Hello friends,
With the worst of the summer heat behind us, August might be the perfect time to squeeze in the last of summer’s outdoor adventures before school starts. I am grateful to live and work in a state that has so many lakes, hiking trails and other natural resources to enjoy. Protecting these landmarks is essential to my work in the House of Representatives and I will continue to fight to protect our environment for generations to come.
If you would like to weigh in on any issues involving state government, my office is reachable by phone at (517) 373-0828, by email (DonnaLasinski@house.mi.gov) or by coming to one of our District events. Upcoming coffee hours, celebrations, and town halls are listed below and I would love to see you there.
Sincerely,
Donna Lasinski
Legislative Updates
On the Budget
The budget negotiation process is still ongoing. The recent proposals by the House and Senate for the Department of Education do not go far enough to ensure that students receive the necessary resources for a quality education. My colleagues and I are in continued negotiations to ensure that every student gets the funding they need for a successful future.
Under Governor Whitmer’s proposed budget, all schools in District 52 would see an increase in funding. We would see the following per-pupil increases in our community:
Manchester Community Schools: $333
Chelsea School District: $326
Dexter Community Schools: $263
Saline Area Schools: $344
Whitmore Lake Public Schools: $448
Ann Arbor Public Schools: $322
We need to find a compromise on the budget that protects the needs of our students and their teachers. I will keep fighting to ensure all Michigan students receive the quality education they need to succeed.
Energy Infrastructure
Early this month, the Michigan Public Service Commission launched the initial Statewide Energy Assessment (SEA) to investigate current conditions of Michigan’s energy infrastructure. While the report deemed our infrastructure as “adequate”, they also made 36 recommendations for improvement. As the Democratic Vice Chair of the House Energy Committee, I will continue to advocate for clean, affordable energy in Michigan that makes an investment in our future.
To read more on this report, check out their fact sheet or read the full initial report here.
District Spotlight
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I was honored to meet with Fisher House Michigan’s Board to present a tribute recognizing the groundbreaking of the first ever Fisher House in our state. Their nonprofit houses provide a place to stay for veterans and their families while seeking treatment at a VA hospital. I am proud to stand with such a committed organization.
What to Do in 52
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Stuff the Bus!
Join Michigan United Way as they gather school supplies for children in need. For more information on what United Way is looking for, be sure to check their website.
When: July 29 – August 2 from 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Where: Ann Arbor East Target on Carpenter Road
Ann Arbor Target off Ann Arbor-Saline Road
Ypsilanti City Fire Station
United Way of Washtenaw County
All University of Michigan Credit Union Branches (beginning July 22)
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Saline Summerfest
Saline Summerfest is a super hometown celebration with fun for all ages. You’ll enjoy the annual “Picnic in the Park”, a juried arts and crafts show, a trolley tour of Saline history, a classic car show, a teen block party, all kinds of music and more!
When: August 9 – 10
Locations and times vary, so check out the event website here.
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Dexter Daze Festival
Dexter Daze Festival is a two-day event being held on August 9 and 10at the Monument Park in Dexter. This event features artisans, crafters, businesses and free entertainment for the whole family.
When: August 9 – 10
Where: Monument Park,8000-8558 Ann Arbor St. in Dexter
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Resources
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Becoming an Entrepreneur
Are you interested in starting a small business? Make sure you use the many resources and tools that the State of Michigan has to offer. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation website has a wealth of information and helpful guides that you find by clicking here.
Once you’ve started your business, they may also be able to help you grow: http://www.michiganbusiness.org/pmbc/
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Michigan 2-1-1
Supported by the United Way, 2-1-1 is a free service linking people with information or agencies for help with energy assistance, high utility bills, and other needs. The calls are confidential, and answered 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
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Looking for some Summer Fun?
The Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Department has compiled a list of options
available to your family and/or your kids. The recreation and activities they have listed range
from badminton to nature trails to hike, walk, jog, and enjoy the beauty of nature. The complete list can be found here. I strongly encourage you to take advantage of all that our county has to offer!
I hope that this information has been helpful and that we will see you at future events.
Sincerely,
State Representative Donna Lasinski