Hello Friend,

Welcome to my latest e-newsletter! I hope everyone’s 2017 rounded out nicely, and that the holidays allowed you all time to spend with your loved ones. Now that the new year has begun, there is a lot going on in the Capitol and throughout House District 52.

The Legislature was back in session this week, and I’m looking forward to an exciting and busy legislative year. As always, read on to learn about my upcoming coffee hours, the first ever “Drafts with Donna,” fun activities and events happening in the community, and resources to help you get through tax and flu seasons with ease.

Please always feel free to contact me and my staff at (517) 373-0828, by email at DonnaLasinski@house.mi.gov or by visiting my website at RepLasinski.com, with any questions, thoughts, or suggestions you may have. We love hearing from you!

Coffee Hours, Drafts with Donna and More

I had great conversations about so many important issues at my coffee hours throughout 2017 and am excited for even more in the new year. This year we’re adding occasional “Drafts with Donna” events to our constituent hour schedule, starting at the Chelsea Alehouse next Thursday. I will also be moderating a town hall tomorrow in Chelsea where we will discuss housing diversity in western Washtenaw. I cherish these opportunities to come together as a community and have engaging conversations about the issues that matter to you.

Housing Diversity Town Hall

This Saturday, Jan. 13, from 10 a.m.-Noon

Washington Street Education Center, Room 100

500 Washington St. in Chelsea

 

Drafts with Donna

Thursday, Jan. 18, from 6-7:30 p.m.

Chelsea Alehouse

420 N. Main St., Suite 100 in Chelsea

 

Coffee Hour

Monday, Jan. 29, from 9-10 a.m.

Saline Senior Center

7190 N. Maple Road in Saline

 

What To Do In HD 52

MLK Day March – Now More Than Ever

Next Monday is Martin Luther King Jr. Day! On this historic holiday, we celebrate diversity, perseverance and the tremendous power communities have to affect change when we stand together. This year’s march, organized by Chelsea One World One Family and supported by the Interfaith Council for Peace and Justice, will start in the Chelsea Police Station Lobby and end at the Chelsea District Library.

Chelsea Police Station

Monday, Jan. 15, from 5:15-6 p.m.

MLK Day Celebration: Hidden Figures

After the march, stay at the Chelsea District Library to commemorate the holiday while viewing a movie about three African-American women who overcame great odds to serve invaluable roles in the United States Space program. Register here.

Chelsea District Library – McKune Room

Monday, Jan. 15, from 6-8:30 p.m.

Saline Winterfest

Saline’s outdoor winter festival features tons of great activities in the heart of downtown and highlights some of Saline’s best restaurants, shops, and community organizations.

Downtown Saline

Saturday, Jan. 27, from 8 a.m-5 p.m.

Legislative Update

Ringing in 2018

The Legislature is officially back in action. This week marked the beginning of the 2018 legislative session, with bills already coming before me for a vote. I am excited for a busy year ahead!

Economic Outlook and Revenue Estimating Conference

The Economic Outlook and Revenue Estimating Conference for Michigan took place this week, which indicates how much revenue Michigan is expected to receive for the next few years. The revenue forecast shows that our previous estimations were correct, and it will lay the groundwork for upcoming budget negotiations. You can find the full report here.

I am looking forward to being a strong voice in the budget process this year to make sure we fund a government that works for all Michiganders.

Helpful Resources

Income Taxes

Filing taxes can be tricky, but luckily there are resources available to help. For qualifying residents, United Way of Washtenaw County provides a free tax preparation service to work one-on-one with you on your electronic filing.

You can find sign up for assistance online here or by schedule an appointment by calling (734) 677-7235.

Flu Vaccines

Stay healthy this season by getting your flu shot! The Washtenaw County Department of Health of Human Services provides flu vaccines for all children and adults, regardless of insurance status or income. To schedule an appointment, call (734) 544-6700 or visit www.ewashtenaw.org

Sincerely,

State Representative Donna Lasinski

52nd House District