LANSING — State Rep. Jim Ellison (D-Royal Oak) will hold his first happy hour on Tuesday, May 23, from 5:30-7 p.m. at Fifth Avenue, located at 215 W. Fifth St. in Royal Oak.

“During my 13 years as mayor, I always enjoyed being out in the community and visiting with residents,” Ellison said. “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 also be holding 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 and happy hours are an opportunity for residents to come and share their thoughts on issues facing our local communities and schools, and get information about what is happening in Lansing,” 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. Residents are encouraged to visit www.Ellison.HouseDems.com to for updates, information and events.

Before being elected state representative in November 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, as president of the Royal Oak Housing Commission and was the founding chairman of the Woodward Dream Cruise.

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