What’s Going On is a listing of activities taking place throughout the Downriver community. To submit an event, send an email to downriverlife@thenewsherald.com. List the time, date, location, cost and contact information. Submit announcements at least two weeks prior to the event.
Events added this week
Rummage Sale: At the Bacon Memorial District Library, 45 Vinewood, Wyandotte, Wednesday, Aug. 14 through Tuesday, Aug. 20. We have things we no longer need, but it may be something you need! This sale is not like other sales – it is a “donate amount you want to” sale. All money collected will be used to restock our Bacon Cares Items. For more information, call 734-246-8357.
Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia: At the Bacon Memorial District Library, 45 Vinewood, Wyandotte, Thursday, Aug. 15 at 2 p.m. Presented by the Alzheimer’s Association. Learn the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, Alzheimer’s stages and risk factors, current research and available treatments and ways the Alzheimer’s Association can help. For more information, call 734-246-8357.
Kristin’s Cozy Craft Corner: At the Bacon Memorial District Library, 45 Vinewood, Wyandotte, Thursday, Aug. 22. Crocheters and knitters of all skill levels and ages are invited to join our monthly club. Join us to troubleshoot project issues, discuss technique and methods, and just have an all around good time! Supplies are not provided, so please make sure to bring your own. Kristin will focus on a new topic each month. For more information, call 734-246-8357.
Mario Kart Tournament: At the Bacon Memorial District Library, 45 Vinewood, Wyandotte is Friday, Aug. 23 at 1 p.m. 3rd-12th Grade. Buckle-in for an afternoon full of snacks, friends, and Mario Kart! Winner will receive a 3D printed trophy and bragging rights. Registration Appreciated, but not required. For more information, call 734-246-8357.
Race the Space: At the Bacon Memorial District Library, 45 Vinewood, WyandotteHot Wheels is Wednesday, Aug. 28. Turn the Makerspace into the Bacon Dragway using the library’s collection of Hot Wheels! Vroom. For more information, call 734-246-8357.
Lighthouse Tour: The Grosse Ile Historical Society is sponsoring a tour every 90 minutes (noon, 1:30 p.m. 3 p.m.) of the Grosse Ile lighthouse on Sunday, Sept. 8. Built in 1906, the stately lighthouse stands 40 feet tall. The octagonal white tower is beautiful, each face is sided with horizontal wood strips like clapboards on an old house. The interior is paneled with varnished Michigan pine, and a wooden circular staircase gives access to the light stanchion at the top. The tours will originate at the Depot Museum located on the southwest corner of Grosse Ile Parkway and East River Road. A bus (there is no parking at the lighthouse) will take participants past the historic homes district to the lighthouse for the tour and then return to the Depot Museum. Each tour is limited to 25 participants, ten years of age or older. There is no handicap access to the lighthouse. Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled tour. The tour price is $20 for Historical Society members, $25 for non-members. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Tickets are available on Eventbrite. For more information, email gihistsoc@gmail.com or call 734-675-1250.
MARSP Meeting: The Wayne/Downriver Chapter of MARSP (Michigan Association of Retired School Personnel) is meeting on Thursday, Sept.19, at Crystal Gardens, In Southgate. The meeting begins at noon. Cost is $19 per person. Make check payable to: Downriver Chapter of MARSP; mail to: Downriver Chapter of MARSP, P. O. Box 2406, Riverview, MI 48193. You can pay electronically through Zelle or Venmo -downrivermarsp. RSVP by Sept. 5. No walk-ins. No refunds.
Events
Adult Painting Swap: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 12, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Join our Adult Librarian, Becky Price, for an adult painting swap. Each participant will get a canvas to start. You will have 20 minutes to set up your canvas for what kind of painting you’re attempting to get at the end of the night. Every 15 minutes you will swap paintings with the person next to you for them to add to it. At the end, you will get your brand new painting back with time to finish your painting (if needed) before taking it home. This program is open to all skill levels. Registration is recommended to make sure we have enough supplies. For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Adventures in STEAM – Discoveries with Water Pollution: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 13, 20, from 2-4 p.m. Join Michigan 4-H Spinclub in this STEAM discovery about water pollution. Youth ages 9-14 will get to explore how water pollution occurs and its effects on the environment through hands-on, engaging, and STEAM-based experiments in each class session. Youth will learn about how to make water filters, how to create water cleaning processes, and more so they can protect clean water and make a difference in their own communities. This event is 4 sessions long. This club is limited to 20 children and registration is required. Starting July 9 you can stop in or call the library to register. For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Basic Creative Writing Class: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 13, from 2:30-3:30 p.m. This class is for those interested in writing, but are not sure how to start. You will get to practice writing without stopping, how to start a scene and what’s needed between scenes, discover ways to outline and see what works for you, character development, and gain tips on writing dialogue. A notebook, or binder/folder with paper, and something to write with are needed for this class. For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Textile Lab: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 13, 20, 27, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Textile Lab is a weekly lab for textile crafters to come together and work on their projects. If you love to quilt, sew, knit, crochet, embroider, needlepoint, or any other textile crafting, this is the place for you! An instructor will be available to teach you how to quilt, or to guide you on your projects. For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Wind Down Wednesdays: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 14, 21, 28, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Wind down your Wednesday nights at the library. Enjoy a quiet designated space for you to read, journal, crochet, knit, scrapbook, diamond dot etc., every Wednesday this summer. This is a bring your own quiet activity drop-in event. Some donated supplies will be available, but not guaranteed. For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Brown Bag Talking Book Discussion: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. In person or call-In. Aug. 14, from 12-1:00 p.m. The group is discussing three audiobooks this month. Listen to all, one, or none. Everyone is welcome. This month’s books are 1) “The Frozen River” by Ariel Lawhon (DB117781) and 2) “Pineapple Street” by Jenny Jackson (DB113575). Join us in person or join remotely by phone by calling: 267-807-9601 and use Access Code: 965803, or join virtually by visiting bit.ly/TCLbtbcall. Call the library or use the Talking Book Order Form to reserve a copy for yourself. For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Android Basics: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 15, from 1-2 p.m. Class will focus on making phone calls, storing contacts, deleting contacts, blocking unwanted calls, and texting. You must have a working android cell phone to attend this class. For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Writing Sessions: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 15, 22, 29, from 2:30-4:30 p.m. Calling all writers! We will have one of the front Community Rooms available for those looking for motivation to start writing to come in and write every Thursday, from 2:30-4:30pm. It’ll be a quiet place with little to no interruptions, and enough space to spread out your notes and plotline maps. Are you up for the challenge? For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Adult Movie Nights: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 16, 23, 30, from 3-5 p.m. Come join us for our Adult Movie Night. This month we will be watching “Divergent,” “Twilight,” “Ricki and the Flash”, “Barbie,” and “Accepted.” For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Crafting Together: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 16, from 4-5 p.m. Monthly Crafting Together aimed to give parents and children the opportunity to use their creativity to create beautiful masterpieces and memories. For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Walk on Water (Miracles of Jesus) Summer Day Camp: Nine weeks, from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., through Aug. 16. $40 a day. Held at the Salvation Army Downriver Community Center, 1258 Biddle, Wyandotte. Field trips, outdoor games, gym activities, arts and crafts and Vacation Bible School. For more information, call 734-282-0930. Ask for Kay Berry or Linda Bercaw.
Ecorse Youth Baseball: Through Aug. 17, youth baseball programs for ages 2.5 to 11 will be held at Pepper Park, while middle and high school baseball will take place at Popp Park. For more information, call (313) 386-2520 Ext. 7041.
Kids Movie Nights: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 17, 24, 31, from 3-5 p.m. Come join us for our Kids Movie Night. This month we will be watching “Moana,” “Abominable,” “Shrek,” “Big Hero 6,” and “The Princess and the Frog.” For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Hooks & Needles: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 19, 26, from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Come and join other yarn enthusiasts in our community who love to knit and crochet. This is a weekly event to share ideas, projects, and do a little yarning. Bring your own projects to work on. For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Lego Club: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 19, 26, from 6-7 p.m. Do you love Legos? Join our Lego Club. Every Monday we will challenge you to make something relating to that week’s theme. We will display your creation for one week and will tear them apart at the next event. This event is open to kids, tweens, teens, and parents. No registration is required, just stop in and build. For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Michigan Forensic Files: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 19, from 6-7:30 p.m. Ever wonder what really goes on in a county morgue? Learn how forensic professionals expose the secrets of the dead and determine cause of death alongside true crime author and former morgue volunteer Tobin T. Buhk. Then examine how forensic science helped to solve some of the State’s most vexing mysteries, including the mysterious case of a body that floated across Lake Michigan and the unidentified man found incinerated in a blueberry patch. NOTE: Not for the faint of heart! For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Adult Book Club: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 21, from 6-7 p.m. Join us as we read fiction from all walks of life and perspectives. For our next discussion, we’ll be reading “Absolution” by Alice McDermott. For more information, call 734-287-4840.
iPhone Basics: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 22, from 1-2 p.m. Class will focus on making phone calls, storing contacts, deleting contacts, blocking unwanted calls, and texting. You must have a working iPhone to attend this class. For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Bark for Books: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 22, from 5-7 p.m. Is your child just learning to read or wants to build confidence to read or speak aloud? Do they want to practice reading to a therapy dog? Then join us at Bark for Books for a chance to read aloud any book of your choice to a trained therapy dog. We collaborate with a local therapy dog group to get two dogs in the library for patrons to read to for 15 minute intervals. All the dogs love hearing stories and getting pets and can’t wait to meet you readers. Registration is required and we’ll have 15 spots open for a child to read, so stop in the library or give us a call starting June 1st to sign up for a time slot. For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Family Storytime: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 23, from 10:15-10:45 a.m. Join Ms. Carolyn for outdoor fun at our outdoor family storytime. We’ll be using stories, rhymes, song, and movement to enjoy the morning sunshine with a small activity after. This story time is for families with stories and activities generally geared towards ages 2-6, but we do our best to adapt to the crowd and have a ton of fun! *If the weather does not permit for an outdoor storytime, we will move to the youth side of the library.* For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Southgate Rotary hosts annual Golf Outing: Southgate Rotary will hold its annual Golf Outing on Sunday, Aug. 25 at the Riverview Highlands Golf Course. The event is sponsored by Union Hair Company of Southgate. The outing will start at 6:30 a.m. with registration and breakfast. Tee off/shotgun starts at 8 a.am. with lunch at the turn. C is $125 per golfer. Sponsorships are available: $1,000 Event Sponsor (includes foursome for golf and recognition), $750 Ace Sponsor (includes foursome for golf and recognition), $500 Eagle Sponsor (includes recognition), $500 Lunch Sponsor (includes recognition), $250 Birdie Sponsor (includes recognition), $100 Hole Sign on the course. Net proceeds to support Downriver Family YMCA and Rotary projects. To register, contact Steve Ahles at 734 658-8991 or chiefahles@aol.com.
VIP (Visually Impaired Persons) Support Group: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 28, from 12-1 p.m. The VIP meeting is a monthly support group for people experiencing vision loss and their caregivers. Each month, we meet to discuss important topics and connect over shared concerns, with occasional speakers. Meet in person or join in remotely. To join remotely by phone, please call 267-807-9601 and use Access Code: 965803, or join virtually by visiting bit.ly/TCLbtbcall. For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Free Lunches and Free Health Screenings: At Church of Resurrection, 27085 W Outer Dr Ecorse, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., on the following dates: Aug. 28, Sept. 25, Oc.t 23 and Nov. 27. Sponsored by WSU Health Mobile Unit and Free Lunch n Prayer Street Outreach (freelunchandprayer.org). General health screenings: Blood pressure, Diabetes, Cholesterol, Kidney function.COVID-19 PCR testing (3+ years old) for symptomatic individuals. (We do not offer routine screening). No appointment needed. ID not required *we do collect if available. Insurance not required. We do collect if available, however, you will not receive a co-pay for this event. Other Services that may be available: HIV testing (13+ years old, results within 20 minutes), Linkage to care and community resources. For more information, contact LaChelle Anderson (aka Sister Shelli) at 313 355 2746 or email lachelleanderson38@gmail.com
TCL Digital Resources: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 29, from 1-2 p.m. This class will introduce you to the digital resources available to patrons with a Taylor Community Library card. We will go over streaming services, eBooks, research databases, genealogy sites and much more! For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Adult & Teen Karaoke Night: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Aug. 29, 6-7:45 p.m. Join us for a fun and judgment-free Karaoke Night intended for teens and adults. Whether you’re a platinum record artist or an everyday shower singer, this event is open to you. Feel free to invite friends and family to cheer you on as you face the mic. For more information, call 734-287-4840.
Focus on Life Dinner: The Grecian Center, 16300 Dix Toledo Rd., Southgate, at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 18. Guest speaker Steve Ray will present “Swimming Upstream: Living a Christian Life in a Pagan World.” Pastor Jeremy Schossau, from Metro City Church, Taylor is the Master of Ceremonies. Sponsored by Downriver affiliates of Right to Life of Michigan. For tickets: www.FocusOnLifeDownriver.com or call 734-282-6100.
Crafters & Vendors Needed: Craft & Bake Sale, St. John UCC, 2744 4th St. (corner 4th & Chestnut), Wyandotte. Saturday, Oct. 19 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost $35 for 1 table or $65 for 2 tables. To reserve a table or for more information, call Sue at 734-558-7559.
Salvation Army Community Classes/Clubs: Downriver Archery Club – Mondays, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Two Classes – $10 for the season. Downriver Music – Tuesdays, 4:30-5:30 p.m. Downriver Youth – Tuesdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m. Downriver Bible Study – Wednesdays, 5 p.m. Downriver Air Rifle Club – Thursdays, 4:30-6:30 p.m. – Two Classes – $10 for the season. SA Downriver Gaming – 2nd Saturday of the month, 4-7 p.m. The events are held at the Salvation Army Downriver Corps Community Center. For more information, call 734-282-0930.
Student Photography: Capstone Exhibition Of Excellence at Wayne County Community College District’s Brown And Juanita C. Ford Art Gallery at the Downriver Campus, 21000 Northline Road in Taylor. The exhibition is on view through Oct. 11. The reception and the exhibit are open to the public at no cost during gallery hours: 9 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The Capstone Exhibition of Excellence is the culmination of the students’ academic journey in the WCCCD Photography Program. It showcases their finest works, showcasing the skills and artistic vision. For more information about the exhibit, visit www.wcccd.edu or email artgallery@wcccd.edu
Senior Citizens Recreation: Sponsored by the Huron Charter Township Senior Citizen Recreation Department at the Krzyske Center, 28245 Mineral Springs Road, New Boston. Mondays – Exercise: “Get Moving” from 10:30-11:30 a.m. in “the Barn,” & Pinochle at 12:30-4:30 p.m.; Tuesdays – Bocce Ball from 10-noon, & Double Deck Pinochle from noon-2:30 p.m.; Thursdays – Mah Jongg from 10 a.m. – noon, & Euchre and Dominoes 12:30-3:30 p.m. Taking registrations for the 2024 Downriver Senior Olympics (DSO) held Aug. 12-16, hosted this year by Southgate and our Senior Bowling League is looking for players for the 2024-25 Season which begins Sept. 4. For more information, call 734-654-9281.
Ongoing community events
Sewing for Jesus: Come join us and help make dresses for girls in need worldwide. Even if you do not sew, you can come and cut bias tape that is sewn around the armhole of the dresses. We meet at Evangel Baptist Church, 16994 Telegraph, Taylor, MI on Mondays from 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Even if you can only come for a couple hours, we would love to see you. We also greatly appreciate donations of 100% cotton fabric, double wide bias tape, thread, lace and trim and monetary donations. For any questions, email Bev Breece at Kbreece7@aol.com
Adult Writer’s Group: Every second Saturday of the month, from 2-3 p.m., at the Trenton Veterans Memorial Library. Do you love to write? Are you looking for a supportive, helpful space to share with other writers? You will need to submit either 2-3 shorter pieces, 1 longer piece or (up to) 10 pages of fiction or nonfiction the month before we meet. The content of your writing must be PG rated. Registration is required for this group. You can register in-person at the library’s Reference Desk, via phone or email. For more information, visit trenton.lib.mi.us or email Erin Chapman at echapman@trenton-mi.com.
Tuesday Morning Book Club: At the Trenton Veterans Memorial Library. Every first Tuesday of the month at 10:30 a.m. Join us for a lively book discussion. Book selections are online at trenton.lib.mi.us. For more information, call 734-676-9777.
Basic Computer Class: At the Trenton Veterans Memorial Library. Every Second Saturday at 10:30 a.m. Join us for a basic computer class. Computer class topics may change. Check trenton.lib.mi.us for the most recent computer class listing. For more information, 734-676-9777.
Yoga: At the Trenton Veterans Memorial Library. Gentle and Strong Every third Wednesday of the month at 6 p.m. Please join us for a gentle, restorative Yoga class. Please bring a yoga mat, a towel and water. Call 734-676-9777 or stop by the reference desk to register. Registration online at trenton.lib.mi.us.
Book-a-Librarian: Learn how to use your Smart Device, how to use Zoom and other remote meeting software, as well as how to download library eBooks, eAudiobooks, music, movies & more! Call 734-676-9777, email tpubliclibrary@trenton-mi.com or stop by our Reference Desk to request your appointment.
Stay Sharp Kits & Pet Companions: At the Trenton Veterans Memorial Library. Stay Sharp Kits are a wonderful resource for adults (and the caregivers of adults) who are experiencing memory loss and other cognitive issues related to dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other memory disorders. These themed kits are filled with a variety of materials and activities that have been designed to promote cognitive skills. Some activities focus more on conversation and socializing, others on motor skills and critical thinking. All work to stimulate mind and memory and improve mental speed while eliciting a sense of accomplishment and independence. For more information, 734-676-9777 or visit trenton.lib.mi.us
LEGO Club: At the Trenton Veterans Memorial Library, for children ages 5 and up. Every 3rd Monday of the month. We’ll provide the LEGO, you bring the creativity. Miss Ashley will give a fun prompt for kids at each meet-up to get them started, but what they make is all up to them. You can register by calling the library at 734-676-9777 or signing up at the Reference Desk.
Budding Bookworms: At the Trenton Veterans Memorial Library is an early literacy storytimes for the youngest bookworms run by Miss Ashley. Wednesday morning at 10 a.m. for children ages 0 to 3 and Wednesday morning at 11 a.m. for children ages 3-5. Call 734-676-9777 or stop by the Reference Desk to register.
Teen Writer’s Group: At the Trenton Veterans Memorial Library. Aspiring Teen Writers will meet up to work on their craft, share with their peers, and gain helpful insight from local author Holly Ash who will be attending the sessions! The first Wednesday of every month at 6 p.m. New members are always welcome. This event is for youth ages 12-17. For more information or to register, 734-676-9777 or visit trenton.lib.mi.us
Literacy Littles: At the Trenton Veterans Memorial Library on the 1st Saturday of the month at 10:30 a.m. Led by Miss Ashley, this book club will explore the superpower of reading by focusing on a new book each month. Intended for children in Kindergarten through 2nd grade. Registration is required. If you would like Miss Ashley to place the book on hold for you please let us know during registration. For more information or to register, 734-676-9777 or visit trenton.lib.mi.us
Well-Read Wanderers: At the Trenton Veterans Memorial Library. A Book Club for 3rd-, 4th-, & 5th-graders. Meets on the 3rd Saturday of every month from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Every month we will meet to discuss and start reading a new book. We will learn some of the basic elements of a book (i.e. plot, characters etc.), so that we have a greater understanding of what we read. After taking turns reading aloud, the children will take their books home to finish reading on their own. For more information or to register, 734-676-9777 or visit trenton.lib.mi.us
Meals on Wheels Drivers Needed: The Senior Alliance has partnered with the Wayne County Department of Senior Services to discover what drives you to volunteer and meet an immediate need for volunteer drivers for Meals on Wheels. The Senior Alliance, Area Agency on Aging 1-C, is a pivotal nonprofit organization in Michigan providing vital services to aging adults and adults with disabilities. For more information about becoming a Meals on Wheels volunteer, visit whatdrivesyoutovolunteer.org.
Taylor Garden Club: Meets the 3rd Thursday of the month September through June. Meetings are held at the Taylor Senior Activity Center. Hospitality at 6 p.m. meeting begins at 6:30 p.m. Guests are welcome to attend once for free. Membership fee is $25 per year. You do not have to live in Taylor to join the group. For more information contact Nancy Smith at 315-408-6581 or by email at smithnan88@yahoo.com
Huron River Fishing Association: General meetings are held the first Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the Flat Rock Community Center, 1 McGuire St. in Flat Rock. The general meetings include seminars and speakers related to river fishing, fly fishing, ecological concerns and environmental concerns. A fly tying meeting is held every third Monday of the month where you will learn how to tie a specific fly. For more information, visit the group’s Facebook page at https://tinyurl.com/ycx4tkwf
Crafters Welcome: Crafters meet every Thursday from 10-11:45 a.m. in the social hall of St. Cyprian Catholic Church on Pennsylvania Rd, Riverview. We knit, crochet and sew a variety of items such as hats and scarves for all ages, baby items, lap blankets, quilts, stuffed toys, dishcloths, and adult bibs just to name a few to donate to local groups who support those in need such at our veterans, soup kitchen clients, a local hospice and the homeless.
Huron Twp. Senior Citizens Recreation: At the Krzyske Senior Center, 28245 Mineral Spring Road, New Boston (unless otherwise noted). Mondays – Exercise: Get Moving, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. in the Barn. Mondays – pinochle, from 12:30-4:30 p.m. Wednesdays – bowling, from 10 a.m.-noon at Romulus Bowling Ctr. Thursdays – mah jongg, from 10 a.m. to -noon. Thursdays – euchre and dominoes 12:30-3:30 p.m. Activities are canceled if Huron School District cancels school due to inclement weather, and for all Huron Twp. Holidays. For more information, call 734-654-9281.
Marine Corps League Events: Game Night every Monday, from 5-10 p.m. (except for the first Monday of the month). The grill is open every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, from 4-10 p.m. 1600 – 2000 (except for the first Monday of the month). Public welcome. For more information, call 313-382-5618 or visit www.downrivermarines.net.
American Flag Disposal: Heart to Heart Hospice of Southgate is a local site for American Flag disposal. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, Heart to Heart will allow the general public to bring their tired and worn American flags to our Southgate office. The office is located at 1 Heritage Place, Suite 107, Southgate, in the Real Estate One building. For more information, call 734-282-0209.
Genealogy Research: The Downriver Genealogical Society Library, located at 28639 Division Street in Flat Rock, is free and open for genealogy research Tuesdays from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The society began in 1980 and for the past 42 years has been collecting information on the people and cities of the downriver communities, most taken from local newspapers. There are also resources from the surrounding areas and for other states and other countries. Volunteers are available to help those wanting to begin researching their own family. Information on the society, holdings and publications can be found at downrivergenealogy.org. For more information, call 734-535-6530.
Mental Illness Support Group: For relatives and friends of the mentally Ill in the Downriver area meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Dearborn, 600 N. Brady, in Mitchell Hall. Another support group meets on the 3rd Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m., at the Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital’s Rehabilitation Bldg. on the 2nd floor, room 232. Enter the hospital at the main entrance. Then you will follow the letter A on the wall signs and take the Allen elevator to the 2nd floor. From the elevator exit, turn left and immediately right to follow the hallway to room 232. For information, call 313- 292-3324.
Al Turner Drop In Chess: Every Thursday 5:30 p.m. at the Bacon Memorial District Library, 45 Vinewood, Wyandotte. Kids and adults of all ages can meet challenging new players every Thursday at 5:30 pm. For more information, call 734-246-8357.
Job Assistance: The SEMCA Michigan Works! in Southgate, 15100 Northline Rd, Room 103, is offering help with job searching. Free services may include career assessment and guidance; GED preparation, basic skills assessment & enhancement; resume and interview assistance; and job search assistance. Stop in to register and ask about the next orientation session. Connect with a Career Coach and return to work faster. Reasonable accommodations will be made upon request. For more information, call 734-362-3448 or visit SEMCA.org.
Toiletry Pantry: Rockwood First Congregational Church, 22600 Mather Street Rockwood, hosts toiletry pantry, which provides personal hygiene items, cleaning products, gently used clothing and some food products. The pantry will open from 1- 3 p.m. on the last Monday of each month. If that Monday is a holiday, the pantry will be open the previous Monday. For more information, call 734-379-3711 or fccrockwood.org
Local Wyandotte History: Looking for an obituary? Need information on your home or any other burning Wyandotte history questions? The Bacon Memorial Library, 45 Vinewood, Wyandotte, can help. Visit, www.baconlibrary.org/local-history-request
Teen Advisory Group: Taylor Community Library, Taylor. Online Virtual Event. Wednesdays, from 4-5 p.m. Teen Advisory volunteers help plan, implement, and promote ways to improve services offered at Taylor Community Library. Joining our group builds your resume, earns you volunteer hours and recommendations for jobs or college, and gives you a chance to be heard! To join, apply to become a volunteer today! For more information, call 734-287-4840.
1000 Books Before Kindergarten: Sponsored by the Bacon Memorial District Library, 45 Vinewood, Wyandotte. This free program encourages you to read 1,000 books with your child before he or she enters school – a goal experts say helps children learn to read. Yes, it really is possible. Read one book to your child every day and before you know it, you will have read over 1,000 books in three years. Reading together helps develop important pre-reading skills that provide a solid foundation to school and learning success. Plus, sharing stories together is fun. For more information, call 734-246-8357 or visit www.baconlibrary.org/1000books
Seamstresses Needed: Seasons Hospice and Palliative Care is seeking volunteer seamstresses to help with the making of memory bears. Memory Bears are made from the clothing that once belonged to a loved one and can bring comfort and peace for grieving family members. All materials are provided. Seamstresses work in the comfort of their own homes using a simple four-piece pattern. For more information, contact volunteer coordinator Mary Biber at 800-370-8592. For more information about Seasons Hospice and Palliative Care, visit www.seasons.org.
Palliative Care Volunteers Needed: Seasons Hospice and Palliative Care is seeking compassionate people to provide volunteer support to terminally ill patients and their families. We provide virtual, yet comprehensive, training that fits easily into busy schedules. Opportunities are flexible, based on your availability and comfort level and always close to home. Activities may include: offering companionship or “friendly visits” to homebound patients, reading and letter writing, providing relief for caregivers, participating in activities with dementia patients, veteran to veteran companionship, and sewing Memory Bears. For more information, contact volunteer coordinator Mary Biber at 800-370-8592. Visit www.seasons.org
The Ecorse Community Events Committee: Meetings are held every 3rd Thursday of the month excluding holidays and/or inclement weather. The ECEC meets from 6-7 p.m. at the Albert B. Buday Civic Center, 3869 W. Jefferson Ave., Ecorse 48229 on the 2nd floor in Conference Room – B. For more information, call 313-407-6332 or visit website https://www.ecorseevents.com or email ecorseevents@gmail.com or visit the Ecorse Community Events Committee Facebook page. All are welcome to attend, volunteer and participate in community event planning.
The Ecorse Historical Society: Meetings are held every 3rd Saturday of the month excluding holidays and/or inclement weather. The EHS meets from 1-2 p.m. at the Albert B. Buday Civic Center, 3869 W. Jefferson Ave., Ecorse on the 2nd floor in Conference Room – B. All are welcome to attend, volunteer and participate in EHS meetings and planning. Ecorse residents are invited to bring their family histories to add to the collections and archives which will be exhibited at the Ecorse Public Library. Exhibit dates and times to be announced. For more information, call 313-386-2520 Ext. 4 or visit /www.ecorsehistorical.org Email ecorsehistoricalsociety@gmail.com or visit the Ecorse Historical Society’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ecorsehistoricalsociety/
Brownstown Historical Museum Hours of Operation: The Brownstown Historical Museum, 23451 King Road, Brownstown is open for tours every 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month from 1-4 p.m. Summer business hours are every Tuesday from noon-3 p.m.. Stop in to join the Brownstown Historical Society or renew your membership, volunteer or get information on the Brownstown Community Brick Paver fundraiser. For more information, call 248-318-5297.
Lincoln Park Preservation Alliance: The group is looking for new members to promote Lincoln Park’s historic sites through education and advocacy; for information on meetings and events, call Leslie Lynch-Wilson at 313-598-3137.
Knit and Crochet Club: From 1-3 p.m., Tuesdays. Meet, mingle and trade inspiration with local knitters and crocheters. Bring your own projects and have fun with a like-minded group. This is not an instructing class; however, you are welcome to ask others to share their knowledge and help. Cost: $3 donation to the DCA. Downriver Council for the Arts, 81 Chestnut, Wyandotte. For more information, call 734-720-0671 or visit www.downriverarts.org
Heart to Heart Hospice Volunteers needed: Heart to Heart Hospice is looking for downriver community members to join the group’s team of volunteers, who will visit with patients on a weekly or bi-weekly basis to help increase their quality of life during their final days. Visits can provide friendship, compassion and distraction from their prognosis. Activities that clients might enjoy are being read to, watching television together, talking about who and where they’ve been, their families, hearing about your day, playing cards, and so much more. Most importantly, we are looking for volunteers to provide their time, talent, and to have compassion and empathy. Heart to Heart serves Allen Park, Canton, Dearborn, Dearborn Heights, Southgate, Taylor, Westland, Ypsilanti and beyond. Volunteers should contact volunteer coordinator Randi Williams, at 734-282-0209.
Great Lakes Steel Salaried Retirees Club: Meets every third Monday at Crystal Gardens, 16703 Fort St. Southgate. Doors open at noon. Lunch promptly at 1 p.m. Cost $12 for members, $13 non-members. Door prizes and 50/50 raffles. Open to any salaried retiree of Great Lakes Steel. For more information, contact Desta Pulter at 313-842-0385.
