To list an event in Stepping Out, send facts and photos two months prior to afamcalendar@metroparent.com.  You can also fax information to 248-399-3970 or mail it to Metro Parent Publishing Group, AFAM Calendar, 22041 Woodward Ave., Ferndale, MI 48220.

Submissions may be edited or omitted.

Be sure to call before attending events in case of changes.

$ = Fee or Admission Charge

R = Registration/Tickets Required

Family FunArts & EntertainmentLearn & GrowSneak PeekOngoing 


Family Fun
Events moms, dads and kids can enjoy

DIA Fun. Drop in at the Detroit Institute of Arts for its Friday Night Live series, which includes arts and crafts workshops, live music and movies at the Detroit Film Theatre. 6-9 p.m. Additional craft time, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Fridays. $. 5200 Woodward Ave. 313-833-7900 or www.dia.org.

Sleeping Beauty. This classic fairy tale is told through the use of graceful marionettes. 2 p.m. Aug. 2, 9 & 16. $. PuppetArt, Detroit Puppet Theater, 25 E. Grand River Ave. 313-961-7777 or www.puppetart.org.

Animal Lessons. Kids learn all about the animals that inhabit Michigan when Nankin Mills brings some of the critters to the River Rouge Public Library. 2-2:45 p.m. Aug. 5. Free. R. 221 Burke St. 313-843-2040 or http://river-rouge.lib.mi.us.

Robin Hood. Classic-movie lovers will enjoy the film “The Adventures of Robin Hood”, which includes organ overtures. And Bugs Bunny enthusiasts can laugh it up with the Warner cartoon “Adventures of Rabbit Hood”. 8 p.m. Additional Saturday matinee, 2 p.m. Aug. 8-9. $. Redford Theatre, 17360 Lahser Road, Detroit. 313-537-2560 or www.redfordtheatre.com.

Extravaganza Days. Youngsters can learn about engineering or explore the science of aviation during the Detroit Science Center’s Extravaganza Days. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Aug. 9—Engineering Day. Aug. 19—Aviation Day. $. 5020 John R St. 313-577-8400 or www.detroitsciencecenter.org.

Green Cruise. This event, presented by the Sierra Club, promotes the reduction of pollution with alternative forms of transportation. It includes three- and 20-mile bike rides, a parade, rally and information booths. Bike rides kick off at 9 a.m. and parade begins at 11 a.m. Aug. 9. Free. Nine Mile Road and Woodward Avenue, Ferndale. 248-549-6213.

Family Day. Stop by the Detroit Institute of Arts for its Target Family Sunday program, which includes drop-in workshops, music, storytelling and movies at the Detroit Film Theatre. 1-5 p.m. Sundays. $. 5200 Woodward Ave. 313-833-7900 or www.dia.org.

Mosaic at the Zoo. Mosaic Youth Theatre of Detroit celebrates the year of the frog with performances of “AM-TV: All Amphibians, All the Time,” short vignettes on endangered amphibians, at the Detroit Zoo’s Ford Education Center Theatre. Noon, 1:30 and 3 p.m. Aug. 10, 16, 24, 31. Shows are free with zoo admission. 8450 W. Ten Mile Road, Royal Oak. 248-541-5717 or www.detroitzoo.org

Trains. All aboard! – for the Macy’s Second Monday event at Greenfield Village, which includes rides on a historic locomotive, railroad song sing-alongs, train stories and crafts. 10 a.m.-noon. Aug. 11. $. 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn. 313-982-6001 or www.thehenryford.org

Wiggles. The “Pop Go The Wiggles Live” tour brings its interactive and educational show to the Palace of Auburn Hills. 2:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. Aug. 12. R. 3 Championship Drive, Auburn Hills. 248-645-6666, www.palacenet.com or www.ticketmaster.com

Catch A Falling Star. Kids, ages eight and older, learn about meteors and comets with interactive and edible activities. They’ll also hear stories and observe the night sky. 8:30 p.m. Aug. 12. $. R. Metro Beach Metropark Nature Center, 31300 Metro Parkway, Mount Clemens. 586-463-4332. 

Discovery Cruise. Learn about history, art and nature during the summer discovery cruises aboard the school-ship “Clinton,” sponsored by Michigan Sea Grant Extension and the Huron-Clinton Metroparks. 10 a.m., 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Aug. 13-17. $. Metro Beach Metropark, 31300 Metro Parkway, Mount Clemens. www.discoverycruises.org

Acting 101. Teens in grades six to 12 learn about show business from a professional actor. Then, youngsters have some fun testing their TV and movie trivia skills. 7 p.m. Aug. 14. Free. Southfield Public Library, 26300 Evergreen Road. 248-796-4200 or www.southfieldlibrary.org

African World Festival. Celebrate the richness and diversity of African culture through live performances, food, exhibits, a marketplace and more. Times vary. Aug. 15-17. Free. Hart Plaza, downtown Detroit. 313-494-5800 or www.maah-detroit.org

Creature Feature. Explore the fun facts behind seashells and other beach finds at the Belle Isle Nature Zoo. 2 p.m. Aug. 16. R. Belle Isle Park, Detroit. 313-852-4056. 

Woodward Dream Cruise. Sixteen miles of Woodward Avenue become a slow-motion drag strip for hotrods and vintage cars. Spectators bring coolers and lawn chairs, or visit one of the many supporting restaurants for a great view. 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Aug. 16. Free. 248-626-0006 or www.woodwarddreamcruise.com

Back-to-School Fair. All Detroit Public Schools and 100 after-school programs will be on site during the Mayor’s Time After School/Back-to-School Enrollment Fair at Belle Isle. The event includes child immunizations, health screenings and kids’ activities and prizes. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Aug. 16. Free admission. Belle Isle Park, Detroit. 313-963-3660 or www.mayorstime.com

Disney Block Party. This concert festival for kids—featuring Choo Choo Soul, Dan Zanes & Friends, Imagination Movers and Ralph’s World—comes to Meadow Brook Music Festival. 3:30 p.m. Aug. 19-20. R. 3554 Walton Blvd., Rochester Hills. 248-645-6666, www.palacenet.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

Soul Food Festival. The sixth annual Soul Food Taste Festival features local restaurants/caterers, gospel entertainment, kids’ activities, contests, puppet and clown shows and more. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Aug. 21-23. Free admission. Great Faith Ministries, 10735 Grand River Ave., Detroit. 313-871-1296. 

Scarlet Claw. Check out a showing of the first Sherlock Holmes mystery, then see the Warner cartoon classic Rabbit Transit. 8 p.m. Additional Saturday matinee at 2 p.m. Aug. 22-23. $. Redford Theatre, 17360 Lahser Road, Detroit. 313-537-2560 or www.redfordtheatre.com.

Michigan State Fair. This year’s fun-filled family event includes a great line-up of performers, carnival rides, games, parades, exhibits, contests and more. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Aug. 22-Sept. 1. $. State Fair Grounds, 1120 W. State Fair Ave., Detroit. 313-369-8231 or www.michiganstatefair.com.

DYC Concert. The Detroit Youth Concert Choir & Performing Arts Company presents “When Music Was Music: A Musical Journey Through Detroit”, at the Marygrove College Theatre. 6 p.m. Aug. 23. R. 8425 W. McNichols, Detroit. 313-587-6088.

Heidelberg Festival. “It’s All About The D” is a festival presented by the Heidelberg Project that includes hair and fashion shows, mini art galleries, a kid’s station, music, poetry and food. Noon-8 p.m. Aug. 23. Free. Heidelberg & Elba streets between Mt. Elliott & Ellery, Detroit. 313-267-1622 or www.heidelberg.org.

Wild Summer Nights. Bring a blanket and kick back to listen to family-friendly entertainer James Coffey during the Detroit Zoo’s summer concert series. 6:30-8 p.m. Aug. 27. $. 8450 W. 10 Mile Road, Royal Oak. 248-541-5717 or www.detroitzoo.org.

School Open House. Colin Powell Academy, a Central Michigan University charter school, has opened a second location and will hold an opening dedication ceremony and festival. It includes a ribbon-cutting and carnival-like activities including—face painting, games, arts and crafts and more. 5-7:30 p.m. Aug. 27. Free. 19360 Harper Ave., Harper Woods. 313-823-5791.

Faith & Fun Fest. Palace Sports and Entertainment and RocSpace presents this festival for youth and young adults that includes guest speaker Chris Hill, indoor/outdoor activities and performances by 21:03, Imitation, Rock Nation, Spensha Baker and more—followed by the Detroit Shock vs. NY Liberty WNBA game. 1 p.m. Aug. 29. 1:30-5:30 p.m. (fun fest), 7 p.m. (game). R. Palace of Auburn Hills. 248-377-8768, www.faithandfunfest.com or www.detroitshock.com.

Arts, Beats & Eats. This 11th annual celebration of culture and culinary creations features the Chrysler Freedom Fest, a Guitar Hero contest, Great Lakes exhibit, headlining entertainers, arts and crafts, kids’ activities, vendors and more. Times vary. Aug. 29-Sept. 1. Downtown Pontiac. 248-334-4600 or www.artsbeatseats.com.

Grand Prix. The Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix zooms into town featuring cars of the American Le Mans Series, IndyCar series and the SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT Championship. It also includes family activities, autograph sessions and concerts. Times vary. Aug. 29-31. R. Belle Isle Park Raceway, Detroit. 866-464-PRIX (7749), 248-645-6666, www.detroitgp.com or www.ticketmaster.com. Note: Comerica Bank’s Free Prix Day is Aug. 29. Free admission. 


 back to top


Arts & Entertainment
Check out this month’s concerts, plays, exhibits and poetry

Jazz Concert. Pieces of a Dream, Walter Beasley and Regina Belle perform in concert for a special tribute to Grover Washington. 7:30 p.m. Aug. 6. R. 2600 Atwater St., Detroit. 313-393-7128, 248-645-6666, www.cheneparkdetroit.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

Gazebo Concert Series. Listen to a great line-up of jazz, big band, swing and ‘50s rock-n-roll bands during the Gazebo Concert Series presented by the City of Southfield at the Burgh Historical Park. 7-8:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Aug. 13. Free. 248-796-4620 or www.cityofsouthfield.com.

Ark Concert. Singer Ruthie Foster performs at The Ark. 8 p.m. Aug. 7. R. 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 734-761-1451 or www.theark.org.

Caribbean Festival. The Caribbean Cultural & Carnival Organization presents Carival 2008, which includes various activities and a parade. Times vary. Aug. 8-10. Hart Plaza, Detroit. 313-255-2226 or www.myccco.com.

Musiq & Lyfe. R&B/soul artists Musiq Soulchild and Lyfe Jennings perform in concert at Chene Park Amphitheater. 8 p.m. Aug. 8. R. 2600 Atwater St., Detroit. 313-393-7128, 248-645-6666, www.cheneparkdetroit.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

Comcast Series. Check out current movie releases and family favorites during the Comcast Summer Film Series at Campus Martius Park. 8 p.m. Saturdays through Aug. 9. Free. 800 Woodward Ave., downtown Detroit. www.comcastfilmseries.com or www.4thfridaysdetroit.com.

Bowling Tournament. Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit presents the Goodwill Detroit Pro-Am Bowling Tournament, which benefits the organization’s support programs that help residents overcome employment barriers. Bowlers of all ages are welcome to participate for a chance to win cash prizes. 7:30 p.m. Aug. 9. R. Taylor Lanes, 24800 Eureka Road, Taylor. 734-946-9092, www.goodwilldetroit.org or www.taylorlanesbowling.com.

Jazz on the Green. This event celebrates a legacy of African American artistry with performances by Marcus Belgrave and Friends—including special guests singer Mayaeni Strauss and poet Brenda Perryman. 3-6 p.m. Aug. 10. R. 4198 Carson Drive, Troy. 248-641-5063.

Music on the Plaza. Bring your picnic baskets and lawn chairs to enjoy performances by some of southeast Michigan’s finest jazz musicians. 7 p.m. Thursdays through Aug. 14. Free. The Village Festival Plaza, downtown Grosse Pointe. 313-886-7474 or www.thevillagegp.com.

Artist Showcase. Detroit-based artist Geno hosts his second show, “Evolution: Colors of My Soul”, at the River Park Lofts. Opening night, 4-10 p.m. Other show times vary. Aug. 15-23. 313-685-6078 or http://genosart.blogspot.com.

Teena Marie. This legendary singer takes the stage, along with the Zapp Band, for a concert at Chene Park Amphitheater. 8 p.m. Aug. 15. R. 2600 Atwater St., Detroit. 313-393-7128, 248-645-6666, www.cheneparkdetroit.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

Palmer Park. The Stratford Shakespeare Festival presents this world premier play that’s based on life in a Detroit neighborhood during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Times vary. Aug. 16-Sept. 21. R. Studio Theatre, 34 George St. E, Stratford, Ontario. 800-567-1600 or www.stratford-festival.on.ca.

Soul Jam. The Stylistics, Harold Melvin’s Blue Notes and Cuba Gooding Sr. of the Main Ingredient headline the ‘70s Soul Jam tour at the DTE Energy Music Theatre. 7:30 p.m. Aug. 17. R. 7774 Sashabaw Road, Clarkston. 248-645-6666, www.palacenet.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

Tea & Trunk Show. The Wren’s Nest Bed & Breakfast host the Forever Sweeney Millinery & Designs Summer’s End Tea and Trunk Show, which includes a showcase of custom, handmade hats. 2 p.m. & 4 p.m. Aug. 17. R. 7405 Maple Road, West Bloomfield. 313-268-2245, www.thewrensnestbb.com or www.foreversweeney.com

Jesse & Jordin. American Idol winner Jordin Sparks and singer/songwriter Jesse McCartney hit the stage for a concert at the Royal Oak Music Theatre. 6:30 p.m. Aug. 17. R. 318 W. Fourth St. 248-399-2980, www.royaloakmusictheatre.com or www.tickets.com

Community Celebration. Ujamaa Associates presents the 15th annual Marcus M. Garvey Community Celebration, which includes live music, crafts, poetry, vendors, speakers, a drum tribute and more. Begins at noon. Aug. 17. Free. Perrien Park (corner of Chene and Warren), Detroit. 313-283-1541. 

Java & Jazz. The Comerica Bank Java & Jazz series is a showcase of local music and spoken word artists. This month’s guests: jazz trumpeter Marcus Belgrave and poet Drizzle Rainman. 6 p.m. Aug. 19. Free. Main Library, 5201 Woodward Ave., Detroit. 313-833-4042 or www.detroitpubliclibrary.org

Jazz on the Corridor. Troy’s summer jazz concert series concludes with a performance by The Sun Messengers at the Columbia Center. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Aug. 21. Free. 101 W. Big Beaver Road, Troy. 248-524-1147. 

Literary Gala. Second Time Media and Communications host its second Detroit Literary Empowerment Gala, a black-tie event featuring notable authors and keynote speaker Vincent Alexandria, founder of Brother 2 Brother Literary Symposium. 7-11 p.m. Aug. 22. R. C.H. Wright Museum of African American History, 315 E. Warren Ave., Detroit. 313-263-2711 or www.2008detroitliteraryempowerment.eventbrite.com.

Taste of AKA. Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s Lambda Pi Omega Foundation of Detroit hosts their annual Taste of AKA: A Summer Soiree, a showcase of the city’s finest chefs, at the Detroit Historical Museum. 7-11 p.m. Aug. 23. R. 5401 Woodward Ave. 313-424-8432 or email: tasteaka@sbcglobal.net.

Kickball Kickoff. Prime Time Players hosts the first Kickball Kickoff, which invites individuals and teams of all skill levels to participate in two games. This event includes food, T-shirts and music and offers a fun and interactive way to socialize and stay fit. Noon-6 p.m. Aug. 23. R. Inglenook Park (12 Mile Road between Evergreen & Lahser), Southfield. Email: ptpllc@gmail.com or visit www.ptpdetroit.com.

International Jazz Festival. The rich musical heritage of Detroit and Philadelphia are celebrated during this annual event themed “A Love Supreme: The Philly/Detroit Summit,” which features concerts by a host of singers and musicians. Times vary. Aug. 29-Sept. 1. Free. Hart Plaza, Detroit. 313-447-1144 or www.detroitjazzfest.com.

Return of the Legends. Some of the most famed icons of hip hop including NAS, Scarface, Busta Rhymes, Rakim, Salt N Pepa and MC Hammer take the stage for this concert series at Chene Park Amphitheater. 8 p.m. Aug. 29-31. R. 2600 Atwater St., Detroit. 313-393-7128, 248-645-6666, www.cheneparkdetroit.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

Legends of Motown. The Temptations Revue featuring Dennis Edwards and the Contours with Sylvester Potts perform in this concert at the DTE Energy Music Theatre. 7:30 p.m. Aug. 31. R. 7774 Sashabaw Road, Clarkston. 248-645-6666, www.palacenet.com or www.ticketmaster.com.

Culture Corner. Campus Martius Parks’ Culture Corner Weekends include the 4th Friday arts market, Saturday book club, KidzShow and Sunday Café poetry series. Times vary. Month of August. For more details, 313-962-0101 or www.campusmartiuspark.org.

 

back to top


Learn & Grow
Workshops, expos, discussions and more

Art Classes. The Artists Village offers the following programs for aspiring artists: Art Instruction, Sketch Up 5, Z Brush, 3D Studio Max and Theatre and Music Instruction. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays. R. 17340 Lahser Road, Detroit. 313-334-2919 or www.publicartworkz.org.

Fire Fighters Convention. The International Association of Black Professional Fire Fighters hosts its 19th Biennial Convention, which includes workshops, exhibitors and banquet with keynote speaker Randall Robinson. Times vary. Aug. 2-8. R. Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center, 100 Renaissance Center, Detroit. 877-213-2170 or www.iabpff.org/conventn/conv.htm.

Healthy Moves. Visit Campus Martius Park for drop-in exercise classes, games and tours for children, adults and seniors. “Stretch & Move” aerobic class, 10 a.m.-10:30 a.m.; Bike, Walk, Roll & In-line, 10:30 a.m. Now - Aug. 9. 800 Woodward Ave., downtown Detroit. www.campusmartiuspark.org.

Loan Program. Ways to Work of Michigan, Inc. hosts two orientation meetings for its loan program for low-to-moderate income parents. Aug. 5: 5:45-6:45 p.m., Catholic Social Services, 9851 Hamilton Ave., Detroit. Aug. 21: Noon-1 p.m., Starr Commonwealth, 22400 W. Seven Mile Rd., Detroit. 313-883-8399 or 313-883-7442.

Women’s Conference. “Women Who Lead”, a conference to help women become better leaders in the home, church, community and workplace. 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Aug. 6. R. Grace Community Church, 21001 Moross Road, Detroit. 313-532-0346 or email: info@helpforyourleadership.com.

Birth Network Meeting. The new Oakland County chapter of Birth Network National will hold its quarterly meeting at the Longacre House. Topic: “Breastfeeding Awareness.” 7 p.m. Aug. 8. 24705 Farmington Road, Farmington Hills. 248-477-8404 or www.birthnetwork.org.

Girls Conference. “You Are the Gift”, a conference for girls focusing on topics such as abstinence and dating, body image, entrepreneurship, fitness and more. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 9. Free. Wayne County Community College District-Downtown Campus, 1001 W. Fort St., Detroit. 313-522-2503 or www.hisagency.org.

Real Estate Symposium. The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History presents Homes Suite Homes, a tri-county, multicultural homeowners symposium that includes a panel discussions and networking sessions. 9-11 a.m. Aug. 9. R. 315 E. Warren, Detroit. 313-494-5853, 313-494-5827 or www.maah-detroit.org.

Fathers Workshop. Friends of Fathers present the “Helping Fathers Navigate through the Friend of the Court” seminar at the Northwest Activities Center. 9 a.m.-noon. Aug. 16. R. 18100 Meyers, Detroit. 248-681-3550 or www.friendsoffathers.org.

Dance Lessons & Camps. The New St. Mark Family Life Center offers hip hop dance, ballroom and Chicago step/hustle lessons. Times vary. Session dates vary. R. 24331 W. Eight Mile Road, Detroit. 313-541-3846.

Tax Seminar. Riley’s Tax Centers hosts the Prosperity Tax Planning Seminar, which offers tips on tax refunds, deductions and more for all types of taxpayers. 10 a.m. Aug. 16. R. Fellowship Chapel, 7707 W. Outer Drive, Detroit. 313-272-2521 or www.rileytax.net.

Brother’s Only. The Henry Ford Health System Institute on Multicultural Health’s African American Initiative for Male Health Improvement (AIM-HI) program in collaboration with Michigan Department of Community Health, Health Disparities Reduction and Minority Health Section presents “Check Up or Check Out”, an informational session for men only that includes health screenings, discussions, raffles, prizes and more. 1:30-4 p.m. Aug. 16. AIM-HI Resource Center, 21551 Fenkell, Detroit. 313-874-1890.

Food Fair Trip. H2O Essence of Life presents a one-day bus trip to the 24th annual Vegetarian Food Fair in Toronto. Participants enjoy samples of vegetarian cuisine, exhibits, products, music, cooking demos and more—plus, explore the Toronto area. Trip date: Sept. 6. Registration deadline: Aug. 16. For more details call BJ, 313-505-8278 or email: h2oessenceoflife@yahoo.com.

Health Fair. The fifth annual Education and Health Fair includes health screenings, substance-abuse information, legal aid and more – plus, there’s face painting, kids’ activities and door prizes and giveaways. Noon-5 p.m. Aug. 22. Free. SHAR Inc., 1852 W. Grand Blvd., Detroit. 313-894-8444.

Spelling Bee Prep. Students interested in participating in the OfficialCityPrep Spelling Bee (held in November 2008) are invited to attend the Word Up! Workshop to prepare for the upcoming challenge. Noon-1:30 p.m. Aug. 23. Free for registered students. R. International Institute of Metro Detroit (IIMD), 111 E. Kirby St., Detroit. 313-874-5827 or www.citypreponline.com.

Book Signing. Rev Run, one of the founding members of rap group Run DMC, and his wife Justine Simmons will discuss and sign copies of their new book “Take Back Your Family: A Challenge to America’s Parents.” 7-8:30 p.m. Aug. 26. Borders, 5601 Mercury Drive, Dearborn. 313-271-4441 or www.borders.com.

 

back to top


Sneak Peek
Check out some of next month’s upcoming events

Open Mic. Take your music to the masses during open stage night at The Ark. Sign-up begins at 7 p.m., show starts at 8 p.m. Sept. 3. $. 316 S. Main St., Ann Arbor. 734-761-1818 or www.theark.org.

Legs for Life. St. Mary Mercy Hospital hosts this nationwide screening program to identify people at risk for clogged arteries in the legs, which is known as peripheral arterial disease (PAD). 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sept. 6. R. 36475 Five Mile Road, Livonia. 734-655-8950, www.legsforlife.org or www.stmarymercy.org.

 

back to top


Ongoing
Group meetings, exhibits, entertainment and community resources

Lunchtime Arts. Detroit’s finest musicians, visual artists, dancers and variety performers entertain the downtown lunchtime crowd. Special features include “Lunchtime Wednesdays” with performances by Detroit Music Awards winners and nominees and the Thursday Smooth Jazz V98.7 Lunchtime Jazz Series. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Weekdays through Aug. 28. Free. Campus Martius Park, 800 Woodward Ave., downtown Detroit. www.campusmartiuspark.org

Eat to the Beat. The city of Southfield, in partnership with the City Centre Advisory Board, presents this concert series, which features blues, jazz, R&B, rock, big band and funk music artists. Noon-2 p.m. Thursdays through Sept. 11. Free. Food is available for purchase or you can bring your own. City Centre Plaza, Central Park Blvd., Southfield. 248-796-4620. 

Senior Games. The Northwest Activities Center’s Family and Community Services Department offers table and card games for senior citizens. Tuesdays and Thursdays. R. 18100 Meyers, Detroit. 313-578-7530.

Detroit Jaycees. The Detroit Jaycees, a leadership organization for young people ages 18 to 40, holds general meetings. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Third Wednesdays. R. Detroit Chambers, 1 Woodward Ave., (19th floor), Detroit. Visit www.detroitjaycees.org

Parent Leadership. The Detroit Parent Network offers a six-week parent leadership-training course for local parents. The sessions include childcare and dinner. 6-8 p.m. Tuesdays. R. Northwest Activities Center, 18100 Meyers, Detroit. 313-309-1460. 

Jazz & Food. Plymouth United Church of Christ presents “Jazz and a Fish Fry”. 5:30 p.m. First Fridays. $. 600 E. Warren Ave., Detroit. 313-831-2460. Note: Free before 5:30 p.m., doors open at 5 p.m. 

Shipwreck. Odyssey’s “Shipwreck! Pirates and Treasure”, an exhibit featuring thousands of artifacts, treasures and interactive displays, at the Detroit Science Center. Times vary. On display through Sept. 1. $. 5020 John R, Detroit. 313-577-8400 or visit www.detroitsciencecenter.org.

Chocolate Exhibition. From rainforest treasure to luscious treat, explore the relationship between human culture and chocolate. Discover the history, innovations, marketing strategies and more of this delectable delicacy. 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. On display until Sept. 7. $. Henry Ford Museum, 20900 Oakwood Blvd., Dearborn. 313-982-6001 or www.thehenryford.org.

Healthy Detroit. The Pyramid of Health Alliance presents the grand opening of A Healthy Taste of Detroit, a vegan marketplace, which also hosts a weekly health forum. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Thursdays through Nov. 13. God Land Unity Church, 22450 Schoolcraft, Detroit. 313-359-6166.

Poetry. EchoVerse Poetry Series and Slam at the Java Exchange Café. 8 p.m. Fridays. $. 440 Burroughs, Detroit. 313-822-6456 or email: info@picnap-poetry.com or visit www.picnap-poetry.com.

Story Time. Tell the Mystery and Wonder, a children’s story time, at the Shrine of the Black Madonna Cultural Center and Bookstore. Noon-1 p.m. First Saturdays. 13535 Livernois, Detroit. 313-491-0777 or visit www.shrinebookstore.com.

Girls With Virtue. Jehovah M.B. Church hosts Girls With Virtue, a meeting that discusses topics such as self-esteem, purity, faith and more. 6 p.m. Second and fourth Mondays. Ages: 8-12. 13881 Joseph Campau, Detroit. 313-587-5879.

Writers Network. The Motown Writers Network offers monthly meetings to help write, publish and promote literary work. Locations, dates and times vary. E-mail motownwriters@yahoo.com or visit www.motownwriters.com.

Teen Parents. The Federation of Youth Services offers teen parent outreach services, which includes financial, educational and mentoring resources, for young mothers and fathers ages 16-20. 313-732-2008 or 313-732-2009 or 313-732-2010.

Writer’s Legacy. A networking session for aspiring writers, poets and authors meets at the Southfield Public Library. Noon. Third Saturdays. R. 26300 Evergreen Road. E-mail writerslegacy@yahoo.com or visit www.writerslegacy.com.

Mothers Support. Mocha Moms, Inc. (Detroit chapter), a support group for at-home mothers of color, meets monthly for community service, “girl talk” and more. www.mochamoms.org or http://detroitmochamoms.tripod.com

Health Clinic. The Dr. Albert B. Cleage Sr. Memorial Health Center is a free health clinic serving uninsured residents of Detroit. All clinical services are provided by volunteer doctors and nurses. Doctor visits scheduled by appointment only. 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Tuesdays & Thursdays; 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Saturdays. Akwaaba Community Center, 8045 Second Ave., Detroit. 313-874-1300.

back to top