Mayor Rzeppa highlights projects, progress at annual State of the City
Residents, business owners, and community leaders gathered for an evening of celebration, networking, and reflection as the annual State of the City and Awards Banquet returned to Trenton. Hosted by the Trenton Rotary Club in partnership with the City of Trenton, the Valentine's week event featured the theme "Boujee 2," offering attendees gourmet food and an upscale atmosphere at the Westfield Activities Center.
Guests enjoyed the lively setting while reconnecting with neighbors and colleagues before the evening's main event - the State of the City address delivered by Trenton Mayor Steven Rzeppa. The banquet also served as an opportunity to recognize community members and civil servants whose work has helped strengthen the city.
During his address, Rzeppa reflected on the past year and outlined a vision for the future while delivering
his seventh State of the City speech.
One of the largest projects currently underway is the battery energy storage system being constructed by DTE Energy. The facility, already visible as construction progresses, is expected to become the largest battery energy storage system in the Midwest. Foundations for the battery units are expected to be completed early in 2026, with the system potentially operational by late 2026 or early 2027. Rzeppa noted the project also supports Michigan manufacturing, with system components being produced in Holland.
Another significant milestone came with the demolition of the former Riverside Hospital. The site has been cleared and stabilized with erosion control in place while it remains under the oversight of a court-appointed
Trenton DECA students advance to international competition
Students from Trenton High School recently represented their school at the DECA State Career Development Conference held in Detroit from March 5-7. The group demonstrated outstanding professionalism, dedication, and teamwork while competing in events designed to simulate real-world business and marketing scenarios.
Throughout the conference, students put their classroom knowledge into action, tackling practical challenges in marketing, finance, management, and entrepreneurship. These competitions require participants to think critically, present ideas clearly, and respond to business scenarios under pressureskills that help prepare them for future careers.
In addition to the competitions, the conference provided opportunities for networking, leadership development, and collaboration with students from across the state. The experience allows participants to strengthen communication and problem-solving abilities while gaining confidence in professional settings.
Trenton's students delivered an impressive performance at the state level, earning five medals. Elizabeth Bogema earned a finalist medal, and Ella Smith and Rylie Lewis won the glass award and qualified to compete at the DECA International Career Development Conference, which will take place April 25-28.
"Our students represented Trenton High School with excellence," said Melanie Elliott, DECA Advisor. "It's inspiring to see them take on challenges, apply their skills in real-world scenarios, and grow as future leaders and professionals."
Trenton's first responders of the year honored
Two dedicated public safety professionals were recognized for their outstanding service in 2025.
Patrolman Jonathan Lipa of the Trenton Police Department was named Police Officer of the Year. Lipa was recognized for his consistent performance, professionalism, and commitment to the community. He played a key role in training new officers, handled numerous arrests, and responded to high-stakes incidents, including shots-fired calls, vehicle pursuits, and felony arrests.
One ofLipa's most notable moments came when a fire broke out at a senior living facility. He entered the building alongside other first responders and helped carry multiple seniors to safety, demonstrating courage, quick thinking, and dedication to protecting the most vulnerable.
Also honored was Engineer Jeff Glowacki of the Trenton Fire Department, who was named Firefighter of the Year. Glowacki was recognized for his unwavering dedication, professionalism, and leadership. Colleagues praised him for consistently going above and beyond, serving as a role model and making a lasting impact on both the department and the community.
City officials expressed pride in the accomplishments of both honorees, noting that their commitment and courage help keep Trenton safe every day.
Photos by Jim Jacek
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Showcase
PROJECTS
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receiver. Although redevelopment plans have not yet been announced, the removal of the long-vacant structure marked an important step forward.
Rzeppa also highlighted several new businesses that opened in the city over the past year, including Tony's Trattoria, Pickled Pickleball, Ace Kitchen and Bath, and Koi Hibachi, as well as the addition of a new mural project at the Trenton Village Theatre.
Over the last two years, Trenton has invested nearly $3 million into improvements across the city's parks system, with about 45 percent funded through grants and donations. During that same period, roughly $5 million has also been directed toward road and sidewalk upgrades using Act 51 funds, Community Development Block Grants, and Downtown Development Authority resources.
Major improvements are taking place at Rotary Park, where a largescale riverfront enhancement project is underway. The work includes shoreline restoration, improved pathways, and an ADA-accessible playground, with plans for a new
We have so much to be thankful for here, and so much to be excited about in 2026.
~Mayor Rzeppa
boardwalk extending into the Detroit River.
Upgrades were also completed at Slocum Park, where new pickleball courts, a basketball court, improved walking paths, and playground features were installed through Wayne County Community Development Block Grant funding.
Trenton's Parks and Recreation Department continued to expand programming in 2025, offering recreation, fitness, arts, and emichment activities for residents of all ages.
The Art Barn, which opened in summer 2025, quickly became a popular creative gathering place. The free drop-in art space averaged around 100 participants each week and was made possible through community donations and a sponsorship from Keck's Hardware.
Major community events also continued to draw visitors to Trenton. The Trenton Summer Festival welcomed tens of thousands of attendees and more than 100
vendors, while the city's fireworks display remained one of the largest in Michigan outside of Detroit. The MIHL High School Hockey Showcase at the Kennedy Recreation Center also brought thousands of players and spectators to the city over the course of a three-day tournament.
The city's Downtown Development Authority reported continued progress supporting local businesses. Through its Business Improvement Grant program, several projects were completed while the Downtown Dollars initiative generated nearly $36,000 in local spending during its first year through special promotions encouraging residents to shop locally.
Downtown events also helped attract visitors throughout the year, including Lobsterpalooza, Witches Night Out, an art festival that added five new murals to the city, and seasonal events such as Noel Nights and a Holiday Window Decorating contest.
The DDA also secured a $40,000 SEMCOG Planning Assistance
Grant to complete a West Jefferson Streetscape Study aimed at improving walkability and visual appeal throughout the downtown district.
Public safety departments also saw significant progress over the past year.
Construction preparations are underway for a new 20,000-squarefoot Trenton Police Station, a $13 million project designed to incorporate modem technology, training facilities, and improved safety features for officers and residents.
Plans are also advancing for a new fire station following the demolition of the former Trenton Motor Inn and VFW properties. The new facility will be designed to modem industry standards while also providing improved training space and community engagement areas.
Both departments reported extensive training initiatives and continued outreach programs such as Shop With a Cop, Coffee With a Cop, and home fire safety education efforts.
Rzeppa closed his remarks by thanking city employees, residents, and community partners for their continued support and dedication.
"We have so much to be thankful for here, and so much to be excited about in 2026," Rzeppa said.
An Island tradition is back up and running as Grosse He's Sacred Heart Catholic Church is again this year offering its famous Friday Fish Fries.
Run by the parish's Knights of Columbus, the weekly dinners will be offered every Friday from through April 3rd. The weekly events run from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m. Come and enjoy some great food and some fine LIVE entertainment from groups such as Barry Van Englelen and Pies & Bows.
Donations from the fish fries and other Knights events throughout the year help support Sacred Heart Seminary, Food for Families, Michigan Special Olympics, the Right to Life GolfFundraiser, Leave No Neighbor Behind, an ultrasound machine for the Archdiocese of Detroit, the Michigan Freedom Center serving military members at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, the Diaper Drive, the Sacred Heart Giving Garden, the Sacred Heart Food Pantry, and more.
The menu includes a choice of fried cod, broiled cod, fried lake perch, fried shrimp, and fried walleye. Each meal
includes a baked potato or French fries, house made coleslaw, a fresh Island Bakery dinner roll, and house made tartar and cocktail sauce.
Side orders include crab cakes, jumbo shrimp, pierogi, fries, and baked potatoes.
There is also a kid's menu featuring cheese pizza and macaroni & cheese.
Adult dinners run from $15.95 to $18.95 and kid's meals are $4.95. Prices include tax.
And don't forget the soup. The Sacred Heart Fish Fry is famous for its rotating variety of homemade soups, especially the lobster bisque - the lobster comes from Maine from a friend of the cook.
If you have room, don't forget dessert. Sweet options include Hungarian strudel and floats.
A variety of beverages is available, including beer and wine.
The fish fry is held in the Sacred Heart Parish Hall, located at 21599 Parke Lane, Grosse Ile. Carryout is also available.
Check the current week's offerings: www.kofcgi.com
Trojans claim ninth straight regional title Season ends in hard-fought state quarterfinal matchup
The Trenton Trojans hockey team put together another strong campaign this year, finishing the season 16-13-1 and earning second place in the Michigan Interscholastic Hockey League South Division.
When Regional play began, the Trojans shifted into another gear. In the Division 2 Regional Semifinal, Trenton dominated Temperance Bedford in an 11-0 rout, setting the tone for a deep postseason push.
They followed that performance with an 8-3 victory over the Wyandotte Roosevelt Bears to capture the Regional championship.
Brett Allen and Aiden Pattenaude each recorded hat tricks in the title game, powering a high-octane offensive attack. Strong team play and balanced contributions across the ice sealed the win as Trenton claimed its ninth consecutive Regional crown and secured the hardware.
The Trojans then advanced to the State quarterfinals, facing Detroit U ofD Jesuit on the road to the State final. In a tightly contested battle, Trenton played with intensity and resilience, pushing the game to overtime before ultimately falling 4-3 in heartbreaking fashion. Despite the tough ending, the Trojans' effort underscored the strength and competitiveness of their season.
The year also marked the end of an era, as the program said goodbye to 10 seniors on the ice: Patrick Rogowski, Theo Dull, Zach LaMay, Jayden Jones, Grandon Echols, Levi Murray, Ty Popowicz, Donovan Durbin, Jack Brownlie, and Ethan Gilbert. Student manager Luke Kowal is also graduating.
Their leadership and dedication helped extend the program's regional dominance and set a standard for the players who will follow.
Trojan bowling wraps up competitive seasons
The Trenton Trojans girls bowling team had a strong season, finishing just shy of a state berth at regionals. As a team, they placed third with a score of2,439. Individually, Sabrina Kowalczyk led the way with a 16th-place finish and an 853 series, followed closely by Olivia Feijoo in 17th with 849. Elizabeth Bogema finished 21st with 819, Lindsay Kitzman was 28th with 789, Isabella Donnelly 48th with 655, and Chloe Clark 51st with 645.
The girls program will say goodbye to senior Elizabeth Bogema, who dedicated all four years of her high school career to the sport, leaving a legacy of commitment and leadership for the Trojans.
On the boys side, Trenton finished seventh at regionals with a team score of2,615. Cameron Shimmell led the individual efforts with an 18thplace finish and 1,052 pins, followed by Austin Lacovacci in 19th with 1,045. Brenden Osmulski
finished 33rd with 936, Sawyer Keeton 38th with 919, Hadley Johnson 59th with 807, and Henry Edge 62nd with 759.
The boys program will say farewell to four seniors: Henry Edge, Sawyer Keeton, Brenden Osmulski, and Cameron Shimmell. Their dedication helped anchor the team and set an example for future Trojans bowlers.
Trenton girls take third in Downriver league, boys battle through districts
The Trenton Trojans girls basketball team turned in an impressive season, finishing 16-8 overall and placing third in Downriver League play. The Trojans remained consistent throughout the year, competing near the top of the standings while continuing to build on the program's success.
Trenton carried that momentum into the postseason. In the first round of district play, the Trojans defeated Monroe 51-44 to advance.
Their season came to an end in the district semifinals, where they played strong, but ultimately fell to Brownstown-Woodhaven by a score of39-32.
The season also marked a farewell to five seniors: Olivia Harrill, Alencia Mace, Julia Mach, Lauryn Holder, and Hope Gomez. Their leadership and experience played a key role in the team's success and helped guide the Trojans through another strong campaign.
On the boys side, Trenton finished 12-10 overall and placed fifth in Downriver League play. The Trojans remained competitive throughout the season and carried that fight into District action as well.
In the opening round of Districts, Trenton faced Temperance Bedford in a tightly contested matchup. The Trojans battled until the final buzzer but ultimately fell 47-45 in a narrow defeat.
The boys program will graduate six seniors: Easton Demers, Nikolas Beaudrie, Sam Bono, Brennan Gulliver, Aiden Sabuda, and Braden Bazner. Their contributions and commitment helped shape the team's identity and leave a foundation for the seasons ahead.
Photos by Dave Chapman
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THS theatre team earns top honors at regionals
The Trenton High School Competitive Theatre Team delivered an outstanding perfonnance at the Michigan Interscholastic Forensics Association (MIFA) Regionals held at Woodhaven High School, earning numerous Superior and Excellent awards for their production of A Christmas Carol.
Several students were recognized for their exceptional character portrayals.
Natasha Grose, Mya Kopera, Ava Tocco, Lexi Lopez, Emma Collins, and Bianka Bryant all received Superior awards for their performances.
Bella Rockov earned a Superior award for her "phenomenally
expressive eyes," while Audrey Kelch received an Excellent award for lighting execution.
Behind the scenes, students also received recognition for their technical work. Cam Birch earned a Superior award for costuming and puppet design, along with an Excellent award for logo design.
Emma Collins and Bianka Bryant were also honored with a Superior award for makeup and hair.
The team's success reflects the creativity, teamwork, and dedication of Trenton's student performers and crew members, who brought their interpretation of A Christmas Carol to life on stage.
DAR to host free genealogy workshop at Trenton library
The Monguagon Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution will host a Free Genealogy Workshop on Saturday, March 28 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Trenton Veterans Memorial Library. The workshop is open to anyone interested in exploring their family history.
DAR volunteers will provide one-on-one guidance, sharing tips and lessons they've learned through handson experience. Attendees are encouraged to bring family records such as birth, marriage, and death certificates, obituaries, tombstone photos, or printed family histories. No registration is required, but it's available on the library's website under "Events." Participants may join at any time during the session.
FamilyTree
Additional workshops are planned for June 20 and October 17, with the same format and guidance from DAR volunteers. For more information, call 734-341-2570.
DOWNRIVERCU ANSWERS
Open the Door to Something Great with these Smart Homebuying Tips
For many families across Wayne and Monroe Counties, homeownership is one of life's most meaningful milestones. Whether you're buying your first home, moving up for more space, or downsizing, it's about more than square footage - it's about stability, community, and building memories.
In today's Downriver market, preparation matters. While inventory has improved compared to the height of the buying frenzy, well-priced homes still move quickly. Interest rates remain higher than pandemic-era lows, making it especially important for buyers to plan ahead.
If you're considering a move this year, here are practical steps to help you open the door to something great.
1. Get Pre-Approved Before You Shop
Before you start touring homes, know what you can truly afford. A mortgage pre-approval helps you avoid wasting your time (or that of a real estate agent or seller) looking at homes outside your budget.
Pre-approval gives you a clear price range, estimated monthly payment, and stronger buying power when you're ready to make an offer.
Even if you're months away from buying, starting early gives you a financial roadmap and positions you as a confident, qualified buyer.
2. Work with a Local Real Estate Expert
Each Downriver community has its own character and pricing trends. A knowledgeable local real estate agent can guide you through neighborhood differences, school districts, and comparable sales.
Choose someone who listens to your goals and understands what matters most in your next home. In a competi-
tive market, experienced guidance can make a significant difference.
3. Budget Beyond the Listing Price
The purchase price is only part of the picture. Ongoing homeownership costs include:property taxes, homeowners insurance, utilities, maintenance and repairs, and closing costs
Older homes - common throughout the Downriver area - may require updates over time. Setting aside funds for unexpected repairs protects both your investment and your peace of mind.
4. Think Long-Term
Before making an offer, ask yourself:
Will this home meet my needs for the next five to seven years?
Is there space for remote work or future growth?
Does the location support my lifestyle and commute?
Buying with long-term goals in mind can reduce the need to move during less favorable market conditions.
5. Don't Skip the Inspection
Even when homes sell quickly, a professional inspec-
tion is one of the smartest financial planning tools you have. From the foundation to the roof and HVAC system, an inspection identifies current concerns and potential future repairs before closing.
Knowing what improvements may be needed - and when - allows you to budget appropriately, prioritize upgrades, and avoid unexpected financial strain. Instead of surprises after move-in, you gain clarity and a proactive plan to protect both your home and your long-term investment.
6.
Explore Opportunities to Save
As market conditions shift, buyers should explore available programs and promotions that may reduce upfront costs. Even modest savings at closing can ease the financial transition into homeownership.
For example, Downriver Community Federal Credit Union is currently offering $500 off closing costs on qualifying mortgage loans - a meaningful savings that can help free up funds for moving expenses, home updates, or building your emergency savings.
Opening the Door to What's Next
The Downriver region has long been built on hardworking families who take pride in their homes and neighborhoods. While today's market requires patience and preparation, opportunities remain for buyers who are informed and financially ready.
For those seeking guidance, Downriver Community Federal Credit Union offers mortgage education, personalized support, and community-focused lending solutions designed to help members accomplish great things at every stage of life.
Open the Door
GABRIELRICHARD STUDENTUPDATE
Julianna Harris - Classof 2027
As the second semester of school continues, we are reminded of the academic excellence that continues to arise from students of Gabriel Richard Catholic High School. Gabriel Richard's chapter of the National Honor Society had its new member induction ceremony on March 11. This acknowledgement of a student's academic accomplishment is not taken lightly at GR, as many students strive to become a part of this prestigious organization rooted in service, scholarship, character, and leadership. A new opportunity to take college courses has become available to the ambitious students of Gabriel Richard. In an exclusive partnership with Madonna University, students are able to take weekly college classes on the GR campus. Not only are these classes preparing students for the academic rigor of college, but they also allow students to start receiving college credits along the way!
The extracurricular scene at GR has been busy over the past few weeks. GR's Key Club had a great time volunteering at the St. Pius Spaghetti Dinner in February. Key Club is the high school extension of Kiwanis, and Gabriel Richard's branch is thriving during their second year as an official school club. These students consistently give back to the community through many fun service projects and programs, helping to develop their leadership skills and build character. On another note, the GRemlins Robotics Team (9226) has been gearing up to compete in their first competition of the season. This group of students have been working diligently since the beginning of January to build their robot for this year, and it sounds to me like they've done an incredible job! You can follow their journey through their competition season on their official Instagram, @gremlinrobotics9226. Additionally, the Gabriel Richard Thespian Guild is hosting a "Royal Kid's Day Out'' fundraiser in support of their spring musical, The Little Mermaid Jr. This event includes photo opportunities with fan-favorite princesses, dancing and musical games, crafts and more for any interested school aged children! You can contact the planning team through the theater lnstagram, @grtheatreclub.As the weather shifts from winter to spring, so do the high school sport seasons at GR.
This winter, we had many accomplishments in athletics. Our boys varsity bowling team placed 2nd in the state finals and 3rd in the Catholic League last month, with four team members receiving All Catholic, All League, or All Academic awards. GR's co-ed wrestling team also went to states in early March, where nine wrestlers competed in the state competition, with four placing 2nd in their respective weight classes.
As of March 9, the spring sports season has officially started, so be on the lookout for any of our impressive spring sports teams including co-ed track and field, softball, girls tennis, baseball, girls soccer, and golf! Updates on all of these teams are available at grathletics.org.
Last, I wanted to bring to your attention a cause that is very close to the hearts of the Gabriel Richard community. On Sunday, March 29, the 7th annual Strides for Adam Sk will be taking place at Young Patriot's Park in Riverview. This non-profit organization was founded in memory of Adam Holten, a GR alum who sadly passed away in December of 2018. The primary goal of this race is to raise awareness about suicide prevention, while also raising funds to keep his legacy of kindness alive. Part of the proceeds from this race go to scholarship funds for a select group of both Gabriel Richard and Riverview Community High School students who are rooted in service to their communities. There are many Gabriel Richard students that are involved in this year's race, either taking part in the run or volunteering on the sidelines. We would love for you to participate too, either in-person or virtually. You can find additional information at stridesforadam.org.
There's a lot of exciting things going on this spring at GR! Make sure to keep up with the school on Facebook or Instagram @grpioneers.
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Happy Pi Day
March is always special for us here at _ereferred Insured Agency. Our Partners got married on March 14 or Pi Day and we created our agency to celebrate that.
You may have noticed the Pi symbol in our logo. The initials of our company name are Pl. Our company colors are Elizabeth and Shaun Abshire Purple and Indigo. Even Licensed Insurance Agents our puppy is named Pi! "Preferred Insured" emphasizes the people we serve rather than the products we offer. We are grateful to our many Michigan clients who trust our agency to put their needs above our bottom line. If you are not yet one of them, why not give us a try?
Capitol Hill Visit
We proudly joined hundreds of agents in Washington, DC last month to raise awareness for bipartisan bills that boost affordability and choice for our Downriver clients. We thank Elissa Slotkin, Shri Thanedar, Rashida Tlaib and their office staff who met with us. We will do our part to make health care work better for you!
