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WYANDOTTE WARRIOR > November 23 – December 13, 2023 < Page 3
Washington fourth-grader wins Wyandotte Public Power coloring contest DAVE GORGON A fourth-grader at Washington Elementary School has won a coloring contest hosted by the City of Wyandotte Department of Municipal Services in conjunction with the Michigan Municipal Electric Association (MMEA). Evie Dmitruchina was presented with the award at a Wyandotte City Council meeting in October. Andrea Haggerty, assistant to the general manager for municipal services, said the contest was held during the first week of October, which is “Public Power Week.” Haggerty distributed 1,200 coloring sheets to Wyandotte students in first through fourth grades. Evie’s winning entry was on display on the first floor of City Hall and was on the cable television screen during the council meeting. As the winner, Evie received a congratulatory certificate, a $50 Amazon gift card provided by the MMEA and a basket of art supplies. Her fourth-grade class, taught by
Stacey Kupser, will receive a tour of the power plant in December when students will receive an “arcs and sparks demonstration,” get a close look at the fleet of vehicles “touch a truck” style and enjoy lunch during the class visit. Evie’s effort also is showcased in the latest edition of Currents Magazine for public power communities throughout Michigan. Haggerty noted that Wyandotte is a rare community that has a
Department of Municipal Services that provides electricity, water and telecommunications to the public. She said the coloring contest was “a neat way to get the youth involved with public power and teach them how their community is unique. Our thing is if you want to get the community involved, you should start with the youth.” Evie showed her creativity by using alcohol-based markers and crayons to bring her coloring sheet to life. She
added stain-glass windows on a church in the drawing and even added herself and her dog Chili to the scene. “It took me two days to finish coloring it,” she said. “It’s a town and I felt like there should be a person and an animal in it.” Evie said she enjoys painting along with horseback riding and ice skating. The youngster had an entourage of supporters at the City Council meeting, including her parents Mandi and Jacob, her sister, other family members and her teacher. Her relatives pooled their money and added another $90 to the prize total. “Evie is always full of surprises,” her father said, “but this one is pretty cool. We’re very proud of her.” Her teacher remembered that Evie was the first in her fourth-grade class to turn in her finished entry. “Evie was so excited to turn it in,” Kupser said. “She really cared about this. I was really excited when I got an email that she won. It was like a proud mama moment for me.”
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Page 4 > November 23 – December 13, 2023 > WYANDOTTE WARRIOR
WYANDOTTE WARRIOR > November 23 – December 13, 2023 < Page 5
Page 6 > November 23 – December 13, 2023 > WYANDOTTE WARRIOR
Photos by Dave Gorgon
Left to right, saluting is Phil Metz; Rifles, Tom Rushman, Walt Szuper, Al Stone, Dennis Terech, Chuck Duncan, Steve Agar. Saluting with Red hat is Jeff Gillies and Roger Carr at the end.
HONORED
Continued from page 1 of the group are also part of several veterans organizations, such as the American Legion, the Veterans of Foreign Wars and the Marine Corps League. The men and women travel from throughout the region to their assigned funeral home or cemetery. Their main role is to provide military honors at veterans’ funerals – as many as 150 to 200 a year and often several a day, Rushman said. Arrangements usually are made for honorably discharged servicemen and servicewomen surviving family members through funeral homes. All honor guard members are volunteers. Each service lasts about 15 minutes, he said. Once or twice a year, the Wyandotte group also volunteers to visit Great Lakes to perform funeral duties for about a dozen deceased veterans, more or less, from around the state who have passed away. “Any time I’m requested to honor a veteran, it’s an honor for me,” said Rushman, who is a member of the Wyandotte American Legion Post 217 and VFW Post 1136. When honor guard members are needed at a
Roger Carr with Michigan flag and Jeff Gillies with the American flag.
funeral, they provide three veterans to serve in speaking roles, at least four on the rifle squad and one to play Taps. A commander, chaplain and officer of the day deliver patriotic messages and blessings. Honor guard members fold an American flag and present it to the family. “It’s very meaningful to me,” Rushman said. “The families appreciate it and thank us. I thank them.” The Wyandotte Veterans Honor Guard always
accepts new members, Rushman said. The ages of current honor guard members range from the mid70s to late 70s to 35 years old. Rushman, 75, served in the Army from 1968 to 1971, including a year in Vietnam. Decades later, he joined the American Legion and then learned about the honor guard. A retired engineering technician at General Motors, Rushman said he had plenty of time to volunteer with the honor guard. He said close bonds are created between all service members, veterans group members and the honor guard brothers and sisters. “We’re constantly recruiting,” he said. “When you’re available, you’re available. The minimum is 12 funerals a year, although most of us that are active and retired do considerably more. That’s our choice. It’s become a passion for some of us. Anybody that does anything for us is helping.” Honor guard members meet at the Wyandotte American Legion and receive a uniform to wear at funeral services. M1 rifles are provided by the government. Donations are not mandatory, but any money collected goes to purchasing uniforms, shirts, jackets, belts, gloves, and patches. To learn more about the group, visit the Wyandotte Veterans Honor Guard Facebook page.
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Flight to North Pole returns to put smiles on the faces of sick children BY DAVE GORGON
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fter a three-year absence, the Flight to the North Pole returns to Detroit Metro Airport on December 12 to put smiles on the faces of children with severe and life-threatening illnesses. The event invites 50 children, ages 3 to 8, who are discharged from doctor’s care for several hours to board an actual Delta Airlines jetliner with a crew for a simulated flight to the North Pole. With the window shades pulled down, the young passengers hear the plane engines and get the sensation of the plane taking off and flying. At the end of the trip, the youngsters believe they have arrived at the North Pole and are welcomed by Santa Claus and his elves. A Christmas party – with Christmas presents – follows at the Marriott Westin Hotel. During all the fun, each child receives a bag of goodies. The event is provided at no cost to the children and family members or caregivers by the Silverliners International Flight Attendant Organization. The flight started 41 years ago and ran annually until the last three years, when it was postponed due to the pandemic. While much of the effort is donated,
organizers are seeking monetary donations to help pay their expenses, which includes a meal for the children, gifts and much more. “It has really changed my life,” said Trenton resident Madge McGoorty, a retired flight attendant, past president of the Motown Chapter of the Silverliners and chairwoman of the Flight to the North Pole. “I look forward to it.” So does professional Santa Claus William Neelsen Sr., a Taylor resident who serves as the event’s “Father Christmas” each year. Neelsen, who is retired from the airport and Ford Motor Co., gets long hugs from the children and their families. As Santa, he has witnessed countless smiles and tears of joy from the happy participants. “Sometimes I get pretty emotional,” Neelsen said. “It’s so heartwarming. I’m really proud to be part of this group. It’s all about the kids. My kids are healthy; my grandkids are healthy. These children are going through some type of treatment for the particular illness they have.” McGoorty said the youngsters will come from Henry Ford, Corewell, Mott, Children’s and Sparrow hospitals. A doctor has approved each visit. Caregivers will be on hand. Parents often relate that they haven’t seen their children smile so much in a long time, Neelsen said.
Check-in gets under way at 9 a.m. Children are greeted by Shriner clowns and a variety of mascots, including those from professional sports teams, area restaurants and others. Members of the Downriver Symphony Orchestra perform Christmas music. A number of Downriver organizations participate. McGoorty said. Grosse Ile High School students serve as elves, direct the children and assist Santa. Pillows are made by the Allen Park Sewing Guild. US Park and Ride provides free parking and shuttle service to the airport. Woodside Meadows golf club in Romulus donates proceeds from a golf outing. The Woodhaven Target store packs toys and gives a donation.
Santa arranges to have a letter from the North Pole for each child and personally gets many of the gifts, which include children’s magazine subscriptions, gift cards and much more. “Everyone is so helpful,” McGoorty said. “The volunteers, the airport firefighters and police, therapy dogs, Fairytale Entertainment and their costumed characters, restaurants and everyone else.” “This is a great event,” Neelsen said. “It’s so special. It’s all about the kids.” Monetary donations should be made payable to William Neelsen Sr./Flight to the North Pole and sent to 25081 Richard, Taylor, Michigan 48180.
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WYANDOTTE WARRIOR > November 23 – December 13, 2023 < Page 11
National chain stores are unfair competition Near as I can tell, a new threshold of jumping the gun was reached during this holiday season. It made me re-write the first paragraph of this column! Oh, it’s not that dramatic. It’s just a matter of Macy’s running holiday shopping ads before Halloween. Macy’s is an invasive species that cannot survive if PETER they fail to convince ROSE enough investors that owning their stocks is a smart thing to do. There are only so many dollars that are going to be spent this holiday season. This breed of parasite is pernicious, but it is fighting an uphill battle against ferocious competition from local quarters across the nation. Besides doing my day job of running one of the independent and locally-owned companies that falls under the “Genuine Article” umbrella, I have another job: Convincing enough shoppers to adamantly decide that giving any money to any of the invasive species is the wrong thing to do. It’s not just that Indie businesses are so much better at what they do than any imposter business ever could, although that’s an excellent reason. Local business is operated by local people that live very close to where they live, and spend money themselves. Local retail owners know a lot of the people that shop with us. We have a much greater sense of what our fellow residents want. We’re obsessed with maintaining a
business that enjoys that connectivity in our own community. That obsessiveness comes home with us and goes on vacation with us. We are always soaking up whatever inspiration we can find so as to reinvent it at our own stores. It makes for awesome stores to shop at any time. It makes us almost impossible to beat. It’s not just that three times (3 times!) as much of the money we spend at local and independent stores actually stays in our communities, being spent in echo transactions at… you guessed it…other local and independent businesses that do the same thing. That’s a pretty potent reason, though, isn’t it? Assuming that your choices to spend include examples of awesomeness as claimed above so you actually can spend there, your money gets spent over and over and over again, in your community. More local businesses are more prosperous…because of you. It is a remarkably simple concept, but it’s not theory, it’s fact. A fact to be acted on, one way or the other. You can either accept it as true and try to be a bigger part in your community’s health and vibrancy, or you can pretend you didn’t read this, and send even a dime of your spending away by spending anywhere else but a local and independent business. This column gets printed in five locally owned publications. Some ahead of and some during “Black Friday” (a stupid, stupid moniker for a day that seeks to suck as much money to corporate chains as possible) and ”Small Business Saturday”, the one day of the year that American Express
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calls your attention to for spending locally. American Express makes money from charge transactions either way, of course, but I do have to tip my hat to their hubris for making themselves seem great for that one day of focus on Small. I’ll take it, I’m not stupid, but I’m also not fooled. Which is as good a way as any to come to the most meaningful, impactful reason for shopping at small businesses over large, stock marketfunded businesses this holiday season on any other time at all, ever (unless you have no choice). That reason is solidarity with businesses that exist despite the relentless, powerful efforts of one scheme after another to redirect as much money as possible to as many distant, disconnected, meaningless options as possible. Towards those entities that exist only to satisfy bean counters, and away from your community. Thousands of local businesses were ended this way in the 1980s and 90s, on purpose. I did business through this time. My company happens to be one of the fractional few that defied the odds and persevered to see the tables turned, but purposeful destruction of those that closed up shop was (and still is) a very sad thing to watch happen. Thousands of stores that warmly greeted and treated their customers like human beings, not beans to count, gone. The scourge of overbuilt retail that begins their marketing blitz earlier and earlier has made the holidays so much less rewarding. A stressful, harried
pain to be endured, not savored. Finding wonderful gifts for your wonderful people at smaller stores from people you know (or will come to know) is so different. It makes Christmas shopping more genuine and absolutely more about the spirit of the holidays we celebrate. Slower, more thoughtful, with mindful, friendly assistance. When corporate stores are gone because the demand has shifted back to real options in niche after niche in the restaurant and retail realm, the growing resurgence of small, independent businesses will accelerate and surge. Personal service won’t be such a rare commodity. A better variety of options for consumers will be back. Shopping will be a thing to look forward to, and there will be greater prosperity in the land. What has been lost will be found, and cherished. That process is already in motion. Again, my moonlighting job is to encourage that surge, and writing about this is so gratifying. I get to do this! Not just sit back and let the chips fall where they may, but actually use my words to hopefully make a difference! Gratitude is something to express as often as possible, for all of us. Our family-owned men’s and women’s apparel business is 80 years old here in 2023. I myself have been able to spend over 51 years doing something I really enjoy. That longevity can’t be achieved without strong support from the community we serve. Thank you very much. And once again, thanks for reading, and thanks for taking my advice!
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Downriver – a compassionate ‘family’ of communities JOSEPH KUSPA SOUTHGATE MAYOR
On Oct. 3, the city of Southgate experienced the largest residential fire in our history. The flames swiftly engulfed the third floor of the Meadows Senior Apartment complex and left 129 residents without a home. But what was most miraculous is that there was no loss of life as a result of the fire. This is exponentially more incredible when you consider that many of the residents were mobility challenged: in wheelchairs or required the use of a walker. This outcome could only have occurred with the assistance of our first responders from many of our surrounding communities. As Downriver residents, we are fortunate to live in a region that works together and has a demonstrated history of mutual aid. The city of Southgate has an excellent public safety department. Like all Downriver communities, our police officers and firefighters are dedicated to the well-being of our residents and those who visit our community. But the magnitude of this recent fire would have overwhelmed any one department. That is why we are so appreciative of the assistance we received from seven other neighboring and local communities: Allen Park, Brownstown Township, Ecorse, Riverview, Taylor, Trenton and Wyandotte. Numerous dangerous and heroic actions occurred that afternoon. There were police officers and firefighters rushing residents out of the burning structure, many being physically carried down three flights of stairs, firefighters breaking through roofs to control a raging fire and ultimately, through their combined efforts, getting everyone to safety. The recovery started that afternoon and evening. We used our Senior Center as a staging area for all the displaced residents and a place families could reconnect with loved ones. The Red Cross arrived that evening and a temporary housing shelter was
established. There was a case file opened for each resident to address immediate needs such as medications and housing requirements. Many businesses, churches, charitable organizations also assisted with food, clothing, temporary housing and other essentials. Over the next few days, we also had numerous residents from Southgate and throughout the Downriver area walking into our Senior Center with donated clothing, personal items, pet supplies and money to assist with this recovery effort. That was matched by numerous volunteers who sorted, organized and assisted at the donation center. Fire victims could walk through aisles of merchandise, beautifully displayed and sized to easily make their selections. The most sought after commodity became underwear. And, that of course, makes a lot of sense. At the height of distribution, our Senior Center staff was purchasing underwear two to three times a day! The city of Southgate, with the assistance of the Senior Alliance,
also sponsored a Resources Fair at our Senior Center on Oct. 11. More governmental agencies, housing providers and non-profit agencies added their support. The Secretary of State mobile office provided new ID’s, handicapped parking permits and processed address changes. Wayne County personnel were on hand to offer numerous housing options. The Senior Alliance printed replacement Medicare cards and assisted with applications for new Social Security cards. Remember, most of these fire victims left with just the clothes that they were wearing. The American Legion and the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund provided substantial assistance to veterans. The Information Center distributed their “Where to Turn” guidebook that is a comprehensive resource for the ongoing needs of these seniors. Senior Movers and Allegra Senior Living offered an inventory of free furniture to assist with relocations. Even the owners of the Meadows Apartment complex, Van Rooy, were there to present $1000 checks to each
of the displaced tenants. It was an overwhelmingly successful event that provided stability and hope for these senior citizens. On the night of Oct. 11, the St. George Greek Church hosted a spaghetti dinner fundraiser to benefit all of the fire victims. It was extremely well attended with donations and supporters coming from all over the Downriver area. The event raised over $18,000 with additional donations still being received. All of the proceeds will be equally distributed to the residents to help with their relocation. Fortunately, as of Oct. 13, the Red Cross Shelter indicated that all of the displaced residents have found housing either at a new facility or with a loved one. A wonderful result in 10 days’ time! Yes, the spirit of service, compassion and giving is alive and well in our Downriver communities. Special thanks to all who worked and volunteered to assist these senior citizens. May God continue to bless the city of Southgate, the Downriver region and this great nation.
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PERCH && CHIPS CHIPS PERCH
“Finest “Finest Cut Cut Downriver” Downriver”
“Freshest WeyandsFish FishServed” Served” “Freshest Weyands
Open Mic Mic Night on Thursdays Open Night on Thursdays Hosted by Keelan Starr Hosted by Keelan Starr
Trivia
Taco Tuesdays Taco Tuesdays Margaritas $3 $3 Margaritas
Name That
Daily Lunch Specials Live Entertainment Daily Lunch Specials Tune Ladies Night on Wednesdays on Tuesdays Under Wednesdays Under $10$10 1926 West 1926 West Rd Trenton Trenton 734-671-0990
Online Menu: Menu: www.misternickstrenton.com www.misternickstrenton.com Online
Built on honesty and integrity, the owner’s goal was to make an allergy-friendly fine dining experience in downtown Wyandotte. Delicious food and cocktails filled with flavor and creativity. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options! All allergy-friendly with no compromises.
Prime Cut Meats Wild Caught Seafood Locally Raised Chicken Extensive Wine List Craft Cocktails In the Original National Bank of Wyandotte
The upbeat setting of downtown balances the old roots of the bank you can still see today. 3058 1st Street Wyandotte • TheVaultOnFirst.com
WYANDOTTE WARRIOR < November 23 – December 13, 2023 < Page 17 Limited Time
15% OFF Carry Out!
FREE SMALL
15801 Southfield Rd. • Allen Park, MI 48101 www.ShishPalaceRestaurant.com 313-908-2666
HUMMUS
P 15% OFF P ANY L L U ORDER U Dine-In Only S Expires S 12-31-23
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One Coupon per Table – Not Including Lamb Chops & Seafood
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Ask About Our Gift Cards
Don’t Forget the Sibley Gardens Gift Certificates. They’ll Love You for It!
Since 1935
Lunch & Dinner Specials Daily M-F 11:30 to 9 pm Sat. 3 to 9 pm Closed Sundays www.SibleyGardens.com
734-285-1707 916 W. Jefferson - Trenton
R.P.
McMurphy’s
JACK’S AUTO REPAIR Foreign & Domestic Repairs
WE WILL BEAT ALL WRITTEN ESTIMATES IN TOWN OR
REPAIRS ARE FREE*
2922 Biddle Avenue Wyandotte MI 48192
Serving The Downriver Area Since 2001 Complete Mechanical Repairs • Collision Related Repairs • Paint Custom Wheels • Tires and Used Car Sales • Custom Interiors All Your Automotive Needs Under One Roof!
734-285-4885
Kitchen Hours: Mon-Thurs: 11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Fri-Sat: 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
HOLIDAY GIFT CERTIFICATES NOW AVAILABLE!
*RESTRICTIONS APPLY
COMPLETE BRAKE JOB
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199.95 + tax
Includes Brake Pads and Rotors, Most Vehicles
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3120 Fort Street • Lincoln Park 5 Blocks South of Champagne, Next to Dairy Queen
313-294-2899 / 313-294-2851 w w w. J a c k s A u t o R e p a i r 1 . c o m
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Mediterranean Cuisine
Have an Event or Fundraiser? Let us know at 734-282-3939
Page 18 > November 23 – December 13, 2023 > WYANDOTTE WARRIOR
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!
Experience the City at 100 Mph, 1000 Ft In The Air!
Take The Ride of Your Life:
Max Flight offers a variety of tours that show off different parts of the city and range from 10 minutes to over an hour. From downtown Detroit to Grosse Ile, downriver and even to Ann Arbor, there is much to explore! Sunrise to sunset, 7 days a week, 365 days a year—Max Flight is ready to take you for a joy ride!
From Downtown…
Soar over the City of Detroit to experience its rich G history, beauty, and skyline in a new light. With so Certifiift much to explore downtown, the only way to see Avail cates it all is up and away. Our pilots and tour guides Riverable on will share deep knowledge of iconic buildings Rides and landmarks and take you to see highlights of the city including Ford Field, Comerica Park, Belle Isle, the Renaissance Center, Grand Central Station, the Ambassador Bridge and more!
To The Burbs…
Breeze through beautiful suburbs around Metro Detroit. Depart from Grosse Ile Airport in a state-of-the-art Robinson R-44 helicopter and develop a curated flight path to view areas like Novi, Birmingham, Southfield, and tour the Grosse Pointe mansions.
To The Big House…
Are you a Michigan fan or just love the quaint beauty of Ann Arbor? Take a tour to see the University of Michigan campus with incredible views of The Big House, main street, and Lake Erie. Perfect for U of M fans and alumni!
Maxflight Helicopter Services
www.ForresterLawOffice.com
20+ Years Experience
Forrester Law Office 5 STAR ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ REVIEW ■ Business Law ■ Family Law ■ Personal Injury ■ General Practice ■ Wills & Trusts ■ Medical Malpractice
Jeffrey Forrester
7799 Macomb St, Ste 1 • Grosse Ile
734-307-3390
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ANY SPECIAL OCCASION FLIGHTS
Tours of Detroit Flights • Sunset Flights Flower Drop for Weddings/Funerals Group Rides (up to 30 People)
(810) 366-1590
9161 Groh Road • Grosse Ile Township MaxFlightHeloMI.com WE ARE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK, YEAR-ROUND
WYANDOTTE WARRIOR < November 23 – December 13, 2023 < Page 19 FREE CAR WASH & SAFETY CHECK with a full service oil change
COME SEE NICK
Car Care
Serving The Downriver Area For Over 30 Years (734) 281-1153
Financing Available Ask for Details
4144 Sixth Street Wyandotte, MI 48192
admin@quintplumbing.com quintplumbingmi.com
$
24.95
Most vehicles Up to 5 quarts: 5W20 • 5W30 • 10W30 With RR coupon • While Offer Lasts
FRONT WHEEL ALIGNMENT
734-479-7777
(at the corner of Fort st. & Sibley)
Open: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm Sat 8AM-6pm
(+ tax) Includes Premium Oil and Filter
29.99
$
most cars
With WW coupon While Supplies Lasts
FREE SUSPENSION & BRAKE CHECK Ask For Details
Shop or Book Grooming Online Today!
GO UP BBLE SA TH VIN E GS !
Expires 12/31/2023 Enter code 81029 at ckeckout
Pet Supplies Plus
Open 7 days a week. Mon-Sat: 9am-9pm • Sun 10am-6pm • Independently owned and operated 19295 West Rd Woodhaven 734-671-6936
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This is Master Blaster. I was sitting on the floor, playing Dictionary with friends, and he took umbrage that an inanimate object was occupying my attention. That’s Webster’s New Universal Unabridged Dictionary, by the way. So yeah, big cat.
22124 Ecorse Rd Taylor 313-295-6500 Grooming Available
I’m Bobo, the Laundry Hamper Kitten. I want you to send pictures of your beloved non-homo-sepiens family members! Email your cute pics to Sherry at the email in the purple shape over here! !
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!
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Riverview
Have an Event or Fundraiser? Let us know at 734-282-3939
Page 20 > November 23 – December 13, 2023 > WYANDOTTE WARRIOR
NEWS FROM OUR NEIGHBORS Go to... GoBigMultimedia.com to read more news on our digital publications.
gobigmultimedia.com/grosse-ile-grand ‘Addie’s Trail’ is dedicated to joyful spirit A respectful and somber crowd of about fifty gathered at the corner of East River and Groh Roads on Saturday, Oct. 21 for a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the official opening of Grosse Ile’s newest bike path trail. While many there were avid cyclists or outdoor lovers, the majority of the crowd were there to honor the memory of Adrienne “Addie” Byars, a seventh grade Grosse Ile Middle School student, who died unexpectedly of a rare but natural cause in 2021. Addie’s parents, Dr. Helen Mabry and Andrew Byars, choked back tears as they remembered their loving daughter and thanked everyone involved in the extensive process to complete the connecting trail from the Groh Road bike path to the Gibraltar Bay Nature Area. Dr. Mabry said, “This path isn’t just a trail – it’s a testament to Adrienne’s spirit and the unwavering love our community has shown in her memory. When we first came to Grosse Ile, we rented a condo nearby and Addie loved riding her bikes on the bike paths or rollerblading.
She loved it so much. She had a unique sense of reverence for the world around her, finding joy in experiencing and respecting what life had to offer.”... On page 1 Grosse Ile to update Master Plan ...Why is the Township updating the master plan?
A lot has changed in the Township since 2002. Most importantly, the median age of our community in 2002 was 43 years, wherein 2023 the average age is 52 years. As the Township continues to grow in age, we want to ensure that we address the needs of our community. Furthermore, Island has seen a steady decrease in population of children aged 5 to 17, which indicates that the Township should find more creative ways to attract young families. The update will focus on similar data trends and create strategies from the input of the community to address current and future issues... On page 3 20’s Gala One for the ages Bootleggers’ Bash is a “Roaring” success
Glitz, glamor, Grosse Ile glitterati, moonlight and magic—all the trappings of a riotous era gone by. Partygoers are still talking about it, reliving both the moment then and the times past. Fittingly, the Grosse Ile Educational Foundation met its goals—partnering with the Grosse Ile Historical Society in its annual fundraising event, held Oct. 7 at the Grosse Ile Golf & Country Club and throwing a party that Jay Gatsby would be proud of. It became apparent early on. Grosse Ile likes to dress for a party. Nineteen-twenties-style Flappers arrived with diamonds and pearls or elegant vintage evening gowns. Handsome escorts donned fedoras and tuxedos or newsboy caps and knickers. There was even a hard luck partier dressed in suspenders and an empty bourbon barrel. On page 9
gobigmultimedia.com/riverview-register Mayor Swift wins re-election Webb, O’Neil and Pray win spots on City Council ... Swift, a former Riverview Community School District school board member and a former city councilman, was elected to a third term as mayor by defeating Councilman Chuck Norton by a little over 150 votes. Swift topped Norton 1,614 votes to 1,459. “I am honored and humbled by all the support I’ve received during this election. I look forward to working with the new council members and moving our beloved Riverview forward through the challenging times ahead,” said the newly re-elected Mayor. ...The voters also elected three council members – Brian Webb, Suzzanne O’Neil and David Pray. Webb led all council vote-getters with 1,785 votes, O’Neil had 1,575 and Pray had 1,280. Former longtime councilman Elmer Trombley (1,031 votes), Nicole Clark (1,028) and Heather Smiley (980) failed to win election.
The general election drew just 36.6 percent of Riverview’s registered voters to the polls. The city has 8,546 registered voters and 3,125 of them voted in the election. Another question on the Nov. 7 ballot was a proposal to extend the Sinking Fund for the school district. That fund, which helps pay for things like new HVAC systems, enjoyed overwhelming support
WYANDOTTE WARRIOR < November 23 – December 13, 2023 < Page 21
WEB welcomes sixth-graders to Seitz Seitz Middle School welcomed its incoming sixth-grade class with a group of students called WEB Leaders. WEB stands for Where Everybody Belongs.
The core belief of WEB is that the actions of few can positively alter the outcomes of many. The transition from elementary school to middle school can be stressful for some. To help start their journey here at Seitz on a positive note, every sixth-grade student is paired with two eighth-grade mentors. The mentors will be trained in several topics, such as stress management, managing peer relationships and academic goal setting. We believe that positive relationships define the culture of a school. WEB reinforces the vision of Riverview Community Schools – “One community, every day, charting their course the Pirate way.”... On page 5
proclamation paying tribute and declaring the city’s utmost respect for veterans who earned the Purple Heart medal when they were injured or killed during wartime. The city scheduled a ceremony for eight days later in which a Purple Heart flag would be raised on a new flagpole in the city’s Veterans Memorial outside the Southgate Memorial Library. A POW-MIA flag would be moved to its own flagpole. Further, a parking spot in the city’s municipal complex would be designated for use by Purple Heart recipients, the Mayor said. “We want to promote the fact that we have some brave men and women who lost their lives and have become injured during battle,” Kuspa said. “This is true to Southgate – something we’re proud to do.”... On page 1 Ooooh, that’s scary!
Riverview is Spook-tacular!
Southgate is officially a Purple Heart City On Nov. 1, Mayor Joseph Kuspa read a
gobigmultimedia.com/trenton-times Elementary PBIS framework creates positive school culture Anderson and Hedke Elementary School are both PBIS schools, working to create a positive culture where students’ individual needs are met. PBIS stands for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports. This tiered framework is designed to support students’ behavioral, academic, social, emotional and mental health needs. Our Allstars and Bulldogs focus on “The 3 to Be.” Students learn what it means to be safe, to be respectful, and to be responsible at school. They learn this through lessons taught and modeling done both school-wide and in the classroom... On page 6 Echo Dance Team delivers message of hope at Anderson The Echo Dance Team from New York paid Anderson a visit that left a lasting impact on the students, not only through their amazing performance, but also through a powerful message of hope and an unwavering stand against bullying. The team wowed the students with their stunning
On pages 18-19
gobigmultimedia.com/southgate-star
of Southgate and Gloss Labs Detailing. Scores of people turned out, most of them decked out in their Halloween finest. On page 1
Fun at Market Center Park There was music, there were games, there were cool old cars and there was – of course! – lots and lots of candy handed out as the city of Southgate celebrated Halloween a little early with a Trunk or Treat event at Market Center Park on Oct. 15. The event was part of HarvestFest, sponsored by the city
dance routines. The energy and enthusiasm they brought were contagious, filling the school’s hallways and gymnasium with an atmosphere of positivity and excitement... On page 8
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from the community as the measure passed by far better than 2-to-1 margin, as 2,121 voted to pass the measure and 826 voted against.! On page 1
Have an Event or Fundraiser? Let us know at 734-282-3939
Page 22 > November 23 – December 13, 2023 > WYANDOTTE WARRIOR
ROSENAU POWERSPORTS
24732 Ford Rd., Dearborn Hgts, MI 48127 313-278-5000 • rosenaupowersports.net
Dress up your Home for the Holidays y
The Lighthouse • Replacement Lamp Shades • Last Minute Gift Items • Lamp Repairs • Light Fixtures • Night Lights • Candles • Lotion
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Wizard of Id
GIFT CARDS AVAILABLE HOURS: Mon - Fri 10-5 Sat 10-4 Sun Closed
1595 West Road Trenton
734-676-7922
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One Big Happy®
Dogs of C-Kennel
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WYANDOTTE WARRIOR < November 23 – December 13, 2023 < Page 23
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Page 24 > November 23 – December 13, 2023 > WYANDOTTE WARRIOR
White Furniture’s
PRST STD
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
18271 FORT ST. • RIVERVIEW, MI 48193
734-282-3939
Fall Sale 36 Months Interest Free
Plan code 5365 Valid through 11-29-23. With credit approval by Wells Fargo. No minimum purchase. See store for details. Special orders require a deposit
ROYAL OAK, MI 48068 PERMIT #792
FREE Lifetime Fabric Protection Plan
Covers stains, punctures, rips & cigarette burns. Covers all fabric furniture on an order. Valid for new orders placed during November 2023. As always some exclusions apply, see warranty for full details.
Free Delivery!
Valid November 2023. Valid on any item in the store or any special order with a minimum $300 purchase. Within 25 miles.
Loveseat $469
Sofa $499
Loveseat $569
Sofa $599
Loveseat $499
Sofa $549
Loveseat $769
Sofa $799
Beautyrest Medium Mattress 10 year warranty Twin $399 - Full $499 Queen $599 - King $749
Individually pocketed coils reduce motion transfer from your partner.
Tyler Firm Mattress 10 year warranty Twin $249 - Full $349 Queen $399 - King $549
Helical14.5-gauge coils. Heavier concentration of coils in the lumbar zone of the mattress.
White Furniture 3025 Biddle Avenue Wyandotte, MI 48192
734-282-2155
www.whitefurniture.com www.facebook.com/whitefurniture
Blue Lagoon Firm Mattress 10 year warranty Twin $599 - Full $679 Queen $699 - King $799
Designed in the USA & made Downriver. 825 individually wrapped coils.
Monday: 9:00am - 5:30pm Tuesday: 9:00am - 5:30pm Wednesday: 9:00am - 5:30pm Thursday: 9:00am - 5:30pm Friday: 9:00am - 8:30pm Saturday: 9:00am - 5:30pm