Dear Neighbor,
As we kick off the unofficial start to summer this holiday weekend, please be safe and enjoy time with family, friends, and loved ones. I want to extend a special thank you to the veterans and their families in our community who we recognize this weekend, especially those who “gave all.” Your sacrifice is recognized, appreciated, and never forgotten.
As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, there are plenty of opportunities to get out into the community and connect with each other. Continue reading for safety tips on boating, fireworks, and other warm weather-related reminders.
As always, if you or someone you know would like to provide any feedback about what’s happening in Lansing, or need assistance with state services, please feel free to reach out to my office. You can reach me and my team by emailing SenEGeiss@senate.michigan.gov or calling 517-373-7800.
Sincerely,
Erika Geiss
State Senator
District 1
- As we recognize Memorial Day, I remain committed to delivering support for our service members, including resources to bolster mental health access, address veteran homelessness, and more. Read more about this work below.
- On Saturday, May 23, the Detroit Tigers and the Northern Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters (NMRCC) are teaming up to host a Carpenters Combine at Comerica Park.
- Stay safe this holiday weekend!
May Events at the Melvindale Public Library
Join the staff and community members at Melvindale Public Library during the month of May! From book club to family game night, there are events the whole family can enjoy. See the calendar below for additional details.
Carpenters Combine
On Saturday, May 23, the Detroit Tigers and the Northern Midwest Regional Council of Carpenters (NMRCC) are teaming up to host a Carpenters Combine at Comerica Park — connecting job seekers with real career opportunities in the skilled trades.
Participants can showcase their abilities on a 10-station skills course while meeting contractors who are actively hiring, including contractors looking to hire on sight for well-paying union construction careers. This free, family-friendly event is open to the public.
See additional details in the graphic below.
Rise N Shine Summer Camp
Join Alternatives for Girls for their Rise N Shine Summer Camp filled with academic enrichment, adventure, creativity, and STEAM exploration. The camp is taking place from June 22 through August 7. See the graphic below for additional details.
Honoring Memorial Day with Support for Michigan Veterans & Their Families
This Thursday, the Senate hosted our annual Memorial Day ceremony to recognize the brave servicemen and women who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our freedom and democracy.
While we only host this special service once a year, I’m focused every day on delivering results for Michigan’s active servicemembers, veterans, and their families. Through targeted legislation and budget investments, we’ve made it a top priority to build up support by:
- Lowering costs for families of disabled veterans by cutting red tape and ensuring spouses can maintain property tax exemptions;
- Protecting the homes of active-duty military members by reducing the likelihood of their properties going unclaimed and reverting to state ownership while they are serving our country;
- Expanding tuition assistance eligibility for spouses and dependents of National Guard members, helping more military families access higher education;
- Creating a special registration plate for women veterans, raising recognition of their contributions to our nation; and
- Investing in veteran mental health services, Michigan’s three veteran homes, grants for nonprofits who provide housing for homeless veterans and their families, and suicide prevention programs for those who have served.
Stay Safe This Holiday Weekend
As Memorial Day weekend kicks off the unofficial start of summer, it’s important to keep safety top of mind while enjoying time with family and friends. Whether you’re heading to the lake, firing up the grill, or watching fireworks, a few simple precautions can help everyone have a safe and fun holiday weekend.
Boating Safety
Always wear a life jacket while on the water, no matter your age or swimming ability. Make sure your boat has the required safety equipment, including life preservers, fire extinguishers, and navigation lights. Never operate a boat under the influence of alcohol and check the weather forecast before heading out. Read additional boating safety tips here.
Fireworks Safety
Leave fireworks to the professionals whenever possible. If using consumer fireworks is legal in your area, follow all local ordinances and safety instructions. Keep fireworks away from children, have a bucket of water or hose nearby, and never relight a “dud” firework. Sparklers can burn at extremely high temperatures, so supervise children closely. Read additional firework safety tips here.
Grilling, Outdoor Cooking, and Food Safety
Keep grills at least 10 feet away from homes, decks, and dry grass. Never leave a grill unattended and make sure propane connections are secure before lighting. Use long-handled grilling tools to avoid burns. Read additional food safety tips here.
Heat & Sun Protection
As temperatures rise, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and limiting alcohol and caffeine in the heat. Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, reapply often, and take breaks in the shade to prevent heat exhaustion and sunburn. Also, remember, vehicles can get unsafely hot quickly. Never leave kids, pets, or vulnerable people unattended in vehicles with the windows up. Read additional heat safety tips here to be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke for humans and pets.
Travel Safety
Expect heavier holiday traffic and plan ahead. Buckle up, avoid distracted driving, and never drive impaired. Allow extra travel time and be patient on the roads.
By taking a few extra precautions, everyone can enjoy a safe and memorable Memorial Day weekend.