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FridayMusings since 2003

Wednesday, March 27, 2024  

Helping define Livonia's Quality of Life

Yesterday is over. Change is the essence of life.


20 years publishing FridayMusings

without bias but not without opinion

Anastasia and Katie's Coffee Shop & Cafe is the perfect spot

 to stop in for coffee, tea, sandwiches, pastries.

Anastasia and Katie's Coffee Shop & Cafe, which opened its doors in December 2019, quickly became a cherished spot among their employees and the local community. The establishment was founded with the vision of creating an inclusive and supportive workspace for individuals with and without disabilities. Their employees are provided with training, onsite support, and a paycheck, contributing positively to the community. The cafe offers robust coffee, a variety of non-coffee beverages, breakfast, lunch, and an assortment of baked goods. It operates as an employment initiative under the nonprofit organization Mi Work Matters.


The newest addition to their menu is the Wanna Pizza My Bagel, the name of which was suggested by Livonia's Alex King who proclaims that A&K has the best coffee as well.


Additionally, through the coffee shop and the Employment Ambassadors advocacy program by Mi Work Matters, they initiate discussions on the potential for businesses to employ individuals with disabilities. The coffee shop is named in honor of Anastasia and Katie, the daughters of two of the nonprofit's co-founders, who are teenagers with Down syndrome.

Congratulations Chief Jennison on this outstanding achievement and continued commitment to the Fire Service & the City of Livonia!

Please join us in congratulating Livonia Fire & Rescue Chief Robert Jennison on completing the International Association of Fire Chiefs, Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI), Cohort 11.


Chief Jennison engaged in three intensive on-site sessions in Washington DC and a pivotal experience at the Fire-Rescue International conference in Kansas City. Only 24 Chief Officers from across North America were selected from hundreds of applicants to complete the program totaling over 160 hours of instruction and professional networking.


We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all participants for their dedication to professional growth and excellence. These acquired insights and skills will undoubtedly fortify their commitment to serving communities with unwavering dedication and distinction.


Congratulations Chief Jennison on this outstanding achievement and continued commitment to the Fire Service & the City of Livonia!

It looks like 2 more stops on the Livonia Culinary Trail.

Top Up Burgers and Portillo's


It just keeps getting better. So many restaurants, making it difficult to leave town for dinner.

At Topupburgers, they believe that burgers are not just a meal, but an experience. That’s why they offer an extensive menu that caters to every craving.


Sink your teeth into their classic beef burgers, and succulent chicken burgers, or savor the flavors of the juicy veggie burgers. They also have options for those who prefer gluten-free or vegan options, ensuring that no one misses out on the burger love.


Mayor Maureen Miller Brosnan was on hand for the ribbon cutting, grand opening of Top Up Burgers, 29111 W 8 Mile Rd, and says "You should swing by Top Up Burgers and check out this cool new concept restaurant. I was there for the grand opening today and I'll be back."

Portillo's started out as "The Dog House" in 1963 when Dick Portillo invested $1,100 in a small trailer to establish the first hot dog stand in Villa Park, IL. Over the years, Portillo's has grown to become a brand that's almost synonymous with Chicago. It's often said that a visit to Chicago isn't complete without eating at Portillo's. Luckily, both die-hard fans and newcomers can enjoy Portillo's, which has expanded to over 70 locations in several states and soon to come to Livonia.



Councilman Brandon McCullough and his brother Ryan were at the inaugural stop by Portillo's Food truck, Middlebelt south of Costco, at the soon-to-be Portillo's grand opening. They are still under construction but McCullough says the food truck "did not disappoint! This is going to be an awesome amenity to Livonia! They are trending towards a early June opening!"

Baseball is here. Opening Day is a National Holiday. Dan MacIver joins us in wanting a Ball Park Frank to celebrate the day.

Artists covering the entire spectrum of art and culture to meet up April 25


RSVP and be a part of this historic gathering of the Livonia art community

Representative Stephanie Young kicks off her re-election campaign

State Representative Stephanie Young certainly knows how to launch a campaign! Surrounded by leaders from the various communities she supports, such as Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, Redford Township Supervisor Pat McRae, Livonia Mayor Maureen Brosnan and Wayne County Sheriff Raphael Washington, she clearly stands out as a favored candidate. Last year, Rep. Young was instrumental in securing $4.5 million for Livonia's new senior center, solidifying such strong support for her bid for re-election.


Last week FridaMusings endorsed Young for another term in Lansing.

Representative Matt Koleszar kicks off his re-election campaign

State Representative Matt Koleszar has declared his candidacy for re-election, and the Mayor of Livonia is eager to see him continue his work in Lansing. As a member of a dedicated team, Rep. Koleszar played a key role in securing $4.5 million for Livonia, funding the construction of the new senior center. His ability to deliver results for his constituents has garnered support of the Mayor.


Last week FridayMusings endorsed Koleszar for another term in Lansing.

Mail Address

19514 Bainbridge 48152

E-mail address

rwilliamjoyner@gmail.com


Cell address

734-674-5871

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


What motivates FridayMusings:

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