Wyandotte Warrior, November 25 – December 15, 2022

Gilbert Rose of Chelsea Menswear passes away at 87

I find as I sit down to write this column that I am at a loss for words. Not like me, right?

But this is hard: My father, Gilbert E. Rose, died early Wednesday morning, the 26th of October, a month after my mother Arlene died.

Our family has long been vocally grateful for the fact that we are all still here. In quite short order, that has changed, but the gratitude remains.

I think it’s remarkable that I got to work with and learn from my dad for 50 years. In a very real way, though, that makes it harder.

He was here every day of the year. He was the first one here nearly every day, too. So as I walked in, I saw the familiarity of my father at his desk, already on the phone dealing with something first thing in the morning.

The familiarity, routine and longevity of that morning greeting was absolutely taken for granted until he had a stroke in December of 2021.

He arrived here in 1962 to lend a hand to a men’s and women’s business that was just poking along since its inception in 1943. By the time I joined the family business in 1972, we were a company of five stores, and Wyandotte had a new anchor store in the Willow Tree.

Chelsea got a new front in 1971 which remains today. Maybe it’s only in my own mind, but I see it as iconic. Whatever, it was and is unique. As was he.

When the phrase “never give up” is spoken, it is understood that it refers to Gilbert Rose.

It would be easy to delve into specific accomplishments over the course of his 60 year time in the business, but I don’t want to. What I want to do is paint the true picture of my father, who was, in a word, relentless.

He got so many things accomplished here in Wyandotte because he just never quit on the things he championed. He didn’t win ‘em all, but if he believed in a project, he found

the way, nearly every time. He didn’t do it for the credit. He just wanted improvements made in the world in which he did business.

People that appreciate his efforts

PETER ROSE

Sayonara, Dad

over the decades see him as being civic minded, and of course, it’s true.

But the greater truth is so simple it disarms. My father simply felt that everywhere he went was his own front yard.

Indeed, people are lamenting now and remembering now his obsessiveness in doing his part in the parking lot behind Chelsea, which was littered every night by people that think their mess is for my father to pick up. He groused about it, you bet. But he never stopped. He didn’t just walk by litter, it irritated him, wrecked his view of his surroundings. I’m not kidding or over-exaggerating at all. He picked it up and disposed of it, every single time he saw it.

He was also intensely interested in goings on in and around the downtown that may or may not have an impact on the viability and vitality of Wyandotte and all of Downriver. He was interested, period. Which made him very interesting to talk to, and a great source of information on any new project, big or small, that was

in the works.

Like me, he was amazed by the extent of the investment in this city, through local people’s passions and obsessions and money, and with an understanding of what Wyandotte and Downriver are. Wyandotte finally reached a level that tips us into a growth mode, hopefully for a long time to come. And he got to see that happen.

And you know what? All it did was raise the bar. Because one of the driving forces of Gilbert Rose was being perpetually dissatisfied.

In his business and in his civic engagement, he saw things that were not as good as they could and should be, and went after fixing them, or directing the attention of the proper departments of the City to get things fixed and improved. That wish for betterment rubbed off on me.

I am both very much like him and very different, of course.

Over the course of the years together, there were countless things we disagreed on, and still kept going, getting it done. Over that same course of time, we both enjoyed the ability to share successes and figure it out when

things went wrong, together. For a long time.

Since his stroke, he has not been in the store. I no longer got to see him in the surroundings he created, at his desk with an urgency, every day of the year. Get something done today! Not as a criticism, but as an exhortation to do more, and do it better.

It was Gilbert that gave me the book that ultimately opened my eyes to what became an obsession of mine (which I communicate all the time). He helped me and my brothers throughout our lives, and others, too.

I am grateful beyond anything these words can convey, and I miss him tremendously already, along with my mom.

I am proud to be their son. And while all of this may seem a

bit much, consider that more than anything else, I got to hang out with my parents for 68 years. Not all bad. Gilbert Rose left an impression. He made a mark. He made things better. He did the best he could, as he said to me the day before he left.

Yes, you did, Dad. You were a very good man.

Golden Leash doggie daycare honored by Wyandotte Mayor

BY DAVE GORGON

A local business known for providing great service for dogs and the community has been recognized by the City of Wyandotte.

Mayor Rob DeSana presented a proclamation to the owners and staff of The Golden Leash, a daycare for dogs celebrating its second anniversary at its Wyandotte location at 4450 13th Street.

The tribute thanks Golden Leash for having a positive impact on the community while serving “as a steadfast and dedicated business in the City of Wyandotte.”

“It’s just an all-around beautiful operation and environment and I’m so pleased to have them in our city,” Mayor DeSana said.

The Golden Leash started in the home of Wyandotte resident Alicia Stamper, a long-time supporter of the need of better treatment of dogs. Stamper combined that empathy with experience gained at a grooming salon for animals to open a doggy daycare to provide a place for fellow dog lovers who needed a place for their pets to stay.

The business was named in honor of Lucky, her late Golden Retriever.

Once the daycare reached a capacity of eight dogs at her home, Stamper knew it was time to move to a larger location. At the same time, longtime friend Toni Cheney returned Downriver from a missions trip out of state. They combined efforts to locate a building on 13th Street, hired a staff of caring human beings and began providing more services for an expanded clientele of furry friends and their owners. Opening day was October 26, 2000.

“These young ladies saw a great opportunity with creating a doggy daycare,” DeSana said. “With many young people in the workforce these days, there was a true need for this type of service for working families who have dogs.”

The Mayor praised the owners and staff, saying “their passion is undeniable and evident by seeing all the happy dogs they are taking care of.”

Stamper said she knew early in life that she wanted to work with animals and considered becoming a

veterinarian technician. She went to grooming school while working at PetSmart. She knew a doggy daycare would be the right business for her.

“I thought if I could work with animals that I love every day, what a dream,” she said. “Since I started, it’s never been about the money or recognition. I genuinely love them.”

Here’s how it works: A dog owner interested in Golden Leash’s services calls and schedules a temperament test for his or her pet. Stamper said staff learns the breed and age of the pet. Those at least a year old must be neutered. Those who pass the test are introduced slowly to other dogs.

“Not every dog is a group dog or pack dog,” she said. “We want to know everyone will have a good time. This is a home away from home.”

Dogs are considered “free range,” which means they are not placed in a kennel or crate.

Reviews have been stellar.

“I can’t even say enough amazing things about them,” said Taylor resident Donna Howard, who leaves her two dogs at The Golden Leash. “It’s the perfect place for me to have my dogs at. The girls there are absolutely wonderful. I’ve never met a more caring, compassionate group of women.”

Howard said she discovered The Golden Leash while looking for a dog trainer. Audrey Peregord, who works out of the doggy daycare, trains dogs. Now, Howard takes her dogs to the Wyandotte business more for socialization than anything else.

“Our pups have a great time and are well-supervised,” she said. “It’s amazing they care for so may dogs. They all have temperament tests. They’re very well socialized and they get along.”

Howard praised the staff for holding fundraisers for the needy and collections of food and toys for animal shelters. She also enjoys seeing photos of the dogs and following their daily adventures – such as holiday celebrations in which the dogs eat puppy cakes or “spa days” – on The Golden Leash Facebook and Instagram pages, which have thousands of followers.

“These women are in their 20s,” Howard said. “The things they do for the community and surrounding

communities are just wonderful. We’re blessed that there are people like that to help people.”

Wyandotte resident Beth Beach, who is a surgical nurse at the Veterans Administration Medical Center and takes her dogs to The Golden Leash, agreed the success story at the doggy daycare is well-deserved.

“Think about it,” Beach said. “They took something they love doing and made a business out of it – during a pandemic, no less. That’s truly the epitome of the American dream.”

The services meet the needs of the community, she added.

“There are no crates at Golden Leash,” Beach said. “If you need to board them overnight, somebody stays in a bed with them. If it’s raining or really cold, it’s ‘doggy movie day.’ They have birthday parties for them. On days when my husband is working late or I get stuck in traffic, no worries.

“They have huge hearts. You can see where all of the dogs love them. They have to expand. This is a thriving business for these girls when

others are closing down.”

Stamper, who said she loves her staff, said the business formula is simple.

“We let dogs be dogs,” she said. “We keep them as safe as they can be. We let them run. A tired dog is a good dog.”

Mayor DeSana has witnessed the personal care firsthand.

“I can speak from personal experience that when I pull into the Golden Leash’s driveway, Charlie and Dexter, my grand pups, get so excited and it’s so fun to witness,” he said. “They are greeted with so much excitement and enthusiasm from not only the staff but the other dogs themselves and are so excited to see their friends.

“After meeting all the ladies, their passion is undeniable and it’s evident by seeing all the happy dogs they are taking care of.”

For more information about The Golden Leash, visit the daycare’s Facebook page or call (313) 401-9884.

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

Timmy

This is Timothy Button Whinny the Pooh, known around the house as Timmy. He lives in Wyandotte with his cat mom Elise DeLaurentiis. Frankie

This is Frankie. She is a Belgian Malinois-Husky mix. She lives in Wyandotte and loves going on walks with her family David and Kelly LaBounty, especially when they go to Firehouse Pub!

Izzy

This is Izzy. She is 7 years old and She loves living in Wyandotte with Gina Martin and her family.

Ben

This is Ben. He is almost 18 years old. He lives in Wyandotte with his humans Richard and Phyllis Johnson

Downriver Council for the Arts hosts ArtScape Exhibition through Dec. 1

The Downriver Council for the Arts hosts an ArtScape Exhibition of public Plein Art through December 1 in the main gallery at 81 Chestnut Street in Downtown Wyandotte. The event is sponsored by the City of Wyandotte and Downtown Development Authority.

En plein air painting is the act of painting outdoors to capture the essence of what is directly in front of the painter. The ArtScape Exhibition has been open to artists who were interested in

submitting a landscape painting. Only artwork created during the Wyandotte Plein Air Paint Out over the weekend of Oct. 21 were eligible for awards and cash prizes equal to $450.

Artists were invited to capture the beauty of historic Downtown Wyandotte’s storefronts, homes, landmarks and parks. The artists could create an unlimited amount of work and submit up to three works for the exhibition.

The juror for the competition was renowned

artist and professor Josephine Primeau. Her work is featured in numerous collections, including the Dennos Museum Center in Traverse City and the Kresge Foundation in Detroit. In addition to creating her own art, she teaches drawing and painting at Wayne State University. She has also taught pleinair classes for the Glen Arbor Art Association

For more information about the exhibition,

ARTSCAPE

visit the website www. downriverarts.org or call (734) 720-0671.

The Downriver Council for the Arts is a nonprofit regional arts organization that represents, promotes and serves 21 Downriver communities. The agency’s mission is to enrich the quality of life Downriver by advocating and promoting the arts and providing opportunities for involvement and participation in arts and cultural activities.

Funding for the DCA comes from grants, donations, membership, fundraising events and gallery sales.

The arts council now operates out of the James R. DeSana Center for Arts and Culture (the Arts Center), a three-story, nearly 20,000 square foot historic building at 81 Chestnut Street, a multiuse, multi-generational and multi-cultural destination arts facility that contributes to the expansion of the area’s economic development initiatives and provides educational opportunities for the communities into the future.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Enjoy Christmas Music

The Seaway Chorale and Orchestra, now in its 45th year, wants you to know that they are back for their first full concert in three years.

Having navigated the challenges of COVID-19 with performances in local churches, the Chorale is returning to its performance home – Flat Rock Community Auditorium, 25600 Seneca – to perform “Joy To The World” a celebration of the holiday season at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 2 and Saturday, Dec. 3.

The group will be singing many favorites like the title song, The First Noel and Frosty The Snowman, in addition to some different arrangements that will leave the audience humming.

They will also be debuting two new songs, arranged by their talented director, Anthony Lai.

Tickets are available at $15 for adults and $10 for students.

Ticket information can be found at www.seawaychorale.org and by calling 734-552-3645.

Plan to start your holiday season off on a joyful note. You won’t be disappointed.

Fall fun at the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge

The wind is getting chilly, the leaves are falling from the trees and the smell of Fall is in the air! Fall is my favorite season of the year; here are some programs you can enjoy this Fall at the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge.

To sign up for a program please go to our Facebook page, www.facebook. com/DetroitRiverIWR/events.

If you have any questions about a program or need help signing up for a program, please email us at DetroitRiver@fws.gov.

November 5: 1 – 3 p.m. at the Refuge, Ecology Hike

Join a park ranger on a hike through Humbug Marsh and learn about our local ecosystems

November 13: 10 a.m.- noon, Hawk Watch Outreach, Join us to learn about Hawks and their Fall migration at the Lake Erie Metropark Hawk Watch site (near the boat launch).

November 23: 12:30 – 2 p.m. at the Refuge, The Amazing Bald Eagle Learn about bald eagles at this presentation in partnership with Trenton Parks and Rec.

November 27: 1 - 3 p.m., Hawk Watch Outreach, Join us to learn about Hawks and their Fall migration at the Lake Erie Metropark Hawk Watch site (near the boat launch).

December 3: 1 – 3 p.m. at the Refuge, Ecology Hike Experience the beginning of winter and learn about how wildlife adapts to the cold in our area.

December 4: 11a.m. - noon, Virtual Habitat Exploration presentation, Join us to learn about the different habitats and wildlife located at the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge.

New chorale members are Richard Witkowski, Ray Tejada, Leah Shults, Sadie Saunders, Janine Rossman, Jennifer Klunge, Karen Piontek, Jennifer Engle, Harriet Cole, Katelyn Gorecki, Dave Anderson and Jeremy St. Martin (missing, Laurna Badendieck).

The lower Detroit River and Lake Erie are a major flyway for hawks and other raptors and a Lake Erie Metropark and the John Dingell Wildlife Refuge are prime areas to spot these birds.

Facebook Testimonials...

Lynn...

Molly...

lot

Love love love the food here! The food is fantastic and the service is great!

Sue... We went for lunch today and everything was perfect! The beer battered shrimp was light and crispy. The stuffed pepper soup was the best I’ve had in a long time. My son really enjoyed his perch, too. We all need to support this great place.

Susan... Food, service and atmosphere is fabulous! Special events there are a lot of fun!

Joseph... Had the prime rib for two. Some of the best we’ve had in a while. Spacious well heated dining patio. Good cocktails and large craft beer selection.

Rebecca... Amazing food. One of the best burgers I’ve had in a while and the BEST onion rings I have probably ever had. And I’m very picky about onion rings. Chicken tenders are fresh and most definitely from scratch!! Great service and atmosphere. 4+ stars!!!!!

Brandon...

Great food!!! Nice staff and very clean!

Wyandotte Indians freshmen win DJFL ‘Peanut Bowl’

On Nov. 12 in Taylor, the Wyandotte Indians Freshman Junior Football team beat Riverview 26-7 in the Downriver Junior Football League AFC Championship game, a game known to many as the Peanut Bowl.

To reach the championship game, the Indians, who finished the 2022 regular season with a 5-3 record, defeated Taylor 27-0. On the other side of the bracket, Riverview, the regular-season league-leader, beat Huron River 19-7 to set up the championship game in Taylor.

Although Riverview was the higher seed in the playoffs, the Wyandotte win was not wholly unexpected as the Indians had defeated the Junior Pirates 13-6 in the second week of the season.

Steve Mauritho is the head coach of the championship team. His staff includes assistants Doug Ashley, Joe Chlipala, Chad Cumiskey, Eric Demmer, Justin Dwarzski, Greg Greenizen, Mike Flowers, Daryl Kiger, Chris Luczak, Dan Martin, Robert Neifert, Bralyn Smith and Jason Zanski; junior coaches Logan Cumiskey,Bem Demmer, Jack

Halberstadt and Ste Mauritho Jr. Also on the support staff are Nolan Ashley, Liam Cumiskey, Mason Dwarzski, Jackson Flowers, Myles Greenzen, John Lamarand, Paxton Luczak, Cameron Rodriguez, Josh Theisen and Jackson Zanski.

The Indians team is Carson Danziger, Joel Lamarand, Chase Nikolao, Joseph Chlipala, Logan Ash, Dominic Dwarzski, Jayden Speed, Dakota Fletcher, Nolan Womer, Ethan Steffen, Jackson Ostrowski, Liam Simpson, Finley Larkin, Avery Smith, Antonio Nucci, Alexander Jagiello, Carter Rodriguez, Landon Horton, Zach Lekity, John Dryden, Kaden Dwarzski, Mason Villegas, Maxx Holt, William Niefert, Adam Mehl, Colton Dillon, Gunner Brucki, Izaac Halloway, Carter Williams, Noah Creeden, Carson Cicotte, Jameson Flowers, John Tamas, Charles Daviskiba, Colin Danziger, Brandon Cicotte, Jaxon Cooper, Daryl Kiger, Jr. and Isaac Hinojosa.

In other Peanut Bowl results, the Taylor Seahawks defeated Riverview 13-12 for the AFC junior varsity title and Riverview beat the Dearborn

HeightsRedskins 7-0 for the AFC varsity crown.

All of those games were played in Taylor.

The NFC Division championship games were played at Woodhaven.

NFC champs were the Dearborn Heights Raiders, who beat the Romulus Flyers 26-7 fr the freshman crown; the Dearborn Heights Raiders, who beat Allen Park 6-0 for the junior varsity title; and the Washtenaw Maize, who beat Romulus 24-7 to win the varsity championship.

What’s happening Wyandotte...

The Wyandotte Historical Society will present Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus at Bacon Memorial Library on Saturday, Dec 3.

The Clauses will be there from 10 a.m.until 12:30 p.m. and from 1 - 4 p.m.

Come and tell Santa your Christmas wish, join them for story time, visit Santa’s secret shop and build a fun craft.

The visit is free and gifts at the shop run between 25 cents and $4. There is also free gift wrapping.

Bacon Cares

Bacon Memorial Library now has a dedicated station for toiletry essentials.

In need? Stop in anytime during open hours to grab some toiletry essentials: toothpaste and toothbrushes, shampoo, soap, deodorant and more!

Want to help fill the station? We have an Amazon wishlist: https://a.co/1XEi7mD. Or you can drop off items at the library.

A wish list can be found on our webpage at https:// www.baconlibrary.org/givebackatbacon.

Small Business Saturday!

Wyandotte is going small in a big way! Local businesses are gearing up for a fun and exciting Small Business Saturday, Nov. 26. Come enjoy an unparalleled experience in the Downtown of Downriver while supporting a diverse community of local businesses.

Enjoy a delectable dining experience – breakfast, lunch and dinner, topped off with craft cocktails and sweet treats, from a wide selection of restaurants, bakeries and ice cream shops. Feeling fabulous? Treat yourself to a visit at one of the many local spas, hair salons and nail studios. Kickoff the holiday season! Whether you’re looking for gifts, home décor or a trendy new outfit, shop till you drop at Wyandotte’s eclectic and stylish retail shops.

Sip and Shop!

The Downtown Wyandotte Social District allows for customers to enjoy beer, wine and cocktails to-go from participating establishments as you stroll about town enjoying the festivities.

Take it all in!

Downtown will be festive and beautiful for the Holidays with our tree-lined boulevard, side streets and pocket parks brilliantly lit with dazzling decorations.

Make your dollars go further!

Small businesses contribute immeasurable benefits to the economy and to the unique character of a community. Wyandotte has the ideal mix of shops, pop-up holiday markets, restaurants, businesses and plenty of free parking to make it that much easier.

Holiday markets

The Holiday Markets of Downtown Wyandotte, located on the first floor of City Hall, 3200 Biddle Avenue, will be open on Small Business Saturday 11/26. Santa Claus will be visiting the Holiday Markets on Small Business Nov. 26 and three consecutive Fridays thereafter: Dec. 2, Dec. 9 and Dec. 16.

City businesses are ready

Dozens of businesses are working to organize and help spread the word about Small Business Saturday throughout the entire City, and in their own special way. Two hundred bags filled with gift certificates, goodies, special offers and giveaways will be distributed at Community Choice Credit Union: 3099 Biddle Avenue and Wyandotte Nutrition, 1201 Fort Street.

Little Dotte, 3122 Biddle Avenue, will have the Kekoa Brew Company Truck will and a cookie popup featuring a local Wyandotte baker, and will be distributing mystery bags to all customers making a $50 purchase.

Hoods Hardware, 1844 Ford Avenue, will have the Detroit Mini Donut truck park in their lot from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Community Choice is covering the cost of the first 300 visitors for free donuts and cider. The truck will be there until 1 p.m. or until they serve the 300 servings.

Six retailers are collaborating on a Shop Small, Win Big event. Pick up your passport at any participating locations and have each store stamp your card on Black Friday (Nov. 25) or Small Business Saturday (Nov. 26). Drop off the completed card to any participating shop by the end of business on Nov. 26 to be entered to win a gift basket with more than $150 in prizes plus take advantage of all the super special sales and festive fun!! Drawing will be held on Monday, Nov. 28.

Toys for Tots

Wyandotte Public Schools maintenance local 1055 is holding its 4th annual Toys for Tots drop off at Roosevelt High School, 540 Eureka Road, Wyandotte, on Dec. 3 and 10 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Auditions

PS Center Stage Players will hold auditions for “The Wizard of Oz” from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. Dec. 4 at First United Methodist Church, 72 Oak St., Wyandotte. The show will run March 2, 3, 9 and 10 at the Jo Brighton Auditorium in Wyandotte. Children ages 3 and up, as well as adults, will be cast. Those auditioning should be prepared to sing a brief song from the show or another suitable song and be willing to learn a short group dance. There also will be cold readings from the script. For more information, visit pscenterstageplayers.com

Solstice Walk

Sponsored by the Grosse Ile Nature and Land Conservancy aT Meridian Woods, eastside of Meridian Road across from Meridian Elementary School, Grosse Ile, from 1-3 p.m., on Sunday, Dec. 18. Join the group for an educational walk on the (almost) shortest day of the year. Our focus will be on signs of winter, seasonal adaptations, and animal homes. All GINLC programs are free to the public, but your donations make them possible. Dates, times, and locations are subject to change. For more information, email GINLC.education@gmail.com.

Story Times

At Bacon Memorial District Library, 45 Vinewood, Wyandotte. Babytime/Toddler, Tuesday, Nov. 22, 29 at 10 a.m. Join Ms. Lynne for stories, music, dance, and bubbles. This program is geared for babies and young toddlers. Family Storytime, Tuesday, Nov. 22, 29 at 11 a.m. Join Ms. Lynne for stories, music, dance and more. This program is geared to families with children of multiple ages. We are sorry for the inconvenience but you will need to register each week. Please register in person, online at baconlibrary.org, or by phone at 734-246-8357.

Salvation Army Activities

Breaking Bread, community meals, Tuesdays and Thursdays, noon to 1 p.m. Breaking Bread, Thanksgiving Meal, Nov. 22, noon to 2 p.m. Gift of Warmth Coat Drive, collecting until Nov. 30. Drop-off new/used coats at any of the Downriver Martinizing locations or at The Salvation Army Downriver Corps. Downriver Gift of Warmth Coat Giveaway, Dec. 3, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Red Kettle Campaign will begin on Nov. 11. If you are interested in volunteering to ring, please visit www.registertoring.com. The Salvation Army Downriver Corps Community Center is located at 1258 Biddle Ave., Wyandotte. For more information, call 734-282-0930.

Friends of the Library Meeting

At the Bacon Memorial District Library, 45 Vinewood, Wyandotte, Monday, Nov. 28 at 4:30 p.m. Join this dedicated group of volunteers to enhance the library experience! New members are always welcome. For more information, 734-246-8357.

Holiday Sale Arts & Crafts Sale

Downriver Arts & Crafts Holiday Sale at Wayne County Community College District Downriver Campus, 21000 Northline Road Taylor from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 3. Creative Art Society hosts the event which features artists and crafters with their work to be displayed and sold. Throughout the

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Leaf litter is the one kind of litter conservationists encourage

Coale, Emma Kukuk and Rachel Leightner Michigan Department of Natural Resources

A cold palace, solitude and a queen. This story may seem familiar, but we’re not talking about magical Elsa from Disney’s “Frozen.”

The queen in question is a bumblebee, and she has a request for you: When it comes to fall leaves, “let it go.”

Allow us to explain.

Fuzzy bumblebees that bounce from clovers to coneflowers are among many Michigan insects and wildlife that seek shelter over the winter.

While some species, like the celebrated monarch butterfly with its colorful wing patterns resembling

stained glass, make incredible journeys across the continent to warmer regions, many remain here.

But where do they go when winter weather swaps out floating butterflies for drifting snowflakes? The answer is right below our feet.

The splendid fall color season leaves a stash of freshly fallen leaves on the ground. They’re important for woodland species including insects, amphibians and small mammals over the cold months.

Who lives in leaves?

Picture a leaf pile. It looks kind of dead, brown and boring, right? That is exactly what wild bees, luna moths and

Rachel

Luna moths, like the one pictured here, and swallowtail butterflies cleverly disguise their cocoons as dried leaves to protect them.

A bumblebee gathers nectar from an aster flower. There are 20 kinds of bumblebees native to Michigan, and leaving a layer of leaf litter can provide a protected and shaded burrow for the bumblebee queen, helping ensure the next generation of bees in spring.

salamanders want you to think.

Luna moths and swallowtail butterflies cleverly disguise their cocoons as dried leaves. With their shabby, brown color and ragged texture, you’d never know there was a colorful, winged creature waiting inside.

Woolly bear caterpillars (the fuzzy black and orange ones that, according to legend, predict winter weather), creeping beetles and fluttering moths and butterflies all rely on leaves for different stages of their lives, whether they hide among the foliage or simply eat leaves.

Salamanders, toads and frogs have a similar strategy, burrowing under the leaves and into the moist ground to ride out the winter. So do the young of one of Michigan’s rare turtle species.

“Eastern box turtle hatchlings, Michigan’s only true land-based turtle, hibernate under leaf litter their first winter after hatching,” said DNR biologist Thomas Goniea.

Unlike their aquatic counterparts, these black-andyellow-patterned turtles can be found in the forest instead of lakes and ponds.

A cold palace fit for a queen

Like Elsa’s dramatic retreat to her frozen palace, the bumblebee queen also seeks solitude in winter.

As summer fades to fall, the bumblebee queen turns her attention to stocking up on pollen and nectar, building up fat and filling her honey stomach, which is a reservoir for honey. This gives her nutrition through the winter.

She also needs a suitable underground burrow to hibernate in. Bumblebees are a social species, but the bumblebee queen hibernates alone. Bumblebees dig in vegetation and loose soil, so the location they choose is paramount.

It must be protected, and never in a place that could be warmed by the winter sun, which could trick her into waking up too early.

Bumblebees, including the rusty-patched bumblebee, which was added to the federal list of threatened and endangered species in 2017, are in decline due to a variety of factors.

This bee is among 20 kinds of bumblebees native to Michigan as recorded by the Michigan Natural Features Inventory.

Others among them are the northern amber bumblebee and the Sanderson’s bumblebee. By leaving a layer of leaf litter, you’ll provide a protected and shaded burrow for the bumblebee queen, helping ensure the next generation of bees in spring.

Embrace leafy chaos

So, what would the bumblebee queen have you do?

As you wrap up the garden year and pack away hammocks and outdoor furniture, try not to be too orderly – nature likes a bit of mess.

Consider leaving fall leaves where they land or raking them into your garden beds instead of burning

them. They will provide nutrients and control soil erosion while creating spaces for winter dwellers to snuggle up until spring.

If you have enough space, establish a small “wild area” in a remote part of your yard where you toss fallen limbs, stumps and twigs to invite wildlife.

Native bees, butterflies, moths and spiders will take up residence. By providing carpenter bees with a natural wood source, you might even lure them away from doing their namesake work in your deck or siding.

Many of these small insects are the base of the food chain and will support many other wildlife species, including frogs, toads, turtles, chipmunks and birds –all the way up to the “top of the food chain” species, such as the bald eagle, black bear and coyote.

Leaves aren’t the only way you can help wildlife –with mason bees, think vertically. These gentle bees overwinter in the hollow stems of plants. Leaving perennial stems to wave and rattle in the breeze will give them places to hang out, and seedheads from flowers will provide treats for hungry chickadees and finches.

Check out Leave the Leaves to Benefit Wildlife from the Xerces Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving invertebrate species like pollinators and other bugs, to learn more about the importance of fall leaves and plants to healthy ecosystems.

Alternatives

If you know your neighborhood homeowners’ association will go bonkers at the thought of an unmaintained wild area, there are still ways to be kind to bugs and other wildlife as they prepare for the long winter.

“Leaving the leaves doesn’t mean sacrificing your yard to the wilderness,” according to the Xerces Society’s winter habitat webpage.

Tidy your yard, but maintain habitat and leaf litter by raking leaves around the bases of trees and bushes. Stone or branch edging will help keep them in place even when the wind blows.

You can also choose plants with ornamental value that you won’t need to cut down until spring. Leave them in the ground or place them in pots so they can be moved somewhere undisturbed through winter, like behind a shed.

Bee balm, butterfly weed and coneflowers are picks that pollinators and songbirds will love. It’s safe to clean stems up in the spring, when temperatures are consistently warm and new greenery has begun to reach upward out of the mulch and leaf litter.

If anyone asks why you’re putting the rake away this fall and letting nature’s colors decorate your yard, let them know that you’re promoting littering – the good kind!

Check out previous Showcasing the DNR stories at Michigan.gov/DNRStories. To subscribe to upcoming Showcasing articles, sign up for free email delivery at Michigan.gov/DNREmail.

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Salamanders, toads and frogs burrow under leaves and into the moist ground to hide and ride out the winter.

Happenings

day numerous art demonstrations will be taking place – sculpture, painting, sewing, ink drawing, pastels, knitting, and more. The public will see these mediums and ceramics, photography, book signings, acrylics, acrylic pours, dress designers, jewelry, watercolors, and wood crafts. Visitors can discuss artwork with the artists and crafters while they are working. There will also be information on local art classes and art organizations. Door prizes. The sale is still open for artists and crafters. Each one is given a free table. To apply, visit creativeartsociety.org

Discount Annual Vehicle Passes

Huron-Clinton Metroparks 2023 annual vehicle passes are on sale now at a discount until the end of 2022. Passes are $35 or $24 for seniors 62+ until the end of the year. Beginning Jan. 1, 2023 passes will be $40 for residents ($29 for Seniors 62+) of the five counties served or $45 for non-residents ($34 for

Seniors 62+). Passes can be purchased at www.metroparks.com (look for the “Buy Annual Pass” button in the menu bar) or at any Metroparks toll booth or park office.

Take it outside Photo Contest

Sponsored by the Grosse Ile Nature and Land Conservancy. Entry deadline is Thursday, May 11, 2023 at 5 p.m. Open to high school students within Wayne, Washtenaw and Monroe Counties. We are searching for photos captured locally (within Wayne, Washtenaw and Monroe Counties) that inspire us to appreciate and steward our environment: air, water, land, wildlife, resources, and ecosystems. Categories are Dawn to Dusk; Fur and Feathers; Bark and Blooms. Total of $445 in prize money. For more information, visit see https://www.ginlc.org/photo-contest

Roosevelt swimmers go wire-to-wire to win league title

The Roosevelt girls swimming team finished first during the dusk meet portion of the 2022 season and they matched the performance at the Downriver League meet to capture the league championship.

The Bears were first in three events and finished among the top three in several others

The final score was not close as the Bears scored 582.5 points to easily outpace runner-up Allen Park, which had 467.

Ania Toboy was in on all three Roosevelt victories at the league meet. She won the 50 freestyle with a time of 26.34 seconds. She then joined up with Catherine Cost, Scotlynn Vaughn and Emily Sauve for a first-place finish in the 200 medley relay (2:00.21). The group finished seven seconds faster than the day before in the prelims.

Toboy, Sauve, Chloe Lobato and Paola Negrete took the top spot in the 200 freestyle relay (1:44.73), which was good enough for a Division 2 state

cut and set a new pool record. The group set the new pool record set the day before in the prelims (1:46.63) and then beat it by about two seconds in the finals.

Lobato, Vaughn, Negrete and Daisy Moline joined up for a secondplace finish in the 400 freestyle relay (3:56.65).

Andrea Negrete, Lydia Blonski, Tamara Hinojosa and Deyana Haugabook placed third in the 200 medley relay (2:05.94).

Paola Negrete was also second in both the 200 freestyle (2:02.53) and 500 freestyle (5:29.12). Lobato placed second in the 100 freestyle (57.91) and third in the 200 IM (2:27.41). Cost finished second in the backstroke (1:05.96). In the butterfly, Hinojosa (1:06.23) and Lucy Moline (1:08.58) finished 2-3.

The 200 free relay team of Toboy, Sauve, Lobato and Paola Negrete swam at the MHSAA Division 2 state meet at Calvin University on Nov. 18.

From Black Friday to Cyber Monday to Burgundy Tuesday

By Marohn Campena, GR Senior

As we celebrate during this season of giving and holiday cheer, Gabriel Richard Catholic High School wishes to ask for your help in raising money for our school. Thanks to the generosity of our families, friends, and alumni, Gabriel Richard has been able to provide several enhancements to the school in recent years. With donations from previous years, Gabriel Richard had been able to install air conditioners in all of its classrooms, renovate the chemistry lab, and create a weight room for all students and staff to use, as well as install a brand new athletic track. As we approach Tuesday, November 29, the National Day of Giving, Gabriel Richard is asking for your help in donating to the advancement of technology and school safety. Gabriel Richard has started the “Road to Burgundy Tuesday” campaign having raised over $22,000 less than 36 hours after launching said campaign. The school’s goal is to raise $50,000 by the conclusion of Giving (Burgundy) Tuesday. Any and all donations are tremendously appreciated. On behalf of the school and student body we thank all of our generous donors who have and continue to contribute to what is the best college-prep education downriver in a safe and faith-filled environment. If you would like to donate to Gabriel Richard this Giving Tuesday, you can visit www. gabrielrichard.org and click “Donate Now.” Gabriel Richard wishes

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Lending a helping hand

Community service projects help bring Gabriel Richard football team closer

DAVE GORGON

Community service activities off the football field have led to success on the field at Gabriel Richard High School.

Senior captain Nic DiSanto – a 6-foot-5, 305-pound two-way lineman – said positive projects throughout the school year have not only made a difference in the community, they have brought the players closer and have even been good for the Gabriel Richard “brand.”

“The reason we’re in the playoffs in week 11 is the we did service projects and built a bond with each other,” said DiSanto, who has begun fielding Division 1 college scholarship offers.

The Wyandotte resident said the culture change at GR began with the

hiring of Coach Dionte Allen, who excelled at Orchard Lake St. Mary before playing three years at Florida State University and serving as a captain at Ohio State University.

From 2007 to 2011, Allen participated in five national bowl competitions. He played and worked with some of the top coaches in the nation, including Bobby Bowden, Mickey Andrews, Terrell Buckley, Jimbo Fisher, Mark Stoops, Jim Tressel, Luke Fickell and Mike Vrabel.

He also helped found and coordinated the American Football Academy in Shanghai China. He developed and implemented training programs, youth programs and

Team 55 volunteered at the Ride for Autism event in Brownstown. From left: Coach Dionte Allen, Nicholas DiSanto, Nicholas Sobush, Tylor Morehouse, Charles Carey, Mark Pruneau, Antonio Sobush, Jaxon Snyder, Derek Lesko, Dalton Donaldson.

(From left): Team 55’s Mark Pruneau, Nicholas Clifton, Joseph Sawicki, Lenny Fritz and Coach Dionte Allen planted vegetables in a raised garden at the Downriver for Veterans Activity Center.

HELPING

Continued from page 22

recruiting opportunities for players.

Most recently, Allen returned to St. Mary to coach varsity defensive backs and wide receivers and served as junior varsity head coach. He also served as the school’s assistant dean of students, assistant dormitory director and director of student relations.

So when Allen talked about the importance of community service, faith and knowledge, his players listened. DiSanto said players came together for summer workouts, playing video games and special organized efforts in the community – “anything.”

A number of community service projects have stood out: Players came together to plant a garden of flowers and vegetables at the headquarters of Downriver for Veterans. They helped clean up the property of an elderly senior citizen. They helped clean up a cemetery over Labor Day weekend. They distributed food for the needy at a United Auto Workers office. And they helped with “trunk or treating” during an event for autistic children in Brownstown Township.

Coach Allen “has done a phenomenal job of implementing his vision and getting the kids on

board for that,” said DiSanto’s mother Elizabeth, a team parent and judge in the 27th District Court in Wyandotte. “It’s phenomenal. It gives kids an opportunity to do some things they might otherwise not be doing. It’s service outside of school. It gets the football team out in the community. The energy this has created has been fantastic at the school.”

When Allen was hired at Gabriel Richard, Athletic Director Kris Daiek praised “his ability to develop and relate to players at all levels.”

Allen wasted no time working with his players, starting in the spring. He spoke from experience about the importance of community service, which for him ranged from visiting hospitalized cancer patients when he played at Ohio State to distributing food and helping with health care and clean water during his mission trips to Shanghai.

“It’s been part of my life as well,” said the coach, who regularly volunteers at food kitchens. “For me, I just don’t want community service during the football season. I want it to be something they do all the time. If people need help, let’s help them.”

Fran Gosen, who grew up in Riverview and is director of alumni relations at Gabriel Richard, said the community service effort has been impressive.

“It’s gratifying to see the emphasis on citizenship this year,” she said. “We promote so much the hard

work on the field and diligence and teamwork, but I think it’s so important to see an emphasis on good citizens… The team isn’t doing this looking for recognition. It’s about developing young men and giving back to the community.”

Gosen said the school requires a minimum of 40 hours of community service before they graduate.

“Most students will graduate with well above that, but this is something independent of that,” she said. “Coach Allen, the families and the teams all think it’s important.

Nic DiSanto said such projects are important to members of the Roman Catholic faith as well.

“As Catholics, we should always do the right thing,” he said. “We should always help one another and serve under God.”

He noted that as people follow the team on social media, they may have read about the good deeds and the effort could have led to higher attendance at home games.

Coach Allen said there will be more community service efforts soon, perhaps as early as Thanksgiving and Christmas.

“I’m proud of these young men,” said Allen, whose days of volunteering also go back to high school. “I believe you can be young and lead… You don’t have to be old to lead.”

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Pops, a 91-year-old World War II veteran is flanked by members of Team 55.