The Connection - Summer 2025

the

SUMMER 2025

ABOUT THE COVER PHOTO The Friend–Hack House, also known as the Hack House, is a historic building located at 775 County Street in Milan. It was built as a private residence. In 1991, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Today, it serves as the Hack House Museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the past.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS 4-5 6 7

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SUMMER 2025

A Few Good Men: A Message from Mayor Kolar Understanding Summer Water Usage: A Message from the City Administrator City Clerk City Primary Election Permanent Absent Voter List Also...

Police Department What Parents Can Do to Keep Teen Drivers Safe Teen Driver Toolkit Fire Department About MAFD Stats Completion of Probation Advanced Training by WCTRT Fire Chief Stevens Retires Carpus Promoted to Chief Downtown Development Authority Celebrating the Ever-Changing Heart of Downtown Milan Saying Goodbye to a Beloved Staple A New Chapter on Main Street Milan Seniors for Healthy Living Let’s Rock About MSHL Beautification Commission A Touch of Yellow Big Reds with Green Thumbs A Little Bit of Lavender Community Organization Spotlight: Milan Relay for Life Community Member Spotlight: Elizabeth Satterley Community Engagement How Do You Define Recreation?

Milan in Motion: Let’s Get Moving!

Events & Happenings: July - September Coloring Sheet Mayor and Council

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A MESSAGE FROM MAYOR ED KOLAR

A FEW GOOD MEN The seven individuals who make up the Milan Department of Public Works are the city’s quiet warriors. Working relentlessly through harsh winters and sweltering summers, they often go unnoticed while tackling numerous weekly responsibilities and fulfilling essential roles in maintaining the City of Milan.

They are the city’s quiet warriors The residents of Milan are accustomed to having a well maintained and highly functioning city. The DPW has never let the City Council down when it comes to working the extra hours to ensure a high quality of life for the residents and all of our daily guests. The DPW works a vigorous daily schedule and stands prepared to jump in to assist the city in every emergency situation that Mother Nature throws at us.

Our Department of Public Works team has a wide range of responsibilities, as you can see. They are available around the clock to handle emergencies, severe weather, and other challenges.

Every year in May, the APWA (American Public Works Association) presents National Public Works Week.

During the May 6, 2025 City Council meeting, I issued a proclamation declaring the City of Milan's support of this initiative that celebrates, supports, and amplifies the contributions made by public works in communities around the world.

With or without fanfare, our DPE is ever-present, working in the background to advance quality of life for everyone in Milan.

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It’s important to recognize the contributions of DPW workers and all they do, not only during National Public Works Week but throughout the year.

They are ever-present, working in the background to ensure quality of life for everyone.

So, if you see them out and about in the community, give them a honk, a kind smile, or a friendly wave.

-Mayor Ed Kolar COLORING SHEET In celebration of National Public Works Week the APWA created a coloring sheet illustrating some of the jobs you might see public workers doing in our community and across the nation. We have shared that sheet at the back of this publication.

If you or a young artist you know colors in this page, send a copy to our Facebook inbox. We would love to share it. Be sure to let us know the age and name of the artist.

Our DPW workers maintain nearly

160 acres

of land throughout the city

Zach started working for the City of Milan nine years ago, joining the team in 2016.

Brian joined the crew in 2012.

He is celebrating his thirteenth anniversary with the City.

Lance began working for Milan DPW in 2023. He is proudly marking his second year with us.

They are responsible the 56 care and maintenance of: miles of water and sewer lines

Rusty began his career with the City of Milan in 1999. He is proudly celebrating 26 years of service for our community.

Jon started his job with Milan’s DPW in 2014. He is celebrating his 11th anniversary this year.

Our DPW workers provide the maintenance and upkeep of

And for

And over

miles of roads

parking lots, alleyways, and access roads

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Charles started with the city in 2024. He’s celebrating his first year on the job.

7

lift stations

300

manholes

Cody joined Milan’s DPW in 2024 and is celebrating his one-year anniversary with the city.

10 city-owned buildings And for hundreds of feet of sidewalks adjacent to city properties 5

A MESSAGE FROM CITY ADMINISTRATOR JIM LANCASTER

UNDERSTANDING SUMMER WATER USAGE During the summer months, the typical household will use considerably more water than during the other months out of the season.

Some reasons you might use more water during the summer months include: Lawn/Garden irrigation Pools Hoses left running More frequent use for drinking and bathing Other factors that can lead to a higher-than-normal water bill include: Water back up sump pumps Check the valves monthly to make sure they are functioning properly.

Leaky toilets Remove the toilet tank 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, then you have a leak.

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

Dripping faucets Humidifiers being left on in the summertime Water softening systems malfunctioning How to save water and lower your water bill: Monitor your sprinkler system closely and ensure you only water when necessary.

Consider installing a rain gauge Reduce your watering cycles, and/or alternate your watering days to optimize efficiency.

Learn how to read your meter to check for leaks.

Check the top of 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, you have a problem.

Check your toilets, hoses, and other water sources.

INTERESTING FACTS A standard sprinkler system in perfect working condition, uses 13 GPM per zone. So, if you operate 5 zones for 30 minutes each, it would amount to nearly 2,000 gallons of water, costing about $27.38 per session.

An average leaky toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water daily, which translates to around $3 each day.

A typical garden hose can deliver up to 17 gallons of water per minute. Leaving the hose running for an hour could consume approximately 1,020 gallons of water, costing around $13.70.

A dripping faucet that leaks at a rate of 30 drops per minute can waste up to 700 gallonsof water annually.

Transitioning to monthly billing has enabled us to assist homeowners in quickly identifying issues within their residences, ultimately conserving both water and money.

We are also exploring a system that would allow homeowners to download an app for more precise monitoring of their water usage and the ability to set alerts for potential issues within their homes.

If you believe your water bill is unusually high, please contact City Hall. We can review your account to identify any potential issues or send someone to guide you through the situation.

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CITY CLERK

(734) 439-1501

CITY PRIMARY ELECTION Clerk

lavonnaw@milanmi.gov

PRIMARY ELECTION DATE: August 5, 2025.

There will be NO EARLY VOTING for this election.

AUGUST PRIMARY CANDIDATES

JULY

July 1 (no meeting / holiday) July 15

AUGUST August 5 August 19

SEPTEMBER September 2 September 16 Council meetings occur the first and third Tuesday of the month at 7 PM at City Hall.

NON-PARTISAN

PARTISAN

Mayor Vote for not more than 1 Ed Kolar Laura Russeau Danette Talbot

Monroe County Commissioner Partial Term Monroe Electors Only Vote for not more than 1 Vote only 1 party section

Library Board Vote for not more than 2 Rod Hill Peter Kentes Cary Lieffers Michelle Walters Kelsey Winter

Democrat Danielle Hoover Republican Dale Biniecki Dwayne Dobbs

PERMANENT ABSENT VOTER LIST

ALSO...

The City of Milan is discontinuing our Permanent Absent Voter Application List. After this August Election, we will no longer be sending Absentee Ballot Applications to those on that list automatically, before every election as in the past.

Also, please update us whenever your mailing address changes so you don’t get removed from the permanent ballot list.

Instead, state law gives you the option to join the Permanent Mail Ballot List and receive an absentee ballot for every future election in which you are eligible to vote in. If you join this list, you won’t need to apply for a ballot for each election – it will be sent to you automatically.

If you want to vote via absentee ballot in a future election, you can submit an AV ballot application in any of the following ways: Request your clerk mail you an AV ballot application or download an AV ballot application from Michigan.gov/Elections, and return it by mail, email, or in person.

Submit an online AV ballot application at Michigan.gov/Vote.

Join the Permanent Mail Ballot List by marking the box on an AV ballot application “I want to vote absentee in all future elections.

Automatically send me an absent voter ballot for every election.”

If we mail you a ballot and it gets returned to us as undeliverable, we automatically remove you from the permanent ballot list and you will need to re-join.

For voters who spend significant time away from their registration address (snowbirds, college students, etc.), your AV ballot will be mailed to your voter registration address or primary mailing address listed in our system, unless you notify us of a new mailing address prior to each election. Your ballot will not get forwarded. Please update your mailing address before you travel.

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MILAN POLICE DEPARTMENT

(734) 439-1551

DONALD TILLERY Chief of Police donaldt@milanmi.gov

WHAT PARENTS CAN DO TO KEEP TEEN DRIVERS SAFE

From Michigan State Police - Office of Highway Safety Planning Parents often have more influence over teens than they imagine.

Teens that say their parents set rules and support them are half as likely to crash as teens who say their parents are not as involved.

JEREMY NIEMAN Deputy Chief of Police jeremyn@milanmi.gov

TEEN DRIVER PARENTAL TOOLKIT

SCAN QR code for TEEN DRIVER PARENTAL TOOLKIT

Teen drivers are three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than drivers over 20 years old, and ten times more likely to be involved in a non-fatal crash. With the help of involved parents, teens can become safer, smarter drivers. .

PUT YOUR FOOT DOWN

SCAN QR code to watch “Put Your Foot Down,” a video that encourages parents to talk to their teen drivers about the dangers of speeding.

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Supervise your teen's driving.

Set driving rules and limits by having a teen/parent contract.

Talk to your teen about distracted driving.

Michigan law bans texting while driving for all drivers and Kelsey's Law prohibits cell phone use for Level 1 and Level 2 license holders.

Choose vehicles for safety, not image.

Teens should drive vehicles that reduce their chances of being in a crash and offer protection in case they do crash. Avoid cars with performance images that might encourage speeding. Midsize and large sedans are best.

Lead by example.

Follow the rules of the road. Always wear a seat belt. Don't talk on a cell phone or text while driving. Don't drive while under the influence of alcohol. Don't speed.

CRASHES THE NO. 1 CAUSE OF DEATH FOR ADOLESCENTS Motor vehicle crashes are the No. 1 cause of death for adolescents.

According to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, three out of five accidental deaths for teens ages 16-20 are due to motor vehicle crashes. Teen drivers are four times more likely than adult drivers to be involved in a fatal motor vehicle crash, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

GRADUATED DRIVER LICENSING (GDL) One of the most effective strategies aimed at teen drivers is Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) laws. These laws allow new drivers time to gain critical driving skills and experience. In Michigan, teen drivers under age 18 must complete two segments of driver education instruction and meet the requirements for three GDL levels.

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MILAN FIRE DEPARTMENT

(734) 439-2843

COMPLETION OF PROBATION DJ Carpus Fire Chief djcarpusjr@milanareafire.com

ABOUT Since 1887, the Milan Area Fire Department has proudly served our community.

The Milan Area Fire Department responds to various types of incidents throughout the year. We provide a wide range of specialized services including Emergency Medical Response, Motor Vehicle Response and extrication, Search and Rescue, Firefighting, Ice Rescue and Hazardous Materials.

Our coverage area is just over 77 square miles, including the City of Milan, Milan Township, and parts of London and York Townships.

We are staffed daily 7 am to 5 pm.

Outside of staffed hours, we operate with paid on call staff using eight apparatuses out of one station.

Along with responding to emergencies, we are active in our community during events and offering fire safety presentations.

STATS MAFD responds to various types of incidents throughout the year. These runs range from fire, auto, and medical emergencies. Below are the emergency runs for each year.

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554

1183

2025 RUNS YTD

2024 TOTAL RUNS

1331

1252

2023 TOTAL RUNS

2022 TOTAL RUNS

Kudos to Andrew Noland and James Cislo for successfully completing all the necessary fire and EMS training, along with the required on-the-job training.

In May, Chief Carpus awarded each of them their well-deserved badges.

ADVANCED TRAINING BY WCTRT On June 11, 2025, members of the Washtenaw County Technical Rescue Team engaged in advanced training focused on structural collapse and concrete breaching. Crews utilized various cutting tools and practiced simulated scenarios involving trapped victims.

The training was conducted at Gotts Transit Mix in Milan, whose support allowed the teams to practice cutting through large concrete sections.

The WCTRT consists of firefighters from across the county, including Lieutenants Maury and Dennison from the MAFD. This team enhances firerescue response capabilities to include: Confined space rescue High angle rescue Trench/excavation rescue Structural collapse/emergency shoring Large vehicle extrication Water rescue Urban search and rescue These skills are essential when responding to natural or manmade disasters.

FIRE CHIEF STEVENS RETIRES After nearly 41 years of dedicated service to the Milan Area Fire Department, Fire Chief Robert Stevens retired in April.

Chief Stevens began his career with MAFD in 1984 and has proudly served as our fire chief since 2007, making him the longest tenured chief in the department’s history.

Through his exceptional leadership, Chief Stevens helped guide the department from a small agency answering just a few hundred calls per year to a modern, progressive fire department responding to nearly 1,500 calls annually. He was instrumental in the transition from a fully paid on-call model to having dedicated daytime staffing. This significantly enhanced our service to the community by ensuring improved coverage and faster response times to those in need.

He has been a mentor, a role model, and a trusted friend.

Over the years, Chief Stevens has secured substantial grant funding that saved the department, city, townships, and taxpayers a tremendous amount of money.

These efforts allowed us to obtain critical equipment, training, and resources without placing a financial burden on the community.

Chief Stevens has always been a strong supporter of his command staff and firefighters. He has been more than just a leader. He has been a mentor, a role model, and a trusted friend. His integrity and dedication have shaped the culture of our department. His vision and legacy will continue to guide MAFD for years to come.

MAFD give Chief Stevens his final ride home from work in Squad 28-6

Chief Stevens on the job

CARPUS PROMOTED TO CHIEF The Milan Area Fire Department is proud to announce the promotion of Daniel Carpus, Jr. to Fire Chief.

Chief Carpus began his career with our department in 2011 and quickly became known for his strong work ethic, professionalism, and dedication to continuous improvement. His leadership abilities and commitment to serving the community led to a steady rise through the ranks. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 2016, Captain in 2019, and has been the Assistant Fire Chief since 2020.

Chief Carpus holds Michigan Fire Officer I, II, and III certifications, is a statecertified Fire Instructor, and a licensed EMT. His credentials also include numerous additional certifications in fire suppression, EMS, leadership, and incident command, making him highly qualified to lead our department forward.

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DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY CELEBRATING THE EVER-CHANGING HEART OF DOWNTOWN MILAN

DDA DIRECTOR

jessicam@milanmi.gov

"Downtown" is a term most often used in American English to describe the commercial, cultural, and often historical, political, and geographic heart of a city. But what truly makes a downtown beat—in our opinion—is its people. And maybe we’re biased, but we think here in Downtown Milan, we have the very best of them.

What truly makes a downtown beat—in our opinion—is its people.

One thing in life is inevitable: change. Our downtown isn’t immune to that.

Sometimes it’s a joyful hello, a change in direction, or a new journey. Other times, it’s a bittersweet goodbye. The landscape of our downtown is ever-changing, but at the DDA, we believe in celebrating each step along the way. So let’s do that— right now.

SAYING GOODBYE TO A BELOVED STAPLE As some may have heard, one of our favorite shops will be closing this fall. Plum Tree Yarn Shop, which opened on the East Main block in 2019, has been a source of joy, creativity, and connection ever since. Owners Kim and Jen Hofer have offered classes, conversations, and a warm place to gather—making it nearly impossible not to smile when you stepped inside.

While we’ll miss them dearly, we’re thrilled for their next chapter out west.

In their own words:

Bittersweet is a great word. It perfectly describes our decision to close up shop this fall so we can head back west in 2026 and spend more time with our family. When we moved here in 2018, we knew we wanted to be part of Milan’s story, so we opened our shop the following year without really knowing what we were doing.

Y’all showed up. Turns out, Milan is full of creative, artistic people.

Our mission has always been to help everyone express themselves artistically, and we hope we were able to provide an inclusive, inspiring environment for that while we’ve been here.

We’ll miss you, Milan.

Yarn on!

Kim & Jen Hoefer 12

A NEW CHAPTER ON MAIN STREET Plum Tree isn’t the only change on the block. If you’ve driven down Main Street lately and thought things looked a little brighter or fresher, you weren’t imagining it. Shadowlight Studio recently moved into 13 W. Main St.—and the building received a stunning facelift in the process!

The revitalized facade has uplifted not only that space but the entire block.

Thanks to the investment from building owner Sandy Rao, the revitalized facade has uplifted not only that space but the entire block, making it the perfect home for Shadowlight Studio to flourish. While the name may be new, owner Dierdre Fudge is no stranger to Downtown Milan.

In May 2019, she opened Fudge Beauty inside the Moore and Minto building. The business later moved to Ink & Dye at 17 W. Main, then into the Collins Center before landing in its newest home.

And the changes weren’t just professional. During this time, Dierdre welcomed two more children and adapted to the shifting rhythm of her life.

A core mission behind Shadowlight Studio is what Dierdre calls empathetic beauty. You might be wondering what that means.

In her own words:

Co-creating beauty as visual joy because the integrity of the client relationship is a measure of our work. Leaning into our ability to heal and transform the world from the intimacy of our service spaces. Holding space for all experiences of beauty: inclusive, non-binary, age-affirming, hair, and body-positive. Eliminating messages of shame in marketing and speaking to choice and personal empowerment. Celebrating brands that are impact-aware and work to reduce harm in our bodies, society, and the environment.

Dierdre Fudge

In her own words:`

The whole community and landlords were so generous, understanding and supportive. I feel like my business really grew when I went to group fitness classes at FitMod and LakeSwell because of building genuine connections, and I learned the healing power of mindful movement—it planted seeds for me to hold space for something similar down the road. I had been practicing yoga since 2015, going to Demi and practicing on my own. It was late 2023 when I realized it was my turn to become an instructor and take the leap.

We’re incredibly fortunate to have Dierdre and Shadowlight Studio as part of our downtown and greater community. Whether you're seeking restorative or energizing yoga sessions, stress-recovery spa treatments, empathetic beauty services, or other wellness offerings, Shadowlight is a space full of compassion, inclusivity, and care—wherever you are in your journey.

Check out Shadowlight Studio and book your visit.

Dierdre Fudge

Whether it’s new businesses arriving or long-standing ones evolving, Downtown Milan continues to grow. Thanks to the dedication of building owners, business leaders, and our community partners—not to mention the support and love from our neighbors—our downtown gets a little brighter every day.

We can’t wait to see what’s next.

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MILAN SENIORS FOR HEALTHY LIVING

LET’S ROCK! Mark your calendars for Thursday, September 18, as we celebrate MSHL's second annual Rock-A-Thon during 3rd Thursdays! Join MSHL seniors and supporters as they rock downtown Milan to raise funds for MSHL's programs and services.

There will be six rocking chairs downtown, one dedicated to Milan Seniors for Healthy Living, with the others named after MSHL members: Chris Wetzler, Sallie Bancroft, Patty Butts, Pauline Carr, and Linda Squires, all of whom are featured below.

Originally from Ypsilanti, Chris Wetzler has been a proud Milan resident since 1977. His wife, Carolyn, is a retired 5th grade teacher who taught in Milan Area Schools. Chris is a retired CPA and a Veteran of the Army Security Agency. He sits on the Board of Directors for MSHL. He is also the past president of the GMACF and is proud to have served with the foundation since its start. At MSHL, Chris enjoys being a volunteer and delivering Meals on Wheels.

Sallie Bancroft is a 1959 graduate of Milan High School and a lifelong resident. Her ancestors first settled in the area in 1835. She and her husband Dick brought up their two children in Milan, and now their kids are raising their own families here. A dedicated community servant, Sallie has volunteered for several organizations including People’s Presbyterian, Milan Chamber of Commerce, the Milan Beautification Commission, the Milan Area Historical Society, and MSHL (just to name a few). In 2011, the Milan Chamber honored her with a community service award for her outstanding contributions.

Patty Butts and her husband have lived in Milan all of their lives, except for a brief stint in California and Illinois. Like for many others, Milan holds a special place in Patty's heart. In particular, she loves when she goes to Kroger and sees someone she went to 2nd grade with. At Milan Seniors for Healthy Living, Patty has made a lot of new friends. Patty loves the hardworking staff and all of the programs they offer —especially cardio drumming.

Pauline Carr was born in Detroit and has called Milan home for over fifty years. She is the proud mother of two grown daughters, Renee and Grace. Her granddaughter Ava, recently graduated from Milan High School with honors. Pauline was a kindergarten, 2nd grade, and Reading Lab teacher at Paddock Elementary before retiring in 2010.

She also did fundraisers for Shriner’s Hospital for Children. Pauline thinks Milan is a charming town and that MSHL is inviting for all. She started going to MSHL for activities and exercise but also found friendships and fun.

Linda Squires’ family arrived in Milan five generations ago in covered wagons. Her greatest achievement is her family; they are the most important thing in her life. She is very thankful for Milan Seniors for Healthy Living, as many small towns don't have a senior center like Milan does. Linda believes Milan Seniors for Healthy Living is multifaceted and is thankful for the many services it provides to an array 14 of seniors in our community.

CHRIS WETZLER

SALLIE BANCROFT

PATTY

BUTTS

PAULINE

CARR LINDA SQUIRES

Monday through Thursday 8am to 3pm Milan Seniors for Healthy Living (MSHL) is a non-profit organization committed to providing activities, programs, services, and referrals designed to enhance quality of life and encourage aging with independence and dignity.

We offer Meals on Wheels, Transportation, Resource Referral, an Activity Center, and are excited to present a new Dementia-Friendly program, Milan Oasis, coming soon.

A TOUCH OF YELLOW Until recently, the landscaping surrounding City Hall and the Milan Public Library had become overgrown and outdated. The Beautification Commission has been hoping to refresh this area, and this summer, that wish finally came true.

Phone: 734 508 6229 Email: mshl@milanseniors.org Meals on Wheels Director: Jodi Griffor 734-508-6229 Activity Center Director: Maxine Tewsley 734-508-6229 Transportation Director: Alan Lown 745-322-8413 Aging in Action (Resource Referral) Director: Beverly Robinson 734-418-0376 Milan Oasis Director: Mandy Reams 734-508-6229

The City of Milan makes a small annual contribution to the Commission to support the planting of flowers in both spring and fall, along with winter decorations throughout downtown. The Commission also organizes fundraisers to finance additional beautification initiatives across the City.

The landscaping project at City Hall is one such initiative. Tom Zilke, a recently retired landscaper and resident of Milan, was awarded the bid for the project. His introduction of beautiful yellow lilies in the garden beds has brought a vibrant touch to the landscaping that was previously lacking.

We hope the touch of yellow in the new landscaping will bring our residents a little joy.

BIG REDS WITH GREEN THUMBS This Spring, as it does every year, the Milan Beautification Commission planted flowers throughout downtown. However, this year something was a little different as the Commission collaborated with the Milan High School FFA for the first time.

All the flowers planted were cultivated

by FFA students at MHS. Additionally, the FFA students took charge of designing and planting flowers at all the city's entrance signs.

A LITTLE BIT OF LAVENDER Moving Milan Forward has introduced three new planters to Tolan Square, marking the final phase of their project to revitalize the public space in our downtown area. The Commission collaborated with Milan’s very own Lavender Lane to plant lavender in these planters.

BEAUTIFICATION AWARDS JULY

Shia Hines Rick & Mary Kerkes Marietta Dicken & Randy Gabrielson Beth Bergeron

JUNE Le LePlant Paul & Meagan DeBruyne Carol & Julie Willard Corrinne & Garrett Lenz If you would like to nominate someone for a Beautification Award please send us a message on our Facebook page.

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MILAN RELAY FOR LIFE

A volunteer-led organization that is fighting back as a commuinity to end cancer In 1998, Milan Relay for Life hosted its inaugural 24-hour fundraising event at WIlson Park. Since then, it’s been a yearly tradition. With the exception of one year in the early 2000s when Relay was held at KC Campground, and during the Covid pandemic when it shifted to a virtual format, the event has happened in Wilson Park every year since.

Relay for Life is a nationwide fundraising campaign organized by the American Cancer Society, aimed at addressing the country’s most significant health issue: cancer. In 1995, Dr. Gordon “Gordy” Klatt ran and walked around a track in Tacoma, Washington for 24 hours while being supported by friends, family, and patients. That day, he raised $27,000.00 through donations and pledges.

Each year, more than 5,000 Relay for Life events are held in local communities across the country like Milan. According to the American Cancer Society website, each community event is unique, but they all include the same four signature elements: a celebration of cancer survivors, a celebration of caregivers, a luminaria ceremony to honor and remember loved ones, and the opportunity to fight back against cancer.

Led by an all-volunteer team, Milan Relay for Life has faced a variety of challenges throughout the years including severe weather, a global pandemic, varying conditions on the event grounds, transitions to a digital age, and changes in leadership—just to name a few. But they have faced every challenge thrown at them over the last quarter century, successfully raising in excess of $1,000,000.00 over the course of their existence.

The current leadership team for Milan Relay for Life includes Matt Lucas, Kristina Bell, Elizabeth Satterley, Laurie Englehart, Kayden Englehart, Brian Foster, Nicole Acosta, and Chris Overbeek. Honorary ELT members are Dave Satterley, Brian Englehart, and Katie Bell. All of whom have been hard at work to prepare for this year’s event, scheduled for Saturday, August 16 in Wilson Park.

This year, twelve teams are registered to take part in the event, which has established a fundraising goal of $60,000.00

FIVE TIMES

during Relay 2025 I relay for my kids and my family. Cancer is extremely prevalent in both my family and my husband Jeremy's family. I want to do my part in raising awareness, funding research that will further develop treatments, and hopefully one day, cure cancer!

-Kristina Bell

12 PM

Opening Ceremony & Survivor Celebration

12 - 7 PM

Food Trucks & Vendors

12:30 - 2:30 PM 1 - 6 PM

To learn more about the Milan Relay for Life event or to MAKE A DONATION scan QR code.

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9 PM

Silent Auction Dunk Tank Luminaria Celebration

ELIZABETH SATTERLEY

Community leader, volunteer, advocate, and childbirth educator When Elizabeth and her husband began their house-hunting journey in 2003, friends residing in Milan suggested they explore this area too. It was love at first sight for the community and the home they eventually purchased. They have proudly called Milan home for the more than two decades since.

One of the things Elizabeth loves most about Milan is that when she goes out she almost always runs into someone she knows. She also loves how the community comes together to support each other when it is needed.

Purchasing a home in Milan was just the first step for Elizabeth in becoming a Milan resident. Being active member of the community was also important to her.

I wanted my kids to understand the importance of investing in community.

As a long-time volunteer and advocate for Milan Relay for Life, Elizabeth first encountered the event when her then young son, a student at Milan Tae Kwon Do, participated in demonstrations during the 24-hour fundraising initiative.

An increasing number of cancer diagnoses among her family and friends compelled her to help with the event, which raises funds for the American Cancer Society. That desire landed her a position on the leadership committee a decade ago, and she has never looked back. Ten years later, she says Relay is something she remains incredibly passionate about, especially given recent cuts in Medicaid funding .

Elizabeth's commitment to community service extends beyond her involvement with Relay for Life. She also holds a board position with ARC Milan whose mission is to ensure that Milan is a supportive & inclusive place for LGBTQIA+ people.

I decided early on that whomever my children and their friends grew up to be, they would know they are welcome and loved in our home.

FIVE FUN FACTS about Elizabeth

Elizabeth has seen New Kids on the Block in concert 14 times, and later this year she will see them again in Vegas, making it 15 times.

Elizabeth has attended 55 births as a doula Elizabeth was a pastry chef. If you were married in Ann Arbor in the early 2000s, it is possible that Elizabeth made your wedding cake.

Elizabeth loves playing Name that Tune at the Legion in Milan.

Volunteering as a coach/manager for Milan Youth Soccer Club for 10 years helped her land her current job at Michigan State Youth Soccer Association.

Elizabeth is also the vice-president for the Milan Boys Soccer Boosters, and a community representative for the SEAB (Sex Education Advisory Board) for Milan Area Schools. A childbirth educator for the past 18 years, Elizabeth is passionate about ensuring that our young people have the education and information they need to make healthy decisions for themselves.

I have taught far too many childbirth classes to girls who were just 13 and 14.

Elizabeth and her husband Dave will celebrate their 27th anniversary in August. Dave is an automotive technician at Genthe Chrysler in Saline. They have two children. Cameron (20) who recently graduated from WCC with an associate’s degree in Advance Manufacturing and Ian (15), a rising sophomore at MHS, who participates in soccer and track.

They are also the proud parents of three cats; Alfred, Lynx and Moira Rose.

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(734) 439-1501

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT JILL TEWSLEY

Community Engagement Director jillt@milanmi.gov

HOW DO YOU DEFINE RECREATION? rec·re·a·tion [rek-ree-ey-shuhn] noun 1. activity done for enjoyment when one is not working.

If you ask the people around you what types of activities they do for enjoyment when they aren’t working, you will likely get a wide variety of answers.

Personally, I enjoy reading, crocheting, listening to music, going to plays, taking walks, researching my family history, watching good movies, and writing.

I think, if it weren’t for baiting hooks, I might actually enjoy fishing. I know if I lived on the water, I would also enjoy a variety of other waterrelated activities. And, if I weren’t such a cautious person, I might embrace more adventurous activities like sky-diving and mountain climbing.

But I do like to play things safe, so instead I enjoy watching documentaries about thrill seekers and living vicariously through them.

MILAN IN MOTION

Let’s get moving!

This summer, Milan Parks and Recreation and Downtown Milan (DDA) partnered together to present a 12-week long event series called Milan in Motion. Aimed at promoting both physical and mental well-being, Milan in Motion offers four different events each week throughout the summer that encourage families, friends, and the community to get active and enjoy themselves while doing so.

For more information about Milan in Motion scan QR code, and/or follow the Milan in Motion Facebook page.

Also, be sure to check out the community events listed in the back of this publication for a schedule of Milan in Motion events.

If I weren’t such a cautious person, I might embrace more adventurous activities like sky-diving and mountain climbing.

As part of the Master Plan Survey that the City recently conducted, we asked people about the types of recreational activities they would like to see more of in our community. The answers, as you can imagine, were varied but informative. We will be taking all of those answers into consideration as we begin to formalize a Master Plan for the City and for the Parks and Recreation Department.

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Milan in Motion tree climbing event on June 25 with Dungrove Tree Service.

JULY JULY

1 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 2 MILAN IN MOTION 3 CITY HALL CLOSED 4 INDEPENDENCE DAY 9 MILAN IN MOTION 10 LAKESIDE CRUIZE with the BACKSTREET CRUIZERS 11 LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE: UNKLE LAY LEE’S MOONSHINE ALL-STARS 13 MILAN FARM & FLEA MARKET 15 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 16 MILAN IN MOTION 17 LAKESIDE CRUIZE with the BACKSTREET CRUIZERS 17 3RD THURSDAYS / LIVE MUSIC: SPARK / TOUCH A TRUCK 18 LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE: GEMILY 23 MILAN IN MOTION 24 LAKESIDE CRUIZE with the BACKSTREET CRUIZERS 25 LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE: DETROIT SOCIAL CLUB 27 MILAN FARM & FLEA MARKET 30 MILAN IN MOTION 31 LAKESIDE CRUIZE with the BACKSTREET CRUIZERS 7 PM at Milan City Hall

11 AM: Bike and Trike Parade (Wilson Park), 6 PM: Downtown Fit (Tolan Square)

in observance of Independence Day

11 AM: Nature Detectives (Wilson Park), 6 PM: Downtown Fit (Tolan Square)

5 - 8 PM in Wilson Park

5:30 - 8 PM in Tolan Square

8 AM - 3 PM in Wilson Park

7 PM at Milan City Hall

11 AM: Duck, Duck, Goose! (Wilson Park), 6 PM: Downtown Fit (Tolan Square)

5 - 8 PM in Wilson Park

5 - 8 PM; Downtown Milan & Wilson Park

5:30 - 8 PM in Tolan Square

11 AM: Art in the Park (Wilson Park), 6 PM: Downtown Fit (Tolan Square)

5 - 8 PM in Wilson Park

5:30 - 8 PM in Tolan Square

8 AM - 3 PM in Wilson Park

11 AM: Flight Plans (Wilson Park), 6 PM: Downtown Fit (Tolan Square)

5 - 8 PM in Wilson Park

For a more complete list of events happening in Milan visit milanevents.org.

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AUGUST AUGUST

1 LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE: ANDY PATALAN 2 MILAN CAR FEST 5 PRIMARY ELECTION DAY / CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6 MILAN IN MOTION 7 LAKESIDE CRUIZE with the BACKSTREET CRUIZERS 8 LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE: DREW & JAMISON 10 MILAN FARM & FLEA MARKET 13 MILAN IN MOTION 14 LAKESIDE CRUIZE with the BACKSTREET CRUIZERS 15 LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE: UNKLE LAY LEE’S MOONSHINE ALL-STARS 16 RELAY FOR LIFE 19 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 20 MILAN IN MOTION 21 LAKESIDE CRUIZE with the BACKSTREET CRUIZERS 21 3RD THURSDAYS / LIVE MUSIC: STEALIN’ COPPER 22 LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE: Y-TOWN HOOLIES 24 MILAN FARM & FLEA MARKET 28 LAKESIDE CRUIZE with the BACKSTREET CRUIZERS 29 LAUREN BLACKFORD & FRIENDS 5:30 - 8 PM in Tolan Square

9 AM - 5 PM in Wilson Park

7 PM at Milan City Hall

11 AM: Marching Band (Wilson Park), 6 PM: Downtown Fit (Tolan Square)

5 - 8 PM in Wilson Park

5:30 - 8 PM in Tolan Square

8 AM - 3 PM in Wilson Park

11 AM: Fun with Frisbees and Jump Ropes (Wilson Park), 6 PM: Downtown Fit (Tolan Square)

5 - 8 PM in Wilson Park

5:30 - 8 PM in Tolan Square

24 hours in Wilson Park

7 PM at Milan City Hall

11 AM: Dance Party and Picnic (Wilson Park), 6 PM: Downtown Fit (Tolan Square)

5 - 8 PM in Wilson Park

5 - 8 PM; Downtown Milan

5:30 - 8 PM in Tolan Square

8 AM - 3 PM in Wilson Park

5 - 8 PM in Wilson Park

5:30 - 8 PM in Tolan Square

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For a more complete list of events happening in Milan visit milanevents.org.

SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER

1 LABOR DAY 2 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 5 LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE: MIKE & MAGGIE 12 LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE: JEAN WILSON & FRIENDS 13 HOT ROD’S CAR & BIKE SHOW 14 MILAN FARM AND FLEA MARKET 16 CITY COUNCIL MEETING 18 3RD THURSDAYS / LIVE MUSIC: UNKLE LAY LEE’S MOONSHINE ALL-STARS 19 LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE: THE EXTRUSIONS 20 MILAN RIDES FOR KIDS 26 DOWNTOWN BEER WALK 28 MILAN FARM AND FLEA MARKET CIty Hall closed

7 PM at Milan City Hall

5:30 - 8 PM in Tolan Square

5:30 - 8 PM in Tolan Square

8 AM - 4 PM in WIlson Park

9 AM - 3 PM in Wilson Park

7 PM at Milan City Hall

5 - 8 PM in Tolan Square

5:30 - 8 PM in Tolan Square

9 AM - 5 PM in Wilson Park

6 - 9 PM in Downtown Milan

9 AM - 3 PM in Wilson Park

LOOKING AHEAD LOOKING AHEAD OCT

NOV NOV

DEC

10.3 | HOMECOMING PARADE 10.4 | COFFEE OFF 10.16 | GIRLS NIGHT OUT 10.24 | DOWNTOWN TRICK OR TREAT 10.25 | MMF HALLOWEEN EVENT

11.29 | POP ON MAIN

12.6 | HOLIDAY PARADE 12.12 | MOONLIGHT MADNESS

For a more complete list of events happening in Milan visit milanevents.org.

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CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS EDWARD KOLAR Mayor

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

COUNCIL EMAIL ADDRESSES DR. SHANNON DARE WAYNE Mayor Pro Tem

MARY KERKES Council Member

Mayor Ed Kolar edkolar@milanmi.gov

Shannon Dare Wayne shannonw@milanmi.gov

Dave Snyder daves@milanmi.gov

Mary Kerkes maryk@milanmi.gov

Matt Stafford matthews@milanmi.gov

Josh Kofflin joshk@miilanmi.gov

Chris Thompson christiant@milanmi.gov

CONNECT WITH US JOSH KOFFLIN Council Member

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

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

DAVID SNYDER Council Member

WEBSITES City of Milan milanmi.gov

MATT STAFFORD Council Member

Parks & Recreation milanmi.gov/departments/parks_and_recreation DDA downtownmilanmi.com

CHRISTIAN THOMPSON Council Member

Police Department milanmi.gov/departments/police_department Fire Department milanareafire.com Milan Seniors for Healthy Living milanseniors.org

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SUMMER 2025 milanmi.gov