MADISON HEIGHTS — The city of Madison Heights is currently updating its zoning ordinance — the document that guides land use — while also working toward a special status through the state that would provide access to new resources for growth.

HAZEL PARK — A series of signposts featuring pages from a children’s book are now on display at United Oaks Elementary School — a way to enjoy a story while going for a stroll. And in the spring, a grant-funded sensory garden will be added, as well.

HAZEL PARK — A nonpartisan group will lead a discussion at the Hazel Park District Library about how the Earth is warming itself and manmade activity is making it worse, leading to extreme weather events and shifts in climate that have scientists very concerned.

MADISON HEIGHTS — Massive murals continue to pop up in Madison Heights, turning empty walls into expansive fantasy worlds and scenes of natural splendor.

SOUTHFIELD — From art and cooking to gardening and exercise, a local nonprofit is trying to provide meaningful activities for those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them to hone skills and nurture their creative side.

MADISON HEIGHTS/ROYAL OAK — More than 7,000 people in the cities of Madison Heights and Royal Oak were left without power when a fire broke out at the local DTE Energy substation.

MADISON HEIGHTS — The city of Madison Heights is working with its two school districts to install police officers at each campus who will provide an extra layer of security for students and staff.

HAZEL PARK — In 2020, one of the bright spots amid the pandemic was the Marigold Project. The walk-through art exhibit was built in Hazel Park from thousands of flower blooms, many of which came from the Michigan Urban Farming Initiative.

HAZEL PARK — Organizers for the Hazel Park Art Fair, now in its 10th year, hope it will build on the momentum of last year’s record-setting show that was attended by more than 4,000 people.

HAZEL PARK — After allegedly making more than 150 phone calls to the dispatch line of Hazel Park police, a Roseville man has been charged with violating a local ordinance that prohibits harassing phone calls.

SOUTHFIELD —  A capital facilities bond has been proposed for the Southfield Public Schools that aims to right-size the district by closing and demolishing underutilized sites, while improving facilities and programming at the buildings that remain.

SOUTHFIELD — Last year saw the return of the Kimmie Horne Jazz Festival after its cancellation in 2020 due to the pandemic. Officials say its return last year was stronger than ever, and they’re looking for another strong showing this year.

METRO DETROIT — Stephanie Chang defeated her challenger Toinu Reeves in the Democratic primary for the Michigan Senate’s 3rd District Aug. 2.

OAKLAND COUNTY — Ronald Dwyer bested Al Gui in the Republican primary Aug. 2 for the 3rd District of the Oakland County Board of Commissioners.

MADISON HEIGHTS — A program currently being developed by the city of Madison Heights will provide eligible homeowners with affordable household repairs starting next summer, once the federal government approves funds for it.