The following is a list of organizations in the area that are offering Friday fish fry dinners during Lent.
• Knights of Columbus #8659 Lenten Fish Dinners are 4-7 p.m. Fridays through April 11, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church Parish, 3400 S. Adams Road, Auburn Hills, 248-852-4170, www.esacredheart.org, dine-in or carry-out, $14+, children younger than 10-free, other menu items, www.facebook.com/sacredHeart7009.
• Berkley American Legion Stanley J. Fons Post 374 hosts its annual Fish Fry Dinner Fundraiser, 5-8 p.m. Fridays, through April 18, at 2079 W. Twelve Mile Road, Berkley, dinners start at $10 for 1-piece dinner, menu prices vary, carryout hot-line 248-591-9220, facebook.com/berkleyamericanlegion. Also, bake sale will be held during Friday fish dinners. Donated baked items requested, and can be dropped off on Thursdays or Fridays.
• Clarkston Eagles 3373 offers Friday Fish Fry dinners, 5-8 p.m. Fridays at 5640 Maybee Road, Clarkston, $10-$12+.
• Friday Night Fish Fry dinners are 5-8 p.m. Fridays, at American Legion Chief Pontiac Post 377, 4819 Mary Sue Ave., Clarkston, www.chiefpontiac377.org, 248-673-9301. The menu includes a range of choices, prices vary.
• Knights of Columbus Lenten Fish Fry dinners are 4:30-7 p.m. Fridays through April 11, at St. Joseph Myrick Hall, 715 N. Lapeer Road, Lake Orion, $15 for 2-piece cod fish dinner with coleslaw, roll and French fries, $19 for three-piece dinner. Sit down or carry out, cash and credit card accepted for dinners (cash only for the beverage bar), www.stjoelo.org, 248-693-0440.
• Oxford American Legion Post 108 offers fish dinners from noon to 8 p.m. Fridays throughout the year, at 130 Drahner Road, Oxford, 248-628-9081, menu prices vary.
• The Rochester Area Knights of Columbus will be offering fish fry dinners every Friday during Lent, through April 11, between 5 to 7 p.m. at the Rochester Community House, 816 Ludlow, Rochester. Baked or fried cod fish dinners, adults-$14 and children 12 and under-$7, baked potato-$1, drinks-$1, desserts-$2. Cash or credit cards are accepted, https://kofc5452.org. Dine in or carry out is available.
• Royal Oak-Detroit Elks Lodge #34 offers fish dinners, 5:30-8 p.m. Fridays through April 18, during Lent at the lodge, 2401 E 4th St, Royal Oak. Fish and chips dinners include 3 pieces of cod, fries, coleslaw for $15, baked walleye dinners are $15, kids meals are $8, dessert included with meals, www.facebook.com/RODElks34.
• Royal Oak First United Methodist Church Fish Dinners are 4:30-7 p.m. March 21 and April 4, at the church, 320 W. 7th Street, Royal Oak, www.rofum.org, 248-541-4100, menu prices vary.
• Friday fish fry dinners are 4:30-7:30 p.m. Fridays, through April 18, at St. Andrew’s Society of Detroit, Kilgour Scottish Centre, 2363 Rochester Road, Troy, dine-in or carry out, www.facebook.com/DetroitScots, 248-526-1849, $15-$17+, children-$7+, cash bar.
• St. William Dads’ Club 36th Annual Lenten Fish Fry Dinners are 4-8 p.m. Fridays through April 11, and carryout only, 3-8 p.m. April 18, at St. William Parish 531 Common St., Walled Lake, drive-up service, order online at https://saintwilliam.net, 248-624-1421, Fish dinner-carryout is $15.50+, other menu items to purchase.
• Knights of Columbus Lenten Fish Fry Dinners, are 4-8 p.m. Fridays, through April 11, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 9086 Hutchins White Lake Twp., 248-698-3100, www.stpatrickwhitelake.org, dine-in or drive-thru, fish dinners, menu prices vary.
Oakland Town Hall announces the second half of their 2024/2025 program series, which is held at the Iroquois Club, 43248 Woodward Ave, Bloomfield Hills.
On Wednesday, April 9, at 10:30 a.m., James Delgado, a maritime archaeologist who works around the globe will speak on the “Lost, Unknown, and Then Found: the Forensics of Shipwrecks”. On Wednesday May 14, at 10:30 a.m. Vanessa Carr, a world-class entertainer noted for her dynamic musical performances promises a wonderful morning of music.
Delgardo, a respected leader whose prime directive is helping keep maritime archaeology alive and accessible to everyone. He has worked on some of the most famous shipwreck sites in history from Titanic, the lost fleet of Kublai Klan, the USS Arizona, the fabled “ghost ship” Mary Celeste and the atomic bombed fleet at Bikiri Atoel and his many expeditions have solved long-lasting undersea mysteries, brought closure to families and connected the modern world with powerful human stories
from the past. He has held many positions from President of the Institute of Nautical Archaeology to Senior Vice President of SEARCH, Inc. He speaks to his decades of work on and under the sea and the amazing people he has met.
Vanessa Carr has a genuine connection to audiences as a singer and dancer, she is recognized for her humorous renditions, emotional interpretations and captivating story-telling. Her ever-growing repertoire includes a diverse variety of genres: Broadway show tunes, music of the Great American Songbook and Opera. Carr specializes in singing the “Star Spangled Banner” and she has done the kick-off for the Detroit Lions and Tigers games with her rendition of the National Anthem. She was also a member of the Pistons House Band. She has starred as Fantine in “Les Miserables” and Ursula in “The Little Mermaid.” Audiences are charmed by this talented performer.
Anyone interested in purchasing reservations, may contact Nancy Holen at 248-673-5984.
Vanessa Carr (Photo by Jim Schmelzer, courtesy of Oakland Town Hall)
• Oakland County Farmers Market offers a free cooking demonstration, 10-11 a.m. March 22, held in cooperation with edibleWOW, at Oakland County Farmers Market, 2350 Pontiac Lake Road in Waterford Twp., featuring Executive Chef Terence Tarver of The Inn at St. John’s, OaklandCountyParks.com/FarmersMarket. The market is open 7 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Saturdays, during the winter.
• Holistic Mystic Market & Meet Up is 10 a.m.-6 p.m. March 29, CenterPeace Healing and Events, 2609 Crooks Road, Troy. Immersive healing experiences including gallery readings, sound baths, meditation and mindfulness groups, www.centerpeacehealing.com, $7.
• Mother & Son Dinner Dance is 5-7 p.m. March 30, Lafayette Grande Ballroom, 1 Lafayette St., Pontiac, https://tinyurl.com/MotherSonRegister, includes dinner, DJ, a raffle, photobooth, a special gift for both mothers and sons, and a vote for Queen and Prince. Families can purchase tickets at https://tinyurl.com/MotherSonRegister. Hosted by Pontiac Youth Recreation and Enrichment Division, for questions, call 248-758-3039, $40/couple for Pontiac residents, $50/couple for non-residents.
• Mother Son Dance is at 6 p.m. April 5, Waterford Recreation Center, 5640 Williams Lake Road, Waterford Twp., pre-registration is required at www.waterfordmi.gov/876/17597/Daddy-Daughter-Dance, 248-674-5441, $15 resident each, $19 non-resident.
Education/Scholarships/Workshops
• St. Augustine Lutheran Church will host a free seminar on the top 10 warning signs of dementia and Alzheimer’s presented by Alzheimer’s Association Michigan Chapter from 10 a.m.-noon March 22 at SALT Church, 5475 Livernois, Troy. Doors open at 9:30 a.m. and coffee and light snacks will be provided. Advanced registration is suggested by calling 248-879-6400. Walk-ins welcome as space provides.
• Oakland Community College is hosting a Career and Resource Fair from 2 to 5 p.m. March 19, on the Auburn Hills campus, 2900 Featherstone Road, Auburn Hills. More than 60 employers will be on hand to discuss opportunities for internships, part-time and full-time employment, and information about career pathways in a variety of fields and industries. For event information, visit www.oaklandcc.edu/calendar/event-details/c595fdfc-ff88-4148-a6bd-4cf7b45249f9.
• Bowman Auto Group is accepting applications for its annual scholarships for Clarkston High School graduating seniors. Two $2,500 scholarships will be awarded: one for a senior pursuing education at a vocational institution or trade school, and one for a senior accepted to a 2-year or 4-year college/university in a STEAM-related (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) field. Applications are due by 5 p.m. March 19, and can be submitted via email or in person at Bowman Chevrolet. Visit https://www.bowmanchevy.com/scholarship/ to download the application or call 248-795-1816.
• The Lake Trust Foundation is accepting applications for its 2025 scholarships. The New Beginnings Scholarship offers financial support to individuals pursuing careers in high-demand skilled trades and technical fields such as welding, plumbing, nursing and construction who are enrolled in or planning to enroll in a technical education program, trade school or a technical field at a Michigan college or university in 2025. The Michigan Impact Scholarship, in partnership with Cleary University, will provide one full-tuition award to a Michigan resident beginning their undergraduate or postgraduate degree at Cleary University, either online or at any of their campus locations, in Fall 2025. Apply at www.laketrust.org/foundation/scholarships by April 21.
Friday Fish Fry Dinners
• Royal Oak First United Methodist Church Fish Dinners are 4:30-7 p.m. March 21 and April 4, at the church, 320 W. 7th Street, Royal Oak, www.rofum.org, 248-541-4100, menu prices vary.
• Friday Fish Fry dinners are 5-8 p.m. Fridays at Clarkston Eagles 3373, located at 5640 Maybee Road, Clarkston, $10-$12+. For more information, find Clarkston Eagles 3373 on Facebook.
• Friday fish fry dinners are 4:30-7:30 p.m. Fridays, March 7 through April 18, at St. Andrew’s Society of Detroit, Kilgour Scottish Centre, 2363 Rochester Road, Troy, dine-in or carry out, www.facebook.com/DetroitScots, 248-526-1849, $15-$17+, children-$7+, cash bar.
• Knights of Columbus Lenten Fish Fry Dinners, are 4-8 p.m. Fridays, March 7-April 11, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 9086 Hutchins, White Lake Twp., 248-698-3100, www.stpatrickwhitelake.org, dine-in or drive-thru, fish dinners, menu prices vary.
Fundraisers/Volunteer opportunities
• Camp Oakland’s Cornhole Fundraiser is 6 p.m. March 21, at One Eyed Jacks, 48922 Van Dyke Ave., Shelby Township, food, fun, and flying bags, www.campoakland.org, 248-628-2561.
• Forgotten Harvest second annual signature event, Feeding Detroit Together, a benefit for Forgotten Harvest on 6-11 p.m. April 11, at MGM Grand Detroit in Detroit, food, entertainment, and dancing, music by Parallel Fifth. Tickets begin at $150, www.forgottenharvest.org/feedingdetroittogether25.
• Rochester Police officers hockey game fundraiser, 2:30 p.m. April 5, at Suburban Ice Rochester (formerly ONYX), 52999 Dequindre Road, Rochester Hills. Proceeds to benefit New Day Foundation for Families, a Rochester Hills nonprofit that helps families facing cancer, $10 per person; Family 4-Pack for $35 at the door or in advance at https://give.foundationforfamilies.org/event/face-off-against-cancer-hockey-game/e661257, free for children under 5.
• Hospice of Michigan is seeking volunteers to help patients and families dealing with life-limiting illnesses throughout southeast Michigan. Volunteers must also be ages 18+ and are required to complete orientation, background checks and fingerprinting. Those interested can contact Ruth Moore-Lilly at 248-794-0523 or rmoore-lilly@hom.org, or submit an online volunteer application, at hom.org/get-involved.
• The American Red Cross urges donors to give blood or platelets. To book a time to give blood or platelets, use the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit www.RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
• Gardner White and Serta will donate $5 to the American Cancer Society for every Serta mattress sold at Gardner White stores or online at Gardnerwhite.com through Dec. 31. Gardner White, Serta and American Cancer Society will also partner on special initiatives and events throughout the year to spread awareness and support those impacted by cancer.
Library activities
• “Women of the Watch, Keepers of the Light” presented by Kamryn Marck, 6-8 p.m. March 18, at Springfield Township Library, 12000 Davisburg Road, Davisburg, 248-846-6550, www.springfield.michlibrary.org/news-and-events/events-calendar#/events/QysUBx8ppa/instances/RnmRYtJG32, registration required, free.
• Rochester Hills Public Library presents “Electric Cars: Past, Present, and Future” at 7 p.m. March 20, at the library, 500 Olde Towne Road, Rochester. Registration is required at calendar.rhpl.org or 248-656-2900, open to the public.
• Dagnija “Daggie” Lacis author: 2 p.m. March 23, Clarkston Public Library, 6495 Clarkston Road, Clarkston. Dagnija “Daggie” Lacis, author of memoir, “The Wall Falls, A Woman Rises”, in-conversation with former WDIV reporter Mara MacDonald about her memoir, followed by a book signing, register at www.cidlibrary.org/event-calendar#/events.
Museum activities
• Founder’s Day is 2-4 p.m. March 23, The Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm, presented by the Rochester Historical Commission, includes a presentation on Indigenous people in Oakland County presented by Carol Egbo, Oakland County’s Historian. starting with an Irish Bagpiper and ending with entertainment from Irish Dancers. Light refreshments provided. Register at www.rochesterhills.org/musprograms, free event.
• The Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm is open for drop-in hours, Fridays and Saturdays, from noon-3 p.m. with guided tours of the Van Hoosen Farmhouse and Red House starting at 1 p.m. Also, the museum presents Cabin Fever Lecture Series, 7-8 p.m. Fridays in March, at the Calf Barn. Admission is $8/adults, $5/seniors and students; free for museum members. Register at www.rochesterhills.org/musprograms, includes light refreshments.
Parks/Outdoor activities
• Spring Equinox Drum Circle is 2-3 p.m. March 22, Immersive indoor drum circle led by drum circle facilitator Teri Williams, at Red Oaks Nature Center, 30300 Hales St., Madison Heights, suitable for all ages, $5/person, 248-858-1000, www.oakgov.com/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/5722/734.
• Red Oaks Nature Center will host Carol Lomasney, author of “I Grew Very Brave,” from 10:30 a.m.-noon, March 29, at the nature center, 30300 Hales St, Madison Heights 248-858-1000, www.oakgov.com/community/oakland-county-parks/parks-trails/red-oaks/red-oaks-nature-center.
• Oakland County Parks and Recreation offers free admission. General park entry fees and vehicle permits have been eliminated for all parks operated by Oakland County Parks, www.oakgov.com/community/oakland-county-parks.
• Huron-Clinton Metroparks in Livingston, Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne, metroparks.com. Park entrance fees apply. Annual vehicle passes are $40 for residents ($29 for seniors 62+) or $45 for non-residents ($34 for seniors 62+).
• Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas, michigan.gov/dnr. Park entrance fees apply.
Senior citizens
• Bloomfield Township Senior Services offers residents age 50+ a wide variety of fitness classes, the use of fitness equipment, track use, and day trips. Track use is $10 monthly for residents; non-residents pay $15, https://bloomfieldtwp.org/seniors/activities/fitness.
Support resources
• For access to local community services, dial 211 (844-875-9211) or text zip code to 898211, for information and referrals to physical and mental health resources; housing, utility, food, and employment assistance; and suicide and crisis interventions, United Way, https://unitedwaysem.org/get-help.
• Common Ground’s Resource & Crisis Helpline is available 24/7 – call or text 800-231-1127.
• The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7 confidential support for people who are suicidal or in emotional distress, or who know someone who is. Calls and text messages to 988 route to a 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline call center, www.fcc.gov/988Lifeline.
• Veterans Crisis Line, dial 988 and then press 1 to connect to the Veterans Crisis Lifeline. For texts, veterans should text the Veterans Crisis Lifeline short code: 838255.
• National Domestic Violence Hotline, 800-799-7233, available 24/7.
Oakland Schools established the annual Oakland County Outstanding Teacher of the Year awards to recognize teachers who have achieved the highest standards of excellence. The following teachers were nominated for the 2025 awards. One teacher will be selected as a winner from each of the four categories: Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School and High School.
The following information and photos were submitted.
Garrick Baker (Submitted photo)
GARRICK BAKER
Category: Senior High
District: Avondale School District
School: Avondale High School
Grade/Subject: 9th-12th CTE (engineering, robotics, and building trades)
Peggy Bassett (Submitted photo)
PEGGY BASSETT
Category: Senior High
District: Novi Community School District
School: Novi High School
Grade/Subject: 12th English/Language Arts
Kim Best (Submitted photo)
KIM BEST
Category: Senior High
District: Huron Valley Schools
School: Harbor High School
Grade/Subject: 9th-12th, online learning lab, math, and EI Categorical
Sarah Campbell (Submitted photo)
SARAH CAMPBELL
Category: Early Childhood
District: Brandon School District
School: Brandon Early Childhood Center
Grade/Subject: Early Childhood Special Education, ages 3-5
Katie Coffin (Submitted photo, Lifetouch National School Studios Inc.)
The Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) hosted the second annual Veteran Service Officer (VSO) conference, Feb. 11-13, at the Grand Traverse Resort in Acme.
The goal of the annual event is to bring together VSOs from around the state to learn how to best impact the lives of veterans and their families in their communities. More than 100 attendees from across the state joined speakers, fellow support organizations and the MVAA to learn how best to serve those who served our country.
A VSO is a subject matter expert trained and accredited by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that guides veterans and their families through the process of applying for VA benefits.
“It is critical to the well-being of Michigan’s more than 516,000 veterans that we bring the VSOs together,” says Stefanie MacDonald, MVAA VSO manager. “Whether the VSO works for the state, the county, or a veteran service organization, it is important that they all have the latest information and training to best support the veterans they come in contact with on a daily basis. VSOs are the lifeline for many veterans and their families to get them connected to the benefits they earned.”
Veterans often face mountains of paperwork and VSOs are knowledgeable about veterans’ benefits and services and can navigate the sometimes complicated systems.
Service members and veterans or their family members may contact the Michigan Veterans Resource Service Center at 1-800-MICH-VET (1-800-642-4838) to learn more about veteran benefits and resources.
Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency staff available to attend veterans events
Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) staff members are available to attend and/or speak at events for veterans or events that involve veteran issues. To request MVAA staff to speak at an event, participate on a panel or present a session, staff a booth or table, provide brochures and information on health care, education, employment and other topics concerning veterans, or to have a veteran-focused event added to the MVAA website, fill out the event invitation form at: www.michigan.gov/mvaa/forms/event-invitation. For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/mvaa/about-us/request-event.
Upcoming events
• Oxford American Legion Post 108 to host Euchre from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, March 3 and from noon to 3 p.m. Thursday, March 6 and Fish dinners from noon to 8 p.m. Friday, March 7, at 130 Drahner Road, Oxford. For more information, call 248-628-9081.
• Royal Oak American Legion Post 253 to host Taco Tuesday at 11 a.m. March 4, and Friday Night-Perch at 5 p.m. March 7, at 1505 N. Main St. For more information, call 248-546-0490.
• Oxford American Legion Post 108 to host Broasted Chicken Buffet from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 5, at 130 Drahner Road, Oxford. For more information, call 248-628-9081.
• Clarkston American Legion Post 377 to host Bingo from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 4 and a Fish Fry from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, March 7, at 4819 Mary Sue Ave. For more information, call 248-673-9301.
• Milford American Legion Post 216 to host Burger Nite from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 6, at 510 W. Commerce Road, Milford. For more information, call 248-684-9919.
• Berkley American Legion Post 374 to host Pancake Platter Feast from 9 a.m. to noon, Sunday, March 2, and Music Trivia at 7 p.m. Thursday March 6, at 2079 W. Twelve Mile Road, Berkley. Breakfast cost Adults-from $10, Under age 12-from $5. Beverages available to purchase. For more information, call 248-542-7668.
• The Holly Area Veterans Resource Center Vet-To-Vet Dinner is from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Monday, March 17, at VFW Post 5587, 201 Airport Drive, Holly. The dinner is open to veterans and their families, option to bring a dish to pass. There is usually a guest speaker at the monthly dinners, followed by Q&A. For more information, call 810-348-9960.
The Oakland Press is interested in all veterans events in Oakland County. Please send info in the body of an email with subject line “Veterans Affairs” to Sharon Longman at sslstart@aol.com. Allow two weeks’ notice for scheduled events and include a phone number for readers to call for more information.
Tuesday Musicale of Greater Pontiac welcomes the public to a concert performed by the 2025 student award winners of the Rosamond Haeberle and Dora Dawson musical competitions, at 3 p.m. March 9, in the Sanctuary of the Central United Methodist Church, 3882 Highland Road, Waterford Twp. The concert will feature Trinity Fan, pianist and Brendan Callies, cellist.
A part of Musicale’s mission is to support student musicians in the world of music and aid monetarily to fund their musical education. This is a free admission concert and it promises to be an exceptional afternoon of outstanding music.
Sandra DeRemer announced the Rosamond Haeberle $4,000 piano award winner is Trinity Fan. Fan made her first Weil Recital-Carnegie Hall appearance at the age of 8 as a grand winner of the NLPA International Young Artists Competition, and has been a top prize winner of numerous competitions since then. In 2022 Trinity was a finalist in the Spotlight International Piano Competition where she also won the Audience Award. Previously, she studied with Edward Auer at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music as a Founders Scholar and was a recipient of the Music Faculty Award as well as a great many scholarships. Aside from performing, she has a love for teaching. At the University of Michigan, she studies with Christopher Harding and jazz piano with Andy Mine. She is currently a Graduate Student Instructor at U of M’s School of Music, Theatre and Dance and teaches at the SMTD Piano Pedagogy Laboratory Program. As a composer, Trinity was awarded Second Prize in the 2024 MTNA National Composition Competition for her piece “Reminiscence.” Fan plans to use her $4,000 award to complete her education at the University of Michigan and anticipates graduating with the degree: Master of Music Piano Performance and Pedagogy.
Mary Ann LaMonte will introduce Brendan Callies, winner of the $4,000 Dora Dawson award. Callies is a cellist currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music degree at Wayne State University. He has been a featured soloist in the Wayne State University Orchestra and is a regular member of the International Symphony in Sarnia, Canada. Callies is a substitute musician for the New World Symphony in Florida as well as the Lansing and Dearborn Symphonies in Michigan. He has performed in Detroit with pop and jazz musicians such as the prominent bandleader and saxophonist De’Sean Jones, who leads a pop/jazz/techno/rock fusion group called the Urban Art Orchestra. Callies has also premiered new works by eminent composers such as Errollyn Wallen. Callies first began taking lessons seven years ago while in eighth grade and now at Wayne State, he studies with Una O’Riodan. After graduation he plans to continue his education by applying for graduate school. When informed that he had won the Tuesday Musicale Dora Dawson award, he immediately began searching for a new bow to purchase with his winnings.
Following the concert there will be refreshments available. Tuesday Musicale of Greater Pontiac is affiliated with the National and Michigan Federation of Music Clubs. Find information about Tuesday Musicale on Facebook or visit https://tuesdaymusicaleofgreaterpontiac.org or contact Mary Ann LaMonte (248) 673-8187.
Brendan Callies (Photo by Gabbie Lester, Gabrielle Cynthia Photography, courtesy of Tuesday Musicale)
On Feb. 25, 1946, Gov. Harry Kelly signed Public Act 9 into law, creating the Michigan Veterans Trust Fund (MVTF) from $50 million in post-World War II reserve funds.
Since then, the MVTF has helped veterans of every wartime era overcome unexpected expenses ranging from utility bills to home repairs to mortgage assistance and get back on their feet financially.
The Emergency Grant Program is intended to help veterans overcome an unforeseen situation causing a temporary or short-term financial emergency or hardship that a grant will resolve and for which the applicant can demonstrate the ability to meet future expenses.
Beginning December 2021, peacetime-era veterans 65 years and older are now eligible for emergency assistance as part of the MVTF’s 65+ Peacetime Program. The program allows veterans who served in a peacetime era, have at least 180 days of service, and were discharged under honorable conditions to apply for emergency assistance. A person is eligible to apply any time during the year in which they turn 65.
To apply for emergency funds from the MVTF, veterans should contact the MVTF county committee serving the county where they reside.
Oakland County Veterans’ Services has been providing Oakland County veterans and their families with professional veterans benefits advocacy and assistance for more than 60 years.
They have a staff of highly trained and accredited Veterans’ Benefits Counselors who are dedicated to ensuring that the sacrifices of our nation’s veterans are recognized and that they and their families receive all veterans benefits to which they are entitled. The Oakland County Veterans’ Services team’s mission is to obtain the maximum veteran benefits available to veterans and their families, while making the process as simple and understandable as possible.
Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency staff available to attend veterans events
Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) staff members are available to attend and/or speak at events for veterans or events that involve veteran issues. To request MVAA staff to speak at an event, participate on a panel or present a session, staff a booth or table, provide brochures and information on health care, education, employment and other topics concerning veterans, or to have a veteran-focused event added to the MVAA website, fill out the event invitation form at: www.michigan.gov/mvaa/forms/event-invitation. For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/mvaa/about-us/request-event.
Upcoming events
• Oxford American Legion Post 108 to host Euchre from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 24 and from noon to 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27 and Fish dinners from noon to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, at 130 Drahner Road, Oxford. For more information, call 248-628-9081.
• Royal Oak American Legion Post 253 to host Taco Tuesday at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25 and Friday Night-Swedish Meatballs at 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, at 1505 N. Main St. For more information, call 248-546-0490.
• Oxford American Legion Post 108 to host Chef’s Choice Buffet from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 26, at 130 Drahner Road, Oxford. For more information, call 248-628-9081.
• Clarkston American Legion Post 377 to host Bingo from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 25 and a Fish Fry from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, at 4819 Mary Sue Ave. For more information, call 248-673-9301.
• Milford American Legion Post 216 to host Burger Nite from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, at 510 W. Commerce Road, Milford. For more information, call 248-684-9919.
• Berkley American Legion Post 374 to host Pancake Platter Feast from 9 a.m. to noon, Sunday, March 2, and Music Trivia at 7 p.m. Thursday Feb. 27, at 2079 W. Twelve Mile Road, Berkley. Breakfast cost for adults-from $10, under 12-from $5. Beverages available to purchase. For more information, call 248-542-7668.
The Oakland Press is interested in all veterans events in Oakland County. Please send info in the body of an email with subject line “Veterans Affairs” to Sharon Longman at sslstart@aol.com. Allow two weeks’ notice for scheduled events and include a phone number for readers to call for more information.
Faith Cabalum, a Rochester High School graduate and recent Michigan State University graduate, won first place in the Multimedia Narrative Video Storytelling Competition of the 2024-2025 Hearst Journalism Awards Program.
Cabalum received the award for her film “Over the Years: a film about the human perspective of aging.”
Cabalum graduated from MSU School of Journalism in December 2024 and is currently a freelance video editor for Bleacher Report. While a MSU student, she worked as a video intern for MSU football.
With her award, she receives a $3,000 scholarship and qualifies for the Hearst National Multimedia Championship in June. Her film has also placed in more than 16 other film festivals around the world, according to a news release.
The Hearst Journalism Awards Program supports college-level journalism education by awarding scholarships to outstanding students and providing matching grants to their schools. For more information, visit www.hearstawards.org.
Faith Cabalum (Photo courtesy of Michigan State University)
• Oakland County, in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and advanced business events, to host the second edition of the Vehicle & Transportation Technology Innovation Meetings (VTM Michigan), taking place April 23-24 at M1 Concourse in Pontiac. A free webinar with information about the VTM Michigan is 9-9:30 a.m. Feb. 12. Advanced registration is required at medc.cventevents.com/event/VTM/summary.
• The Farmington Community Library annual Lunch & Learn Small Business Series is 11:45 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Feb. 18-March 25, at the Farmington Hills location, 32737 W. 12 Mile Road. The six-part series is designed to empower local entrepreneurs and small business owners with expert insights on starting a business, securing funding, leveraging social media, and networking, The series is free and open to the public, no library card required, includes complimentary lunch, registration is required for each session at farmlib.org/small-business-series.
Community events
• The Birmingham community is invited to participate in a discussion about the vision for the future Birmingham Community and Senior Center at 400 East Lincoln, Birmingham, during an interactive workshop, at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 10, immediately before the regularly scheduled City Commission meeting. The workshop may be attended in person or via Zoom, bhamgov.org/bcsc.
• United Nations Relief official Hani Almadou to speak on Gaza relief and rebuilding, 11:30 a.m. Feb. 16, at St. David’s Episcopal Church, 16200 W. Twelve Mile Road, Southfield, www.stdavidssf.org, open to public.
• Oakland County Parks seeks public input on Natural Resources and Sustainability priorities for programs and services. The survey closes Feb. 18, to participate in the survey, visit www.oakgov.com/community/oakland-county-parks/get-involved/natural-resources-management.
• Daddy Daughter Dance is 2-4 p.m. or 6-8 p.m. March 1, Waterford Recreation Center, 5640 Williams Lake Road, Waterford Twp., pre-registration is required at www.waterfordmi.gov/876/17597/Daddy-Daughter-Dance, 248-674-5441, $15 resident each, $19 non-resident.
Education/Youth
• Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s State of the State Cover Page Art Contest for K-12 students to come up with a creative design for the governor’s program cover. Submissions will be accepted at michigan.gov/artcontest through 11:59 p.m. Feb. 14.
• GreenStone Farm Credit Services scholarships for students in agriculture in Michigan and select counties in northeast Wisconsin. GreenStone will award scholarships to incoming college freshmen in the amount of $2,000 each to selected students attending a four-year college program and $1,000 each to selected students attending a two-year college program, and award four current college students with a scholarship in the amount of $5,000 each. The deadline to apply is Feb. 28, at www.GreenStoneFCS.com/scholarships.
• Bowman Auto Group is accepting applications for its annual scholarships for Clarkston High School graduating seniors. Two $2,500 scholarships will be awarded: one for a senior pursuing education at a vocational institution or trade school, and one for a senior accepted to a 2-year or 4-year college/university in a STEAM-related (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) field. Applications are due by 5 p.m. March 19, and can be submitted via email or in person at Bowman Chevrolet. Visit https://www.bowmanchevy.com/scholarship/ to download the application or call 248-795-1816.
Festivals/Shows
• Black History Celebration with Amen Ra Dancers and Drummers is 7 p.m. Feb. 9, Hawk Theatre, 29995 W. 12 Mile Road, Farmington Hills, TheHawkTheatre.com, $15 adv., $20 at the door.
• Fireworks and Flannels event is 3:30-8:30 p.m. Feb. 15 at Waterford Oaks County Park, 1702 Scott Lake Road, Waterford Twp. Participants are invited to wear flannel for the 1K/5K Flannel Fun Run. The 1K Run begins at 3:30 p.m. and the 5K Fun Run/Walk kicks off at 4 p.m. The cost is $15 for the 1K and $25 for the 5K. Each participant will receive a medal and T-shirt while supplies last. Register by scanning the QR code on the Fireworks and Flannels Flyer posted at OaklandCountyParks.com. The event will also feature food trucks, beer tent, and free family activities. Fireworks are at 8 p.m.
• Southfield Celebrates Black History Month with Walk Through History display, open 8 a.m.-7 p.m. through Feb. 28, at Southfield Pavilion, 26000 Evergreen Road, Southfield, with informational signs describing influential African Americans throughout Southfield and world history, admission is free, www.cityofsouthfield.com.
Fundraisers
• Galentine’s Comedy Gala is at 8 p.m. Feb. 12, Belle’s Lounge by Valentine Distilling Co., 161 Vester Ave, Ferndale, doors and silent auction at 7 p.m., two-item order minimum, https://bit.ly/4grn714, benefit for the Detroit Creativity Project, admission is $35+.
• Next Steps 4 Seniors Foundation invites the public to participate in a special rose distribution campaign. Over the Feb. 14 weekend, roses and hand-made cards from students will be delivered to isolated seniors. To purchase a rose to be delivered, visit https://nextsteps4seniorsfoundation.kindful.com/?campaign=1345398. Proceeds from rose sales go to benefit the Next Steps 4 Seniors Foundation.
• Hospice of Michigan is seeking volunteers to help patients and families dealing with life-limiting illnesses throughout southeast Michigan. Volunteers must also be ages 18+ and are required to complete orientation, background checks and fingerprinting. Those interested can contact Ruth Moore-Lilly at 248-794-0523 or rmoore-lilly@hom.org, or submit an online volunteer application, at hom.org/get-involved.
• Detroit Philanthropy hosts panel discussion on family foundations, 9-10:30 a.m. Feb. 26, The Community House, 380 S. Bates St., Birmingham, panel will feature Rachel Decker, Detroit Philanthropy Founder and President – Darin McKeever, President and CEO, William Davidson Foundation – Elizabeth Stieg, Executive Director and President, The Carls Foundation – Raquel Thueme, President, Ruth Mott Foundation, RSVP by Feb. 14, www.detroitphilanthropy.com/upcoming-events/p/february-2025-panel-discussion, $30 per person.
Library activities
• Baldwin Public Library to host an artist panel discussion about the “Snow Crash Nebula” art installation and double vinyl album, online and in-person at 7 p.m. Feb. 11, at the library, 300 W Merrill St., Birmingham, Attendees can hear from artist Michael Andrews, collaborators David Bloom and Laura Whitesides host, www.baldwinlib.org/calendar to register.
• Friends of West Bloomfield Library What’s Cooking? series, “Melt’n Dip” with Belgian chocolate is 7-9 p.m. Feb. 12, at West Bloomfield Township Public Library, 4600 Walnut Lake Road, West Bloomfield Twp., The series features local chefs and other food and beverage experts as they give demonstrations with samples. Reservations are not required, but seating is limited, https://wblib.org, free event.
• Presidents’ Day Tinker Tuesday program is 6 p.m. Feb. 18, at The Madison Heights Public Library, 240 W 13 Mile Road, Madison Heights, create presidential-themed crafts using Makerspace tools and supplies. Register at https://secure.rec1.com/MI/madison-heights-mi/catalog, 248-588-7763, ages 5+, free.
• Rochester Hills Public Library presents “Severe Weather Recognition & Stop the Bleed” at 7 p.m. Feb. 20, at Rochester Hills Public Library, open to the public. Registration is required at calendar.rhpl.org or call 248-656-2900.
Parks/Outdoor activities
• Winter Park at Bowers School Farm, 1219 E Square Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, is open through Feb. 23, family-friendly 200-foot tubing hill, designed for fun in any weather, no snow needed, night display of neon lights, farm animals, bonfires, farm and kitchen store, food to purchase. Hours are 4-10 p.m. Friday, noon-10 p.m., Saturday and noon-9 p.m. Sunday, tickets are $17 each, www.schoolfarm.org/winter-activities.
• The Rink at Royal Oak is open through Feb. 17, closed Mondays, at Centennial Commons Park, Royal Oak, therinkatroyaloak.com, admission is $10-$12, skate rental if needed is $5, weather permitting.
• The Rink at Stine Community Park is open daily through March 16, at 241 Town Center, at the City of Troy Civic Center Campus, free admission, skate rentals are $3 residents, $5 non-residents, https://rec.troymi.gov/parks___facilities/the_rink/index.php, weather permitting.
• Riley Park Ice Rink is open daily through February, at 23600 Liberty St., Farmington, open daily, weather permitting, free admission, bring skates, https://farmgov.com/Community/Parks-and-Recreation/Riley-Park-Ice-Rink.
• Oakland County Parks and Recreation offers free admission. General park entry fees and vehicle permits have been eliminated for all parks operated by Oakland County Parks, www.oakgov.com/community/oakland-county-parks.
• Huron-Clinton Metroparks in Livingston, Macomb, Oakland, Washtenaw and Wayne, metroparks.com. Park entrance fees apply. Annual vehicle passes are $40 for residents ($29 for seniors 62+) or $45 for non-residents ($34 for seniors 62+).
• Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas, michigan.gov/dnr. Park entrance fees apply.
Support resources
• For access to local community services, dial 211 (844-875-9211) or text zip code to 898211, for information and referrals to physical and mental health resources; housing, utility, food, and employment assistance; and suicide and crisis interventions, United Way, https://unitedwaysem.org/get-help.
• Common Ground’s Resource & Crisis Helpline is available 24/7 – call or text 800-231-1127.
• The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7 confidential support for people who are suicidal or in emotional distress, or who know someone who is. Calls and text messages to 988 route to a 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline call center, www.fcc.gov/988Lifeline.
• Veterans Crisis Line, dial 988 and then press 1 to connect to the Veterans Crisis Lifeline. For texts, veterans should text the Veterans Crisis Lifeline short code: 838255.
• National Domestic Violence Hotline, 800-799-7233, available 24/7.
Oakland County Parks and Recreation to host Fireworks and Flannels event, Feb. 15, at Waterford Oaks Park in Waterford Twp. (Photo of people participating in the 2024 PJ 5K at Waterford Oaks Park, courtesy of Oakland County Parks and Recreation)
Login
