May 12, 2016
For more information on any items featured, contact Community Relations.
IT'S ALMOST TIME TO SPRING INTO NOVI
Join us at community open house from 10-1p on May 14
Come learn about your Novi, spend time with friends and have a ton of fun at the annual Spring into Novi community open house on May 14 on the Novi Civic Center campus.

The free event, from 10-1p, gives residents the opportunity to interact with the various city departments, ask questions and learn more about their Novi. Numerous other community organizations also will be on hand to share information.

Spring into Novi has something for everyone, especially the little ones! The day will feature crafts and games, live fire demonstrations, a tour of the police department and much more!

If you are a member of a Homeowners Association, the day gets started at 8:30a with the annual HOA Leadership Breakfast. Board members will get an update on the future of trash service and the No-Knock Registry.

This event is for HOA leaders only and includes breakfast. Registration is required and can be done here or by emailing Community Relations.
HELP SAVE A LIFE BY DONATING BLOOD
Battle of the Badges Blood Drive, May 18 at Novi Civic Center
The Novi Police and Fire Departments are facing off once again for their annual Battle of the Badges Blood Drive to benefit the American Red Cross.

The blood drive takes place from 9a-3p on Wednesday, May 18, at the Novi Civic Center. The friendly competition allows donors to choose which agency they want to donate blood for - Novi Police or Novi Fire - prior to their donation.

Since 2012, a total of 141 pints of blood has been collected at this drive. To donate, donors must be at least 17 years old, be in good health and weigh at least 110 pounds. Donors should register online at RedCrossBlood.org using the code "Novi."
MULCH PROPERLY TO PROTECT TREES
Mounding mulch on trunk could cause deadly damage
Help us take care of our city trees by bucking a growing landscape mulching trend that is actually causing damage to the trees you are trying to beautify.

Mounding mulch around the base of the tree, also known as "volcano mulching," can cause a variety of problems and even possibly kill the tree. Some problems include:
  • Bark decay in the areas under the mulch - The mulch can hold moisture against the bark and contribute to fungi and/or tree diseases that can lead to trunk failure.
  • Secondary root system - The tree may create a secondary root system into the mulch "volcano," leading to root die-off when the mulch dries in the summer, freezing of the roots in the winter and creation of girdling roots around the base of the tree.
The City asks that you keep the mulch away from the base of your trees, and insist your landscape care companies do the same with other trees around your neighborhood. Our hope is that the existing mulch volcanoes will be removed down to ground level.

If you have any questions or concerns, contact Forestry Asset Manager Tiffany Giacobazzi at 248.347.0401 or Landscape Architect Rick Meader at 248.735.5621.
MEMORIAL DAY IS A TIME TO REMEMBER
Honor our troops during parade, service at 10a on Monday, May 30
Be part of the Novi Memorial Day tradition by gathering for the annual parade and Memorial Service on Monday, May 30

All residents, businesses, civic organizations, scout troops and families are encouraged to march in the parade to honor the men and women who died while serving in the armed forces. 

The parade starts at 10a and runs along Ten Mile beginning at Karim Boulevard. A Memorial Service at the Novi Civic Center will be held once the parade concludes.

If you want to participate in the parade or are a veteran, register online at cityofnovi.org. Veterans can either walk in the parade or ride on the Veterans Float. They also will be treated to a special luncheon after the event.

For more information or questions, call 248.347.0414.