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Annette Kingsbury By Annette Kingsbury By Michael Dwyer C.O.R.E Christine Lind Hage City Council City of Rochester clinton river Crittenton Dan Stickradt Dave Pruneau DDA dear crabby Downtown Rochester Grace Centers of Hope Heidi Morris Jayna Pyke L. Brooks Patterson Mayor Barnett Mayor Bryan Barnett Mayor Bryan K. Barnett Michael Dwyer Oakland County Oakland Township Oakland University OPC Paint Creek Center for the Arts paint creek trail Road Commission for Oakland County rochester Rochester Adams Rochester City Council Rochester College Rochester Community House Rochester Community Schools Rochester High School Rochester Hills Rochester Hills Fire Department Rochester Hills Museum Rochester Hills Public Library Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce Rochester Rotary Club Stoney Creek High School Stuart Bikson The Village of Rochester Hills
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Category: The Community Edge
C.O.R.E. June 2012 Events
Written by Editor
Friday, 18 May 2012 11:36
No Comments

If you’re looking for something to keep you and your family entertained in June, then check out the long list of activities happening in and around town!

Summer Reading Registration Kick-Off
Friday, June 1
Rochester Hills Public Library, 500 Olde Towne, Rochester
Start registering for summer reading. You can register online at www.rhpl.org/summerreading with your library card and PIN/password. If you have any questions or need to pick-up a reading log, visit one of the reference desks. Summer reading is available for patrons of all ages!

Walk for Meals or 5K Fun Run for Meals
Saturday, June 2, 8 a.m.
Older Persons’ Commission, 650 Letica, Rochester
Walk for Meals and the 5 k Fun Run . Call 248-659-1021 for more information.

Summer Reading Kickoff – Mat Emerick
Saturday, June 2, 2:30 PM
Rochester Hills Public Library, 500 Olde Towne, Rochester
Jump start summer reading with fun, prizes, giveaways and “Story Juggler” Mat Emerick! Mat will revision “A juggler’s dream”, an ancient folktale told throughout Europe and the Middle East, using voice, mime, drama and juggling in this one-of-a-kind presentation. Register all children and adults attending. Call 248-650-7140 for more information.

Teen Videogame Day
Saturday, June 2, 2:30 p.m.
Rochester Hills Public Library, 500 Olde Towne, Rochester
Drop in for some teen-only freeplay- we have Super Smash Bros. Brawl, DJ Hero, Rock Band 2, Mario Kart, and more. No registration required. Games will be rated T or E. Call 248-650-7130 for more information.

The Upper Room
Saturday, June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, 7 p.m.
First Congregational Church UCC, 1315 Pine, Rochester
“A Gathering Place for Today’s Teens”. Every Saturday night teenagers from 6th through 12th grades gather together to see friends, play board games, dance, play Wii, ping pong, pool, basketball, have talent shows, etc. $5 for the evening includes food and activities. Scholarships are available, if needed.  Endorsed by the church,  Rochester/Auburn Hills Community Coalition and Rochester America’s Pride.  www.RochesterUpperRoom.org, Call 248 651-9097 or 248 340-1035

Rochester Regional Chamber of Commerce Golf Outing
Monday, June 4, 9 a.m.
Twin Lakes, 455 Twin Lakes Dr., Oakland, MI
“Bring Your Game, Improve Your Network!” You are cordially invited to participate in a fun filled day at the golf course! A portion of the proceeds will support Chamber programs. Call 248-651-6700 for more information.

Nature’s Path to a Beautiful Garden
Tuesday, June 12, 7 p.m.
Rochester Hills Public Library, 500 Olde Towne, Rochester
Visualize your garden as the new frontier…Why is so important that we foster native plants, improve soil structure and recycle litter (leaf, plant material etc.)? How can your garden make a difference? Become conscious of your surroundings as you discover the importance of native plants. In the natural world, forests are organized groupings of trees, plants, and insects. Your choices can shape the future of your corner of this exciting new world. The numbers of native plants that we can choose from are astounding. Did you know there are over 17,000 native plants in the United States alone? No matter what country you call home, we all have the capability to create endless boundaries. Join Michael Saint for his newest lecture and take the first step on your eightfold path, creating a garden where plants not only serve the eye for beauty but also are functional and help keep our wildlife, insects, and native plant community thriving for future generations. To register, go to http://calendar.rhpl.org or call 248-656-2900.
Used Jewelry Sale
Thursday, June 14, 9 a.m.
Older Persons’ Commission, 650 Letica Dr., Rochester
Used Jewelry Sale. Open to the public. For more information, call 248-608-0269.

Rochester Jaycees Monthly Meeting
Thursday, June 14, 7 p.m.
Rochester Community House, 816 Ludlow, Rochester
This is the regular monthly meeting of the Rochester Area Jaycees. Members of the Rochester chapter meet to network, socialize, and plan upcoming events. This event is open to the public and visitors are welcome to attend.  For more information call 248) 652-7777.

Overdrive Digital Bookmobile
Monday, June 18, 1:30-7:30 p.m.
Rochester Hills Public Library, 500 Olde Towne, Rochester
Developed inside a 74 foot, 18-wheel tractor-trailer, the nationally touring Digital Bookmobile is a high-tech update of the traditional bookmobile that has served communities for decades. The vehicle is equipped with broadband Internet-connected PCs, high-definition monitors, premium sound systems, and a variety of portable media players. Interactive computer stations give visitors an opportunity to search the digital media collection, use supported mobile devices, and sample ebooks and audiobooks from the library. The comprehensive exhibits on board will highlight all aspects of RHPL’s digital download experience: The Digital Catalog, Audiobook Alley, e-Book Experience, Video Lounge, and Gadget Gallery. Immerse yourselves in this interactive learning environment. We look forward to seeing you on board.  Call 248-650-7130 for more information.

Blood Drive
Monday, June 18, 2:00 p.m.
First Congregational Church, 1315 Pine St., Rochester
Blood Drive from 2 – 8 pm. Registration preferred but not required. Call 248 651-6225 for more information.

Parenting Class – STEP
Beginning Monday, June 18, 7:30 p.m. for 7 sessions and Thursday, June 21, 7:30 p.m. for 8 sessions
First Congregational Church, 1315 Pine St., Rochester
Because parents like to be involved in understanding their children’s development, behavior and emotions, a local class is being offered to help parents learn to release stress and tensions. Called STEP classes (Systematic Training for Effective Parenting), they offer parents, guardians, grandparents and caretakers a realistic approach to meeting the challenges of children today. Through the support groups, persons become actively involved in discussing common concerns and learning specific child-training techniques. The Early Childhood STEP class is 7 sessions, held on Mondays starting June 18th from 7:30 – 9 p.m. $90 STEP and STEP/teen class is 8 sessions, held on Thursdays starting June 21st from 7:30 – 9 p.m. $100 Purchase your book the first night of class for $15. To register for either of the 2 STEP classes or for more information call Barbara A. Barnes LMSW at 248 651-9097.

Behind the Scenes Tour
Wednesday, June 20, 12 p.m.
Rochester Hills Public Library, 500 Olde Towne, Rochester
Join Director Christine Lind Hage for a behind the scenes tour of the library. You will begin in the Board Room and proceed to various areas of the library. To register, go to http://calendar.rhpl.org or call 248-656-2900.

Annual Ice Cream Social
Wednesday, June 20, 2 p.m.
Rochester Hills Public Library, 500 Olde Towne, Rochester
Join the library staff and Friends of the Library under the canopy of the West Entrance for a sweet treat to kick-off the 1st day of summer! No registration required.

Rochester-Avon Historical Society Walking Tour
Wednesday, June 20, 7 p.m.
Downtown Rochester
Tours conducted by Rochester-Avon Historical Society president, Rod Wilson. Tours begin at the Western Knitting Mills (Water Street at the northwest corner of the building). Tours last approximately two hours. Look for the man with the top hat. Cost is $5 for non-members, $3 for seniors and students. Call 248-651-6178 for more information.

Woman’s National Farm & Garden Association Garden Walk Preview Party
Wednesday, June 20, 7 p.m.
Rochester Hills Museum, 1005 Van Hoosen Rd, Rochester
Admission $30 per person, $50 per couple.  Tickets are available at the Rochester Hills Museum. For more information, call 248-656-4663.

Woman’s National Farm & Garden Association Garden Walk
Thursday, June 21, 11 a.m.
Co-hosted by The Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm.  An intimate look at the unique and private gardens in our  community. Tour tickets can be purchased at the Rochester Hills Museum Wed-Sat. 1-4 p.m. in advance and on the day of the Garden Tour.  In advance – $10 for Museum members, $12 for non-members, $14 the day of the Tour. For more information, call 248-656-4663.

Rain Gardens and Rain Barrels

Thursday, June 21, 7 p.m.
Rochester Hills Public Library, 500 Olde Towne, Rochester
Join Michele Arquette from the Clinton River Watershed Council to learn about the importance of rain gardens and barrels and how to use them at your home.
Adults and Teens Paperback Book Swap
Thursday, June 28, 6:30 p.m.
Rochester Hills Public Library, 500 Olde Towne, Rochester
Join us for the 10th annual Paperback Book Swap and exchange your paperbacks for other paperbacks. You may swap a book for a book. For example, if you bring four paperbacks to trade, you may take home four paperbacks. Please limit your swap to a total of 15 books and bring only adult and teen titles to trade. To register, go to http://calendar.rhpl.org or call 248-650-7130.

 
Dear Crabby, Please Help Me Train My Dog!
Written by Dear Crabby
Wednesday, 16 May 2012 22:26
No Comments

Dear Crabby,

I need some advice on how to train my dog. I really don’t want to be hitting him with a newspaper all the time. What methods have you found to be successful?

Sincerely, Marie Hopeful

Dear Ms. Hopeful,

I am definitely not a professional at raising dogs. However, I have had a few pups in my life that I was quite attached to, as I have shared in the past. But these dogs did the hard work of getting to my heart. I was not the one working at our relationship if you know what I mean. That being said, I do know the value of a good trainer. As a matter of fact, my Uncle Ralph in Pennsylvania was one of the best dog trainers I had ever seen.  He had a dog that was trained so well, he would bring my Uncle his lunch in the middle of the day, walking several blocks with the brown paper bag in his mouth!  It was almost unbelievable.  He had this dog trained to get the morning paper, find his slippers, and even put the seat down on the toilet after he flushed!  OK, that last one was made up – but I’m sure he could have trained him to if he wanted!  I, however, was not as fortunate. For example, after I had had this one mutt for about four weeks, the dumb dog still piddled in the house, chewed on my slippers, and stared blankly at me when I called his name.  It was extremely frustrating!  The missus finally signed the dog and me up for some obedience training – for the dog, not for me you smart alec’s!  Anyway, in Rochester Hills, where we live, there is a great obedience training facility that offers these weekly classes. The dog and I attended for about six weeks and we were good to go. He started obeying and I stopped threatening to beat him with the newspaper. I will tell you though, I was never more thankful than when my friend shared his dog story with me. He had just purchased a dachshund, you know those long hot dog style dogs. He appropriately named him Frank.  Well, in order to break Frank in slowly, he trained him to piddle on some newspaper in his kitchen. After a month or so, he started taking Frank out for these long walks and noticed that he never did his business outside. Every time he got back to his house, Frank raced into the kitchen and piddled all over his kitchen floor.  Turns out that Frank was doing exactly what he was trained to do.  It took my friend months to retrain Frank and finally get him to do his business outside – what a mess! Well, I’m not sure if I answered your question or not, but I say let the professionals earn their wage – go find a good school and pay attention.  Let me know how it works out for you.

Sincerely, Dear Crabby

Stuck in a rut? Need some biased advice from a crabby old baby-boomer? Ask DearCrabby@rochestermedia.com

 
Visit Bellingrath Home and Gardens
Written by Michael Dwyer
Wednesday, 16 May 2012 15:48
No Comments

Making Friends in Gardens

I have come to love gardening. All the plants, trees and flowers that circle my home – they are my friends. And with any good friendship; hard work, care and love are required to make it grow and last. I now have a great appreciation for gardens around the world and for their owners and caretakers alike.

One such garden caught my eye on a visit to southern Alabama. Southwest of Mobile on the banks of the Fowl River is a 65 acre horticultural treasure called Bellingrath Gardens and Home – named after its owners Walter Duncan and Bessie Morse Bellingrath.

Started as a Fishing Camp

What was once a fishing camp purchased in 1917 by Mr. Bellingrath as a way to relax soon grew into something quite different. Mrs. Bellingrath hired an architect by the name of George B. Rogers in 1927 and by 1932 the gardens were opened for public viewing. The quiet fishing camp that was known as “Bellcamp” for 15 years had been transformed into a beautiful garden that blooms year-round.

By 1935 Mr. Rogers had added a home to the property which became the Bellingrath’s private mansion. The Bellingrath’s loved to entertain and on many occasions Mr. Bellingrath would invite visitors from his gardens into his home for lunch. Mrs. Bellingrath learned to always keep the table set for 16, never knowing how many guests her husband might bring in. Since Mr. Bellingrath’s death in 1955 the house is open to public viewing as well.

Home, Gardens and Riverboat Cruise

It felt like I took a short step back in time. Today the Bellingrath home is much like it was in 1955 and houses a fine collection of antique furnishings, as well as silver, porcelain and cut glass and crystal from around America and Europe. The impressive collection was added after Mrs. Bellingrath died in 1943 – Walter never remarried.

The gardens and home are supported by a foundation Mr. Bellingrath set up to preserve their beauty. The foundation also funds three colleges in the South. As the seasons change so does the garden. Visit their website to see what is in bloom: www.bellingrath.org

Besides the wonderful garden and marvelous home, they offer riverboat cruises on the Southern Belle from February through November. Tickets for the gardens, the home and the cruise may all be purchased separately – and each take about an hour – I recommend you do all three and make a nice afternoon of it.

I really enjoyed strolling through the gardens, gazing upon the fish-filled pools and watching one of the many resident cats dart though the flowers on some sort of mission. And for a moment my thoughts returned to my yard in Michigan, wondering if my cat was on a similar mission among my friends in the garden.

If you go:

 
Bellingrath Garderns & Home
12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road
Theodore, Alabama 36582
800.247.8420

www.bellingrath.org

 

Michael Dwyer is a freelance writer and travel columnist. Michael writes about happenings in the Rochester area, travels across Michigan and destinations around the world. Contact him at Michael@RochesterMedia.com