You may see a new face the next time you’re at a parade or other events in downtown Lake Orion. Chances are, she planned it.
The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) recently welcomed Jean Keitz, the new events coordinator, to their staff.
Since starting Sept. 1, Keitz has already had to dive in with the planning of the Halloween parade, which starts at the Angel Center (formerly Ehman Center) at 5:30 on Oct. 30.
‘It’s been fun. I’m enjoying it a lot here. There are so many people in this town who really care about the community,? she said.
Keitz, who lives in Oakland Township, worked in the insurance business for decades until retiring in 2000. She then started volunteering at the Detroit Institute of Arts, where she did a variety of things involved with the museum’s makeover. Mainly, she said she helped coordinate timelines and budgets while working between vendors and administration to get the interpretive exhibits that have been dazzling the public since the DIA reopened in Nov. 2007.
After the reopening, Keitz was again looking for something to do. The part-time gig at the DDA fit her schedule and fulfilled a desire to become active in the area.
‘Getting involved in the community is always a good thing,? she said.
Besides helping plan and promote events like upcoming holiday festivities, Keitz also tries to find sponsors and donors.
Lois Golden, executive director of the DDA, Janet Hartman, administrative coordinator, and Nancy King, grounds and beautification coordinator, have all been more than accommodating, Keitz said.
‘Everyone on this staff has been great. They’re all dedicated to this downtown,? she added.