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Judy Greer

From Livonia to Hollywood

Jan Welch

From Livonia to Lansing

Blake Morgan

From Livonia to London

Hey Livonia, let's have a Livonia Homecoming during our 75th Birthday Celebration and invite some distinguished graduates.

And how about a time capsule with material representing current day and artifacts from our founding as a city in 1950.

Envision a day when Livonia unites for a festive gathering. It could be a community barbecue, a 'Taste of Livonia' event, or a bakery trail featuring samples of Livonia's finest pastries, extending an invitation to those who have considered Livonia their home since 1950. Imagine inviting Livonia alumni who have successfully ventured far and wide, such as actress Judy Greer to Hollywood, musician Blake Morgan to London, former Michigan Bar Association Executive Director Janet Welch to Lansing, artist Thomas Arvid (pictured left) to Atlanta, or Adam Krug, the NCAA Division III Hockey Coach of the Year in 2022, among others... the possibilities are endless.

The Livonia Historical Society is contemplating a "We Love Livonia" rally on February 15th, which could become a Homecoming, as part of the festivities. Imagine sending out invitations to all Livonians born in 1950, to anyone who lived in Livonia during their formative years, and having local bakeries each create a sheet cake adorned with designs to commemorate the 75th Birthday perhaps judged by the Culinary Arts Department at Schoolcraft College, alongside inviting all past and present elected officials.

The ideas are endless. Who will step up and provide quality implementation?

The Livonia Historical Society is contemplating the creation of a time capsule, set to be unveiled in 25 years during the centennial celebrations. Imagine the wonder of our children and grandchildren as they glimpse into the past, at the pivotal moments of a town built with such pride.

The ideas are endless. Who will step up and provide quality implementation?

Mayor Maureen Miller Brosnan in taking the lead provided by the Livonia Historical Society, which has been promoting the concept of a 75th Anniversary Celebration for over 12 months, has invited the Livonia non-profit community next week to a Non-Profit Summit to discuss plans for the 75th Birthday Celebration. The 75th is being coordinated by newly appointed Director of Government Affairs Robb Drzewicki. The Summit organized by the Mayor is the first step in coordinating a series of events during the year.

The ideas are endless. Who will step up and provide quality implementation?

It is time to enjoy the range of religions and invite all

faiths to be a part of the Livonia Prayer Breakfast

The strong faith community in Livonia is something I deeply value, as our churches significantly contribute to defining the quality of life here. 

I also appreciate the acknowledgment of this being the 50th year, which underscores the faith community's vital role in shaping a hometown we can all take pride in.

Addressing the Board of Directors of the Livonia Prayer Breakfast, I urge you to broaden the event to encompass all faiths, not solely the Christian faith.

Last year, I began reaching out to other religious groups—Jewish, Muslim, Hindu, and Buddhist—through connections provided by an individual deeply involved in the interfaith community. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing eagerness to participate in a new Prayer Breakfast. This support indicated it was the right time to act, and doing so would honor the diversity of our neighbors' faiths, showcasing Livonia's acceptance and encouragement of all.

Regrettably, I admit to falling short, as I lacked the time and energy to champion this cause fully. Despite a flurry of supportive emails, the initiative was not further pursued. My bad.

Last year, the Prayer Breakfast Board considered expanding to include a broader range of faiths. However, the majority of the board did not respond, effectively deeming the idea a non-starter. While I am pleased that the topic was broached, I am disheartened that it did not progress further.

My mother, a founding member of the Breakfast's board, resigned after several years due to the rejection of this inclusive concept.

On May 2nd, the date of the Livonia Prayer Breakfast, I will dedicate the day to private reflection, take a walk to contemplate life's journey, and the influence one person can have. I may even visit the Mother House, which boasts the city's most serene sanctuary, to sit and meditate for a time.

Once more, I acknowledge the significance of 50 years and the unity of people in prayer. My hope is for it to embrace a more inclusive spirit.

Mail Address

19514 Bainbridge 48152

E-mail address

rwilliamjoyner@gmail.com

Cell address

734-674-5871

The typewriter is not available for phone calls or emails Saturday and Sunday. Mental health and rehabilitation time. Out and about enjoying life.

What motivates FridayMusings:

We can't only define Livonia as taking small steps toward maintaining the way things were. That will give us mediocre outcomes. Our goal needs to be innovative and transformative.