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Since its incorporation 68 years ago, the City of Southgate carried a significant financial burden: General Obligation Debt. Year after year, taxpayer dollars were not only invested in services and growth, but also committed to servicing that debt through principal and interest payments.
At times, progress was made. Some budgets reduced the balance, while others added to it. But until now, the debt was never fully eliminated.
On April 1, 2026, the City of Southgate reached a historic milestone, and one few cities do---its General Obligation Debt was paid in full.
When Mayor Joseph Kuspa took office in 2009, his administration inherited $14,064,494 in debt. That amount accounted for more than half of that year's General Fund budget. The challenge was substantial, and the path forward was far from certain.
"It was a daunting task," Kuspa recalled. "At the start of my term,
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Loveday's Marks 40 Years of Serving the Southgate Community
This May marks the 40th anniversary of a longtime Southgate business as Loveday's Quality Quick Oil and Lube celebrates four decades of service, family dedication, and community trust.
Ed and Helen Loveday moved to Southgate in 1977, where they raised their three children-sons Norm and Bobby, and daughter Connie. All three attended Southgate schools, and later the family tradition continued with four grandchildren who also grew up in the same community.
Ed's journey into business ownership began after he lost his job when Dana Corp closed. He briefly pursued diesel mechanic training but found it wasn't the right path for his family. He then managed another oil change business for four years before deciding to start his own.
That decision led to the opening of Loveday's Quality Quick Oil and Lube on May 15, 1986, at 18700 Northline Road - the comer ofNorthline and 1-75. From the beginning, it was a true family operation, built on long hours and shared commitment.

Norm was attending college while working at Hungry Howie's and helping at the shop, while Bobby worked daily after school and on Saturdays throughout high school. Connie also dedicated 15 years to the business in her adult years before retiring.
Over the years, the business has remained deeply rooted in family. Ed and Bobby have since passed away, but their presence and contributions are still felt in the shop every day.
Norm continues to be a steady presence at the business, carrying on the work he started alongside his father and brother. "Morn" Helen also continues to guide the business with the same dedication she has had from the beginning. A now-retired Southgate Community Schools teacher, she handles bookkeeping, pays the bills, and keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes.
Even the next generation has stayed involved, with two of the four grandsons working at the shop for many years, continuing the Loveday legacy.
The business has always stood out
for its consistency and values. Helen notes that Loveday's has never opened on Sundays, a tradition rooted in faith and family time.
"We are so proud to have our business in Southgate," Helen said. "It is a great city and they have welcomed us for 40 years."
Loveday's Quality Quick Oil and Lube has also earned recognition over
the years, including being voted The News-Herald Best of the Best #1, reflecting both customer loyalty and consistent service.
After 40 years, Loveday's remains more than just a local business-it stands as a lasting tribute to family, hard work, and a community that has graciously supported them from the very beginning.
FROM THE CITY
Spring parks and recreation update
This season in Southgate marks both the start and completion of several exciting park improvement projects across the city.
At the Southgate Municipal Complex, multiple projects are nearing completion or getting underway. The new Tennis, Pickleball, and Padel courts are expected to be finished within the next couple of weeks. The adjacent paved parking lot has already been completed, striped, and is now open for public use.
JULIE GODDARD
Parks and Recreation Director

These new facilities will also bring expanded programming opportunities. Be sure to check the Parks & Recreation website and Facebook page for updates on summer classes, which are expected to begin middle to late June.
Just down Superior Avenue, construction has begun on the new Miracle League Field. This project is made possible through Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding from Wayne County, which contributed $416,020 toward Phase One, reducing the cost to the Recreation Millage to $307,785. The field is being installed at the comer of Superior and Windemere, on the site of the former Baseball Field No. 1.
A Miracle League Field is a specially designed baseball field that allows children and adults with physical or developmental disabilities to safely enjoy the game. Developed through the Miracle League, these
fields promote inclusive play in communities nationwide.
What makes a Miracle League Field unique is it's accessibility. Instead of traditional grass or dirt, the field features a smooth, cushioned, rubberized surface that is slip-resistant and wheelchair-friendly. The field is completely level, with no raised pitcher's mound or uneven terrain, ensuring all players can participate without barriers. Dugouts and bases are also fully accessible.
Phase One of the project will include field lighting, an outer walking pathway, a flagpole, scoreboard, and bleacher seating. Phases Two and Three will add an entrance building with restrooms, concessions, and a ticket area, along with a community pavilion and an all-inclusive playground.
Recent improvements also include updates at Kennebec Park, located between Eureka and Dix, where a new playscape and a set swings have been installed for neighborhood children.
Work is also ongoing on the Bank Town Project, which will feature a new park accessible to residents. Planned amenities include outdoor fitness equipment, a putting green, tennis courts, and additional features for both Southgate and Bank Tower residents to enjoy.
Thank you to the residents of Southgate for your continued support of the "Vote Yes to Rec" Parks & Recreation Millage. These projects would not be possible without your investment in our community.


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I did not know whether it was something we could accomplish. But we remained steadfast in our commitment, determined not to pass this burden on to future generations of Southgate families."
What followed was 16 years of disciplined budgeting, persistence, and unwavering financial stewardship. This achievement was not the result of one individual, but a collective effort spanning years of public service. Five City Administrators, two Finance Directors, three City Clerks, three City Treasurers, eighteen City Council members, and one Mayor all played a role in turning a long-term goal into reality.
Brandon Fournier, Kuspa's first City Administrator, recalled those early days in this way; "Although it may now seem like a bygone era, in 2009 Southgate was at the height of the Great Recession and could not meet its budget obligations without significant restructuring. The Mayor directed our team to stabilize the budget while maintaining the City's credit rating. Through disciplined measures, we avoided default and even improved our credit standing. This was a time when many other communities were increasing their debt load to weather the storm."
Former Finance Director David Angileri (1994 - 2022) emphasized the difficulty of achieving such a goal. He stated, "Eliminating General Obligation Debt is difficult because it requires strict budgeting, disciplined spending, and resisting 'buy now, pay later' practices. This is especially challenging in the public sector, where

Representing the leadership team from throughout Mayor Joseph Kuspa's administration, past and present officials reunited for a group photo.
Back row (L to R): Brandon Fournier, city administrator (2009-2015 ), now a partner at Shifman Fournier; Bryce Kelley, city administrator (2015-2016 ), retired; John Zech, city administrator (2016-2018), retired; Dustin Lent, city administrator (2018-2022), now city manager of St. Clair Shores; and David Angeleri, finance director (1994-2022), retired.
Front row (L to R): Today's team: City Administrator Dan Marsh, Mayor Kuspa, and Finance Director Doug Drysdale.
demand for services must be balanced against pressure to keep taxes low."
Each City Administrator who served under Kuspa reflected positively on the experience. Dustin Lent, City Administrator from 2018 to 2022, noted, "Throughout my tenure, Mayor Kuspa 's dedication to the City's future was clear. He prioritized eliminating general fund debt while continuing to invest in public safety, infrastructure,
and recreational facilities. His guiding principle was to keep Southgate a great place to live, work, and raise a family."
Bryce Kelley, who served from 2015 to 2016, highlighted the scale of the challenge. He commented that "Southgate's $14 million General Obligation debt equated to roughly $500 per resident. To achieve the Mayor's goal, City leaders and staff
stretched resources while continuing to provide services to 30,000 residents. It was a heavy lift, but Southgate carried it together."
Current Finance Director
Doug Drysdale, who joined the administration in 2022 with more than 20 years of regional experience, underscored the significance of the accomplishment. He said, "Having zero governmental debt is a monumental achievement. Most municipalities carry millions in debt, which limits day-to-day operations. Eliminating our debt allows us to shift from paying for the past to investing in the future."
City Administrator Dan Marsh shared the enthusiasm over reaching the Mayor's goal. He stated, "It has been an honor to serve in this role as we cross the finish line. From day one, the Mayor emphasized fiscal discipline and prioritizing debt elimination. That discipline will continue, but now with greater flexibility to address future challenges."
At the April 1 City Council meeting, where the milestone accomplishment was formally announced, Mayor Kuspa addressed the Council with pride; "Together, we have strengthened our financial foundation and positioned our City to invest more fully in the services and opportunities our residents deserve."
He concluded with a message that captured the significance of the moment; "Today is a day we can all be proud of. It is a powerful reminder of what is possible when we work together with purpose, discipline, and a shared commitment to our community's future."
Library celebrates 60 years of growth, history, and community
Further expansion came in the 1990s, when voters approved a $1.6 million bond for renovation and additions.
1950s, plans were already underway for a larger facility, and following Southgate's incorporation in 1958, the library officially became the Southgate Public Library. After years of discussion and site proposals, construction of a new building moved forward at 14680 Dix-Toledo, with groundbreaking held in 1965 under Mayor Robert C. Reaume.
The new library opened on April 11, 1966, significantly expanding to more than 10,000 square feet and offering a much larger collection, along with meeting and service spaces that strengthened its role as a community hub.

The Southgate Veterans Memorial Library celebrated its 60th anniversary, marking six decades of service, growth, and community connection. Its origins date back to July 16, 1951, when the North Line Branch of the Wayne County Library system opened at 13703 Northline Road. The small 40-by60-foot building housed about 3,500 books and was led by Mrs. Alice Stumpmier, with Jean Baron recorded as the first patron to check out a book.
As the surrounding community grew rapidly, the library soon outgrew its original space. By the mid-
In 1984, the building was officially renamed the Southgate Veterans Memorial Library during a dedication ceremony honoring local veterans, attended by current and former city leaders. The event highlighted the library's role not only as an educational resource but also as a place of remembrance and community pride.
Further expansion came in the 1990s, when voters approved a $1.6 million bond for renovation and additions. After thirteen months of construction, the library reopened in 1997 with more than 21,000 square feet of space, including new meeting rooms,
study areas, a computer lab, and dedicated children's programming areas. The library remained open throughout much of the construction, continuing to serve the public.
In recent years, the library has continued to evolve with modem updates including refreshed interiors, new furnishings, an outdoor patio, a teen space, and a children's room mural added in 2026. A new library logo was also introduced that same year, further modernizing its identity while honoring its legacy.
Today, the Southgate Veterans Memorial Library stands as a lasting community landmark, blending its rich history with ongoing improvements while continuing to serve generations of residents.
SOUTHERN WAYNE COUNTY REGIONAL CHAMBER
Downriver's Business Network
The Southern Wayne County Regional Chamber's annual "Taste of Downriver" is back!
Join us on August 11, 2026, in Downtown Allen Park for the return of this signature event. Sample the region's best cuisine while enjoying a summer evening in one of our local downtowns. Stroll from eatery to eatery and experience the very best of the Downriver region.
j Don't wait!
Purchase your early bird tickets today at: Ron Hinrichs, CEO/President swcRc https:/ /swcrc.com/events/taste2026/
Downriver's premier restaurant showcase!

Downriver's first Motz's opens
A grand opening and ribboncutting ceremony was held on April 28 to celebrate Motz's Burgers opening their doors. Owners Justin and Tracy Kegley, along with their staff, welcomed guests and prepared to serve the community at the restaurant's first Downriver location.
The history ofMotz's Burgers dates back to 1929 at Fort Street and Green Street in Southwest Detroit. Although the restaurant experienced several name changes throughout its more
than 90-year history, it continued serving the same original-style sliders that made the brand famous.
Motz's Burgers is focused on family, community, quality, and friendly service. The restaurant thanked customers for supporting and being part of its family-run brand and expressed excitement about serving the burger-loving community for many years to come.
Motz's Burgers is located at 18714 Eureka in Southgate.
Titans make fast start in girls flag football debut
Aew chapter in Michigan high school athletics is lready taking shape in Southgate, where the newly formed Southgate Titans varsity girls flag football team is quickly gaining attention for its strong start, enthusiasm, and rapid development in a new sport that hopes to become an MHSAA sport next year.
The Titans are part of the inaugural wave of programs participating in girls' flag football, a fast-growing sport that emphasizes speed, teamwork, strategy, and skill over contact. Despite being a brand-new program, the Titans have already shown promising early success on the field.
With a roster of21 student-athletes, the team has embraced the challenge of building chemistry from the ground up. Coaches and observers alike note that the group is eager to learn, highly coachable, and steadily improving each week as they adjust to the game's pace and complexity.
Leading the program is head coach

Maya Hastings, a proud Southgate graduate from the Class of 2022. Hastings brings a unique perspective to the role, returning to her hometown school district just a few years after graduating. Her connection to the community and recent experience as a student in the same halls she now coaches in have helped her establish strong relationships with her athletes. Maya was also on the Southgate
Varsity football team for three years, playing as a wide receiver and comer.
"I know what it means to be a Southgate student, and I want these girls to feel like they're building something meaningful here," Hastings said. "We're learning together every day, and their energy makes coaching this team incredibly rewarding."
Under her leadership, the Titans have focused on fundamentals,
communication, and building confidence in a sport that many of the athletes are playing for the first time. Despite their inexperience, the team has already shown competitiveness in early matchups and scrimmages, signaling a bright future for the program.
Players have expressed excitement about being part of history as girls' flag football continues to expand across Michigan. For many, the opportunity represents not only a new athletic experience but also a chance to help establish a foundation for future teams at Southgate.
As the season progresses, the Southgate Titans are expected to continue developing both their skills and their identity as one of the pioneering programs in MHSAA girls flag football. With strong leadership, a dedicated roster, and growing community support, the Titans are already proving that they are more than just a new team; they are a program on the rise.
Southgate boys volleyball spikes into promising first season
Another inaugural season has started in Titans athletic progrannning:boys volleyball. The Titans have already been finding new ways to build teamwork, develop skills, and strengthen their problem-solving on the court.
At the time of press for the Southgate Star, the team holds a 4-4 record, an encouraging start for a brand-new program establishing its identity.
The Titans' very first competitions came against Allen Park and Lincoln Park, setting the tone for what would become an exciting and competitive opening stretch. After trading wins and losses, the team secured a thrilling 3-2 victory over Lincoln Park while falling just short against Allen Park in a tightly contested 2-3 match. The early contests highlighted both

the team's resilience and its potential, marking a fun and promising start to new traditions.
The win against Lincoln Park proved to be a hard-fought battle that went the
distance. The Titans took the first set 25-16, dropped the second 2-85, and responded with another strong 25-16 performance in the third. After falling 25-18 in the fourth set, they rallied in a
dramatic fifth set to secure the match 19-17.
Another impressive victory came against Dearborn Edsel Ford. After losing the first two sets 25-18 and 25-21, the Titans showed determination and composure, storming back to win three straight sets 25-17, 25-20, and 15-13 to complete the comeback.
The most recent win came against Allen Park, where the Titans delivered one of their strongest performances yet. They edged out a close first set 28-26, dominated the second 25-14, dropped the third 25-14, and closed the match with a solid 25-22 finish.
With each match, the Titans continue to grow, learning how to compete, adapt, and support one another. Their inaugural season has already provided excitement and a foundation for the future of boys volleyball at Southgate.
STA track teams shine in meet, set school record in 4x100 relay
The Anderson track and field teams delivered an impressive overall performance in a meet against Wyandotte and Trenton, earning multiple first-place finishes and setting a new school record in the boys 4xl00-meter relay. Both the boys and girls teams contributed to a strong showing, highlighting depth and talent across events.
On the girls side, several athletes claimed first-place finishes, including Lauren Peterson in shot put with a personal record, Victoria Czyzewski in high jump, Joanna Ruci in the 100-meter dash, and Lydia Duran in the 400-meter run. The team also secured a number of second-place finishes from Reccie Hughes in pole vault, Ruci in the 400-meter, Hazel Beswick in long jump, Zoey Tipton in the 100-meter, Julianne Nadolski in the 800-meter, and Preslie Annos in the 100-meter hurdles. Additional third-place finishes came from Beswick in high jump, Alana Gomez in pole vault, Duran in long jump, Mariah Crump in both the 100- and 200-meter races, Shelby Head in the 400-meter, and Joy Schuck in the 1600-meter.
The boys team also turned in a dominant performance, highlighted by a record-breaking run in the 4xl00meter relay. The team of
Johnson, and Isiah Daviston set a new school record with a time of 43.96 seconds. Individually, Tyler Johnston placed first in the pole vault with a clearance of 13 feet, 6 inches, while Daviston won the 200-meter dash and TJ Pokorny took first in the 400-meter. Ben Ruan won the 800-meter, and Parker Wisniewski claimed victories in both the 1600- and 3200-meter races. Scott Butterfield won the 110-meter high hurdles, Christian Audette finished first in the 300-meter hurdles, and the 4x400-meter relay team of Easton Rushlow, DeAnthony Raymond, Logan Randall, and Pokorny also secured a first-place finish. Carter Baker rounded out the top perfonnances with a win in high jump.
The meet showcased Anderson's strength across both track and field events, with standout performances and a record-setting relay highlighting a successful day of competition.

Southgate Ice Spectacular celebrates 50 years
Southgate marked a major milestone this year as its annual Ice Spectacular celebrated its 50th anniversary, continuing a long-standing community tradition that began in 1976. Over the past five decades, the event has provided generations of skaters with the opportunity to participate, perform, and create lasting memories on the ice.
The golden anniversary reflected not only the longevity of the program,

but also the dedication of the coaches, parents, volunteers, and skaters who helped shape it. Since its beginnings - during the year of the nation's Bicentennial and Southgate's first Heritage Days celebration - the Ice Spectacular has grown into one of Downriver's premier showcases of local talent and community spirit.
This year's show took audiences on a journey through the past 50 years, featuring music and performances inspired by previous productions. Highlights included selections from
the very first show, "The Wizard of Oz," along with other memorable throwback numbers. Alumni from across the decades also returned to take part in the celebration, adding to the significance of the event.
While the anniversary honored the program's history, the focus remained on the current generation of skaters. Their dedication, perseverance, and hard work were on full display throughout the performance, reflecting the values the program has instilled over the years. Beyond the ice,
participants have continued to build confidence, discipline, and lasting friendships through their involvement.
The event also recognized the ongoing efforts of the Southgate Figure Skating Boosters, whose support has helped sustain the Ice Spectacular year after year.
As the milestone celebration concluded, the community looks ahead to the future of the program, confident that the tradition will continue for generations to come.
Opening day festivities kick off Southgate Little League season
Southgate Little League held its Opening Day ceremonies and parade on April 25, marking the official start of the new season. The day began with a lively parade featuring players, coaches, and community members, creating an fun-filled atmosphere throughout the area.
The players had the chance to show off some of their skills as they threw candy to parade spectators. Following the parade, participants gathered at the field for a series of festivities. The program included giveaways, the

singing of the national anthem, and a first pitch relay. Families and fans filled the stands, ready to support their teams and enjoy the day's events.
Special guests also made appearances, adding to the excitement. Paws, Mario, and Batman were among those in attendance, delighting younger players and spectators alike. The celebration concluded with a sense of community spirit and anticipation as Southgate Little League officially kicked off its season with fun and enthusiasm.
More Big Medigap Rate Hikes?
After getting socked with a second big premium increase (around 20%), you may wonder why your Medigap Plan G rate has gone up so much. The premiums are normally held down by preventing folks with health issues Elizabeth M. Abshire f 11" 0 000 UcensedlnsuranceAgent rom enro mg. However, over l 0, people in Michigan were able to join Plan G without any health questions if they were in a Medicare Advantage plan that is no longer offered in their county. Come to our free event to learn about Innovative Plan G and ShaunZ.Abshlre other plans that offer protection from UcensedInsuranceAgent • these side door enrollments.
Southgate Senior Center
14700 Reaume Pkwy in Southgate June 25, 2026 at lla.m.
Largo

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
ACE Kitchen, Bath, and Flooring builds trust, community through 10 years of remodeling excellence
Founded by Brandon Cowan, ACE Services, Inc. (DBAACE Kitchen, Bath & Flooring and ACE Exteriors) will celebrate its 10-year anniversary on June l 7. What started in an employee's basement and later a small space in Riverview has grown into one of the largest remodeling showrooms in Southeast Michigan, complete with offices, a warehouse, delivery team, and multiple in-house crews. Cowan launched the business after experiencing unreliable contractors firsthand, determined to create a remodeling company centered on trust, transparency, and customer care. Today, Ace is best known for kitchen and bathroom remodels, while also expanding back into exterior services. ACE offers a full-service, one-
stop-shop experience, handling everything from materials to labor in-house. Customers work directly with one salesperson from start to finish, simplifying the renovation process with detailed estimates and personalized service. The company has also embraced technology through its customer project management app, allowing homeowners to manage payments, paperwork, and communication in one place.
Beyond remodeling, ACE takes pride in giving back to the community through charitable outreach, school sponsorships, and helping local families in need. The company has earned recognition including the Angi Super Service Award and strong relationships with customers who often stay connected long after projects are complete.

DOWNRIVERCU ANSWERS
Spring Home Projects: Plan Smarter in 2026
It's springtime in Michigan. The weather finally warms up after a long winter, and suddenly the to-do list starts growing-new floors, a kitchen update, maybe finally tackling that bathroom project you've been putting off.
Sound familiar?
Across the Downriver area, more homeowners are jumping into home improvement projects this time of year. And they're not alone-according to the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies, Americans spend over $4 70 billion each year on home improvements.
But in 2026, many homeowners are taking a closer look at how they pay for these projects-especially as costs and interest rates continue to rise.
Paying for Projects-Without the Stress
In the past, many homeowners relied on credit cards or short-term loans to cover renovation costs. While that might seem convenient, it can quickly become expensive-especially with today's higher interest rates.

That's why more people are exploring options that offer flexibility without adding unnecessary financial pressure.
So whats the smartest way to pay for a project like this without adding unnecessary stress?
A Smarter Way to Use What You Already Have
If you've owned your home for any
length of time, you may already have a resource available: your home's equity.
Home equity loans allow homeowners to borrow against the value they've built over time-often with more predictable payments and lower rates compared to other financing options.
It's one way many homeowners are turning "possibility" into "progress"
without stretching their monthly budget too thin.
The Bottom Line
Spring is a great time to invest in your home-but how you pay for those projects matters just as much as what you choose to do.
Before you get started, take a few minutes to:
- Get a rough estimate of your project costs
- Check what your current payments could realistically handle
- Look into options that won't add unnecessary high-interest debt
For many homeowners, that starts with taking a closer look at the equity they've already built. A quick conversation with a home loan specialist at Downriver Community Federal Credit Union can help you see what's possible, compare your options, and choose a plan that fits your budgetso you can move forward with confidence, avoid unnecessary financial stress, and focus on the upgrades that matter most.
Turn Possibility into Progress!


