Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Welcome back to my e-newsletter. It’s an honor representing the residents of the 50th House District and Genesee County. To stay up-to-date on my work in Lansing and around the district, visit my website at www.RepSneller.com, follow me on Facebook (@StateRepSneller) or follow me on Instagram (@reptimsneller). I want to make sure I keep you as informed as possible.

Michigan’s 2020 Jail Reforms Take Effect

I took action last year with a bipartisan coalition to curb Michigan’s unsustainable jail growth. The number of people in Michigan’s jails had tripled over a relatively short period of time, not because of a spike in crime, but because of state policies that sent people to jail for a wide range of low-level, nonviolent offenses. By sponsoring PA 383, I helped shape our laws to ensure that jail is used for real public safety threats rather than for debt collection, nuisances and warehousing of people with mental illnesses. The final piece of the 2020 package of legislation took effect Oct. 1, restoring driver’s licenses for people who lost them due to unpaid fees or missed court appointments. Read more about our state’s landmark jail reforms here!

Police Supplemental

Last week, the House passed supplemental legislation to invest in our police, firefighters and other first responders. We are committed to supporting our first responders and investing in safe communities.

investing

House Democrats, Gov. Whitmer Deliver Historic Investments in Child Care

On Nov. 8, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced the launch of the Child Care Stabilization Grant that will distribute $350 million in grants to give every full-time child care professional a $1,000 bonus and keep childcare programs open and serving kids.

I was proud to vote YES on the historic, bipartisan budget that made a $1.5 billion investment to expand child care access and opportunities for Michigan families. We know that for our economy to continue its rebound, Michigan families need reliable access to quality and affordable childcare.

The Child Care Stabilization Grant application is now open. Licensed child care providers are eligible to apply and should visit www.Michigan.gov/childcare to review frequently asked questions and apply. Child care professionals will be awarded bonuses directly from their employer and do not need to apply. This is a non-competitive grant. Every eligible child care provider that submits a complete application will receive a grant award.

House Democrats will continue to partner with Gov. Whitmer to ensure quality care for our kids, better wages for frontline heroes like our dedicated child care providers and the stability all Michigan families deserve.

The deadline for Child Care Stabilization Grant applications is TODAY, Dec. 8! Under this non-competitive program, child care providers in Michigan can apply for bonuses of up to $1,000 for their staff. Funds become available Jan. 10, 2022.

https://www.michigan.gov/mde/0,4615,7-140–570701–,00.html

Coffee Hours in 2022

We are starting up coffee hours again in 2022. If you haven’t got the chance to stop by yet, I’ve already scheduled several more in the new year. I hope to see you there!

  • Jan. 28: Burton Senior Center, 1 p.m.
  • Feb. 4: Scotti’s Coney Island, 10 a.m.
  • Feb. 25: Grand Blanc Senior Center, 1 p.m.
  • Mar. 4: Scotti’s Coney Island, 10 a.m.
  • Mar. 21: Sam’s Italian Restaurant, 6 p.m.
  • Mar. 25: Burton Senior Center, 1 p.m.
  • Apr. 1: Scotti’s Coney Island, 10 a.m.
  • Apr. 29: Grand Blanc Senior Center, 1 p.m.
  • May 6: Scotti’s Coney Island, 10 a.m.
  • May 16: Sam’s Italian Restaurant, 6 p.m.

Holiday Assistance

As the holiday season approaches, I understand how hard it can be to manage everything that comes with it. Below are some resources that could help alleviate the hard time the holiday can bring.

The Salvation Army – Flint Citadel Corps

211 West Kearsley St. in Flint

(810) 232-2196

The Salvation Army provides a free Christmas assistance program, including Angel Tree. It assists low-income people and people in need who would not be able to otherwise celebrate the holidays. There is free food, toys, gifts, meals and more. Free Thanksgiving meal services will also take place.

Catholic Charities of Genesee County

901 Chippewa St. in Flint

(810) 232-9950

The Catholic Charities of Genesee County provide several assistance programs. You can receive free groceries or hot meals from a food pantry, including Thanksgiving and Christmas ingredients and groceries. Immigrants and Spanish speakers can get help too, and there may be small toys for children.

Special holiday meals will be served at the North End Soup Kitchen, located at 735 E. Stewart Ave. in Flint. Call (810) 785-6911 for more information.

United Outreach Ministries

1249 Roosevelt Ave. in Flint

(810) 309-9319

Winter coat and toy programs are available at the United Outreach Ministries. There may be winter coats, boats, Christmas toys and more. Kids, seniors, single moms and low-income individuals and families are among others who may receive assistance.

Upcoming Events in Genesee County

 

Holiday Walk

6-8 p.m. on Dec. 10

For-Mar Nature Preserve: 2142 N. Genesee Road in Burton

The For-Mar trails and bridges will all be lit up for an evening holiday adventure.

For all ages and abilities (A small flashlight is recommended).

Hike times available at 6 p.m., 7 p.m., 8 p.m.

Pre-registration required by Dec. 9

Price: $10 per car

Cookie and Candy Walk and Craft Show

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Dec. 11

Montrose Orchards: 12473 Seymour Road in Montrose

Christmas goodies will be for sale.

The Clark Sisters

7-9 p.m. on Dec. 12

The Capitol Theatre: 140 Second St. in Flint

The Clark Sisters are an American gospel vocal group consisting of four sisters: Jacky Clark Chisholm, Elbernita “Twinkie” Clark-Terrell, Dorinda Clark-Cole and Karen Clark Sheard. Enjoy this evening as they sing our holiday favorites and more!

Genesee County Residents SAVE 30%!

Price: Tickets range from $40 to $66

YULETIDE FESTIVAL, “WHAT SWEETER MUSIC”

4 p.m. on Dec. 12

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church:  711 S. Saginaw St. in Flint

Celebrating our 27th year, the Chorale remains dedicated to the enrichment of our community through the joy of music. Join us for our Yuletide Festival, “What Sweeter Music”, at 4 p.m. Check out their website or Facebook page  for more details and ticket information.

Performance will also be live streamed.

Price: $12 at the door or online

Movies at the Capitol Theatre – Miracle on 34th Street

7-9:00 p.m. on Dec. 17

The Capitol Theatre: 140 Second St. in Flint

When a nice old man who claims to be Santa Claus is institutionalized as insane, a young lawyer decides to defend him by arguing in court that he is the real thing. (1947)

Run Time: 96 minutes | Rating: not rated

Doors open at 6:15 p.m. | Movie begins at 7 p.m.

Price: Tickets range $3 – $10

Birding Hike: Christmas Bird Count

11 am to 1 p.m. on Dec. 18

For-Mar Nature Preserve: 2142 N. Genesee Road in Burton

Each year, the National Audubon Society enlists countless birders and outdoor enthusiasts all over the United States to help with the annual Christmas Bird Count, an opportunity to help monitor winter bird populations. Help contribute to one of the longest running community conservation projects when you join a For-Mar in identifying and counting the birds that call For-Mar home.

For families, all ages and abilities.

Cost: FREE!

Pre-registration is required by Dec. 17

Holiday Pops featuring The Flint Symphony Orchestra

7 9 p.m. on Dec. 18

The Whiting: 1241 E. Kearsley St. in Flint

Joy, merriment and holiday spirits soar as the FSO is led by guest conductor, Damien Sneed, and joined by Choir Director, Jeffrey LaValley, and special guests, Dottie Jones, Twinkie Clark, and Flint’s own, Roger Jones & The Higher Calling Band. The musical traditions of the season and the community’s diverse cultural heritage are celebrated in this multi-genre presentation that will warm hearts and inspire unforgettable memories!

Price: Tickets range from $11.50 to $37

Little Chef’s Gingerbread House Edition

10 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. on Dec. 18

Flint Farmers Market: 300 E. First Street in Flint

Each little chef will participate in building and decorating their own gingerbread house.

Price: $20 per child

Cross-Country Ski at For-Mar

1-3 p.m. on Dec. 19

For-Mar Nature Preserve: 2142 N. Genesee Road in Burton

Join our For-Mar Nature Educators to learn the best trails to cross country ski and learn about the different wildlife that call For-Mar Home in the winter. Our trip will end with hot cocoa in the visitor center. For-Mar Does NOT provide cross country skis; participants must bring their own. This program is weather dependent and could be canceled due to lack of snow.

For all ages.

Cost: $5 per person.

Pre-registration is required by Dec. 17.

Price: $5 per person

Helpful Resources