ROSE CITY — The author of the book “The Purple Gang: Organized Crime in Detroit” will be speaking at two events in the area this week.
The Rose City Area Historical Society and Ogemaw District Library will be hosting two events to showcase author Paul Kavieff and his book. The first program will take place Thursday, June 13 at the Rose Township Hall at 7 p.m. The event is free and open to anyone interested in the Purple Gang and their connection to Graceland and the area. Kavieff will be available to sign books, answer questions and will be speaking about the history of the gang.
“It’s been an interesting mystery to people in the area,” said Marilyn Pachota of the historical society. “Most people around here have heard of the Purple Gang. Paul’s book will substantiate some of the questions that people have. It’s just an interesting story.”
The second event is a fundraiser for the society — a “meet and greet” with Kavieff on Friday, June 14 at 7 p.m. at the Rose Valley Winery. Kavieff will be giving a short presentation at the event about the Purple Gang and its relationship to the area, after which he will be available to mingle and answer questions. A $20 donation at the door will provide guests with wine tasting, hors d’oeuvres, desserts and door prizes.
Proceeds from this fundraiser will help the Rose City Area Historical Society cover the cost of retrieving lost records.
“We have lost a great deal of materials during a flood three or four years ago, and are working toward getting our records restored,” said Pachota.
To RSVP for the Friday event, call 989-345-5659 or 989-473-4164.
