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BIRMINGHAM
JULY 12, 2023 Vol. 16, No. 15
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS HELP CO-AUTHOR CHILDREN’S BOOK /3A
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FOUNDERS FESTIVAL SET TO RETURN
BY MARK VEST
mvest@candgnews.com
The Greater Farmington Founders Festival is scheduled to return this month.
FARMINGTON — A longstanding tradition is set to continue in Farmington, as the Greater Farmington Founders Festival is scheduled to take place July 20-22 in the downtown area. It is the 59th year for the event, and multiple options for entertainment have been scheduled for residents to enjoy. The agenda includes a 5K color run that is scheduled to take place at 9 a.m. Saturday, July 22, giving participants an opportunity to run through Shiawassee Park and downtown Farmington. The Founders Festival Parade is scheduled to take place along Grand River Avenue starting at 10 a.m. July 22. A kids area is set to be part of the fun 10 a.m.-8 p.m. July 21 and 22. The kids area is scheduled to feature the Airborne Bouncers stage shows, live sand art and a foam party. The Crafters Market is set to take place July 21 and 22, with vendors offering “vintage decor, shabby chic designs, up-cycled items, handmade consumables, rustic inspirations and one-of-akind furniture.” See FESTIVAL on page 4A
File photo provided by 360 Event Productions
‘PUT THOSE PHONES DOWN, AND YOUR TABLETS’ Some people are hoping Michigan roadways will become safer to travel after a new bipartisan law took effect June 30 to prohibit driving and holding a cellphone for any use unless there is an emergency. After being introduced in the state Legislature, three bills related to distracted driving were recently signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
LOCAL POLICE OFFICIALS DISCUSS NEW DISTRACTED DRIVING LAW
According to a press release issued on behalf of Insurance Alliance of Michigan, data from the Michigan State Police showed that in 2021, more than 16,000 motor vehicle crashes involved a distracted driver, with 59 of those crashes resulting in a fatality.
A press release from the Michigan Department of Transportation stated that MDOT will install 37 signs at state line and border crossings announcing the hands-free cellphone law. Michigan is now the 26th state to adopt a hands-free driving law. According to the release from MDOT, texting while driving has been illegal in Michigan since 2010, but increasing the parameters of the law to prohibit the use See DISTRACTED on page 10A
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BY MARK VEST mvest@candgnews.com