NEWSPAPERS n o i t i d E l a i c e p S
SEPTEMBER 13, 2023
candgnews.com
Oakland County papers
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
After sitting idle since 2006, the former Kmart property on Big Beaver Road in Troy will finally be demolished to make room for future development at the site.
Photo by Erin Sanchez
The “Strike Out Parkinson’s” event hosted by the Kirk Gibson Foundation brought together, from left, former San Diego Padres reliever Rich “Goose” Gossage and former Detroit Tigers Dave Rozema, Alan Trammell and Kirk Gibson on Aug. 20 at Bowlero Lanes in Royal Oak for a panel discussion of the 1984 World Series.
‘WE’RE TEAMMATES BACK THEN AND WE’RE TEAMMATES TODAY’ BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK
ROYAL OAK — “How can you not be romantic about baseball?” The quote was once popularized in the film and book “Moneyball,” but it was in living color on Aug. 20 at Bowlero Lanes in Royal Oak. The Kirk Gibson Foundation hosted its first “Strike Out Parkinson’s” event to commemorate the 1984 Detroit Tigers and their journey to a World Series victory over the San Diego Padres. As legendary Tigers shortstop Alan Trammell and right-hander Dave Rozema answered questions alongside
BY BRENDAN LOSINSKI blosinski@candgnews.com
Gibson, a familiar foe was in attendance to make sure that the Padres were represented. “I don’t even know what I’m doing here,” Rich “Goose” Gossage said. “I don’t like the guy, but there it is. I don’t know what else to say.” The Hall of Famer and flame-throwing right hander usually got the better of Gibson, as Gibson went 1-for-13 with eight strikeouts throughout his career against Gossage in the regular season, but it was Gibson’s home run off Gossage in Game 5 of the 1984 World Series that was the topic of conversation throughout the night. That’s the romanticism and camaraderie of baseball — how one pitch, one swing and one home run could
TROY — On Aug. 31, the city of Troy received a demolition permit for the former Kmart headquarters property that has long sat unused near Big Beaver Road and Coolidge Highway. The city is currently working with the contractor, Adamo Demolition, on what is needed to receive approval for the demolition permit to begin work on the 40-acre site. No plans have been announced on what will happen to the property following the demolition. “Having an obsolete building that has been empty for nearly 20 years wasn’t in line with the branding we are trying to put forward, so we are pleased with this new development,” remarked Troy Mayor Ethan Baker. Kmart, which had its beginnings as the Kresge Co., moved from its former headquarters in Detroit to the Troy campus in 1972. The company merged with Sears and moved its headquarters to Chicago in 2006, and the Troy site has been vacant ever since. The Kmart company is currently preparing to close its final store, having shuttered its last store in Michigan in 2021.
See GIBSON on page 10A
See KMART on page 11A
1984 TIGERS REUNITE WITH FAMILIAR FOE FOR KIRK GIBSON FOUNDATION EVENTS jszczepaniak@candgnews.com
Demolition plans for former Kmart headquarters move forward
C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • SEPTEMBER 13, 2023
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3A/ C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • SEPTEMBER 13, 2023
Fairgoers enjoy the Scrambler at the Michigan State Fair at Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi Sept. 2.
Assistant City Manager Kyle Pollet will work his last day in Ferndale on Sept. 7 after four years on the job.
Photo by Erin Sanchez
Image provided by the city of Ferndale
Thousands attend the Michigan State Fair over Labor Day weekend BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com
NOVI — The Michigan State Fair in Novi has become a holiday tradition for many people throughout the state. The fair has been held annually from the Thursday before Labor Day through the holiday itself at Suburban Collection Showplace for the last 11 years. “We like the fair. The kids love coming here. It’s a yearly thing that we do,” said fairgoer Lexi Queen, of Milford. The fair features a vast array of entertainment, including amusement park rides, and sideshows such as Rock N Roll K-9s, the Cool Zoo, the Aquatic Acrobatic Show and the Shrine Circus. The circus offered attendees a chance to get out of the sweltering heat on Labor Day, as temperatures were in the 90s, and to take in the traditional circus
spectacles, such as high wire acts and trapeze artists. According to the ringmaster, the circus is the oldest form of family entertainment, as it has been around for 150 years. The Shrine Circus is put on annually by volunteers affiliated with the Shriners as a way to raise funds for their charity work providing medical treatment to children who have serious illnesses and burns. The show also brought in vendors from across the community to offer everything from specialty candies and other food items to orthotics, jewelry and more. This year’s fair featured the first public judging of the giant pumpkins. There were also several livestock competitions, quilting demonstrations and much more. “It’s a lot bigger than I thought it was,” said Robert Williams, of Rochester. “I’m glad I came.”
Ferndale assistant city manager leaves position proud of past work BY MIKE KOURY mkoury@candgnews.com
FERNDALE — The city of Ferndale recently honored outgoing Assistant City Manager Kyle Pollet, who served his last day on Sept 7. At its Aug. 28 meeting, the City Council gave public service recognition to Pollet for his work in Ferndale since he became assistant city manager in 2019. In an interview conducted over email, Pollet reflected on his time with Ferndale. When asked about projects that he was proud to have had a hand in during his four years, he discussed his first task as assistant city manager, which was to negotiate the purchase of Martin Road Park from Hazel Park schools, which enabled the city to proceed with the park’s splash pad project. “By the time we obtained the land, we were well into the COVID-19 pandemic, causing delays in finding qualified contractors to build the pad,” he stated. “With support See POLLET on page 6A
See STATE FAIR on page 9A
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BEHIND THE WHEEL
4A/ C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • SEPTEMBER 13, 2023
Do you own a vehicle with an interesting history?
Contact Staff Writer Maria Allard at allard@candgnews.com or at (586) 498-1045, and you could be featured in an upcoming Behind the Wheel. For more stories, visit candgnews.com/news/auto or use the QR code.
Riding along the open road BY MARIA ALLARD
allard@candgnews.com
G
lenn Harris was 19 years old when he took his first-ever motorcycle ride on a 1975 Suzuki T500 Titan. Harris lived in Seattle at the time and “had to learn very quickly how to ride safely in rain and how to spot black ice on the road.” Harris, 64, is still going full throttle. Over the years, he’s owned 10 different motorcycles, logging approximately 150,000 miles in total. “The allure of motorcycles is you’re not just a passive observer,” said Harris, who was born in Los Angeles and now resides in Birmingham. “In a car, it’s like you’re looking through a TV screen. Being on a motorcycle, you’re in the show. There’s no cage around you. The sights, the smells, everything is just there. “You’re closer to the ground than in the car,” said Harris, who has been married to his wife Alexandra since 1990 and has three children, three grandchildren and one grandchild on the way. “You feel like you are part of the environment. It’s magical. It’s a wonderful, wonderful experience.” One of his favorite models was the 1998 Honda Shadow American Classic Edition he purchased in the summer of 2020 from a couple who lived in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He recently sold the jade pearl green and pearl ivory colored Honda and has nothing but good memories of the bike he called “Beachcomber.” “I nicknamed it ‘Beachcomber’ because it’s got the color of the sand and the surf. They only made about 400 of these in this color. It’s really rare to see these,” the experienced rider said. “It looked very vintage. In a sea of black bikes, it always stood out.” Harris purchased the motorcycle for $3,000, although the owner was asking $3,500. But when he saw Harris’ enthusiasm for the ’98 Honda, a deal was made. Harris bought a one-way airplane ticket to Baton Rouge to officially purchase the bike. After having dinner with the couple he bought the bike from, he stayed the night in a hotel and departed for home at 6:30 a.m. the next day. The mileage when he left Baton Rouge was 15,785; when he returned to Birmingham, it was 17,104. Harris made the most of his 1,319-mile journey through eight states, including Georgia, and was prepared with gloves, a helmet and a rain suit. “I was going through Alabama, and there was a huge electrical storm,” he said. “I had some interesting weather in Tennessee.” At one point while still in Tennessee, Harris pulled off the highway and parked his
ABOVE: Glenn Harris painted a palm tree, pictured, and a surfboard on the Honda to represent the sand and the surf. RIGHT: Harris, of Birmingham, has been riding motorcycles for 45 years. BELOW: Harris logged 6,740 miles on the 1998 Honda Shadow American Classic Edition he owned for three years.
Photos provided by Glenn Harris
See MOTORCYCLE on page 5A
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C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • SEPTEMBER 13, 2023
STRONG OWNS HER
Motorcycle
e r u t fu
from page 4A
0107 marian Glenn Harris has been known to ride his bike through a local church during a “Biker/Hot Rod Sunday” event. Photo provided by Glenn Harris
Harris also received a lot of thumbs-up from people when riding. “I got so many compliments on it,” he said. “There’s a real camaraderie between bikers.” The avid rider takes motorcycling very seriously. He enrolls in training classes every two to three years. Harris recently sold the bike to new friends Mickey and Peggy Benson, of Indiana, who now have matching Honda Shadows of the same jade pearl green and pearl ivory color. Although Harris sold the Honda, he is still riding. He has a 2006 Yamaha Stratoliner motorcycle. He also has a 2001 Ford Mustang convertible. “The Yamaha is a bigger bike. I couldn’t keep both so I had to let one go. It was so hard because I loved that bike,” said Harris, who keeps in touch with Peggy Benson on Facebook, which gives him a chance to stay tuned to what he calls “The Ongoing Saga of Beachcomber.”
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new ride under a freeway overpass. “It was kind of in a rural area. It was nice to just relax for a little bit,” he said. “Riding in Tennessee was absolutely gorgeous. Same thing for Kentucky. Really, all of it was just beautiful, because you’re riding in the South. It’s so green.” While en route, Harris stopped about every hour to fill up on gas. “It’s an opportunity to see things,” he said. “The people you meet at restaurants and gas stations are very friendly.” One place he visited was the Hellfighters International Christian Ministries in Laurel, Mississippi. Harris, who has served for 26 years as associate rabbi at Congregation Shema Yisrael in Bloomfield Hills, felt very welcome at the Christian Ministries. “They all came out, made a circle and just prayed for me for a safe ride home,” said Harris, also a member of the Lion of Judah Motorcycle Ministries Michigan Chapter. “They gave me a big hug before I went on my way.” On the last part of his stretch, Harris rode from Indiana to Michigan on a twolane road. “It’s my favorite kind of riding because you’re making progress but you don’t feel like you have to be flying,” he said. “As you’re going from Indiana to Michigan, it’s a wideopen country. You’re looking at farmland. There are no tall buildings. You can see out in front of you for miles.” It took him three days to get home. “I was one tired puppy,” he said. In the three years Harris owned “Beachcomber,” he logged 6,740 miles. He also added on several items including Cobra swept driver floorboards and a Chilhowee tank bra and fender bib. He had a lot of fun with the ’98 Honda. For two years in a row, he took it to the annual Mackinaw City Motorcycle Rally. “One of the things I like to do is motorcycle camping,” he said. “I stayed right along the water. I’d look at the sunset along the Straits of Mackinac.”
C&G News half pg vert-4.67 x10 Issue Date 9-6-23.indd 2
8/17/2023 1:04:05 PM
C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • SEPTEMBER 13, 2023
6A
from page 3A
from Parks and Rec and DPW staff, we persisted in moving the plan forward until we were able to build and open the splash pad in the summer of 2022. The splash pad is certainly the most public project I led but I am also proud of my work on the city’s capital improvement plan, program-based budgeting initiative, and budget process. These contributions will continue to impact the city long after I’m gone.” Two years into his time with Ferndale, in 2021, Pollet was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is a nervous system disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord and causes the loss of muscle control. In living with the disease for the last two years, Pollet said it hasn’t affected his ability to work as one might think, as most of his work is centered around managing staff, projects and strategic goals. “Though my mobility is reduced as the disease progresses, ALS doesn’t damage mental functioning, allowing me to mentor staff or build a report for council despite physical disability. At this point, I use a walker to get around, so any accommodations I require are no different than a wheelchair user or otherwise physically disabled staff member.” Because city management requires a lot out of a person, Pollet felt it was time to leave his role as assistant city manager. “Every day involves whiplash, jumping from budget to an HR issue, park improvements to a police situation, etc. The job requires prioritizing the city whenever and wherever you are,” he said. “I’m now at a point where I would rather prioritize myself and my loved ones over my career (despite how much I enjoy it). I feel like I’ve made a marked contribution to our community through my time serving Macomb and Oakland residents. I’m content in walking away knowing that.” Pollet was Joe Gacioch’s first hire after he officially became city manager in 2019. Gacioch said Pollet was instrumental in how Ferndale was able to respond to troubles that impacted the city during the COVID-19 pandemic. “We were really working closely on a day-to-day basis trying to navigate all of the changes in policy and rules and changes that we would have to make, staffing changes
and staffing communications we’d have to make,” he said. “Kyle was really attached to the hip as a partner. He was vital to helping us work through that. Beyond that, he’s fundamentally improved our systems through the budget process and capital planning.” Gacioch said what Pollet especially brought to the table was “acumen with analysis” and his ability to understand information in a way that “fundamentally changed the way” Ferndale plans for capital. “Kyle implemented a capital improvement program and helped us organize and project needs over a six-year basis,” he said. “He created a system to help us prioritize major critical investments that align with our new program-based budgeting. So he put a logic on the capital plan that, before Kyle, I don’t know that we were in a position to implement. “Why that’s important is because here we are today working through a facilities task force with long-term facilities needs and we have a basis now to make recommendations and arguments based on Kyle’s work with the capital plan, and it completely aligns with the budget process,” he continued. “So, with his skill sets and his views on things — his sensibilities on things were what enabled us to be in this position. That’s a cool thing about the government. His fingerprints are on the system now. They’re all over the system. If you look at our budget, if you look at our capital plan, it’s all him. It’s all there.” Echoing Gacioch’s sentiments, Mayor Melanie Piana said Pollet brought much depth to his role as assistant city manager, and she highlighted his ability to create change in Ferndale’s budgeting system, as well as his help with responsibilities outside the city. “I always relied on him for his political astuteness on strategy as well as helping me prepare for my White House visit with elected officials, Vice President Harris, Secretary of Energy Jennifer Granholm,” she said. “He’s always helped me prepare for my role as mayor and he’s been a tremendous partner.” Pollet said local government is the crucible where service and policy meet, and being able to see the results of decisions made by their team affect the quality of life for Ferndale residents has been rewarding. “It is hard to run a city, but it is worth it when you see the positive impact you can make,” he said. Call Staff Writer Mike Koury at (586) 498-1077.
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C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • SEPTEMBER 13, 2023
STONEY CREEK VILLAGE CELEBRATES BICENTENNIAL SEPT. 17 BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
ROCHESTER HILLS — Stoney Creek Village is celebrating its bicentennial this year, and the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm is planning to commemorate the occasion with a special event for the public Sept. 17. “This is an event that culminates a lot of research that we’ve been doing this year in honor of the 200 years that the village as been here, so really our goal is to celebrate and tell people about this amazing village — but not just the past, but all these amazing things it’s still doing today and how they can connect back to the community and be a part of that history as well,” said Cathy Fitzpatrick, the museum’s program coordinator. Settled in 1823, Stoney Creek Village is home to several of Oakland County’s oldest and best-preserved homes, according to Museum Director Pat McKay. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the village is also home to the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm. “We just wanted to tell all these stories about this cluster of about 19 homes and all the things that have happened here over 200 years,” McKay said. “It’s an unbelievable, remarkable
story.” The Taylor family relocated from upstate New York to Michigan in 1823. By the time the Taylors arrived in Stoney Creek, museum staff said, most Native Americans had been forcefully removed from the region by way of the Detroit Treaty of 1807, their land forfeited in exchange for reservations. On behalf of his relatives, Elisha Taylor purchased 160 acres of land at $1.25/ acre, establishing the beginning of Stoney Creek Village. From the Native Americans that predated the Taylor arrival to subsistence farmers, fiber artists, millers, blacksmiths, teachers, a worldrenowned doctor, and a representative in Congress, museum staff said the history of the area has many stories to tell. The public is invited to celebrate the 200year legacy of Stoney Creek Village noon-5 p.m. Sept. 17. “The biggest part of the celebration is that we are inviting the community in. We have stuff for adults, and we have stuff for kids and families. … There’s really something for everyone,” said Fitzpatrick. Guests can visit historic homes and buildings, check out the museum’s new exhibits, and See BICENTENNIAL on page 14A
Stoney Creek Village is celebrating its 200th anniversary. Photo provided by the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm
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COMMUNITY CALENDAR
To view more Community Calendar and to submit your own, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise an event, call (586) 498-8000.
8A/ C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • SEPTEMBER 13, 2023
SEPT. 14
Oktoberfest: Deutschtroit food truck, live music by Enzian aus Detroit, beer and wine, pretzels and dancing, 4-7 p.m., Older persons Commission, 650 Letica Drive in Rochester, opcseniorcenter.org
SEPT. 14-17
Troy Family Daze!: Live music, carnival and midway, food trucks, touch a truck, wrestling shows, cutest pet contest, fireworks, 5K/fun run and more, 4-9 p.m. Sept. 14, 4-11 p.m. Sept. 15, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sept. 16 and noon-7 p.m. Sept. 17, City of Troy campus, 500 W. Big Beaver Road, troyfamilydaze.org
SEPT. 15
Stoney Creek Cemetery walking tour: 10:30-11:30 a.m., Letica Road at Romeo Road in Rochester Hills, park at St Paul’s United Methodist Church, register by noon Sept. 13, rochesterhills.org/musprograms
Campus, 7350 Cooley Lake Road in Waterford, virtual participants can run anytime in September, runsignup. com/julieruntoendhunger
SEPT. 24
Clawson Comic Book and Toy Show: Featuring “Cat in the Hat” exhibit, “Cynical Man” creator Matt Feazell and horror artist Steve Bejima, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Knights of Columbus Father Lynch Council #4188, 870 N. Main St.
SEPT. 30
Fall Festival: Hayrides, artisan market, food trucks, music, kids activities, farm animals, nonprofit booths, cider and doughnut tent, bonfire and more, 3-7 p.m., Clawson City Park, 935 N. Custer Ave., cityofclawson. com
OCT. 1
Nine, Wine and Dine: Shades of Pink Foundation’s 3rd Annual Ladies Golf Outing, 3-9 p.m., Lincoln Hills Golf Course, 2666 W. 14 Mile Road in Birmingham, dinner-only option available, (248) 729-3166
Festival of Hope: Free indoor event featuring local organizations offering programs, services and resources for individuals and families, noon-3 p.m., Novi Civic Center, 45175 W. 10 Mile Road, info@novicc.org, (248) 202-3480
SEPT. 16-17
OCT. 4
Fall Home Improvement Show: Hundreds of local professionals expected, also artisans, free admission and parking, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sept. 16 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sept. 17, Southfield Pavilion, 26000 Evergreen Road, yourhomeshows.com
SEPT. 16-24
Detroit Auto Show: Public event features vehicle displays, exhibits, Powering Michigan EV Experience indoor track, street course ride-and-drives and more, Huntington Place, One Washington Blvd. in Detroit, hours and pricing at naias.com
SEPT. 17
Bicentennial Celebration: Stoney Creek Village: Live entertainment, speakers, historic displays and presentations, milk a fake cow and more, Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, rochesterhills.org/musprograms
SEPT. 21
Fire & Flannel: Live folk music, bourbon tasting, food vendors, s’mores, yard games, blacksmith station, flannel contest, networking and more, 4-6:30 p.m., Troy Historic Village, 60 W. Wattles Road, troychamber. com
SEPT. 22-24
Funky Ferndale Art Fair: More than 140 juried artists and authors, 3-7:30 p.m. Sept. 22, 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Sept. 23 and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sept. 24, Nine Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, funkyferndaleartfair.com
SEPT. 23
Julie Run to End Hunger: 5K run/walk and 1-mile fun run hosted by Open Door Outreach Center, 9 a.m., Oakland Community College - Highland Lakes
Royal Oak Senior Expo: Free health screenings, refreshments and admission, connect with experts, win prizes and more, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Royal Oak Farmers Market, 316 E. 11 Mile Road, seniorexpousa.com
OCT. 7-8
Pumpkinfest: U-pick pumpkin patch, cider and doughnuts, music, hayrides, animals, games and more, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Michigan State University Extension - Tollgate Farm and Education Center, 28115 Meadowbrook Road in Novi, canr.msu.edu/tollgate
OCT. 8
Scare Away Hunger 5K Run and Family Fun Run: 9 a.m., music and snacks after, Rochester Municipal Park, 400 Sixth St., register at ranh.org/events
ONGOING
‘The Full Monty’: Presented by Avon Players, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays Sept. 1530, 1185 Washington Road in Rochester, avonplayers. org Java and Jazz series: Featuring Ryan Bills Trio, 9 a.m.-noon Sept. 17 and Oct. 15, Beverly Park, 18801 Beverly Road in Beverly Hills, villagebeverlyhills.com/ newslist.php Free Third Thursdays at Cranbrook: 11 a.m.-8 p.m. at Cranbrook Art Museum and 5-8 p.m. at Cranbrook Institute of Science, both 39221 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Hills, RSVPs required, science.cranbrook. edu, cranbrookartmuseum.org Food trucks: 11:30 a.m-1:30 p.m. Tuesdays until Sept. 26, Civic Center complex, 4640 Walnut Lake Road in West Bloomfield, wbtownship.org
FARMERS MARKETS
Berkley 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Thursdays until Oct. 26, 12 Mile Road at South Robina, berkleyfarmersmarket.com, (248) 658-3353
Rochester 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays until Oct. 28, corner of East Third and Water streets, www.downtown rochestermi.com
Birmingham 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Sundays until Oct. 29, Public Parking Lot 6, 660 North Old Woodward Ave., ALLINBirming ham.com/FarmersMarket
Royal Oak 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturdays, also antiques and collectibles 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays, and food truck rally and concerts 4-8 p.m. September-October, 316 E. 11 Mile Road, ROFM on Facebook
Farmington 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays until Nov. 4, Riley Park, 33113 Grand River Ave., www.facebook.com/ FarmingtonMarket
Troy 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Fridays until Sept. 29, Jeanne M. Stine Community Park, 241 Town Center, facebook. com/TroyMIFarmersMarket
Oak Park 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesdays until Sept. 27, Oak Park High School, 13701 Oak Park Blvd., oakparkmi.gov
Walled Lake 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Wednesdays through October, Public Safety Campus, 1499 E. West Maple Road, walledlake.us
• Also meet local nonprofits and businesses, noon-2 p.m. Tuesdays through September, Farmington Community Library, 32737 W. 12 Mile Road in Farmington Hills, farmlib.org
CLASS REUNIONS
‘Cadillac Crew’: Play about forgotten women leaders of civil rights movement, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 2 p.m. Sundays Sept. 29-Oct. 15, The Inspired Acting Company, 1124 E. West Maple Drive in Walled Lake, inspiredacting.org, (248) 863-9953
Kimball High School Class of 1973: 6-10 p.m. Sept. 14, Shield’s Pizza, 1476 W. Maple Road in Troy, kimballclassreunion1973@gmail.com
Live music: 7-10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, Fork n’ Pint locations at 51 N. Broadway in Lake Orion, forknpintlakeorion.com, and 4000 Cass-Elizabeth Road in Waterford, forknpintcasslake.com
Mount Clemens High School - All Alumni: 5 p.m. Sept. 8, Rec Bowl, 40 Crocker Blvd. in Mount Clemens, (586) 463-6386, drron82@yahoo.com
Warren Cousino High School Class of 1978: 6 p.m. Oct. 14, Maple Lane Golf Club, 33203 Maple Lane Drive in Sterling Heights, (586) 795-4000, Warren Cousino Class of 1978 on Facebook
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C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • SEPTEMBER 13, 2023
State Fair from page 3A
The first-place winner of the giant pumpkin contest weighed in at 1,844 pounds. Photo by Erin Sanchez
stuff every time, but the price goes up each year,” he said. However, Bowman said there are several ways to get discounted tickets. Attendees can get $8 off by purchasing tickets at Kroger or $5 off by bringing in nonperishable food items. Those who donate blood with Versiti are given a refund of their fair admission and a Kroger gift card. The public is also welcome to volunteer for a fourhour shift in exchange for an Ultimate Admission wristband, lunch and a T-shirt.
Trevor Queen said his other issue this year was that they limited the height to go on certain rides. He said that as he was taller than the limit, he was not able to help his 2-year-old daughter go through some of the children’s mazes and accompany her on some of the rides, which frustrated him. Ken Willis, of Lansing, said his only qualm was that after waiting more than 30 minutes in line for a ride during extremely hot weather, his kids were unable to ride the ride, as they just closed it off at 9 p.m. in-
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stead of letting those who had waited in line get to enjoy the ride. Lexi Queen said that she did appreciate the free parking this year and liked that they give complimentary shuttles to and from the lots for those who need them. “It was definitely worth the drive,” said Willis, who drove in with his family from the state capital. “I wish I would have got here sooner so the kids could have enjoyed it a little longer.”
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“The fair went well,” said McKenzie Bowman, the director of communications and customer relations at Suburban Collection Showplace. “We received overall great feedback with little to no complaints. We increased the aisle widths to allow for less congestion, and we increased to 45 rides, the most we have ever had.” Despite the widened aisles and the increased number of rides, some guests said they felt there should be a few more rides for the amount spent on tickets. The ultimate ticket, which included rides, cost $42. “We get it, there is a lot to do, but when you’ve got families of five or six, it becomes expensive,” said Queen, who attended the fair with her husband and three children. She suggested that they be able to get a discounted rate for late-day admission, such as after 5 p.m., especially on the last day. Her husband, Trevor Queen, said he feels the fair could add even more rides to make him feel like he is getting more bang for his buck. “If the price goes up, they could add a little bit more stuff. I feel like it’s the same
C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • SEPTEMBER 13, 2023
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Gibson from page 1A
have such a profound impact that the pair meeting up again nearly 40 years later could draw so much attention. “The game is over and we’re done, but to have this and start this, it gives him something else to focus on than his health conditions and his health issues that he’s had with Parkinson’s,” Gossage said. “It’s great to be here with him and for him, and to see such a great turnout. It’s awesome.” As attendees bowled to start the night and enjoyed food and conversation, the attention shifted to the video board as the journey to the 1984 World Series was displayed, showing a buildup of draft picks and even the infamous Rozema karate kick against the Minnesota Twins in 1982 during a bench-clearing brawl, which drew laughter from the crowd. Afterward, the ’84 World Series panel took the stage as Gossage, Gibson, Trammell and Rozema discussed the famous at-bat between Gossage and Gibson, the Tigers clubhouse in 1984 and everything in between. “Obviously, we get to reminisce and we get to talk about the old times, and that never gets old, but this is life and death stuff here and to raise funds and to make people more aware of Parkinson’s, or what Gibby calls ‘Parky,’” Trammell said. “They broke the mold with Kirk Gibson, and I mean that in a complimentary fashion. He’s a heck of a man and a good friend.” To follow up the bowling event, the Kirk Gibson Foundation hosted its seventh annual Kirk Gibson Golf Classic Aug. 21 at Wyndgate Country Club in Rochester Hills to raise money to fight Parkinson’s, and the ’84 Tigers brought in some reinforcements to get the job done. As Gossage, Trammell and Rozema shared laughs near their respective golf carts before the outing, legendary Tigers catcher Lance Parrish joined in on the reunion to support his teammate. “This is a big deal to him, and it’s a big deal to anyone who has somebody that suffers from Parkinson’s or has a family member,” Parrish said. “It’s all in an effort, just like every charity event, to try to find a cure, and we’re hoping the little bit that we can all do to help in that regard is leading towards that direction.” While finding a cure is definitely at the top of the list, there was much conversation surrounding the Kirk Gibson Foundation’s center for Parkinson’s that is currently in the
development stages. Putting heavy emphasis on achieving major progress in 2023, the Kirk Gibson Foundation’s managing director, Steve Annear, said the foundation is hoping to open the doors of the center to the Parkinson’s community within the next two years. “It’s been amazing,” Annear said. “I think so far this year we’ve exceeded our own expectations of what we could do. The result of that means we’ll be able to more directly impact people that are living with Parkinson’s through the programs that we support and opening up our own center, which will be the Kirk Gibson Center for Parkinson’s, where people will be able to come and get all these exercises and activitybased programs for free, so that’s kind of the centerpiece of what we’re doing here and we’re really excited about it.” The center will be home to a multitude of activity-based programs that the Kirk Gibson Foundation funds, including yoga, tai chi, bicycling, spin classes, breathing exercises, strength and weight training classes, dance classes, and many more. The center also will provide a support program to family members of people fighting Parkinson’s to help them cope and assist their loved ones. Don’t think of it in the context of a medical center, but rather as a sanctuary for people fighting Parkinson’s to walk in and feel like they’re at home. “We want it to feel like a community where people with Parkinson’s walk through the doors and feel fantastic about being there and feel normal that they’re there, and the kind of relationships you build and the camaraderie and friendships you build in that center are very, very important to people’s mental health,” Annear said. With one more event this year on the schedule with the 2023 Detroit Free Press Marathon, the foundation’s attention and efforts are still locked onto this year. Regardless, it’s difficult to ignore the prominence of the 2024 year being the 40th anniversary of the 1984 World Series, and the foundation’s chief operating officer, Michelle Newman, said the foundation expects to honor that anniversary with something special in 2024, “Next year is the 40th anniversary of the ’84 home run, so we’d like to plan something to commemorate that,” Newman said. For more information on the Kirk Gibson Foundation, visit www.kirkgibsonfoun dation.org. Call Staff Writer Jonathan Szczepaniak at (586) 498-1090.
Various local sports icons took part in the Kirk Gibson Golf Classic Aug. 21, including Alan Trammell, Lance Parrish, Goose Gossage, Dave Rozema, Tom Izzo, and Kyle Connor. Photo by Erin Sanchez
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C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • SEPTEMBER 13, 2023
Kmart
The former site of Kmart’s headquarters in Troy has long been a source of friction in the city due to the 40-acre site not being developed after the company left the location 17 years ago.
from page 1A
Forbes/Frankel Troy Ventures LLC, the owners of the Kmart property, have not yet submitted any proposed development or schedule for this site at this time. Forbes/ Frankel Troy Ventures bought the site in 2009 for $17.5 million. The Forbes Co. did not respond to requests for comment prior to press time. Baker said the specifics of why development has taken so long aren’t publicly known, but he believes the property owners wanted to ensure they were making the best decision regarding their real estate. “It’s private property and a private development. We couldn’t and wouldn’t tell them what to do with their own property,” said Baker. “I know the ownership very well. They didn’t want to move forward until it was the right time to do it. They are now preparing the site for future development. I would speculate that they determined that the best way to do that is to bring down the existing structure.” The lack of action on the facility has been a longstanding issue in the Troy community, particularly since it sits across from Somerset Collection. The fact that such
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
“prime real estate,” as city officials have called it in the past, has gone unutilized has stood in the way of local plans to position the Big Beaver corridor as “Michigan’s downtown.” “I think this is something everyone in this city is excited about, and we are looking forward to seeing what happens at this very important site in our city,” said Baker. “Not knowing what future development will be, I can’t make any specific comment about whatever will go there, but I’m sure it will complement Somerset well and fit with the goals we have had for the Big Beaver corridor. I have a lot of faith in the people at Forbes/Frankel, that they will develop it into
something that will benefit the community.” Upon city approval, the contractor plans to begin demolition this month, starting on the parking structure, then moving on to the main building. Fencing off of the property had already begun when the announcement was made Aug. 31. Once demolition activity is in full force, deconstruction of the entire property is projected to last between nine and 12 months. “Demolition of this tired asset is the first step towards redevelopment of this prominent location,” Brent Savidant, Troy’s community development director, said in a press release. “It is important to stress there
will be numerous opportunities for public input once a development application is submitted for this property. The process starts with demolition.” The application still must undergo an evaluation and inspection by the city of Troy’s building, engineering, and planning departments to verify proper standards and specifications will be met, and to ensure the contractor will implement appropriate safeguards for the abutting neighborhoods and commercial properties. Given the proximity and size of this site, demolition plans include procedures to monitor dust and emissions control, measures for soil erosion and sedimentation, noise control, and proper removal of electrical and hazardous materials such as light poles, bulbs and asbestos. Building debris and concrete will be hauled away to be crushed and recycled at an offsite facility. “It will be a long process,” said Baker. “Now we are dealing strictly with the demolition, which has to only happen during certain hours. We are working with the owners to make sure it is all being done by the book and provide the least amount of disruption in the area.” Call Staff Writer Brendan Losinski at (586) 498-1068.
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C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • SEPTEMBER 13, 2023
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Game collection to benefit Children’s Hospital of Michigan METRO DETROIT — For the eighth year in a row, Cornerstone Community Financial is making a donation of games to benefit two hospitals, including Children’s Hospital of Michigan in Troy. Called the “Be a Game Changer” program, board games, toys, crafts and electronic games are collected in a drive organized by Cornerstone and shipped to children receiving medical care. “Every September for the past 8 years, we’ve hosted a toy drive for Pediatric Cancer Awareness Month,” explained Cornerstone’s chief experience officer, Jennifer Dickey. “We collect all kinds of games to give to the Children’s Hospital of Michigan and the Toledo Children’s Hospital. With every donation, we match the donation so each donation is automatically doubled.” Maureen Stys, the child life manager for the Children’s Hospital of Michigan, said that a donation like this can have an incredible impact on a child’s experience while hospitalized. “When children come into our hospital, they lose a lot of their sense of normalcy and control,” she said. “They have to be away from home and go through a lot of treatments. Having games or video games brings in a sense of normalcy. Hospitals can be scary and sterile and boring. This makes it all a little less intimidating and a little easier.” Cornerstone has collected more than 10,000 items in its previous years. The items being sought can be found on an Amazon wish list on Cornerstone’s website. “It (started) Sept. 1. It goes through the month. The games will be delivered in early October,” said Dickey. “(Those who wish to contribute) can visit www.ccfinancial.com/ games. There is a hospital wish list from Target, Walmart and Amazon. They order something off the wish list on the website. It is then shipped directly to the hospitals to minimize how many people have to handle the items.” The collection is largely focusing on technology-based items this year, including controllers, games, and iTunes gift cards for
games and apps. “No matter what type of item a family or individual can donate, it makes a big difference,” said Stys. “Obviously, big ticket items like iPads or video games can make a big impact because we can use them over and over again, but smaller things like play doh or crayons can still help change a child’s perception of hospitals. If they are happier it helps their recovery and helps us in our efforts to treat them.” “We receive direction from the hospital so they work with them to select the items that will be best utilized and the children will enjoy the most,” added Dickey. Stys believes that the Be a Game Changer program is something that more hospitals and organizations should look at since it is not something many medical organizations have put a focus on in the past, but can truly help when planning a child’s care. “They reached out to us and were interested in doing some larger scale donations. It’s been a few years where they’ve done these large-scale donations,” said Stys. “This is a cool thing because it’s relatively new for us, but we are really into it. We have a new technology specialist position, so we have a staff member specialized in helping utilize these items to the best of our ability with patients.” “One of our goals is to always bring hope and comfort to the kids in our communities who are facing illness, as well as their families,” added Dickey. “Having these organizations to connect with and giving them age-appropriate distractions to them allows them to have some level of normalcy while they are going through a difficult time.” Both Dickey and Stys hope that they will get even more donations than previous years and that others will see how beneficial a collection like this can be. “We’re excited and hope the community gets involved with us,” Dickey said. “Hopefully, their mission aligns with Cornerstone’s mission to be a part of the communities we belong to. This is one way we can put our mission into action and it’s a great way for others to do the same.” Call Staff Writer Brendan Losinski at (586) 498-1068.
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Six-year-old Harper of Rochester Hills poses with Freddy the Teddy to prepare for the “Be a Game Changer’ collection drive to benefit the Children’s Hospital of Michigan.
Photo provided by Hope Brown
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C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • SEPTEMBER 13, 2023
NEWS & NOTES ‘The Mummy’ actor announced as guest at fall comic con, joins Williams, Parnell
The Shine Fashion Show took place at Somerset Aug. 27 to benefit Variety the Children’s Charity as well as the FAR Therapeutic Arts and Recreation. Photo by Brendan Losinski
Somerset hosts eighth annual Shine Fashion Show
SHOW HIGHLIGHTS YOUNG MODELS WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
Oded Fehr, known for his acting roles in “Resident Evil” movies, “The Mummy” and “The Mummy Returns,” will be a celebrity guest at the Motor City Comic Con this fall, as well as comic artist Sweeney Boo. Sweeney Boo is known for her drawings of witches and hairless cats but also works with publishers like BOOM! Studios, Archie Comics and Marvel Entertainment, according to a press release. MC3 will return to the Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave. Fehr in Novi, Nov. 10-12. Fehr will be appearing at the convention Nov. 11-12. Other celebrities previously announced for MC3 this fall include Billy Dee Williams, who is best known for his role as Lando Calrissian in the last two episodes of the original “Star Wars” trilogy; and Chris Parnell, known for his roles on “Saturday Night Live” and “30 Williams Rock,” and for his multitude of impressions, according to a press release. Adult admission for MC3 costs between $30 and $50 for a one-day pass depending on the place of purchase, online or at the door, and the day of attendance. Weekend passes cost $85 online or $95 at the door. Tickets for children ages 6-12 cost $10 online or $20 at the door. WeekParnell end passes cost $30 for children. Children 5 and younger have free admission. VIP fan passes cost $249 online or $259 at the door. There are individual prices for autographs and photos with celebrity guests. For more information, go to www.motorcitycomiccon.com.
BY BRENDAN LOSINSKI blosinski@candgnews.com
The show allows young people with special cognitive or physical needs to select an outfit for no cost, get a free makeover at a local salon and then strut their stuff down the aisle.
On Aug. 27, several young models took to the runway at Somerset Collection in Troy for the eighth annual Shine Fashion Show. The show is notable because all its models are young people from the community with special needs. The show is organized by Variety the Children’s Charity and benefits Variety as well as the FAR Therapeutic Arts and Recreation program. “The Shine Fashion Show is a heartwarming, beautiful afternoon where the children and families of Variety and FAR Therapeutic Arts and Recreation get to experience a fashion show,” said Michelle Murphy, the executive director of Variety. “The models in the show are those with unique and special needs or cognitive and physical challenges, and they are expertly outfitted by Somerset retailers and fashion stylists.” See FASHION on page 14A
GREENWOOD CEMETERY HOLDS TOUR
BIRMINGHAM — If you have ever wanted to know how Birmingham got started, this is your chance to find out. Greenwood Cemetery, on Oak Avenue in Birmingham, will have a tour focusing on the pioneers of Birmingham starting at 1 p.m. Sept. 23. Participants must meet at the east gate. A $10 donation is requested to further the preservation of the cemetery. Temporary parking will be allowed on Greenwood Street.
C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • SEPTEMBER 13, 2023
Fashion from page 13A
Murphy said that being able to give these young people a day where they get to be front and center makes a big difference to them. “Variety is a charity for children, and we pride ourselves on inclusivity and driving opportunities for children with special needs, so it is a natural, wonderful thing to put on a fashion show where these young people are models,” she said. “They get to experience a spotlight on them, which might not usually be there. We know it’s a wonderful gift that not only the models cherish, but their families as well.” Alex Bai, of West Bloomfield, was among the models who took part that day. He added some dance moves as he strutted down the aisle. “I enjoy the modeling and getting gifts and stuff like that. It’s cool; it’s an exciting thing,” said Alex Bai. “It’s fun and it puts a smile on my face.” His mother, Esther Bai, was on hand and said the show means a lot to Alex. “He’s been in the show all eight years. We were asked to take part. My son is involved with FAR Therapeutic Arts and Recreation. He has been taking music therapy lessons there for about 12 years.” She added that the programs the show raises money for can make a huge difference in the life of those with special needs. “Alex enjoys participating in the show,” she said. “It raises money for kids with special needs that their families might not otherwise be able to afford, so it’s a wonderful cause.” The models not only get to walk the runway, but they also get to keep the clothes they select. “They spend the morning at the Alex Emilio Salon in Royal Oak, where they receive hair and makeup services donated by the talented staff,” said Murphy. “Each model submits a form, and it allows them to tell us their sizes, color preferences, and their style preferences, and the wonderful staff at Somerset Collection selects the outfits. The models come for two days of fittings. They are then sent to the salon the morning of the show to get their hair and makeup done. After the show, they are all gifted the outfits as well as gift certificates from the Somerset Collection.” Pamela Ayres, the president of FAR, said that the money raised by the event goes
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on to do enormous good for kids with special needs. “FAR provides creative arts therapy for any age and any diagnosis,” said Ayres. “We serve about 1,500 people a year. We’re a 70-year-old organization that provides art therapy, music therapy, dance movement therapy and recreational therapy.” She complimented Variety’s horseback riding program as well, since it is the other recipient of the raised funds. “We collaborate with Variety, and they support a horseback riding program for kids with special needs,” said Ayres. “It’s a great program they offer which allows kids who would never have the chance to ride a horse be able to do so with the professionals and equipment necessary to allow that to happen.” Ayres believes that providing these funds can make a huge difference, especially since raising children with special needs often means higher living expenses to begin with due to costs like medical care. “This helps raise money so our therapy programs can be offered free of charge,” she said. “We know that raising a child is expensive, and being part of a group can sometimes be beyond a family’s means. We offer free groups to our families enrolled in FAR’s private services.” Murphy hopes the show will convince more people in the community to get involved in such causes and organizations. “We hope this will convince people to get involved,” said Murphy. “Everything we do is inspiring. It creates opportunity. It creates a life-changing difference, whether it’s the Shine show itself or the programs that it benefits.” Ayres said that children with special needs can often feel forgotten about or like they are misfits. Events like the Shine Fashion Show bring them not only a feeling of fitting in, but also of getting to be the star of a major event. “Today is so important because, if you were here, you would see all the people watching and it makes sure the community knows about our friends with special needs,” she said. “People with special needs are some of the most amazing people, and you just want to give them the opportunity to feel beautiful the way a neurotypical kid would.” More information on Variety can be found at www.variety.org. More information on FAR can be found at far-therapy.org. Call Staff Writer Brendan Losinski at (586) 498-1068.
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Bicentennial from page 7A
explore old archaeological digs and artifacts. Visitors can grab a bite to eat, enjoy historical banjo music, learn about Anishinabek culture, explore the gardens, and talk with local history and nonprofit organizations about how they can make an impact. Kids can participate in a coloring station, view apple pressing demonstrations, enjoy cider and doughnuts, make a whirligig toy, sample honey, and more. “It’s a whole day of lots of activities, and it’s going to be scattered throughout the village — which is the best part — so we’ll get people walking in the backyards and back alleys of these houses, and our schoolhouse will be open,” McKay said. “It’s going to be a really fun day to focus on the village and the history that kind of surrounds the museum.” The event is free, with a suggested — but optional — donation of participants’ choice. Those who can’t make it to the bicentennial celebration can pop by the museum to view the new, permanent Stoney Creek Village Bicentennial Exhibit during the museum’s drop-in hours noon-3 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays throughout the year, with a 1 p.m. guided tour of the 1840 Van Hoosen farmhouse and the 1850 Red House. The cost is free for museum members, $5 for adults and $3 for seniors and students. Included with admission is a self-guided tour of exhibits in the dairy barn, the bull barn, milk house, equipment barn, and children’s garden, as well as the nearby Stoney Creek Cemetery and the 16 acres of grounds. The museum is also encouraging the public to celebrate the 200th anniversary by becoming a member of the $200/200 Club. The museum’s goal is to have over 200 people donate $200 each in celebration of this milestone to support the new exhibit and cover museum operations. The Rochester Hills Museum is located at 1005 Van Hoosen Road, off Tienken Road, between Rochester and Dequindre roads. For more information, visit rochester hills.org/museum, email rhmuseum@rochesterhills.org or call (248) 656-4664.
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C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • SEPTEMBER 13, 2023
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Conveniently Located in Southfield @696/Lahser
0348-2334
Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, exceeded only by heart disease. One of every five deaths in the United States is due to cancer, and approximately 39.5% of men and women will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetimes. We all know someone with cancer, but how often do you hear of a person diagnosed with stage one cancer before it has spread? Probably not too often, but we all hear the stories of a loved one diagnosed with dreaded stage three or stage four cancer, and that is very scary. All too often, individuals become aware of their cancer only when symptoms manifest, which poses a significant problem and often leads to late detection. By the time a person experiences enough symptoms to prompt a visit to their physician, cancer has usually progressed to stage three or four and has already spread. Consequently, survival rates diminish, treatments become more challenging, and life expectancy is reduced. On the other hand, if cancer is detected at stage one, it becomes much easier to treat, often involving simple tumor resection. This early detection significantly increases survival rates and leads to a better quality of life. However, the unfortunate truth remains that early detection still eludes the majority of patients. Even with annual physicals, there are limitations. Most screening tests that patients are
C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • SEPTEMBER 13, 2023
16A
0150 midas
Up to $100 rebate on 4 select tires
Up to $70 Michelin mail in rebate + $70 reward card by mail with paid installation of 4 select MICHELIN® tires
Valid 7/1/23-9/30/23.
Up to $100 rebate on 4 select tires Most vehicles. See rebate forms for full details. Get up to $70 back on 4 select MICHELIN® tires. Plus, get an additional $70 back by mail payable in the form of a prepaid card on the purchase of 4 select MICHELIN® tires. Eligibility depends on tire size and model. TPMS reset not included, see store about possible extra charge. Discount based on regular non discounted retail price. Disposal fee extra, where permitted. Shop fees additional, see store for details and applicability. Not valid with other offers. Coupon must be presented at time of service. No cash value. Valid 9/01/2023 9/30/2023.
Valid 9/28/23-11/19/23.
SEE STORE FOR DETAILS
• Lifetime guaranteed brake pads or shoes installed • Comprehensive brake system evaluation Expires 10/20/2023.
Per Axle. Most Vehicles
MIDAS TIRE AND AUTO CARE CENTER TROY 2995 E. Big Beaver Rd.
248-524-2090
midasdetroit.com
586-263-0080
0150-2336
CLINTON TOWNSHIP 41300 Garfield