Grosse Ile Grand, March 12 – April 10, 2024

Page 1

The Candy Canes, Peppermint Sticks, and Dr. Seuss are some of the nostalgic names given DTE’s Trenton smokestacks, which will become just that very soon, sentiments of our past. You may have needed them to guide

your boat home from Lake Erie, caught your largest walleye in their warm waters, or used them as a backdrop for photos, but in the end, the stacks and powerhouse that have lined the shore of the Detroit River since 1924 will fall by explosion in the coming weeks.

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SEE SKYLINE, Page 3 A skyline without the
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moderated a town hall February 22nd to inform the public of the demolition project and take questions from the community. Nick, DTE Manager of Capital Projects, Anthony, DTE Project Manager, and Leo, Senior Project Manager with Independence Excavating, outlined what to expect,
stripes
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SKYLINE

Continued from page 1

how to prepare, and milestones for the decommissioning process.

The demolition will take place in two phases: the original timeline of March 1st and May 17th were being revised and not released at the time of print. Assuming the project plan for demo remains the same, the community will see temporary vehicle and pedestrian road closures along parts of West Jefferson, Grosse Ile Parkway, and the free bridge lasting roughly 20 minutes, coordinating with the police to minimize the disturbance. The Coast Guard and DNR will keep water traffic away from the west side of the river. People who want to view the demo can do so from Elizabeth Park and Grosse Ile.

Most questions revolved around the safety of the demolition. In advance, DTE removed all hazardous materials, verified by third party state inspectors. Air monitoring will take place, and while shifts in winds aren’t much of a factor, severe weather can be, and will be monitored on the day of demolition.

High power misting machines will be used to mitigate dust from leaving the site and clouds will dissipate quickly.

“We’ve worked with Dykon Explosive Demolition on the Conners Creek demo, this is what they do and are the best,” assures Leo from Independence Excavating. “This procedure is the safest way to do it, it’s controlled and lessens the impact on the community. When it first happens you’ll hear a couple of booms, the base comes out, they’ll begin to tip over, pick up steam, and then crumble when they hit the ground. The powerhouse will be a bigger event and something pretty interesting to see. Vibrations will be felt locally, but the sound will be heard for miles.”

Demolition is required to return the property to a brownfield, and structures would not be safe remaining standing on their own. Asked several times what’s next for the property, Nick stated, “DTE is actively reviewing redevelopment opportunities to best serve the community. We are proud of our role and legacy in the community, which at its peak, served 700,000 homes.” For updates, visit empoweringmichigan.com/trenton

March 12 — April 10, 2024 • Page 3 GROSSE ILE GRAND

Vietnam Memorial or the Wall that Heals

The eighth graders from Grosse Ile Middle School leave for their annual Washington, DC trip on March 11th. Hopefully, they will be able to visit the Vietnam Memorial. This is my story of the healing effect that the Wall had on me. I spent the better part of two years in Vietnam. I was assigned to the 71st Evacuation Hospital in Pleiku, located in the Central Highlands near the Cambodian Border. My duties included the admission and disposition of patients. I witnessed death and destruction on a daily basis.

After returning from Vietnam in 1971, I turned to alcohol to suppress my memories. I did find some type of solace in alcohol, that being the ability to sleep nights. I rarely talked about my experiences in Vietnam since there were no pleasant memories. Thirty seven years after returning from Vietnam, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease. This was attributed to a chemical called Agent Orange, which was spread indiscriminately throughout the country.

The medication I began taking did not mix well with my alcohol consumption. There were times that I felt like I was on my death bed. Some personal counseling helped by my late brother, Wayne, also known as, Dr. Wayne Dyer. He was a nationally renowned author and speaker often seen on PBS. This brought a burning desire to visit the Vietnam Memorial or “The Wall” in Washington, DC.

While at that Wall, on my knees with my eyes closed, it all came back: the mass casualties, the young men with severe injuries, and those faces of fear. My heart wrenched as I listened to the screams of the wounded as they begged for morphine to ease their pain and then I saw him: the 22-year-old burn patient who died in my hands while crying for his mother with his final breath.

There are over 58,000 names on that wall, and about 19,000 of them were drafted or taken from their homes, jobs, or whatever else was going on in their lives. They were given 16 weeks of training and then sent thousands of

miles from home to fight in a war in a country they may never even knew existed.

Yes, about one third of all those killed in Vietnam were drafted. While still on my knees at that wall, I felt like I had a moment with God. The revelation of that moment was to do all I could to keep the memories alive of all those who lost their lives to the horrors of war.

Soon after, I wrote my story in a poetic form and l’d like to share it. I titled it (My Calling From God). It goes like this:

Eight years ago at age 69, God reached out to me It took awhile to realize, since he work mysteriously.

I collapsed on a treadmill and lost control and I thought my life was through.

An incurable disease called Parkinson’s was the start of something new.

He, who knows all, knew that I, would never give up my beer And now that I was near seventy, he felt the time was now here

God reached me through my late brother, Wayne

Knowing what the outcome would be

Knowing I had a story to tell, Wayne uttered these words to me

“David, don’t give up you must continue Do not die with your music still in you”

Next came a trip to the Vietnam Wall, That’s when I gave up alcohol.

It took quite a while to understand

It was God who put that pen in my hand.

There are fifty plus thousands of names on that wall God’s calling to me was remember them all.

I began writing stories, even a book. My efforts continued, whatever it took.

Eight years have passed, I’m now seventy-seven

I’ve been lifted from hell and I’m half way to heaven.

I’ll continue to write, and take my stand, Til I can no longer hold a pen in my hand.

Page 4 • March 12 — April 10, 2024 GROSSE ILE GRAND
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Go Big Multimedia welcomes new editor

With a new year come new things, and the newest thing here at Go Big Multimedia is our editor, Zoey Kuspa. Publishers Will and Sherry Evans said they were thrilled to have Kuspa take over the editor’s post, which had recently been filled by Hank Minckiewicz, and then Cameron Colwell, who both will continue as contributing journalists.

As editor, Kuspa will oversee the editorial portion of Go Big Multimedia’s five monthly news magazines, The Grosse Ile Grand, The Riverview Register, The Southgate Star, The Trenton Times, and the Wyandotte Warrior.

Blair Temple to produce the papers each month.

Since entering the newspaper market seven years ago with The Grosse Ile Grand, Go Big Multimedia has grown steadily to where it is today and continues to look for new opportunities to grow and expand as they may arise.

Kuspa, a lifelong Downriver resident, fits right in with the “go get’em” attitude that is part of the DNA of these publications.

She will be responsible for generating content for the papers and collaborating with graphic designers Pat Macomb and

Kuspa is a graduate of Southgate Anderson High School and Ferris State University, where she earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s in Information Security and Intelligence. She is the daughter of Southgate Mayor Joseph Kuspa and she is the President of the Southgate City Council.

March 12 — April 10, 2024 • Page 5 GROSSE ILE GRAND
24201 Meridian Rd,
734-692-0102
Michael J Vilag DDS
Grosse Ile

FROM THE TOWNSHIP

How are my taxes determined?

Being an assessor can be very taxing! But seriously, we would like to explain the basics of what goes on in the assessing department. This article is to provide background on how the process works and to provide answers to some of the common taxation questions.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SEV AND TAXABLE VALUE?

To start, every home has a SEV (State Equalized Value) and a TV (Taxable Value). Your Taxable Value is the value you are actually taxed on. Your SEV is supposed to represent ½ of what your home would be worth to a willing and able buyer and seller in the current market. Taxable Value is multiplied by the total Township, County and School mills to determine your annual taxes on your home or property. Your SEV value may be much higher than your Taxable Value or it may be very close or equal to it. See the example, labeled TAX CHART, that shows the SEV and Taxable Value.

HOW IS YOUR SEV DETERMINED?

The SEV on your home is determined by comparing prices of home sales within the last few years of homes that are similar to your home and property. SEV values can go up or down depending on the market. As assessors we are not

TAX CHART

allowed to “chase sales”. By this we mean that we cannot just make your SEV or TV half of what you purchased the home for even though that is a good indication of what your home is worth. Your SEV will not affect your taxes unless you just purchased a home. This brings up another big misconception or concern that many people don’t understand, the uncapping of the Taxable Value when a home is purchased.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN WHEN YOUR TAXABLE VALUE IS UNCAPPED?

When a home is purchased, there is a transfer of ownership and this triggers the uncapping of the Taxable Value. This means that the Taxable Value will become equal to the SEV the following year. See example above showing the TV and

SEV for a home that sold in 2023 and got uncapped in 2024. Sometimes this may be a significant increase especially if the seller of the home has lived there for a long time. Remember, your SEV should be a value which represents half of what the true cash value of your home is or in other words, half of what your home should sell for in a good market. There are certain circumstances where

the Taxable Value is not uncapped such as buying from a certain family member, transferring to a trust or life estate, transferring between an affiliated group, etc.

WHY DOES MY TAXABLE VALUE GO UP EACH YEAR?

Your Taxable Value is what determines the amount of your annual property taxes. Your Taxable Value each year goes up the Inflation Rate or 5%, whichever is smaller. The Inflation rate is determined each year by the US Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics. This rate is given to the Assessor’s office by Michigan State Tax Commission and we are not allowed to use a different rate than what is provided. This rate is multiplied to last year’s Taxable Value to determine this year’s Taxable Value. Your Taxable Value can only go up by the Inflation Rate or 5%, whichever is smaller unless you add something brand new like an addition to your home or new garage. The Inflation rate over the years has been relatively less than what it is presently. Because the Inflation Rate is much higher than in the past, many people are questioning the increase in their taxes. Please see the percentage chart.

% CHART

WHAT DO I DO IF I FEEL THAT I AM BEING TAXED UNFAIRLY?

Every year in February, the Assessing Department sends out assessment notices to the residents. On the assessment notice there is information on how to make an appointment with the March Board of Review. Each year in March, the Board of Review gathers to meet with residents that want to appeal their assessments. The March Board of Review has been educated in taxation and assessing. If you are not satisfied with the Board of Review’s decision, you may take the second step and make an appeal to the Michigan Tax Tribunal. Our job as assessors is to treat everyone fairly and to keep similar homes and properties as uniform in value as possible. We strive to make sure that the assessments are equitable. We hope that this article has provided some clarity to a very confusing and misunderstood topic — HOME VALUATION AND TAXES.

Page 6 • March 12 — April 10, 2024 GROSSE ILE GRAND
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INFLATION RATE % 2.4% 1.9% 1.4% 3.3% 7.9% 5.1% YEAR 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
Grosse Ile Township Assessing Assistant
March 12 — April 10, 2024 • Page 7 GROSSE ILE GRAND

Michigan launches early voting

Early voting sites across Michigan were open for the first time in State history for the Michigan Presidential Primary. Following the passage of Proposal 2 in 2022, voters now have the opportunity to cast their ballots in person at designated early voting sites. This state constitutional amendment now mandates for at least nine consecutive days of early voting for all state and federal elections. Municipal elections, however, are not subject to this mandate.

Early voting sites function much like traditional in-person Election Day polling places. Upon arrival, voters will check in, receive their ballot, mark it, and then submit it into the tabulator. Those who choose to receive an absentee ballot also have the option to early vote. They may bring their absentee ballot into their community’s early voting site and submit it into the tabulator themselves. It’s important to note that both early voting and absentee ballots are securely collected and remain uncounted until Election Day. This change looks to enhance voter accessibility and engagement in

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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!

March 12 — April 10, 2024 • Page 11 GROSSE ILE GRAND 20+ Years Experience Jeffrey Forrester 7799 Macomb St, Ste 1 • Grosse Ile 734-307-3390
www.ForresterLawOffice.com Forrester Law Office 5 STAR ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ REVIEW ■ Business Law ■ Personal Injury ■ Wills & Trusts ■ Family Law ■ General Practice ■ Medical Malpractice
Page 12 • March 12 — April 10, 2024 GROSSE ILE GRAND

police millage turned down by residents

Approximately 59% of voters in Grosse Ile Township rejected the police millage proposal during the February 27th Election, with only about 41% supporting it. The proposed millage aimed to elevate funding for the police department over a five-year period, raising it from 6.6 mills to 7.7 mills.

“Grosse Ile is as safe today as it was before the vote,” Supervisor Budny said, “With the millage defeated, we will move on and continue to live

within our means.” The millage mainly looked to cover future expenses, including things like personnel, equipment, and the facility.

Supervisor Budny noted that discussions will occur with the Police Department and the Police Commission to decide how to best protect and serve the residents from this point forward.

“The system worked, the voters made their voices heard, and we respect that,” said Budny.

Downriver Women’s Organization offers $2,500 academic scholarship

The Wyandotte-Downriver branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is offering a $2,500 scholarship in 2024, through its foundation, for all eligible applicants. The deadline to apply is March 31, 2024.

“The intent of this scholarship is to provide financial support, including tuition, fees, books and supplies to a Downriver native who is currently enrolled full-time,” said Barbara Duran, current co-President of the Downriver Branch. The scholarship is for the Fall Semester of 2024, and will be paid directly to the chosen college or university on behalf of the student.

Applicants must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident residing in any of the following communities: Allen Park, Brownstown, Ecorse, Flat Rock, Gibraltar, Grosse Ile, Huron Township, Lincoln Park, Melvindale, New Boston, River Rouge, Riverview, Rockwood, Romulus, Southgate, Taylor, Trenton, Woodhaven or Wyandotte.

They also must have earned a minimum of 12 college credits and be

currently enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student.

All interested students who wish to apply for this scholarship should send an email with the subject: “Academic Scholarship 2024” to aauwwd@gmail. com to receive the application form and guidelines.

The completed application, required essay and a copy of the applicant’s transcript must be sent to: AAUWWDF, c/o Sheila Blair, 4143 McKenna Dr., Adrian, MI 49221, or via email to scholarship committee chair Sheila Blair, at: aauwwd@gmail.com by the deadline date of March 31st.

AAUW Wyandotte-Downriver supports leadership, education, equity and economic security for women through scholarships, training and political advocacy. Information about the branch and our activities can be found at: facebook.com/AAUWWyandotteDownriverBranch, or by calling Barb Duran at 313-300-1710 or Sue Stoll at 737-692-4919. Address email to aauwwd@gmail.com

March 12 — April 10, 2024 • Page 13 GROSSE ILE GRAND AMERICAN OWNED & OPERATED Q D P + Tax + Tax Radiator Flush $ 59. 99 Save $$$ With Coupon. Not Valid with Any Other Coupon. Must Be Presented Prior to Service to Receive Discount. Expires 4/30/24 With Coupon. Not Valid with Any Other Coupon. Must Be Presented Prior to Service to Receive Discount. Expires 4/30/24 Any Full Service Oil Change TRANSMISSION FLUSH $79.99 Oil & Lube Center Fast Qualitly Service At Eureka & 3rd St. Support Your Local Business 330 Eureka - Wyandotte 734-246-3660 Monday - Friday 8 am to 6pm Saturday 8am to 5pm 330 EUREKA - WYANDOTTE Save $$$ With Coupon. Not Valid with Any Other Coupon. Must Be Presented Prior to Service to Receive Discount. Expires 4/30/24 With Coupon. Not Valid with Any Other Coupon. Must Be Presented Prior to Service to Receive Discount. Expires 4/30/24 With Coupon. Not Valid with Any Other Coupon. Must Be Presented Prior to Service to Receive Discount. Expires 4/30/24 RADIATOR FLUSH $ 59. 99 Full Service Oil Change Radiator Flush & Transmission Flush + Tax + Tax Save $$$ Up To 5 Qts. Plus $1.50 Shop Fee Conventional Oil includes extended life coolant $ 159. 95 + Tax Spring Special! “Like” us on Tire Rotation $20 w/FREE Brake Inspection! $ 5 OFF Spring Special! Up to 5qts plus $1.50 Shop Fee Q D P Q D P Q D P + Q D P Q D P Spring Special!Spring Special! Spring Special! WE DO EUROPEAN AND DIESEL TRUCKS! • BELTS • BATTERIES • WIPER BLADES • CABIN AIR FILTERS • FUEL INJECTION CLEANING Grosse Ile

Polar plunge in Grosse Ile helps kick-off support for police suicide-prevention initiative

A group of individuals who regularly swim in the frigid waters off Grosse Ile have helped kick off a police suicide-prevention initiative.

The Lucas Foundation Polar Plunge drew support from the Island Ice Dippers and others who braved freezing waters in the Detroit River at Sunrise Park on the east end of Grosse Ile on February 24.

The nonprofit LUCAS Foundation was started after the January 9 suicide of former Woodhaven native Lucas Sizemore, a young officer in the Police Department in Atlanta, Georgia. The late officer’s parents, Brian and Marie, started the foundation to “make an impact and erase the stigma of asking for mental health assistance.”

LUCAS is an acronym for Law Enforcements United Crusade Against Suicide, which is on the rise at an “alarming” rate across the nation, according to statistics.

Grosse Ile resident and Wyandotte native Andrew Starzec, who is deputy police chief in Brownstown Township and a member of the Island Ice Dippers, organized the plunge to show support for the cause. He said about two dozen

Page 14 • March 12 — April 10, 2024 GROSSE ILE GRAND
SEE POLAR, Page 15
Photos by Dave Chapman

POLAR

Continued from page 14

individuals – including police officers from all over Downriver and the officer’s father Brian and brother Evan –swam in the frigid river for up to seven minutes while about twice that many individuals cheered them on from the shore.

“The Sizemores were looking for a connection with law enforcement and to do something to honor Lucas’ memory,” Starzec said.

Most of the Ice Dippers are from Brownstown and other Downriver communities and police departments, along with a military veteran and “civilians,” he said.

Starzec, who is also commander of the Brownstown Police Honor Guard, said he got involved originally when Atlanta police reached out to him after Officer Sizemore’s passing to have the Honor Guard stand in for them during services at Molnar Funeral Home in Brownstown. Atlanta officers had two out-of-state funerals at the same time and could not be present in Brownstown, but they later came in for the plunge.

The Sizemores were known to Starzec and his sister Paula, who attended Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic School with both Brian and Marie, and Lucas’ death hit close to home.

Starzec said the foundation wants to reach police officers that may be contemplating suicide but haven’t gone through with it.

“Unfortunately, we see a lot of this with military and police officers,” he said. “Atlanta police said he (Sizemore) was a fine officer.”

Brian Sizemore has been asked to speak to Atlanta police recruiting classes about how it’s OK to ask for help if you’re depressed, Starzec said. Some officers are afraid to ask for help, thinking it will affect their status in the department, he added.

“The theme is to ask for help if you need help,” Starzec said. “The stigma is starting to go away – it’s getting there.

People are talking more about it. People are still apprehensive. In the law-enforcement community, there is concern about the impact on your promotability.

“Frankly, I wish everyone would seek out that help. We run a critical incident stress management here. I want to mandate mental health checkups. If they think everything is great, fine. If you spill out your heart and soul, no

one will know. It’s between you and your mental health professional.”

To make a donation to the foundation or get more information, send an email to lawenforcementsunitedcrusadeagainstsuicide.com. (That’s “law enforcements united crusade against suicide.”)

March 12 — April 10, 2024 • Page 15 GROSSE ILE GRAND
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We never know, do we?

These columns I write have been a way for me to channel angst, anger, stress, frustration, contempt, and anxiety over my sliver of reality in the world of retail. I have done this for eighty-one consecutive editions of the Go Big publications, and I believe that I have done a credible job of expressing all of these things through words that have also been all about optimism, encouragement, and determination to prevail against absurdly outsized odds. All of these niche specific thoughts are how I have experienced and how I assess the state of the nation. If I weren’t essentially optimistic, I wouldn’t even have the gumption to write.

Optimism comes from lots of directions. By the time these words are read, Janelle and I will have spent time in Las Vegas and Chicago, trying to read the tea leaves, so to speak. Every season, in just a few days, a significant chunk of the vendor pool in the women’s apparel business gather together at multiple venues to offer up each of their contributions to the fashion world for upcoming seasons. This part of the job I have done for fifty plus years is still fascinating to me. From these shows springs hope and ambition for the near future, and interestingly, has the effect of making me look forward with great anticipation, eager for the passing

All of us Independent, and local to the communities in which we do our thing. For richer, for poorer, our near-term fates are in large part the results of these trade show efforts. What a wild thing to consider.

of time, even as I near the 70-year marker. Imagine that, avidly eager for time to pass, being impatient for the next season. That’s the truth. I return from each trip with new “fuel” with which to fire the engines of our little micro-economy(!) It’s true for both the men’s and women’s business. Evan and I were in Chicago a bit earlier, and returned with similar (yet radically different) inspirations.

It isn’t just the merchandise presentations we sit through and sift through. Although making our selections is ultimately the sole reason for these trips, we feed off the passion for the industry that each vendor shares with us through their latest offerings. That is: their most current visions of what they perceive to be saleable for US if we choose to do business with THEM. But in so doing, we see countless ways of dramatizing said offerings. Endless and highly varied creativity that makes booth spaces look fantastic, and that telegraphs each vendor’s take on the drama of retail. It is dramatic, it is impressive, it is fun to see and think about, and it adds to the fire.

Big, corporate entities no longer attend these shows. They haven’t in a long time. They make their plans far earlier than the indie segment of the industry, with just a few exceptions.

Many stores are completely vertical, meaning that the only brands you see in their stores are their own labels. Others use a mix, but with so many stores, they work earlier.

THAT means that all of these trade shows are for ME. Well, OK, not JUST for me, but for the likes of me in apparel stores of all sizes and shapes across the nation. All of us coming together to put our varying levels of endorsement on a wild diversity of brands and their collections. All of us Independent, and local to the communities in which we do our thing. For richer, for poorer, our nearterm fates are in large part the results of these trade show efforts. What a wild thing to consider.

As you know well by this time, I have mall retail in my experience. I compared our stores to bigger players, not just other small businesses like ours. I was inspired by good ideas, even if I couldn’t execute them. As negative as my regard is for those invaders, I do have to admit that they instilled an obsession for creative excellence.

We come back from shows, then, with heads full of ideas, from new brands to fresh offerings from existing brands. From cool lighting ideas to efficient display equipment, all things we can emulate. The energy is electric

and addictive. After attending SO many shows over the course of my career, I still find it all exhilarating. We can’t possibly share everything we bring home with us. But visitors to Wyandotte and to our stores will see newness as a result of those trips.

When I visit stores that obviously find their own version of creative optimism from wherever they get it, I recognize it. It may be that simple. I recognize the sparks. Some of the stores just stun me; I don’t want to leave. Most are not that dramatic, but man, when I find places like that, the memories of that find don’t fade. I actually think that all of that, all of what I just wrote ... could have been written about trips I have taken, or people I have met. Inspiration and optimism come from places we can’t foretell. We just can’t know, right? It’s scary for me to contemplate losing that source of inspiration.

People are beginning to ask me more about retiring, as they inform me that THEY are retiring or that it’s coming or it came. I am resolute in my responses. I haven’t gotten it right, yet. I have work to do, I’m not satisfied, what would I do ... but the main thing is the idea of losing that source of energy and replenishment. It’s just not going to happen, and I’m grateful for it.

March 12 — April 10, 2024 • Page 17 GROSSE ILE GRAND (734) 675-3456 • (888) 705-ROOF
MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES 517-775-4248 Susan Mahalik, LMSW Licensed Clinical Social Worker • 20 Years Experience • Specializing in Mental Health Gage Professional Building 2514 Biddle, Wyandotte
Page 18 • March 12 — April 10, 2024 GROSSE ILE GRAND GROSSE ILE MARINE WORKS Sea Walls • Docks • Pilings • Hoists Jet Ski Lifts • Welding • Salvage • Repairs Chris Paquette 734-231-9413 PO Box 672 • Grosse Ile, MI 48138 marineworks5200@gmail.com 24732 Ford Rd. Dearborn Hts 313-278-5000 RosenauPowersports.net Several Units in Stock Come in Today! FINANCING AVAILABLE WE BEAT ALL DEALS! Call Today: 734.283.8780 13260 Dix Toledo Rd. Southgate MI, 48195 Wealth Management Insurance Retirement Planning • All securities are offered through Sigma Financial Corp., a member of FINRA/SIPC. Stroia Securities Services, Inc. is independent of Sigma Financial Corp. We would like to announce a special promotion within our ranks! Join us in congratulating Joseph Scotti on his promotion to the rank of Reserve Sergeant! Joseph has shown dedication, commitment, and leadership throughout his time with the department, and we couldn’t be prouder. In the photo, you can see Reserve Captain Price (right) standing beside Joseph Scotti (left). Please join us in congratulating Joseph on this significant accomplishment! Here’s to many more successes in your future endeavors! Announcement from the Grosse Ile Police Department
Credit to Grosse Ile Police Department Facbook Page

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Your morning in paradise starts with sipping your coffee sitting at your nautical teak table overlooking lush tropical landscaping on your 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 filled day of boating, fishing, 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 “only worry in the world is the tide going to reach your chair” on our private upland sunning beach. There is always something for everyone!

Paradise isn’t over yet as you walk through your own private courtyard, a bricked patio garden with relaxing furniture, then up just one flight of stairs, your private oasis awaits you…where you can unwind from a fun filled day. You can cook your fresh day’s catch in your fully equipped new kitchen with lots of natural light glistening off the solid surface countertops and the stunning stainless steel appliances and eat in comfort. Or go “out on the town” and relax in some of the best restaurants in the area where you are pampered as your fresh catch is being prepared to your specifications as you relax drinking a glass of wine watching the beautiful Florida Bay Sunset. The perfect end to a wonderful day in paradise.

After dinner retreat to your 1480 sq. ft. Newly Decorated Beautiful two bedroom townhouse with a smart open floor plan, 14’ vaulted ceilings. Relax with ELEGANT Tommy Bahama furnishings and a 65” HDTV in the great room.

Now time for a perfect night’s rest as you enjoy a wonderful view from the master bedroom giving the feeling of nestling in the trees. A beautifully tropical draped four-poster, king size bed with ultra comfort mattress assures a perfect night’s sleep and offers the ideal spot to view the 48” flat screen TV. An en suite bath features a corner spa tub, the perfect way to end a day of sightseeing.

Welcome to 901 Mariners Club! We are glad to have you here!

March 12 — April 10, 2024 • Page 19 GROSSE ILE GRAND ADVERTISING INFO CALL 734-282-3939 AND GET RESULTS RESULTS Per Night
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Important traffic alert from Grosse Ile police department

We want to inform you about a significant change in the traffic signal configuration at the intersection of Meridian and Ferry Roads. Wayne County Signal has re-engineered this intersection with safety as the top priority, and we want to ensure everyone is aware of how it now operates.

Here’s the updated traffic flow:

Meridian northbound and southbound lanes will remain green until a vehicle approaches the intersection from east or westbound Ferry Road.

Cameras installed at the intersection will recognize the Ferry Rd. vehicles, triggering the light to cycle for vehicles turning left or right from the Ferry onto Meridian.

Please be aware that the cycling of light by camera is not instant, so it’s important to be patient, especially at this four-way intersection on a curved roadway.

We understand that this change may take some getting used to, but rest assured that it has been implemented based on thorough studies and data analysis to enhance safety for all road users.

Please familiarize yourselves with this new traffic pattern and exercise caution when navigating through the intersection. Your cooperation and patience are greatly appreciated as we work to ensure the safety of our community.

Page 20 • March 12 — April 10, 2024 GROSSE ILE GRAND
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Grosse Ile cheerleaders third at state meet

The Grosse Ile girls competitive cheerleading team capped a great season with a third-place finish at the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 3 state meet on March 2.

The Red Devils, who were second at regionals the week before, finished the state meet with 781.34 points, just .78 points behind second-place finisher Pontiac Notre Dame Prep and just 1.18 points behind 2024 state champ Croswell-Lexington, who won the competition with a final total score of 782.52.

Armada, Paw Paw, Portland, Howard City Tri-county and Lakewood Lake Odessa rounded out the scoring at the eight-team state meet.

Cros-Lex, the defending state

champion, and Grosse Ile both scored 234.50 in Round 1 on Saturday to trail Notre Dame Prep by nine-tenths of a point. The Pioneers made back four tenths of deficit with a meet-best 228.42 for Round 2 as all three of those contenders reached 228 points and pulled away from the pack – setting up plenty of anticipation for Round 3.

The scores entering the final round were remarkably close: Notre Dame had 463.42, Cros-Lex had 462.92 and Grosse Ile had 462.54.

It was anyone’s meet to win and, just like last year, Cros-Lex came from behind to claim the championship.

In the final round, Cros-Lex scored 319.60, Grosse Ile scored 318.80 and Notre Dame Prep scored 318.60. It all

added up to a thrilling finish and gold for Cros-Lex, silver for Notre Dame and bronze for the Red Devils.

Grosse Ile reached the state meet by winning a district title (the top four teams at districts qualify for regionals) and then finishing second at regionals.

At districts, Grosse Ile scored 776.28 points to lead the way. Flat Rock (760.48) was second, Onsted (731) and Monroe Jefferson (720.32) rounded out the regional qualifying teams.

At regionals Grosse Ile was second to eventual champ Cros-Lex.

How close were the Red Devils to being the best D3 competitive cheer team in the state? They lost to two-time champs by 1.18 points at the state meet and they lost the the Pioneers by .96

points at regionals

Cros-Lex scored 787.14 points at regionals and Grosse Ile had 786.18. Notre Dame Prep (784.94) and Armada (773.12) were third and fourth, respectively and all four teams qualified for the state meet.

The 2024 Grosse Ile cheerleaders are Elizabeth Adamczyk, Arianna Bianchi, Halle Bower, Cassidy Claxon, Delaney Davis, Isabella Esposito, Avelin Flynn, Madelyn Frendo. Laynie Gratz, Rylie Gratz, Sophia Hladchuk, Kelsey Jamnick, Lakey Luton, Allson Niehof, Sienna Ross, Savanna Snider, Marrissa Trombley, Penelope Valascho, Virginia West, Madilyn Zajas and Lillyonna Zulewski.

March 12 — April 10, 2024 • Page 21 GROSSE ILE GRAND ADVERTISING INFO CALL 734-282-3939 AND GET RESULTS RESULTS

GROSSE ILE GRAND

Grosse Ile girls knock out Huron in district game

The Huron League rival Grosse Ile and Huron girls basketball teams met twice during the regular season with each winning a 10-point decision on their home court.

On March 4, the two teams met in a “rubber match” at The Peak Arena at Summit Academy in the first round of the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 2 state district tournament.

These two teams know each other well and that was evident once the game began. Grosse Ile knew what Huron wanted to do offensively and Huron knew what Grosse Ile wanted to do and the result was a messy defensive struggle that featured many, many missed shots and maybe even more turnovers.

It was a two- to four-point game most of the night, but Grosse Ile had a little spurt at the start of the

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fourth quarter and it proved to be decisive as the Devils went on to post a 43-37 win and advance to the district semifinals.

Grosse Ile fell behind 4-0 at the start of the game, but regrouped quickly and led 9-6 after the first quarter and 18-14 at halftime.

The score was 27-23 heading into the fourth quarter when Grosse Ile found another gear. The Devils scored the first five points of the fourth quarter to push their lead to nine.

Aubree Korody then hit a pair of three-point bank shots in a span of less than two minutes and Grosse Ile’s lead swelled to 14 points, 40-26.

But Grosse Ile needed nearly all those points and Huron, playing a physical, knock-you-down and take-the-ball kind of a game, clawed its way back into the contest. The Chiefs got as close as five points, but the Red Devils were able to close them out.

Kylee Wright led the way

scoring for Grosse Ile. She had three triples and 16 total points. Katherine Gilroy had a solid game in the post for Grosse Ile. She had six baskets and totaled 15 points. Her total would have been higher, but she was just 3-for-10 at the free-throw line. Overall the Devils shot just 13 free throws, a remarkably low number considering the type of game Huron plays. The Devils made six of those attempts.

The victory pushed Grosse Ile’s overall season record to 13-0 and set them up for a district semifinal game against Flat Rock, which had a first-round bye.

That game was played March 6, after the Grosse Ile Grand’s press deadline

The other side of the bracket featured host Summit, Monroe Jefferson and Carleton Airport. The district championship was decided on March 8 with the winner advancing to regionals.

High flying Red Devils halted in regional finals

A truly excellent season came to a close on March 1 for the Grosse Ile hockey team.

The Red Devils won the 2023 Metro League West division by a mile, outpacing runner-up Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard by 14 points. The Red Devils were 10-0 in league games, 22-3 overall and at one point won 16 consecutive games. The only teams other than Gabriel Richard to beat coach Jason Durbin’s team were Big Rapids, Allen Park and Trenton.

In the regionals Grosse Ile beat the host school Birmingham United 8-2 in the semifinals before losing to neighboring Riverview Gabriel Richard 4-0 in the championship game. Richard was the regular-season winner of the Metro League East, edging Allen Park by a point.

After winning the regional title, Gabriel Richard was dumped from the playoffs by Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook 4-0 in a state quarterfinal game played at Wyandotte’s Yack Arena.

In the regional semifinal, Grosse Ile had little trouble in defeating Birmingham.

Fisher Gurney had six points and Tate Hubler had five to lead the way offensively for the Devils. In goal, Braden Chessor saw 20 shots and stopped all but two of them.

Gurney had three goals and three assists

and Hubkler had a goal and four assists in the win. Grosse Ile;s other goals came from Colten Dwarzski, Brendan Pace, Evan Raithel and Adalar Hovis. Hovis and Dwarzski each added assists.

For the season, Gurney and Hubler were just great.

Gurney led the team with 37 goals and 46 assists for a team-leading 83 points. Hubler was just a step behind with 36 goals, 39 assists and 75 points.

Hovis had 20 and 52 points, Gavin Worlsey had 13 goals and 33 points and Dwarzski had three goals and 28 points.

Goalie Wyatt Thompson was 11-3 with a 2.31 goals against average. Back-up goalies Chessor and Adam Moomey were undefeated in the games they played. Chessor was 7-0 and Moomey was 6-0.

Between Dec. 9 and Feb. 7, Grosse Ile won 16 straight games, beginning with a 5-1 win over Chelsea at the Gaylord Showcase and ending with a 4-2 road loss to Allen Park.

Following that loss to Allen Park, Grosse Ile went 3-1 over the course of the last four regular-season games, beating Southgate, Ann Arbor Pioneer and Plymouth, while losing 7-1 to MHSAA Division 2 semifinalist Trenton.

Page 22 • March 12 — April 10, 2024 GROSSE ILE GRAND
Photo by Dave Chapman

Downriver for Veterans receives $2,500 grant to support veterans

Downriver for Veterans has received a $2,500 grant from the Michigan Association of Health Plans (MAHP) to support local veterans and their families by providing essential products and services in times of need.

The funding is provided as part of MAHP’s Tackling Health Care Disparities in Michigan grant program, which encourages community-based organizations to collaborate and deploy local initiatives aimed at creating better health outcomes and improving health equity.

Downriver for Veterans is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in Wyandotte that serves local veterans and their families. The veterans group provides food, household essentials, rent assistance, car repairs, and more. The funds from MAHP will be used to provide personal hygiene items to the veterans community within the 22 cities and townships in the region.

“There are more than 2,000 veterans living in our community and

many of them rely on our services,” said Ann Rudisill, founder of the Downriver group. “This donation will be put to great use and we’re thankful for MAHP’s support.”

“Downriver for Veterans is an essential resource in the Downriver area,” said Dominick Pallone, executive director of the MAHP. “We’re honored to help fund a program that provides the necessary services and support those who served our country.”

“Some of our veterans are facing real hardships and need a variety of support and services,” said State Rep. Jamie Thompson, who was on hand for the presentation. “Downriver for Veterans is providing services that are essential to improving the lives of veterans and their families and I’m proud of all the work they do, from building a tiny home community to emergency fund assistance – they serve veterans with the utmost respect and honor they deserve.”

Thompson, a Republican, represents seven communities in Wayne and Monroe counties:

Brownstown Township, Flat Rock, Rockwood, Woodhaven, Berlin Township, Frenchtown Township, Newport, South Rockwood, and part of Taylor.

Downriver for Veterans is located at 2322 Ford Avenue in Wyandotte.

To learn more about or support the organization, visit the website downriverforveterans.org.

March 12 — April 10, 2024 • Page 23 GROSSE ILE GRAND ADVERTISING INFO CALL 734-282-3939 AND GET RESULTS RESULTS
CONCRETE DELIVERY — 1/2 yard on up! Michigan’s SMALLEST concrete delivery trucks Driveway and lawn FRIENDLY COURTEOUS drivers Open 6 DAYS A WEEK Call for a FREE estimate 313-841-7333 SPECIAL ORDERS ON SUNDAYS “Complete Sprinkler Service” 18224 Telegraph Brownstown, MI Office: (734) 941-7474 Fax: (734) 941-8112 TORO FREE ESTIMATES • Residential • Rain Bird • Commercial All Absolute Quality customers receive the finest irrigation products available plus... Fully Insured • Serving Downriver Since 1985 Member of the Better Business Bureau & Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber I N C. LAWN SPRINKLERS QUALITY ABSOLUTE FREE FREE 5 Year Warranty Automatic Rain Switch First Year Winterization FREE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS www.AbsoluteQualityLawnSprinklers.com SPRING SPECIALS
Veterans gather for a ceremonial check presentation with Downriver for Veterans founder Ann Rudisill, Michigan Association of Health Plans Executive Director Dominick Pallone and State Representative Jamie Thompson.
Page 24 • March 12 — April 10, 2024 GROSSE ILE GRAND LIKE US ON FACEBOOK –GROSSE ILE GRAND 734-676-5630 Since 1974 Car Care Riverview 18982 Fort Street • Riverview 734-479-7777 (at the corner of Fort st. & Sibley) Open: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm Sat 8AM-6pm COME SEE NICK Most vehicles Up to 5 quarts: 5W20 • 5W30 • 10W30 With RR coupon • While Offer Lasts FREE CAR WASH & SAFETY CHECK with a full service oil change $24.95 (+ tax) Includes Premium Oil and Filter Ask For Details With WW coupon While Supplies Lasts FREE SUSPENSION & BRAKE CHECK FRONT WHEEL ALIGNMENT $39.99 most cars 188982 F Fo t rt St eet • Riverv ew tr i ie Financing Available Ask for Details PERFECT FOR: • Construction • Demolition • Yard Waste Removal • Household Cleanouts and More! 10, 12, 15, 20 AND 25-YARD DRIVEWAY-FRIENDLY ROLL-OFF DUMPSTERS WolverineDumpsterRental.com 63 Mill St., Ecorse, MI 48229 Contractors/Residential Clients, We Bring Our Dumpster to You! Let Wolverine Make Your Cleanup Easier! QUALITY WORK AT AFFORDABLE PRICES CALL FOR A “FREE” ESTIMATE!! Tom Davidson 313-982-2986 FALL SAVINGS 25% OFF Expires 4-30-24 DINNERS $13.95 - 17.95 Cod, Lake Perch, Shrimp & Walleye Dinners include Baked Potato or French Fries, Cole Slaw, Dinner Roll Extra Sides Sold Separately: Crab Cakes, French Fries, Pierogies, Jumbo Shrimp, Baked Potato House-Made Soups (Varies Weekly) • Gluten-Free Items Available Children’s Dinner Menu Only $4.95 Cheese Pizza (2 Slices), Macaroni & Cheese, Pizza Slice with Mac & Cheese Sacred Heart Knights of Columbus • Grosse Ile “Home of Downriver’s Famous Fish Fries” Fridays during Lent: Feb 16, 2024 - March 29, 2024, 4:00 - 7:30 PM Ho 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 Sacred Heart Parish • 21599 Parke Lane able Desserts: Hungarian Strudel, Ghirardelli Hot Fudge and Floats Credit Debit Cards Accepted LIVE MUSIC
March 12 — April 10, 2024 • Page 25 GROSSE ILE GRAND ADVERTISING INFO CALL 734-282-3939 AND GET RESULTS RESULTS
Page 26 • March 12 — April 10, 2024 GROSSE ILE GRAND LIKE US ON FACEBOOK –GROSSE ILE GRAND Daily, weekly, monthly visits available Now offering overnight care in your home Over 20 years of combined experience in veterinary and pet sitting care Mary Beth Cada and Family 734-341-1201 We are here when you are ready to travel GROSSE ILE HOME & PET SITTING SERVICE Servicing all of Downriver Scuby Another Satisfied Customer: “We had a sham-rockin’ good time!” Dr. Helena Woodward 734-671-3090 8117 Macomb Street Grosse Ile www.TheIslandAnimalClinic.com 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 15060 Eureka Road Southgate 734-720-9797 Grooming Available 22124 Ecorse Rd Taylor 313-295-6500 Grooming Available 2621 S Telegraph Rd Dearborn 313-278-4799 Grooming Available Shop or Book Grooming Online Today! Expires 4/30/2024 Enter code 81029 at checkout MARCH SUPER SAVINGS MADNESS! 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! Cuteness Overload brought to you by 19295 West Rd Woodhaven 734-671-6936 2621 S Telegraph Rd Dearborn 313-278-4799 Grooming Available 15060 Eureka Road Southgate 734-720-9797 Grooming Available 22124 Ecorse Rd Taylor 313-295-6500 Grooming Available CHEESE! Hello, this is my 10 week old Pomeranian puppy Bruno! He sure keeps us hopping! He just loves his toys, treats and his mom and dad. Thanks for looking. These are our babies, Chloe and Lucy. We adopted Chloe at 6 weeks old and a year and a half later, the rescue called us that someone turned her sister/litter mate in and did we “know anyone who might want her”. We were in the car the next day picking Lucy up. Markings are identical. However the lengths of their legs are quite different.

2024 Trenton and Downriver Area Soroptimists’ annual awards banquet

Six women were recognized with monetary awards from the Trenton and Downriver Area Soroptimists for their ambition and contribution to their communities. The awards banquet was held on February 27th at the Grecian Center in Southgate. Some of the essay judges were in attendance to celebrate with the winners. The applicants were evaluated on a set criteria and essays that assessed their contributions to women and society.

Soroptimist is an international organization of almost 1,500 clubs in nineteen countries for and by dedicated women who use their collective power to help other women and girls transform their physical, mental, and emotional lives and the lives of their families. Trenton and Downriver Area Soroptimist is a volunteer group that offers service by way of fundraising and donations, public awareness/educational programs, and hands-on assistance; as well as presenting yearly monetary awards to individuals to help support and further their future. These women give their time and talents to local food pantries, Vista Maria, First Step, Sparrow Project, Stanford House, Alternatives for Girls, and to area women’s health institutions. They host annual charity fundraisers and programs such as “Save the Girls” motorcycle ride, “Save the Girls” charity golf outing, “Battle for Freedom,” and the “Dream It, Be It” program for adolescent girls.

The Virginia Wagner Educational Award is given to a woman aspiring

to complete a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degree to enable her to reach her career goals. Judging is based on a weighted criteria for judging that includes scholarship, extra-curricular activities, need, and effort toward education. The Virginia Wagner chairperson is Fallon Donovan.

ELIZABETH JOHNSON is a justice activist, currently pursuing a master’s in social work at Wayne State University, where she maintains an overall 4.0 GPA, after receiving magna cum laude honors when she completed her bachelor’s degree in social work in 2022. Throughout her professional career, she has occupied several different roles, recently helping to implement a 501c(3) program plan to create affordable housing inventory for homeless, extremely lowincome individuals in metro Detroit. She also spent a great deal of time in social work education research, working with youth as a volunteer and child advocate in several different capacities.

In addition to working on her master’s degree, Ms. Johnson is involved with several professional affiliations. She is currently the founder and copresident at Wayne State University’s School of Social Work, Social Work Disability Justice Coalition. She is also a student member of the National Association of Social Workers, Taylor Substance Abuse Prevention Task Force, Downriver Anti-Trafficking Coalition, and Families Against Narcotics.

OV’ VAR’SHIA GRAY-WOODS is completing her master’s degree in social work in May at Wayne State University, where she maintains a 3.83 GPA. Along with being a full-time student, she has been a delegate liaison for the National Foster Youth Institute, a ten-month program which resulted in shadowing Congress in Washington, D.C. She was also president of the Empowering Foster Youth through Technology program, was named one of the Top 20 Most Influential Black Detroiters Making History under the age of twenty-five by the Skillman Foundation, and is a member of the Wayne State Champions Aspiring to Make Pathways to Success program.

CHAMPS is a campus-based support program serving under-privileged students who have aged out of or spent time in foster care. Ov’Var’Shia is a single mother of a daughter. Her goal is to be a strong community leader in Michigan, promoting social justice, advocating for urban communities, and upholding her personal and professional core values while leading by example for her daughter.

The Live Your Dream Education and Training Award was established in 1972 to provide monetary assistance to women who provide the primary source of financial support for their families to obtain the skills-training or undergraduate degree program necessary to improve their employment status and standard of living for themselves and their family.

Each year, over $3 million is awarded to more than 1,800 women in

Soroptimist’s member countries and territories. The women receiving these financial awards may use them for any costs associated with their educational efforts, including tuition, books, childcare, and transportation, many of whom have overcome enormous obstacles including poverty, domestic violence, the death of a spouse and/ or substance abuse. The Live Your Dream chairperson is Nancy Nagle.

The first recipient is MARQUITA DIAZ, from Ecorse. Marquita is a single mother of four children, ages fourteen, nine, six, and four. She is completing her professional certification training as a licensed practical nurse from Detroit Business Institute, while maintaining a 3.5 GPA. She intends to continue her studies to become a registered nurse, practicing in pediatrics with an emphasis on helping to heal critically ill children and offer support to grieving parents. While she tried to balance her family life, work, and schooling, she lost her job, and then her home, which added to the strain; but she persisted in working toward her dream career, depending on distant relatives to help her family for the first time. An instructor stated that Ms. Diaz modeled professionalism when encountering an angry patient on the first day of her clinicals, engaging in a successful therapeutic communication to resolve the problem.

The second winner is MONIQUE OWENS from East Pointe, the mother of twin fifteen-year-old girls, who is

March 12 — April 10, 2024 • Page 27 GROSSE ILE GRAND ADVERTISING INFO CALL 734-282-3939 AND GET RESULTS RESULTS
SEE AWARDS, Page 31
Page 28 • March 12 — April 10, 2024 GROSSE ILE GRAND LIKE US ON FACEBOOK –GROSSE ILE GRAND ORIGINALLY FAMILY OWNED KARAOKE Every Friday & Saturday Night! DAILY SPECIALS VOTEDBURGERBEST DOWNRIVER 19380 ALLEN RD • 734-479-0260 ROUND HOUSE BBQ 2760 W. Jefferson Ave. Trenton • 734-671-6100 RoundHouseBBQ.com Let Us Cater Your Family Event Pick 2 meats & 2 sides, plus get corn bread, slider slider buns, and sauce. Starting at $12 per person. Pickup or delivery available. Lunch & Dinner Specials Daily 734-285-1707 916 W. Jefferson - Trenton erson M-F 11:30 to 9 pm Sat. 3 to 9 pm Closed Sundays www.SibleyGardens.com Since 1935 Diners’ Choice Award Winner! 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 3058 1st Street Wyandotte • TheVaultOnFirst.com For Reservations Call 734-88VAULT or Online at Resy.com The upbeat setting of downtown balances the old roots of the bank you can still see today. 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 $14 Wagyu beef burger. 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. Th Vl’ The Teller’s Room Book your next party in The Vault’s private banquet room. Up to 20 people Award Winner BEST STEAKHOUSE Award Winner Finalist BEST SEAFOOD

get as excited about it as we are. At the Tipsy Fish, we believe our sta , colleagues, and customers are the key to success. Meet the owners and operators of the Tipsy Fish: Rob and Rosanne Bruner

destination located in the heart of Trenton, MI. With Nick’s thriving, Rob and Rosanne decided they wanted to expand their wings and open a second restaurant. Within this new business, they wanted to capture the community a ection of Mister Nick’s and add the nuisance of a one-of-a-kind experience. So, they began manifesting their dream, e Tipsy Fish.

e Bruners are successful restaurateurs; they currently own and operate Mister Nick’s, the classic neighborhood

With 17 years of restaurant experience, Shelby Langlands, will be the General Manager of Tipsy Fish

February Special

of Grosse Ile Dining || Cocktails

JUMBO ALASKAN KING CRAB LEGS

EASTER SUNDAY BUFFET

March 31, 12 Noon - 7 PM

• Jumbo Shrimp Cocktails

• Salads

• Prime Rib

• Honey Glazed Ham

• Roasted Turkey Breast

• Chicken Perdino

• Broiled Whitefish

• Penne Pasta

• Mashed Potatoes

• Fresh Vegetables

• Torte Cakes

• Cheese Cakes

Call for Reservations

8575 Macomb Grosse Ile • 734-676-8100 SERVING 7 DAYS A WEEK! 4pm - 10pm

“Best Kept Secret in Downriver” ~ Detroit Free Press

March 12 — April 10, 2024 • Page 29 GROSSE ILE GRAND ADVERTISING INFO CALL 734-282-3939 AND GET RESULTS RESULTS 5-Star Reviews Our Customers Love Us Carry out & delivery available NEW HOURS: Sun 1–9 PM • Mon Closed Tue 11 AM–9 PM • Wed 11 AM–9 PM Thu 11 AM–9 PM • Fri 11 AM–9 PM • Sat 1–9 PM SPECIAL FRI AND SAT FEATURES Online Menu: www.misternickstrenton.com Open Mic Night on Thursdays Hosted by Keelan Starr Daily Lunch Specials Under $10 Taco Tuesdays $3 Margaritas Ladies Night Wednesdays PRIME RIB PERCH & CHIPS 1926 West Rd Trenton 734-671-0990 SPECIAL FRI AND SAT FEATURES REMODELED WATERFRONT RESTAURANT 25215 W. River • Grosse Ile Online Menu: www.misternickstrenton.com Open Mic Night on Thursdays Hosted by Keelan Starr Daily Lunch Specials Under $10 Taco Tuesdays $3 Margaritas Live Entertainment on Wednesdays Trivia Name That Tune on Mondays PRIME RIB “Finest Cut Downriver” PERCH & CHIPS “Freshest Weyands Fish Served” 1926 West Trenton Awesomeness
We are excited to start this journey with you! Our mission is to create a fun classy atmosphere with a ordable prices and excellent service! We hope you
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and Shelby Langlands.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Schmittou said he has over 2,000 frames in his building and can make arrangements to get others if customers come in with a specific brand or style in mind.

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

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

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

Page 30 • March 12 — April 10, 2024 GROSSE ILE GRAND LIKE US ON FACEBOOK –GROSSE ILE GRAND MEDICARE? OPEN ENROLLMENT IS NOW 313-999-4551/4550 Call today to schedule a $0 cost appointment in our Southgate, MI Office or stop in at 14432 Northline Russell 313-999-4550 Kymberly 313-999-4551 We do not offer every plan available in your area. Any information we provide is limited to those plans we do offer in your area which are 86 plans offered by 12 Medicare organizations. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1–800–MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program to get information on all of your options. TURNING 65? Have Medicare questions? Already on Medicare and have questions? Your hometown experts can help! Call to see if your plan is the best for you! FREE HELP ANYTIME Review your plan changes for 2024 with us today! Immediate answers! GET GREAT NEW GLASSES, SAVE SOME MONEY!
NEW EYES OPTICAL Veteran Owned Since 2012 SHOP SMALL SHOP LOCAL Affordable Pricing & Unique Styles Call or visit us on Facebook for up to date daily hours! 1616 Ford Ave • Wyandotte • 313-587-4204 www.NewEyesOptical.com With 2000 frames available, we can meet all of your vision needs! READING • VISION SUN • SPORTS SAFETY GLASSES ALL AVAILABLE With prescription or not We Also Have the LARGEST Selection of Ray-Ban & Oakley Sunglasses Downriver! And now, too! f to y Sung Now accepting new patients! 2275 West Jefferson Ave • Trenton 734-675-7210 Dr. Ahmad Al-Jerdi, D.O., FACOOG Tammy Vo-Mota, PA-C www.riverside-obgyn.com We Now Accept Online Booking Through Our Website. Ask About

AWARDS

Continued from page 27

completing studies as a certified nursing assistant at Genanacot Services Nursing School in Detroit. This is a stop-gap career as she Intends to continue her studies in the healthcare or theological sector. She has completed in the Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification program through Central Michigan University. This is a threecredit course that develops project management, problem-solving, and analytic skills to aid in a successful career. Her challenges have been the strain of balancing single parenthood, sleepless nights, financial instability; and balancing work, school, motherhood, and personal growth. One of her references stated that Monique exhibits leadership skills, emotional intelligence, integrity, and ethics.

The Soroptimist Prime Award is exclusive to SI of Trenton and Downriver Area. High school girls residing in Allen Park, Brownstown, Ecorse, Gibraltar, Grosse Ile, Lincoln Park, Melvindale, River Rouge, Riverview, Southgate, Taylor, Trenton, Woodhaven, or Wyandotte are eligible to apply. The Soroptimist of Trenton and Downriver Area high school girls’ award honors young women who make the community and world a better place through volunteer efforts. $1000 winners are from Woodhaven High School. Pat Bryan is the Soroptimist Prime chairperson.

Senior, KADENCE HOLLADAY, quotes Mother Teresa: “We ourselves feel that what we are doing is just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop.” Kadence joined the Interact club during her sophomore year because their mission embodied that quote. Kadence attended every meeting and began to help organize different fundraising events and was elected president during her senior year.

Some of the club’s projects included a clean-up of the outside of Woodhaven High School; hosting an “Apple for Ryan” fundraiser in conjunction with the Woodhaven Kiwanis by donating canned goods to soup kitchens and pantries to help the homeless; coordinating a dress drive so that girls could discreetly find a dress for school dances; a used Halloween costume drive for local

children, and also to distribute to the girls at Vista Maria and give them a trunk-or-treat party; and collecting items for Thanksgiving baskets to hand out to those in need.

KLAIRE WILSON, also a Woodhaven High School senior, was adopted through the America World Adoption Association which is located in Washington DC and serves to build families through domestic and international adoptions. Through this organization, Klaire’s passion for helping orphans began after her mission trip to Ethiopia.

One of the orphanages she visited was an all-girls orphanage, with ages ranging from six to eighteen-yearsold. Girls are forced out of the orphanage at a certain age and left with nothing to fend for themselves. Often the girls are met with unsavory people awaiting them outside the gate to take the girls with malintent.

The America World Adoption Association created a smaller organization called Bete Hosanna, which means “house of hope.” The purpose of Bete Hosanna is to house girls that age out of the orphanage so that they have a place to go after they are forced out. While the girls stay at Bete Hosanna, they learn many different life skills so that they can live on their own once they complete their phase at Bete Hosanna. Twelve to fifteen girls at a time stay at this house, and all of them learn how to cook for each other, go to school, or learn a trade.

While in Ethiopia, Klaire went to markets to buy leather for the girls to make earrings to sell, and she put together bags for the girls that included many toiletry and hygiene items that they do not have. At home afterwards, Klaire’s raised $600 for her sixteenth birthday to send to the Ethiopian girls for driving lessons and help them get jobs.

The Trenton Soroptimist organization meets at 6:30 P.M. on the first Wednesday of the month at the Woodhaven Community Center. All women are welcome to attend. You may contribute to the foundation that the Soroptimists support on krogercommunityrewards.com. If you are interested in learning more about the Trenton and Downriver Area Soroptimists and our other activities, contact us at sioftrentonanddownriverarea@ gmail.com or check out our page on Facebook@SoroptimistInternationalOfTrentonAndDownriverArea.

March 12 — April 10, 2024 • Page 31 GROSSE ILE GRAND ADVERTISING INFO CALL 734-282-3939 AND GET RESULTS RESULTS INSURANCE WORK • FREE ESTIMATES 29050 Fort Road • Brownstown
734-379-3070 MON-SAT Local & Veteran Owned Estate Cleanouts Furniture Removal Deck & Shed Demolition Hot Tub Removal And More! 888-VET-HAUL • veteranjunkremoval.com LET US DO THE HEAVY LIFTING!
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Riverview girls still chasing Huron League title

...The fired-up Bucs came out and looked like they were going to blow the archrival Red Devils right off their home court.

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Riverview scored the first 15 points of the game and held Grosse Ile scoreless for half of the first quarter.

But the Devils took a deep breath, got their inside game working and set about chopping into Riverview’s formidable lead.

After being outscored 19-11 in the first quarter, Grosse Ile won the second, third and fourth quarters. The Devils caught the Bucs late in the fourth and eventually tied the game at 40-all. Grosse Ile had a chance to win the game with 3.4 seconds left to play in regulation, but the Devils missed two free throws.

In the extra period, Riverview made 5-of-6 free throws and outscored Grosse Ile 5-3 to walk off the court with a hard-fought, bruising 45-43 victory.

On page 1

In honor of Riverview’s school board volunteers

... rough their dedication, collaboration with other school district sta , their governance and advocacy, they are building the future of education in Michigan.

We encourage all members of the community to thank a board member. Let them know you

appreciate their servant leadership. Talk with them and begin to better understand how our Riverview Board of Education trustees work together to prepare today’s students to be tomorrow’s leaders. e men and women serving the Riverview Community Schools District:

Tim Bohr, President, has served 8 ½ years, appointed in July 2015

Matthew Dominski, Vice President/City Liaison, has served 5 years, elected in 2019

Andy Davis, Treasurer, has served 7 years, elected in 2017

Sheila Walker, Secretary, has served 7 years, appointed in January 2017

Sandy Meeks, Trustee, has served 3 years, elected in 2021

Gary O’Brien, Trustee, has served 10 years, elected in 2012 and again in 2022

Matthew Toth, Trustee, has served for 3 years, elected in 2021...

On page 22

gobigmultimedia.com/southgate-star

State of the City Address

Another successful year for our community Progress across the board made 2023 “another successful year for our community,” said Southgate Mayor Joseph Kuspa in his annual State of the City Address.

Advances in municipal financing, public safety, parks and recreation, infrastructure, information technology and other areas made the year one to remember, the

Mayor said before an enthusiastic crowd on January 24 at Crystal Gardens.

Kuspa touted major projects, programs and initiatives over 2023 and set the stage for the months ahead in the city he has led for 14 years.

“Reliable infrastructure, safe neighborhoods, sound government and enhanced recreational options increase the quality of life for our residents and make our community more attractive to visitors, future residents and business owners,” the Mayor said. Kuspa spent a large portion of his address touting public safety improvements that show Southgate firefighters and emergency medical personnel responding to runs in just over four minutes – nearly half the time of the national average of eight minutes...

On page 1

gobigmultimedia.com/trenton-times

Exciting initiatives from Anderson Elementary Student Council

...Kids Against Hunger: Third, fourth, and fifthgrade students are invited to join in packing food bags on Saturday, March 9, collaborating with Kiwanis in the noble cause of addressing hunger. Buddy Bench Designation: The Student Council is introducing Buddy Benches on the playground. These benches serve as a visual cue for children seeking support or friendship. Others can join them

Page 32 • March 12 — April 10, 2024 GROSSE ILE GRAND

for a chat or invite them to play, fostering a sense of inclusivity.

School Paper: Exciting news! The Student Council, under the sponsorship of Mrs. Tait and Mrs. Wilson, will be launching a School Paper. Students will meet regularly before school to collaborate on this creative endeavor.

Ideas in the Works: The Student Council in collaboration with the PTO are exploring the possibility of organizing a Talent Show and Spelling Bee, adding more flair and educational engagement to the school community.

Stay tuned for more updates as these projects unfold, and let’s continue making a positive impact together!

On page 7

Science Alive sparks wonder at Anderson

Exciting times at Anderson as Science Alive paid a visit, bringing the magic of science to our

classrooms! Known for their hands-on approach, this educational powerhouse engaged students in the classroom with live presentations featuring reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals. A big thanks to the Anderson PTO and Science Alive for making learning an unforgettable adventure for our students.

On page 7

gobigmultimedia.com/wyandotte-warrior

2024 “Battle for Freedom: Color Me Free” Charity Gala

... This avant-garde hair and fashion show, entitled “Color Me Free,” showcased local salon stylists who dressed, designed hair, and applied make-up to models for the audience to vote for them as the best-styled in their chosen color theme.

The proceeds from “Battle for Freedom: Color Me Free” will be used for service projects and programs to benefit survivors of human trafficking. SI of Trenton

and Downriver Area is partnering with Sparrow Freedom Project, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is building a survivor-led community supporting and empowering exploited and trafficked individuals to achieve independence through services and prevention. Three guest speakers from the Sparrow Freedom project shared their experiences with the audience.

On page 9

Cheerleaders qualify for regionals with strong district showing

It has been quite a year for the Wyandotte Roosevelt competitive cheerleading team and it’s not over, yet.

The Bears, who finished third at the Downriver League meet earlier this month, finishing behind only multiple-time state champions Carlson and Allen Park, continued their strong end-of-year run by finishing second at the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 1 district held at Woodhaven High School.

Host Woodhaven led the competition from start to finish, but the Bears would never let them get

comfortable. Only a couple of points separated the two squads throughout the event and when Wyandotte scored a meet-high 317.80 in the third and final round, things got tense in a hurry, Wyandotte’s final-round score was 2.8 points higher than Woodhevn’s 315, but that number was not quite enough to push the Bears past the Warriors. Woodhaven won the meet with a score of 777.80. Wyandotte was second with 776.34.

The top four teams in each district qualify for regionals. Joining Woodhaven and Wyandotte as qualifiers from the Woodhaven district were Temperance-Bedford (749.74) and Plymouth (720.26).

Those four teams advanced to the MHSAA Division 1 regional at Troy Athens, which was held Feb. 24. Joining the four Woodhaven district qualifiers at the regions were Sterling Heights Stevenson, L’Anse Creuse North, Stoney Creek, Chippewa Valley, Rochester, Recherster Adams, Macomb Dakota and Utica Eisenhower....

On page 16

March 12 — April 10, 2024 • Page 33 GROSSE ILE GRAND ADVERTISING INFO CALL 734-282-3939 AND GET RESULTS RESULTS

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Page 34 • March 12 — April 10, 2024 GROSSE ILE GRAND LIKE US ON FACEBOOK –GROSSE ILE GRAND W H I TE F UR N I T U R E ’ S 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 White Furniture 3025 Biddle Avenue Wyandotte, MI 48192 734-282-2155 www.whitefurniture.com www.facebook.com/whitefurniture
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March 12 — April 10, 2024 • Page 35 GROSSE ILE GRAND ADVERTISING INFO CALL 734-282-3939 AND GET RESULTS RESULTS
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Page 36 • March 12 — April 10, 2024 GROSSE ILE GRAND
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