Local History & People
21 storiesCommon formats include history features, archival explainers, profiles and preservation reporting, with historic neighborhoods and archival photographs providing context. Local History & People keeps the immediate update connected to earlier decisions and future deadlines.
Farmington Hills Priest Fatally Struck While Walking to Hospital
Fr. Tom Szura, a longtime priest with the Marianhill Missionary Fathers, was killed after being hit by a car while crossing to Corewell Health Hospital in Farmington Hills to give last rites. The driver was arrested and the investigation continues
Lake Ontario Renamed 'Lake America' in U.S. by Presidential Order
President Donald Trump has signed an executive order renaming the U.S. portion of Lake Ontario as 'Lake America,' escalating tensions with Canada amid ongoing trade disputes. The change affects federal naming conventions but not Canadian usage.
Farmington Area Theaters to Honor Dolly Parton With 'Steel Magnolias' Screenings
Detroit's Redford Theatre and Farmington Civic Theater will screen 'Steel Magnolias' in tribute to Dolly Parton, who died August 25 at age 80. The events offer local fans a chance to celebrate her legacy on August 30 and September 3.
Dolly Parton's Philanthropy Leaves Lasting Impact on Communities
Dolly Parton's recent passing has brought renewed attention to her decades of community-focused philanthropy, including major gifts to children's literacy, disaster relief, and healthcare in Tennessee and beyond.
Detroit Film Community Unites for New Wave Cinema Series
Detroit's independent film scene is coming together through the Detroit New Wave event series and the Weekly Watchlist newsletter, connecting cinema owners, programmers, and moviegoers across Metro Detroit this summer and fall
Farmington's Civic Theater adds bar, events to boost attendance
Farmington's Civic Theater is introducing a new bar, expanded event programming, and plans for seating upgrades as it works to recover from pandemic-era declines in movie attendance and repay city support funding.
U-M Seminar Trains Scholars to Preserve Ancient Papyrus Manuscripts
The University of Michigan recently hosted a 10-day seminar for nine international scholars, offering hands-on training in the conservation of rare papyrus texts dating back thousands of years. The program is unique in the Americas.
Newtown Borough Council Rejects Canopy at Brick Hotel Restaurant
A proposed canopy at Donetelli's Italian Steakhouse in Newtown Borough was denied after a 3-3 council vote was broken by the mayor, requiring the structure to be removed or modified before the restaurant's opening.
Elizabeth Taylor's Former Bel Air Home Undergoes $47M Renovation
A $47 million renovation is underway at Elizabeth Taylor's longtime Bel Air estate, adding new amenities and expanded living space while preserving much of the original interior. The project aims to honor the late actress's legacy and update the property for modern use.
Alexandria Historic Homes Tour Returns With Eight Secret Stops
The 84th Annual Historic Alexandria Homes Tour is set for September 26, offering a rare look inside eight private historic homes. Tickets are $50 and benefit Inova Alexandria Hospital, with sales open until September 10.
Danvers Brewery Marks 100th Birthday With Custom Saison for Local Matriarch
Twisted Fate Brewing Co. in Danvers, Massachusetts, created a special saison-style beer to celebrate Mary Skafas' 100th birthday, bringing together her family and honoring her love of tea-inspired flavors at the brewery's taproom.
Kirk Gibson Foundation Marks 10 Years of Parkinson's Support in Michigan
The Kirk Gibson Foundation for Parkinson's hosted its 10th annual charity golf outing in Rochester Hills, raising funds for free wellness programs at Michigan's first dedicated Parkinson's center.
Huntington Thrift in Huntington Station to Close September 20
Huntington Thrift, a longtime vintage and antiques shop on New York Ave. in Huntington Station, will close its doors for good on September 20, 2026, following a final clearance sale. The store thanked customers for years of support.
Community Events in New Hampshire: Golf, Film Fest, Cleanup and More
New Hampshire residents can take part in a range of community events this week, including a golf tournament, film festival, city cleanup, and adult game club. Activities are scheduled in Salem, Concord, Bedford, and other towns, with options for all interests.
Sklar Brothers to Host 2027 Parkinson's Gala in Plymouth
The Kirk Gibson Foundation will hold its 2027 Everybody vs. Parkinson's 2 Gala on April 10 at Saint John's Resort in Plymouth, with proceeds supporting expanded Parkinson's care, research, and advocacy across Michigan and beyond
Rowan University Launches Multi-Year Tribute to Black Artists
Rowan University in Glassboro, NJ is hosting a series of events through 2027 honoring African American artists, featuring music, dance, and storytelling as part of the Marie Rader Series. Programs are open to the public and students.
Petaluma 12-Year-Old Sets Sonoma County Fair Steer Sale Record
A Petaluma-area 4-H member's steer sold for $50,000 at the Sonoma County Fair, breaking the previous auction record by $17,000 and highlighting the impact of youth agricultural programs in California.
Michigan Journalist Uncovers Family Ties to Indian Boarding Schools
A new book by Sierra Nadeau reveals her family's hidden history in Michigan's Indian boarding schools, shedding light on the generational impact of these institutions and the silence that followed their closure in 1983
Pleasanton to Host 160th Scottish Highland Games and World Championships
The 160th Scottish Highland Gathering & Games returns to Pleasanton, California, September 5-6, featuring world-class heavy athletics, a 50th anniversary competition, and special guest Adrian Paul.
Betti Pool Retires After 30 Years as Governor Warner Mansion Gardener
Betti Pool stepped down at the end of 2025 after more than three decades as Head Gardener at Farmington's Governor Warner Mansion, leaving a lasting mark on the historic site's gardens and community programs
Lake Elsinore Delays Demolition of Historic Ambassador Hotel
Demolition of the Ambassador Hotel in downtown Lake Elsinore is on hold after a court stay halted city-approved plans to tear down the deteriorating building. The city council had approved a $198,000 contract for demolition work.