Hello Neighbor,

This month in Lansing, we’ve been working on the budget to invest in YOU and YOUR hometown. We’re continuing to do the work to ensure our communities thrive.

ICYMI: The dome is back open at our beautiful Capitol! We’d love to have you visit us and take a look for yourself.

capitol

In this E-Newsletter:

  • Legislative Updates

  • Carol in the Community

  • Coffee Hours

  • Double Up Food Bucks

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Legislative Updates:

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Computer Science Bills: With my background as an education technology director, I was thrilled to testify recently in front of the House Education Committee for my bill, House Bill 5649, that would require all Michigan high schools to offer a computer science course.

  • Computer science includes such skills as basic coding, data analytics, content creation and ethics of use, among others skills.
  • These skills are increasingly necessary in order to compete in any role in the 21st century workforce, yet only 55% of Michigan high schools currently offer computer science (CS) classes (below the national average).
  • Currently, there are over 17,000 computing jobs available in Michigan with an average salary of over $82,000. These are great careers that our kids should know more about as they are making choices for their futures.
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Joint Committee Hearing: For the first time in Michigan history, we held a joint Higher Education Committee alongside the Appropriations Subcommittee on Higher Education and Community Colleges.

  • We heard testimony from the new Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential with updates on the efforts to support students and families with filling out the new FAFSA.
  • FAFSA is the qualifying document all students need to complete to find out how much financial they’re eligible for at the federal and state level.
  • For more information on state sponsored scholarships and grants visit MiLEAP.

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Carol in the Community:

Cinco de Mayo Celebration: As a former Spanish teacher, Cinco de Mayo is one of my favorite holidays. It’s a celebration full of vibrant music, delicious food, colorful decorations and lively dancing that brings the community together in recognition of the Battle of Puebla.

West Michigan New Horizons Concert: The arts are incredibly near and dear to my heart, and it was a pleasure to recognize and congratulate the West Michigan New Horizons Music Ensemble on its 25th anniversary. WMNHME enriches the lives of adult musicians by providing a means to continue playing an instrument, learn a new one and socialize in an atmosphere of culture and growth.
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Memorial Day: May is the month when school is wrapping up, everyone is itching to get up north and we’re all looking forward to summer. However, let us not forget those who gave the ultimate sacrifice so that we might enjoy these freedoms. Thank you to all our veterans and active-duty military members and families for your dedication and selfless service.

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Coffee Hours:

One of my favorite things I get to do as a state representative is meet in-person with you over a warm cup of coffee. This past month, we were hosted by the Kent District Library as we welcomed members from the community to discuss updates from Lansing.

Our next coffee hour we will be headed to Blandford Nature Center on Friday, June 7, from 9-10 a.m. We hope to see you there!

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Double Up Food Bucks:

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  • Buying food is expensive right now, especially for our neighbors who may be struggling to put food on the table. Double Up Food Bucks is here to help. For those who shop for groceries with a SNAP/Michigan Bridge Card, they can double their benefits to purchase fresh, Michigan-grown fruits and veggies using Double Up Food Bucks.
  • The program is available at more than 230 participating farmer’s markets, farm stands and grocery stores across Michigan. With farmers market season around the corner, it’s a great time to use this program! Learn how it works and find a participating location near you at DoubleUpFoodBucks.org.

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Events:

Friday, June 7, from 9-10 a.m. at Blandford Nature Center: Coffee with Carol.

  • Come enjoy some coffee with us as we discuss legislative updates in Lansing!

Saturday, June 8, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Sullivan Field: West Grand Neighbors 50th Anniversary Party.

  • Food, music, beverages and fun!

Saturday, June 22, from noon to 10 p.m. at Calder Plaza: Grand Rapids Pride Festival.

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Thank you for reading my newsletter. As your state representative, I want to hear from you about your questions and concerns. Please, don’t hesitate to reach out to my office at (517) 373-0476 or email me at CAGlanville@house.mi.gov. You can also follow me on social media to stay informed on what I’m up to.

Thank you,

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Carol Glanville
State Representative
House District 84