It’s That Time Again

Taxes are unavoidable, but you can get help. AARP income tax preparation volunteers will be at the senior center to prepare and e-file your 2018 income tax on Friday mornings beginning February 1. You must make an appointment for this free program by calling 248.583.6700. Appointments fill quickly, so call soon.

What’s Up in Clawson?

Clawson’s Downtown Development Authority Director Joan Horton made her monthly report to the DDA meeting. Here are the highlights:

• Interior work is under way at NOAR Technology, 303 E. 14 Mile (former Toto bldg.)
• Demolition has begun at 32 E. 14 Mile for the Weiss Distilling project (former home of Great Sport Coffee). Construction will begin in the spring.
• The architect for the developers of the ACE Hardware property, at 149 E. 14 Mile, will meet with the development team this week to present concepts for improvements. The developers have met with the team several times to talk through concepts and their plans are very much in line with the Downtown Master Plan.
• Work moves forward on the expansion of Noble Fish and the White Wolfe Patisserie with utility service upgrades currently in progress. A spring or summer opening is their goal.
• The new alley entrance arch for the E. 14 Mile alley leading to the SE municipal parking lot has been delivered to DPW. Weather permitting, it may be installed before spring.
• Giffels-Webster is now under contract to provide planning services for the City of Clawson. Planners will be Rod Arroyo, Joe Tangeri and Jill Bahm. This is the same team that provided services to the DDA to develop the award-winning Downtown Clawson Master Plan.

Party with Animals

Tickets are on sale for the Mother/Son Jungle Party, which will be at the Hunter Community Center on Saturday, March 23, at 3 pm. This is a special event for moms and their boys. Price includes light refreshments, a photo memento and an exciting visit from Mark Rosenthal’s Animal Magic.

Mark Rosenthal’s Animal Magic is a nonprofit dedicated to exotic wildlife conservation and life science education. Now in their 39th year, Animal Magic has educated and enlightened audiences across the U.S.  Their popular, live performances, allow them to share their knowledge, respect and appreciation for the animals that share our planet. Come see a fascinating variety of animals from around the world.

Buy tickets in advance at Hunter Community Center. Tickets are $20 per couple and $5 for each additional son.

Start Reading

February’s Wednesday Afternoon Book Club will meet on February 20, from 1 to 2 pm. You can reserve your copy of “To the End of June: The Intimate Life of American Foster Care” by Cris Beam, and register for this free program in the library or by phone at 248.588.5500.

The book asks “Who are the children of foster care and what, as a country, do we owe them?” Cris Beam, a foster mother herself, spent five years immersed in the world of foster care looking into these questions and tracing firsthand stories. The result is “To the End of June,” an unforgettable portrait that takes the reader deep inside the lives of foster children in their search for a stable, loving family.

Beam shows us the intricacies of growing up in the system—the back-and-forth with agencies, the rootless shuffling between homes, the emotionally charged tug between foster and birth parents, the terrifying push out of foster care and into adulthood. Humanizing and challenging a broken system, “To the End of June” offers a tribute to resiliency and hope for real change.

Clawson is a Great Place to Live

Clawson rocks! It ranked 15 in the 2019 Best Places to Raise a Family in Michigan according to credit website WalletHub. Wallethub compared 102 cities in Michigan across four key dimensions: 1) Family Life & Fun, 2) Education, Health & Safety, 3) Affordability and 4) Socioeconomics. See the rankings at Wallethub.

Have a Burger with the Chamber

Nosh and network with Clawson Chamber of Commerce members and prospective Chamber members. As they gather for lunch at The Detroit Burger Bar on Monday, January 28 at 11:30 a.m. Call the Chamber office at 248.435.6500 or email ClawsonChamberOfCommerce@gmail.com for more information.

PAWS to Read!

Come to the library to read to a dog. Everyone’s favorite certified therapy dogs love to be read to, so pick out a book to read to a furry friend on Wednesday, January 30, from 4 to 5:30 pm. Sign up for a 10-minute time slot at the library or by phone at 248.588.5500.

Pizza, Pasta and Piazzas

Three years ago, Valentina Sassi moved to Michigan from Torino, Italy’s fourth largest city and the country’s chocolate capital. On Wednesday, January 23 at 12:45 p.m., Valentina will talk about Italy’s geography, history, traditions, cuisine, and lifestyle at the Clawson Senior Center. Call 248.583.6700 to register.

Need a Ride?

The city of Clawson and Beaumont Health support a transportation program to help Clawson seniors get around. Transportation boundaries are Long Lake Road to the north, 11 Mile Road to the south, Ryan Road to the east and Southfield Road to the west. The extended boundaries are for medical appointments only and include South Boulevard to the north, Nine Mile Road to the south, Van Dyke Avenue to the east and Telegraph Road to the west.

Starting in February, transportation anywhere other than to the Clawson Senior Center will $4 per round trip. Ride tickets are $4 each or four rides for $15 and may be purchased from a driver or at the Senior Center.

Spring, Baseball and Softball are on Their Way!

Get ready to play ball! The Clawson Youth Baseball and Softball League has begun registration for the 2019 baseball and softball season. The league provides youngsters opportunities to develop sportsmanship and athleticism, while participating in developmental and competitive play. Children can enjoy friendly competition with neighboring cities, while preparing for junior high and high school competition.

League format: CYBSL Softball divisions plan to continue with the current inter-league format that involves a partnership with ROSL, Madison Heights Softball, and other neighboring cities.

Divisions for beginners: Divisions for young children are co-ed and begin with t-ball for ages 4-5, developmental machine pitch for ages 6-7, and competitive machine pitch for ages 7-8.

Competitive baseball and softball: For athletes beyond age 8, Pee Wee ages 9-10, and Farm for ages 11-12.

For baseball, call Jeff Gaglio at 586.295.9014 and for softball, call Todd McMillan at 248.854.6733.

Is Clawson Your School of Choice?

Clawson Schools has program openings for developmental kindergarten through 7th grades and 9th and 10th grades. Applications will be considered through Friday, January 25, 2019 at 4:00 pm. Requirements for the Clawson Schools of Choice program:

• Students must reside in the Oakland County Intermediate School District.
• If a student is receiving special education services, an Individual Education Plan (I.E.P.) and MET must accompany the application for Schools of Choice.
• Falsification of requested information may disqualify a student from being considered for admission or may result in removal from Clawson Public Schools if enrolled under false information.
• Students who have been expelled at any time from any school district or convicted of a felony will not be considered for admission.

For questions regarding Clawson’s Schools of Choice program, call Jill LaPine, Enrollment Secretary, (248) 655-4417.

Coloring Party

Coloring is the latest craze in relaxation. Whether you’re an inside the lines sort or not, come out for adult coloring fun at the library on Wednesday, February 13, from 6 to 8 p.m. They will provide the black and white drawings, colored pencils and markers. You provide the inspiration. Registration is free and beings January 16. Register by stopping by or calling 248.588.5500.

The Farmers Market Needs You

Join the farmers market committee for their next meeting on Thursday, January 17 at 7 p.m. at Hunter Community Center to plan for the 2019 market year. They need help with set up, monitoring and planning. If you would like to become a sponsor of the Farmers Market and have your banner on a market tent, email or call Penny at pennycplr@aol.com or 248.259.6208.

A Year of Senior Fun

If you or an older loved one wants to get out and get involved, the Clawson Senior Center has a lot going on. With transportation and inexpensive lunches available, these monthly programs are sure to get you in the swing.

Bingo:  2nd and last Wednesdays of each month from 1 to 3 p.m.  Cards $.25 each.

Canasta:  First and third Tuesdays of each month at 12:30 p.m.

Casino Trip:  Last Thursday of each month, departing at 11 a.m. Cost: $6

Chair Yoga:  Fridays at 9:30 a.m.  Cost: Donations

Chair Exercise:  Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 10:30 a.m.  Cost: Donation

Euchre:  Tuesdays at 1 p.m. Cost: $1

Knit & Crochet: Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon.

Line Dancing: Tuesdays from 1 to 3 p.m. in the gym. Cost:  $5

Pinochle:  Mondays at 1 p.m. Cost:  $1

Quilting:  Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Wii Bowling: Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon (challenge games against the Berkley and Madison Heights Seniors throughout the year)

Transportation is available for Clawson residents. There is a $5 fee for travel inside transportation boundaries. Scheduling hours are Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Transportation hours are Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. to noon. Call 248.583.6700 for more information or to request transportation.

A balanced lunch is also served Monday through Thursday at noon. A $3 donation is suggested. Home-delivered meals are available to homebound residents. Please call the Senior Center to learn if you or a loved one qualifies. Call-ahead carryout is available for $3.50.

If you would like more information on programs or senior trips, call or email Kathy Leenhouts at 248.583.6700 or kleenhouts@cityofclawson.com to get the senior newsletter.

Clawson Named One of Michigan’s Safest Cities

The National Council for Home Safety and Security has announced the safest cities in Michigan and fifteen of the twenty are in Oakland County, including Clawson, which is ranked Michigan’s 15th safest city.

The National Council for Home Safety and Security is a national trade association of licensed alarm installers, contractors, and other relevant trade groups across the United States. Their goal is to further industry education and public knowledge about home safety and security. And their primary focus is on legislative initiatives that affect their members at both the federal and state level, as well as the general safety and security of the public in their homes. You can visit their website, Alarms.org for important research, articles and reports about home security and safety.

Alley Update

The new alley entrance arch for the E. 14 Mile alley leading to the SE municipal parking lot has been delivered to the Department of Public Works. Installation of the arch is the first phase of improvements that will also include brick pavers and landscaping. This project is being funded by a grant obtained by the Downtown Development Authority.

Preschool & Child Care Information Night

The Royal Oak Public Library will sponsor their 20^th annual Preschool & Child Care Information Night on Monday, January 28 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Royal Oak Farmers Market. Parking will be free. Julie Bokor, Clawson Public Schools Preschool Coordinator, and Renay Swords, Clawson Childcare Director, will be on hand to talk to parents and answer questions about programs, including parent-tot classes, preschool programs, the Great Start Readiness Program and child care.

Do You Have Street Smarts?

How did Wattles, John R., Coolidge and Livernois get their names? You can find out at the Senior Center on Wednesday, January 16 at 12:45 p.m. The Troy Historical Museum staff will tell you how these local streets and others got their names.

Hercule Poirot is on the Case

The Senior Center Afternoon Movie on Thursday, January 17 at 12:45 p.m. will be the 2017 version of “Murder on the Orient Express” starring Kenneth Branagh, Penélope Cruz, and Willem Dafoe. This movie is based on the Agatha Christie book, which tells the story of a murder committed on the train on which famed detective Hercule Poirot is travelling. Of course, he is recruited to solve the case. For more information, go to cityofclawson.com or call 248.583.6700.

Fermented Vegetables and Fruit

On Monday, January 28, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., you can learn all about fermented vegetables and fruit, and the benefits of making your own. It’s easy, fun and nutritious, plus you’ll gain the confidence to try the process at home with your own vegetables and fruit. The Nourishing Traditions Cookbook and other fermentation cookbooks and tools will be available for purchase. Registration begins January 7. This free program will be held at the library. To register, stop by or call 248.588.5500.

Blood Drive Needs Donors

Every minute of every day, someone needs blood. Clawson will be hosting an American Red Cross blood drive to help increase local supplies on Wednesday, December 26 and Friday, January 4, from 1 to 7 p.m. at City Hall. To make an appointment, visit redcrossblood.org.

It Will Be Tax Time Before You Know It

AARP volunteers will once again be at the Senior Center to prepare and e-file your 2018 income tax on Friday mornings beginning February 1. They will start booking appointments on Wednesday, January 2. You must make an appointment for this free program by calling (248) 583-6700. Available appointments fill quickly, so sign-up soon.

Acting Out Kids Audition Workshop

Acting Out Kids is holding a special session to help youngsters build confidence so that they will feel comfortable and have fun at an audition. The workshop will include a variety of games and activities to help kids work on characterization and monologues.  It is recommended for kids that will be auditioning for the AOK murder mystery dinner theatre production on January 5.  But all are welcome.  The workshop will be Friday, January 4, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Hunter Community Center. The cost is $10.00 per child.  Space is limited and advance registration is required.  For more information or to register, contact actingoutkids@yahoo.com.

Auditions for Murder Mystery Dinner Theater Production

Youngsters ages 8 to 18 are invited to audition for Acting Out Kids’ Murder Mystery Dinner Theater production of “Right Time for Murder” on Saturday, January 5, at 2:30 p.m. Auditions will be held at First Presbyterian Church of Troy. Space is very limited and advance registration is required.  For more information or to register, contact actingoutkids@yahoo.com or to Auditions for ‘Right Time for Murder’ – A Murder Mystery Dinner Theatre Production.

New Year at the Senior Center

Start the year right with a festive New Year’s luncheon on Wednesday, Jan. 2 at noon. The cost is $4. Come for a great lunch and fun with friends. Please purchase your ticket in advance. Call (248) 583-6700 or stop by for more information or to purchase tickets.

Get a Pass at the Library

Did you know that your library card can give you access to hundreds of Michigan’s cultural destinations and natural attractions? You can get free or discounted passes to state parks, campgrounds, museums, trails, and arts and cultural destinations with the “Michigan Activity Pass presented by The Library Network.” This program is a partnership between Michigan’s nearly 400 public libraries and more than 390 attractions and destinations. Some of the participating cultural partners include the Michigan Sealife Aquarium, the Detroit Institute of Arts, Tahquamenon Falls State Park, the Upper Peninsula Children’s Museum in Marquette, the Monroe County Historical Museum, the Icebreaker Mackinaw Maritime Museum in Mackinaw City. Click here to search for activities and to check out a Michigan Activity Pass.

Does Your Kid Like to Put on a Show?

If so, Acting Out Kids Community Theatre might be the perfect place for your child. They offer opportunities to participate in plays, murder mystery dinner theatre productions, films, YouTube shows, classes, workshops, camps, field trips, community events and social events. They are currently taking registration for classes starting in January. Check their website for class schedules. Classes need a minimum of 10 participants, and a minimum of 15 for the murder mystery dinner theatre production. For more information or to register, contact AOK at actingoutkids@yahoo.com.

Ready for a Heist?

The Senior Center afternoon movie on Thursday, December 20 at 12:45 p.m. will be “Ocean’s Eight” starring Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway, Mindy Kaling and Helena Bonham Carter. This movie tells the story of Debbie Ocean, who gathers an all-female crew to attempt an impossible heist at New York City’s yearly Met Gala.

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Be a Permanent Part of Downtown Clawson

Commemorative brick pavers add to the charm of Clawson sidewalks while they celebrate families, friends and important occasions. Honor someone you love for the holidays! These bricks last a lifetime, sharing your message with all who visit downtown Clawson. A donation of $80 buys a 5” x 9” custom brick paver engraved with a family name, a special date or message. Download the brick order form to bring or mail your order to Clawson City Hall, 425 N. Main, Clawson MI 48017 or fill out the online form.

Is Your New Year’s Resolution to Do More For Your Community?

If  so, you can fill out an application to let the city know you’re interested in serving on one of the following boards and commissions:

• Blair Memorial Library
• Compensation Commission
• Downtown Development Authority
• Historical Commission
• Parks & Recreation
• Planning Commission
• Traffic & Safety Board

Clawson’s Young Musicians Warm Up Winter

Join Clawson schools for their concert series December 10 -19 at the Clawson High School Auditorium. And if you have an instrument, come on out to play on December 18 at the Winter Jam Band Open Concert.

Monday, December 10, 7 p.m. – Moxie Strings Concert. Clawson High School and Middle School String Orchestras will present an evening of Celtic, bluegrass, rock and jazz music with the Moxie Strings.

Wednesday, December 12, 7 p.m. – Clawson Choirs Winter Concert. This concert will feature the four Clawson High School and Middle School ensembles.

Tuesday, December 18, 7 p.m. – Clawson High School Winter Jam Open Band Concert. Alumni and members of the community are invited to bring their band instruments and play along with the high school band.

Wednesday, December 19, 7:00 p.m. – Winter Strings Concert will feature 6 -12th grade orchestra students.

Ring in the Holidays at the Senior Center

Monday, December 17 at 5 p.m. – Dinner and Holiday Lights. Enjoy a delicious dinner at the center, followed by a bus tour around town to see all the beautiful holiday lights. Cost is $10. Space is limited, so sign up early.

Wednesday, December 19 at noon – Christmas Luncheon. Celebrate a joyous holiday season with friends. Enjoy a delicious meal, door prizes and more. Cost is $5. Tickets will be sold until December 14 or until sold out.

Wednesday, December 19 at 1 p.m. – Christmas Bingo. Registration closes after December 15 for this special Bingo. Cost is $5. Everyone is guaranteed one prize worth $5 and other bingos will get off-the-cart prizes.

For questions, call (248) 583-6700.

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Business Mentoring

You can get one-on-one business mentoring at the Blair Memorial Library, every Wednesday from 5 to 8 p.m. Free confidential counseling sessions are conducted by SCORE representatives, who are current or retired business executives. To sign up, go to detroit.score.org. Click on ‘Get Started’ in the green box on the right side of the page and then, enter Clawson, MI in the “Find a SCORE Branch” box and then click on “Request a Mentor” under our location. Or phone (313) 226-7947 and specify the Clawson Library.

Go Under the Sea with Clawson High School’s Production of The Little Mermaid

Go under the sea with Ariel, King Triton’s youngest daughter as she makes a bargain with Ursula the Sea Witch to trade her tail for legs, so she can pursue Prince Eric in the world above. The bargain is not what it seems, and Ariel needs the help of her colorful friends, Flounder the fish, Scuttle the seagull and Sebastian the crab to restore order under the sea. Enjoy irresistible classics such as “Under the Sea,” “Kiss the Girl” and “Part of Your World,” as Ariel finds her heart’s desire. Fun for all ages on Thursday & Friday, December 6 and 7 at 6 p.m. and Saturday, December 8 at 2 and 7 p.m.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $7 for students.

Make a Handmade Gift for Someone Special

A charm bracelet is a charming holiday gift. Make one for someone you love at a special workshop at the Blair Memorial Library on Monday, December 10 at 7 p.m. Class size is limited, so call (248) 588-5500 soon to reserve your place.

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Step Out to Lunch at the Clawson Steakhouse

The Senior Center Lunch Bunch will make their annual visit to the Clawson Steakhouse on Monday, December 10. Transportation is free and departs the Senior Center at 12:30pm. Enjoy a great afternoon of delicious food and lively conversation. Register by Thursday, December 6. If you are driving yourself, please call the center at (248) 583-6700 to be included in the reservation.

Clawson Historical Museum Opens with New Staff

New director Rennae Healey and curator Taylor Gibson are excited to reopen the museum and looking forward to modernizing the museum and making it a greater presence in the community.

Healey has a Master of Science degree in Historic Preservation from Eastern Michigan University and has spent the last decade working in Michigan museums. She also worked closely with event rentals at the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant for the last two years. Gibson is a graduate student in information and library science at Wayne State University and also works at the Blair Library.

Healey and Gibson encourage community members to check out the current exhibit, “Cameras and Photography,” which showcases cameras, photography gear and photos, many taken in Clawson. Museum hours are Sunday and Wednesday, 2 to 5 p.m. There is no admission free. The exhibit will be open through December 19, after which the museum will be closed and will reopen on Sunday, February 3. Visit the museum’s website for more information.

Let Your Kids Act Out

Acting Out Kids, Clawson’s youth-centered performing arts theatre and production studio is currently registering students for Winter classes. Beginning in January, students can learn acting, improv and writing skills and be part of YouTube and local cable shows. AOK offers Friday night workshops for ages 7 – 18. Visit the AOK website for more information.

To share your news, announcements, and events, please email citynewseditor@localbiznews.net

Make a Holiday Feast for Our Feathered Friends

Just prior to the Christmas tree lighting on November 28, drop-in to the Blair Memorial Library from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. to make a natural ornament to decorate the tree in Memorial Park and feed the birds this winter. No registration required. Feel free to drop in.

Take a Class at a Clawson Business

Want to learn a magic trick? Learn to knit? Get fit? In addition to selling their wares, several local businesses hold classes for adults and children. Check out the Downtown Clawson website to see where you can go to learn something fun.

• The occupant or owner of any property, whether or not it is currently occupied, is required to keep the width of the sidewalk in front of or adjacent to the premises cleared of snow and ice to facilitate safe pedestrian use. Where there are no sidewalks, the occupant or owner must clear a path free from snow or ice where the pathway would otherwise be.
• Whenever any snow or ice has fallen to the height of one inch or more, it must be cleared within 24 hours of accumulation.
• Placing snow in the street is illegal.

Snow plowing procedure:

• Snow removal begins after four or more inches of snowfall.
• When plowing the residential streets, the city is divided into five areas, which are plowed simultaneously, according to availability and equipment.
• Do not park your vehicle in the street until the roadway has been cleared.

Given the varied and sometimes rapidly changing snow conditions, snow removal is a prioritized as follows:

1. Major streets and intersections
2. Fire route
3. Residential area streets
4. Dead-end streets and cul-de-sacs

Except in incapacitating blizzards, all four areas should be maintained simultaneously and kept open at all times. If not possible, city workers will concentrate available resources on higher priority areas.

Compost Collection Takes a Winter Break

Compost collection will end on Wed., Dec. 12 and begin again on Wed., April 3. Residents who want to dispose of yard waste after the collection season ends may drop materials off at the SOCRRA location on Coolidge Highway in Royal Oak.

Turkey and All the Trimmings at Senior Center

Give thanks early at the senior center’s annual Thanksgiving luncheon on Thurs., Nov. 15 at noon. Enjoy a turkey dinner with all the trimmings, including pumpkin pie for dessert and door prizes, 50/50 raffle and more. Tickets are $5, and must be purchased in advance by Nov. 9. Call (248) 583-6700 or go to cityofclawson.com for more information. Also, the senior center will be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday on Thurs., Nov. 22 and Fri., Nov. 23.

Are you a Whiz With a Credit Card?

In Online Shopping 101, technology trainer Bart Gioia will show you how to shop wisely and safely online while looking for the perfect holiday gifts. Mon., Nov. 12, 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Blair Memorial Library.

City Planner Search Process

The City of Clawson issued a Request for Proposals seeking experienced planning consultants to provide comprehensive support to the Building & Planning department staff. Areas of focus would be reviewing commercial redevelopment applications, preparating staff reports and providing recommendations to the City’s Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals and City Council.

The selected consultant will work with the City and appropriate boards and commissions to ensure the city uses best practices and good planning practice in its land use procedures and controls.

The five applicants listed below submitted RFPs. They were interviewed at the Tues., Oct. 30 meeting. Click to view their presentations.

Beckett & Raeder, Inc.

Giffels | Webster

McKenna

SAFEBuilt Studio

Wightman

Tickets on Sale for Lunch with Santa

Continuing an over 30-year tradition, the Clawson Women’s Club, part of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, will again host this festive event at the Hunter Community Center on Sat., Dec. 8 at 11:30 a.m. Tickets are $6 per person and must be purchased in advance at Hunter Community Center. They include lunch, a visit with Santa and a small gift. Tickets are available beginning on Thursday, Nov. 1

Do You Have a White Elephant?

The Senior Center’s White Elephant Sale fundraiser will be Sat., Nov. 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hunter Community Center. There will also be a lunch counter, raffle and bake sale. They need gently-used household items and volunteers. Please do not bring clothes or large furniture. Setup will be on Friday, Nov. 9 starting at 9 a.m. Lunch is provided for volunteers. Call (248) 583-6700 for more information.

Paws to Read

Do you love dogs and books? Come to the library and read to a dog on Wed, Nov. 14 from 4 to 5:30 p.m.  Clawson’s favorite certified therapy dogs love to be read to, so pick out a book and read to a furry friend. Sign up for a 10-minute time slot at the library or by phone (248) 588-5500.

Senior Center Prayer Breakfast

This Clawson Community Coalition and Chamber of Commerce are holding a prayer breakfast on Tuesday, Oct. 30 from 7:30 to 9 a.m. The event is intended as an opportunity for people of many faiths to come together for inspiration and reflection. The cost is $10. For tickets, call Mrs. Owens at (248) 546-9777.

Chicken Talk

At 7 p.m. on October 10, Deborah Wooley called to order a Public Town Hall Workshop to discuss the local ordinance on keeping chickens.

Approximately 50 community members attended, expressing a variety of opinions about chickens and the ordinance. They spoke both for and against changing the ordinance, which currently allows residents to keep chickens within certain guidelines.

Residents who favored continuing to allow chickens cited reasons such as promoting sustainability, teaching children about agriculture, that they can help with anxiety, and that they attract home buyers to Clawson.

Opponents expressed concerns about health and hygiene and expressed the belief that chickens act as a deterrent to home buyers.

Residents with chickens felt that the required 500-foot distance from other homes for animal enclosures was not feasible.

Several residents expressed that they had many more issues with neighbors’ dogs than chickens and would like to see those issues addressed.

The group discussed appropriate licenses and fees, the possibility of aligning local ordinances with state guidelines, and agreed to research the ordinances of other communities.

The current ordinance is available online.

The Blue Cat Band Rocks the Clawson Public Library

Come tap your feet and get into a groove at the library. Detroiters Al Carmichael on guitar and vocals, Billy Farris on guitar and vocals, Ken Murphy on drums and percussion, and Frankie Lee and bass bring together four lifetimes of musical experience and styles. The group has deep Detroit roots as well as a long list of song-writing, studio, national and international touring credits. Their rock, country, folk and blues classics will bring a whole new vibe to the Library at an all-ages show on Monday, October 29   7:00pm -7:45pm. To register, call (248) 588-5500.

AOK Acting & Improv Workshop & Halloween Party

Do you want to act like a goblin or a ghoul? Acting Out Kids Community Theatre Kids is hosting a Halloween event for youngsters ages 7 to 18. Costumes are welcome but not required for this evening of acting, improv, and Halloween games and activities.

Acting Out Kids Community Theatre is an inclusive, youth-centered performing arts theatre and production studio that works to build confidence and emphasizes creativity in all aspects and all types of stage and video production.

The Halloween event will take place on Friday, October 26, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Hunter Community Center in Clawson. The price is $10.00 per child and there will be concessions available for purchase. Space is limited, so advance registration is required.  To register, please contact actingoutkids@yahoo.com.

Chicken Talk

On Wednesday, October 10, at 7 p.m., there will be a public town hall meeting to discuss the current animal ordinance and chickens in particular. The meeting will be at City Hall at 425 N. Main Street.

Free College Savings Talk

College doesn’t have to break the bank. John M. Dyer, a Financial Advisor with Royal Oak Financial Advisors, LLC, will help you learn how to invest in your child’s future without sacrificing yours on Saturday, October 13, 10 – 11 a.m. at the Blair Memorial Library. My Dyer can help you figure out how much college will cost, understand your savings options and decide which is best for you, while avoiding common college savings pitfalls. Call 248.588.5500 to register.

Halloween Isn’t Just for Little Kids in Clawson

The Great Pubkin Crawl for the over-21 set is a team event that combines a scavenger hunt, trivia, games and silly tasks. On Saturday, October 27, players will visit at least five of the eight venues while completing a game booklet solving puzzles, completing tasks and finding scavenger hunt items or snapping a photo. Booklets will be turned in at the end of the night for the prize drawings. Wear a costume and enjoy food and drink specials at downtown spots such as Mojave Cantina, Moose Winooski, Fifty Four West, Black Lotus Brewing Company, Old Detroit Burger Bar, Montage Grill, Tavern on the Main, Renshaw Lounge, and the new Zeoli’s Italian. Proceeds will support the Downtown Public Art Fund. Space is limited, so the organizers suggest pre-registration. Visit the DDA site for registration and more information. Registration will also be open the evening of the event at Three Cats Cafe, 116 W. 14 Mile, from 6-7pm.