Rochester

The Brooksie Way Half Marathon, 10K & 5K is Going VIRTUAL

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment

The 13th running of The Brooksie Way Half Marathon, 10K & 5K races is going VIRTUAL!

“Since it began 13 years ago, the McLaren Brooksie Way has been one of the most popular fall half marathons in Michigan. The pandemic has forced us to change the race this year and we understand as the health and safety of our participants, volunteers and spectators is always our top priority.”

Race Director Deb Flynn

The Brooksie Way will allow runners and walkers to have fun and support programs that encourage a healthy, fit, and active lifestyle. This year’s race allows runners and walkers to complete their chosen race anytime and anywhere within two weeks of September 27th.

“I know there are many dedicated runners, walkers, families and even spectators who look forward to the Brooksie Way each year. The pandemic has changed our routines and many of the events and celebrations we normally enjoy have been cancelled, delayed or altered. We are fortunate that Brooksie Way organizers have found a healthy, safe way for us to participate in the race. I encourage everyone to pick their favorite route, make sure the weather is nice and enjoy a healthy run or walk with family or friends.”

Oakland County Executive David Coulter

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Poison Sumac: Tale of a Toxic Trailside Beauty

Oakland County, MI Government 3 Comments
red poison sumac

WILDER SIDE OF OAKLAND COUNTY

As the crisp days of autumn draw near, I increase my explorations of the wondrous world of our wetlands, swamps, and marshlands. They take on a special peaceful splendor in the waning days of summer, especially in the dawn’s early light. The wetland-embracing trails on the wilder side of Oakland County lure me in as surely as honey bees fly to flowers for nectar and pollen. However, this year as in the years before, I will be watchful for and ever wary of one wetland plant in particular. This plant presents a clear and present danger to humans that have the misfortune of making physical contact. Even touching or brushing against any part of this toxic trailside beauty may lead to a world of woe and in some severe cases of exposure, a visit to an emergency department follows.

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Black History Month Events in Oakland County

Oakland County, MI Government 1 Comment
Young African American boy studying in school library

February is Black History Month! 2020 marks a significant year for Black History Month, as it has been 150 years since the adoption of the Fifteenth Amendment recognizing African-American men’s right to vote, and 100 years since the Nineteenth Amendment granting women’s suffrage.

For anyone who wants to learn more about African American history and culture, or gain awareness of the past, check out our list of events being held including musical and dance performances, interactive workshops, and more throughout the month of February in and around Oakland County.

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2020 Martin Luther King Jr. Day Observations in Oakland County

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment
Washington: Martin Luther King, Jr memorial monument on September 2, 2015 in Washington, DC.

Honor Martin Luther King, Jr. this upcoming MLK Day on Monday, January 20th, by attending an event or participating in a day of service. Observed as a national day of service, Martin Luther King Jr. Day encourages all Americans to volunteer to improve their communities. Learn more about the MLK Day of Service on their website,  where you can also search for volunteer opportunities or register a project. Additionally, the United Way and Volunteer Match have additional resources and opportunities to make it a “day on, not a day off.”

List of MLK Observations in Oakland County

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2020 Fire & Ice Festival in Oakland County

Oakland County, MI Government Leave a comment

The Fire & Ice Festival in Downtown Rochester is back January 17th–19th for another year of family fun and winter festivities that you can enjoy for FREE. The three-day community celebration will be packed with events like tube sledding, ice skating, dog sled rides, cross-country skiing, ice sculptures along Main Street, fireworks on Friday and Saturday night, The Big, Bright Light Show, live music, TasteFest, and so much more!

The Fire & Ice Festival will be the inaugural event to commemorate Oakland County’s bicentennial year.

“We can’t think of a better way to kick off celebrating Oakland County’s 200th year than with the Fire & Ice Festival in Downtown Rochester,” said County Executive David Coulter. “We welcome everyone to attend our free winter festival to take part in the winter fun.”

The Fire & Ice Festival runs from 5 – 9 p.m. Friday, January 17; 10 a.m. – 9 p.m. Saturday, January 18; and 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Sunday, January 19. The fireworks are at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

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