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Robert and Janet Bennett Library will play a transformative role in the new Livonia Civic Center
The Livonia Built Bond Proposal is shaping up to be a transformative investment in the city’s future, and these newly released renderings offer an exciting glimpse into what’s possible. On Thursday night, the City of Livonia unveiled two initial renderings showcasing elements of the proposed redevelopment at Five Mile and Farmington, including the Robert and Janet Bennett Civic Center Library.
If the August millage passes, the library will be reconstructed to create a more accessible and efficient facility, ensuring it meets the evolving needs of the community. Musings readers are among the first to see the vision for the future of Livonia’s library.
This proposal is part of a broader effort to modernize municipal buildings, including fire stations, a new police headquarters, and a central gathering space. The investment aims to enhance public safety, community engagement, and Livonia’s long-term growth.
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This is the 3rd year of the Livonia Women's Connection
and based on this turnout it keeps getting bigger and better!
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Carrie Budzinski is offering her thanks to everyone who came out this past weekend, "Laura Toy for having this idea and hosting today's gathering, with Colleen Siembor, at Cardwell Florist, and Pastor Sara for bringing the Jubilee food truck.
Budzinski can't wait to do it again this fall at another Livonia gem, the Garfield Skills Center Greenhouse. Save the date for Thursday, September 25th at 6pm.
The Livonia Women's Connection was established to create a space where women can meet, share ideas, and collaborate on initiatives that strengthen the community. The group has quickly become a hub for civic engagement, networking, and personal growth. It does seem that the Livonia Women's Connection is more than just a networking group—it’s a movement toward inclusivity and empowerment. Organizers hope to highlight the city’s diverse offerings, from local businesses to cultural events, while encouraging women to step into leadership roles.
Thank you, Carrie Budzinski, for once again proving that being a hometown elected official is more than just showing up and having a picture taken to promote an activity after the fact. You have shown that as a City Councilwoman, you are all about creating space for communication, and opportunities to showcase new and innovative ideas, and ways to stand proud of the town we call home.
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Rotary AM and Noon Clubs partner with the community to restore Rotary Park
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Livonia Rotary Park is in need of community support to rebuild after the devastating weather damage from last year. The park was hit by an EF-1 tornado in June 2024, leaving behind significant destruction.
The goal is to restore the pavilions, improve accessibility, and ensure Rotary Park remains a welcoming space for all.
Rotary founded in the 1940's returns to the site of their first major community project--Rotary Park.
| | | | June is a month to celebrate all that makes Livonia a stay-cation kind of town | |
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When people ask the typewriter, "What is there to do in Livonia?" and after rolling my eyes, I send them a copy of Musings, and inevitably the response is "I had no idea." See you around town.
Livonia Motor City Irish Fest, June 6-8
Get ready to experience the best Irish music festival in Southeast Michigan! The Motor City Irish Fest brings together incredible live performances, delicious Irish cuisine, and vibrant cultural displays—all in celebration of Irish heritage and community. Whether you're looking to tap your feet to lively tunes, browse unique artisan goods, or simply soak in the atmosphere, this festival is the perfect way to kick off summer with family and friends. Visit motorcityirishfest.com for all the details!
Livonia Music From the Heart, June 12
Join us for an evening of music and community at the Livonia Symphony Orchestra’s Patriotic & Pops Concert on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at the Jack E. Kirksey Recreation Center!
The festivities kick off with a city-sponsored Ice Cream Social at 5:30 p.m., where you can enjoy a sweet treat while mingling with neighbors and local leaders. At 7:00 p.m., the Livonia Symphony Orchestra takes the stage, delivering a stirring performance of patriotic and pops classics.
This free community event is a perfect way to celebrate summer, music, and togetherness. No registration or membership is required—just bring your love for great music and good company!
Livonia Pride, June 21
Join us in celebrating Livonia Pride Day on Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Schoolcraft College! From 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., this vibrant event will bring together community members to honor diversity, inclusion, and love.
Livonia Spree, June 24-29
The countdown is on for Livonia Spree, a community tradition that promises fun for all ages! With thrilling carnival rides, exciting games, and delicious local food vendors, this annual festival just keeps getting better. Families can look forward to dazzling fireworks, live entertainment, and the chance to make unforgettable summer memories. Mark your calendar, get ready for Spree.
| | | | Plans are underway for the Good Old Fashioned Neighborhood Corn Roast | | Two of the Honorary Corn Roasters, Karen Bradford and Laura Toy, serving up fresh hot corn, picked right out of the field just before dawn. | | |
Young and old. Parents and grandparents. New and lifelong residents. All have fun and will have
fun September 7th.
| | Four of the Honorary Corn Roasters, Mayor Brosnan, Senator Cavanagh, Representatives Matt Koleszar and Stephanie Young. Plenty of smiles. | | |
The countdown is on for one of Livonia’s most beloved traditions—the Annual Good Old-Fashioned Neighborhood Corn Roast! Mark your calendars for Sunday, September 7th, 11:30--3:00, as Bicentennial Park transforms into a lively hub of community spirit, delicious food, and local pride, celebrating agricultural roots during our 75th Birthday.
This year, State Representative Laurie Pohutsky, pictured here enjoying some of the delicious corn, will serve as Honorary Chair, following in the footsteps of past honorees Maureen Brosnan, Brandon McCullough, Laura Toy, and Carrie Budzinski.
What’s in Store? Freshly Roasted Corn—Lovingly prepared by the Livonia Lions Club, with shucking assistance from the Clarenceville Basketball Team. Kona Ice Truck—Thanks to the generosity of the Jim Jolly Family, cool off with a refreshing treat! Beverages by Livonia Rotary Club—Keeping the community hydrated and happy.
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Robb Drzewicki has been on board for every Corn Roast and worked his way up from Kernel in Training to Full Kernel. Drew Buatti is in his second year as Kernel in Training.
Gotta have fun. I do as soon as I pick up my first ear of corn. Westborn corn is the best. Thank you to the Community Anonymous Benefactor for providing us with the corn.
A Celebration of Community: With over 30 local organizations expected to participate, this event is a fantastic opportunity to connect with neighbors, learn about local initiatives, and celebrate Livonia’s vibrant spirit. Some of the groups already signed up include: Livonia Symphony Orchestra, Livonia Civic Chorus, Livonia Arts Commission, Livonia Education Foundation, Livonia PTSA Council, Livonia Historical Society, Livonia Democratic Club, and Livonia Community Foundation. With many more to come.
Want to Get Involved? It’s still early, and there’s plenty of room for more organizations to join in the fun. If your group wants to be part of Livonia’s grand entrance into fall, don’t hesitate—reach out and secure your spot!
This is more than just a corn roast—it’s a celebration of togetherness, tradition, and hometown pride.
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Introducing a Journey Through the Foundations of Universal Human Values: Written and shared with Musings readers by Livonia resident and author Wissam Charafeddine
As an Arab American activist, author, and educator dedicated to the values of human dignity, justice, and enlightenment, I have long been fascinated by the evolution of human rights across civilizations. Our modern understanding of freedom, equality, and human dignity did not arise overnight; it is the result of centuries of thought, struggle, and legal progress from various cultures, traditions, and revolutions.
A declaration is not merely a set of words on paper; when embraced by people, it becomes a powerful force that shapes societies and defines the course of history. Foundational documents—such as the Magna Carta, the Bill of Rights, and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights—have laid the groundwork for the freedoms and protections we enjoy today. Yet no state can endure in justice without being rooted in enduring values and principles—values that uphold human dignity, peace, freedom, security, and equality, rather than mere power or prosperity.
Drawing from this vast human heritage, and integrating modern concerns such as environmental protection, animal rights, and sexual freedom, I have authored the Universal Declaration of Human Values—a contemporary framework for a just and humane society. This book serves as both a guide for modern governance and a call to safeguard the progress humanity has painstakingly achieved.
In the coming months, I am delighted to accept the invitation of a Livonia champion of Human Rights, Bill Joyner, to launch a special series exploring twenty foundational values that have shaped our global quest for an ideal, just society. Each month, I will present one of these milestones—tracing its history, philosophy, and relevance for us today.
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