The Connection - Summer 2026

the

CONNECTION SUMMER 2026 SPRING 2026

JULY - AUGUST

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ABOUT THE COVER IMAGE Photo credit: Mary Kerkes

SPRING 2026

JULY - AUGUST

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Planting Roots, a message from Mayor Kolar Understanding Upcoming Fieberinternet Construction an update from City Admin. Jim Lancaster Seasonal Reminders Oh, the Places We’ve Been, from Community Engagement Director Jill Tewsley The Power of a Fresh Perspective, from DDA Director Jessica Meingasner Community Member Spotlight: Laya Lusher Register to Vote and Vote, City Clerk Lavonna Wenzel Summer Tax Bills, Assistant Treasurer Karis Dyc News and Information from the Beautification Commission News and Information from the Milan Police Department Capturing a Rainbow 3rd Thursdays Live from Tolan Square Events and Happenings July August Mayor and Council Connect with Us

A message from

MAYOR ED KOLAR Planting Roots

On May 1, close to forty community volunteers, along with city staff and council members, dedicated several hours in Wilson and Nature Parks to plant a remarkable total of forty trees.

Despite the cold and rainy weather, the volunteers were undeterred. They gathered at Wilson Park, where they enjoyed coffee from The Owl before receiving instructions on how to successfully plant the trees.

That’s right—forty trees! And, next spring, we will plant 30 more trees in the community.

Despite the cold and rainy weather, the volunteers were undeterred.

The holes for all forty trees had been dug the day before by our DPW team. On planting day, they delivered mulch to each tree site and set up watering devices, known as tree diapers, at all 40 locations.

A crucial aspect of the tree grant is the ongoing care for the trees after planting. Our DPW team regularly waters these trees and addresses any issues that may arise. Jay Sinclair, a tree expert, frequently visits the parks to ensure the trees are thriving.

The project, funded by the U.S. Forest Service, was launched by the Milan Beautification Commission, thanks to the efforts of one of its members, Jay Sinclair who pursued the grant funding.

The tree-planting grant is part of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), which aims to enhance crown cover, support the watershed environment, provide shade, and replace trees lost due to insects and disease through tree-planting initiatives.

Additionally, this effort received support from ReLeaf Michigan, a non-profit tree organization, as well as the River Raisin Watershed Council.

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A significant amount of thought and time was invested in this project, extending far beyond merely planting the trees.

The selection of planting locations for each tree was done with careful consideration. Prior to the plantings, a crown/canopy cover study was conducted by ReLeaf Michigan and the River Raisin Watershed. This study cross-referenced existing canopy data with various environmental metrics, spatial availability, and demographic needs to identify areas that would optimize cooling, stormwater absorption, and promote environmental equity.

The findings from the canopy study guided us in determining general locations for the trees. However, several on-site walkthroughs were carried out with ReLeaf Michigan to pinpoint the exact spots for each of the 40 trees.

In addition to their numerous environmental advantages, trees significantly enhance our physical and mental well-being. They offer shade, diminish noise pollution, strengthen our immune systems, and alleviate stress.

On May 1, when this group of 40 individuals came together to plant 40 trees, they were establishing roots that will impact our community for generations to come.

GMACF GRANT HELPS FEED THE TREES This spring, the Milan Beautification Commission, along with the City of Milan and Milan Parks & Recreation, received a generous $10,000 grant to acquire a mobile watering system.

A portion of this grant from GMACF was made possible through the Armitage/Brainard Milan Beautification Fund.

Newly planted trees need consistent, deep watering for their roots to establish, which typically takes about one to two years. With the addition of 40 new trees in our parks, as mentioned earlier, and another 30 trees scheduled for 2027, the mobile watering system is crucial for our irrigation efforts.

A huge thank you to GMACF and the Armitage/Brainard Milan Beautification Fund for making this purchase possible .

Our DPW team will showcase the new watering system at the annual TOUCH-A-TRUCK event during 3rd Thursdays on July 16 at Wilson Park.

READ MORE ABOUT IT Check out page 12 of this edition of The Connection for further details.

Ed Kolar Mayor

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an update from

JIM LANCASTER CITY ADMINISTRATOR

jamesl@milanmi.gov UNDERSTANDING UPCOMING FIBERINTERNET CONSTRUCTION IN MILAN Public Act 48 of 2002—known as the METRO Act—was created to help expand telecommunications services across Michigan while giving municipalities limited oversight of their public right-of-ways. Under this law, telecommunication companies must obtain a permit from the local municipality before installing infrastructure in these areas. The process is regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission, which significantly reduces the amount of control cities have.

This process is regulated by the Michigan Public Service Commission.

Once a telecommunications provider submits a permit application, the City of Milan has 45 days to review and process it. While the city can require engineered drawings and bonds to protect the community, our authority largely ends there. In return, municipalities receive a small compensation—five cents per linear foot of installed infrastructure—distributed by the Local Community Stabilization Authority.

What does this mean for Milan residents?

The good news is that many residents will soon have multiple options for highspeed fiberinternet service.

The challenging part is that this will bring a large number of contractors into Milan, and the city has very limited control over when and where they work.

Many of you are still seeing the after effects of the recent DTE project, or may still be in the middle of it.

Beginning as early as mid July, telecommunications companies will begin installing conduit for fiberinternet infrastructure. This work will involve digging and boring—often in the same areas recently disturbed for gasline improvements.

We have encouraged the companies to coordinate with one another, but because they are competitors, we do not expect significant collaboration. As of last week, five METRO Act permits have been approved in just the past month, meaning multiple companies will be working at the same time. Much like the DTE project, the city has limited control over the timing or exact placement of this work.

If you encounter issues with any contractor working in or around your property, please contact City Hall at (734) 439-1501. We will do everything within our authority to assist.

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What will you see in your neighborhood?

Contractors will be installing small utility cabinets, vaults, and “flowerpots” within the public right-of-way (see photos below). Some may be placed in the grassy strip between your sidewalk and the curb. Because this area is part of the public right-of-way governed by the METRO Act, the city has limited ability to influence the exact placement. We have been assured that these structures are durable and designed to withstand riding lawnmowers—and in some cases even vehicles.

SEASONAL REMINDERS GRASS/WEEDS Grass/Weeds- Milan Ordinance 10:12 ALL Grass/Weeds must be maintained under 6 inches in height.

This includes all edges as well.

TREES & SHRUBS Trees/Shrubs - Milan Ordinances 18:2 & 22:12 Trees and shrubs must be trimmed back from blocking sidewalks (including overhead) and not block the view of any street signs.

YARD WASTE Yard Waste- Milan Ordinance 13:58 Grass clippings and yard waste must be removed from the street/sidewalk/curb.

RVS /TRAILERS/CAMPERS The images displayed above are for illustrative purposes only and may not reflect the actual style used in our community.

A final reminder With so much new underground infrastructure being installed, it is more important than ever to call 811 before digging on or around your property. Striking a utility line can result in costly damage. Once these buildouts are complete, you will have healthy competition for fiber internet providers in town, ultimately driving down your cost and helping you stay “connected to what matters.”

Jim Lancaster

RVs/Trailers/Campers- Milan Ordinance 6:29 Parking in front of houses for up to 48 hours is allowed for loading/unloading.

Do not block sidewalks, fire hydrants & mailboxes.

GARAGE SALE SIGNS Garage Sale Signs- Milan Zoning Article 14.2 Cannot be attached to utility poles, trees, or lampposts.

Placed only on Thursday after 5 PM; removed by Monday 7 AM.

City Administrator

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news and information from

JILL TEWSLEY text

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT DIRECTOR

jillt@milanmi.gov

OH, THE PLACES WE’VE BEEN

May 21, 2026

...AND THE THINGS WE’VE DONE, AND THE CREATURES WE’VE MET!

COMERICA PARK BUS TRIP

Memories are often the things we cherish more than wealth or material possessions.

In a community, memories are frequently created during events and gatherings. They include amusing anecdotes, touching moments, meaningful conversations, new friendships blossoming, and the joy of reuniting with old friends. Events cultivate connections, foster a sense of belonging, support local businesses, and contribute to our overall physical and emotional well-being.

On May 21, more than 50 people (almost everyone 50+) boarded a charter bus to Comerica Park for an afternoon game. The weather was chilly in the morning but by game time, the sun was out and the temperature was splendid. Our seats were on the third base line, in the sun. Almost everyone was dressed in Detroit Tiger gear. Unfortunately, despite our enthusiasm, the Tigers faced defeat against the Guardians.

Over the last couple of months, our community has made a lot of wonderful memories together.

May 1, 2026

40 TREES PLANTED More than 40 people gathered on a chilly and rainy day to plant 40 trees in Wilson and Nature Parks.

Read more about this exciting initiative in Mayor Kolar’s message on pages 4 and 5 of this edition of The Connection.

Memorable Moments Some of us are more suited to spreading mulch than we are at lifting heavy trees into holes...and that’s okay!

Hungry Howie’s pizza tastes great in the rain when you’ve been planting trees for several hours and it is time for a break...and lunch.

There’s something pretty cool about planting 40 young trees, knowing they will be here for generations to come.

Memorable Moments The beer may be pricey but it tasted great People helped one another. Whether someone was figuring out how to use a digital ticket, realizing that bags of a certain size aren't allowed in the stadium, were learning to pay in a cashless environment, or needing a bit of help navigating a long walk through a crowd, someone was there ready to lend a hand.

The amazing bus driver who expertly found alternate routes when dealing with traffic and construction.

The trip didn’t end when the bus dropped us back to City Hall. Instead people gathered for dinner, drinks, laughs, and conversation.

Everyone singing along to “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.”

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June 5, 12, 19 and 26, 2026

June 18, 2026

THE SOUNDS OF SUMMER

HUNDREDS MEET DOWNTOWN

The sixth season of Live from Tolan Square kicked off on June 5 featuring Mad, Mad World. It was the first time this band performed in Milan’s summer concert series and everyone loved them.

The weather was perfect for the launch of a new season of 3rd Thursdays. It’s hard to believe that this year marks the 10th season of this summer festival where friends, family, and neighbors meet downtown.

Unkle Lay Lee’s Moonshine All-Stars lit up the stage on June 12, despite being down one band member. They added several new songs to their line-up including my all-time favorite Willie Nelson tune, Me and Paul.

On June 19, Gemini brought out a large multigenerational crowd. They performed traditional folk songs, original and much-beloved tunes, and a few songs in celebration of Juneteenth.

On June 26, Johnny Little and his band played through a few gentle rain showers before the clouds cleared. From Garth to Dwight to the Kentucky Headhunters, they had the crowd dancing and singing along.

If you missed it, there are three more chances to make some memories this year: July 16, August 20, and September 17.

Memorable Moments All the kids (and adults) with balloons and painted faces and smiles.

The food!

Running into people we haven’t seen in awhile.

June 18, 2026

A CRICKET PAYS A VISIT The Michigan State Police sent Click It the Cricket to Milan for a visit during 3rd Thursdays.

Memorable Moments A light drizzle didn’t deter the crowd or stop the band from performing.

Children dancing and moving, even if they didn’t know the songs.

All the parents and grandparents who fondly remembered Gemini from their own childhood or from when their children were young.

Click It and Officer Marshall from the Milan Police Department handed out items complimentary items including Child Passenger Safety coloring books and police badge stickers. They also visited with kids and families and posed for pictures.

Memorable Moments When a costumed character features a mix of real human arms and costume-style cricket arms, it can sometimes frighten children. Other times, kids just don’t care and want their picture taken anyway.

Adults like to pose for photos with costume characters as much (if not more so) than children.

June 22-26, 2026

SOMETHING FISHY During the week of June 22–26, the River Raisin Watershed Commission organized a summer nature camp for children, while Milan Parks and Recreation offered daily nature-focused activities. The kids engaged in various fun projects, including: creating bird feeders and planting flowers, fishing in the river, and crafting wind chimes and sun catchers.

The week was filled with exploration and learning opportunities.

Memorable Moments The creativity! It was amazing to see how nature inspired the kids.

Kids interacting with nature and learning how to utilize the natural elements for food and shelter and art.

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news and information from

JESSICA MEINGASNER DDA DIRECTOR

jessicam@milanmi.gov

THE POWER OF A FRESH PERSPECTIVE Building Community Through Storytelling

For an organization like the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), a strong social media presence is about far more than likes and shares. It serves as a bridge between the community and ​ Downtown Businesses​, helping residents stay informed, encouraging people to shop local, promoting events, supporting small businesses, and highlighting opportunities to engage with ​ others in our community.

This spring, Downtown Milan had the opportunity to partner with Milan High School senior Mary-Kate Wayne through the school’s Senior Internship Program, and the experience proved to be valuable for both the student and our community.

Over the course of her internship, Mary-Kate immersed herself in the heart of ​Downtown Milan, meeting with local business owners, highlighting community events, and sharing stories of the people and places that make this place unique. Through a thoughtful social media campaign, she helped shine a spotlight on downtown businesses, organizations, and community happenings while telling Milan’s story in a fresh and engaging way.

Her impact was measurable. During her internship period, Downtown Milan experienced substantial growth in social media engagement, including increased views, interactions, and followers. Yet the greatest impact went beyond the numbers. By showcasing businesses, events, local history, and the people who make Milan special, her work helped strengthen community connection and pride.

Effective digital storytelling fosters a sense of place and belonging, while enhancing the visibility of the businesses and organizations that play a vital role in a small town's success. In many ways, successful social media becomes an extension of community building itself.

Mary-Kate’s dedication to excellence extends far beyond the internship. A graduating senior at Milan High School, she earned Magna Cum Laude honors, received three scholarships, was named an MHSAA Athlete-Scholar Finalist, and ​has earned recognition as Outstanding Female Athlete​ throughout her high school career. This fall, she will attend Wayne State University, where she will continue her academic and athletic journey as a member of the swim team.

The Senior Internship Program gives students the opportunity to gain meaningful real-world experience while making valuable contributions outside the classroom. We are incredibly grateful for the professionalism, creativity, and enthusiasm Mary-Kate brought to Downtown Milan and wish her the best of luck with her bright future ahead.

This experience served as a reminder that when communities invest in young people and their unique perspectives, everyone can benefit.​

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LAYA LUSHER COMMUNITY MEMBER SPOTLIGHT If Laya Lusher looks familiar to you, it may be because you have seen her at 3rd Thursdays where she has been a MarketPlace vendor for three years.

A rising junior at Milan High School, Laya started crocheting when she was in the 7th grade. She credits her art teacher for getting her “hooked.” Laya says she has stuck with the hobby because it is “so relaxing.”

She has stuck with the hobby because it is “so relaxing.”

It wasn’t long after learning how to crochet that Laya launched her business, Happy Yarn and started to sell her creations at the 3rd Thursdays MarketPlace.

Laya says...

“I like to participate in 3rd Thursdays because of the amazing people I meet, and the smiles I see on children and adults’ faces!

Laya moved to Milan with her mom, Lisa, when she was little, while her dad, Chris, lives up north. One thing she really loves about Milan is the tight-knit community vibe.

When we inquired of Laya, "What is something you wish people knew about you?" she responded, “I put dedication into every thing I do.”

Her favorite things to crochet are loaf cats, fuzzy bees, and unicorns. Without hesitation she will tell you that her favorite stitch is the bobble stitch.

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When she is not crocheting, Laya enjoys playing tennis, learning about business and finance, and spending time with her three cats.

FUN FACTS ABOUT LAYA Laya’s favorite food is tacos.

Laya enjoys spicy food!

She’s a big fan of KATSEYE. Her favorite subject in school is math.

Do you know what a sugar glider is? It’s Laya’s favorite animal!

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news and information from

news and information from

LAVONNA WENZEL

KARIS DYC

lavonnaw@milanmi.gov

karisd@milanmi.gov

CITY CLERK

REGISTER TO VOTE! Vote Today, Shape Tomorrow!

Make Your Choice and Make a Difference

SCAN QR CODE FOR VOTER REGISTRATION INFORMATION

EARLY VOTING Sat., July 25 Sun., July 26 Mon., July 27 Tue., July 28 Wed., July 29 Thur., July 30 Fri., July 31 Sat., Aug. 1 Sun., Aug. 2

WHERE 7a-3p 7a-3p 8a-4p 8a-4p 8a-4p 8a-4p 7a-3p 7a-3p 7a-3p

Milan City Hall 147 Wabash St.

SCAN More info. on how and where to vote:

Tue., Aug. 4

WHERE 7a-8p

When they are being mailed.

When they are due.

Summer tax bills will be mailed July 1, 2026.

Taxes are due August 31, 2026. :

IN PERSON At City Hall during business hours, M-Th, 7:30 AM- 5 PM Dropbox locations: in front of the Police Department and behind City Hall.

ONLINE Visit milanmi.gov and click SERVICES, then select ONLINE PAYMENTS.

BY MAIL City of Milan 147 Wabash St. Milan, MI 48160 Automatic payments: Request form at City Hall or email Karisd@milanmi.gov

IMPORTANT

ON ELECTION DAY WHEN

SUMMER TAX BILLS

HOW TO PAY There are multiple and convenient options for paying your taxes.

VOTE 2026 August Primary WHEN

ASSISTANT TREASURER

Riverbank Center 45 Neckel Court

Postmarks are NOT accepted.

Failure to receive the bill DOES NOT waive penalties.

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news and information from

THE BEAUTIFICATION COMMISSION text

Jessica Stafford, Chairperson

HONORING 41 YEARS OF COMBINED SERVICE Bancroft, Fraser, Gardinier recognized by City Council

At the City Council meeting held on April 21, 2026, three dedicated members of the Milan Beautification Commission were honored by Mayor Kolar and city council for their years of service.

Barbara Gardinier, Karen Fraser, and Sallie Bancroft have collectively devoted 41 years to the Milan Beautification Commission. Fraser contributed 9 years, Bancroft dedicated 11 years, while Gardiner committed an impressive 21 years to the commission Although they are no longer part of the Milan Beautification Commission, all three continue to engage actively in the community.

Current members Kelsea Nie, Jessica Stafford, and Denise Kolar honored the three former members by presenting them with flowers as a token of appreciation for their service and the lasting legacy they established during their tenure.

BEAUTIFICATION COMMISSION & CITY AWARDED GRANT This spring, the Milan Beautification Commission and the City of Milan were awarded a $10K grant from the Greater Milan Area Community Foundation to purchase a mobile watering system.

The existing mobile watering system holds only 250 gallons and operates on gravity. This grant made it possible to purchase a pressurized 1,000-gallon system. The upgraded system is not only more efficient but will also reduce labor costs, minimize water waste, and promote environmental sustainability. Most importantly, it will help us maintain the seasonal plantings in the downtown areas and at the entryways, ensuring they remain vibrant and beautiful.

A portion of the grant funding from the GMACF came from the Armitage/Brainard Milan Beautification Fund.

We are grateful for their support.

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JEREMY NIEMAN Deputy Chief of Police jeremyn@milanmi.gov

news and information from

MILAN POLICE DEPARTMENT Emergency: 911 Phone: 734.439.1551 Tip Line: 734.439.4311

JASMYNN’S VOICE Detective Sergeant David Archer of the Milan Police Department, along with his wife Melissa are the founders of Jasmynn’s Voice a non-profit organization whose mission is to “Provide a voice to those living with autism and together, create communities rich in awareness, understanding, and acceptance.”

The Archer’s daughter Jasymnn, now 25, was diagnosed with autism at the age of three.

Functionally non-verbal, she began using an iPod Touch when she was just four to communicate. It opened up the world to Jasmynn. As technology advanced and iPods evolved into iPads, the world grew even bigger for her.

An iPad can be one of the many keys to unlocking silence for those with autism.

One in 31 children is diagnosed with Autism. To help create a more inclusive world for these kids, David and Melissa Archer founded Jasymnn’s Voice.

Since its inception in 2012, Jasmynn’s Voice has provided over 700 iPads equipped with communication tools specifically designed to “speak” for nonverbal individuals on the spectrum. “We believe that the iPad can be one of the many keys to unlocking silence for those with autism.”

Jasmynn’s Voice not only helps to give a voice to individuals with autism but also emphasizes the importance of educating the public on how to effectively engage with Autistic individuals.

In 2020, Sergeant Archer applied for and was awarded a grant from GMACF to support the purchase of Carter Kits™ for all of the Milan Police Department vehicles.

Designed for first responders, Carter Kits contain items that provide comfort and help children on the autism spectrum focus appropriately. They are also effective in helping other children who nahexperiences. who may be going through traumatic The Archers have also released a book. Titled Let Me Be Me and published in 2025, it was co-authored

by Jasmynn and her mother, Melissa.

The illustrations for the book were created by Jasmynn’s older sister, Lynde Bryan.

Let Me Be Me is a story of acceptance for children who struggle to fit into the “typical” world because they have unique qualities.

It is available to purchase on Amazon.

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CAPTURING A RAINBOW On Thursday, April 16, 2026, a stunning double rainbow graced the skies above Milan. The breathtaking images below, taken by Annette Reeves, Jill Tewsley, and Sallie Bancroft, showcase this magnificent rainbow over Paddock Elementary, from 1st Street, and St. Louis Street (from top to bottom).

As noted on HowStuffWorks.com in an article titled “How Rare Are Double Rainbows” by Kate Kershner: “A double rainbow occurs when the light is reflected twice in the drop. It means you can see two different reflections, coming from different angles. This leads to something that is actually really cool — instead of seeing red at the top and blue at the bottom like a regular ho-hum rainbow, the secondary rainbow (which is higher and lighter in color than the primary) has the colors reversed.”

My Heart Leaps Up photo credit: Annette (rainbow over Paddock Elementary)

William Wordsworth My heart leaps up when I behold A rainbow in the sky: So was it when my life began; So is it now I am a man; So be it when I shall grow old, Or let me die!

The Child is father of the Man; And I could wish my days to be Bound each to each by natural piety.

photo credit: Jill Tewsley (looking northeast on 1st Street)

The Rainbow Walter de la Mare I saw the lovely arch Of Rainbow span the sky, The gold sun burning As the rain swept by.

In bright-ringed solitude The showery foliage shone One lovely moment, And the Bow was gone.

photo credit: Sallie Bancroft (St.Louis St. & Bodley Crescent)

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3rd THURSDAYS

5 -8 PM Downtown Milan & Wilson Park

JULY 16

Sponsored by: To be announced LIVE MUSIC: Unkle Lay Lee’s Moonshine All-Stars FOOD TRUCKS: D&Meeks, S’Mac and Cheese, Ghost Kitchen, Grumpy Monkey SPECIAL EVENTS: Touch-a-Truck in Wilson Park, Milan Flyers on Ford Lake, Lakeside Car Cruize MARKET PLACE: Over 20 vendors and organizations OFFERS & DEALS: To be announced FOR KIDS: Free craft activity in Wilson Park and more

Sponsored Shannon Dare Wayne July Presenting by: Sponsor: Destination Ann Arbor

AUGUST 20

LIVE MUSIC: Stealin’ Copper FOOD TRUCKS: D&Meeks, S’Mac and Cheese, Ghost Kitchen, Grumpy Monkey SPECIAL EVENTS: Milan Flyers on Ford Lake, Lakeside Car Cruize in WIlson Park MARKET PLACE: Over 20 vendors and organizations OFFERS & DEALS: To be announced FOR KIDS: Under the Sea craft and more

SEPTEMBER 17

Sponsored by: Destination Ann Arbor LIVE MUSIC: Weekend Comeback FOOD TRUCKS: D&Meeks, S’Mac and Cheese, Ghost Kitchen, Grumpy Monkey SPECIAL EVENTS: To be announced MARKET PLACE: Over 20 vendors and organizations OFFERS & DEALS: To be announced FOR KIDS: Design a Duck activity and more

the HUNGRY HOWIE’S

SUMMER e v i L TOLAN SQUARECONCERT SERIES from

5:30-8 PM on Fridays 5-8 PM on 3rd Thursdays

July Presenting Sponsor: Destination Ann Arbor

JULY

AIN’T DEAD YET

Food Truck: S’mac & Cheese

Classic Rock covers from every era — from the British Invasion and ’70s Arena Rock to ’80s MTV anthems, ’90s Alt bangers, and the 2000s Rock Revival. It’s a high-energy, feel-good mix that’s guaranteed to get you smiling, singing, and dancing all night long.

at 3 Thursdays UNKLE LAY LEE’S MOONSHINE ALL-STARS JULYlive PRESENTING SPONSOR: rd

Take one part outlaw country, add influences of punk/funk/rock/jam band and soul, add ukulele and fiddle, and finish with some colorful storytelling earned through a life well-lived. This is Unkle Lay Lee’s Moonshine All-Stars.

Band Sponsor: Destination Ann Arbor

DREW & JAMISON Drew and Jamison connected years ago through their love of music. Reuniting again through music, they rekindled their friendship and began a joyful relationship. With a wedding approaching and their musical careers thriving, their love and passion for music strengthen their bond.

Band Sponsor: The Owl

Y-TOWN HOOLIES The Y-Town Hoolies are a spirited group from Ypsilanti, known for their Celtic melodies. They delight audiences with traditional Irish music and lively, bawdy bar ballads.

Band Sponsor: The Owl

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Band Sponsor: Fenders Bar & Grill Food Truck Sponsor: Xfinity

THUR

FRI

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JULY CONTINUED

DUPONT PHILLIPS Michigan artists Chris DuPont and Kylee Phillips are known for their blend of folk/pop with tight vocal harmonies. They have performed at venues like The Ark and Evanston Space, shared stages with artists such as May Erlewine, Steve Poltz, and Vienna Teng.

Band Sponsor: Milan Arts Project

31 FRI

August Presenting Sponsor: OHM Advisors

AUGUST

MIKE & MAGGIE Mike and Maggie are a father-daughter duo who have shared their love for music since Maggie was old enough to sing. With distinct professional backgrounds in music, they now come together to perform some of their acoustic favorites, combining vocals, piano, and guitar. Their repertoire features beloved hit songs spanning from the 1970s to the present day.

Band Sponsor: Milan Arts Project

Food Truck: S’mac & Cheese UNKLE LAY LEE’S MOONSHINE ALL-STARS JULY PRESENTING SPONSOR:

Take one part outlaw country, add influences of punk/funk/rock/jam band and soul, add ukulele and fiddle, and finish with some colorful storytelling earned through a life well-lived. This is Unkle Lay Lee’s Moonshine All-Stars.

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Band Sponsor: Real Estate One - The Grostick Team Food Truck Sponsor: Xfinity

STEALIN’ COPPER live at 3 Thursdays rd

Let’s turn up the volume! Stealin’ Copper is a classic rock band formed by a father, son, and their best friend. With an unparalleled passion for music, along with top-notch PA and lighting, they provide an unforgettable high-fidelity concert experience.

THUR

Band Sponsor: OHM Advisors

THE JIM DANDY BAND

The Jim Dandy Band revives the essence of rock's golden age, covering classics from the Rolling Stones, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Eric Clapton, and CCR. They infuse a touch of Country and Blues into their performances, catering to a variety of musical preferences. An authentic sound paired with a lively atmosphere guarantees an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Band Sponsor: Peppers Mexican Grill

STEP ASIDE Renowned for their killer harmonies, this six-member rockin' honky-tonk and classic rock band will have you dancing and stomping on the floor. The amazing blend of vocals and diverse musical styles consistently leaves the crowd yelling for more!

Band Sponsor: Budd’s General Contracting

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September Presenting Sponsor: Downtown Milan

SEPTEMBER

UNKLE LAY LEE’S MOONSHINE ALL-STARS Take one part outlaw country, add influences of punk/funk/rock/jam band and soul, add ukulele and fiddle, and finish with some colorful storytelling earned through a life well-lived. This is Unkle Lay Lee’s Moonshine All-Stars.

FRI

Band Sponsor: Digital Brewery

JEAN WILSON & FRIENDS

JULY PRESENTING SPONSOR:

This group of four seasoned musicians from the Motor City was formed in 2022. With a diverse array of musical styles, particularly focusing on tunes from the 70s to the 90s, their playlist features a blend of Billboard hits alongside beloved tracks you might not have heard in a while.

WEEKEND COMEBACK live at 3 Thursdays rd

Weekend ComeBack is an electrifying variety band that will get everyone on their feet, dancing and enjoying the music. They deliver an exciting mix of covers, spanning hits from the 1960s all the way to today's chart-toppers.

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Band Sponsor: Downtown Milan

Food Truck: D&Meeks

The Extrusions take you on a musical journey through time, featuring songs from the vibrant 60s pop/psychedelic era to the iconic 70s classic rock, the lively 80s retro/new wave, and the diverse alternative/modern rock of the 90s, 00s, and 10s! Whether you choose to get up and dance while singing along or prefer to relax and enjoy the performance, there’s something for everyone.

Band Sponsor: Workhorse Realty

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Band Sponsor: Miller Canfield

THE EXTRUSIONS

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FRI

EVENTS & HAPPENINGS J U LY 7 9 10 14 16 16 17 18 21 23 24 27 30 31

CITY COUNCIL MEETING............................................................................7 PM; City Hall LAKESIDE CAR CRUIZE................................................................................ 5 PM; Wilson Park LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE with Ain’t Dead Yet......................................5:30; Tolan Square SENIOR SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING............................. 4 PM; City Hall LAKESIDE CAR CRUIZE................................................................................ 5 PM; Wilson Park 3rd THURSDAYS.......................................................................................... 5-8 PM; Downtown LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE with Drew & Jamison................................... 5:30 PM; Tolan Square MILAN MINI CON........................................................................................ 10 AM - 3PM; Downtown CITY COUNCIL MEETING............................................................................7 PM; City Hall LAKESIDE CAR CRUIZE................................................................................ 5 PM; Wilson Park LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE with Y-Town Hoolies.................................... 5:30 PM; Tolan Square PUBLIC HEARING: HISTORIC DISTRICT STUDY COMMITTEE................... 7 PM; City Hall LAKESIDE CAR CRUIZE................................................................................ 5 PM; Wilson Park LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE with DuPont Phillips..................................... 5:30 PM; Tolan Square

AUGUST 1 3 5 6 7 10 13 14 15 18 20 20 21 27 28

CAR SHOW.................................................................................................. Wilson Park PARK & REC COMMISSION MEETING....................................................... 6:30 PM; City Hall BEAUTIFICATION COMMISSION MEETING............................................... 6 PM; City Hall LAKESIDE CAR CRUIZE................................................................................ 5 PM; Wilson Park LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE with Mike & Maggie.................................... 5:30; Tolan Square (Moved to Monday after Election Day) CITY COUNCIL MEETING..........................................................................

7 PM; City Hall LAKESIDE CAR CRUIZE................................................................................ 5 PM; Wilson Park LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE with Unkle Lay Lee’s Moonshine All-Stars 5:30 PM; Tolan Square RELAY FOR LIFE........................................................................................... 24 Hours; Wilson Park CITY COUNCIL MEETING............................................................................7 PM; City Hall LAKESIDE CAR CRUIZE................................................................................ 5 PM; Wilson Park 3rd THURSDAYS.......................................................................................... 5 - 8 PM; Downtown LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE with Jim Dandy Band................................... 5:30 PM; Tolan Square LAKESIDE CAR CRUIZE................................................................................ 5 PM; Wilson Park LIVE FROM TOLAN SQUARE with Step Aside........................................... 5:30 PM; Tolan Square

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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). Some exceptions occur due to holidays and elections.

EDWARD KOLAR Mayor

MARY KERKES Mayor Pro Tem

MARIE GRESS Council Member

JESSE NIE Council Member

DAVID SNYDER Council Member

MATT STAFFORD Council Member

DR. SHANNON DARE WAYNE Council Member

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Mayor Ed Kolar edkolar@milanmi.gov

City of Milan milanmi.gov

City of Milan @CityofMilanMI

Mary Kerkes maryk@milanmi.gov

Parks & Recreation milanmich.org/departments/ parks_and_recreation

Parks & Recreation @MilanParksAndRec

DDA downtownmilanmi.com

DDA @DowntownMilan

Police Department milanmich.org/departments/ police_department

Police Department @MilanPolice

Fire Department milanareafire.com

Fire Department @MilanAreaFire

Milan Seniors for Healthy Living milanseniors.org

Milan Seniors for Healthy Living @MilanSeniors

Marie Gress marieg@milanmi.gov Jesse Nie jessen@milanmi.gov Dave Snyder daves@milanmi.gov Matt Stafford matthews@milanmi.gov Shannon Dare Wayne shannonw@milanmi.gov

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CONNECTION SUMMER 2026

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JULY - AUGUST