LANSING — State Rep. Jim Ellison (D-Royal Oak) will hold his first coffee hour on Friday, Jan. 27, from 7:30-9 a.m. at Sero’s Restaurant, located at 375 W. 12 Mile Road in Madison Heights.

“During my 13 years as mayor, I always did my best to be accessible and listen to residents,” said Ellison. “Nothing will change in that regard, and I look forward to visiting with residents throughout the year and taking everyone’s thoughts and concerns with me to Lansing as we work to create a brighter future for our state.”

In 2017, Ellison will be holding his coffee hours from 7:30-9 a.m. on the second Friday of each month at the Bean and Leaf Café, 106 S. Main St. in Royal Oak, and on the fourth Friday of each month at Sero’s Restaurant, 375 W. 12 Mile Road in Madison Heights.

“My coffee hours are an opportunity for residents to come and share their thoughts on issues facing our local communities and state, and get information about what is happening at the state level,” said Ellison. “I hope residents will join me as we discuss the issues facing our schools, communities and state.”

Due to holidays, Ellison will not be holding coffee hours on the fourth Friday in November and December.

Prior to being elected state representative in November of 2016, Ellison previously served seven consecutive terms as the mayor of Royal Oak.

Ellison also previously served on the Royal Oak City Commission and Planning Commission, and was the founding chairman of the Woodward Dream Cruise.

State Rep. Jim Ellison represents Michigan’s 26th House District, which includes the cities of Madison Heights and Royal Oak.