By Jeremy Carroll
C & G Staff Writer

CLAWSON — Drivers getting pulled over in Clawson Feb. 9-15 might be in for a surprise. For a select few — instead of an expensive ticket — they’ll get a gift certificate to a Clawson business.

Of course, to qualify, they must be driving well.

The program is to help celebrate Random Acts of Kindness week, which will also feature various discounts at local businesses.

Police say they’ll be stopping drivers and pedestrians after catching them either driving really well, or for doing good deeds, to hand out the gift certificates.

This is the second year the special week has been declared in the city, and the first time it has been expanded to include gift certificates and specials at city shops.

“I really like the philosophy of it,” said Mayor Penny Luebs about Random Acts of Kindness week. “It just fits into Clawson’s motto of a ‘Small Town with a Big Heart.’ We have neighbors who help neighbors.”

She said it was nice to recognize the week last year with the proclamation, but this year is much different, with businesses, the school district and civic groups getting involved.

“It’s on a much grander scale,” Luebs said.

Joan Horton, Clawson’s Downtown Development Authority acting director, said more than 35 downtown businesses have signed up to participate in some form.

“It’s just really exciting,” Horton said. “The response has been terrific. And it’s not just businesses offering up specials. Some are coming up with their own ways to help.”

She said several businesses have decided they would also make donations to various causes anonymously.

“We had a lot of them come to us and say, ‘Here’s a little extra. Can you find a place for it? Don’t tell anyone,’” Horton said.

Clothing drives and help for needy families in Clawson are among the causes that could benefit.

For a complete list of businesses and specials for the Random Acts of Kindness week, visit www.downtownclawson.com.

You can reach Staff Writer Jeremy Carroll at jcarroll@candgnews.com or at (586) 279-1110.