SGS JAN 2022

Discounts Up To

40% Brad Baynai Agent

16121 Eureka Rd Southgate, MI 48195

734-282-6000

www.bradbaynai.com

SouthgateStar.com

january 25 — FEBRUARY 24, 2022

Complimentary

Great skate!

Multi-Million Dollar Producer Agent of the Year - 2021

9105 MACOMB • GROSSE ILE

734-775-2983

Susiearmiakrealtor@gmail.com susiearmiakrealtor.com

WE BEAT ALL DEALS

B & D VACUUM

Southgate Anderson’s Ashton Petrarca scores another goal for the Titans during a Jan. 19 game against Walled Lake Western. The Titans have won seven games this year and Petrarca has been a major factor. In fact, the senior leads the state in total points. Read more about Petrarca and the Titans on Page 22

SOUTHGATE • 14222 Fort (734) 282-9869 TRENTON • 1900 West (734) 671-8900

Photo by Larry Caruso

House of 10,000 Parts

Independent Living, Assisted Living & Memory Care

Hampton Manor of Woodhaven & Trenton With Jodi’s many years of experience with our aging population and a strong passion for geriatric health and wellness. Let her help you guide your loved ones through a seamless transition, making them feel safe and secure along the way.

Call to schedule your tour today at 734-818-5100 or email jodi.hamptonmanor@gmail.com.

of Woodhaven & Trenton

www.woodhavenassistedliving.com

Call Now to Lock in Your Move-in Rate for up to 2 years:

22125 Van Horn Rd. • Woodhaven 734-818-5100 ext. 603 5999 Fort St. • Trenton • 734-496-7405

JODI PORTICE

Community Developement Manager

Page 2 • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • SOUTHGATE STAR

Scan to schedule service

Todd Varga Service Manager

Rebecca Howard Service Advisor

Jennifer Hostetler Service Advisor

Ashley Mandernach Service Advisor

Nicole Stasser Service Advisor

Purchase must be made at a participating U.S. GM dealer. See mycertifiedservicerebates.com for details and rebate form, which must be submitted by 3/31/22. Limit one rebate per VIN. Allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery of debit card.

Offer ends 2/28/22.

13801 S. Telegraph • Taylor, MI 48180 • North of Eureka Rd. 734.287.2600 TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT OR ASK A QUESTION, EMAIL US 24/7/365: SERVICE@TAYLORCHEVY.COM

SOUTHGATE STAR • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • Page 3

Always stepping up

Giving back is a way of like for the Kuspa family Zoey Kuspa, 22, Southgate’s new City Council member, doesn’t really remember a time when she wasn’t volunteering for her community.

“Growing up, attending events and volunteering for various things was just a part of life,” she said.

Her father, Joseph Kuspa, and mother, Kimberley Kuspa, raised her that way.

PAULA They were always NEUMAN active volunteers with Southgate Star civic and community endeavors, and they involved their only child.

Joseph ran unopposed and was elected to his fourth term as Southgate’s mayor in November, when his daughter – who went door to door all over the city campaigning for office – turned out to be the highest vote getter on the ballot, and thus became City Council president.

Being active and helping the city just seems to run in the family.

When Zoey, a graduate student at Ferris State University studying information security and intelligence, decided to run for City Council this year, her parents were all for it. After all, Joseph was a college student when he ran for and won a seat on the Southgate Community Schools Board of Education in 1976. Like Zoey, he did a door-to-door campaign.

“It was really to try to get involved and make a difference,” he said. “I felt I could make a contribution. I started my tenure when I was 19 and stayed on for 13 years.”

A manager and consultant in the wholesale produce industry at Eastern Market in Detroit and founder of the Eastern Market Corp. that manages the marketplace and surrounding district, Joseph was first elected mayor of Southgate in 2009.

“I had talked to Norma Wurmlinger, and she asked me to consider running,” he said.

Wurmlinger talked to him about the financial downturn the city and the rest of Michigan would be facing.

“I knew my business background

would be helpful,” the mayor said.

“And Zoey was one of the reasons I decided to run. I wanted to make sure Southgate remained the kind of community I grew up in, a place that was family-friendly.”

The city’s finances have gradually improved under his leadership.

“It’s been a challenge,” the mayor said, praising the city’s other elected officials and its staff members. “I’ve had a tremendous team throughout the years. When you start to see the light at the end of the tunnel as far as financial stability goes, you try to improve on it. Then you want to see those things through.”

He’s especially proud of the creation of Market Center Park, a new public event space at the Southgate Shopping Center.

The Kuspa family hopes to encourage other families – people of all ages – to get involved, as well.

“I hope to get more of my generation involved in their community, whether that be through volunteering or serving on a commission,” Zoey said.

“I think it all comes down to the fact of how you’re raised,” the mayor said. “If you’re raised by a family that’s civically active, your kids are going to be civically active.”

Zoe said, “My earliest memory of volunteering for Southgate was in 2008 when Norma Wurmlinger was mayor. It was Southgate’s 50th anniversary as a city. My dad chaired the celebration committee, and he and my mom did various projects throughout the planning months.

And for 9-year-old me? I remember helping with the parade float that was shaped like a birthday cake.”

As she grew up, she got her friends involved in activities, too.

“I grew up thinking that

volunteering was fun, especially when your friends were around,” Zoey said.

“You really understand the importance of living in a community, especially a small one like Southgate, when you volunteer and get the satisfaction of adding value to it.”

Her father, too, talked about the gratification of volunteering and serving one’s community.

“You can get a lot back from giving a little of your time,” the mayor said.

“You get a tremendous amount of satisfaction. We need to encourage more people. I am hoping Zoey will be a catalyst for her generation to start serving. We have a great senior population here and we’re so thankful.

But we also have to attract the next generation. It’s an exciting time for Southgate.

“I think sometimes people are intimated about volunteering, but I think people should rest assured that there are places you can give your time for two hours or one hour a month. City commissions normally meet once a month. It’s not a massive commitment of time. Southgate would not be the city it is without our volunteers – commissioners, people who volunteer for our community events.”

The Dec. 3 Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony including Santa’s Christmas Express Train Rides at Southgate Train Park drew 1,700 people.

The successful event wouldn’t have been possible without lots of volunteers, many of whom came from Southgate Anderson High School, he said.

The newly elected City Council president echoes her father’s sentiments about being active in the community.

“It’s important to be involved – voting, volunteering, participating in community events, serving on commission, etc,” Zoey said.

“Bringing a smile to someone’s face and allowing them to make memories with their family at these various events makes all the difference.

Page 4 • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • SOUTHGATE STAR

  Thursday, April 30th 6:30 to 11:00pm Crystal Gardens, Southgate 2nd Southgate Education Hall of Fame Induction DJ • Photo Booth • Awards Presentations Door Prizes & More Buffet Dinner Includes: 3 Meats, Pasta, Potato, Vegetable, Salad, Dessert & Beverages



JANUARY 4TH UNTIL APRIL 6TH $65 per person • $600 per table (up to 10 people) For tickets contact: Jackie Mckay, mckayji@sgate.k12.mi.us or Michelle Bensfield, bensfielm@sgate.k12.mi.us

SOUTHGATE STAR • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • Page 5

There’s a new sheriff in town

Southgate picks Bobby Marten as new football coach HANK MINCKIEWICZ Southgate Star

Southgate Anderson has a new head varsity football coach and although he has no previous head football coaching experience, he comes with a glowing resume.

Anyone with any sense of the Downriver high school athletic world will instantly recognize his name.

Bobby Marten, 38, son of the late legendary Allen Park football defensive coordinator Bob Marten, former multi-sport star at Allen Park High School, baseball standout at Wayne State University and successful high school coordinator for both the Melvindale and Allen Park football programs over the past decade, is the new man in charge of football operations at Anderson.

“We are very excited,” said Southgate Schools Superintendent Sharon Irvine. “We had some good candidates for the position, but we feel very fortunate to have been able to hire Bobby.”

Marten is married to his wife Meghan and they have two children, Cullen, 5, and Kensley, 3. He was hired at the school board meeting on Jan. 11.

Marten was a three-sport star at Allen Park High School, playing football, baseball and hockey and being highly honored on all three.

In his three years as the Jags’ quarterback, Allen Park went 26-6.

Marten went to Wayne State, where he was a four-year starter, mostly at third base, and won multiple Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC) awards.

School Board Trustee Andrew Green, who was a high school athlete at Allen Park, was coached by Bob Marten and has coached and coached with Bobby Marten, said, “In my opinion, this is an absolute home run hire for the district.

“This is a great hire for the kids of Southgate. Bobby is one of the best coaches around. This is just a great

character guy we’re bringing in.”

Green and Marten have a very close relationship that dates back to when Marten was a child. Green said he will join the football staff as a volunteer coach.

Green is a longtime football assistant, both in the Downriver area and in the Oakland Activities Association, and has a strong reputation.

Green said the Anderson Athletic Department and Irvine deserve a lot of credit for bringing Marten to Southgate.

Green said former head football coach Mitch Dobek, another Allen Park High School athletic product, who left the position to become Anderson’s new Athletic Coordinator, first made contact with Marten to get the ball rolling. After meeting with the potential new coach, Irvine helped make it happen.

“We had a committee to find a new coach and we were fortunate

enough to get Bobby,” said Anderson Athletic Director Dave Pinkowski.

“He has great experience and has had great success as both an athlete and a coach.”

In addition to football coach, Marten will also be a permanent full time substitute teacher in the district.

The position comes with a benefit package, which was important to Marten, with a wife and two small children.

Irvine said Marten will begin in February, but that he has already started reaching out to football players and other program stakeholders.

Marten has been the defensive coordinator for Tom Danosky at Allen Park High School since 2015. The Jaguars went to the state playoffs in five of Marten’s six seasons at Allen Park and won a total of 48 games.

The Jags were 9-5 in playoff games over that span and won four district championships.

Before spearheading the Allen Park

defense, Marten was a successful offensive coordinator for the Melvindale Cardinals.

Marten said he is looking forward to the challenge of coaching the Titans, who were 1-8 last season and have not had a winning season since they were 8-3 in 2011.

“I am excited to get started,” he said.

In addition to Green, Marten said he is bringing in Chris Olsen as his defensive coordinator and Ian Striz to help out on offense. He said he also hopes to hang onto some returning members of Dobek’s staff.

“I hope to bring some consistency to the program and a good off-season program,” Marten said. “We want kids who are tough and disciplined; mentally disciplined.”

He added that he is also very pleased with the new addition to the athletic facilities that are underway at Anderson.

The school is in the process of building a new natatorium and converting the old swimming pool area into one of the largest high school weight, strength and fitness centers Downriver.

As for what Southgate fans can hope to see on the field as far as scheming goes next season, Marten said he has plenty of ideas.

“I’ve designed and worked on my own offense for a few years. As a defensive coordinator, I know what I hated having to try and defend, so I will incorporate a lot of that stuff.

“Basically, we will run a no-huddle offense out of the gun. We won’t be a run-and-shoot team, it will be more of a power game out of the spread.”

Defensively, the talent on the team will dictate what the Titans do.

“Basically, I want my best guys on the field on defense,” Marten said. “If that means playing 3-4, then we will, if it means something else, we will adjust.”

New Southgate Anderson football coach Bobby Marten with his wife Meghan, son Cullen, daughter Kensley and a district football championship trophy

Page 6 • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • SOUTHGATE STAR

It's Time to Get Your Financial Check-Up!

Get inspired to set new goals or take steps to reach existing goals!

You can get a FREE check-up with our financial services partners from Landis Investment Advisors.

Visit DownriverCU.com to schedule your appointment!

313.386.2200 |

DownriverCU.com

|

Offices in Ecorse, Southgate, Woodhaven

SOUTHGATE STAR • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • Page 7

Catholic Schools Week

By Megan Luciow, GR class of 2022 The holiday season has passed and students, including those at Gabriel Richard Catholic High School, have returned to school. At the end of January, all of the Catholic schools in the area will celebrate a fun week, Catholic Schools Week. This is a week-long event consisting of theme days and having fun, while also taking time to acknowledge and appreciate the opportunities attending a Catholic school offers. Catholic Schools Week of 2022 will begin on Monday, January 31, and conclude on Friday, February 4. At Gabriel Richard, Catholic Schools Week fosters school spirit by prompting students to participate in theme days and extracurricular events such as volleybuff. Volleybuff is a volleyball tournament in which the male students compete against each other.

This year’s volleybuff game at Gabriel Richard will not occur during Catholic Schools Week; rather, it has been rescheduled for March. As Catholic Schools Week nears, students throughout the school are getting excited for the theme days. The theme days at GR this year include a country vs. country club day, pajama day, twin day, and blue and gold day in honor of Oxford schools. Catholic Schools Week aids in the creation of spirit and unity throughout the school, as well as allowing students to get involved in their community. Catholic Schools Week is an excellent event to help bring people together and will be especially important to students this year, after having their ability to attend school in-person disrupted

by COVID over the past two years. In the words of one GR student, “Everyone could use some extra spirit these days.”

CULINARY CAPERS The holidays are over, but the partying will resume when football fans gather in EVELYN front of the TV to root CAIRNES for their favorite teams Southgate Star in the NFL playoffs, which start Jan.15, and the Super Bowl on Feb.13. If you plan to host a group of gridiron enthusiasts, consider some of the following time-tested Culinary Capers noshes to accompany their libations: Oven-Fried Dill Pickles, Philly Cheesesteak Sloppy Joes, Addictive Zucchini Parmesan Bites, and No-Brainer Chili Sauce/Grape Jelly Meatballs. Forget about dips with chips and crackers, because dips are no-no’s during the pandemic. I served the pickles during the Christmas holidays, and they were a hit.

Philly Cheesesteaks should be made with shaved beef on hoagie rolls, but because both were unavailable, I substituted ground beef on sausage buns. The Zucchini Parmesan Bites, from the Betty Crocker Bisquick Cookbook, are amazingly easy to make, but not as easy as the three-ingredient No-Brainer Meatballs!

OVEN-FRIED DILL PICKLES 24-ounce jar kosher dill pickle spears ½ cup all-purpose flour 2 large eggs ½ cup panko bread crumbs ½ cup yellow corn meal 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese ¼ to ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste ¼ teaspoon black pepper Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Spray a baking sheet with non-stick spray.

Drain pickles well and place on a paper-towel-covered counter, then wrap each spear in a piece of paper towel and squeeze to further extract moisture.

Add the flour to a shallow bowl. In another bowl, add eggs and whisk. In a third bowl, combine panko bread crumbs, cornmeal, cheese and peppers.

Dip the pickles in flour, then eggs, then crumbs, coating evenly and pressing to adhere crumbs. Place on a baking sheet and spray with canola oil spray.

Bake 25 to 30 minutes, rotating halfway through; then spray the other side. Bake until the pickles are browned and crispy.

Serve with store-bought buttermilk ranch dressing, for dipping, adding dill weed to taste.

PHILLY CHEESESTEAK SLOPPY JOES 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 pound ground beef 1 medium-size onion, chopped ½ cup chopped green pepper 1/4 cup steak sauce 1 cup beef broth 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon water ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon pepper 4 hoagie rolls or sausage buns 8 slices provolone cheese

Brown the beef in the oil and add the onions and peppers, cooking until tender. Drain off the excess liquid, then add the steak sauce, beef broth, cornstarch, water, salt and pepper, cooking until thick and bubbly.

Meanwhile, butter the buns and brown cut-sides down in a separate skillet.

Then place the cheese slices on top of the meat and spoon the meat and cheese onto the bottoms of the buns.

Cover with the tops of buns and enjoy.

ADDICTIVE ZUCCHINI PARMESAN BITES 4 small unpeeled zucchinis, thinly sliced (about 3 cups) 1 cup Original Bisquick 1 medium onion, finely chopped (1/2 cup) ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese ½ cup vegetable oil 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or 1 tablespoon dried ½ teaspoon salt ½ teaspoon dried marjoram or oregano leaves 1 clove garlic, finely chopped 4 eggs, slightly beaten Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Grease the bottoms and sides of a 13x9x2-inch pan. Combine the ingredients and spread in the pan. Bake about 25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cut into 2-inch squares, then diagonally in half into triangles.

NO-BRAINER CHILI SAUCE/ GRAPE JELLY MEATBALLS 12-ounce jar Heinz Chili Sauce 10-ounce jar grape jelly Store-bought frozen cooked and defrosted meatballs, or homemade cooked meatballs Combine chili sauce and jelly. Add meatballs. Heat thoroughly before serving.

Page 8 • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • SOUTHGATE STAR

STAY AT HOME HEALTHCARE Stay at Home Care LLC has been helping the elderly and disabled in the privacy of their own homes for 7 years. The business started as a result of both co-owners Brenda Rademan and Diana Cain having Diana Cain & Brenda Rademan difficulty finding the means to care for their own parents at home.

“You speak with the owners; we aren’t a franchise like the rest of them.” said co-owners Brenda and Diana.

When talking about your loved ones, there is nothing worse than dealing with impersonal care.

At Stay at Home Care you can expect the friendly service of hand picked employees, and a care plan that revolves around your needs. In fact they are known for their 2 hour minimum for services. This minimum insures that they can provide you with care that works for your schedule. Stay at Home Care is proud to keep people in the homes they love, as long as possible.

E

AT HOME CA Y A R ST

ASSISTED LIVING IN YOUR HOME! We Help Disabled Adults & Seniors

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.

■ 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!

www.ForresterLawOffice.com Forrester Law Office is a participating

Lawfirm

20+ Years Experience

Forrester Law Office HELP WITH MEALS & HOUSEHOLD.

FRIENDLY COMPANIONSHIP.

• Personal Care • Light House Cleaning • Hospice Support • Veterans Assistance • Laundry • Post Surgery & Rehab • Alzheimer’s Care

SERVED 1000’S OF SATISFIED CLIENTS FOR OVER 10 YEARS!

CALL

313-427-3286

TODAY go to www.StayAtHomeCare.info for more information 7000 Roosevelt at Allen Rd. • Allen Park

5 STAR ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ REVIEW ■ Business Law ■ Family Law ■ Personal Injury ■ General Practice ■ Wills & Trusts ■ Medical Malpractice

Jeffrey Forrester

7799 Macomb St, Ste 1 • Grosse Ile

734-307-3390

SOUTHGATE STAR • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • Page 9

HOME FURNISHING DESIGNS

A family-owned business serving metro Detroit for over 69 years.

Introducing Metro Detroit’s Largest

NEW Serta Bedding Gallery!

OVER 30 SETS ON DISPLAY

Our Southgate Location Only! www.mclaughlins.com

SOUTHGATE • 14405 Dix Rd. | 734-285-5454 OPEN 10-5 Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri & Sat • Closed Wed • Open Sunday 12-5

Page 10 • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • SOUTHGATE STAR

Send us your pet photos

Here are three tips to help prevent back pain We hope your recent holiday season was a time filled with joy, family, and relaxation for all - and definitely not back pain.

Sometimes, however, life gets in the way!

To help reduce back pain this month, follow these helpful tips.

Stay hydrated. With all of the errands this time of year can bring, you’re likely moving around a bit more than usual. Hydration is key for a healthy back as the fluid-filled sacs in your spine need water to stay full.

Keep moving. If you’re traveling, remember to incorporate movement into your day. This may mean taking stops every hour or so if you’re driving to stretch and move your limbs. If you’re flying in a plane, get up and walk the aisles.

Schedule a visit with us. We’ll make sure your spine is well-aligned and ready to handle everything this season has to throw at you.

With a new year upon us, we want to reflect on the past year and share our hopes for your health in 2022.

May you find the motivation you’ve been missing, the courage to tackle your challenges, and the opportunities you’ve been seeking.

Though we’ve said it before, we can’t seem to say it enough: Thank you for

choosing our practice and allowing us to be a part of your life and health. We hope to serve you for many years to come as we work together to achieve your goals in health.

Why seniors should see a chiropractor Your golden years should be among the best of your life. In retirement, our hope for patients is that you’re able to see the world, enjoy your family, and do all of the things you love. Most of all, we want you to be able to do these things with ease and free from pain.

Current patients love seeing us for a few popular reasons: Pain relief. It’s no secret that with age comes a loss of bone density.

Without a properly aligned spine, it’s easy for extra pressure on your vertebrae to cause problems.

This can lead to things like pain, fractures, and muscle issues.

Balance and coordination. Falls are among the most common reasons elderly patients seek medical attention.

Adjustments help to keep the receptors in our spine functioning without disturbance.

Improved range of motion. The easier you can move, the better you can enjoy life! ~ Cousineau Chiropractic

Pets. You’ve got them, we’ve got them, and we all love them. We also love looking at them. We love looking at our pets and your pets and all the pets we can see. If you have a pet that you’re proud of - a cat, a dog, a lizard, whatever - send a photo our way and we’ll do our best to publish it in our publications. Email photos to sherry@ gobigmultimedia.com. Please include your name, the pet’s name and the community you live in.

a ar newfoyre s y o t w ne

$5 OFF ANY $40 PURCHASE

OFFER GOOD EXCLUSIVELY AT WOODHAVEN, SOUTHGATE, TAYLOR AND DEARBORN STORES. ONE COUPON PER HOUSEHOLD PLEASE. NO CASH VALUE. MAY NOT BE USED WITH ANY OTHER OFFER. OFFER VALID THROUGH 2/28.2022

WOODHAVEN 19295 West Rd. 734.671.6936

SOUTHGATE

15060 Eureka Rd. 734.720.9797

GROOMING AVAILABLE

TAYLOR

22124 Ecorse Rd. 313.295.6500

GROOMING AVAILABLE

PLU #81019

DEARBORN

2621 Telegraph Rd. 313.278.4799

SOUTHGATE STAR • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • Page 11

What are the winter blues and how to make them melt away From Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge Snow is falling, the nights are long and the holidays are past; these are all signs that winter has begun.

For many, the fresh snow and the silence of winter can bring a lot of joy and happiness, but for some, the winter season can cause their mood to drop.

How could a specific season put someone in a poor mood?

After many years of research, scientists have found that some people suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). According to the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER), this disorder is a type of depression that corresponds to the changes in the seasons. The MFMER also stated that symptoms of SAD for most people start in the Fall and continue throughout the winter months.

According to MFMER, one factor that causes people to have winter blues is a decrease in daylight hours which corresponds to a decrease in the

amount of sunshine we are exposed to each day.

The lack of time in the sunlight can disrupt the body’s circadian rhythm (or internal clock) and cause many negative side effects. Symptoms of SAD can include feeling sluggish, decreased energy levels, having a hard time sleeping, and more.

There are many ways to alleviate some of the symptoms of SAD. According to Kaiser Permanente physician, Dr. Amado Daylo, one of those ways is increasing the amount of time you spend outside. Even though no one can control the change in seasons, it is possible to accept and adapt to the changes and spend as

much time outside in the sunlight as possible.

The first step of embracing the winter is knowing how to bundle up and stay safe in the cold. Next, you will need to find a fun place to go and plan some activities to do outside.

Last, go out and put your plan into action!

Some activities you can do during winter are going on winter hikes, walking your pet, going snowshoeing, having a bonfire, looking for wildlife and so much more.

At the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge, we offer many family-friendly programs and activities to help people get outside.

Or you can enjoy some self-guided fun like hiking on our trails (pets are allowed at the refuge while on a leash), observing wildlife, painting, picnicking, fishing, and photography.

We here at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service know that mental health is important, and we encourage you to reach out to others and/or medical professionals if you are going through hard times.

WE ARE OPEN!

NEED AUTO REPAIRS? 70 YEARS in business

Family Owned and Operated since 1947

We service all mechanical auto repairs including, but not limited to: • Shocks & Struts • Computer Diagnostics • Engine Diagnostics, Repairs & Replacements • Air Conditioning Recharging & Repairs • Brakes & ABS System Repairs • Suspension & Steering Repairs • Brake & Line Repairs • Batteries, Starters, Alternators • And More!

20% OFF LABOR

Excludes Towing • Must present before service • Exp 2-28-22

WE OFFER 24 HOUR EMERGENCY TOWING HOURS OF OPERATION: MONDAY - FRIDAY: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM • IMPOUND HOURS: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

1466 Eureka Road ❖ Wyandotte 734-284-6232 ❖ WWW.groatbrothers.com

Page 12 • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • SOUTHGATE STAR

Welcome to town!

Southgate Mayor Joe Kuspa cuts the ribbon to help welcome the city’s newest business - Crunch Fitness - to town. Crunch is located on Eureka Road in a building that used to house The Dollar Palace and Falla’s Department store. Old-timers will remember it as the old Forest City/Handy Andy store.

Crunch Fitness is a full service fitness center that offers weight lifting, cardio, nutrition and much, much more.The Crunch website says the club is for everyone, regardless of shape, size, age, race, gender or fitness level. Also from the website: Our gyms are filled with the best strength and cardio equipment in the industry - all the essentials you need for a great workout. Our world-class personal trainers work with you to experience all the awesomeness that Crunch has to offer. Photo courtesy of Facebook

JACK’S AUTO REPAIR GO BIG MULTI - MEDIA

Foreign & Domestic Repairs

WE WILL BEAT ALL WRITTEN ESTIMATES IN TOWN OR

REPAIRS ARE FREE*

18271 FORT STREET • RIVERVIEW • 734-282-3939 office@gobigmultimedia.com

Serving The Downriver Area Since 2001 Complete Mechanical Repairs • Collision Related Repairs • Paint Custom Wheels • Tires and Used Car Sales • Custom Interiors All Your Automotive Needs Under One Roof! *RESTRICTIONS APPLY

COMPLETE BRAKE JOB

Will Evans Publisher

Charisse Halko Marketing Manager

Sherry Evans Publisher

Pat McComb Graphic Designer

Hank Minckiewicz Editor-In-Chief

Paula Neuman Writer

Blair Temple Director of Graphics

Larry Caruso Writer/Photos

Peter Rose Writer

199.95 + tax

$

10% OFF* On Any Repair

Includes Brake Pads and Rotors, Most Vehicles

Over $200

Per Axle • Not Valid with Any Other Offer • Expires 2-28-22

*10% Off Parts. Not Valid with Any Other Offer • Expires 2-28-22

AUTO ACCIDENT? We will waive your insurance deductible* *Ask for details. Life time warranty on repairs. Not Valid with Any Other Offer Expires 2-28-22

NEW MOPEDS AVAILABLE FOR SALE! 31205 Fort Street • Lincoln Park Blocks South of Champagne, Next to Dairy Queen

Pamela Frucci Writer

Bill Stevenson Writer

Evelyn Cairns Writer

Dave Gorgon Writer/Photos

313-294-2899 / 313-294-2851 w w w. J a c k s A u t o R e p a i r 1 . c o m

SOUTHGATE STAR • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • Page 13

What’s happening Southgate ...

Creative Art Society meeting Formally the Downriver Arts and Crafts Guild, will be meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 8, at 6:30 p.m. at the Southgate Veterans Memorial Library in Southgate, 14680 Dix-Toledo Hwy. Meetings are free and open to the public.

After a short business meeting our special guest for the evening will be Martine MacDonald, a noted artist and a highly respected WCCCD teacher. She is our program for the evening with her witty remarks and quips.

Upcoming events: March 8, Michelle Sider, a freelance artist and instructor; April 11, John Vassallo, a Plein Aire painter; April 29-30, May 1, Art Ambience Fine Art Show and Boutique.

The group promotes and serves artists of all mediums and we celebrate all arts and all levels of art. In addition, it offers opportunities to exhibit our work.

There are also low-cost educational workshops for new and experienced artists.

Memberships are $25. For more information, visit creativeartsociety.org or contact Maureen at 734-777-6109 or mkeast1@aol.com or Jackie Walock at 313570-6919 or walock@sbcglobal.net

Nature and Land Conservancy Deadline Thursday, May 5, 2022. Open to all high school students. Our all-digital Take It Outside Photo Contest has begun. High School students may enter up to three photos, one in each category.

All information will be updated on our website soon.

It’s free, it’s easy and who doesn’t love capturing a gorgeous photo while enjoying the outdoors?

All area High Schools are invited to participate. If you are a teacher and would like more information and a poster for your classroom, send us a message. We’d love to share the opportunity with your students. Enter at www.ginlc.org.

AAUW scholarships The AAUW Wyandotte-Downriver Branch offers several scholarships annually to female undergraduate students at Baker College, Henry Ford College, Lawrence Technological University and Wayne County Community College District.

Interested students can pick up an AAUW application at their school’s counseling office.

Candidates must have earned a minimum of 12 credits, be a United States citizen and a resident of the Downriver area. An essay is required.

For more information, contact rjhart720@yahoo.com or visit downriver-mi.aauw. net.

Eagles on ice The icy waters of the Detroit River attract a rich variety of waterfowl. Where one finds ducks in winter, one will find eagles, too. Dozens of them, in fact! Bundle up and join Lake Erie Metropark naturalists and search the river for bald eagles.

This event is fun for all ages!

The cost is $3 per child, $5 per adult, children under 2 are free. Meet at the Lake Erie Metropark, Marshlands Museum.

Register online or you can call the interpretive center at (734) 379-5020.

Rotary The Rotary Club of Southgate will proudly host the 21th annual Meet the District Governor Elect on Thursday, March 3, 2022. The in-person lunch is at 11:30 am at the Windham (formally Holiday Inn) 17201 Northline Rd, Southgate. Cost $25 to attend lunch.

Please email chiefahles@aol.com to register. Please indicate whether attending Live/Lunch or Virtual only.

Family Owned 4th Generation 2323 Fort St. Lincoln Park

Maxflight Helicopter Services

313-381-1492 STORE HOURS: Monday - Friday 9 am - 5 pm Sat 9 am - 1 pm • Sun Closed ITEMS MAY BE PRICED LOWER IN STORE. SOME ITEMS HAVE LIMITED AVAILABILITY

Speed Queen Classic Clean™

6 Preset Cycles 4 Temperature Selections TC5003 WN DC5000 WG, GAS DRYER

hts

Island Flig Only

$49 pp

*See in store for pricing and stock

ANY SPECIAL OCCASION FLIGHTS Tours of Detroit Flights • Sunset Flights Flower Drop for Weddings/Funerals Gift tes Group Rides (up to 30 People) rtifica

(810) 366-1590

Ce able on Avail r Rides Rive

9161 Groh Road • Grosse Ile Township WE ARE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK, YEAR-ROUND

Speed Queen Perfect Wash™ 8 Preset Cycles 4 Temperature Selections TR7003 WN DR7000 WG, GAS DRYER *See in store for pricing and stock

busensappliance.com

APR

PLUS

750

• 1.3 L TURBO ENGINE • DEEP TINTED GLASS • 9-SPEED AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION • POWER DRIVER SEAT • KEYLESS ENTRY • REMOTE START • 17” BLACK WHEELS • REAR CAMERA • HEATED SEATS • ALL WEATHER FLOOR MATS • TRAILERING PROVISIONS

24 MONTH LEASE

PER MONTH

*

359 $

LEASE FOR

ORDER#ZZTVZZ

• 3.6 L 6 CYL • 8 SPD AUTO TRANSMISSION • REAR SLIDING WINDOW • POWER DRIVER SEAT • REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY • REMOTE START • LT CONVENIENCE PKG • 18” ALUM WHEELS • ALL WEATHER FLOOR LINERS • BLACK BOW TIE EMBLEM PKG • REAR CAMERA • TRAILER BRAKE CONTROLLER • HEATED SEATS • TRAILERING PKG

ORDER#ZZJCMN

ORDER#ZVTBJO

2022 COLORADO LT CREW CAB 4X4

Call or email us at reserve@taylorchevy.com to reserve this vehicle and others like it.

2022 TRAILBLAZER 1LT

Current Lessees

$0 DOWN + FEES

• 2/7L TURBO 4 CYL ENGINE• 8 SPD TRANSMISSION • DEEP TINTED GLASS • KEYLESS ENTRY AND START • REAR DEFOGGER • ALL STAR EDITION • 20” ALUMINUM WHEELS • CARGO BOX LIGHTING • STEERING WHEEL RADIO CONTROLS • REAR CAMERA • LOCKING REAR DIFF • HEATED SEATS • HEATED STEERING WHEEL • TRAILERING PKG

BONUS CASH

ON MOST 2021/2022 CHEVY VEHICLES2

$

FOR CURRENT CHEVY OWNERS

2022 SILVERADO 2FL CREW CAB 4X4

ON MOST 2021/2022 CHEVY VEHICLES†

0%

FOR VERY WELL QUALIFIED BUYERS

COME ON DOWN TO TELEGRAPH ROAD!

Page 14 • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • SOUTHGATE STAR

Sales Professional lisal@taylorchevy.com

Business Manager davep@taylorchevy.com

Dave Pohlod

General Manager markm1@taylorchevy.com

QUESTIONS? EMAIL US 24/7/365 WESAYYES@TAYLORCHEVY.COM

Sales Professional jdiaz@taylorchevy.com

Sales Professional carmanl@taylorchevy.com

Carmen Lowman

24 MONTH LEASE

PER MONTH

*

309 $

LEASE FOR

Have an Event or Fundraiser? Let us know at 734-282-3939

Bankruptcy • Repossession •Foreclosure • Slow Pay ... NO APPLICATION WILL BE DENIED

APPLY ONLINE AT WWW.TAYLORCHEVY.COM

Guaranteed Acceptance of ALL Credit Applications ... Get Pre-Approved in Seconds ...

*Payments set forth are examples and will vary based on when said vehicle will be available for delivery. Payments are based on current programs offered which expire on 1-31-2022. 24 mo. lease, 20,000 miles allowed at lease maturity, additional mileage may be purchased for .25 cents per mile, must be well qualified and lease through GM Financial Leasing, GMEPP provisions apply, requires current select Chevrolet lease in household, all rebates to dealer, title fee, license fee, acquisition and documentation fees, first payment due at signing unless noted, no security deposit required on B1 tiers and higher, tax extra, MSRP Traverse $34,045, Trailblazer $25,390, Blazer $36,395, Silverado $45,580, Colorado $38,505. Residency restrictions apply, File photos depicted.

734.287.2600

ORDER#ZTXBJM

24 MONTH LEASE

*

PER MONTH

429

$

LEASE FOR

Courtesy Transportation Program Vehicle

Jeremiah Diaz

Sales Manager jodylee@taylorchevy.com

Jody Lee Smith

Mark Montante

Shawn Range

Sales Professional shawnr@taylorchevy.com

Call or email us at reserve@taylorchevy.com to reserve this vehicle and others like it.

Current Lessees

$0 DOWN + FEES

• 3.6L V6, 9SPD TRANSMISSION • 18” ALUMINUM WHEELS • WHEEL LOCKS • BLACK EMBLEM PACKAGE • LANE DEPARTURE WARNING • REAR CAMERA • ONSTAR

2022 TRAVERSE LS

Call or email us at reserve@taylorchevy.com to reserve this vehicle and others like it.

Current Lessees

$0 DOWN + FEES

13801 S. Telegraph Taylor, MI 48180 • North of Eureka Road

Sales Professional alicec@taylorchevy.com

Sales Professional brianc@taylorchevy.com

Brian Conover

24 MONTH LEASE

PER MONTH

*

309

$

LEASE FOR

ORDER#ZWPWHW

24 MONTH LEASE

PER MONTH

*

249

$

LEASE FOR

Lisa Legarski

Chris Jones

Sales Professional chrisj@taylorsaysyes.com

Alice Cinderrich-Iskra

Sales Professional ronc@taylorchevy.com

Ron Curtis

HURRY, OFFER ENDS 1-31-2022

Call or email us at reserve@taylorchevy.com to reserve this vehicle and others like it.

Current Lessees

$0 DOWN + FEES

• 3.6L V6 • 9-SPEED AUTO TRANS • CONVENIENCE & DRIVER CONFIDENCE PKG • APPLE CAR PLAY • ONSTAR • 4GLTE WIFI • BACKUP CAMERA • HEATED SEATS

2021 BLAZER 2LT

Call or email us at reserve@taylorchevy.com to reserve this vehicle and others like it.

Current Lessees

$0 DOWN + FEES

SOUTHGATE STAR • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • Page 15

STK#P5982

$38,995*

STK#25144A

2019 CHEVY SILVERADO DBL CAB 4X4

$47,595*

2019 CHEVY BLAZER RS

✔ Texted to your phone

Get your vehicle’s trade-in value now.

STK#P5975

$36,995*

$42,995*

STK#16924B

2019 CHEVROLET COLORADO CREW CAB 4X4

2019 CHEVY TRAVERS LT

STK#25193A

$38,995*

$26,995* STK#25205A

2020 CHEVY BLAZER LT

2019 CHEVROLET EQUINOX

NEW YEAR’S SALES EVENT

COME ON DOWN TO TELEGRAPH ROAD!

Page 16 • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • SOUTHGATE STAR

STK#P5967

Sales

ANDY D Sales

UNCLE FRANK

Asst. Used Car Manager

KURT ASMUS

Business Manager

JASON LILLY

Used Car Manager

JIMMY MARSHALL

Sales

MARK MONTANTE JR.

734.287.2600

QUESTIONS? EMAIL US 24/7/365 WESAYYES@TAYLORCHEVY.COM

Sales

FLO ARMSTRONG

Read and Save at SOUTHGATESTAR.COM

• Bankruptcy • Repossession • Foreclosure • Slow Pay ... NO APPLICATION WILL BE DENIED

APPLY ONLINE AT WWW.TAYLORCHEVY.COM

Guaranteed Acceptance of ALL Credit Applications ... Get Pre-Approved in Seconds

13801 S. Telegraph Taylor, MI 48180 North of Eureka Rd.

Internet Manager

DENNIS SMITH

*Plus tax, title, license, doc fees. File photos depicted.

• All Credit Applications Accepted • All Credit Scores Welcome • Bankruptcy • Forclosure • Repo • Slow Pay

HURRY, OFFER ENDS 1-31-2022

Sales

ED LAZETTE

$36,995*

2018 CHEVY SILVERADO DBL CAB 4X4

Get the credit you deserve at helpgetaloan.com

STK#25167A

$32,595*

$26,995* STK#P5972

2019 CHEVY EQUINOX PREMIER

2020 CHEVROLET TRAX LT

✔ Instant and automatic ✔ Shop with confidence

SOUTHGATE STAR • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • Page 17

Page 18 • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • SOUTHGATE STAR

Have an Event or Fundraiser? Let us know at 734-282-3939

Think of it like suction hoses draining our economy I have decided that I don’t like Covid much at all, in any of its variants.

The uncertainty of it all is paralyzing, and I concern myself what that will mean, now that Christmas is behind us.

The past year proved to be quite good for independent retailers across the country. I think the necessity of PETER buying online in ROSE 2020 by people that Southgate Star are determined to shop locally was a factor. I think the terrified way that big merchants went into the season, with very lean shelves of ho hum merchandise steered business our way.

And, of course, I am ever hopeful that the steady drumbeat coming from me and countless other sources about the value to the community of buying local is being heard and understood by more and more.

I talked to many people that are familiar with surrounding communities as well, with interesting, quirky, unique and fun shops where the owners are right there, talking with the people that drive from near and far to shop with them.

Towns like Tecumseh, Plymouth, Dexter and Chelsea, Milford, Howell and Brighton, and more. Wyandotte is a part of that local network as well, and all reports say that things were solid indeed.

Virtually everyone told us they would never go to a mall again.

Many friendships were renewed in the last quarter of 2021, and many

new friends were made, by all the visitors to Wyandotte.

I believe that when all the reports start coming in, we’ll find that retail in general this year was good. I don’t care at all about those reports; they’re all national chains funded by stock markets and private equity groups that pretend to be retailers but really exist only to pay homage to the shareholders.

It isn’t genuine. It isn’t anything at all, really.

But overall, I think we’ll see that there was a willingness to spend this year. Including online, which will grow yet again.

Listening to my pipelines, though, has been exhilarating. Staggering increases from just about everyone in my network. From everywhere, too.

So while it will not get reported, it is real nonetheless.

People supported independents this year with a vengeance. And that bodes well for the near future. So really, where is the problem, Peter Rose?

The problem is the way national and regional media has been assimilated by the Amazons of the world. News and talk shows relentlessly talk about all manner of stuff and make clear their own take on it all.

They tell how they get all their stuff online. They normalize the idea of centralizing all the money to huge, monolithic corporations based everywhere but (in this case) Wyandotte and the Downriver area.

They make it seem natural and good, and the American way.

And a massive swath of America absolutely does follow.

There is far too much automatic

RE-DO THE IGLOO SALE

acceptance of this phenomenon that drains the circulating capital away from where it gets spent over and over again by shopping locally, exclusively.

Yes, I do know that I say that kind of thing all the time.

Amazon happens to be the company that is dangerous beyond comprehension. But the danger lurks with everything you see online.

Insurance, gambling, GrubHub, Uber, Wayfair and The Real Real are just a few examples.

I could use up this column naming hundreds of them that all share the same intention: Suck the money out of the local economies. Dry them up, for all they care. Take the money while they can.

Like hoses with powerful pumps, sucking all the money…..up, up, and away.

There will be people reading this that automatically dismiss this as alarmist and Chicken Little-ish.

There will be others that defend their purchases, and there will be a smaller yet growing percentage of my readers

MULTIMEDIA ADVERTISING SALES WE’RE GROWING!

IF YOU...

• Have strong presentation skills • Enjoy Working outside the office • Have great communication & organization skills • Enjoy meeting new people • Media, Ad or Newspaper sales skills a plus

• Flexible Schedule • Bonus Commissions • Residual Income • Ongoing Training • A lot of fun at work!

734-282-3939

Riverview

FREE CAR WASH & SAFETY CHECK with a full service oil change

COME SEE NICK

Car Care Ask for Details

18982 Fort Street • Riverview

WHITEFURNITURE.COM

WE OFFER...

AVG. $20 HR

Financing Available

SEE OUR AD ON THE BACK PAGE! 3025 Biddle Avenue • Wyandotte • 734-282-2155

that will see my point and see that what I describe is real, and something to be avoided like the plague that it is.

Everywhere you turn, there is another suction line into our economy, siphoning money away. I don’t care where it’s going, I care that it’s leaving.

There is only so much money. If you spend it locally, the ripple effect benefits business after business, resident after resident. If you don’t, there’s no ripple effect at all. If you don’t, you’re not doing all you could; not for me, but for us. All of us are damaged.

I write because no one else does.

You don’t hear this perspective articulated anywhere (although again, people are saying it far more than they used to).

I hope for comprehension, and thanks for the heads up. There is more to talk about than ever.

Happy New Year!

734-479-7777

(at the corner of Fort st. & Sibley)

Open: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm Sat 8AM-6pm

19.95

$

(+ tax) Includes Premium Oil and Filter

Most vehicles Up to 5 quarts: 5W20 • 5W30 • 10W30 With RR coupon • While Offer Lasts

FRONT WHEEL ALIGNMENT

29.99

$

most cars

With WW coupon While Supplies Lasts

COOLANT FLUSH OIL CHANGE TIRE ROTATION

59.95

$

most cars

With WW coupon While Supplies Lasts

SOUTHGATE STAR • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • Page 19

Titan cheerleaders tearing it up in 2021-22 The Southgate Anderson competitive cheerleading team finished fifth at the Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 2 state meet last year.

It looks like the Titans are determined to get back to the state finals and perhaps finish even higher.

The Titans won their third competition of the season recently, Taking the Mighty Mav Match-up Invitational hosted

by Milford on Jan. 15. The Titans scored 761.80 points to edge host Milford, which had 760.04. Livonia Stevenson was third, Brighton fourth and Riverview fifth in the 17-team field.

Milford slightly outscored Southgate in the first and third rounds, but the Titans dominated the second round and were five points better than anyone, including Milford in that round.

The win in Milford came after a win in Brighton on Jan. and a win in the Chiefs Christmas Classic on Dec. 17.

Anderson overwhelmed the Division 2 field in Brighton, scoring 776.76 to win handily. Charlotte

was second (730.16), Dexter was third (696.88), Fenton was fourth (680.08), Swartz Creek was fifth (672.32) and Fowlerville was sixth (647.47).

Anderson’s score of 776.76 was second highest in

the event, behind only Division 1 winner Brighton, which scored 783.62. In all, Anderson’s score topped six Division 1 teams, five Division 2 teams and four Division 3-4 teams.

The Christmas event at New Boston Huron was a smaller affair, but again, the Titans blew everyone away.

Southgate won the title with a score of 717.40,

The Guardian Group Tax Debt Resolution and Tax Preparation

■TAX PREPARATION 50% OFF WHAT YOU PAID LAST YEAR ■TROUBLE WITH TAX DEBT WE CAN HELP

CREDENTIALS

We will provide you with the highest level of Representation Retired University Professor of Economics IRS Enrolled Agent/Tax Expert MBA in Finance Walmart Consultant

734-444-5149 • bob@guardiantaxpro.com

far ahead of runner-up Airport (704.98). Host Huron was third, Livonia Clarenceville was fourth and Ypsilanti Lincoln was fifth. The Titans outscored the three Division 3 teams at the meet - Dundee, Ida and Tecumseh - also.

When the state tournament rolls back around on Feb. 18, the Titans will begin in a district hosted by Pinckney High School. If they finish among the top four teams as districts, they will advance to regionals at Holly on Feb. 26. The state finals are March 4-5 in Grand Rapids.

The 202122 Southgate Anderson competitive cheerleaders are Sydney Baker, Nadia Bell, Adelih Blaskiewicz, Selena Chakur, Autumn Dziedzic, Madeline Dziedzic, Alivia Ensign, Alexis Hall, Gabriella Jones, Elizabeth LeBeau, Madison Lenardo, Paige Leonard, Maggy McSweeney, Alexis Morris, Tayia Patten, Xzeria Paula, Emily Pinage, Bella Plonka, Brooklyn Sage, Laya Simons, Kierstyn Szafran, Savannah Thomas, Miranda Wade, Alanna Widby and Chloe Wolske.

Dependable Quality Care in Your Own Home “To Us You’re Family” COMPANIONSHIP RESPITE CARE DEMENTIA CARE MEAL PREP HOUSEKEEPING MED-REMINDERS HYGIENE ERRANDS TOILETING 24 HOUR CARE

2846 Biddle Ave, Wyandotte, MI 48192

Like Us On Facebook : SOUTHGATE STAR

Sports

Page 20 • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • SOUTHGATE STAR

Have an Event or Fundraiser? Let us know at 734-282-3939

Titan grapplers fight on The Sourhgate Anderson wrestling team found itself in a tough Downriver League Quad meet on Jan. 19 at Carlson. Of the four teams at the meet, host Carlson, Wyandotte Roosevelt and Allen Park were all undefeated in league dual matches.

Anderson faced Carlson and Allen Park and was defeated in both instances. Ryan Leonard won both his matches on the night. His pinfall victory against Carlson kept the Marauders from shutting out the Titans. The final score was 74-6. Leonard also had a pin against Allen Park. Gabe Noe, Brennan Emans, Jackson Sage and Lavelle Hughes also picked up wins against Allen Park. Allen Park won 42-29.

The Titans face a league dual meet with Roosevelt on Jan. 26 and the league meet at Woodhaven on Feb. 5. MHSAA team districts are Feb. 9 and Individual districts are Feb. 12.

Photos by Dave Chapman

SOUTHGATE STAR • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • Page 21

Anthony Guiterrez

Photos by Larry Caruso

Senior Jake Peer has been a team leader for the Anderson Titans this year.

Since winning their season-opening game against Dearborn Heights Annapolis the first week of December, the Southgate Anderson basketball team has been searching for its second victory.

The Titans have lost seven straight games, Some have been one-sided affairs, others have been excruciatingly close. None have been closer than the Jan. 18 home court loss to Allen Park.

The Titans hosted the Jaguars that night and lost 58-55 in double overtime.

“That was a tough one to take,” admitted Anderson coach Gene Kolbusz. “We had three kids just back from COVID stuff, but that played well. We had a shot to win at the end

of regulation time and a shot at the end of double overtime and we just didn’t make either one.”

Other tight games for the Titans this season include a 65-60 loss to Carlson, a 58-50 loss to Roosevelt and a 62-53 loss to Dearborn Edsel Ford.

All of those were league games.

Kolbusz said the season has been a little frustrating because with a good number of players returning, he and his assistant Mark Taurance thought things would be a little smoother than they have been. A couple of those returnees opted out of playing basketball to concentrate on other sports.

“But, it is what it is,” said Kolbusz.

“We’re not going to win the league, but we’re back to working on

fundamentals and we will be better and we will win some more games.”

Kolbusz added that winning that first game against Annapolis was not necessarily a great thing for his squad.

“It made us think we were better than we were,” he said.

There have been some bright spots this year, starting with the play of senior Jake Peer.

“He is our true leader,” Kolbusz said. “He came into the season ready to play and he has been great. He had 21 rebounds in that game against Annapolis and he had 15 and 17 against Allen Park.

“He does everything; plays forward, plays center, rebounds. He is the heart and soul of this team.”

Others have played well, too, including seniors A.J. Guiterrez and Giovanni Hugan.

A couple pleasant surprises, according to the Anderson coaches, have been sophomores Chase Barbosa and Dylan Berrios.

Barbosa has started most of the Titans games this year.

“He’s been outstanding,” said

Kolbusz. “He’s a football player learning to be a basketball player and I can’t say anything negative about him.”

Berrios, too, shines in a different sport - baseball.

“He’s learning,” said Kolbusz.

“He’s like 6-1, 6-2 and strong. He’s getting better and better and his athleticism helps.”

The Titans played Taylor on Jan. 21 and they close out the month of January with a home game against Trenton on Jan. 25 and a road game at Lincoln Park on Jan. 28.

“I hate that the season got off to such a slow start, but I am confident that we will be a better team over the course of the second half of the season,” said Kolbusz.

Come tournament time, Anderson will go to Riverview for a Michigan High School Athletic Association Division 1 district.

Joining the Titans there will be the host Pirates, Allen Park, Lincoln Park, Taylor and Wyandotte.

District tournaments begin March 7.

Like Us On Facebook : SOUTHGATE STAR

Titan cagers looking to recapture winning formula

Page 22 • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • SOUTHGATE STAR

He shoots, he scores!

Like Us On Facebook : SOUTHGATE STAR

Points leader Ashton Petrarca leading Titans back to hockey relevancy dave gorgon Southgate Star

previous seasons. Three of the losses came in overtime.

For the fourth year in a row, Anderson players have combined with players from Monroe High School to form the team, which is known as Southgate Unified. Representing Anderson are Petrarca, Marcus King, Gabe Obourn, Josh Calhoun and sophomore goalkeeper Christian Zaddock. Monroe players are Adrian Brodie, senior goaltender Kyle Sutherland, Garrett LaBeau, Tyler Banek, and Christian Koszka.

The Titans play in two leagues: the

Downriver League, which typically includes teams from Anderson, and the Southeastern Hockey League, which includes Monroe.

Petrarca centers the team’s top line with wingers King, a senior who is among the top=10 goal-scorers in the state, and Brodie, a junior. In a number of games, the line accounted for all of the Titans’ goals. In a recent 8-4 victory over Manistee, Petrarca had a hat trick and four assists, while King and Brodie had fourpoint games. King had a hat trick and an assist; Brodie scored twice and had two

assists.

“They work really well together,” Butler said. “They’re great.”

Butler is assisted by son Jacob. Both played for the Titans while attending Anderson. The head coach said the players on the team “love the ice time” and have made the most of it by improving their

Southgate Anderson senior Ashton Petrarca leads all Michigan high school hockey players in points scored during the 2021-2022 season.

As of Jan. 20, after 16 games this season, Petrarca had scored 17 goals and added 46 assists for the state-high conditioning. total of 63 points. That put him 15 “We’re going against some teams points ahead of Tyler Benedict of Mona with 20 guys,” Butler said. “Our guys Shores. are well conditioned.

At that point in the “There is so much talent season, Petrarca had in the state of Michigan. It’s scored or set up all but 13 impressive (for Petrarca) of the Titans’ 76 goals. He to be doing what he does also led the state in assists. with assists and points. We He was averaging nearly play the Wyandottes, the four points a game.

Trentons, the Woodhavens, In that 16th the Allen Parks, the game, a 5-4 win over Dearborns – we play almost Walled Lake Western, every Downriver team.”

Petrarca’s 63rd point Petrarca is used to tied the school record for top conditioning and points in a season. skill level, with plenty “Ashton is one of our of experience on AAAcaptains and one of the level and travel hockey leaders on the team,” said most of his life – winning Coach Rick Butler. “He state championships and does everything: power tournaments along with play, penalty kill. He does way in such prestigious everything we need him programs as Little Caesars to do.” and Belle Tire – before Petrarca is among the making the choice to play state leaders in ice time as with his high school friends well. Since there are just at Anderson.

10 players on the roster, “It’s pretty cool,” said he stays on the ice for the 6-foot-4, 174-pound multiple shifts at a time. second-year captain. “I’m In a typical game, the glad I get to represent Titans have six forwards, Southgate and Southgate three defensemen and a athletics.” goalie, with one of the As a sophomore, he forwards serving as a scored 40 points in 22 backup netminder. games. As a junior, he By game 16, Anderson scored 27 points in 13 had seven wins and nine games – a season cut losses and was on a threeshort by the COVID-19 Photos by Larry Caruso game winning streak – a With a number of games still left to play this season, senior Ashton Petrarca has already set an vast improvement over Anderson school record for points with 63. That number leads the state.

SEE POINTS, Page 23

POINTS

Continued from page 22

pandemic.

As for this year’s 10-player roster, Petrarca said: “That’s the most impressive part of the team. We all work hard. We have no problems with each other.

We mesh with each other. I think we’ve exceeded everyone’ expectations with only nine skaters. We’re competing with every team we play.

“I love playing with Aiden and Marcus. They’re two of my closest friends on the team. They’re great players. I like setting up plays with them. They’re good at finishing plays. I love playing with them. We’re creative together. As a line, we play all the time with each other and we know where each other are.”

Petrarca said he does what needs to be done, even if that is “triple or quadruple shifting” or playing defense.

“I just want to go out there and put my teammates in the best position to score,” he said. “Because we only have a certain number of players, I can’t take as many breaks as I need to. Our players play for each other. We keep our legs. It makes us really strongly conditioned as a team.”

Petrarca comes from a hockey family. His dad Todd played for Anderson. Younger brother Kaden, age 12, plays in the 2009 Belle Tire program.

Another Downriver player from the past, National Hockey League all-star Brian Rafalski, is a relative.

Todd Petrarca’s grandmother, Grenevieve Zawacki, and Rafalski’s late grandfather were brother and sister.

Petrarca said his father is one of his biggest hockey influences, providing all of the tools he needed to play the sport while growing up, and he’s also learned from some of the best coaches, including John Poolton, Kim Muir, Brent Wishart, Kevin Paden, John Viglante, Ron Wantuck, John Elliott and Andrew Sawyer.

Ashton plans to play for the Anderson varsity golf

team in the spring. Sister Lexus, now 24, performed in the competitive cheer program when she attended Southgate schools. Sister Ella plays high school basketball and softball.

With a 3.9 grade point average in high school, Petrarca has his eyes on college – and playing hockey in college – and plans to study medicine. He has received a number of inquiries from both college programs and junior teams.

“He’s not your average high school player,” Todd Petrarca said. “His game speaks for itself… All I want for him is to be happy. He’s a great kid.”

“I’m pretty proud of him,” said mom Brandi Petrarca. “Not only is he working incredibly hard to accomplish that, but he’s a great student and a great son.”

Ashton summed it up, saying “I’m worried more about the team – winning is always number one for me. Team success is always what I look for. I just do my best to put the team in position to win games.”

Have an Event or Fundraiser? Let us know at 734-282-3939

SOUTHGATE STAR • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • Page 23

Page 24 • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • SOUTHGATE STAR

AUTO DETAILING 734-285-8770 Fort St. (85)

Goddard Dix Toledo

Have an Event or Fundraiser? Let us know at 734-282-3939

FORT ST. DOWNRIVER 12554 Southgate, MI

Northline

Paintless Dent Repair

N

LEASE TURN IN? Detail starting

at $59.99

tay At Home Care is leading the industry as one of the most trusted home care providers. Experienced Caregivers needed. We need all shifts and weekends covered.

S

SE U N O

We offer: • Flexible schedules • Paid Training • Holiday pay, overtime and vacation pay • A strong support staff with years of experience in the health field • Performance evaluation

O

H E L B XI

FLE

B • S UR

Send resume to stayathomecare@aol.com or fax: 313-381-2643.

Interior Repair • Cigarrette Burns • Torn Seats • Carpet Repair

Interior Sanitizer with Detail!

Window Tint Complete Vehicle

22495

$

Includes 4 Side Windows & Rear Window Any Shade of Tint

10% OFF COMPLETE DETAIL starting at $150.00

Bumper to Bumper, Inside and Out Includes Clay Bar!!!

DOWNRIVER 734-285-8770 DOWNRIVER 734-285-8770 AUTO DETAILING AUTO DETAILING With coupon. Not valid with any other offer. SSM

HEADLIGHT RENEWAL

24

$

S

TRAINING AVAILABLE!

95

Each Light • Regular $45.00

Don’t Forget the Sibley Gardens Gift Certificates.

For Your Valentine!

Since 1935

Lunch & Dinner Specials Daily M-F 11:30 to 9 pm Sat. 3 to 9 pm Closed Sundays www.SibleyGardens.com

734-285-1707 916 W. Jefferson - Trenton

With coupon. Not valid with any other offer. SSM

10% OFF

FABRIC PROTECTANT starting at $49.95

DOWNRIVER 734-285-8770 DOWNRIVER 734-285-8770 AUTO DETAILING AUTO DETAILING With coupon. Not valid with any other offer. SSM

With coupon. Not valid with any other offer. SSM

FloorLiner™ DigitalFit®

In the quest for the most advanced concept in floor protection, the talented designers and engineers at MacNeil Automotive have worked tirelessly to develop the most advanced DigitalFit® floor protection available today!

UP TO 40% OFF! Excellent Customer Service

Mon-Fri 9 am - 6 pm • Sat by appointment

"All Your Insurance Needs" 734-287-2400 GLAInsurance.com

Sarah Lapshan

Michigan Department of Natural Resources

By any measure, it’s a pretty big deal: One hundred years and counting.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources marked its centennial anniversary in 2021, and in the planning years prior to COVID-19 realities, everything was on the table.

We had dreams of storytelling events, outdoor skills learning, lantern-lit trail tours, programs for classroom groups and much, much more.

Although the pandemic required understandably cautious changes to our celebration plans, we focused on ways to help people safely connect – or, in some cases, reconnect – with Michigan’s natural and heritage resources, starting with a DNR centennial webpage that offered: n An interactive, visual timeline.

Reintroducing elk, moose and turkey, protecting wild places like the Pigeon River Country State Forest, bringing salmon to the Great Lakes and many other milestones are captured in this quick look at how the DNR has been taking care of Michigan’s outdoor places and stories since 1921. n 100 ways to celebrate. From the tried and true (elk viewing, lighthouse tours and fishing) to newer traditions (forest bathing, fat-tire biking and

geocaching), here are dozens of fun ideas for people of all ages, skills and abilities. n Centennial stories. Historic Walker Tavern and Irish Hills tourism in the 1920s, the Tuskegee Airmen in Michigan, Porcupine Mountains logbooks, the Belle Isle Park sawmill … these are just a few of the interesting subjects covered in special “Showcasing the DNR” stories this year. n Centennial gear. With keepsake T-shirts, beanies, mugs, patches, hoodies, magnets and more, you can get a little something for yourself and others – and feel good knowing that a percentage of every sale supports Michigan state parks.

DNR directors, past and present, talk conservation Throughout the year, too, some staff worked on a special video project, talking with several of the department’s directors, including current director, Dan Eichinger, about the history of natural resources conservation in Michigan, some of our success stories, and being ready for future challenges and opportunities.

David Hales, DNR director from May 1988 to May 1991, said he believes that Michigan’s future depends on the state’s natural

resources base, adding, “It’s about what’s good for the second and third generations down the line that we’re going to leave Michigan to.”

The video includes vintage footage of foresters, park rangers, conservation officers, fisheries technicians and many other DNR staff doing the day-to-day work of protecting and managing the fish, forests, wildlife, parks and visitor experiences that are uniquely Michigan.

It’s just 17 minutes long, but the DNR centennial video provides a satisfying slice of perspective, insight and experience from the people who have guided the department for much of the last 45-plus years.

The outdoors: A safe, welcoming space When Michigan implemented public health and safety precautions aimed at reducing the spread of COVID-19, it was undeniably difficult. People were peppered with constant, but necessary, messages about keeping six feet apart, washing hands, wearing face masks and avoiding large gatherings, especially indoors.

While many places temporarily closed, the outdoors stayed open.

Parks, trails, forests – even our own backyards or rooftop patios – provided desperately needed sanctuary, solace and space to safely spread out without fear of getting yourself or someone else sick.

And people showed up in droves.

They wanted to try new trails, discover different hunts, gaze at starry skies and gather ‘round the campfire – anything to shake up their routines, shake off the uncertainty of the pandemic and just feel normal for a while.

DNR Parks and Recreation Chief Ron Olson called it “quite remarkable” that the department’s centennial coincided with Michigan state parks and recreation areas reaching an all-time visitation record of nearly 35 million visitors, as well as setting a new yearly benchmark of more than 1.4 million camping and lodging nights.

“Our state parks and recreation system resources, including trails, boating and state forest recreation, are as relevant now as they’ve ever been to the state of Michigan in the past 100 years,” Olson said. “I want to thank all the current and past staff, volunteers and partners for continuing this great legacy.”

The DNR’s parks and recreation employees were among those – along with conservation officers, fisheries and wildlife biologists, customer service center staff and hundreds of others – who remained in the field and on the front lines despite the pandemic, doing their very best to protect natural and cultural resources while helping the public safely connect with the outdoors.

SEE OUTDOORS, Page 26

Like Us On Facebook : SOUTHGATE STAR

Despite pandemic, much to celebrate in Michigan’s outdoors, history

SOUTHGATE STAR • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • Page 25

Page 26 • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • SOUTHGATE STAR

Suggestions or Comments? We are listening at 734-282-3939

OUTDOORS Continued from page 25

Gary Hagler, chief of the DNR Law Enforcement Division, said the last two years have quickly reshaped the approach to conservation law enforcement, and the DNR has used this as an opportunity to refocus on staff to ensure they have the training, equipment and support they need to be safe and successful.

“As we move forward as a society to put the pandemic behind us, we hope to continue meeting new outdoor users who originally found escape from the world in the outdoors,” Hagler said. “This surge of customers has introduced a new demand for outdoor recreation areas and opportunities, reiterating the importance of recreational safety education staff and programs and the need for readily available conservation officers.”

McKenna Freitas

Anderson girls are slowly making strides There have not been a windfall of victories for the Anderson girls basketball team this season, but it has not been a drought, either.

The Titans have pretty much reached the halfway point in the season and they find themselves with a 3-8 record. It’s not great, but better than in the past few years.

The Titans took a hard loss, 57-25, at Allen Park on Jan. 18, but before that they played a tough game before losing to non-league foe Monroe Jefferson on Jan. 15 and they beat Downriver League rival Dearborn Edsel Ford 39-34 on Jan. 14.

The Edsel Ford win was Anderson’s first of 2022 after wins over Dearborn Heights Annapolis and Lincoln Park back in December.

The Titan girls were at Taylor on Jan. 21 and they will close out the month of January at Trenton on Jan. 25.

When the post season begins, Anderson will find itself at a Michigan High School Athletic Association district tournament at Wyandotte Roosevelt, along with the host school, Allen Park, Lincoln Park, Riverview and Taylor.

The district tournaments begin Feb. 28.

Building on tradition Some DNR divisions found simple ways to give a centennial nod to their program areas, by connecting to resources customers use most.

For example, this year’s hunting digests offered covers that were either illustrated or used historic photos.

The department also invited artists to take part in a contest to design a centennial-edition 2021 deer management cooperator patch.

The patches have been a popular collector’s item for hunters since the early 1970s. The winning patch was created by Larry Tucci of Fort Collins, Colorado. Tucci is a former state resident who learned to hunt deer with his Uncle John in Michigan’s woods.

While our centennial year, set against the backdrop of COVID-19, showed promising new pockets of outdoor recreation enjoyment, some battles remain.

“The continued decline in hunters over the last 30 years or so means a decrease in funding for conservation in Michigan,” said DNR Wildlife Chief Jared Duquette. “Our challenge over the next several decades will be to prove our relevance to other stakeholders and to find alternate sources of funding to continue our stewardship of wildlife and habitat in Michigan for a variety of wildlife species and recreational interests.”

That desire to demonstrate relevance, protect fish and wildlife, and ensure ample space for outdoor fun is a big part of what drives the DNR forward.

Jeff Stampfly heads up the DNR’s Forest Resources Division, which manages nearly 4 million acres of state forests in the northern Lower and Upper peninsulas.

“One of the most important jobs for the DNR 100 years ago was working to reforest Michigan after the lumber era,” Stampfly said. “Our most important job now is looking toward the next 100 years and making sure that generations to come will have healthy forests that will provide wood products, wildlife habitat and many recreation opportunities.”

Making history right now Sandra Clark is the director of the Michigan History Center, an agency within the DNR that works to integrate cultural history into our understanding of the natural world and the role people play in shaping it.

We gain such understanding through gathered and shared stories, and one of the Center’s current initiatives captures just how important that effort is.

Launched in early 2020 at the start of the pandemic, Collecting COVID-19 gives state residents the opportunity to share their accounts of these trying times, making it easier for future generations to understand what it’s like to live through a global health crisis.

So far, more than 225 people have submitted stories and photographs.

Once the need for social distancing is reduced, MHC staff expects to collect many more physical artifacts to complement the written and oral histories.

Clark said although the photographs in the collection are often connected to disappointment and struggle, the accompanying photo messages smack of hope and persistence, too.

“One description of a woman waving from the sidewalk to her friend in a second-story apartment window before they start their Friday after-work phone chat, ends with, ‘We cannot let social distancing distance our friendship. Love and friendship is what will get us through the crisis.’”

That’s a sentiment worth celebrating today, tomorrow or 100 years from now.

SOUTHGATE STAR • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • Page 27

Page 28 • January 25 — February 24, 2022 • SOUTHGATE STAR

Have an Event or Fundraiser? Let us know at 734-282-3939

White Furniture’s

PRST STD

U.S. POSTAGE

3$,'

RE-DO THE IGLOO SALE

ROYAL OAK, MI 48068 PERMIT #792

70

AF KL& ;D 9AJ E9JQKNADD=

18271 FORT ST. • RIVERVIEW, MI 48193

Lg 9\n]jlak] ;Ydd 0)(%-++%*-+)

734-282-3939

Lane petite rocker recliner Sale price

$499

Rocker recliner in stock as shown.

Free local delivery.

$459

Flexsteel provides a lifetime warranty on their frames, seat springs and seat cushions.

We have this set in stock in two different shades of grey.

Sofa sale price $1499 Loveseat sale price $1469

Power lift recliner in stock as shown.

Free local delivery.

$959

We have this reclining set in stock as shown with power footrest, power headrest and power lumbar support. Flexsteel provides a lifetime warranty on their reclining mechanisms, frames, seat springs and seat cushions.

Beauty Rest Firm Mattress Twin $419 - Full $499 Queen $519 - King $729 Most sizes in stock

POCKETED COIL® • DUALCOOL™ TECHNOLOGY FIRM COMFORT FOAM

Reclining sofa sale price $2399 Reclining chair sale price $1299 Flexsteel Rocker Recliner.

In stock as shown. Flexsteel provides a lifetime warranty on their reclining mechanisms, frames, seat springs and seat cushions. Free local delivery.

Flexsteel Leather Rocker Recliner. We have this recliner in stock as shown with power footrest & power headrest . Flexsteel provides a lifetime warranty on their reclining mechanisms, frames, seat springs and seat cushions.

Sale price $899

Amish Solid Maple Dining Choose from many different finishes, 5 different chair styles, 8 table legs, 8 table edges & 6 tables shapes all at no extra charge. Canal Dover custom orders are taking 20 weeks. 42”x54” Table with two leaves & 4 chairs

Beauty Rest Medium Mattress Twin $349 - Full $439 Queen $459 - King $569 Most sizes in stock

POCKETED COIL® • DUALCOOL™ TECHNOLOGY PLUSH COMFORT FOAM • AIRCOOL® FOAM

$2399

Different size tables and pedestal tables are available, prices vary.

3025 Biddle Avenue Wyandotte, MI 48192 734-282-2155

Mon & Fri: 9:00am - 8:30 Tues, Wed, Thur & Sat: 9:00am - 5:30pm Closed Sunday

See us on Facebook at: facebook.com/whitefurniture

A local family business serving southeast Michigan since 1946

HOURS:

whitefurniture.com