Even bloggers deserve a holiday

Thanks for stopping by but I've got the wind in my sail and my boss gave me the day off. 

I'll be back when the calendar flips to Monday. 

Until then -- have a brilliant and safe weekend!

Hollywood returns to Michigan with an event for kids

Baseball and summer go together like popcorn and movies. This weekend families will have the opportunity to attend an event that combines it all. 

As part of a promotion for the new movie, "Home Run Showdown" opening in theaters next weekend, children are invited to participate in the Home Run Showdown Kids Derby, from 5 to 7 p.m., July 26 at the Southfield Civic Center Field. 

The following night there will be a red carpet premiere at the AMC Star Southfield, starting at 6:30 p.m. 

“Home Run Showdown's” director, writer, producers and some cast members are expected to attend both events.

Filmed in Michigan last year, "Home Run Showdown" is a comedy about the new kid on the block, 12-year-old Lori (Kyle Kirk) whose life hs gone from bad to worse. His mother died and his father is in prison. When attempts to make the local baseball league fail, Lori joins forces with two other misfits - larger than life Tanker (Brandon Balog) and feisty tomboy Fassi (Emma-Lee Hess) - in order to make an unusual dream come true: being a part of the Big League's power-hitting tournament, the Home Run Showdown, and having his dad witness it on TV.

Swing over to the park and be a part of something cool for summer. The Kids Derby is free and open to the public. Children who wish to participate in the "Home Run Showdown," "Rob A Homer At The Wall" and "No Infield Fly Rule Contest," must be between the age of 8 and 14. There will be cash prizes. 

Registration for the derby, at 26000 Evergreen Road in Southfield, begins at 4:30 p.m., July 26. The event runs from 5 to 7 p.m. 

For more information visit http://www.homerunshowdownthefilm.com/contest.htm. 

The red carpet premiere for "Home Run Showdown," also starring Dean Cain, Matt Lillard, Annabeth Gish, Barry Bostwick, Wayne Duvall, and directed by Oz Scott, takes place at the AMC Star Southfield, 25333 W. 12 Mile Road, Southfield. Tickets are available for public purchase.

  

DAYTRIPPING

Check out some of the other family-friendly events going on in the Detroit area:

Dance marathon

Paint Creek Center for the Arts hosts “Dance ‘til You Drop” marathon, 6-11 p.m. July 28, at the Center, 407 Pine St. at Fourth Street, in downtown Rochester. Non-dancers admission $15 for PCCA members, $20 non-members; dancers will collect pledges for five hours of dancing or donate a minimum $50 to participate. For registration and pledge information, 248-651-4110 or www.pccart.org.

Card parties

Ashlar Chapter No. 378 Order of Eastern Star hosts card party and luncheon, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. July 23, at Roseville Masonic Center, 27151 Gratiot. Hot lunch served at noon; admission $7 per person. Call 586-772-6126.

St. Clair Shores Fraternal Order of Eagles Auxiliary 3619 hosts benefit card party, 1-4 p.m. July 29, at the hall, 23631 Greater Mack, St. Clair Shores. Admission $7 includes light lunch, prizes; proceeds to Eagles Kidney Foundation.

Tea Talk

Crocker House Museum/Macomb County Historical Society present “Tea Talk Tuesdays at Two,” 2 p.m. Tuesdays, July 24, Aug. 14, Sept. 18 and Oct. 23, at the museum, 15 Union St., Mount Clemens. Events include historical programs, refreshments; tickets $7 Society members, $10 non-members. For reservations, 586-465-2488. Museum tours included.

Summer sounds

The Mall at Partridge Creek and Motor City Co-op Credit Union present free daily outdoor concerts (weather permitting) at Center Court through Labor Day (Sept. 3) at the Clinton Township mall on Hall Road between Romeo Plank and Garfield roads. Performances are 5:30-8 p.m. Monday-Friday, 4-8 p.m. Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays and holidays. For details, visit www.shoppartridgecreek.com.

Free music series “Sound of Music … Past,” 7 p.m. July 25 (Sentimental Journey Band) and Aug. 22 (Jean Bastian’s Double Brass Quartet), at Beebe Street Park, Richmond, presented by Senior Helpers of Richmond. Call 586-430-1015.

Concerts/dancing at Lake St. Clair Metropark take place 6:30-10 p.m. Sundays through August; music free with Metropark vehicle annual entry permit, $25 season, $15 ages 62 and older, or $5 daily. Visit www.metroparks.com or call 586-463-4581.

Grosse Pointe Village Association’s Music on The Plaza free outdoor jazz concert series presented by St. John Hospital & Medical Center, 7 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 2, on Village Festival Plaza at Kercheval and St. Clair in downtown Grosse Pointe. Call 313-886-7474 or www.thevillagegp.com.

Concerts at Stony Creek Metropark in Washington Township feature Air Margaritaville, July 20; Justine Blazer, Aug. 3; Dr. Pocket, Aug. 10. Music begins 7:30 p.m. at Eastwood Beach. Free, but Metropark vehicle entry permit required. Call 586-781-4242 or www.metroparks.com.

Lexington Arts Council Music in the Park series, opening acts 6 p.m., main show 7:30 p.m. July 27 Aug. 3, 10, 17, at Patrick Tierney Memorial Park, Lexington. Free. Visit www.lexarts.com.

Wild Summer Nights concert series at Detroit Zoo, 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays through Aug. 29, in Main Picnic Grove; free with zoo admission. Guests can bring own picnics or purchase refreshments at concessions.

Summer Music Festival at Grosse Pointe War Memorial, 32 Lakeshore Road, 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Aug. 8; grounds open 6 p.m. Admission $8 per person; food available for purchase or guests can bring their own picnic. For details, 313-881-7511 ro www.WarMemorial.org.

On stage

Stagecrafters Youth Theatre performs “Bye Bye Birdie,” 3 and 7 p.m. July 21, 1 p.m. July 22, at the Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette in downtown Royal Oak. Advance tickets $6 youth, $10 adult, available at www.stagecrafters.org or 248-541-6430, or one hour prior to performances at additional $2 per ticket.

“Robocop: The Musical” 8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, through Aug. 3, at Go Comedy! Improv Theater, 261 Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. Tickets $15. Visit www.gocomedy.net.

“Macho Men and the Women Who Love Them,” makes Detroit debut July 26 at Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, 6:30 p.m. reception, 7:45 p.m. performance, followed by salsa afterglow with music and dancing. For tickets, mariacosta.com.

Park*it

Park*it family fun nights under way in Macomb County at several parks. Activities start at 6 p.m., music 7:30, and movie at 9. For schedule, visit www.parkit4fun.com.

Youth Camps

Assumption Cultural Center in St. Clair Shores hosts summer youth camp for ages 7-12, in conjunction with Detroit Institute of Arts, 9 a.m.-noon July 23-Aug. 23; full-day child care available 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Camp programs include art projects and discussions, field trip to the DIA, volleyball and basketball clinics. For fee and registration information, 586-772-4477 or www.assumptionnursery.org.

Warren Library

Upcoming free library programs at Warren Civic Center Library, east of Van Dyke north of 12 Mile Road; include: *“Full Traveling Farm” for all ages, “Block Party” for ages 3 and up using Lego and MEGA Blocks, 2-3:30 p.m. July 21; *nocturnal animals, 6:30 p.m. July 26; *“Ming the Magnificent” evening of magic, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 2; *“R.E.P.T.I.L.E., Inc. visit with reptiles, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 9; *registration required by calling 586-751-0770.

At the Zoo

After-hours 21 and older Summer Zoomance, 6-9 p.m. Aug. 23, at the Detroit Zoo, 10 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, includes twilight strolls among animal habitats, rides ($5 each), carousel ($2). Zoomance admission $10 advance, $12 at the gate, parking $5 for non-zoo members, free for members. For reservations, www.detroitzoo.org. Also, Wild Wine event includes wine tasting, music, tram tours and zookeeper talks, 6-10:30 p.m. July 27, at the zoo. Tickets $35 online or at the gate; Designated Driver tickets $20, include zoo admission, parking, soft drinks. For tickets, 248-541-5717, ext. 9, or www.detroitzoo.org/events/wild-beasts-wild-wine.

Wet and Wild

Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm hosts Wed and Wile Wednesdays through  Aug. 1, with musical entertainment noon-1 p.m., children’s fun (fire truck sprays, creek wading, slip and slide) 1-2 p.m. Free for museum members, $3 non-members. Also, Children’s Music Festival those 11 a.m.-2 p.m. those Wednesdays at the museum, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, east of Rochester Road off Tienken Road. For details, 248-656-4663 or www.rochesterhills.org.

Shores Library

Free Film Movement program 6:30 p.m. third Thursday in William R. Gilstorf Meeting Room at St. Clair Shores Public Library, 22500 11 Mile Road. For details, 586-771-9020 or www.scslibrary.org.

Chesterfield Walks

Free Chesterfield Walks for ages 55 and older take place 9:30 a.m. July 25, Aug. 8, 22 and 28, and 9 a.m. June 26, July 17, 31, and Aug. 14 and 28, at the Charter Township of Chesterfield Municipal Building. Registration required.

Benefit on the Bay

Capuchin Soup Kitchen fundraiser 19th Benefit on the Bay, 5:30 p.m. Aug. 24, at Mac&Ray’s in Harrison Township. Tickets, $60, include dinner, dancing, beer, wine, three bands, auctions and drawings. To order, 313-579-2100 ext. 153 or 170, or www.BenefitOnTheBay.org.

Leaps & Bounds

Early childhood education training programs for caregivers and parents, 9:15-11 a.m. Wednesdays at Early Childhood Center, 24580 Cunningham, Center Line, and 10:30-11:30 a.m. Thursdays at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, 8129 Packard, Warren, sponsored by non-profit Leaps & Bounds Family Services. For complete schedule, 313-402-0802 or 586-675-0451.

Meadow Brook

Summer tours at Meadow Brook Hall on the Oakland University Campus in Rochester are under way at 11:30 a.m., 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. A new architecture tour includes interior and exterior highlights of the design and construction process, 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; Behind-The-Scenes tours  that include the staff wing are noon and 1:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; each tour admission is $15 adults, $10 seniors, free ages 12 and younger. Twilight Tuesdays are 6-9 p.m. June 12, July 13 and Aug. 28, $10 adults, free ages 12 and younger. Call 248-364-6200 or go to www.meadowbrookhall.org.

Fishing clubs

Vanguard Trout Unlimited for fishing enthusiasts meets 7:30 p.m. second Thursday monthly at Rochester’s Dinosaur Hill. Also, Fishing Buddies Fishing Club gathers 6:30 p.m. third Tuesdays at Rochester Hills OPC, 650 Leticia Drive. Call 248-375-1931.

Cars and boating

Classic car and boating enthusiasts alike will enjoy the event at Stahl’s Auto Museum at 56516 North Bay Dr., (26 Mile and Gratiot Ave) in Chesterfield Township, July 22. There will be more than 70 vintage vehicles on display and someone will win the chance to ride in one with Mr. Stahl. Save Our South Channel Lights will be guests at the event, displaying photos of local lighthouses.  

Features editor Debbie Komar contributed to this list

Millions get set to join London 2012 Olympic Games

AP photo

I'm an Olympic junkie. It's not because of the sports, although I enjoy watching almost everything. What draws me in are the heartwarming, fist-pumping, tear-jerking behind-the-scene stories that emerge throughout every Olympic Games.

Sure, we root for the home team. But often the circumstances surrounding the competitions create heroes who move us to root for the person rather than the country.

Olympic Torch bearer Patti "Turville" Farquaharson.

Consider 1988 Olympic Torch bearer Patti Farquaharson. She filled out 300 entry forms over the course of a year to be eligible for the ultimate prize: the honor of carrying the Olympic torch on her home turf during the Calgary Olympics. The Canadian schoolteacher and mom proved to her students that in order to be part of something great you have to at least try. The summer before Canadian sailor Larry Lemieux was on his way to winning an Olympic medal in Seoul when he saw two men from Singapore whose craft had capsized in turbulent waves. He changed course and saved the lives of those two men, but in doing so, lost any chance of winning a medal. 

And who can forget Romania's Nadia Elena Commaneci, the gymnast who emerged from behind the Iron Curtain and warmed the hearts of everyone on both sides of the Cold War with her amazing perfect 10 score.  

Also inspiring was the example set by Britain's Derek Redmond at the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona. He was expected to compete for a medal in the 400- meter run, but pulled a hamstring in the backstretch and crumpled to the ground. He could have called for a stretcher and left the field. Instead he pulled himself up and with his father at his side, hobbled down the final 200 meter stretch to complete the race. 

It's people like this who illustrate what's most important about the Olympics and that is "not to win but to take part!" 

Take a look at the stories likely to unfold at the 2012 London Olympics, set to begin on July 27:

AP Photo/Victoria Will

American weightlifter Holley Mangold, at left, first made news playing offensive line as the only girl on her high school football team in Ohio. But she switched sports a few years ago and now the 5-foot-8 sister of New York Jets Pro Bowl center Nick Mangold will compete at the London Olympics as a superheavyweight in weightlifting.

Britain's Ben Ainslie pictured above, celebrates after winning the gold medal during the Finn sailing competition at the 2008 Beijing Olympics in Qingdao, China. If you love sailing this is one person to watch at the London Olympics, as the 35-year-old Ainslie is hoping to win his fourth straight gold medal, and fifth straight medal overall, which would make him the most successful Olympic sailor ever.

Jerome Singleton AP Photo/Victoria Will

Paralympic sprinter Jerome Singleton, posing for his portrait at the 2012 Team USA Summit in Dallas, will get his shot to become the fastest in the world -- and the chance to gain a platform for his sport like rival sprinter Oscar Pistorius from South Africa.

Joshua Richmong AP Photo/Victoria Will

Joshua Richmond shown above at the 2012 Team USA Media Summit in Dallas is carrying the colors of his country again. The staff sergeant is a member of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, based at Fort Benning, Ga., and is also a member of the U.S. shooting team heading to the London Olympics. "It's the best of both worlds," he said. "I'm serving my country with whatever uniform I'm wearing."

AP Photo/Charles Dharapak

Shown competing at the men's judo heavyweight division preliminaries at the Beijing 2088 Olympics are Israel's Arik Zeevi, white, and France's Frederic Demontfaucon. Zeevi has already earned his place among the country's sporting pantheon, as one of only six Israelis to have won an Olympic medal. Stil the 35-year-old judoka, who recently won a European title, is not ready to leave the mats. He's got one more fight left in him: a run at the 2012 London Olympics. "The fact that I'm 35 years is an advantage because I have experience," Zeevi told The Associated Press. "I'm trying to take the advantage of my age and bring it to the match. But I don't fool myself. I know that to bring results in my age is very difficult."

AP Photo/The World-Herald, Alyssa Schukar

 Always inspiring is the United States swim team, pictured above at the final night of the U.S. Olympic swimming trials, July 2, in Omaha, Neb.

The London 2012 Games is expected to attract 28,000 members of the media, providing awe-inspiring images such as this photo taken by Mark J. Terrill. 

AP Photo/Hassan Ammar

London's games could be a historical event for international sports as all of the participating nations are expected to field at least one female athlete, including three Muslim countries — Qatar, Brunei and Saudi Arabia — that have previously sent only male competitors. Hoping to join their Olympic team in London are members of the Saudi female soccer team, who posed before a training session at a secret location in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Back row, standing from left are: Rawh Abdullah, Saudi, 28; Rana Al Khateeb, Saudi, 23; and Mawada Chaballout, American, 27. Bottom row are: Mashael Abdullah, Saudi 27; left, and Lamia Fahad, Saudi, 24.

Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh are expected to officially open the games. NBC will broadcast 271 hours of London Olympic coverage over 17 days beginning with the Opening Ceremony at 7:30 p.m. ET/PT on Friday, July 27. Livestream online will also be available. 

The lavender party is underway in Armada

Photo courtesy of Gabriel's Garden.

The raspberries are red but everything else at Blake's Orchard and Cider Mill in Armada is some shade of lavender -- as the family farm on Armada Center Road is hosting the Michigan Lavender Festival, now through July 15.

The weather is hot and you'll need to dress lightly but it is worth the trip. Besides, there is no shortage of ice cold lavender lemonade and ice cream.

"This is awesome," said a customer with red cheeks, who had stepped into the barn for a glass of the house beverage. I followed her lead only I topped it off with a scoop of ice cream, which I might add, was fantastic. 

Before polishing off my lemonade lavender float I toured the grounds of the festival. Among the vendors I had the pleasure of meeting was Mary Orlando, 50, of Leonard, Mich., owner of The French Market Place (www.frenchmarketplaceonline.com) who has been participating in the festival since the beginning. Ten-years ago, Jennifer Vasich, author, aroma therapist and creator of Gabriel's Garden line of herbal bodycare and her husband Michael started the festival as a means of introducing people to the grandmother of herbs and the related products offered by area merchants. 

Now it's a summertime tradition.

"You've heard of the expression you have arrived?" said Orlando. "Well I think Jennifer Vasich has arrived. She's made people's awareness of lavender much greater."

Not to mention creating a festival unlike any other.

Lavender cookies.

Lavender tea towels.

Baby clothes and pottery all inspired by the lovely shade of lavender.

"We've even got lavender jade," said Orlando, holding up a silver ring featuring a lovely purple stone made by GotAllYourMarbles.com.

Nearly 100 artisans and 80-plus booths can be found in the open air marketplace set up on the grounds of Blake's Orchard & Cider Mill. "Without a doubt, there is something for everyone," said Jennifer Vasich. 

At left is a tile made by one of the artists on display.

Blake Farms Orchard & Cider Mill is located at 17985 Armada Center Road in Armada. The lavender festival runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., now through Sunday. Free parking, admission only $5, and kids 12 and under are free. For more information, visit: Michigan Lavender Festival or All Things Lavender

If you have a glass of lavender lemonade chances are you're going to want another, and another. Here's the recipe courtesy of Gabriel's Garden.

Lavender Lemonade

INGREDIENTS

2-1/2 cups water 

1 cup sugar 

1 tablespoon culinary lavender buds

2-1/2 cups cold water 

1 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice 

Ice cubes

DIRECTIONS 

In a large saucepan bring water and sugar to a boil. Remove from the heat; add lavender. Cover and let stand for one hour.

Strain and discard lavender. Stir in cold water and lemon juice. Serve over ice. 

Yield: 6 servings.

‘Shop ‘Til You Drop’ for the troops

Ashley McClelland, Kim Anderson and Karen Buchta

When they saw soldiers working at their own Christmas party, the wives of the 127th Security Forces Squadron assigned to Selfridge Air National Guard Base decided to create Spouses of the Brave. This private, nonprofit organization is dedicated to raising money to give back to military members via events throughout the year.

The group presents its first fundraising event, a “Shop ‘Til You Drop Vendor Sale” from 2 to 9 p.m. July 14, at the American Legion Hall on Groesbeck in Mount Clemens.

If they are successful this year's Christmas party will be on them. "I want members of the unit to be able to get dressed up and enjoy themselves," said Karen Buchta, 49, of Troy, co-founder of Spouses of the Brave. "We would also like to be able to plan other events like a summer picnic or something else the families can enjoy together."

"We're excited and very optimistic," said co-founder Kimberly Anderson, 33, of Eaton Rapids, and former member of the 127 Security Forces. Like many men and women moved by the events of 9/11 she followed her heart. "I knew I needed to do something with my life," she said. So she joined the U.S. Air Force and became a military police officer. While serving her country as a member of the Security Forces Squadron at Selfridge, she met the love of her life TSGT Sergeant Christopher Anderson, 39, of Lansing, who is still active. They were comrades in arms and within three years, husband and wife.

The following year Christopher, who had already served several tours, was deployed to Iraq. "I was nine months pregnant when he left," said Kimberly. "So I was scared, and I don't have any family here." 

One of Kimberly's goals for Spouses of the Brave is to provide support for spouses -- whether it means sending a new mom a note of congratulations and a bouquet of flowers or a home-cooked meal. 

Karen said that while fundraising is a big part of their mission, Spouses of the Brave is also a social group where members can share information, help, advice and time. "(It’s) Like when someone's spouse is being deployed for the first time and they don’t know what to expect. We can lead them to people who can help," Karen said. 

Tickets for the vendor event are $5 and include a ticket for an hourly door prize drawing. The sale features numerous vendors offering everything from fashion accessories and pedicures to massages and cooking demonstrations. To make the event even more fun there's a table the size of an aircraft carrier filled with auction items. Looking for tickets to a Tigers’ game? How about airfare or hotel accommodations? Does your child want to learn how to skate?

"I'm excited about them all and I'm sure I'll be broke by the end of the day," said Karen. "One of the vendors makes things out of old military apparel. I'm thinking I could take my husband's old fatigues and have a backpack made for my son."

"It's heartwarming to see the stuff that has rolled in," Kimberly said. "People do care."

For tickets to the event or to make a donation to Spouses of the Brave, email spousesofthebrave@gmail.com. The American Legion Hall is located at 401 N. Groesbeck Highway, Mount Clemens.

DAYTRIPPING

It's shaping up to be a fantastic weekend. Check out our list of other family-friendly events going on in the Detroit area:

War of 1812 Bicentennial Cruise

The Great Lakes Marine Institute will present their next bicentennial cruise on the lower Detroit River on Aug. 5. The trip is inspired by our maritime heritage; the vessels, sailors and passengers who traveled the Great Lakes during turbulent times surrounding the War of 1812. Join members of the Institute as they cruise where the War of 1812 happened on the waterways of the western frontier. 

"Cruising on the east side of Bob-Lo Island the group will travel in the same channel that Schooner Cuyahoga took on her voyage from the Rapids of the Maumee River on July 2, 1812. The Schooner Cuyahoga was captured by the British Forces, and this event will be reenacted with the aid of the Provincial Marine and the tall ship St. Lawrence II," according to a spokesperson for the Great Lakes Maritime Institute. 

The 3-hour narrated cruise aboard the Friendship at the Portofino Restaurant dock at 3455 Biddle Avenue, Wyandotte, leaves at NOON. Seating is limited and includes lunch, beverages, and a cash bar for $60. For more information, visit www.glmi.org or call 586-777-8300 or 313-441-1155.

Lavender Festival

The 10th annual Michigan Lavender Festival is underway at Blake's Orchard and Cider Mill, 17985 Armada Center Road in Armada. Admission: $5; children 12 and under free. The popular festival, going on throughout the weekend from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., features a bumper crop of vendors, artisans and professionals who will be offering unique products, workshops, demonstrations and more. All of which, naturally, are inspired by the Grandmother of herbs, lavender. Get your purple on and head to Blake Farms. Free parking within walking distance. For further information visit: Michigan Lavender Festival 

Park*it

Park*it family fun nights under way in Macomb County at several parks. Activities start at 6 p.m., music 7:30, and movie at 9. For schedule, visit www.parkit4fun.com.

Boat4Vets

Boat4Vets program for military veterans includes boat rides, barbecue, prizes, 10 a.m., barbecue 3-4 p.m. July 14, at Idle Hour Yacht Club on Harsens Island. Call 810-742-0173.

Sawdust Festival

Wolcott Mill Metropark Historic Center hosts "Sawdust Festival," 1-5 p.m. July 15, 63100 Kunstman Road, Ray Township. Event includes log cutting, candle dipping, pioneer stories; admission $4 per person, free ages 5 and younger, craft tickets $1 each. Call 586-749-5997 or visit www.metroparks.com.

Giggle Gang

Barbie visits Oakland Mall in Troy at 11 a.m., noon, 1, 4, 5 and 6 p.m. July 18; event includes face painting and meeting Barbie. Tickets, free for Giggle Gang members, $3 non-members, available at mall information center on lover level near escalators. For details, OaklandMall.com.

Youth Camps

Assumption Cultural Center in St. Clair Shores hosts summer youth camp for ages 7-12, in conjunction with Detroit Institute of Arts, 9 a.m.-noon July 23-Aug. 23; full-day child care available 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Camp programs include art projects and discussions, field trip to the DIA, volleyball and basketball clinics. For fee and registration information, 586-772-4477 or www.assumptionnursery.org.

Warren Library

Free "Gaming 2nd Saturdays" program for teens only, 2-4 p.m. July 14, at Warren Civic Center Library, east of Van Dyke north of 12 Mile Road; game systems available. Upcoming free library programs there include: *"Full Traveling Farm" for all ages, 6:30 p.m. July 19; "Block Party" for ages 3 and up using Lego and MEGA Blocks, 2-3:30 p.m. July 21; *nocturnal animals, 6:30 p.m. July 26; *"Ming the Magnificent" evening of magic, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 2; *"R.E.P.T.I.L.E., Inc. visit with reptiles, 6:30 p.m. Aug. 9; *registration required by calling 586-751-0770.

Summer Zoomance

After-hours 21 and older Summer Zoomance, 6-9 p.m. Aug. 23, at the Detroit Zoo, 10 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, includes twilight strolls among animal habitats, rides ($5 each), carousel ($2). Zoomance admission $10 advance, $12 at the gate, parking $5 for non-zoo members, free for members. For reservations, www.detroitzoo.org.

Wet and Wild

Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm hosts Wed and Wile Wednesdays through  Aug. 1, with musical entertainment noon-1 p.m., children's fun (fire truck sprays, creek wading, slip and slide) 1-2 p.m. Free for museum members, $3 non-members. Also, Children's Music Festival those 11 a.m.-2 p.m. those Wednesdays at the museum, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, east of Rochester Road off Tienken Road. For details, 248-656-4663 or www.rochesterhills.org.

Shelby Seniors

Activities planned for ages 50 and older at Shelby Senior Center include free movies 12:30 p.m. July 19, Detroit River cruise July 20, and Red Cross Blood Drive 2-8 p.m. Aug. 7. For complete schedule information, call 586-739-7540.

Summer sounds

Detroit Symphony Orchestra performs 7:30 p.m. July 14 on the lawn of the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores. Grounds open at 6 p.m. Concert opens with Detroit Children's Choir. For tickets, $12-$25, also $50 and $175 VIP, call 313-576-5111 or visit www.dso.org. Pre-paid parking $5.

The Mall at Partridge Creek and Motor City Co-op Credit Union present free daily outdoor concerts (weather permitting) at Center Court through Labor Day (Sept. 3) at the Clinton Township mall on Hall Road between Romeo Plank and Garfield roads. Performances are 5:30-8 p.m. Monday-Friday, 4-8 p.m. Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays and holidays. For details, visit www.shoppartridgecreek.com.

Free music series "Sound of Music ... Past," 7 p.m. July 25 (Sentimental Journey Band) and Aug. 22 (Jean Bastian's Double Brass Quartet), at Beebe Street Park, Richmond, presented by Senior Helpers of Richmond. Call 586-430-1015.

Concerts/dancing at Lake St. Clair Metropark take place 6:30-10 p.m. Sundays through August; music free with Metropark vehicle annual entry permit, $25 season, $15 ages 62 and older, or $5 daily. Visit www.metroparks.com or call 586-463-4581.

Grosse Pointe Village Association's Music on The Plaza free outdoor jazz concert series presented by St. John Hospital & Medical Center, 7 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 2, on Village Festival Plaza at Kercheval and St. Clair in downtown Grosse Pointe. Call 313-886-7474 or www.thevillagegp.com.

Concerts at Stony Creek Metropark in Washington Township feature Air Margaritaville, July 20; Justine Blazer, Aug. 3; Dr. Pocket, Aug. 10. Music begins 7:30 p.m. at Eastwood Beach. Free, but Metropark vehicle entry permit required. Call 586-781-4242 or www.metroparks.com.

Lexington Arts Council Music in the Park series, opening acts 6 p.m., main show 7:30 p.m. July 13, 20, 27, Aug. 3, 10, 17, at Patrick Tierney Memorial Park, Lexington. Free. Visit www.lexarts.com.

Wild Summer Nights concert series at Detroit Zoo, 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays through Aug. 29, in Main Picnic Grove; free with zoo admission. Guests can bring own picnics or purchase refreshments at concessions.

Summer Music Festival at Grosse Pointe War Memorial, 32 Lakeshore Road, 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Aug. 8; grounds open 6 p.m. Admission $8 per person; food available for purchase or guests can bring their own picnic. For details, 313-881-7511 ro www.WarMemorial.org.

On stage

Stagecrafters Youth Theatre performs "Bye Bye Birdie," 7 p.m. July 19-21, 3 p.m. July 21, and 1 p.m. July 22, at the Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette in downtown Royal Oak. Advance tickets $6 youth, $10 adult, available at www.stagecrafters.org or 248-541-6430, or one hour prior to performances at additional $2 per ticket.

"Robocop: The Musical" 8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, through Aug. 3, at Go Comedy! Improv Theater, 261 Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. Tickets $15. Visit www.gocomedy.net.

Benefit on the Bay

Capuchin Soup Kitchen fundraiser 19th Benefit on the Bay, 5:30 p.m. Aug. 24, at Mac&Ray's in Harrison Township. Tickets, $60, include dinner, dancing, beer, wine, three bands, auctions and drawings. To order, 313-579-2100 ext. 153 or 170, or www.BenefitOnTheBay.org.

Leaps & Bounds

Early childhood education training programs for caregivers and parents, 9:15-11 a.m. Wednesdays at Early Childhood Center, 24580 Cunningham, Center Line, and 10:30-11:30 a.m. Thursdays at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, 8129 Packard, Warren, sponsored by non-profit Leaps & Bounds Family Services. For complete schedule, 313-402-0802 or 586-675-0451.

Meadow Brook

Summer tours at Meadow Brook Hall on the Oakland University Campus in Rochester are under way at 11:30 a.m., 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. A new architecture tour includes interior and exterior highlights of the design and construction process, 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; Behind-The-Scenes tours  that include the staff wing are noon and 1:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; each tour admission is $15 adults, $10 seniors, free ages 12 and younger. Twilight Tuesdays are 6-9 p.m. June 12, July 13 and Aug. 28, $10 adults, free ages 12 and younger. Call 248-364-6200 or go to www.meadowbrookhall.org.

Fishing clubs

Vanguard Trout Unlimited for fishing enthusiasts meets 7:30 p.m. second Thursday monthly at Rochester's Dinosaur Hill. Also, Fishing Buddies Fishing Club gathers 6:30 p.m. third Tuesdays at Rochester Hills OPC, 650 Leticia Drive. Call 248-375-1931.

Features editor Debbie Komar contributed to this report.

An award earned by Macomb Habitat for Humanity

Macomb Daily file photo by David Dalton

'A Brush With Kindness' 
Program is good for people and neighborhoods




What helps get people through trying times like these are nonprofit groups committed to improving life for members of their community.

The Community Reinvestment Act Associations recognizes the work they do by each year presenting the prestigious Community Development Champion Award. This year that honor goes to Macomb Habitat for Humanity.

“Macomb Habitat for Humanity was appreciative and honored to be nominated among many worthwhile charities by the CRA Associations of Michigan and Macomb for their 2012 Community Development Champion Award,” said Michelle Clement, Macomb Habitat fund development director. “We gladly accepted their award and generous donation on behalf of our dedicated volunteers, donors and staff to support our mission to revitalize neighborhoods and families in Macomb County by providing a hand-up, not a handout, to low-income partner families in need.”

What garnered the attention of the Macomb County CRA Association was the record impact that Macomb Habitat had on not just one but four communities. Volunteers were able to complete 22 homes -- putting 19 hard-working partner families with more than 30 adults and 40 children in households that will contribute to the tax base in Roseville, Eastpointe, Clinton Township and Warren. What makes it even better is 17 of these homes were renovated properties that were foreclosed and abandoned, said White.
If you’re a homeowner you can appreciate what it means to a neighborhood when a home that was once dark and bleak -- except for the bright orange sticker plastered on the window that’s a sure sign of foreclosure -- undergoes a renovation and is suddenly filled with people.

Macomb Habitat was also recognized for its completion of 11 A Brush With Kindness projects in Roseville and Richmond. “These projects are done for existing homeowners in need, such as seniors, veterans and low-income families,” White said. ABWK projects involve external repairs like building an ADA ramp for a veteran, painting or installing new siding and windows or large landscaping improvements. Each time a project was launched, volunteers showed up to help. In some cases, White said as many as 75 people turned out to help complete these rewarding week-long projects. The work transformed the property and enhanced the community.

Congratulations to Macomb Habitat for partnering with volunteers so that more people can experience the American dream and for being named this year’s winner of the 2012 CRA Community Development Champion Award.

Habitat fundraiser
A celebrity dinner on July 17 benefits a special Macomb Habitat project that involves moving a donated home from Ardmore Street to Bon Brae Street. Tickets are $30 for the event at Ardmore Park Place Café in St. Clair Shores and include dinner and a beverage. Celebrity servers include current and former St. Clair Shores mayors Kip Walby and Robert Hison along with former mayor and current Macomb County Treasurer Ted Wahby. For reservations, call Terri Benson at 586-263-1540 ext. 120 or email tbenson@macombhabitat.

TODAY'S MUSE
We are rich only through what we give, and poor only through what we refuse -- Ann Sophie Swetchine

Opportunity knocks! Sparkle Singing Challenge Detroit auditions

Jordin Sparks and Whitney Houston.

If I see a door comin' my way, I'm knockin' it down. And if I can't knock down the door, I'm sliding through the window - Rosie Perez, American actor.

A window will be open for somebody Saturday, July 14 at Oakland Mall.

As part of the "Sparkle Singing Challenge" sponsored by Sony Pictures and MySpace one Detroit singer will receive $500 in cash and a chance to compete for the national grand prize: A trip to New York City, an appearance on BET's hit show 106 & Park and studio time to professionally record a song with the Punch Monkey's producer and writing team.

Amateur singers between the ages of 13-40 will be asked to sing their version of one of two songs as part of a nationwide contest promoting "Sparkle." The new film starring Jordin Sparks, Whitney Houston, Derek Luke, Mike Epps, Carmen Ejogo, Tika Sumpter, Omari Hardwich and CeeLo Green opens in theaters Aug. 17.

WHO: Amateur singers 13-40 years old.

WHAT: Seize the moment. Sing a 60 second a cappella clip from 'Celebrate' or 'Something He Can Feel."

WHEN: Saturday, July 14 beginning at 2 p.m.; registration at 12:30 p.m.

WHERE: Oakland Mall, 412 W. 14 Mile Road, Troy, MI 48083

To preregister and reserve your singing spot ahead of time, e-mail  sparklecontestdetroit@gmail.com
For inspiration and complete rules and information, visit Sparkle movie site or Myspace/Sparkle

DAYTRIPPING

What else is happening in the Detroit area? Check out our listing of family-friendly events going on around town:

“The Wizard of Oz”

The Historic Redford Theatre will present “The Wizard of Oz” starring Judy Garland, July 13 at 8 p.m. and July 14 at 2 and 8 p.m. Parking is free and admission of $4 includes a special show featuring the theatre’s 1928 pipe organ before the show. Tickets: available online at www.redfordtheatre.com or at the Redford Theatre box office, at 17360 Lahser Road, Detroit, MI 48219. Call 313-537-2560. 

Piggy race

Utica Riverwalk Rubber Piggy Race, 4:30 p.m. July 7 at Riverwalk Park off Auburn Road. Tickets $5 each or six for $20 available at Utica City Hall, Utica Police Department, Sterling Heights Regional Chamber of Commerce office. Call 586-731-5400 ext. 10, 11 or 13.

Antiques market

Utica Antiques Market, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. July 7-8 at 11541 21 Mile Road; $5 admission, free parking. For details, 586-254-3495 or www.uticaantiques.com.

Garden Club

Mount Clemens Garden Club meeting about herbal teas, noon July 9, at Mount Clemens Public Library Community Room, 150 Cass Ave. Non-member admission $5. To RSVP, call 586-226-0124.

Park*it

Park*it family fun nights get under way in Macomb County on July 11 at Veterans Memorial Park, Jefferson and Masonic, St. Clair Shores. Activities start at 6 p.m., music 7:30, and movie at 9. For other Park*it locations, visit www.parkit4fun.com.

Music tribute

Moe’s Rock and Blues Fest, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. July 8, at Bruce VFW Post 1146 at 28404 Jefferson, St. Clair Shores. Event features more than 40 musicians paying tribute to songwriter/performer Brian “Moe” Motyka who died in October. Also included are Polish and barbecue food, dunk tank, gift baskets; donation at the door to benefit Moe Motyka Memorial Fund.

Sawdust Festival

Wolcott Mill Metropark Historic Center hosts “Sawdust Festival,” 1-5 p.m. July 15, 63100 Kunstman Road, Ray Township. Event includes log cutting, candle dipping, pioneer stories; admission $4 per person, free ages 5 and younger, craft tickets $1 each. Call 586-749-5997 or visit www.metroparks.com.

Civil War

Civil War Days at Historic Fort Wayne-Detroit, 6325 W. Jefferson at Livernois, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. July 7, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. July 8, admission $3 per person, parking $5. Event includes re-enactments, vintage baseball game, Union and Confederate campsites, infantry and artillery demonstrations. For details, www.historicfortwaynecoalition.com.

Youth Camps

Assumption Cultural Center in St. Clair Shores hosts summer youth camp for ages 7-12, in conjunction with Detroit Institute of Arts, 9 a.m.-noon July 23-Aug. 23; full-day child care available 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Camp programs include art projects and discussions, field trip to the DIA, volleyball and basketball clinics. For fee and registration information, 586-772-4477 or www.assumptionnursery.org.

Summer Zoomance

After-hours 21 and older Summer Zoomance, 6-9 p.m. July 12 and Aug. 23, at the Detroit Zoo, 10 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, includes twilight strolls among animal habitats, rides ($5 each), carousel ($2). Zoomance admission $10 advance, $12 at the gate, parking $5 for non-zoo members, free for members. For reservations, www.detroitzoo.org.

Wet and Wild

Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm hosts Wed and Wile Wednesdays, July 11-Aug. 1, with musical entertainment noon-1 p.m., children’s fun (fire truck sprays, creek wading, slip and slide) 1-2 p.m. Free for museum members, $3 non-members. Also, Children’s Music Festival 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesdays at the museum, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, east of Rochester Road off Tienken Road. For details, 248-656-4663 or www.rochesterhills.org.

Garden Walk

Troy Garden Club 38th Garden walk includes six private gardens, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. and 5-8:30 p.m. rain or shine, July 11. Tickets $10 advance, $12 day of, call 248-540-4249. Garden Walk activities at Troy Historic Village include arts and crafts boutique, plant sale, student art exhibit, 9 a.m.-7 p.m., 60 W. Wattles, west of Livernois.

Book sale

Right to Life-LIFESPAN used book sale, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 12-15 at St. Mary of Royal oak Fellowship Hall, 730 S. Lafayette. More than 50 tables of books included.

Summer sounds

The Mall at Partridge Creek and Motor City Co-op Credit Union present free daily outdoor concerts (weather permitting) at Center Court through Labor Day (Sept. 3) at the Clinton Township mall on Hall Road between Romeo Plank and Garfield roads. Performances are 5:30-8 p.m. Monday-Friday, 4-8 p.m. Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays and holidays. For details, visit www.shoppartridgecreek.com.

Free music series “Sound of Music … Past,” 7 p.m. July 25 (Sentimental Journey Band) and Aug. 22 (Jean Bastian’s Double Brass Quartet), at Beebe Street Park, Richmond, presented by Senior Helpers of Richmond. Call 586-430-1015.

Concerts/dancing at Lake St. Clair Metropark take place 6:30-10 p.m. Sundays throughout August; music free with Metropark vehicle annual entry permit, $25 season, $15 ages 62 and older, or $5 daily. Visit www.metroparks.com or call 586-463-4581.

Grosse Pointe Village Association’s Music on The Plaza free outdoor jazz concert series presented by St. John Hospital & Medical Center, 7 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 2, on Village Festival Plaza at Kercheval and St. Clair in downtown Grosse Pointe. Call 313-886-7474 or www.thevillagegp.com.

Concerts at Stony Creek Metropark in Washington Township feature Air Margaritaville, July 20; Justine Blazer, Aug. 3; Dr. Pocket, Aug. 10. Music begins 7:30 p.m. at Eastwood Beach. Free, but Metropark vehicle entry permit required. Call 586-781-4242 or www.metroparks.com.

Lexington Arts Council Music in the Park series, opening acts 6 p.m., main show 7:30 p.m. July 13, 20, 27, Aug. 3, 10, 17, at Patrick Tierney Memorial Park, Lexington. Free. Visit www.lexarts.com.

Wild Summer Nights concert series at Detroit Zoo, 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays through Aug. 29, in Main Picnic Grove; free with zoo admission. Guests can bring own picnics or purchase refreshments at concessions.

Summer Music Festival at Grosse Pointe War Memorial, 32 Lakeshore Road, 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays July 11-Aug. 8; grounds open 6 p.m. Admission $8 per person; food available for purchase or guests can bring their own picnic. For details, 313-881-7511 ro www.WarMemorial.org.

On stage

“Willy Wonka The Musical” presented by Project DayDream, 7p.m., July 19, 20, at Seaholm High School in Birmingham. Tickets are $15 in advance or $18 at the door. Visit www.projectdream.org.Avon Players Community Theatre auditions for “Bye Bye Birdie,” 7 p.m. July 9-10 at the theater, 1185 Washington Road, Rochester. Registration at 6:30 p.m.. Performance dates Sept. 7-9, 14-16 and 21-22. For information, www.avonplayers.org.

“The Ugly Duckling” plays 10:30 a.m. July 7 at the Hilberry Theatre, at Cass and Hancock on the Wayne State University campus in Detroit. For tickets, $5 children, $8 adults, call 313-577-2972 or www.hilberry.com.

“Robocop: The Musical” 8 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays, through Aug. 3, at Go Comedy! Improv Theater, 261 Nine Mile Road, Ferndale. Tickets $15. Visit www.gocomedy.net.

Rosedale Community Players auditions for the comedy “The Current,” 7 p.m. July 10, with callbacks July 11, at Peace Lutheran Church, 17029 W. 13 Mile Road, Southfield. Show dates Oct. 19-21, 26-28, and Nov. 2-3, 9-10. For details, www.rosedalecommunityplayers.com or 248-554-0782.

Benefit on the Bay

Capuchin Soup Kitchen fundraiser 19th Benefit on the Bay, 5:30 p.m. Aug. 24, at Mac&Ray’s in Harrison Township. Tickets, $60, include dinner, dancing, beer, wine, three bands, auctions and drawings. To order: 313-579-2100 ext. 153 or 170, or www.BenefitOnTheBay.org.

Leaps & Bounds

Early childhood education training programs for caregivers and parents, 9:15-11 a.m. Wednesdays at Early Childhood Center, 24580 Cunningham, Center Line, and 10:30-11:30 a.m. Thursdays at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church, 8129 Packard, Warren, sponsored by non-profit Leaps & Bounds Family Services. For complete schedule, 313-402-0802 or 586-675-0451.

Meadow Brook

Summer tours at Meadow Brook Hall on the Oakland University Campus in Rochester are under way at 11:30 a.m., 12:30, 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. A new architecture tour includes interior and exterior highlights of the design and construction process, 1 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; Behind-The-Scenes tours  that include the staff wing are noon and 1:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; each tour admission is $15 adults, $10 seniors, free ages 12 and younger. Twilight Tuesdays are 6-9 p.m. June 12, July 13 and Aug. 28, $10 adults, free ages 12 and younger. Call 248-364-6200 or go to www.meadowbrookhall.org.

Fishing clubs

Vanguard Trout Unlimited for fishing enthusiasts meets 7:30 p.m. second Thursday monthly at Rochester’s Dinosaur Hill. Also, Fishing Buddies Fishing Club gathers 6:30 p.m. third Tuesdays at Rochester Hills OPC, 650 Leticia Drive. Call 248-375-1931. 

Features editor Debbie Komar contributed to this listing.