The Connection - Fall 2024

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CONNECTION FALL 2024

INSIDE FALL 2024

THIS EDITION

3-4 New Additions: A Message from Mayor Kolar 5-6 Connect With What Matters: A Message from the City Administrator 7 Know Your Water: Tips and Information 8 Go Paperless 8 Fall & Winter Classes 9 Historic Preservation Commission 9 Election Information 10 Seasonal Reminders 11-12 Community Engagement Santa’s Mailbox A Few of Our Favorite Things 13-14 Community Member Spotlight Franklin Barker Aby Cryderman 15-16 We Are Not Alone Are You Calling Milan, Michigan?

How Many Milans Are There?

How Did We Get Our Name?

What’s the Population?

Visitors from Another Milan 17 Beautification Commission 18 Downtown Milan / DDA 19 Milan Seniors for Healthy Living 20 Crossword Puzzle 21-24 Events, Happenings & Important Dates October November December 25 Mayor and City Council 25 Connect With Us 26 City Hall 26 Police 26 Fire

NEW ADDITIONS A MESSAGE FROM MAYOR ED KOLAR

We all appreciate a vibrant and welcoming community. Maintaining the activities and services we cherish, while also expanding our options for new and fun happenings, is the result of countless volunteers and collaboration with the City of Milan.

These enhancements infuse fresh energy into our community.

In the spring and summer of 2024, we welcomed several new additions to the city’s offerings.

These enhancements infuse fresh energy into our city and create new stories to share with our neighboring communities.

SUNDAYS IN THE PARK. The Milan Farm and Flea Market launched its inaugural season in 2024. Taking place in Wilson Park on the last Sunday of each summer month, this volunteerorganized event has garnered a positive response and strong participation.

On these Sundays, over thirty local vendors showcase a variety of offerings, including antiques, crafts, baked goods, fresh produce, food trucks, and more. It also attracts families who enjoy the splash pad, playground, pavilions, and other park amenities.

It’s truly heartwarming Seeing a vibrant and lively park on Sundays is truly heartwarming, and it also draws hundreds of visitors from outside Milan, benefiting our local business community.

The Milan Farm and Flea Market is made possible by the commitment and effort of Lisa Friese, Olivia VanBuren, and Wendy Gauntlett.

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TOLAN SQUARE celebrated its highly anticipated grand opening in July, following several months of construction that began in early spring 2024. The new and improved Tolan Square is the culmination of years of fundraising efforts by Milan’s leading non-profit, Moving Milan Forward, along with generous contributions from hundreds of community supporters.

Remarkably, the transformation of this former gathering space into a stunning downtown park was achieved without any city funding.

Tolan Square stands as the centerpiece of a lively downtown.

Moving Milan Forward members at Tolan Square

Now, Tolan Square stands as the centerpiece of the lively downtown area, poised to host events for residents and draw in new visitors from neighboring municipalities.

LAVENDER IS GREEN. Milan’s beloved green... or rather, purple thumb is back at it, adding more lavender plantings to the City of Milan.

Joe Pusta, owner of Lavender Lane, is cultivating a new field of lavender at the entrance sign of City Hall.

Pusta generously volunteers his time and donates plants, bringing lavender to various locations throughout the city.

The results are visually appealing and fragrant.

The results are visually appealing and fragrant, and we are incredibly grateful to Joe for all he does to enhance our city.

Joe Pusta in a Lavender Field

THIS COMMUNITY IS FILLED WITH COUNTLESS VOLUNTEERS contributing to the vibrancy of Milan, and we wish we had the space to recognize each one of you. Your dedication does not go unnoticed, and we sincerely appreciate the time you invest in enhancing the quality of life in Milan. Let’s build upon these efforts to continually elevate our city, and together, let’s explore ideas for community improvements in 2025.

-Mayor Ed Kolar 4

CONNECT WITH WHAT MATTERS

AN UPDATE FROM CITY ADMINISTRATOR JAMES LANCASTER

Over the past year, Milan has made headlines several times due to grant funding for various projects throughout the city. The city's staff consistently seeks out grant and funding opportunities to improve our community without placing additional financial strain on our taxpayers.

Why not here, and why not for us?

It's true that grants are essentially federal and state tax dollars earmarked for certain activities within these entities' budgets. However, for a multitude of reasons, not every community receives these funds. One of the key priorities of this administration is to actively pursue and apply for these grants, as that money has to be allocated somewhere—so why not here, and why not for us?

Over the past two years, our team in the city has successfully secured more than $8,000,000 in grant funding for Milan. While this is fantastic news, you might be wondering where this money is. When it comes to federal and state grant processes, as well as large budget projects, there is often a delay between when they are awarded and when you reap the benefits of these projects.

The city has successfully secured $8M in grant funding

Representatives Miller and Irwin present Milan with Ç § M check

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The $3.6M wastewater appropriation, received with the help and support of State Representatives Reggie Miller and Jeff Irwin, is currently in the design phase with our engineering consultants, and we anticipate it will go out to bid in the coming month. Once a contractor is selected, they can start obtaining the necessary equipment to begin construction.

Due to the complexity and nature of the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP), many components need to be custom-built, resulting in a longer lead time. We expect construction on the plant improvements to begin in late summer to early fall of 2025, with an anticipated completion date in 2026.

The SPARK grant, a highly competitive initiative from the Department of Natural Resources, utilizes federal funds from the American Rescue Plan Act to help communities reinvest in their parks following the pandemic.

This grant was written and secured by our city staff. With a maximum award of $1 million, more than 450 entities across the state applied for this funding. We were fortunate to be among the thirty-one projects selected in the second round of grant disbursements. Our award of $954,500 will be used for upgrades and enhancements to Wilson Park, including permanent restrooms, pickleball courts, shade structures, and a new all-inclusive playground.

We are currently finalizing the bidding packages for this project with our engineers.

Our engineers have participated in city council study sessions and Parks and Recreation Commission meetings to refine the layouts and designs for these new features. We expect that this project will go out to bid in the next few weeks to be awarded by the end of this year.

Construction is projected to begin in late summer to early fall of 2025, with completion slated for 2026.

Congresswoman Debbie Dingell assisted the City of Milan in securing a $360,000 appropriation from the federal budget for the Riverbank Center. This funding will facilitate much-needed renovations to the center which also houses Milan Seniors for Healthy Living. The funding includes new windows, outdoor activation spaces, and upgraded bathrooms and kitchen areas, bringing them up to ADA compliance. The city has already approved the window contractor and is in the process of obtaining bids for the other phases of the project. Construction is expected to begin in early 2025 and be completed by the end of that year.

Mayor Kolar and council members Dare·Wayne and Kerkes tour Riverbank Center with Congresswoman Dingell

The next two years promise to be both busy and exciting as we start to reap the benefits of all the grant dollars coming into the City of Milan.

The next two years promise to be both busy and exciting.

Please remember to be considerate and respectful towards all the workers who will be working in our parks and facilities during this time. Once the work is complete and the dust has settled, I hope we can all take a moment to step back, take a deep breath, and reconnect with what matters.

-James Lancaster

City Administrator 6

KNOW YOUR WATER Factors that can lead to a higher-than-normal water bill: Water back up sump pumps Check valves monthly to make sure they are functioning properly.

Leaky toilets Remove toilet tank cover and place a dye strip or 10 drops of food coloring in the tank. Do not flush.

Wait 10-15 minutes.

If the dye color is visible in the bowl, you have a leak.

Make sure water level is at least 1” below the overflow tube.

Dripping faucets Humidifiers being left on in the summertime During the summer months, the typical household will use considerably more water than during the other months.

Lawn/Garden irrigation Pools Hoses being left on More frequent personal use for drinking and bathing.

What can I do to conserve water and keep my bill down during these months?

Keep an eye on your sprinkler system and make sure to only water when necessary.

Have a rain gauge installed to help you monitor watering needs.

Shorten your watering cycles, and/or alternate watering days.

Learn how to read your meter and know if you have a leak.

Check your meter to see if the leak detector is moving.

Before going to bed (or when you expect no water flow for an extended period) read your meter and write down the numbers.

After waking up in the morning reread your meter and see if the numbers change. If so, then you have a problem. Check your toilets, hoses, and other water sources within and around your home.

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INTERESTING FACTS A typical sprinkler system in perfect working condition utilizes 13 GPM per zone so if you have five zones running for 30 minutes each it would equal almost 2,000 gallons of water.

An average leaky toilet can lose up to 200 gallons of water per day.

An average garden hose can produce up to 17 gallons of water per minute. So, if you leave your hose running for an hour you would consume approximately 1,020 gallons of water.

A leaky faucet that drips at a rate of 30 drops per minute can use up to 700 gallons of water per year.

GO PAPERLESS We are now offering paperless utility billing. To receive your monthly utility bill for water, sewer and rubbish electronically, simply complete the Paperless Billing Request Form. Once complete, you will be billed electronically and will no longer receive a bill by mail.

To register for paperless billing and to learn more, scan the QR code or visit: milanmi.rja.revize.com/forms/9944

FALL / WINTER CLASSES Throughout the year, the Parks & Recreation Department offers a variety of classes and activities. Here are our offerings for the Fall / Winter 2024 session. All classes are held at The Riverbank Center (45 Neckel Court). Preregistration is required for all classes except Quilting. For more information or to register visit milanmich.org and scan the QR code.

MONDAY

MON. & WED.

October 14 - December 16 No class on November 4 $95 (residents), $100 (non-residents)

TOTAL FITNESS (3:15 - 4:15 PM)

TINY DANCERS (4:30 - 5 PM)

Learn basic ballet / dance techniques: tendu, plie, and positions of the feet and arms. Ages 2-3

YOUNG ARTISTS (5:15 - 6 PM)

Fun and easy arts & craft projects. Ages 4-9

THEATER JAZZ (6 - 6:45 PM)

This expressive dance class teaches the jazz style typically seen in theater arts. Ages 7-9

POM DANCE (6:45 - 7:30 PM)

Learn dance team moves including arm placements, proper kick techniques and basic jumps. Ages 7-9

November 6, 13, 18, 20, 25 & December 2 & 18 $35 (residents), $40 (non-residents) Ideal for adults of all ages and fitness levels, each class features a blend of aerobics, weight and resistance band toning, abdominal and floor exercises, along with calming cool-down stretches.

THURSDAY QUILTING (6 - 8 PM) Drop-in any Thursday No class on holidays $3 at the door First time quilters and experienced quilters welcome.

All materials and supplies are provided. Adults.

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NEWS & INFORMATION FROM THE CLERK’S OFFICE Lavonna Wenzel, Clerk

HISTORIC PRESERVATION

ELECTION UPDATE ABSENTEE BALLOTS Absentee ballots for the election on November 5, 2024, were mailed on or before September 26, 2024, to voters who submitted a request for one prior to that date.

Voters who didn’t respond to their August Absentee Ballot application were sent a final application for an absentee ballot on August 30, 2024.

The City of Milan is currently seeking individuals with a passion for historic preservation who are interested in volunteering their time as a member of the City’s Historic District Commission (HDC).

Members are appointed by the mayor with the consent of city council for three-year terms. Meeting dates and times are to be determined.

Seeking individuals with a passion for historic preservation Licensed architects and professional historians, architectural historians, and archaeologists are encouraged to apply, as are individuals with an interest in historic preservation or a background in architecture, history, architectural history, archaeology, planning, construction, real estate, cultural geography, or another related field.

If you are interested in providing volunteer services to the Historic District Commission of Milan, please contact the Milan City Clerk at lavonnaw@milanmich.org.

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VOTER STATUS / CHANGES Be sure to contact the City Clerk to confirm your voter registration status and to update the clerk of any address changes.

Phone: 734.439.1501 Email: lavonnaw@milanmich.org EARLY IN-PERSON VOTING Location: Milan City Hall (147 Wabash) Dates & Hours: Saturday, October 26 & Sunday, October 27 - 7 AM to 3 PM Monday, October 28 through Thursday, October 31 - 8 AM to 4 PM Friday, November 1 through Sunday, November 3 - 7 AM to 3 PM ELECTION DAY Date: November 5, 2024 Polling Location: The Riverbank Center (45 Neckel Court) Polls Open: 7 AM - 8 PM

SEASONAL REMINDERS

October 24 through November The final date for leaf pick up is TBD based on weather conditions.

The last day of branch chipping is October 2, 2024. After this date, branches will no longer be collected.

Leaves must be placed on the greenbelt, not in the street or sidewalk.

Please DO NOT place branches on/in leaf piles.

Snow and ice MUST be removed from all sidewalks within 48 hours of a weather event. (Ordinance 18-6) DO NOT plow/shovel snow onto any street/sidewalk. (MCL 257.677a) The final day for yard waste picked up

by Steven’s (bagged or in cans) is November 26, 2024

Please follow snow emergency procedure when declared.

(Section 21, Article 4)

Thank you for your cooperation!

Please call City Hall at 439-1501 with any questions or concerns.

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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Jill Tewsley¢ Community Engagement Director

We enjoyed seeing everyone downtown for 3rd Thursdays and live music in Tolan Square as delightful summer weather lingered into September. Although we are sad to bid farewell to summer, we are excited for the magic that the upcoming holiday season promises.

SANTA’S MAILBOX Santa has enjoyed a longstanding relationship with the City of Milan. He not only carves out time from his busy schedule to participate in the Milan Area Chamber’s annual holiday parade, but Milan also serves as one of his official mailbox locations.

For over fifty years, Santa's elves have sent one of Santa's mailboxes to Milan. In return, our DPW team places the letter receptacle in our downtown.

In the blink of an eye While Santa’s Mailbox is stationed in Milan, a member of our Community Engagement team gathers letters daily and delivers them to one of Santa’s elves. The elves, just like Santa, are filled with holiday magic, ensuring the letters reach Santa at the North Pole in the blink of an eye.

This year, Santa’s Mailbox will arrive in Milan and be in the downtown ready to receive letters by Friday, November 29 (the day after Thanksgiving). It will remain in our downtown until Sunday, December 15.

That’s when our DPW crew delivers the mailbox back to Santa’s elves.

Santa promises to respond to every child who sends him a letter, but he kindly requests that everyone includes their return address to save him a lot of time.

Santa will respond to every child who sends him a letter.

He also adds, "No need to worry about postage; I've got that taken care of. Ho, ho, ho!"

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A FEW OF OUR FAVORITE THINGS Each year, Santa delights in sharing some of his favorite letters from children in Milan. Here are some of our favorite excerpts from last year's letters.

ta, n a ow d h S r w no r? An k Dea o t t summe t the n a I w our pa u y e was is it lik t wha h Pole? t Nor

Dear Santa Claus , I may not alway s have Christma s spirit but I reall y, really want to be an elf someday s o if you read this letter then pleas e make my wish happen.

Dear Santa, I saw you last night at Cabella’s.

I forgot to tell you that I want a new baseball mitt.

Thank you. !

Santa s a m hrist C y r r Me spend o t t i ith wa w t ’ n n o s a Ic y sea h you! a d i l o this h ly and wit mi id hi! my fa r elves I sa ou Tell y

nta, a d this S o r o a g e D been bring e v a ,I kIh e l n i p h t m I r exa very o F . r yea fee e r example f o c a Mam g. Anothe ade m n i I n r s mo cout S l r i less e G t m a o , is for h roop. s t e k blan with my t e peopl Dear Sa I don’ nta, t Christ know wha tI m some as but I’m want for th s give m ing to give ure you w ill m e you n the same e but I as find k orma lly do amount of please in my ca stock ndy as ing.

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COMMUNITY MEMBER SPOTLIGHT FRANKLIN BARKER

Student, community servant, and sports commentator Serving the community and helping others is something that makes Franklin Barker happy. He says that his motivation stems from the belief that “by helping others, you not only benefit yourself but also, those around you.”

By helping others, you not only benefit yourself but also, those around you.

Now in the 8th grade at Milan Middle School, Franklin launched his first significant community service project when he was in third grade. At that time, he set up a lemonade stand in his front yard to raise funds for Aid in Milan, successfully raising $1,000.

Franklin’s middle school years have kept him quite busy. “I try to be as involved as possible.” Franklin is in the band, serves on the student council, is a member of National Junior Honor Society, and has participated in Quiz Bowl, spelling bees, yearbook, bowling, basketball and track.

Franklin attributes his strong work ethic and his passion for helping others to the influence of his grandparents.

One of Franklin's professional dreams is to become a sports announcer. After finishing a career path program at school, he reached out to Milan’s Athletic Director, Herb Morelock, to explore opportunities for gaining experience in this area. Currently, you can hear Franklin announcing the middle school games, and he recently called a junior varsity game when the regular announcer was under the weather.

He made his acting debut in kindergarten, taking on the role of Sandy, the dog in Annie. Since that early performance, he has portrayed various characters, including an Oompa Loompa, a rapping snowman, an elf, a villager, and a grasshopper. Most recently, he played Scuttle in Milan Middle School’s production of The Little Mermaid.

When asked why this field is of interest to him, he stated that he loves watching people on TV call the games and thought it sounded cool.

You may also remember Franklin from his segment, Five Fun Facts with Franklin, which was showcased on SGN Milan, a video news production created by the City of Milan and Milan Main Street during the COVID pandemic. For that segment, Franklin wrote and produced the video briefs. You can view the SGN Milan news show featuring Franklin on the Milan Main Street You Tube channel.

He added, “I also just like to talk!”

FIVE FUN FACTS ABOUT FRANKLIN Math is his favorite subject.

His mom is a math teacher.

He’s a HUGE Michigan fan.

He is a percussionist in the MMS band.

He has always loved microphones.

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Being a sports commentator is just one of Franklin’s career aspirations. He says he also likes the idea of being an actuary but is most interested in being a college football statistician. “If I was able to do this, I would look at the stats and tell people what they mean. That would be my dream job.”

I can’t wait to see how my story unfolds.

On the wall of his bedroom (which is decorated in Maize and Blue) are the words “Every child is story to be told.” Franklin says that he cannot wait to see how his story unfolds.” We are excited to see how his story unfolds, too. Go Blue and Go Franklin!

COMMUNITY MEMBER SPOTLIGHT ABY CRYDERMAN

Director of the Milan Area Chamber, dance teacher, substitute teacher, and community volunteer In the grand scheme of things, Aby is a relatively new member of the Milan community. This December marks her fifth anniversary as a homeowner in Milan, but she first became familiar with the city when she began teaching at Dance Xplosion in 2014.

It gave me Hallmark movie vibes, especially during the holidays.

As Aby spent more time in Milan, she fell in love with the community. Aby says, "It gave me Hallmark movie vibes, especially during the holiday season.”

The more she connected with community members and became increasingly involved, her passion for Milan grew alongside the number of roles she took on.

Aby is dedicated to community service as well. Since January 2020, she has been a member of the Main Street Board / DDA board. During her time on the board, she has held positions as a board member, secretary, and vice president.

Her passion for Milan grew alongside the number of roles she took on.

Aby can be found working in various capacities across the Milan community. In addition to being a dance instructor at the long-time Milian business of Dance Xplosion, she serves as the Director of the Milan Area Chamber of Commerce.

In her spare time, she also works as a substitute teacher at Milan Middle School and Milan High School.

FIVE FUN FACTS ABOUT ABY Her sister Camyle also teaches at Dance Xplosion.

Since moving to Milan, she has completed six quilts...Thank you, Textiles!

She loves the sitcom “Friends.”

She loves to read.

She collects mugs.

Aby was born in Missouri but grew up in the Livonia and Canton area. She earned a B.A. from Eastern Michigan University, where she majored in Communication and Dance, focusing on Performance and Choreography. She also holds a master’s degree in teaching Artistry from Wayne State University.

One of Aby's greatest joys about living in Milan is the opportunity to teach and work with its remarkable youth. But Aby says her passion for Milan doesn’t end there, “I also love the unique events, and the people!”

Aby especially loves the holiday season in Milan when she wears holiday sweaters and encourages other business and organizational leaders to do the same.

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WE ARE NOT ALONE! You may be surprised by how frequently we receive phone calls at City Hall from individuals attempting to contact a city named Milan in another state.

Are you trying to reach Milan, Michigan?

Often, we can identify the caller's intent by the area code displayed on the caller ID, suggesting they are likely trying to reach one of those other Milans. However, as you know, area codes don’t always accurately indicate the caller’s location.

Occasionally, we find ourselves deep into the conversation before asking, “Are you trying to reach Milan, Michigan?”

JUST HOW MANY MILANS ARE THERE? In a 2023 article, American Domani stated that there are seven cities in the United States named Milan.

American Domani is a digital media company publishing news for Americans of Italian heritage as well as those who have a love and affinity for Italian culture.

Where are all of these Milans located?

Missouri, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, New Hampshire, Tennessee, and (of course) Michigan.

Read the fun and interesting article in American Domani detailing why each of these cities are named Milan.

WHY ARE WE CALLED MILAN? French explorers who arrived in the region named its tributary La Rivière aux Raisins (The River with Grapes), because of the wild grapes growing along its banks. The British found it easier to call it River Raisin.

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Later, when French settlers arrived in the area north of the River Raisin, they named their village after the Italian city of Milan, aiming to create a grapegrowing and wine-producing region.

ARE WE THE BIGGEST OF THE MILANS? According the 2020 U.S. Census, Milan, Michigan is the second largest of the United States Milans. The Milan in Tennessee has us beat by about 2K. Here’s how the population numbers play out in all the U.S. Milans:

1. Milan, TN (8,171) 2. Milan, MI (6,079) 3. Milan, IL (5,097) 4. Milan, IN (1,834) 5. Milan, MO (1,819) 6. Milan, OH (1,371), 7. Milan, NH (1,358) In case you were wondering, the population in Milan, Italy is 1.35 million.

FOUR VISITORS FROM MILAN, INDIANA This summer, the City of Milan, Michigan welcomed four very special visitors from another city by the name of Milan.

On August 5, 2024, Susan Cottingham, Marilyn Struckman, Lynne Davis, and Peggy Norman all of Milan, Indiana (born and raised) stopped by City Hall to say hello and give us a gift.

We were happy to make their acquaintance and gave them each a City of Milan, Michigan goodie bag (including the baseball caps they are sporting in the photo).

In 1954, Milan High School (the one in Indiana) won the state basketball title. The film Hoosiers was, in part, inspired by that championship season.

1954 State Basketball Champions The replica of the water tower honoring those champions that the Milan Hoosiers gifted to us is proudly on display in a case at Milan City Hall.

We hope Susan, Marilyn, Lynne, and Peggy enjoyed their time in our Milan.

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MILAN BEAUTIFICATION COMMISSION

Jessica Stafford, Board Chair

AWARD-WINNING BEAUTY The Beautification Commission is managed by a volunteer board who are dedicated to keeping Milan looking beautiful. But it takes more than our board of volunteers to keep the entire community looking fabulous. For that reason, we present Beautification Awards to homeowners and businesses throughout the summer. The winners are selected by members of our board who enjoy wandering our community looking at all of the amazing landscaping, plantings, and gardens.

BOO-TIFICATION! Summer might be over, but we aren’t done handing out awards. Soon we will be announcing this year’s Boo-tification Awards, recognizing homes with the most Boo-tiful Halloween decorations.

PETUNIAS TO MUMS In the Spring, the Beautification Commission planted petunias and other plantings in the barrels downtown and at the various entryways to the city.

Tolan Square wasn’t finished when we planted flowers in the Spring, so we did a second round of planting once the construction was completed. We hope you think the flowers in the Square look as beautiful as we think they look.

At the end of September, we were busy replacing the petunias with beautiful mums, making things look gorgeous for the fall.

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DOWNTOWN MILAN / DDA Jessica Meingasner, Executive Director

THE MAGIC OF DOWNTOWN IN THE FALL

We love every season in Downtown Milan but there is something a little extra magical in the air October through December. Many say that the Holidays are the "Most Wonderful Time of the Year," but this city possesses a Halloween spirit that rivals the excitement of the holidays!

There is something a little extra magical in the air.

Every fall, the downtown comes alive with events. Here are a few we think you should check out.

PRACTICALLY MAGICAL GIRLS NIGHT OUT presented by Downtown Milan is happening on October 17 from 5 - 8 PM. Enjoy music, magic and opportunities to win prizes and giveaways in our downtown businesses.

The excitement doesn't end when Halloween wraps up. Thanksgiving brings in festive shopping and even more joy in the downtown area.

WIN THE WINDOW returns on November 25. It’s a joint effort of the DDA and Milan Area Chamber to keep holiday spending in the 48160 and give you the chance to win the window filled with prizes valued over $5000.

The first 100 people to visit the Old Fire Barn during POP ON MAIN on November 30 get a free tote bag and Downtown Dollars to spend.

SCARECROWS ON MAIN is an annual happening presented by Milan Area Historical Society. Participate or just enjoy the creativity as community organizations, businesses and families decorate the downtown with scarecrows.

DOWNTOWN TRICK OR TREAT on Friday, October 25 is an annual event presented by the Milan Area Chamber. The downtown streets are filled with kids of all ages dressed in the best costumes anywhere on this earth.

Santa Claus comes to town on December 7 during the MILAN AREA CHAMBER HOLIDAY PARADE. Shop under the stars during MOONLIGHT MADNESS on December 14. It’s just like a scene from a Hallmark Movie.

There is something for everyone in Downtown Milan. Come experience the magic.

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MILAN SENIORS FOR HEALTHY LIVING

MaryAnn Opal, Executive Director

AGING IN ACTION In 2023, Milan Seniors for Healthy Living received a grant from the Glacier Hills Legacy Fund and the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation to implement a new program - Aging in Action.

Milan Seniors for Healthy Living has taken a community-based approach in supporting older adults’ efforts to live in their homes and communities safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of their age, income or abilities. Simply put, to age in place.

A community-based approach to supporting older adults Many seniors prefer to age in place because it enables them to better manage their lives and stay connected to loved ones. It can also be more cost-effective than moving to a retirement home or assisted living community.

Aging in Action was implemented in July of 2023 with Beverly Robinson as the Senior Life Navigator. In her role, Beverly provides a personalized care coordination service to identify and come alongside individuals who deal with issues such as transportation, food insecurity, isolation, hoarding, obtaining home repairs, navigating Medicaid, Medicare, accessing necessary technology, connecting with available social and mental health services – whatever is needed – to be adequately resourced to age “successfully.

By the close of 2023, Aging in Action helped 70 clients in its first six months.

Big or small, support has included medical assistive devices, transportation, technology assistance, caregiving, home safety and repair, housing solutions, as well as the need for companionship, a well-check, or listening ear.

Including the need for companionship, a well-check, or listening ear.

To learn more about Aging in Action or to access services, contact Beverly at 734.418.0376 or BeverlyR@MilanSeniors.org.

SUMMER FUN

This summer, our senior community members experienced a wide range of programs and services offered both at the Riverbank Center and at various off-site locations.

Transportation Services

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Dine to Donate at Pepper’s

Live from Tolan Square

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City Administrator or a city in PA Lavender is this color MSHL initiative Aging in __________ Farm and Flea is on this day Helped secure a grant for Milan Basketball movie Flowers found in our downtown Colorful business that won Beautification Award Community Engagement Director or half of a nursery rhyme duo A grant received by the City of Milan

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Young sports announcer One way you can vote Seen on downtown light poles in October A type of shopping madness Owner of a downtown mailbox Aby’s favorite sitcom Commission seeking a board member Spicy City Hall staff member Mayoral surname Total number of Milans in U.S. 20

photo credit: Jessica Meingasner

OCTOBER EVENTS, HAPPENINGS & IMPORTANT DATES 1 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 7 PM at Milan City Hall 5 HERO WALK 1:30 PM at Wilson Park Celebrate community heroes who tirelessly advocate, support, and inspire those with developmental disabilities.

5 FRIGHT NIGHT 8 pm at the Hack House A free event featuring a screening of the movie SCREAM. Presented by the Milan Area Historical Society.

7 SCARECROWS ON MAIN BEGINS Downtown Milan Annual scarecrow competition hosted by the Milan Area Historical Society.

1 3 SPOOKTACULAR 1 - 4 PM at the Hack House A free event with pizza, donuts, Halloween games, pumpkin painting, train rides, museum tours, and a pumpkin patch. Presented by the Milan Area Historical Society.

1 4 INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY City Hall Closed 1 5 EUCHRE TOURNAMENT 5:30 PM at the Riverbank Center Presented by Milan Seniors for Healthy Living.

1 5 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 7 PM at Milan City Hall 21

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GIRLS NIGHT OUT 5 -8 PM in Downtown Milan A Practically Magical evening of shopping, food, drink, and prizes presented by the Milan DDA.

2 5 DOWNTOWN TRICK OR TREAT 5:30 -7 PM in Downtown Milan Kids or all ages trick-or-treat through the downtown. It’s one of Milan’s most-loved events presented by the Milan Area Chamber.

2 5 TRUNK OR TREAT & HARVEST PARTY 5 - 8 PM on Tolan Street Presented by Milan Baptist Church 2 6 HALLOWEEN IN THE SQUARE 6 - 10 PM in Tolan Square Presented by Moving Milan Forward 3 1 CITY-WIDE TRICK OR TREATING 6 - 8 PM

NOVEMBER EVENTS, HAPPENINGS & IMPORTANT DATES 2 HOLIDAY MARKET 9 AM - 2 PM at the Riverbank Center Presented by Milan Seniors for Healthy Living.

5 ELECTION DAY 7 AM - 8 PM at the Riverbank Center Both Washtenaw and Monroe County residents vote at this location.

5 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 7 PM at Milan City Hall 22

1 1 VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION 10 AM at the Veterans Wall in Wilson Park Presented by the American Legion 1 2 VETERANS DAY LUNCHEON 12 PM at the Riverbank Center Presented by Milan Seniors for Healthy Living 1 9 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 7 PM at Milan City Hall 2 5 WIN THE WINDOW BEGINS Across the 48160 A joint venture between the Milan Area Chamber and DDA to promote a shop local spirit during the holiday season.

open to the public

2 9 SANTA’S MAILBOX ARRIVES Downtown Milan Santa promises to respond to every child who sends him a letter, but he kindly requests that everyone includes their return address.

3 0 POP ON MAIN STREET 8 AM - 3 PM Shop local on Small Business Saturday. The first 100 people to visit the Old Fire Barn will receive a free tote bag and Downtown Dollars to spend at local businesses.

DECEMBER EVENTS, HAPPENINGS & IMPORTANT DATES 3 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 7 PM at Milan City Hall 7 HOLIDAY FUN RUN Time to be announced / Wilson Park It’s Parade Day in Milan. Start celebrating early by participating in a Fun Run hosted by the Milan Area Chamber.

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7 HOLIDAY TEA 2 - 3:30 PM at the Riverbank Center Join the Milan Area Chamber and Milan Seniors for Healthy Living at a Holiday Tea Party celebrating Parade Day and the season.

7 MILAN AREA CHAMBER HOLIDAY PARADE 7 PM at Downtown Milan It’s the biggest parade of the year. See Santa ride into Milan on the Boogie Woogie Choo Choo Train. Presented by the Milan Area Chamber.

1 0 BINGO Doors open 5:30 PM, Games begin at 6:30 PM at the Riverbank Center Presented by Milan Seniors for Healthy Living.

1 4 MOONLIGHT MADNESS Downtown Milan Shop under the stars and in the moonlight. Downtown retailers will be open late for you to finish your holiday shopping. Presented by Milan DDA. 1 6 LAST DAY FOR SANTA’S MAILBOX Downtown Milan Be sure to post your letters to Santa by this day. His elves will come sometime in the night to collect the mailbox and return it to the North Pole until next year.

1 7 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 7 PM at Milan City Hall DECEMBER 23 - JANUARY 1 CITY HALL CLOSED In observance of the holiday season 3 1 NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY 8 PM at the Riverbank Center Presented by Milan Seniors for Healthy Living.

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MAYOR & COUNCIL CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS Occur the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7 PM at City Hall (147 Wabash Street).

EDWARD KOLAR Mayor

DR. SHANNON DARE WAYNE Mayor Pro Tem

MARY KERKES Council Member

JOSH KOFFLIN Council Member

COUNCIL EMAIL ADDRESSES Ed Kolar edkolar@milanmich.org Shannon Dare Wayne shannonw@milanmich.org Mary Kerkes maryk@milanmich.org Josh Kofflin joshk@milanmich.org Dave Snyder daves@milanmich.org Matt Stafford matthews@milanmich.org Chris Thompson christiant@milanmich.org

CONNECT WITH US FACEBOOK

City of Milan Parks & Recreation DDA Police Department Fire Department Milan Seniors

@CityofMilanMI @MilanParksAndRec @MilanMainSt @MilanPolice @MilanAreaFire @MilanSeniors

WEBSITES City of Milan milanmich.org

DAVID SNYDER Council Member

MATT STAFFORD Council Member

Parks & Recreation milanmich.org/departments/parks_and_recreation DDA downtownmilanmi.com Police Department milanmich.org/departments/police_department

CHRISTIAN THOMPSON Council Member 25

Fire Department milanareafire.com Milan Seniors for Healthy Living milanseniors.org

CITY HALL JAMES LANCASTER City Administrator / DPW Director jamesl@milanmich.org

CITY HALL HOURS OF OPERATION MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

7:30 AM - 5:00 PM 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM CLOSED

GENERAL LINE (734) 439-1501

SARAH FINCH Treasurer & Finance Director sarahf@milanmich.org

BUILDING DEPARTMENT (734) 439-7089

milanmich.org

JILL TEWSLEY Community Engagement Director jillt@milanmich.org

POLICE (734) 439-1551

DONALD TILLERY Chief of Police donaldt@milanmich.org HANNA MASSOUH Director of IT Services hannam@milanmich.org JEREMY NIEMAN Deputy Chief of Police jeremyn@milanmich.org LAVONNA WENZEL Clerk lavonnaw@milanmich.org

FIRE (734) 439-2843

DAN CURRIE assessor danc@milanmich.org

ROBERT STEVENS Fire Chief rgstevens@milanareafire.com

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the

CONNECTION FALL 2024

milanmich.org