DAYTRIPPING: What's a family to do?

From a children's play to vintage baseball and an afternoon tea - there are plenty of great events going on in the Detroit area:

Disney/Pixar

Special needs movie

Romeo-Washington-Bruce Parks & Recreation and Knights of Columbus present the movie "Cars 2" at 9:45 a.m. June 29, at the Romeo Theatre, 66120 Van Dyke, in Washington Township. Doors open 9:15 a.m. The show is for special needs individuals, their families, friends and caregivers; popcorn and soft drink included in $4 per person admission. To register, (586) 752-6543.

MusiCamp! 2011!

First United Methodist Church will present its MusiCamp! Kids' performance of "It's Cool in the Furnace" this Sunday, June 26 at 10 a.m., featuring singers and musicians from the camp. First United Methodist Church is located at 57 Southbound Gratiot Avenue, Mount Clemens

Garden Walk

The MSU Master Gardeners invite the public to see their award-winning garden at the Evangelical Home, 14900 Shoreline Drive in Sterling Heights, June 25, from 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Tour the park, hospice garden and courtyard as well as a display of quilts. Dedications to residents and raffles will be part of the event. For more information, call (586) 247-4700.

Kids Day

Also, face painting, food, prizes, games, Bounce House included in Kids Day, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. June 25, at Star Plaza on 24 Mile Road and Van Dyke, Shelby Township, sponsored by Star Chiropractic, Gracie's Salon, Petite School of Knowledge and Star Heating and Cooling.

Community picnic

Ray Township community picnic, includes children's games, car show, petting farm, crafts, train rides, noon-4:30 p.m. June 26, at Ray Township Park behind township offices. For details, (5860 749-5171.

Book sale

Friends of the Library hold "Summer Clearance Book Sale," 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. June 25, Conference Room B of Clinton Macomb Public Library Main Branch, 40900 Romeo Plank Road, Clinton Township. All books $1, children's books $1 an inch.

Log Cabin Day

Annual Log Cabin Day, noon-4 p.m. June 26, Bailey Memorial Park, Beebe and Park streets, Richmond, presented by Historic Village at the Richmond Area Historical and Genealogical Society. Free. Call (586) 727-7773.

Mom-to-Mom sale

Mount Clemens High School Boys 2 Men and Girls 2 Ladies Mentoring program hosting Mom-to-Mom sale, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. June 25, in high school cafeteria, 155 Cass Ave. Cash only sale; $1 admission goes to mentoring program. Call (586) 486-4379.

Park*it for fun

Annual free Park*it family fun nights get under way June 28 at Macomb Town Center on 25 Mile Road, east of Romeo Plank, and continue at tri-county locations through August, and also Oct. 22 at Warren City Square. Fun starts at 6 p.m. and includes outdoor concerts, kids' activities, sponsor giveaways and a family movie. For complete schedule information, visit parkitforfun.com.

Elegant Tea

Grosse Pointe Theatre presents "A Theatrical Affair Afternoon Tea," 2-5 p.m. June 26, in the Crystal Ballroom of the Grosse Pointe War Memorial, 32 Lakeshore Road, Grosse Pointe Farms. Show includes specially decorated tables, each designed to represent a play, movie or musical, also luncheon, desserts, fashion show of 18th century costumes, and entertainment. Tickets $55 per person; reservations required by calling (313) 881-4004.

'Afternoon Tea'

Enjoy "A Theatrical Affair Afternoon Tea" from 2 to 5 p.m. June 26, featuring 20 specially decorated tables, each designed to represent a play, movie or musical. Hosted by the Grosse Pointe Theatre in the Crystal Ballroom of the Grosse Pointe War Memorial, 32 Lakeshore Road, Grosse Pointe Farms, the 2 to 5 p.m. event also includes a luncheon, desserts, fashion show of 18th century costumes, and entertainment. Tickets $55 per person; reservations required by calling (313) 881-4004.

Civil War concert

Concert featuring Civil War-era music by period vocal group Simply Dickens dressed in period clothing, 7 p.m. June 30 at Halfway Schoolhouse, 15500 Nine Mile Road, west of Gratiot, Eastpointe. Admission $10 adults, $7 seniors, free younger than 5 years. Proceeds benefit East Detroit Historical Society's maintenance of Schoolhouse. Call (586) 770-8587.

Vintage Baseball

Regular Base Ball Club of Mount Clemens plays 2 p.m. at field on east side of Romeo Plank Road north of Clinton River Road: July 17, Royal Oak Yahoos; July 23, Wyandotte Stars, and Aug. 21 Midland Mighty River Hogs. Visit www.regularsbbc.org/Schedule.aspx.

Rochester Grangers Vintage Base Ball Club plays at 1 p.m. July 10 and Aug. 28, at Halbach Field in Rochester. Free admission. Visit www.rochesterhills.org or call (248) 656-4663.

Music festival

Lexington Arts Council free Music in the Park series continues 7:30 p.m. July 1 with performance by The Music Doctors  (rock and country)  at Patrick Tierney Memorial Park at Lexington Harbor (north of Port Huron), two blocks east of the traffic light. Refreshments and shuttles available; visitors should bring blankets and/or lawn chairs. For details, (810) 837-0011 or www.lexarts.com.

'Twilight Tuesdays'

Self-guided tours of Meadow Brook Hall or landscape and architecture tours of the grounds during "Twilight Tuesdays" 6-9 p.m. June 28, July 26, Aug. 23 and Sept. 20, at the historic Rochester hall, with music. Admission $10 adults, free ages 12 and younger; reservations not required. For details, (248) 364-6263 or www.meadowbrookhall.org.

Belgian beer

Class details flavors and properties of Belgian beers, 7-9 p.m. June 30 and repeated same ime Aug. 11 at Grosse Pointe War Memorial, 32 Lakeshore Driver, Grosse Pointe. Fee $28 per class; parking free. For reservations, (313) 881-7511.

Cancer benefit

Sunset Luau Fundraiser, 5 p.m. July 8 at Huron Pointe Yacht Club, 32800 South River Road, Harrison Township. Tickets, $20, benefit Ted B. Wahby Cancer Center at Mount Clemens Regional Medical Center. For information, akersluau78@gmail.com or (586) 709-0947.

Face reading

Free program on face reading by Lin Klaassen, 7 p.m. June 27, in conference room next to Civic Center Library at Warren City hall, east of Van Dyke and north of 12 Mile Road. To register, (586) 574-4564.

Richmond auditions

Richmond Community Theatre auditions for ages 18 and older for fall production of the musical "Chicago." Tryouts 7 p.m. June 27-28 at the theater, 69619 Park St. at Churchhill, include singing, dancing and some cold readings. Performances Sept. 9-10, 16-18 and 23-25. For details, www.richmondtheatre.com/index.htm or (586) 899-6919.

Music at Metro

Concerts by live bands and dancing at Thomas S. Welsh Activity Center at Metro Beach Metropark, 6:30-10 p.m. Sundays through August at the Harrison Township park. Music, dancing free, vehicle entry permit required. Information, (800) 477-3172 or www.metroparks.com.

Paint Creek

Student and faculty art show June 25, at Paint Creek Center for the Arts, 407 Pine St., Rochester. Hours 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For details, (248) 651-4110 or www.pccart.org.

Free concert

Lake St. Clair Symphony Orchestra performs free concert "Patriotic Pops," July 12, featuring selections from "An American in Paris," "West Side Story," and more. Music begins 7 p.m. at Blossom Heath Park by the Pavilion behind Wahby Park and Blossom Heath Inn east of Jefferson and south of 10 Mile Road. 

At the zoo

Mosaic Youth Theatre performs "One Lion to Live" play 10 and 11 a.m. and noon June 25 and June 26 and Aug. 21 in the Wildlife Interpretive Gallery at the Detroit Zoo, 10 Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, Royal Oak. Also, "Zoo Medleys' featuring songs about the earth and its inhabitants performed at Zoo's front entrance 10 and 11 a.m. and noon July 31, and the same times Aug. 13 in Wildlife Interpretive Gallery. Visit www.detroitzoo.org or call (248) 541-5717.

Art Fair

Royal Oak 41st Annual Outdoor Art Fair, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. July 9 and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. July 10 at Memorial Park, Woodward and 13 Mile Road. Show features more than 100 artists displaying jewelry, fiber art, sculpture, wood, glass, mixed media, etc.; refreshments available. Call (248) 246-3180.

Yoga at Stony

Yoga on Eastwood Beach at Stony Creek Metropark, 8-9 a.m. Saturdays through Aug. 27, fee $5 per session or $30 for series. Park vehicle entry permit required, $5 per day, $25 season, $15 seniors. For yoga information, email theyogapath.kdv@gmail.com or call (586) 918-8407.

Warren art

Warren Tri-County Fine Art Association Prestige Exhibit through June 30, at Warren Community Center, 5460 Arden. Works by member Ted Lang featured 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday during June at Warren City Hall.

Jazz series

St. John Hospital and Medical Center's The Plaza Jazz Concert Series, continues 7 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 4, except July 28, at The Village Festival Plaza, Kercheval and St. Clair. Free. Call (313) 886-7474 or visit www.thevillagegp.com.

Farmers Market

Mount Clemens Farmers Market 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through Nov. 19, at 141 North River Road has locally grown products, including flowers. Visit www.mountclemensfarmersmarket.com.

Volunteers needed

* Macomb Literary Partners needs volunteers to help adults become better readers; applicants trained to tutor an adult 2 hours per week, with training sessions held on weekends or evenings. Call (586) 286-2750.

* Detroit Historical Guild seeking volunteers interested in participating in historical activities, including flea markets at Historic Fort Wayne, tea parties, excursions to historic sites, etc. Call (586) 777-5898.

Features Editor Debbie Komar contributed to this report.

TODAY'S MUSE

Millions long for immortality who don't know what to do on a rainy afternoon -- Susan Ertz

J.K. Rowling opens the door to Harry Potter’s world online

AP Photo/Akira Suemori

British author J.K. Rowling poses for photographers, above, as she announces her new website project Pottermore at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, Thursday, June 23, 2011. For the Pottermore project Rowling has written new material about the characters, places and objects in the Harry Potter stories.

The black cat is out of the bag.

Muggles will soon be able to visit the world of Harry Potter online. Author J.K. Rowling announced today that her seven Potter novels will be sold as e-books in multiple languages through a new website, “Pottermore.”

The announcement brings to an end – not only the boy wizard’s status as one of the highest-profile holdouts against digital publishing but all of the speculation.

Fans who were hoping for another volume won’t be disappointed.

According to a report by the Associated Press, "Rowling has written 18,000 words of new Potter material for the interactive site, which promises to immerse users in her world of wizards, combining elements of computer games, social networking and an online store." This includes information Rowling said she has "been hoarding for years" about the books' characters and settings.

The site goes live July 31.

On this day, 1 million registered users will be chosen to delve into the world of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and shop for wands in Diagon Alley, board the train from the imaginary Platform 9 ¾ at London’s King’s Cross train station and be sorted into Hogwarts school houses by the perceptive Sorting Hat.

It will be open to all users from October, in languages including English, French, German and Spanish.

"(It's) a way I can be creative in a medium that didn't exist when I started the books back in 1990," Rowling told reporters, a way to incorporate the thousands of "stories, drawings, ideas, suggestions" she still receives from fans, four years after the last Potter book was published.

To the delight of Harry Potter fans, who have been waiting since the last book, “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows,” was published in 2007, the the possibility of wands fights, games and ongoing information about Harry’s family and the other beloved characters from the books seems almost endless.

To the delight of writers, Rowling said she wants to keep the emphasis of the site firmly on the written word.

"We've had a lot of requests for online games," she said. "I wanted to pull it back to reading."

Having sold more than 450 million copies of her seven Harry Potter novels has made Rowling one of the world’s richest women. Rowling said Pottermore was a way to reconnect with a character and a universe she loved.

"It is exactly like an ex-boyfriend," Rowling said. "Finishing writing Harry - I have only ever cried in that way and that much when my mother died. I have never cried for a man the way I cried for Harry Potter."

Harry Potter comes to an end on the big screen, in London July 7 and in the U.S. July 15, when Warner Bros. film releases, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2."

-- AP contributed to this report

New website for J.K. Rowling mysteriously appears

Your Harry Potter instincts were correct. There is something brewing.

J.K. Rowling has a new website and a big announcement.

We just don’t know what.

Rowling’s spokeswoman Rebecca Salt said the site, Pottermore.com, is a new project for the "Harry Potter" author but it is "not a new book" and "not directly related" to the final Potter movie, "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2," which comes out next month, she said.

"We aren't saying any more than that!" Salt said.

“’Pottermore’ was trademarked in 2009 by Warner Bros., which distributes the Potter movies. The trademark description of Pottermore suggests an interactive site "providing on-line chat rooms and electronic bulletin boards" and "on-line facilities for real-time interaction with other computer users concerning topics of general interest," according to a report by the Associated Press.

Visit the site and you’ll see owls gathering on branches outside, but nothing more than a scrawled message from the author that reads "Coming soon ...". 

Pottermore also has a Twitter account, twitter.com/pottermore, and a YouTube countdown clock, projecting the author’s announcement for early Thursday, June 23.

According to the AP, “News of Pottermore.com emerged Wednesday night with messages sent to nine Potter fan sites and an official Potter Twitter account. Each site received one letter, the letters spelling out "pottermore." A leading Potter fan site, Leaky alleges that it has seen "a preview of Pottermore and it is, in a word, breathtaking."

"That is all we are permitted to say at the moment."

Lady Gaga's meat dress to hang in Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum

Dads who love music would enjoy a trip to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, but so would moms, now that the Cleveland museum has an exhibit illustrating the impact that women have had on music over the years.

Women Who Rock: Vision, Passion, Power as the exhibit is known will highlight the flashpoints, the firsts, the best and the celebrated but also the not-so-obvious impacts that these artists had on American music and culture.

"This exhibit is going to illustrate the vital role women played in shaping the evolution of rock and roll," said Jim Henke, vice president of exhibitions and curatorial affairs for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. "Visitors are going to walk away from this exhibit with a deeper appreciation of how these artists contributed to the rock and roll art form and changed our society."

Copyright Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum

The exhibit, which fills two floors of the museum highlights the achievements of more than 60 artists and includes everything from artifacts, video and listening stations to a recording booth where visitors can film a short story or moment of inspiration related to their favorite artists. From the pioneers of the 1920s, like Ma Rainey and Bessie Smith, who were singing the blues when women were still attaining the right to vote, to the girls who caused all the commotion in the 80's and '90s including Cyndi Lauper, Britney Spears, Janet Jackson and…

Yes, the Material Girl, Madonna is part of the exhibit.

"Madonna unapologetically celebrated and monetized her sexuality and physicality, paving the way for female performers to explore previously taboo roles and take control of their image and career," said promoters of the exhibit.

Among the rare items (no pun intended) unveiled during a special presentation Thursday was Lady Gaga's meat dress. The costume made of various cuts of meat and created by designer Franc Fernandez and stylist Nicola Formichetti for the MTV Video Music Awards will hang in the "Women Who Rock: Vision, Passion, Power" exhibit at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame along with the Armani Prive orbit gown, which Gaga wore to the 2011 Grammys, until Feb. 12 (possibly the expiry date on the meat).

"I was talking to Lady Gaga's managers, and this is probably around November (of last year), and basically talked about different things, and we talked about the meat dress and we thought it would be great to add it to the exhibit just because of the notoriety is has, so that's basically how that came about," said Henke, in a report by MTV News. "We thought the meat dress would be really cool."'

TODAY'S MUSE

It seems to me that those songs that have been any good, I have nothing much to do with the writing of them. The words have just crawled down my sleeve and come out on the page -- Joan Baez

DAYTRIPPING

If Cleveland is too far away there is plenty to see and do in the Detroit area. Check out our list of events going on throughout the week:

Garden Walk

The MSU Master Gardeners invite the public to see their award-winning garden at the Evangelical Home, 14900 Shoreline Drive in Sterling Heights, June 25, from 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Tour the park, hospice garden and courtyard as well as a display of quilts. Dedications to residents and raffles will be part of the event. For more information, call (586) 247-4700.

Log Cabin Day

Annual Log Cabin Day, noon-4 p.m. June 26, Bailey Memorial Park, Beebe and Park streets, Richmond, presented by Historic Village at the Richmond Area Historical and Genealogical Society. Free. Call (586) 727-7773.

MusiCamp

MusiCamp for children in grades kindergarten through grade 10, June 21-26 at First United Methodist Church located at 57 S. Gratiot Ave., Mount Clemens. Participants will be part of the musical "It's Cool in the Furnace" that tells the biblical story of Daniel, Nebuchadnezzar, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, and will be presented at 10 a.m. June 26, at the church. A $15 per child camp fee covers cost of set design, costumes and food. Call: (586) 468-6464.

Motor Muster

More than 700 automobiles from 1930s to '70s in Motor Muster, through June 19, for Motor Muster at Greenfield Village in Dearborn; also includes fire engines, muscle cars, Indianapolis 500-theme cars. Village open until 9 p.m. June 18  for car cruise and live WWII USO show, starting 6 p.m. Event admission free with membership or $22 adults, $21 ages 62 and older, $16 ages 5-12, free 4 and younger. Visit www.thehenryford.org or call (313) 982-6001.

Sunset at the Zoo

Party like it’s 65,000 B.C. during the spectacular creatively wild, annual fundraising gala to benefit the Detroit Zoological Society at the Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Road, Royal Oak. Live animals and live music along with zoo-nique door prizes make it an event for the whole family. Call (248) 541-5717 and press 3 for ticket information.

Vintage Baseball

Regular Base Ball Club of Mount Clemens plays 2 p.m. at field on east side of Romeo Plank Road north of Clinton River Road: June 18  against Fort Wayne Early Risers; July 17, Royal Oak Yahoos; July 23, Wyandotte Stars, and Aug. 21 Midland Mighty River Hogs. Visit www.regularsbbc.org/Schedule.aspx.

Rochester Grangers Vintage Base Ball Club plays at 1 p.m. July 10 and Aug. 28, at Halbach Field in Rochester. Free admission. Visit www.rochesterhills.org or call (248) 656-4663.

Historical encampment

"War in the Wilderness" encampment of historical re-enactors representing British and French military, and Woodland Indians of the 1750's and '60s, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. June 18 , 9 a.m.-4 p.m. June 19, at Stony Creek Metropark. Battles scheduled at 3 p.m. both days, with other activities and events each day. Free with park admission; (800) 477-7756 or (586) 781-4242.

Garage sale

Benefit garage sale 9 a.m.-4 p.m. June 18, for Assumption Greek Orthodox Church and Cultural Center and Assumption Nursery School and Toddler Center, at 21800 Marter Road, St. Clair Shores. Call (586) 779-6111 ext. 3.

Kids Days

Free Shelby Township Kids Day, noon-3 p.m. June 18  at Summit Center Shopping Plaza, 50416-50544 Schoenherr, south of 23 Mile Road, includes Moon Walk, child ID cards and fingerprints, stress and scoliosis checkups, martial arts performance, Zumba demonstration, refreshments, prizes, balloons, coordinated by McKernan Family Chiropractic-Family Chiropractor and AIM Mail Center. Proceeds go to Make-A-Wish Foundation of Michigan. Call (586) 532-1448 or (586) 566-3460.

Also, face painting, food, prizes, games, Bounce House included in Kids Day, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. June 25, at Star Plaza on 24 Mile Road and Van Dyke, Shelby Township, sponsored by Star Chiropractic, Gracie's Salon, Petite School of Knowledge and Star Heating and Cooling.

Retirement planning

Financial Focus Series continues with retirement planning, 6:30-8 p.m. June 20, at Gilda's Club Metro Detroit. Free; register at (248) 577-0800.

Alliance Francaise

Free movie viewing "Jean de Florette" presented June 21, by Alliance Francaise de Grosse Pointe, starts 6:30 p.m. at Grosse Pointe woods Public Library, 20680 Mack Ave.

Face reading

Free program on face reading by Lin Klaassen, 7 p.m. June 27, in conference room next to Civic Center Library at Warren City hall, east of Van Dyke and north of 12 Mile Road. To register, (586) 574-4564.

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.

Richmond auditions

Richmond Community Theatre auditions for ages 18 and older for fall production of the musical "Chicago." Tryouts 7 p.m. June 27-28 at the theater, 69619 Park St. at Churchhill, include singing, dancing and some cold readings. Performances Sept. 9-10, 16-18 and 23-25. For details, www.richmondtheatre.com/index.htm or (586) 899-6919.

Special needs movie

Romeo-Washington-Bruce Parks & Recreation and Knights of Columbus present the movie "Cars 2" at 9:45 a.m. June 29, at the Romeo Theatre, 66120 Van Dyke, in Washington Township. Doors open 9:15 a.m. The show is for special needs individuals, their families, friends and caregivers; popcorn and soft drink included in $4 per person admission. To register, (586) 752-6543.

Music at Metro

Concerts by live bands and dancing at Thomas S. Welsh Activity Center at Metro Beach Metropark, 6:30-10 p.m. Sundays through August at the Harrison Township park. Music, dancing free, vehicle entry permit required. Information, (800) 477-3172 or www.metroparks.com.

Dining Out

Troy Dining Out Meetup Group gathers 7 p.m. at these locations: June 18 , Max & Erma's, Birmingham. For details and reservations, www.meetup.com/troy-dining-out.

Holistic festival

"Music & Mastery Holistic Festival," featuring spiritual teacher Deepak Chopra and musical artist India.Arie, June 18  at Chene Park in Detroit. Gates open 10 a.m., close 8:30 p.m.; tickets $35-$75 for either Chopra or India.Arie, or full-day combo-passes start at $47. Call (313) 393-7128 or visit www.cheneparkdetroit.com.

Paint Creek

Student and faculty art show through June 25, closing reception 6-8 p.m. June 24, at Paint Creek Center for the Arts, 407 Pine St., Rochester. Hours: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays. Call: (248) 651-4110 or www.pccart.org.

Metro Newspaper Services

Yoga at Stony

Yoga on Eastwood Beach at Stony Creek Metropark, 8-9 a.m. Saturdays through Aug. 27, fee $5 per session or $30 for series. Park vehicle entry permit required at $5 per day, $25 season, $15 seniors. For yoga information, email theyogapath.kdv@gmail.com or call (586) 918-8407.

Warren art

Warren Tri-County Fine Art Association Prestige Exhibit through June 30, at Warren Community Center, 5460 Arden. Works by member Ted Lang featured 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday during June at Warren City Hall.

Jazz series

St. John Hospital and Medical Center's The Plaza Jazz Concert Series, continues 7 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 4, except July 28, at The Village Festival Plaza, Kercheval and St. Clair. Free. Call (313) 886-7474 or visit www.thevillagegp.com.

Paws in the Park

Grosse Pointe Animal Adoption Society Paws in the Park benefit walk, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. June 18 on Windmill Point Drive in Grosse Pointe. For details and registration information, www.GPAAS.org or (313) 884-1551.

Farmers Market

Mount Clemens Farmers Market open 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through Nov. 19, at 141 North River Road. Locally grown products, including flowers. Visit www.mountclemensfarmersmarket.com.

Volunteers needed

* Macomb Literary Partners needs volunteers to help adults become better readers; applicants trained to tutor an adult 2 hours per week, with training sessions held on weekends or evenings. Call (586) 286-2750.

* Detroit Historical Guild seeking volunteers interested in participating in historical activities, including flea markets at Historic Fort Wayne, tea parties, excursions to historic sites, etc. Call (586) 777-5898.

Vow to get this little black book for new husbands

What do you do if everything on the bridal registry that you wanted to get has already been gotten?

On the heels of the wedding season comes "Stuff Every Husband Should Know" (Quirk Books, $9.95), a nifty pocket-sized hardcover book featuring everything a man embarking on a marriage should know (whether he wants to or not).

The little black book (not to be mistaken with the other little black book) is filled with priceless, practical wisdom garnered by husbands and fathers including its author Eric San Juan, who after a decade into marriage is delighted to find that his wife and son still seem healthy and happy.

The reasons being, covered in a variety of chapters throughout the book, ranging from the top ten basic rules of marriage to fun and inexpensive ways to spend time together after the courtship is over. There's even a chapter dealing with fatherhood.

Some of Juan's tips are likely gleaned from his own marriage, while others were learned over the years and handed down from generation to generation such as knowing the kids come first and if there are no kids, your wife comes first.

Juan also advises husbands to be kind, as a cruel word, once said, cannot be unsaid.

And while everyone knows honesty is the best policy, as Juan explains in his chapter, "Words to Forget You Ever Knew," taking that wisdom to unnecessary extremes has destroyed more marriages than strips clubs and World of Warcraft combined.

"If you want a long and loving relationship, you're going to have to accept that some things you just cannot say out loud," writes Juan, who is editor of a New Jersey-based newspaper. You can think it all you want as long as you remember not to share questions like, Have you put on weight? Or what did you do to your hair? What Juan does not say in this book (although likely to appear as fodder in the next volume), is that after a few years of marriage husbands (and wives) learn to say what they want in a better way. Instead of sharing the fact that his wife has packed on a few pounds, which she no doubt already knows, a loving husband would suggest taking the dog for a walk or a round of golf as a means of helping rather than hurting.

Its small size is another plus for husbands. They can stuff it in the back pocket of their jeans and use it as a reference guide when shopping for gifts after the wedding or quick tips during unusual situations. 

If you're looking for something special to go along with the frying pan or the fuzzy purple throw for two, wrap up a copy of "Stuff Husbands Should Know." It's a handbook for life and a fun read. Considering the tips, it could also be presented to members of the groom's bridal party, even as a wedding anniversary gift.

TODAY'S MUSE

Never go to bed mad.  Stay up and fight ~ Phyllis Diller, Phyllis Diller's Housekeeping Hints, 1966.

Explore America this summer (on the cheap)

School is coming to an end. That means families will be looking for places to go and things to do on the cheap.

As luck would have it, there is a new website that is brimming with information and ideas on how to navigate your way through summer without going broke.

It's called the Federal Citizen Information Center and its sole purpose is to connect Americans with government benefits, services and information available on its family of websites. 

"If you'll be traveling this summer, having a plan set before you head out is the best way to be sure you stick to your schedule and your budget," said a spokesperson for the site. "There are plenty of online government resources that will help you get where you are going as quickly and safely as possible.

It's the 150 anniversary of the American Civil War. Want to know where you can find an event going on to celebrate it? Follow the link to government resources and you'll discover a link to all of the recreation departments in the United States and what they've got going on this summer.

It's a gold mine site. Hiking, biking, historical sites and where a family and the dog can stay for the night along the way.

I do not drive a Cooper or a VW Beetle. No matter how much I would love to own either one, I drive a large vehicle that is somewhat good on gas. That is unless I'm hauling a camper, bikes, surfboards and supplies for a week away from home. Then we are usually in need of a gas station. If you look on the FCIC site, you'll find a link to the cheapest fuel prices in your area.

Most people have visited at least one of their state parks but how about one of the country's 400 national parks? If you're interested in discovering one of those, a link on the site will take you directly to the National Park System where you can explore economical routes to places such as the Grand Canyon and Yosemite. How about the Statue of Liberty? Want to know when you can visit her or where to stay nearby? The National Park Service can give you tips on the best way to explore your country's heritage.

Looking to find out what's going on in your own state? Use the search engine at USA Gov and enter your city name along with the word "summer" and see what events or programs are available for you and your family.

"There's no need to break the bank because you're ready for some summer fun," said the FCIC spokesperson. "Enjoy the extra hours of daylight, while keeping your pennies in your pocket."

DAYTRIPPING

What's going on this weekend? Here's just a few of the events going on in the Metro Detroit area:

Walt Disney classic

The Redford Theatre will be showing, “Bedknobs and Broomsticks” on tonight at 8 p.m. and June 11 at 2 and 8 p.m. This is a Disney musical fantasy about an apprentice witch and evacuee British children who ride on a magic bed in their quest to defeat the invasion of England during World War II. It stars Angela Lansbury, David Tomlinson and Roddy McDowall. Tickets: $4. Bonus: Disney cartoon starring Pluto.

Antique show

Greater Washington Area Historical Society and Friends of the Octagon House antique show 10 a.m.-5 p.m. through June 12, in the barn behind the Octagon House, 57500 Van Dyke, north of 26 Mile Road. Admission $2 per day; antique appraisals $5 per item noon-4 p.m. June 12. Also perennial plant sale, ice cream social by donation on June 12, and Octagon House open noon-4 p.m. both days with $5 admission fee, and the Washington Historical Museum, 58230 Van Dyke, open 1-4 p.m. June 12. For details, www.washhistsoc.org or www.octagonhouse.org or (586) 786-5304.

Chesterfield Historical Society presents French Fur Trade re-enactment by

Ste. Claire Voyageurs

Ste. Claire Voyageurs, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. June 11  and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. June 12, at Chesterfield Historical Village Green, 47275 Sugarbush Road, north of 21 Mile Road, Chesterfield Township. Call (586) 749-3713. Admission $1 adults, $2 family; refreshments available.

Clinton Seniors

Activities at the Clinton Township Senior Adult Life Center, 40730 Romeo Plank Road, include glass craft project, 9:30 a.m.-noon June 13; and how to maintain a purpose in life after retirement, 9:30 a.m. June 14. To RSVP for any program, (586) 286-9333.

Card parties

St. Clair Shores Eagles Auxiliary No. 3619 card party, 1-4 p.m. June 12, at 23631 Greater Mack; $6 admission includes refreshments and table prizes.

Ashlar Chapter No. 378 Order of Eastern Star card party and luncheon, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. June 13, lunch served at noon, at Roseville Masonic Center, 27151 Gratiot, Roseville; admission $7. Call (586) 772-6126.

Garden Walk

Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farms and Rochester Branch of Woman's National Farm and Garden Association 12th Annual Garden Walk, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. June 16, at the museum, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, one mile east of Rochester Road off Tienken Road. Tickets: $10 in advance, $12 at the door. "A Garden Gala" preview party is 7-9 p.m. June 15. For information, visit www.rochesterhills.org or call (248) 656-4663.

'Twilight Tuesdays'

Self-guided tours of Meadow Brook Hall or landscape and architecture tours of the grounds during "Twilight Tuesdays" 6-9 p.m. June 28, July 26, Aug. 23 and Sept. 20, at the historic Rochester hall, with music. Admission $10 adults, free ages 12 and younger; reservations not required. For details, (248) 364-6263 or www.meadowbrookhall.org.

Senior club

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

Salsa dancing

YA Salsa film screening of docu-film "La Epoca - The Paladdium Era," noon June 11 , followed by workshop at 4:30 p.m., and practice party at 5:30 p.m. at Phoenix Center Dance Studio, 220 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. For tickets, visit www.YASalsa.com/LaEpoca.

Music at Metro

Concerts by live bands and dancing at Thomas S. Welsh Activity Center at Metro Beach Metropark, 6:30-10 p.m. Sundays through August at the Harrison Township park. Music, dancing free, vehicle entry permit required. Information, (800) 477-3172 or www.metroparks.com.

Dining Out

Troy Dining Out Meetup Group gathers 7 p.m. at these locations: June 17, Weber's, Ann Arbor; June 18, Max & Erma's, Birmingham. For details and reservations, www.meetup.com/troy-dining-out.

Holistic festival

"Music & Mastery Holistic Festival," featuring spiritual teacher Deepak Chopra and musical artist India.Arie, June 18 at Chene Park in Detroit. Gates open 10 a.m., close 8:30 p.m.; tickets $35-$75 for either Chopra or India.Arie, or full-day combo-passes $47-$130. Call (313) 393-7128 or visit www.cheneparkdetroit.com.

Play auditions

Grosse Pointe Theatre auditions for "The Music Man," 9 a.m.-noon for ages 6 through teens, and 2-4 p.m. June 11  for lead roles of Harold and Marian, and 2-5 p.m. June 12 for other roles, all at the theater rehearsal facility, 315 Fisher Road, Grosse Pointe. Scripts available for $20 refundable deposit at same address (ticket office). Rehearsals begin July 11; performance dates are Sept. 18, 22-25, Sept. 29-Oct. 2. Call (586) 677-4270 or email owen.kyle2@comcast.net.

Catholic Alumni

Summer Breeze dance hosted by Catholic Alumni Club of Detroit, 8 p.m. June 11, Sterling Chateau Hall, 38500 Ryan Road, Sterling Heights. Admission $12, includes DJ music, refreshments. Call (313) 937-1312.

Yoga at Stony

Yoga on Eastwood Beach at Stony Creek Metropark, 8-9 a.m. Saturdays June 18-Aug. 27, fee $5 per session or $30 for five-week series. Park vehicle entry permit required: $5 per day, $25 season, $15 seniors. For yoga information, email theyogapath.kdv@gmail.com or call (586) 918-8407.

Warren art

Warren Tri-County Fine Art Association Prestige Exhibit through June 30, at Warren Community Center, 5460 Arden. Works by member Ted Lang featured 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday during June at Warren City Hall.

Jazz series

St. John Hospital and Medical Center's The Plaza Jazz Concert Series, continues 7 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 4, except July 28, at The Village Festival Plaza, Kercheval and St. Clair, downtown Grosse Pointe. Free concerts at same time Thursdays through Aug. 4, except July 28. Call (313) 886-7474 or visit www.thevillagegp.com.

Vintage baseball

Regular Base Ball Club of Mount Clemens plays 2 p.m. at field on east side of Romeo Plank Road north of Clinton River Road: June 18, against Fort Wayne Early Risers; July 17, Royal Oak Yahoos; July 23, Wyandotte Stars, and Aug. 21 Midland Mighty River Hogs. Visit www.regularsbbc.org/Schedule.aspx.

Rochester Grangers Vintage Base Ball Club plays at 1 p.m. July 10 and Aug. 28, at Halbach Field in Rochester. Free. Visit www.rochesterhills.org or call (248) 656-4663.

Irish festival

St. Patrick Senior Center Irish Festival, 1-9 p.m. June 12, food, drink and entertainment, at 58 Parsons St., behind Orchestra Hall, in Detroit. Admission: $3. Call (313) 833-7080.

Farmers Market

Mount Clemens Farmers Market 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays through Nov. 19, at 141 North River Road. Locally grown products including flowers, visit www.mountclemensfarmersmarket.com.

Volunteers needed

* Macomb Literary Partners needs volunteers to help adults become better readers; applicants trained to tutor an adult 2 hours per week, with training sessions held on weekends or evenings. Call (586) 286-2750.

* Detroit Historical Guild seeking volunteers interested in participating in historical activities, including flea markets at Historic Fort Wayne, tea parties, excursions to historic sites, etc. Call (586) 777-5898.

TODAY'S MUSE

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things that you didn't do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover -- Mark Twain