Washington Avenue converts to pull-in parking spaces
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — The repainting of the dreaded back-in parking spaces on Washington Avenue began Oct. 6 to convert them into a more convenient pull-in space.
Parking in Royal Oak has been a hassle for many years, according to City Commissioner Brandon Kolo, who said the change to pull-in parking is just the beginning of a more accessible downtown.
“For the last several years we had a provider who did not live up to their promises and their expectations of the system. So, the commission took action to get out of a bad contract, we got out of it over 18 months early, and now we are de-
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
ABOVE: Fran Mauro Masters, 103, aka “Rosie Fran,” pictured here at her Chesterfield Township home Oct. 10, worked as a riveter in the Ford Willow Run Bomber Plant in Ypsilanti during World War II. LEFT: Mementos and tributes are displayed on the wall.
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SECOND FRONT PAGE
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Royal Oak Symphony Orchestra celebrates 30th anniversary, looks to future
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — The Royal Oak Symphony Orchestra is celebrating 30 years serving the Royal Oak community, and it has a lot of excitement in store for the future.
The orchestra began in 1995 when
Peter Tolias founded the orchestra. Since then, the group has been led by many different conductors, including John Roberston, John Dovaras, John McLaughlin Williams and guest conductors, according to royaloakorchestra.com.
The orchestra is composed of 68 nonprofessional musicians who volunteer their
time to perform each season, with no pay provided.
Lisa Wade, the principal flute for the ROSO, and the vice president of the board of directors, has been a part of the orchestra since the group moved to Royal Oak from Troy 30 years ago.
“I grew up playing the flute. My mom
was a musician, and so we had a lot of different instruments in our house, but I gravitated towards the flute, and I played in ROSO as well as at my church quite frequently, but it’s always been a hobby for me,” Wade said.
Wade said that originally the orchestra was located in Troy and was a pay-to-play
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — After 20-years, the annual Winter Blast festival will merge with the Royal Oak Holidays to create a winter wonderland for multiple weekends.
The merged holiday experience will span five consecutive weekends kicking off at 4 p.m. Nov. 21 through Dec. 21. The event will be free to attend.
“The new format is a better investment for our city, creating more of ‘a blast’ over a longer period at a time when weather is more predictable and people are already out celebrating,” Royal Oak Mayor Michael Fournier said in a prepared statement. “We’re proud to offer an expanded, festive experience that both residents and visitors can enjoy.”
Winter Blast merges with Royal Oak Holidays
A press release sent out by Royal Oak Holidays said that the event will include all the activities that people enjoyed at the Winter Blast, such as zip lines, carnival attractions and ice sculptures, which will all be free of cost.
Royal Oak Holidays is in its second year, according to the release, and will feature five themed weekends each with special attractions, and like the Winter Blast, Royal Oak Holidays will feature one weekend of free skating at the Rink at Royal Oak scheduled for Dec. 12-14.
“We saw a great opportunity to take the major programming elements of Winter Blast and extend the fun over five weekends and to do so when more people are out and about during the holiday season,” Events Producer Jon Witz said via email. “In addition, we also will have more predictable weather in the five weekends between Thanks-
TOP LEFT: People glide over the ice on the rink in downtown Royal Oak during last year’s Royal Oak Holidays. Royal Oak Holidays and the Winter Blast are merging into one event starting next month. File photo by Liz Carnegie
ABOVE: Ivana Puebla, 5, of Sterling Heights, rides a zip line during the Winter Blast in 2024. Winter Blast has now merged with Royal Oak Holidays.
Police departments warn residents amid rise of vehicle thefts
BY MIKE KOURY mkoury@candgnews.com
BERKLEY/HUNTINGTON WOODS
— Cities including Berkley and Huntington Woods have seen an uptick in vehicle thefts in recent weeks.
Local police agencies have been on the lookout for vehicle thefts lately and are warning residents to take precautions to keep their cars safe.
Huntington Woods Public Safety Director Andrew Pazuchowski said the people doing these crimes aren’t going out with the purpose of stealing cars, but instead are committing larcenies from autos, or LFAs, and finding key fobs in unlocked vehicles.
“A lot of the new cars, they have a spot so you can put your key fob in there. So a lot of people are actually leaving their key fob in the car and leaving the car unlocked,” he said. “None of these cars have been broken into, mind you. So, they’ll go up into the car. They’ll go in there looking. … They’ll find laptops, cellphones, purses, wallets, and that’s why they do this, because it’s very common. It’s lucrative for them and the cars are
unlocked, but what they do now is they’ll enter the car that’s unlocked and while they’re in there looking to steal items in the car, they push the button and see if the car starts, and that’s what’s been going on.”
Pazuchowski said the city already had four car thefts in the past week, though three have since been recovered and one was found to be used in a crime in Detroit.
He also stated that Huntington Woods hasn’t been alone in this issue, as Royal Oak, Berkley and Oak Park are areas that have been hit as well.
“It’s just an easy crime for them,” Pazuchowski said. “Not only none of them were broken into, but even when we catch them, they don’t even have B&E tools on them. So they had no intent in breaking any cars. If they’re locked, they just move on to the next car.”
Berkley Detective Lt. Andrew Hadfield stated that Berkley’s issues with car thefts have been the same as Huntington Woods’ issues, with vehicles being stolen in the same manner: unlocked cars with key fobs left inside.
Hadfield said that what the criminals
are doing is hitting specific areas, committing larceny from autos for a couple of nights, and then leaving to hit another city.
“They just hit different cities at different times,” he said. “For the most part, it’s a preventable crime. A lot of them aren’t being hot-wired, although the Kias, we did have one of those last week where somebody did break in through the ignition of the Kia to steal it, which was recovered about 20 minutes later,
but we try to limit as many as we can.”
Hadfield said car owners need to make sure their vehicles are locked and no valuables are left inside, including the key fob. Residents also can make use of security and porch lights to light their driveways, and they can park cars on the other side of fencing if they have that on their property.
Call Staff Writer Mike Koury at (586) 498-1077.
NEWS & NOTES
5A/ ROYAL OAK REVIEW • OCTOBER 15, 2025
Royal Oak Concert Band begins 2025 season
ROYAL OAK — The Royal Oak Concert Band will be performing its first concert of the 2025 season, “Lights, Camera, Music,” at 3 p.m. Oct. 19 at the Royal Oak Middle School Auditorium, 709 N. Washington Ave. in Royal Oak.
Admission costs $12 for adults and $10 for seniors. Children 12 and younger will be admitted for free. Tickets will be available at the door and online at royaloakconcertband.org.
Directed by Kevin R. Czarnik, the Royal Oak Concert Band will be performing classic music from the stage and screen. The concert features songs from the Star Wars Trilogy, including Imperial March, Princess Leia’s Theme and Yoda’s Theme.
The band will also be performing highlights from “The Music Man,” “The Lone Ranger” and a medley of movie themes composed by Danny Elfman.
Mary Borus will be featured as a soloist on alto saxophone, performing Gabriel Pares’ Premier Solo de Concours.
The Woodward Avenue Jazz Orchestra, directed by Jim Cann, will be opening the concert with a set saluting cinema and featuring jazz vocalist Mark Francis.
For more information and tickets, visit royaloakconcertband.org.
Royal Oak Historical Society speaker series continues
Celebrate 180 years of the Orson Starr home
ROYAL OAK — The Orson Starr House has been a staple of Royal Oak for 180 years. To celebrate, there will be an anniversary party at 10 a.m. Oct. 19 at the Starr House, 3123 N. Main St. It is a free event.
The celebration will include a walking history tour that takes attendees back in time to the 1800s and shows the life of Orson Starr and the Starr family.
There will also be an open house where people can explore the home’s collection of artifacts, tools and stories from the 1800s. The open house will feature the Starrs’ bell-making legacy, Royal Oak’s early settlement, and a history of resilience and innovation.
Light refreshments and birthday cake will also be provided.
ROYAL OAK — The Royal Oak Historical Society will be hosting a speaker to talk about the Historic District Study Committee and historic districts in Royal Oak. Part of the society’s speaker series, the event will take place at 7 p.m. Oct. 17 at the Royal Oak Historical Museum, 1411 Webster Road. The cost is $15 per person.
Committee member Lesley Snow will be explaining the criteria, research and verification that the Royal Oak Historic District Study Committee uses to designate city properties as historic. Snow will explain the process for designation and show a PowerPoint presentation of Royal Oak houses and businesses that are designated as historic. To reserve a spot, visit royaloakhistoricalsociety.com.
Look for local events in and around the Review’s coverage area on page 18A.
Photo provided by Royal Oak Historical Society
Photo provided by Royal Oak Concert Band
Compiled by Taylor Christensen
SPOTLIGHT ON HEALTH
Local resources make staying active this winter easier than ever
BY SCOTT BENTLEY sbentley@candgnews.com
It’s easy to be active in the summer heat, but in the winter, it can sometimes feel like there are fewer opportunities to get out and continue moving. As the temperature outside finally begins to drop, it’s important to remain active.
The good news is that these days there are plenty of resources to help people of all ages get out of the house during the cold months. In the metro Detroit area, there’s everything from indoor classes and leagues to full-blown gyms with trainers.
“It’s very important to move your body… from someone that’s 20 to someone that’s 80,” Peak Physique of Troy co-owner Nick Pietrykowski said. “And one of the biggest things that we try and do is make sure the client is not making this a chore.”
Peak Physique of Troy offers not just personal trainers, but life coaches to help you get the most out of each and every day all year round.
Taking care of your body year-round also goes beyond just physical benefits. It’s a great way to improve your mental health during days that may be cold and dark.
“I feel like that’s the biggest thing when you get into winter — the mental health aspect of it,” Pietrykowski said. “We’re sitting more, we don’t want to go outside. As winter hits we still need blood flow and oxygen.”
Age shouldn’t stop anyone from accomplishing this, either. If anything, it’s even more important to continue getting out as often as possible as a senior. The health benefits will be rewarding and noticeable.
At Trinity Health Oakland Hospital, we see more than a condition – we see you. Whether it’s innovative heart, stroke or cancer care, personalized women’s health or minimally invasive surgery, our experts use the latest technology to help you get back to what you love. Conveniently located on Woodward Avenue in the heart of Oakland County, our hospital campus offers free, easy parking and a modern, welcoming environment.
LEFT: Peak Physique co-owners Lissa and Nick Pietrykowski pose in their gym. Peak Physique is located at 1071 E. Long Lake Road, in Troy.
Photo provided by Lissa Pietrykowski
RIGHT: Seniors work out at the St. Clair Shores Senior Activity Center, located at 20100 Stephens Road, in St. Clair Shores.
Photo provided by the St. Clair Shores Communications Department
ABOVE: A class held at the Active Adult Center uses fun ways to stay mobile indoors.
Photo provided by Jennifer Cowan
Medicare coverage that feels like home
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Open enrollment felt overwhelming with all the ads and options. Reaching out to HAP was the best decision. Their representatives patiently explained the plans, and I ended up with better dental and medical coverage while saving money each month. Highly recommend HAP! - Connie N., Clinton Twp
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all month long these bars will have pink drink specials and pink ribbons for you to buy as a
Voters to select candidates for city offices in Royal Oak, Clawson
In the Royal Oak Review’s coverage area, voters in the Nov. 4 election in Clawson will select candidates for mayor and the City Council, and voters in Royal Oak will select candidates for mayor and the City Commission. Candidates were asked, in 75 words or fewer, to state their top goal(s) if elected. The answers are printed verbatim.
Royal Oak Mayor
Two candidates are running for one two-year term.
Michael Fournier Age: 46
Occupation: Business Development
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak
For how long: 23 years
Online campaign information: www.fournierformayor.com
Education: B.A. Michigan State University; MBA University of Notre Dame
Previously and currently held elected offices: Mayor of Royal Oak 2016 – Present; City Commissioner 2011-2016
Top goals:
Keep Royal Oak one of the SAFEST cities in America:
• Attract/retain the best police, EMS, and fire professionals
• Increase social workers and mental health professionals in law enforcement
Support Royal Oak’s vibrant and beautiful neighborhoods:
• Maintain investments in our parks and older adult initiatives
• Protect the character of each neighborhood
• Confront the housing crisis while protecting home values
Upgrade our critical infrastructure:
• Continue fixing our roads
• Replace lead lines and update water infrastructure
Trish Oliver Age: 67
Occupation: Senior communications consultant for Fortune 500 corporations and non-profit organizations.
Author.
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak
For how long: 39 years
Online campaign information: saveroyaloak.com
Education: Master of Liberal Arts, Harvard, 2024. Bachelor of Arts, University of Michigan.
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: I will listen to residents. Com-
munications and transparency are what’s needed now — in addition to fiscally responsible action.
I will strengthen and enforce ethics ordinances so campaign donations cannot overly influence this city.
Also important is protecting the families that make up the majority here by restoring the term “Single Family” to the “Land Use Map/Categories” in the Master Plan and subsequent zoning — no more variances that eliminate in-building parking, height restraints, congestion and safety.
Royal Oak City Commission
Seven candidates are running for three four-year terms.
Paul Bastian Age: 47
Occupation: Realtor
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak
For how long: 40+ years
Online campaign information: www.paulbastian.com
Education: B.A. in Communications, Oakland University
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: Preserve Royal Oak’s walkable neighborhoods
Foster smart development of new housing options to better provide for seniors and working families
Help small businesses grow and thrive in the community
Identify and foster new, walkable corridors of commerce
Make Royal Oak the regional leader in new private investment and entrepreneurship
Prioritize the maintenance and development of our parks
Advocate for the integration of mental health support into community programming
David Buzynski
Did not return questionnaire before press time.
Woody Gontina Age: 51
Occupation: Home Builder
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak
For how long: 19 years
Online campaign information: www.woodygontina4ro.com
Education: B.S. from Michigan State University — Construction Management
Previously and currently held elected offices: I have not previously held an elected role
Top goals: I’m running because of my deep love for Royal Oak. I believe in a forwardthinking, inclusive city that works for everyone. I’ve served on the Planning Commission, for 5 years, and Environmental Advisory Board, for 7 years, where I have promoted thoughtful development, sustainability, and responsible stewardship of our resources. My top priorities are Best-in-class public services. Thoughtful planning and development that meets community needs. Sustainable building, clean water, and protecting our parks and greenspace.
Brandon Kolo Age: 40
Occupation: Small business owner with professional expertise in project management and sustainable technology
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak For how long: Since 2012 Online campaign information: www.brandonkolo.com
Education: BS, Michigan State University Previously and currently held elected offices: Royal Oak City Commissioner since 2020
Top goals:
Royal Oak is thriving, and I am proud of the progress we’ve made since I joined the commission. If reelected, I will continue to focus on:
• Strong Neighborhoods — investing in parks, protecting trees and greenspace, and guiding development that enhances quality of life
• Excellent Services — maintaining exceptional public safety and expanding senior and recreational programs
• Improved Infrastructure — repairing & maintaining roads and promoting
green infrastructure to put rainwater in the ground and out of basements
Carolyn Martz Age: 62
Occupation: Receptionist/biller at a dental office, 1.5 years
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak resident
For how long: 20 years Online campaign information: SaveRoyalOak.com
Education: Graduate of Macomb Academy of Court Reporting, CSR-4017
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My top goal if elected is to preserve some of the historic sites such as the Baldwin/ Stagecrafters Theater and the Royal Oak Golf Course. While progressing into the future, I feel it is necessary to retain the history of our city. These are familyfriendly entities that should be maintained into the future so Royal Oak’s entire history and character are not lost.
Eric Smethurst Age: 37
Occupation: Mechanical Engineer
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak
For how long: Since 2018
Online campaign information: SaveRoyalOak.com
Education: No answer given
Previously and currently held elected offices: No prior experience
Top goals: The residents’ concerns will be my top priority. When elected, I will address the many major issues that our community has voiced regarding downtown parking and affordable housing. I will make sure that the planned modifications to 11 Mile Road will not disrupt the downtown area, as parking issues have already caused enough disruption in recent years. With this being said, a focus on communication and transparency with all new developments is necessary.
Fournier
Oliver
Bastian
Gontina
Kolo
Martz
Smethurst
Voter Guide
Michael Willard (Write-in)
Age: 46
Occupation: Packaging Engineer
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak
For how long: 34 years
Online campaign information: www.writeinwillard.com
Education: B.S. and M.S. Packaging; Michigan State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals:
• End non-essential spending on outdated projects where costs exceed the benefits to the Royal Oak community.
• Propose to split City Commission into districts to ensure equality. Localized topics to have a weighted system where directly affected residents and business owners have a greater say.
• Reduce the use of outside sources to dictate how Royal Oak should evolve as a community.
• Listen to ALL of Royal Oak Constituent’s concerns and needs.
Clawson Mayor
Two candidates are running for one two-year term.
Paula Millan
Did not return questionnaire before press time.
Susan Moffitt
Age: 62
Occupation: Employee Benefits Director
Municipality of residence: Clawson, MI
For how long: Since 1991
Online campaign information: Facebook
Page: Susan Moffitt for Clawson Mayor
Education: B.S. Business Administration, Wayne State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Clawson City Council 2017 - 2021 and 2023 - Present
Top goals:
My top goals if elected are to create a welcoming and responsive City Hall, where residents know their concerns will be heard and addressed. I will work to provide clear pathways to solutions, ensure our City Charter is respected, and that the voices of residents
remain central to every decision. I will also work to safeguard infrastructure bond funds, making sure they are used responsibly, transparently, and with long-term planning that strengthens Clawson’s future.
Clawson City Council
Ten candidates are running for three four-year terms and one two-year term.
The three highest vote totals will win four-year terms and the fourth-highest vote total will win a two-year term.
Bruce Anderson
Age: 61
Occupation: Engineer
Municipality of residence: Clawson
For how long: 29 years
Online campaign information: bruceandersonclawson.com
Education: BS Engineering
Previously and currently held elected offices: Currently serving on the Clawson City Council
Top goals: 1) Maintain a positive working relationship with the City Manager
2) Continue the progress on the city infrastructure
3) Continue the positive relationship with the Clawson School District
George Georges
Age: 81
Occupation: Manager, department of embroidery with 31 employees
Municipality of residence: Clawson
For how long: No answer given. Online campaign information: Use email george@ggeorges.com in subject line please reference Clawson 2025
Education: Wayne State University- Bachelor of Arts- Accounting Degree- retired certified public accountant- Michigan, Ohio
Previously and currently held elected offices: former city councilman
Meredith Peltonen
Age: 41 years old
Occupation: Bartender, Undergraduate Student
Municipality of residence: Clawson
For how long: 23 years
Online campaign information: meredithforclawson.com
Education: Michigan State University, Interdisciplinary Studies: Law, Justice, and Public Policy — Anticipated Graduation: May 2026
Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer given
Top goals: • Embrace multi-channel communication strategies ensuring every resident is provided accurate information.
• Promote community service opportunities on boards and commissions by expanding the search for applicants and emphasizing the important roles these volunteers play in shaping our city.
• Focus on effective, responsive, and respectful governance to build unity among council and community.
• Thoroughly examine our budget and re-evaluate current projects to ensure every dollar is spent wisely.
William J. Renshaw
Did not return questionnaire before press time.
Heather Rigby Rinkevich
Age: 45
Occupation: Self-Employed/Entrepreneur Municipality of residence: Clawson
For how long: 30 years in total Online campaign information: https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61578854240865
Education: Central Michigan University: MA in Humanities & BS in Org Administration
Top goals: Fixing our streets and underground water and sewer, explore costsharing partnerships with neighboring cities, publish clear, accessible financial reports quarterly to increase transparence, use of asphalt for cost-effective and quicker resurfacing or streets, preserve our close knit, small-town feel, strong leadership-smart solutions- a stronger Clawson, Lets think outside the box.
Scott E. Manning
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Previously and currently held elected offices:N/A Top goals:
• Strengthening and implementing long-term/ strategic plans by adding measurable goals and aligning the budget to meet priorities and objectives.
• Seek more outside funding, like grants, to ease the burden on Clawson taxpayers.
• Accountability & Oversight on infrastructure. Clawson deserves clear communication and accountability from its leaders. Neighbors should feel informed about
what’s happening in our city and confident that decisions are being made responsibly.
• Ensuring the people of Clawson feel represented and have a voice.
Glenn Shepard Age: 56
Occupation: Automotive Sales
Municipality of residence: Clawson
For how long: 22 years
Online campaign information: Facebook: Elect Glenn Shepard
Education: BA Marketing, MSU
Previously and currently held elected offices: Clawson City Councilmember
Top goals:
Preserve single-family zoning
Attract and retain families with school age children
Preserve existing green spaces
Continue infrastructure improvements
Find solutions to mitigate stormwater runoff
Improve our recreational parks and facilities
Explore pragmatic downtown parking solutions
Develop empty spaces within and near our downtown
Leverage our industrial and non-residential zoning to increase revenue
Protect and improve the biodiversity of our city tree canopy
Encourage by-right development and limit PUDs
Continue working collaboratively with our school district
Laura L. Slowinski Age: 54
Occupation: K-8 Substitute and Faith Formation teacher, Volunteer at Guardian Angels Catholic Parish
Municipality of residence: City of Clawson
For how long: I’ve lived in Clawson for over 45 years
Online campaign information: Facebook Page: Laura Slowinski For Clawson City Council
Education: Graduated May 2005 Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management, Cornerstone University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Chairwoman on the Clawson Charter Commission
Top goals: If elected, I will focus on restoring communication between residents, businesses, and city government. I’m committed to sup-
Willard
Moffitt
Anderson
Georges
Peltonen
Rinkevich
Shepard
Slowinski
porting the community, solving problems, and helping people use our city website and YouTube channels for reliable information. As charter commission chair, I worked with eight diverse elected commissioners to update our city’s historic document. We collaborated respectfully and effectively. I value that environment and am eager to bring that spirit to my city council seat.
Alec W. Speshock
Age: 32
Occupation: Executive Director of the Clawson Chamber of Commerce
Municipality of residence: Clawson
For how long: 4 years
Online campaign information: https:// linktr.ee/speshockforclawson
Education: High School Diploma with some college
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: Transparency & Trust Open communication, clear updates, and decisions made with residents, not behind closed doors. Improving the Tax Burden
Reduce the tax burden by prioritizing efficient budgets and delivering real value. Modernizing the City & Ordinances Update outdated ordinances, support small businesses, and plan for Clawson’s future without losing the heart of it.
Scott Tinlin
Age: 66
Occupation: Senior Executive- Global Technology & Science, Brussels Belgium Municipality of residence: Clawson
For how long: 39 years
Online campaign information: scotttinlinforclawson.com
Education: Central Michigan University,
Multiple graduate business accreditations in United States & EU institutions
Previously and currently held elected offices: City Council (2022-2023).
Top goals: I am running for City Council to continue supporting the positive direction of our wonderful city. My priorities are a transparent and collaborative government that works to gain additional revenue to continue fixing our aging infrastructure, improving communication with our citizens, and pursuing smart development to keep our small-town charm.
Clawson City Council
Two candidates are running for one term ending Nov. 15, 2027.
Richard Scott
Age: No answer given
Occupation: Technology Leadership Municipality of residence: Clawson
For how long: 30 years
Online campaign information: none
Education: Bachelors Computer Information Systems — Walsh College Troy
Previously and currently held elected offices: Clawson City Council - 3 months
Top goals: My goal is to keep Clawson the wonderful city with a Big Heart that we all love.
Over 25 years in technology leadership responsible for multimillion dollar budgets and many years of reviewing vendor proposals. 2.5 years on Clawson Planning Commission:
Protected neighborhood character and preserved opportunities for families in Clawson through the implementation of the Short-Term Rental ordinance.
Upheld parking and development standards and clarified them in the Master Plan Update.
Aidan O’Rourke
Age: 30
Occupation: Application Engineer
Municipality of residence: Clawson
For how long: 4 years
Online campaign information: Visit my Facebook Page “Aidan O’Rourke for Clawson City Council” https://www.facebook. com/profile.php?id=61578373716592
Education: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
Previously and currently held elected offices: None.
Top goals:
Editor: David Wallace | (586) 498-1053 | dwallace@candgnews.com
Reporters:
Taylor Christensen | (586) 498-1081 | tchristensen@candgnews.com
Mike Koury | (586) 498-1077 | mkoury@candgnews.com
Sports: Scott Bentley | (586) 498-1090 | sports@candgnews.com
Artroom: (586) 498-1036 | ads@candgnews.com
1. I believe in listening to voters, respecting your decisions the first time, and following the city charter.
O’Rourke
2. I’ll focus on smart, modern zoning that grows our tax base, strengthens our downtown, and welcomes new families into our schools, while preserving the character of our neighborhoods.
3. I’ll work to close gaps in our ordinances so our government remains fair, consistent and accountable.
Speshock
Tinlin
Scott
Holidays
page 3A
giving and the Christmas holiday, whereas in early February, we’ve dealt with conditions that have forced the event to reschedule twice in the last four years.”
Witz said the merger will benefit the event in several ways — by providing more funding, flexibility and support for participating small businesses and vendors.
“It will benefit the holidays on several fronts, first on the funding support as many sponsors of Winter Blast (were) excited to support the Holidays. Second, with that financial support we’ve augmented the programming of each weekend of the holidays,” Witz said. “As an example, we’ll have two full weekends of a holiday market with sixteen unique vendors that far surpasses what we did last year. Another example is that we’ll offer ice skating on one of the weekends for free, which will have a huge impact on those small business gift vendors as well as on other local businesses.”
The Royal Oak Holidays will kick off on Nov. 21 with the Lightning of the Park and season opening of the Rink at Royal Oak. The celebration will include live music, food trucks, carnival rides, marshmallow roasting, skating exhibitions, Santa, and a community countdown to the lighting of Royal Oak’s downtown trees and the giant oak tree in Centennial Commons.
The following weekends will include new attractions like a giant game of Hungry Hippos, a Winter Classic Cornhole Tournament and a Grinch Weekend.
There is also going to be an expanded outdoor holiday market featuring more than 15 local gift exhibitors, including several downtown Royal Oak businesses.
“We’re taking everything people loved about Winter Blast and supercharging it for one amazing holiday season,” said Witz. “By merging its favorites features into Royal Oak Holidays and extending the event over multiple weekends, we’re creating a bigger, more accessible celebration that delivers more value, more festive fun and more time for families to enjoy it all.”
For more information on the Royal Oak Holidays, visit royaloakholidays.com.
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.
The lighting of the park is a staple in the Royal Oak community, seen here last year, and will be part of the expanded Royal Oak Holidays this year, which has merged with the Winter Blast.
File photo by Liz Carnegie
CLASSIC CARS COMBINE CONVERSATION AND CAMARADERIE
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
When it comes to metro Detroit car shows, the camaraderie between gearheads is on display as much as the classic cars. Checking under the hoods of hot rods while sharing stories of drag racing back in the day is how car buffs bond over their vintage rides.
Scott Fritts cruised on over to at least 10 classic car shows this past summer.
“It’s just hanging out with the guys talking about how much money we put into our cars,” said Fritts, who owns a blue 2017 Ford Mustang. “We’ll talk for hours on end to other people. It’s just relaxing. Family and friends stop by.”
On Sept. 27, the Auburn Hills resident attended the Jammin’ at the Junction classic car show in Roseville with co-worker Bill Burke and his son, Ryan Burke. Jammin’ at the Junction is an annual event that the Roseville Downtown Development Authority hosts on Utica Road between Gratiot Avenue and 12 Mile Road. Car buffs displayed their souped-up vehicles, customized motorcycles and more.
“It’s a local event so I don’t have to go far for it,” said Bill Burke, a Roseville resident and owner of a 1979 Plymouth Arrow, which he calls his Poison Arrow. “We like to see what other people have done to their cars.”
CARS on page 19A
LEFT: The custom paint on a 1960 Buick LeSabre is eye-catching as spectators walk around Jammin’ at the Junction Sept. 27 in Roseville.
BELOW: Even model cars were on display.
Photos by Liz Carnegie
ABOVE: Two skeletons pay homage to the Detroit Tigers, left, and the Detroit Lions in a 1973 Dodge displayed at the 25th annual Holy Cross Classic Cruisers show Sept. 28 at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warren.
ABOVE: Janet Bartello, at the Holy Cross Classic Cruisers show, holds the seventh first-place award she has won this year. Her 1959 hot pink Ford Thunderbird is always a car show favorite. RIGHT: Corvettes were among the cars on display at the Jammin’ at the Junction classic car show.
WEEK 8 PREP FOOTBALL MATCHES TO WATCH
BY SCOTT BENTLEY sbentley@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — The end of the high school football season is near as Week 8 will be the second-to-last game of the season for most teams. This is a popular week for schools to go out of their divisions one last time before the season ends, and it also provides a handful of rivalry games.
Marquee matchup of the week
Utica at Macomb Dakota
7 p.m. Oct. 17
Utica is having a great season and may have a chance at the MAC-White division title depending on how the last two weeks of the season play out. Dakota is in a similar boat in the MAC-Red, and both teams will want to finish the season strong.
Farmington at Clarkston
7 p.m. Oct. 17
It’ll be Senior Night for Clarkston as the historic program faces off against Farmington on Friday night. This will almost certainly be the game with the most eyes on it this weekend, as Clarkston sits atop the OAA-Red division and Farmington leads the OAA-Blue division.
Games to watch
Ferndale at Harper Woods
7 p.m. Oct. 17
There’s a chance that Ferndale and Harper Woods are also both at the top of their respective divisions at game time. At press time, Ferndale was leading the OAAGold and Harper Woods was leading the OAA-White.
West Bloomfield at Bloomfield Hills
7 p.m. Oct. 17
This game may not look close on paper, but it’s another rivalry matchup and is also senior night for Bloomfield Hills. West Bloomfield is battling with Oxford and Clarkston for the top spot in the OAA-Red, while Bloomfield Hills is trying to avoid a
last-place finish in the OAA-Blue. This will be the first time since 2019 that the teams have played each other in the regular season.
Troy at Troy Athens
7 p.m. Oct. 17
Despite both of these teams sitting toward the bottom of the OAA-Blue, this crosstown rivalry is one that never disappoints. Troy heads into the rivalry matchup having defeated Athens four years in a row.
Hazel Park at St. Clair
7 p.m. Oct. 17
St. Clair finds itself right in the thick of a competitive MAC-Silver in 2025 and the team ends the year with two out-of-division games. Hazel Park is also having a good season and has a chance to be one of the top teams in the MAC-Bronze.
Call Sports Writer Scott Bentley at (586) 498-1090.
and
Photo by Erin Sanchez
Troy quarterback Darius Mitchell drops back to pass in a game against Farmington Oct. 3.
“Try to include things that you’ll enjoy doing, because you’ll be more apt to do them,” Madison Heights Active Adult Center supervisor Jennifer Cowan said. “I think if you take the winter off it’s going to be really difficult, in the spring, to get back up and do the things you want to do.”
The Madison Heights Active Adult Center hosts a multitude of activities in the winter. Not only are there classes and groups meeting all the time, but the location also offers a free exercise equipment room and an indoor walking path so that you can use the center even if you can’t make a class.
“One of our guiding mindsets here is that the longer you stay active, the longer you’re able to do things on your own and remain independent, the longer you can stay in your home, and you can continue to do the things you want to do. I think it all connects,” Cowan said.
There are so many health benefits to working out as a senior, but a full-blown workout plan isn’t necessarily required to reap those benefits. There are tons of activities offered in the area that simply get the
blood pumping a little bit and provide an excuse to see others.
“We have a ton of different classes like yoga, chair yoga, Pilates, line dancing, and ballroom dancing, too,” said Matthew Dubinsky, the St. Clair Shores Senior Activity Center’s senior coordinator. “It’s yearround, so they can be consistent at it. We can keep people moving all year.”
The center is also doing balance classes through the Macomb County Health Department and has done classes that teach people how to shop for healthier meals, too.
These places are more than just workout spots. They have become pillars of the community where everyone is safe, welcome and encouraged to socialize all yearround.
“They come to the senior center and it’s not just doing yoga or a fitness class. It’s really the mental stimulation part of it, too,” Dubinsky said. “I think that’s one of the best parts of it.”
To set up a conversation with a life coach and learn more about Peak Physique of Troy, go to peakphysiquetroy.com. To learn more about activity centers in Madison Heights and St. Clair Shores, go to madison-heights.org and scsmi.net.
Call Sports Writer Scott Bentley at (586) 498-1090.
Royal Smiles celebrates grand opening
Royal Smiles celebrated its grand opening ribbon-cutting event on Wednesday, Oct. 8 at their new dental office on Woodward Avenue, just north of the Detroit Zoo.
Dr. Thomas Khemmoro opened his practice at this location recently and extends his greetings to the local community. Royal Smiles welcomes all new patients to visit the facility or make an appointment to start on the right track toward dental health.
The office is conveniently located just north of the Interstate 696 Woodward exit at 25627 Woodward Ave. For more information visit royalsmilesmi.com or call (248) 206-5222.
BUSINESS CLIP
Rosie
from page 1A
“Rosie Fran,” grew up in Detroit during the Great Depression. As one of five children born to Italian immigrants, she was taught the value of hard work to support not just herself, but her family. When she graduated from high school in 1940, her first priority was to find a job to help support her family.
While working at a local grocery store and taking night courses to learn to use a comptometer, Mauro Masters learned of a job at the Ford Willow Run Bomber Plant.
“I had two brothers in the service, and my future husband, he joined the Marines at 17, and I thought, ‘I want to work to help win the war,’” she said of her reason to apply.
Mauro Masters and her two sisters, Angeline and Josephine, were all hired on the spot for the plant. She said they all worked in different departments, as they were not allowed to work together.
“Out of the three of us, I was the only
“We can do it!”
Rosie Fran, 103, does the traditional Rosie the Riveter pose in front of her memorabilia in her Chesterfield Township home Oct. 10.
by Patricia O’Blenes
riveter. They worked in small parts, but I was the only riveter,” Mauro Masters said. “I worked in small parts for the wing (of B-24 Liberators), on a press, riveting.”
Mauro Masters worked at the plant for the duration of the war. She said her greatest challenge with the position was actually getting to the plant.
She recalled having to take a streetcar from her family’s Detroit home near the city airport to downtown Detroit, and then caught a bus similar to a Greyhound bus that was privately owned by Ford Motor Co. and was sent for the Rosies. She said it took well over an hour for her to get there.
“It took us an hour to get there and an hour to get back, and a lot of us slept on the bus. Thank God for my mother having supper ready for us,” she said. “We would just go to work and come home. We didn’t go out because we had to get up early in the morning to go to work. We worked six days, sometimes seven days.”
Mauro Masters said that she worked
With this coupon only. Not to be combined with any other ofer, discount or promotion. Limited time ofer. Ofer expires 11-15-25.
Photo
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
18A/ ROYAL OAK REVIEW • OCTOBER 15, 2025
OCT. 16
Spaghetti dinner: All-you-can-eat event hosted by Royal Oak Woman’s Club, includes salad, “famous” dressing, bread, dessert and beverages, also glutenfree option, 4:30-7 p.m., ROWC Clubhouse, 404 S. Pleasant St., (248) 549-3701, rowc.org/events
OCT. 16-19
‘Amy and the Orphans’: Play about sparring siblings on road trip after father’s death, performance by Stagecrafters 2nd Stage features actress with Down syndrome as title character, 7:30 p.m. Oct. 16-18 and 2 p.m. Oct. 19, The Baldwin Theatre, 415 S. Lafayette in Royal Oak, (248) 541-6430, info@stagecrafters.org, stagecrafters.org, read story at candgnews.com
OCT. 17
‘Symphony Spooktacular’ concert: Performance by Royal Oak Symphony Orchestra, audience encouraged to wear costumes, 7:30-9 p.m., Royal Oak Middle School, 709 N. Washington Ave., season continues Dec. 5, March 13 and May 8, royaloakorchestra.com
Historic city properties: Learn about Royal Oak houses and businesses with designation, also criteria, research and verification used by Royal Oak Historic District Study Committee, 7 p.m., Royal Oak Historical Society and Museum, 1411 Webster Road, (248) 439-1501, curator@royaloakhistoricalsociety.org, royaloakhistoricalsociety.org
OCT. 18
Clawson Trick or Treat Trail: Also performances by Detroit Circus Co. and strolling magician from Wunderground Magic Shop, costumes encouraged, doughnuts and cider provided, 6-7:30 p.m., Clawson City Park, 935 N. Custer Ave., cityofclawson.com, read story at candgnews.com
Medicare educational seminar: Presentation by licensed insurance counselor David Banet, free event also includes boxed lunch, 11 a.m., Blair Memorial Library, 416 N. Main St. in Clawson, registration required, (248) 588-5500
Lahser High School — Class of 1985: 40th reunion,
5-11 p.m., The Kingsley Bloomfield Hills — A Doubletree by Hilton, 39475 Woodward Ave., purchase ticket at eventbrite.com
OCT. 19
Royal Oak Spooktacular: Includes trick-or-treating at downtown businesses, DJ, magic show, face painting, kids costume parade and contest, free treats and more, 1-5 p.m., Centennial Commons, 204 S. Troy St., royaloakchamber.com, read story at candgnews.com
‘Lights, Camera, Music!’: Performance by Royal Oak Concert Band and Woodward Avenue Jazz Orchestra, 3 p.m., Royal Oak Middle School, 709 N. Washington Ave., season continues Dec. 14, March 8 and May 10, royaloakconcertband.org
OCT. 21
Royal Oak Musicale concert: Features Lakeside Bassoon Trio and Meadowbrook Woodwind Trio, 1 p.m., First Congregational Church of Royal Oak, 1314 Northwood Blvd., free but goodwill donation appreciated, next performance Nov. 18, royaloakmusicale. com
OCT. 25
Living Well with MS: Learn to make impact in multiple sclerosis movement through stories, resources and community connection, 10 a.m., Blair Memorial Library, 416 N. Main St. in Clawson, (248) 588-5500
ONGOING
Zoo Boo: Includes trick-or-treating, character meet and greets, illuminated decor and displays, costumed performers, Halloween-themed face painting and photo stops, seasonal market and more, 4-9:30 p.m. Oct. 17-19 and 24-26, Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Road in Royal Oak, detroitzoo.org/events/zoo-boo, read story at candgnews.com
‘Silver Foxes’: Comedic play about queer men who save friend from homophobic assisted living facility, 7 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and Mondays and 3 p.m. Sundays until Oct. 27, Ringwald Theatre at Affirmations LGBTQ+ Community Center, 290 W. Nine Mile Road in Ferndale, (248) 545-5545, theringwald@gmail.com, theringwald.com
To view more Community Calendar and to submit your own event, use the QR code or visit candgnews.com/calendar. To advertise an event, call (586) 498-8000.
Royal Oak Farmers Market: 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Fridays until late November and Saturdays year-round, also antiques and collectibles from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays year-round, plus food truck rally with live music, vendors, face painting, kids crafts and bounce house from 4-8 p.m. every second Wednesday of month through October, 316 E. 11 Mile Road, (248) 246-3276, farmersmarket@romi.gov, see additional special dates at romi.gov/1533/farmers-market
Nature walks: Led by Royal Oak Nature Society, fall color walks held 2 p.m. Oct. 19, Cummingston Park, park on street and meet at intersection of Torquay and Leafdale, and 2 p.m. Oct. 26, Tenhave Woods in Royal Oak, park at Marais/Lexington lot and walk 300 feet east to entrance, also mushroom walk, 10 a.m. Oct. 25, Cummingston Park, romi.gov/411/ nature-walks
Royal Oak Musicale Chorus rehearsals: Female group celebrating 101st season, meets 10-11:30 a.m. Mondays through December and February-May, Clawson United Methodist Church, 205 N. Main St., performance with Royal Oak Musicale Harmonics scheduled for 7 p.m. Dec. 16, First Congregational Church of Royal Oak, 1314 Northwood Blvd., www. royaloakmusicale.com
Harmony United Chorusrehearsals: Practice with Greater Detroit chapter of men’s barbershop-style group, 7-9 p.m. most Tuesdays, Royal Oak Middle School, 709 N. Washington Ave., greaterdetroit.org
Encore Chorus rehearsals: Tenor and bass vocal types can practice with LGBTQIA+ affirming group, 7-9:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Zion Lutheran Church, 143 Albany St. in Ferndale, holiday concert scheduled for Dec. 13, encorechorus.org
CAMEO Quilters Guild meetings: 7 p.m. (doors at 6:30 p.m.) every third Thursday of month through June, Clawson United Methodist Church, 205 N. Main St., (248) 544-4504, cameoquilters@gmail.com, cameoquilters.org
Royal Oak Garden Club meetings: 7-8 p.m. (socializing at 6:30 p.m.) most second Mondays of month through June, Unity of Royal Oak, 2500 Crooks Road,
royaloakgardenclub@gmail.com, royaloakgarden clubmi.org
Widowed Friends breakfasts: 9:30 a.m. every second and fourth Wednesdays of month, The Avenue Family Restaurant, 31253 Woodward Ave. in Royal Oak, RSVP to Marilyn at (248) 543-1018, widowedfriends.com
Monthly groups: For kids, LGBTQIA+, book clubs for horror fans and more, Royal Oak Public Library, 222 E. 11 Mile Road, (248) 246-3700, romi.gov/1532/ library
• Journaling and discussion group for older adults meets 6:30-7:30 p.m. every third Monday, and writing group for all skill levels and genres meets 6-7:30 p.m. every fourth Wednesday, Blair Memorial Library, 416 N. Main St. in Clawson, registration required, (248) 588-5500, clawson.lib.mi.us
• New Self-Help Book Club led by journalist Cindy La Ferle meets 6-7:30 p.m. Nov. 24 (discuss “How to Be Enough: Seven Life-Changing Steps for Self-Critics, Overthinkers, and Perfectionists by Elle Hendrickson), and Wednesday Afternoon Book Club meets 1-2 p.m. Nov. 19 (“The Ministry of Time” by Kaliane Bradley) and Dec. 17 (“Wishin’ and Hopin’: a Christmas Story” by Wally Lamb), Blair Memorial Library, 416 N. Main St. in Clawson, registration required, (248) 588-5500, clawsonlibrary@gmail.com, clawson.lib.mi.us
Bingo: 12:30-1:30 p.m. every first Friday of month, Mahany/Meininger Senior Community Center, 3500 Marais Ave. in Royal Oak, (248) 246-3900
Kit Homes of Clawson exhibit: Includes advertisements, photos, artifacts and more about unique early 20th century housing, 2-5 p.m. Saturdays and Wednesdays until Dec. 31, Clawson Historical Museum, 41 Fisher Court, cityofclawson.com, (248) 588-9169, historicalmuseum@cityofclawson.com
Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less: Virtual 15-week program presented by AgeWays Nonprofit Senior Services and led by registered dietitian nutritionist, free for first-time participants ages 60 and older, register at (833) 262-2200 or wellnessprograms@ageways. org, tinyurl.com/agewaysworkshops
page 14A
The trio is always tinkering in their garages to make the cars their own.
“We’re guys that don’t buy it from the factory,” Fritts said.
“We change everything,” Bill Burke said.
“We put our own personal preferences and what we like,” said Ryan Burke, of Shelby Township.
They would also like to see younger generations carry on the classic car tradition, something that seems to be missing.
Over at another spot at Jammin’ at the Junction, Chris Mielke and his wife, Ada Mielke, of Roseville; their uncle, John Mielke, of St. Clair Shores; and friend Larry Roberson, of Clinton Township, spent the day taking in the car culture.
Although Roberson doesn’t have a classic car, “I just hang out with the guys. I’m here with good people. There are different walks of life but a common ground around here.”
“We sit back and have a good time,” John Mielke said.
“I like the old school cars. It brings back nostalgia,” said Ada Mielke, owner of a 1994 Ford Mustang GT convertible. “I like
the sounds, the rumbles, the smell of the old gas.”
Chris Mielke’s dad, Ken Mielke, who was John’s brother, owned a red 1965 Plymouth Barracuda and was always at Jammin’ at the Junction. Ken died in 2021, but his family kept up the tradition of attending car shows.
“He won a trophy his last year here, and two months later he was gone,” John Mielke said. “He did all the work in his garage, including painting it.”
Ken Mielke was an influence on his son, Chris.
“I was born into cars. I started building my first Jeep at 14,” Chris Mielke said. “I still own it. I was literally brought up at the old Mount Clemens race track. My mom took cotton out of the blanket into our ears because it was so loud.”
On Sept. 28, the good vibes carried over to the 25th annual Holy Cross Classic Cruisers show at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warren, which drew car fans and church members who volunteered to help with the show. Co-Presidents Ron Ratzow and Fred Birchard welcomed the crowd. Birchard owns three classic cars: a 1948 Ford Deluxe Coupe street rod, a 1957 Ford Thunderbird and a 1966 Ford Mustang.
“We love trying to bring people together
that enjoy cars,” Birchard said. “We’re like golfers. Golfers do anything to play golf. We do anything to play with a car, old cars particularly. We have cars from 1929 in the club, a ’32 Ford, a dozen or more prewar cars.”
“We have about 15 to 20 members in our car club. Half of them are members of the church,” Ratzow said. “Our whole purpose of the club is to let people have the opportunity to know Jesus.”
Ratzow, of Harrison Township, loves to bring his two-door 1935 Ford Sedan street rod to shows as well as his 1983 Chevrolet Malibu station wagon, which he modified so it resembled a Chevrolet El Camino. One of his favorite cars was his 1956 two-door Lincoln Premiere hardtop.
“I wish I wouldn’t have gotten rid of it,” he said.
Randy Stier, who owns a 1966 Ford Mustang fastback, also made it out to the Holy Cross Classic Cruisers show.
“I’m 78 and I’ve been doing this since I was 16,” the Warren resident said. “Car shows every weekend. I run into people I haven’t seen in a while. Car guys are good guys. Someone will show up with jumper cables or whatever you need.”
Madison Heights resident Paul Christlieb — who owns a 2007 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition — attended the Holy
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Cross Classic Cruisers show for the first time this year.
“It’s awesome. The camaraderie is great,” he said. “You can walk out here and talk to anybody. If you have a problem, they come and help.”
Pretty soon the car shows will end until 2026.
“That is the time to work on them,” Christlieb said. “The cars get done in the fall and winter for next year.”
The Holy Cross Classic Cruisers has two shows every year: a blessing of the rides in the spring and a car show every fall.
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Rosie
from page 17A
eight hours a day. She would have to be there at 6 a.m. and said she got up very early to catch the bus, but said she liked it because she was able to go part of the way to work with her father, who worked at Eastern Market.
She said she had very little training when she started working at the plant. The employees had approximately one hour of training and then were on their own.
“No training. No. Just you do it this way and do it that way. When I was on the press, some of the rivets got crooked and you had to drill the rivets out and start over and put new rivets in,” she said. “I never complained, never made a mistake; I just did what they told me to do.”
The position at the plant paid $1 an hour. She said they were given a check each week, which she gave to her mom to help pay for their family house and expenses. She recalled that the house provided shelter for many family members who were in need, as money was hard to come by and they were the only ones that had a house.
“We didn’t keep any allowance,” she said.
Her son, John O’Brien, said he only found out about 20 years ago that his mom was a Rosie the Riveter.
“We knew my mom worked at Willow Run, but who cared? You know, as teenagers, who cared? I mean, she worked at Willow Run, ‘Oh, thank you, Ma.’ Because she worked her whole life when we were kids,” O’Brien said.
He said he found out when he and his brother took their mother to Willow Run after seeing an ad in the newspaper that they were opening up the plant to show the planes.
“We were totally shocked when we saw all the crowds, and I said, ‘Ma, are these the planes that you worked on?’ And she said yeah, and some young woman heard that and then she told her friends and they all took my mom and swept her away. I said to my brother, ‘What the heck is going on? What is this big deal?’ Well, as time went on we learned. We recognized that mom built these planes that were used in the war,” O’ Brien said.
Mauro Masters said she doesn’t know why she never told her kids, but she was proud of it. However, she didn’t think it
was as important as some things her family members had done during the war, such as her two brothers, one of whom, Salvador Mauro, was killed during the Battle of the Bulge. However, now she realizes her work during the war was very important.
“Now I always tell my friends when they ask what she did in the war, I say, ‘She killed Hitler,’” O’Brien said.
The job not only enabled her to help with the war effort, but also provided her with a skill that would grow into a career for her. Her first husband died young, at 40, leaving her with three young children. But unlike many other single mothers, Mauro Masters was able to get a job at the Chrysler plant as a riveter in an era when the factory jobs were a male-dominated profession, thanks to her experience as a Rosie the Riveter.
“It opened up the workforce for women,” O’Brien said.
“It was interesting, very interesting,” she said of her experience.
During the war, the plant produced more than 8,000 planes. Mauro Masters said they made one plane per hour.
She said she got to see President Franklin D. Roosevelt when he toured the plant. She also noted that Marilyn Monroe and Betty White were also Rosies.
“Marilyn Monroe was a riveter in California. A lot of people didn’t know about that,” Mauro Masters said. “But one of the presidents discovered her, and I said, ‘Well, why didn’t they come and get me?’ That was my joke.”
Bette Kenward, the Michigan director for the American Rosie the Riveter Association, said that Monroe was a Rosie, the collective term for the women who worked on the home front in the factories, but was actually a spray painter.
When the war ended, Mauro Masters said it was announced over the loudspeaker that it would be their last day of work, but they were allowed to finish their shift.
The memorial in Royal Oak at Memorial Park, 31100 Woodward Ave. at 13 Mile Road, is being commissioned in segments as the statues are funded. It will have a statue to represent all the different groups that helped to win the war. Mauro Masters’ likeness will be the second statue. The first is of Joe, a soldier. The memorial is being placed in the park where a group of trees were grown from acorns that were given to the U.S. by the British as a thank-you for American efforts in winning the war.
“They say the Royal Oaks in England saved the monarchy, so it was kind of a trib-
ute to that,” said Judith Maten, a member of the memorial’s board of directors.
The acorns were nurtured by the Detroit Zoo until they could be planted in the park in an oval shape, and the memorial is designed to fit into the oval.
Maten said that Mauro Masters has been involved in the memorial from the beginning and was a natural choice to be the likeness for the statue.
“She has just been kind of the face of the homefront for us. It’s not that we haven’t had other Rosies involved, but Rosie Fran has always been there,” Maten said.
“The thing that strikes us whenever we talk to the World War II veterans or the homefront workers is their humility — the idea that they would do it all over again if they had to,” She said.
Mauro Masters said that she just likes to
work and would gladly take a job even now if it were offered to her.
“I would do it again. I would. I want to work. It’s in my blood, I think,” Mauro Masters said.
The board is still working to raise funds to complete the memorial, which is estimated to cost $2 million. Each statue costs about $100,000 and the black granite wall costs about $300,000. The memorial board is still raising money for one piece of the plane panel for the Rosie Fran statue. The piece that they still need to commission is expected to cost $30,000. To donate to the memorial, visit www.michiganww2memorial. org or email John Maten at john.maten@ michiganww2memorial.org.
Call Staff Writer Charity Meier at (586) 498-1092.
