At the April 22 meeting of the Southeast Michigan Communicators Network, participants shared a few updates on events and happenings around the region. Here is a reader’s digest account of some of the messages they shared and a few of the many opportunities to Experience Southeast Michigan this spring and summer. Thanks to all who attended and shared!
City of Berkley
Caitlin Flora, Director of Communications, talked about a pocket park pilot project to be launched this summer. The space will first be transitioned to a “pop-up” park for community members to test out before plans are finalized. Mouths are also watering in anticipation of a new Slows Bar BQ to open in Berkley.
Bloomfield Township
Greg Black, Operations Manager for Community Relations, promoted a special event happening in the township on May 5. Cinco de Mayo Orientation, Flavor & Fun will feature an orientation on PEG and Franchise fees, to learn about becoming a community producer. NOTE: Tacos El Guero Food Truck will be on site, but attendees must purchase their own meals.
City of Dearborn
Mary Laundroche, Neighborhood Liaison, described more intensive rain garden education efforts by the City in partnership with Friends of the Rouge. A new butterfly garden in the South End provides respite for this highly industrialized area. While the garden has already opened, an official ribbon-cutting will take place on June 18.
Downtown Detroit
Ericka Alexander, Communications and Public Relations Manager for Detroit People Mover, is excited for another summer of excitement in Downtown Detroit. She encourages everyone to visit and enjoy free rides – always – to favorite events such as Movement over Memorial Day and the Grand Prix the following week.
Village of Holly
Tim Price, Village Manager, discussed the challenge of shifting the Independence Day Celebration to July 3 for next couple years. There is a need to get word out so people are prepared on the 3rd and not disappointed on the 4th. Tim is also excited for a season of kayaking on the Shiawassee River.
Huron Charter Township
Cristin Colling – Deputy Supervisor and Public Information Officer, discussed planned improvements for the township’s downtown riverside park along with ongoing innovation and digital transformation.
City of Livonia
Chris Jackett, Chief of Public Relations, is looking forward to a summer full of events.
Macomb County
Megan Ochmanek, Marketing and Communications Project Manager, discussed an event that brings people (and viewers) from across the country to Lake St. Clair. Starting August 7, Cheers to Chesterfield will bring Bassmaster Elite to Southeast Michigan as part of an event that is fun for the whole family.
Oakland County
Miesha Joassin, Marketing and Communications Officer, plugged an audio series the county is producing on native plants for Native Plant Month. This education will culminate in a giveaway in late May.
City of Plymouth
Hannah Knight, Assistant to City Manager, talked about the excitement building for warm weather and the special events (farmers markets, outdoor concerts, and more) that bring thousands to Downtown Plymouth. Dennis O’Connor discussed communications related to the reconstruction project at I-275 and M-14. Motorists are avoiding marked detours and driving through Downtown Plymouth, where the additional, higher-speed traffic is creating safety challenges, especially for those walking and biking.
Pittsfield Charter Township
Mia Herd, Community Development Coordinator, discussed the planned opening of a new park in the township, with amenities like pickleball courts, sand volleyball, and smart benches.
Port Huron Township
Donald Dudas, Trustee, shared the excitement for park improvements. A pathway extension along the Black River will result in nearly two miles of trail to enjoy. Improvements also include two new pickleball courts and a new pavilion. The township is reopening its museum, which closed during the COVID-19 Pandemic, on June 7.
Regional Transit Authority and SMART
Isaac Constans, Communications for RTA, reminded everyone that it operates three transit services for Southeast Michigan:
- D2A2: Connecting Detroit and Ann Arbor
- DAX: Detroit Air Xpress
- QLine: Detroit’s light-rail on Woodward Ave.
Isaac is excited for people to attend Detroit Pistons Basketball via transit. He also encourages all DAX riders to take a survey about their experience.
Paul Johnson, SMART Community Ombudsperson for Wayne County, is looking forward to the Woodward Dream Cruise and a range of summer events people can reach via SMART. He also reminded the group that SMART is an economic catalyst for our region and a community space for people to gather and connect.
City of Southfield
Yolanda Haynes, Councilmember, discussed a crowdfunding campaign with MEDC and other communities at 8 Mile and Greenfield for funds to light up the gateway. The Arts Commission is hosting a fashion show fundraiser for a large upcoming project. The Art and Vintage Fashion Show on May 16, with special guest and Southfield native Selma Blair (known for roles in Legally Blonde, Cruel Intentions, and the Hellboy franchise), will feature 12 students from the Southfield A&T Dance Team who will model over 40 articles of vintage clothing from the 1940s through 1970s.
City of Sterling Heights
Melanie Davis, Director of Community Relations, promoted the grand opening of Sterling Heights’ new Community Garden at Nelson Park. The garden officially opens on May 1 and features ADA-accessible beds, a Children’s Garden, native planning areas, a butterfly conservatory, bee apiary, and public art made from upcycled materials.
City of Troy
Kayla McKaig, Marketing Coordinator, discussed the city’s 70th anniversary, which will be celebrated at Stine Park on June 14.
Washtenaw County Water Resources Commissioner’s Office
Autumn House, Communications and Media Specialist, promoted the county’s Master Rain Gardener Training, which has wrapped up online winter courses and is moving outside soon for in-person spring classes. Autumn – apropos for Earth Day – also provided a reminder for gardeners to help pollinators by leaving garden beds alone for a few more weeks.
Looking forward
Thank you to everyone who attended the April 22 meeting and generously shared the exciting events and initiatives they are looking forward to this season. As communicators, your vital role in promoting and shaping these community experiences helps bring Southeast Michigan to life, connecting people and inspiring participation across the region. Stay tuned for the next Communicators Network meeting date, which will be in September (date, time and location to be announced soon).
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