Trenton Times September 2025 by GO BIG MULTI-MEDIA

fter concluding a highly successful

creativity, collaboration, and student-driven performances.

and Ava Tocco.

Collins (not pictured),

In addition to announcing their leadership team, the department has revealed its fall production: Attack! of the Killerman from the Sun! This sci-fi B-movie comedy

promises to bring humor, nostalgia, and high-energy performances to the stage. With its blend of over-thetop characters and classic science fiction flair, the show is set to entertain audiences of all ages. Performances will take place on November 21st and

With a strong leadership team in place and an exciting show on the horizon, Trenton High School Theatre is poised for another memorable season of storytelling and school spirit.

Karli Fritz, Lexi Lopez, Bella Rockov (not pictured),

Future in focus

Trenton begins long-term facility upgrades

We have some big updates on the Fire, Police, and Municipal Building Improvement Bond!

STEVEN RZEPPA Mayor of Trenton

We are excited to announce that we are officially closing on and taking possession of both the Trenton Motor Inn and former Trenton VFW site locations. We were thrilled to be able to come to agreements with each business/ organization that ended up being beneficial for both parties. This will provide an ideal location for our new fire station that will maximize our response times across the community right near the corner of Fort Street and West Road.

And so far, we remain under budget!

This site location was identified as our top priority early on, and we are excited to see it come to fruition. While we are consolidating our two fire stations at that location, we will also see imminent progress with our new police station! This will be located near the current police and fire stations downtown at 3rd Street and Maple.

Work at the Westfield Center is already underway that will address many structural issues, ADA issues, a new entryway, and much more. You will see work soon too at the Kennedy

Recreation Center and Westfield/ Library parking lots. Construction will be a long process, but we hope to be able to see projects completed on a rolling basis at these locations over the next two years. The new fire and police stations may be a bit further down the line being newly constructed buildings.

We held a study session in June that gave an update on these projects and we will likely have another this fall. You can see the full presentations with additional information on the City of Trenton YouTube channel.

In addition to the work being done through the resident-approved bond, heading out around town you will also see the big projects completed at Slocum Park, Rotary Park, and others downtown that really enhance the areas for all of our residents. We once again cannot thank our residents enough for believing in our employees, the plan we laid out, the services we provide to the community, and investing in our future to give us buildings and community spaces to be proud of for generations to come.

As the first day of school approached, Trenton High School was already alive with excitement. In the days leading up to the first day, upperclassmen from THS’s Link Crew program rolled out the red carpet for the incoming Class of 2029 during the school’s annual Freshman Orientation — a tradition that continues to set the tone for a welcoming, connected, and spirited start to high school. With smiles, enthusiasm, and an undeniable sense of Trojan pride, Link Crew leaders guided

the freshmen through an afternoon of introductions, building tours, team activities, and helpful advice. More than just a walkthrough of the school, the event gave incoming students a chance to meet new classmates, connect with positive upperclassmen role models, and begin their high school journey feeling confident and supported.

The energy was high, the encouragement was genuine, and the message was clear: at Trenton High School, no Trojan is ever alone. Whether it was

We Provide Peace of Mind

learning how to navigate the hallways or sharing a laugh during icebreakers, the day was filled with moments that will help the Class of 2029 step into their new school with excitement instead of nerves. Thanks to the dedication of the Link Crew leaders and staff, this year’s orientation was more than just a welcome — it was a launchpad into a school year full of growth, pride, and new beginnings.

Bovitz CPA

The Literary Hideaway

Boutique Bookstore Cafe

The Literary Hideaway

The Literary Hideaway Boutique Bookstore Cafe

The Literary Hideaway

Boutique Bookstore Cafe

Coffee - Food - Wine & Beer

Boutique Bookstore Cafe

Coffee - Food - Wine & Beer

Boutique Bookstore Cafe

Coffee - Food - Wine & Beer

The Literary Hideaway is more than a bookstore. It is where the community gathers for children's storytime, for book clubs with friends, for late-night Thursdays, and so much more!

Coffee - Food - Wine & Beer

The Literary Hideaway is more than a bookstore. It is where the community gathers for children's storytime, for book clubs with friends, for late-night Thursdays, and so much more!

The Literary Hideaway is more than a bookstore. It is where the community gathers for children's storytime, for book clubs with friends, for late-night Thursdays, and so much more! 8138

mb St, Grosse Ile, MI 48138 (734) 982-4028 theliteraryhideaway.com

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As a dedicated public servant and retired ﬁreﬁghter, I am proud and humbled to have been able to serve the Trenton community. My journey here spans my entire adult life, and my passion for serving the people fuels my commitment to making meaningful improvements to our city and its services.

Throughout my time on the council, I have accomplished signiﬁcant milestones that have already made a positive impact. Notably, I followed through on the demolition and cleanup of the Riverside Hospital, the Solutia site, and the DTE site. The DTE site holds particular importance as it will soon host a clean energy solution that is not just an environmental win; it promises to bring increased tax revenue to our community while providing public waterfront access for all to enjoy.

Over the past two years, our council has doubled the investment in vital infrastructure, focusing on street repair, trail enhancements, water main replacements and sidewalk improvements through strategic grants and the reallocation of existing resources. These investments are crucial for ensuring that Trenton remains a thriving and accessible community for everyone. Our parks are also undergoing exciting renovations, ensuring that all residents have access to green spaces and recreational opportunities. With the recent approval of the bond by our voters, I am committed to responsibly and eﬃciently building and renovating Trenton facilities that will make our community proud for years to come.

Together, let’s continue to foster an environment where our city ﬂourishes and thrives. I am eager to keep working for you, the residents of Trenton, as we build a brighter future together. I humbly ask for your vote and support so WE can continue to move Trenton in a positive direction and keep it a great place to live and work

Sincerely,

TIMBER BAUN-CROOKS IS TRENTON TRIED AND TRUE SERVING ON COUNCIL FOR 32!

PROFESSIONAL HISTORY:

- TRENTON BUSINESS OWNER (45 YEARS)

- PAST PRESIDENT OF THE TRENTON BUSINESS ASSOCIATE

- PAST MEMBER OF THE TRENTON DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

- VOTED “OUTSTANDING TRENTONITE”

- AWARDED ‘OUTSTANDING WOMAN OF THE YEAR’

COUNCIL SERVICE HIGHLIGHTS:

- ESTABLISHED DOWNTOWN WATERFRONT REHIBILTATION DISTRICT to tear down blighted sights (McClouth Steel and Riverside Hospital) for future jobs and increased tax base.

- PROMOTED CITY BOND ISSUES

to rebuild and revitalize city buildings - moving Trenton into the future!

- MADE PUBLIC SAFETY AND ADVANCED

Two new inductees selected to the TEF’s Wall of Fame

Since 2011, the Trenton Educational Foundation’s (TEF) Wall of Fame (WOF) Volunteer Selection Committee has chosen deserving candidates to add to the prestigious display prominently featured inside of Trenton High School.

A total of 39 people (and one organization) has been selected in the past.

This year, the TEF is proud to induct two new members, both of whom will be honored at the foundation’s annual Signature Event fundraising dinner – featuring a “Time to Travel” theme – on Friday, November 14th, at Event OneNine in Riverview, beginning at 6 p.m.

Joining the esteemed group are the late Dr. Patricia Cole and Robin Miles.

“We’re, once again, deeply appreciative to both organize the effort as well as present this award to two deserving individuals,” stated Mike McCullough, volunteer TEF WOF Committee Chair. “By doing so, we’re affirming our community values the role individuals can play in the education of its students. And more importantly, it’s a wonderful way to build a stronger, more connected community centered on a shared goal of educational excellence.”

Cole, who passed away in 2022, graduated from Trenton High School in 1966. She earned her BS Degree from the University of Michigan in 1970, her MA Degree from Eastern Michigan in 1974, and her PhD from U of M in 1981. Her remarkable teaching career began at Wyandotte Public Schools in 1970, and after many rewarding assignments, she was chosen to serve as Wyandotte’s

Superintendent in 1994, a position she held until her retirement in 2011 – the same year she was recognized as the Tri-County (Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb) Superintendent of the Year.

Miles has the distinction of serving Trenton Public Schools for 43 years as the Administrative Assistant to seven of the district’s superintendents, including current Superintendent Douglas Mentzer. Her passion and dedication to the community touched countless lives over these many years, as she not only provided invaluable assistance to administrators and educators, but also members of the school board as well as the residents of Trenton. She was also instrumental during the TEF’s formative years and served on the WOF Selection Committee.

The TEF invites you to participate in the formal induction of these community servants by purchasing sponsorships or tickets to its “Time to Travel” Signature Event. The evening will feature several food and dessert stations, an open premium bar, raffle and auction items, a live DJ, and plenty of fun!

Information can be found online at https://trentonedfoundation.org/events, or by calling the TEF Executive Director Peter Poulos at 313-680-4567. You can also stop by the Board of Education office during normal business hours.

All proceeds go to supporting the TEF and its grant and scholarship programs.

The Trenton Educational Foundation (TEF) is a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation created for the purpose of enhancing the educational opportunities for teachers and students within the Trenton Public Schools system. Established in 2008 by a partnership of community leaders from various organizations, the TEF is now known as a source of grants teachers can seek to help fund special projects and activities not within the budget, as well as added student scholarships. All levels of Trenton public education are helped by the TEF. For more information, visit the website at http://trentonedfoundation.org or Facebook page at facebook.com/TrentonEducationFoundation.

Cole Miles

Downriver Area Soroptimists’ Now Accepting Applications for Scholarships

Soroptimist International of Downriver area is now accepting applications for a series of awards that support and celebrate the achievements of women and girls in the Downriver community.

The Soroptimist Prime Award recognizes high school girls who demonstrate a commitment to volunteer service within their schools or communities. Eligible applicants must reside in one of the following communities: Allen Park, Brownstown, Ecorse, Gibraltar, Grosse Ile, Lincoln Park, Melvindale, Riverview, River Rouge, Southgate, Taylor, Trenton, Woodhaven, or Wyandotte. Two awards of $1,000 each will be granted. The deadline to apply is November 15, 2025. For more information or to apply, contact Pat Bryan at soroptimistprime@yahoo.com.

The Live Your Dream Award is designed to assist women who are the primary financial providers for their families. This award supports recipients in obtaining the skills, training, and education needed to improve their employment prospects and overall standard of living. Applicants will be evaluated based on their educational goals, academic performance, involvement in extracurricular activities, and financial need. The firstplace recipient will receive $3,000, and the second-place recipient will

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.

receive $2,000. The deadline to apply is November 15, 2025. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply through the Soroptimist International portal at Soroptimist.org/lyda-apply or bit.ly/LYDA-apply. For questions, contact Nancy Nagle at 734-558-7942 or nagle.nancy6@gmail.com.

The Virginia Wagner Award is open to women currently pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree at a college or university. Selection criteria include educational effort, academic achievement, participation in extracurricular activities, and financial need. The first-place winner will receive $3,000, and the secondplace winner will receive $2,000. The deadline to apply is January 15, 2026. For more information, contact Fallon Belisle at 734-308-5466 or fdonovan811@gmail.com.

The Downriver Area Soroptimist organization meets 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 Downriver Area Soroptimists and their other activities, contact them at siofdownriverarea@gmail.com or check out their page on Facebook@SoroptimistInternationalOfDownriverArea.

■ 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!

New educators receive $250 grants to kickstart classrooms

The Trenton Educational Foundation (TEF) extended a warm welcome to the district’s newest educators by awarding $250 classroom grants to ten newly hired teachers. These grants are designed to help kickstart their classrooms, providing essential resources and materials to support an engaging and successful start to the school year.

This initiative reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to fostering a positive and enriching learning environment for both students and staff. By investing in new educators from day one, Trenton continues to prioritize innovation, creativity, and student success in every classroom.

As the new school year begins, the district looks forward to a season filled with growth, connection, and meaningful moments between teachers and students. The Trenton community is proud to support its educators as they begin their journey of inspiration and impact.

Trenton aims higher after early season loss

The Trenton Trojans kicked off their 2025 football season on August 29th at the Amazon Prep Kickoff Classic, held at Wayne State University, where they faced off against Allen Park. Despite a strong performance that saw the game tied 27-27 at the end of the third quarter, Trenton ultimately fell by a score of 47-27.

The event was a memorable experience for both

the team and its fans. Standout performances were recognized, with AJ Hawkins earning MVP honors and Niko Beaudrie being named Iron Man for his contributions on both sides of the ball.

Trenton rebounded in impressive fashion on September 5th with a decisive 48-13 victory over Wyandotte, showcasing resilience and improvement on both offense and defense. On September 12th,

they showed true dominance over Dearborn Edsel Ford with a 63-0 blowout win.

The Trojans look to carry that momentum into the rest of the season.

Photo by Dave Chapman

Strong defense, explosive offense power Trojans’ hot start

The Trenton Trojan boys’ soccer team is off to an impressive start this season, boasting a 5-1-1 record, at the time of Trenton Times’ press deadline, through their first seven games. With a combination of disciplined defense and dynamic offense, the Trojans have pulled out several strong wins early in the season.

Trenton opened with a 2-1 victory over Carleton Airport on August 15th, followed by a 2-0 shutout against Cabrini in their home opener on August 18th. The team continued its momentum with a hard-fought 3-2 win over Wyandotte

on August 20th, then delivered a dominant 7-1 performance against Southgate on August 25th. On August 28th, the Trojans recorded another clean sheet in a 2-0 victory over Lincoln Park.

The team tied Ida 3-3 in a competitive match on September 4th and suffered their first loss of the season on September 8th, falling 2-1 to Allen Park.

With a strong foundation and a promising record, the Trojans look poised for continued success as the season progresses.

Trenton CC deliver strong performances at Watermelon Run

The Trenton cross country team hosted the annual Downriver Watermelon Run at Elizabeth Park. It was a beautiful afternoon for racing, and both the girls’ and boys’ teams delivered impressive performances on their home course, with many athletes achieving season or personal bests.

The girls’ team had a particularly strong showing, with all seven runners recording season or personal records. Sophomore Jamie Glatfelter led the way, medaling with an 11th-place finish and a seasonbest time of 22:24.10. She was followed by Avalina Williamson, who ran a season-best 24:13.90, and Isabel Natividad, who clocked in at 25:35.50, also a season best. Xochitl Carrillo recorded a new personal record of 27:02.00, while Greta Edge ran a season-best 29:36.20. Brooke Cunningham followed with a season-best time of 31:48.40, and Brooke Bullard capped off the girls’ performances with a personal-best 36:38.20.

The boys’ team also showed significant improvement, with seven of nine runners achieving new personal or season bests. Sophomore Gavin Diroff had a strong final kick, finishing just inside the top 30 and earning a medal with a season-best time of 18:54.90. Jonas Freese followed with a personal-best 20:11.40, and Ibrahim Al-Zrouf ran a season-best 21:59.50. Lorenzo Salas set a personal record at 23:53.90, and Maximilian Majcen followed closely with a personal-best 24:10.00.

Lucas Mosley ran a season-best 25:15.10, while Leighton Thorn finished at 26:19.50. Khalan Lowecompleted the race with a season-best time of 26:39.10.

The Trenton cross country program extends sincere thanks to Blocks and Rhulig’s for donating the watermelon for the event, and to all the family members who volunteered and cheered on the athletes throughout the day.

DOWNRIVERCU ANSWERS

30 Days to a Better Budget

Ever check your balance and think, Where did all my money go? You’re not alone. A good budget isn’t about cutting everything — it’s about control, less stress, and working toward what matters: paying debt, saving, or finally taking that vacation.

Here’s the reality: about 4 in 10 adults are carrying credit card debt right now. Add in the pressure of rising prices, and it’s no wonder many of us feel stretched thin. Even though most Americans say they use a budget, sticking to it is the real challenge.

Take the 30-Day Budget Challenge

Even small steps can make a difference. Here’s a simple, four-week plan:

Week 1: Take Stock (No Judgment)

Days 1-2: Gather bank statements, bills, and pay stubs.

Days 3-5: Sort essentials (housing, food, bills) from extras.

Days 6-7: Track daily spending — even just noticing where cash disappears.

Week 2: Think Small

Days 8-10: Look for easy savings — extra home-cooked meal, cheaper coffee.

Days 11-13: Commit to one realistic goal (pay a bill, cover rent).

Day 14: Pick a budgeting method (zero-based, 50/30/20 rule).

Week 3: Adjust & Automate

Days 15-17: Tweak spending; progress matters more than perfection.

Days 18-20: Automate bills or set reminders.

Day 21: Revisit and adjust your plan if needed.

Week 4: Subtract, Add & Celebrate

Days 22-24: Downgrade — cheaper phone or streaming plans.

Days 25-27: Boost income with side gigs or selling items.

Days 28-29: Prep for future expenses; save even $5 per paycheck.

Day 30: Celebrate progress — every step counts.

Need Help?

You don’t have to budget alone. Downriver Community Federal Credit Union and GreenPath offer free counseling and debt-management support — judgment-free. Learn more by calling 313-386-2200 or by visiting www DownriverCU.com.

September January

Disruptive Medicare Changes Arre Coming

Medicare requires the health plans to inform members about plan change for the coming year. An Annual Notice of Change is mailed in September.

Ignoring those notices might have worked out fine in the past, but we advise you to pay attention this year. Some popular Michigan plans have real doozies coming in 2026. A few plans are terminating altogether and you will need to shop for a new one.

Don’t panic. Let us help!

Call us Monday to Friday from 11am to 5pm.

If you are tech-savvy, please scan the correct QR code to get started!

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NEWS FROM OUR NEIGHBORS

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Southgate PD hosts two successful backpack giveaway events

The Southgate Police Department recently held two successful backpack giveaway events aimed at helping local students gear up for the new school year. Between both events, hundreds of students received backpacks and essential school supplies, thanks to generous donations and strong community support.

SEE PAGE 16

Riverview resident celebrates 100 remarkable years

The City of Riverview is honored to celebrate one of its most distinguished residents, William G. Williams, who turned 100 years old on August 19th. A proud Veteran, dedicated family man, and lifelong contributor to his community, Mr. Williams’ century-long journey is a story of service, love, and adventure.

Born in Detroit in 1925, Bill came of age during

the Great Depression and World War II, two events that shaped his strong character and sense of duty. At just 18 years old, he enlisted in the United States Army Air Force, serving from September 17, 1943, until January 5, 1946. His service during World War II stands as a testament to the courage and patriotism of what has often been called America’s “Greatest Generation.”

SEE COVER

Simsonian

5K earns pedigree

Conceding perspective to Sydney Sweeney, the Sims Run has good genes, too. The 23rd annual Simsonian 5k Kick-Off Classic was held on August 16th at Grosse Ile High School, and proved that it has become the premier summertime tradition for both families and the community And judging by the shared experience of more than 200 happy runners and walkers, the legacy lives on.

This year’s 5K winner was Grosse Ile’s own, Matthew Carbajo, blistering the course with a time of 16:05. The women’s overall winner in the 5K was Anna Malonson, also from Grosse Ile, with a fine time of 19:29. They bested a field of runners throughout southeastern Michigan, of all age groups.

The Simsonian 5K, which began in 2003, has been held in honor of beloved teacher and coach, Steve Sims who died unexpectedly of a dissecting aortic aneurysm at age 47. Sims was the winningest coach

in Grosse Ile history in both girls’ basketball and girls’ track & field.

SEE PAGE 12

Coach North’s greatest win is giving back

Coach Jeremiah North has earned the title of “champion” many times throughout his life: on the field, in the gallery, and in the hearts of those he’s mentored. Now, he’s being recognized for a different kind of victory: his unwavering commitment to charity and community service.

SEE PAGE 4

Defense delivers Bears’ first victory

The Wyandotte Bears opened their 2025 football season with a pair of tough matchups, facing two formidable Downriver League opponents. Though the scoreboard didn’t favor them early, the Bears showed flashes of potential and resilience that point to better things ahead.

SEE PAGE 10

TRENTON VETERANS MEMORIAL LIBRARY

Saturday, October 18th 9a-4p

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