I got my flu shot today. It came with a spiffy purple bandage with some weird design on it. I figured if I was going to take my kids to get their vaccination, I should lead by example.

It’s not going to help put their minds at ease, though. It will be a battle to get them in the car, out of the car, and then when it’s over and they’ve undoubtedly survived the ordeal, they’ll be mad at me for a while.

My conscience is clear.

However, if this year is anything like last year, I’m not sure who was more traumatized—them or me. They gave me a run for my money. When kids don’t want to do something, like get a shot, they suddenly become slippery, wet noodles with superhuman strength that can fit in any crevasse. I had no idea it was going to be so hard to get a 50-pound kid out of a Ford Fusion. By the time we got in the doctor’s office, we were all sweaty, some were crying, and no one was happy.

I guess this is part of the reason I run 5ks. Wish me luck.

Rebecca

Vote from Home

Following the passage of the statewide ballot proposal 18-3, all eligible and registered voters in Michigan may now request an absent voter ballot without providing a reason.

Absentee voting is convenient, time-saving, and allows you to avoid lines at the polls. And it’s easy: simply join Ferndale’s Absentee Voter List and have your ballot mailed to you before each election.

Register now for your absentee ballot.

Free Valet Parking Downtown

Don’t circle blocks looking for a spot. Use the free valet in Downtown Ferndale every Friday and Saturday from 4 to 9 p.m. courtesy of the City of Ferndale and the Downtown Development Authority.

The free valet program is offered as part of the city and DDA’s ongoing temporary parking solutions, meant to provide parking relief to downtown residents, visitors, and employees during the construction of The dot mixed-use parking development.

The StarTrax valet stand is located in the business alley between 9 Mile businesses and the Withington Parking Lot. Use Planavon St. to access the business alley—it’s open to two-way traffic. Drop off your vehicle at the stand, located behind Dye Salon and Liberty Tax, then stroll up the pedestrian walkway to access downtown shops, restaurants and events.

Ferndale Community Concert Band

Looking for an entertaining evening supporting local musicians? Look no further than the Ferndale Community Concert Band. The band begins its fifth season Sunday, Oct. 20, at 3 p.m. All concerts are held in the Ferndale High School auditorium. Each concert is free of charge, donations are accepted.

Skate Park Video

Check out the video for the new City of Ferndale skatepark, created by the Tony Hawk Foundation.

The skatepark is one of the first to be completed under this grant.