Dear Friend,
Welcome to my latest e-newsletter! Read on for legislative updates and things to do this month, along with other community information.
Progressive Women’s Caucus Listening Tour
Join me on Monday, August 12, at Mott Community College – Northern Tier on 4082 W. Vienna Road in Clio at 5 p.m. for my stop on the Michigan Legislature’s Progressive Women’s Caucus Listening Tour. This summer marks the 100th anniversary of Michigan ratifying the 19th amendment and we are thrilled to commemorate this historic occasion by celebrating “100 years of making our voices heard” during the summer listening tour. The format will be very much like a town hall, with an emphasis on audience questions and answers. The goal is to provide a forum for attendees to discuss issues on the minds of women today. See you there!
Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week
In case you missed it, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer proclaimed June 30 – July 7 Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week. The Michigan Departments of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy; Natural Resources; and Agriculture and Rural Development and many partners have organized more than 75 AIS Landing Blitz events at boating access sites across the state, aimed at helping boaters comply with new laws to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.
Those planning to enjoy the Great Lakes or any of Michigan’s rivers or inland lakes are encouraged to follow simple steps to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species like Eurasian watermilfoil or New Zealand mudsnail:
● Don't launch or transport watercraft or trailers unless they are free of aquatic organisms, including plants.
● Don't transport watercraft without removing all drain plugs and draining all water from bilges, ballast tanks and live wells.
● Don't release unused bait into the water.
Grab a Bike and Get Going!
With warmer weather, it’s a great time to head out and explore your community on your bike. First, make sure to check out the bike trails we have here in Genesee County.
After that, get your safety gear on, check your bike and head out! Need to brush up on the rules? Here’s a few to get you started:
● Wear your helmet. Follow this simple rule and you reduce your risk of serious injury by as much as 85 percent.
● Keep your head up and look ahead, not at the ground. You need to see what is coming up so you have time to react and maneuver.
● One person per bike. Riding with unsecured passengers puts you at risk for injury to yourself and others.
● Ride in single file with space between bikes.
● Ride on the right side of the road, never against traffic. Otherwise, you are at risk for an accident – or a ticket.
● Plan ahead if you will ride in a group. Agree on the route ahead of time. Have a plan on what you will do if separated by traffic.
● If you will be riding in an unfamiliar area, check out local laws and rules first.
● Avoid busy roads and peak traffic times on your route.
● Before riding at night, ask someone to help you check your visibility to motorists.
● Maintain the bikes in your household. Keep chains clean and lubricated and periodically inspect brake pads.
Events in the 48th District
Animal Pose Yoga
For-Mar Nature Preserve & Arboretum is hosting an Animal Pose Yoga event on Monday, July 8 from 11 a.m. – noon. Let your inner animal ROAR with a yoga class designed after the movements and shapes of animals. This class is low impact and for all ages and all abilities. It is especially great for kids! For more information, please visit the Genesee County Parks website.
Exotic Zoo Experience
The Montrose-Jennings Library is hosting an Exotic Zoo experience on Thursday July 11 from 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. The GDL welcomes this hands-on animal program featuring a sloth, lemur, an anteater-looking animal and even a kangaroo! Please note that the animals available for viewing, touching and handling may change. All creatures get a little grumpy and need a day off sometimes. All ages are welcome. For more information, please visit the Genesee District Library website.
Oreo Taste-Test Challenge
The Genesee-Johnson Library is hosting an Oreo Taste Test Challenge on Thursday July 18, from 6 – 7 p.m. Do you know your Oreo flavors? Participate in the Oreo Taste Test and find out. This event is open to children of all ages. For more information or to register, please visit the Genesee District Library website.
Fourth of July
Many Michigan families will be celebrating the 4th of July this week and I wanted to take this opportunity to wish you and yours a safe and happy holiday. As we celebrate this Independence Day, I hope we also take the time to recommit ourselves to making sure that everyone in this country has access to the same opportunities and ideas that our country was founded on.
All state offices will also be closed on Thursday, July 4 in observance of the holiday.
I hope you found this information useful. Please feel free to contact my office if we can be of any assistance.
Sincerely,
State Rep. Sheryl Y. Kennedy, PhD
48th House District
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