Our Final Blog Post

Posted by – Steve Cohen, Director of Community Development

All good things must come to an end.  In our case, we plan to evolve our communications into something even better.

After almost seven years of operation and over 1,100 blog posts, we have decided to retire the Developing Thoughts blog.  We wish to thank everyone for their support.  It has been our mission to keep folks informed of the great things happening in the City of Auburn Hills.  Creating a high level of transparency has always been our goal.  We hope you have found our posts informative and helpful.

Moving forward the Community Development Department will be contributing to the Inside Auburn Hills blog.  

Sign up to receive e-mail notifications of Inside Auburn Hills posts in the upper right hand side of their page

We plan to merge much of the Developing Thoughts blog’s historical content into the Inside Auburn Hills blog in the months ahead so that people can still access the information.

Thank you for reading our blog posts.  It has been a fun ride!

Hitting A Milestone: 1,000 Stories

Posted by – Steve Cohen, Director of Community Development

We made it!  This is our 1,000th blog post.

It’s hard to believe that we started this project just under six years ago.  To be honest, we almost quit twice.  But, several of us have come together as a team to share the workload and write as many stories as we can about the development occurring in this wonderful town.

Why do we do it?  Well, the City Council takes tremendous pride in the transparency of the City’s communications with the public.  It’s a top priority for the organization as a whole.  Thus, the City uses various methods and platforms “to get the word out” ranging from public meetings to the use of blogs, Facebook, and Twitter.

In coordination with that intention, the Community Development Department has used this blog as an informational tool and historical archive since February 3, 2012.  We hope you have enjoyed it and found it useful.

We strive to reach 1,500 stories by 2021.  So, stay with us.  It will no doubt be interesting to read how the development of this dynamic community will unfold in the years to come.

Upon Retirement

Posted by – Dale Mathes, Code Enforcement Officer

(Written yesterday – Dale’s last day working in the Community Development Department.  Happy Retirement, Dale!)

Wednesday, September 27^th, will be my final day as an employee with the City of Auburn Hills.  I’ve worked as a part-time Code Enforcement Officer for over 11 years.  After 30 years as a Police Officer and Sergeant with the Detroit P.D., this job was a welcome change of pace.

I’d like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the wonderful folks who made the job (almost) a pleasure.  Christy Worrell and Mary Cox, our beautiful clerks, who put up with my morning crabbiness and generally turned my day around.  The department’s Executive Assistant, Elizabeth Brennan, always smiling, even when she was swamped and you’re giving her something else to do.

From left – Jeff Spencer, Jeff Fraser and Rick Oberlin

The two Building Inspectors, Rick Oberlin and Jeff Fraser, who can be counted on to give you accurate information on codes and practical stuff.

From left to right: Rick Oberlin, Darren Darge, Shawn Keenan, Christy Worrell, Jeff Spencer, Howard Wager, Dale Mathes, Mary Cox and Elizabeth Brennan

Shawn Keenan, the Assistant City Planner and Water Resource Guy, is always ready to update you on environmental topics and/or BBQ recipes.  Jeff Spencer, the Building Official, who will tell you everything you wanted to know about Auburn Hills history.  He grew up here and seems to know half the population personally.  And Steve Cohen, our Director, a solid family man, who treats his employees like they are a part of his family.

Community Development Director, Steve Cohen with a happy customer, bearing gifts

And then, there are my past and present partners.  Jeff Malone, now a Police Officer with Auburn Hills, formerly a Las Vegas cop.  We sort of learned this job together and he improved it by streamlining the grass cutting procedure by introducing green door stickers rather than mailed notices.

Jack Skinner (left) and Darren Darge

Kristen Hollenbeck, also a former officer, who, although here for a relatively brief time, made an impact with her quiet but determined demeanor.  Darren Darge, who, with his background in assessing, carried the ball during the recession.  He covered the inspections of vacant houses and kept on the banks and mortgage companies to maintain them.  And, now, there’s Jack Skinner – the “Jack of all trades.”  Former Navy man, truck driver, fire fighter, and long-time DPW worker, he has been instrumental in cleaning up this city.  From temporary signs to getting commercial parking lots paved, he has done a huge amount of work in a short period of time.  Thanks to you all.

Working for Auburn Hills has been a great way to get myself out of debt, buy a house and just plain keep busy.  It’s also introduced me to a great group of people who will be remembered for years to come.  Good luck and God bless!

Beautification Winners Selected

Posted by – Elizabeth Brennan, Community Development Executive Assistant

The Auburn Hills Beautification Advisory Commission (BAC) met this week to review nominations for the City’s Beautification Awards Program.  Forty-eight residential and commercial properties were selected and will be honored this year at the Beautification Awards Banquet in late September.

The winning properties all have something in common – residents and business owners who care and take pride in creating healthy and inviting spaces.

Their efforts are recognized by the BAC because they help make Auburn Hills a beautiful city for all to enjoy.

Long May It Wave

Posted by – Dale Mathes, Code Enforcement Officer

Last week, Jack Skinner, Code Enforcement Officer for the City of Auburn Hills was on routine patrol at Waukegan and Squirrel when he noticed that the American flag raised at the Auburn Hills Boys and Girls Club was badly torn and tattered.  Jack, a six-year Navy veteran who saw action aboard the battleship U.S.S. New Jersey during the Lebanon War in the 1980’s, was concerned about the flag and how the symbol’s condition could negatively reflect on the many good things the Club does for our community.

Jack stopped in and spoke to an office employee who said that the Club’s Director was on vacation and honestly expressed that she didn’t know if they could afford to purchase a new flag at this time.  Later, Jack brought up this situation to Steve Cohen, the Director of Auburn Hills Community Development.  After a brief discussion of options, Steve remembered that he had an American flag in great condition and volunteered its use at the Club.

Last Thursday, in the company of several members of the Auburn Hills American Legion Post 143, Jack proudly raised the flag on the towering flagpole by the entrance of the Club.

It turns out that Steve’s American flag was an old gift from his father-in-law who was very proud that the flag was put to such good use.  Steve’s father-in-law’s dad was a World War II Navy veteran who has since passed away.  Steve told me his father-in-law has the folded military flag that was presented to him at his father’s funeral.  His father-in-law stated his hope was to someday put that memorial flag to a similar use.

I wanted to share this story of the good actions of Jack and Steve.  They worked together without anyone watching to support the Club, when the institution just needed a little help.  With some persistent nudging, they let me tell you about this.  I am glad they did.

“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation, under God, with liberty and justice for all.”

A Few Quotes On Valentine’s Day

Posted by – Elizabeth Brennan, Community Development Executive Assistant

“All you need is love.  But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” – Charles M. Schulz

“Forever thine, forever mine, forever ours.” Immortal Beloved – Ludwig van Beethoven

“Today is Valentine’s Day.  Or, as men like to call it, Extortion Day.” – Jay Leno

“If you were a Transformer, you’d be Optimus FINE.” – Unknown

“How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.” – Elizabeth Barrett Browning

“Before you marry a person, you should first make them use a computer with slow internet service to see who they really are.” – Will Ferrell

“Never go to bed mad – stay up and fight.” – Phillis Diller

“True love stories never have endings.” – Richard Bach

“Love thy neighbor – and if he happens to be tall, debonair and devastating, it will be that much easier.” – Mae West

“Maybe you don’t need the whole world to love you, you know.  Maybe you just need one person.” – Kermit the Frog

“That’s why they call them crushes. If they were easy, they’d call them something else.” – Sixteen Candles

“The truth is everyone is going to hurt you.  You just got to find the ones worth suffering for.” – Bob Marley

“You don’t love someone for their looks, or their clothes, or for their fancy car, but because they sing a song only you can hear.” – Oscar Wilde

“There are only 3 things women need in life: food, water and compliments.” – Chris Rock

“When you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.” – When Harry Met Sally

“Women love a self-confident bald man.” – Larry David

Celebrate your love in Auburn Hills.

Building Official Jeff Spencer Honored For 30 Years Of Service

Posted by – Steve Cohen, Director of Community Development

Yesterday was special for us.

Numerous City staff visited our Department, and gathered around some wonderful Costco cake, to congratulate Building Official Jeff Spencer for 30 years of dedicated and outstanding service to the City of Auburn Hills.

Building Official Jeff Spencer (left) and Assistant City Manager Don Grice (right)

Jeff Spencer has played an integral role in the City’s growth and has a ton of experience.  He has helped ensure the safety of hundreds of buildings, which is quite a legacy.   It is people like Jeff who help make our community great.

In front of his co-workers, friends, and family, Jeff gave a heartfelt thank you to everyone and provided some sage advice:

1. Keep life in balance.  Work hard for eight hours, have eight hours of fun and down time, and sleep eight hours.  Mess that up and things get crazy.
2. Keep working to improve yourself and your skills.
3. Do your homework and don’t try to do things on your own.
4. Take action.  Don’t be scared to make a mistake.  You can also get in trouble for doing nothing.
5. Be a mentor to someone.  Teach the younger generation and pass on your knowledge.  Don’t forget that you can also learn the skills they have to offer.
6. Change and get better or you will be left behind.

Jeff … Thank you for your service to the City of Auburn Hills.  You are an awesome big brother.  I look forward to working many more years side-by-side with you.

A Cure For The Winter “Blahs”

Posted by – Shawn Keenan, Assistant City Planner

It’s that time of year when gray skies and bitterly cold temperatures can give us the winter blahs.  Instead of sitting around dreaming about warmer temperatures, cure your winter blahs by going to a Golden Grizzlies Men’s Basketball game.

The team is hot and sit on top of the Horizon league with a 14-3 overall record and 4-0 conference record.  The home game tonight at the “O’rena”, located on Oakland University’s Campus in Auburn Hills, will be rockin’ when the Detroit Titans will try to snap the Grizzlies 5-game winning streak.  The game starts at 7:00 PM.

Click here for more information about this game or the three remaining home games. Go Grizzlies!

Auburn Hills Gets Into Halloween Spirit

Posted by – Elizabeth Brennan, Executive Assistant

Right now, hundreds of trick-or-treaters in Auburn Hills are gearing up for the big event.  As kids canvas the neighborhoods tonight, they will be greeted by some scary (and fun) scenes.  Our residents never fail to come up with creative (and creepy) outdoor décor.

Here’s one display we saw on Adams Road.

A skeleton party…

 

A dapper gentleman with his dog

 

Pass by the pups…only if you dare!

 

Try to navigate this scene in the dark!

Trick-or-treating is allowed from 6:00pm to 7:00pm this evening.  Keep an eye out for our little goblins for a safe and Happy Halloween!

A Student For The Day At Auburn Hills University

Posted by – Steve Cohen, Director of Community Development

We wanted to share a few photos from yesterday’s Auburn Hills University (AHU) class led by the Community Development Department.

AHU is a six month team-building program that gathers a small group of City employees, one day a month, to learn what each City Department does.  This year, I have the privilege of being a student in AHU’s 9th class!

The class received a behind the scenes tour from our friends at Michigan SEALIFE Aquarium

Visited the new Mosaic apartment development at the southeast corner of Baldwin and Collier

Learned what Building staff check when performing inspections

It was a fun and informative experience for all of us.

Dad’s Day

Posted by – Dale Mathes, Code Enforcement Officer

This coming Sunday, June 19th, is Father’s Day.  Dating back to a 1912 celebration of a Civil War veteran who was a widower who raised his six children in Spokane, Washington, it didn’t become an official national holiday until 1972.  Originally many men opposed the holiday because it “degraded their masculinity” and, often, became their responsibility to pay for the presents their family gave them.  Now, it is regarded as a day to remember and acknowledge the most important man in all of our lives, Dad.

The eternal question is: “what the heck do I get the old guy?” Unless he’s some sort of fashion maven, forget “the tie.”  A good rule of thumb is to ask what interests, hobbies or little pleasures your father has.  My dad, Al, (may he rest in peace,) had a crazy sweet tooth.  Sanders Mint Smoothies were always a sure bet.  But some chocolate covered strawberries ordered on-line would work great if your dad loves that sugar.

If dad enjoys a snort now and then, a bottle or case of his favorite potent potable would work.  Facial hair?  Why not a new beard/mustache trimmer.  It may be gross but one of the best gifts I got from my lovely daughters was an ear/nose hair trimmer.

If dad is an outdoorsman, a trip to one of the big box sporting goods stores could score you ammo, fishing flies or boots.  If he’s a reader, obviously a book on a subject you know interests him.  If a movie buff, there are plenty of DVD’s or Blue Rays to choose from.  (I recommend “The Revenant.”)

It doesn’t have to be a gift.  Cook him his favorite meal or take him out to his favorite restaurant.  Take him to a ball game.  (Maybe at the new “Jimmy John’s” stadium in Utica.)

The main thing is to remember his day and make it a day he will remember as well.  To all dads, step-dads and grandpas have a happy Father’s Day.

Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story

Posted by – Steve Cohen, Director of Community Development

My father loved history and musical theater.  He made it a point to introduce these passions to me in the years before he passed away.  So, I was intrigued when the Pulitzer Prize winning musical Hamilton was introduced last year.  I recently downloaded the musical’s soundtrack because the lyrics bring this time in America’s history to life for me … it also connects me to my dad.  He would have loved to see Hamilton.  I hope to make the pilgrimage to New York City with my wife to experience the show someday.

In the final act, after Alexander Hamilton dies, the entire cast comes together to sing the song “Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story.”  This song explains to the audience what happens to all the remaining characters.  It explores their legacy and leaves the characters asking if they had done enough to have lived a worthy life.

Cast of the musical Hamilton (Photo credit: Joan Marcus)

In my mind, I think of what the leaders of the City of Auburn Hills (our cast) have been doing to address the cards the community was dealt as the result of the Great Recession.  The challenge of our time.  Such as,

• Loss of a staggering $2.3 billion in true cash property value (2006-2014) due to the required lowering of property assessments based on the market’s decline
• The resulting 37% decrease in the City’s taxable property value, which is the value the City primarily generates revenue to operate and provide essential services like police, fire, utilities, and roads
• Loss of industrial personal property tax, with no certain replacement
• Unfavorable Michigan Tax Tribunal decisions and the insanity of the “Dark Store” phenomenon

It’s like flying a plane and having one of your engines go out when you least expect it.  You must remain calm, land the plane safely, and get the engine fixed so that you can fly again.

Well, Auburn Hills has landed the plane safely and we have been fixing the engine.  We have found that most didn’t even know the plane was in trouble, since they’ve seen little decline in their services.  Also, property values have bounced back and the economy is healthier, but most don’t know that this recovery has not translated into revenue growth for the City since Michigan law caps it.  Under these restraints, the City can’t “grow its way out” and recover the tax base lost during the economic downturn – although we have tried.  No Michigan community is immune to this struggle.

Fortunately, the City Council has had the foresight to see that the status quo will become unsustainable over time.  With the support of City Manager Tanghe and staff, the Council has methodically made some difficult decisions over the years to stabilize the finances of our community … and will continue to do so.  Recently, the Council authorized a Fire Department millage election, which will take place on August 2, 2016.  It’s a critical step forward in securing a strong future for the City.

Like the cast of Hamilton, it’s our hope that future generations in Auburn Hills will remember this time in history and tell our story of resilience.

The United Nations Of Auburn Hills

Posted by – Dale Mathes, Code Enforcement Officer

A couple of business buzz phrases these days are “global economy” and “multi-national corporations”.  Auburn Hills reflects those concepts throughout its corporate and business entities.  From Fiat-Chrysler to Takata Corporation, many international corporations have locations in this city.

One graphic example of this internationalism is the display of national flags in front of local corporate buildings.  For example:

Rigaku at 1900 Taylor flies the Japanese flag, along with the U.S. and Michigan state flags.

Syncreon at 2551 High Meadow has the interesting combination of the Irish and Danish flags.

Henniges at 2750 High Meadow has the best collection.  Included are the banners of Canada, China, Philippines, U.S., Germany and Mexico.  (When the photo was taken they were at half-staff due to the terrorist attack in Brussels the day before.)

My favorite, however, is the largest flag I’ve seen in Auburn Hills, the Stars and Stripes in front of RGIS at 2000 Taylor.

Flying these international flags is one way Auburn Hills can salute the many nations that contribute to the commerce of the city and the nation.

Moving From The Couch To Participating In A 5K Race?

Posted by – Steve Cohen, Director of Community Development

Have you ever wanted to participate in a 5K race, but don’t know how to prepare?  Better yet, do you just want to get off the couch and go after a goal?  Well, here’s a great opportunity.

The City of Auburn Hills has partnered with Sue Barnes at Socially Motivated Wellness LLC to design and administer an eight week run/walk training program for those interested.  Her specialized training utilizes an interval method of conditioning, which is devised to lessen the chance of injury.  Using this technique, just about anyone can take part in the program.

Coach Sue Barnes

You can do this!  Participants will be placed in groups with others that move at their same pace.  With a group, you will have the motivation and encouragement needed to complete the training.  Groups will meet once a week – Wednesday morning at 8:30 a.m. or Thursday evening at 6:30 p.m. – for instruction and a workout, which will help build endurance.

This excellent program is set to begin on Thursday, June 23rd.  But, you will have to sign-up before that time, so watch for an announcement in the City’s upcoming Summer Newsletter.  Feel free to e-mail Recreation Coordinator Mikey Gorak at mgorak@auburnhills.org for more information.

Hey, this opportunity may be that push you needed!  It may change your life.

DPW: Our Snow Warriors

Posted by – Dale Mathes, Code Enforcement Officer

A couple of winters ago, I wrote a blog entitled Our Snow Angels.  Back then, I reported how the hard-working people at the Auburn Hills Department of Public Works clear the ice and snow from our streets with little fanfare or attention.  Since Tuesday and Wednesday’s storm, I thought I would revisit the topic and spoke to Dan Brisson, the DPW’s Manager of Roads and Fleet, about how his crews cleared the City.

Dan stated that 35 to 40 personnel began working around 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday.  At 2:00 a.m. on Wednesday morning the snow stopped and that was when (as Dan said) DPW went into “full scale attack.”  At their disposal were ten dump trucks, four pickups, two pickups dedicated to municipal parking lots, and a broom truck for sidewalks.  They worked all through the night and until 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday.

One fact that Dan brought up was news to me, that DPW uses an anti-icing agent (much like the de-icers used on planes at the airports) prior to plowing.  This helps reduce the buildup of ice that is then trapped under the snow, making for treacherous driving.  It also acts as a sort of “Teflon” to make the plowing easier.  As Dan put it, DPW “MacGyver’ed” two trucks with parts and equipment found around the DPW garage and now have two de-icing trucks capable of handling 32-lane miles of streets.

We all hope that this past storm was winter’s last hurrah, but rest assured that if Ol’ Man Winter rears his ugly head again the personnel of DPW will be prepared.  They’ll be ready to take it on again with their standard equipment and a few secret weapons.

I’m thinking that “Snow Angels” is a little wimpy.  Let’s call them our “Snow Warriors.”

Thanks to you all.

Working On Merit

Posted by – Dale Mathes, Code Enforcement Officer

Area Boy Scouts will be visiting Auburn Hills’ E. Dale Fisk Hawk Woods Nature Center for Merit Badge Week, March 14th through 18th, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.  During this week, Mike Mansour, a naturalist at Hawk Woods and also a certified Boy Scout Merit Badge Counselor, will guide the scouts through the process of earning any of ten merit badges (scouting has over one hundred).

Park Naturalist, Mike Mansour with Scouts on a sunny day in Hawk Woods Nature Center

March 14^th – Bird Studies / Citizenship in the World

March 15^th – Environmental Science / Fish and Wildlife

March 16^th – Forestry / Geology

March 17^th – Nature / Plant Science

March 18^th – Sustainability/ Weather

Registration fees consist of a 20-pound bag of black oil sunflowers seeds for the wild birds of Hawk Woods Nature Center (That’s a bag for each badge sought).

The Nature Center is located at 3799 Bald Mountain Road in Auburn Hills. For more information and registration go to www.auburnhills.org or call Parks and Recreation at (248) 370-9353.

Remember, Scouts: “Be Prepared” and bring those bags of seed.

Oakland University Engineering Team Propels to the Top

Posted by – Shawn Keenan, Assistant City Planner

It is not often you’ll see a device that can fly through both air and water – unless you’re watching James Bond movies.

The Loon Copter, engineered by Oakland University students

James Bond’s gadget guru “Q”,  inventor of the jet pack and the Lotus Esprit with submarine mode, would be proud of the Oakland University Engineering Team for coming in first place last weekend in the United Arab Emirates “Drones for Good” Competition.

The team tests the drone before the competition

Over 1,000 teams from 165 countries took part in the competition.   The Oakland University team won the one million dollar grand prize, which was well worth the 18 months of dedicated work they put into their drone called the Loon Copter.

The City of Auburn Hills is proud of Oakland University’s Engineering Team for their tremendous accomplishment and Oakland University for their commitment to providing educational excellence in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.  Go Grizzlies!

Goodbye, Old Friend

Posted by – Dale Mathes, Code Enforcement Officer

Kenobe, a 17 year old (!?) American Eskimo dog was adopted 12 years ago by my partner, Sue. Kenobe (not named by Sue) was stoic, but energetic, playful, but a solid guardian.

Unfortunately, within the last year or so, he began to show his extended age.  He became deaf, then blind, but was still able to negotiate the house and the yard.  Recently, though, he became increasingly incontinent and was having problems maneuvering Sue’s hardwood floors.  Finally, last week, he developed a very deep cough indicating some sort of infection.  Sue decided it was time to let him go.

This is Kenobe (with his tiny sombrero)

Originally, an appointment was made at our regular vet’s office and we were set to take him in. Sue decided that she needed to contact the Michigan Anti-Cruelty Society (M.A.C.S.) from whom she originally adopted him.  They insisted that we bring him there, “back home.”

When we arrived at the shelter (a blockhouse of a building at 13569 Joseph Campau, south of McNichols, in Detroit) we were greeted by Sue’s old friends, Teresa and Debbie, the manager and director, respectively. Sue was understandably upset and they calmly and caringly assured her she was doing the right thing.

Kenobe was set up on a blanket covered bed (not a sterile steel table) and fed a meal of hot dogs and Spam. Debbie continued talking to us while Teresa was busy with another dog.  It seems a sharp-eyed Postal Worker had brought in a Chow mix whose “owner” had left him chained up in the yard.  The chain was wrapped around his neck without care that the dog’s neck might grow.  Indeed it did and the chain was imbedded in the dog’s neck.  Teresa was working to remove the chain, link by link.  These are the kinds of things M.A.C.S. does.  Finally, Debbie administered the drugs and Kenobe went painlessly and peacefully to sleep.

Since 1935, M.A.C.S. has been dedicated to providing refuge for stray, injured and forgotten animals. Each year, they investigate from1,200 to 1,500 animal cruelty complaints and provide shelter and adoptions to the 13,000 animals who pass through their doors.  They do not charge for services and their expenses are paid completely though donations.  They will never turn away an animal in need.

As we left the shelter that day, I made it a point to personally thank each worker and volunteer. They are truly doing God’s work on Earth – taking care of his most vulnerable.

We believe spreading the word of this special organization will be of value to our residents.

Veterans … Atten-tion!

Posted by – Dale Mathes, Code Enforcement Officer

Right here in Auburn Hills (as all around the rest of the nation) is a post representing the world’s largest veteran’s organization – The American Legion.  The Legion was chartered by Congress in 1919 and membership is available to any veteran or active duty member of the U.S. Armed Forces who served during any of our country’s conflicts since 1914.  The veteran need not have been deployed.

At 96 Churchill is the Hill-Gazette American Legion Post #143. This outstanding civic-minded neighbor is instrumental in the City’s Memorial Day parade.  They also hold various parties throughout the year including Christmas.  They also have a Color Guard available for veteran’s funerals.  They meet the first Tuesday of every month at the post.

If you are a vet or know one, look into The American Legion in your area. And to all veterans and active duty Armed Forces members … thank you all for your service.

Give A Pint, Save A Life

Posted by – Dale Mathes, Code Enforcement Officer

On Thursday, January 14th from 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., the American Red Cross will be holding Auburn Hills’ semi-annual blood drive in the Community Center.  The following are some of the many reasons to donate:

1. Save someone’s life

Since there is no artificial substitute for human blood, someone needs donated human blood every two to three seconds in the U.S. and just one donation can help save the lives of up to three people!

2. Get a free health screening

Prior to donation, your heart rate, blood pressure, cholesterol and hemoglobin levels will be checked.

3. Remove excess iron

Now, this was new to me. It is uncommon, but men can sometimes experience too much iron in the blood.  This known as hemochromatosis.  It can complicate cirrhosis, heart disease and diabetes.  Donating can remove excess iron.

4. It’s free!

And how else can you lose a pound of weight in less than an hour, while you’re flat on your back? And there’s always the juice and cookies when you’re done.

So, sign up today by calling 248-370-9353.  Remember, together we can save a life!

A Transparent Habit

Posted by – Steve Cohen, Director of Community Development

Developing a good habit can be rewarding, but sticking with one can often be very hard.  You have to be intentional with your goals.  A good habit has to become a priority.

Over the years, the City of Auburn Hills has developed a habit of being “transparent” with its communications.  The City uses various methods of getting the word out ranging from face to face public meetings to the use of Facebook, Twitter, and blogs.

In February 2012, the Community Development Department created this blog as a way to get information out to the public.  Over the years, it has been a challenge at times to keep the blog going.  We almost quit the project in mid-2014.  It’s easy to make excuses when things get busy.  Luckily, a co-worker (an intern) saw us struggling and gave us a timely pep talk.  It’s funny how a little encouragement, at just the right time, can tip the balance between success and failure.  Thanks, Sam!

As we start 2016, it’s good to look back at some key statistics for the blog.  In almost four years, our team has written 665 stories.  These stories have been viewed over 136,000 times.

• In 2012, we posted 199 stories with about 18,000 views
• In 2013, we posted 144 stories with about 25,000 views
• In 2014, we posted 149 stories with about 37,000 views
• In 2015, we posted 173 stories with about 56,000 views

We look forward to continuously improving this platform of storytelling.  Our goal is to write 150 stories in 2016.

Stay tuned for what we expect will be a very productive and exciting year.

Thank you for reading our blog.  Happy New Year!

Twenty Minutes For The Rest Of Your Life

Posted by – Steve Cohen, Director of Community Development

As the New Year approaches, most of us will pause to reflect on the past, experience the present, and make plans for the future.

For the past couple of days, I’ve been thinking about an exercise that I completed in May 2007.  Back then, the City sent me to the University of Virginia for training on how to become a better leader.  As part of the program, the instructors wanted to make sure everyone in the class were aware of the importance of finding balance in life.   They taught the simple truth that an unbalanced person could never be a great leader.  You need to find balance in mind, body, spirit, and relationships to succeed.  Like most, finding such balance on a consistent basis is often elusive for me.  Such is life.

At the end of the week-long training, the instructors walked us through the following questions in just twenty minutes:

1. In your lifetime … you would like to?
2. In the next five years … you want to?
3. With only six months to live … you would?
4. What are your top three goals in life?
5. What activities do you need to do to complete each goal?
6. What is one activity you plan to do in the next two weeks to accomplish each goal?

Looking back at my May 2007 responses, I find myself pondering … “Wow! Where has the time gone?”   I was just 35 years old.  My children were almost eight and five.  Today, my oldest is trying to decide which college she would like to attend.  This past weekend, my wife and I were having serious discussions about our 401(k) plans and dreaming about where we will live when we retire.

Many of my responses from May 2007 were very personal.  Some have been accomplished.  Others I still struggle with.  Such is life.

Looking back, those instructors at the University of Virginia were very wise.  They wanted everyone in our class to pause and think hard before we went back home to our hectic jobs and lives.  They wanted to nudge us into developing a laser-like focus on what was important so that we could experience a good life without regrets.

Yes, time goes by fast.   There’s no better time than today to take stock in what really matters.  Go after your goals with passion and intention in 2016.  Have a great year!

It’s good to take time and dream about the future

“Tis The Season …

Posted by – Dale Mathes, Code Enforcement Officer

A quick ride around the City of Auburn Hills proves that many residents are in the Christmas mood and showing it by decorating their homes and yards for the season. For sure, a trip through our town at night would show a lot more lights, inflatables and displays not lit during the day.

But, here’s a small sample of the Christmas creativity we see during our daily rounds.

On Richwood is this peaceful Nativity scene.

The Grinch, Max the dog and Cindy Lou Who can be found on Alberta.

These giant inflatables inhabit Old Salem.

Celebrate Christmas in your own special way, but remember: “tis the season to be jolly.”

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone!

Veterans Day 2015

Posted by – Dale Mathes, Code Enforcement Officer

On the 11^th hour of the 11^th day of the 11^th month in 1918, World War I (or the Great War as it was called then) ended in an armistice or temporary ceasefire.  Following the war, the day was set aside to commemorate the personnel who fought in that struggle.  In 1938, Congress made the date a national holiday and in 1954, they changed it to Veterans Day to honor all who have served our nation in the armed forces.

The traveling Michigan Vietnam Memorial

Last Saturday, the City of Auburn Hills hosted a very important and inspirational program.  The Community Center had on display the traveling Michigan Vietnam Memorial.  The memorial has the names of all Michigan veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Vietnam War.

A ceremonial flag folding was conducted with each of the 13 folds explained.

In addition to the memorial, there was a display of all the individual flags of the five armed services, accompanied by their musical hymns.  A veteran from the 8^th Air Force from World War II recited an original poem.  A ceremonial flag folding was performed and its symbolic 13 folds were explained.  All veterans in the audience received a commemorative medal and a personal salute.  The ceremony ended with a 21 gun salute and the playing of “Taps.”

The obstacle course was enjoyed by young attendees

But by no means was the day complete.  I took my seven-year-old grandson to the event and there were all types of activities designed for kids.  He was enthralled by a mannequin wearing Desert Storm era uniform, complete with weapons.

A mannequin outfitted in a Desert Storm-era uniform – complete with a sample weapons and equipment

We checked out a hands-on display of North Vietnamese and Viet Cong arms and uniforms.  He ran an obstacle course as part of the “Kids Boot Camp.” But most exciting of all, he got to fire a 50 caliber machine gun mounted on a WW II era jeep.  His grandpa also got to fire an M-1 Garand rifle from the same war.  Big fun.

So remember what today means to our country and our veterans. These men and women gave their time, their energy and, in some cases, their limbs or lives.  So, remember, freedom is not free.  Thank a vet today and every day for their service and sacrifice.

A Sense Of Autumn in Auburn Hills

Posted by – Dale Mathes, Code Enforcement Officer

Last year, I wrote a blog about fall actually making this city truly “auburn hills” when the auburn, gold and yellow trees color the hills.  This year, with the unseasonable warmth, the sights, sounds and scents of Auburn Hills make a feast for the senses.

A row of bright red trees next to the Marposs building

There was a young man in shorts, playing tennis on the municipal courts. (On November 4^th!?)

Hanging in the air is the always recognizable smell of leaves burning.

The bright sunshine reflecting off Hawk Woods Pond

Take the time to enjoy this season (my personal favorite).  Just like summer, it doesn’t last long.

Getting Into The Spirit For Halloween

Posted by – Dale Mathes, Code Enforcement Officer

Traditionally, the night before All Saint’s Day has been celebrated as All Hallow’s Eve or Halloween.  It has become a night of ghosts, goblins, monsters, zombies … and trick or treat.  Many Auburn Hills’ residents take the opportunity to adorn their homes and yards.  These decorations run the gamut from whimsical to gruesome.

This dragon makes his home on Alberta

This witch (and her cat) crash landed on Garden Court

This spider has spun his web on Richwood

This cemetery can be found on Cherryland

Tomorrow is the big night for trick or treaters of all ages.   Hours are from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.   Have a happy and safe Halloween.

As Sir Graves used to say: “Happy Haunting!”

Can You Give Up Your Lunchtime Burger?

Karen Adcock, Director of Senior Services

This couple just needs a little help.  If not you, then who?

Here’s the story.  He’s a veteran who served his country proudly many years ago.  She raised their four children, volunteered at their children’s school, and at the local library.  They both raised their children to be successful adults with active careers and families of their own.  Their children support and help their parents as best as they can, but two live out-of-state and one lives over six hours away.  Their youngest, who lives in the next town over, keeps busy with her young children’s schedules so she can only visit a couple of times a week.

This dedicated husband gets up daily and makes breakfast for the two of them. She sits there across from the table from him, smiles shyly at him and wonders: Who is this good-looking man?  She has no idea this man is her husband of 55+ years.  He smiles back to reassure her everything is going to be alright.  This morning is no different from the one before, and the one before that, and so on.

Every day this good man helps his wife with her personal needs, gets her dressed and takes her with him when he runs errands.  He wonders to himself how she can be so wide awake as the night before she wandered the halls of their home looking for something that she couldn’t explain to him. He gets up making sure she is okay, and making sure the double bolts on the doors are secure so she won’t wander away. He sighs to himself, as he realizes how tired he really is, and how each day seems harder and harder than the last. But he loves her and vows he will take care of her to the end.

At lunchtime there’s a knock on the door.  He smiles as he answers the door. A wonderful and cheerful volunteer is bringing two nutritious meals to him and his wife. The volunteer greets him warmly and asks how he’s doing?  He smiles a weary smile and says the same as usual.  He thanks the volunteer and says how grateful he is for the meals – as it’s one less thing he has to worry about.

The volunteer leaves the veteran and his wife to deliver more meals.  While this volunteer feels a pang of sadness for the couple, she also feels good inside knowing she has made another person’s day a bit brighter.  Her spirits pick up knowing she will make another person’s day better as she delivers the next meal and so on.  This volunteer smiles as she realizes how much she looks forward to this one day a week, this one fleeting lunch hour, and how her day is much brighter because of her involvement with the Meals on Wheels program.

Our Meals on Wheels volunteers deliver nutritious meals seven days a week to numerous seniors, much like this veteran and his wife (which is a true story).  Most of our Meals on Wheels participants are over the age of 75, female, and widowed.  This is not an income based program – it’s provided on an as-needed basis.  Many participants are low-income, frail, disabled, and unable to prepare a nutritious meal.  While others are caregivers that get some relief by receiving meals through the program.  Most importantly, the friendly face and hello from the Meals on Wheels volunteer may be the only human contact these folks will receive.

You too can help Auburn Hills’ residents like this couple.  It’s a rather small commitment of time in the grand scheme of things – it’s just a lunch hour.  You too can be that friendly volunteer that makes a difference in our community.  To volunteer, stop by the Auburn Hills Community Center or call 248-370-9353 and ask for Volunteer Coordinator Paige Baranyai.

Consider being a Meals on Wheels volunteer, because I can promise you this, the experience will be much more satisfying than any lunchtime burger will ever be.

Beautification Efforts Honored This Week

Posted by – Elizabeth Brennan, Executive Assistant

The beautiful fall weather this week was a perfect backdrop for the City’s Beautification Awards Dinner held Wednesday evening.   Eighty residents and businesses were honored by the Beautification Advisory Commission (BAC) for their exceptional efforts in creating colorful and inviting landscapes and gardens.  A slide show of the winning properties highlighted the dedication, creativity and enthusiasm it takes to create these enviable addresses.

Before dinner was served, the honorees enjoyed hearing from Mayor, Kevin McDaniel and visiting with City Council Members, Henry Knight, Cheryl Verbeke, Maureen Hammond and VeRonica Mitchell.

One of the winning landscapes found in Auburn Hills’ neighborhoods

As an added treat, large, fall-colored mum plants and each of the table centerpieces, shown below, were raffled off to 31 lucky award winners after dinner.

The BAC would like to thank all the participants in the 2015 Beautification Awards Program and encourages everyone in Auburn Hills to take part in making Auburn Hills a beautiful place to live, work and grow!

Information on this and other BAC programs can be found throughout the year in the Auburn Hills Review, the seasonal newsletter and community program guide for the City of Auburn Hills.

Attention Parents And Grandparents!

Posted by – Dale Mathes, Code Enforcement Officer

This Saturday, September 12th from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., you can have your child’s or grandchild’s seat inspected by a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician for free.

These free inspections will take place at the Walter P. Chrysler Museum located at One Chrysler Drive (northwest corner of Featherstone and Squirrel Roads).

Did you know that four out of five child safety seats are used incorrectly?

Please take this opportunity to ensure that your youngster is protected.

What An Adventure!

Posted by – Stephanie Carroll, Manager of Business Development & Community Relations

Each year since 2008, Auburn Hills has offered its employees the opportunity to experience Auburn Hills University (AHU). AHU is an internal program that allows employees, new and seasoned, a chance to understand the entire organization and how it operates.

Auburn Hills University – Class of 2015

From the Fire Department to the Clerk’s Office, this program allows us to provide better customer service to our citizens and creates stronger relationships among fellow employees.  The class meets once a month for five months to learn what other departments do to bring value to the organization.

On Wednesday, the class visited the Auburn Hills campus of OCC to take part in their outdoor adventure challenge training program.  This team building course presents teams with a series of problem-solving tasks.  Participants work together and share ideas to successfully complete each challenge.  The program enables teams to work on their interpersonal communication skills.  We had a great time!

Our instructor Hans conducted a debriefing and asked participants to talk about what they learned most from the morning at OCC.  The three themes that kept being repeated were trust, communication and leadership.

This was a wonderful experience for our group.  It was a great opportunity for employees to come together outside of the office and focus on team development.