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Southgate springs to life with eggstravaganza
Hundreds of children, and their parents, gathered at Market Center Park on March 28, for Southgate's Annual Easter Eggstravaganza, marking a festive celebration of spring.
The free family friendly event featured the fan-favorite egg hunt that began promptly at noon. Children competed in age groups of 2-4, 5- 7,
and 8-10, searching for colorful eggs throughout the park. Excitement was high for those who found a golden ticket in their egg, which awarded a special Easter basket.
Families also enjoyed a visit with the Easter Bunny from 12 to 1 p.m., creating plenty of photo opportunities and holiday memories.
The eggs were grabbed up quickly by the eager hunters, and the hunt was completely over in just a few minutes.
The Easter Eggstravaganza continued Southgate's tradition of providing a fun, free community event that brings families together each spring.
First responders honored for American House fire rescue
ity officials recently recognized the heroic efforts of first responders and community members who played a critical role in the rescue of 87 residents during the American House fire on October 24.
The fire, which occurred at the 93-unit senior living facility, was one of the most significant emergencies in the city's history, marking the second-largest structure fire ever recorded in Southgate. At the time of the incident, 87 residents were actively living in the building. Thanks to a swift and coordinated response, all residents were safely evacuated.
The recognition ceremony took place just prior to the City Council's Work Study Session and honored the dedication, bravery, and coordination of those involved in the rescue.
Awards for Valor were
presented to the following
Southgate firefighters and police officers for their actions during the incident: Lieutenant Tim Georvassilis, Lieutenant
Austin Winrow, Sergeant
Ken Brown, Firefighter
Ian Bowman, Firefighter
Tom Miller, Firefighter
Adam Schwier, Firefighter
Dakota Coleman, Firefighter
Jacob Ellis, Firefighter
Chris Campbell, Firefighter
Brandon Hicks, Officer
Zachary Zielinski, Officer
Christopher Parsons, Officer
Morgan Parrish, Officer
Raymond Khamis, Officer
Harkiran Sembhi, Officer
Devin Brown, Officer
Juan Pablo Gomez-Llanos, Officer Houston Garcia, and Officer Cameron Hesbum.
Staff Leadership Awards were also presented to DPS
Director Kevin Anderson, Senior Center Director
Diane Grabowski, and Parks and Recreation Director
Julie Goddard for their roles in organizing and managing
the response during and after the fire.
In addition to Southgate police officers and firefighters, 14 fire and police agencies responded to the scene, including mutual aid partners from Allen Park, Brownstown Township, Lincoln Park, Riverview, Taylor, Trenton, Wyandotte, Woodhaven, and the Michigan State Police.
Officials expressed deep gratitude for the regional collaboration that made the
rescue effort successful.
Two Allen Park college students, Alyssa Rios and Steven Doyle, were also recognized for their extraordinary bravery.
While driving along Allen Road on the night of the fire, they noticed the emergency, pulled into the parking lot, and began knocking on doors alongside officers to alert residents and gnide them to safety.
During their remarks, Mayor Kuspa, Police Chief Mark Mydlarz, and Fire Chief Justin Graves noted that the emergency response and its aftermath were highly coordinated and well-managed.
The combined efforts, teamwork, and commitment to public safety ensured that all residents were rescued without loss of life.
The ceremony served as a moment of reflection and gratitude, as the city publicly thanked those whose courage and service made a life-saving difference that night.
Photos by Dave Chapman
'Soup Day' keeps community tradition alive
It's funny how traditions can change over time, yet remain the same.
A great example of that is Soup Day, an annual fundraiser for the Salvation Army Downriver Corps. Only a select group of people are aware that this popular event began more than 30 years ago by News-Herald employees as a way of sharing their favorite homemade soups with co-workers. It was first held at the newspaper's office at One Heritage Place in Southgate, later moving to the Holiday Inn and eventually evolving into a public fundraiser.
JIM KASUBA
The News-Herald closed its offices six years ago and the Holiday Inn is no longer there, but the tradition continues.
The COVID-19 pandemic, along with some logistical issues that followed, led to a four-year pause, much to the disappointment of soup lovers. After such a long absence, it was uncertain how the event would be received upon its return. Organizers had their concerns, but those doubts proved unfounded as Soup Day picked up right where it left off.
One of the last stories I wrote for The News-Herald before leaving for a new job was about the return of Soup Day in March 2024. I didn't attend that one or last year's event, but made it back this year to revive the tradition.
Soup Day is still held in Southgate, now at the Grecian Center. One familiar face remains Carol Ann Owens, longtime owner of Carey Ann's Clown Caravan, who once again took on her role as "Ballot Betty," collecting votes for favorite and most unique soups. For several years prior to the pandemic pause, I was among the News-Herald employees who helped count those ballots, often trying to decipher comments written on crumpled, soupstained slips.
For those unfamiliar with Soup Day, the concept is simple. Admission is $10, which includes a spoon and tray, allowing patrons to sample soups while supporting the cause.
Despite overnight rain and strong winds leading up to the March 11
event, crowds lined up outside the Grecian Center before the 11 a.m. start. Inside, Lt. Shawn Sutter, Sr. welcomed guests and spoke about the Salvation Army's work in the Downriver community. Event and volunteer coordinator Deborah Budny said she was pleased with the turnout,
noting the event raised more than $3,000 for the organization's community center. One of the biggest challenges for attendees is deciding which soups to try. Unless you have a very large appetite, it's nearly impossible to sample them all. Most people stick with a mix of favorites while
trying a few new options. When the votes were counted, TV's Deli and Diner earned first place for Best Overall Soup with its lobster bisque. Runners-up included Piper's loaded baked potato, M85's Hungarian mushroom, Jo Brighton's taco soup, River Village's chicken lemon rice and Big Bear Lodge's white chicken chili.
Hungarian Rhapsody's sour cherry soup was voted Most Unique, followed by Amigos' sopa de fideo, Biddle Hall's milk chocolate soup and TV Diner's Reuben soup.
Biddle Hall also won Best Dessert Soup for its milk chocolate soup, with Madison Center's apple pie soup and Hungarian Rhapsody's sour cherry soup as runners-up - despite sour cherry not traditionally being considered a dessert soup.
Big Bear Lodge took first place for Best Display with a setup featuring a bear, picnic basket and pine trees on a buffalo plaid tablecloth. Amigos and Famous Dave's were also recognized for their displays.
Participating vendors and their soups were Amigo's (sopa de fideo ); Big Bear Lodge (white chicken chili); Biddle Hall (dill pickle and milk chocolate soups); El Zarape (pozole); Famous Dave's (chili); Grecian Center (white chicken chili and avgolemono); Hungarian Rhapsody (lebbencs and sour cherry soups); Jo Brighton Skills Center (taco soup); Leon's (chicken noodle and Italian wedding soups); Madison Center (apple pie soup); McCaffery's Bar and M85 (Hungarian mushroom soups); Penney's Soup (potato soup); Piper's (loaded baked potato); River Village (chicken lemon rice); Shawn's Soup (chicken gnocchi); Taza Fresh Grill (lentil soup); The Cookie Project (friendship soup and venison chili); and TV Diner (lobster bisque, dill pickle and Reuben soups).
Plans are already underway for Soup Day 2027. Vendors interested in participating can contact Deborah Budny at 734-282-0930 or Debbie. Budny@usc.salvationarmy.org.
Jim Kasuba is a former journalist who covered the Downriver area for more than 35 years as a reporter and editor with The News-Herald.
RIVERVIEW25-26 SCHOOLSOFCHOICE
CHART YOUR COURSE THE PIRATE WA V
Online applications for the 2025-26 school year will be accepted April 7 through May 6.
There are limited openings in grades K-11for students who live in Wayne County or a neighboring county.
RVA is accepting unlimited applications in grades K-12 for 100%online learning from students living in Wayne County or contiguous counties.
DEPUTY CHIEF POSITION REINSTATED
Newsted promoted to new role
Southgate Police Lieutenant Brent Newsted was appointed Deputy Police Chief on March 4, marking the return of a position that had been absent for nearly fifteen years.
Since 2011, the City ofSouthgate's public safety department has been led by a Director of Public Safety, along with the Police and Fire Chiefs. Following the retirement of Public Safety Director Joe Marsh this past November, city officials opted to transition back to a more traditional leadership model consisting of a Police Chief and Deputy Chief.
The Deputy Chief position required a formal testing process, during which Lieutenant Newsted emerged as the top candidate.
"I was very pleased to see the caliber of candidates that applied for this position," said Mayor Joseph Kuspa. "I am confident that Lieutenant Newsted will do a remarkable job in his new leadership role."
Police Chief Mark Mydlarz concurred with the mayor's comments, "Brent consistently demonstrates strong leadership, sound judgment, and a commitment to professional growth. Having completed his bachelor's and master's degrees, along with the Eastern Michigan University School of Police Staff and Command and the
FBI Leadership Trilogy, he is well prepared for his new role as Deputy Chief and will continue to lead with integrity while supporting the success of our officers and department."
Newsted was officially sworn in as Southgate's Deputy Chief on March 17, with ChiefMydlarz standing beside him as Mayor Kuspa administered the oath. The ceremony was attended by several ofNewsted's family members, including his wife, Andrea; their children, Kaden and Kendall; and his parents, Ken and Shirley.
The event held special significance for the family - particularly for his son, Kaden, who had also been present more than 15 years earlier
A Year of Healing Close to Home: MIND RiverviewCelebrates First Anniversary
Since opening its doors last spring, the MIND Riverview Center has been dedicated to making sure Downriver families don't have to travel far for comprehensive, specialist-led neurological care.
Care That Truly Listens
What makes the Riverview team unique is the personal connection between our providers and their patients.
Our Patients Say It Best:
"Fromthe momentI arrived,the staff was kind,attentive, and highlyprofessional.Theytruly took the time to listen to my concernsand mademe feel heardand understood."
AngelaC.
Comprehensive Care in a Single Stop
The 6,500-square-foot MIND Riverview Center offers care for conditions affecting the brain, spine, and nervous system and is designed with patient convenience in mind. From neurological evaluations and EEGs/ EMGs to infusion therapies, patients can often complete their testing and treatment in a single visit.
Expert Treatment for the Downriver Community
Alzheimer'sdisease& memorydisorders
Parkinson'sdisease& movementdisorders
Multiplesclerosis
Headache,facial pain & migraines
lnterventionalpain management
Neuromuscularconditions requiringinfusiontherapy
when Newsted was first sworn in as a Southgate police officer on October 20, 2010. After his swearing in for deputy chief, Newsted and his son recreated the picture, albeit with some modifications, that started his time at the SPD.
"I began with the Southgate Police Department in 2010, and it has been an honor to serve this community," Deputy Chief Newsted said. "In my role as Deputy Chief, I remain committed to strengthening community relations, supporting our sworn and civilian personnel, and delivering the highest level of service."
Rotary hosts Bags for Benefits, Battle of the Mayors tournament
The Rotary Club of Southgate hosted its "Bags for Benefits" cornhole tournament on Saturday, March 21, at the Downriver Family YMCA, bringing the community together for an evening of competition and charitable giving. The event raised funds to support the club's community projects.
Tickets were $30 per person and included entry into the tournament, a complimentary drink, and snacks. Participants were placed into teams through a random draw, creating a fun and unpredictable playing field. A cash bar was also available, and local sponsorships ranging from $100 to $500 helped further support the event.
Players competed throughout the evening for prizes awarded to the three highest-scoring teams, along with a consolation prize for the lowest score.
One of the evening's highlights was the "Battle of the Mayors" tournament. Southgate Mayor Joseph Kuspa and Riverview Mayor Andrew Swift teamed up against Taylor Mayor Tim Woolley and Lincoln Park Mayor Maureen Tobin. The Southgate-Riverview team secured the win, taking home the trophy to close out the friendly rivalry. The event combined entertainment with purpose, successfully raising funds while fostering community spirit across Downriver.
SCPSAgraduates second class of citizens academy
The City of Southgate celebrated the graduation of the second class of the Southgate Citizens Public Safety Academy (SCPSA) on Wednesday, March 5. The eight-week program, which began in early January, provided residents with an in-depth look at the City's Police and Fire Departments and featured a larger class than the inaugural session.
Each week, residents enrolled in the academy attended classes where members of the Public Safety Departments led lectures and demonstrations to cover a wide range of topics, including emergency preparedness, police training and certifications, school safety, Downriver SWAT, crash investigations, criminal justice, and a live demonstration from the K-9 Unit. Participants also had the opportunity to go behind the scenes with tours of the Police and Fire Stations, meeting with department leadership, officers, and firefighters.
Southgate resident and academy attendee Barb Harness shared her thoughts on the program, "I thoroughly enjoyed the Southgate Citizens Public Safety Academy. This was a very eye opening experience and worth every minute of my time.
I learned a great deal about our Police/Fire/EMS and city as a whole. The City of Southgate has truly invested in the citizens. I, and my group, were able to tour the police station and fire department and met with public safety officials; the chiefs of each department, the officers, and firefighters. We learned a great deal and as a citizen and resident of Southgate, I feel so much safer and happy with my decision to live here. Thank you to everyone involved in providing this program and I hope it remains in place for future groups."
Three City Council members-Karen George, Priscilla Ayres-Reiss, and Adriene Price-were also enrolled in this year's class.
Councilwoman George reflected, "The Public Safety Citizens Academy was so informative and gives you a better appreciation of what our Police, Fire, DPW, and other city departments deal with daily in the performance of their duties. It exceeded my expectations and I would recommend it to all our residents," said Councilmember Karen George.
"The SCPSA was an insightful and invaluable experience. The exposure to the inner workings
and safety infrastructure of our Fire and Police Departments went a long way to bridge the gap between civilian perception and the reality of public safety operations. I am thankful for and appreciate all the instructors who took the time to lead a class, answer questions, and be of service," said Councilwoman Ayres-Reiss.
Councilman Price thoroughly enjoyed his time in the course, stating, "It gave me a firsthand look at the dedication, training, and coordination that goes into keeping our community safe every day. It was an incredibly informative experience, and I would encourage residents to take advantage of this opportunity to better understand and connect with our public safety departments," said Councilmember Adriene Price.
There is no cost to attend the Southgate Public Safety Academy but registration is requested. Residents are encouraged to keep an eye on the City of Southgate website for an announcement on the next session.
gstr-eesinc@gr.na ii.com
Springmarket is heatingup and so is the housingmarket. Thisis a great time to determinewhetheror not this is a good time for you. Callus for a FREEhomeconsultation. And wecanhelp buyersthroughthe entire process- just ask! We're alwayshere for you. And if a moveisn't in yourplans thisseason,enjoytime with family and friends- and take a momentto appreciatethe homeyou're in.
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Titans set for busy spring sports seasO'ri"
Spring sports are beginning at Southgate Anderson High School, with several Titan teams preparing for a packed schedule across April and May. New this spring will be the introduction of boys volleyball and girls flag football.
Below is the current schedule for STA varsity spring teams, less girls flag football as it was not yet posted on the MHSAA website:
BOYS VARSITY BASEBALL
4/9 - Dearborn Edsel Ford (Away)
4/11 - Riverview (Home)
4/13 - Trenton (Home)
4/14 - Livonia Franklin (Home)
4/15 - Lincoln Park (Home)
4/16 - Gibraltar Carlson (Away)
4/18 - Monroe Jefferson (Away)
4/20 - Taylor (Home)
4/22 - Allen Park (Home)
4/23 - Woodhaven (Away)
4/25 - New Boston Huron (Home)
4/25 - South Lyon East (Home)
4/29 - Wyandotte (Away)
4/29 - Dearborn Edsel Ford (Home)
4/30 - Lincoln Park (Away)
5/2 - Garden City (Home)
5/5 - Gibraltar Carlson (Home)
5/6 -Allen Park (Away)
5/8 - Negaunee (Away)
5/8 - Escanaba (Away)
5/9 - Escanaba (Away)
5/9 - Swan Valley (Away)
5/11 - Trenton (Away)
5/13 - Wyandotte (Home)
5/14 - Taylor (Away)
5/16 - Salem (Home)
5/18 - Woodhaven (Home)
5/19 - Erie Mason (Home)
5/23 - Detroit Edison (Home)
5/23 - Owosso (Home)
GIRLSVARSITYSOFTBALL
4/10 - Belleville (Away)
4/14 - Trenton (Home)
4/14 - Trillium Academy (Home)
4/15 - Lincoln Park (Home)
4/16 - Gibraltar Carlson (Away)
4/17 - Crestwood (Home)
4/18 - Monroe Jefferson (Away)
4/20 - Taylor (Home)
4/22 - Allen Park (Home)
4/23 - Woodhaven (Away)
4/24 - Canton Prep (Home)
4/27 -Wyandotte (Away)
4/28 - Melvindale (Home)
4/29 - Dearborn Edsel Ford (Home)
4/30 - Lincoln Park (Away)
5/1 - Livonia Churchill (Away)
5/4 - Skyline (Away)
5/5 - Redford Union (Home)
5/6 -Allen Park (Away)
5/7 - Gibraltar Carlson (Home)
5/8 - Garden City (Home)
5/11 - Trenton (Away)
5/13 - Wyandotte (Home)
5/14 - Taylor (Away)
5/15 - Southfield (Home)
5/18 - Woodhaven (Home)
5/19 - Gabriel Richard (Home)
5/20 - Westfield John Glenn (Home)
5/26 - Novi (Home)
BOYS VARSITY GOLF
4/14 - Jamboree #2
4/16 - Downriver League Tournament
4/22 - Jamboree #3
4/24 - Wyandotte Invitational
4/29 - Jamboree #4
5/1 - Downriver League Tournament
5/6 - Jamboree #5
5/13 - Jamboree #6
5/14 - Marauder Invitational
5/18 - Jamboree #7
5/20 - Downriver League Tournament
GIRLSVARSITYTENNIS
4/11 -Airport Tournament
4/13 - Dearborn (Home)
4/14 - Taylor (Home)
4/16 - Wyandotte (Home)
4/23 - Gibraltar Carlson (Home)
4/25 - Southgate Quad Tournament
4/28 -Woodhaven (Away)
4/30 -Allen Park (Away)
5/2 - Trenton Tournament
5/5 - Dearborn Edsel Ford (Home)
5/7 - Trenton (Home)
GIRLSVARSITYSOCCER
4/13 - Taylor (Away)
4/20 - Trenton (Away)
4/22 - Lincoln Park (Home)
4/27 - Wyandotte (Home)
4/29 - Dearborn Edsel Ford (Away)
4/30 - SMCC (Home)
5/4 -Allen Park (Home)
5/6 - Gibraltar Carlson (Away)
5/8 - Riverview (Away)
5/14 - Flat Rock (Home)
BOYS & GIRLSVARSITYTRACK
4/11 -Allen Park Co-Ed Relays
4/14 - Southgate Tri Meet
4/18 -April Showers Invitational
4/21 - Gibraltar Carlson (Away)
4/24 - Marauder Invitational
4/28 - Taylor (Home)
5/2 - Mark Carpenter Invitational
5/5 - Lincoln Park (Home)
5/9 - Southgate Metro Classic
BOYS VARSITYVOLLEYBALL
4/14 - Dearborn Edsel Ford (Away)
4/17 - Warren Woods Tournament
4/21 - Lincoln Park (Away)
4/23 - Dearborn Edsel Ford (Home)
4/23 - Gibraltar Carlson (Home)
4/28 -Allen Park (Away)
5/5 - Gibraltar Carlson (Away)
5/6 - Divine Child (Away)
5/19 - Divine Child (Home)
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 Instagram, @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.
Loud Budgeting: A Simple Habit for Smarter Spending
A growing trend in personal finance is helping people take control of their money in a refreshingly simple way: loud budgeting.
First highlighted in a SavvyMoney article featured in our Money Minute Monday e-newsletter, loud budgeting is all about being open and honest about your financial choices-especially when you decide not to spend. Instead of making excuses, you simply say, "That's not in my budget right now," or 'Tm focusing on saving."
For years, money has been treated as a taboo topic. Many people avoided talking about finances altogether, which often led to overspending or making decisions based on social pressure rather than personal priorities. Loud budgeting flips that script by encouraging transparency and confidence when it comes to money.
In practice, loud budgeting can show up in small, everyday moments. You might skip an expensive dinner and explain that you're working toward a savings goal, or pass on a weekend trip because you 're focused on paying down debt. The key difference is the mindset: it's not about what you can't afford-it's about what you 're choosing to prioritize.
This approach works because it creates clear boundaries and reduces the pressure to keep up with others. When you openly communicate your finan-
cial goals, it becomes easier to stick to them. It also helps normalize conversations about money, making financial wellness feel more approachable and less intimidating for everyone.
At Downriver Community Federal Credit Union, this mindset aligns closely with our mission to provide simple access to the knowledge, tools, and confidence to make smart financial decisions so that you can accomplish great things! Loud budgeting is one small but powerful way to take control of your financial future-by being intentional, informed, and confident in your choices.
Loud budgeting also reflects a broader shift, espe-
cially among younger consumers, toward intentional spending. Instead of trying to "look" financially successful, more people are choosing to actually be financially secure-focusing on saving, reducing debt, and avoiding lifestyle inflation.
Loud Budgeting at a Glance
- Be honest about your money choices instead of making excuses
- Shift your mindset from "I can't afford it" to 'Tm choosing something else"
- Reduce social pressure by setting clear financial boundaries
- Focus on priorities like saving, debt reduction, and long-term goals
Getting started doesn't require a complicated plan. Begin with a simple goal, like building an emergency fund or paying off a credit card. Then, the next time you're tempted to overspend, practice saying your reason out loud. Reframing your thinking-from "I can't afford it" to "That's not a priority right now"-can be a powerful step toward better financial habits.
Do one thing this week: Try loud budgeting once. A simple, honest statement could help you stay on track and feel more confident about your financial future.
Swap & Shred Saturday Brings Community Together at DCFCU
On Saturday, March 14th, community members gathered at Downriver Community Federal Credit Union in Southgate, MI with a shared purpose-to simplify their lives, protect their futures, and share their love for reading.
Families and individuals took part in the 2nd Annual Swap & Shred Saturday, utilizing free document shredding services while also participating in a "Bring a Book, Get a Book" exchange in celebration of National Reading Month. The event offered a simple but meaningful way for attendees to take positive steps forward in various ways.
The shredding portion of the event saw a strong turnout, with as many as 150-200 cars passing through to safely dispose of sensitive documents. By the end of the event, approximately 16 bins of paper had been securely shredded. For many, the benefit was immediate-clearing out old paperwork while reducing the risk of identity theft and creating a more organized financial space.
Inside the building, just steps away from the shredding event, the book swap provided another way for community members to engage. Parents, children, and neighbors browsed a wide selection of books, exchanging titles and discovering new ones to take home. For some families, it was a chance to introduce children to the excitement of choosing their own books.
In total, 363 books were checked in, with 199 books finding new homes during the event. The book swap welcomed more than 60 families, and 164 books were donated to the City of Ecorse Library, extending the impact beyond the event itself.
Events like Swap & Shred Saturday highlight how small, practical actions can
SHOW
OFF YOUR RIDE AT THIS EXCITING EVENT!
support overall financial well-being: safely disposing of sensitive documents, reducing clutter and improving organization, and encouraging continued learning through reading. By bringing these elements together, the event created an easy and accessible way for community members to take action.
By the end of the day, the impact was clear-hundreds of books shared, thousands of pounds of documents securely destroyed, and a steady flow of community members taking steps toward better organization and learning.
"At Downriver CU, we believe that when people are given simple access to the right resources-whether it's protecting their financial information or discovering a new book-they're empowered to accomplish great things at every stage oflife," said Robert La Palme, President/CEO.
The Southgate branch of the Downriver Community Federal Credit Union was proud to host the event and remains committed to providing opportunities that support both financial well-being and community connection.
Seaway Chorale to present 'Spring Bouquet' concert
The Seaway Chorale is prepared to welcome audiences to its annual spring concert, "Spring Bouquet: A Choral Celebration," taking place the first weekend of May. Performances are scheduled for Friday, May 1 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, May 2 at 4 p.m.
Due to ongoing renovations at the Flat Rock Community Auditorium, the concert will be held at The Daily Church, located at the comer of King Road and Dix-Toledo in Woodhaven.
The program features a mix of well-known and classical selections, including music from Wicked, West Side Story, and "Gospel Hallelujah," along with pieces inspired by the poetry of Robert Frost. Highlights include Frostiana, a celebrated choral work composed by Randall
Thompson, which set Frost's "Seven Country Songs" to music. The performance also includes Frost's iconic poem, "The Road Not Taken."
Adding to the program, the Voices of the Young brings energy to the stage with selections such as "You've Got a Friend in Me."
In addition to the music, attendees can look forward to a raffle and a bake sale.
Tickets are available through Chorale members or at the door, with additional information provided via phone, 734-552-3645.
The Seaway Chorale also encourages the community to mark their calendars for December 4 and 5, for their 50th anniversary celebration.
The Pets of Pl: Sir Cumference
Mom-and-pop health insurance agencies like ours may be falling out of fashion in the era of big money private equity with slick artificial intelligence, but we do have one trick up our sleeve. Meet our Holland Lop bunny, Sir Cumference! His happy presence in our office for the past year keeps our spirits high.
Innovative Plan G is Coming
Medicare Supplement plans have seen double-digit premium increases in each of the past two years. The most popular plans are sending their rate increase notices this month. Michigan has recently approved "Innovative Plan G" and the premiums are about 25% less than standard Plan G. After a high deductible period lasting no more than 3 years, it works just like standard Plan G, but the premiums remain lower. We will be one of the first local agencies to offer this plan. Call us for an appointment!
LICENSED AND APPOINTED WITH THESE CARRIERS
LlcenHd Insurance Agent
Shaun z. Abshire
Uc:enHd Insurance Agent
