Big Flavor, Bold Spirit: Agave Opens Its Doors
Located at 14993 Dix-Toledo, Agave Grill and Bar is open and ready to serve you. The family-owned restaurant, founded by Alberto Dominguez and his family, brings the bold, diverse, and authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine to the Downriver food scene, offering more than just a meal, but a cultural experience rooted in tradition and hospitality.
Visitors can expect quality, care, and a genuine love for Mexican cooking in every detail.
Though the restaurant opened its doors to the public in late June, the August 8th celebration marked its official debut. Guests from across the area gathered to enjoy live music, sample signature dishes, and welcome the Dominguez family to the Southgate business community. From sizzling fajitas to seafood dishes inspired by the family’s Veracruz roots, the menu showcases a wide range of regional flavors rarely found in typical Americanized Mexican fare.
The Dominguez family has a long-standing background in the restaurant industry, having operated successful establishments in Ohio before bringing their culinary vision to Michigan. With deep ties to their heritage and a passion for hospitality, they saw Southgate as the perfect place to grow, a community ready to embrace something fresh, flavorful, and authentic.
Agave Grill and Bar offers more than great food; it creates a warm, familyfriendly environment where every customer is treated like a guest in the Dominguez home. Whether dining inside or enjoying a drink from the bar, visitors can expect
care, and a genuine love for Mexican
in every detail.
Celebrating seven years of community, growth, and faith
This summer marks a significant milestone for Fitegrity Athletics as the locally beloved all-women fitness studio celebrates seven years in business. Founded by Sara Mullinax in 2018, Fitegrity has grown from humble beginnings in church halls and parking lots into a cornerstone of the Southgate community, one fueled by faith, resilience, and a deep commitment to both physical and mental wellness.
Sara Mullinax, owner and founder, reflects on her journey often, crediting her start to a simple desire to serve. “I always try to tell the same story,” she says. “I first started teaching fitness classes by serving in my local church. And I quickly realized how deeply connected mental and physical health really are.” That realization drove her to begin teaching anywhere she couldparks, parking lots, and any space that
would welcome her mission.
In 2018, Mullinax took a leap of faith and opened the first Fitegrity Athletics location in Southgate. Just one year later, the studio was honored with The City of Southgate’s Best New Business award, a testament to its immediate impact.
“For about the first two years, it was just me teaching all the classes,” Mullinax shares. “I poured everything I had into showing up for our women, helping them build confidence through fitness. Since then, we’ve added some truly amazing instructors to help lead this community forward. They’ve each brought their own strengths, heart, and passion. I’m so grateful to have them alongside me, continuing the mission we started.”
By early 2020, Fitegrity moved to a larger location, just as the COVID-19 pandemic hit. “That was our first major hurdle as a business,” Mullinax recalls. “But it quickly proved how strong our community really is.” Forced out of the studio by health restrictions, Fitegrity
returned to its roots - hosting outdoor workouts in parks and parking lots. “It was a powerful reminder of why we started: to be a place where people feel safe, loved, and supported, especially in hard times.”
Through faith and community support, Fitegrity survived the pandemic, emerging even stronger. In 2023, the studio made its third move, still firmly rooted in Southgate. That same year, Fitegrity was recognized again, this time placing third in the Gym category of the Best of the Best competition presented by The News-Herald.
Mullinax attributes the business’s success to her faith and the people who have walked through Fitegrity’s doors. “I truly always try to put my faith first. I give all the glory to God. That’s where I started, serving in church, and He’s still very much part of our business.”
Despite growth and multiple relocations, Mullinax has always remained committed to Southgate. “Even after three moves, it’s always been important
to stay here,” she says. “We’re centrally located to the women we serve. We love the city. We love staying in it. The people who’ve come through our doors have shaped this place. I could never see us moving out of Southgate.”
As Fitegrity celebrates seven years, it stands as more than just a gym. It’s a community built on integrity, service, and strength through faith. And if history is any indicator, the best is yet to come.
MISTER BUTT LEXI
Meet Lexi, a lively Maltipin mix full of personality and energy! She loves chasing critters, car rides, zooming around the house, and cuddling her stuffed animals. But most of all, she adores her best friend, Chris. Together they are the perfect team—proof that the best friendships come on four paws.
This cute Yellow Lab loves playing outside—especially with his favorite tennis ball. Though he’s 5, he’s still a snuggly baby who loves naps. He’s sweet, goofy, & loves flopping on his back with his legs in the air. However, mornings aren’t his thing. He hates being woken up when his owner, Sommer, goes to work!
Would you like to see your pet become “Downriver Famous” in our Go Big Multi-Media empire?
Send a photo and a blurb to Sherry@ gobigmultimedia.com and we will do the rest.
Monthly recap with Rep. Linting
Summer has arrived across our Downriver community, and there is so much to see and do!
It has been a tremendous honor to be a part of different events throughout the area over the past few months. I wanted to highlight a few, while also showcasing other great summer traditions we have.
Earlier in June, I joined the Grosse Ile community at the Ford Yacht Club for their Opening of the Island celebration.
Boating is a huge part of our culture Downriver and one of the most popular recreational activities we have. Whether it’s fishing, taking the jet skis out for a spin, or dropping the anchor and enjoying quality time with family and friends, Downriver does it. Since we border the southern portion of the Detroit River and we’re close to both Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair, there’s a lot of water around us to traverse. I was honored to attend and watch the opening ceremonies, and I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable boating season. Fair winds and following seas!
role our local elected leaders play is critical to our communities! They are consistently in communication with residents, local business owners and advocacy groups, school administrators and neighborhood leaders about what is working for our communities and what isn’t. That serves as an extremely valuable conduit for elected leaders at the state level who help craft policy that impacts all of us. I am looking forward to working with the new council, and I will continue to fight for local decision-making authority and champion the importance of local input in Lansing.
The club’s opening is part of several celebrations on the island as we ring in the arrival of summer. Islandfest, which started in the mid-1980s and has a family history all the way back to World War I, is also one of these traditions. It has grown to be one of the largest and most wellattended festivals in the area, with a parade, carnival, car and motorcycle show, concerts and more. I want to thank township leaders, the Grosse Ile Historical Society and the Grosse Ile Recreation Department – who do a tremendous job putting on this wonderful event each year. This year was no different.
I was honored to recently attend the swearing-in ceremony for Wyandotte’s new city council. The
I also attended the Southgate Heritage Days festival at Market Center Park and was honored to be a part of the parade! For nearly 50 years, this event has been a summer staple in Southgate with live music, games, a car show, fantastic barbecue, and more. A job well done to the entire community and all the event organizers who keep this tradition going. I am already looking forward to next year’s 50th anniversary! It’s an honor serving as a voice for our communities and reviewing bills at the state Capitol. But in addition to being a legislator, I’m a Downriver girl – and I know just how much our region has to offer this time of year! Whether it’s meeting with local decision-makers in Wyandotte, cooling off by the water on Grosse Ile, or getting some ice cream in Riverview, our communities are the place to be for workers and families. I look forward to keeping you updated on the latest both locally and in Lansing!
State Rep. Rylee Linting serves the 27th House District in Wayne County, which includes the township of Grosse Ile, the cities of Gibraltar, Riverview, Trenton and Wyandotte, and a portion of the City of Southgate.
Memorial plaque restored at Anderson High School
The memorial plaque honoring Marine Corporal Michael Sorovetz was recently updated at Southgate Anderson High School. Cpl. Sorovetz graduated from the former Southgate High School in 1964. As a student, Michael participated in football, track, and baseball. He also became an original member of the SHS Varsity Club.
Michael was drafted into the military in 1966 and was almost immediately sent to serve in Vietnam. Sadly, at the age of 20, Michael lost his life in service to this country on May 28th, 1967. He was the first Vietnam War casualty from the City of Southgate.
WhatisTAICHI?
Son of Mike and Nida Sorovetz, Michael had two sisters: Gloria and Anita. The family was originally from Waynesburg, Pennsylvania and moved to Southgate in 1956. The young family grew up in their home on Windermere Street. Anita describes her brother as a “good son, great big brother, a friend to many, and someone who enjoyed life.”
munity, his parents, family, and friends decided to have a flag pole and memorial plaque installed in his honor at the high school. They also received sup port from the SHS Booster Club and Mrs. Sorovetz’s
dear friend, Nancy Freitag. The original plaque was installed in the fall of 1967.
Over the decades, the plaque weathered and fell into disrepair. In May of this year, after the City of Southgate’s Memorial Day service, Anita (Sorovetz) Vitale and her husband approached Mayor Kuspa to discuss Michael’s plaque. They wanted to replace it and were willing to cover the cost, but did not know how to proceed. Mayor Kuspa contacted School District Superintendent Sharon Irvine. Together, they helped coordinate the installation of the new plaque.
On July 30th, the Vitale’s and several friends and family members gathered to participate in the rededication. There, Superintendent Irvine announced that the district covered the cost of the new plaque.
Anita was very appreciative of the assistance she received and is “grateful that the memorial continues to be at the school to remind young people that the freedom they enjoy is not free.”
SOUTHGATE TAI CHI CLASSES
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Opening a Teen Checking Account Might Be the Smartest Move You Make This Summer
Teaching financial responsibility starts early—and today’s checking accounts for teens offer more than just a debit card.
For parents of teens, summer often brings a mix of freedom, first jobs, and new levels of independence. Whether your teenager is mowing lawns, babysitting, or scooping ice cream at the local shop, there’s one important life skill you can help them “level up” this summer: money management. And there’s no better way to start than by opening a checking account designed just for teens.
Beyond the Piggy Bank: Real-World Financial Skills
Financial experts agree that the earlier young people learn to manage their money, the more confident and capable they’ll be as adults. Teen checking accounts can offer hands-on experience with saving, spending, and budgeting— lessons that go far beyond any classroom lecture.
Teens who manage their own accounts get to see the real-life consequences of their choices—whether it’s spending too fast or saving for something big. It helps them build confidence and real-world readiness.
Built-in Features That Benefit Both Teens and Parents
Many teen-focused accounts now include parentfriendly tools to guide the process without hovering. Features often include:
-Scholarship Opportunities – Some programs offer additional perks for saving, involvement, or academics.
These features let parents stay involved while encouraging their teen to make independent financial decisions in a safe environment.
A System That Rewards Good Habits
Some teen accounts even include rewards for positive behavior. One local program offers a bonus for good grades, giving teens a financial incentive to aim high in school. Others reward teens with a birthday bonus or match their initial deposit to encourage early savings. These “real world” bonuses help make the experience more engaging—and more valuable— for both the teen and the parent.
-Parental Account Linking – Parents can transfer funds quickly or set up allowances with ease.
-Real-Time Alerts – Get notified instantly when your teen makes a purchase or withdraws cash.
-Spending Limits – Set guardrails for how much can be spent with the debit card.
Start the Conversation Early
Without the right tools, many teens will enter adulthood unprepared to manage money. While many parents wait until their child turns 18 or heads off to college, experts suggest that middle and high school years are the perfect time to introduce banking basics. It’s much better for kids to make small financial mistakes now—when the stakes are low and support is close—than later on when they’re on their own.
How to Get Started
Most teen accounts are available to kids aged 13 to 17 and require a parent or legal guardian to be a joint account holder. A student ID and Social Security number are usually needed, along with a modest opening deposit. Some institutions will even match that first deposit to help kickstart their journey
The goal? Empowering teens to take control of their financial future—one transaction at a time.
HALLS Flying School Brings Aviation Education to Local Classrooms
In an era where the aviation industry is expanding and is in high demand, HALLS Flying School is committed to excellence in aviation, which requires a skilled, diverse, and prepared workforce. HALLS stands at the forefront of innovation and excellence in local aviation education and is located at Grosse Ile Municipal Airport.
Its mission is rooted in Safety, Opportunity, Access, and Relationships (SOAR). HALLS is facilitating students across Southeast Michigan to engage with aviation and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)-related careers early in their educational journey by providing a gateway to a future in aviation through practical experiences, mentorship, skill development, internships, and scholarships. This engagement and exposure assist students to become college and career ready while broadening their understanding of aviation careers— from pilot to aerospace engineer.
A Vision for the Future: SOAR
The SOAR framework defines HALLS’ core philosophies:
Safety is foundational and a key priority, woven into every aspect of training from inception, including flight instruction to drone operation.
Opportunity for all—HALLS is dedicated to opening doors to a wide range of aviation careers, not just piloting. Core and required training are provided through HALLS’ Certified Flight Instructors (CFIs) who are certified pilots.
Access—providing inclusive, equitable entry into the aviation field, encouraging all who share a passion for aviation.
Relationships—partnering with schools, colleges, industry, and communities to build the strongest educational pathways and outcomes.
This comprehensive approach fuels HALLS’ overarching goal: to develop one of the finest flight training facilities in Southeast Michigan, preparing both CFIs and aspiring students for the aviation careers of today and into the future.
Aviation in the Classroom: Bridging Education and Industry
In collaboration with multiple local partners— including nine local school districts—HALLS is developing a robust CTE (Career and Technical Education) Aviation and Aeronautics Program. This initiative combines academic instruction with real-world aviation experience, offering students hands-on training, career exploration, mentorship opportunities, and industry credentials.
Programs are designed to align with national aviation standards and future labor demands, including the integration of emerging technologies like sUAVs and simulator-based instruction. HALLS has a Redbird flight simulator on-site.
Currently, aviation-themed clubs exist in nine districts: Carlson, Wyandotte, Riverview, Trenton, Woodhaven, Grosse Ile, Southgate, Airport, and Huron—providing non-credit, high-engagement opportunities in aviation careers early in students’ education.
Community Collaboration: A 3-Hub Model
Recognizing the diversity of Wayne County’s student population, HALLS is helping establish a threehub aviation training model: Davis Aerospace (Detroit City Airport) – DPSCD urban focus, Willow Run Airport (YIP) –Western Wayne, and the Grosse Ile Municipal Airport – Downriver region.
This structure ensures equitable access to highquality aviation programs, supported by the Wayne County Coalition for Future Aviation and Aeronautics Professionals—a collective dedicated to student success, workforce readiness, and regional economic growth.
Flying Beyond the Classroom
Aviation-themed clubs in the nine school districts offer students networking with pilots and aviation enthusiasts, hands-on activities like aircraft building and drone construction, and workshops, seminars, and EAA’s AeroEducate programs.
These programs give students an immersive introduction to aviation, sparking interest and encouraging career pursuit.
Partnerships with Purpose: Liberty University & Part 141 Accreditation
HALLS is currently pursuing Part 141 flight school certification, allowing for a more structured and costeffective training model, ideal for students pursuing commercial pilot careers.
Partnerships with institutions like Liberty University Online strengthen HALLS’ ability to offer academic-credit-bearing programs alongside handson flight training.
Impact at Every Level: Students, Schools, Community, and HALLS
For Students:
HALLS provides a gateway to a future in aviation
through practical experiences, mentorship, skill development, internships, and scholarships. The exposure helps students become college and career ready, while broadening their understanding of aviation careers—from pilot to aerospace engineer.
For Educational Institutions:
Schools benefit from enriched STEM curriculum, stronger community ties, and improved student engagement. HALLS’ presence elevates academic reputation and helps institutions align their offerings with real workforce needs.
For the Community:
Aviation education contributes to local economic growth, fosters community engagement, and develops a technically skilled workforce ready to support regional aviation hubs like DTW and YIP.
For HALLS Flying School:
The school builds a direct talent pipeline, strengthens brand reputation, and plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of aviation through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), innovation, and public engagement.
A Commitment That Will Soar
HALLS Flying School is more than a flight training provider—it is a partner in education, a leader in workforce development, and a catalyst for community transformation.
Through its SOAR philosophy, strategic partnerships, and commitment to excellence, HALLS is empowering students across Michigan to take flight—both literally and figuratively—into fulfilling, future-ready aviation careers.
Come celebrate a century
The structure that houses the Southgate Historical Museum is 100 years old. The home was originally built in 1925 on Cochrane Street by the Grahl family.
On Saturday, August 16th, the Southgate Historical Foundation is hosting a Grahl House Centennial Celebration from 1:00-3:00PM. This is a free family-friendly event that will feature yard games, museum tours, and refreshments. Foundation Chairperson, Jan Ferencz, encourages everyone to join in the festivities, “Come enjoy an afternoon of fun and history. Our museum is a community asset that should be celebrated.”
Estate Planning 101 Which plan do you need?
Time to clear up the confusion about Estate Planning ... The following definitions lack legal precision, but makes it easier to get a clear picture of what may be needed in your case.
■ Will – letter of intent of where you want your personal property to go – or not go.
■ Living Will – Documents your wishes during your final days including final healthcare choices and possibly your burial wishes.
In 1993, Hector Puente, the late owner of Mexican Gardens, purchased the Grahl house to expand his parking lot. Mr. Puente graciously offered the home to the City of Southgate to serve as its Historical Museum. After months of fundraising and preparation, the house was moved to its current location at 14120 Dix-Toledo Road.
For the past 32 years it has served as Southgate’s museum, filled with stories and artifacts about the history of the City of Southgate. The museum is curated by the Southgate Historical Foundation. Weather permitting, the museum is open on the first full week-end of each month from 12:00-3:00PM or by appointment. The Southgate Historical Foundation meets at 6:00PM on the first Tuesday of each month. Meetings are open to the public.
For questions or more information about the museum or Centennial Celebration contact the Southgate City Clerk’s office at 734-258-3014.
■ Trust – This is a “company” that you start, and you become the CEO, “Trustee” and “Settlor.” The company outlives you, but continues to manage your assets as if you were alive by the successor CEO – whom you designate.
■ Power of Attorney – Financial and Healthcare – you need both – the first so someone can pay your bills, the second, sometimes called a Patient Advocate, designates someone to make “hallway at the hospital” decisions to take the stress off the family.
■ Ladybird Deed – probably the best thing that has happened to owning a home. I love these deeds – you grant yourself a life estate – in your own property - but retain the power to sell or borrow against the property. If you do not sell before you pass, this “springs” the house out of your estate, and your heirs have instant ownership, subject to any mortgage or taxes owed or similar.
Again, this is just a general description of the more popular terms – no one choice is a “silver bullet” but depending on how your estate gets planned out you can expedite a clean and clear process for the assets you worked a lifetime to save. Why wouldn’t you want to do that? Stop by or call and make an appointment and I’ll tell you what you’re going to need to do this right.
To my numerous former clients – thank you for allowing me to draft your estate plan!
The Southgate location introduced HopCat’s signature blend of local craft beer, crave-worthy comfort food, and a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere to the community. Since opening, the restaurant has seen a steady stream of guests and has been consistently busy, with enthusiastic crowds filling the space daily; many returning for fan favorites like the Dirty Martini Burger, Cosmik Fries, Killer Mac, and countless local craft brews.
Prior to the official opening, HopCat hosted a sold-out Charity Night soft opening on June 28th, raising $9,000 for the HopCat Employee & Community Assistance Fund. Guests who made a
$15 donation received early access to the restaurant and a full meal, with proceeds directly supporting HopCat staff and local community members in need.
The restaurant officially opened to the public on June 30th, and excitement culminated at the Grand Opening Party on July 12th. In anticipation of the giveaway for the first 200 guests - free Cosmik Fries for a year - fans began lining up in the wee hours of the morning, with some camping out overnight to secure their spot. The celebration also included HopCat merchandise and additional giveaways while supplies lasted.
With its successful launch, HopCat Southgate established itself not only as a new neighborhood favorite but also as a major milestone in the brand’s growth, bringing its first-ever location to the Downriver region.
Photos by Jim Jacek
Big Dreams, Bigger Leaps: Gymnast Headed to the Next Level
Jozie Armos, a standout gymnast, is headed to the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire this fall to continue both her academic and athletic journey. A recent graduate of Southgate Anderson High School with a 4.1 GPA, Armos has committed to UW–Eau Claire’s gymnastics program under the leadership of head coach Jessie DeZiel, a former USA Gymnastics Olympian and National Champion.
Armos began gymnastics at the age of three and
has spent the past 15 years working her way up the ranks. For the last four years, she has competed at Level 10 - the highest level in the USA Gymnastics Junior Olympic Program - marking her as one of the most advanced gymnasts in her age group.
She trains at Great Lakes Elite Gymnastics in Oxford, a one-hour drive from home. Armos devotes over 20 hours a week to training, practicing five days a week to stay at peak performance. Her hard work has paid off with repeated qualifications to state, regional, and national competitions. In 2019, she was named Gymnast of the Year, a title that reflects her dedication and excellence in the sport.
“Work hard, believe in yourself, and trust the process,” Armos says—a simple but powerful mantra that has guided her through the challenges of elitelevel training.
While excelling in gymnastics, Armos also prioritized academics. She plans to study criminal justice and psychology in college, with the goal of becoming a criminal psychologist. Balancing school and sport hasn’t been easy, but her results speak for themselves.
“Never forget to have fun doing what you love,” she adds, a philosophy that has helped her maintain passion and joy throughout her years of training and competition.
As she transitions to collegiate gymnastics, Jozie Armos brings with her not only talent and discipline, but also a grounded perspective and a love for the sport that started at age three. She now steps into the next chapter—ready to compete, learn, and grow at the next level.
1469 For t St
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September 11, 2025 at 11am
Titans announce volleyball coaching staff
a strong program foundation while fostering a nurturing and encouraging environment where players can grow in confidence and skill.
Supporting her is Coach Katie Dudley, the JV Assistant Coach and a para pro at Fordline Elementary. A dedicated coach with over six years of experience at the high school level, she is also a proud mom to a future Titan, Beau. Coach Dudley is deeply committed to providing athletes with a positive and uplifting experience, helping them reach their potential on and off the court.
FRESHMEN TEAM
The freshmen team will be led by Coach Ariana Vega, a Southgate alum and medical assistant with seven years of volleyball playing experience. Her goal is to help every player develop their skills, gain confidence, and most importantly—have fun. Her enthusiasm and player-first mindset make her a strong leader for the newest members of the program.
Assisting her is Coach Sydney Lockhart, a fifth-year coach and Southgate graduate currently studying at Wayne State University. With seven years of playing experience, she brings both knowledge and relatability to the freshmen squad. Coach Lockhart is dedicated to helping players sharpen their skills while building strong team bonds.
Together, this dynamic coaching team represents a powerful blend of experience, passion, and hometown pride. As all Southgate alumni, they are uniquely positioned to carry on the Titan legacy while creating a culture rooted in growth, connection, and community. The 2025–2026 season is shaping up to be one of continued progress.
Faber Vega
Elizabeth M. Abshire Licensed Insurance Agent
Shaun Z. Abshire Licensed Insurance Agent
Ahhhhh, you’re on vacation…
Your morning in paradise starts with sipping your coffee sitting at your nautical teak table overlooking lush tropical landscaping on your private balcony or taking a short stroll to the tiki hut at the end of the pier to watch the sunrise over the Atlantic. The perfect start in paradise.
After a fun filled day of boating, fishing, scuba diving or soaking up the sun relaxing by one of the largest pools in the Florida Keys or relaxing by the pool overlooking the marina and Atlantic ocean, or even sinking your toes in the sand like the song says “only worry in the world is the tide going to reach your chair” on our private upland sunning beach. There is always something for everyone!
Paradise isn’t over yet as you walk through your own private courtyard, a bricked patio garden with relaxing furniture, then up just one flight of stairs, your private oasis awaits you…where you can unwind from a fun filled day. You can cook your fresh day’s catch in your fully equipped new kitchen with lots of natural light glistening off the solid surface countertops and the stunning stainless steel appliances and eat in comfort. Or go “out on the town” and relax in some of the best restaurants in the area where you are pampered as your fresh catch is being prepared to your specifications as you relax drinking a glass of wine watching the beautiful Florida Bay Sunset. The perfect end to a wonderful day in paradise.
After dinner retreat to your 1480 sq. ft. Newly Decorated Beautiful two bedroom townhouse with a smart open floor plan, 14’ vaulted ceilings. Relax with ELEGANT Tommy Bahama furnishings and a 65” HDTV in the great room.
Now time for a perfect night’s rest as you enjoy a wonderful view from the master bedroom giving the feeling of nestling in the trees. A beautifully tropical draped four-poster, king size bed with ultra comfort mattress assures a perfect night’s sleep and offers the ideal spot to view the 48” flat screen TV. An en suite bath features a corner spa tub, the perfect way to end a day of sightseeing.
Welcome to 901 Mariners Club! We are glad to have you here!
VACATION IN PARADISE
Exquisite Two Bedroom Condo on Bimini Island - Bahamas
Your dream vacation is located in Bimini Bay Resort with awesome amenities of a Resorts World casino, five swimming pools, nine di erent restaurants, shopping, beautiful beaches with Caribbean blue water, and marinas for yachts up to 140 feet! An impeccably updated 2 Bedaroom 2 Bath Condo just steps from the stunning infinity pool and pristine sandy beach. Every detail has been thoughtfully curated to impress, from the expansive 98" smart TV to top-of-the-line Samsung Bespoke kitchen appliances. Whether you're relaxing inside or grilling on the gas BBQ, you'll feel right at home. Enjoy a fully equipped kitchen, full-size washer and dryer, and ultra-fast Starlink internet. The turquise waters await you!
Southgate Rotary Club Welcomes New Board with Wizard of Oz-Themed Celebration
The Southgate Rotary Club celebrated leadership, service, and a bit of Rotary magic at its annual Officer Induction Ceremony on July 8 at the South Winds Club House. With the 2025-26 Rotary theme “Unite for Good” guiding the evening, members, guests, and Rotary leaders came together for a memorable event inspired by The Wizard of Oz.
Priscilla Ayres-Reiss was officially sworn in as President for the 2025-26 Rotary year by Past District Governor Noel W. Jackson and Dean of Assistant Governors Edward Smith. Joining her on the new Board of Directors are Tara McFarland as President-Elect, Stephanie McNees as President Nominee, Sharon Kuncaitis Schlimmer as Secretary, Steve Ahles as Treasurer, and Directors Paul Knott, Elizabeth Wiktorowicz-Malkowski, Tom Monteleon, Christine Steves, Frances Waszkiewicz, and Charlie Zammit, who also continues his role as Sergeant-at-Arms. Past Presidents Arthur “Art” Williams and Kevin Bowlby were acknowledged for their continued service and leadership.
Outgoing President Kevin Bowlby
reflected on a successful year, during which the club completed 13 service projects—including new initiatives like Pancakes for Polio, a Cornhole Competition, Blankets for Homeless and Wounded Veterans, and the launch of the Riverview Rotary Satellite Club. Club members logged over 5,000 volunteer hours and welcomed 19 new members. Bowlby was also recognized with his second Paul Harris pin for his sustained commitment to Rotary’s mission.
In a fun and heartfelt part of the evening, Bowlby presented themed awards inspired by The Wizard of Oz. Mayor Andrew Swift received the Dorothy Award for his leadership in guiding a new group with heart and direction. Steve Ahles was given the Scarecrow Award for his wisdom and steady hand as club Treasurer. Paul Knott received the Cowardly Lion Award for his courage in taking on new roles and stepping up when needed. The Tinman Award went to Frances Waszkiewicz
for consistently showing compassion and heart in service. Chris Steves was honored with the Professor Marvel Award for mentoring and supporting members quietly but impactfully behind the scenes. Sharon Schlimmer was recognized with the Wizard of Oz Award for her tireless efforts and behind-the-scenes work that keeps the club running smoothly.
The evening also marked a leadership transition at the district level, with Christine Steves named the new Assistant District Governor following the completion of Joel Sherrard’s term. Priscilla Ayres-Reiss closed the night with a message of unity and enthusiasm, expressing her excitement for the year ahead and hinting at changes to the club’s meeting schedule to better engage members. With continued dedication, a strong sense of community, and a touch of inspiration, the Southgate Rotary Club enters the new Rotary year ready to continue making a meaningful impact.
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A milestone birthday: Jack Sharkey turns 100
John “Jack” Sharkey, a proud Native American of the Chippewa-Ottawa tribe, recently celebrated his 100th birthday on July 5, 2025. Born in the town of St. Jacques in 1925, Jack was one of 13 siblings. His life has been marked by deep devotion to family, service to his country, and a love for the outdoors.
Jack met the love of his life, Ruth Erickson, in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The couple married in November 1946 and went on to raise seven children: Christine, Barb, Jackie, John, Tim, Paul, and Tom.
A man of many talents and passions, Jack was an avid hunter with both bow and rifle. He enjoyed snowmobiling and was a skilled woodworker. A true outdoorsman at heart, he found peace in the woods and now enjoys quieter days working on word searches and feeding birds from his front porch.
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National night out at Young Patriots Park Riverview came together for a memorable evening at Young Patriots Park on Tuesday, August 5th, in celebration of Neighborhood Watch National Night Out. The event brought neighbors and local officials closer, thanks to the leadership and hard work of Councilman Brian Webb, whose efforts helped make the night a true community success.
Bouncy houses, slip and slides, safety demonstrations, and youth activities filled the park, while first responders were on hand to meet residents and showcase their equipment. The energy was electric, with music, games, and the feeling of neighborhoods united in purpose.
This national initiative began in August 1984, when over 2.5M people across 400 communities in 23 states participated in the first event focused on promoting police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie. Founded by Matt Peskin through the National Association of Town Watch (formerly the National Association of Town Watch), it was organized to build trust between law enforcement and residents, not just through porch light evening vigils but through community celebrations like Riverview’s.
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Wyandotte’s 64th Annual Street Art Fair
The Wyandotte 64th Annual Street Art Fair took place July 9th-12th along Biddle Avenue,
welcoming more than 200,000 visitors to indulge in a celebration of art and local food. Despite the heat and scattered showers, the weather didn’t stop the community from filling Biddle Avenue and the surrounding streets.
By the end of the fair, officials congratulated this year’s award winners with a custom art palette trophy. The award winners included Bob Hale for Best Overall Show, Alexa Daluz for Best Booth Display, John Martin for Best New Artist, Daisy Moline for People’s Choice, TRU Pizza Co. Food Truck for Best Fair Food, and Grand Dad’s Bar for Best Restaurant.
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GITS welcomes new athletic director Grosse Ile Township Schools is pleased to announce the appointment of Dennis Hopkins as the new Athletic Director for the Red Devils. With more than 30 years of coaching experience and two decades in athletic administration, Hopkins brings a deep well of knowledge, leadership, and passion to the Grosse Ile community.
Hopkins holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Northland International University, where he was a member of both the soccer and basketball teams. He later earned a Master of Sports Science degree with a concentration in Sport Coaching from the United States Sports Academy in Daphne, Alabama.
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