Dear Neighbor,
I hope you’ve had a wonderful summer with a chance to enjoy all Michigan has to offer! Even a staycation in the 84th House District won’t disappoint. With museums, cultural festivals, concerts and a convenient drive to Lake Michigan, it’s one of my favorite places to be!
In fact, I’ve been making the most of my time this summer meeting with constituents, participating in community activities and supporting local organizations and businesses.
With fall fast approaching, I’m looking forward to ArtPrize, football and heading back to Lansing to wrap up the legislative year.
As always, 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 by phone at (517) 373-0476 or email at CAGlanville@house.mi.gov, and follow me on social media for the most up-to-date information.
Yours in service,
314
Carol Glanville
State Representative
House District 84
In this edition:
Michigan Supreme Court Decision.
Carol in the Community.
Back to School Information.
Legislative Updates.
Coffee Hours.
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Michigan Supreme Court Decision:
On July 31, the Michigan Supreme Court handed down a long awaited ruling on “adopt-and-amend.” This ruling, while aligning with the will of the people as demonstrated in a 2018 ballot initiative, raises the minimum wage and provides earned paid sick time in all jobs. This decision will have a significant impact on our business community. I’ve been in talks with local business owners, state officials and the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce. It’s important to support both businesses and workers as we transition. My office is prepared to ensure everyone in our community thrives.
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Carol in the Community:
I always enjoy meeting and engaging with folks throughout the community. This month, we had the opportunity to celebrate the past, present and future of our community with a variety of events. Below is a quick rundown of some of the highlights. I also stopped by both the Walker and Grandville city commission meetings to provide a legislative update and connect with leaders in those communities.
Gerald R. Ford Annual Wreath Laying Ceremony
On July 14, marking what would have been President Gerald R. Ford’s 111th birthday, I joined the former president’s family, local Scouts, community members and my colleagues, including U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, to honor the life and legacy of President Ford and First Lady Betty Ford. The occasion served as a heartfelt reminder of their contributions to our nation and the lasting influence of his leadership.
Upcycle Bikes Tour
Special thanks to Rick, Matt and the whole team at Upcycle Bikes for all they do. This remarkable organization in our district assists folks across the Grand Rapids area with affordable transportation. Upcycle Bikes works with numerous partners to repair used adult bicycles and gift them back to those in need of affordable transportation. It may not seem like much, but for many, having a functioning bicycle means getting to the grocery store, work and so much more. I’m grateful for this unique solution and look forward to supporting their future efforts.
General Wood Shop Celebrates 1st Anniversary
I visited General Wood Shop for its grand opening a year ago, and was thrilled to return to help celebrate its one-year anniversary with a ribbon cutting and tribute presentation.
General Wood Shop has quickly made its mark as a popular destination on Bridge Street with its artful, whimsical drinks, delicious eats and engagement with the LGBTQ+ community. And I just love that they chose to name this spot after the original furniture repair business that inhabited this location for decades, the General Wood Shop.
2024 MiSBF Sustainability Issues Policy Forum
This month, joining state Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks and U.S. Congresswoman Hillary Scholten to talk with local leaders about sustainability issues hosted by the Michigan Sustainable Business Forum. During this event, we shared policy initiatives and funding at the state and federal level, explored ways the state can assist communities like Grand Rapids in cutting air pollution, and the importance of electing officials who will continue to support environmental justice and climate initiatives in a manner that moves Michigan forward.
Celebrating ‘Reach for the Pie’ Contest Winners
I was thrilled to be a part of the Reach for the Pie Contest awards ceremony earlier this month. The state of Michigan and Hungry Howie’s partnered to award 100 kids statewide with free pizza for a year, as an incentive to complete the FAFSA and to enroll in college. Congratulations to all the winners!
Back to School:
Hard to believe, but it’s that time of year again! School is back in session, and I’m proud of the investments that we continue to make in our schools that prioritize both teachers and students. From no-cost breakfast and lunch for public school students to ongoing incentives that support students becoming teachers. Check the list below for local district and school information.
Grand Rapids Public Schools: Back to School Guide.
Grandville Public Schools: Back to School Guide.
Kenowa Hills Public Schools: Back to School Guide.
Walker Charter Academy: Back to School Guide.
West Michigan Academy of Environmental Science: Back to School Tips.
Go to the state of Michigan Website to learn more about no-cost breakfast and lunch information for all public school students
College students! We’re working to lower the cost and increase access to college opportunities from skilled trades to four-year university degrees. Whether you are a recent graduate or a non-traditional student, Michigan has a program for you.
Michigan Reconnect is a great program if you’re over 21 years of age and considering returning to college or starting a degree. This scholarship program provides eligible students with a chance to work toward an associate degree or Pell-eligible skills certificate at in-district community colleges, tuition-free.
We’ve streamlined state financial aid with the Michigan Achievement Scholarship. Anyone who has recently graduated high school or completed their GED simply has to fill out the FAFSA to determine eligibility for up to $27,500 toward tuition over five years. The Michigan Achievement Scholarship provides state aid whether you’re in a community college or four-year public or private/independent university. Beginning fall 2024, students from the class of 2023 and beyond may be eligible for the Community College Guarantee.
Legislative Updates:
I look forward to participating in the 9/11 Memorial Ceremony in Lansing, with our legislative session commencing the following week. As fall approaches, I will be concentrating on several key areas, including setting standards for child-accessible online services, maternal health, school aid and FAFSA. If there are any issues you think I should be aware of, please feel free to contact my office at (517) 373-0476 or email at CAGlanville@house.mi.gov.
Coffee Hours:
Coffee Hours will pick back up in September! My next one will be at Grand Valley State University’s Pew Campus on Sept. 6 from 3:30-4:30 p.m. The location will be sent out 48 hours prior to the event. Hope to see you there!