'No Roof Left Behind' program still open to nominations

Jay Elie, left, and his brother Matt, founders of No Roof Left Behind program.

There are people who say they want to help. Then there are people who see that people are in need and they do something about it.

When the bottom fell out of Michigan’s economy back in 2008, Jay and Matt Elie of Shelby Township saw the epidemic of blue tarps and launched a campaign to help. Whether it was because of layoffs or wage reductions, a lot of homeowners felt they had no choice but to put off their roof repairs and hope that the blue tarps would contain the problem – until something changed.  

Jay and Matt are brothers and partners in Ridgecon Construction, a family-run roofing company.  They remembered the stories their grandfather used to recall about life during the Depression and how people pulled together to help each other out in times of need. “Grandpa often told us that it wasn’t all bad because neighbors did what they could for each other,” said Jay. “They stuck together and that made it bearable.”

And so, guided by their grandfather’s words and their roofing experience, the brothers started offering their services for free to a Macomb County family or individual each year. The charitable program, known as No Roof Left Behind, is in its fourth year and has become a model program for other like-minded roofing companies in other states including Ohio.“No Roof Left Behind means more than just installing a free roof for someone in need,” said one of the brothers. “It brings residents together and creates fellowship between neighborhood residents who continue to help each other long after the work is done.”

Recipients of the free roof are chosen through an extensive voting process. And while only one winner was declared in each of the previous years, a halo effect occurred in which runner-ups’ stories of need prompted other companies and individuals to make additional services and assistance available. Several local businesses have already offered donations for the work this September, including debris removal from Metro Sanitation, roof accessory products from Allied Building Products, food for a barbecue from Dearborn Brand Sausage, chips from Better Made Snack Foods, a moonwalk and other fun from Budget Bounce, and an estate planning session with Legal Strategies.

Among the homeowners in Macomb County to receive help through the No Roof Left Behind program is a former businessman who suffered a stroke, which left him in a nursing home, unable to walk, use his hands or speak clearly. He lost his company, and his 60-year-old wife tried to find work but her bad knees and age made it difficult. They were the recipients of the first free roof. Another family was so burdened by living expenses and medical bills, as a result of the father being laid off and the mother’s battle with multiple sclerosis, their three daughters were babysitting to help ends meet. The latest homeowner to win a free roof was a single mother with three boys. She was in a car accident involving a drunken driver and was left disabled and unable to work as a registered nurse. On top of everything else, her insurance company threatened to cancel her coverage if she didn’t fix her roof.

To be eligible for a new roof, an individual or family must be nominated. An overview of the program can be found at No Roof Left Behind. Nominations will be taken until July 20 via No Roof Left Behind Contest Nominees. To qualify for the program, nominees must be current on their mortgage payments and must sign a media release with the Elies. Once the nomination process is closed, entries will be reviewed by a team of neighborhood volunteers who will select four finalists for the public to vote for between Aug. 3 and Sept. 7. On Sept. 10, the winner will be revealed and the installation will take place shortly thereafter in a block party atmosphere similar to those described by the Elies’ grandfather.

DAYTRIPPING

Volunteering to help someone in need is just one of the many things to do with your time. Check out our weekend list of other family-friendly events and activities going on in the Detroit area:

Literary Walk

Wayne State University Press presents Made in Michigan Literary Walk featuring poets and writers, starting at noon June 30; the walk stops at several venues through the Midtown Detroit area. Call 313-577-6077.

Freedom Festival

To celebrate living in the land of freedom and the friendship between Detroit and Windsor, Historic Trinity is hosting a special service 9:30-11 a.m. The St. Andrew’s Society Pipe Band (bagpipes and drums) will perform. Historic Trinity is at 1345 Gratiot Ave., Detroit, MI 48207.

Garden Walk

Crocker House Garden Walk, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. June 23 features Mount Clemens gardens, the Miller Street Garden Boutique and the Great Lakes Lace Group. Tickets are $10, or $8 for Macomb County Historical Society members. Visit www.crockerhousemuseum.com. Lunch is available at Che Cosa for $8; for reservations, 586-954-2677.

A formal garden overlooking the natural landscape of Paint Creek is among seven gardens featured on the Rochester Hills Museum Garden Walk, June 21 from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Cost in advance is $12 ($10 museum members) or on the event day for $14. Visit www.rochesterhills.org.

Historic Village

Log Cabin Days at the Historic Village, Beebe and Park streets, Richmond, noon-4 p.m. June 24, includes living history encampment by St. Clair Voyageurs, storytelling, Civi War displays, blacksmithing. Call 586-727-7773.

Shores genealogy

St. Clair Shores Genealogy Group meets 7 p.m. June 28 in the Local History Center at St. Clair Shores Public Library, 22500 11 Mile Road. For details, 586-771-9020 or www.scslibrary.org.

Card party

Ashlar Chapter No. 378 Order of Eastern Star hosts card party and luncheon, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. June 23, at Roseville Masonic Center, 27151 Gratiot. Hot lunch served at noon. Admission $7 per person. Call 586-772-6125.

Township picnic

Ray Township 11th community picnic, noon-4:30 p.m. June 24, at 64255 Wolcott road. The day includes food and beverages for sale, raffles, $1 train rides, free classic car show, kids’ bingo, crafts, magic show, children’s games, petting farm.

Warming Center

Macomb County Warming Center will benefit from a percentage of sales between 4 to 9 p.m. June 25 at Cloverleaf Restaurant & Bar, 24443 Gratiot south of 10 Mile Road in Eastpointe. Raffles and entertainment also are planned. Call 586-321-0998.

Chesterfield Walks

Free Chesterfield Walks for ages 55 and older take place 9:30 a.m. July 1, 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.

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.

Open house

Open house and ice cream social from noon to 3 p.m. June 23 at Services for Older Citizens new location on Ridge Road at Muir Road, Grosse Pointe Farms.

Shores Library

Upcoming programs at the St. Clair Shores Public Library, 22500 11 Mile Road, include free “Classic Movie Fridays,” through June 29; also, summer reading club registrations accepted through July 27. Film Movement 6:30 p.m. third Thursday monthly, “Before Your Eyes” plays June 21. To register or for program information, 586-771-9020 or www.scslibrary.org.

Warren Library

Upcoming events at Warren Civic Center Library include: mini-makeover night, 6 p.m. June 27 for 12-17 years; Friends from the Farm Night, 6:30 p.m. June 28. All programs at the library in Warren City Hall, two blocks east of Van Dyke, north of 12 Mile Road; registration required for some sessions, call 586-751-0770.

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 tours

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.

Summer sounds

Concerts/dancing at Lake St. Clair Metropark take place 6:30-10 p.m. Sundays throughout August; Programs 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 80’s Inc., July 6; 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. June 29, July 6, 13, 20, 27, Aug. 3, 10, 17, at Patrick Tierney Memorial Park, Lexington. Free. Visit www.lexarts.com.

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

Teen Actors of Ridgedale present “Fame,” 7 p.m. June 23, 2 p.m. June 24 at the theater, 205 W. Long Lake road. For tickets, $8.50, visit www.ridgedaleplayers.com or 248-988-7049.

“The Ugly Duckling” plays 10:30 a.m. through June 26-29 and July 5-7 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.

Summer Shakespeare Series opens with “The Tempest,” 7 p.m. June 23, at Richmond High School auditorium. For general admission tickets, $5 students, $6 adults, call 586-430-1039. Project cosponsored Richmond Community Theatre, Richmond High School Drama Department and Southeast Michigan Youth Theatre.

Detroit Repertory Theatre premieres “Taking Care of Mimi,” through June 24, at the theater, 13103 Woodrow Wilson, Detroit. For tickets, 313-868-1347 or www.detroitreptheatre.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.

For singles

Selective Singles Social and Travel Club host weekly breakfasts, 8:30 a.m. Mondays at Corner Clock, 23 Mile and Hayes roads, Shelby Township, and 8:30 a.m. Fridays at Mama Vicki’s Coney Island, 24989 Hall Road, Chesterfield Township; call 586-725-3152 or go to SSSTC.net.

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.

Blind bowlers

Macomb Blind Bowlers for visually impaired and/or blind individuals 18 and older, league bowling 11:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Fraser Star Lanes, northeast corner of 14 Mile and Garfield roads. Fee $10 per week. Call 586-360-9543.

Square dancing

Patches Squares dance club hosts beginning square dance lessons, 7-8:30 p.m. Wednesdays at First United Methodist Church of Warren, 5005 Chicago Road. First class (no matter when dancers start) is free, $3 for following sessions. Call 248-613-3169.

Features editor Debbie Komar contributed to this list.

Reporter's notes inspire script for Hollywood movie

Matthew McConaughey as attorney Danny Buck.

Last week, in the process of reviewing Jack Black's new movie, "Bernie," I was given the opportunity to chat with Skip Hollandsworth. He was the Texas reporter, who followed a lead by the Dallas Morning News: A 39-year-old funeral director was arrested for murdering the rich widow in his small town, and confessed to putting her in her own deep freeze in order to preserve the body for proper burial, later. And it was his story for the Texas Chronicle that led Richard Linklater to do the movie, "Bernie."

Skip Hollandsworth

"Texans have always had a vengeance for unusual and strange crime stories," said Hollandsworth.
But viewers' reaction to his film adaptation "Bernie" is another matter entirely. "What is Detroit going to think of it?" Hollandsworth said. "How are they going to react?"

When Richard Linklater read Hollandsworth's story, "Midnight in the Garden of East Texas," in Texas Monthly, he knew immediately it would make for a great movie. "Something just clicked," he said. "It's hard to articulate what exactly draws one to a particular story, and what would compel one to undertake the often lengthy and often ruthless task of trying to make a movie out of a real-life story. Maybe it was my being a native East Texan and felling like I knew everyone involved. Maybe it was Bernie's unique character and the complex relationship between him and Marjorie." Or perhaps it was the way Hollandsworth's story was told; through townspeople's accounts of what happened and their feelings for Bernie and Marjorie. After optioning the rights for the film, Linklater signed Hollandsworth on as the screenwriter. And while his interviews and research provided much of the fodder for the film, Hollandsworth said he really can't take any creative credit for the movie. Instead he applauds Linklater's direction and journalistic approach, going so far as to hold auditions for the role of the townspeople in Carthage, and the performances of the film's stars.

Jack Black, who worked under Linklater in "School of Rock," plays the soft-spoken, chubby-cheeked assistant funeral director, Bernie Tiede, who was so beloved in the small East Texas Town of Carthage that no one seemed to care when he confessed to murdering the rich widow, Marjorie Nugent (Shirley MacLaine). 

That's a fact.

"I kid you not," said Hollandsworth. Upon his arrival in Carthage to cover the trial, he walked into the first restaurant he saw. And it was there at Daddy Sam's Bar-B-Q that he witnessed the district attorney, Danny Buck Davidson (Matthew McConaughey). "There he was sitting at the counter -- this bulldog-looking, lifelong prosecutor surrounded by townspeople begging him to not prosecute Bernie," said Hollandsworth, adding that McConaughey did an amazing job in portrayinig Danny Buck, as did Black in his portrayal of Bernie.

When Black walked on the set of the courtroom, many of the older ladies (real-life Texans who knew Bernie) gaffed as if Bernie had been released from jail. He had all of the sweet swagger and convincing charm of the real Bernie Tiede down to a T. "He got to do the trifecta of acting: sing, dance and act." 

McConaughey, whose mother Kay does a great job as one of the gossips, also nailed his part. So, smiles for Bernie turned to snarls for Danny Buck. "I was totally impressed with him," Hollandsworth said of McConaughey. "I thought he would have this laid back (so what) attitude." Instead, he threw himself into the role choosing even to improvise some of the action -- hollering for the jury to bring in the freezer. "He was far smarter than you might think he would be."

So what's next for Hollandsworth? 

It's back to work and the hunt for the next good story.

"I think journalists don't realize the gold they have in their hands," Hollandsworth said. Under the pressures of a daily deadline, they also do not get to draw out a story into the longer narrative that it could become, as in the case of Bernie's story.

TODAY'S MUSE

The universe is made of stories, not atoms -- Muriel Rukeyser

‘Madagascar’: A real 3D trip

I've never been keen on 3D movies. 

But then, my experiences have been limited to old classics and pie-throwing B-rated comedies.

Now that I've seen "Madagascar 3: Europe's Most Wanted," which opens in theaters June 8, I can understand why they're so popular.

 

The effects were fantastico, as Stefano the Seal (Martin Short) would say.

I caught myself several times gasping, ducking and swerving flying debris, even imagining myself snorkeling in the cool blue waters of Monte Carlo Bay.

 

Dreamworks

It is here that the Zoosters, including Alex the Lion (Ben Stiller), Marty the Zebra (Chris Rock), Gloria the Hippo (Jada Pinkett Smith) and Melman the Giraffe (David Schwimmer) begin their quest to find the penguins and chimps, so they can return to the life they knew at New York's Central Park Zoo. 

The original "Madagascar" (2005) and "Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa" were not created in 3D, but they could have been. 

"Because of the films' comedic tone, we were often doing things that put stuff out in front of the camera," said writer and co-director Eric Darnell, in a report released to the press. "Once we recognized that our cinematography and our comedy really lent themselves beautifully to the 3D world, we really didn't have to change much of what we were doing. But taking our animals into a circus automatically give us these wonderful opportunities - we're moving not just across the surface of the earth, we're moving up in the air, flipping, rolling and flying - to work in 3D, of course."

In agreement is co-director Tom McGrath (DreamWorks Animation had a trifecta of directorial talent working on this including Conrad Vernon). "3D just gives you so many more tools to work with. It's immersive. You can underscore an emotional scene as much as you can the action."

Special effects alone, however, do not make for a good movie. It is the screenplay (Eric Darnell and Noah Baumbach) and musical score (Hans Zimmer) - that had the guy to my right laughing aloud and the girl to my left dancing in her seat - that make it worth the cost of tickets, glasses and popcorn. I could have done without the Cirque du Soleil and French Canadian witticisms, which fell so flat even an English Canadian couldn't peel them off the floor. 

“Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most Wanted,” rated PG, will be showing in most theaters June 8. 3 stars out of 4.

 

DAYTRIPPING

Summer movies and garage sales, art shows and a visit by the "Dark Knight's" Tumbler and Bat-Pod, check out our listing of family-friendly events going on in the Detroit area, below:

Batman vehicle tour

Fans who have been eagerly awaiting the release of "The Dark Knight Rises: will have an opportunity to see the Tumbler and Bat-Pod, when the coast-to-coast tour makes its stop in Detroit: June 15 (12 p.m.- 6 p.m.), Bloomfield Township Public Library, 4200 Telegraph Road, Bloomfield Hills; June 18 (1:30-7:30 p.m.), Rochester Hills Public Library, 500 Olde Towne Rd., Rochester; June 19 (12 p.m.- 6p.m.), Troy Public Library, 510 West Big Beaver Rd., Troy; June 20 (10 a.m.-4 p.m.), Novi Public Library, 45255 West 10 Mile Road., Novi.

Cruisin' Gratiot festivities

The 14th annual Cruisin' Gratiot returns to the City of Eastpointe, with events going on June 12-16. Visit www.cruisin-gratiot.com for further details.

Historical Society

Chesterfield Historical Society hosts Ste. Claire Voyageurs (1750s-era French fur trade re-enactors) from Lake St. Clair Metropark, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 9, at Chesterfield Historical Village Green, 47275 Sugarbush Road north of 21 Mile Road. Admission $1 adults, $2 family; refreshments available for purchases. Call 586-749-3713.

Antique appraisal

Warren Historical Society presents Antiques Appraisal Fair and bake sale, June 9 at Warren Community Center cafeteria, 5460 Arden. Bake sale begins 9 a.m., appraisals and "Radio Rescue" by Michigan Antique Radio Club, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Only items that can be carried or photos of large items accepted, no stamps, coins or guns. Appraisals and rescues $5 per item.

Garage sale

Giant Garage Sale, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. June 14-15, at Assumption Greek Orthodox Church and Cultural Center and Assumption Nursery School and Toddler Center, 21800 Marter Road, St. Clair Shores. Food and baked goods also available. Call 586-779-6111 ext. 3.

Country breakfast

Jefferson Chapter No. 489 Order of Eastern Star serves an all-you-can eat country breakfast, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Father's Day, June 17, at the Jefferson Masonic Temple, 22000 11 Mile Road, St. Clair Shores. Adult admission $6, ages 6-12 $3, free 5 and younger. Call 586-777-0043.

Bead sale

Eastwood Rebekah Lodge No. 499 selling Beads for Breast Cancer during the Gratiot Cruise, 6-9 p.m. June 15 and 11 a.m.-10 p.m. June 16, at the Oddfellows Hall, 23322 Gratiot, Eastpointe. Proceeds to Karmanos Cancer Institute. Call 586-489-5073.

Bowling benefit

Fundraiser to help the Jeffrey Family in its cancer battle, June 10 at Imperial Lanes in Clinton Township. Doors open 1 p.m., bowling 2 p.m., admission $20 adults, $10 ages 11 and younger, includes three games bowling, shoe rental, pizza and soft drinks, $10 for non-bowlers includes food; call 586-949-2191 or 586-202-4489.

Historical encampment

War in the Wilderness encampment with re-enactors representing British and French military and Woodland Indians of the 1750-60s, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. June 16, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. June 17, at Stony Creek Metropark in Washington Township. Free with park admission, $25 annual, $15 seniors, or $5 daily. Call 586-781-4242.

Pancake breakfast

Utica Lions Club serve annual pancake breakfast, 8 a.m.-noon June 17, at Grant Park, north of M-59 east on Hahn Street.

Jazz luncheon

Oakland University Jazz Ensemble performs June 19 during a 1-3 p.m. luncheon June 19 at the Older Persons' Commission, 650 Letica, Rochester. Admission $10. To register, 248-608-0251.

Shores Library

Upcoming programs at the St. Clair Shores Public Library, 22500 11 Mile Road, include free "Classic Movie Fridays," through June 29; free Tea Party Fashion Show, 2 p.m. June 14, registration required; Selinsky-Green Farmhouse Museum's Annual Garden Tea Party, 2-4 p.m. June 20, at the museum behind the library, $3 adults, 50 cents for children. To register or for program information, 586-771-9020 or www.scslibrary.org. Also, summer reading club begins with open house 6-8 p.m. June 5 for children to pick up reading logs and make a craft; registrations accepted through July 27.

Wheel 'n' Deal

Free outdoor Wheel 'n' Deal flea market, 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. June 9, in parking lot of Grosse Pointe War Memorial, 32 Lakeshore Road, Grosse Pointe Farms. Event takes place rain or shine; refreshments available.

Warren Library

Upcoming events at Warren Civic Center Library include: "Gaming 2nd Saturdays" for teens, 2-4 p.m. June 9; Make a Kite Night for ages 5-11 and their caregivers, 6:30 p.m. June 11; Teen Summer Reading Club Kick-off, 6-9 p.m. June 16; Children's Summer Reading Club Kick-off, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. June 16. Also, "Sleeping Beauty" puppet show, 6:30 p.m. June 21; mini-makeover night, 6 p.m. June 27 for 12-17 years; Friends from the Farm Night, 6:30 p.m. June 28. All programs at the library in Warren City Hall, two blocks east of Van Dyke, north of 12 Mile Road; registration required for some sessions, call 586-751-0770.

Music Day

Free Music Awareness Day that includes live performances and professional musicians providing workshops on different music styles, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. June 9, at Lake Shore High School. To register, email rameysj@gmail.com. 

Angels' Place

Cocnert to benefit Angels' Place, 8 p.m. June 9, at St. Andrew Church, 1400 Inglewood, Rochester. Entertainment by Mark Tisdel and Phyllis Bengry. Free, donations accepted. Angels' Place provides Christian homes and services for adults with developmental disabilities. For information, 248-350-2203 or www.angelsplace.com.

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 tours

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.

Summer sounds

Concerts/dancing at Lake St. Clair Metropark take place 6:30-10 p.m. Sundays throughout the summer, June 10 Rhythm Society orchestra; June 17 Rich Eddy's Rockin' Oldies, June 24 Dr. Pocket. Programs free with Metropark vehicle 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.

On stage

Gospel musical comedy "Smoke on the Mountain" plays 2 and 8 p.m. June 10, at the Box Theatre in downtown Mount Clemens. For tickets $25, a portion of proceeds benefit Cystic Fibrosis Support Network of Michigan, call 586-329-6570 or go to www.centerstagemacomb.com.

Detroit Repertory Theatre premieres "Taking Care of Mimi," Thursday through Sunday, through June 24, at the theater, 13103 Woodrow Wilson, Detroit. For tickets, 313-868-1347 or www.detroitreptheatre.com.

Stagecrafters presents "the Bad Seed," Thursdays through Sundays, through June 17, at the Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette, Royal Oak. Advance tickets $16 and $18 at www.stagecrafters.org or 248-541-6430, or at box office one hour before showtime for 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.

Joint general auditions for 11 area theaters, including The Box theatre, Ringwald Theatre, Matrix Theatre Co., take place 5:30-10 p.m. June 12-14, at the Two Muses Theatre inside the Barnes & Noble, 6800 Orchard Lake Road, West Bloomfield. For appointments, frannie@magentagiraffe.org. Also, Gay Play Series gets runs June 15-25 at the theater. For schedule information and tickets, go to www.TheRingwald.com.

Art shows

Paint Creek Center for the Arts Student and Faculty Art Show, through June 22 at the Center, 407 Pine St., Rochester. Opening reception 7-9 p.m. June 8; show hours 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. Call 248-651-4110.

Detroit 'Wonder' to perform at Queen's Diamond Jubilee concert

The stage is set for tonight's Diamond Jubilee concert performance at Buckingham Palace.

AP photo

Among the artists invited to perform for Queen Elizabeth II and her distinguished guests are Elton John and Paul McCartney, Annie Lenox, Shirley Bassey, Kylie Minogue, Robbie Williams and Detroit’s own, Stevie Wonder. The concert begins at approximately 2:30 p.m. EDT (7:30 p.m. in London), and will be attended by the queen, the Duke of Edinburgh, other royals and 10,000 members of the public.

AP Photo

A network of more than 4,000 beacons will also be lit across the U.K. on Monday to mark the Diamond Jubilee. After 5:30 p.m. EDT (10:30 p.m. in London), the queen will light the National Beacon outside Buckingham Palace.










For more information about events and activities surrounding the jubilant celebrations marking the Queen's 60-year reign visit the official website, Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee

Queen's party sets sail down River Thames

Despite the cool, drizzly weather, spirits were bright in Britain, as the celebration marking the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth, who is marking 60 years on the throne, kicked into high gear.

Among the highly-anticipated events going on in the next four days including street parties, outdoor concerts and finally the traditional appearance of an elderly great-grandmother on her balcony waving to her subjects -- was Sunday's motley but majestic flotilla tribute.

AP Photo/Lewis Whyld, PA

More than a 1,000 boats sailed down the River Thames including the luxurious Royal Barge. It was a tribute fit for a Queen, and one that organizers are calling the biggest pageant on the river for 350 years.

AP Photo/Tim Hales

The Gloriana was seen leading the flotilla. 

AP Photo/Dylan Martinez, Pool

Watching the proceeding from the Royal Barge were Britain's Kate Duchess of Cambridge, 2nd left, stands next to Prince Harry, left Prince William, 3rd left, and Queen Elizabeth.

AP Photo /John Stillwell/pool

Thousands of people, watched the pageantry unfold from all angles along the River Thames. The pageant was a nod to Britain's maritime heritage and one of the biggest events on the river for centuries. 

TODAY'S MUSE

You can stand tall without standing on someone. You can be a victor without having victims -- Harriet Woods

Crocker House garden walk takes steps to preserve the past

There's a bouquet of reasons to attend the June 23 Crocker House Museum's Garden Walk.

As a fundraiser it supports the upkeep on the historic Italianate home built in 1869 and former residence of the first mayor of Mount Clemens, Joshua Dickinson. His daughter Katherine, the great-granddaughter of city founder Christian Clemens, and son-in-law George M. Crocker moved into the house after their marriage in 1870. The Garden Walk also funds unique events -- presented by the Macomb County Historical Society and the Crocker House Museum -- designed to give families of this century a taste of what Victorian home life might have been like. Say when Mount Clemens' mineral baths and businesses attracted tourists from all over the world. Also supported by the Garden Walk are programs that teach history through the use of artifacts, rotating exhibits, publications, stories and special educational programs.

If you're a novice gardener, the event presents an opportunity to observe and learn how things are done. Whether it's building a rock garden or planting tomatoes. "We have quite a variety of gardens on the tour this year," said Kim Parr, Crocker House director and avid gardener. "We have small and large gardens, shade gardens and a tiered garden built on the banks of the river."

Previous tours wound their way through several cities and townships but this year the tour is at home in the Clem. "It's an easy path," said Parr. "There's one street that has four gardens all within walking distance." The best part is you'll have a map and you can travel at your leisure -- as long as you cover the ground between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

For avid gardeners such as Parr, the Garden Walk serves as an opportunity to share her passion with other gardeners and perhaps discover something new along the way. "I always learn something. Just yesterday I learned about asparagus fern. In putting the tour together, I've had to visit all of the gardens and one of them had this hanging plant. The gardener said she only has to water once a week. It's like a fern but very airy-looking, kind of feathery, but thriving. I have a cabin that I do not get to all of the time and something like this would be great."

The tour also offers gardeners examples of new trends including eclectic gardening.

"One woman has tomato plants smack in front of her house. You would think that's odd, but because she has other plants with it, it doesn't look out of place," Parr said.

Tickets for the Garden Walk are $10 for members of the Macomb County Historical Society and $15 for nonmembers.

Of course, it would not be a true Crocker House event without a guest speaker and an offering of tea. In this case it's a breakfast tea served with homemade scones and Devonshire cream, hard-boiled eggs and fresh fruit. Providing a tete-a-tete during the tea will be hosta expert Andy Torvinen. Guests who wish to attend the 9:30 a.m. breakfast before the tour must make reservations by June 15. Cost: $8 for members; $10 for nonmembers. Call for reservations at 586-465-2488. Walkers also can enjoy a garden lunch at Che Cosa to include chilled berry soup, choice of chicken salad, tuna salad, or a veggie croissant with fresh orzo side salad and an iced tea for $8, with $2 being donated to the Crocker House Museum. Call for reservations at 586-954-2677.

As part of the walk, guests might enjoy the Miller Street Garden Boutique and a display by the Great Lakes Lace Group.

"We have a lot of beautiful gardens behind these old homes in Mount Clemens," Parr said. "People love the tour. It's one of those events that can be relaxing or inspiring."

For more information, visit Crocker House Museum

When baseball was a game

Ever wonder what America's favorite pastime was like in the old days? Throughout the summer a league of vintage baseball teams including a group of locals known as the Regular Base Ball Club of Mt. Clemens will be playing games, set in days of handlebar mustaches. Stop by and watch a couple of innings or pack a lunch and stay for the whole game.

Photo by Ray Pachuta

The summer schedule is as follows:

June 3, 2 p.m.: Fort Wayne, Early Risers (H); June 9, 2 p.m., Crossroads Village, Midland River Hogs (A); June 16, 10 a.m., Sylvania, Ohio Black Swamp Frogs Tourney (A); June 30, NOON - Parade, followed by game, Port Sanilac, Midland River Hogs; July 7, TBA, Mackinac Island Tourney, (A); July 15, 2 p.m., Port Huron, Welkins (A); July 22, 1:30 p.m., GFV (A); July 28, 2 p.m., Bay City, Independents (H); Aug. 4, TBA, Petoskey Fudge Bucket Tourney (A); Aug. 11-12, TBA, GFV World Tournament (A); Aug. 19, 2 p.m., Port Huron, Welkins (A); Sept. 16, 2 p.m., Northville Eclipse (A), Sept. 22-23, Clinton Township Festival of the Senses, GFV La De Dahs (H).

Home field for the Regulars is on the East side of Romeo Plank Road (two-tenths of a Mile North of Clinton River Road by the sledding hill/dog park). 

For information visit Regular Ball Club of Mount Clemens

DAYTRIPPING

Garden walks and baseball games, book sales and art festivals, take a look at our list of family-friendly events going on in the next couple of weeks:

Scottish Fest 2012

Old World Canterbury Village and the Scottish American Society of Michigan present their annual Scottish Highland Games and Festival, June 30 and July 1. The games will feature heavy athletics, Highland dancing, Celtic fiddling, Michigan Scottish pipe bands both days, great food and activities for children. Event will go on rain or shine. Canterbury Village is at 2369 Jocelyn Court in Lake Orion. Admission: $5 per adult; kids under 8 free, plus no charge for parking. Visit www.scotsofmichigan.com for more information.

Flea market

Fraser Historical Commission presents flea market, rummage and plant sales, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. June 3, at Baumgartner Museum, 18577 Masonic at Kelly, Fraser. Rain date: June 10. For information, 586-293-7477 or 586-293-8252.

For the sake of others

Diabetes benefit 1-4 p.m., June 3, at Hair Edition, 35422 Jefferson, Harrison Township: Haircuts $10 with all proceeds to juvenile diabetes. For appointments: 586-791-8430; walk-ins taken in order of arrival.

Bowling for Hunger, 3 p.m. June 3 at Continental lanes, 31055 Gratiot, Roseville, presented by Erin's (church) Feeding the Need. Tickets $20, include bowling, shoe rental, pizza, soft drinks. For tickets, 586-872-5229.

Pasta dinner to benefit the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer 3-Day Walk takes place 11 a.m.-11 p.m. June 7, at the Boatyard Grille, 48780 Jefferson at Sugarbush Road in Chesterfield Township. The $8 admission includes Charity walk: Older Persons' Commission 5K/Walk to benefit Meals on Wheels program, June 2, at upper parking lot of OPC office, 650 Leticia, Rochester. Registration 7:15-7:50 a.m., race/walk begins 8 a.m. Fee $25 on race day. Call 248-608-0251 or www.opcseniorcenter.org.

Concert to benefit Angels' Place, 8 p.m. June 9, at St. Andrew Church, 1400 Inglewood, Rochester. Entertainment by Mark Tisdel and Phyllis Bengry. Free, donations accepted. Angels' Place provides Christian homes and services for adults with developmental disabilities. For more information, call 248-350-2203 or www.angelsplace.com.

Shores Library

Upcoming programs at the St. Clair Shores Public Library, 22500 11 Mile Road, include free "Classic Movie Fridays," June 1-29; free "New Release Thursdays," 6:30 p.m. June 7; free Tea Party Fashion Show, 2 p.m. June 14, registration required; Selinsky-Green Farmhouse Museum's Annual Garden Tea Party, 2-4 p.m. June 20, at the museum behind the library, $3 adults, 50 cents for children. To register or for program information, 586-771-9020 or www.scslibrary.org. Also, summer reading club begins with open house 6-8 p.m. June 5 for children to pick up reading logs and make a craft; registrations accepted through July 27.

Meadow Brook tours

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 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.

Artist unite

Mount Clemens Art Fair, 11 a.m.- 8 p.m. June 2, and noon-6 p.m. June 3, along Macomb Place in downtown Mount Clemens, sponsored by Anton Art Center. Call 586-469-8666 or visit www.theartcenter.org.

Italian 'Festa'

The Council of Presidents, COMITES, and the Italian American Cultural Society in cooperation with more than 22 Italian clubs and Associations, hold "Festa della Repubblica Italiana," June 3, at Italian American Cultural Center, 43843 Romeo Plank, Clinton Township. Doors open 2 p.m., program 3-4:30, displays and food tasting 4:30-6 p.m., dancing and pizza 6-8:30 p.m. Call 586-228-3030.

Summer sounds

Concerts/dancing at Lake St. Clair Metropark take place 6:30-10 p.m. Sundays throughout the summer, starting June 3 with Purdy Good country rock; June 10 Rhythm Society orchestra; June 17 Rich Eddy's Rockin' Oldies, June 24 Dr. Pocket. Programs are free with Metropark vehicle 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, begins June 7 and continues at 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.

On stage

Gospel musical comedy "Smoke on the Mountain" plays 8 p.m. June 2, 7, 10, and 2 p.m. June 3 and 10, at the Box Theatre in downtown Mount Clemens. For tickets $25, a portion of proceeds benefit Cystic Fibrosis Support Network of Michigan, call 586-329-6570 or go to www.centerstagemacomb.com.

Avon Players present the musical "The Secret Garden," 8 p.m. June 1-2, at the theater, 1185 Washington Road, Rochester. For tickets, $16-$18, call 248-608-9077 or visit www.avonplayers.org.

"The Divine Sister," June 2, 4, at Ringwald Theatre, 22742 Woodward, Ferndale. For tickets, $10-$20, visit www.TheRingwald.com or purchase at show time at the box office.

Detroit Repertory Theatre premieres "Taking Care of Mimi," Thursday through Sunday, through June 24, at the theater, 13103 Woodrow Wilson, Detroit. Call for tickets: 313-868-1347 or www.detroitreptheatre.com.

Farmington Players auditions for "Avenue Q," 2 p.m. June 3 (registration 1:30), with callbacks 7 p.m. June 4, at the Barn Theater, 32332 W. 12 Mile road, Farmington Hills. Contact Avenueq@farmingtonplayers.org.

Stagecrafters presents "the Bad Seed," Thursdays through Sundays, through June 17, at the Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette, Royal Oak. Advance tickets $16 and $18 at www.stagecrafters.org or 248-541-6430, or at box office one hour before show time for 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.

Art shows

"Faces and Portraits" at Grosse Pointe Art Center, through June 2, art by guests of Capuchin Soup Kitchen, at 16900 Kercheval Ave., Grosse Pointe; 313-821-1848.

Paint Creek Center for the Arts Student and Faculty Art Show, June 8-22 at the Center, 407 Pine St., Rochester. Opening reception 7-9 p.m. June 8; show hours 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. Call 248-651-4110. Also, the center's Second Annual Regional Arts & Culture Awards presented June 7 at The Royal Park Hotel; social hour 6 p.m. with cash bar, dinner and awards starting 7 p.m. For tickets and details, $50 per person, go to www.pccart.org or call 248-651-4110.

Bead sale

Eastwood Rebekah Lodge No. 499 selling Beads for Breast Cancer during the Gratiot Cruise, 6-9 p.m. June 15 and 11 a.m.-10 p.m. June 16, at the Oddfellows Hall, 23322 Gratiot, Eastpointe. Proceeds to Karmanos Cancer Institute. Call 586-489-5073.

Zumba Gold

Zumba Gold low-impact dance/exercise classes through May (unless otherwise noted), 5:45 p.m. Mondays, 6:30 p.m. Fridays, also 10 a.m. Saturdays (through May 19), all at Sacred Heart Church, 18430 Utica Road, Roseville; 11 a.m. Wednesdays and 6 p.m. Thursdays at Father Solanus Casey Knights of Columbus Hall, 16831 12 Mile Road, Roseville; 7 p.m. Wednesdays at Erin Presbyterian Church, 30000 Gratiot, Roseville. Fee $4 for 1-hour class; call 586-634-5844 or billshoe@live.com.

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.

Blind bowlers

Macomb Blind Bowlers for visually impaired and/or blind individuals 18 and older, league bowling 11:45 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Fraser Star Lanes, northeast corner of 14 Mile and Garfield roads. Fee $10 per week. Call 586-360-9543.

Square dancing

Patches Squares dance club hosts beginning square dance lessons, 7-8:30 p.m. Wednesdays at First United Methodist Church of Warren, 5005 Chicago Road. First class (no matter when dancers start) is free, $3 for following sessions. Call 248-613-3169.

Senior club

2nd Horizon Club for ages 60 and older, meets noon Fridays at Mount Clemens Rec Center, 300 Groesbeck, light lunch, cards and socializing. For details, 586-463-7711. No fee to join.

Features editor Debbie Komar contributed to this list.

TODAY'S MUSE
Weather means more when you have a garden. There's nothing like listening to a shower and thinking how it is soaking in and around your green beans -- Marcelene Cox