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Metro Detroit Braces for Potential First Snowfall This Weekend

Colder temperatures and precipitation may bring light snow to the area

Steve Korbal

Steve Korbal

Nov 4, 2025
Metro Detroit Braces for Potential First Snowfall This Weekend

Metro Detroit residents should brace for a wintry weekend, as colder air sweeps into the region and brings the season’s first chance for snow.

 

A cold front is expected to push temperatures down, with daytime highs only reaching the mid-40s and overnight lows dipping into the 20s and 30s. Sunday’s high may peak near 42°F, with the low bottoming out around 27°F.

 

This sharp cooldown, coupled with incoming precipitation, could trigger light snow showers. Historically, Detroit’s first measurable snowfall appears around mid-November, averaging 2.6 inches for the month.

 

This weekend’s snowfall, though, is expected to range from a dusting to possibly one inch, with slightly higher amounts if brief snow bands persist.

 

Roads could turn slick Sunday night into Monday morning, so residents should drive carefully during the morning commute if temperatures continue to fall.

Daylight Saving Time Ends Tonight — Are You Ready for the Clock Reset?

Michigan residents prepare to 'fall back' as Daylight Saving Time concludes.

Steve Korbal

Steve Korbal

Nov 1, 2025
Daylight Saving Time Ends Tonight — Are You Ready for the Clock Reset?

As autumn blankets Michigan in crisp air, residents are reminded to set clocks back as Daylight Saving Time ends at 2 a.m. on Sunday, November 2, 2025.

 

This annual shift grants everyone an extra hour of sleep and signals a return to standard time, with both sunrise and sunset occurring about an hour earlier.

 

Manual clocks should be turned back before bed on November 1, though most digital devices will update automatically — but always double-check.

 

Local fire officials urge homeowners to use this seasonal change as a cue to test and replace smoke detector batteries, boosting household safety.

 

Detroit will see sunrise at 7:07 a.m. and sunset at 5:24 p.m.; Grand Rapids will greet sunrise at 7:18 a.m., with sunset at 5:35 p.m.

 

While the routine has been part of American culture since 1918, debates persist, but the current schedule stands.

 

Enjoy the extra rest and embrace earlier evenings as winter approaches.

A Step Back in Time: The Remarkable History of Hull’s Trace Corduroy Road

Exploring Michigan's Oldest Road Remnant in Brownstown Township

Steve Korbal

Steve Korbal

Oct 30, 2025
A Step Back in Time: The Remarkable History of Hull’s Trace Corduroy Road

On the banks of the Huron River in Brownstown Township lies an extraordinary relic—Hull’s Trace North Huron River Corduroy SegmentMichigan’s oldest surviving road fragment.

 

Laid down in 1812, this corduroy road of side-by-side logs was a crucial military route ordered by General William Hull during the War of 1812.

 

It once linked Fort Detroit to vital supply depots in Ohio, helping troops maneuver across the marshy, untamed landscape.

 

Though most of the 200-mile path faded over time, one resilient segment endured—buried beneath earth and water until a stunning discovery by road crews in 2000.

 

Now protected by the National Park Service at the River Raisin National Battlefield Park, these exposed logs offer a rare window into early American perseverance.

 

Visitors can stand beside this weathered road and imagine the grit and determination that helped shape Michigan and the nation’s frontier.

Taylor Restaurant Offers Free Meals to Seniors Displaced by Southgate Fire

Salute Taverna in Taylor extends a helping hand to seniors affected by the recent Southgate senior living facility fire.

Steve Korbal

Steve Korbal

Oct 29, 2025
Taylor Restaurant Offers Free Meals to Seniors Displaced by Southgate Fire

A catastrophic fire at the American House Senior Living Community in Southgate has left dozens of seniors without homes, but the Downriver community is responding with outpourings of support.

 

Salute Taverna in Taylor, owned by Donna Ficaj, is offering free meals to displaced residents for two weeks, hoping to bring comfort and restore a sense of normalcy during this upheaval.

 

The blaze, which erupted Friday night, destroyed the facility but spared lives, as all residents were safely evacuated with only minor injuries.

 

The loss remains deeply traumatic, especially for longtime residents like 80-year-old Joyce Richardson, who lost her possessions.

 

The Southgate Senior Center has also become a hub of donations, providing vital resources such as clothing and personal care items.

 

United by generosity, the community’s swift response is turning hardship into hope for those affected.

Michigan's Favorite Halloween Candy Unveiled — Can You Guess It?

A Sweet Shift in the Mitten State's Halloween Preferences

Steve Korbal

Steve Korbal

Oct 27, 2025
Michigan's Favorite Halloween Candy Unveiled — Can You Guess It?

Halloween buzz is building as Michigan shoppers fill their carts with treats for eager trick-or-treaters.

 

New data from 2025 signals an unexpected twist in candy favorites: Twizzlers now reign supreme across the state, nudging out previous champions.

 

This chewy licorice isn’t just a Michigan hit — its popularity is spreading through the Midwest, winning over Illinois and Ohio as well.

 

Michigan’s candy cravings have evolved quickly.

 

In 2023, Starburst swept into the top spot, beating out old favorite Candy Corn; by 2024, Starburst was still king, with Butterfinger rising in the ranks.

 

Now, Twizzlers take center stage.

 

Even as Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups dominate nationally, Michigan’s choice stands out, spotlighting its one-of-a-kind tastes.

 

This Halloween season, locals can expect plenty of variety — and no sugar shortage in sight.

From Lincoln Park to Detroit: Local Artist Steals the Spotlight at Emerge Festival

Marta Carvajal's journey from Madrid to Michigan culminates in a celebrated showcase at the Hannan Center's centennial event.

Steve Korbal

Steve Korbal

Oct 26, 2025
From Lincoln Park to Detroit: Local Artist Steals the Spotlight at Emerge Festival

Marta Carvajal, a Lincoln Park resident originally from Madrid, is capturing attention at Detroit’s Emerge! Art Festival with her evocative mixed-media works.

 

Her unique blend of painting and collage reflects deep personal narratives and a vibrant connection to her heritage.

 

After studying fine arts and working in publishing in Spain, Carvajal found fresh inspiration within metro Detroit’s diverse art scene.

 

She admires the city’s authentic creative spirit, describing the local art as purposeful and alive.

 

This year, Emerge! Art Festival—hosted by the Hannan Center—celebrates artists 55+ under the theme “100 Years Unbound: The Power of Aging.”

 

Carvajal’s participation highlights both her passion and the festival’s commitment to honoring lifelong creativity.

 

Her pieces are on view at the Ellen Kayrod Gallery at 4750 Woodward Avenue through January 14, 2026, with weekday hours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

 

Admission is free, offering everyone a chance to experience Detroit’s thriving community of aging artists.

Lincoln Park Artist Illuminates Detroit's Emerge! Art Festival

Marta Carvajal's Mixed-Media Works Bridge Generations and Cultures

Steve Korbal

Steve Korbal

Oct 26, 2025
Lincoln Park Artist Illuminates Detroit's Emerge! Art Festival

Marta Carvajal, a Lincoln Park artist, brings deep storytelling and healing to Detroit’s Emerge! Art Festival with her evocative mixed-media creations.

 

Her pieces merge Spanish heritage with Detroit’s rich artistic pulse, weaving identity, history, and memory into every portrait.

 

This year’s festival—held at the Hannan Center in honor of its 100th anniversary—spotlights over 170 works by artists over 55, showcasing creativity that blossoms with age.

 

Carvajal, now 57, celebrates this milestone as a powerful affirmation that vitality and inspiration transcend generations.

 

Her art, rich with personal mementos and layered textures, pays tribute to Detroit’s founders and to the enduring light of community legacy.

 

Carvajal hopes viewers leave feeling connected, inspired, and reminded that creativity deepens over a lifetime.

End of an Era: Downriver's Petri Bikes to Close After Nearly 80 Years

Woodhaven's beloved bike shop announces closure amid industry shifts and retirements

Steve Korbal

Steve Korbal

Oct 25, 2025
End of an Era: Downriver's Petri Bikes to Close After Nearly 80 Years

Petri Bikes, known for generations as Al Petri & Sons Bicycles, will close on November 29, 2025, after serving the Downriver community for almost 80 years.

 

Founded in 1946 by Al and Joyce Petri, the beloved Woodhaven shop has long been a hub for local cycling enthusiasts.

 

The family announced the closure citing shifts in the bicycle industry and the team’s coming retirements.

 

They thanked loyal customers and friends for decades of support, highlighting treasured relationships built over the years.

 

While Petri Bikes’ departure marks the end of an era, Woodhaven is buzzing with new businesses.

 

Rev’d Up Fun brings exciting indoor activities, and The Big Salad offers healthy dining since July 2025.

 

A new Culver’s is also set to open, reflecting the city’s energetic growth and changing landscape.

 

Woodhaven honors a cherished legacy as it embraces fresh opportunities ahead.

Your Guide to Where Downriver Dines and Unwinds

Discover the latest events and dining experiences in the Downriver community this October.

Steve Korbal

Steve Korbal

Oct 23, 2025
Your Guide to Where Downriver Dines and Unwinds

As autumn brings a burst of color to Downriver, the community buzzes with festive events and exciting new dining options.

 

The Fall Festival of the Arts runs October 5–23, 2025, at the Downriver Council for the Arts, spotlighting local creativity and talent.

 

Younger families can enjoy the Paint-A-Pumpkin Craft Event on October 11 at the Brownstown Community Center, hosted by Downriver West Kiwanis Club — a fun way to kick off Halloween celebrations.

 

Grosse Ile gears up for its beloved Paint the Town Red Parade on October 10, welcoming all in their brightest red attire, followed by the annual Halloween Parade on October 25, turning Macomb Street into a festive family destination.

 

Young professionals can build connections at Rev'd Up Fun in Woodhaven on October 28 during a lively networking night.

 

Hungry for something new? Latitudes Restaurant & Bar in Wyandotte delivers seafood and Caribbean-inspired dishes with stunning river views.

 

This fall, Downriver’s events and flavors promise something for everyone to enjoy.

AI for the Win! Downriver Woman Scores $100K Powerball Prize with ChatGPT’s Help

Wyandotte resident leverages artificial intelligence to select winning lottery numbers

Steve Korbal

Steve Korbal

Oct 22, 2025
AI for the Win! Downriver Woman Scores $100K Powerball Prize with ChatGPT’s Help

Tammy Carvey, a Wyandotte local, embraced artificial intelligence to choose her lottery numbers, leading to a stunning $100,000 Powerball win.

 

On September 6, Carvey matched four white balls and the Powerball—using numbers suggested by ChatGPT—scoring a $50,000 prize.

 

Her decision to play the Power Play feature doubled those winnings, leaving her and her husband in disbelief when they realized the true total.

 

Carvey, 45, only buys Powerball tickets when jackpots soar; this time, a prize topping $1 billion inspired her unique AI approach.

 

She plans to pay off her home and save the rest, blending practical goals with her lucky windfall.

 

The Michigan Lottery reminds residents that draws remain entirely random, regardless of any number picker.

 

Carvey’s win shines as a local example of how technology and luck sometimes intersect in surprising ways.

30 Downriver Adventures Every Kid (and Parent) Will Love!

Discover a variety of family-friendly activities in Downriver, from animal encounters to playgrounds and splash pads.

Steve Korbal

Steve Korbal

Oct 21, 2025
30 Downriver Adventures Every Kid (and Parent) Will Love!

Discover Downriver’s vibrant offerings with family-friendly adventures across parks, farms, and splash zones.

 

At Taylor’s Heritage Park Petting Farm, kids delight in meeting cows, goats, pigs, and horses. Elizabeth Park’s Children’s Pony Ranch features gentle pony rides for little ones, plus donkeys and even a llama.

 

Sample creamy ice cream at Calder’s Dairy Farm while watching cows and calves. For something unique, Gibraltar Bay Alpaca Farm lets families interact with alpacas and browse handcrafted goods.

 

Downriver’s playgrounds shine, from Lake Erie Metropark with views of the Great Lakes, to the train-themed Kiwanis Park and splashy fun at Thorn Park in Brownstown. Northwest Park in Taylor offers top-notch equipment and trails for all ages.

 

Cool off at Sterling State Park’s sandy beach, Kennedy Aquatic Center’s slides, or Woodhaven Civic Center’s free splash pad. Rainy days bring excitement at indoor spots like Rev’d Up Fun and Airborne Adventure Park.

 

Cap your summer evenings with an outdoor movie at Memory Lane Drive-In in Monroe.

Rep. Linting's New Plan Aims to Strengthen Safety Across Downriver

Legislation Introduced to Deter Fleeing from Law Enforcement

Steve Korbal

Steve Korbal

Oct 19, 2025
Rep. Linting's New Plan Aims to Strengthen Safety Across Downriver

State Representative Rylee Linting is taking action to improve public safety in the Downriver area by introducing House Bill 4690, which calls for tougher penalties on those who flee from law enforcement.

 

This proposal would establish mandatory minimum sentences — including five years in prison for first-degree offenses and at least 30 days for fourth-degree repeat offenders.

 

Rising incidents of police chases, especially in Downriver communities, have raised alarm among both residents and officers.

 

Linting stressed the risks, pointing to dangerous chases through neighborhoods and school zones.

 

Recent injuries to Southgate police and support from Wyandotte Police Chief Archie Hamilton highlight the urgent need for reform.

 

The bill, which passed the House Judiciary Committee, now heads to the full House for further debate.

 

Meanwhile, Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido has already enacted a zero-tolerance policy on plea deals for these offenses, responding to a sharp rise in pursuits.

 

These proactive measures aim to strengthen community safety and deter future crimes.

Eventful Year Ahead for Southgate Community and Residents

Southgate's Growth Continues with New Developments and Community Initiatives

Steve Korbal

Steve Korbal

Oct 16, 2025
Eventful Year Ahead for Southgate Community and Residents

Southgate, Michigan is entering a dynamic new chapter with major projects and fresh community spaces on the horizon.

 

One of the largest residential developments in over a decade, Redwood Living, will add around 170 single-story homes, boosting local housing options.

 

The commercial landscape is also surging, as Downriver Federal Credit Union sets up its headquarters in the city and Staybridge Suites joins the hotel scene along Northline Road, fueling economic growth.

 

The transformation of the former Montgomery Ward site into Market Center Park brings a lively new venue for festivals and events at Eureka and Trenton Roads, spotlighting Southgate’s strong community spirit.

 

Nearby, CubeSmart’s redevelopment of a former Kroger adds a living wall and new pathways, connecting residents with more green space and recreation.

 

The opening of HopCat’s 11th Michigan location at 15231 Trenton Road, featuring 40 craft taps and unique eats, adds to Southgate’s growing energy.

 

Combined, these $40 million investments are enhancing opportunity and vitality throughout the city.

Dolce V Cucina Italiana Brings Authentic Flavors to Woodhaven

New Italian Restaurant Opens Its Doors with Familiar Faces and Time-Honored Recipes

Steve Korbal

Steve Korbal

Oct 16, 2025
Dolce V Cucina Italiana Brings Authentic Flavors to Woodhaven

Woodhaven welcomes an exciting addition to its dining scene as Dolce V Cucina Italiana celebrates its grand opening on October 16.

 

This highly anticipated restaurant is led by Vince Cangialosi and his sons, Luca and Noah, known for their longstanding reputation in Downriver’s Italian cuisine.

 

The Cangialosi family returns to Michigan after operating beloved eateries in Riverview and Monroe, as well as ventures in Florida.

 

An emphasis on quality shines through, with fresh house-made dishes and premium ingredients sourced from Italy and Sicily.

 

The restaurant, transformed from a former Blockbuster, features warm décor, a stylish granite bar, and an open kitchen where guests can watch the chefs in action.

 

With seating for 75, a private wine room, and a menu inspired by traditional favorites and new specialties like arancini, Dolce V Cucina Italiana invites the community for a true Italian experience.

Downriver Beat

© 2025 Downriver Beat.

Downriver Beat is your friendly, go-to guide for life in Downriver, MI, capturing the unique rhythm of the communities along the river. It delivers a curated mix of essential local news, can't-miss events, hidden gems waiting to be discovered, and shoutouts to the amazing neighbors who make the area special. This is the pulse of the community, celebrating the people and places that make Downriver feel like home.

© 2025 Downriver Beat.