Election Results

Just before midnight on election day, The Chelsea Standard and Ann Arbor.com reported results from the polls:

Chelsea City Government
Mayor: Jason Lindauer
City Council: Ann Feeney, Frank Hammer and Cheri Albertson

Read more:

• Election 2009: Feeney, Hammer, Albertson return to City Council (Chelsea Standard, 11/2/09)
• Feeney, Hammer and Alberston take Chelsea City Council seats (AnnArbor.com, 11/2/09)
  

Washtenaw County School Millage
Shortly thereafter, reports came in that the results of the School Millage did NOT pass. According to the Washtenaw County website WISD election results, the millage was turned down by 57% of voters. Interestingly, in the City of Chelsea the spread was much tighter, with 700 voting yes and 727 voting no.

• Countywide school enhancement millage fails (AnnArbor.com, 11/3/09)

More Results
For all voting results in the county, see Washtenaw County Election Results at eWashtenaw.gov .

Voting Day!

Don't forget to get out and vote! Voting Day is on Tuesday, November 3, 2009 from 7am until 8pm. City residents vote at the Washington Street Education Center.

Voting Day event listing on Things To Do in Chelsea

On the Ballot:

• City Mayor - Only one candidate is on the ballot, Jason F. Lindauer. The deadline for submitting a Declaration for Intent as a write-in candidate has passed.
  
  
• City Council - We have our choice of five candidates to fill three Council seats:
  - Cheri Albertson (incumbant)
  - Ann E. Feeney (outgoing mayor)
  - Frank Hammer (incumbant)
  - Kent Martinez-Kratz (incumbant)
  - Richard L. Steele
  
  
• Regional Enhancement Millage Proposal. The ballot language is as follows:
  Pursuant to state law, the revenue raised by the proposed millage will be collected by the intermediate school district and distributed to local public school districts based on pupil membership count. Shall the limitation on the amount of taxes which may be assessed against all property in Washtenaw Intermediate School District, Michigan, be increased by 2 mills ($2 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation) for a period of 5 years, 2009 to 2013, inclusive, to provide operating funds to enhance other state and local funding for local school district operating purposes; the estimate of the revenue the intermediate school district will collect if the millage is approved and levied in 2009 is approximately $30,000,000?
  

More Information
For an in-depth description of this millage and how it impacts voters and schools, see this recent article in the Ann Arbor Chronicle: Does it take a millage? Washtenaw School Districts say yes – voters to decide on November 3 (AnnArborChronicle.com, 10/19/09)

Also see Enhancement Millage Presentation FAQ from the Chelsea School District (click to download PDF file)

ON THE WEB: Chelsea maintains small town charm while developing as a Midwestern arts center

The small town city of Chelsea was recently highlighted on the "Midwest Guest... Mostly Midwestern Meanderings" blog. Read the full article here:

"Chelsea, Michigan, maintains small-town charm while developing as a Midwestern arts center"

The article discusses the history of Chelsea, the Daniels family, Jiffy, and many of the old and interesting buildings in our downtown.

Thanks for the informative post, Midwest Guest!

Halloween Events This Weekend

There are lots of fun things planned in Chelsea this Halloween! Most events start after the official trick or treating time in the city, which is from 4-6pm.

Click here to find "Halloween" events from October 30-November 1 on the Things To Do In Chelsea community events calendar.

Happy Halloween!

Congratulations to Chelsea's 2009 Citizens of the Year!

2009 Citizen of the Year - Congratulations to Nancy Harris who was recently awarded Chelsea's "2009 Citizen of the Year". The annual award is co-sponsored by the Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce and the Chelsea Standard. Nancy is an active community volunteer, and founder of the Hearts Community Service which has recently opened the Bliss Resale shop in downtown Chelsea.

2009 Lifetime Achievement Awards - The Lifetime Achievement Awards went to Will Johnson and Bill Chandler, both of whom have been volunteering, mentoring and leading Chelsea area organizations for many years.

For the full story, see Chelsea Chamber, Standard honor residents for community service (Chelsea Standard, 10/14/09)

A banquet to honor the Citizens of the Year will be held on the evening of December 16 at the Chelsea Comfort Inn. Tickets are $35 and all are invited to attend. Contact the Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce at info@chelseamichamber.org or (734) 475-1145 for details.

Chelsea District Library Celebrates Friends

PRESS RELEASE - The Chelsea District Library will be spending the entire week of October 18-24, 2009 celebrating its Friends of the Library Group.

The Friends of the Chelsea District Library were organized in 1949 and have given over $16,000 in gifts to the library so far this year. Over 45 dues-paying members have been joined by dozens of additional volunteers to conduct various fundraising projects including the sale of prints of McKune by local artist, Ben Bower, “green” reusable book bags and the ongoing monthly used book sale. “It's great to have the privilege of being a FRIEND to such a wonderful, award-winning library! Both staff and other Friends are terrific to work with. In these tough economic times, it makes you feel good to know that you can provide extra funds to insure that innovative programs will continue, says Sharon Pignanelli, President of the Chelsea Friends group. "A great many of our public programs are made possible by the generosity of the Friends of the Library. The Friends make a difference between a very good library and a great library. The work that they do on our behalf, especially during these hard economic times, helps to support the library's wonderful programs and services. We thank them for that,” says Bill Harmer, Director of the Chelsea District Library.

Gifts to the library from the Friends include funding for an annual staff appreciation breakfast, programs such as Books for Babies, Books and Banter, Summer Reading Programs for both youth and adults, and the Mckune 50th Anniversary celebration, to name only a few. Linda Ballard, Head of Circulation and Volunteer Services says, “The library definitely wouldn't be the award winning organization it is today without the generous contributions of the Friends! They donate over $10,000 each year towards programming and staffing needs- everything from prizes for the Summer Reading program to refreshments for the Prom Dress exchange. They purchased a fantastic picnic table for the staff this year and funded the entire first-ever Comedy Showcase, as well as our Books and Banter, Books for Babies, and a new fall teen book club. Due to the Friends support, we also hosted the first-ever Comic Convention at the library this year. Their donations also make the Music at McKune and the Chelsea Reads community read programs possible. Our recent 50th Anniversary celebration was in large part funded by a generous donation from the Friends also. We can't thank them enough for all they do for us!”

While the Friends of the Chelsea District Library is most well known for its very popular monthly used book sales, they also participate as members of the statewide organization, Friends of Michigan Libraries, and the newly re-created group, Association of Library Trustees, Advocates, Friends and Foundations. Louise Jernigan, Friend of the Year 2009, says of being a Friend, “I have felt privileged to be a member of the Friends of Chelsea District Library. Working with individuals who are giving their time and energy to the library has meant a great deal to me. These individuals have shown an outstanding commitment to the library. They have helped create a library that is a positive place for community activities and a forward-looking part of Chelsea. I am proud to be a member of this organization. The amazing friends I have made are greatly appreciated.”

The Friends have been fortunate to have an active and committed Board over the past few years. The current Board is made up of four officers (President, Vice-President, Treasurer, Secretary), four standing committee chairs (Communications, Fund Raising, Membership, Program), and the immediate Past-President. In January 2010, we expect a significant turnover of Board members to occur as the President, Vice-President, and Program Chair will all be vacating their positions. In addition, the Communications Chair position is currently vacant and needs to be filled.

If you are interested in discussing the opportunity to serve on the board, please contact Sharon Pignanelli, President of the Friends at 475-5829 or send her an e-mail at pignanelli@charter.net.

For more information contact the Chelsea District Library at 734-475-8732.

Source: Press release from Chelsea District

Hey, Chelsea Blog followers: Have you joined us on Facebook yet?

Things To Do In Chelsea and The Chelsea Blog can now also be found on Facebook. Join as our fan to receive event highlights, chat about the community and be linked up with others who live in and visit our great community. Chelsea Blog posts are directly linked to the Facebook page, so you won't have to worry about missing any updates from here either.

Click below to visit our page:

Things To Do In Chelsea, Michigan on Facebook

The odd thing being that this feed is going on the Facebook page, so if you are already a fan it will ask you to join as a fan, and then be displayed here. It's a mirror inside a mirror effect!

Chelsea High School students named National Merit Scholarship semifinalists

Hearty congratulations to Chelsea High School's National Merit Scholarship finalists!

Diana Bach
Cameron Beatty
Olivia Detroyer
Kate Lewis-Lakin
Viktor Rozsa
Tristan Weber

• Read more in Detroit FreePress article: National Merit Scholars named (9/16/09). This article contains a link to a PDF file listing all the winners in Michigan.
  
• Direct link to Press Release on NationalMerit.org website: Semifinalists in the 2010 National Merit Scholarship Program (PDF file)

Did you know? Faith in Action also accepts garden fresh food

Now that we're in the peak of the garden growing season, friends and neighbors may find themselves with more tomatoes, zucchini and other veggies than they know what to do with. You may be happy to learn that Faith In Action in Chelsea and Dexter welcomes donations of fresh food from your home garden for their food pantry.

To learn more about Faith In Action, contact them at (734) 475-3305 or visit the FIA website at www.faithinaction1.org.

Faith In Action has also just updated their pantry needs list on their website:

ITEMS CURRENTLY NEEDED
IN THE FIA FOOD PANTRY

• Stuffing
• Pork and Beans
• Beans in Chili Sauce
• Canned, fresh or frozen meat
• Oranges, Pineapple, Pears
• Healthy Snacks
• Mustard, Ketchup, and Mayo
• Shampoo and Conditioner
• Laundry Soap
• Kleenex
• Razors and Shaving Cream

Updated August 27, 2009

Chelsea Community Fair Starts Today!

The 2009 Chelsea Community Fair begins today! Technically it started already, with entries entered and exhibits well underway, but the official start to the fair takes place after the annual Children's Parade (Tuesday 8/25 at 5:30).

The full schedule is available on the fair website: Chelsea Fair's 2009 Main Schedule. Here are a few highlights:

Location
Chelsea Fair Grounds
20501 Old US-12
Chelsea, Michigan 48118
[MAP]

Admission
$7 per day. Children 10 and under are free; Senior citizens get in free on Thursday. You can also buy a season pass which is good all week for $25 person / $15 for students and senior citizens. There is an additional cost for the midway rides, which can be purchased per ticket or for an all day pass. Prices for rides are not listed on the fair website, but I will try to find out and post it here.

Schedule Highlights
The fair takes place from 10am until 10pm Tuesday 8/19 through Saturday 8/23. See the ChelseaFair.org website for full schedule.

• Rides open Tuesday at 5pm
• Children's Parade and Tricycle Pull - Tuesday 5:30pm
• Animal exhibits - every day
• Nature's Creation of Life tent - every day
• Demolition Derby - Tuesday and Wednesday night
• Figure 8 Derby - Thursday night
• Chainsaw Carving - several shows daily
• Horse Shows - various times each day
• Colors the Clown - Tues 5-8pm, Wed through Sat 3-7pm
• Ladies Day - begins Friday at 8am
• Tractor Pull - Saturday night
• Chelsea Fair Parade - Saturday 1pm

See you at the fair!

Sign up to Run for the Rolls

It's not too late to join Chelsea's third annual 1-mile run/walk from the Chelsea Fire Station to the Chelsea Fairgrounds. The race starts at 12:30 on August 29 and follows the Chelsea Fair parade route, so your friends and neighbors can cheer you on as they hold down prime parade-watching spots.
You can register at the corner of Taylor St. and Old US 12 on the day of the run, or visit http://runfortherolls.com/ and sign up online. (Entry fee is $15/$30 per household/$10 if you don't want a T-shirt)

Do you have a great place for a movie location? Check in with Chelsea's Film Location Scout

A note from Chelsea's Volunteer Film Location Scout
Did you know that Chelsea has it's very own volunteer location scout? This person is the liaison between the City of Chelsea and the Michigan Film Office. The Michigan Film Office keeps a database of photos of locations for movie producers to view and consider for filming. We are in the process of gathering great photos of Chelsea to add to the Film Office’s database, and have recently been asked to focus on some specific types of locations for current and upcoming projects. Here’s what they’re looking for:

• Beaches and shorelines (public or private)
• Resorts (golf, and all inclusive vacation resorts)
• Police Precincts
• Jails or Prisons (all or a portion must not be in use. Functional jails are difficult to film in)
• Unique Modern Buildings (must look futuristic)
• Bed and Breakfast Accommodations
• Isolated Cabins
• Isolated Motels
• Small Municipal Airports and Airstrips
• Grocery Store (mom and pop, or large local stores willing to work with a film)
• Tunnels (caves, tunnels, large storm drains, or underground waterways, etc.)
• Churches (small rural, and large urban)

These locations are just the current focus. Overall they are looking for every type of location. The more pictures in their database, the more the opportunities there are to bring more movie business to Chelsea. Please note that private residences are kept as restricted access on the Film Office’s database. Information on your home will not be available for public access. If anyone is the private owner of one of these types of locations and would be interested in allowing a film crew in for a movie, please contact:

Susanne Vanden Bosch
Volunteer Film Location Scout for Chelsea
Email: svandenbosch@comcast.net

Send in your nomination for Citizen of the Year!

Nominations for Citizen of the Year and Lifetime Achievement Award: Deadline August 14, 2009
The Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce is now accepting nominations for The Chelsea Citizen of the Year and The Lifetime Achievement Award. Candidates must either live, work, or participate in Chelsea or one of the surrounding townships.

Please include the person’s name, phone number, address, who is recommending them and their contact number. In a separate letter, please list the qualifications of the candidate who is being considered for his or her contributions to any and/or all facets of the community over the last year or more. Include:

• volunteer work
• church activities
• organizations (civic/fraternal/social, with offices held, length of service etc.)
• special events the candidate has organized and/or participated in
• any other items of significance

Also accepting nominations for Lifetime Achievement Award
To nominate a person for the Lifetime Achievement Award, please include the person’s name, phone number, address, who is recommending them and their contact number. In a separate letter, please list the qualifications of the candidate who is being considered for his or her lifetime achievements and/or contributions to the community over their lifetime. Include volunteer work, leadership positions and active roles in the community during his or her life.

For more information
If you have any questions or would like to pick up an official form, please contact the Chelsea Chamber at 734-475-1145 or download it from our website at www.chelseamichamber.org. Please mail your recommendations to the Chelsea Chamber at 310 N. Main Street, Ste. 120, Chelsea, MI 48118, by Friday, August 14, 2009.

Detroit FreePress talks to Jeff Daniels about how the arts can change lives

Excerpt from the Detroit Free Press - 8/2/2009

How the arts can change lives
The tall kid was leaving basketball practice when the teacher directing the school musical called him over. "South Pacific" was in desperate need of guys for the chorus, not an uncommon problem at smaller schools. Since the tall kid was in choir, could he please, please join the crew of singing sailors?
Advertisement

The kid was Jeff Daniels, then a sophomore at Chelsea High School, now a veteran of more than 50 movies -- his latest is "The Answer Man" -- and on hiatus from a starring role in the award winning Broadway play "God of Carnage."

If not for that teacher's plea, Daniels said in an interview after I saw him in "Carnage," he would probably today be working at the family lumber company in Chelsea.

"Not a bad thing," he said. "But I'm really no good at math. ... I'm a product of the arts."

READ THE FULL ARTICLE ON FREEP.COM

WIN tickets to tonight's RARE EARTH!

I love a challenge! Quick! You have until 12 p.m. Thursday 7/23 to share with us why you want to celebrate tonight and go to the Rare Earth concert here in Chelsea. Two winners will be chosen at random to receive 2 tickets to the Rare Earth and Howling Diablos concert in Chelsea tonight (7/23 at 8pm).

Visit our Facebook page to learn more:

Things To Do In Chelsea, Michigan on Facebook

Food, fun and live music at Chelsea Summerfest this weekend

As a sure sign that we are in the peak of summer, Chelsea Summerfest takes place this weekend. The weekend kicks off with a big concert on Thursday night featuring Rare Earth and the Howling Diablos. This is technically a Sounds & Sights concert, but those of us who love to relax in the Food & Entertainment Court (aka beer tent) don't mind which festival it is, as long as there is food, fun, music and friends.

Thursday, 7/23:

• Sounds & Sights on Thursday Nights takes place from 6:30 until 8:30. (Be sure to stop by and give a listen to my friends Bull Halsey, playing in front of Westside Gym on Middle Street)
• Rare Earth and the Howling Diablos concert - If you purchase tickets ahead of time, you get them at a bargain of $35 each. You can buy tickets at the gate for $40. VIP tickets are $100 and you get preferred seating and a pretty awesome pre-party experience among other things

Friday, 7/24:

• Kid Zone: Opens at 10:30 a.m. For the past few years, the Kid Zone committee has been headed up by Michele Balaka, Chelsea native and owner of the Chelsea TreeHouse. Kid Zone features all sorts of activities and entertainment, including Colors the Clown and of course the huge bouncy tent and slide.
• Car Show: Check out the very cool classic cars lined up along Middle St. on Friday night. Featuring a cruise, contests and plenty more for car enthusiasts, kids who love things that go, and anyone who enjoys a stroll down memory lane.
• Food & Music: Great chow and live music in the entertainment tent from 5pm until 11pm. Friday night features Kentucky Chrome, Billy Mack and the Juke Joint Johnnies and Trilogy

Saturday, 7/25:

• Kid Zone: continues
• Pet Parade: This is the cutest darn thing. If you haven't seen it yet, be sure to take the family to check it out. The theme this year is "Country Western" so we're sure to see puppy dogs in cowboy hats. There are also cats, birds and pets of all kinds in this short and sweet parade. If you'd like to participate, call Chelsea Farmer Supply at 475-1777. If you just want to watch, check the website (link above) for the parade route.
• Food & Music: More tasty food and live music in the entertainment tent. But on Saturday, the fun starts at 1pm and continues up til 11pm. Saturday's bands include Center Stage (featuring Dr Dwayne and the Bad Boys from Spain -and- The Fred Vanreesema Review), The NoteWorthy Band, Hullabaloo and ending Summerfest off with a bang is Fifty Amp Fuse

Many local events have been facing cuts with sponsors and supporters, and Summerfest is no exception. I think the Committee took an excellent to this challenge by keeping the annual favorites, and scaling back the rest. So you won't see as much street activity in terms of vendor booths and arts and crafts. Be sure to let them know what you think of the "getting back to basics" approach. They can always use feedback ... and most importantly --- volunteers!

Have a great weekend!

Movies for all ages in Chelsea - Still plenty more to see!

We may be getting closer and closer to starting the new school year, but there is still plenty of time left this summer to relax, hang out and have fun. And thanks to SRSLY and the Chelsea Library, we don't even have to leave town to enjoy popcorn and movie with friends.

The Chelsea Library is offering Movie Mondays, featuring movie matinees for families. The schedule for the rest of the summer is as follows:

• July 20 "Beverly Hills Chihuahua"
• July 27 "Night at the Museum"

And check out more great events at the Chelsea District Library

If you're looking for something a little more grown up (but not TOO much), don't miss SRSLY Cinema, which takes place every week after Sounds & Sights on Thursday Nights. Think drive-in with no car needed. Movies are shown after dusk (9:00-ish) on a big screen behind the Chelsea Clocktower Complex. Hang out with friends, enjoy some popcorn and get home waaay after dark! The rest of the summer schedule is:

• July 23rd - Iron Man
  
• July 30th - Journey to the Center of the Earth
• Aug 6th - The Longshots
• Aug 13th - Star Wars: Clone Wars
• Aug 20th - Narnia: Prince Caspian
• Aug 27th - Bolt
• Sep 3rd - Hotel for Dogs

To learn more about SRLSY - visit srslychelsea.org

"I just want to celebrate ...." Rare Earth and Howling Diablos concert in Chelsea

Click for ticket information

Once again, the folks at Sounds & Sights on Thursday Nights are bringing us a big concert here in Chelsea. This year's event features Motown band Rare Earth, who known for such hits as I Just Want to Celebrate and Get Ready -- and many others. Here is a vintage video of the band performing in 1974.

Also performing is award-winning Detroit band the Howling Diablos, who have a fun and funky blues jam style. Check them out:

Learn More / Buy tickets online

More:

• Rare Earth and the Howling Diablos in Concert (Chelsea Center for the Arts website)
• Sounds and Sights on Thursday Nights website
  

Free Concert at Aberdeen Bike & Outdoor

Mr B's Joybox Express makes a stop at Aberdeen today, noon-2, en route to the pre-art fair Townie Party in Ann Arbor. We hear Mike's bike band, Fender Bender, is playing, too - then riding into Ann Arbor with the Piano Bike.

Chelsea Library Announces New Director

Congratulations to Bill Harmer, who has been hired as Chelsea District Library's new director! Harmer has been the director of adult services and programs at the Chelsea library for the past 3 years. In addition to the cool events and programs he has helped bring to the library, he has also helped the library connect and reconnect with local event committees and other non-profits. Bill is well liked by the community, and it's not unusual to hear folks around town affectionately call him the Rock and Roll Librarian.

From the Chelsea District Library website:

"Harmer, who is currently Head of Adult Services at the Chelsea District Library, has taken an active role in putting a face on the Library and forming partnerships with non-profit organizations, city government, local schools, media, business and other stakeholders. In the short span of three years, Harmer helped lead the Chelsea District Library to be named Library Journal's Best Small Library in America 2008. He was named one of Library Journal's "Movers & Shakers" for 2009."

Read more:

• Hamer named new library director (Chelsea Standard, 7/9/09)
  
• A librarian books a rock band to tour... libraries! (LibraryJournal.com, 6/19/07)
• ConcentrateMedia.com Profile on Bill Harmer by Amy Whitesall (5/20/2009)
• Library Journal's 2009 Movers and Shakers
  

Visit the Chelsea District Library website

Congrats on a much deserved promotion, Bill!

Happy 175th Chelsea!

I'm sure you've heard by now that Chelsea is celebrating 175 years this weekend. Founded in 1834, we've come a long way, but we still embrace our roots. There are many, many festivities going on in town, including a beer tent (aka "social" tent), kids activities, fireworks, old fashioned demonstrations, a parade... and MORE. (wow!)

It is also the kick off for Sounds & Sights on Thursday Nights, SRSLY Cinema (tonight's movie is The Dark Night at 9pm), our fantastic new Chelsea Sculpture Walk.... whew!

A few highlights for the weekend celebration:

• Parade
• Historic walking tours
  
• Fireworks
• Kids games, contests, clown, etc
• Stuff at the fairgrounds
• Social tent (Most of us would call it a beer tent.... lol)
  
• Chicken broil
• Barn dance
• .... and more!!
  

Check out all the details at www.chelseafestivals.com/175

Happy 175th birthday to our hometown!

Call for Artists: People's Art Showcase

Local artists needed to participate in outdoor art showing.

Chelsea's Kevin Costello and Jeremy Montange are putting together free space for showcasing local talents. No entry fee, No prizes (yet). We're helping by spreading the word. They describe it as "Just a grassroots art show by and for the people." This showcase is to coincide with Chelsea Summer Fest, but is not an official part of it. Visitors will be encouraged to vote for their favorites. During the weekend of Summer Fest the organizers are trying to secure space for artists who work in mediums that may not be "weather friendly".

Artists are invited to bring your best pieces to display, while having the opportunity to network with other local artists. Entries & photo needed by July 4, 2009

Detailed event information and application available by e-mailing artshow48118@aol.com. Please join us in this event and help our community support our local artists. Please forward this note to any artists and community members who else who may be interested.

Further questions: Kevin Costello 475-1918, Jeremy Montange, or e-mail artshow48118@aol.com.

Silver Maples Launching Adult Day Services

“The Maples Club” Offers Drop in or Full Day Care

Silver Maples of Chelsea will launch the area’s first adult day service program on July 20, 2009. And with more and more baby-boomers feeling the crunch between raising families and caring for their aging parents, this is a service whose time has come.

Jerry Wilczynski, president and CEO of Silver Maples, said that the feedback from the community has already been good

“As soon as we made the ‘go’ decision and communicated an early announcement that Silver Maples was planning on opening an adult day services program, we received encouraging feedback from health care providers saying, ‘the Chelsea area needs this!’”

The Maples Club will provide a variety of activities such as art, music, lectures, recreation, and exercise. Activities will be designed for members looking for more social and intellectual opportunities, as well as those needing memory care. Club members can come for a couple of hours or for the entire day. The hours of operation will be 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Admission to the program is required. For those staying 5 hours or more, the first meal is included.

“Silver Maples is looking forward to providing this valuable community support. We have the trained staff and facilities and a beautiful setting offering a home away from home for a day, or for as long as is needed, if someone chooses to live at Silver Maples of Chelsea permanently,” said Wilczynski.

He said that Maples Club members may require some assistance with the activities of daily living such as eating, dressing, and medication management, but they generally do not require skilled nursing care. The goal is to assist older adults and those with chronic conditions to remain as independent as possible in their own homes, for as long as feasible.

Wilczynski said that the benefits of such a program are two-fold.

“Not only can it help seniors stay connected, but it provides an opportunity for adult children who may be shouldering the primary care for their aging parents to have a break, perhaps to attend to personal business, or go to work for the day.”

Members will also be able to utilize Silver Maples other services, including the Spa and Salon, the Foot Nurse, and additional meals.

Silver Maples is a non-profit community offering independent and assisted living apartments and villa homes including services such as meals, housekeeping, laundry, a wide spectrum of activities, a social worker, support with activities of daily living and medication management for adults 60 years of age and older.

For more information or to register for the Maples Club, call (734) 475-4111 or visit www.silvermaples.org.

SOURCE: Email press release from Silver Maples, 6.19.09

Things to do this summer - list from Washtenaw.org

Washtenaw County's eWashtenaw.org website has a handy summary of some of the many fairs, festivals and fun events going on in our area this summer. The list includes favorites such as Chelsea Fair, Dexter Days, Manchester Chicken Broil, Michigan Balloonfest and more.

For the complete list, visit:

2009 Summer Fun (eWashtenaw.org) - Take a 'staycation' this year and enjoy your summer Washtenaw County style. Here are some favorite low cost summer events for the whole family to enjoy.

Chelsea events on this list are Summerfest (July 24-25) and the Chelsea Community Fair and Parade (August 25-29). A couple Chelsea "biggies" they are missing are Sounds and Sights on Thursday Nights (June 25-September 3) and Chelsea's 175th Anniversary Celebration (June 25-28). Details for both can be found on the chelseafestivals.com website.

And of course, for a full list of Chelsea events, see www.chelsea-mi.com

Just for fun: Chelsea Michigan on YouTube

In checking out my news feeds for the day, I found quite a few videos on YouTube that feature Chelsea. Check them out and you may very well see some familiar faces and be amused by our local creativity.

2009 Memorial Day Parade
Featuring school marching bands, boy scouts and girl scouts, and brief scenes from the cemetery.



The Amtrak speeds by the Chelsea Clocktower
I've seen this exact scene hundreds of times since I've lived in Chelsea. I'm not sure what the point of the video is, but I think my son would have loved it when he was in his Thomas the Tank Engine phase. (Note: turn down the volume... just like in person, the train gets LOUD!)



Jeff Daniels Comedy Golf Jam
And check out this one for a laugh. It's an oldie, but goodie. I've never golfed a day in my life but this outing to raise money for the Purple Rose Theatre looks like a whole lotta fun.



For more of Chelsea, Michigan on You Tube, follow this link, which will take you to search results. [Search for Chelsea, MI on YouTube] Note that I have no control over what shows up here, so bear that in mind when clicking on random videos. There also many real estate and for sale videos for our area, so just change your search terms to include those in your results.

Chelsea Painters Art Fair: June 6-7

The Chelsea Painters 36th Annual Art Fair will be held Saturday, June 6th and Sunday, June 7th, 2009 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the grounds of the Chelsea Community Hospital. The Hospital is located at 775 S. Main St. (M-52), Chelsea, MI.

All Original Art
Award-winning artists will display and sell original fine art and cards in a variety of media:

• watercolor
  
• gouache
  
• acrylic
  
• oil
  
• pastel
  
• encaustic
  
• monoprint
  
• mixed media
  

The event is free and open to the public and will be held in a delightful, wooded setting. A percentage of proceeds will be donated to the Chelsea Center for the Arts (CCA) and to the Chelsea Community Hospital Auxiliary Scholarship Fund.

Activities for Kids
Children's activities sponsored by the Chelsea Center for the Arts The Chelsea Center for the Arts (CCA) will offer hands-on art activities for children during the Art Fair. This event is also free of charge.

More Information
For more information, including a map, driving directions and a picture gallery, please visit: http://www.chelseapainters.com/artfair.htm

We Hope to See You There!

World Premier of Wake by Carey Crim at the Purple Rose Theatre Co.

Michigan-native Carey Crim returns to PRTC with her second play

CHELSEA, Mich. — The Purple Rose Theatre Company is proud to announce their production of the World Premiere comedy Wake by Carey Crim this summer. The production will enjoy an eleven-week engagement from Thursday, June 18 through Saturday, August 29, 2009.

In this summer comedy, Molly Harrison is an agoraphobic mortician, anchored to the safety of her funeral home for over three years. Her vivacious mother and precocious teenage daughter try in their own humorous ways to help her take that first step down the front walk, including hypnosis, sensory-overload therapy and a trip to Moscow. But in the end, Molly must realize what is truly important in her life before the power of love can finally inspire her to embrace the world again.

Wake marks artistic director Guy Sanville’s 32nd directorial effort for the PRTC and the 23rd PRTC production to make its World Premiere under his direction. “Wake is a beautiful, soulful, heartfelt comedy about life and death and everything in between,” he says.

The cast of Wake features PRTC associate artist Stacie Hadgikosti (Roseville, MI), Brenda Lane (Northville, MI), Alex Leydenfrost (Ann Arbor, MI), resident artist Michelle Mountain (Madison, WI / Chelsea, MI), Frank David Obelnicki (Detroit, MI), Sandy Ryder (Ann Arbor, MI) and Bill Simmons (Indianapolis, IN).

Design for this production includes set by Vincent Mountain, properties by Danna Segrest, costumes by Christianne Myers, lighting by Reid G. Johnson and sound by Quintessa Gallinat. Stephanie Buck stage manages with Michelle DiDomenico as assistant stage manager.

Seven low-price previews of Wake will be performed from Thursday, June 18, through Thursday, June 25, with the Press Opening on Friday, June 26, 2009. Regular performances for the duration of the engagement are Wednesdays through Saturdays at 8:00 pm with Saturday matinees at 3:00 pm and Sunday matinees at 2:00 pm. All performances are held at The Purple Rose Theatre Company, 137 Park Street, Chelsea, Michigan 48118.

For information and tickets:

The Purple Rose Theatre Company
137 Park Street
Chelsea, MI 48118-1038
Administration: (734) 433-PRTC (7782)
Box Office: (734) 433-ROSE (7673)
www.purplerosetheatre.org

Source: Press Release from Purple Rose Theatre Co.

LINKS:

• Purple Rose Theatre Co. website
• PRTC Feature Page
• Event Listing on Things To Do In Chelsea

Vote for Chelsea's great places in 2009 Parents Picks Awards!

Two of Chelsea's awesome local businesses have been nominated for Nickelodeon's 2009 Parents Picks awards. This is the second year of the awards, which focus on family-friendly resources in the United States. Be sure to vote to show your home town pride!

Winner of the 2008 award in their category, the Chelsea TreeHouse
was nominated once again for Best Indoor Playspace.

Vote for the TreeHouse!

Cranesbill Books was nominated as Best Detroit Bookstore.
Vote for Cranesbill Books!

You can vote as often as one time per day through 11:59 p.m. on 7/15/09. Be sure to share these links with family and friends. Congratulations to both of you for the nomination!!!

Learn more:

• Parents Picks Awards FAQ
• Chelsea TreeHouse: Feature Page | Website | Directory listing and map
• Cranesbill Books: Feature Page | Website | Directory listing and map

P.S. Incidentally, both nominees are businesses that are owned, operated and managed by local women who happen to also be parents themselves.

Relay for Life - THIS weekend at the Chelsea Fairgrounds

Join Relay for Life at the fairgrounds for fun and in support of a good cause

Relay for Life is a fun community event which helps to raise funds for American Cancer Society. The event runs from 10 a.m. Saturday morning until 10am Sunday morning -- yup! 24 straight hours. Come on out for music, family fun, demonstrations and in support of the many community volunteers and teams walking laps to raise money.

There is plenty of music and entertainment throughout the event. Details and full schedule can be found on www.relayforlife.org/chelseami . Highlights include:

• Opening Ceremony/Survivor Lap: Saturday at 10am.
• Silent Auction: 2-4pm
  
• 2nd Annual Rummage sale: 9am - 4pm
• Fight Back Ceremony: 4pm.
  
• Luminaria Ceremony: dusk/9pm
• Closing Ceremony: 9am, Sunday

Music and dance schedule (Saturday):

• Bull Halsey: 11:30am
• Afternoon Round: 1pm
• Jerry Sprague 3pm
• Cadillac Cowboys 6pm
• Relay Prom/Dance Marathon: 11pm - 1:30am. Wear a dress/suit from your era or another, doesn't matter. There will even be a Prom King and Queen elected.

Family and kids activities (Saturday):

• Numerous kids' activities including bounce house and more! 11-4
• Tai Chi demonstrations: 11am
• Goofus the Clown: 11am
• Magician Jeff Boyer: 1pm

Shop Local for Mothers Day!

Once again, local Chelsea stores are teaming up to promote a special day of shopping just in time for Mother's Day. Here are some ideas from the "Score Points for Mother's Day" brochure (as well as some of my own) that you can download from Things To Do In Chelsea, or pick up from participating merchants in town:

For Girly Moms:

• Engraved locket from Winans Jewelry
• French milled soaps from Potting Shed
  Mother's Day flowers and herbs, and tea for tasting
  
• Fresh Produce outfit from Village Shoppe
  Many unique gifts and 20% off storewide
  
• Personalized teddy bear from Chelsea Teddy Bear Co.
  Buy a bear for Mom and get a free tee with Mother's Day imprint
  
• Brighton jewelry and sunglasses from Vogel’s & Foster’s
• Shea Butter body lotion from Rose Cottage
  Enjoy sweets and lemonade while shopping for Mom
  

For Gourmet Moms:

• Beehive kitchenware from Bumble’s Dry Goods
• Local products from New Chelsea Market
• Chocolates from Gourmet Chocolate Cafe

For Outdoor Moms:

• Down-Under Pot from Garden Mill
  Free gift wrapping, refreshments from Pierce's Pastries, and 10% discount if you bring in brochure
  
• Garden supplies from Chelsea Farmers Supply
• New bike or accessories from Aberdeen Bike & Outdoors
• Cowboy boots from Muleskinner
  

For Art & Decor Moms:

• Pewabic tiles from ZouZou’s
• Sculptures from The Mission Marketplace
  Visit from clown and free balloons for kids. Fair trade chocolate, African drum circle and special display of fair trade sports equipment
  
• Home accessories from Merkel Furniture
  Various gifts for under $100 including a luxuriously soft afghan
  
• Antiques from Chelsea Woodworking
• Scrapbooking supplies from Scrapbook Memories
• Unique and local art from our many lovely galleries
  

For Almost Any Mom:

• Books from Cranesbill Books
  In-store tea tasting by Iceni Tea and a book signing with Anne Elder, author of "A Hard Night's Day". Also 20% off books and gifts.
  
• Flowers from Gigi’s Flowers
• Massage at the Tree of Life Studio

Visit participating stores on May 9th from 10-8 to take advantage of special offers (listed in italics), or shop any time to find great gifts for Mom.

Midwest Literary Walk in Chelsea - Saturday!

Spend your day in Chelsea this Saturday for the very first Midwest Literary Walk. The event is free and open to the public, and features award-winning fiction writers and poets, along with internationally-acclaimed writer and playwright, Michael McClure. These very special guests will present a sample of readings in numerous locations in downtown Chelsea:

Featured guests and locations:

• 1:00pm: The River Gallery - Keith Taylor & Macklin Smith
• 2:00pm: The Chelsea Gallery - Michael Zadoorian & Bill Harris
• 3:00pm: Cranesbill Books - Bret Lott & Janet Kauffman
• 4:00pm: Zou Zou’s Cafe - Community Open Mic with ML Liebler’s Workshop
• 5:30pm: The River Gallery - Reception & Book Signing for Michael McClure
• 7:00pm: Chelsea District Library - Michael McClure & ML Liebler

The event is sponsored by the Chelsea District Library and the Chelsea Center for the Arts

For More Information
Visit the Chelsea District library website for details, links to authors and a flyer and map to download

Why Walk for Poetry?

Citizens seeking to address city ordinances regarding backyard chickens

I received this email from a group of Chelsea residents who are interested in addressing the city ordinance restricting the ownership of chickens. Here is more information:

- - - - - - - - - -
Interested in owning chickens (hens only!), but live in town?
We're looking for fellow citizens interested in addressing the current ordinance which restricts chicken ownership within City limit to properties 5 acres and larger. We are putting together the paperwork necessary to be added to the May 26th city council meeting. We will present the 'Agenda Item' requesting city council to revise the current ordinance restrictions on ownership of chickens within the city limits of Chelsea. The current ordinances allows chicken ownership, but only on a minimum of 5 acres. Please pass this along to like-minded chicken-supporters and feel free to contact us with any questions, comments etc!!

The contact info below is brand-new, please include with the post and feel free to join us!

• Group home page: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ChelseaChickens
• Group email address: ChelseaChickens@yahoogroups.com

- - - - - - - - - -

Also of interest:
In June of 2008, the city of Ann Arbor passed an ordinance allowing residents to keep chickens (hens) in their backyards. Residents can keep up to four hens, if neighbors ok it.

• See A2 City Chickens to learn more.
• Read the backyard chickens permit for Ann Arbor (pdf file on a2gov.org website).
• Backyard chickens approved for Ann Arbor (Michigan Daily, June 8, 2008)
• Ann Arbor residents aren't rushing to bring chickens home to roost (MLive.com 9/10/08)

Related links:

• Chelsea City Council home page
  
• City of Chelsea, MI list of zoning ordinances

I called the city offices to inquire about the ordinance. The exact wording is this: "A minimum land area of five acres shall be required for raising or keeping of animals or poultry." (Source: CITY OF CHELSEA ZONING ORDINANCES ARTICLE 4 - ZONING DISTRICT REGULATIONS)

For myself personally? After taking care of the house, the kids, the dog, the business and more.... the last thing I need is one more thing to feed and clean up after. You'll see me at the Farmer's Market. :)

What do you think?

Auditions for Sounds & Sights on Thursday Nights

Got Talent? Don't miss Chelsea’s Sounds & Sights Open Auditions

Calling all musicians, entertainers & Idol diehards – Sounds & Sights on Thursday Nights, the popular summer concert series in downtown Chelsea, is holding auditions for this year’s entertainment lineup on MONDAY, APRIL 20th, 5-8pm. [See event listing]

Now in it’s fifth season, Sounds & Sights on Thursday Nights features performers at various outdoor locations around downtown Chelsea. Crowds as large as 1,500 people attended the free concert series each Thursday in 2008. This year’s schedule kicks off June 25 and runs every Thursday through September 3rd.

“This event has really caught on with not only visitors, but musicians from all over the state”, says Craig Common, event co-organizer and owner of The Common Grill. “We get calls all year from people who want to try out and be a part of our success. We expect to see a lot of talented performers again at this year’s auditions.”

There are 70 paying spots available on the schedule. Auditions are open to musicians, singer/song-writers, jugglers, magicians, performers, dance troupes, artists, and other street arts performers, and will be judged before a panel of local artists, committee members and merchants. Performers should be prepared to share a 3-5 minute sample performances in front of these judges. Selected performers can sign on for a number of performances throughout the summer. Applications available ONLY on day of audition and there is no charge to audition.

For more information visit www.chelseafestivals.com/soundsights or call the Chelsea Center for the Arts (CCA) at 734-433-2787. Sounds & Sights is presented by the downtown Chelsea Merchants, the Chelsea DDA, and the Chelsea Center for the Arts.

Source: Chelsea Center for the Arts press release

FSW property to receive help from state of Michigan

From the Chelsea Standard:

FSW project receives backing from MEDC

The Federal Screw Works property in downtown Chelsea will get a boost from the state after Governor Jennifer Granholm announced state and local tax capture support for the redevelopment project.

The grant is valued at $281,450 and will be issued as a reimbursement for Brownfield cleanup at the historic site to Magellan Development.

[Read full article from the Chelsea Standard]

Upcoming Fundraiser for Chelsea Girl Scouts

The Chelsea Girl Scouts invite you to bring your family to a Big Boy Celebrity Server event on March 25, from 5 until 8 pm. Chelsea Girl Scouts will be working alongside Big Boy employees, helping to take orders, serve food, clean tables, and to keep the customers happy. In return, the Chelsea Girl Scout Service Unit will receive all of the tips and a percentage of the proceeds made during that time. This money will be used to reduce the cost of the fall camping trip for 2009 for all the Chelsea Girl Scouts and to eliminate the fee for camp for those Girl Scouts in need.

Location:
Big Boy Restaurant
497 Zeeb Road
Ann Arbor, MI

Date/Time:
March 25 from 5 til 8pm

For more information, contact Anita Mosier at 734-717-3580

Source: Press release from Chelsea Girl Scouts.

Call for artists/sculptors for upcoming Chelsea Sculpture Walk

The River Gallery is seeking submissions of outdoor sculpture for Chelsea's first annual year long “Sculpture Walk Chelsea.” The selected sculptures will be secured on cement pads at ten, high profile downtown locations in beautiful, historic, Chelsea, Michigan (located 14 miles west of Ann Arbor).

Artists are invited to submit up to three works. SculptureWalk Chelsea is funded in part by the Chelsea Downtown Development Authority in collaboration with the City of Chelsea, the Chelsea Center for the Arts, Sounds & Sights on Thursday Nights, and River Gallery. All sculptures must be able to endure the outside weather conditions typical of Michigan. Ten finalist will be selected, and each artist will receive a $200 compensation.

The postmark deadline for submissions is May 1, 2009. The event will launch June 25, 2009. Click here to download the application from the City of Chelsea website.

For questions or more information, contact River Gallery at 734.433.0826 or email info@chelsearivergallery.com

Patti Schwarz, Director
River Gallery Fine Art
120 S. Main Street
Chelsea, MI 48118
734.433.0826

Source: River Gallery Press Release

Do you have kids? Do you live in Chelsea? SRSLY wants to hear from you!

Passing along a message from the Janice Ortbring, one of the community volunteers and a Chelsea parent involved in SRSLY.

“Hi all. I am sending you this email to ask for your help. I am helping to spread the word for SRSLY to get parents to take the 4 minute survey. The results will help us sculpt the coalition activities and provide direction for programming. We have only had 92 replies from adults and should have close to a thousand by now. We did receive 100% of the Chelsea School District 7th and 8th graders as it was encouraged in school.

This is a completely anonymous survey so please be honest and open.

Please forward and encourage your friends to participate. We need this information to get us going in the right direction.

To go directly to the survey:
http://www.zoomerang.com/Survey/survey-intro.zgi?p=WEB228SS5G3SYY

To learn more about SRSLY:
http://www.srslychelsea.org ”

I took the survey when I first received the link a month or so ago. It is very quick task that will help make a big difference for our community as a whole.

I "heart" Michigan, too

As we near the end of winter (speaking optimistically here!) and as spring break approaches, a lot of us are feeling the urge to get out and DO something. What about staying right here in Michigan and exploring some of reasons tourism is such a big industry in our state?


On my "to do" list this year is to explore a Michigan wineries or two. Might be a good excuse to drop the kids off at Grammie's house, and have a mini-getaway with my hubbie.

Sound fun? Check out MichiganVine.com - Exploring Michigan Wineries. This website and book are written by Michigan authors Sharon Kegerreis (from Chelsea) and Lorri Hathaway (from E. Lansing). It is available at Cranesbill Books, on the MichiganVine.com website and at your local bookseller.

If you'd like to just stay home and drink Michigan wines, the New Chelsea Market has a recently expanded --and pretty awesome-- selection of Michigan products, and great wines from other parts of the world as well. And being a small town, if you go in there and ask them to help you find a wine "from that book about Michigan wines".... they'll actually know what you are talking about! (First hand experience from when I was choosing a wine to go with the signed copy of the book for a cool Michigan gift)

Want to learn more from the authors themselves? Visit Chelsea District Library on Thursday, March 26, 2009 for From the Vine: Exploring Michigan Wines - a presentation and book signing. For a full list of the authors events, see the Upcoming Events page on MichiganVine.com

We had a wonderful vacation in East Tawas last summer. Any plans to travel in and around Michigan this travel season?

Also of interest from the Chelsea Blog archives: "Must See" Things To Do in Michigan (Aug. 2007)

Critical alert regarding Chelsea Cash gift certificates

I received this email from the Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce, regarding the Chelsea Cash gift certificates.

Attention all members:

We have just received word that Certfichecks, the company that manages our Chelsea Cash program has ceased operations as of 2/26/09. We had absolutely no warning regarding this announcement. DO NOT accept any Chelsea Cash certifichecks. We will be following up with additional information as soon as it becomes available. Please follow this link for information from Certifichecks: http://www.certifichecks.com/

Folks can email or call us at the Chamber office with any questions or concerns.

Bob Pierce
Executive Director
Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce
734-475-1145
www.chelseamichamber.org

Not only is this an inconvenience for merchants and customers, but it's a shame that there wasn't any warning. I hope the Chamber of Commerce will be able to replace this program. It was really handy to be able to pick up gift certificates we could use anywhere in town.

UPDATED, 3/6/09 with more information from the Chamber:
This update came in from the CACC yesterday:

On February 26, 2009, CertifiChecks, Inc., the vendor for Chelsea Cash gift certificates, ceased operations and, according to its website, claims to be in the process of filing Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Any member of the public who holds a Chelsea Cash gift certificate should deliver it to the Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce office. At the proper time, the Chamber will present the Chelsea Cash gift certificates to the bankruptcy court as part of a claim against CertifiChecks, Inc.'s assets.

The Chelsea Area Chamber of Commerce will post updates on this website about this situation as soon as information becomes available: www.chelseamichamber.org. Bob Pierce, Executive Director, is working closely with the Board of Directors and The Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals to bring this situation to a resolution. If you have any questions, please email Bob at bpierce@chelseamichamber.org or contact the office.

To view CertifiChecks, Inc.'s official notification on its website, please follow the Chelsea Cash links as though you were going to purchase a new gift certificate: Chelsea Cash (this is now an informational link only, the gift certificate program is currently suspended).

Dreaming of spring....

Yesterday morning, I happily walked out of my house wearing a fleecy sweatshirt instead of my winter coat. February is almost over, it was sunny and about 40 degrees, and I felt optimistic for spring. However, this being Michigan... a few short hours later my mood changed when the gray skies returned along with snow flurries.

Fortunately, even with Mother Nature is not cooperating, there are still some signs of spring in the air. Twisters Ice Cream shop opened earlier this month -- this has become a sign of spring that many of us in Chelsea look forward to each year. Also, Gigi's Flowers brightened the day of all of us who drive down Main Street by putting bright yellow flowers in her window. Inspired by this, the TreeHouse followed suit by filling their windows with bright yellow balloons. We hope Mother Nature will take this hint and urge her daffodils to follow suit.

In the meantime, we can enjoy a bit of spring inspiration this weekend with Youth Dance Theatre's ballet performance: "Awakening". This is how it is described on the YDT website:

On Sunday, March 1st at 2:00 PM, YDT will present its 2009 Spring production Awakening.

At this time of year, it's difficult to imagine any season other than winter in Michigan. In the midst of all that is gray and slushy, it is sometimes a challenge to remember the purple hues of early blooming hyacinths, or the warm glow of the sun in May, or the first rainbow after a springtime shower. Dancers from Youth Dance Theater of Michigan are not only imagining a change in seasons, they are currently preparing for their production of Awakening, a collection of several dance interpretations of the transformation of the seasons. Under the artistic direction of Wendi DuBois, dancers will bring to life the beauty that is the rebirth from winter into spring through pieces set to music by Vivaldi, Dag Wiren and others. Dance selections include interpretations of Giselle, the Sleeping Beauty Waltz, along with performances of jazz and modern dance.

YDT is pleased to welcome collaborators to this performance as well. Guest choreographers include Erik Abbot-Main, Carrie Schotte, and Rhonda Kendzicky. And as part of an exciting new partnership, Vivaldi's Winter will have live music performed by members of the Chelsea Chamber Players.

Any other signs of spring you've noticed around town?

Geography Night - Fun event for families! Friday 6-8:30

Don't miss Geography Night tonight at the Washington Street Education Center. It's a really fun, activity-packed night out for families. Sponsored by the Chelsea elementary schools' PTO. Here is a nice description from the Tree of Life Studio owner, Jennifer Giacommelli, who is also a co-chair on the organizing committee:

Greetings friends & families,

I wanted to just take a quick moment to remind local and semi local families about a spectacular event happening tonight (Friday, Feb 20th) here in Chelsea ..... GEOGRAPHY NIGHT!!!

This is a free event intended for ALL children and parents to come out and explore the world, within our own little world that we have created!!!!

Tree of Life's Nomadic Jewels Tribal Bellydance troup, and Tree of Life Drum & Dance Society will be performing as well as the Beach Middle Fiddle Club & the Chelsea Highland Dancers.

The purpose of the night is to bring awareness and education to our children about the world around us!! Kids will go on a tour around the world by visiting different rooms which represent different continents. Each room will have games, food,arts-n-crafts, activities and displays to represent a part of each continent!

Doors open at 6 pm and the event goes til 8:30.
You can come anytime, but there is a lot to do, so I recommend arriving earlier rather than later!!!!

ITS FREE!

Held at the WASHINGTON STREET EDUCATION CENTER

Bring some canned goods for Faith in Action, and/or bring your box tops!!

Hope to see you there!

Jenabah

Chocolate Extravaganza in Downtown Chelsea

Celebrate Valentine's Day with your friends and family in downtown Chelsea this Saturday! Local merchants are offering all kinds of specials, treats and activities for all ages. Pay no mind to the snow.... bet you can find some hot chocolate without looking too far!

See details on Chelsea's Chocolate Extravaganza on the Things To Do In Chelsea website.

Winners of MLK essay, poetry and art contests announced

During the Martin Luther King Jr Day events in Chelsea yesterday, the winners of the 2009 youth essay, poetry and art contests were awarded. In their submitted work, the participants were asked to address the theme: "Why do we celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr.?" The contests were organized by One World One Family, the Chelsea Center for the Arts, and many community volunteers.

ESSAY/POETRY CONTEST:
1st Place
Karana Wickens (9-11 age group / essay)
Bonnie Bairley (12-14 age group / essay)
Lindsey Smith (poetry)

Runners up:
Ellie Doman (9-11 age group)
Erinjen Lin (9-11 age group)
William Wickens (12-14 age group)

ART CONTEST:
First place award winners, listed alphabetically.

Kelly Bertoni (age 10 - pencil)

Kali Hill (age 11 - mixed media)

Josie Surel (age 8 - mixed media)

Mitchell Taylor (age 10 - pencil)

Winners received prizes from the event sponsors, including Cranesbill Books, the Chelsea TreeHouse, River Gallery and Chelsea Gallery.

We sure have some talented young people in our midst. Keep up the great work! Congratulations!

Events in Chelsea to honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Artwork by Sid Maurer.
Source: www.sidmaurer.com/americans.html

The annual celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day takes place in Chelsea on Monday. As has been the tradition for the past few years, One World One Family and many community volunteers have put together a full schedule of events.

Check out the full schedule on the OWOF website events page.

Be sure not to miss:

• The Sneetches: A Family Play - a story of being different, performed by local children's theater. Performaces are at 12 noon and 2pm. Note that the 2pm showing of the play will also feature a presentation of the winners of the MLK Art Contest.
• Dance Arts of Chelsea Jazz Ensemble Performance - an inspirational work displaying their portrayal of Dr. King's "I Have a Dream" speech. 5pm at the Chelsea Library
• MLK Peace March and Featured Speaker - Begins on Park St, goes through downtown and meets back at the libary for a catered reception to meet featured speaker, Gilda Snowdon. Mrs. Snowdon is an acclaimed contemporary artist, art professor and Detroit native. She will be speaking at 7pm at the First United Methodist Church. Read more about Gilda Snowdon on the Detroiter.com . Winners from the MLK Youth Essay/Poetry contest will be presented at the evening presentation.
  

Don't Rush To Flush (disposing of old meds)

While I catch up on my local news articles, I came across a public service announcement worthy of repeating. The article appeared in the Chelsea Standard earlier this month Pharmacies help dispose of prescription drugs. (Jan. 1, 2009)

The message is that when you have unused medications leftover, don't flush them down the toilet or the pour them in your sink. These items need to be disposed of properly so they don't end up in our ground water. This includes prescription drugs, over the counter cold remedies, medicated ointments, inhalers, pet medications, and many other categories of things you may have in your cabinets.

Visit the Medication Disposal page on the eWashtenaw.gov website for instructions on how you SHOULD dispose of these items. Some local pharmacies will take the drugs and dispose of them properly for you. Those listed in the Chelsea and Dexter areas include:

Dexter Pharmacy
8059 Main St.
Dexter, MI 48130
(734) 426-4641

Dexter Pharmacy 2
7039 Dexter-Ann Arbor Rd.
Dexter, MI 48130
(734) 426-1600

ChelseaCare Pharmacy (at the Chelsea hospital)
775 S. Main St.
Chelsea, MI 48118
Map and Directions
(734) 475-3996

If you have your own preferred pharmacy, you may want to give them a call and see if they offer this service as well.

Another important issue to be reminded of is that expired medications may be ineffective, or even toxic. Don't keep them past their "used by" date.

Happy New Year... only a little late

Wishing you a happy new year, here on the 11th of January. I took a couple weeks off in December to celebrate the holidays with my family, and enjoy a great visit with my sister and her family. Sis had been working in the U.K. for the past year, and it was a long overdue time to catch up in real life (Facebook just doesn't quite cut it!). This was my first full week back, and its amazing what piled up while I was out of the office. I think I am nearly back up to speed -- with the exception of numerous expected and unexpected appointments at the dentist for members of my household. All is well now, and I look forward to future updates on the The Chelsea Blog, my various local websites.

The Things To Do In Chelsea calendar is choc-full of events, classes and workshops in January and February, and more and more are being added every day (ADD YOURS HERE). The Chelsea Library and the Chelsea Center for the Arts in particular have many fun things going on this month. We are also gearing up for Chelsea's annual events to celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. There is the peace march (which *everyone* is invited to join), music, guest speakers, youth writing and art contest awards, and much more. Visit OWOF.org (One World One Family) for details, or search the Chelsea-MI.com website for "MLK" events.

If you are like many of us, another goal for the bleary winter months is to try something new and some fun. Here are some suggestions in town:

• Purple Rose Theatre - enjoy an afternoon or evening out with some friends at the "thea-tah"
• Garden Mill - get inspired for your spring gardening
• Tree of Life Studio - massage, smoothies, dance classes and performances
  
• Take a class through any of a number of places in Chelsea, such as Chelsea Center for the Arts or Adult Learners Institute or Yoga Chelsea or Scrapbook Memories
  

And of course, keep an eye on Chelsea's local event calendar at www.chelsea-mi.com. New events and directory listings are added daily by members of the community. If you know of an event that is not yet listed, you are welcome to add it using the online form.

Thanks for all your support, enthusiasm and great ideas in 2008. Looking forward to another busy, fun and interesting year in 2009.