A local dental clinic that helps low income and uninsured families is pitting Spartan and Wolverine fans against each other in a fundraiser before the big game.

The 9th annual VINA Dental Tailgate is scheduled for this Thursday, October 5th at Crystal Gardens in Howell, two days before the teams meet in Ann Arbor. The clinic, located on Grand River in Brighton has been providing dental care services to Livingston County residents in-need at a low cost for nearly a decade. Executive Director Barb Colley said that while it has been a group effort by dental community in donating their time and services, the clinic still needs money to operate. Enter the tailgate, which is their yearly benefit where Michigan and Michigan State fans battle for bragging rights on who can donate more, before the teams battle for bragging rights on the field.

Wolverine fans won the contest last year, with Spartan fans winning the year before. Colley promises the tailgate will be a fun, spirited evening for a good cause. She said, “The real winner in VINA Dental and their patients, but don’t let your team lag behind; come and support the Spartans or the Wolverines. Come bring your family and it will be a great evening.” At the event there will be food, a cash bar, a silent auction, games, and more. The Brighton High School Marching Band will be on hand playing each team’s fight song. A $40 donation gets you in the door. Tickets can be purchased at VINA Dental or online through the link below. (MK)