The sun was hot, shining off the new silver shovels displayed next to the podium. The Oakland County Animal Shelter and Pet Adoption Center is in the midst of some very big, positive changes.

The Leader Dogs for the Blind headquarters, located in Rochester Hills, is putting the final touches on a $14.5 million renovation – a new state-of-the-art Canine Development Center.

Thousands strolled through town, passing each tent, stopping at some. Browsing portraits painted by local artists and jewelry handcrafted by Oakland County residents, all while taste testing some of the area’s best food from more than 40 local restaurants and caterers.

Engines rev and mufflers roar. The summer sun reflects off of freshly waxed paint and chrome.

A procession of flags made their way to the cemetery. The wind whistled through the trees, ruffling the edges of the leaves.