NEWSPAPERS n o i t i d E l a i c e p S
AUGUST 2, 2023 candgnews.com
Oakland County papers
Erin DeGrazia sails over the finish line at the 2023 Bayview Mackinac Race. Photo provided by Teresa DeGrazia
ABOVE: At the Muscle & More car show, Murray Pfaff will be holding a talk on his 1959 Imperial Crown and how he made it. RIGHT: Before it was converted into his speedster, Pfaff’s vehicle once was a large four-door sedan. Photos provided by Murray Pfaff
ROYAL OAK MUSEUM CAR SHOW BACK FOR ITS 12TH YEAR BY MIKE KOURY
mkoury@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — The Royal Oak Historical Museum will be holding its 12th annual car show at the beginning of August. The museum’s show, Muscle & More, will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 5, at the museum in Royal Oak, located at 1411 W. Webster Road. The car show will include dozens of classic vehicles and a chance to win a prize of $100, plus the Woodward Memories historical exhibits inside the museum. Museum Curator Johanna Schurrer said her favorite part of the event each year is getting to see all the vehicles. “That is the whole thing as far as I’m concerned,” she said. “I think we’re going to have more this year than we’ve had in the past few years.” Schurrer attributed the decline of participation from the past couple of years to COVID-19. There also will be a presentation at the event from local car collector Murray Pfaff, who will be talking about his 1959 Imperial Crown. The vehicle
originally was a large four-door sedan that Pfaff and his friends converted into a two-seat sports car. “We cut (the sedan) into 46 pieces completely apart and put it back together,” he said. “So we threw away quite a bit of the car.” Pfaff calls the vehicle a “speedster.” He spends his time as a customizer coming up with ideas to build something that nobody has ever done before for his clients and other builders. The Imperial speedster was one of those ideas. He built it with 10 of his friends over a decade ago. Pfaff will be talking about how he made the vehicle when he brings it to Muscle & More, which will be the first edition of the event that he’s attended since the very first one. He said he’s excited to get to talk about the car, which is something he never gets tired of doing. “People always seem to appreciate it,” Pfaff said of talking to people about his cars. “And of course, at the end of the day, it makes you feel good.” For more information on the event and to register a vehicle to participate, which costs $15, visit royaloakhistoricalsociety.com or call (248) 4391501. There will be late registration for the show as well, starting at 9 a.m. Aug. 5.
Bloomfield Hills father-daughter duo compete in 2023 Bayview Mackinac Race BY MARY GENSON mgenson@candgnews.com
BLOOMFIELD HILLS — Erin DeGrazia, a 14-year-old from Bloomfield Hills, recently steered her crew across the finish line during the 2023 Bayview Mackinac Race. The race, also known as the Port Huron to Mackinac Boat Race, is “the world’s longest continuously run long distance freshwater yacht race,” according to its website. Sailors have been participating in this race since 1925. Erin joined her father, Gregory DeGrazia, this year in particiSee DEGRAZIA on page 8A
C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • AUGUST 2, 2023
2A
Catching Cancer Before It’s Too Late
Early Cancer Detection Made Possible: Michigan’s First MRI Total Body Screening Clinic Now Open in Southfield, Pioneering Symptom-Free Diagnosis. I’ll never forget the words of a patient who recently completed a total body cancer screening with me: ‘Doc, you saved my life!’ Despite having no symptoms, we discovered a tiny tumor lurking and growing inside of him. Without early detection, the mass could have silently grown into late-stage cancer, leading to excruciating treatments and a potentially dire outcome. Thanks to the power of early detection, cancer was discovered before it was too late. It’s moments like these that are precisely why total body screening saves lives. As a general rule, when someone presents to the doctor with a symptom related to cancer, they are usually at stage III or stage IV. Even with annual physicals, there are limitations. Most screening tests that are covered by insurance companies only cover about 29% of cancers. The other 71% of cancers occur in areas where doctors are unable to screen, and insurance companies will not pay for screening. This is where Bionicc Body Screening in Southfield can save lives. I am Dr. Warren Ringold, and last month marked the fifth anniversary of the day my life changed forever. Five years ago, I was diagnosed with stage IV cancer in my chest and
abdomen. The most alarming part is that I had no symptoms before this diagnosis. This is the great dilemma of cancer: the need for early detection. Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment, and cancer needs to be detected when it is most treatable. My personal stage IV cancer journey has been long and rugged. My tumor eventually was recurrent in my brain after an initial seven months of chemotherapy. I have been extraordinarily lucky. After being told that I would live only two months without treatment on my brain, I was fortunate enough to become patient number one in a new drug study and I have been in remission 5 to 8 times longer than expected. During that time, instead of ending up with the indignation of dying, from a brain tumor in front of my family with seizures and eventual blindness, I have been able to see twins, born as grandchildren, ball games, swim meets, graduations, while watching my grandchildren and children achieve. Most importantly, I’ve gotten to hold my wife, Nancy, in my arms for more than 1500 more nights of my life. I get to hug my children and kiss my 13 grandchildren. They don’t have to look at me with tears in their eyes, because
Dr. Warren Ringold, M.D. they see Papa deteriorating. What a gift that has been. But very few patients are as fortunate as I have been, which is why I founded Bionicc Body Screening. At Bionicc Body Screening, we can screen for cancer from the top of the head through the genitals, detecting cancers as small as the size of a pencil eraser. We use highly advanced and sophisticated MRI screening, which can find small cancers in areas where doctors cannot order testing that will be covered by insurance. The irony is that these cancers start out very small, and they are very treatable at this stage. They are usually stage one and can be seen in
every organ of the body, including the dreaded pancreas. While screening for cancer, we can also find many other things that need to be treated or watched, such as brain, abdominal, chest, and groin aneurysms. If detected at this stage, treatment for stage one cancer is usually simple resection of a tumor. Unfortunately, if you are stage III or IV like most people, it results in vigorous and difficult treatment with much poorer outcomes. It is unfortunate that some patients resist screening due to fear. Despite their desire to take the test, they unnecessarily delay it out of fear of receiving potentially distressing news about their health. Giving in to fear can only make matters worse and potentially allow undetected health problems to spiral out of control. Don’t put off your screening any longer. Ask yourself, when is a better time to take action than right now? Don’t wait another 6 months or even another day. Prioritize your health and get screened today. The only regret patients have is that they waited. Don’t wait. Get a total body cancer screening today. Call 1-833-BIONICC (1-833-246-6422) today, or learn more now by visiting www.BioniccBodyScreening.com.
HHHHH
Total Body Screening is offered exclusively at Bionicc Body Screening in Southfield Learn more about our body scanning packages and pricing today. Request our free, no obligation Welcome Information Kit by visiting www.BioniccBodyScreening.com/info or TEXTING your full name and email address to 734-415-6767. Request it today and you’re also guaranteed a FREE copy of our eBook, Catching Cancer Before It’s Too Late! (This is a limited time offer.)
0329-2321
“It saved my life. Their MRI found a kidney tumor that had been missed by a recent CT scan. I cannot recommend this service more” – Robert B., age 50
SECOND FRONT PAGE
facebook.com/candgnews
instagram.com/candgnews @candgnews candgnews.com • (586) 498-8000
3A/ C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • AUGUST 2, 2023
‘EVERY COMMUNITY ALONG THE WAY HAS JUST BEEN OUTSTANDING’ MILITARY VET RETURNS TO MICHIGAN AFTER CROSS-COUNTRY JOURNEY BY ANDY KOZLOWSKI akozlowski@candgnews.com
Jack Huffman, of Center Line, visited Madison Heights July 12 on his journey from Sarasota, Fla., to Rochester Hills. The Army veteran walked on foot to raise awareness for the Fallen and Wounded Soldiers Fund. Photo by Andy Kozlowski
MADISON HEIGHTS — It was the penultimate day of a journey spanning nearly 1,800 miles, walking on foot from Florida to Michigan, but U.S. Army veteran Jack Huffman didn’t seem tired at all. Instead, the Center Line man was energized by the many people who came out to support him as he raised awareness for the Fallen and Wounded Soldiers Fund. “Veterans gave us the ability to chase our dreams. This is a chance to pay that back to them,” Huffman said. “They made the ultimate sacrifice so that we can pursue what makes us happy.” Huffman, also known as Jax, worked as a helicopter mechanic in the Army. He was greeted by honking car horns and waving American flags as he made his way through Madison Heights July 12. It was the 61st day of a journey that started in May in Sarasota, Fla., winding through Georgia, Tennessee, Kentucky and Indiana before reaching Michigan, averaging 30 miles per day. See HUFFMAN on page 6A
Pecky D. Lewis Jr., who guided Oakland County Parks expansion, dies at 94 BY MARY GENSON mgenson@candgnews.com
OAKLAND COUNTY — Bloomfield Hills resident Pecky D. Lewis Jr., who died at his home July 10 at the age of 94, left his mark on Oakland County through his long service on the county’s Parks and Recreation Commission, as a longtime
LEWIS WAS FORMER MAYOR OF ROYAL OAK business owner and as the mayor of Royal Oak in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Lewis was a parks commissioner from 1982 to 2015. In 1992, he became the chairperson of the commission. He held this position until 2013,
making him the longest-serving chairperson of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission. Sue Wells, retired manager of parks and recreation, worked with Lewis the entire time he was a parks commissioner. Wells said that at the time, See LEWIS on page 8A
Pecky D. Lewis Jr.
0090-2233
C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • AUGUST 2, 2023
4A
For the Joys of Independent Senior Living
LEFT: Abolitionist Elijah Fish’s grave maker before the restoration. RIGHT: The restored grave marker of abolitionist Elijah Fish. Photos provided by the Birmingham Museum
The Birmingham Museum restores historic grave marker BY MARY GENSON mgenson@candgnews.com
BIRMINGHAM — The Birmingham Museum has dedicated much time and effort toward honoring Birmingham’s ties to the Underground Railroad. In 2022, the gravesites of abolitionist Elijah Fish and freedom seeker George Taylor were added to the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom. This designation required thorough research by the museum’s staff and volunteers. Since receiving this designation, the museum celebrated Juneteenth by highlighting Fish, and George and Eliza Tayor on a banner at City Hall. Their most recent efforts include restoring Fish’s grave marker and placing the Taylors’ marker at Greenwood Cemetery. The restoration of Fish’s grave marker has been completed, and the Taylors’ grave marker will be placed soon. The Birmingham Museum chose Carter’s Cemetery Preservation to help restore the grave marker. Owner David Carter explained the process it took to complete this restoration. The Fish marker was previously repaired many years ago, but it was broken into four pieces with a metal frame around it, and was laying on the ground. “So it was exposed to all the elements with the rain, the trees and the sprinkler system that was there,” Carter said. “It just did an enormous amount of deterioration
on the stone.” Carter said they were about to save two parts of the stone when they found the original base that was buried about 2 feet underground. “It was so sugared. It would just break off in your hands,” Carter said. Carter explained that “sugaring” occurs in marble when water gets in between the cracks and softens the stone. Once this process starts, it continues to deteriorate the stone. Since marble is so porous, it absorbs a lot of water over time. Museum Specialist Donna Casaceli said the stone felt almost like a sponge. The total cost of the preservation of Fish’s stone was paid for by the Fish family. The museum reached out to the Fish family through ancestry.com, and they generously offered to cover the cost of the project. Since the funds were provided by a private donor rather than a fundraiser, the process turned out to be much quicker than expected. The portion of Fish’s grave marker that had to be removed is now at the museum. However, it is not on display. If someone wishes to see the marker, they can call ahead and ask for it to be brought out of the museum’s archives. “We really need to make sure that all the moisture is completely removed from the marble because it had been sitting around for years, soaking up moisture, getting rained on and deteriorating, so it is not viewable at this See GRAVE on page 10A
AWARDED BEST OF THE BEST BY U.S. NEWS
SUMMER BARBECUE
Gary Richards Singing Summertime Hits! Plus, Enter to Win a Picnic for 4 TUESDAY, AUGUST 8TH 12:00 TO 2:00 PM
RSVP please by Saturday, August 5th 248.299.0700 or ASRH.DSM@allseasonsliving.com
175 E. Nawakwa Road | Rochester Hills, MI 48307 AllSeasonsRochesterHills.com Managed by: Proud Recipient of the Prestigious
0310-2330
NEWS & NOTES
5A/ C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • AUGUST 2, 2023
MARISSA CARSON OF HIGHLAND IS THE NEW MISS OAKLAND COUNTY ROCHESTER HILLS – Marissa Maxine Carson, 20, of Highland Township was crowned Miss Oakland County 2023 at the annual competition July 15 at Oakland University. The theater major at Oakland Community College won $1,850 in education scholarships, as well as several other prizes and gifts. Carson won scholarships of $1,200 for winning Miss Oakland County and $200 for the Vivian Zhong Best Talent Award for her rendition of “Wishing You Were Here Again,” from “The Phantom of the Opera.” She also earned scholarships of $250 for the Aldo Vagnozzi Community Service Award and $200 for the JoAnn Lingenfelter Spirit of Miss America Award. Carson, who plans to obtain a bachelor’s in musical theater, will represent Oakland County at the 2024 Miss Michigan competition in Muskegon next June. Her community service initiative is “The Importance of Volunteering,” which seeks to bring volunteering opportunities throughout Michigan to people of all ages and abilities. Milford’s Rebecca Kobylas, a 20-year-old neuroscience and psychology major at Alma College, earned a $700 scholarship as the first runner-up. Kobylas also won the Samantha Steckloff Community Service Award and an additional $150 scholarship. Claudia Kenny, 16, of Chesaning, became the 2023 Miss Oakland County’s Teen. A junior at Chesaning H.S., Kenny’s community service initiative is “The Big SEE: Skin Cancer is the Cancer You Can See.” She will represent Oakland County at Michigan’s teen competition next June in Muskegon. The Miss Oakland County Scholarship Program is a preliminary competition to Miss Michigan and Miss America.
The Rochester Lions Club 23rd Rockin Rods n’ Rochester Car Show
ROCHESTER — The Rochester Lions Club will host the 23rd Rockin Rods n’ Rochester Car Show Aug.13 on Walnut Boulevard in downtown Rochester. All proceeds from the car show are used to support Leader Dogs for the Blind and other Lions charities. The show will open at 9 a.m. and will consist of up to 400 cars entered in 23 classes. Awards will be presented at approximately 3:30 p.m. Music, food, refreshments, 50/50 raffles, door prizes, T-shirts and posters will be available. Participants for the show can enter their cars using the online registration process at rochesterlionsclub.org or by downloading the registration form available on the site. The registration fee is $20 per car. There is no charge for spectators. For more information, call Celia Domalewski at (248) 765-6929 or visit rochesterlionsclub.org.
ACCLAIMED PHOTOGRAPHER USES SOMERSET WORK AS BACKDROP FOR LATEST PROJECT
Photos provided by Peter Van Dyke
0354-2310
TROY — Somerset Collection has signed Detroit-based and internationally renowned photographer Jenny Risher to photograph its “Construction Catwalk” campaign that coincides with the recently announced exterior makeover. Risher’s work will highlight fashion amidst the backdrop of the work being done on the mall’s south rotunda area. “Somerset Collection’s exterior makeover serves as the perfect backdrop for Risher to shoot the ‘Construction Catwalk’ fashion photography campaign that will be released through social media featuring models sporting global brands selected by the personal stylists,” Peter Van Dyke, of the VVK Agency, said in an email. “Guests can also see the campaign in action as they traverse Somerset Collection’s iconic skywalk.” Risher, a College for Creative Studies professor and alumnus, is best known for her acclaimed books, “Heart Soul Detroit” and “DCYPHERED,” which features interviews and photographs of iconic Detroiters, including Iggy Pop, Smokey Robinson, Jack White, Lily Tomlin, Alice Cooper, Lee Iacocca and Eminem, and highlights the community’s hip-hop community, respectively.
0064-2328
C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • AUGUST 2, 2023
6A
Huffman from page 3A
Huffman did this while pulling a cart carrying 200 pounds of supplies, sometimes in hot or stormy weather, or through the haze of smoke from wildfires up north. At night, he would pitch a tent and roll out a sleeping bag, resting in fields, cemeteries, parks and churches. During the day, he would walk against traffic. He did so much walking that he wore the rubber off two pairs of shoes. He said his feet were callused, and his hips purple from the harness he wore. In quiet moments, Huffman, a practicing fire performer, would also skillfully twirl a staff. He kept two 500-watt camping batteries charged, rotating them on a solar panel. He also brought a satellite link, a time-lapse camera, and of course food, water, medicine and other supplies. He said many motorists would stop and graciously offer anything he needed. “Every community along the way has just been outstanding, just the generosity and kindness that’s coming from everyone across the country,” Huffman said. His final destination was Rochester
Hills the next day, where he would participate in the annual Salute Our Warriors event by the FWSF. He was also transporting Nikki — a dove who would be released with 100 other birds at the event, as a symbol that veterans are heard. It’s a tradition that dates back to World War II, when homing pigeons were used to deliver messages. “She’s been holding up well,” Huffman said, as Nikki cooed softly in her crate. “Her handler checked her, and said she’s actually gained weight. Here I’m losing weight, and she’s gaining weight. But birds know the way home. If she happened to get out, she’d make it home well before I did.” There would also be many birds released later that day at Wilkinson Middle School. But first, Huffman met supporters waiting for him near Madison High School, at The Telway hamburger restaurant at 11 Mile and John R roads. From there, he walked to Fire Station No. 2 on John R, where a crowd chanted “USA” and one man yelled, “Way to go, Jax!” Roslyn Grafstein, the mayor of Madison Heights, presented Huffman with a $1,200 check from community businesses, benefiting the FWSF. She also gave him a key to the city. To top it off, Huffman was hugged by his mother.
“I think this is great — a great cause,” Grafstein said earlier, while walking down 11 Mile Road. “My dad was a veteran. He fought in World War II. Everyone is connected to a veteran in some way, and this brings awareness to all of that. When I found out Jack was going to be in our city, I jumped on the chance to do something.” This wasn’t the first time Huffman had undertaken such a journey. In 2019, he walked nearly 3,000 miles from California to Georgia, raising funds for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. His walks inspired his friend Dereck Coe, of Royal Oak, who accompanied him on the last week of his journey, meeting him downriver outside of Saline. Coe recently lost a grandfather who served in the Korean War. They’ve known each other for years, and both have sons who attended school together at Oak Ridge Elementary in Royal Oak. “Walking is such a great way to process your emotions, anything you got going on,” Coe said, leaning on two walking sticks near the high school. “It’s a chance for reflection, getting yourself back in a balanced state. Jack told me the emotional journey he’s been on, and I was at the same point in my life. Everyone is always trying to find answers.
“I was pushed to my limit yesterday, and I’m right back to walking today,” he added. “It just goes to show that you can get back up and persevere. There’s no end to it. You just keep going.” As Huffman met supporters at The Telway, another veteran stood outside in a bright red shirt emblazoned with the FWSF logo. He was Chris Cornelius, the organization’s co-founder. Cornelius said that veterans have a wide range of needs, and 97% of all donations to FWSF go directly to the vets, the rest covering the organization’s operational expenses. “We recently got a call from a veteran who was using T-shirts as diapers for his kids. And that’s just one scenario,” Cornelius said. “Other needs can be baby food, or someone’s deployed and something happens in the house, like an air conditioner goes out or a hot water heater stops working. We’re an all-volunteer organization, and we’ve kept true to our mission that most of the money we get goes to the veterans. And if we can’t help them directly, we look at other organizations and funds around here that can help.” Veterans can apply for assistance at See HUFFMAN on page 7A
GET AN AUTO LOAN
T hat Gives You More
$200* cash bonus on auto loans of $10,000+ You’re shopping for a car that gives you more — more features, more safety, and more power. Why not choose an auto lender that gives you more, too? MSGCU auto loans offer great rates, personalized guidance, and a $200 cash bonus. Apply today.
AUTO LOANS AS LOW AS
5.49%
APR1
Open to all Michiganders. There’s a branch near you.
*$200 loan offer available June 1, 2023 through August 31, 2023. Eligible loans must be closed by October 24, 2023. Subject to credit approval. APR may be higher, based on term of loan, credit score, collateral, and loan to value. Eligible loans include new or used purchase, refinance from another lender, and refinance existing MSGCU loans with an increased balance of $10,000 or more. Applies to loans originated at an MSGCU branch, call center, or online. 1
APR=Annual Percentage Rate. Offer requires Automatic Loan Payment transfer. Loan terms up to 84 months, depending on model year. APR may be higher, based on term of loan, credit score, collateral, and loan to value. New money only. Rates are subject to change at any time. Same-day approval on most vehicle applications. Contact Member Service Representative for more details. Insured by NCUA.
0170-2330
msgcu.org/loanoffer
7A
C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • AUGUST 2, 2023
Huffman from page 6A
fwsf.org. Donations can also be made on the website. The festivities concluded at Wilkinson Middle School, with the release of dozens of homing pigeons trained by Kenneth Moore of Clinton Township. He said the birds can find their way back to his house anywhere in a 400-mile radius. He presented Huffman with a certificate from the American Racing Pigeon Union, honoring him and “Nikki Bird” for positive recognition for veterans and homing pigeons. “What I see on the news every day, about the world we live in, well, it’s kind of chaotic right now. But then I see Jack, he starts walking, and people come out of nowhere for him. And by the time he got two states in, I’d seen a completely different America — an America united way more than we are led to believe,” Moore said. “There’s all this political stuff out there, but none of that mattered. So many people, so many walks of life, came out to thank him for what he was doing,” Moore said. “I was in his earpiece when he was talking to people, and they’re asking him how he’s doing, if he needs a ride, turning their cars around
to feed him, to give him drinks. It was just amazing.” Lenea Renshaw, the owner of Miss NeNe’s Child Care Center, was at Wilkinson with a gaggle of preschoolers. They fawned over the birds, and treated Huffman like a superhero. “The most important thing is we just recently had the Fourth of July, so we talked a lot with the kids about America, and how it’s the most special place we’ll ever have in our hearts,” Renshaw said. “And so, as free people — all of us — we want to support the military as much as we can, and of course the essential workers, too. And what this man Jack has done is simply unbelievable. “My own husband is a Marine veteran from Vietnam, so this hits really close to home for me,” she said. She also noted her soft spot for the birds, having raised pigeons herself. “The kids were just ecstatic seeing the birds.” Ultimately, she hopes the good vibes of the day will stay with people and serve as a reminder that Americans are like a family that share more in common than not. “There’s so much trouble in today’s world,” Renshaw said. “If all of us could just have kindness, live in the moment, be gentle and love each other, we would all be so much better off.”
Roofing Celebrating Over 62 Years!
79 A MONTH
FROM $
Relationships Built on Trust
Kitchen & Bath Remodeling Call Today!! $ 888-454-0542
1000 OFF
KITCHEN AND BATHROOM REMODELING
0065-2330
888.454.0542
www.callkroll.com
Schedule a FREE In-Home Consultation Today!
0131-2325
C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • AUGUST 2, 2023
8A
Lewis from page 3A
Oakland County Parks and Recreation was very facility-driven with waterparks, golf courses and playgrounds. “He helped guide the wave for the facilities, the programs and the best practices that we had,” Wells said. Several parks were developed under his leadership including Catalpa Oaks, Highland Oaks, Lyon Oaks and Rose Oaks county parks. Among the facilities that opened while he was on the commission were Red Oaks Waterpark, Michigan’s first refrigerated toboggan run, a golf course, greenhouses, three nature centers, three dog parks and renovations to campgrounds. Wells described Lewis as “humble,” “thorough” and “thoughtful” in his work.
“He was dedicated and loved what he did,” Wells said. “He was very passionate about the park system and about making Oakland County parks a better place for the people of Oakland County.” David VanderVeen, vice chairperson of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission, worked with Lewis for about 17 years. Lewis was with the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission during a time of expansion, and VanderVeen said he thought Lewis was the “right person at the right time.” “He guided us through periods of tremendous expansion and growth, and the efforts that he brought to Oakland County Parks and Recreation will be enjoyed continually for generations to come,” VanderVeen said. VanderVeen said Lewis was a very patient man, which contributed to his effec-
Erin DeGrazia works on the sails as she participates in her first Bayview Mackinac Race with her father.
tiveness as a leader. “He was a very considerate person,” VanderVeen said. “He weighed all opinions and encouraged everybody to participate, which are traits of a good leader.” In 2015, Lewis was inducted into the Michigan Recreation and Park Association Hall of Fame. In addition to his work with parks and recreation, Lewis served as president of Liberty Special Tool Co. for more than 50 years — which was founded in Hazel Park in 1953 and later had facilities in Royal Oak and Bad Axe, according to his obituary — and he served as mayor of Royal Oak from 1975 to 1981. He was a longtime member of the Royal Oak Lions Club, according to his obituary. Royal Oak City Commissioner Patri-
cia Paruch worked with Lewis while he was mayor. She said they were facing a tough time economically during his term, partly because property tax revenue was not keeping up with inflation. At this time, the city was also trying to figure out how to reinvigorate the downtown. Due to the economy at the time, development was low; however, some of the downtown’s development was in its infancy. Paruch said Lewis approached city government like a business, which she said was an appropriate approach at the time. “When push came to shove, the business of running the city and the economics of it were the most important thing as far as he was concerned in order to get the city back on track,” Paruch said.
Take Your Project to New Heights!
Photo provided by Teresa DeGrazia
PROPANE REFILL STATION
We Have
Propane!
www.kilburnsequipment.com
DeGrazia from page 1A
pating in the race. This was Gregory’s 13th race and Erin’s first. “I kind of grew up on a sailboat, and I’ve been sailing since I can remember,” Erin said. The DeGrazia family had a sailboat, and Gregory said Erin was eager to start sailing by the time she turned 8. She began sailing at the Detroit Yacht Club before moving to Grosse Pointe Yacht Club, remaining there ever since. “We experienced all different types of weather,” Erin said. The crew faced dead wind, waves and even a storm during their sail. Gregory said he picked up sailing later in life and is excited to see his daughter following in his footsteps so young. While he has done this race before, having his daugh-
ter on the boat alongside him made this year stand out. “It was extra special for me to have my daughter on the boat,” Gregory said. “Having a family member out there doing it with me who was so excited to do it, that was a real thrill, and it was something I will never forget.” The DeGrazias raced “Hibernia,” a Beneteau 40. They completed the race in 46 hours and 44 minutes on the Shore Course, which is 204 nautical miles. The race began on Saturday, July 15. The DeGrazias and their crew ranked 12th in Class N. They finished the race on Monday, July 17, at 11:34 a.m. Erin said she will continue sailing with Marian High School in the fall. She began sailing with them as an eighth grader. This race was not a one-time thing for Erin and Gregory. They plan to race next year for the 100th Bayview Mackinac Race.
Coupon must be presented to receive discount. Cannot be combined with any other coupon.
DO-IT-YOURSELF CONCRETE
2 OFF
$
Rent the Right Tools for the Job!
We Sell
15% OFF Any Rental One Day Max
Coupon must be presented to receive discount. Cannot be combined with any other coupon. Expires 8-23-23
21325 Dequindre Rd.
HAZEL PARK
248-547-8327
0308-2328
9A
C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • AUGUST 2, 2023
Festivalgoers parade down Taft Road in Novi while pulling a 40-foot-tall chariot carrying the Hindu deities of Jagannath, Balarama and Subhadra during the 38th annual Festival of Chariots July 23. Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Thousands celebrate Festival of Chariots BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com
NOVI — Thousands gathered in Novi July 23 to celebrate the 38th annual Festival of Chariots, a Hindu cultural festival put on by the Iskcon Temple in Detroit. The festival, which is said to promote love and happiness, honors the Hindu god Krishna. During the festival, Krishna comes out from the temple in the form of Jagannath along with his brother, Balarama, and sister, Subhadra. The gods are paraded through the city via a 40-foot-tall chariot that is hand-pulled by members of the community in a 2-mile procession that begins at the Novi Civic Center and ends at Fuerst Park. “We may have all this wealth, this power, this strength, this fame, beauty, intelligence, but in the absence of love, all is shallow and empty; thus, the theme of this year’s festival is ‘all we need is love,’” said Namish Patel, of the Iskcon Temple in Detroit. Prior to the parade, participants worshiped Krishna through song and dance. Many officials were in attendance, including Mayor Bob Gatt, See FESTIVAL on page 11A
Grandparents use MET to help grandchildren with education
0311-2319
The MET prepaid tuition savings program enables grandparents to ensure the legacy of their grandchildren’s future education. It is a safe, secure and flexible way to pay today’s prices for future tuition at any qualified college or trade school in the U.S.
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.
10A/ C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • AUGUST 2, 2023
AUG. 3-5
‘Frankenstein’s Mary Shelley’: Staged reading performance by new Oakland Theatre Project, 7:30 p.m., Groves High School Theatre Arts Lab, 31300 Evergreen Road in Beverly Hills, ashleywickett@gmail.com
Founders Sports Park, 35500 W. Eight Mile Road in Farmington Hills, fhgov.com, (248) 871-2500
berkley.com/cruisefest
AUG. 6
Ferndale Dream Cruise: Ferndale Emergency Vehicle Show, Lights & Sirens Cruise, Quarter Midget Racing and more Aug. 18, Mustang Alley Show Aug. 19, and live music and kids events both days, various locations, www.ferndaledreamcruise.com
Free legal clinic: For low-income residents and senior citizens, 9 a.m., Southfield Human Services, 26000 Evergreen Road, (248) 796-4540
Free Family Fun Fair: Inaugural event to raise awareness for mental health and rehabilitation, includes food, live music, shows, face painting, bounce houses and prizes, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., Life Skills Village, 25900 Greenfield Road in Oak Park, visit event page on Eventbrite
AUG. 4-5
AUG. 11
AUG. 4
Royal Oak Pride: Featuring performers Brooke Lynn Hytes and Alyssa Edwards from “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” singer-songwriter VINCINT and Puddles Pity Party, also vendors, food trucks, family fun area and more, downtown Royal Oak, royaloakpride.com
AUG. 4-6
International Gem & Jewelry Show: Noon-6 p.m. Aug. 4, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Aug. 5 and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Aug. 6, Suburban Collection Showplace, 46100 Grand River Ave. in Novi, suburbancollectionshowplace.com
AUG. 5
Highland Games: 174th event hosted by St. Andrew’s Society of Detroit, features Highland dancing, piping and drums, heavy athletics competitions, whisky tasting, kids activities and more, 8 a.m.-6 p.m., also live music by Ceilidh 5-11 p.m. Aug. 4, Greenmead Historical Park, 20501 Newburgh Road in Livonia, highlandgames.com Rochester Grangers: See live “base ball” game featuring teams using equipment, uniforms and rules circa 1870s, 1 p.m., Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, 1005 Van Hoosen Road, rochesterhills. org/musprograms Twilight Tours: Also live music and drinks, 6-9 p.m., Meadow Brook Estate, 350 Estate Drive in Rochester, meadowbrookhall.org/twilighttours Co-ed softball tournament fundraiser: Featuring local police and fire departments, money to support expansion of suicide awareness efforts, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.,
Music in the Meadows: Featuring The Rose Quartet, 7-9 p.m., Cranberry Lake Park, 388 W. Predmore Road in Oakland Township, oaklandtownship.org
AUG. 12
Down on Main Car Show: Spectators encouraged after 10 a.m., Main Street south of 14 Mile Road in Clawson, www.downtownclawson.com/happenings
AUG. 13
Rockin Rods n’ Rochester: Opens at 9 a.m., awards at 3:30 p.m., also DJ, food, raffles, merchandise and more, Walnut Boulevard in downtown Rochester, all proceeds support Leader Dogs for the Blind and other Rochester Lions Charities, rochesterlionclub.org ‘Lewiston’ play reading: Conducted by actors from Ringwald Theatre, 2-3 p.m., Ferndale Area District Library, 222 E. Nine Mile Road, fadl.org/ringwald
AUG. 18-19
AUG. 19
Woodward Dream Cruise: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. from Ferndale to Pontiac, look for route map and scheule of events at www.woodwarddreamcruise.com Free Mall: Gently used clothing giveaway for all ages, 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m., Calvary Chapel of Oakland County, 1975 E. Long Lake Road in Troy, (248) 457-9673
AUG. 23
Summer Block Party: Sidewalk sales at noon, then food trucks, ice cream, cocktails, live music, henna, caricatures, touch-a-truck and more starting at 5:30 p.m., downtown Franklin, free and pet-friendly, mainstreetfranklinmi.com
AUG. 25-27
Novi Taco Fest: Forty taco trucks, lucha libre wrestling, live Latin-style music, traditional Mexican folklorico dance, taco and hot pepper eating contests,
handmade margaritas and tequilas, and much more, 5-10 p.m. Aug. 25, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Aug. 26 and noon7 p.m. Aug. 27, Twelve Mile Crossing at Fountain Walk, 44275 W. 12 Mile Road in Novi, novitacofest.com
ONGOING
Art exhibit: “Sonya Clark: We Are Each Other,” on display until Sept. 24, Cranbrook Art Museum, 39221 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Hills, www.cranbrookart museum.org Michigan Fine Arts Competition: Exhibit runs 9 a.m.4 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays until Aug. 17, Birmingham Bloomfield Art Center, 1516 S. Cranbrook Road in Birmingham, bbartcenter.org/2023-mfac Birmingham Metropolitan Women’s Club: Meets 10:30 a.m.-1 p.m. every second Tuesday of Month, Iroquois Club, 42328 Woodward Ave. in Bloomfield Township, RSVP two weeks prior to each event, chriswludyka@outlook.com, (248) 303-7339, thebirminghammetropolitanwomensclub.weebly.com Free admission to Cranbrook institutions: Every third Thursday of month, 11 a.m.-8 p.m. at Cranbrook Art Museum and 5-8 p.m. at Cranbrook Institute of Science, RSVP required, science.cranbrook.edu, cranbrookartmuseum.org
AUG. 16
Jazz and blues concert: Charles Greene Trio, 6-8 p.m., Fountain Terrace outside Southfield Public Library, 26300 Evergreen Road, southfieldlibrary.org Park It - Family Fun Nights: Starts at 6 p.m., live music by Momford & Son at 6:30 p.m. and showing of “DC League of Super-Pets” at 8:15 p.m., Civic Center Park, 26000 Evergreen Road in Southfield, www. parkitforfun.com
AUG. 18
CruiseFest: Classic car parade, kids activities and live music, 6:30 p.m., downtown Berkley, downtown
0112-2330
C & G Newspapers publishes 21 papers in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties:
Grave from page 4A
time,” Casaceli said. While the stone may be featured in a future exhibit, they must make sure all of the moisture is out of it. Once it is fully dry, they can put it in storage and plan what they would like to do with it. “The first step now is just to get it stabilized so that it’s not deteriorating any further,” Casaceli said. As for the Taylors’ marker, it has been
approved and sent off to the cutters. They are just waiting for the foundation to be poured, but this step is weather-dependent. The ground must be dry enough to pour the bases. Once the cemetery gets enough of a break from rain — and it reaches their turn in line — they will be able to finish this process. The public can view these graves through the museum’s free Android and Apple tour app. Four tours of Greenwood Cemetery are now available on the app. Tour pamphlets can also be found at the museum.
Birmingham-Bloomfield Eagle • Farmington Press • Fraser-Clinton Township Chronicle • Grosse Pointe Times • Macomb Township Chronicle Madison-Park News • Mount Clemens-Clinton-Harrison Township Journal • Novi Note • Rochester Post Roseville-Eastpointe Eastsider Royal Oak Review • Shelby-Utica News • Southfield Sun • St. Clair Shores Sentinel • Sterling Heights Sentry Troy Times • Warren Weekly West Bloomfield Beacon • Woodward Talk • C & G Special Edition (Grosse Pointe/Macomb Co.) • C & G Special Edition (Oakland Co.)
Main Office: 13650 E. 11 Mile Road • Warren, MI 48089 • (586) 498-8000 candgnews.com
Editors: Brian Louwers | (586) 498-1089 | brianlouwers@candgnews.com Annie Bates | (586) 498-1071 | abates@candgnews.com David Wallace | (586) 498-1053 | dwallace@candgnews.com Sports: Jonathan Szczepaniak | (586) 498-1090 | jszczepaniak@candgnews.com Artroom: (586) 498-1036 | ads@candgnews.com Classifieds: For ad rates (586) 498-8100
@candgnews
facebook.com/candgnews
For retail ad rates: Karen Bozimowski | (586) 498-1034 | kboz@candgnews.com Legals and Obits: (586) 498-1099 Automotive Advertising: Louise Millar | (586) 498-1054 | lmillar@candgnews.com Real Estate Advertising: Paula Kaspor | (586) 498-1055 | pkaspor@candgnews.com
Opinions expressed in this newspaper are the opinions of the individual sources and advertisers and do not necessarily reflect the views of C & G Publishing Inc., its ownership or management. Copyright © 2023 C & G Publishing Inc. All rights reserved.
11A
C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • AUGUST 2, 2023
from page 9A
Mayor Pro Tem Dave Staudt, City Manager Victor Cardenas, Councilmen Justin Fischer and Brian Smith, state Rep. Kelly Breen and County Commissioner Ajay Raman. “As the mayor, it has been my wish, it has been my desire that the city of Novi sends love to everybody — to all of our 65,000 people that live here and the millions of people that come to visit Novi,” Gatt told festivalgoers. Once the parade arrived at the park, the festival offered a vast array of vendors selling Indian clothing, food and other cultural items; cultural dancing shows; henna tattoos; children’s activities; yoga; cooking classes; and the option of worshiping. There was also a free meal that was available to all. “While it may not be raining showers from the sky, we can rest assured that it is raining blessings of love from the Lord who is bestowing blessings of love on all of us to enjoy this festival and find what it means to be really happy,” Patel said. Within a few hours, the skies did burst open with rain and thunder, causing those in attendance to disperse into nearby tents.
Madhu Mahadevan, of the temple, said the crowd came in two waves. The first wave started at the beginning of the event and left when the rain came at around 2 p.m. The second wave came after the storm passed and continued to remain steady. This allowed for the festival to remain open until 6 p.m., when it had been scheduled to close at 5 p.m. “The mood was definitely a lot of joy and happiness, even with the rain,” he said. Mahadevan said he asked many festivalgoers what brought them to the festival. He said the answer was predominantly curiosity. “They see this big, 40-foot-tall chariot, and they want to see what it is all about,” Mahadevan said. “They were kind of intrigued by the clothes people were wearing, the henna tattoos, this type of stuff. I think Indian culture probably grabs, I’d say, half of them, and then probably splits between fun activity for kids and then free food.” Mahadevan estimated that the festival was attended by more than 12,000 people. He said that organizers gave out more than 7,000 plates of food this year. He attributed the attendance to the mostly good weather. Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.
• • • • • • •
Drunk Driving Divorce, Custody Support & Parenting Time Bankruptcy Drivers License Restoration Personal Injury Criminal Wills, Estates, Trusts & Lady Bird Deeds
Pl
an Pay s A me va nt ila bl e
CHOOSE THE RIGHT ATTORNEY WALTER A. BOZIMOWSKI Over 40 Years Experience
0025-2310
Festival
42657 GARFIELD, STE. 211 | CLINTON TOWNSHIP | walboz@gmail.com
586.263.9422
0025-2310.indd 1
2/13/23 2:10 PM
Financin g Options Now Availabl e
Complete Kitchens, Baths and Much More! Mud Rooms • Offices • Laundry Rooms • Master Suites • Closet Designs
Check Us Out On Facebook
586.991.7769 HOURS: Tues. - Thurs. 9am-6pm Fri. 9am - 5pm • Sat. 10am - 3pm
0417-2306
50413 Hayes Rd. SHELBY TOWNSHIP
C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • AUGUST 2, 2023 /12A
EXPL RE Stargazing in northern Michigan C & G NEWSPAPERS WILL BE FEATURING STORIES ABOUT NORTHERN MICHIGAN DESTINATIONS FOR OUR READERS TO EXPLORE.
BY GREG TASKER NORTHERN MICHIGAN — If you’ve missed recent chances to see a dazzling display of Northern Lights in northern Michigan, don’t fret. There’s still plenty of opportunities to see spectacular celestial shows up north this summer. As home to one of Michigan’s three international dark sky parks, as well as the base for night ferry cruises and kayak excursions (nearby), the Straits of Mackinac are an ideal location for stargazing — from land or water. The darkness of the night sky near the Straits of Mackinac is rare in the heavily populated eastern United States, where upward views often are obscured by light pollution. While communities on either peninsula create a sky glow along the horizon at night, the top of the sky remains clear. Mary Stewart Adams, a star lore historian who narrates Night Sky Cruises for Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry every summer, finds the straits a special place not only because of the darkness, but also because of the confluence of unique geographical features, including two of the five Great Lakes. Imagine standing on the top deck of a Shepler’s ferry while anchored below the center point of the majestic Mackinac Bridge — marking the border between Lake Michigan and Lake Huron — looking west at Lake Michigan. “When you get to the center point of the bridge, you can catch the sun setting and the moon rising. It’s quite the experience taking all of this in,” said Adams, who hosts the weekly public radio program and podcast “The Storyteller’s Night Sky.” “For me, it’s such an experience of what Michigan is all about — land, water, sky, bridge and people. … It’s so iconically Michigan.” Begun several years ago, Shepler’s Night Sky Cruises are extremely popular and tap into a growing phenomenon around the globe — people wanting to experience starry nights and celestial occurrences. For many passengers, much of the cruise’s appeal stems from Adams, who narrates the voyage through the straits. “She does a great job narrating and sharing information about the stars that most people don’t know,” said Sarah Carter, who is group sales and cruise coordinator for Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry. “This is not the kind of cruise where you sit back and someone just narrates in the background. It’s interactive.” Passengers are free to move around the top deck. Adams brings along a music playlist of songs that make reference to the moon, sun or something about the night. The playlist includes everyone from George Gershwin to Eric Clapton. Passengers are handed maps of the night sky when they board; on the back are lyrics to a song. “There’s a point where everyone sings together — we joke about when was the last time you were out on the Straits of Mackinac, singing to the sky,” she said. “When you die, you regret the things you didn’t do … so let’s belt The Straits of Mackinac are an ideal location for stargazing — from land or water. See STARGAZING on page 13A
Photos privided by Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry
13A
C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • AUGUST 2, 2023
from page 12A
out the song because we are here.” For those who prefer paddling, you can join Adams on “Star Gazing and Star Lore” trips hosted by Woods & Waters in Les Cheneaux Islands. Adams said paddlers will glide through quiet bays to watch the night skies. The tours were inspired by a similar event Adams was hired for last summer. “It was one of the most beautiful experiences I’ve ever had,” she said. “The night was perfectly calm. The water was like glass. It’s remarkable when a Great Lake is that still. You could see the Milky Way in the water. It was like paddling in the stars.” For those who prefer to watch the skies from land, Headlands International Dark Sky Park is ideal (Headlands was the first in Michigan; the other international dark sky parks are Dr. T.K. Lawless County Park in Cass County and Keweenaw Dark Sky Park in the Upper Peninsula). That distinction is given to places that offer unspoiled night-sky viewing. About 2 miles west of Mackinaw City, the Headlands is open day and night and
hosts stargazing programs throughout the summer. It’s also a great place to explore on foot — there are 5 miles of well-groomed trails amid acres of old-growth forest. The Dark Sky Discovery Trail features indigenous artwork and regional photography that interprets humanity’s relationship to the night sky over the centuries and across cultures. Adams, the founder and former director of the Headlands International Dark Sky Park, encourages do-it-yourself stargazing wherever you can find dark skies. She suggests becoming familiar with a park or landscape before visiting at night. Find the name of a constellation or star and figure out when it is in the sky and build your experience around that. You can do research about what it means, where it comes from. “It can sound simple, but this kind of thing has an affirming quality to it,” she said. “It can directly connect us to our past, to the past of all humanity. There’s not a single culture that doesn’t have a single star lore that tells people who they are.” Greg Tasker is a Traverse City-based freelance writer. Greg’s articles focused on northern Michigan travel will appear in C & G Newspapers during the summer.
Financing Available
LEAKING
$
GUTTERS?
DO N Forg ’T et the Gutt Gua er rds
800
per/foot
INSTALLED
CALL TODAY FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE 586-802-8200 • AckermanGutters.com
0275-2328
Stargazing
Shutterstock image
SALES INSTALLATION SERVICE CUSTOM DESIGNED & INSTALLED BY PROFESSIONALS Tub and Shower Doors Bifold & Sliding Mirror Closet Doors Glass Table Tops • Sandblasting, Etching Decorative Framed Mirrors • Custom Mirrors and Much, Much More
www.stclairglassandmirror.com
VIEW THE DARK SKIES
Headlands International Dark Sky Park, 15675 Headlands Road, Mackinaw City. (231) 427-1001. The website has information about programs and a guide to seeing the Northern Lights.
NIGHT SKY CRUISES
Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry has three night cruises left this season. They include Midnight Meteor Showers on August 11, 12 and 13. For more information and ticket prices, go to Shepler’s Night Sky Cruises.
STAR GAZING AND STAR LORE
Star lore historian Mary Stewart Adams will narrate evening and night paddles in Les Cheneaux Islands. Go to Woods & Waters for details.
36675 Groesbeck, Clinton Twp., MI 48035, Just south of 16 Mile Road Tues. - Fri. 8-5:30 • Sat. 10-3 • Closed Sunday & Monday
0025-2306
BEHIND THE WHEEL 14A/ • AUGUST 2, 2023
C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION
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.
Corvair convertible stays in the cruising lane BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — If you’ve ever ventured over to Eddie’s Drive-In, you may have spotted Bill Shuster and his 1969 Chevrolet Corvair Monza. On occasion, the Grosse Pointe Park resident takes the vintage vehicle to the popular Harrison Township eatery, where diners are served by carhops on roller skates. Cortez silver in color, the Corvair is always a conversation piece. Sometimes Shuster comes across people whose parents or relatives once owned a Corvair. Other times, he’ll meet someone unfamiliar with the car, but intrigued. The convertible has been in the family since 1970. The evening his father, Stuart Shuster, brought it home for the first time is forever etched in Shuster’s memory. It was Stuart Shuster’s 31st birthday, and Shuster remembers his dad coming home from work later than usual on that snowy, January evening. “My father was a designer at General Motors,” Shuster said. “His studio developed the Firebird insignias. He was a really good designer, really talented.” As Shuster waited for his dad, he heard a “sort of sputtering rumble” echoing through the Birmingham neighborhood where the family resided. Looking outside, Shuster saw tail lights in the winter air. He didn’t think much of it until the Corvair pulled into the driveway. Once his dad was inside the house, the reveal of the new family car came as a surprise. While looking at it, Shuster felt the Corvair had “an aura.” It was his dad’s prized possession. “Nobody drove this car except my father,” Shuster said. Although the car was in great shape, Stuart Shuster insisted on tinkering with it over the next few months with his oldest son helping him at the age of 5. Shuster also has a younger sister and brother. “I was out in the garage every weekend,” he said. “A lot of that was holding the flashlight.” The Shusters owned other cars over the years, but the Corvair always stood out. “Everyone knew this car,” Shuster said. “My dad drove it daily and he would take it to car shows.” As a passenger in the Corvair, watching drag races was a childhood pastime.
“When I was very young, there were a lot of drive-in restaurants along Woodward (Avenue) we would go to,” Shuster said. “That’s where all the hot rods met to set up races. You’d see Super Bees, Jaguars and Corvettes.” Mustangs, Challengers and Firebirds also were a part of the action. Shuster described the atmosphere as “an incredible sensation of noise and color and, of course, the music at the time — the MC5, all the Detroit bands.” Stuart Shuster purchased the convertible from Ed Rinke Chevrolet in Center Line. Shuster still has the paperwork. One distinguishing feature is the engine is located in the back while the trunk is in the front. Other traits are noticeable. “The pipes have a nice growl. It has the original fire extinguisher my dad put in,” Shuster said. “It’s all original. I had to replace some parts.” Shuster kept track of the car’s history. He said the car was once owned by Ned Nickles, the designer of the original Corvair body style. Shuster’s research also determined that General Motors executive Ed Cole “was the chief engineer” of this car. Stuart Shuster was such a fan of the Corvair that he became a member of the Detroit Area Corvair Club. On the last day of school sophomore year at Seaholm High School, things switched gears a bit when Shuster finally had the chance to take the car for a spin. “I asked my father if I could take the car out and drive around,” Shuster remembered. “He said, ‘If the keys are on my dresser, you can go ahead and do that.’” So, when the teenager woke up on the last day of school in 1981, he checked the dresser, and saw the keys. He was “shocked” that his dad granted him permission, and after school he rounded up his friend Matt. They cruised around a bit, making their way over to Cranbrook Institute of Science in Bloomfield Hills. “We were clearly the coolest guys in Birmingham,” Schuster thought. One stop was a gas station at Maple Road and Woodward Avenue in Birmingham. The gas cap is on the front of the car on the driver’s side. “As I was backing up, there was a Cadillac Coupe de Ville in front of me,” Shuster said. That’s when Shuster accidentally bumped something and got a scratch on his dad’s Corvair. “I just went white,” Shuster said. “It was like waiting for
TOP LEFT: Bill Shuster, of Grosse Pointe Park, remembers when his dad, Stuart Shuster, brought home the 1969 Chevrolet Corvair Monza. TOP RIGHT: While growing up in Birmingham, the ’69 Corvair was popular in the neighborhood. MIDDLE RIGHT: Shuster’s Corvair was once owned by Ned Nickles, who he said designed the car’s original body style. BOTTOM RIGHT: The engine in the Corvair is located in the back. Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
the apocalypse to come home.” But his dad remained calm when he learned of the mishap. “He was pretty mellow about it,” Shuster said. “But he garnered my wages.” That included what Shuster earned on his paper route and from his job at the local hardware store. Shuster did not get behind the wheel of the Corvair again until four years ago when his dad died. A couple of years ago, the car was invited to be displayed at the annual EyesOn Design on the grounds of the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores. All these years later, there were attendees who remembered the car from its early days with Stuart Shuster. “It runs really well,” Shuster said. “Driving around, I can feel his spirit.”
C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • AUGUST 2, 2023
15A
0258-2330
C & G NEWSPAPERS OAKLAND COUNTY SPECIAL EDITION • AUGUST 2, 2023
16A
FREE ESTIMATES for Basement Flood Protection System
99
POOL HEATER $ MAINTENANCE
(ONE TIME SERVICE-CALL FOR DETAILS)
Tankless Combination Boiler and Water Heater
COUPON
FINANCING as low as $75.00 per month
Piping Repairs
COUPON
COUPON
Package includes Furnace and A/C with UV Air Purifier or Hi-Efficiency Air Cleaner
ANY PLUMBING OR HVAC SERVICES
TANKLESS WATER HEATER
LIMITED TIME OFFER
WITH THIS COUPON EXCLUDES ALL OTHER OFFERS
LIMITED TIME OFFER
WITH THIS COUPON EXCLUDES ALL OTHER OFFERS
$500 OFF Any Complete Heating & Cooling Package WITH THIS COUPON EXCLUDES ALL OTHER OFFERS
$35 OFF $200 OFF LIMITED TIME OFFER
0194-2310