To have an event included in the Vitality calendar, email the name of the event, the time, date, address, cost (if applicable) and contact information to jgray@medianewsgroup.com.

November

Nov. 13: Night Lighting class sponsored by the Shelby Gardeners Club, from 1-2 p.m. on Nov. 13 at the Shadbush Nature Center. Cost: $5. Don’t be left out in the dark when it comes to night lighting your landscape. This class will explore the many different types of lights available, along with revealing ways to create dramatic effects. By incorporating plant material, hardscapes and low voltage lighting, your landscape can be illuminated from dusk through the evening hours when you can enjoy it the most. This economical way to highlight your landscape not only beautifies your yard, but also provides security and safety as well. For more information, call Ivy Schwartz at 586.873.3782.

Nov. 13: Live at the OPC. The Midwest Dueling Pianos, Thursday Nov. 13, 6-7:30 p.m. $15 Members $20 Non-Members. Get ready for a night of music, comedy, and high-energy fun! The Midwest Dueling Pianos show is a one-of-a-kind entertainment experience where the audience becomes part of the act. Light appetizers & refreshments provided. Open to the public. Sponsored by Pomeroy Living. The OPC is located at 650 Letica Drive, Rochester. For more information call (248)656-1403 or visit OPCcenter.org

Nov. 13: Adult Craft Night: Winter Wine Bottle Luminaries at the Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse, Ste. A, Harrison Twp., Thursday, Nov. 13 at 6 p.m. Crafters of all skill levels are welcome at our monthly Adult Craft Night! Transform a recycled wine bottle into a beautiful winter-themed luminary using paint, ribbon, and fairy lights. Registration is required, so visit htlibrary.org or call (586) 329-1261 to secure your spot now.

Nov. 14: Financial Friday at the OPC. Make Your Income Last, Friday, Nov. 14 at 10:30 a.m. $2. Practical strategies to make your retirement income last. Learn how to balance savings, investments and withdrawals to enjoy a secure and comfortable retirement. Presented by Rochester Wealth Strategies Vice President Xenia Woltmann, AWMA. Open to the public. For information or to register please call 248-659-1029. The OPC is located at 650 Letica Drive, Rochester.

Nov. 14: Memory Café at OPC, Friday, Nov. 14, 1-2:30 p.m. A welcoming social gathering for individuals affected by memory challenges and their care partners. Some activities include art, music and games with light refreshments provided. Sponsored by Waltonwood Main. Open to the public. RSVP to Theresa Gill (248)659-1036 or tgill@OPCcenter.org. The OPC is located at 650 Letica Drive, Rochester. For more information, call (248)659-1029 or visit OPCcenter.org.

Nov. 15: Yoga Moves MS will host the Gratitude Gala on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at The MINT, 27000 Evergreen Road, in Lathrup Village. Yoga Moves MS is a nonprofit celebrating its twenty-first anniversary, providing life-changing and pain-reducing free adaptive yoga for those with MS, Parkinson’s Disease, and other neuromuscular disorders. The Gratitude Gala will celebrate the Yoga MS community and its leaders. Tickets include dinner, live music, open bar, a silent auction, entertainment, and a celebration of the honorees. Register at https://yogamovesanybody.org/fundraisers/ or email info@yogamovesanybody.org. For more information, call 248-417-5985.

Nov. 17: Athletico Physical Therapy Visit at the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Monday, Nov. 17, 10 a.m. Free. Phone: 248.589.0334. Have questions about your health or mobility? A licensed physical therapist from Athletico will be on-site to answer questions, share simple exercises, and provide guidance to help you stay active and safe. Register ahead at: https://miclawsonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/

Nov. 17: Movie at the Library. Sponsored by Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Monday, Nov. 17, 1 p.m. Free. Phone: 248.589.0334. Join us for a select movie at the library.  This months flick: Dances with Wolves. Register ahead at: https://miclawsonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/

Nov. 17: Living Well, Learning More at the OPC. Coach of Champions: Detroit Sports Stories You Never Knew, Monday, Nov. 17, 2:30 p.m., $5, Dining Room. Over 100 years ago, Coach David L. Holmes built the athletic program at Wayne State University, coaching from 1917-1958. With little equipment and even fewer facilities, he welcomed athletes often excluded elsewhere – Black, Jewish, Catholic, and Eastern-European – and guided many to become Olympians, champions, and record holders. Author (and grandson) Keith Wunderlich shares Coach of Champions, celebrating Holmes’ legacy of resilience and inspiration. Books available for $25 cash; signing to follow. The OPC is located at 650 Letica Drive, Rochester. For more information call (248)656-1403 or visit OPCcenter.org

Nov. 18: Live Music & Swing Dancing at the OPC, featuring the Metro Music Makers Big Band. Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2-2:30 p.m.; Swing Dance Lessons,  2:30-4 p.m.; Big Band Show. Members $15 Non-Members $20. Join us for free Swing Dance lessons led by the Diversiform Dance Project Company, and put your new moves to the test as you dance to classic swing tunes performed by the talented Metro Music Makers big Band. Whether you’re coming solo or with a partner, everyone is welcome! Open to the public. Sponsored by DFCU. The OPC is located at 650 Letica Drive, Rochester. For more information call (248)656-1403 or visit OPCcenter.org

Nov. 18 & 25: Knitting & Crochet Circle at the Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse, Ste. A, Harrison Twp. at 10 a.m. Welcome knitters and crocheters of all levels! Hang out and share your creativity with other knitters. Please bring your own projects and supplies. The group creates and donates to charitable organizations like Beaumont Little Angels, Project Linus, Compassion Pregnancy, and more to provide comfort items during times of need. For more information, visit htlibrary.org or call 586-329-1261.

Nov. 18: Check Mates: Chess Club at the Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave., Roseville, Tuesday, Nov. 18, from 6-7:30 p.m. Once a month, local Chess enthusiasts gather at the library to socialize, trade tips, and challenge each other to this classic game of strategy. Whether you are a master player or just learning the game, you are welcome to join us. You may bring your own set or use one of ours. Ages 12 to adult are welcome. For more information, call (586) 445-5407 or email rsvlibraryservice@roseville-mi.gov

Nov. 18: Alzheimer’s/Dementia Caregivers Group at the OPC, Tuesday, Nov. 18, 1:30-3 p.m. Support group for those caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s or Dementia. Open to the public. Respite care is available. OPC is located at 650 Letica Drive, Rochester. Call (248)659-1036 or visit OPCcenter.org for additional information.

Nov. 18: Detroit Opera House Tour and lunch. Sponsored by Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Tuesday, Nov. 18, 10:15 a.m. $12 tour and bus fee + pay for your own lunch at Buddy’s Pizza downtown Detroit. Phone: 248.589.0334. Join us for a 90-minute tour of the historic Detroit Opera House followed by lunch. Register ahead at: https://miclawsonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/

Nov. 19: Navigating Grief During the Holidays at the Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse, Ste. A, Harrison Twp., Wednesday, Nov. 19 at 6 p.m. The holiday season can be a challenge for individuals of all ages from all walks of life. Feelings of sadness, grief, and loss are often amplified during what outwardly appears as a joyful time. Come learn and discuss how we can support ourselves, our loved ones, and each other as we navigate the complexities of grief during the holiday season. Presented by Matina Fabian, Director of Adult Outpatient Services at Hegira Health, Inc. Registration is encouraged, but not required. For more information, visit htlibrary.org or call 586-329-1261.

Nov. 19: Living Well, Learning More at the OPC. Sourdough Bread Class, Wednesday, Nov. 19, 3-5 p.m., $75. Discover the joy of sourdough just in time for the holidays! Join instructor Alaina Campbell, founder of Sprout Bake, for a hands-on class that breaks down the baking process into four simple steps. Learn how to care for the starter, mix and knead dough. Leave with the confidence to bake for family and friends. Every attendee receives: a personal sourdough starter to take home, written instructions and bonus recipes, a refresher video of the process, access to a private sourdough Facebook group & quarterly tips newsletter, a tasting bar featuring fresh sourdough and herbal teas. Spaces are limited. The OPC is located at 650 Letica Drive, Rochester. For more information call (248)656-1403 or visit OPCcenter.org

Nov. 19: Papotage & Cie: Talk-time in French at the Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave., Roseville, Wednesday, Nov. 19, from 6-7 p.m. Papotage & Cie is a program for French conversation practice with a French native speaker (and librarian…) The program is open to any teenager or adult who speaks some French and wants an informal and safe place to practice with others. If you have learned French at school, learned it (forgot it…) and want to practice again, this event is for you. For more information, call (586) 445-5407 or email rsvlibraryservice@roseville-mi.gov

Nov. 19: Lunch & Learn with Chris Stark at the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Wednesday, Nov. 19, 11:30 a.m. Phone: 248.589.0334. Get your questions answered! Chris Stark will host an informative session covering important topics for older adults, all while you enjoy a complimentary lunch. Bring your curiosity and leave with practical knowledge. Register by Nov. 12. Register ahead at: https://miclawsonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/

Nov. 20: Mystery Book Club: “The Honjin Murders” by Seishi Yokomizo at the Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave., Roseville, Thursday, Nov. 20, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Calling all sleuths! Get together with other mystery readers as we discuss crime novels every third Thursday of the month. This month, we will discuss The Honjin Murders by Seishi Yokomizo. You are welcome to join us even if you have not finished the book. For more information, call (586) 445-5407 or email rsvlibraryservice@roseville-mi.gov

Nov. 20: Trivia Night at Total Sports sponsored by the Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse, Ste. A, Harrison Twp., Thursday, Nov. 20 at 6:30 p.m. Come test out your knowledge at HTPL Trivia Night, hosted at Total Sports. Tickets include trivia plus unlimited pizza, salad, and soft drinks. Tickets can be purchased at the library for $8.00 in advance or purchased at the door on Trivia Night for $9. Cash or check only. Max team size of 8. Arrive with a team or we’ll team you up. For more information, visit htlibrary.org or call 586-329-1261.

Nov. 20: Thanksgiving Special Event Lunch  at the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Thursday, Nov. 20, noon. $6. Phone: 248.589.0334. Join us for one of our most beloved traditions—a festive Thanksgiving lunch with turkey, sides, and all the trimmings! After lunch, stick around for a lively bingo game sponsored by Oak Street. Space is limited—register by Nov. 12. Register ahead at: https://miclawsonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/

Nov. 20: Euchre Tournament at the OPC, Nov. 20 at 5 p.m. Registration Begins 4:30 p.m. Members: $7 Non-Members: $10. Pre-registration is appreciated. 8 Games – 8 Rounds. Pay-out prizes to 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th place placers. Open to the public. This program is sponsored by Accent Care. The OPC is located at 650 Letica Drive, Rochester. For more information, call (248)659-1029 or visit OPCcenter.org.

Nov. 21: Join us for Coffee at the DSO, “Billy Joel Songbook” plus lunch after the show at Vivio’s on Friday,  Nov. 21. Join the DSO and vocalist-pianist Tony DeSare for a symphonic celebration of Billy Joel’s most iconic hits. Experience the legendary songs of the Piano Man like never before—brought to life with full orchestral arrangements and favorites including “Only the Good Die Young,” “Just the Way You Are,” “Piano Man,” “New York State of Mind,” “You May Be Right,” “Movin’ Out,” “My Life,” “Don’t Ask Me Why,” and more in this unforgettable tribute to one of music’s greatest storytellers. Bus departs from John Armstrong Performing Arts back parking lot, 24066 F V Pankow Blvd, Clinton Twp at 9:15 am. Cost $105. Register online at www.lc-ps.ce.eleyo.com or by calling L’Anse Creuse Community Education at 586-783-6330.

Nov. 21: Grief Support Group at the OPC, Friday, Nov. 21, 10–11:30 a.m. The death of a loved one affects your head, heart and spirit. A Grief Support Group is an opportunity to gain an understanding about grief and receive support and healing with other caring individuals who have experienced a loss. Many people report a feeling of relief in knowing they are not alone as they share their experience with others. Open to the public. Walk-ins are Welcome Questions: (248)608-0249. The OPC is located at 650 Letica Drive, Rochester. For more information, visit OPCcenter.org.

Nov. 21: Parkinson’s Care Partner Group at the OPC, Friday, Nov. 21, 1-3 p.m. This group provides an opportunity for those who are caring for their loved one to come together for support, sharing and time to talk with others who are also living with Parkinson’s. Open to the public. Call facilitator Kathy Walton 248.568.3549. The OPC is located at 650 Letica Drive, Rochester. For more information, visit OPCcenter.org.

Nov. 22: Puzzle Tournament sponsored by the Roseville Public Library, 29777 Gratiot Ave., Roseville, Sunday, Nov. 22, from 1-5 p.m., at Recreation Authority of Roseville & Eastpointe (RARE). Ready to put your puzzle prowess to the ultimate test? Join us for a thrilling puzzle challenge! Whether you’re flying solo or part of a team, all puzzle aficionados are welcome. Race against the clock for a chance to win fantastic prizes! Got puzzles gathering dust? Bring them to our puzzle swap and discover new challenges to take home. Think you have what it takes to be crowned the puzzle champion? Find out. RARE is located at 18185 Sycamore Street. For more information, call (586) 445-5407 or email rsvlibraryservice@roseville-mi.gov

Nov. 22: All-Ages Wicked Movie Matinee at the Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse, Ste. A, Harrison Twp., Saturday, Nov. 22 from noon to 3 p.m. Join us for a magical matinee showing of Wicked on Saturday, Nov. 22. In celebration of “Wicked: For Good” hitting theaters, we’ll be streaming part one starting at noon and serving up some spellbinding mocktails and enchanting snacks. This is an all-ages program. Costumes are welcome. No registration required. For more information, visit htlibrary.org or call 586-329-1261.

Nov. 25: Tuesday Night Book Group at the Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse, Ste. A, Harrison Twp., Tuesday, Nov. 25 at 6 p.m. Join us as we discuss “Did You Hear About Kitty Karr?” by Crystal Smith Paul. A multigenerational saga that traverses the glamour of old Hollywood and the seductive draw of modern-day showbiz. When Kitty Karr Tate, a White icon of the silver screen, dies and bequeaths her multimillion-dollar estate to the St. John sisters, three young, wealthy Black women, it prompts questions. Lots of questions. Get your copy and join us today. For more information, visit htlibrary.org or call 586-329-1261.

Nov. 25: OATS Tech Program: Streaming and Smart TVs at the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Tuesday, Nov. 25, 4 p.m. Free. Phone: 248.589.0334. Are you paying for TV channels you don’t watch? Learn why people are “cutting the cord” and using streaming services instead. Register ahead at: https://miclawsonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/

Nov. 26: Turkey Time BINGO Games at the OPC, Wednesday, Nov. 26 at 12:30 p.m. $10. Join us for Bingo in the Dining Room. Ticket price includes 8-10 games with up to 4 BINGO cards per player and pizza! Daytime bingo Sponsored by the Village at Orchard Grove and Shelby Crossing. Evening bingo sponsored by Home Helpers Home Care. The OPC is located at 650 Letica Drive, Rochester. For more information, call (248)659-1029 or visit OPCcenter.org.

December

Dec. 1: Madagold: Live Performance  at the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Monday, Dec. 1, 10:30 a.m. Free. Phone: 248.589.0334. Ease into Dec. with an uplifting morning performance by Madagold at the Senior Center. Enjoy great music, friendly company, and a warm community vibe—perfect for a winter pick‑me‑up. Register: https://miclawsonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/

Dec. 4: Sparkle Spectacular: Harrison Township annual Tree Lighting at the Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse, Ste. A, Harrison Twp., Thursday, Dec. 4, from 6-8 p.m. Kick off the holiday season with a dazzling evening of magic, music, and lights at our Sparkle Spectacular. Join us as we countdown to the grand lighting of the holiday tree, followed by a glittering celebration full of cheer and wonder. Enjoy festive music, twinkling lights, hot cocoa, sweet treats, and special holiday surprises for the whole family. Whether you’re young or young at heart, this is a night to shine bright and make joyful memories. For more information, visit htlibrary.org or call 586-329-1261.

Dec. 4-6: Anchors Aweigh for the Holidays with the OPC Performing Arts Troup. Luncheon Show: Dec. 4, noon, $25. Morning Matinees: Dec. 5 & 9 | 10:00am | $15. Set sail for a festive adventure with Holiday Cheer on the High Seas! Enjoy music, laughs, and holiday magic on this spirited voyage. The OPC is located at 650 Letica Drive, Rochester. For more information call (248)656-1403 or visit OPCcenter.org

Dec. 4: Coffee Hour with Humana Medicare 101 Talk  at the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Thursday, Dec. 4, 10 a.m. Free. Phone: 248.589.0334. Grab a cup and meet local Humana representatives to learn about Medicare benefits, coverage options, and plan resources in a no‑pressure, friendly setting. Bring your questions. Register: https://miclawsonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/

Dec. 4: OATS Tech Program: Passwords, Passkeys, and More at the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Thursday, Dec. 4, 1 p.m. Free. Phone: 248.589.0334 Tired of resetting your password all the time? Join this lecture to discover password alternatives and different ways to manage your passwords. Register: https://miclawsonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/

Dec. 8: Lunch & Learn with Stephanie and Josh at the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Monday, Dec. 8, 11 a.m. Free. Phone: 248.589.0334. Enjoy a light lunch while Stephanie and Josh share timely resources and helpful insights for older adults. Come hungry for food and information. Register: https://miclawsonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/

Dec. 8: Meet Rep. MacDonnell (Community Drop‑In) Monday, Dec. 8, 6 p.m. Free. Phone: 248.589.0334. Stop by for an informal conversation with Representative MacDonnell. Ask questions, share concerns, and learn about current initiatives. Register: Drop in—no registration required.

Dec. 11: Adult Craft Night: Craft Supply Exchange & Drop-In Winter Craft at the Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse, Ste. A, Harrison Twp., Thursday, Dec. 11, from 6-8 p.m. Avoid the cold weather – come “chill” with us at HTPL! No registration is required for this special Adult Craft Night. Drop in and create holiday cards, ornaments, handmade bows, and more small crafts. Snacks and beverages will be provided. In addition to Craft Night, we’ll be hosting a Winter Craft Supply Exchange! Drop off up to 5 standard sized (12 x 12 x 10”) boxes of craft supplies starting Dec. 1 through Dec. 11 to participate. For each box you donate, you’ll receive a “ticket to shop.” One ticket equals one box that you can fill up on the day of the exchange. Any leftover supplies that are not taken after the exchange will be donated or used for library programming. This is an Adults-Only program. However, we will accept children’s craft supplies for the exchange. Check htlibrary.org/events for a full list of accepted and non-accepted items. For more information, call 586-329-1261.

Dec. 16: Harrison Township Diamond Dazzlers: Diamond Dot Club at the Harrison Township Public Library, 38255 L’Anse Creuse, Ste. A, Harrison Twp., Tuesday, Dec. 16, from 6-8 p.m. Are you a regular Diamond Dot fanatic, or are you looking for a new hobby to keep you occupied during the cold winter months? Drop in and join our new Adult Diamond Dot club! Come chat with fellow Diamond Dotters and treat yourself to a cozy and relaxing evening of crafting. Snacks and beverages will be provided. Feel free to bring your own project to work on. We’ll also have freebies available if you come empty-handed. No registration required. For more information, visit htlibrary.org or call 586-329-1261.

Dec. 18 (register by Dec. 8): Christmas Lunch & Bingo  at the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Thursday, Dec. 18, noon. $6. Phone: 248.589.0334. Celebrate together with a festive holiday lunch, then stay for merry rounds of bingo with prizes. A seasonal favorite—these seats fill quickly! Register by: Dec. 8. Register: https://miclawsonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/

Dec. 9: The Birmingham Metropolitan Woman’s Club presents at their monthly luncheon, A Presentation of Christmas Songs at 10:30 a.m. The presentation will be followed by a delicious lunch. You do not have to be a member to give us a try. Reserve your place two weeks prior to the event by calling Chris at 248-303-7339. Lunch & program $34, held at the Iroquois Club, Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Twp. To learn more visit, tbmwc.com

Dec. 9: Holly, History & Harmony (Trip). Sponsored by Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Tuesday, Dec. 9, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. $50 (admin fee). Phone: 248.589.0334. A festive outing featuring seasonal history, music, and community cheer. Drop‑off/pick‑up at Troy Community Center. Registration closes Nov. 21—reserve your seat now. Register: https://miclawsonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/

Dec. 11: Holiday Orchestra Concert. Sponsored by Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Thursday, Dec. 11, 11:30 a.m. $4 for lunch (served at noon). Phone: 248.589.0334. Enjoy the festive sounds of the Clawson Public Schools String Orchestra as they perform holiday classics for our community. Following the concert, students will join senior adults for a special lunch. Space is limited—please register ahead for lunch. Register: https://miclawsonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/

Dec. 15: Movie at the Library. Sponsored by Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Monday, Dec. 15, 1 p.m. Free. Phone: 248.589.0334. This month, we celebrate UN Human Rights Month with a special viewing of the movie Gandhi at the Blair Memorial Library. Popcorn and refreshments provided. Register: https://miclawsonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/

Dec. 15: Secretary of State Mobile Office at the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Monday, Dec. 15, from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Phone: 248.589.0334. Renew IDs, driver’s licenses, and other common documents without leaving Clawson. The Mobile SOS Office will be at the Senior Center. Call to make an appointment today at 248.589.0334.

Dec. 16: OATS Tech at the Library Saving Money with Tech  at the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Tuesday, Dec. 16, 4 p.m. Free. Phone: 248.589.0334. Explore ways that tech can help you save money and manage your finances. Register: https://miclawsonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/

Dec. 30 (register by Dec. 18): “Noon Year’s Eve” Lunch with Olivia Van Goor  at the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Tuesday, Dec. 30, noon. $6. Phone: 248.589.0334. Ring in 2026 early with a celebratory lunch and a sparkling jazz performance by Olivia Van Goor. Countdown at noon—party favors and smiles guaranteed. Register by Dec. 18. Register: https://miclawsonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/

Dec. 19: OATS Tech Lecture, Technology for Aging in Place at the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson, Friday, Dec. 19, 1 p.m. Free. Phone: 248.589.0334. Come learn how smart technology can help you maintain your independence in your own home. Register: https://miclawsonweb.myvscloud.com/webtrac/web/

January

Jan. 14: Let’s head to lunch at Lelli’s before the show at Meadowbrook Theatre, “All Shook UP” on Wednesday, Jan 14. This musical was inspired by and features the songs of Elvis Presley. Set in 1955 the story of the guitar-playing young man and his hip-swiveling musical fantasy will have you jumping out of your blue suede shoes. Enjoy these classics: “Heartbreak Hotel”, “Jailhouse Rock” and “Don’t be Cruel.” Bus departs from John Armstrong Performing Arts back parking lot, 24066 F V Pankow Blvd, Clinton Twp at 11:00 am. Cost $120. Register online at www.lc-ps.ce.eleyo.com or by calling L’Anse Creuse Community Education at 586-783-6330.

Monthly events

•  Monthly Casino Trips: Sponsored by the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson. Last Thursdays & Fridays, 10 a.m. (unless otherwise noted). $12. Venture out to Hollywood Casino or Motor City Casino (rotates monthly). Try your luck at the slots, table games, and more! Enjoy the excitement with friends. Register: 248.589.0334 or recreation.cityofclawson.com

• Chair Drumming: Second Thursday of the month at 1 p.m. at the Clawson Recreation and Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court. Cost is $5 per drop-in class. For more information, call 248-589-0334 or online at recreation.cityofclawson.com.

• The Birmingham Metropolitan Women’s Club: Meets the second Tuesday of the month at the Iroquois Club, 43248 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Twp. at 10:30 a.m. for lunch & informative speakers. We are a friendly group of 50+ women who gather for friendship, informative programs & philanthropic activities in our community. Visit before becoming a member. The cost for the luncheon & program is $32. To make a reservation, call Chris at 248-303-7339. To learn more, visit tbmwc.com

•  Monthly Epic Health Screenings: At the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson. Last Wednesdays (unless otherwise noted), 11 a.m.–1 p.m. FREE. Stay on top of your health with a quick 10‑minute checkup. Professionals will be on-site to monitor vital signs and share tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Register: 248.589.0334 or recreation.cityofclawson.com

• Learn Spanish: at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesdays at the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson. Donations welcomed. For more information, call 248-589-0334 or visit cityofclawson.com

• Somerset Mall Walking and Shopping: 1st & 3rd Wednesdays of the month. Depart at 9:45 a.m. from the Clawson Recreation and Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court to enjoy a scenic and safe way to support your physical &  mental well-being and shop while you are there! Cost $3. Contact dispatch at 248-583-6700 to sign up.

•  Join Widowed Friends, a peer support group hosting Tuesdays, noon. Bowling Collier Bowl, 879 S. Lapeer Rd (M24) Arrive at Noon for lane assignment. Three games, shoes extra. Lunch afterward is optional. Hosts: Joe, 248-693-2454 or Nadine, 248-475-9036.

•  Join Widowed Friends, a peer support group hosting Thursdays. Michigan Meadows Golf Course will resume very soon. Call Chuck, 586-201-6607.

• Yoga for Seniors: At the Fraser Senior Activities Center, 34935 Hidden Pine Dr., Fraser. Friday mornings 10:30am-11:30 a.m. (6-week sessions). Wednesday mornings 11:30-12:30 p.m. (6-week sessions). $26 for members per session, $32 for non-members per session. To register, call 586-296-8483.

• Attorney Eric Glick: At the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson. 3rd Wednesdays, 1–2:15 p.m. FREE. Schedule a 15‑minute legal consultation to discuss your questions and concerns. Find helpful guidance and resources in a confidential setting. Register: 248.589.0334 or recreation.cityofclawson.com

•  Join Widowed Friends, a peer support group hosting Monday Golf, Stony Creek Golf Course will resume soon. Call Ted, 248-425-4879.

• Pickleball Drop: in with friends of all ages for a friendly game of pickleball at the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson. on Mondays, from 1-3 p.m. Cost is $2. For more information, call 248-589-0334 or visit cityofclawson.com

• Quilting Group: meets every Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson.  For more information, call 248-589-0334 or visit cityofclawson.com

• Water Fitness Classes: Mondays & Wednesday, from 11:10 a.m. – noon (times subject to change based on staffing) at L’Anse Creuse North high school located at 23700 Twenty One Mile Rd, Macomb. Cost $5 drop in or punch cards available for $50 – payment accepted poolside or online and bring your receipt. Register online at Lc-ps.ce.eleyo.com or by calling L’Anse Creuse Community Education at 586-783-6330.

• Wheel of Fortune: At the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson. 3rd Thursdays, 1 p.m. (date subject to change). FREE. Spin the wheel, solve puzzles, and claim your prize in this lively, interactive game. Bring your lucky charm and competitive spirit. Register: 248.589.0334 or recreation.cityofclawson.com

• Men Only Breakfast: Lukich Family Restaurant (1st and 3rd Thursday), 3900 Rochester Rd., Troy, at 9.m. The Widowed Men’s Group invites you to meet with other widowed men for breakfast at either of the Men’s Fellowship locations whichever is more convenient for you. Many topics & ideas help you become involved in the activities of Widowed Friends. Sponsored by Widowed Friends Ministries  Contact Ray at 248-585-5402.

• Quilting Group: Meets every Tuesday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Room 5/6. at the Clawson Recreation and Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court. Let’s meet up to discuss the latest topics and ask questions in a friendly environment. For more information, call 248-589-0334 or visit cityofclawson.com

• $5 Movie at MJR: Sponsored by  the Clawson Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson. 1st Tuesdays (morning showtime). $3 bus fare, $5 ticket. Catch a fun flick with friends at MJR. Movie title and showtime will be announced as the date approaches. Purchase your ticket and any concessions on-site. Register: 248.589.0334 or recreation.cityofclawson.com

• Pick Your Play: Thursdays at 12:45 p.m. at the Clawson Recreation and Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court. Play Kings in the Corner, Hand & Foot, Farkle, whatever you like. Bring a friend and have some fun. For more information, call 248-589-0334 or visit cityofclawson.com

• Did you want to learn to play piano, guitar or ukulele? What about voice lessons? We offer beginner classes for youth and adults: Visit our website to see all of the  music lessons we offer.  Lessons take place at Kawai studios and rental instruments are available for rent. Kawai studio is located at 12745 23 Mile Rd, Shelby Twp, MI  48315. Register online at Lc-ps.ce.eleyo.com or by calling L’Anse Creuse Community Education at 586-783-6330

•  Join Widowed Friends, a peer support group hosting Tuesdays at 6 p.m. Dancing American Polish Century Club, 33204 Maple Lane (14 Mile east of Van Dyke), Sterling Hgts. Doors open at 6PM. Music from 7-10:30 p.m. Cost $10 per person, cash bar. Contact Event Host, Liz 586-801-4536.

• Current Events Club: meets the 1st Thursday of each month at 1 p.m. at the Clawson Recreation and Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court. Let’s meet up to discuss the latest topics and ask questions in a friendly environment. For more information, call 248-589-0334 or visit cityofclawson.com

• Fitness 20/20/20: Monday and Wednesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Fitness 20/20/20 held at Frederick V Pankow Center – Room 505, 24076 F V Pankow Blvd, Clinton Twp. Cost is $96 Register online at Lc-ps.ce.eleyo.com or calling L’Anse Creuse Community Education at 586-783-6330.

• Chair Exercise: On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at the Clawson Recreation and Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court. Level I at 10:30 a.m.: Seated warm-up, light weights, bands and balance work. Level II at 11:15 a.m.: Low-impact moves. No fee, donations welcome. For more information, call 248-589-0334 or visit cityofclawson.com

• Socrates Club: Meets the 3rd Tuesday of each month at 5 p.m. at the Clawson Recreation and Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court. Meetup to discuss current events in a relaxed, informal setting. For more information, call 248-589-0334 or visit cityofclawson.com

• Zumba Gold at the Clawson Recreation and Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court at 1:30 p.m. on Mondays with Ivy. Cost is $5 per drop-in class. For more information, call 248-589-0334 or visit cityofclawson.com

• Solo-Seniors Group: meets the 2nd Thursday of each month at 1 p.m. at the Clawson Recreation and Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court Meet and mingle with other seniors in this fun social group. For more information, call 248-589-0334 or visit cityofclawson.com

• Indoor Walking on Mondays and Wednesdays at 9:15 a.m.at the Clawson Recreation and Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court. Meet with friends to walk in the gym. For more information, call 248-589-0334 or visit cityofclawson.com

• Older Persons’ Commission Membership: Mondays – Thursdays, from 8:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.; Friday, from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.; and Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. OPC membership is available at no charge to all residents 50+ of Rochester, Rochester Hills and Oakland Township. Registration forms are available at OPC or online at opcseniorcenter.org. You must register in person and proof of residency is required. The OPC is located at 650 Letica Drive, Rochester. For more information, call 248-656-1403.

• Pinochle: on Mondays and Wednesdays at 12:45 p.m. at the Clawson Recreation and Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court. Cost is $1. Price includes prize money for the top three scores. For more information, call 248-589-0334 or visit cityofclawson.com

• Chair Yoga: at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesdays & Thursdays with Melissa or Stephanie at the Clawson Recreation and Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court. Come get a great stretch in this class! No fee, but donations are welcome. For more information, call 248-589-0334 or visit cityofclawson.com

• Tai Chi: Wednesdays at 10 a.m. with Cheryl at the Clawson Recreation and Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court. Cost is $5 per drop-in class. For more information, call 248-589-0334 or visit cityofclawson.com

• Euchre: on Tuesdays at 12:45 .pm. Cost is $1, which includes prize money, at the Clawson Recreation and Senior Center, 509 Fisher Court. For more information, call 248-589-0334 or visit cityofclawson.com

• Confident Communicators Club: Meets monthly for people who seek improving public speaking skills and leadership confidence. This supportive Toastmasters group meets online the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month from 8-9:30 a.m. Many of our members have gain skills needed to become a better salesperson, grow their business, get promoted, and engage students. Register for any of our meetings to get the Zoom Link -https://confident-communicators-club-meeting.eventbrite.com. Contact our VP Membership to get more information vpm-1196053@toastmastersclubs.org

• New Baltimore Civic Club: Euchre every Thursday at 36551 Main St. (corner of Blackwell) in New Baltimore. Sign in at 6:30 p.m., play at 7 p.m. $10 plus a quarter for each euchre.

• Senior Card Playing: Come and join a fun group of card players who play a wide range of card games. Everyone brings a snack to share while playing. Free. Mondays from 1-4 p.m. at 35248 Cricklewood Blvd. (Cricklewood Recreation Building). Call 586-725-0291.

• Dancing every Tuesday: at Polish Century Club, 33204 Maple Lane, Sterling Heights. Doors open at 6 p.m. Music from 7-10:30 p.m. Cost is $8 per person with a cash bar. A table is reserved for Widowed Friends. Sponsored by Widowed Friends Ministries Contact Kate at 586-344-3886.

• New Baltimore Senior Club: Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This welcoming group of seniors has all sorts of fun. We play bingo, hold luncheons, go on trips, and play cards. Monthly dues, $2. Location 35248 Cricklewood Blvd. (Cricklewood Recreation Building). Call 586-725-0291.

• Zumba Gold: from 10:30-11:30 a.m. every Monday and Wednesday at the Washington Center, 57880 Van Dyke, Washington Twp. Cost depends on how many punches are purchased. 4 punches $23 resident, $29 NR; 11 punches $60 resident, $66 NR. For more information, call 586-752-6543.

• Cards/Games/Friendship: Ss. John and Paul, (1st Thursday or every month), 1:30-4 p.m. at, 7777 28 Mile Rd. Bring a snack to share and your own beverage. Ss. John and Paul support the Agape Center, a resource center for the most vulnerable members of society and would appreciate it if you could bring a canned good (vegetable, meat, fruit) when you come to play. (Dinner afterward at Romeo Family Restaurant, 66020 Van Dyke Rd., between 30 & 31 Mile is optional.) Sponsored by Widowed Friends Ministries. Call Ellen, 586-781-5781.

• Eastside Movies: (1st Tuesday of each month) at Chesterfield Crossing Digital Cinema 16 (known for free soda & popcorn refills also offers discount matinee pricing) 50675 Gratiot Ave., Chesterfield Twp. Early dinner afterwards TBD. Sponsored by Widowed Friends Ministries. For more information, contact Marion at 586-703-1427

• Metamora – Dinner Club: (3rd Wednesday of the month) at 5 p.m. Join us at The White Horse Inn, 1 E High St., Metamora. Reserved seating. Sponsored by Widowed Friends Ministries. Please RSVP to Sharry 248-840-0063. No walk- ins. Please call if you must cancel your reserved seating.

• Breakfast at Avenue Family Restaurant: 31253 Woodward Ave., Royal Oak, at 9:30 a.m. (2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month). Sponsored by Widowed Friends Ministries.

By MIKE HOUSEHOLDER

ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) — The Red Hot Chili Peppers may be strongly associated with southern California, but drummer Chad Smith’s heart never left the Midwest.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, who grew up in suburban Detroit, is gifting a need-based music scholarship to the University of Michigan.

“A lot of people (say), ‘The Chili Peppers, West Coast band, California this and California that.’ I get it. I was born in St. Paul, Minnesota,” Smith told The Associated Press in an interview Sunday, just hours before he made the official announcement during a surprise appearance at the Ann Arbor school’s annual Band-O-Rama event. “The Minnesota connection is strong. The Michigan connection is strong.

“And that’s why we’re here. It’s a natural, authentic fit for us.”

Smith, 64, performed the RHCP hit “Can’t Stop,” alongside the Michigan Marching Band at Hill Auditorium.

The Curtis & Joan Smith Scholarship, which is named in honor of Smith’s parents, will be awarded to an incoming University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre & Dance student, beginning in 2026.

The scholarship is a partnership between the School of Music, Theatre & Dance and the Chad Smith Foundation and comes on the heels of one with the same name launched two months ago at the University of Minnesota. Smith’s parents are Minnesota alums.

Michigan’s version of the Curtis & Joan Smith Scholarship will support incoming freshmen to the School of Music, Theatre & Dance undergraduate program who demonstrate financial need and a strong commitment to pursuing a music career. The scholarship reinforces CSF’s mission to expand access to high-quality music education and career pathways for aspiring musicians across the country.

Smith attended Lahser High School in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan, and began his career playing in clubs and bars across the Detroit area. He credits his parents with nurturing his love of music and supporting his dream to pursue it professionally.

“My mother is 98 years young. Still going. She’s here today — amazing,” Smith said. “So, to be able to honor her (and) my father unfortunately passed away, but they were so integral in helping me with my musical path.”

Smith has been with the Red Hot Chili Peppers since the late 1980s. During that time, the quartet, which also includes singer Anthony Kiedis and bassist Flea, have been one of the biggest-selling music acts, mixing layers of funk, punk, rap and traditional pop over a foundation of rock.

The backward-baseball-cap-wearing Smith has held down the beat on such hits as “Give It Away,” “Under the Bridge” and “Dani California.” The Chili Peppers were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2012.

“I’m fortunate to be in a band people like and I play the drums and maybe some drummers or musicians will get inspired just from my story,” Smith said. “So, yeah, it’s just an opportunity to give back to what I’ve been so lucky to have and for next generations of musicians to be able to pursue what they love.”

As domestic travel booms, many Americans still flock to the familiar — national parks packed before sunrise, selfie-saturated landmarks, cities so overrun with tourists their official mottos may as well be “Been There, Done That.”

Just beyond the beaten path, however, lies a less choreographed America where predictability gives way to surprise and encounters feel more personal, perhaps even profound. These destinations may draw steady crowds like their bucket-list cousins, but they glow with a gentler light: less mainstream, more meaningful.

If zigging where others zag sounds like your kind of trip, this great nation has a wealth of places that might just redefine what “must-see” really means. From California to Florida, these seven detours favor the road less traveled — destinations that may not rack up as many hashtags, but hold their own with standout sights, strong local flavor, and often with fewer crowds and fresher stories.

For wallet-friendly California winetasting: Think Lodi, not Napa — While some snooty oenophiles may scoff at uncorking a grape getaway in California’s understated Central Valley instead of world-renowned Napa, open-minded and budget-conscious wine lovers should give Lodi a taste (visitlodi.com).

Craving a laid-back, grassroots vibe over one cultivated with polish and sophistication? That’s penny wise, not pour foolish. Tastings in Lodi typically run $10 to $20, and often the fees are waived with purchase. By contrast, just 70 miles west, expect to shell out $50 to $125 for samples, and good luck getting in without a reservation. Yep, Lodi welcomes walk-ins.

Among the region’s standouts is Harney Lane Vineyards, one of the few 100% estate-grown wineries in California. This family-owned gem (harneylane.com) offers a personally hosted flight of five small-lot selections — featuring zinfandel, the region’s signature grape — for as low as $20. The Wine and Visitor Center (lodiwine.com), also in town, proudly carries hundreds of wines made from Lodi-grown grapes, four of which can be tasted for just $12.

While Napa Valley has nearly 20 Michelin-rated restaurants to Lodi’s zero, that soon could change with the recent opening of Americana House (americanahouselodi.com). Michelin-starred chef Charlie Palmer has brought his signature progressive American cuisine to a destination known more for value and authenticity than refinement and luxury. Naturally, the months-old restaurant boasts the best wine list in town — yet another reason to zig (or zin?) where others zag.

For a Vegas nightcap: Think speakeasy, not lobby bar — You’ve painted the town and aren’t quite ready to cash in your chips after doing Lord knows what in Sin City. The easiest place to enjoy a nightcap is the lobby bar of your hotel. But if you’re of drinking age and prefer to swig with a zig, skip the obvious and go underground — not to a basement dive, but one of Vegas’ cool, covert speakeasies where the vibe is as smooth as the top-shelf spirits.

Bellagio (bellagio.com) has one that makes its lobby bar seem as old-fashioned as, well, an old-fashioned. It’s called The Vault, and the lounge’s whereabouts are on a need-to-know basis. But since it’s just friends here, this secret bar is nestled discreetly behind the live gaming tables on Bellagio’s casino floor, near the cashier. The joint is a masterclass in moody opulence with equal parts speakeasy, sanctuary and cinematic seduction. Stocked with some of the most expensive and rare bottles in town, and boasting a bar menu that makes no apologies for $60 cocktails, it’s as clear as VING vodka that The Vault is for Bellagio’s highest-end guests.

For those more comfortable with a $13 starter shot of Kentucky straight bourbon, there’s a speakeasy inside the Cosmopolitan that’s a cut above both literally and metaphorically. A working barbershop by day and live music lounge by night, The Barbershop (barbershoplv.com) is a sharp 180 from Cosmo’s neo-retro lobby lounge. Actually, when it takes slipping through a janitor’s closet to get inside, we’re talking something unlike any lounge anywhere.

For a blend of Arizona art and landscape: Think Bisbee, not Sedona — Both of these destinations are Arizona gems, but they shimmer in wildly contrasting hues. Sedona is beautiful and well-known for a reason. Its red rock scenery is dramatic, the hiking is excellent, and the town is full of spas, galleries and restaurants that cater to tourists. But it’s also busy — especially on weekends — and much of the experience feels inauthentic, designed for visitors.

Zag-worthy Bisbee (discoverbisbee.com) offers a very different kind of escape. It’s smaller, raw and far less crowded. The town has a strong local identity, shaped by its mining history and current community of artists, musicians and longtime residents. You won’t find chain stores or luxury resorts here — just quirky shops, historic buildings and a slower pace that feels real.

If Sedona is the place everyone’s heard of, Bisbee is the one they haven’t, but should. It’s not trying to impress anyone, and that’s part of the charm. For travelers who prefer character over convenience and want to explore a town that still feels lived-in, Bisbee is worth the detour.

For a Texas-sized vacation: Think Dallas, not San Antonio — Being home to the legendary Alamo, a vibrant River Walk and two major amusement parks has folks stampeding like longhorns to San Antonio for a vacation in the Lone Star State.

But let’s pour some of that famous San Antone picante sauce on those travel plans. Instead of remembering the Alamo for a Texas-sized trip, consider breaking off from the herd by heading north to “Big D.” Dallas offers up a more robust downtown scene, a larger and more thrilling theme park — Six Flags over Texas (sixflags.com) — and nearby Fort Worth with its cattle-crazy Stockyards (fortworthstockyards.com) and the colorful Cultural District where El Chingon Mexican restaurant (elchingon.com) tops an exciting food scene with its Pancho Villa-inspired flair.

As far as legendary downtown hotels are concerned, while San Antonio’s Menger is respected as the oldest continuously operating hotel west of the Mississippi River, Dallas’ Adolphus Hotel (adolphus.com) is the hands-down winner for Beaux-Arts grandeur meets modern luxury. Built in 1912 by beer magnate Adolphus Busch, the 407-room jewel is located within walking distance of museums, theaters and upscale shopping. You’ll want a healthy walk after enjoying afternoon tea in the hotel’s opulent French Room, a cherished Dallas tradition.

For a family-friendly menagerie: Think Kentucky’s Ark Encounter, not a traditional zoo — If you’re weary of zoos that feel more like concrete enclosures than conservation sanctuaries, consider a detour to northern Kentucky, where a colossal wooden ark rises from the hills like a myth made real.

The Ark Encounter (arkencounter.com) isn’t just a replica — it’s a reimagining of stewardship, scale and storytelling. Built to biblical dimensions, this seven-story timber-frame vessel invites visitors to step into a world where animals weren’t displayed — they were protected. With immersive exhibits, lifelike dioramas and a petting zoo that prioritizes interaction over spectacle, this attraction south of Cincinnati offers a gentler, more thoughtful lens on our relationship with the animal kingdom.

For urban Southern hospitality: Think Knoxville, not Nashville — Nashville isn’t called Music City for nothing. It’s got the Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium, Country Music Hall of Fame, recording studios and honky-tonks that all welcome toe-tapping tourists. But Nashville also is getting more crowded and chaotic — and more expensive — with every new flight added at Nashville International Airport. In fact, BNA had its busiest month ever in June when 2.4 million passengers passed through its gates.

Zigging to Knoxville 180 miles east will get you Tennessee-kissed Southern hospitality without Nashville’s drawbacks. Its music scene is turned down lower, but still holds its own from the storied, century-old Bijou Theatre to the outdoor stage at World’s Fair Park, where the iconic, 266-foot-tall Sunsphere proudly stands.

Knoxville knows how to treat its guests. Whether you’re savoring the prime hanger steak or rainbow trout at stylish Oliver Royale (oliverroyale.com) or sinking into the plush linens of The Tennessean Hotel, this city pairs refinement with warmth. Speaking of The Tennessean (thetennesseanhotel.com), each of its recently renovated 82 rooms is exquisite, an adjective that applies throughout the renowned downtown luxury property. The tea service, alone, is worth a visit — sweet, savory and seeping in Southern charm right down to the last drop of the hotel’s signature sweet peach noir blend.

For a Miami vibe: Think Coconut Grove, not South Beach — The crown jewel of Miami tourism is undeniably South Beach with its miles of white sand and turquoise water seaside and pastel-colored art deco hotels, restaurants and bars giving the neighborhood its signature retro-glam vibe. And if glamor, grit and tropical swagger are your Miami vices, by all means keep zagging.

Away from the sensory playground that is South Beach lies a zig-worthy community often described as Miami’s bohemian soul wrapped in lush greenery and waterfront serenity. Coconut Grove offers boutique hotels, trendy eateries, high-end shops, and a village-like vibe steeped in easygoing charm. Accommodations don’t get more chill than Mr. C Miami Coconut Grove (mrccoconutgrove.com), a 100-room boutique hotel with bay views and a rooftop pool, just steps from the shops and restaurants of Cocowalk. Even its exterior is cool – designed to evoke the sleek, curved lines of a luxury cruise ship, porthole windows and all. South Beach flaunts flash, but it doesn’t have this.

NEW YORK — The great playwright August Wilson used to say he’d just let his characters talk and then try and get out of their way. Bess Wohl’s fascinating and superbly acted Broadway play “Liberation,” by contrast, is entirely frank that this is the playwright talking — or, more specifically, asking question after question of her mom’s generation of 1970s feminists.

On the one hand, this ambitious and personal play, first seen off-Broadway at the Roundabout Theatre, is a moving tribute to the big thinkers who got naked in their meetings (which is why the show judiciously locks up the audience’s phones) and to the pioneers when it came to demanding respect in the workplace, building reproductive rights, advancing sexual freedom and demanding equal pay. Not to mention myriad other victories, even while these women often were raising kids and caring for their less-than-evolved husbands.

On the other hand, its continual interrogations are a reminder of successive generations’ endless fascination with baby boomers, not to mention yet another example of Gen Xers and millennials’ weird complexity of feelings about them.

“Why did you make these sacrifices?” the play wants to know. “Did they bring you happiness? Did you abandon your principles when you had kids?” And, perhaps most interestingly of all, “Did you actually liberate anyone beyond yourselves?”

You can also see this play as highly reflective — for obvious reasons — of the current progressive age of anxiety.

Wohl’s authorial mouthpiece, the character Lizzie (Susannah Flood), begins the show by introducing both herself and her mother’s “friends” who form the feminist group that meets inside a high school gymnasium somewhere in Ohio. (David Zinn’s set looks like a functioning school gym.)  She tells us she will be playing her mother (she shares her name), and so she does, taking us inside those 1970s conscious-raising meetings on folding chairs, but also inside her own nagging sense that the country has failed to follow through on the sacrifices of these women — and even has gone in the opposite direction.

“Why?” the daughter Lizzie often interrupts the play to ask. And does that mean her mom’s generation of feminists somehow failed to make lasting, transferable change, even if they achieved some level of emancipation and power for themselves? Was her mom’s problem actually that she fell in love with a handsome guy and left Ms. Magazine to take care of her kids?

That’s a gutsy question for a writer of Wohl’s generation to interrogate, of course, especially since most feminist plays consider some of the matters questioned here to be inviolate truths and the handsome guy in question is Lizzie’s dad (played, with amusing deference to the rest of the show, by Charlie Thurston) who helped conceive her.

Make no mistake, this is a sophisticated piece of writing that goes far beyond the usual 90 minutes on Broadway, and it is cleverly self-protected too: In the opening scene, Lizzie even takes the audience to task for spending Broadway money and still wanting to get out of there as fast as possible. A paradox, she asserts, and she is right.

At times, you feel like Wohl made a list of what other progressives might criticize about both the play and the movement (too rich, white and straight) and then set consciously about fending them all off by writing beyond her own experience. She pulls it off, thanks in no small measure to this formidable ensemble, especially Kristolyn Lloyd, whose performance is the most dynamic of the night.  But there is no question that Wohl, who went to both Harvard and Yale, writes from the perspective of the liberal elite. For example, we never know in which Ohio city the play is set, even though there is much discussion of the excitement of life in New York, San Francisco and Chicago. A Buckeye would have made a different choice, but then Wohl lives in Brooklyn, where Ohio functions mostly as a metaphor for the other America.

So “Liberation” feels aimed more at the women of Park Slope than Cleveland. Then again, that is who likely will be sitting in those expensive Broadway seats (perhaps with their Upper West Side moms), but it does answer one of Lizzie’s questions about the political direction of the world in a way that the play can’t quite admit.

That said, just asking these kinds of questions is rare, especially with this level of humility.  The other great strength of “Liberation” is the potency and humanity of its characters, even if Lizzie struggles to shut up long enough to let them talk. All are adroitly performed under Whitney White’s direction; if there were a Tony Award for best ensemble, it would be wrapped up now by Betsy Aidem, Audrey Corsa, Kayla Davion, Irene Sofia Lucio and Adina Verson, as well as the aforementioned Lloyd and Flood.

If you are of a certain age, you likely will view “Liberation” as an exploration of the questions that have always come to mind as one’s era of political activism recedes and it dawns on a person that successful relationships and kids and partners take even more work, at least until the nest empties out. It’s a version of the “can-you-have-it-all question” to which, alas, the answer is always no. Whoever you are. The advertisers sold you lies. But the theater always has been the right place to wonder, and hope.

“Liberation” pokes fun at long, “male” plays written by the childless, which is a bit of a cheap shot, albeit one that lands with this audience. In reality, it has much in common with those epic lifts, and that’s a compliment. There are certain thematic interests and structural devices in common with Paula Vogel’s “Mother Play,” which is not surprising, but Wohl has such a powerful and enjoyable voice.

She makes everyone care about the questions she has herself and that’s exactly what a playwright should be doing.

At the James Earl Jones Theatre, 138 W. 48th St., New York; liberationbway.com

Chris Jones is a Tribune critic.

cjones5@chicagotribune.com

These pumpkin and black bean quesadillas are a cozy, fall twist on a classic, perfect for cooler days when you’re craving something hearty yet simple.

The creamy pumpkin purée adds a subtle sweetness and velvety texture that pairs beautifully with the earthy black beans and warming spices like cumin and chili powder. Everything comes together quickly with pantry staples, making this an ideal weeknight meal or satisfying lunch—and a great way to use up pumpkin puree beyond pie.

Crisped in a skillet until golden and melty, these quesadillas are endlessly adaptable. Swap in corn tortillas or use pinto beans instead of black. Optional toppings like avocado, salsa, or sour cream let you customize each plate to your taste. For a more complete meal, serve with a crisp side salad or a tangy cabbage-lime slaw.

Pumpkin and Black Bean Quesadillas

Serves 4

INGREDIENTS

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, minced

1 bell pepper, seeded and minced

1 garlic clove, minced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

½ teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed

1 ½ cups canned pumpkin purée

Salt and pepper, to taste

1½ cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a mixture)4 large flour tortillas

Oil for the skillet

Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, salsa, hot sauce

DIRECTIONS

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper and sauté until soft and lightly browned, about 10 minutes. Stir in the garlic, cumin, chili powder, and oregano, cooking for 1 minute more. Add the black beans and pumpkin purée. Stir to combine, mashing some of the beans slightly for texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for 3-5 minutes until heated through, then remove from heat.

Spread the pumpkin-black bean mixture over half of each tortilla. Top with shredded cheese, then fold the tortillas in half.

Heat a bit oil in a clean skillet over medium heat. Cook each quesadilla for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and the cheese is melted. Slice into wedges and serve warm with desired toppings.

Registered dietitian and food writer Laura McLively is the author of “The Berkeley Bowl Cookbook.” Follow her at @myberkeleybowl and www.lauramclively.com.

By KIKI SIDERIS

Don’t let your Halloween pumpkin haunt the landfill this November.

More than 1 billion pounds of pumpkins rot in U.S. landfills each year after Halloween, according to the Department of Energy.

Yours doesn’t have to go to waste. Experts told us your pumpkins can be eaten, composted or even fed to animals. Here’s how.

Cooking with pumpkin waste

If you’re carving a jack-o’-lantern, don’t throw away the skin or innards — every part is edible.

After carving, you can cube the excess flesh — the thick part between the outer skin and the inner pulp that holds the seeds — for soups and stews, says Carleigh Bodrug, a chef known for cooking with common food scraps. You can also puree it and add a tablespoon to your dog’s dinner for extra nutrients. And pumpkin chunks can be frozen for future use.

“The seeds are a nutritional gold mine,” Bodrug said. They’re packed with protein, magnesium, zinc and healthy fats, according to a 2022 study in the journal Plants.

One of Bodrug’s recipes involves removing the seeds, rinsing and roasting them with cinnamon for a crunchy snack or salad topper. Then you can use the stringy guts to make a pumpkin puree for muffins. This version differs from canned purees in grocery stores — which typically use a different type of pumpkin or squash — because carving pumpkins have stringier innards and a milder flavor. A carving pumpkin’s guts can still be used for baking — you’ll just have to amp up the seasoning to boost the flavor.

If you don’t want to eat your pumpkins, you can donate them to a local farm, which might use them to feed pigs, chickens and other animals.

Edible parts should be collected while you’re carving and before it’s painted, decorated or left on your porch for weeks. Paint and wax aren’t food-safe, and bacteria and mold can grow on the skin in outdoor climates.

Once you’ve cooked what you can and donated what’s safe to feed, composting the rest is the easiest way to keep it out of the landfill.

“That way, even though they’re not safe to eat, they can still give back to the earth,” Bodrug said.

Composting at home or donating to a farm

Composting pumpkins keeps them out of methane-emitting landfills and turns them into nutrient-rich soil instead. You can do this at home or drop them off at a local farm, compost collection bin or drop-off site.

“A large percentage of what ends up going to the landfill is stuff that could have been composted,” said Dante Sclafani, compost coordinator at Queens County Farm in New York. “So even just cutting down something like pumpkins could really help curb how many garbage bags you’re putting out every week.”

Before composting, remove any candles, plastic, glitter, or other decorations — they can contaminate the compost. A little glitter or paint won’t ruin the pile, but it’s best to get it as clean as possible before tossing it in. Then, chop up the pumpkin in 1-inch pieces so it can break down easier.

“Pumpkins are full of water, so it’s important to maintain a good balance of dried leaves, wood chips, sawdust, shredded newspaper, cardboard, straw — anything that’s a dry organic material — in your compost bin,” Sclafani said. If you don’t maintain this balance, your compost might start to stink.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, a healthy compost pile should include a mix of “greens” — like pumpkin scraps and food waste — and “browns” like dry leaves, straw or cardboard, in roughly a three-to-one ratio. That balance helps the pile break down faster and prevents odors.

And if your pumpkin’s been sitting on the porch all month? That’s actually ideal. “It’s never too far gone for compost,” Sclafani said. “Even if it’s mushy or moldy, that actually helps, because the fungus speeds up decomposition.”

“Composting anything organic is better than throwing it out because you’re not creating more refuse in landfills, you’re not creating methane gas,” said Laura Graney, the farm’s education director.

Graney said autumn on the farm is the perfect opportunity to teach kids about composting since it gives them a sense of power in the face of big environmental challenges.

“Even though they’re little, composting helps them feel like they can make a difference,” Graney said. “They take that message home to their families, and that’s how we spread the word.”

The Associated Press’ climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.

By Gretchen McKay, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

When it comes to leafy green vegetables, cabbage sometimes gets a bad rap because, woof! It can really stink up your kitchen if you don’t cook it just right.

The sulfur in the leaves that gives the humble, cruciferous veggie its characteristic pungent taste breaks down during cooking, releasing a strong, rotten egg-like smell that spreads and lingers. It’s especially odorous when boiled.

Large heads of cabbage also can crowd out other vegetables in your refrigerator crisper, and, thanks to its high water content, can spoil in just a few days if improperly stored.

That puts the vegetable on the bottom of the grocery list for some home cooks, despite its wide availability, versatility, health benefit and affordability. (Common green cabbage can often cost less than $1 a pound.)

A new variety developed by Row 7 Seed Co. aims to put cabbage higher on your shopping list and just maybe make it a centerpiece at mealtime. Dubbed Sugarcone cabbage, it just made its debut at Whole Foods markets across the U.S.

A trusted staple

Cabbage — which belongs to the plant family of brassicas — has fed people through both good times and bad since antiquity.

One of the world’s oldest vegetables, the leafy green is thought to have been cultivated in the Mediterranean around 4,000 years ago. The Romans brought it north to England when Julius Caesar invaded in 55 B.C., and by the Middle Ages, it was a popular food for peasants since it was easy to grow.

First brought to the Americas by French maritime explorer Jacques Cartier in 1541, it became an important staple for early European settlers in the New World because it was both inexpensive and nutritious. By the 18th century, it was a common garden crop and culinary workhorse.

Crunchy when raw and tender and sweet when roasted, cabbage is as good a supporting actor in salads and stir-fries as it is in soups, casseroles, braised dishes and wrapped around a mixture of meat and rice in galumpki.

Sugarcone — which resembles a giant ice cream cone — is bred to naturally contain more sugar. That makes it sweeter than standard, spherical cabbage, and creates thin and delicate lettuce-like leaves that are both juicy and crunchy.

Sugarcone is also a lot smaller (and cuter) than those hefty, cannon ball-sized green cabbages most of us grew up with. Most weigh between 1 and 2 pounds, which makes it easier to store in the fridge and cuts down on waste and leftovers.

Pointed cabbage, which is also known as cone, sweetheart or hispi cabbage, has been around for decades. But it’s only been embraced by chefs in the last decade or so as a great-tasting ingredient that shines in a leading role.

“It’s been an underground cult following in the food community,” says Liz Mahler, chief operating officer for Row 7 Seed Co.

One of its early fans was acclaimed farm-to-table chef Dan Barber, who opened the restaurant Blue Hill at Stone Barns in New York’s Hudson Valley in 2004 along with his family.

So when Row 7 — which Barber founded in 2018 with plant breeder Michael Mazourek and seed farmer Matthew Goldfarb — was looking to add to its roster of “democratized” vegetables that thrive both in the kitchen and the field, cone head cabbage seemed like a logical choice.

Already popular in London and other European cities, “it’s also making its way into farmers markets in the U.S.,” Mahler notes.

Yet there was one caveat when the seed company started its first trials earlier this year at farms in Massachusetts and New York: making it mainstream. After all, Barber is a recognized advocate for the “seed-to-table” movement.

“We wanted to source a variety that wasn’t just for white tablecloth restaurants,” says Mahler, “but one that home cooks could also enjoy and experience.”

A lot of the cabbages grown today have been bred to hold up for transport on trucks, says Mahler, with firm and dense heads and tough outer leaves that protect the inner head during travel. That single-minded focus on durability has led to cabbage losing its flavor.

Sugarcone cabbage, which is both sweet and tender, is “a gentle rebuke to everything we’ve accepted about what cabbage should be,” according to its creators.

“We just saw this potential as something delicious and special and transformative in [the] cabbage space, which is a little sleepy and can use some excitement,” says Mahler.

The seeds are sourced from an independent seed company in the Netherlands that leads in cabbage breeding and is known for developing vegetables with flavor and resilience. Regional organic growers include Plainville Farms in Hadley, Mass., Row by Row Farm in Hurley, N.Y., and Spiral Path Farm just north of Carlisle, Pa.

What growers appreciate about Sugarcone cabbage, says East Coast produce manager Larry Tse, is that it’s a small cabbage. That makes it easier to harvest, and helps with weed control because it can be planted more densely, “in a sea of cabbage.”

That, in turn, helps cut down on labor, though learning how to harvest the cone-shaped heads can initially be challenging.

Sugarcone is also a fast grower — it matures in about 70 days after being planted — which means it can be harvested three or four times a year.

“And it’s a fun variety for growers” who are used to round cabbages, says Tse. “They love the shape” as much as the taste.

Launched in mid-September, Sugarcone cabbage is currently available at more than 300 Whole Foods Market stores across California, Texas, the Northeast and the Mid-Atlantic, including in Pittsburgh. Depending on sales, they’re hoping to scale it to more retailers in 2026.

At $2.99 a pound, it’s a little more expensive than other specialty cabbages like Napa or Savoy (and way more expensive than green cabbage) but the flavor makes it worth it, says Mahler.

“We pay our growers to be able to take a risk on a new crop,” she notes, “and we also want to make sure everyone on the team is well compensated.”

But at least you get a bang for the buck: Low in calories, salt and sugar, the leafy vegetable is high in fiber and antioxidants, and just one cup contains 85% of your recommended daily value of vitamin K and 54% of the vitamin C.

Thanks to its fine texture, it’s also very versatile. You can shave it raw into a salad or slaw; stuff the leaves with rice or meat; or ferment it into sauerkraut or kimchi. But the best way to enjoy it may be to simply roast some with a little butter until the leaves char and caramelize.

In bringing the cabbage to Whole Foods, its creators hope to bring excitement to the market and encourage consumers to try new vegetables.

A lot of what is pushed out to market is about high yield and uniformity, says Tse.

“We’re not necessarily looking for those things. We want things that taste good, and we work with our growers every step of the way and support them. That makes these varieties really come alive.”

Says Mahler, “We love bringing new, delicious and joyful vegetables into the world.”

Sugarcone Cabbage Wedge with Dill Yogurt

PG tested

If you’re trying to get someone to try cabbage, this is the dish to start with. It’s easy to make and just so incredibly tasty. I may never have enjoyed a vegetable more — after one bite, I ended up eating an entire half cabbage while standing at my sink.

The herbed yogurt is a lovely finishing touch but it’s not necessary.

1 head Sugarcone cabbage

3 tablespoons butter

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 sprig thyme

1 sprig rosemary

2 tablespoons mirin

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon white pepper

1/2 cup thick Greek yogurt

2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill, plus sprigs for garnish

Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Cut cabbage in half lengthwise, then trim the rounded sides so each half sits flat.

In large saute pan, melt butter with garlic, thyme, rosemary, mirin, salt and white pepper. Spoon this mixture generously over the cut sides of the cabbage, allowing it to soak in.

If saute pan is oven-safe, transfer it directly to the oven; if not, transfer the cabbage to a sheet pan, cut side up.

Roast for about 1 hour, flipping halfway through and basting with pan juices as it cooks.

For a clean, sliceable wedge with a meatier texture, let the roasted cabbage cool, then press it between parchment-lined sheet pans with a heavy weight on top. Refrigerate for several hours or overnight. To serve, reheat at 375 degrees for 15-20 minutes, until lightly crisped.

Mix the yogurt with chopped dill. Cut the cabage pieces in half, then top each piece with a spoonful of the dill yogurt and a sprig of dill.

Serves 4.

— Row 7 Seed Co.

Vietnamese Chicken Salad with Sweet Lime-Garlic Dressing

PG tested

There’s a reason why I so often reach for a Milk Street cookbook when I’m playing around with a new ingredient. The recipes are always straightforward, and delicious.

This recipe, which levels up that grocery store rotisserie chicken that so effortlessly feeds your family on weeknights, is a classic example. It comes together quickly and packs a punch of awesome flavor.

1/3 cup lime juice, plus lime wedges for serving

3 1/2 tablespoons fish sauce

1 1/2 teaspoons white sugar

2 medium cloves garlic, minced

1 small red onion, quartered lengthwise and thinly sliced

3 cups cooked shredded chicken

4 cups shredded cabbage

4 medium carrots, peeled and shredded on the large holes of a box grater (about 2 cups)

3 medium jalapeno peppers, stemmed, halved lengthwise and thinly sliced

1 cup lightly packed fresh basil

1 cup lightly packed fresh cilantro leaves

1 1/2 cup roasted, salted peanuts, roughly chopped

In small bowl, stir together lime juice, fish sauce, sugar and garlic, until the sugar dissolves.

Add onion and let stand for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

In large bowl, toss together chicken, cabbage, carrots, jalapenos, basil and cilantro.

Pour on red onion-dressing mixture and toss.

Toss in half the peanuts, then transfer to a serving bowl.

Sprinkle with the remaining peanuts and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Serves 6.

—”Milk Street Shorts: Recipes that Pack a Punch” by Christopher Kimball

Vegetable Minestrone with Pasta

PG tested

This recipe from Lidia Bastianich’s latest cookbook, which goes on sale Oct. 13, makes a big pot of soup. But it freezes well.

I omitted the pork butt for a vegetarian version of this hearty soup. I didn’t have elbow macaroni on hand so added the pasta from a box of Kraft Macaroni & Cheese, and also took the shortcut of using canned cannelini beans instead of dried. The pesto added at the end really elevates the flavor to the next level.

With a piece of grilled Italian bread, this is a comforting, nourishing meal.

For soup

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil, divided, plus more as needed

1 medium onion, chopped

2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped

2 stalks celery, chopped

Kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes, and more as needed

3 garlic cloves, peeled and sliced

1 14.5-ounce can whole San Marzano tomatoes, crushed by hand

2 fresh bay leaves or 3 dried

2 15-ounce cans cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

1 large Idaho potato, peeled and cut into 1/2 -inch dice

4 cups shredded green cabbage

2 small zucchini, trimmed and cut into a 1/2 -inch dice

1 up tubettini or small elbow pasta

For pesto

1 cup loosely packed fresh basil leaves

1/2 cup freshly grated Grana Padano or Parmigiano Reggiano

Heat 1/4 cup of olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots and celery, season with 2 teaspoons salt and the peperoncino.

Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are wilted, about 4 minutes.

Add garlic, let it sizzle for a minute, then add tomatoes and let the liquid simmer for 10 minutes.

Add 5 quarts water and bay leaves, and bring to a rapid simmer. Season with 1 teaspoon salt.

Simmer for an additional 20 minutes to blend the flavors, then add canned beans along with potatoes and cabbage.

Bring soup to a rolling boil, adjust heat to simmering, and cook, partially covered, until liquid has thickened, about 20 minutes. Add zucchini, and cook until it’s softened, about 10 minutes. (The soup can be prepared to this point up to 2 days in advance. Cool to room temperature, then chill it completely. Bring to a boil, stirring occasionally, before continuing.)

Stir the pasta into the soup, and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s al dente, about 8 minutes.

While pasta is cooking. combine basil, grated cheese and remaining 1/4 cup olive oil in a mini food processor. Process until you have a coarse pasta, adding a little more oil if necessary. Season to taste with salt.

Taste soup, and season with more salt and red pepper flakes if necessary. Let it rest, off heat, for 5 minutes.

Stir pesto into the soup, and ladle into warm soup bowls.

Makes about 4 quarts.

— adapted from “Lidia’s The Art of Pasta” by Lidia Matticchio Bastianich and Tanya Bastianich Manuali (Knopf, $35)

© 2025 the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Visit www.post-gazette.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. ©2025 PG Publishing Co. Visit at post-gazette.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Jim McCarty and Johnny “Bee” Badanjek may not be household names, but in the music world, the guitarist and drummer, respectively, are legends.

And now the two Detroiters are the subject of a documentary series, “Jim and the Bee,” that will have a premiere screening this weekend before airing next spring.

The three-part series examines the duo’s careers, which include tenures with Mitch Ryder & the Detroit Wheels, Detroit, Cactus, the Rockets and more. McCarty currently leads his own band, Mystery Train, while Badanjek — whose session resume includes work with Alice Cooper, Edgar Winter, Nils Lofgren and others — is also a noted painter who released a solo album.

Ken LaPlace, whose Ortonville-based Living Legends Motion Pictures directed and co-executive produced “Jim and the Bee,” says the plan began after Badanjek appeared on its syndicated PBS cooking show “The Melody Grill.” “The original plan was to produce a simple half-hour feature on Johnny,” he explains. “Word got out and pretty soon, we had a list of well-known rockers calling to be in it, and here we are today.”

Filming took place between March 4, 2024, and Oct. 2, 2025, including interviews with Cooper, Lofgren, Suzi Quatro, Ted Nugent, ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons, the E Street Band’s Max Weinberg, Mark Farner, the Smithereens’ Dennis Diken and others. It’s slated to be shown in three parts on WDCQ in Saginaw, most likely in March, and is being pushed to other PBS outlets. An extended trailer is available on YouTube.

The “Jim and the Bee” premiere takes place at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1, at Harpo’s Concert Theatre, 14238 Harper Ave., Detroit. 313-824-1700. Proceeds will benefit sick, injured and disabled first responders through the nonprofit Living Legends Organizations. Attendees will have the opportunity to sign a petition requesting Ryder and the Detroit Wheels to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

As Volkswagen continues its efforts to grow market share in the SUV segment, it has made some updates to the 2025 edition of the smallest member of the family — the Volkswagen Taos.

This little SUV isn’t going to sit idly by while others in the segment make upgrades. WIth the 2025 Taos, Volkswagen has decided to add additional horsepower to the engine, as well as some style updates to both the exterior and interior of the vehicle, plus a larger infotainment screen.

I recently tested a 2025 Volkswagen Taos SE Black model, and I’m back with a full report on how the vehicle holds up vs. other compact SUVs — including offerings from Chevy (Trax), Mazda (CX-30), Buick (Envista) and Subaru (Crosstrek).

LOOKS

Starting on the exterior, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos gets a solid redesign, include some unique color options such at the Cornflower Blue paint on my test vehicle, or the Bright Moss Green Metallic option.

My test vehicle’s trim level featured black exterior elements, including rear spoiler, roof rails and side mirror caps.

A new lighting design is in place with integrated LED light bar designs in front and back. If you’re familiar with the look of VW’s larger Atlas SUV, much of that style is replicated here at a smaller size. It’s an attractive overall look, one of the best in the segment.

Small but not too tiny, the Taos is a strong option for city dwellers and commuters who also want to be able to transport their family and friends around in comfort. You can also move up one size level to VW’s Tiguan SUV if you need more space.

My test vehicle featured 18-inch black painted alloy wheels with all-season tires. Wheel size options range from 17 to 19 inches on the Taos.

The adaptive front lighting system also features dynamic cornering lights, which swivel for better illumination while turning.

Other exterior features include:

• Heated, foldable, power adjustable side mirrors

• Rain-sensing, variable intermittent front wipers with heated washer nozzles

• Power tilting and sliding panoramic sunroof

Moving inside the Taos, you’ll find a respectable amount of cargo space, strong leg room for back seat passengers, and leatherette or leather seating materials offered. It’s one of the biggest and most comfortable little SUVs you can find.

The cargo capacity maxes out at 66 cubic feet with the back row down, and 28 cubic feet with those seats upright — solid numbers for the compact SUV segment.

Updates were also made to the dashboard and tech setup, and features like ambient lighting, multi-zone climate control, and heated/ventilated seats are also included.

While not the most upscale vehicle in the segment, nothing in the vehicle feels cheap.

Other interior features include:

• Leatherette-wrapped steering wheel

• Center armrest in 2nd row

• USB ports in both rows

• Illuminated and carpeted cargo area

HOW’S THE RIDE?

There is one engine offered on the 2025 Volkswagen Taos — a 1.5-liter, turbocharged, four-cylinder power plant that is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and delivers 174 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The horsepower number sees a solid boost from the previous version of the Taos.

The Taos comes standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option.

The overall driving experience in the Taos is smooth and handles corners well, but not noticeably fast. That being said, it’s delivering enough oomph to make it a memorable experience for most families, just don’t go in expecting a speed demon.

Looking at the 0-to-60 times on the Taos, it comes in at the mid 7-second range, which is solid for the segment. Drive modes offered include Normal, Eco, Sport and a custom option.

As long as you recognize you’re driving a family hauler and not a hot rod, you should be able to enjoy your time behind the wheel.

TECHNOLOGY, SAFETY

Tech is somewhat of a mixed bag on the 2025 Taos.

On the positive side, an 8-inch touch screen in the center console responds well to touch-screen controls and has controls that are easy to master. It’s worth noting though that some rival SUVs offer larger screen sizes.

But on the weaker side, the voice commands on the Taos are not as reliable as rival systems. Beyond that, the slider-style controls for climate (which VW seems to have embraced across the lineup) will prove divisive. I got used to them quickly, but some people prefer physical buttons.

Overall the system is not flashy but is quite functional, and is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Navigation is offered, along with Bluetooth, wireless phone charging and satellite radio, and several charging ports.

Moving on to safety, the Taos delivers nearly perfect government ratings.

The backup camera is very helpful, as are the sensors all around the vehicle. And the Travel Assist feature (offering semi-autonomous driving assistance) can come in handy on longer trips.

Other safety features include six airbags, Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, LATCH system for child seats, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, Forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking.

Other safety features on the Taos include::

• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go

• Lane Assist (Lane Keeping System)

• Emergency Assist (semi-automated vehicle assistance in a medical emergency)

• Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Monitoring

• Active Blind Spot Monitor

• Rear Traffic Alert

MPG

The FWD Taos that I tested had official fuel mileage numbers listed at 28 city/36 highway/31 combined. The AWD version is listed at 25 city/33 highway/28 combined.

During my time in the Toas, I averaged 25 mpg, which was pretty low compared to the numbers listed, even accounting for mostly driving in the city. I’m sure I could have improved that number some if I had focused on maximizing fuel economy, but fuel mileage is one area that may give pause to some potential buyers.

PRICE

The 2025 Taos that I tested was priced just over $32K, and its base price starts about $26K.

Trim levels include the base S model, SE, SE Black and SEL.

If you want to upgrade from the base, you can opt for the SE trim, you can stay under the $30K mark, and still get a solid vehicle with lots of solid features.

In terms of pricing, the Taos falls around the middle of the pack among compact SUVs. Some rivals come in much lower in the $20K range, while others start out even higher and push close to the $30K mark even on base models. All in all, the Taos offers a happy medium.

You’re paying a bit more than some rivals, but you’ll get more room plus better design and more features.

Warranties are solid on the Taos, including:

• New Vehicle Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles

• Powertrain Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles

• Scheduled maintenance covered at 1 year/10,000 miles and 2 years/20,000 miles

• 24-hour roadside assistance for 3 years/36,000 miles

BOTTOM LINE

Small but stylish, roomy inside for the segment, and offering decent power, the 2025 Volkswagen Taos is a solid overall compact SUV offering that competes well in this very busy segment.

It’s a vehicle you’ll want to include on your list of test drives if a mini-ute is what you want to bring home.

Matt Myftiu’s past reviews can all be seen online at autotechreviews.com. Follow AutoTechReviews on Instagram at @Autotechreviews or on TikTok at @AutoTechReviews.

FYI

• Vehicle: 2025 Volkswagen Taos

• Price as tested: $32,025 (starts around $26K)

• Best feature: Roomy for a compact SUV

• Rating: 4 out of five stars

• Who will want this vehicle?: Drivers seeking a compact SUV that’s big enough for a family, offers a respectable drive quality, and solid cargo space

STAMFORD, Conn. (AP) — Mike Tirico, Maria Taylor, Ahmed Fareed and Noah Eagle will work multiple events in February as NBC broadcasts the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, Super Bowl 60 and the NBA All-Star Game.

On Feb. 8, Tirico will handle play-by-play in a Super Bowl for the first time after being the pregame host in 2022. After the Super Bowl postgame, he will host “Primetime in Milan” from Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.

Tirico, who will be hosting NBC’s primetime Olympic coverage for the fifth time, will begin hosting from Italy on Feb. 10 until the conclusion of the games on Feb. 22.

Tirico will also be part of NBC’s debut of “Sunday Night Basketball” on Feb. 1 when he calls the Los Angeles Lakers-New York Knicks game at Madison Square Garden.

Taylor will be the lead host of the Super Bowl pregame for the first time. On Feb. 7, she will be the primetime host of Olympics coverage and then will be the late-night host from Italy beginning on Feb. 10. This will be the fourth Olympics assignment for Taylor, who joined NBC in 2021.

Taylor will also host the debut of “Basketball Night in America” on Feb. 1.

Fareed will anchor the NBA All-Star Weekend coverage from Inglewood, California, Feb. 13-15 as well as being the daytime host of Olympics coverage on Feb. 7.

Eagle will call his first NBA All-Star Game on Feb. 15 as well as All-Star Saturday. He will also be part of the Super Bowl pregame and has NBA games on Feb. 1 (Oklahoma City at Denver) and Feb. 22 (Boston at Los Angeles Lakers).

Today show co-anchors Savannah Guthrie and Craig Melvin will also be part of Olympics coverage. Guthrie will host the Opening Ceremony with Terry Gannon Feb. 6 and then “Primetime in Milan” on Feb. 9. Melvin has the Late Night show from Feb. 7-9.

“The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” alum Floyd Rogers Myers Jr., who appeared on the hit show as a child, has died. He was 42.

The “Jacksons: An American Dream” actor suffered a heart attack at his Maryland home early Wednesday, his mother, Renee Trice, confirmed to TMZ.

This was the fourth in a string of heart attacks over the past three years, according to Trice.

Myers’ screen career was short but notable, as the younger version of Will Smith in a 1992 “Fresh Prince” episode, “Will Gets Committed.”

The Daily News has reached out to Smith for comment.

Later that year, Myers appeared as Marlon Jackson, ages 7 to 9, in Parts I and II of “The Jacksons: An American Dream.” The Emmy-winning miniseries about the Jackson family also starred Lawrence Hilton-Jacobs as patriarch Joe Jackson, Angela Bassett as matriarch Katherine Jackson as well as Holly Robinson Peete, Terrence Howard, Billy Dee Williams and Vanessa Williams.

Myers’ last screen appearance was in 2000, when he was credited as a student in “Young Americans,” which aired for one season and starred Kate Bosworth and Ian Somerhalder.

Earth is full of natural beauty, from towering waterfalls to wind-sculpted mountains to atolls wrapped in rainbows of coral.

Then there’s Death Valley, a desert that claims the world-record high of 134 degrees and bears geographic names like Hells Gate and Amargosa Chaos. Nevertheless, Conde Nast Traveler considered Death Valley worthy of inclusion in its October story, “The 71 most beautiful places in the world.”

“One of the most popular locations is the multihued Artists Palette, a series of eroded hills whose coloring is due to the oxidation of natural metal deposits in the mountains,” the magazine raved. “‘Star Wars’ fans will be keen to see the site that inspired the planet Tatooine.”

Many wonders made the list, including royal burial grounds in Egypt, an Indonesian archipelago of 1,500 islands and Turkish cliffs formerly inhabited by Bronze Age troglodytes (cave dwellers). Here are the first 10 destinations on CN Traveler’s accounting; check out the story for all 71 sites, which also throws a bone to Redwood National and State Parks in Northern California.

Conde Nast Traveller’s most beautiful places on earth for 2025

1 Pink Sands Beach, Harbour Island, Bahamas

2 Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia

3 Zhangye National Geopark, China

4 Cappadocia, Turkey

5 Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe

6 Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

7 San Miguel de Allende, Mexico

8 Valley of the Kings, Egypt

9 Amalfi Coast, Italy

10 Avenue of the Baobabs, Madagascar

Source: https://www.cntraveller.com/gallery/most-beautiful-places-in-the-world

If we have winners then, in most cases, we most also have losers.

And that most certainly is the case in the horror movie genre.

Yet, for better or worse, we consider ourselves horror completists and try and watch both the good and bad ones.

Here are the ones we were most sorry about seeing in 2025.

We advise you to avoid these 5 horror films this Halloween season.

We’ll start out with the worst of the worst and slowly creep to the merely miserable.

1.“28 Years Later”

It was one of the three or four most highly anticipated horror films going into 2025. Yet, it also turned out to be the most disappointing one we saw this year. It’s pretty much rubbish from start to finish, yet the last half is such an uninspired convoluted mess of “Apocalypse Now” and “Walking Dead” (with Ralph Fiennes coming in somewhere between Daryl Dixon and Marlon Brando) that you’ll be sorry for watching it.

2. “Him”

Take a seat and let director Justin Tipping hit you over the head, repeatedly, with the point that society puts too much emphasis on The G.O.A.T. – especially in sports. Yes, it’s a worthy point to make, yet it’s hard to imagine a worse way to make it than in this horror/sports epic that manages to fail both film genres.

3. “The Long Walk”

One Stephen King adaptation hit it out the park (“The Monkey”) in 2025, while this one – which King published in 1979 under the pseudonym of Richard Bachman – should’ve never gotten into the game. Failing at the fundamentals, from simple dialogue to character development to shot selection, this bore of a film should’ve been called “The Long Watch.”

4. “Death of a Unicorn”

Talk about a one-trick pony (pun intended). The filmmakers only had one joke – “Oh, no, it’s a killer unicorn!” – and literally nothing else. Watch “Bambi: The Reckoning” instead.

5. “I Know What You Did Last Summer”

It pains us a bit to see this one on the list, since we do really like the 1997 original model and even the following year’s goofy follow-up “I Still Know What You Did Last Summer.” Yet, the lack of quality writing and fresh ideas (or even inspired ways to connect to the source material) dooms the project. Still better than 2006’s “I’ll Always Know What You Did Last Summer” though.

 

To my way of thinking, Halloween is a great excuse to crank up the oven and do a little holiday baking. I think we need to create something fun and whimsical in these challenging times, so bring on chocolate and candy corn.

The kids can join in to make Mini Triple-Treat Cupcakes. Children can gleefully unwrap a load of miniature peanut-butter cups and press them into the unbaked batter in each paper lined mini-muffin cup. Older children, after a warning about the hot pan, can press a candy corn atop each one once they are out of the oven.

Mini Triple-Treat Cupcakes

Yield: About 48

INGREDIENTS

48 mini muffin paper liners

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 teaspoon baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup natural peanut butter (no added sugar)

6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature

1/2 cup packed light brown sugar

1 large egg plus 1 large egg yolk

1/4 cup buttermilk

1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

48 miniature chocolate Reese’s peanut butter cups, wrappers removed

48 pieces candy corn, for decorating; see cook’s notes

Cook’s notes: You can use any small decorative Halloween candies in place of candy corn. Try ones shaped like pumpkins, skulls, or spiders and other creepy crawlers. Or, because I love to add crunch and more nutty taste, I like to top a few “adult versions” with chocolate covered almonds.

DIRECTIONS

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees, with racks in upper and lower thirds. Line two 24-cup mini muffin pans with paper liners.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In a large bowl, using an electric mixer, beat together peanut butter, butter, and brown sugar on high until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Beat in egg and egg yolk, scraping down bowl as needed. With mixer on low, beat in flour mixture, buttermilk, and vanilla until combined.

3. With the large end of a melon baller or a spoon, place 2 teaspoons batter into each muffin cup (because it is faster and easier, I use a very small ice cream-style scoop that holds 1 tablespoon and I fill it almost full, but not packed — my yield is 44 instead of 48). Press a peanut-butter candy into each center until batter aligns with top edge of candy. Bake until puffed and set, about 10 to 11 minutes, rotating pans halfway through. Immediately place a piece of candy corn on top of each cupcake and press very lightly; let cool completely in pans on wire racks.

Source: Adapted from marthastewart.com

Award-winning food writer Cathy Thomas has written three cookbooks, including “50 Best Plants on the Planet.” Follow her at CathyThomasCooks.com.

 

A banner hanging above Jon Batiste’s stage Friday night, Oct. 24, at Detroit’s Fox Theatre declared that, “This is the circus of love. Under our tent there is revival and joy.”

The two-hour show was, in fact, all of the above.

Born into and raised in the New Orleans tradition, Batiste has proven over the course of his 20-year recording career to be master of musical alchemy and excellence. Friday’s concert was another case in point, as the multi-instrumentalist and singer led his facile and physical nine-member band through a set of songs that were dizzying in their range, an aural circus — as advertised — from Beethoven (“5th Symphony in Congo Square” from last year’s “Beethoven Blues” album) to be-bop, funk to blues to gospel, a few choice covers, singalong moments for the crowd of nearly 4,000 (including David Byrne, who’s performing at the Fox on Saturday,. Oct. 25) and plenty of the also-promised joy throughout.

It started that way, in fact, as Batiste — sporting a black, studded mariachi suit — strolled down the Fox’s center aisle, smiling as he banged on a tambourine on his way to the tent-styled stage before leading the group into an exultant version of “Let Got Lead.” “I love you even if I don’t know you,” the former “Late Show with Stephen Colbert” music director told the audience — one of his trademark hook-lines — before delivering a “public service announcement” that “it’s time to shake your tail feather.” Flashing the hand sing for love repeatedly, he later explained that, “This is not a concert; this is a spiritual practice,” promising, too, that “no matter how dark it gets, we can win…y`all.”

There is no darkness at a Batiste concert, however, and certainly not on Friday. He and the band shifted gears with Formula 1 precision but avoided any whiplash with a spirited demeanor — and a daring-do sense that they didn’t necessarily know what waited on the next turn but were perfectly capable of steering their way through it.

The result brought roof-raising renditions of the title track from Batiste’s latest album “Big Money,” an achingly soulful “Cry,” “I Need You” and a pairing of Beyonce’s “American Requiem,” which Batiste co-wrote, and his own “Freedom.” Vocalist Desiree Washington took the spotlight for a Motor City-appropriate take on Aretha Franklin’s “I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Loved You)” and Andra Day joined Batiste and company for “Lean On My Love,” their duet from the “Big Money” album, and the Impressions’ “It’s All Right.”

The troupe also extended the polyrhythmic blues of “Petrichor” into a percussive jam that found Batiste working the drum kit after he’d already played piano, guitar, saxophone and melodica.

Batiste did just fine when he was on his own, too. Besides the Beethoven moment, he performed a solo piano jazz improvisation and then, later in the show, put together medley that knitted the Beatles’ “Golden Slumbers,” Tupac’s “Changes,” Bruce Hornsby’s “The Way It Is” and Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” into a moving and pointed tone poem that held the Fox crowd rapt until Batiste called it to join in for the closing chorus of the latter.

His “healing song” “Butterfly” was nothing short of beautiful and teed up a “Worship” that finished the night with Batiste, as is his tradition, leading the band back up through the theater’s center aisle — revived, joyful and definitely feeling the love for another masterful performance.

It’s already close to Halloween and most of us haven’t put up any decorations, right? You don’t want to spend your life savings or waste a lot of time, but it would be nice to do something …

Well, we’ve got you. Halloween expert and prop maker Derek Young can tell you how to quickly spookify your yard without breaking the bank.

Here are some of his tips:

Make tombstones for your front yard

Buy insulation foam and rebar from a home improvement store. You can make around 10 tombstones by spending $50 on foam. Then, use a box cutter or saw to cut the foam into tombstone shapes.

Next, draw the design for your tombstone onto the foam. If this is your first time, don’t go crazy with details. “I told you I was sick” will do. If you’re concerned about the lettering, make your design on your computer, print it out and trace it onto the foam. Then, use a safety blade or sharp knife to carve your design (and be very careful, of course).

When you’ve done carving, paint the tombstone with gray paint. The cheapest way to accomplish this is to go to the store and look for discounted paint that never got picked up. Then have it mixed so it will turn out gray.

Then, push the rebar into the ground where you’d like the tombstone to be, and attach them together. The easiest way to do this is to attach some piping to the tombstone and then slide it down over the rebar.

Young says that the average time for the project is 30-60 minutes.

Light things up

You can get away without a ton of decorations if the front of your place is colorful with spooky lights. You can find cheap versions of these at dollar and big-box stores. Obviously, orange and purple are now considered the spookiest choice.

A pair of toilet paper rolls can become spooky with glow sticks stuck in them, which will look like glowing eyes if you stick them in a bush.

Sounds

Put a Bluetooth speaker outside and play scary sound effects or music.

Spotify, Apple and other streaming services make great Halloween playlists. You can also look for CDs at discount stores with sounds and sound effects, or search for them online.

Projections

If you have a home projector, you can find Halloween content to play.

In fact, you can even buy Halloween projectors for around $20-$30 already loaded to project creepy light images onto your house. Find these on Amazon or at department stores. As of this writing, Five Below discount stores were offering simple projectors for only $5.

The Spectral Illusions (SpectralIlusions.com) company makes videos specifically for projection effects, from creepy Victorian brides and ghosts to skeletons and scary clowns, and they’re not terribly expensive.

You can also find plenty of spooky videos on YouTube that you can cast to your projector and then play outside on your house, including projection loops. Search for terms such as “Halloween projection.”

People who enjoy playing with videos online can download free Halloween projector videos from websites like Videezy, Mixkit and Vecteezy. Or go to CapCut to find tutorials and content on how to create these.

Security

How do you keep your displays from being vandalized or stolen? There’s no foolproof answer, except perhaps to bring expensive items inside at night. Some people will only put out their big displays on Halloween night.

Fundraisers/Volunteer activities

• Pontiac’s Super Run Club hosts “Day of the Dead” 5K Fun Run to benefit the Pontiac Creative Art Center, 9 a.m. Nov. 1, at Pontiac Creative Art Center, 47 Williams St., Pontiac. The fundraiser is non-timed and open to all ages and paces. Coffee and Mexican treats from local Shelia’s Bakery will await finishers and first glimpse of the PCAC’s Community Ofrenda and Dia de los Muertos Art Exhibition which runs from noon until 5 p.m. with a candlelight vigil to honor loved ones. Register at www.superrunclub.com/store/p/day-of-the-dead-fun-run-fundraiser-for-pontiac-creative-arts-center, $5+ minimum donation to participate.

• Farmington/Farmington Hills Education Foundation hosts Toast to Education is 7-9:30 p.m., Nov. 7, at The Meridian, 26750 Haggerty Road, Farmington Hills, fundraiser to benefit the students in Farmington Public Schools. The event features wine, craft beer, and mocktail tasting stations, raffle prizes and live music, ages 21+, Event tickets start at $50. To buy tickets or to make a donation, visit www.ffhedfoundation.org/toast. Additional raffle tickets and packages will be available at the event.

• Judson Center to host a night of food, fun and entertainment at the human service agency’s “A Night to Embrace” Gala, 5:30-11 p.m. Nov. 7, at The Henry, 300 Town Center Drive in Dearborn. The annual gala raises money for Judson Center’s programs for children, adults and families in autism, behavioral and primary healthcare, disabilities services, foster care, adoption, and mentoring. The evening will include a gourmet dinner, cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, live and silent auctions, a raffle, photo booth, live entertainment, and dancing. Attire is black tie optional and valet service is complimentary. www.judsoncenter.org.

• 29th Annual Fall Fix Up family-friendly volunteer event is Nov. 9 at homes of older adults served by Jewish Family Service. Registration is at 9:30 a.m. and begins with breakfast and supply pick-up at Congregation Shaarey Zedek, 27375 Bell Road, Southfield. Register by Oct. 31, at jfsdetroit.org/fallfifixup For more information contact fallfixup@jfsdetroit.org or 248-325-9537.

• A Night of Giving is 6 p.m. Nov. 10, Bella Piatti, 167 Townsend St., Birmingham, presented by Children’s Miracle Network at Corewell Health Children’s and Variety The Children’s Charity of Detroit, fine dining, stories of hope, live auction, and philanthropy with proceeds benefiting children across Southeast Michigan, www.Variety-Detroit.com, www.facebook.com/VarietyDetroit, ticket prices vary.

Halloween activities

• Trunk or Treat and Concert is 3 p.m. Oct. 26, at St. John Lutheran Church, 23225 Gill Road, Farmington Hills, www.stjohn-elca.org. The free concert titled “Music for a Spooky Time” begins at 4:30 p.m. with Sean Michael Jackman, St. John Music Director and Organist/Pianist and featured guest performers – soprano Amber Rogers and violinist Minkyung Lee.

• Trunk or Treat is 1-4 p.m. Oct. 26, at the Southfield Pavilion, 26000 Evergreen Road, Southfield, presented by The Southfield Police Department, opportunity to check out the vehicles while children get a treat from each one. The police department will be collecting toy donations of new, unwrapped toys to give back to the community during the holidays. Southfield Parks and Recreation will provide games and crafts and giveaways. For information, call Officer Tim Simon at 248-796-5441.

• Annual Trunk or Treat is noon-2 p.m. Oct. 26, at Pontiac Trail and East Walled Lake Drive, across the street from Greenhouse of Walled Lake, presented by the Greenhouse and Walled Lake Mayor Linda Ackley, mayorackley.com. Trick or treating, prizes for best trunks, best costumes, NFL Hall of Famer and Lions legend Calvin “Megatron” Johnson, former Detroit Lion Rob Sims and Red Wings legend Darren McCarty are scheduled to attend.

• Zap Zone Trunk or Treat is 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 26, Zap Zone, 31506 Grand River Ave, Farmington Hills. Families are invited to celebrate Halloween with candy stations for trick-or-treaters, costume contest with prizes, carnival games and activities, https://zap-zone.com/halloween, 248-471-6777, free admission.

• Halloween Stroll is Friday-Sunday, through Oct. 26 and Oct. 30, at Canterbury Village, 2369 Joslyn Ct., Orion Twp., immersive displays, animatronics, and whimsical characters, Scarecrow Row, Spooky Carousel House, ticket prices vary, advance purchase timed tickets at www.canterburyvillage.com, food and drinks to purchase.

• Skeletons are Alive is Outdoor Public Art Display is through the month of October, featuring life-sized themed skeletons, downtown Northville, www.downtownnorthville.com.

• Haunted Highland is through October, visit the Highland DDA’s spooky skeletal selfie displays scattered around downtown Highland and snap a pic, post it to social media, and tag it #HAUNTEDHIGHLAND, www.highlandtwp.net.

Health/Fitness

• Ladies’ Night-Wealth & Wellness! is 6-8 p.m. Oct. 29, at Rochester Community House, 816 Ludlow Ave., Rochester, featuring a “Financial Fitness” mini-workshop with Heidi McCarroll, Investment Adviser and Registered Representative, breast cancer screening and dense breast education by Dr. Shoshana Hallowell, mocktails and food, wellness and beauty vendors, Boobie Bingo. Register at https://cbo.io/app/public/bidapp/ladiesnight, $10+.

• SALT Church is hosting a free suicide, depression, and self care seminar, 10 a.m. to noon, Nov. 1, at the church, 5475 Livernois in Troy. Doors open at 9:30, coffee and light snacks will be provided. Seating is limited to 60 people, and advanced registration is suggested by calling 248-879-6400. Walk-ins welcome as space allows, www.saltchurch.net.

Holiday activities

• Annual Holiday Boutique is 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 6, at The Village Club, 190 E. Long Lake Road, Bloomfield Hills, buffet lunch with decadent desserts, vendors selling women’s clothing, jewelry and holiday gifts, tickets are $48.95 per person and reservations are required at  https://thevillageclub.org/events/holiday-boutique-luncheon, 248-644-3450.

Library/Author events

• True Crime Author Panel is 7:30 p.m. Oct. 26, with Nina Innsted, host of true crime podcast “Already Gone”, at The Hawk Black Box Theatre, 29995 W. Twelve Mile Road, Farmington Hills, TheHawkTheatre.com, beer and wine to purchase for ages 21+, $15+ advance.

• The Rochester Hills Public Library to host the Human Library event, Feb. 28, 2026, as an official Publishing Partner of The Human Library Organization. The library seeks community members to volunteer to share their story and represent a stigmatized group in the community, and answer questions. The purpose of the Human Library is not to further a political platform or mission, but to enable individuals to speak about their own lived experience. Those interested in being a Human Library book may apply at rhpl.org/humanlibrary by Nov. 3.

Museum activities

• “The Sinking of the Edmund Fitzgerald-A Dramatic Retelling” will be presented at 4 p.m. Nov. 8, at the Troy Community Center, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the sinking of the freighter in Lake Superior, Nov. 10, 1975. Light refreshments will be available before and after the program, recommended for ages 12+, tickets are $10 each, www.TroyHistoricVillage.org or 248-524-3570.

• Leonid Meteor Shower Overnight: 7:30 p.m.8 a.m. Nov. 15, at Cranbrook Institute of Science, 39221 Woodward Ave., Bloomfield Hills, 248-645-3200,  pre-registration is required at https://science.cranbrook.edu/explore/programs/special-events-public-programs/evenings-overnights, $93 for members and $110 for non-members.

Parks/Outdoor activities

• Heritage Park Hayrides are 5:30-7 p.m. Fridays through Oct. 31, at Heritage Park Nature Center, 24915 Farmington Road, Farmington Hills. Hayrides leave every half hour from the parking lot. Hayrides are $5+ per person, s’mores and cider kits extra. Advance registration is recommended, www.fhgov.com, call 248-473-1870 to book private group hayrides.

• Drop-in Hayrides are 3-4 p.m. select Saturdays through Nov. 22, at Hess-Hathaway Park, 825 S. Williams Lake Road, Waterford Twp., weather permitting, not offered if it is raining, $5 per person, 2 years and under admitted free, children must be accompanied by an adult, meet by campfire pit by Hilltop Pavilion I, www.waterfordmi.gov/1329/Parks-Recreation.

• Weekend Hay Rides are noon-4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday through Dec. 7, $5 for ages 13-61, $3 for ages 3-12, $3 per senior (62+), free for children under 2, at Kensington Metropark Farm Center Office, 4570 Huron River Pkwy., Milford, www.metroparks.com/kensington-metropark, plus park pass or vehicle entry fee.

• 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 or $45 for non-residents. Senior citizen pricing on annual passes are available in-person at toll booths or park offices with ID as proof of age.

• Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas, michigan.gov/dnr. Park entrance fees apply.

Seniors

• Medicare Open Enrollment: Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, Medicare beneficiaries may change their prescription drug plan (Part D) or Medicare Advantage plan – or have it reviewed – at no cost by a certified counselor. AgeWays Nonprofit Senior Services’ MI Options Medicare Assistance Program is offering phone, virtual, and in-person appointments. MI Options counselors are not affiliated with health insurance companies. Appointments are available by calling 800-803-7174 or 248-262-0545, or visit ageways.org for appointment times. AgeWays Nonprofit Senior Services was previously Area Agency on Aging 1-B.

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.

• 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.

• National Domestic Violence Hotline, 800-799-7233, available 24/7.

• Common Ground’s Resource & Crisis Helpline is available 24/7 – call or text 800-231-1127.

• 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.

Veterans activities

• The Clawson Senior Center to host a Veterans Days concert and lunch at 11:30 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 6, at Clawson Senior Center senior dining room, 509 Fisher Court, Clawson. The Clawson Public Schools Band will perform. All ages welcome. Lunch is free to veterans $4 for others, advanced registration required at 248-589-0334, https://cityofclawson.com/your_government/parks_and_recreation/senior_adult_programs.php.

• Independence Twp. Senior Center to host Veterans Day luncheon for local veterans and their spouses, at 11:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 7, at 8047 Ortonville Road. Free for veterans and spouses. Additional meals $7. Pre-registration required by Oct. 31, at 248-625-8231, www.indtwp.com/residents/senior_center.

• The City of Farmington Hills Special Services Adults 50 & Better Division will host its annual Veterans Day Celebration luncheon to honor local veterans at 11 a.m. Nov. 11, at the Costick Activities Center, 28600 W. Eleven Mile Road in Farmington Hills. All local veterans and their guests are welcome. Admission is free for veterans who live in the cities of Farmington Hills and Farmington. Tickets for non-veterans are $12 for residents and $15 for non-residents. Advance register at recreg.fhgov.com or call 248-473-1830 through Nov. 3, no walk-ins accepted.

• Orion Township to host a free veterans luncheon at noon, Nov. 11, at Great Lakes Athletic Club, 3800 S. Baldwin Road, Orion Twp. Each veteran may bring one guest, advance register at 248-391-0304, ext. 3500, www.orionveteransmemorial.com.

Submit community events online at https://bit.ly/40a2iAm.

Johnny Depp appears set to return to the mainstream as Ebenezer Scrooge in Paramount Pictures’ adaptation of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” helmed by horror movie director Ti West.

The 62-year-old “Pirates of the Caribbean” star — whose career suffered for years in the wake of abuse allegations leveled by ex-wife Amber Heard — is said to be in final talks to star in “Ebenezer: A Christmas Carol,” according to Variety and Nexus Point News.

Andrea Riseborough, similarly no stranger to controversy albeit of lighter fare, is also set to star.

While West is primarily known for making horror films, including the recent “X” trilogy, it’s not yet clear whether his version of “A Christmas Carol” will flirt with the gory genre.

The movie, which Paramount hopes to release next November, will mark Depp’s first role from a major studio since 2018’s “Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald.”

He has slowly but surely been returning to the cinematic forefront after Heard, now 39, seemingly accused him of domestic abuse in an op-ed for The Washington Post, just over a month after the release of that film.

The allegations, after which Depp was fired from both the “Fantastic Beasts” and “Pirates” franchises, resulted in the exes facing off in a 2022 joint defamation trial that captivated the internet and led both performers to becoming persona non grata.

Riseborough, for her part, may best be known now for her eyebrow-raising Best Actress nomination at the 2023 Academy Awards. Her consideration campaign for “To Leslie” was accused of violating Academy rules by somehow enlisting a slew of celebrities to publicly sing her praises and increase her chances of a nomination.

The nod spurred a probe, which found “tactics that caused concern,” though the nomination was not rescinded.

Kim Kardashian got candid about a recent health scare, revealing on the season 7 premiere of “The Kardashians” that she’d been diagnosed with a brain aneurysm.

The SKIMS founder fought back tears while talking about the diagnosis in a trailer that played at the beginning of Thursday’s season opener.

In the clip, the 45-year-old can be seen lying in an MRI machine and later telling her family the scan found “a little aneurysm.”

According to the Mayo Clinic, a brain aneurysm is “a bulge or ballooning in a blood vessel in the brain.” Though most aren’t serious, especially if they’re small, the condition can become life-threatening if an aneurysm ruptures, causing bleeding in the brain.

Kardashian went on to tell her family that her doctor blamed the aneurysm on stress. Elsewhere in the premiere, she admitted that a lot of her stress comes from her ex-husband, Kanye West, with whom she shares four kids between the ages of 6 and 12.

“I feel more stressed probably just because I have to protect my kids,” she said. “Everyone around can handle (the drama), but I want to protect my babies.”

She noted that for years she’s been “able to hide” her ex-husband’s controversies and public outbursts from their kids, but it’s getting harder to do so as they get older. Kardashian later said her relationship with West feels like “a little bit of Stockholm syndrome.”

“I always felt really bad and always wanted to help,” she explained. “(People think) I should have stuck it out and I could have helped. … (But) as much as people think that I have the luxury of walking away and not dealing ever again, that’s not my reality. This person — we have four kids together.”

Kardashian also partly blamed her ongoing psoriasis flare-ups to the stress of co-parenting with West.

“I haven’t had psoriasis since my divorce (in 2021), but it’s starting to come back,” Kardashian told a producer while looking at the red rashes on her legs. “It always flares up whenever I start feeling stressed.”

Still, the mother of four said she isn’t looking for an apology from her ex and just wants to find peace no matter how he behaves.

“I’m not looking for it,” she explained. “I don’t care. Is it sad, it’s so f—ing sad. But I can’t stress too much about that. I have to worry about other things.”