Southgate Star November 2025 by GO BIG MULTI-MEDIA

outhgate’s Market Center Park buzzed with energy as the city welcomed residents to the annual HarvestFest, a celebration that has become a cherished tradition for families and community members alike. Even though the weather was quite warm and not autumn-esque, attendees still enjoyed the activities, vendors, and sizzling treats from the food trucks lined along the back of the park. Pumpkins and fall decor filled the park, creating a fun and inviting atmosphere for attendees of all ages. A standout attraction of the day was the ever-popular Touch-A-Truck display. Children’s eyes lit up with excitement as they scrambled to climb aboard the shiny fire trucks, massive construction vehicles, and other specialty trucks on display. Parents and grandparents joined in, taking photos and sharing in

Mayor Kuspa earns statewide recognition for leadership

Michigan Association of Planning honors Southgate’s mayor for advancing smart growth and revitalization

Southgate Mayor Joseph Kuspa was honored with the 2025 Planning Advocate Award by the Michigan Chapter of the American Planning Association (MAP/APA Michigan). This prestigious recognition celebrates individuals and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the field of community and urban planning across the state.

The award was presented during the organization’s annual conference, which brings together professional municipal planners and advocates from across Michigan. Earlier this year, nominations were submitted and reviewed by a jury of APA members, who selected Mayor Kuspa based on his demonstrated leadership and commitment to effective planning. In announcing their decision, the jury remarked, “Mayor Kuspa’s leadership has strengthened public awareness of the planning process.”

Several community members and business leaders submitted letters of support for the nomination, praising the mayor’s vision and impact.

Local developer Thamer Gasso, who has built several hotels in Southgate, wrote:

“Mayor Kuspa’s vision for Southgate has never been for short-term gains or superficial development. He understands that meaningful, sustainable growth begins with proactive planning and a genuine partnership between the public and private sectors.”

Gasso further noted that, “Mayor Kuspa’s leadership has consistently prioritized reinvestment in commercial corridors, smart land use, and infrastructure improvements that not only benefit existing businesses but also make the city attractive to new investors and developers.”

Jim Yoos, a long-time resident and current chair of the Southgate Planning Commission, echoed this sentiment. “I have had the pleasure of seeing firsthand Mayor Kuspa’s unwavering commitment to advancing thoughtful and inclusive planning

practices, particularly in the area of housing,” Yoos wrote. “By prioritizing a variety of housing choices, he has strengthened the city’s ability to serve its residents and positioned it for long-term success.”

Councilman Ed Gawlik, a former chair of the City Planning Commission, also highlighted several of Mayor Kuspa’s major initiatives. “During Mayor Kuspa’s tenure, he has shown the leadership and vision needed to plan for the city’s future needs in several ways,” Gawlik stated. “He worked tirelessly with the owners of the Southgate Shopping Center

Several community members and business leaders submitted letters of support for the nomination, praising the mayor’s vision and impact.

to demolish the vacant Wards department store, convinced them to donate the property to the city, and created a new public destination for residents and visitors to enjoy: Market Center Park.”

Gawlik added, “Currently, Mayor Kuspa has again collaborated with a developer, Wayne County, and other partners to revitalize the vacant PNC Bank building property. At a development cost of $50 million, this project represents the single largest commercial investment in the history of Southgate.”

Mayor Kuspa, who was unaware of his nomination, expressed gratitude upon learning of the award. “I was surprised and humbled to receive this state recognition,” he said. “When you’re working with staff on a local level, every day you strive to do what is best for the community we serve. It’s very gratifying that our efforts have been recognized on a statewide level.”

Mayor Kuspa is the first Downriver elected official to receive this distinguished honor.

The Michigan Association of Planning is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting sound community planning that enhances the quality of life for Michigan residents. Established in 1945, MAP supports comprehensive planning that encourages diverse housing options, employment opportunities, commercial growth, and access to cultural and recreational amenities.

MAP currently has more than 4,000 members, including citizen appointees to planning commissions and zoning boards of appeal (70% of members), as well as professional planners, architects, engineers, attorneys, developers, and students from related fields.

To learn more about MAP, visit www.planningmi. org.

STA Homecoming 2025

Photos by Dave Chapman

Titan pride shines at homecoming

STA Homecoming 2025 continued the tradition of Titan Pride on October 17th, showcasing a successful spirit week and outstanding performances by students, musicians, athletes, and fans both at the pep assembly and on the football field. The celebration highlighted the spirit and talent of the school community throughout the events.

The 2025 Homecoming King and Queen were crowned during the festivities, with Johnny Pardo named King and Chloe Rybicki named Queen. Their coronation was met with cheers from classmates, staff, and supporters, marking a memorable moment in the school’s Homecoming tradition.

Southgate Municipal Election Results Announced

On November 4th, Southgate held its municipal election. The ballot included positions for mayor, clerk, treasurer, and city council. Mayor Joseph Kuspa, Clerk Jan Ferencz, and Treasurer Chris Rollet were all uncontested and will return to their roles.

Eight candidates - seven incumbents and one newcomer - vied for the seven city council seats.

Zoey Kuspa received the highest number of votes, earning 2,986. She retained her position as City Council President, marking the first time since 1993 that a woman had held the council president seat for two consecutive election cycles.

Christian Graziani placed second with 2,649 votes. Longest-serving council member Karen George also secured re-election with 2,512 votes. Priscilla Ayers-

Reiss followed with 2,465 votes, and Phillip Rauch received 2,299.

Newcomer Adriene Price earned 2,282 votes to join the council, while Ed Gawlik Jr. rounded out the sevenmember body with 2,199 votes.

Victoria Araj fell short of winning a seat, receiving 2,060 votes.

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COMMUNITY

Continued from COVER

the hands-on experience. Volunteers guided visitors around the vehicles, explaining how each one was used in the community, making the event both fun and educational. Laughter echoed across the park as families tried out the driver’s seats, honked horns, and posed for pictures, creating memories that would last well beyond the festival. Adding a magical twist to the day, attendees also had the chance to meet iconic characters from beloved stories. Maleficent, with her dramatic wings and commanding presence, posed for photos with kids who giggled at her playful interactions, while Jack Skellington entertained fans with his signature charm and quirky dance moves. Nearby, a live DJ kept the energy high with upbeat tunes, prompting impromptu dance-offs and sing-alongs among festival-goers. The pumpkin patch was another favorite spot, where families wandered among rows of plump pumpkins, choosing the perfect one to take home for carving or decorating.

The annual Scarecrow Competition brought an extra layer of excitement and creativity to HarvestFest. This year’s entries were more imaginative than ever, with scarecrows ranging from whimsical to downright hilarious. Goodfellas Property earned first place with 112 votes, wowing the crowd with a clever and intricately designed display. Planet Juice captured second place with 75 votes for their colorful and eye-catching entry, while New Point Church and Downriver Music Bingo tied for third with 39 votes each, impressing attendees with their ingenuity. Organizers praised all participants, noting that their creativity and community spirit were central to making the event truly memorable.

In tandem with the festivities, the Faith in Blue event offered an opportunity for residents to

Throughout the day, festival-goers enjoyed a variety of offerings from local vendors, from handmade crafts to delicious treats that highlighted the flavors of fall.

connect with local law enforcement in a relaxed, friendly setting. Families and officers mingled over conversations, games, and informational booths, fostering trust and reinforcing the importance of collaboration in keeping the community safe. The event’s presence underscored the city’s commitment to not only celebrate together but also strengthen relationships that build a safer, more connected neighborhood.

Throughout the day, festival-goers enjoyed a vari-

ety of offerings from local vendors, from handmade crafts to delicious treats that highlighted the flavors of fall. Music, laughter, and the cheerful hum of conversation filled the air as people explored every corner of the park. From the interactive fun at Touch-A-Truck to the festive pumpkin patch and imaginative scarecrows, every aspect of HarvestFest invited families to slow down, enjoy the season, and connect with neighbors. By evening, as the sun cast a golden glow across the park, it was clear that Southgate’s Market Center Park had once again become the heart of the community—a place where tradition, creativity, and togetherness came alive in the spirit of fall.

Goodfellas Property, 1st Place

Planet Juice, 2nd Place

New Point Church, tied for 3rd Place

Downriver Music Bingo, tied for 3rd Place

Titans close 2025 season with an explosive finish

By HANK MINCKIEWICZ

The Southgate Anderson football team missed the Michigan High School Athletic Association state playoff this season, but the Titans sure gave their fans something to remember the season by.

The Titans hosted non-league Melvindale on October 24th in the last game of the year for each team. The Cardinals came in with just one win on the season, while the Titans entered the contest with a 3-5 mark.

In the end it was no contest, really.

On the first play of the night Melvindale fumbled and Southgate recovered on the Cardinal 21. After a holding penalty backed up the Titans, senior quarterback Cooper Randall found fellow senior Noah Schmidtt for a 29-yard pass-and-run into the end zone.

Melvindale then fumbled on its second play of the night and Southgate recovered on the Melvindale 5. The Titans scored on the next play on a short run by Adonis Golidy and 1:17 into the game the rout was on as Anderson led 14-0. Holiday scored six touchdowns for the Titans this year and led the team with 794 rushing yards on 2025.,

The Titans went on to post a 59-6 victory over the Cards. It was Andersdon’s biggest offensive output since October of 2013 when it beat now-defunct Taylor Kennedy 60-0.

For as one-sided as the game was, the score was surprisingly close midway through the first quarter.

After surrendering those two quick scores, Melvindale mounted its most impressive drive of the night, travelling 90 yards and scoring to make the score 14-6 halfway through the period. The march was kick-started by a 15-yard facemask penalty against the Titans. The Cards also had plays of 30 and 40 yards on the drive. In the end, the drive accounted for 90 of Melvindale’s total of 135 yards in the game.

After the Cards celebrated in the end zone, Anderson took complete control

of the game.

The Titans marched 50 yards and scored on a short run by Schmidtt to go up 21-6. A blocked punt led to another short field and an 11-yard score made it 28-6.

Midway through the second quarter Logan Exner boomed a 37-yard field

goal to increase the lead to 31-6. Anderson scored twice more before the half ended, once on a 60-yard punt return by Zayne Whitson.

It was 46-6 at halftime and the second half flew by as the entire thing was played with a running clock.

Even with the fast-moving clock,

the Titans managed to get into the end zone two more times in the second half to bring the final count to 59-6.

Often playing on a short field and with limited second-half time, Anderson’s total yardage was not as impressive as its point total, but the Titans did gain 240 yards to 135 for the visitors from Melvindale.

Melvindale finished the year with a 1-9 record. The Cards only win in 2025 came against Western Wayne Athletic Conference foe Dearborn Heights Annapolis. Annapolis is 4-41 since 2020.

For Anderson the win capped a transition kind of a season. The Titans said good-bye to a multipleyear starting quarterback at the end of last year and turned to a first-year senior starter in Randall this year. Randall passed for 504 yards and six touchdowns and he rushed for 223 and four more touchdowns.

Whitson proved to be Randall’s favorite target with 18 catches for 182 yards and three scores. Whitson also returned punts for touchdowns against Dearnborn Edsel Ford and Melvindale.

Randall proved a steady leader and in addition to winning four times, the Titans were close in several games this year.

Anderson lost 21-20 to Wyandotte and 27-25 to Lincoln Park. Had the Titans won those two games it would have been another playoff season for the burgundy and silver.

All five teams that beat Southgate this year qualified for the MHSAA playoffs with the exception of Wyandotte. Other than Southgate, Wyandotte’s other wins came against woeful Downriver league opponents Dearborn Edsel Ford and Taylor, who were a combined 2-16 this season.

Senior Nate Grigsby and Randall were the theme’s leading tacklers this year and senior Isiah Daviston had a huge impact on the defense in just five games played.

Finally, junior kicker Exner proved to be a valuable weapon, making 21-of22 extra points and three of five field goals.

Photos by Dave Chapman

TURNING

Thanks for your loyalty to Azul Motors. We are glad you loved our 2025 model.

We will swap it for our 2026 model in January. We had to scrap the radio and A/C, cut out the warranty, jack up our service fees and tack on a new monthly fee. If you don’t pay up, we will repo the car. Don’t let that happen because then you’ll be stuck riding the bus. No one would be allowed to sell you a car until next year.

Would You Be Loyal If Your Car Company Acted Like Your Medicare Plan?

As local independent agents, we spend many hours studying the local health plans. Some popular plans from well-known carriers have big, ugly changes in store for 2026. Other carriers preserved most of their benefits. We usually help you find better coverage and our services are completely free. If you stay in a plan that is adding a premium in 2026, make sure you pay it. If you get kicked off of your plan for non-payment, you may end up without drug coverage and we might not be able to fix it until 2027!

Marketpla ce / Under 65

See us for Qualified Health Plans on or off the Marketplace during open enrollment through Dec 15.

Please beware of unscrupulous brokers peddling unregulated health plans. Cheap insurance that does not work is not cheap!

Is Your Plan Ending ?

Many plans are terminating at the end of 2025. If your plan is ending, you will need to shop. Call us to make an appointment.

Hours: Weekdays 10am to 6pm Get started using our QR codes!

Find Us At Henr y Ford

Our agents will be at Henry Ford Wyandotte Hospital on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9am to 3pm through Dec 5.

Find us at the HAP table across from the lab. HAP has affordable health plans and great service.

Shaun Z. Abshire Licensed Insurance Agent

Elizabeth M. Abshire Licensed Insurance Agent

All residents safely evacuated after fire at American House

On October 24th at approximately 10:06 p.m., Southgate Police officers were dispatched to American House, an assisted senior living facility, in response to reports of a large structure fire.

Upon arrival, officers observed heavy flames and

smoke coming from the building. Southgate Police and Fire personnel, along with Downriver Mutual Aid departments, immediately began coordinated evacuation efforts to ensure the safety of all residents. Their rapid response and teamwork played a crucial

role in preventing injury or loss.

All residents and staff were safely accounted for.

A total of 87 individuals were inside the building at the time of the incident. First responders successfully evacuated everyone from the interior. This fire comes almost two years to the date of the fire that happened at The Meadows of Southgate, the senior facility next door, where everyone was also evacuated successfully.

Displaced residents were transported to the Southgate Senior Center, where temporary shelter, medical evaluation, and assistance were provided by Southgate employees and resident volunteers. Residents were later reunited with their families, while others have been relocated to other facilities Downriver.

The Southgate Fire Department, with the support of Downriver Mutual Aid agencies and the Detroit Fire Department, remained on scene through the duration of the fire to fully extinguish it and begin investigating its cause.

This incident highlighted the professionalism, courage, and compassion of Southgate’s first responders and the many assisting agencies from the Downriver Mutual Aid network. Their tireless efforts ensured the safety and well-being of the community’s residents during this challenging event.

NEWS FROM OUR NEIGHBORS Go to... GoBigMultimedia.com

TRIBUNE

Flat Rock Speedway ends season in spectacular fashion

Flat Rock Speedway brought the 2025 racing season to a dramatic close with the Harris Mechanical Season Championships, capping off a year of fierce competition and fan-favorite action. Championship races across the Moran Chevrolet Outlaw Super Late Models, DTS Drive Train Specialists Street Stocks, and Salenbien Excavating Late Model Sportsman divisions kept fans on the edge of their seats as the track celebrated another unforgettable season of racing.

A brand-new event added extra excitement to the night, giving fans a thrilling showcase of Late Model Sportsman racing and rounding out the season finales for the Outlaw Super Late Models and Street Stocks.

Cornett, highlighting a competitive field of veteran drivers.

SEE PAGE 9

Wyandotte’s Cemetery Walk brings local history to life

The quiet grounds of Mount Carmel Cemetery were anything but still this past weekend as history came to life during the Wyandotte Museums’ beloved Annual Cemetery Walk. Held on the evenings of October 11th and 12th, the often soldout event offered a moving tribute to the city’s rich past, with volunteer actors portraying nine notable historical figures who once called Wyandotte home. Guests were led through the softly lit cemetery in guided tours, stopping to meet each “spirit” along the path. The evening was filled with educational and heartfelt portrayals — from a Civil War soldier, to a Felician nun, and even a former mayor of Wyandotte — each sharing stories that shaped the city’s identity.

SEE PAGE 5

The 2025 Trenton Art Festival, held September 19th and 20th, brought downtown Trenton to life with a weekend of art, entertainment, and community engagement. The festival featured live mural paintings, food, music, and interactive activities for all ages, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere that drew visitors from across the region. Attendees were treated to a series of live mu-

ral installations throughout the city, including Jesse Kassel at Q Nails and Spa, Kevin Burdick at Trenton Express Market, Kitsune Jolene at Stronghold Church, Michelle Tanguay at Ramsey’s, and Naomin Haverland at New Points Nutrition. The public could watch as blank walls and spaces were transformed into colorful, large-scale works of art, adding a lasting creative touch to the downtown landscape.

SEE COVER

Bavarian Bash best party in town

The reviews are in. The assessments from the sponsors and partygoers are unanimous. The Grosse Ile Educational Foundation’s Bavarian Bash fall fundraiser, held on October 4th was “Wunderbar!” And, as much as everyone had a great time, the overall result is a big win for advancing the cause “by financially supporting creative and exemplary educational opportunities to the community and the Grosse Ile Schools”

SEE COVER

One man’s determination to honor Riverview’s veterans by DAVID TERECH

About 10 or 12 years ago, my wife Kim and I were visiting Michigan Memorial Cemetery to plan on burial plots. While meeting with a representative in the office, I couldn’t help but notice that the large American flag flying above the veterans’ section was in rough shape. I mentioned to the young lady helping us that they ought to replace the flag, and she told me that anyone could sponsor a new one the cemetery would raise it and engrave the veteran’s name at the base on an existing monument.

SEE PAGE 13

A canvas of creativity

The Literary Hideaway

Boutique Bookstore Cafe

The Literary Hideaway

Coffee - Food - Wine & Beer

Boutique Bookstore Cafe

The Literary Hideaway

Coffee - Food - Wine & Beer

Boutique Bookstore Cafe Coffee - Food - Wine & Beer

Boutique Bookstore Cafe

Boutique Bookstore Cafe Coffee - Food - Wine & Beer

Boutique Bookstore Cafe

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

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!

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

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!

theliteraryhideaway.com

8166 Macomb St, Grosse Ile, MI 48138 (734) 982-4028 theliteraryhideaway.com

DOWNRIVERCU ANSWERS

What You Need to Know About “Buy Now, Pay Later” Services

Have you seen the option to “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) while shopping online or in-store? It’s a fast-growing payment method that allows shoppers to split purchases into smaller payments over time—often without interest. But is it too good to be true?

BNPL services like Affirm, Afterpay, and Klarna are becoming increasingly popular, especially among younger shoppers. They offer the convenience of making your purchase today while paying for it later in set installments. While this may sound like a smart budgeting tool, it’s important to understand both the benefits and potential drawbacks before clicking “accept.”

How It Works

BNPL is similar to the traditional layaway programs—except you get the item right away. You typically make a small down payment and pay the rest in biweekly or monthly installments. Most providers do a soft credit check and offer various payment methods, like linking your bank account or debit card.

The Benefits

For many consumers, BNPL offers a way to manage larger purchases without using a credit card. Some services even report your payments to credit bureaus, which can help build credit if managed responsibly. The application process is usually quick, and the flexibility appeals to those who prefer not to carry revolving credit balances.

The Risks

However, easy access to delayed payments can lead to overspending. It’s easy to lose track of multiple payment plans, which can result in late fees or a negative impact on your credit score.

Also, unlike credit cards, BNPL purchases don’t always come with the same consumer protections, which can make refunds or disputes more complicated. Some longer-term BNPL plans also include interest rates that may exceed traditional credit card or loan rates.

Tips for Using BNPL Responsibly

Budget first: Only use BNPL if you’re confident you can pay off the balance on time.

Know the terms: Always read the fine print regarding fees, interest, and deadlines.

Track your plans: Treat BNPL like any other bill—keep a list of payment schedules.

Pay on time: Late payments can hurt your credit and lead to added costs. Explore alternatives: Consider if other financing options might be more suit able.

Consider Your Local Credit Union

Before committing to a BNPL plan, it’s worth exploring all your options. Downriver Community Federal Credit Union offers personal loans and credit options designed to fit your needs—with clear terms, member-friendly service, and no hidden fees. If you’re considering a major purchase or looking to manage your budget, we’re here to help you use money to accomplish great things.

Final Thoughts

BNPL can be a helpful tool—but only when used responsibly. Think before you spend, read the details carefully, and if you need more structured financing support, talk to a trusted financial partner like Downriver CU.