Trenton Times, May 23 – June 24, 2024

ATrentonTimesNews.com

23 - JUNE 24, 2024

t the heart of scouting lies an essence of service, leadership, and a dedication to youth development. Each year, the Mahican District Dinner serves as a momentous occasion to honor the outstanding service of adult leaders within the scouting community. It is within this spirit that Brad Alderman has truly excelled. For the indelible mark he has left on the scouting community, he has been presented with the Silver Beaver Award.

Established in 1931 by the National Council of the Boy Scouts of America, the Silver Beaver Award stands as one of scouting’s most prestigious honors. It is bestowed upon registered Scouters of exceptional character who have provided distinguished service to youth within the territory under the jurisdiction of a local council. The Mahican District includes Allen Park, Crestwood, Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Ecorse, Flat Rock, Gibraltar, Grosse Ile, Huron, Lincoln Park, Melvindale/North Allen Park, River Rouge, Riverview, Southgate,

Taylor, Trenton, Westwood, Woodhaven, & Wyandotte.

Brad Alderman’s journey in scouting spans an impressive 26 years, during which he has held various leadership positions, including Committee Member, Assistant Cubmaster, Assistant Scoutmaster, Scoutmaster, Pack

Committee Chair, District Activities Chair, and Unit Commissioner. His commitment to scouting extends beyond local involvement, having served on staff at a National Jamboree and National Order of the Arrow Conference.

Photo courtesy of Ron Watkins

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May is National Pet Month

• Promote the benefits of pet ownership • Support pet adoption • Make people aware of the benefits of pets for people and people for pets • Increase public awareness of services available from professionals who work with animals

• Raise awareness of the role, value and contribution to society of working companion animals

Trenton’s fire, police, and municipal building proposal

For over a year now, our City Council, administrative team, and I have been discussing the state of our city buildings. We’ve examined everything from their structural integrity and mechanical conditions to their suitability in serving the needs of a modern Trenton community and workforce.

Our current buildings have stood the test of time remarkably well. Take, for instance, our downtown police and fire station, which is nearing its 100th birthday—a truly remarkable milestone! While this speaks to the quality of its construction, it’s important to acknowledge that the building was designed to meet the needs of a very different Trenton. Originally serving as a city hall and court building for a very small community in the early 1900s, it’s clear that it’s not the ideal space for a modern, primary police and fire station in a city of nearly 20,000 residents in 2024.

We have a responsibility to provide our police officers and firefighters with a workspace that meets modern standards. Unfortunately, our current stations fall short in several areas. They’re too small to accommodate some of our larger, modern fire trucks, and as equipment evolves, our storage space hasn’t kept pace, leading to inadequate storage and a lack of proper “decontamination” areas necessary for health and safety protocols.

Moreover, our facilities lack essential spaces for internal training sessions and meetings, forcing our departments to seek alternative venues. Surprisingly, our current stations don’t even have designated locker rooms or facilities for women, and many areas are not compliant with ADA standards. It’s clear that our stations are relics from the past and urgently need updating to meet the needs of our current workforce.

After over a year of extensive collaboration and planning with our internal staff and external experts, we have crafted a comprehensive plan to address these issues. Not only will the updates aid our first responders, but with a strategically located centralized police and fire station, research and

data demonstrate that response times would notably improve across the city, ultimately enhancing service to our residents as well. Now, we are seeking approval from the voters during the regularly scheduled primary election in August. The proposed plan carries a cost of $43.5 million, to be spread out over a 30-year period, or about 2.79 mills. With this investment, we anticipate that these significant building renovations and improvements will serve Trenton for at least another 50 years.

While the main focus and bulk of the bond revolve around the new station, this proposal also tackles the mechanical needs of all city buildings, including facilities such as the Westfield Center and Library. By incorporating new energy efficiencies and modern technology into our buildings, we anticipate significant structural savings.

You can access information and prior discussions pertaining to this proposal on our YouTube (City of Trenton, Michigan), where recordings of past meetings reside permanently for viewing. Additionally, we will continue to hold study sessions following our regularly scheduled council meetings to delve deeper into each of the buildings addressed in the proposal. As always, these meetings and sessions are open to the public, both for in-person attendance and Zoom viewing. They are also broadcasted live on the city’s cable station and streamed on YouTube. I encourage everyone to tune in, ask their questions, and hear directly from the experts about these plans!

Trenton has always been a city that values and supports our police officers, firefighters, and all city employees who play a vital role in keeping our community running smoothly. It’s our duty to provide them with a safe, secure, and modern working environment—a place that we, as residents, can also take pride in. The problems we aim to fix today won’t become any less costly next year or the year after. Investing in our community’s infrastructure is crucial for attracting top talent to Trenton and ensuring that we won’t fall behind other departments and communities in addressing our infrastructure needs.

We hope you join us in supporting our city facilities with a YES vote in August.

Gabriel Richard Announces Top Ten

Gabriel Richard Catholic High School has announced its Top Ten students for the Class of 2024.

“We are proud of all of our graduates, but these students have worked extra hard throughout their high school career to earn this recognition,” said Joseph Whalen, principal. “They not only represent our school admirably by their academic achievements, but through outstanding leadership, service and character, as well.”

Congratulations to:

Natalie Neubecker

Valedictorian, Trenton, 4.66, attending University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, Biomedical Engineering

Christian Abello Salutatorian, Southgate, 4.52, attending Michigan State UniversityHonors College, Mechanical Engineering

Sydney Quinlan Lincoln Park, 4.43, attending Wayne State University, Biomedical Engineering

Sasha Murphy Taylor, 4.42, attending University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, Applied Exercise Science with a minor in Dance

Ava Abrahamson Grosse Ile, 4.35, attending University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, Biochemistry and English with a minor in Business

Isabella Chiles

Grosse Ile, 4.35, attending University of Notre Dame, Strategic Management

Leah Smith Wyandotte, 4.32, attending University of MichiganAnn Arbor, Nursing

Logan LaPere Southgate, 4.26, attending University of Michigan - Dearborn, Computer Science

Claudia Beecham Brownstown, 4.25, attending Michigan State University, Biochemistry for medical school

Chloe Collins Belleville, 4.23, attending Northern Michigan University, Musical Theater

DEDICATED

Continued from page 1

Throughout his tenure, Alderman has earned numerous accolades, including the Scouter’s Training Award, Scouter’s Key, District Award of Merit, Unit Leader Award of Merit, and the prestigious James E. West Society Fellowship Award, in addition to receiving his Wood Badge Beads. As an Eagle Scout and Vigil Honor member of the Order of the Arrow, Alderman embodies the highest ideals of scouting.

Beyond scouting, Alderman’s impact reverberates within his community. He has been actively involved in fundraising efforts for his daughters’ schools, sports teams, and within the marching band. His membership in organizations like the Riverview Band Boosters, the Trenton Jaycees, and the Trenton Business Association further underscores his commitment to community service.

One of Alderman’s notable contributions includes organizing a Weekend Camporee at Greenfield Village, a gathering attended by

hundreds of youth and adults from multiple districts. In his role as Membership Chair, Alderman has tirelessly worked to establish and revitalize Cub Units, demonstrating his dedication in expanding scouting opportunities.

Alderman’s passion for scouting is surpassed only by his love for family. He cherishes the opportunity to share the scouting experience with his daughters, Isabel and Cecilia, both active members of a Scouts BSA troop and the Order of the Arrow. As a father, he finds immense joy in witnessing his daughters’ growth and achievements within the scouting community.

Professionally, Alderman is the proud owner of Round House BBQ in Trenton. Alongside his wife Sara, he balances his entrepreneurial endeavors with his commitment to scouting and family life.

Brad Alderman exemplifies the Scout Oath and Law in all facets of his life, embodying the principles of leadership, service, and dedication. His contributions have enriched the lives of countless individuals, leaving an enduring legacy of excellence within the scouting community and beyond.

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!

Trenton DDA welcomes new director

The Trenton Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Board has many new projects about to take place in the City of Trenton resulting in the need for a DDA Director. The City of Trenton is committed to the continued economic growth and consistent message of the City with the hiring of Angelia Pusino as the DDA Director.

Pusino will lead and coordinate initiatives aimed at economic development, revitalization, and enhancement of the downtown area. The Director will collaborate closely with the Authority, City Administrator, local businesses, government entities, and community stakeholders to implement strategies that promote economic growth, cultural vitality, and overall improvement of the downtown district. The Director will be the primary liaison between the City Administrator and the DDA board as well as other duties aimed to coordinate events and efforts within the City.

Pusino comes from a position of Economic Development Assistant in Romulus which included working with the Romulus DDA and TIFA Board. She graduated from U of M Dearborn in 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in communications. Pusino grew up in the City of Trenton and is a Trenton High School graduate. She has experience in promoting small businesses, grant writing, and organizing City sponsored events. She currently lives in the City of Southgate with her twoyear-old dalmatian, Jewels. Pusino is excited to begin promoting and working on improving the economic condition of Downtown Trenton.

Mark Angelotti, DDA Chair, said, “Our group is so excited to have Angelia aboard, she has the qualifications and positive energy we need to continue moving forward in the Downtown District.” Downtown businesses can expect to meet Pusino in person soon or can contact her at Trenton City Hall during business hours.

What Susie’s Clients Say About Her:

“SUSIE IS THE BEST”

“Susie is knowledgeable, quick on her feet, and efficient to work with. It was my first time buying a home and she walked me through the process to make sure I understood what was going on, all while ensuring she’s fighting for me behind the scenes. I would recommend Susie to anyone and everyone” — KK

“EXCEPTIONAL!”

“I recently had the pleasure of working with Susie Armiak as my realtor, and I couldn’t be happier with the experience. Susie’s extensive knowledge of the market and her dedication to finding me the perfect home, made all the difference. She guided me through every step of the process, ensuring that I felt informed and supported along the way. Susie’s professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine care for her clients make her an exceptional realtor. I highly recommend Susie Armiak to anyone in need of a dedicated, knowledgeable, and trustworthy real estate expert.“ — LG

Pusino

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If these walls could talk The status of the Trenton Police facility

For 97 years, the Trenton police have operated out of the building that sits at the corner of West Jefferson and Maple, faithfully serving the residents of Trenton. Located on the southeast corner of the building, a limestone insert proudly displays the year “1927.” In fact, an archived article from the Trenton Times, dated October 29, 1927, recounts the dedication ceremony of Trenton’s new Municipal Building. At one point, our building was the highlight of the town and accommodated many Trenton departments. It began as Trenton’s City Hall; but, it was also the home of the District Court and the original Trenton Library.

As the police force expanded from seven to thirteen officers and continued to grow into the twenties, reaching as many as 52 officers at one point, the building eventually became solely occupied by the Police and Fire Departments. While the building has served us well over time, its original design never anticipated its use as a police station. Consequently, achieving cohesive and consistently efficient operations has been challenging.

In 1977, a full-service jail facility was incorporated into the station, capable of accommodating 16 sentenced prisoners and five shortterm prisoners awaiting arraignment. The jail service was managed by an external contracted company. Between 1977 and 2001, the Trenton jail housed prisoners from many of the Downriver agencies. In the winter of 2001, the full-service jail ceased operations, leaving several of the cell blocks untouched for over twenty years. The wing of the jail currently in use is forty-seven years old and accommodates only shortterm prisoners awaiting arraignment. However, it is important to note that with current laws on bonds and bond reform, municipal jails are becoming a thing of the past.

In 1979, renovations were completed to improve access in the building. While there haven’t been any major renovations since 1980, a continued focus has been put on maintaining the building’s overall functionality. The International Association of Chiefs of Police has completed studies that show the life of a police facility should last 50 years. Through facility management, planning, and a lot of luck, we have been able to last 47 years past that standard here at the corner of West Jefferson and Maple.

However, particularly over the last decade to fifteen years, our station has started to encounter structural issues. Efforts to address issues in a nearly 100-year-old building have resulted in an ongoing cycle of problems that have created a serious drain on our resources.

Not only have there been shifts in our operational and cultural needs as a department, but there have also been updates to current building code requirements, advancements in technology, and emerging security concerns that need to be addressed. Simply put, after 97 years, our

building is no longer structurally sound. Moreover, the current space does not meet the needs of a modern police force, nor can it be modified as such.

From late 2023 to early 2024, our City contracted “The Collaborative” and MDA Engineering to conduct a full building condition assessment on all municipal buildings. During this time, various engineers and facility experts conducted a comprehensive walkthrough of the police station and jail facility. The final report revealed that the station shows signs of a century of repairs and fails to meet both ADA standards and the organizational needs of the police department.

The Fire, Police, and Municipal Building Improvement Bond, approved by the City Council, is primarily focused on public safety, particularly in response to the report by “The Collaborative,” which as we’ve discussed, shows the station operating on life support. As police officers, we are dedicated public servants who strive to serve our citizens to the best of our ability. The municipal buildings we operate

in belong to you, the residents, and should reflect the highest standards of modernity and efficiency.

Despite the challenges presented by our deteriorating building, I commend our exceptional officers for their unwavering dedication to providing unparalleled service to our citizens. I believe we have done an outstanding job in maximizing the life of our station that was dedicated on November 11, 1927. Funds allocated for the police department in the Fire, Police, and Municipal Building Improvement Bond indicate that constructing a new station is more financially wise than renovating the current building to meet “livable standards.” This approach ensures long-term sustainability.

We commit to transparency and welcome anyone who would like to tour the police station to reach out and schedule a visit. If you have any questions about the police department or the Fire, Police and Municipal Building Improvement Bond, please reach out to me directly at Mhawkins@trenton-mi.com or go to Trentonmi.org.

MICHAEL HAWKINS

TRENTON POLICE CHIEF

Reprint of original Trenton Times advertisement for new municipal building dedication in 1927.

A century of inspiration and celebration

Antonina Garvin, a resident of Trenton for 54 years, recently celebrated her 100th birthday.

Surrounded by ten dear friends, “Toni” was treated to a jubilant gathering complete with snacks, cake, and well-wishes.

Toni’s story is one of resilience and determination. Surviving a decade of Nazi forced labor in World War II Poland, she immigrated to America after marrying a U.S. soldier. Here, she became a proud U.S. citizen and homeowner.

Throughout the years, you could find Toni enjoying a round or two on the golf course. Her culinary talents are second to none, and she continues to enjoy sharing her dishes with friends and family.

Mayor Steven Rzeppa officially designated April 11th as “Antonina Garvin Day” in the City of Trenton, with congratulatory messages also received from Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell. Toni is a true inspiration to all that know her. Sto Lat and Godspeed, Toni!

Photo courtesy of Darlene Randazzo

Trace your roots

Find out about your family history

The Daughters of the American Revolution are hosting a FREE Genealogy Workshop on Saturday, June 15, from 10:00AM to 1:00PM at the Trenton Veteran Memorial Library. If you’re curious about your family history or eager to trace your ancestry, this workshop is for you. Their volunteer assistants, who have experience navigating their own genealogical paths, will be available for one-on-one guidance. Whether you’re just starting or need help moving forward, they are here to assist you. Bring any relevant family documents, including birth, marriage, and death

certificates, wills, land and probate records, census records, Bible records, obituaries, tombstone photos, or printed family histories. These materials will help the volunteers provide tailored assistance to your research.

Registration isn’t mandatory but can be done on the library website under events or by calling 734-676-9777. The workshop welcomes individuals of all ages interested in exploring their family history. Drop in at any time during the session; volunteers will be ready to help whenever you arrive. For further details, contact 734-341-2570.

TEF now accepting applications for the Wall of Fame

The Trenton Educational Foundation Board of Directors are inviting members of the community to submit applications for the Trenton Educational Foundation Wall of Fame. The forms can be found at trentonedfoundation.org/wall-of-fame or at the School Board Office at 2603 Charlton, Trenton, MI, Mon-Fri 9am-4pm. Please nominate a worthy retired teacher, administrator, or TPS grad who is excelling in their career industry. The deadline is September 1, 2024. The Wall of Fame volunteer committee can induct a maximum of three people each year. They have inducted 33 people over 13 years. The recipients represent many Trenton High School graduates who have excelled in their chosen field of work. Many of the recipients were past Board Members, Superintendents, Principals, and Teachers who made great contributions in making Trenton one of the best school systems in the state. Candidates must be separated with TPS for at least two years and not an active TPS employee to be considered. The ever-growing Wall of Fame is located in the Trenton High School Lobby and a new location in the hallway of the School Board offices.

Trojans wrap up Downriver League soccer title

By HANK MINCKIEWICZ

The Trenton soccer team recently wrapped up an undefeated Downriver League season and captured their third league championship in a row.

The Trojans beat arch soccer rival Woodhaven 2-0 on May 13th. Three days later, they finished the league season with a 2-1 win over Dearborn Edsel Ford.

The wins and the title capped great Downriver League careers for four Trenton seniors.

Claire Gonyea, Kira Johnson, Miya Severino, and Leila Gorno never lost a league game during their four years with the program, going 138-0-6. They will leave Trenton High School with these statistics: 186 goals; 138 league victories; and at one point, Trenton, led by these seniors won 22 straight league games without allowing a goal.

Coach Mike Hatfield tipped his cap to the senior leaders.

“What a standard to set for Trenton soccer,” he said. “All those stats are extremely impressive and are celebrated. But the most important thing they are leaving behind is the leadership they installed and the friendships they made.

“They taught their teammates how to be driven, to make individual goals and to achieve them, what it takes to be part of a team bond, how to help each other grow, that a team is stronger than individual, and most importantly, that the game is a channel to success on and off the field.

“So, thank you Claire, Kira, Miya and Leila for everything you have done and are still doing! Your teammates will always cherish you.”

The goal that Edsel Ford scored against the Trojans in the final league game of the year was the only one surrendered by Trenton in league play this season.

Trenton went 10-0 in league games and is 13–5-2 overall. All five losses have come in non-league and tournament games and the two ties – both 0-0 – came against quality opponents Pontiac Notre Dame Prep and Grosse Ile.

Here are the scores of Trenton’s DRL wins: Carlson 6-0, Allen Park 4-0; Woodhaven 3-0; Taylor 10-0; Wyandotte 3-0; Southgate 8-0; Lincoln Park 8-0; Edsel Ford 3-0; Woodhaven 2-0; and Edsel Ford 2-1.

In tournament games, Trenton fell to DeWitt and Marshall 2-1 (each of those games went to a shootout), Ann Arbor Skyline, and Rochester Hills Stoney Creek.

Ann Arbor Pioneer also got the

Trojans 2-0 in a stand alone non-league game.

And although he was disappointed with the outcome, Hatfield said the game served a valuable purpose.

“These high level games are perfect at this time of the year to really focus on areas of development to prepare for the playoff season,” he said.

In the win over Woodhaven, who finished second to Trenton in the DRL standing, the team battled through a scoreless first half before Kate Haveman and Avery Schultz scored to give the Trojans a 2-0 victory.

Trenton will now move on to Michigan High School Athletic Association postseason play. The Trojans will host Monroe Jefferson on May 22nd in a first-round district game. The Bears will come into the contest riding a 15-game winless streak. They are 1-13-2 overall.

The winner of the Trenton-Jefferson game will face the winner of the Carlson-Carleton Airport game.

On the other side of the bracket, Riverview will square off against Anderson and the winner of that game will face New Boston Huron, which received a bye.

Seniors Claire Gonyea, Kira Johnson, Miya Severino and Leila Gorno.

Hurdler Taylor, thrower Butkin reign as Downriver’s best

The Metro Classic Track Invitational, which is the remnants of the old News-Herald Track & Field Championships, that were held each year for more than 25 years before the newspaper stopped sponsoring anything, is an annual gathering of most of the area’s schools.

Because of that, winners of events are de facto “best in the area” performers.

Count Trenton’s Zach Taylor among those best.

Taylor, who has been a star most of his track career, set a personal best at the Metro Classic hosted by Carlson High School on May 11th by running 15.28 in the 100 meter high hurdles. Taylor beat out Huron’s Dylan Hudkins, who also ran a personal best of 15.39.

Taylor and Hudkins then finished second and third in the 300 hurdles, being bested by Lincoln Park’s Leonardo Peralta. Peralta ran 39.65, Taylor ran 40.59 and Hudkins ran 41.19.

Senior shot putter Nolan Butkin also proved to be the best in the area. Butkin busted out a throw of 44-feet, 5-inches to claim the crowd. Second place finisher, Drayden Long of Southgate managed just 43-10.

The efforts of Taylor and Butkin helped push the Trojans into fifth place in the Metro Classic standings with 51 points. Riverview won the

Trenton blows out Taylor on Senior Night

The Trenton softball team said thank you to eight senior players on May 15th as the team held Senior Night at John Biedenbach Field before clobbering Downriver League rival Taylor 15-0 in three innings.

Before the game the team honored Annika Segedi, Bri Thomas, Jordyn Emery, Molly Edmunds, Anica Allstead, Aleah Tanguay, Amber Duffany, and London Williams.

Pitchers Thomas, Duffany, and Lauryn Holder held Taylor to just one hit. Offensively, Thomas, Edmunds, Mia Maldonado, Devyn Dorey, and Kara Fedea led the way.

The victory improved Trenton’s 2024 record to 16-7 and got the team back on a winning path after losing a tough 5-4 decision to state-ranked Allen Park the night before.

As it usually does, the Trenton-Allen Park game lived up to all its pregame billing.

Trenton pitcher Heather Feijoo pitched a wonderful game, allowing seven hits and just two earned runs in six innings.

Williams led the Trenton offense with a terrific show.

Williams hit two home runs in the game and knocked in three of her team’s four runs. The two round-trippers for Williams were her 13th and 14th of the season and allowed her to break the career home run record for softball players at Trenton High School. Williams now has 27 career home runs, surpassing Colleen Whaley, who had 25 bombs between 1976-79.

Trenton got the tying run to second base in the last inning, but the final out was made on a hard line drive.

After the Trojans finish their last two DRL games of the year, they will face several non-league affairs before embarking to the Michigan High School Athletic Association state playoffs.

Trenton will host a district this year. The tournament will start with a predistrict game between Huron League Rival Grosse Ile and Monroe Jefferson on Tuesday, May 8th at 4:30 p.m. at Biedenbach Field.

The winner of that game will play Trenton at 10 a.m. on June 1st. At 12:30 p.m., two more Huron League teams –New Boston Huron and Carleton Airport – will play. The finals will be at 3 p.m.

event with 103 points, Woodhaven was second with 88, Huron was third with 81, and Allen Park was fourth with 69.

On the girls’ side of things, Trenton finished eighth with 28 points. Woodhaven was the runaway winner with 144 points, Allen Park was second with 106, and Wyandotte was third with 66.5.

Joining Taylor and Butkin in scoring for the Trenton boys were Ian Kramp, who was second to defending D2 state champ Sam Versperman in the pole vault; Joel Porcalla, who was sixth in the 400 meters; Aiden Sabuda, who was sixth in the 100 hurdles and eighth in the 300; and Colby Kramp, who was eighth in the discus. Also contributing were relay runners Owen Hasset and Max Sanfilippo.

For the girls, Sophia Smith’s second-place run in the 100 hurdles and third-place in the 300 hurdles were highlights. Also scoring for the girls were Maria Chuey, Devyn Dorey, Claire Poremba, Brooklyn Taylor, and Riley Holler.

The Trojans were at regionals hosted by Chelsea High School on May 17th. Top two finiishers in each event at regionals qualify for the Division 2 state meet at Hamilton High School June 1st.

Trojans compete in 51st annual Wy-Hi Regatta

The 60th annual Hebda Cup Regatta was canceled late last month due to inclement weather, so the Trenton rowing team and other area squads were more than thrilled to get out on the water for the 51st annual Wy-Hi Regatta on May 4th.

The Trenton men scored 20 points and finished seventh in the eight-team field. The women did a little better with 24 points and they finished fifth. Trenton’s combined 44 points left the Tojans in sixth place, ahead of Crestwood and Sandwich (Ont.).

For the second year in a row, Roosevelt emerged as both the men’s and overall champions of the Wy-Hi, while Carlson eked out the host Bears for the women’s title.

The 1500-meter course on the Detroit River runs against the current between the shores of Grosse Ile and Wyandotte. Races start south of BASF Park, the boats travel north, and finish back at the park.

Heavy winds caused the cancellation of the Hebda Cup earlier this year. Winds caused a little havoc during the Wy-Hi, as well. The competition completed just 20 of 24 scheduled races.

There were no races held in the Men’s Varsity 2- nor the Women’s varsity 1x, and it was exhibition only times in both the Women’s Junior Varsity 8+, as well as the Women’s Novice 8+.

Roosevelt finished with 241 combined points on the day, nearly 100 points ahead of the overall runnerup finisher and women’s Carlson (159). Grosse Ile (123) placed third overall, then Riverview (83), Grosse Pointe South (59), Trenton (44), Crestwood (35), and Sandwich (18) rounding out the final overall standings.

(72) in third place. Then it was Carlson (55) in fourth, Grosse Pointe (25) in fifth, Crestwood (23) in sixth, Trenton (20) in seventh, and Sandwich (no score) in eighth. Meanwhile on the women’s side, seven top-2 finishes including three victories allowed for Carlson (104) to edge out the win over Roosevelt (100).

Those two schools alone accounted for seven of the nine first-place finishes on Saturday.

the Novice 4+, Lightweight 4+, and Varsity 8+ races. Additionally on the men’s side, they picked up first-place honors in both the Novice 8+, while then doing the same in the Junior Varsity 4+ on the women’s side.

Trenton was not able to win any of the 20 events, but the Trojans reached the finals in 10 events, up from just six finals appearances a year ago.

While they did not earn first-place honors in any race, Trenton, like Riverview, saw an uptick in participation at the meet from a year ago, racing in the finals of 10 events after doing so just six times in 2023.

The best finish across the board for the Trojans on Saturday was second to Roosevelt in the Women’s Junior Varsity 4+ race, while their best placing on the men’s side was third place in the Varsity 1x.

The final standings on the men’s side saw Roosevelt beat out runner-up Grosse Ile (98) followed by Riverview

Roosevelt defended its overall champion from the year prior, finishing either first or second in 11 of the 20 events, with eight of those 11 resulting in a win.

Roosevelt swept both sides of

Trenton also scored third-place points in the Women’s Lightweight 8+, fourth-place points in the Women’s Novice 4+, the Men’s Novice 4+, Women’s Varsity Pair, Men’s Varsity Pair, and fifth-place points in Women’s Varsity 4+.

Trenton is fifth at regional tennis tournament

Keyed by a pair of individual secondplace performances, the Trenton tennis team finished fifth at the MHSAA Division 2 Wyandotte Roosevelt regional, which was contested on May 16th.

Carlson won the regional handily, scoring 24 points. Thanks to their victory, the Marauders will attend the D2 state meet in Grand Rapids on May 31st-June 1st. Host Roosevelt was second in the tournament with 18 points and the Bears will also go to the state meet.

Southgate was third (17 points), Allen Park was fourth (14 points), and Trenton was fifth with 12. Gabriel Richard, Lincoln Park, Crestwood, Detroit Renaissance, and Hamtramck rounded out the regional.

Liberty Bennett, Trenton’s No. 4 singles player, battled her way to the regional finals where she lost in straight sets 6-2, 7-6 to Mia Liangos of Southgate Anderson.

To reach the finals, Bennett beat Julie Mitchell of Carlson 6-1, 6-0 in the semifinals after taking a default win over Layal Zbib of Dearborn Heights Crestwood.

At No. 2 doubles, the Trenton duo of Jordyn Dorey and Olivia Branscum reached the finals where they were defeated by the Carlson pair of Madison Jacobs and Lila Angelos 6-4, 5-7, 6-3.

To get into the championship match, Dorey and Branscum beat Allen Park’s Megan Baksa and Mack Mouchet 6-1, 6-1 in the semifinals and they smoked Fatime Khalil and Jana Ibrihim of Crestwood 6-0, 6-0 in the second round.

Trenton’s No. 3 singles player, Miley Lustig, reached the semifinals of her flight by virtue of a 6-1, 6-1 win over Wyandotte’s Julia Haener. In the semis Lustig lost to Southgate’s Ashley Stench 6-3, 6-4.

Daniella Davis, who plays No. 1 singles for the Trojans, also reached the semifinal of her flight. Davis won a long match against Allen Park’s Nora Jaynes 6-2, 4-6, 6-1. In the semifinals, however, she lost 6-3, 6-3 to Carlson’s Adyson Brake, the eventual flight champion. Brake beat Roosevelt’s Jackie Maurino 6-2, 7-5 in the finals to claim “Top Gun” honors.

Trenton ‘9’ may face a rubber match with

Downriver League baseball rivals Trenton and Southgate Anderson have already met twice this season with Southgate winning the first meeting 3-1 and Trenton winning the second 5-2.

Now, with the Michigan High School Athletic Association’s district draws being announced, there is a strong possibility that the two rivals may get the chance to square off again.

Trenton is again hosting a district and the Trojans and Titans appear to be the strongest teams in the field.

The district tournament will begin on Tuesday, May 28th when Summit Academy takes to the Trenton field to face off against Riverview. Riverview has won just six games this season; Summit has won but five.

The Summit-Riverview winner will face Anderson in the 10 a.m. game at Trenton on June 1st. At 12:30 p.m., Trenton will face Grosse Ile, a team that has won just seven times this year and is currently embroiled in a six-game losing streak. The two semifinal winners – likely Trenton and Southgate – will play for the district championship at 3 p.m.

Trenton appears ready for the task, having won nine of their past 11 games.The Trojans are 18-6 overall and 9-3 in Downriver League play.

The Trojans, who played Woodhaven May 16th, will wrap up league play with a game against Allen Park on May 22nd. Then all that’s left between the Trojans and the state playoffs is a tripleheader at Trenton on May 25th. That day, the Trojans will face Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard at 8 a.m., Dundee at 12:30 p.m. and Muskegon at 3 p.m.

Southgate

How did the fire stations get there?

Since I began my career in Trenton, I’ve often wondered the reasoning behind the placement of our fire stations. While I can understand the logic behind attaching the original fire station to the police station downtown a century ago, as it served as the central hub of our fledgling community, the location of Station 2 on King Road strikes me as somewhat out of place, especially considering its proximity to Riverview’s border.

Last year, I was tasked to write a research paper for the Executive Leadership Staff and Command Program through Eastern Michigan University. I took the opportunity to seek answers on how fire stations are positioned within a community, and how that correlates with the placement of Trenton’s own fire stations. I will save you the 20+ pages and give you the summarized version… You’re welcome!

When Fire Station 1 was established in the 1920s, Trenton’s population was less than 2,000 people. At that time, it made sense for the central location to be in the downtown area near the waterfront. However, the industrial boom along the shore soon brought about a significant increase in nearby residential areas. By 1960, Trenton’s population had soured to 18,439, as per census data, prompting the need for another fire station to be established.

But why on King Road? Finding city decision-makers from the 1950s to answer that question is unlikely. However, it’s plausible that Trenton anticipated further residential expansion in that direction, influenced by former industrial sites like Great Lakes Steel, Vulcan Mold, and McClouth Steel. How do those locations serve Trenton today? TFD continues to operate from both stations. Research suggests a move towards a datadriven approach for determining the placement of fire stations within communities. Nowadays, computer mapping and modeling are used

to illustrate the distance, and more significantly, the time it will take for a fire truck or ambulance to reach any given location in the community from these stations. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) establishes best practice standards for all aspects of the fire service. The NFPA 1710 standard specifies that a fire truck should arrive at any fire incident within its service area within 4 minutes of travel time with a 90% success rate. With the use of Geographic Information System (GIS) programs to evaluate current station locations, it has shown that there are areas in Trenton where we don’t achieve this 4-minute goal.

What are we doing now to address this concern? Recently, the City of

Trenton has conducted extensive evaluations on all city buildings, including the fire stations. With the aging structures and the functional challenges, the City Council proposed a bond to address infrastructure issues present in our municipal buildings. This bond includes the construction of a new centralized fire stationconsolidating our resources into a single location and significantly improving response times to meet NFPA standards. Shorter response times lead to more lives being saved. While we, both in the fire department and in the community, have a genuine fondness for our existing fire stations, both suffer from outdated infrastructure. Designed in a time period when fire trucks

were significantly smaller, these stations struggle to accommodate modern firefighting vehicles. The aging structure of both stations do not meet current building codes or safety standards, thereby putting both firefighters and the community at risk. One new centralized station would bring about a new era of safety and efficiency for our community.

For more information on the Fire, Police, and Municipal Building Improvement Bond and its intentions for the Trenton Fire Department and the community, visit the city’s website (trentonmi.org) to find past recordings and future dates of the informational sessions where the plans for each department involved in this bond are discussed in greater detail.

The Trenton Fire Department is continuing to install smoke detectors and CO alarms at single family residences. If you would like to have detectors installed, simply call our fire department at 734-676-1314 Monday-Friday from 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. to schedule an appointment.

KEITH ANDERSON TRENTON FIRE CHIEF

• Replacement of both the 97 yr. old Station and 60 yr. old Station with ONE new Central Station

• Ability to house and maintain all fire trucks and ambulances needed for community responses

• Training space for firefighter AND public education opportunities

• Proper storage and decontamination areas for equipment and firefighter gear

• Most important…

WHITE FURNITURE’S FURNITURE’S

We have England sofas, loveseats, chairs & sectionals in stock for immediate free local delivery. All prices are as stocked but all can be ordered in 50 fabrics at the same price. Several hundred fabrics are available at varying prices. All can be upgraded to firmer seat springs & seat cushions. The current wait time for custom orders on this brand is 3 to 4 weeks. England Furniture has a 10 year warranty on their seat cushions and a lifetime warranty on frames & seat springs.

We have this Flexsteel sofa & loveseat in stock for immediate delivery. At the heart of our Flexsteel upholstered furniture, is the Blue Steel Spring that provides a comfortable seat that is guaranteed for the life of your product. The current wait time for custom orders on this brand is 8 weeks. Lifetime warranty: Springs, Wood Frames & Seat Cushions. Sofa $1569

Monday: 9:00am - 5:30pm Tuesday: 9:00am - 5:30pm

9:00am - 5:30pm Thursday: 9:00am - 5:30pm Friday: 9:00am - 8:30pm Saturday: 9:00am - 5:30pm

Solving the Challenge Takes All of Us

I get email news from a company called RetailDive, which explains how to interpret the current news from the industry that is dominated by stock markets and hedge funds and other mechanisms that have nothing to do with the actual service of retail for the actual people that by and large know no other way. Right now, “people in the know” are evaluating the state of Macy’s, which has announced plans to shutter a lot more stores coast to coast. Macy’s got to be an 800-store machine that was an amalgamation of absorbed smaller department stores. Midsized and small towns everywhere were once anchored by nameplate department stores that served their communities. As the retail machine grew larger and larger, with more and more manufacturing for them being done in other countries, these smaller (and better) retailers found it harder and harder to compete. They threw in the towels over a span of 20 years. In our case, Hudson’s was absorbed by the machine, and is now part of the problem Macy’s has on their hands as they jettison many of those same stores to satisfy the demands for dividends from their shareholders. Jettison means CLOSE, not sell. My complaint about virtually all reporting in my field: Neither goes to the reasons for this reality. We consumers have been force fed a new, infinitely lower level of actual service and quality. We have to wait

on the phone to keep hearing “you are valued, number 85”. Our way of life has been stolen, and news sources don’t even know enough to challenge it, let alone dig into and expose. “Big” realized long ago that it could ring billions of dollars from businesses that provided REAL service with people that were paid well enough to be considered solid. They got rid of the people, everywhere they could. They kept more of the money, and paid less of it to those that made it good in the first place. They have gotten away with it, and that story is not told on the national stage.

I like to think I’m part of a valiant army of locally owned and independent businesses that understand all of this. It’s awful to NOT think that way. But too many just can’t connect the dots. Amazon has done so much damage, and has captured a massive percentage of every dollar being spent through their portal that countless businesses will not buck them for fear of being destroyed by the monster. Yet too many of my contemporaries, who should all know well what that nightmare parasite has wrought, instantly go to Amazon to get supplies. It’s discouraging. There is sound reason for optimism. When GIVEN real, honest, professional, earnest service, people can’t believe it. Older folks keep seeking such service out because we remember when it was routine and

BETTER. Younger folks look like they’ve just found gold when treated as human beings while shopping. Lots of places still exist that know it and give it. More and more, people are discovering this “new” phenomenon, and telling their friends. But they still haven’t realized how cold and calculating the forces on the other side of the struggle are. Big money is expert in getting the public to go along with their system of extracting all the money from every local niche, in every local economy they choose to go after. If we don’t stay vigilant, we find ourselves blindly pumping up the income of corporations far removed from our communities

A system has developed, wherein “big” is fed by other “big” operations. I remind you to take note of the huge array presentations of gift cards that are sold at big grocery operations. We are steered on a daily basis, everywhere we go. If you think of it, local businesses feed our local networks of businesses serving the local public. The money keeps circulating, with echo ripples that keep getting ramped back up with every dollar spent. The NYSE version of this idea is all about paying into a very different cycle, where YOUR money keeps getting spent on the stock market circuit. That system depends on each of us getting the ball rolling in the first place, and then becoming accustomed to spending our money in ways that lessens all of locally so

wealthy corporations can prosper ... which doesn’t help any of us locally. Don’t forget this primary reason to shop small: When you do, you deprive the machine that sees you only as a number and a pawn. Small doesn’t send jobs overseas. Small creates vibrant centers of commercial activity that creates the “flow up” dynamic. Big then makes money BECAUSE of the success of small. The simple truth is this: Big found the way to bypass small, so they can get rich by PREVENTING the success of small.

It isn’t a scheme, so to speak. But it is a system that has worked extremely well. Too few people are upset about that predatory behavior that weakens every local economy. Too many simply follow the path of least resistance. So, I write. I seek out resonance with sources that support the likes of my businesses (actually, the entire local business community) because they help spread that word. I don’t just think I’m accurate in my assessment of how things like this work. I KNOW it. Think it through for yourself. Challenge my assertions. Go ahead; try to tell me why you think I’m wrong. I’m not being cocky; I’m inviting a debate. It’s not a theory, it’s a truism. All the money is rapidly amassing in the hands of far too few, and all of that money is no longer working in our communities. National, publicly traded entities that divert our dollars are one of the key ways our powerful, local engine is diminished. SO MANY already know all this and always think of this when they need or want to buy things. We’re still in the small minority, though, so talk it up! We have work to do!

Awesomeness Opening Soon

NEWS FROM OUR NEIGHBORS

GoBigMultimedia.com

gobigmultimedia.com/grosse-ile-grand

WIRED!

GIH Robotics Team Creates Winning Design in Topher

For the past decade, the Wired Devils, Grosse Ile High School’s esteemed robotics team, has been a beacon of innovation and excellence in the realm of competitive robotics. Each year, they’ve risen to the challenge set forth by the For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology (FIRST) organiza-

tion, crafting capable robots to compete in competitions.

This year, their creation, Topher, demonstrated exceptional agility and precision as it navigated the competition field in search of 12-inch orange-colored foam rings. With a state-of-the-art flywheel intake system, Topher efficiently secured each ring before maneuvering through a complex course to position itself for accurate firing into a high target slot. The culmination of its performance was a spectacular climb up a metal chain link before finishing the game.

This year, the Wired Devils embarked on a groundbreaking project funded by the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation: the development of innovative wheel technology known as the Swerve Wheel. Unlike traditional wheels, the Swerve Wheel features an independent system with steering and driving motors, complemented by programmable software. This pioneering creation represents a significant leap forward in robotics, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the field...

On page 14

Conservancy finds new home on Macomb

... “This building serves as a valuable resource for both GINLC and the public alike. Aligned with our mission to promote the understanding of our natural resources, we will host numerous educational events here, welcoming members of the public to attend. Moreover, we aspire to strengthen our ties with

local schools, offering this space as an educational resource for them. Operationally, having this building enhances our efficiency, and being situated on Macomb, we can engage with the public more directly. We are committed to using this building as a model for sustainability, recognizing that there is still much more to do.”...

On page 18

gobigmultimedia.com/riverview-register

100 years young

Mayor Andy Swift presented her with the following proclamation:

Kathryn Myrand is celebrating her 100th birthday on March 31, 2024; and

WHEREAS ... Kathryn was born in Midland, Pennsylvania and moved to Ecorse, Michigan around the age of three when her father accepted a job offer at Great Lakes Steel. She attended St. Francis Xavier School for 12 years.

WHEREAS ... Kathryn met her husband, Leonard, while in school and they got married on August 25,

1945. They were together for 50 years before he passed away. Kathryn and Leonard had 4 beautiful children together and have many grandchildren.

WHEREAS ... Kathryn worked as a Telephone Operator at Michigan Bell and then at Great Lakes Steel. She loved to socialize and dance in her free time. Now, her desire is to live a quiet and peaceful lifestyle where she can relax and enjoy her family. We wish Kathryn a very happy 100th birthday.

I, Andrew M. Swift, Mayor of the City of Riverview, Michigan, and on behalf of the City Council and citizens of Riverview, do hereby proclaim our sincerest congratulations and fondest wishes to

KATHRYN MYRAND

resident of the City of Riverview, Michigan on the occasion of her 100th birthday.

On page 1

Riverview community delivers Easter feasts to families

...On March 23rd, Kiwanis members, alongside family and Key Club volunteers, convened at the middle school to unpack and repack nearly $700 worth of food for the families. These packed meals, comprising a large ham, vegetables, flour, sugar, soup, bread, rolls, and all the trimmings for a

complete Easter feast, were delivered directly to the recipients’ homes.

Families, nominated by the Riverview Community School District, were contacted by club representatives and expressed gratitude for the assistance received. President Kinlen conveyed her pride in supporting those in need.

Established in June 1967, the Kiwanis of Riverview has served over 600 families with complete Easter and Thanksgiving dinners since the inception of these programs...

On page 11

gobigmultimedia.com/southgate-star

FROM THE CITY

Your Spring update on Southgate’s park projects

by Julie Goddard Parks and Recreation Director

... First, let’s dive into the developments at Cobb Park on Superior, Burns, and Trenton Road. This park has already undergone two phases of improvements. Phase 1 introduced the Tree Tops playscape for ages 5-12, a swing bank, and the popular Oodle swing for multiple users. It also featured a new pavilion, trash receptacles, and picnic tables. Phase 2 brought a matching Tree Tops playscape for ages 2-5 and the exciting We-Saw, providing a safe way for parents and kids to enjoy teeter-tottering fun. Phase 3 of the park’s enhancement recently commenced. This phase involves removing and replacing the existing basketball court to install a new court with improved drainage, color coating, striping, and updated basketball hoops. Phase 4, approved at the last City Council Meeting, will follow shortly after Phase 3. It entails constructing off-street parking with striping on Burns, along with the installation of catch basins, storm sewers, and grading. Additionally, approximately 1,740 square feet of sidewalk, including ADA sidewalk ramps along Burns, will be poured. Once all construction is completed, new

fencing will be installed around the park. Waverly Park, nestled in the Waverly subdivision off Reeck Road near the Downriver YMCA, is set to undergo significant upgrades. Among them will be a new basketball court with improved drainage, color coating, striping, and updated basketball hoops. Later this year, the park will receive a transformative overhaul featuring the newly released Volo Structure from Landscapes Structures, Inc. Alongside this structure, swings, a bobble rider, a saddle spinner, and a symbol communication board will be added. The inclusion of a communication board is particularly noteworthy, providing a means of communication through pictures and symbols for non-verbal, speech-challenged, and early learning individuals to interact with friends and caregivers. These boards are developed with guidance from experts in augmentative and alternative communication...

On page 1

Southgate bus driver honored for heroic actions

Christina McIver, a school bus driver in Southgate, saved a 7-year-old student’s life by performing the Heimlich maneuver when the child was choking. Her swift action and training from

Dean Transportation were crucial in the emergency. Despite being hailed as a hero, McIver remains humble, emphasizing that she was just doing her job. Her bravery highlights the importance of school bus drivers in ensuring children’s safety in more ways than one.

On page 7

Founder and Executive Director of Mimi’s Mission, Lisa dedicates her life to fostering inclusivity within our community, particularly for autistic children and adults. Central to the organization’s mission is the provision of unique programs and resources tailored to the needs of autistic individuals and their families. In addition to offering these vital services, Lisa has played a pivotal role in empowering and training first responders. She has led various initiatives aimed at educating and equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective interaction with individuals on the autism spectrum...

On page 1

Wyandotte teachers receive classroom enhancement grants

Lisa Vilella receives President’s Lifetime Achievement Award

...Amidst the sea of commendable recipients, Lisa Vilella shines as a beacon of inspiration. As the

The Downriver Chapter of MARSP (Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel) recently sent out grant applications to the 18 school districts our chapter represents. Teachers were encouraged to apply for a chance to win a $100.00 Visa Gift Card to be used for supplies, equipment, or any resources they need to enhance learning in their classrooms. The following teachers from Wyandotte were granted the Visa Gift Cards, Jennifer Reynolds, who teaches 6th Grade Science at Wilson Middle School, Lora Currie, who teaches at The Lincoln Center, and Colleen Falwell, who teaches at Jo Brighton..

On page 15