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"Labor Day" is a holiday name that has become so familiar we often overlook its original significance. While some dedicate Memorial Day to honoring the human cost of war, and many express gratitude on Thanksgiving, the primary custom of Labor Day is simply to take the day off, while many regard it as nothing more than a long weekend signaling summer's end.

However, Labor Day's history is as politically charged as Independence Day or Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday. The inaugural Labor Day event took place on the first Monday of September in 1882 in New York City, a time when labor activism was frequently outlawed and inherently perilous. The labor movement's strife was marked by deadly incidents, such as the violent clash near Chicago's Haymarket Square in 1886, which resulted in fatalities among both workers and police, and the 1894 Pullman Strike where federal troops shot at protesters. In response to escalating tensions, Congress declared Labor Day a national holiday later that year, which President Grover Cleveland promptly ratified.

As the national elections approach in two months, attention begins to shift towards the candidates, the issues at hand, and their growing visibility. Historically, this was a marked period of activity, but nowadays, campaigns seem to operate continuously throughout the year.

Reflecting on the past, one might yearn for the times when major candidates, like JFK in 1961, delivered significant speeches in cities such as Detroit as the campaign season officially began. There was a time when campaigns were silent for ten months, followed by two months dedicated to policy discussion. One can only hope for such a focused political discourse to return. We should demand it, expect it, and appreciate it.

Today, Musings is once again presenting candidates and seeking your support. However, these suggestions are merely that—single recommendations. The endorsement that truly matters is the one you give on election day. Whether you

agree or disagree, find a candidate to support and become involved.

Let's make democracy work.

Four, Acosta, Bradford, Frank, and MacFarland, stand out for Livonia Board of Education

Three incumbent candidates for the Livonia Board of Education have stood out for their contributions not only to our educational community but to our entire hometown. FridayMusings has endorsed incumbent Trustees Madeline Acosta, Crystal Frank, and Karen Bradford, commending their exemplary, transparent, and accessible service. Musings aligns with Livonia residents who support their continued tenure in office.

In addition, to bring a new viewpoint, FridayMusings is endorsing newcomer and first-time candidate Dave MacFarland, who is consistently involved, supporting community events, organizations, and residents.

FridayMusings endorses Madeline Acosta, Crystal Frank, Karen Bradford, and Dave MacFarland for the Livonia School Trustee positions, recognizing their fresh, community-focused leadership perspectives.

For Wayne County Circuit Court: John Larkin. A man of character, patience and kindness. He will make an excellent judge.

Two qualified candidates, John Larkin and Adrienne G. Scruggs, are vying for a vacancy on the Wayne County Circuit Court Bench. FridayMusings endorses John Larkin and advocates for his support.

John Larkin offers a wealth of experience and a dedication to justice, impartiality, and fairness. His active involvement in Livonia's local events and his comprehensive background are key reasons for FridayMusings' endorsement.

A lifelong Wayne County resident, John Larkin has consistently exhibited principles of justice, fairness, and empathy. His participation in the Livonia Rotary Noon Club showcases his commitment to community service.

John has dedicated 33 years to legal practice, assisting individuals through their most difficult moments, whether they face legal, financial, injury, or employment issues, always championing those in need.

Retired Chief Judge of the Wayne County Circuit Court, Tim Kenny, has endorsed John Larkin, characterizing him as a man of "character, patience, and heart." In addition Larkin has the support of Mayor Maureen Miller Brosnan, Council President Brandon McCullough, Livonia Police Officers Association, Livonia Firefighters, MEA, Building Trades.

John's contributions extend beyond the courtroom. For over two decades, he has provided legal aid at the Most Holy Trinity Legal Clinic and assumed leadership roles in the Livonia Bar Association. His community service includes volunteering at the Ark Food Bank, Trumbull Soup Kitchen, and with the Livonia Rotary.

In discussions, John's commitment to fairness is evident. Musings is confident that he will uphold the law with fairness, justice, and reason if elected as a judge.

For Livonia District Court: Jim Jolly, who has proven himself as one who puts Livonia first, in our hometown court system and in the community he takes pride in.

This week Musings is making an endorsement for Livonia District Judge to replace retiring Judge Kathleen McCann. Judges are mandated to retire at 70, often resulting in vacancies, such as the one this year due to McCann's retirement.

Livonia is fortunate to have two capable, qualified candidates seeking this open position, Jim Jolly and Robin Persiconi. As the District Judge is the closest position to residents, a hometown Judge is one that we often see at neighborhood gatherings, perhaps is a parent at our children's school or one we run into at the local grocery store.

They know us and are a part of the fabric of our hometown. Jim Jolly reflects our hometown values as he has spent most of his adult life working for Livonia on behalf of Livonia residents. This sets Jolly apart in this highly competitive race and is a significant reason why Livonia would be best served with Jolly as our hometown District Judge.

FridayMusings is endorsing City Councilman Jim Jolly for Livonia District Judge, who has proven himself as one who puts Livonia first, with experience, both in our hometown court system and in the community he takes pride in.

Jim is the only candidate with judicial experience having served 7 years as Livonia District Court Magistrate. He is a 9-year member of the Livonia City Council, two of which he was President of the Council.

Jim is an assistant prosecuting attorney for the City of Westland, is a former President of the Livonia Bar Association and has served as a volunteer attorney helping Seedlings and Livonia Civic Chorus.

Jim knows our hometown having created and sponsored the Livonia Neighborhood Grant Program, spearheaded the creation of the Tatigian Trail, and implemented while raising over $250,000 for the all-access playground at Bicentennial Park.

He has served 7 years as a volunteer coach with the Livonia Junior Athletic League and is a volunteer with the Livonia Goodfellows, Seedlings, Livonia Community Swim Club, Livonia Falcons, and Burton Hollow Swim Club.

His endorsements are reflective of the work he has done to help define Livonia's quality of life including those received from the Livonia Police Officers Association, Livonia Police Command Officers Association, Wayne County Association of Police Chiefs, Police Officers Association of Michigan,

Local civic leader endorsements include Mayor Maureen Miller Brosnan, Council President Brandon McCullough, Councilwoman Laura Toy, Treasurer Susan Nash, Past President Livonia Council Jim McCann, County Commissioner Glenn Anderson, Schoolcraft Trustee Bret Gierak, School Trustee Karen Bradford.

In looking at the role of a District Judge Musings believes that Jim Jolly, having dedicated his legal and personal life to helping define Livonia's quality of life, through actions not just words, will bring distinction and fairness to the position. Jim Jolly has earned our respect and will be an excellent choice for Livonia District Judge.

For Schoolcraft College Trustee: Candy Little, a breath of fresh air bringing the perspective of teamwork while advancing the good work of our hometown community college

Schoolcraft College has provided a cornerstone of leadership not only for education but for the communities in Western Wayne County. Part of that leadership has been the quality of leadership from the President and his leadership team to the elected members of the governing board.

The trustees who are elected to represent our community college district play a significant role in promoting and speaking out about the quality of education that has placed Schoolcraft College as a leader recognized throughout Michigan.

Since its founding, the Schoolcraft College Board of Trustees has functioned as a team. Today, that team of Trustees unanimously endorses incumbent Candy Little. Endorsements also include Northville Township Supervisor Mark Abbo, Livonia Council President Brandon McCullough, Livonia City Treasurer Susan Nash, and the Michigan Building Trades.

Candy Little works for Merck as a Senior Clinical Research Specialist and Institution Lead Clinical Research Associate. She has been active as a volunteer in the Livonia community for over 16 years. She actively volunteered on various committees until her daughter graduated from the Math, Science, and Computers (MSC) program at Churchill High School in 2022.

Last year Candy Little stood out in the application process to replace the controversial Trustee, Joan Gebhardt, who resigned amid accusations of bullying college employees, changed her mind, and is now seeking to return to the College Board. The Board made the right decision in appointing Little and the voters will make the right decision in electing her to a full term.

The Schoolcraft Community College District will benefit from the community and professional skillset that Candy Little brought to the table when she was appointed last year. FridayMusings is solid in our support for Candy Little.

A strong team represents Livonia in Lansing.

Laura Pohutsky, Matt Koleszar,

Stephanie Young. Keep them working for us

FridayMusings is proud to endorse Laurie Pohutsky, Matt Koleszar and Stephanie Young who have joined together to provide our hometown with as strong a leadership team as we have had in Lansing in years. Individually and collectively Livonia will benefit with their return to the legislature.

Laurie Pohutsky emerged as Livonia's Representative after starting her career as a microbiologist. Her pragmatic approach has propelled her to the role of Speaker Pro-tem, the second most influential position in the State House.

She dedicates a significant portion of her time to Livonia, rather than spending all her time in Lansing. Every day, she engages with the community, whether it's through meeting residents, contributing to projects, or serving as President of the Livonia Rotary Noon Club. Her consistent presence and deep interest in local matters make her the ideal candidate to retain this seat.

Musings appreciates her commitment to environmental conservation, advocacy for women's reproductive rights, and efforts to strengthen our public school system. Laurie Pohutsky has established herself as a leader in Lansing and Livonia.

Matt Koleszar, a distinguished advocate for our public school systems in Lansing, persists as chairman of the education committee. His pivotal contributions ensured a significant increase in foundational grants for schools, funding for school safety initiatives, and environmental protection. He is passionate about working to protect our vast water resources for future Michiganders and has shown that he will stand by his constituents and work to protect and preserve our environment for years to come

Serving Plymouth, Northville, and Livonia areas, he maintains a strong presence and support across his district. He is consistently available and approachable for discussions on state matters and to address local concerns that fall within state jurisdiction.

With a proven history of championing the rights of all Michiganders, Matt is prepared to persist in his advocacy for laws that safeguard and bolster the citizens of Michigan.

Stephanie Young is one of our Livonia supporters who makes it a point to be available and accessible to her constituents in Livonia. One only has to look up during community events and there will be Stephanie Young. This visibility and accessibility make her a key part of the Livonia team in Lansing. Before becoming one of the team representing Livonia in Lansing Young worked for former state representatives, mayoral administrations, and community advocacy organizations. She was also the first executive director of Detroit’s Community Education Commission. She has sponsored or co-sponsored over 200 bills.

Young’s priorities include ensuring Michiganders have quality public education, including affordable child care and access to trade schools. She advocates for expanded mental health resources, and clean water and air. Young is a fighter for affordable housing, resources for seniors, and criminal justice reform.

With her history of working with residents and community organizations, Stephanie is ready to continue the work representing Livonia in Lansing.

Honorary Chairwoman

Carrie Budzinski

Headline Sponsor

Hardies Family Trust

Presenting sponsors

Community Financial Credit Union

Community Choice Credit Union

Financial & Portfolio Advisors

AlphaUSA

Corn Roasting

Livonia Lions Club

Corn Shuckers

Clarenceville High School Basketball Team

Beverages

Livonia Rotary AM Club

Kona Ice Truck

Jolly Family

Entertainment

Robert Johnson, Acoustic Guitar

Livonia Civic Chorus

Motor City Youth Theatre

Children Face Painting

April Jeanette Barrett

Honorary Corn Roasters

Jim Jolly,

Brandon McCullough,

Maureen Brosnan,

Carrie Budzinski

Lori Miller,

Madeline Acosta,

Colleen Burton,

Karen Bradford,

Laurie Pohutsky

Martha Ptashnik,

Susan Nash,

Stephanie Young,

Liz Jarvis,

Glenn Anderson

Mary Cavanagh

Community Organizations participating

Livonia Rotary AM Club

Livonia Lions

Wilson Barn

Livonia Rotary Noon Club

Livonia Community Foundation

Livonia PTSA

Livonia Symphony Orchestra

Rosedale Presbyterian Church

Livonia Youth Choir

Livonia Democratic Club

Seedlings

Livonia Historical Society

LPS Education Foundation

John Larkin

Livonia Civic Chorus

Motor City Youth Theatre

Friends of Livonia Arts

Livonia Human Relations Commission

Livonia Youth Symphony Orchestra

Greenleaf Commission

Livonia City Clerk's Office

DO It for Denny

Livonia Republican Club

Save Noble Library

Blessings in a Backpack

LEARN

Mail Address

19514 Bainbridge 48152

E-mail address

rwilliamjoyner@gmail.com

Cell address

734-674-5871

Archive--Bill Joyner's FridayMusings

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.