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Celebrating Graduates, Summer Blast, and Local Initiatives around Flat Rock
My fellow residents, Congratulations to all Flat Rock seniors in the Class of2026!
STEVE BELLER
We celebrate not only the graduates of Flat Rock High School, but also Flat Rock residents who graduated from Carlson, Huron, Woodhaven, Gabriel Richard, and other area schools. Best wishes to each of you as you begin the next chapter of your journey.
The due diligence period for the potential purchase of the Flat Rock Dam has been extended through July 31. All required testing has been completed, and we are currently awaiting the final results. Once all information has been reviewed, a public meeting will be held before any decision is made regarding the purchase of the dam. Community input will be an important part of the
process.
City Council has approved the Flat Rock Community Foundation's request to host the annual Summer Blast at Community Park on July 16, 17, and 18. The event will feature amusement rides, live concerts on the ball fields, Friday night fireworks, vendors, food trucks, and an Elks beer tent. Mark your calendars and plan to join the fun!
Be sure to explore the many summer programs available through the Flat Rock Community Center. With activities for elementary-aged children, teens, adults, and seniors, there is something for everyone. For more information, visit flatrockrec.org or call 734-379-1450.
The Flat Rock Animal Shelter is currently seeking volunteers and donations to help care for local animals in need. Tfyou would like to lend a hand, please call 734-790-5082 or email FlatrockAnimalShelter@gmail.com.
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Brownstown seventh grader named finalist in Michigan "/ Voted" sticker contest
Brownstown Middle School seventh grader Aiden Stork is getting statewide recognition for his artistic talents after being selected as a finalist in Michigan's 2026 "I Voted" Sticker Contest.
Aiden's design, inspired by Michigan's iconic Mackinac Bridge, was chosen as one of the finalists from entries submitted by students across the state.
"My design is inspired by the Mackinac Bridge because when I was younger I drove over it and I thought it was really cool," Aiden said.
The project tookAiden 1 about two days to complete after learning about the contest from his mom, Kristin Stork, a social studies teacher at Brownstown Middle School.
Aiden decided to enter because he thought it would be exciting to create something that voters across Michigan could wear.
"I thought it would be cool to have my design as a sticker that everyone will wear when they vote," he said.
When he learned that his design had been selected as a finalist, Aiden said he was thrilled.
"I was very excited and am hoping it gets picked," he said.
If selected as the winning design, Ai den's artwork could be distributed to voters throughout Michigan during future elections.
"It would be special because a ton of people will be wearing something I created," Aiden said.
Public voting is open through June 30 and voters can vote more than once. Aiden has a simple message for the Woodhaven-Brownstown community: "Vote Aiden!"
Community members can view the finalist designs and cast their vote at michigan.gov/ivotedsticker.
'Midlife' Stockman shares kindness message with Erving students
Third and fourth grade students at Erving Elementary School welcomed a very special guest on May 28, when Sean "Midlife" Stockman visited to share his message of kindness, hard work and helping others.
Stockman has become a YouTube sensation across Metro Detroit for his videos showing him mowing lawns and cleaning up overgrown properties for free. But during his visit to Erving, students quickly learned that his mission is about much more than cutting grass.
"Kindness is contagious," Stockman told students as he shared stories about helping families and neighborhoods one yard at a time. The visit connected perfectly with the work of Erving's Lighthouse Group, led by teacher Lynnette Bosman. The student group focuses on community service projects throughout the school year and works to keep the message of "choose kindness" at the center of everything they do.
Students have been inspired by watching Stockman 's videos as he transforms neglected properties throughout the Detroit area while treating homeowners and neighbors with compassion and respect.
Stockman explained how his YouTube journey began unexpectedly after posting a video of himself cleaning up an overgrown property. The video quickly gained attention on line and launched what has now become a widely followed channel.
He also gave students a behind-the-scenes look at the work involved in creating his videos, explaining that he does everything himselffrom mowing lawns and trimming bushes to filming, editing and putting together each story.
Students eagerly asked questions during the visit, giving Stockman the opportunity to share some memorable experiences from his work in the community.
One student asked about his favorite cleanup experience, which led to a funny story involving a chicken. While cutting grass near the front door of a home, Stockman discovered a hen sitting quietly under a bush and carefully worked around her, leaving her undisturbed.
He also shared one of the scariest moments he has experienced while working, recalling a time he accidentally injured himself with a chainsaw. Stockman told students the experience taught him
important lessons about safety and perseverance.
Another story focused on one of his first jobs in Pontiac, where a neighborhood resident was suspicious about why he was cleaning up a property for free. However, Stockman explained that nearly all of the time, people are grateful and appreciative of the work he does to help communities look their best.
Throughout the presentation, Stockman encouraged students to work hard, care for their neighbors and always choose kindness and love. Erving students also found a way to support Stockman 's mission. Through popcorn and candy bar sales organized by the PTO and students, they raised more than $350 to donate toward helping a deserving family through Stockman's work.
Stockman thanked the students for their generosity and support, telling them the donation would make a difference for a family in need.
To learn more about Sean "Midlife" Stockman and his work in the community, visit his YouTube channel at Midlife Stockman YouTube Channel.
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FRPDgoes the extra mile to deliver for the community
Officers with the Flat Rock Police Department stepped into an unexpected role after an Amazon delivery driver abruptly quit in the middle of their route, leaving packages scattered throughout a residential neighborhood.
Sergeant Beggs, Officer Porter, and Officer McCardle responded after a caller reported that an Amazon driver was yelling on their cell phone and throwing packages from a delivery van. Upon arrival, officers discovered that the driver had resigned during their shift and abandoned numerous packages in the street.
Recognizing the need to secure the deliveries, Officer Porter and Officer Mccardle quickly recovered the discarded packages and ensured they were safely accounted for. With dozens
of customers still awaiting their orders, the officers took on a temporary role as delivery personnel, making sure the packages reached their intended recipients.
Thanks to the officers' swift response and willingness to go above and beyond their normal duties, residents received their deliveries despite the unusual circumstances. While law enforcement officers regularly assist the community in countless ways, serving as Amazon delivery drivers is definitely not part of the job description.
The incident serves as another example of officers adapting to unexpected situations and finding practical solutions to help residents when the need arises.
The $1,000 Emergency: Could You Handle It Today?
It's a hot summer day in Michigan. Your car's air conditioning suddenly stops working-or worse, your home AC goes out. You call for repairs, and the bill comes back: $1,000.
Now what?
For a lot of folks in our Downriver area, that kind of surprise expense can throw everything off. And that's not unique to our region-according to the Federal Reserve's Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households, about 37% of Americans would have difficulty covering a $400 emergency expense using cash or savings.
If $400 is a stretch for many households, a $1,000 emergency can feel even more overwhelming.
Why It Matters
When there's no savings to fall back on, most people turn to a credit card or a quick loan. That may fix the problem today, but it can linger a lot longer than you'd like.
That $1,000 repair can end up costing quite a bit more once interest starts piling up.
Start Small-It Adds Up
The good news? You don't have to figure it all out overnight.
A few small changes can go a long way:
- Set aside $25 or $50 a week
- Cut back on takeout or unused subscriptions
- Put a tax refund or extra cash toward savings
At $25 a week, you could reach $1,000 in about 10 months. Double that, and you're there even faster.
A Simple Challenge
Here's something to try this week: Set aside your first $20-no matter how small it feels.
That one step gets you started. From there, it's about consistency.
Make It Easier on Yourself
One of the simplest ways to build that safety net is to keep it separate-out of sight, but there when you need it. Setting up automatic transfers can help take the pressure off.
EMERGENCY FUND
Places like Downriver Community Federal Credit Union work with local families every day to make saving feel manageable, not overwhelming.
The Bottom Line
Around here, we look out for each other-and that includes planning ahead when we can.
A $1,000 emergency doesn't have to turn into a long-term headache. With a little consistency, you can be ready for it.
If you haven't started an emergency fund yet, that's okay. Start today-even $20 is a step in the right direction.
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Woodhaven High School FEA Club expands impact
By SYDNEY HAMILTON
Earlier this year, the Future Educators Association (FEA) club was launched at Woodhaven High School by sophomore Isabella Martinez, with support from 9th-grade English teacher Linda Callahan.
The FEA club was created to provide students with a supportive space to explore careers in education, build confidence, and gain hands-on experience.
Since its launch, the FEA club has grown in membership and made a positive impact in a variety of classroomBefore each clinical at Woodhaven Upper Elementary, Callahan encourages students to select a teacher, allowing them to experience different grade levels and subject areas.
During their clinical, students assist teachers with classroom activities, observe instructional strategies, and provide guidance to younger students who need help with their assignments.
After each clinical at Woodhaven Upper Elementary, Callahan schedules a follow-up meeting where students share their individual experiences.
In May, the FEA club was visited by an associate professor in the College of Education at Eastern Michigan University. During the visit, students were introduced to an informational presentation on
scholarships, programs, and support services.
Isabella reflected on the impact the FEA club has had on both its members and the younger students they support. "We have a better understanding of what a career in education might look like after
graduation, and working with younger students has been really rewarding because we've been able to see them learn and grow," Isabella said. "I'm excited to see what we accomplish next school year."
FLATROCK
Flat Rock student-athletes honored for record-setting year
The Flat Rock community gathered last night for the annual Varsity Athletic Recognition Night, celebrating studentathletes for their accomplishments during the 2025-2026 school year. The event highlighted achievements across all programs and drew strong support from families, coaches, and community members.
The night began with the presentation of the Principal 's Awards. Emma Neace was named Female Principal 's Award recipient for her participation in golf, basketball, and softball. David Knezovich earned the Male Principal's Award for his involvement in football, soccer, and golf. The Girls Volleyball Team received the Team Principal 's Award after posting an impressive 3.85 team GPA.
Finalists for Athlete of the Year were also recognized. Female finalists included Sarah Giroux (volleyball), Lily Klein (volleyball, basketball), Aileen McNamara (swimming), Reagan Higdon (volleyball, track & field), and Madleen Hussein (basketball). Male finalists included Andrew Marama (soccer, wrestling), Evan Szalay (football, baseball), Jacob Stanislawski (cross country, track & field), Jordan Godfrey (basketball),
and Brady McBride (soccer).
Team championships were highlighted throughout the evening. The Girls Bowling team captured the Huron League Championship, marking just the third title in program history and its first undefeated season. The Girls Volleyball team achieved a historic year, earning its first Huron League Championship, District Championship, Regional Championship, and a State Championship game appearance.
Coach of the Year honors were awarded to Morgan Delhey and her coaching staff, including Mackenzie Kaiser, Brad Delhey, and Jesse Spicer, in recognition of their leadership and success throughout the season.
Academic excellence was also celebrated through Academic AllState honors. Girls Basketball and Boys Basketball each earned BCAM Academic All-State recognition with team GPAs of3.54. Football received MHSFCA Division 5 Academic All-State honors, Volleyball earned MIVCA Academic AllState recognition with a 3.78 GPA, Competitive Cheer was recognized by CCCAM Academic All-State with a 3.27 GPA, and Girls Swimming earned MISCAAcademic All-State honors.
Individual Academic All-State
honorees were recognized across multiple sports. In competitive cheer, honorees included Madeleine Nowitzke, Morgan Bolling, Allie Shields, Arianna Wilson, Ellie Beesley, Camilla Hagerman, and Natalie Gibson. Football honorees included Addison Sturgill, David Knezovich, Frank White, and Evan Szalay. Swimming honorees included Carlee Balogh, Layla Holbrook, and Ashlin Woodman, with Woodman also earning Academic All-American recognition.
The Huron League Scholar Athlete list included Calvin Haydamacker, Lucas Taraszkiewicz, Jacob Stanislawski, David Knezovich, Addison Sturgill, Evan Szalay, Braylen Crump, Da'Vion Moore, Frank White, Brady McBride, Ben Scully, Emma Neace, Caden Hounshell, Andrew Marama, Ashlin Woodman, Carlee Balogh, Layla Holbrook, Riley Chevalier, Reagan Higdon, Ava Gillum, Andrew Gillum, Jacob DeJausseran, Eva Mourn, Madleen Hussein, Jaclynn Motyka, Samantha Tracy, Natalie Gibson, Jonathon Devoy, Jayden Yancy, Sophia Ellison, Faith Soden, and Avery Mack.
Four-year letter winners were also recognized, including Carlee Balogh, Jonathon Devoy, Sophia Ellison,
Calvin Haydamacker, Reagan Higdon, Lauryn Hill, Caden Hounshell, Madleen Hussein, Layla Johnson, David Knezovich, Avery Mack, Andrew Marama, Brady McBride, Da'Vion Moore, Eva Mourn, Emma Neace, Ben Scully, Breanna Sexton, Faith Soden, Jacob Stanislawski, Lucas Taraszkiewicz, Frank White, and Jayden Yancy.
Huron League First Team honors were awarded to Brady McBride (soccer), Jacob Stanislawski and Lucas Taraszkiewicz (cross country), Riley Chevalier (100 freestyle champion) and Aileen McNamara (100 backstroke champion) in swimming, Diane Percha and Grace Taylor (bowling), Sarah Giroux, Lily Klein, and Reagan Higdon (volleyball), David Knezovich and Ben Scully (football), Evan Szalay (baseball), Elyse Rogier (golf), Jordan Godfrey and Madleen Hussein (basketball), Sophia Buscetta and Fionia Scott (competitive cheer), Andrew Marama (120 lb wrestling champion), Breanna Sexton (shot put champion), and Sarah Giroux (softball).
Huron League Second Team selections included Mac Mlotha, Andrew Marama, and Kendyl Servantes (soccer); Jaclynn Motyka,
Lady Rams ride momentum to district finals after standout season
The Flat Rock Lady Rams softball team enjoyed a strong and competitive season, highlighted by key victories, standout individual performances, and a deep postseason run that ended in the district finals.
The Rams built momentum heading into the postseason with a pair of senior night victories over Bedford, winning 3-2 and 6-3. In the twogame sweep, senior Faith Soden went 2-for-4 with a home run and two RBIs, while seniors Ashlin Woodman and Emma Neace each contributed multiple hits. Senior Jaclynn Motyka also added a home run in the second game. Sarah Giroux had a standout performance, finishing 3-for-6 on the day with two home runs and two RBIs, and Jaliynah Cerroni went 3-for-6 with two RBIs. Vanessa Neace and Emma Neace earned the pitching victories in the doubleheader. The wins also provided a special moment for head coach Morgan Delhey, who celebrated her birthday that day.
Flat Rock continued its strong play with a 12-5 victory over Jefferson. Motyka, Giroux, and Vanessa Neace each recorded two hits, while Zoe Ryan and Ashlin Woodman both hit home runs. Vanessa Neace pitched all seven innings, striking out 10 batters and surpassing I 00 career strikeouts.
The Lady Rams carried their momentum into a rivalry matchup against New Boston Huron, winning
6-2. Giroux went 2-for-3 with two RBIs, while Vanessa Neace also went 2-for-3 and Motyka added a hit and two RBIs. Home runs came from Soden, Motyka, and Giroux, while Emma Neace pitched seven innings and struck out seven batters.
Flat Rock extended its winning streak to six games with a 3-2 win over Whiteford. Vanessa Neace went 2-for-3, while Emma Neace also finished 2-for-3 at the plate and reached a milestone of250 career strikeouts. Motyka added another hit in the win.
In postseason play, the Lady Rams defeated rival New Boston Huron I 0-1 in the district semifinals. However, their season came to a close in the district championship game with an 18-3 loss to Carleton Airport.
Despite the final result, the Lady Rams finished the season with numerous highlights, strong offensive production, and standout pitching performances that defined a successful year for the program.
RAMS CAP SEASON AT STATE GOLF CHAMPIONSHIPS
The Rams boys golf team concluded its season at the Division 3 State Finals, held at Bedford Valley Golf Club in Battle Creek.
Representing the Rams were Ben Scully, Joel Scully, Colin Gilleran, Owen Klein, and Landon Higdon under the leadership of head coach Marc Villemure. The team competed in the two-day tournament against 18 of the state's top Division 3 teams.
When play concluded, the Rams fin-
ished 15th overall in the team standings. Ben Scully led the way for the Rams, placing 44th individually with a two-day score of 167. Colin Gilleran also turned in a strong performance, finishing 51 st with a score of 168 over the two rounds.
Competing at the state finals marked a significant accomplishment for the Rams program and capped off a successful season against some of Michigan's best Division 3 golfers
STRONG STATE TRACK SHOW1NG FOR FLAT ROCK DUO
Flat Rock was represented at the MHSAA Track & Field State Finals, held at Hamilton High School, by Breanna Sexton and Jacob Stanislawski, who qualified to compete among Michigan's top athletes.
Sexton competed in the shot put and finished 22nd overall with a throw of 30 feet, 7.25 inches.
Stanislawski competed in both the 1,600-meter and 3,200-meter runs. In the 3,200 meters, he delivered a strong performance, placing ninth overall with a time of9:39.73. In the 1,600 meters, he finished 18th with a time of 4:30.40.
Both athletes represented Flat Rock well at the state level, closing out their seasons against some of the strongest competition in Michigan.
HONORED
Continued from PAGE 12
Camryn Clish, Dominik Kryk, and Carter Shellman (bowling); Maelie Fricke and Hannah Hesse (volleyball); Blake Recore, David Riddle, and Joel Scully (football); Evan Szalay, Layla Holbrook, and Brinley Carney (basketball); Aileen McNamara, Elizabeth Sparks, Ashlin Woodman, and Riley Chevalier (400 freestyle relay swimming); Layla Johnson, Chloey Barger, and Allie Shields (competitive cheer); Mathias Sanchez (285 lb wrestling); Ben Scully, Colin Gilleran, and Landon Higdon (golf); Jacob Stanislawski (1600-meter run); Jordan Godfrey and Alexander Beaudrie (baseball); and Emma Neace and Jaclynn Motyka (softball). Honorable mention selections included Collin Dalton and Carlee Balogh (soccer); Lexiz Santana and Joey Inch (bowling); Alex Beaudrie, Blaine Demyan, Jordan Godfrey, and Addison Sturgill (football); Elle Dwyer (volleyball); Joel Scully and Eva Mouro (basketball); Lauryn Hill and Nola De Leon (competitive cheer); Colin Booms (165 lb wrestling); Alex Barron (baseball); and Vanessa Neace (softball).
All-Region honors were also recognized across multiple programs. Notable honorees included Madleen Hussein, Lily Klein, Layla Holbrook, Jacob Stanislawski, Lucas Taraszkiewicz, Riley Chevalier, Aileen McNamara, Ashlin Woodman,
Elizabeth Sparks, Breanna Sexton, Brady McBride, Sarah Giroux, Reagan Higdon, Elle Dwyer, Hannah Hesse, Maelie Fricke, Zoe Ryan, Evan Szalay, David Knezovich, Blaine Demyan, Ben Scully,
Addison Sturgill, Andrew Marama, Kyle Balogh, Jordan Godfrey, Evan Szalay, Grace Taylor, Diane Percha, Jaclynn Motyka, and Sophia Buscetta, among others, for outstanding postseason and championship-level performances.
All-State honors highlighted some of the top performances in school history. Evan Szalay
(football), Sarah Giroux (volleyball), and Diane Percha (bowling) earned First Team All-State recognition. Brady McBride (soccer) and Grace Taylor (bowling) earned Second Team All-State honors, while Lily Klein (volleyball) earned Third Team All-State. Jacob Stanislawski (cross country) was recognized as an All-State finisher, and Madleen Hussein (basketball) earned BCAM Honorable Mention All-State honors.
Several school records were also celebrated, including multiple career and single-season milestones in football, basketball, volleyball, soccer, swimming, cross country, and track & field. Highlights included Evan Szalay's career marks in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns; Madleen Hussein's single-game and career basketball records; Jacob Stanislawski's school record performances in cross country and track; Brady McBride's career soccer records; and recordsetting achievements in volleyball and swimming. Team records were also recognized, including a school-record 39 wins for volleyball and record team scores for golf in both 18-hole and 9-hole competition.
The evening concluded by honoring a wide range of accomplishments that reflected excellence in athletics, academics, leadership, and team success throughout the year, showcasing a strong and wellrounded year for Flat Rock student-athletes.
Brownstown Parks & Rec holds annual youth fishing derby
The Brownstown Township Parks & Recreation hosted its annual youth fishing derby on June 7 at Point Mouillee State Game Area, drawing young anglers from across the community for a day of friendly competition and outdoor recreation.
The event was open to participants ages 17 and under and featured multiple award categories, including longest fish, most fish caught, and smallest fish. Participants spent the day along the water casting lines, competing, and enjoying the natural setting of the game area.
Organizers focused on encouraging youth participation and outdoor engagement, emphasizing skill-building, patience, and sportsmanship throughout the derby. Families and spectators gathered along the shoreline as the competition unfolded.
At the conclusion of the event, winners in each category were recognized with awards, marking the end of another successful year for the annual tradition at Point Mouillee.
All-State performances cap off dominant Warrior track season
The Woodhaven track and field team delivered a standout postseason performance at both the regional and state levels, highlighted by multiple championships, school records, and a surge of state qualifiers across events. Athletes rose to the moment with personal bests, podium finishes, and history-making performances that extended the program's success deep into the championship season.
At the first event of regionals, the team produced a champion. Junior Lily Diaz won the pole vault and punched her ticket to Rockford for the State Championship.
In the first running event of the day, the team opened with another regional championship. Chan, Noa!, McKay, and Kmiecik captured the 4x800 title and qualified for the State Finals. Freshman Kaylee Bell hit the automatic qualifying mark in the long jump to secure her spot at state. She also qualified in the high jump as a state qualifier. Sophomore Robert Tolentino earned a regional championship and advanced as well.
Senior Marquez McAdoo delivered a winning shot put throw of 53-4.5 to claim another regional title.
Junior Janelle Martin joined the group heading to the state finals, while regional runner-up Rocsi Ferguson also qualified in the high jump. Freshman Kaylee Bell became a regional champion in the girls shot put, marking her second event qualification.
The 4x200 relay team of Ogbonna, Diaz, Lines, and Ekanem became regional champions and ran the
seventh-fastest time in the state. Another 4x200 relay squad of White, Cordrey, Whaley, and Clayborn also qualified for Rockford. Charley McKay captured the regional championship in the 1600 meters. Both the boys 4x I 00 relay (White, J. Whaley, D. Clayborn, C. Mill er) and the girls 4x 100 relay (K. Cunningham, M. Johnson, J. Lines, M. Ekanem) advanced to the state finals.
Luke Holt and Jaiden Whaley both qualified in the 110 hurdles.
Charley McKay also qualified for the state finals in a third event, the 3200 meters. Myonna Ekanem qualified in her fourth event, the 200 meters. The 4x400 relay team of Bechtol, Lines, Ogbonna, and Diaz finished as regional runner-up. Both the boys and girls teams were crowned Downriver League champions.
At the state meet, multiple athletes earned All-State honors and set records. In her first state meet appearance, junior Lily Diaz broke her own school record in the pole vault by clearing 11'9" and finished 7th in the state.
Junior Rocsi Ferguson cleared 6th place in the high jump, earning her first All-State honor.
The 4x200 relay team of Ogbonna, Diaz, Lines, and Ekanem finished 6th in the state and set a new school record.
Charley McKay placed 8th in the state and earned her first track All-State honor, adding to her two AllState performances in cross country.
Warriors ride pitching, po~er into state's final four
The Woodhaven Warriors baseball team is enjoying a dominant postseason run.
The Warriors took care of business, defeating Carlson 6-1 and Allen Park 3-0 to secure the district crown. Tristan Spencer delivered a gem in the championship against Allen Park, throwing a complete-game shutout
over seven innings while allowing just one hit, issuing no walks, and striking out seven. Amauri Gutierrez earned the win in Game 1 against Carlson, going five strong innings. Lucas Farner went 4-for-8 on the day with two doubles and two RBIs.
The title marked the Warriors' eighth consecutive district
championship, continuing a strong program legacy built by those before them.
In regional play, Woodhaven continued its momentum, defeating Dearborn Edsel Ford 15-0 and Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice 4-3 to claim the regional crown and advance to the state quarterfinals against
Warren De La Salle. The Warriors then secured a 6-1 victory, advancing to East Lansing.
At the time of the press deadline for The Telegraph Tribune, the Warriors are scheduled to face the winner of Oxford and Rochester Adams in the next round of state competition.
Woodhaven charges through district tournament before regional defeat
The Woodhaven Lady Warriors saw a strong postseason run, delivering a series of commanding performances in district competition before ultimately falling short in regional play.
In the district opener, Woodhaven overwhelmed Taylor with a decisive 11-0 victory, setting an aggressive tone from the start. In the next round,
they continued their strong form against Wyandotte, securing another shutout with an 8-0 win to advance to the district final.
In the championship match, Woodhaven faced Dearborn Edsel Ford and once again controlled the game from start to finish, earning a 5-0 shutout to capture the Wooden Mitten title.
The team's postseason journey concluded in the regional round, where they met Ann Arbor Skyline. Despite their earlier dominance, Woodhaven was defeated 8-0, ending an otherwise impressive playoff run.
Taylor Automotive builds on decades of service with Southgate expansion
The Taylor Automotive Group has expanded its presence in Southgate with the acquisition of Moran Buick GMC and the Moran Collision Center, located at 15800 Eureka, strengthening its footprint across vehicle sales, service, and collision repair in the Downriver region. With the acquisition, Taylor Chevrolet expands its selection of Chevrolet, Buick, and GMC vehicles, along with a broad inventory of pre-owned options. The company continues Montante to emphasize a customerfirst approach, including financing programs designed to assist customers across a wide range of credit situations.
A major upgrade at the Southgate location is the collision center, which offers OEM replacement parts, factory-trained technicians, theft recovery repair capabilities, price matching, and complimentary loaner vehicles. The facility also services Michigan State Police vehicles, reflecting its ability to handle high-volume and specialized repair work.
The Taylor Automotive Group traces its origins back to 1988, when Bill Perkins purchased his first dealership in Kansas City. He later expanded into the Downriver market in 1993, building what would become the Taylor Automotive Group.
Under Perkins' leadership, the organization has earned national recognition from industry groups including NADA and NAMAD. He was a Time Magazine finalist for Dealer of the Year in 2013 and remains active on several major automotive industry
boards.
Leadership within the organization includes Monte Perkins, recognized as a Rising Star by the National Association of Minority Automotive Dealers, and John Kujik, named 2025 Buick & GMC Top Salesperson of the Year. Kevin Dodson and Ron Curtis are also among the top Chevrolet sales professionals nationally.
Mark Montante, who has been with the organization for nearly 20 years, oversees dealership operations and is credited with helping build a strong internal culture centered on accountability, consistency, and customer service.
Beyond business operations, the Taylor Automotive Group remains active in the community, supporting local organizations including Taylor North Little League, the Taylor Firefighters, Special Olympics, the Taylor Police Department, the Taylor Animal Shelter, Oakland Family Services, and
Fishes and Loaves.
Through ongoing initiatives such as food drives, coat drives, youth sponsorships, and local safety programs, the organization continues to position itself as a long-term community partner.
The acquisition underscores the group's continued growth strategy focused on expanding services, improving accessibility, and strengthening its presence in Southgate and the surrounding Downriver area.
For more information about Taylor Automotive Group and its full range of automotive sales and service offerings, visit Taylor Chevrolet (1380 I Telegraph Road; (734) 287-2600; taylorchevy.com), Taylor Buick GMC (14000 Telegraph Road; (734) 946-8112; taylorbuickgmc.com), or Taylor Service and Body Repair (15800 Eureka Road; (734) 2822598; taylorbody.com).
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DOWNRIVER
10 Years Later, ACE Se,vices Continues Building Out Remodels-and Relationships
Founded by Brandon Cowan, Ace Services, Inc. will celebrate its 10year anniversary on June 17, 2026. Built after Cowan's own negative experiences with contractors, the company was created to offer a more trustworthy, transparent remodeling experience.
What began in a small space has grown into one of the largest showrooms in Southeast Michigan, supported by a full team, warehouse, and in-house delivery operation. Ace provides a true one-stop shop, handling both materials and labor
internally. Customers work with one sales professional from start to finish, simplifying the process into just a few meetings with clear, detailed estimates.
Known for kitchen and bathroom remodels, the company also offers exterior services and has earned recognition including the Angi Super Service Award. Beyond projects, Ace is proud of its strong customer relationships and ongoing community support, reflecting its commitment to quality, honesty, and long-term trust.
Brownstown seeks nominations for Summer Beautification honors
MIND RiverviewCenter Brings
NeurologicalCare Closer to Home
Since opening its doors last spring, the MIND Riverview Center has been dedicated to making sure Downriver families don't have to travel far for comprehensive, specialist-led neurological care.
Care That Truly Listens
What makes the Riverview team unique is the personal connection between our providers and their patients.
Our Patients Say It Best:
"Fromthe momentI arrived,the staff was kind,attentive, and highlyprofessional.Theytruly took the time to listento my concernsand mademefeel heardand understood."
AngelaC.
Comprehensive Care in a Single Stop
The 6,500-square-foot MIND Riverview Center offers care for conditions affecting the brain, spine, and nervous system and is designed with patient convenience in mind. From neurological evaluations and EEGs/ EMGs to infusion therapies, patients can often complete their testing and treatment in a single visit. Expert
The Brownstown Beautification/ Historical Commission announced its 2026 Summer Beautification Award program, which recognizes two residential properties and one business each summer for outstanding front yard landscaping, maintenance, and overall curb appeal. The award is based strictly on what can be seen from the street.
Key dates for the program include nomination deadlines closing on
August 6, with judging scheduled for August 21. The award presentation will take place on September 8.
Winners will receive a custom yard sign, a $50 Home Depot gift card, and a formal presentation with the Township Board. Nominations can be submitted via email to Matthew Wallace at mattheww@brownstownmi.org.
SOUTHGATE TAYLOR DEARBORN 19295 West Rd. 15060 EurekaRd. 22124 EcorseRd. 2621 TelegraphRd.
Community comes together to fight summer hunger
Members of the Woodhaven Kiwanis Club, alongside volunteers from the Woodhaven High School National Honor Society and Varsity Hockey Team, recently distributed 275 cases of cereal to seven local food pantries serving families throughout the community.
The effort was the culmination of a monthlong cereal drive involving students across the Woodhaven-Brownstown School District. Throughout May, students collected cereal donations, resulting in an impressive 131 cases being donated by the schools.
The community effort continued when members of the Brownstown Middle School Charity Club and National Junior Honor Society assisted Kiwanis members in collecting and organizing donations from each school building. To help maximize the impact of the drive, the Woodhaven Kiwanis Club also purchased an additional 144 cases of cereal.
In total, each participating food pantry received approximately 150 pounds of cereal to help support local families facing food insecurity during the summer months.
The idea for a summer cereal drive originated with the Professional Nurses Association at Children's Hospital, which recognized a troubling reality: for many children, summer break means losing access to the free breakfasts and lunches they
receive during the school year. As a result, local food pantries face increased demand throughout the summer as they work to help families put food on the table.
Thanks to the generosity of students, volunteers, educators, and community organizations, hundreds
of local children and families will have access to a nutritious breakfast option during the months ahead. The success of the cereal drive serves as a reminder of what can be accomplished when a community comes together to support its neighbors.
