Wyandotte Warrior, February 23 – March 23

Without food from the Waynewright Community Meals at the First Congregational United Church of Christ, Vincent said he would not know where he would get his next meal.

Vincent hasn’t been the same since his mother died. He is “an actor, a student and kind of homeless right now.” On this Wednesday, he is first in line when the “Wyandotte Soup Kitchen” opens to serve hot meals to dozens at the church at 98 Superior Road.

“I’m thankful to God that a church gives out this stuff,” said Vincent, an Air Force veteran in his 40s. “It’s one of the only bright spots in my life right

DAVE GORGON

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Will Closing My Credit Card Account Lower My Score?

By Robert P. LaPalme President/CEO of Downriver Community Federal Credit Union

Whether or not your score will go down as a result of closing a credit card account is an important question that you need to consider when you’re paying off debt and working to improve your credit score. It is important because your credit score is a common method used by financial institutions during the loan approval process to evaluate your expected future performance and to determine the interest rate that you will pay on such loan.

Generally speaking, when we refer to a consumer’s credit score, we are referring to their FICO® Score, so named because it was developed by the data analytics company Fair Isaac Corporation.

As with most things relating to your credit, there is no “one-size-fits-all” answer to the question addressed by this article. In fact, despite the myriad of companies, individuals, and credit gurus claiming otherwise, only Fair Isaac knows the true algorithmic formula used in their closely-guarded, proprietary analytic models.

What we do know, however, is that there are two factors which are given an enormous amount of weight when calculating your score: (1) the timeliness of your payments, and (2) the percent of outstanding balances you owe in relation to your total credit limits. This

latter ratio of balances-to-limits is sometimes called your “percent of revolving debt utilization”.

Since closing a credit card eliminates your “limit”, you may inadvertently reduce your score by increasing the ratio of balances owed to remaining open credit limits.

For example: a person who owes $1,000 against total credit limits of $5,000, has a revolving utilization of 20%, and still has 80% of their remaining credit lines available to them. If that person closed half of their open credit limits, but still owed the $1,000, they have increased their utilization to 40%, and decreased the remaining credit available. In very general terms, this action is likely to be detrimental to their score, since the algorithm prefers to see less balances owed on higher open limits.

Although many consumers intuitively believe that having less available credit is good, we show in our example that oftentimes the measurements considered in score analytics are complex and the results may not be what they expected. Each person’s situation must be analyzed carefully to determine the best course of action necessary to enhance their score results, and many personal finance companies provide free access to insightful tactics that can help consumers improve their scores over time, resulting in more affordable rates and terms on financial instruments.

At Downriver Community FCU, we’re committed to providing simple access to resources that help you

accomplish great things, and helping people improve their credit is one of the service benefits we provide! Not only will one of our Member Service Representatives sit down with you to review your current credit situation, but we’ll also set you up with Credit Sense, a valuable feature of our Online and Mobile Banking that helps you monitor, access, and improve your credit.

If you’d like to receive a free credit review designed to help you improve your score, please give one of our Member Services Representatives a call at 313-3862200, Option 4.

Downriver Community Federal Credit Union is a full-service financial institution founded in 1942 and is owned and controlled by over 13,000 members with three office locations, including Ecorse, Southgate, and Woodhaven. Services are available to anyone who lives, works, worships or attends school in Wayne or Monroe Counties. Businesses or other legal entities located in these counties can maintain accounts at the credit union, as well. Once a prime share account is opened with a minimum deposit of $5.00, the member may enjoy all of the Credit Union´s services, including accounts, lending services, and workshops.

For more information about joining the Credit Union, please contact a Member Services Representative at (313) 386-2200 or visit www.DownriverCU.com.

SOUP

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Wyandotte resident Sarah Pettigrew and her “amazing network of volunteers” have been providing meals for “guests” for more than 16 years. They arrive early to the fellowship hall, get ready for the day, serve the visitors and stay after to clean up. Some of the same volunteers will be joined by others a few days later to do it all over again.

“For me, it was important to be called ‘community meals’ from the beginning,” Pettigrew said. “Our philosophy is ‘everyone is welcome.’ If you’re just passing through or someone who is lonely or a senior citizen with limited income or someone with special needs, you’re invited to be our guest.

“A lot are struggling, whether with poverty or homelessness or the working poor. We see people struggling with mental health issues, drugs and abuse. We may see them one time and then never again. We also have regulars and people who only visit when their resources dry up.”

On a normal Wednesday or Saturday, guests line up outside the church between noon and 1 p.m. to receive a hot meal, complete with a main entrée, side dishes, vegetable, dessert and bread or salad – all served in a restaurantsize to-go box. They also receive a sack lunch for later, along with nonperishable food items, hygiene items and more, depending on the donations the soup kitchen has received.

As long as you’re in line by 1 p.m., you’ll be served, Pettigrew said. There are no papers to fill out; no identification or proof of income or proof of residency to show.

Prior to the COVID-19 global pandemic, guests were invited into the church hall and served at tables. Volunteers continued serving during the pandemic, but the process was changed to a carryout meal. Now, visitors line up on a ramp leading to the hall. A warm volunteer greets them at the door wearing a mask starting at noon.

Pettigrew knows most of the guests by name. Many of them seem to have a story to tell. A local woman with baking skills talks about a cake she recently baked. Pat, a retired DTE worker, picks up meals and delivers them to others, calling it his “good deed for the day.”

“My gramma always said, ‘what are we here on earth for if not to help one another?’” said Susan Medley,

Pettigrew’s mother and the cook who created the day’s homemade spaghetti sauce. “I have tried to pass that on to my children and grandchildren.”

As the Allen Park woman works over the hot stove in the kitchen, other volunteers from the Downriver area are nearby, working in assembly-line style to create sandwiches and combine them with a fruit, snack and drink in a sack lunch to go. They also gather donated goods so Pettigrew can take handfuls at a time to the arriving guests outside.

The visitors have battled chilly winter temperatures and strong winds to get there, many by foot, others by bus. They are allowed to take what they can use –what they need.

“What makes it very special and unique is that Sarah has a relationship with so many of the people that come to the soup kitchen and their families,” said Sakura Keast, a Wyandotte resident who volunteers. “She can go above and beyond when people need food, whether it is a resource or a jacket or something she remembers has been donated, like pajamas for kids. She’s very good at connecting people with things they need.”

Grosse Ile resident Liz Carter brings her own group of volunteers to the church on one Saturday a month. Over the years, some 150 different volunteers of all ages have accompanied her to feel the joy of feeding those who need

it most.

They bring everything to create a “hot meal to go” for an estimated 75 people. The needs include paper goods, plasticware, side dishes, juice boxes and more. Last month, they made sloppy joes and homemade macaroni and cheese, mixed vegetables and cookies for dessert.

“It’s one of my favorite things to do,” Carter said. “I’m grateful God brought Sarah into my life… Every month, I’m always blown away by God’s provisions for whatever is needed… It’s beautiful to see it come together: the ability to serve the community. With the way the economy is, there’s lots of people who need the help just to get by. They are grateful.”

Carter and Keast raved about the Christmas party that the organization hosts each year. They helped collect upwards of 125 gift cards to distribute along with toys for children and gifts for adults.

“This year, all of the toys were donated by people from the community,” Carter said. There were hygiene items, stockings, and a basket of non-perishable items. Someone knitted and crocheted winter gear.”

An estimated 400 to 500 individuals are helped through Christmas events at the church. Carter called it “a huge endeavor.”

Pettigrew said she was volunteering

at a soup kitchen in Detroit when a minister, Father Jerry Brohl, asked her to help start a similar venture Downriver. The place is named “Waynewright” by combining the first name of the Rev. Wayne McKenney, pastor of the church for 28 years, and a “wainwright,” a tradesman that made wheels for carts and wagons.

The minister suggested Pettigrew get the soup kitchen up and running, stay a year and hand it off to someone else, although that wasn’t her intention. Pettigrew and a host of volunteers, friends and even family members have been there ever since.

“Kindness is free,” said volunteer Renae Affholter of Wyandotte. “We are blessed.”

No one gets paid for his or her efforts, but the reward is huge.

“My favorite thing about it is watching people’s generosity and graciousness come together every month and every week,” Liz Carter said. “It’s quite the amazing family.”

Volunteers are always needed. Donations are always accepted. For more information, email Sarah Pettigrew at teampettigrew24@gmail. com and follow the Waynewright Community Meals Facebook page.

“Everything we have is due to the generosity of our volunteers and community members,” Pettigrew said. “We couldn’t do it without them.”

Susan Medley (left) of Allen Park, Billy Medley of Wyandotte, Pat Roberson of Trenton, Sarah Pettigrew of Wyandotte, Renae Affholter of Wyandotte and Debi Mitsch of Wyandotte at the kitchen recently.

Photo by Dave Gorgon

City clubs team up for Chili Cook-off competition

At the end of this month, several of Wyandotte’s private clubs will go head-to-head in a chili competition. The competition will be judged by local elected officials and community leaders, and a people’s choice winner will also be selected by a vote of attendees.

Participating clubs include American Legion 217 Auxiliary Unit, Fraternal Order of Police #111 (FOP), Knights of Columbus Wyandotte Council, Polish Roman Catholic Union Society #162 (PRCU), Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1136 (VFW) and the Wyandotte Boat Club.

The Wyandotte Police and Fire Departments will also be represented in the event.

Individual clubs held their competitions throughout the fall and winter and will send their top two competitors to the citywide.

The event will be held Sunday, February 27th at 3pm at P.R.C.U. Hall (1430 Oak St., Wyandotte, MI 48192). In addition to sampling

the competition chili for a $5 spoon fee, the event will feature raffles with top prizes including a 6-burner gas grill and 65” smart TV. There will also be to-go food options available.

This is the first City Club Chili Cookoff, but club presidents are already expressing their hope that it will become an annual event – and that the collaboration will continue beyond chili.

“The City Club Chili Cookoff is an example of all these groups working together for a great cause,” said Stan Pasko, president of PRCU #162. “Working with leaders from all the clubs has been a great experience. We hope this will be the first of many events where this group can come together to do good things for Wyandotte.”

Brian Martin, Commander of VFW 1136, echoed Mr. Pasko’s sentiment.

“It is the common goal of the non-profit organizations in Wyandotte to show the community

that we operate as more than just social clubs. Although we are definitely that, we are so much more. We have all had to reinvent ourselves a bit due to COVID, both financially and with the lack of steady membership. We hope that by working together as a team, we will have a further reach into our community.”

He added, “Personally at the VFW, our goal is to reach and assist other veterans in our community obtaining benefits and receiving VA care for injuries both physical and mental.”

“It’s been incredible to see this event come together,” said Kelly Stec, a spokesperson for the event. “Everyone came ready to work and to bring their best to the table. After months of planning, we’re all excited to welcome community members, serve them some chili, and see who wins the top prizes… but no matter which club takes home the trophy, we all come out knowing we’re stronger when we work together.”

Oddfellow Concert Hall announces next shows

The not-for-profit Oddfellow Concert Hall’s debut show on Jan. 28 was a success and the hall is set to open the stage to more local talent.

The next show is Feb. 25 and the four bands hitting the stage that night will be Slowfoot, Haskins, Midnight Proof and Bourbon Squirrel.

The Odd Fellow Concert Lounge, which is backed by the Downriver Council for the Arts and the charity “Be Well My Friends, is a very cool and unique room in Wyandotte. The venue is a non-profit venture where all the bar sales go to Be Well My Friends and the cover goes to the bands.

It is also a venue to promote local

musical talent.

The march show has also already been finalized and on March 25 In Our Wake, V*A*S*E, Pound Town Prophet and Forge the Sun will perform.

The Odd Fellow Concert Lounge inside The Downriver Council for the Arts building located at 81 Chestnut in Wyandotte.

Tickets are $10 at the door and the venue accepts cash, credit and venmo.

Promoters are still booking shows for through 2023, so if your band is interested in playing this new and unique venue visit the Oddfellow Concert Hall Facebook page and send them a message.

American Legion looking for program participants

Downriver students who are finishing their junior year of high school are being recruited to participate in the Michigan American Legion Auxiliary Girls State and the American Legion Boys State programs that are scheduled for June 18-24, 2023.

Girls State will be held on the campus of Michigan State University; Boys State will be held at Grand Valley State University. Annually, more than 20,000 high school students across the country participate in the programs.

Students, known as “citizens,” participate in a week-long summertime citizenship and leadership program. They receive guidance from trained instructors who give them the tools they need to run their own model state.

The activity is born out of a need for youth training in practical citizenship and leadership in addition to instilling a working knowledge of the structure and operation of government.

ALA Girls State and AL Boys State citizens campaign, hold rallies, debate and ultimately vote to elect their city, county and state officials. Once elected to office, delegates are sworn in and perform their prescribed duties. Attendees not elected to office are given appointments and visit the offices of those elected to share their viewpoints as citizens.

Thousands of dollars are given in the form of scholarships.

Famous alumni include astronaut Neil Armstrong, President Bill Clinton. Michigan U.S. Senators

Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters, TV journalists

Tom Brokaw and Jane Pauley, basketball legend Michael Jordan, football coaching legend Nick Saban, Superintendent of the U.S. Air Force Academy Lt. General Michele Johnson and thousands of “America’s best and brightest.”

Wyandotte resident Beryl Robbins is the Michigan state chairwoman of the ALA Girls State program. She said she recently received an email from 1950 ALA Girls State alumni Patricia Lee Gauch, who said, “Attending ALA Girls State was a life-changer for me. I suddenly had a different idea of myself and my responsibilities to the nation and the world at-large. I stood taller, took leadership, became fearless in the possibilities I then recognized. I went on to assume major leadership roles at Miami University, which I attended as an undergraduate, and became a publisher, editor and author of children’s books, producing winning books for 25 years.

“For the first time, I met young women from every culture, every economic level, every race. It was thrilling for me and it gave me an image of myself that was new. I wanted to be the young woman ALA Girls State told me I could be. It has all kinds of ramification as I went the following year in college, eventually becoming the first woman editor of the Miami University Newspaper.”

The primary sponsoring organization is the American Legion Family, although other

organizations such as the Kiwanis, Lions Club, Exchange Clubs, private businesses and relatives of students have supported the program in the past, Robbins said. Robbins is a member of the Trenton American Legion Auxiliary Unit 426, where she serves as auxiliary president and chairwoman of Girls State and Membership. She also serves on the executive board of the 16th District group of legion auxiliaries, which serve the Downriver Area.

Robbins said the cost to sponsor one student is $400, a small investment in the future. She said the students leave ALA Michigan Girls State and AL Boys State with the knowledge and desire to get involved in their communities and continue to work hard to achieve.

She said some of the girls and boys come right out of the program and get involved in politics, “if they’re not already.”

Anyone interested in attending or sponsoring a student to ALA Girls State should call Beryl Robbins at (313) 318-6845 or send email to berylrobbins1980@gmail.com. Delegate applications and sponsor reservation forms are available at www.michalaux.org (click on Girls State).

Those interested in AL Boys State can contact Director Garrett Veihl at (616) 502-8190 or eggman1483@gmail.com. For additional information or forms, visit michiganleagion.org.

There she goes!

The former Riverside Osteopathic Hospital, which has stood vacant and decaying for more than two decades, has finally reached the end of the line. Earlier this month, demolition crews started work at the site of the former bustling medical center.

The cost of the demolition is around $3 million and most of the bill is being footed by the current property owner, Dr. Iqbal Nasir, although some funding will come from the recently passed American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) via Wayne County.

Because the property is privately owned, city officials said they are unsure about future uses for the

Catholic Schools Week is Around the Corner

By Lily Paschke, GR Senior

For many schools, the month of February symbolizes a slow in-between month, a month that drags between the return to school and the start of spring break, but not here at Gabriel Richard. For GR girls’ and boys’ basketball, bowling, hockey, dance, and wrestling, their seasons are in full swing. Also coming up the month is the “From Screen to Stage Concert” from the Gabriel Richard Glee club. Directed by Mrs. Brittney Dimmit, GR’s new music teacher, the concert will feature hits from famous musicals seen both on stage and on screen. Featured in this concert will include both members of the Glee club and featured members from the Thespian Guild. The concert will be held on the 24th of February at 6 pm in the Gabriel Richard cafetorium. The program will last about an hour and be filled with nostalgia for a younger day as well as fun memories for the whole family. We hope that you will join us to experience the premiere performance of a concert directed by Mrs. Dimmitt and help to support this talented group of performers through their winter concert.

desirable site located on the Trenton Channel waterfront.

The hospital was the first osteopathic hospital in the Downriver area and opened in 1944. It was originally licensed for only 30 beds but grew over time. In 1967, the hospital served nearly 7,000 patients and witnessed nearly 1,400 births.

The building, located at Truax Street and West Jefferson Avenue, served its last patient over two decades ago, closing in 2002. The demolition project is set to be complete by May after an agreement was made between the city and the site owner in 2021.

Independent businesses are still compelling

One of the topics I zero in on in these writings is the experiences I’ve had in towns that have either somehow never lost it, or have recaptured the cachet that was lost during the 1970s, 80s, 90s and on into the 2000s.

I don’t like to tell you about towns that are either firmly dead or not yet recovered and vibrant. I like to relate things that energize me because these places are already energized, and exuding the stuff. Not so much from these columns, but other writings of mine have elicited challenges such as “How can you be so anti-business when you yourself are a businessman?”

These challenges are rarely, if ever, intellectual in nature, but aggressive, and pushing back hard against what I refer to. I’m never against business; I’m against business that is designed to take all the independent business, and all the money that was generated locally.

I happen to have a compelling argument in plain view now that was less compelling 10 years ago: Downtown Wyandotte.

Less developed but magnetic as well is Trenton, though many are slow to see what is happening and draw a favorable conclusion (slow down and focus on all the newness along Jefferson!)

These two towns were built in the 1800s, and as such, both were anchored by downtowns that were built to provide a concentration of commercial goods and services for sale.

In our Downriver area, I am hard pressed to include any other cities but Ecorse and River Rouge that were established on the same model.

Such concentrations exist all over the place, with names like Milford, Plymouth, Brighton and Chelsea. Every single one of these places are excellent illustrators of the power of capitalism, providing entrepreneurs an opportunity to invest in the towns in which they live.

Every single bit of newness in those towns

(including Trenton and Wyandotte) has been funded by local, independent entrepreneurs that see opportunity in their neck of the woods.

Once a single operator hangs up a shingle, the groundwork is laid for additional businesses to follow suit, and in successful examples, what follows is a bustling energetic concentration of businesses in those towns, largely in the very locations that the original businesses occupied.

A perfect example of that “lone ranger” phenomenon is Corktown on Michigan Avenue in Detroit.

It didn’t happen overnight, but what happened with geometric increases in growth rate began with Slows Barbecue. Now, if Slow’s had offered up mediocre or worse food, the story would most likely have ended with that one investment risk.

But Slows was anything but mediocre. They quickly built a cult-like following that served as a beacon to be noticed. Together with stalwart Detroit anchors like Nemo’s, a pulse was built. If you haven’t been, drive down there. It’s amazing, and begs for exploration. All because a local and independent restaurateur made an emphatic statement of belief in their own ability and the area in which they chose to establish themselves.

To be sure, Ford’s investment in the Detroit train terminal building has had a massive impact on the viability of the area, but the odds of Ford making that investment shrink to nothing if not for that one initial investment.

I don’t know who the investors are in all the condominium and apartment buildings that are everywhere down there. I like to hope that they too are local, but I am jaded. So far, all the retail and food is local, though.

Here in Wyandotte, I see no indication that big capitalism has us on their radar screen. That means that all the growth and improvement that is obvious has come from local people with a vision and

passion that are willing to risk it all.

The growth is still in full swing, but the investment already is astounding. A lot of local money has been parked in Wyandotte, which is generating more business being done in Wyandotte.

New restaurants, apartments, bars, retail (and now, a new, serious venue for live music and entertainment), all being created in a city that has hung in there over the decades, but that was largely up and down until this explosion of growth.

Again, watch Trenton; opportunity is there as well.

I love regarding these investments as retributive justice for all the damage done to the likes of Wyandotte over the decades.

There is a case to be made for that point.

Corporations created a staggering amount of retail and restaurant square footage in and around cities across the country, and the impact was game changing. As you’ve read, the list of lost local apparel and other retailers in our region is amazing.

When coupled with the truth that about three times more money stays local with purchases made at locally owned and independent businesses…

Do the math and consider what that assault meant. It means that big capitalism has siphoned off billions of dollars from owners that were once much more the beneficiaries. That money has left Michigan and has enriched the few nearer the top of the food chain.

So every glimmer and very bright spotlight of localism fighting back to a position of being able to provide something that can’t be provided by big is a huge win for all of us, folks. If you’re a localist, chances are I know you! For those of you that don’t think of such things. Try on these words for the fit of truth, see if you agree.

As I wrote this column, next month’s column nearly wrote itself. See you in March!

PETER ROSE

In our Downriver area, I am hard pressed to include any other cities but Ecorse and River Rouge that were established on the same model.

Sacred Heart Knights of Columbus • Grosse Ile

“Home of Downriver’s Famous Fish Fries”

Fridays during Lent: Feb 24, 2023 - Apr 7, 2023, 4:00 - 7:30 PM

DINNERS $12.95 - 17.95

Cod, Lake Perch, Shrimp & Walleye Dinners include Baked Potato or French Fries, Cole Slaw, Dinner Roll Extra Sides Sold Separately: French Fries, Pierogies, Jumbo Shrimp, Baked Potato

Ho

Sacred Heart Parish • 21599 Parke Lane able

House-Made Soups (Varies Weekly) • Gluten-Free Items Available

Children’s Dinner Menu:

Cheese Pizza (2 Slices), Macaroni & Cheese, Pizza Slice with Mac & Cheese

Credit/Debit Cards Accepted • LIVE MUSIC

CARRY-OUT AVAILABLE: 4:00 PM - 7:30 PM

See Complete Weekly Menu on Facebook and Website

Facebook: Sacred Heart Knights of Columbus Fish Fries • Website: kofcgi.com

our Trenton residents, as it has been since 1988.

BEST OF DETROIT

with The Detroit Free Press TOP

BUSINESS FOR

• Best Fine Dining

• Best Romantic Dining

• Best New Restaurant

• Best Dining Experience

If you are looking for a place to have a great meal in a fun, interesting and unusual place, The Vault Restaurant is for you.

Located in Downtown Wyandotte on the corner of First and Maple streets, the fine-dining eatery is housed in the historic building that once housed the National Bank of Wyandotte, hence the name, The Vault.

The Teller’s Room

Book your next party in The Vault’s private banquet room. Up to 20 people

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

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

Monday through Thursday 11:30am to 9:00pm

Friday and Saturday 11:30am to 10:00pm Closed on Sundays.

Stoney Island is prime Great Blue Heron habitat

JOHN HARTIG

Have you ever gone for a peaceful walk along a creek or lake and been spooked by the sound of what you think is a pterodactyl?

It can be quite unsettling to hear the unexpected frahnk-frahnk of a startled great blue heron who just had its fishing expedition disrupted.

The great blue heron can be found throughout much of North America and into Central and South America as well. In Michigan, the great blue heron is classified as a common permanent resident of a variety of wetland habitat types. It occurs scattered throughout most of Michigan but is much more likely to be encountered in the southern half of the state or in the Upper Peninsula. They are a common sight along the Detroit River.

They are often seen standing silently along rivers or lakeshores, or flying high overhead, with slow wingbeats, their neck curved in a tight “S”, head hunched back against their body, and their legs trailing well beyond their tail.

The great blue heron is the largest heron in North America, standing about 3.5-4.5 feet tall. They have a wingspan of nearly seven feet and weigh about eight pounds.

It gets its name primarily from its blue-gray plumage. It has a wide black stripe over its eye giving its face a black-and-white appearance. The tops of its wings are two-toned, pale on the forewing with darker flight feathers.

Gregarious great blues congregate together in a few to several hundred colonies and build what can be described by some as bird condos. Ornithologists call these breeding places or colonies rookeries. Great blues congregate in numbers to help ensure safety.

Nest building starts in early spring as part of the birds’ courtship ritual.

Males bring choice sticks to the females, who then weave the wood into a bowl. The female lays 2-6 pale blue eggs, then both parents incubate them for about four weeks until the young hatch. The parents bring food to the young at the nest for two months before the young can fly and fledge or leave their nest.

Great blue heron rookeries are somewhat rare but are visible from long distances due to the clumps of nests and the constant comings and goings of adult herons. In the Detroit River, there is an excellent example on Stony Island located in Grosse Ile Township.

“Stony Island’s wetland and upland habitats support the Detroit River’s largest great blue heron rookery with over 140 active nests,” said Joe Robison, southeast region supervisor of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division.

In 2018, the Friends of the Detroit River, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, and other partners completed an $8 million habitat restoration project on

SEE HERON, Page 16

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Stony Island. This project included building 3,650 feet of rock shoal to protect this 52-acre uninhabited island and surrounding wetlands from erosion.

These enhancements and island protection measures provide spawning and nursery ground habitat for fishes and critical habitats for other species like turtles and snakes. Great blues benefit too from these coastal wetland protection measures because these nurseries of life provide essential food for these long-legged, long-necked, coastal birds.

Great blue heron rookeries, such as on Stony Island, also provide exceptional outdoor recreational opportunities for birders and kayakers. It is such a rare and aweinspiring sight for a kayaker to get up close and personal with a great blue

heron rookery.

“Stony Island is one of my favorite places to kayak,” said Paul Gloor of Grosse Ile Nature and Land Conservancy. “In the spring, before the leaves fill the trees, one can see the juvenile heron in their huge nests in the cottonwood trees. Their combined croaks sometimes fall into a pulsing rhythm that reminds me of a freight train. It never ceases to amaze and inspire a sense of wonder.”

So, if you want to be treated to seeing this great blue heron rookery, put it on your kayak trip bucket list for next spring or summer. There is an excellent kayak launch at Sunrise Park on Grosse Ile. This launch is located at the eastern end of Grosse Ile Parkway at East River Road and it is only a short paddle to see the amazing great blue heron rookery of Stony Island.

Reprinted from Detroit Public TV’s Great Lakes Now publication

At the wheel is Harley Barley! This sassy senior loves car rides, waiting for the mailman from his favorite chair, 80’s songs (seriously), nap time in one of his three beds, and just being an amazing pup! Harley is a rescue dog and has friends all over Downriver both four and two legged, who he loves to meet and greet.

He is happy, healthy, headstrong, and an amazing little guy living his best life!

Rufus (the toothless cat) was rescued one year ago. Best Cat Ever! Lives with Carolynn.

Would you like to see a picture of your pet in one of our monthly community newspapers? We can make it happen. Just send a photo of your pet, along with your name and the city you live in and we will get it published. Send information to Sherry@gobigmultimedia.com and we will do the rest. Thank you and have a grrrrreat and purrrrrfect day!

Stony Island’s great blue heron rookery, Detroit River.

Photo courtesy of Steve Lutsch via Michael Rudell

CENTURY 21 Riverpointe honors award-winning agents

E. Ann Redfield, Broker/Owner of CENTURY 21 Riverpointe today announced that Jennifer Kish recently earned the CENTURY 21 President’s Centurion producer award following her 2022 sales success.

The President’s Centurion Producer award honors sales affiliates of the CENTURY 21 System that earn $320,000 in sales production or 71 closed transaction sides within a calendar year and the Quality Service Pinnacle award in the same year.

Jennifer Kish has 22 years of experience in the real estate industry and has been an independent sales affiliate of the Century 21 System for all 22 of those years.

“Jennifer is a leader and innovator in delivering powerful home buying and selling choices to her clients because she knows the community she serves,” said Redfield. “Jennifer is a lifelong resident of Grosse Ile and an avid boater who is very familiar with the waters of our island. She is a valued and trusted real estate resource not only for Grosse Ile, but for all of Downriver, Monroe and

the Metro-Detroit communities, and a major contributor to the overall success of CENTURY 21 Riverpointe.”

“Achieving President’s Centurion Producer status is a great milestone and with a continued effort and focus on my clients I hope to continue on this path of success and am looking forward to working with many new and past clients in 2023.” said Kish.

CENTURY 21 Corporate also awarded the company, as well as realtors Judy Cemer, Maria Chirco, Niki Grigg, Susie

Harrison, Jennifer Kish, Linda Ann Halford, Tom Medick, Lorie Polgar and Tim Wojtala, with the Quality Service Pinnacle Award again in 2023.

“We are so very proud of this award,” said Redfield, “because it is given based on results from the CENTURY 21 Quality Service Survey, which is e-mailed to consumers immediately after the purchase or sale of their home.

“To earn the award, realtors must receive completed surveys for at least 80 percent of their transactions and receive

a score of at least 95 percent. We want to give our clients the type of experience and service that will make our name the first name they think of when asked if they know a good Realtor. We want them to feel good about referring all of their family and friends to us for that same type of service.”

Other awards recipients at the Award Gala in Traverse City went to Judy Cemer and Niki Grigg, Platinum Award; Susie Harrison and Lorie Polgar, Silver Award; and Maria Chirco, Tom Medick and Tim Wojtala for the Bronze Award.

“The power of CENTURY 21 Riverpointe and the CENTURY 21 brand rests on the shoulders of our relentless sales professionals who always elevate and give 121 percent to their clients throughout the entire client relationship,” said Redfield. “So as we celebrate their accomplishments we understand that delivering extraordinary experiences is what homebuyers, sellers and investors deserve, and they should be demanding from their real estate company and agent of choice.”

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Wyandotte cheerleaders 3rd at league meet

The Roosevelt competitive cheerleading team went to Carlson on Feb. 8 and finished third at the Downriver League meet.

The only teams to top the Bears were 2020-23 league champ Carlson, which was Division 2 state runner-up last season – and Allen Park, which was the D2 champ a season ago.

Wyandotte was third after the opening round, third after the second round and the Bears held third position through the third round.

Carlson won the competition with 781.34 points. Allen Park had 780.78 and Wyandotte finished with 761.74. Woodhaven, Southgate, Trenton, Lincoln Park and Taylor finished up the meet scoring in order.

Roosevelt scored 229 in the first round, 223.84 in the second and 308.9 in the final round.

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The Bears and all other teams throughout the state competed in Michigan High School Athletic Association team districts on Feb. 18. The top four teams at districts advance to regionals on Feb. 25.

The Bears hosted a district tournament this season and welcomed Woodhaven, Canton, Livonia Churchill, Livonia Stevenson, Monroe, Plymouth, Saline, Taylor, Bedford, Wayne Memorial and Westland John Glenn.

The top four teams at the Wyandotte district will advance to regionals at Troy Athens High School, along with qualifiers from district at Athens and Sterling Heights Stevenson.

The top four teams from each regional qualify for the state finals March 2-3 at McGuirk Arena in the campus of Central Michigan University.

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!

Bears fall in districts; six qualify for regionals

The Belleville wrestling team, which won a battle with Roosevelt at the top of the standings at last month’s Wyandotte Invitational, returned to Wyandotte on Feb. 8 and tortured the Bears again.

This time it was the first round of team districts and the Tigers won a narrow 37-30 decision. The win boosted Belleville into the district championship round, where the Tigers beat Woodhaven 45-36 to win the title and move onto regionals.

Despite winning the first five matches against Belleville and building a 27-0 lead, Roosevelt could not hang on and the Bears scored just three points the rest of the way.

Winning for the Bears were Gabe Gibbons, Desmond King, Christian Byrne, Damian Walker, Max Buindo and Caleb Andzelik.

The Bears shook off the disappointment of the team district loss and went out at the individual district on Feb. 11 and qualified six wrestlers for regionals.

Topping the list was district champion Byrne, who won the 144-pound title with a 5-2 decision over Caleb Jagielski of Bedford in the finals. Byrne also beat Kamden Hood of Westland John Glenn and Abbas Chouab of Crestwood.

Biundo was second for Wyandotte at 157 pounds. He was pinned in the finals by Belleville’s Austin Martin. To reach the finals, Buindo beat Radwan Nassar of Crestwood and Jacob Kennedy of John Glenn.

Gibbons grabbed third-place

honors at 132 pounds, beating Vince Navarro of Ypsi Lincoln 5-0 in his final match. Along the way, Gibbons also beat Dominic Frizell of Livonia

Michael

Bedford 9-5 in the third-fourth place match. Stathakis, who started the tournament with a pinfall of Wayne’s Zachary Robinson, fell into the loser’s bracket when he was beaten 5-3 by Fordson’s Hussein Ajami. Stathakis then dominated John Glenn’s Damon Powers 7-1 to set up the final match with Manger.

Zach Tomczyk was also third for Roosevelt. The 190-pounder pinned Santiago Hernandez of Ypsi Lincoln in the third-fourth place match. The win was sweet because Hernandez had pinned Tomczyk in the first round of the tournament, sending the Roosevelt wrestler to the loser’s bracket. in the first round of the tournament. The Wyandotte sophomore also beat Mohammed Qabati of Edsel Ford and Ian Louria of Woodhaven, pinning both of them.

Roosevelt’s final regional qualifier was Steve Anderone, who was fourth at 215 pounds. Anderone scored victories over Ibrahim Chehab of Crestwood, Medhi Beydoun of Fordson and Madhi Sabbaugh of Dearborn. Anderone lost 5-1 to Belleville’s Javen Franklin in his final match.

With their efforts at districts, Bryne, Biundo, Gibbons, Stathakis, Tomczyk and Anderone each punched their tickets to the Division 1 regional tournament at Saline, which was held Feb. 18 after our press deadline.

At regionals, the top four finishers in each weight class qualify for the state meet at Ford Field March 3-4.

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Franklin and Roosevelt teammate Blake Roberts.

Stathakis finished third at 175 pounds. He beat Ethan Manger of

Photos by Dave Chapman

GET GREAT NEW GLASSES, SAVE SOME MONEY!

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

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

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

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

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

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

ìI am kind of like what the pharmacy is to your doctor,î Schmittou said. ìYour doctor writes you a prescription. He doesnít 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 ll it.î

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 specifi c 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 tting 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.

As 2022-23 winds down, Bears eye state playoffs

The Roosevelt hockey team bounced back from a mini two-game losing streak with a 6-5 win over Utica Ford Unified on Feb. 11.

The win assured the Bears of a winning regular-season record this year.

Roosevelt, 13-11 after the victory, finished the year with a Feb. 15 game against Dearborn Divine Child.

Next on Wyandotte’s radar is the start of the Michigan High School Athletic Association state playoffs.

MHSAA regionals begin Feb. 22 and the Bears will find themselves in Trenton for the first-round tournament.

Wyandotte will open the tournament with a 5 p.m. game against Adrian on Feb. 22. That game will be followed at 7:30 by the Allen Park-Bedford game.

On Feb. 22, the Allen Park-Bedford winner will take on Carlson at 5 p.m. and the Wyandotte-Adrina winner will play host Trenton at 7:30 p.m.

The regionals finals are March 1 at 7:30 p.m.

The Trenton district winner will return to Kennedy Arena for the state quarterfinals against the winner of the U-D Jesuit regional. The team at U-D are Livonia Franklin. Livonia Churchill, South Lyon, U-D and Farmington.

As he has all year, William Heskett led the way for Wyandotte in the win over Utica Ford. Heskett has had a monster year with 46 goals and 60 total points. He had two goals and three assists in the recent win.

Marcos Gonzales also had two goals and Luc Hill and Gavin Daum each had one. Hill and Daun also had threepoint nights.

The victory took away a little of the sting from back-to-back losses to Grosse Ile and state-ranked Trenton.

The Trojans beat the Bears 7-2 on Feb.8. After falling behind 3-0 in the

first period, Wyandotte scored two goals in the second period to get back into the game and the beast trailed just 4-2 at the second intermission. But Trenton did all the scoring in the third period and pulled away for the victory, its 15th of the season.

The Grosse Ile game on Feb. 4 was much closer.

Grosse Ile led 2-0 after one period, but Wyandotte scored the only goal of the second period and it was 2-1 heading into the final stanza. Grosse Ile won the scoring battle in the period 2-1 and skated away with a 4-2 victory. The win was the 17th of the season for the Red Devils.

It has been a regular season full of peaks and valleys for the Bears, who have been on all kinds of streaks, good and bad.

Prior to the losses to Grosse Ile and Trenton, Roosevelt had been on a three-game winning streak. Earlier

this year the Bears enjoyed a sevengame winning streak that included wins over Ann Arbor Pioneer, Grand Rapids Christian and Livonia Franklin.

On the other hand, the Bears have endured a four-game losing streak and three two game mini skids.

Regionals

At Kennedy Arena, Trenton

February 22

Roosevelt vs. Adrian, 5 p.m. (A)

Allen Park vs, Bedford, 7:30 (B)

February 25

Winner B vs. Carlson, 5

Winner A vs, Trenton, 7:30

March 1

Regional final, 7:30

Photo by Emily Caruso

NEWS FROM OUR NEIGHBORS

Go to... GoBigMultimedia.com to read more news on our digital publications.

The Grosse Ile Recreation Department manages a number of Township facilities including the Water’s Edge Pool, Golf Course, and Centennial Farm. The following are significant dates associated with these facilities:

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Grosse Ile Recreation: Much planned for spring and summer

~ Mother & Son Bowling night - Friday, February, 24, 2023 from 6:30-8 p.m. Annual

~ Easter Event - Saturday, April 8, 2023 at 10 a.m. at Centennial Farm

~ 1st/2nd grade basketball Program - April 12May 3 from 7:10-8 p.m. at Parke Lane

~ Sign Language class for grades 3-5 - April 19May 24 from 3:15-4 p.m. at Meridian School

~ St. Patrick’s Day Luncheon - March 15 at 12:30 p.m.

~ Back by popular demand will be the annual Cinco de Mayo Senior Party- Details to follow at a later date.

~ Summer 2023 - Evening pool movies events and Christmas in July (currently being planned/details to follow).

~ Let’s not forget...ISLANDFEST, June 2, 3, 4.

The Recreation Department offers numerous fitness classes currently ongoing and include the following:

~ Open Table Tennis -M-W-F from 3:30-5:30 p.m.

~ Island Walkers- M-F 6:45-7:45 a.m.

~ Jazzercise- M-W-F- 8:15-9:15 a.m.

Grosse Ile Recreation offers numerous senior events including the following:

~ Senior Chair Yoga

~ Full Body Fit

~ Flow Yoga

~ Cardio Drumming

~ Senior Citizens Club meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month at 1 p.m. at Centennial Farm, come join the Club!

Punch cards are now available for fitness classes for those that wish to participate in more than one of these events.

Grosse Ile Recreation offers Senior Transportation Services as well! Eligible individuals can call 734216- 4905 if you need a ride to the grocery, hair or doctors’ appointments. Rates are $5/round trip on island, $6/round trip off island.

~ January 1, 2023- Summer boat slip rental requests starting being accepted

~ June 15th -Water’s Edge Pool Opens (a Last Day of School pool party is currently being planned)

Early Spring- Water’s Edge Golf Course opens (Carts will be available starting April 24th)

~ June 22nd - 1st Water’s Edge Summer Concert Events (continues on Thursday nights throughout the summer)

~ All summer long- Centennial Farm Recreation Building rentals are available for your special event

On page 7

gobigmultimedia.com/riverview-register

UpcomingEventsatYOURRiverviewLibrary

Saturday,February11@12≠1:30p.m. Drop≠InCrafturday:Beads,Beads,Beads! Stopinthecommunityroomtomakea bracelet,necklaceorkeychainwithbeads ofalldifferentsizes,shapesandcolors. Allageswelcome.Noregistrationrequired.

Wednesday,February15@11a.m. EarlyLiteracyStorytime Joinusforsongs,stories&games! Bestsuitedfor childrenages2≠5.RegistrationbeginsFebruary1. RegistrationrequiredbyFebruary13.

Monday,February20 ClosedinObservanceofPresidents'Day

Tuesday,February21@12p.m. AfternoonBookClub Readerswillbediscussing TheMaidbyNitaProse. CopiesofClubbookscanbe checkedoutfromthecirculation desk.18+welcome. No registrationrequired.

Wednesday,February22@11a.m. EarlyLiteracyStorytime Joinusforsongs,stories&games! Bestsuitedfor childrenages2≠5.RegistrationbeginsFebruary1. PleaseregisterbyFebruary20.

Thursday,February23@6≠8p.m. OpenMicNight Come&shareyourone≠of≠a≠kind writing,art,songordancewitha welcomingaudience. Participants&attendeeswillalso enjoyadelishnachobar! Ages13+.Noregistrationrequired.

RiverviewVeteransMemorialLibrary 14300SibleyRoad,Riverview,MI48193 www.riverviewpubliclibrary.com|734≠283≠1250 LikeusonFacebook!

On page 30

Wednesday,March1@11a.m. EarlyLiteracyStorytime Joinusforsongs,stories&games! Bestsuitedforchildrenages2≠5. RegistrationbeginsFebruary22. RegistrationrequiredbyFebruary27.

Monday,March6@6:30p.m. BookClub ReaderswillbediscussingRadiumGirlsby KateMoore.CopiesofClubbookscanbecheckedout fromthecirculationdesk. 18+welcome.Noregistration required.

Wednesday,March8@11a.m. EarlyLiteracyStorytime Joinusforsongs,stories&games! Bestsuitedforchildrenages2≠5.Registrationbegins February27.RegistrationrequiredbyMarch6.

Saturday,March11@12p.m. Crafturday:LeprechaunTraps Everydayitemswillbetransformed intoperfectly≠sizedtrapsthatmay justcatchaleprechaunthis St.Patrick'sDay. Allageswelcome. RegistrationbeginsFebruary28. RegistrationrequiredbyMarch9.

Wednesday,March15@11a.m. EarlyLiteracyStorytime Joinusforsongs,stories&games! Bestsuitedforchildrenages2≠5.Registrationbegins March1.RegistrationrequiredbyMarch13.

Wednesday,March15@5≠6:30p.m. BookPageEmbroidery Sewingexperiencenotrequiredtojoinusincreating adisplayablebookpageartpiece. Ages18+.RegistrationbeginsMarch1. RegistrationrequiredbyMarch13.

HoursSeptember6≠June4,2023

Monday≠Thursday,10a.m.≠7p.m. Saturday,10a.m.≠3p.m. ClosedFriday&Sunday

RCHS students visit with Rep Debbie Dingell

Students in Ms. Lince’s CP Government classes had

the honor to meet U.S. Representative Debbie

2023...

Congresswoman Dingell spoke about many important topics locally and in Washington D.C. She had a prepared speech but warned us she’d probably end scrapping it, which she did.

Students appreciated her candor, passion, and honesty. Nationally, she described the recent Speaker of the House election and the mental health crisis across the country, specifically the lack of facilities, treatment and physicians.

She talked about the debt-ceiling vote and how political parties hold our economy hostage for political showmanship, and her support for a bill to support law enforcement and defending police...

On page 5

On page 14. Available to non-residents.

Dingell at a Legislative Forum at Crystal Gardens on January 23,

gobigmultimedia.com/southgate-star

Mayor highlights positive changes and growth, projects more good government in new year

Business growth, debt reduction, advances in public safety, improvements in roads and recreation and more good government ahead were among the highlights of Southgate Mayor Joseph Kuspa’s State of the City Address on Jan. 31.

of the small, four-year, private, nonprofit university. Childers, wife Franci and sons Jake and Joel are all Concordia graduates. Childers has worked for Concordia for the past decade, including seven years as a football coach.

During his time on the football team staff, Childers has compiled an impressive resume at Concordia, which is considered a top Michigan Christian college that competes in the Wolverine Hoosier Athletic Conference.

Childers has recruited or coached dozens of NAIA scholar athletes, football All-Americans and players of the year. Southgate and the Downriver area are part of the recruitment territory of Childers and codefensive coordinator and special teams coordinator Matt Strzalkowski of Taylor

skills necessary to be a successful entrepreneur by designing, problem solving and creating a variety of products to offer to the staff at THS.

Their creations included products such as pencil holders, calming bottles, noise makers, fairy lights, pet beds, dream catchers, picture and chip holders and more. By the end of the two-day craft fair, all that was left were empty tables and full hearts from those involved...

On page 7

“As we enter the new year, I know that we are more nimble, more knowledgeable and more prepared to move this community forward in 2023,” Kuspa said during a Rotary Club of Southgate event at Crystal Gardens. “There will be challenges, but we will meet those challenges as we have in the past: with vigor, collaboration and determination.”

Looking back on 2022, the Mayor highlighted his administration’s “consistent commitment to our core beliefs and responsibilities: financial integrity, public safety, strong neighborhoods, a welcoming business environment and the continuation of our goal to rebuild our public spaces and infrastructure for this generation of Southgate residents and all those who follow.”...

On page 1

Chance Childers of Southgate coaches defensive line for Concordia University football team

... Chance Childers, who has lived in Southgate for 25 years, coaches the defensive line of the Cardinals football team. He is also one of the biggest boosters

gobigmultimedia.com/trenton-times

Arthurs robotics team makes first-year splash

In its rookie season, the Arthurs Middle School robotics team achieved more than students imagined last fall when they joined the new extracurricular activity.

Within two months, TorqueNados JV built a robot that earned the team a spot at the 2022 FIRST in Michigan Tech Challenge State Championship-SE, held in early December at Macomb Community College in Warren...

Elementary students learn principles of electricity, engineering

All Trenton students in grades one through five at both Hedke and Anderson elementary schools are assigned to an Encore class called STEAM. The term STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics. STEAM class took the place of Computers/Technology class two years ago and added to the existing focus of keyboarding, typing, computer skills and coding with a heightened emphasis on the engineering process and projects that combine other disciplines as well....

On page 8

Trenton student runner-up in Voice of Democracy essay contest

An eighth-grader at Boyd Arthurs Middle School in Trenton won $200 and a trophy during the Veterans of Foreign Wars annual Patriots Pen essaywriting competition.

Amelia Doshoian, 13, finished runner-up in the VFW Fourth District contest and was presented her awards during the annual awards banquet on January 7 at the VFW Post in Southgate.

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“They did quite well (at states), finishing 14th in their division and among the top rookie teams in the competition,” said Jennifer Griffiths, the head coach. “They have had quite a season.”...

On page 3

A special craft show at Trenton High School

What started out as an economics unit for a group of Trenton High School students ended as something that will likely become a welcomed annual tradition.

The students of the PAES classroom at Trenton High School, under the leadership of teacher Christina Grooms, embarked on an adventure that far exceeded their expectations.

The students set out to learn about some of the

The 76 th annual competition encouraged middle school students to compete for prizes by writing essays. This year’s topic was “My Pledge to Our Veterans.”...

On page 32

Mayor and Council Members

Mayor Robert A. DeSana mayor@wyandottemi.gov

Mayor Pro Tempore Kelly M. Stec

kstec@wyandottemi.gov

Council Todd Hanna thanna@wyandottemi.gov

Council Rosemary Shuryan rshuryan@wyandottemi.gov

Council Chris Calvin ccalvin@wyandottemi.gov

Council Robert Alderman ralderman@wyandottemi.gov

Council Kaylyn Crayne kcrayne@wyandottemi.gov

27th District Court Chief District Judge, The Honorable Elizabeth L. DiSanto

Phone: 734-324-4475

Email: 27DC@wyandottemi.gov

Animal Control Department

Phone: 734-246-1328

Assessor

Ted Galeski, City Assessor

Phone: 734-324-4510

Email: assessor@wyan.org

City Clerk

Lawrence S. Stec, City Clerk

Phone: 734-324-4560

Email: clerk@wyandottemi.gov

Community Development The Community Development Office

Phone: 734-324-4566

Email: tdrysdale@wyandottemi.gov

Council and Commission Meetings at Wyandotte City Hall

Council Meeting

Mondays, February 27, March 13, 7:00pm

Police and Fire Commission

Tuesdays, February 28, March 14, 5:00pm

Zoning Board of Appeals and Adjustment

Wednesday, March 1, 6:30pm

Firefighters Civil Service Commission

Wednesday, March 8, 5:00pm

Municipal Service Commission

Wednesdays, March 8 & 22, 5:00pm

Recreation Commission

Wednesday, March 8, 5:30pm

Beautification Commission

Thursday, March 9, 6:00pm

Cultural and Historical Commission

Thursday, March 9, 6:15pm

St. Patrick’s Day Party and Pub Crawl

City Department Contacts

Downtown Development Authority

Joseph Keller Gruber, Downtown Development Authority Director

Phone: 734-324-7298

Email: dda@wyan.org

Department of Public Service

Jon Allen, Superintendent

Phone: 734-324-4580

Email: dps@wyandottemi.gov

Engineering and Building Department

Greg Mayhew, City Engineer

Phone: 734-324-4550

Email: engineering1@wyandottemi.gov

Finance and Administration

Todd Drysdale, CPA, City Administrator

Phone: 734-324-4545

Email: tdrysdale@wyandottemi.gov

Fire Department

Tom Lyon, Fire Chief

Phone: 734-324-4404

For Emergencies Call 911

Email: tlyon@wyandottemi.gov

Friday-Saturday, March 17-18 facebook.com/StPatsParty

Municipal Services

Paul LaManes, General Manager

Phone: 734-324-7100

Email: talk2wms@wyandottemi.gov

Police Department

Chief Brian Zalewski, Chief of Police

Phone: 734-324-4405

For Emergencies call 911

Email: bzalewski@wyandottemi.gov

Recreation, Leisure and Culture Department

Justin Lanagan, Superintendent of Recreation

Phone: 734-324-7295

Email: recreation@wyandottemi.gov

Treasury

Todd Browning, City Treasurer

Phone: 734-324-4570

Email: treasurer@wyan.org

Ahhhhh,

teak table overlooking lush tropical landscaping on

coffee sitting at

private balcony or taking a short stroll to the tiki hut at the end of the pier to watch the sunrise over the Atlantic. The perfect start in paradise. After a fun lled day of boating, shing, scuba diving or soaking up the sun relaxing by one of the largest pools in the Florida Keys or relaxing by the pool overlooking the marina and Atlantic ocean, or even sinking your toes in the sand like the song says ìonly worry in the world is the tide going to reach your chairî on our private upland sunning beach. There is always something for everyone!

Paradiseisnítoveryetasyouwalkthroughyourown privatecourtyard,a brickedpatiogardenwithrelaxing furniture,thenupjustone ightof stairs,yourprivate oasisawaitsyouÖwhereyoucanunwindfroma fun lledday. Youcancookyourfreshdayíscatchin yourfullyequippednewkitchenwithlotsof natural lightglisteningoff thesolidsurfacecountertopsand thestunningstainlesssteelappliancesandeatin comfort. Orgoìoutonthetownî andrelaxin some of thebestrestaurantsin theareawhereyouare pamperedasyourfreshcatchis beingpreparedto yourspecifi cationsasyourelaxdrinkinga glassof wine watchingthebeautifulFloridaBaySunset. Theperfect endtoa wonderfuldayin paradise.

Afterdinnerretreattoyour1480sq.ft.Newly DecoratedBeautifultwobedroomtownhousewitha smartopen oorplan,14í vaultedceilings. Relaxwith ELEGANT TommyBahamafurnishingsanda 65î HDTV inthegreatroom.

Nowtimefora perfectnightísrestasyouenjoya wonderfulviewfromthemasterbedroomgivingthe feelingof nestlingin thetrees. Abeautifullytropical drapedfour≠poster,kingsizebedwithultracomfort mattressassuresa perfectnightíssleepandoffersthe idealspottoviewthe48î atscreen TV. Anensuite bathfeaturesa cornerspatub,theperfectwaytoend adayof sightseeing.

Welcometo901MarinersClub! Wearegladtohaveyouhere!

We have this England 85” x 85” sectional in stock as shown available for immediate free local delivery. It has a lifetime warranty on it’s frame & seat springs & and 10 year warranty on the seat cushions. Sale Price $1999 as stocked or in your choice of 50 fabrics. Custom orders from this vendor are taking about 8 weeks now.

Table

Best rocker recliner or wall hugger recliner in stock as shown with brown top grain leather

Best small scale rocker recliner in stock as shown and available to order in several other colors at no extra charge.

North America

Custom 36”x48” table with 16” leaf & 4 chairs $1999