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OCTOBER 1, 2025 Vol. 17, No. 31
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Birmingham’s unique burgers take the spotlight in October
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BEEKEEPING BEGINS WITH LEARNING 10A Al Fracassa celebrates with his players after winning the 2013 state championship game at Ford Field. It was the last game he’d ever coach. File photo by Patricia O’Blenes
BY MARY GENSON mgenson@candgnews.com
BIRMINGHAM — People can indulge in unique local burgers all month long during BirminghamBURGER. Local restaurants will be vying for the title of Best Burger in downtown Birmingham Oct. 1-31. Participating restaurants have created signature burgers specifically for this event. The community’s role is to try the burgers and vote for their favorites based on presentation, creativity and taste. Voters can rate as many burgers as they want. Last year was the first year of BirminghamBURGER. This year, 20 businesses are participating, including Adachi, Bell Bistro, Birmingham Pub, Casa Pernoi, Elie’s Mediterranean Grill & Bar, Employee Meal, Hazel’s, La Strada Italian Kitchen & Bar, Luxe Bar & Grill, Market North End, Social, and many more. Prices vary by restaurant, starting at $15. Each business is featuring a new and different burger than last year. “We had a huge level of interest, both from the community and restaurants last year. People were really excited about the unique flavor combinations and creativity of our local chefs, and it showed in the feedback that we received,” See BURGERS on page 16A
LEGENDARY BROTHER RICE HEAD COACH AL FRACASSA LEAVES BEHIND AN EVERLASTING LEGACY BY SCOTT BENTLEY
sbentley@candgnews.com
BLOOMFIELD HILLS — Longtime Brother Rice football coach and teacher Al Fracassa passed away on Sunday, Sept. 7, at 92 years old. Fracassa was on the sidelines for Brother Rice from 1969 until his retirement in 2013 where he amassed 386 wins. He also coached Royal Oak Shrine in the 1960s prior to taking over at Brother Rice, and his career mark of 430 wins as a head coach is the second most in the history of Michigan high school football.
“He put Brother Rice on the map,” Brother Rice Director of Athletics Jeff Calcaterra said. “For the 50-some years that he’s been a part of this community, he’s mentored, taught and impacted so many men that have come to this school.” Fracassa’s list of accomplishments on the field might never be seen again. He retired with 21 Catholic High School League titles and 10 state championships, along with producing hundreds of collegiate football players and 13 NFL players. “Coach took the time to get to know every one of See FRACASSA on page 21A
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