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Community Corner

Weekend Planner: Skate, Shop, Sing the Blues or Say Goodbye

Nearby events include open skating at Berkley Ice Arena, the Huntington Woods Public Library Used Book Sale, the Anti-Freeze Blues Festival and a goodbye party for Patch Editor Terry Parris Jr. in Ferndale, and Sk8 JAMZ in Royal Oak.

Got the winter blues? You're not alone.

Ferndale will be hosting some blues-filled events, including a going-away party for Patch Editor Terry Parris Jr. and the Anti-Freeze Blues festival.

Want a perkier event to pencil in? We suggest taking the family to open skating at the Berkley Ice Arena, a used book sale in Huntington Woods or Sk8 Jamz in Royal Oak.

Find out what's happening in Huntington Woods-Berkleywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Let's count down these weekend events that are sure to chase the blues away!

  • When: 7-8:50 p.m. Saturdays and 5-6:50 p.m. Sundays
  • Where:
  • Cost: $5 for adults; $4 for children 12 and younger
  • Why go: Start off the year by being active and enjoying a Berkley tradition with friends and family.
  • What else: Reservations are required to rent skates, which are $3 per pair. For more information, visit www.berkleymich.org/parks_arena.shtm.


  • When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday
  • Where:
  • Cost: Paperbacks start at only a quarter.
  • Why go: Get a deal on adult, young adult and children's selections from best-sellers to classics. Proceeds benefit the Friends of Huntington Woods Library. Open to the public.
  • What else: Call (248) 543-9720 for more information.


  • When: 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. Thursday
  • Where: , Ferndale
  • Cost: Free
  • Why go: Ferndale Patch Editor . "Since my job was equal parts reporter and community member, it's important that I invite you all out for one last handshake or hug," he says. There will be appetizers and "Terry's Leaving" drink specials.
  • What else: Check out the Facebook event here.


  • When: 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday
  • Where: , Ferndale
  • Why go: Check out some great music during this event to benefit the Detroit Blues Society.
  • Cost: Admission is $20
  • Day one: The Anti-Freeze Blues Festival kicks off with Detroit native James Montgomery's homecoming. Besides fronting his own band, Montgomery has been the band leader for Johnny Winter and has played with a who’s who of bluesmen (and women) including B.B. King, Buddy Guy, John Lee Hooker, Junior Wells, James Cotton, Bonnie Raitt, Gregg Allman and Laverne Baker. Backing Montgomery will be Jim McCarty and Friends. Arrive early so you don't miss the rest of the lineup, which includes Laith Al-Saadi, Pazman’s Super Session (featuring Jeanne & The Dreams) and The Difficulties.  
  • Day two: Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band will play tunes from their latest CD, Peyton On Patton, a tribute to legendary blues guitarist Charlie Patton. Detroit blues diva Thornetta Davis, Johnnie Bassett and The Rattlesnake Shake (a Peter Green/Fleetwood Mac tribute) will kick off the show.

  • When: 8:15-10:05 p.m. Friday
  • Where: , Royal Oak
  • Cost: $10 admission fee; skate rental is $4
  • Why go: Sk8 Jamz is all-ages skating fun with a live DJ.
  • What else: Visit the arena's website for more information. "Like" John Lindell Ice Arena on Facebook for free admission.

Check out more weekend-things-to-do options. Or, visit our Events guide here. If you'd like to post your own event, .

Find out what's happening in Huntington Woods-Berkleywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

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