The Brownstown Police Department is proud to recognize Officer Nick Walker and his K-9 partner Bane, who were recently named the 2024 Narcotics Detection Team of the Year by the National Association of Professional Canine Handlers.
The announcement was made during the organization’s annual training held in Alpena, Michigan. The award honors the exceptional work and dedication shown by Officer Walker and Bane in the field of narcotics detection.
The award reads in part: Officer Walker, while serving as backup on a traffic stop, was asked by another officer to have his canine conduct an exterior sniff of the vehicle. Officer Walker deployed K-9 Bane and received a positive alert at the driver’s side door seam. A search of the vehicle resulted in locating 328 grams of crack cocaine, paraphernalia, materials used for narcotic distribution, a firearm, and ammunition.
This case represents just one example of the critical work this team performs to keep dangerous drugs and weapons off the streets. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, and the department extends its sincere appreciation and congratulations for this welldeserved recognition.
Officer Walker and Bane continue to be a vital part of the Brownstown Police Department’s commitment to public safety.
Flat Rock Awarded $1 Million State Grant for New Fire Truck THE MAYOR’S CORNER
The City of Flat Rock has received a one million dollar grant from the State of Michigan for a new fire truck. The city’s current fire truck is 37 years old and definitely out of date, the normal lifespan of a fire truck is 10 to 15 years. I can’t thank Flat Rock Chief Derrick Welton and City Administrator Brian Marciniak for all work and time spent with State Senator Camilleri’s and State Representative Thompson’s offices. State Senator Camilleri and State Representative Thompson did a wonderful job working together to deliver a big win for the citizens of Flat Rock. We have
now started meetings with both offices on funding from next year’s state budget to replace the wooden playground in Community Park. I would also like to thank our understaffed DPW for the outstanding job they did two weekends in a row, removing all the spray paint graffiti at Huroc Park. Flat Rock Police Chief Stephen McInchak and DDA Director Elizabeth Hendley are formulating a plan to have cameras installed around Huroc Park to help keep an eye on it.
STEVE BELLER Mayor of Flat Rock
TWO
MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK opens doors in Brownstown
TWO MEN AND A TRUCK officially welcomed its sister brand, TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK, with a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 2nd at their Brownstown location at 19001 Sibley Road. The event was held in partnership with the Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber.
The launch introduced the community to the company’s newest service offering: professional junk removal for both residential and commercial clients. TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK specializes in clearing out unwanted items such as old furniture, appliances, electronics, yard debris, and general clutter. The team handles all the heavy lifting, sorting, and disposal, leaving spaces clean, organized, and stress-free.
With same-day service availability, the Brownstown-based team is committed to providing fast, reliable, and eco-friendly junk removal. Items are removed responsibly, with a focus on recycling and proper disposal.
Whether helping a homeowner reclaim their garage or assisting a business with clearing out an office, TWO MEN AND A JUNK TRUCK aims to deliver convenient, affordable solutions with the trusted professionalism of the TWO MEN AND A TRUCK brand.
October is traditionally a time of harvest and thanksgiving, and this year was no exception for the First Congregational Church of Flat Rock, which once again brought warmth and joy to the community with its Fall Harvest Dinner.
Held on Saturday, October 11th, the event featured a delicious, homecooked meal prepared by the dedicated members of the Women’s Guild. Guests enjoyed their choice of homemade meatloaf or cabbage roll dinners, served with mashed potatoes, gravy, vegetables, and what many declared to be the best homemade applesauce ever.
Laughter and smiles filled the fellowship hall as attendees were treated not only to a comforting meal but also to lively entertainment. The evening’s musical performance came from local favorite, Mondo Kane, a band known for their fun and nostalgic renditions of hits from the 1950s and 1960s. Their energy and talent lit up the room and added a festive atmosphere to the evening.
The band generously donated their time to support the church’s fundraising efforts, helping to make the night both meaningful and memorable for everyone involved. The joy in the room was undeniable, with music, conversation, and community spirit echoing through the night.
As the event came to a close, the heartfelt laughter, bright smiles, and enthusiastic applause marked the end of another successful Harvest Dinner Fundraiser for First Congregational Church.
A new space for recovery and strength
MotionWorks Physical Therapy officially opened its doors at 23115 Telegraph Road in Brownstown, marking the occasion with a grand opening celebration attended by community members and supporters. The event introduced the clinic’s mission of delivering personalized, movementfocused care to individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Founded by Dr. Julie, a licensed physical therapist with more than 12 years of experience, MotionWorks was created to offer a more individualized and intentional approach to physical therapy. After years of working with a wide range of clients and managing
a clinic, Dr. Julie saw an opportunity to reshape the care experience by putting personal connection and comprehensive treatment at the forefront.
MotionWorks Physical Therapy provides customized rehabilitation plans that begin with thorough evaluations and are tailored to each patient’s long-term goals. Services focus on recovery from injury, chronic pain management, and improving daily movement. The team uses hands-on treatment techniques and functional strategies designed to address the root causes of discomfort, not just the symptoms.
Photo by Jim Jacek
Flat Rock Speedway ends season in spectacular fashion
A night of fierce competition brings the 2025 racing season to an unforgettable close
Flat Rock Speedway brought the 2025 racing season to a dramatic close with the Harris Mechanical Season Championships, capping off a year of fierce competition and fan-favorite action. Championship races across the Moran Chevrolet Outlaw Super Late Models, DTS Drive Train Specialists Street Stocks, and Salenbien Excavating Late Model Sportsman divisions kept fans on the edge of their seats as the track celebrated another unforgettable season of racing.
A brand-new event added extra excitement to the night, giving fans a thrilling showcase of Late Model Sportsman racing and rounding out the season finales for the Outlaw Super Late Models and Street Stocks.
Paul Pelletier of New Boston dominated the Outlaw Super Late Models Feature, earning his seventh win of the season and clinching the 2025 championship. Top finishers included Conner Zbozien, Hayden Sprague, Stan Yee Jr., and RJ Cornett, highlighting a competitive field of veteran drivers.
In the Street Stocks finale, Jeremy Vanderhoof delivered a commanding performance to close out the DTS Drive Train Specialists Street Stocks season. Strong finishes by Jonathan Rangel, Kenyon Knight, Ron Allen, and Greg Studt rounded out the division’s top competitors.
The Salenbien Excavating Late Model Sportsman race saw Ron Allen cross the finish line first, leading a talented group that included Jim Froling, Kyle Worley, Mike Young, and George Rangel. Allen and the rest of the division went on to compete under the lights in the CorvetteParts. net Glass City 200 Late Model Sportsman championship, continuing the season’s high-stakes action.
As the checkered flag fell on 2025, Flat Rock Speedway thanked fans, teams, and sponsors for their support and celebrated a year of unforgettable racing moments. With anticipation already building, the track looks forward to an even bigger and more exciting 2026 season.
Jeremy Vanderhoof
Ron Allen
Paul Pelletier
WOODHAVEN-BROWNSTOWN
Warriors drop first game in thriller against Carlson
On October 10th, two undefeated teams took the field under the lights at Woodhaven High School, where the Warriors hosted the Gibraltar Carlson Marauders in a highly anticipated Blackout Game.
With fans packed into the stands and decked out in black, the atmosphere was electric for this key league matchup.
The game got off to a fast start. On the opening kickoff, senior standout DeVante Clayborn (#4) ignited the crowd by returning the ball for a
touchdown, giving the Warriors an early 6-0 lead. The extra point attempt was no good.
Carlson responded immediately. On their very first offensive play, the Marauders found the end zone and took a 7-6 lead just 33 seconds into the game.
Woodhaven answered later in the quarter when sophomore quarterback Preston Scheffler (#16) connected with senior wide receiver Tyler Lennon (#23) for a touchdown. The Warriors pulled ahead 13-7 with 4:39 remaining in the first quarter.
However, Carlson capitalized on special teams, returning a punt for a touchdown to regain the lead, 14-13. The back-and-forth battle continued until the final seconds of the first half, when senior kicker Lila Megyesi (#42) nailed a 35-yard field goal to bring Woodhaven within striking distance. The Warriors trailed 21-16 at halftime.
In the third quarter, Woodhaven regained the lead. Scheffler found junior wide receiver Jordan Jackson (#3) in the end zone to put the Warriors up 23-21 with just two minutes left in the quarter.
The Warrior defense stepped up in the fourth, highlighted by a big hit from senior Taj Ferguson (#10) on third down that stalled a Carlson drive. With just under five minutes to play, the defense held strong and forced a turnover on downs.
But late-game miscues proved costly. A turnover by Woodhaven gave the Marauders one final
opportunity, and Carlson capitalized—scoring a goahead touchdown with just 56 seconds remaining. While their two-point conversion attempt failed, the clock still soon ran out, and Carlson took it 27-23.
Despite a valiant effort, the Warriors couldn’t retake the lead in the final seconds and suffered their first loss of the season in heartbreaking fashion.
With the defeat, Woodhaven moved to 6-1, at the press deadline for The Telegraph Tribune, while Carlson remains unbeaten.
Photos by Dave Chapman
Woodhaven girls make waves, swim strong over Wyandotte
On September 25th, the Woodhaven Girls Swim & Dive team pulled off an exciting and hard-fought victory over Wyandotte in a meet that came down to the final relay.
The Warriors delivered nearly 40 season-best times throughout the night, showcasing their depth, determination, and steady improvement. With the score
tight heading into the final event, Woodhaven sealed the win with a clutch performance in the last relay, bringing the crowd to its feet.
Key first-place finishes came from Mikayla Machlik, Joslyn Ventura, Violet Collins, Isabelle Sarkody, and Madison Weitzel—each playing a crucial role in the team’s success.
Warrior volleyball picks up steam with key wins
The Woodhaven girls volleyball team has battled through a competitive schedule this fall, showing resilience and growth as the season progressed. Now sitting at a 7-11 record at the press deadline for The Telegraph Tribune, the Warriors have strung together several strong performances, highlighted by decisive victories both at home and on the road.
The first win of the season came at the Chelsea Invitational, where the team earned a straight-set victory over Grass Lake, 25-21, 25-23. Just days later, Woodhaven defended home court with a solid win against Inter-City Baptist, taking the match in three sets (25-14, 17-25, 25-13).
League play brought out the best in the Warriors. They swept Lincoln Park 3-0 in front of their home crowd. The momentum continued when they rallied after a first-set loss to defeat Gibraltar Carlson in four sets, finishing strong with a dominant 25-9 final set.
October has been especially promising for the team. On October 2nd, Woodhaven cruised to a sweep over Wyandotte Roosevelt, winning 25-12, 25-13, 25-19. They followed that with back-toback home and away victories, beating Southgate Anderson on October 7th (25-15, 25-21, 25-18) and Taylor on October 14th (25-21, 25-21, 25-10), each in straight sets.
With several matches remaining, the Warriors are building confidence and chemistry at just the right time. As the postseason approaches, their recent wins show a team that’s learning to finish strong and compete with consistency.
Photos by Dave Chapman
Sweet treats for a sweet cause
By SYDNEY HAMILTON
Hometown Ice Cream & Candy teamed up with the Flat Rock Police and Fire Departments to host its first ice cream social on September 30th. Held at 26866 Telegraph Road, this event was a huge success, welcoming families and children to explore police cars, a fire truck, and even a SWAT truck, while enjoying sweet treats for a sweet cause.
Half of all sales were donated by Hometown Ice Cream & Candy to the Shop with a Hero program, supporting local families during the Christmas season.
For more than a decade, Flat Rock’s annual Shop with a Hero program has brought together police officers and firefighters to spread holiday cheer. Each child is paired with a police officer or firefighter to shop at Meijer for gifts, followed by a pizza party where Santa makes a special appearance. The Flat Rock Community Schools District helps identify families in need, and last year, the program provided for 25 children.
This year, Hometown Ice Cream & Candy will sponsor the pizza party for the first time. “I wish to raise more awareness of the Shop with a Hero
program,” said Jeff Berro, owner of Hometown Ice Cream & Candy. “It’s a great feeling to give back to the community, especially to the youth. The kids were so excited to sit inside the SWAT truck, and we even had people donate money towards the program. I’m looking forward to being part of Shop with a Hero in December.”
Police Chief Steve McInchak cherished his experience building relationships with the community. “It’s very important to our department’s community policing efforts to get to know the families that we serve,” said McInchak. “We really want to thank everybody who came to the ice cream social. Whether you participated or donated, you helped make the Shop with a Hero program possible.”
The Shop with a Hero event will take place on Wednesday, December 10th.
As the holiday season approaches, community members are encouraged to participate, donate, or become sponsors. Updates and information regarding the Shop with a Hero event can be found on the Flat Rock Police Department Facebook page. Those interested in donating can contact Animal Control Officer Katt Sims at frasac@flatrockmi.org.
Students dive into local stream ecology
The Flat Rock High School Zoology class recently took a hands-on field trip to Huroc Park, where students explored key environmental science concepts right in their own community.
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Knights of Columbus Hall 3530 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte 8192
Ave, Wyandotte 8192
During the visit, students learned about macroinvertebrates, turbidity, stream speed, erosion, and the vital role of dissolved oxygen in aquatic ecosystems. The interactive experience was made possible through the Streamside Education Program, with volunteers from the Huron River Watershed Council guiding the activities.
Through real-world sampling and analysis, students gained a deeper understanding of the local watershed and the importance of protecting natural resources. It was a meaningful day of outdoor learning that connected classroom science to the living environment just beyond the school’s walls.
Rams hold the Jug, bounce back strong against Milan
On September 19th, the Flat Rock Rams took the field against Carleton Airport for the 67th annual “Battle of the Jug” — one of the region’s longeststanding football rivalries. Just days after the volleyball team reclaimed the Jug, the football team made sure it stayed in Flat Rock with a commanding 36-0 shutout victory.
Senior Ben Scully led the offensive charge with a standout performance, racking up 192 total yards and three touchdowns — two on the ground and one through the air. His dynamic play helped the Rams take control early and never look back.
On the defensive side, Addison Sturgill anchored a dominant performance with eight total tackles, including a key tackle for loss, as the Rams completely stifled Airport’s offense.
Despite facing setbacks in tough losses to Monroe Jefferson and Riverview in the weeks following, Flat Rock bounced back in a big way. On the road against Milan, the Rams lit up the scoreboard in a 51-14 rout of the Big Reds on October 10th.
Evan Szalay led the aerial assault, hauling in five catches for 158 yards and a touchdown. Defensively, Jake Booth and Landon Higdon added to the highlight reel with touchdowns of their own, each returning a turnover to the house in a complete team effort.
With the win, the Rams improved to 4-3 on the season heading into their Homecoming matchup against crosstown rival New Boston Huron, which takes place after the press deadline for The Telegraph Tribune.
FLAT
Rams soccer wraps up season with key wins and player milestone
The Rams boys soccer team concluded their regular season on October 7th with an exciting 4-3 victory over Canton Prep. Senior standout Brady McBride delivered an impressive performance, scoring all four goals in the match. With that effort, McBride officially reached a remarkable career milestone: 101 goals. Mack Mlotha also contributed to the win with an assist.
In postseason play, Flat Rock opened the MHSAA District Tournament with a dominant 4-0 shutout over Dundee on October 9th. However, the Rams’ playoff run ended in the district semifinals with a 3-0 loss to Grosse Ile on October 14th.
Throughout the season, the Rams recorded several notable victories, including a 7-3 win over Monroe St. Mary Catholic Central, a commanding 7-0 shutout of Monroe Jefferson, and a 6-1 victory over Ypsilanti Arbor Prep. Flat Rock finished 5th in league play with a 5-6-0 record and ended the season with an overall mark of 10-10-0.
Rogier qualifies for states as Rams finish 10th at regionals
At the MHSAA Girls Golf Regionals, the Flat Rock Rams delivered a strong team effort, finishing 10th overall with a combined score of 466. Competing against some of the region’s top
programs, the Rams showed determination and growth throughout the season.
Leading the charge was standout golfer Elyse Rogier, who shot an impressive 93 to place 8th
individually and earn a spot in the MHSAA State Finals. Her performance marks a major milestone for both her and the Flat Rock golf program. The state competition is scheduled to take place after the Telegraph Tribune’s press deadline, but Rogier’s accomplishment is already a point of pride for her team and community.
Another highlight of the season came when the Lady Rams faced off against the Jefferson Bears in Monroe. Flat Rock emerged victorious, defeating the Bears 233-252. Leading scorers in that match included Rogier with a low round of 44 and Delilah Sucharski with a solid 58 - both key contributors to the team’s success that day.
Congratulations to the entire Lady Rams Golf team on an outstanding season and best of luck to Elyse Rogier as she competes at the state level!
Rogier
McBride
Photos by Dave Chapman
Woodhaven High School’s 2025 Homecoming was a celebration to remember, filled with community pride, school spirit, and Warrior tradition. The evening began with the annual parade, led by Grand Marshal Sherry Berecz and special guests from the Class of 1975. Student groups like cheer, dance, Unified Sports, and the Goon Squad filled the streets, while Pixar-themed floats brought creativity and color. The Sophomore Class took first place for their Up-inspired float, winning over the crowd with vibrant balloons and a heartfelt message.
On the field, the Warriors dominated Dearborn Edsel Ford, cruising to a 63-7 victory in front of a packed home crowd. At halftime, Amiris Storrs was crowned Homecoming Queen, joining Griffin Demyanovich, who had been named King earlier in the day. The full Homecoming Court included representatives from all four classes, recognizing student leaders across the school.
Homecoming 2025 was a true celebration of school spirit, community pride, and Warrior tradition.
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!
Downriver churches unite to support homeless
By TIM WEINSCHENKER
As the colder months approach, local churches and community leaders are coming together once again to prepare for the seasonal needs of the homeless and less fortunate in the Downriver area. A recent meeting at Kirby Church in Brownstown served as a planning session for the upcoming winter season, spearheaded by ChristNet Services—a long-standing organization devoted to offering food, shelter, and spiritual care to those experiencing homelessness.
Founded in 1992, ChristNet Services began as a pilot program during the winter of 1992-1993. With the support of local churches and civic-minded volunteers, the effort quickly grew into a permanent fixture within the community. For decades, it provided life-saving support during the harshest months of the year. Today, ChristNet continues its mission through a coordinated network of church partners and volunteers. During the day, a warming center in Taylor offers a safe space for individuals enrolled in the program. In the evening, bus transportation is provided to host
churches, where guests receive a warm meal, snacks, entertainment, and a safe place to sleep. Each host church volunteers for a one-week period and is responsible for organizing volunteers and managing accommodations during their hosting week.
What makes ChristNet unique is not just the services provided, but the spirit in which they are offered. Guests are welcomed with love, dignity, and respect, and volunteers often report that serving with ChristNet is just as meaningful for them as it is for the individuals they serve.
ChristNet is actively seeking additional churches willing to host, with the goal of extending the program’s availability beyond the core winter months of January and February.
ChristNet Services provides guidance and support to any church or organization interested in hosting. They also assist in connecting volunteers to fill open positions during hosting weeks.
For more information, or to get involved, contact Linda Dickman, the key coordinator for ChristNet Services, at (734) 673-2444 or lindadickman@ wowway.com.
What You Need to Know About “Buy Now, Pay Later” Services
Have you seen the option to “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) while shopping online or in-store? It’s a fast-growing payment method that allows shoppers to split purchases into smaller payments over time—often without interest. But is it too good to be true?
BNPL services like Affirm, Afterpay, and Klarna are becoming increasingly popular, especially among younger shoppers. They offer the convenience of making your purchase today while paying for it later in set installments. While this may sound like a smart budgeting tool, it’s important to understand both the benefits and potential drawbacks before clicking “accept.”
How It Works
BNPL is similar to the traditional layaway programs—except you get the item right away. You typically make a small down payment and pay the rest in biweekly or monthly installments. Most providers do a soft credit check and offer various payment methods, like linking your bank account or debit card.
The Benefits
For many consumers, BNPL offers a way to manage larger purchases without using a credit card. Some services even report your payments to credit bureaus, which can help build credit if managed responsibly. The application process is usually quick, and the flexibility appeals to those who prefer not to carry revolving credit balances.
The Risks
However, easy access to delayed payments can lead to overspending. It’s easy to lose track of multiple payment plans, which can result in late fees or a negative impact on your credit score.
Also, unlike credit cards, BNPL purchases don’t always come with the same consumer protections, which can make refunds or disputes more complicated. Some longer-term BNPL plans also include interest rates that may exceed traditional credit card or loan rates.
Tips for Using BNPL Responsibly
Budget first: Only use BNPL if you’re confident you can pay off the balance on time.
Know the terms: Always read the fine print regarding fees, interest, and deadlines.
Track your plans: Treat BNPL like any other bill—keep a list of payment schedules.
Pay on time: Late payments can hurt your credit and lead to added costs. Explore alternatives: Consider if other financing options might be more suit able.
Consider Your Local Credit Union
Before committing to a BNPL plan, it’s worth exploring all your options.
Downriver Community Federal Credit Union offers personal loans and credit options designed to fit your needs—with clear terms, member-friendly service, and no hidden fees. If you’re considering a major purchase or looking to manage your budget, we’re here to help you use money to accomplish great things.
Final Thoughts
BNPL can be a helpful tool—but only when used responsibly. Think before you spend, read the details carefully, and if you need more structured financing support, talk to a trusted financial partner like Downriver CU.
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Is Your Plan Terminatin g ?
Hundreds of thousands of Michigan residents are enrolled in plans that terminate at the end of 2025.
Please pay attention to notices from your carrier. If your plan is ending, you need to shop for coverage. Make an appointment with us.
Hours: Weekdays from 10am to 6pm
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Find Us At Henr y Ford Wyandotte
Our agents will be in Wyandotte Hospital at the HAP booth on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am to 3pm during the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15 to Dec 7).
We are honored to represent HAP. While other carriers are shifting costs onto members, HAP is committed to affordability and service.
Shaun Z. Abshire, shown here with his “Health Alliance Pumpkin”, will be there Wednesdays. If you enjoy our ads, stop by and let him know!
