Luminaries with Wishes Help Ferndale Welcome the New Year
(Crystal A. Proxmire, Jan. 5, 2021)
Ferndale, MI- A new tradition has begun, which began as a way to say farewell to a very challenging year and to welcome the next with positive wishes.
Night of Light and Hope was created by the Ferndale Beautification Commission in partnership with Ferndale Department of Public Works and local businesses Candle Wick Shoppe and Blumz by JRDesigns.
Residents were able to pick up kits that contained paper bags, candles, and sand, and a mission to decorate the bags to be illuminated on New Years Eve. The bags lined sidewalks, adding a special touch to the cold winter evening.
At least 200 kits were given out. Messages spotted on the lighted bags included wishes for world peace, happiness, kindness, and change for the world. Some honored loved ones – human, canine, and feline. One even announced that the city would soon be getting "baby #2."
Others simply served as a tiny light, that combined with the other bags, helped Ferndale's streets twinkle to match the stars overhead.
"I'm proud of the commission for leading this new initiative and for lighting the path to a better 2021," said Concilperson Laura Mikulski who also volunteers with Ferndale Beautification Commission efforts. "It was great to see all ages and groups participate in decorating the luminaries, especially children and those with a creative flair. Walking around on the cusp of a new year and seeing the hopes, wishes, and good tidings of our neighbors was magical and beautiful."
Suzanne Janik serves on the Beautification Commission. "We were very happy with all the participation," she said. "We hope to make them a regular event."
The Ferndale Beautification Commission makes many efforts through each year to help the community sparkle. They give awards for holiday lights, Halloween decor, and property beautification. In non-pandemic times they also host plant exchanges and other events. To learn more about the FBC, visit them on Facebook. Also check out a previous Oakland County Times story about various boards and commissions and how to volunteer.
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