Michigan clearly is at a tipping point in terms of the types of support, programs and services that we as residents can expect from our state government. Radical change is the order of the day, and even our elected leaders are having a difficult time articulating what lies ahead for our great state and its people.

Newly elected Gov. Rick Snyder campaigned on a platform of ending “business as usual” when it comes to state government and, boy, did he ever deliver on his promise. The fiscal reforms he has called for in his proposed budget are so sweeping that he seems to have managed to alienate just about every interest group fighting to maintain its part of the budget pie.

To help further the discussion on what the future holds for our state and region, the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber is hosting a Legislative Reception, 6-7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 24, at the Townsend Hotel in downtown Birmingham. The event will allow our members, guests and the general public an opportunity to speak one-on-one with their local elected officials to share their thoughts and offer feedback to the men and women representing them in the various branches of government.

On top of that, U.S. Rep. Gary Peters, state Sen. John Pappageorge, state Rep. Chuck Moss and several members of Oakland County government also have confirmed their attendance. And, best yet, the evening comes without a single speech or formal program; rather, just an opportunity to speak directly with those charged with running our schools, cities, villages, townships, county, state and country.

Learn more about the event and find registration information on the chamber’s website