City Commission chooses new parking system for downtown Royal Oak
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — The Royal Oak City Commission approved a new metered parking system in a unanimous vote July 14. Flowbird, the new system, will be installed within the next six months.
The new system will include 150 solar-powered pay stations from Flowbird, and the mobile payment application ParkMobile. The cost of this project is approximately $888,672, and the city had budgeted $1 million for it.
The pay stations will be installed throughout both onstreet and off-street parking locations that will be chosen by city staff.
According to the agenda packet, each pay station has an annual service fee of $696, and the ParkMobile app does not require an upfront payment from the city. Instead, users will pay a 35-cent transaction fee, which is reduced to 20 cents when using the ParkMobile wallet.
The process of deciding on a new parking system was guided by the Parking System Steering Committee, which included representatives from the City Commission, the
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — The Woodward Dream Cruise is celebrating 30 years of showcasing classic and new cars.
The Dream Cruise will take place from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Aug. 16 on a 16-mile stretch of Woodward Avenue involving nine suburban communities.
Lee Collick, operations manager for the Department of Public Services for the city of Royal Oak and a Cruise Committee member, said that he will be
Cars drive down Woodward while spectators watch last year.
File photos by Donna Dalziel
SECOND FRONT PAGE
Police arrest suspect in killing of maintenance worker outside apartment building
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — A man is dead following a shooting that occurred at approximately noon July 31 at the Devon Park Apartments, 3825 Crooks Road.
Southfield resident Gregory Hill, 65, was a maintenance worker at the apartments and was working at the time he was shot.
Officers received multiple 911 calls reporting
an altercation and gunfire in the parking lot on July 31, according to a press release from the Royal Oak Police Department.
Police arrived and said they encountered the shooting suspect, 31-year-old Nathaniel Joshua-Olson Rockwell, a tenant of the apartment complex. According to the press release, Rockwell complied with police commands and was immediately taken into custody.
Hill was found 100 feet away, where lifesaving
ROYAL OAK LEPRECHAUNS HONOR HOMETOWN BASEBALL LEGEND BILL FREEHAN
BY SCOTT BENTLEY sbentley@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — The Royal Oak Leprechauns hosted Bill Freehan Night during the team’s July 22 home game against the Kalamazoo Growlers as a way to honor the local legend.
Freehan, who played 15 years for the Detroit Tigers and made 11 AllStar Games, was raised in Royal Oak and played baseball at Memorial Park throughout his youth. He died at age 79 in 2021.
“(Freehan) went to Shrine elementary school. … He had these deep roots to Royal Oak,” Royal Oak Historical Society Director Judy Davids said. “And we were just so tickled that Pat Freehan (Bill’s wife) drove all the way down from the Petoskey area by herself. She’s 84, so for her just to be there (was great).”
Several members of the Freehan family joined Pat at Memorial Park to see the displays and billboards put up to honor Bill.
“Our little display is very hometown-ish, and the family was just fine
with that,” Davids said. “They were touched; I was really pleased.”
The displays are a perfect ode to the history of Freehan and the city of Royal Oak. There’s a sign outside the park now that describes his roots in the city and highlights the famous home run that Freehan hit as a child. The home run is something of baseball lore in Royal Oak, and there’s now a decal on the ground where the society believes his home run landed.
Legend has it that Freehan was just
Photo by Taylor Christensen
Gregory Hill, a maintenance worker at the Devon Park Apartments, 3825 Crooks Road, was fatally shot allegedly by a tenant of the apartments, Nathaniel Joshua-Olson Rockwell, July 31.
A Bill Freehan cutout stands outside of Memorial Park on July 22 when the Royal Oak Leprechauns honored the 11-time all-star who played 15 years with the Detroit Tigers.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
See FREEHAN on page 12A
See ARREST on page 10A
NEWS & NOTES
By Taylor Christensen and Mike Koury
Coffee with the superintendent
ROYAL OAK — Royal Oak Schools Superintendent John Tafelski will be hosting a Coffee & Community Conversation from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Aug. 7 at The Office Coffee Shop, 402 S. Lafayette Ave. in Royal Oak.
The gathering is open to all community members and will provide an opportunity to connect with the superintendent in a relaxed environment.
“Our goal is to foster a strong partnership with families and the broader community,” Tafelski, who began the job July 1, said in a press release. “Listening, learning and staying connected are key to achieving our vision of a community of excellence.”
For more information, visit royaloakschools.org.
BEEHIVES COMING TO BAKER COLLEGE ROYAL OAK CAMPUS
ROYAL OAK — Baker College has received a $2,800 donation from Michigan Schools and Government Credit Union to bring Bees in the D educational programming and beehives to the Royal Oak campus at 420 S. Lafayette Ave.
The goal of this donation is to help offer hands-on insight into pollination, environmental stewardship and the importance of protecting bees, according to a press release from Baker College.
“This educational programming is a unique and fun learning opportunity for students. You could say we were ‘buzzing with excitement’ to help Baker College bring this to life through our donation,” Ann Jones, MSGCU senior vice president of marketing and business development, said in the press release.
Baker College will have two beehives at the Royal Oak campus that are a part of the Bees in the D “Detroit Bee Highway,” a network of more than 200 honeybee hives at more than 75 locations in five Michigan counties.
“Teaming up with Bees in the D will bring vital educational opportunities about pollinators’ crucial role in our ecosystem directly to our community and beyond,” Nathan Wright, Baker College’s assistant director of strategic partners and continuing education, said in a prepared statement. “Bees in the D delivers exceptional programming with schools and organizations, empowering the next generation to become responsible stewards of these essential insects. We’re incredibly grateful to MSGCU for their generous donation, which made this impactful partnership possible.”
For more information, visit baker.edu.
FERNDALE — The Lawrence Street Gallery is hosting a Dream Cruisecentric show throughout the month of August.
“Motor Muse — The Art of the Car” runs from Aug. 6 through Aug. 29. The opening reception will be from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 10, and the mid-month reception will be from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 24. The art featured in the show is inspired by Detroit and its love of automobiles.
The gallery is open from noon to 5 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays; noon to 9 p.m. Fridays; and 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays.
For more information, visit lawrencestreetgallery. com.
RO Civic Foundation Arts Beats & Eats charity preview Aug. 21
ROYAL OAK — The Royal Oak Civic Foundation will be hosting the Arts, Beats & Eats on 5th Charity Preview from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Aug. 21 at Fifth Avenue in Royal Oak.
Over the last two years of the charity event, 300 civic and business leaders were brought together to enjoy food, cocktails and live music while raising money in support of community programs and local charities.
Six local nonprofits were invited to sell tickets to the event, with each organization receiving 75 percent of ticket proceeds. Nonprofit organizations for this year’s event include the Metro Detroit Youth Club, Outreach on 7th, the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce, Royal Oak Football Club, Royal Oak Sandlot League and Stagecrafters.
“We’re excited to continue the momentum from our successful events over the past two years,” foundation Chair Tom McGannon said in a press release. “This preview serves as a powerful networking opportunity for civic leaders from the city, the region and area businesses. Event attendees enjoy a taste of what’s to come at Arts, Beats, & Eats and directly support programs that make a real difference in our community.”
VIP reception tickets cost $100 and allow early entry from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m, to mingle with elected officials and Royal Oak’s senior city staff. General admission tickets cost $50 with entry at 6:30 p.m. All proceeds are to benefit programs supporting the city of Royal Oak.
For more information about Arts, Beats & Eats and the charity preview or to purchase tickets, visit royaloakcivicfoundation.org/arts-beats-and-eats-on-5th.
Tafelski
Photos provided by Lawrence Street Gallery
Gallery exhibit spotlights ‘the art of the car’
Frentz & Sons Hardware store to wrap
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
ROYAL OAK — Frentz & Sons Hardware, a staple of downtown Royal Oak, has announced the selling of its building and property after more than 90 years of business.
Frentz & Sons Hardware opened its doors in 1932 and has continued to provide the community with hardware supplies for all types of projects.
According to a post made by John, Mike and Chip Frentz on the Frentz & Sons Hardware Facebook page, the family is selling the business due to a mix of personal reasons, economic realities, rising costs and the challenges of running a small business.
“At the same time, the three of us are now in our retirement years and are looking ahead to the next stage of our lives,” the post reads. No end date has been set and the store said in a subsequent post that it will be “business as usual for the foreseeable future.”
The post announcing that the store will be coming to an end received nearly 600 comments from supporters of the business.
“Your store is deeply embedded in my life, and in the life of my family. My dad and
all his kids measured the difficulty of any task by how many trips to Frentz it would take to get it done,” Mary Fortuna wrote in a comment. “Thank you for a lifetime of excellent service to the community.”
“We bought our first home in Royal Oak in 1971. We were young and my husband didn’t have a lot of experience in doing handyman type things. We lived by 11 & Campbell so we would make many trips to Frentz & Sons and you were always so
helpful,” Barb Paulson wrote. “You will be missed. An icon in Royal Oak! Enjoy your retirement! It is well deserved!”
Jim Horton commented about the reliability of the store, which always had the materials he needed for his first 1923 farmhouse home.
“Frentz had everything I needed and knew how to guide me through repairs. I was there so many times, I became friends with Chip and formed the Frentz and Sons bowl-
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
ing team. Really going to miss this place,” Horton commented. “Best of luck in whatever you do. Big box stores will never replace the know-how and personal service Frentz and Sons provided.”
Mike Frentz speaks about the history of the business in a video created by Royal Oak Schools provided on the Frentz & Sons Hardware website, frentzandsons.com, in the “About” section.
See FRENTZ on page 14A
Frentz & Sons Hardware announced that it will be selling its more than 90-year-old building in Royal Oak. The owners cited a number of reasons including that they are now in their retirement years.
RICHARD SCOTT APPOINTED TO CLAWSON CITY COUNCIL
BY TAYLOR CHRISTENSEN tchristensen@candgnews.com
CLAWSON — Richard Scott has been chosen as the new member of the Clawson City Council following a 3-1 vote on July 10.
Scott, a 29-year resident of Clawson, was originally chosen on July 1 to fill the vacancy on the City Council left by Matthew Binkowski’s resignation.
Since that decision was made, it was found out that Scott had an unpaid water bill for $245 due on June 23. Scott paid the bill in full on July 7, and it was posted on July 8.
Mayor Paula Millan and Council members Bruce Anderson and Glenn Shepard were all in approval of Scott being on the council while Susan Moffitt was not.
On July 1, the council came to a standstill in the decision due to the confusion on the definition of “default” used in section 4.31 of the city charter.
To help define “default,” the city requested a letter from City Attorney Ren Nushaj, from Troy Law Center. The letter included a definition of “in default to the city” provided by the Michigan Attorney General in Opinion No. 7241 (Feb. 10, 2010), which states:
“The phrase ‘in default to the city’ means that, at the time of the contract or appointment is to be made or given, the person has failed to meet a financial, contractual, or other obligation to the city, after adequate notice of the obligation and an opportunity to cure the default were provided to the person, and the obligation is not the subject of a pending judicial or administrative proceeding.”
The letter goes on to say that with the See COUNCIL on page 13A
“No person who has been convicted of theft, misuse or misappropriation of public funds or who is in default to the city, or to any other governmental subdivision of the State of Michigan, or who has been convicted of a felony, shall be elected or appointed to any office of the city. All votes for, or any appointment of such person shall be void,” the charter states.
Auto dealers: Buy now before tariffs drive prices up
BY MARY BETH ALMOND malmond@candgnews.com
With looming tariffs likely to push auto prices higher, industry insiders say now’s the time to buy.
It’s a buyer’s market, according to Robert Shastal, general manager of the Fox Automotive Group in Rochester Hills.
“Right now, buyers have an advantage,” he said. “If they wait, they could face higher prices, fewer incentives, missed opportunities on trade values, and the end of EV credits.”
Buying sooner may keep more green in your wallet, with tariffs on imported vehicles expected to lead to price increases in the near future.
“The tariffs and supply chain costs are rising, but right now, automakers are still holding their line with in-
See DEALERS on page 10A
Wild Birds Unlimited: Royal Oak’s Backyard Bird Feeding Experts
Wild Birds Unlimited is a welcoming hub where bird enthusiasts share knowledge, stock up on fresh bird-feeding products and come together to protect local birds.
“Bird populations are declining at an alarming rate due to habitat loss, climate change and other factors,” said Christl, the store’s assistant manager. “We are big into saving the songbirds, and our mission is to bring people and nature together. Tat starts in your own backyard, with planting native plants, providing reliable food sources, ofering a water source and creating safe spaces.”
Part of the community since 1988, the store was purchased in December 2022 by Marci Eads and Lenya Robinson, who, with staf, ofer expert guidance on products designed specifcally for Michigan’s birds.
Te store carries high-quality seed blends formulated for local species. “Our food has a higher fat content, which is better for the birds,” Christl explained. “It’s fresh and without fllers, which means less waste.”
A wide range of feeders is available, from fnch and hummingbird models to suet and squirrel-
proof designs, along with birdhouses for wrens, woodpeckers, owls and more. Advanced pole systems and squirrel bafes—devices that stop squirrels from climbing up and stealing bird food—help customers set up reliable backyard feeding stations.
Education is a cornerstone of the store. About a dozen events are held each year, including talks on native gardening, hummingbirds and the Great Backyard Bird Count. Special programs have even brought in raptors such as bald eagles and owls to give visitors a closer look at Michigan’s avian life. Te store also partners with local nonprofts to promote conservation and donates feeders and seed to nature centers.
“We want everyone who visits us to feel connected to this community of nature lovers,” Christl said. “Our store is a place of joy, peace and shared passion for the birds we’re all working to protect.”
Wild Birds Unlimited is located at 28558 Woodward Ave. in Royal Oak. For more information, visit royaloak.wbu.com or call (248) 548-2424.
Connect with “Wild Birds Unlimited of Royal Oak, MI” on Facebook and @wildbirdsunlimitedroyaloak on Instagram.
Ledell Griffin, of Galeana’s Van Dyke Dodge Ram in Warren, says the dealership’s inventory of Ram trucks is stacked, making it a great time for people to consider buying.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Fall Showcase
Featuring Women’s and Men’s Fall Fashions & Accessories!
Sunday, August 24, 2025*
12PM - 4:30PM
Other Ways to Shop Pre-Showcase
Monday & Tuesday, 8/18 & 8/19
75% O Entire Store
Wednesday, 8/20: $30 Fill-A-Bag Sale
EXCLUDING: Home Décor and Jewelry
Thursday-Saturday, 8/21 - 8/23:
Closed in preparation of Fall Showcase
**CouncilCashandotherstorediscountsdonotapplyatFallShowcase
The National Council of Jewish Women, Michigan
The National Council of Jewish Women, Michigan (NCJW | MI) was created to help improve the lives of women, children, and families. Two of the ways that the NCJW | MI raises money for these e orts are through its council re|sale store in Berkley and as part of fundraising events.
The NCJW | MI council re|sale store accepts donations of men’s, women’s and children’s clothing, shoes, jewelry and accessories, and home décor. Since its opening in 1934, the resale store has benefited from all merchandise being donated by community members. Proceeds support NCJW | MI community impact projects such as supporting low income students during back-to-school season, Kosher Meals on Wheels for seniors and more.
That’s why the non-profit organization wants area residents to know about the Berkley store’s Fall Showcase. In the days leading up to the rollout of new fall clothing and merchandise, the NCJW | MI council re|sale store located at 3297 Twelve Mile Road in Berkley will host three special pre-showcase dates that o er huge savings for all customers.
has doubled its space, allowing customers to enjoy double the space for clothing, accessories, décor and other items of interest.
‘When you come in on (August 24) it will look like a completely di erent store with all the new merchandise” Zeskind said.
The organization’s main fundraiser in the fall is the annual Women of Vision Benefit Luncheon, held on Tuesday, October 21 at Adat Shalom Synagogue in Farmington Hills. It will feature guest speakers Sarah Hurwitz, a former speechwriter for both President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama, in conversation with religious educator Rabbi Michele Faudem of Hillel Metro Detroit.
That includes all store items being marked down by 75 percent on Monday, Aug. 18 and Tuesday, Aug. 19. Additionally, customers can fill an entire bag of items from the store for $30 on Wednesday, Aug. 20 only. That fill-a-bag o er is not available with home décor items or jewelry.
“These sales o er great discounts on items for men, women and children,” said NCJW | MI President Amy Zeskind.
The Berkley resale store will then be closed August 21-23 to get ready for the Fall Showcase, held on Sunday, Aug. 24 from 12 to 4:30 p.m. New items will be available throughout the entire store for the first time, with items in demand likely to be sold within that first day. Just recently, the Berkley store
The event also honors Humble Design Founder, television host and motivational speaker, Treger Strasberg as the 2025 Woman of Vision Award recipient. The luncheon also honors Cap & Conquer, a local non-profit that focuses on raising funds for cancer patients in Southeast Michigan who use scalp cooling treatments, with the organization’s Josephine S. Weiner Community Service Award.
Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. for ticketed guests, who will be able to shop from a group of nearly 20 local vendors at that time. A meet-and-greet networking session starts at 11 a.m. and Sarah Hurwitz will begin speaking around 11:45 a.m. followed by a full lunch.
Tickets for this fundraiser are sure to go fast, and early registration is required by visiting ncjwmi.org. Tickets will not be available for walk-ins the day of the event.
Learn more about the resale store by visiting www. COUNCILRESALE.net or follow them on social media. 0144-2532
Amy Zeskind NCJW|MI President
Arrest
from page 3A
attempts were made by Royal Oak Fire Department paramedics, but he eventually succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Witnesses to the event said that Rockwell was having a verbal altercation with another tenant when he ran to his car and retrieved a handgun, according to the press release.
The other tenant involved ran away, and that is when police said Rockwell turned his attention to Hill, who was near the area at the time, but not directly involved in the argument.
“This was a senseless act of horrific violence. We extend our deepest condolences to the victim’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” Royal Oak Police Chief Michael Moore said in a prepared statement. “Thankfully, due to the swift actions of our officers, the suspect was apprehended quickly before he could harm anyone else.”
Rockwell has been charged with one count of first-degree murder, a felony which carries up to life in prison without parole; two counts of felonious assault with a dangerous weapon, a fouryear felony; and three counts of felony firearm, a two-year felony.
Rockwell has no prior criminal convictions, according to the press release. Rockwell was arraigned on Aug. 3 before Magistrate Lewis Langham of the 52-1 District Court in Novi. He was denied bond. He requested a court-appointed attorney.
According to online court records, his next court appearance will be a probable cause conference scheduled for Aug. 15 with Judge Derek W. Meinecke at the 44th District Court in Royal Oak.
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.
Dealers
from page 8A
centives. People will risk paying more once those costs hit because the manufacturers can’t take on the additional costs forever,” said Shastal.
Ledell Griffin, sales manager at Galeana’s Van Dyke Dodge in Warren, said tariffs will not only increase prices, but it will also affect incentives and how vehicles and parts are shipped.
“It’s passed down to the consumer, so it’s not something that the manufacturer pays for,” he said. “If a part used to cost $100, it might cost $150 to $200, depending on the tariffs.”
New vehicle inventory has rebounded to near pre-pandemic levels, so buyers also have a wider selection to choose from. And, with increased inventory, dealerships are more likely to offer deals to attract buyers.
“Whenever we have a lot of inventory, we put a lot of sales on, so that’s another good reason to buy, because inventory is now at an all-time high for me. I’ve never had so many trucks,” said Griffin.
Those interested in purchasing a new or used electric vehicle, or an EV, can also take advantage of savings, but only for the next two months. The Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 qualified certain electric vehicles for a tax credit of up to $7,500 for eligible buyers. However, the federal vehicle tax credit is set to expire Sept. 30.
“One of the big incentives for all brands is the federal EV tax credit — $7,500 on new, and $4,000 on used — which ends Sept. 30, making the next two months the last chance to capture that savings for a buyer,” Shastal explained.
If you already have a car and are looking to trade, industry leaders say now is an excellent time.
“Trade-in value remains strong and used car inventory is still tight, so the dealers are paying top dollar for trades, making it a great time to maximize the vehicle’s value,” Shastal added.
Photo by Taylor Christensen
A window of the apartment building was damaged from gunshots near where the victim was found.
Comedy takes the stage in Ferndale for 12th Detroit Improv Festival
BY MIKE KOURY mkoury@candgnews.com
FERNDALE — Ferndale’s burgeoning comedy community is celebrating the return of the Detroit Improv Festival.
The Detroit Improv Festival will take place Aug. 6-9 at several comedy venues in downtown Ferndale. This includes the Go Comedy! Improv Theater, The Magic Bag and Orchid Theatre.
Now in its 12th year, the festival is known for bringing comedy artists originally from Detroit back to the area to celebrate their craft with their fellow metro Detroiters. This year will feature more than 40 groups performing at the three venues.
“It’s a lot of work to put this together. It’s all volunteer-run and we do it out of love,” Producer Corene Ford said. “My favorite part is probably just seeing everything come together, seeing all the people from all over the country and people from Canada coming in and having fun and laughing with each other. Seeing people who don’t really know what improv is, who just show up to see what it’s all about, falling in love with it, it’s just the whole aspect of the whole festival itself. It’s just so nice to see everybody enjoying themselves.”
The last couple of years have had a weird vibe, according to Ford, as the comedy and improv scene was huge before COVID-19, but both it and the festival took a hit and are still rebuilding.
While scattered a bit, Ford does think things are getting back to normal.
“Everything is kind of starting to build
up again,” she said. “I see that happening again with newer people taking classes, newer people getting into the art form, getting excited about it. So, I think we’re starting to build back.”
Ford said Ferndale has been a great area for the festival, proven by the partnerships with local businesses that also help promote the shows.
“Everyone’s really excited about it. They’re more than willing to let us put posters in their businesses promoting our event,” she said. “It’s a great place to have it and it’s great that there’s so many venues so close to each other, because then it allows the ability for people to go from one venue to another show. They’re not trapped in one space. And
See IMPROV on page 20A
Photo provided by Ryan Nemeth Ryan and Nic Nemeth are two of the many performers coming to Ferndale for the Detroit Improv Festival Aug. 6-9.
Freehan
page 3A
a young teenager and hit the home run more than 400 feet, which cleared the concession stand in left field and rolled all the way onto 13 Mile Road. The home run is something that seemingly everyone who’s played at Memorial Park has heard about, and now it’s forever immortalized.
“We can tell by aerial photographs where the old concession stands were, so we believe that’s approximately where it landed,” Davids said. “The thing that we heard most from fans at Memorial Park was about this home run that Bill Freehan hit as a kid. … There were a lot of people that were definitely excited.”
The Leprechauns, who play in the Northwoods League, a summer league for college baseball players, had a huge turnout for the July 22 game and had Freehan’s grandson, Blaise Salter, throw out the ceremonial first pitch for the game.
“We want to be more ingrained into the city and the fabric of things. We want to be that team,” Leprechauns Director of Media & Public Relations Mark Stowers said. “Be a successful team and have a lot of people come out and have a lot of fun.”
Events like this help solidify the relationship between the team and the community. The Leprechauns are having a good season on the field and continue to host fun events.
Despite the fact that the story of Freehan’s home run has been told across multiple generations, some people didn’t believe it. Although Freehan wasn’t one to boast about the story, Freehan’s son-in-law, John Salter, said Freehan told him it was real. The Leprechauns wanted to help make this more than an urban legend.
“We wanted to do something so that this legend would actually become a fact,” Stowers said. “That’s a big thing and that generation that’s leaving us, so we wanted to honor that and keep that story out there, and keep that fact alive.”
The event was a great opportunity to celebrate one of Royal Oak’s most famous and talented baseball players, while also getting people out to Memorial Park to cheer on the next generation of athletes.
BOTTOM RIGHT: Leprechauns catcher Aidan Schuck hits a pitch as Owen Turner, also a catcher for the Leprechauns, prepares to run home.
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
“I think there was just an overwhelming sense of hometown pride, and one of our own made it really big,” Davids said. “And we’re not going to let people forget about (Freehan).”
The Leprechauns final regular season home game was
Aug.
ABOVE: Bill Freehan’s grandson, Blaise Salter, prepares to throw out the ceremonial first pitch for the Leprechauns’ July 22 game.
TOP RIGHT: Fans read Memorial Park’s Bill Freehan billboard on July 22.
Council
from page 7A
evidence provided, “a candidate’s unpaid utility bill, coupled with an opportunity to cure and failure to do so, constitutes sufficient grounds for disqualification. The candidate, of course, would have the ability to cure the default at any time, all the way up to the date and time of the next city council meeting where the issue of appointment would be taken up.”
The paperwork that the city of Clawson provides to all citizens who run for any office has an outdated definition of “default” listed. Millan read that definition out loud.
“I understand that the term ‘default’ means a willful omission to account or pay over funds belonging to the city or other governmental unit of the state with a corrupt intention,” she said.
Nushaj said that the definition of “default” within that paperwork has since been updated to the 2010 version, and everybody who has run or is trying to run for office has received a notice that this was done.
“We have a responsibility to the public to have people sit on this dais who understand basic adult responsibilities. Paying your obligations to the city is a basic adult responsibility
and the neglect of that, I think, can be construed as a willful neglect,” Moffitt said.
“The point is that we asked for a definition. We have gotten the definition. We also understand that there is a period in which to have his debts cured. … By that point if they are cured he’s not in default,” Shepard said.
Moffitt said that since Scott was in default during the first meeting on July 1, he should not be eligible for appointment.
“At the July 1 meeting, when we were ranking votes by the candidates, he was in default by the definition that we were given from the attorney,” Moffitt said. “So on July 1, when we were voting on what position we put the candidates, he was in default on July 1 — period”
Anderson said that since the council did not have a clear definition of “default” at the time, the council had no way of knowing Scott was in default.
“I refuse to play amateur lawyer, and you should refuse that too. So, we got the professionals to speak, and we have their opinion now. We may now move forward,” Anderson said.
right thing is always the right thing to do, even if other people around you don’t think it’s the right thing to do.”
The council gave the public a chance to speak on the matter. The majority of those who spoke up were not in favor of Scott being appointed.
“Default has been talked about a lot today, so I just want to talk about the appearance of impropriety being the appearance of wrongdoing. Politicians should always avoid this, right? It erodes our public trust, and I believe that is pretty low right now in the city of Clawson,” resident Jamie Gills-Takenouchi said.
Karen Knudson, a 25-year Clawson resident, said that she does not trust anybody on the council.
“This is dirty. You don’t have somebody that can’t conform to the laws, with the rules, paying your basic water bill to the city, being a
council member,” Knudson said. “It’s wrong. It sets a bad example for our children, for the rest of the city, for any other person that has ideations of running for council. You have just destroyed the integrity of this council.”
Following public comment, the council moved forward with appointing Scott. He will serve on the council until Nov. 17. His first meeting on the council took place on July 15.
“I am satisfied with our city attorney’s definition regarding default and the opportunity to cure. I think everybody has an opportunity to correct the situation, and right now he’s not in default,” Shepard said. “I would move forward with my first ballot choice for Mr. Richard Scott.”
Scott did not respond to requests for comment.
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.
“I want people to be proud to serve here. I want people to be confident that this is a fair process and that we are doing what is best for the community,” Millan said. “I think that’s what we are called to do. And I think doing the
CHURROS
Churros
Frentz
from page 6A
Frentz said that the original Frentz hardware store opened in Detroit in 1925, but was moved to Royal Oak after his father and grandfather noticed a vacant hardware store building while getting off of a street car on the way to Imlay City.
“My dad and my grandfather saw the hardware store was for sale, and they decided to buy it and move in 1932,” Frentz said. “My grandfather was in his 80s at that time, so my dad took the business over when he moved into Royal Oak. He was 21 at that time.”
Parking
Downtown Development Authority and city staff.
“To protect the city’s interests, the City Attorney has led an extensive and careful negotiated agreement with both vendors,” a document in the meeting’s agenda packet states. “This work included outside legal counsel with expertise in contracts and parking systems.”
According to the packet, through the 226-page contract, the city will retain full ownership and control of the parking system and equipment. There is no revenue sharing with the vendors, and all costs to the city are fixed in the agreement. The city attorney expects the system to deliver cost savings and help restore the parking fund balance over time.
Along with the guidance of the committee, the public weighed in on the decision during two public open houses in April. Public feedback and input from the committee led to the recommendation to adopt the Flowbird kiosks and the ParkMobile application.
Flowbird was highly favored because of its ease of use, readable screens and solar-powered functionality, according to the agenda packet. The kiosks are being used in nearby cities including Detroit, Birmingham and Ferndale.
ParkMobile was also widely supported by the public, with its features including a mobile wallet integration, the ability to register multiple vehicles, and license-plate based payments.
City Attorney Niccolas Grochowski said that the contract is completely opposite from the one the city had before with the Municipal Parking System.
“I have no hesitation whatsoever rec-
Frentz said in the video that other kids envied his life, because the store sold toys.
“At that time we sold toys, and it was a pretty big toy store, and I think I was envied because of that,” he said. “As a kid I can remember going in there on Sundays — we were closed on Sunday at that time — and my dad would be doing odd jobs and myself and my brother and my sister, we would hop on a couple of tricycles and we would ride our tricycles around the store, up and down the ramps, and my dad would get so mad.”
For more information on Frentz & Sons Hardware, visit frentzandsons.com.
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.
ommending this. I would have not recommended the previous one, obviously,” he said. “The goal was clear in revamping our entire parking system, and I think we accomplished at least the start of it right now.”
City Manager Joe Gacioch summarized the schedule to implement the new system.
“The current contract is expired as of Jan. 1. So after this is adopted, that leaves us with about five months and change to implement the new system. We do anticipate a short wait time with the delivery of the pay stations,” Gacioch said. “I know that Dixon, our consultant, is arranging a walk-through with our staff, so again we are being very deliberate about the approach on choosing locations of the pay stations, the rationale for
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
Current parking stations on East Third Street near City Hall will be changed beginning in 2026 in favor of pay stations from Flowbird and the ParkMobile app.
overseeing all the barricading of Woodward, rubbish collection and more.
“The biggest thing we are excited about is this is our 30th year. So, I think everybody, all of the communities that are involved, are all looking forward to the 30th year and celebrating that,” Collick said.
The Woodward Dream Cruise includes vendors, food and more during the duration of the event. Collick said that the majority of the vendors and food options will be the same from previous years.
The Dream Cruise also includes the Performance Park Classic Car Show, which is open from noon to 7 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday at Memorial Park at 13 Mile and Woodward. It is hosted by the Michigan Hot Rod Association.
Collick said that in light of the historic milestone, the Woodward Dream Cruise Committee decided to make the logo look vintage.
“We wanted kind of a fun, vintage throwback color for everything. It’s like a neon green — to me it will seem very 90ish,” he said.
Royal Oak resident Ted Page has been
going to the Dream Cruise nearly every year since it began. Page has lived in the Woodward-Coolidge corridor for his whole life.
“I think I have only missed one of all the years. It’s something you live with and either love it or hate it, but I choose to enjoy it,” Page said. “I enjoy it more when there are people coming from out of town who want to take it on.”
Page said that the way the cruise brings people together and provides classic car lovers a chance to show off their babies is the reason why it has lasted for 30 years, and continues to be a staple in the metro Detroit area.
“You see people my age playing like kids with their fixed-up cars. I really enjoy the atmosphere and the excitement that the people have, and enjoy watching the cars. I’m not one of the people who goes out to Woodward and sits in a lawn chair, but I do enjoy seeing the cars, and seeing the people so enamored with their vehicles and how well they take care of them,” Page said. “They look forward to this event all year long, so they can bring their cars out and show them off.”
The Dream Cruise brings nearly a million visitors a year, according to the Woodward Dream Cruise website, woodward dreamcruise.com.
Because of the large attendance, Chief
Michael Moore, of the Royal Oak Police Department, said it’s important to know the rules and stay vigilant during and after the event.
“For us, the No. 1 thing is, it’s an alcohol-free event. We have zero tolerance for any alcohol consumption at the event. So that goes, obviously, for anybody that’s driving in the cruise, but spectators as well,” Moore said. “Another thing is we are on the lookout for dangerous driving. We want people to enjoy the cruise, but we want to encourage people to drive in a safe manner. So, we are going to be out enforcing any dangerous driving that we do observe.”
Moore continued to say that people
need to be aware of the increase in traffic and pedestrians near the roadways during the duration of the cruise.
He also wanted to remind spectators that the median of Woodward is for law enforcement only; no spectators are allowed to sit on the median during the weekend.
The Woodward Dream Cruise is a free event to both cruise and watch. Those who are not driving a classic car are being asked to stay out of the two right lanes nearest to the curb.
For more information visit woodward dreamcruise.com
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.
File photo by Donna Dalziel
Woodward Avenue on Aug. 16 will be home to the world-renowned Woodward Dream Cruise, which is celebrating 30 years.
Modern additions fire up Chevrolet Fleetmaster Coupe’s vintage ride
BY MARIA ALLARD allard@candgnews.com
David Watson wanted to buy a classic car that represented the year of his birth: 1947.
The St. Clair Shores resident looked around but didn’t find one made that year. He got as close as he could, though, by purchasing a striking 1948 Chevrolet Fleetmaster Coupe. He bought the car in 2004.
While the white vintage vehicle — with the decorative purple and blue flames — is 77 years old, Watson had it modernized over the years at local shops.
“When I got it, it was all white. I had the flames painted on it,” he said. “I put the rims on it.”
If you look under the hood, you’ll see the motor of a 1991 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z.
“It’s just a modern engine. It’s fuel-injected,” Watson said. “It has a digital dash, power steering, power brakes, power windows, and a custom interior. It’s an automatic. All the shiny parts are stainless steel.”
Other updates were completed to keep the car running smoothly. The transmission was rebuilt, air conditioning was added, and there also is a power antenna and a power trunk. So he could play music, an AM/FM radio and a compact disc player were installed. And “breaker one nine,” the car has a
See COUPE on page 20A
ABOVE: David Watson, of St. Clair Shores, had the purple and blue flames added to his white 1948 Chevrolet Fleetmaster Coupe.
LEFT: Watson’s favorite place to take the retro vehicle is Eddie’s Drive-In in Harrison Township. He’s even wearing an Eddie’s Drive-In T-shirt in this photo.
TOP RIGHT: The coupe has the motor of a 1991 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z.
BOTTOM RIGHT: The interior was custom-made. Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
CRIME WATCH
Car stolen
ROYAL OAK —- A complainant reported that between 9 p.m. July 27 and 6:30 a.m. July 28, an unknown person stole the complainant’s vehicle with the keys inside near Guilford Drive and 13 Mile Road.
Wallet and gym bag stolen from unlocked car
ROYAL OAK —- A complainant reported that between 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m. July 27, an unknown person stole the complainant’s wallet and gym bag from the complainant’s unlocked car at the LA Fitness, 25352 Woodward Ave.
Lawn mower taken from open garage
ROYAL OAK —- A complainant reported that between 6 p.m. July 25 and 3 p.m. July 27, an unknown person stole a lawnmower from the complainant’s open garage on Amelia Avenue, west of North Campbell Road.
Makeup theft
ROYAL OAK —- A complainant reported that at 4:15 p.m. July 28, an unknown person stole various makeup products from Ulta, 27844 Woodward Ave.
Clothing and diapers stolen
ROYAL OAK —- A complainant reported that at 4 p.m. July 30, an unknown person stole clothing and diapers from Meijer at 5150 Coolidge Highway.
— Taylor Christensen
Cornerstone Community Financial Credit Union Opens New Branch
Cornerstone Community Financial Credit Union announced the opening of its new Troy Branch and Operations Center at 2138 E. Big Beaver Road.
The new location features a full-service branch designed to better serve members and a modern operations center to support the credit union’s expanding team. The location also features a free community meeting space for up to 50 people. Reservations for the space will be available starting in the fall.
Learn more at ccfinancial.com/newtroy
Michigan Family Physician Diagnosed with Late-Stage Cancer After Experiencing is One Symptom
(South eld, MI) It’s a terrifying reality: a life-threatening illness could be silently developing inside your body, completely undetected by routine check-ups. By the time symptoms appear, especially cancer, the disease is often advanced, limiting treatment options.
LATE DETECTION
is agonizing truth was personally experienced by Dr. Warren Ringold, a respected family physician and the visionary behind Bionicc Body Screening. He shockingly discovered he had stage four cancer with tumors as large as softballs, only after experiencing shortness of breath. His brutal treatments and subsequent brain tumor recurrence ignited a profound mission: there had to be a better way to nd serious conditions before they became critical.
FULL BODY MRI SCANS
Dr. Ringold founded Bionicc Body Screening in 2022, establishing Michigan’s rst MRI full body screening center. His purpose was to empower individuals with groundbreaking insights into their health through advanced body screening
technologies. Today, his son, Ryan, passionately carries on this mission and understands the urgency: “We all know someone who awoke with an unexplained symptom and discovered they had stage four cancer. Once you have symptoms, cancer is usually advanced,” he states. “My father never wanted another person to su er from late detection. He wanted to save lives.”
71% OF TUMORS GROW UNDETECTED
While annual physicals are important, they have critical limitations. Standard screenings only detect about 29% of cancers, leaving a staggering 71% to potentially develop undetected in other areas of your body. Bionicc Body Screening o ers a comprehensive solution. Proactive full-body MRI screenings provide an unparalleled picture of your
internal health, going beyond traditional checkups. State-of-the-art MRI technology can detect tumors as small as a pea, along with aneurysms, stroke risk, and hundreds of other conditions that might otherwise go unnoticed. ese comprehensive scans image your head through the pelvis. MRI scans are safe, noninvasive, and emit absolutely no radiation. And, crucially, they are available without a doctor’s referral.
A LIFE SAVED
Mark B. was initially skeptical, but his proactive screening revealed a 3 cm lung mass that tested positive for cancer. He credits the scan for saving his life after three-fourths of his lung was removed. e fee for a full body MRI is an investment in your health and wellbeing, but the true cost of delaying could be far greater. Schedule your scan today.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
18A/ ROYAL OAK REVIEW • AUGUST 6, 2025
AUG. 6-9
Detroit Improv Festival: See 45-plus performances at Go Comedy! Improv Theater, 261 E. Nine Mile Road, Orchid Theatre, 141 W. Nine Mile Road, and The Magic Bag, 22920 Woodward Ave., all in Ferndale, full schedule at detroitimprovfestival.org/shows
AUG. 7
Ladies Night Out: Find deals, discounts, demonstrations, complimentary services and activites at select downtown Berkley businesses, pick up map at any location and get stamps during each stop to turn in for prize drawings, 5-8 p.m., see participants at downtownberkley.com/berkley-events/ladies-night-out
AUG. 8
‘Up the Saginaw Trail into the Wilderness”: Presentation by historian Bob Muller about French aristocrat Alexis De Tocqueville’s horse ride with traveling companion Gustave de Beaumont and how their trek led them through modern-day Main Street, 7 p.m., Royal Oak Historical Society and Museum, 1411 Webster Road, royaloakhistoricalsociety.com/programs
AUG. 8-11
‘Hair’: Watch four performances of little-seen musical after only one week of rehearsals, 7 p.m. (3 p.m. Aug. 10), Ringwald Theatre at Affirmations LGBTQIA+ Community Center, 290 W. Nine Mile Road in Ferndale, theringwald.com
AUG. 9
Down on Main Street: Car show held along half-mile stretch of Main street south of 14 Mile Road in Clawson, 8 a.m. with awards around 4 or 4:30 p.m., event hosted by Clawson Lions Club (supports Leader Dogs for the Blind and other charities), clawsonlions.org
Clawson Farmers Market: 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Southeast Municipal Lot at South Main Street and Gardner Avenue, cityofclawson.com
AUG. 10
Relay for Life: Benefits American Cancer Society Relay For Life of South Oakland County, also includes games, activities and entertainment, 8:30 a.m.-noon,
Detroit Zoo, 8450 W. 10 Mile Road in Royal Oak, relayforlife.org/southoaklandmi
AUG. 16
Woodward Dream Cruise: Officially runs 9 a.m.-9 p.m., participating cities along 16-mile stretch of M-1 include Ferndale, Pleasant Ridge, Huntington Woods, Berkley, Royal Oak, Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township and Pontiac, see related car shows, parades and more at woodwarddreamcruise. com
AUG. 18
Summer Gazebo Concert Series: Free event features singer/guitarist Jacki Daniels performing Motown, country, pop and rock, bring chair or blanket, 7-8 p.m., Blair Memorial Library, 416 N. Main St. in Clawson, (248) 588-5500
AUG. 20
Meet Royal Oak Woman’s Club: Learn about group and inquire about membership, light snacks and refreshments provided, 6-8 p.m., 404 S. Pleasant St. in Royal Oak, rowcmembership@gmail.com, rowc.org/ events
Blood drive: 7-11 a.m., Administration Building at Corewell Health William Beaumont University Hospital, 3601 W. 13 Mile Road in Royal Oak, (866) 642-5663, donate.michigan.versiti.org
AUG. 23
Clawson Fest: Features local music, craft food, artisans and kids zone, noon-8 p.m., Main Street between 14 Mile Road and Tacoma Street, clawsonfest. com
Armenia Fest: Free event features Middle Easternstyle bazaar, authentic cuisine, beer and wine garden, outdoor cigar bar, choreg bake-off, music by The Armenia Fest All-Stars, performance by Hamazkayin Arax Dance Troupe, kids activities, and raffles and silent auction, bring chair, 5-10 p.m., Royal Oak Farmers Market, 316 E. 11 Mile Road, proceeds benefit Knights of Vartan Economic Sustainability Program
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.
(creates jobs and encourages self-employment in Armenia), armeniafestmi@gmail.com
ONGOING
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, farmersmarket@romi.gov, (248) 246-3276, see additional special dates at romi.gov/1533/farmers-market, read story about market celebrating centennial at candgnews.com
Summer Concert Series: Hear Theo Gridiron & Friends and Detroit Centrix Aug. 7 and The Jeff Scott Band and The Detroit Retro Society Aug. 14, first acts at 7 p.m. and second at 8:30 p.m., plus students from Detroit School of Rock and Pop Music at 5:30 p.m. and DJ Invisible between sets, bring blanket or chair, free event also includes face painting, balloon animals and complimentary ice cream for ages 12 and younger, Centennial Commons, 221 E. Third St. in Royal Oak, royaloakchamber.com
Wild Summer Nights: Explore Detroit Zoo for extra three hours from 5-8 p.m. Wednesdays until Aug. 27, also concerts at 6 p.m. and reduced admission for late arrivals (after 6 p.m.), 8450 W. 10 Mile Road in Royal Oak, detroitzoo.org
‘Glass53’ art exhibit: Features 400 pieces of glass art from around world, on display until Sept. 19, Habatat Galleries, 4400 Fernlee Ave. in Royal Oak, habatat.com, read story at candgnews.com
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.coms
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
Harmony United Chorusopen rehearsals: Practice with men’s barbershop-style group from 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays, Royal Oak Middle School, 709 N. Washington Ave., greaterdetroit.org
Encore Chorus: Resumes practices 7-9:30 p.m. Wednesdays starting Sept. 3, Zion Lutheran Church, 143 Albany St. in Ferndale, info@encorechorus.org, encorechorus.org
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
• STEM and electronics hobbyists meet 6-7:30 p.m. every first Wednesday, journaling and discussion group for older adults meets 6:30-7:30 p.m. every third Monday, book club meets 1-2 p.m. every third Wednesday, and writing group meets 6-7:30 p.m. every fourth Wednesday, Blair Memorial Library, 416 N. Main St. in Clawson, (248) 588-5500, clawson.lib. mi.us
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
Health workshops: Hosted by Corewell Health, free and virtual, corewellhealth.org/classes-events/ southeast-michigan
Lupus support groups: 10 a.m. every second Tuesday of month and 7 p.m. every last Wednesday of month, Zoom, (248) 901-7299, milupus.org/support-groups
ADHD meetings: Hosted by CHADD of Eastern Oakland County, for adults and parents, 7:30-8:30 p.m., Zoom, see schedule on chadd.net/chapterevents/527
to the DDA to the downtown level. We will be out and about, and you will see plenty from our communications office,” he said.
those locations, the signage; everything from bottom to top is incorporating an inclusive approach.”
Gacioch said that he hopes all of this can be complete by Jan. 1, when the current contract with MPS is terminated. He said that prior to installation, the city will continue to share educational materials with the public about the new system.
“You can expect to see a lot of communications from us going into the fall. That will be from the City Commission meetings
“The old system was a headache. And it’s one that I am finally happy, after four years, we are finally getting rid of,” Commissioner Brandon Kolo said. “The process to select the new system, like it’s been said before, was the exact opposite of what we had before. … We had demonstrations, we took input from the public, and from residents and visitors alike. This was a true community effort to find what would end up being the best system for the city.”
Call Staff Writer Taylor Christensen at (586) 498-1081.
C & G Newspapers publishes 21 papers in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties:
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
Getting it right
May | (586) 498-1083 | rmay@candgnews.com
Bozimowski | (586) 498-1032 | kboz@candgnews.com
Legals and Obits: (586) 498-1099
Classifieds: For ad rates (586) 498-8100
Real Estate Advertising: Paula Kaspor | (586) 498-1055 | pkaspor@candgnews.com 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.)
Automotive Advertising: Jeannine Bender | (586) 246-8114 | jbender@candgnews.com
C & G Newspapers strives for accuracy and fairness to its readers. If you think we got it wrong, please let us know. Call Gregg Demers at (586) 498-1042, email gdemers@candgnews.com or write us at 13650 11 Mile Road, Warren, MI 48089.
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
The parking system in downtown Royal Oak will be revamped within the next six months.
Coupe
citizens band radio that works, although Watson doesn’t use it.
The ’48 model does not have any door handles but rather shaved doors. The shaved doors were a popular trend that gave cars a smooth look.
Perhaps you’ve come across the car around town. One spot Watson likes to take the coupe on a regular basis to is Eddie’s Drive-In in Harrison Township, which has a classic car show from 4 to 8 p.m. every Sunday during the warmer months.
“That’s my favorite place to go,” Watson said.
Watson sometimes shows up to the weekly car shows from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursdays at St. Margaret’s Catholic Church in St. Clair Shores, and to the Friday night car shows from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Walter F. Bruce Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 1146, also in St Clair Shores. He made it to the Eastpointe Crusin’ Gratiot car show June 14 at Eastpointe High School.
“There’s somewhere to go every day,” the car buff said. “People wave and they give you a thumbs-up.”
He also comes across people whose dads or grandpas once owned a 1948 Chevrolet Fleetmaster Coupe, which generally sparks conversations. Watson’s car gets around, as it was featured in the background of a commentary video for the 2008 Clint Eastwood film “Gran Torino.” Watson used to go to Kalamazoo for the Street Rod Nationals, which he said was great for meeting other car enthusiasts.
“The newest car that could get in was a ’48,” Watson said. “Anywhere from 1925 up to ’48.”
Watson has always been into cars.
“When I was 15 years old, I started working on cars. I would go to people’s houses. The first car I ever worked on was a 1953 Buick convertible. A straight-A car, three speeds on the column,” he said. “My neighbor gave it to me. He said, ‘Here, it doesn’t run. You can have it.’ At that time, there was nowhere to donate them. You just took it to the junkyard. This was in ’62.”
Watson found a Buick book and discovered it was the coil causing problems for the convertible.
“I put a coil on it and I gave it back to him,” said Watson, who found a new pastime fixing cars in the neighborhood. “I got really busy. I couldn’t do it anymore. Too many cars at the house.”
At age 21, while working for Chrysler, Watson bought his first car, a 1969 Plymouth Road Runner. Price tag: $2,850.
“It was a ’69, but I bought it in December of ’68. We were making, I think, $3.40 an hour,” Watson said. “The car payment was $100 a month, but I paid $1,000 a year for insurance in 1969, which was a lot of money then; it’s a lot of money now. The first year, I put 30,000 miles on that car. I just went everywhere. My mother would pull her hair out because at the time there were no cellphones and no way to track you.”
As a young adult, Watson cruised Woodward Avenue. Maverick’s Drive-In, Big Boy and the Totem Pole on Woodward were regular hangouts.
“You would go and mingle,” he said. “You could cruise then and people would pull over and stop. You could talk to them.”
The Road Runner was like a second home.
“I slept in the car out on Woodward more than I slept in my house. You get tired, too far to drive,” Watson said. “I had police wake me up, ‘Hey, what are you doing?’ I’m in the back sleeping.”
Improv
from page 11A
it also has them walking out and about in Ferndale, seeing what else is in Ferndale and what else they could patronize.”
Returning to the festival for another round is the comedy show Flying Chuck, headlined by the professional wrestlers Nic and Ryan Nemeth.
While currently performing as a tag team for TNA Wrestling, where they recently were tag team champions, outside of the ring the Nemeth brothers have been active members of the comedy scene, taking part in both improv and stand-up comedy.
“I love performing and blending improv and stand-up and comedy and anything with a wrestling crowd or wrestlers at all,” Ryan Nemeth said. “It’s so fun.”
Ryan Nemeth began performing improv comedy when he was in college, though he took a step back when he started training to become a wrestler. When he moved to Los Angeles, he started to do more shows again, and that’s where he met Detroit natives Sam Richardson and Mikey Wilson.
The show the brothers are performing, Flying Chuck, is a long-form improv show where a guest, usually from the world of professional wrestling, tells stories and then the brothers and their improvisers will perform scenes based on the wrestler’s stories. The current scheduled guest storyteller is AEW wrestler John Morrison, and the improvisers are Brian Hunt, Brett Guennel, Andy St. Clair, Marc Warzecha and Mikey Wilson.
“You get the best of both worlds,” Ryan Nemeth said. “You get some fun,
crazy wrestling story for two minutes, and then you get insane, wacky fun. And these are some of the best improvisers in the world, in my opinion, these guys who come from the Second City Detroit, and they moved out here to LA and it’s a blast. It’s super fun.”
When comparing the first time he performed comedy to his beginning in wrestling, Nemeth said it was harder getting used to wrestling at first due to its physical component.
Performing otherwise, he shared, is just something that came to Nemeth naturally.
“Comedy and acting and that kind of stuff has come a lot easier for me, because it’s just something I’ve been doing casually since I was a child and then formally since college,” he said. “So, I think I have an easy time getting through that first moment of stage fright when you’re trying something new, whether it’s … an acting class for the first time ever, improv class for the first time ever, wrestling school — the first day ever. I always feel like, all right, cool, just do the part that sucks and you don’t know what you’re doing, and then you’ll figure it out.”
Nemeth said he’s excited to come back to the Detroit Improv Fest, as Ferndale has a thriving comedy improv community that he’s jealous of and that amazes him.
“To see Detroit and the Midwest have this amazing community there of improvisers and fans of improv, it was like blowing my mind,” he said. “It was exhilarating. So I loved it. I was happy to be around.”
For more information on the shows and tickets, visit detroitimprovfestival.org.
Call Staff Writer Mike Koury at (586) 498-1077.
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AUCTION
AROUND MICHIGAN
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Summer Sporting Auction, August 16, starting at 10 a.m. Hundreds of firearms, 100,000 rounds of ammo, barrels, scopes, accessories, more! See photos/info at EpicAuctionsAndEstateSales.com.
In-person preview August 15. Questions? Call 517-927-5028.
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BUSINESS SERVICES
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Brick Work
Lathrup&Southfield inSouthfield, August9th,10-4pm, CollectiblePlates, SomeCrystal.
•Tuckpointing•Brickwork •ChimneyRepair/Rebuild •ChimneyCaps •CementFlatwork•Steps •PorchRebuild/Porch Caps•CultureStone Senior/MilitaryDiscount Upto20%off! 586-944-8898
GOTROT? RottenWood ReplacementSpecialist
AllTypesofWoodRepair Fascia,Soffit&Siding PaintedtoMatch AMGAppliedServices 248-828-7998 www.amgapplied services.com
Carpet Cleaning
CARPET
AA4DABLEMASONRY 586-822-5100 Chimneys,Porches, Steps,Flat-Work, Residential/Commercial Tuck-Pointing,CulturedStone,AllBrick&MasonryRepairs/Needs. SPRINGSPECIALS Upto30%-OFF Free-Est./SeniorDisc.
A-DMASONRYLLC.
AllMasonryWork Bricks,Stones,Pavers, Blocks,Porches, Chimneys.Tuckpointing. 26-yrsexperience Insured,FreeEstimates. 586-873-8210 Filip
MOUTON'S MASONRY
Any&allmasonryrepairs. Brick,block,steps, chimneys,porches-tuckpointing,Cementwork, mortar-matching. 25-yrsexperience Free-estimates. References/Insured. 248-252-5331
CENSODEVELOPMENT
MASONRYINC. MasonryRepairs, Tuckpointing, ChimneyRepairs, GlassBlock,Brick/Block Repairs,Mailboxes, Brick/CementSteps. FreeEstimates! Alfonso586-419-7818
WAVY-n-LOOSE? WePower Re-stretch and Steam-clean ForOneLowPrice MultipleRoomDiscount CallNow:Craddock's CarpetCare,Inc. 586-754-9222
Cement
ALLENCEMENT
"TheDrivewayGuy" Established1999 Driveways/Garage Floors/Patios,etc. Licensed/Insured CheckoutAllen CementonFacebook! VernAllen 586-457-1300
Cement
Electrical
Landscaping & Water Gardens
ROZECEMENTLLC CONCRETE,MASONRY &LANDSCAPING •Driveways•Patios •Brick/Stone•Pavers •Decks,Free-Estimates Requests: roze cementllc@gmail.com Andre-586-354-7791 cementroze.com
STEVEʼS CONCRETE COMPANY Licensed.Bonded. Insured.Freeestimates. MichiganBuildersLicense #2101118415 (248)588-9808
Cleaning Service
CLEANINGLADY with10-yrexperienceis lookingforwork.Weekly, bi-weekly,monthly Excellentreferences. Flexiblehours. Bonded&insured. 248-890-8830
Patios,Sidewalk,Porch, ExposedAggregate, Porches,ColorConcrete, StampedConcrete. 248-642-2679
Decks/Patios
2025SPECIALS CustomDeck Building/Repair, Power-Washing, DecksRemoved, Composite,Treated &CedarMaterials, CustomRailingMaterials, CustomFence Installation. 586-260-5218
CASTLEELECTRIC
586-634-1152 (directcellphone#) Panelupgrades, generators,hottubs, 220lines.ALLSERVICE Licensed&Insured Dependable,quality work! License#-6111359
Gutters
A.M.G. Gutters&Downspouts.Owneroperated. Seamlessgutter installationandrepair specialist.Builders License#2101202369 www.amgapplied services.com FullyInsured 248-828-7998
*"J&S"*
SEAMLESSGUTTERS” Made&installedonthe spot.5”&6”Gutter Cleaning.Treetrimming, exteriorpainting, powerwashing. 586-531-2111
GUTTERSGALORE
SeamlessGutters, Gutterguard, 1DayService, Licensed/Insured CallToday 586-634-6910
Handyman Services
HANDYMANWOW
Painting,Drywall, Powerwashing, SealCoating *Driveways*ParkingLots MinorPlumbing, Caulking,Shelving, CallForaFreeQuote! 248-755-0246
THEHANDYMAN THATCAN! GreaterRoyalOakArea Licensed-MIBuilder Drywall/Plaster/Tile, Carpentry/Paint, Plumbing/Electrical, Handicap-Access, Installation/Assembly, Exterior-Repairs 30yrs/exp.24/7. 248-739-9779 "Nojobtoosmall!"
Home Repairs
EXTERIOR REPAIRSLLC. Since1999 GUTTERCLEANING LEAFGUARDS Roofing,Siding, Gutter,Repair.Reliable Ask,WeMightDoIt! FREEESTIMATES 248-242-1511
Kitchens/ Cabinets/ Countertops
MR.BACKSPLASH ·CUSTOM BACKSPLASHES ·CUSTOMKITCHENS ·COUNTERTOPS *Granite*Quartz* ·CustomBathrooms *FREEESTIMATES* Licensed/Insured 586-552-5416 mrbacksplash.com
ALLTIMATE OUTDOORSERVICES
DrainageSystem Professionals
Big/SmallJobs, Yard-Drainage,Grading, Sod/Seed,Retaining Walls/Walkways/Patios, Senior/Military-Discounts Credit-Cards-Accepted Free-Estimates 586-719-1202
Lawn Maintenance
2025SPRING 586-260-5218
MARATHONPOWERWASHING&PAINTING COMPLETEDECK MAINTENANCE PowerWashing,Repairs, Stain/Paint, House/Soft Washing,HousePainting FreeEst./Insured WearetheDeckDoctors! 586-463-9564 marathonpowerwash.com
586-755-3636
Dr.Electric AffordablePrices! Father&Son MasterElectricians Same-Day-Service! All-Residential-Wiring, ChangeFuseBoxto CircuitBreakerPanel, Troubleshooting,Backup GeneratorTransfer Switch,License#6109094 SenDisc.V/MC/Lic./Ins.
GUTTERS &WINDOW CLEANING INSURED TOMMICOLI 313-656-9402
3Sons
HandymanService 586-888-9031 Electrical,Plumbing, HVAC,Minor/Major Repairs,AnySizeJob. FreeEstimates 10%Discount
HANDYMAN Extraordinaire! Doesalljobs,anysize, whenyourhome needsabestfriend. Licensed&insured. CallGeorge 248-515-5158
Hauling & Waste Removal
BURLYGUYS JUNKREMOVAL removesANYTHING! Appliances,furniture, basementcleanouts, hoardersallwelcome! CallorText 248-224-2188
Home
Improvement
GOLDENBUILT CONSTRUCTION Additions,Garages, Sheds,Decks, BasementFinishing, Interior,SupportingWalls RemovedandRebuilt, Over30-yrsexp.Lic/Ins. LotsofReferences, 586-948-4764
Landscaping & Water Gardens
SUPREMEOUTDOOR SPECIALISTS
SodRemoval,Lawncare, Landscaping,Pavers, Walls,Shrub/Tree Trimming/Removal, Mulching,Power-washing, Sprinklers.FreeEst. 586-727-3924 supremelandscaping michigan.com
JAY'SHOMESERVICES
Landscaping, Shrub&TreeTrimming, Clean-ups, Gardening/Tilling PropertyMaintenance, ServingThe RoyalOakArea Since2008. 248-755-6995
Commercial/Residential *Landscaping *Decks *SpringClean-Ups *LawnCutting *LicensedFertilization *Aerating&Thatching VisitFacebook: BrightHorizonServicesInc. 586-792-3117
PETE'SPAINTING
SPRINGSPECIALS! 10%OFF Specializing inVacantHomes, Great-Rooms,Deck Staining&WoodenFence Repair,Interior/Exterior, Residential/Commercial. SeniorDiscount, Free-Estimates,Insured.
(586)229-4267
AmericanPainting Residential/Commercial
•Interior/25YearsExp. •PowerWashing •Insurance•Drywall •PlasterRepair •DeckRepairs•Cleanouts•HomeRepairs •SeniorDiscounts
Painting
PEAKPAINTING
Custom-Painting, Commercial/Residential, Interior/Exterior. Drywall-Repair,Paper Removal,Carpentry.
*WillBeatAnyOther
ReasonableEstimate! 35yrsexp.Sen.Disc.Ins. CC-Accepted/References. 586-722-8381
2BROTHERS PAINTING
CompleteInterior/Exterior WoodRepair, Powerwash, Free-Estimates CallFrank 248-303-5897 ReferencesAvailable
STEVE'SCUSTOM PAINTING
586-350-1717 Since1985 ProfessionalQuality, Neat,MeticulousPrep, Drywall/PlasterRepair, Interior/Exterior, Insured,References, Free-Estimate, 10%SeniorDiscount.
ANDERSON
Painting&Carpentry
CompleteInterior/Exterior Services.Plaster/Drywall &WaterDamageRepairs. Wood-Staining.Wallpaper Removal.Kitchen/Cabinet Refinishing,Insured/References.Free-Estimates 586-354-3032 248-974-4012
ANYONE'S PAINTER
Interior/ExteriorPainting Commerical/Residential PressureWashing, DrywallRepairs, DeckStaining, FreeEstimates,Insured. Call586-921-3654
WOWPAINTING
Interior/Exterior QualityPainting DrywallRepairs,Remove Wallpaper,ExteriorWood Replacement,Epoxy Flooring.Ins./Free-Est. 248-990-5388 wowpainting00@ gmail.com wowpaintingmi.com PAINTING GPC MASTERPAINTER PLASTER&DRYWALL Restoration/Insurance Projects, Wallpaper Removal/Carpentry, 30-yrsLicensed, BBBA+ SeniorDisc/FreeEst. 586.899.3555(Cell) 248.566.6460(Office)
SILVERSMITHROOF MAINTENANCE MinorShingle ReplacementSpecial, Re-Roofs,Tear-Offs, Flat-Roofs, AllInsuranceWork, Residential/Commercial WeAcceptAll MajorCreditCards 248-707-4851
MICHAELNORTON BUILDERSINC. BuildingValueEveryday 586-436-9600 Licensed/Insured Since1965 Servicing-Roofing, Siding,Basement, Bathroom,Kitchen Remodeling,Decks& AllYourHome ImprovementNeeds.
586.524.6752
ANDY'SPLUMBING
33+YearsExp.Lic/Ins. CallUsToday ForAllYour PlumbingNeeds!! ServingThe Tri-County-Area 10%/Senior/Military/ Discounts Lic#-8004254
APEX
PLUMBERSCORP
586-210-0903
35-YearsExp.Seniors/ Military/Multi-TaskDisc. Free-Est.•DrainCleaning •PlumbingRepairs/ Fixtures•SumpPumps/ WaterHeaters.Lic/Ins. apexplumbers corporation.com Lic#8111771
FARR'SPAINTING Interior/Exterior Wood&DrywallRepairs MoldRemediation FreeEstimates CertifiedMoldInspector 248-345-3308 farrsmoldremoval.com
NEBOPAINTING ServiceAllYearRound Interior/Exterior WeMakeIt EasierForYou, AllNeedsAreMet! FreeEstimates Call 248-953-7807
MASTER PLUMBER
Sewer&DrainService. Remodeling,Repairs, NewInstallations. FreeEstimates SeniorRates. 35+yrsexp.CallPaul 248-904-5822 Lic.#8109852
EAPLUMBING ANDDRAIN
FullServicePlumbing. DrainCleaning,Sump Pumps,WaterHeaters, Leaks,Disposals, CameraInspections, BackflowTesting andMore. 586-477-7777 License#803020312
Plumbing
WATERWORK
Plumbing.com
•DrainCleaning
•SewerCamera •WaterHeaters
•SumpPumps
•BackflowTesting 248-542-8022
SameDayEmergency ServiceAvailable
Reliable/Experienced License#8003885
Powerwashing
BRIGHTSIDE
PRESSURE&WINDOW CLEANING
House&RoofWashing Pressure&SoftWashing WindowWashing GutterCleaning PaverSealing Call248-632-0963
Powerwashing
AJʼsPRESSURE CLEANING& SEALCOATING
•StampedConcrete(removemilkyorcloudyfilm)
•ExposedAggregate •BrickPavers(resanding) Website: ajspressure cleaning.com 586-431-0591
ALLWASHEDUP POWERWASHING
SPRINGSPECIALS!
Weofferpowerwashing& deckstaining.Houses/ awnings/fences/driveways/porches/windows/ gutters/doorsandmore!! FREE-ESTIMATES
SeniorDiscounts 586-360-0827
Roofng PREFERRED
BROTHERSROOFING
•FullTear-off•Recover •ShingleRepair •Leak's•AllRepair •Flat-Roof•TourchDown •SeamlessGutters& GutterGuards
Senior/Military-Discount Upto20%Off 586-944-8898
AA4DABLEROOFING
Hurry&SaveBig-$$$! SPRING-SPECIALS Upto30%-Off!!!
Roofing/Siding/Gutters, All-Leaks/Repairs, Residential/Shingles/ Commercial-FlatRoofs/Torch-downs 30yrs-exp.CC'saccepted. 586-822-5100
BERGBROS.LLC.
“FullyInsured, HighlyReferred.” SeniorDiscounts Tree-Removal,Stump Grinding,Tree-Trimming, Hedging,Shaping, Emergency-Service Residential/Commercial Free-Estimates (586)262-3060 Tree Service
DAVE'STREE&SHRUB
25%-SpringSpecial. Insured,Emergency StormDamage, Large-TreeRemovals, Mulchinbeds/spreading, Trimming,Stump-Grinding,Season-Firewood (100acord)30YrsExp. (586)216-0904 davestreeandshrub.com
ELITETREE SERVICE
"Bringing30yearsof experiencetoyourdoor!" Treetrimming, removals&stump grinding.Insured&FREE estimateswithfairprices! FirewoodForSale 586-756-0757
Roofng Plumbing
