Gun violence in schools and communities will be the focus of a town hall event this weekend.

The panel-style town hall will feature officials and candidates for the 8th congressional district to discuss the issue of gun violence in schools and communities. The non-partisan event is open to the public and being put on by The Town Hall Project, which helped organize the March for Our Lives demonstrations that took place across the country on March 24th to end gun violence in schools. Organizers say citizens are seeking answers and solutions from members of Congress.

Republican Congressman Mike Bishop has been invited to the town hall but has yet to confirm. 8th District candidates confirmed to be in attendance include Democrats Elissa Slotkin and Christopher Smith. Dr. Jim Hines, a Republican Michigan gubernatorial candidate, will also be taking part.

The Town Hall for Our Lives event will take place this Saturday from noon until 2pm at Lakelands Golf and Country Club on Chilson Road. (JM)