Sponsored by Big Lake Candy

Detroit’s Boston-Edison neighborhood is embracing new energy with the opening of The Rectory, a pizzeria and gathering spot at 1920 Atkinson Street.

The building, which stood vacant for half a century, has been carefully restored to showcase historic windows, stained glass, and custom craftsmanship that honor its past as a church rectory.

Neighborhood residents Betsy Murdoch, Antonio Luck, Mark Mondary, and Amy Peterson have shaped The Rectory into a welcoming hub, offering hand-tossed pizzas made with local ingredients, plus fresh salads and options for vegan and gluten-free diners.

Guests can enjoy indoor dining, a three-season deck, a walk-up carry-out window, and space for private gatherings.

With a strong sense of community at its core, The Rectory aims to be more than a restaurant—an inviting, revitalized space bringing music and fresh flavor back to the heart of the neighborhood.

Southeast Michigan Ford Dealers have teamed up with Forgotten Harvest to tackle food insecurity across metro Detroit.

From September 15 to 25, participating Ford dealerships will collect non-perishable food donations, aiming to exceed 20,000 pounds in just ten days.

This effort is part of Ford Motor Company’s Global Caring Month, mobilizing nearly 9,000 dealers around the world for community impact.

Local residents are urged to drop off non-expired canned or boxed goods—no glass items—at their nearby dealership.

Those who donate at least ten items can receive a special Detroit Lions Jared Goff poster, while supplies last.

All food collected will be distributed by Forgotten Harvest to individuals and families facing hunger in the area.

With hunger affecting over 500,000 people locally, community involvement is crucial to making a real difference.

St. Joseph’s Helpers, based in Taylor, is transforming lives across Metro Detroit by building ramps for residents facing serious mobility issues.

The nonprofit, founded in 2023, has dramatically scaled its outreach this year, helping over 1,800 people—up from just 350 its first year.

Recently, volunteers constructed a ramp for 86-year-old Irene Tinnie, a double amputee, allowing her to return home and regain independence.

Shinese LaVergne, her granddaughter, shared heartfelt appreciation for the newfound accessibility.

Thanks to a connection from Detroit Councilwoman Angela Whitfield-Calloway, Irene’s family benefited from the nonprofit’s work.

Board member Tony Rosati emphasized the group’s focus on neighborly support, inspired by his own upbringing.

St. Joseph’s Helpers also offers grab bars, exterior railings, and small repairs, all free.

The organization welcomes volunteers and donations to continue its mission of restoring dignity and independence locally.

🍬 Big Lake Candy Company – Sweet Treats with a Crunch
Big Lake Candy Company is putting a fun twist on classic favorites with their unique line of freeze-dried candies. From melt-in-your-mouth Skittles (aka Arctic Crunch) to reimagined taffy, gummies, and chocolates, every bite delivers a bold burst of flavor and a light, airy crunch you won’t find anywhere else. Based right here in Michigan, Big Lake Candy is all about local pride, playful creativity, and making snack time unforgettable. Whether you’re grabbing a bag for a road trip, a party, or just because—you’ll taste the difference in every crunch.

Smokey Bones has permanently closed its restaurants in Utica and Grand Rapids, Michigan, leaving only the Lansing location open statewide.

The decision follows a strategy by parent company Twin Hospitality Group Inc. to close underperforming sites and rebrand several others.

Nationwide, 15 Smokey Bones locations are being shuttered, with 10 already closed and five more set to follow by the end of the fiscal third quarter.

Twin Hospitality Group also plans to convert 19 existing Smokey Bones sites into Twin Peaks sports bars, known for their cozy lodge-like ambiance and broad beer selection.

These measures are designed to improve profitability and streamline business operations.

The closures in Utica and Grand Rapids end a familiar dining choice for locals, while the future may bring new eateries or concepts to these recently vacated spaces.

Barbecue fans can still visit the Lansing Smokey Bones for their favorites.

Metro Detroit shines in autumn, with bold colors and crisp air drawing locals outdoors.

One standout drive is Hines Drive, a scenic 17.5-mile route weaving through Northville, Plymouth, and Dearborn Heights.

Kicking off near 7 Mile Road, visitors are greeted by tunnels of golden and red foliage, while cozy stops like the Northville West Recreation Area invite quiet moments.

Cass Benton Hills offers wooded trails for casual strolls, and lakes like Wilcox and Newburgh provide brilliant waterfront views.

Renovation work is ongoing between Newburgh and Joy Road, with partial closures expected through late fall, so travelers should check conditions ahead.

Beyond Hines, autumn adventures await at the Dequindre Cut Greenway—a vibrant urban trail—and fresh flavors can be found at Shock Gelato in Birmingham or The Pita Post in Royal Oak.

Explore history at Nankin Mills in Westland, rounding out the fall experience with local charm and rich heritage.