sponsored by the Downriver Bass Association and Riverview Towing.

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TRENTON TIMES • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • Page 31

Page 32 • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • TRENTON TIMES

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

gobigmultimedia.com/grosse-ile-grand Happy campers Fifth-graders learn life lessons at Storer Camp ...On arrival, they were divided into groups of a dozen or so in their assigned bunk house, accompanied by their high school student counselors. While they may have had a friend with them in their rooming assignments, the challenge of “learning to live with others” became very real, and a part of their personal growth.

And, that’s one of the goals.

Meridian Principal Nicole Garza explains, “Grosse Ile schools have had tremendous success throughout the years in the 5th grade camp. Our camp tradition not only enhances our educational standards, but strengthens interpersonal relationships, promotes independence, and instills critical values in our students as they actively participate in outdoor experiences.”...

On page 1 Christmas with Dickens Charity event to support needy at holiday time ...If you missed some of the holiday festivities earlier in the month of December, on the eve of Christmas Eve – Dec. 23, folks from near and far can enjoy an evening of entertainment and in the meantime “know how to keep Christmas well,” by helping those less fortunate during the holiday season. A “Christmas with Dickens” will be offered at seven o’clock that evening at historic St. James

Episcopal chapel.

About to re-don “the Inimitable” top hat this year, “Mr. Dickens” allows that the cause underlying his performance will be the weekend food program in partnership with the Grosse Ile Township Schools which is designed to help alleviate childhood hunger on Grosse Ile. According to Mary Ann Danville, coordinator of the program, “Every Friday a delivery of healthy, pre-packaged food is sent home with needy students who are identified by school principals as food insecure. The students remain anonymous to us, and we hope to expand this program to more needy families. Again and with the goal of “raising funds as well as consciousness,” “Mr. Dickens” believes that 2023 reflects the axiom “the more things change, the more they stay the same.”...

On page 14 Katie Molnar All-State – again!

Grosse Ile multi-sport star takes bronze in diving ... Last year, Molnar became the first state champion in diving in Grosse Ile or the Downriver area – ever.

Male or female.

This past spring, she won the Division 2 long jump with a school record leap of 18’5.75”, improving on

her third-place performance the year before.

With her third-place performance this year, she has solidified her position in the annals of GIHS sports as a two-time All-State athlete in two different sports!

At the diving state meet, competitors complete dives 1-5 of varying difficulties in the preliminary event, dives 6-8 in the semis and dives 9-11 in the finals...

On page 22

gobigmultimedia.com/riverview-register RCHS Students Attend Mental Health Legislative Forum ... Students in Ms. Lince’s Government classes had the honor to meet Ms. Cassandra Phipps (Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network), Ms. Carol Zuniga (Hegira Health), and Mr. Kari Walker (The Guidance Center) at a Legislative Forum at Crystal Gardens on Oct. 30, 2023.

Thank you to the Southern Wayne County Chamber of Commerce for organizing the forum, and especially Michael Ceaser of Ceaser Capital Management, Riverview Mayor Andrew Swift, and the Soroptimist International Trenton & Downriver Area for sponsoring our three tables and lunch!

The presenters spoke about mental health issues across the country.

Mr. Walker told us about legislation sponsored

by U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow establishing certified behavioral health clinics that anyone can use without restrictions such as insurance or severity of mental issues.

He explained that the LGBTQ community are those most likely to commit suicide, and that anxiety and depression are the most frequent symptoms for mental illness, followed by substance abuse disorders....

On page 7

GSRP students find out ‘different’ is okay Riverview Community School District School Board President Tim Bohr visited the district’s ECLC in October.

the future and providing our students with highquality STEM experiences for years to come.

On page 9 gobigmultimedia.com/wyandotte-warrior

gobigmultimedia.com/southgate-star Bohr sponsored 54 GSRP students and each received their own copy of “Spookley, the Square Pumpkin” to take home.

President Bohr read the book to RCSD GSRP preschool students.

The children were thrilled to get their own copy of the book.

Spookley looks “different” than the other pumpkins, but sometimes our unique differences can help others!

On page 8 Middle Schoolers enjoy trip to STEM camp ...Students attending the summer camp eagerly immersed themselves in a world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The students were actively engaged in many different hands-on lessons involving 3-D printing, 3-D rendering, laser cutting, biology, environmental science, drones and liquid nitrogen.

These hands-on experiences allowed the students to gain knowledge and fueled their curiosity. We are certain that the students who participated created memories that will last a lifetime.

We look forward to participating in this program in

Kid power Kindergartners star in art show at Fish & Loaves Community Food Pantry For the second straight year, kindergartners in Southgate were stars of a food-themed art show held at the Fish & Loaves Community Food Pantry in Taylor.

Thirty-six pupils painted or colored various food items on paper during art classes at Fordline, Grogan, Shelters and Allen elementary schools. The shapes and colors were transported to the pantry on Northline Road in time for a show on Nov. 8.

The artwork hung on walls of the warehouse portion of the pantry, which provides food to residents of Southgate and other Downriver communities, “ensuring no one goes hungry.”...

On page 1 Welcome Christmas Southgate residents did not let a cold drizzle dampen their spirits and Mayor Joseph Kuspa threw the switch and lit the Christmas tree at Kiwanis Train Park on Dec. 1. Kiwanis Train Park is home to The Great Lakes Live Steamers, who had their trains up and running during the weekend to give train rides around the decorated park. Also on hand, of course, was Santa Claus, who set up shop in the park to hear the wishes of the train-riding children.

On page 1

Honored to serve Wyandotte Veterans Honor Guard at Veterans Day ceremony ... Wyandotte resident Tom Rushman, who served as coordinator of the month for the honor guard, said members of the group are also part of several veterans organizations, such as the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Marine Corps League. The men and women travel from throughout the region to their assigned funeral home or cemetery.

Their main role is to provide military honors at veterans’ funerals – as many as 150 to 200 a year and often several a day, Rushman said.

Arrangements usually are made for honorably discharged servicemen and servicewomen surviving family members through funeral homes. All honor guard members are volunteers.

Each service lasts about 15 minutes, he said...

On page 1 Washington fourth-grader wins Wyandotte Public Power coloring contest ...Evie Dmitruchina was presented with the award at a Wyandotte City Council meeting in October.

Andrea Haggerty, assistant to the general manager for municipal services, said the contest was held during the first week of October, which is “Public Power Week.”

Haggerty distributed 1,200 coloring sheets to Wyandotte students in first through fourth grades.

Evie’s winning entry was on display on the first floor of City Hall and was on the cable television screen during the council meeting.

As the winner, Evie received a congratulatory certificate, a $50 Amazon gift card provided by the MMEA and a basket of art supplies.

Her fourth-grade class, taught by Stacey Kupser, will receive a tour of the power plant in December when students will receive an “arcs and sparks demonstration,” get a close look at the fleet of vehicles “touch a truck” style and enjoy lunch during the class visit....

On page 3

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TRENTON TIMES • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • Page 33

Page 34 • December 14, 2023 – January 22, 2024 • TRENTON TIMES

Suggestions or Comments? We are listening at 734-282-3939

Councilman Nelson Perugi Phone: 734-931-0327 Email: nperugi@trenton-mi.com

Council and Commission Meetings at Trenton City Hall

Councilman Richard Benedetti Email: rbenedetti@trenton-mi.com

Your Elected Officials

Councilwoman Wendy Pate Phone: 734-692-7729 Email: wpate@trenton-mi.com

Mayor Steven Rzeppa Email: srzeppa@trenton-mi.com

Councilwoman Dora Rodriguez Email: drodriguez@trenton-mi.com

Councilwoman Timber R. Baun-Crooks Email: tbauncrooks@trenton-mi.com

Councilman Scott Cabauatan Email: scabauatan@trenton-mi.com

DDA Meeting December 14, 2023, 5:00 PM

Cultural Commission Meeting December 16, 2023, 10:00 AM Council Regular Meeting December 18, 2023, 7:00 PM Offices Closed for Christmas December 25, 2023, All Day Offices Closed for New Year’s Day January 1, 2024, All Day Council Regular Meeting January 8, 2024, 7:00 PM Council Regular Meeting January 22, 2024, 7:00 PM

City Department Contacts Administrator’s Office Dean Creech, City Administrator Phone: 734-675-6500 Email: dcreech@trenton-mi.com City Assessor’s Office Joanie Barnett, MAAO, City Assessor Phone: 734-675-6810 Email: jbarnett@trenton-mi.com Building Department Bill Bissland, Building Official Phone: 734-675-8251 Email: wbissland@trenton-mi.com Clerk’s Office Debra R. Devitt, City Clerk Phone: 734-675-8600 Email: ddevitt@trenton-mi.com Controller’s Office Jill Cooper, City Controller Phone: 734-675-6510 Email: jcooper@trenton-mi.com Department of Public Works Kevin Sargent, DPW Director Phone: 734-675-8470 Email: ksargent@trenton-mi.com

Downtown Development Authority Mayor Steven Rzeppa, DDA Liaison Phone: 734-675-6500 Emergency Management Paul L. Haley, Emergency Management Coordinator Phone: 734-675-6500 Emergency: 734-676-3737 Email: phaley@trenton-mi.com Engineering Department C.E. Raines Company Souheil Sabak, Engineer Phone: 734-675-8251 Email: ssabak@charlesraines.com Fire Department Keith Anderson, Fire Chief Phone (Non-Emergency Contact): 734-676-1314 Emergency: 911 Email: kanderson@trenton-mi.com Human Resources Elisabeth Sobota-Perry, Human Resources Director Phone: 734-675-8585 Email: eperry@trenton-mi.com

Parks & Recreation Tim Beaker, Director Phone: 734-675-7300 Email: tbeaker@trenton-mi.com Police Department Mike Hawkins, Police Chief Phone: 734-676-3737 Emergency: 911 Email: agilstorf@trenton-mi.com Treasurer’s Office Michael McCullough, City Treasurer Phone: 734-675-6510 Email: jcooper@trenton-mi.com Waste Water Treatment Plant Shawn O’Day Phone: 734-676-0646 Email: soday@trenton-mi.com

Visit the city website for more information www.trentonmi.org

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