The City of Wyandotte held its General Election on May 6th, with positions on the ballot including four-year terms for mayor, city council, city assessor, city treasurer, and city
In the mayoral race, incumbent Mayor Robert DeSana
six available seats. Incumbents Kelly Stec, Chris Calvin, Todd Hanna, Robert Alderman, and Kaylyn Crayne all sought re-election. They were joined on the ballot by Patrick Sutka, Adriana Villanueva-Cerulla, and Daniel Galeski.
Kelly Stec led all vote-getters, earning nearly 17% of the
total and securing another term. Patrick Sutka earned a seat on the council with nearly 14% of the vote, while Chris Calvin and Todd Hanna were also re-elected, each receiving nearly 13%. Robert Alderman returned to the council with 12% of the vote, and newcomer candidate Adriana VillanuevaCerulla won a seat with 12% of the vote as well.
The races for city assessor, city treasurer, and city clerk were uncontested. Theodore
Galeski (assessor), Todd Browning (treasurer), and Lawrence Stec (clerk) will assume their respective positions.
The 2025 Inauguration will take place on Monday, June 2nd, during the regularly scheduled City Council meeting at the Yack Arena.
Louie is an amazing dog. He resides with the Sensoli family in Southgate. Louie stays active doing zoomies, taking walks in the neighborhood, doing the sniper crawl and swimming during trips to Higgins Lake. On May 8th this active pup turned 3 years old. Happy Birthday, Louie!
Would you like to see your pet become “Downriver Famous” in our Go Big Multi-Media empire?
Send a photo and a blurb to Sherry@ gobigmultimedia.com and we will do the rest.
WFD launches new secure lock box program
The Wyandotte Fire Department is proud to announce the launch of a new program designed to provide seniors and disabled residents with faster access to emergency care when they need it most. This initiative will provide secure lock boxes for qualifying residents, allowing firefighters and paramedics to enter homes quickly and safely during emergencies—without the need to force entry and cause property damage.
The program is made possible through additional funding from Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital, BASF Corp., and the Wyandotte Rotary Club, demonstrating a strong community commitment to protecting Wyandotte’s most vulnerable residents.
“The safety of our residents is always a top priority, and this program is a critical step toward ensuring that emergency responders can provide lifesaving care as quickly as possible,” said Mayor Rob DeSana. “I’m grateful to our partners at Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital, BASF,
Whether it’s investing some extra income, preparing a future for your family with your retirement secured, or saving for a home or education costs, we’re here to coach you through it.
Whether it’s investing some extra income, preparing a future for your family with your retirement secured, or saving for a home or education costs, we’re here to coach you through it.
secured, or saving for a home or education costs, we’re here to coach you through it.
We’re ready when you are. Contact us today.
Clare M McMillan
We’re ready when you are. Contact us today.
We’re ready when you are. Contact us today.
CFP®, AAMS™
Advisor
Clare M McMillan
CFP®,
Advisor
565 Oak Street Wyandotte, MI 48192 734-285-0224
and the Wyandotte Rotary Club for their support, and I commend the Wyandotte Fire Department for making this program a reality.”
Eligible residents can apply to receive a secure lock box, which will be installed outside their home. In the event of a medical emergency, the fire department will have immediate access to a key, eliminating delays in providing assistance. Wyandotte Fire Chief Jeremy Moline credited Mayor DeSana with spearheading the initiative. “This program started with a vision from the Mayor, and we are proud to bring it to life,” said Chief Moline. “Every second counts in an emergency, and these lock boxes will allow our first responders to get inside quickly and provide the care our residents need without unnecessary damage to their homes.”
For more information about the program, including how to apply for a lock box, residents can contact the Wyandotte Fire Department at 734.324.4401 or online at tinyurl.com/ WyandotteLockBox.
ead ce t gs your neighbors had to say about us in their 5-Star Google reviews!
Medigap Plan Hiked Rates An other 15%?
Medicare Supplement plans keep on raising premiums for their existing policies. If you have had Plan C, Plan F, Plan G or Plan N for a while, you could be getting walloped after all of these rate increases. A replacement policy may offer the same coverage while saving you hundreds of dollars. See us Monday to Friday 11am to 5pm.
Elizabeth M. Abshire Licensed Insurance Agent
Shaun Z. Abshire Licensed Insurance Agent
Earlier this month, Lucy’s Beauty Boutique officially opened its doors in Wyandotte at 936 Ford Avenue. The boutique offers a wide range of services, including nail care, hair coloring and cuts, and aesthetic treatments, all delivered with a focus on quality, creativity, and client satisfaction.
Owner Adriana Villanueva-Cerulla leads a talented team dedicated to enhancing beauty through skilled
techniques and personalized service. With a welcoming atmosphere and a strong commitment to excellence, Lucy’s Beauty Boutique aims to be a trusted destination for beauty and self-care in the Downriver area. The team looks forward to serving the community and building lasting relationships with their clients through top-tier service and a passion for their craft.
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!
DOWNRIVERCU ANSWERS
Watch for ‘Gray Charges’
There are many reasons you should be checking your credit and debit card statements each month to monitor your expenses, and spotting ‘gray charges’ is one of them.
Gray charges are expenses you may have forgotten about, or surprise charges that might have been deceptively tied to another offer you signed up for. They can also include accidental overcharges and double-billings.
Many of these charges come from ‘free trial’ offers or things such as subscriptions that automatically roll over when they are due, according to research released by BillGuard, a company that monitors credit card usage.
And while these charges are usually legitimate, at times they are somewhat deceptive. This is because there are some businesses that rely on you to forget to cancel an offer before costs kick in, or not reading the fine print when you purchase something.
While you can try to fight gray charges, it’s better to avoid these costs in the first place.
Here are some tips to protect yourself:
Beware of ‘free trial’ offers. Red lights should flash in your head if something is ‘free’ but a business wants your credit or debit card information at the time you sign up. Read the terms closely. Is there a cost once the trial ends? How much is it? How can you avoid it? Remember that ‘free’ usually is just a way to turn you into a paying customer.
purchase, such as a magazine or video subscription, future product shipments, or an extended warranty plan.
When purchasing a product, always read the fine print and look for boxes that might automatically be checked. Look for hidden fees, conditions or service charges, and be sure there isn’t another offer tied to your
When you subscribe to something, check for automatic renewals and to see if you’re starting at a reduced fee … because you could be paying much more at renewal time. Often, subscriptions made online will auto-renew until you cancel them, and you need to keep an eye on cost creep – higher charges from one billing to another. Be aware of what you expected to pay and how to cancel a subscription if necessary.
Use a calendar to keep track of when ‘free’ trials end and be sure to keep details of how to cancel an offer before charges begin. Having a good filing system to keep track of due dates, costs and contracts will help you keep track of fees and the businesses you are dealing with.
Can you fight the charges?
It pays to be aware of these costs before you get hit with them because they can be hard to dispute if they were part of the written terms you agreed to.
But you do have options.
If you truly feel there has been a billing mistake or that you have been deceived or defrauded, contact the business and explain why you’re contacting them. Make sure to have evidence which proves your contention. Ask to have the charges reversed, or for an immediate cancellation so you won’t have to pay again.
If that doesn’t work, lodge a detailed dispute with your card issuer for charges you are sure you didn’t initiate. Remember, the key to avoiding gray charges is knowing what you are getting into at the start.
6,000 ANIMALS SAVED
Shelter to Home reaches milestone
By ROSEMARY SHURYAN
What began with a pair of animal lovers rescuing stray kittens under local bleachers has blossomed into a beacon of hope for thousands of animals. Shelter to Home (STH), a local nonprofit animal rescue, recently celebrated a remarkable milestone: saving the lives of over 6,000 animals since its founding in 2007.
The organization was born out of necessity when the founders realized the existing shelter system couldn’t keep up with the community’s needs. Banding together with fellow animal advocates, they created Shelter to Home with a simple mission: to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome stray and abandoned animals.
Initially operating as a fosterbased rescue, STH took a major step forward in March 2012 with the opening of the Pet Adoption Center (PAC), a charming Victorian house built in 1874. Located at 266 3rd Street on the corner of Oak and 3rd, the center now serves as the organization’s headquarters and a cozy, cage-free home for up to 30 cats awaiting adoption.
“It’s a magical place,” says a
longtime volunteer. “People feel the love when they walk through the door. And more importantly, so do the animals.”
The PAC is open to the public every Saturday from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., offering visitors the chance to interact with adoptable cats in a homelike setting.
To support their mission and raise funds for veterinary care and supplies, Shelter to Home will hold a golf outing in September and will take part in the upcoming Wyandotte city wide garage sale. The organization’s sale will run at 1811 6th Street. Proceeds from the golf outing and sale go directly toward helping more animals in need. In addition to these fundraisers, Shelter to Home also collects clean bottles and cans, which can be dropped off on the back porch of the Pet Adoption Center. For more information about fundraisers and how to foster animals, please visit the website at https://sheltertohome.com/
With over 6,000 lives saved and counting, Shelter to Home continues to make a difference, one paw at a time.
Adoptable pets can be viewed at https://sheltertohome.com/adopt/.
The Roosevelt Bears track and field team delivered a strong showing at the Golden Triangle Meet on May 2nd, earning multiple personal records and top finishes while also celebrating their graduating seniors.
On the girls’ side, senior Wilana Dancy placed in the top 10 in the 100m hurdles with a time of 16.97. Eleanor Grant posted a personal best in the mile, clocking in at 5:22, and Lily Salsberry recorded
a new PR in the 800 at 2:41. Caitlyn Bowser and Luzelena Tapia each set personal records in the 400m. In field events, Katherine Fugon-Saravia had an impressive performance in the discus, placing fourth with a throw of 108’9”.
For the boys, AJ Perry and Zach Greene notched new personal records in the 800m, while Noah Amori continued his consistent season with a 4:37 mile. The 4x200 relay team of Jaden Haugabook, Malik Daniels, Nick Reid, and Deshawn Williams recorded another season-best time. Alex Emory also
earned a top-7 finish in the high jump.
The team also took time to honor its seniors during a special Senior Night celebration on April 29th. The event recognized the dedication, leadership, and hard work of the Class of 2024, with heartfelt thanks extended to the athletes and their families for their commitment over the past four years. The night served as a reminder of the legacy this group leaves behind and the impact they’ve made on the Roosevelt track program.
Photos by Dave Chapman
Roosevelt finishes fourth at Wyandotte Shores
By DAVE MERCHANT
The Roosevelt boys’ golf team placed fourth in a Downriver League meet held May 1st at Wyandotte Shores Golf Course.
Carlson led the field with a 158, followed by Trenton at 160. Woodhaven came in third with a 187, while Roosevelt finished with a team score of 217.
Logan Stone led Roosevelt with a 50, followed by Zachary Tomczyk (54), Cooper Schafer (56), Cameron Row (57), Gavin Danilowicz (58), and Logan Cumiskery (59).
In a separate league match, Roosevelt posted a 192 to finish fourth once again. Schafer led the team with a 45, while Stone and Cumiskery each shot 48. Danilowicz added a 62, Joshua Cuppari a 51, and Roe finished with a 53.
Though the scores weren’t where the team hoped, the experience gained will be valuable as the Bears look to sharpen their play in upcoming matches.
RHS girls’ soccer building momentum
By DAVE MERCHANT
The Roosevelt girls’ soccer team is competing hard and holding steady at the .500 mark, showing signs of growth as the season continues.
On April 30th, the Bears dominated Taylor with an 8-0 shutout. They followed that performance with a close 2-1 loss to Dearborn Fordson on May 2nd. Roosevelt bounced back on May 5th with a strong 5-1 win over Lincoln Park. On May 6th, the team fell to Ann Arbor Gabriel Richard by a score of 5-2.
Head coach John Kaneko praised his team’s offensive efforts in recent games.
“Ava Miknyocki, Briana Viera, (Amelia) Mis Grenz, and Morgan Lake have been doing a lot of scoring for us,” Kaneko said. With the offense finding its rhythm, the Bears hope to carry that momentum into the rest of the regular season and into the playoffs.
Bears track teams compete hard on senior night
By DAVE MERCHANT
The Roosevelt Bears track and field team delivered a strong showing at the Golden Triangle Meet on May 2nd, earning multiple personal records and top finishes while also celebrating their graduating seniors.
On the girls’ side, senior Wilana Dancy placed in the top 10 in the 100m hurdles with a time of 16.97. Eleanor Grant posted a personal best in the mile, clocking in at 5:22, and Lily Salsberry recorded a new PR in the 800 at 2:41. Caitlyn Bowser and Luzelena Tapia each set personal records in the 400m. In field events, Katherine Fugon-Saravia had an impressive performance in the discus, placing fourth with a throw of 108’9”. For the boys, AJ Perry and Zach Greene notched new personal records in the 800m, while Noah Amori continued his consistent season with a 4:37 mile. The 4x200 relay team of Jaden Haugabook, Malik Daniels, Nick Reid, and Deshawn Williams recorded another season-best time. Alex Emory also earned a top-7 finish in the high jump.
The team also took time to honor its seniors during a special Senior Night celebration on April 29th. The event recognized the dedication, leadership, and hard work of the Class of 2024, with heartfelt thanks extended to the athletes and
their families for their commitment over the past four years. The night served as a reminder of the legacy this group leaves behind and the impact they’ve made on the Roosevelt track program.
Photo by Dave Chapman
Photo by Dave Chapman
Three Wyandotte teachers receive educational grants
The Downriver Chapter of MARSP (Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel) recently sent out grant applications to the 18 school districts the chapter represents. Teachers were encouraged to apply for a chance to win a $100 grant to be used for supplies, equipment, or any resources they need to enhance learning in their classrooms. The following teachers from Wyandotte received the $100:
Katelyn McCabe – Math Teacher at Roosevelt High School
Nicole Sadlak – 1st Grade Teacher at Monroe Elementary
Allison Clarkson – Special Education at Roosevelt High School
MARSP is a clear, respected voice representing ALL retired (as well as presently working) school personnel, since 1951. We make certain all our
members’ voices and views are heard in Lansing. MARSP is your lobbying partner on critical issues impacting present and future retirees and an authority of the MPSERS pension and healthcare system. More information can be found about MARSP online at marsp.org . Our Downriver Chapter has a Facebook page: MARSP of Downriver and you can become a member by visiting marsp. org to join not only the state level but also our local Downriver/Wayne Chapter. Please contact our membership chairperson, Linda Trupino @ 734-771-1537 for information about becoming a member. We always welcome new members! Our local chapter has four luncheons per year. Our next luncheon is June 19th @ noon at Crystal Gardens in Southgate. Please contact Kim Zeppa @ 734834-1237 if you would like to attend. RSVP is due by June 1st.
Leaving a Legacy of Love
Clarkson Sadlak McCabe
The Wyandotte Police Department was proud to welcome two new officers to its ranks in May.
On May 1st, Officer Bradd Smith officially joined the department. Previously recognized as one of the top law enforcement officers in the state of Ohio, Officer Smith made the move to Michigan to take on new challenges and further his career.
Just a few days later, on May 5th, Officer Christian Perez took his oath of office. Officer Perez brings prior experience from the Livonia Police Department and was joined by his wife, Carolyn, and several members of the department during his swearing-in ceremony.
The Wyandotte Police Department is excited to welcome both officers and looks forward to their service, professionalism, and contributions to the community.
Ribbon cutting celebrates three new businesses
The City of Wyandotte celebrated the arrival of three exciting new businesses: Tilted Willow Engraving, Grizzly Peak Customs, and Mitten and Lakes. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at their shared location at 1752 Eureka Road, in partnership with the Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber, marking their official grand opening on May 17.
Each business brings its own unique flair and specialized services to the community.
Tilted Willow Engraving offers a wide range of engraving and personalization services. Whether it’s a custom gift or a one-of-a-kind item, they work closely with customers to create personalized products for homes, families, businesses, teams, or clients. Their focus on tailored design ensures every piece is meaningful and unique.
Grizzly Peak Customs combines a passion for creativity with a dedication to craftsmanship, offering custom apparel and motorcycle parts. Specializing in windshields and saddlebag lids, the business is committed to
delivering high-quality results while working hand-in-hand with customers to bring their ideas to life.
Mitten and Lakes specializes in graphic design and laser services. From logo design to invitations, business cards, brochures, catalogs,
and more, the business offers both digital design and laser engraving and cutting, making it a one-stop shop for branding and promotional needs. With their grand opening, these businesses are already adding new energy and creativity to the Wyan-
dotte business community. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to stop by and explore the wide range of custom services now available right on Eureka Road.
NEWS FROM OUR NEIGHBORS
GI lacrosse growing as a team
According to Grosse Ile lacrosse coach Greg Meyring, lacrosse is “the fastest sport on two feet.” And the Red Devils are certainly keeping up the pace. Grosse Ile’s varsity lacrosse team is currently above .500 and playing with energy and determination.
On April 24th, they earned a strong 11-4 win over Woodhaven. The day before, they fell to a talented Grosse Pointe Woods University Liggett team, 13-5. On April 21st, the Red Devils topped rival Monroe St. Mary Catholic Central, 17-10. Earlier in the season, they also picked up wins over Detroit Cass Tech, 15-4, and Allen Park, 14-9. On April 11th, they dropped a high-scoring game to the Belleville Tigers, 19-9.
SEE PAGE 19
Celebrating 13 sweet years
A Serendipity Cakery and Ice Cream Shoppe proudly celebrated 13 years in business this May. The family-owned dessert shop, known for its
creative custom treats and community involvement, officially began as a home business on May 1st,
2012. What started with simple cake drops at street fairs, festivals, and farmer’s markets has since grown into a thriving full-scale cakery offering custom cakes, cookies, chocolate-dipped treats, hot cocoa balls, and more.
After outgrowing its original home-based operation, A Serendipity Cakery moved into its first brick-and-mortar location in Wyandotte in 2015. Within just six months, the business had outgrown that space, prompting a move to its current location in Riverview in 2018, where it continues to flourish.
Run by founder Tammie Bachran and supported by her family, including her son Ben, stepsons Daryl and Johnathan, and her husband of 19 years, Alan, the shop operates with an average of 10 employees. The family’s dedication and hands-on approach are a key part of the business’s charm and success.
SEE COVER
Titans track team making some noise
Southgate Anderson High School’s Track and Field team has established itself as a strong contender in some of the most competitive meets in the region this season, turning in impressive performances and earning top finishes in a wide range of events.
At the Marauder Invitational on April 26, the girls
team earned a third-place finish overall, while the boys placed fourth. Leading the way for Anderson was Seth Bodary, who took first place in the 400-meter dash, and Jackson Sage, who claimed first in the 300-meter hurdles. The 400-meter relay team of Hunter Druchniak, TJ Pokorny, Jackson Sage, and Seth Bodary also brought home a first-place finish. Joy Schuck captured first in the 3200-meter run, and Victoria Czyzewski earned top honors in the high jump.
SEE PAGE 12
Szalka earns 400th win, reflects on baseball journey
Becoming a coaching legend takes time, dedication, and a genuine love for the game. Trenton baseball coach Todd Szalka certainly fits that description, both on the field and in the classroom.
Szalka earned his 400th career win this season in a matchup against Gibraltar Carlson on April 17th.
His passion for coaching began early. His father, Gary Szalka, was a longtime varsity coach at Melvindale High School, and it didn’t take long for Todd to follow in his footsteps.
“I started coaching when I was in high school, doing T-ball for the City of Woodhaven,” Todd said. “After college each year, I would come back and help out at Woodhaven and/or Melvindale on a volunteer basis. While at Central Michigan University, I coached the club baseball team before joining CMU’s varsity team as a student coach. After the fall season, I returned to playing for the club team.”
