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Hello Friends, Fall is officially here! As we wrap up an unusually warm season and say goodbye to our local outdoor farmers markets, we welcome the crisp Michigan air and the vibrant colors that make our community so special this time of year. There’s truly no better place to experience fall than right here at home. Unfortunately, this season also brings some challenges. With the federal government now in the second-longest shutdown in U.S. history, many folks are feeling the effects, from uncertainty about paychecks to delays in important services. Please know that you are not alone. My team and I are here to offer support, provide helpful information and share resources to help you navigate this difficult situation. Even though Washington may be at a standstill, our office is open and ready to support you. Please look out for a special e-news edition that highlights the recent pause of SNAP benefits, the federal shutdown and resources during this time. Stay warm, take care of one another and don’t hesitate to reach out if you need a hand. As always, if my office can be of assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact us via email at [email protected]. Thank you for the opportunity to serve you! Sincerely, Ranjeev Puri Democratic Leader
In this Issue:
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UPCOMING TIME WITH RANJEEV |
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Stay tuned for the announcement of our next coffee hour! You can find out about future events in our bi-weekly e-newsletters, on our website or through social media. |
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE |
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Rep. Puri Joins the governor for Bill Signing to Eliminate State Taxes on Tips, Overtime Pay and Social Security Earlier this month, I joined the governor, fellow legislators and local service industry workers in Trenton as the governor signed our budget that eliminates state taxes on tips, overtime pay and Social Security income. This new law will help working families and retirees keep more of their hard-earned money. Providing meaningful relief at a time when every dollar counts, this new legislation strengthens Michigan’s economy and supports hardworking Michiganders across all communities.
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WHAT WE’VE BEEN UP TO |
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Business of the Month – Cellar Door Bath Supply Co. Congratulations to Cellar Door Bath Supply Co, House District 24’s October “Business of the Month”! Founded right here in Michigan, Cellar Door Bath Supply Co. is a family-owned business led by wife and husband team Elizabeth and Brandon Mitchell, alongside dedicated candle and soap makers who pour care into every product they make. What started as a fun hobby in 2008 has grown into a successful family business. They design, test and produce all products in-house right here in Canton and ship their products to customers and retailers across the world. They share a deep commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability. Cellar Door’s products are plant-based, cruelty free and do not contain any synthetic dyes or detergents. They demonstrate that a business can be successful and environmentally conscious. Congratulations to Cellar Door Bath Supply Co. for doing things the right way and for making a real impact in our community.
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October Teacher of the Month: Ms. Olivia Foster Congratulations to Ms. Olivia C. Foster, House District 24’s October “Teacher of the Month”! Ms. Foster currently teaches 21st Century Global Issues and Literature at Plymouth-Canton Community Schools, where she inspires students to think critically, write creatively and engage deeply with the world and community around them. This year her incredible dedication and steadfast guidance helped five of her students receive national recognition for their writing skills in the New York Times’ 100-Word Narrative Contest. Two of her students were named winners and three were named finalists out of more than 12,000 global submissions! Ms. Foster’s commitment to encouraging students to use their voices and express their creativity exemplifies exactly what it means to be an exceptional educator. She not only teaches skills that can be used in the classroom, but empowers her students to get involved in their communities with confidence, creativity and the tools that will help them in all aspects of life. Congratulations Ms. Foster, and thank you for your incredible dedication to your students and our community.
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No Kings Protest On Oct. 18, I joined thousands of energized Michiganders in a powerful show of unity for democracy. Together, we raised our voices to oppose what many view as authoritarian actions by the president. It was a privilege to stand shoulder to shoulder with my fellow Michiganders, peacefully defending the principles that define our democracy. We will continue to stand up for democracy every single day, protecting the rights, freedoms and values that make Michigan and our nation strong.
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Joining Our Neighbors on the Doors to Hear About the Issues that Matter Most This summer and fall, our team joined Michiganders around Canton and Michigan to learn more about what issues matter most to them. I had the exciting opportunity in October to join my colleagues, state Reps. Cynthia Neeley and Brenda Carter in their districts to hear from fellow Michiganders. Diwali Celebrations Recently I joined many communities across the state to celebrate Diwali, “The Festival of Light” together. The celebrations were filled with music, delicious food and the spirit of togetherness. Happy Diwali to everyone celebrating locally in Canton and all over the world! Let us remember the significance of this day to fight for good over evil, right over wrong and light over darkness. These lessons are now more important than ever. Wishing you and your family lots of love, joy and prosperity!
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Sikh Heritage Banquet This October, the 33rd annual Sikh Heritage Banquet was hosted at the SoHo Banquet and Event Center. The event brought together members of law enforcement, fire departments and elected officials to celebrate unity and positivity. This year’s theme embodied “Power of Positivity” — it highlighted enduring Sikh values of service, humility and compassion. As Harpreet Sachdeva of the Sikh Heritage Foundation shared, “Sikh values are American values… this is the time to come together and unite to help each other.”
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UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS |
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Canton Holiday Artisan Market, Saturday, Nov. 8 Enjoy this festive market showcasing the talents of local artisans as you start your holiday shopping. This market will feature a variety of vendors, including familiar faces from Canton Farmers Market. Visitors can expect to find holiday gifts, home decor, handcrafted goods, food items, baked goods and more! For more information, call (734) 394-5375. See you at the Market! Salute To Service, Tuesday, Nov. 11 Continuing its tradition of honoring area servicemen and women who have served or are currently serving in military service, Canton will once again host its “Salute To Service” event on Nov. 11 to salute all veterans, living and deceased and those currently serving in harm’s way at this special Veterans Day celebration at The Village Theater. Doors open at 6 p.m. and this FREE event will begin at 7 p.m. For more information, call (734) 394-5300. Home for the Holidays, Wednesday, Nov. 12 Have a visit with Santa Claus right at your own house! Ten-minute visits will be held outdoors and include a conversation with Santa, an early gift from Santa and a photo opportunity. Pre-registration is required. Sign up for a specific date and Canton Leisure Services will contact you with your appointment time. Canton residents only. Swim with Santa, Saturday, Nov. 15 Santa is getting in some relaxation before he rushes off to start the busy holiday season. And this year, he’s relaxing at the Summit on the Park. Join us for this special event where you can swim with Santa and share your holiday wish list early. The day’s event will include pool games, light refreshments, quality time with Santa and MAYBE a surprise visit from Rudolph! Note: Parents are required to be in the water with their child if their child is 11 or younger. Registration is limited — only those who are under 18 need to register. Families are welcome to attend with those who are registered. |
RESOURCES |
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Due to the sheer volume of resources and information we are seeking to share amidst the Federal Shutdown, please look out for a “special edition” e-news coming to your inboxes. This special edition e-news will include resources for food assistance and opportunities to get involved if you’re able. |
TEACHER AND SMALL BUSINESS OF THE MONTH NOMINATIONS |
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Our team needs your help to recognize the amazing educators and small businesses in our community. Each month, my team recognizes one teacher and one small business from Canton for their contributions to our community. I will be surprising the winners with a visit, certificate from our office and social media shoutouts for their great work. Use this form to nominate a teacher or small business that you love, appreciate or believe deserves special recognition. |
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU |
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Our office is always here to answer any questions, concerns, or listen to any thoughts you have on any particular issue. The best way to reach us is by email at [email protected]. We also hope you will join us for upcoming coffee hours so that we can meet and I can hear what is on your mind. |