Dear Neighbor,
As I imagine many of you are feeling, it’s hard to believe 2024 is almost over and that the holidays are upon us. For all of the ups and downs this year has held and the uncertainty that remains ahead, I want you to know that my commitment to you and to the people of Michigan has been, and continues to remain, unwavering.
As my colleagues and I wrap up the 102nd Legislature, we are determined to advance robust, people-centered policy to make real change for Michiganders in every corner of our great state. Use this newsletter as a helpful resource, and, as always, please reach out to my office with your thoughts and questions. Now and in the New Year — we’re here to serve you!
If you or someone you know would like to provide feedback about what’s happening in Lansing or needs assistance, feel free to contact my office by sending an email to SenEGeiss@senate.michigan.gov or calling 517-373-7800.
Sincerely,
Erika Geiss
State Senator
District 1
- The Senate has been hard at work advancing legislation to strengthen protections for Michigan consumers, expand health care options for expectant parents, and support families struggling with debt.
- Learn about the Build MI Community Grant that is converting a long-vacant building into eight units of attainable housing in Detroit.
- There are many different holiday events and celebrations in SD-1! Check them out in the ‘Upcoming Events’ section.
In This Edition:
Legislative Updates
- Wrapping Up the Final Days of the 102nd Michigan Legislature
Community Connections
- Build MI Community Grant
Helpful News and Resources
- Be Winter Ready
- Warming Centers in SD-1
Wrapping Up the Final Days of the 102nd Michigan Legislature
As my colleagues and I wrap up our legislative work for the year with just days left in the 2024 session, it’s important to reflect on the results we’ve delivered for the people of Michigan. From working to expand voting rights and making critical investments in our communities to tackling hunger and uplifting our state’s workers, I’m proud of the work my colleagues and I have done over the past two years.
While the 102nd Legislature wraps up, I’m looking forward to the start of the 103rd Michigan Legislature and to another productive year delivering real solutions for our communities and our state.
I encourage you to stay informed about the legislation moving through the State Legislature. You can track legislation by searching for its bill numbers on the Michigan Legislature’s website.
Build MI Community Grant
Thanks to the Build MI Community Grant, a long-vacant building is to be converted into eight units of attainable housing in Detroit. A blighted, two-story, multifamily building in Detroit will be converted into eight highly efficient, attainable rental housing units as the result of a redevelopment from Eskay Holdings, LLC near the future Joe Louis Greenway.
The developer will leverage his background in electric and geothermal engineering to rehabilitate the property for highest energy efficiency, while offering the units to residents at 60% Area Median Income. Supported by $250,000 in Build MI Community grant funds, the Grand Oak redevelopment will create a total anticipated capital investment of $1,380,513 while providing attainable housing options in Detroit. The future Joe Louis Greenway is a planned biking and walking trail that will extend from the Detroit Riverfront and connect nearby communities, adding to the value of redeveloping the long-vacant property.
Read more about the Build MI Community Grant and its impacts here.
Taylor Winterfest Light Stroll
Stroll through the winter-wonderland light fest with characters, treats, a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and so much more.
WHEN: December 19-23, 2024, time slots available beginning at 6:00 p.m. with the final slot at 7:30 p.m. (must be present, at gate no later than 7:45 p.m. for entry).
WHERE: Entry gate and parking is at the Heritage Park Petting Farm (12803 Pardee Rd., Taylor, MI, 48180). Walk through the Petting Farm and around Coan Lake.
Dress warm, because the event is mainly outdoors. Pre-registration is not required but encouraged for quicker entry. Various pricing for individuals; family pack available.
Santa’s Magic Playland
Check out Fish & Loaves Santa’s Magic Playground at its new location! All proceeds support Fish & Loaves Community Food Pantry.
WHEN: Saturdays and Sundays 12:00 – 8:00 p.m.
WHERE: Kudos Taproom & Fieldhouse (14100 Pardee Rd., Taylor, MI, 48180)
Read more here.
The Rink at Campus Martius
The Rink at Campus Martius Park presented by Visit Detroit is the premier family-friendly outdoor skating rink in Michigan. Situated on Woodward Avenue in Downtown Detroit, the Rink offers one of the most beautiful and iconic skating experiences in the country and continues to be a top destination for the entire region and State of Michigan.
WHEN: Now through January 5
- Sunday- Thursday: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Friday and Saturday: 11:00 a.m. – Midnight
Holiday Hours
- Christmas day: Noon – 10:00 p.m.
- New Year’s Day: 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
WHERE: Campus Martius Park (800 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI 48226)
Menorah in the D
Dare to be the light! This Chanukah, join the largest immersive Jewish experience where thousands come together to shine their light. Enjoy strolling entertainment, dancing dreidels, and hot snacks while we light the 26-foot menorah with dignitaries and celebrities.
WHEN: Wednesday, December 25, 2024 at 5:00 p.m.
WHERE: Campus Martius Park (800 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI 48226)
Read more here.
Be Winter Ready
The cold and snow are here! As Michigan faces cold weather and winter storms, make sure to plan ahead and take the proper precautions to stay safe. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends creating a communication plan with your family and taking steps to prepare your home and vehicle for the low temperatures, including:
- Weatherproof your home: Insulate walls and attic, caulk and weather-strip doors and windows, and insulate any water lines that run along exterior walls.
- Install a smoke detector and a carbon monoxide detector: Home heating is the second leading cause of home fires; make sure to prioritize fire safety and keep your house safe.
- Create an emergency car kit: Include items to stay warm — a portable phone charger, shovel, windshield scraper, flashlight, battery-powered radio, extra batteries, water, snacks, first-aid materials, jumper cables and waterproof matches.
- Prepare for power outages: Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges; do not use a gas stove or oven to heat your home.
Read more tips here.
Warming Centers in SD-1
With the winter weather ramping up and snow showers in the forecast, I want to remind you that warming centers are available throughout Senate District 1. Please utilize them when needed to stay warm and healthy. Below is a list of all the centers throughout our district with addresses, phone numbers, and the hours of operation.
Allen Park
PHONE: 313-928-0771
WHERE: Allen Park Community Center – 15800 White St., Allen Park, MI 48101
WHEN: Monday-Friday: 6:00 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.; Saturday: 6:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.; Sunday: 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Detroit
PHONE: 313-883-2277
WHERE: Cass Community Social Services (families and single women) – 11850 Woodrow Wilson St., Detroit, MI 48206
Ecorse
PHONE: 313-382-3305
WHERE: Ethel Stevenson Senior Center – 4072 W. Jefferson Ave., Ecorse, MI 48229
WHEN: Monday-Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Lincoln Park
PHONE: 313-386-4075
WHERE: Lincoln Park Community Center – 3525 Dix Hwy., Lincoln Park, MI 48146
WHEN: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
River Rouge
PHONE: 313-842-4200
WHERE: Police Department – 10600 W. Jefferson Ave., River Rouge, MI 48218
WHEN: 24 Hours (lobby area)
Taylor
PHONE: 313-291-7740
WHERE: William Ford Senior Activities Center – 6750 Troy St., Taylor, MI 48180
WHEN: Monday-Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., seniors only
Taylor
PHONE: 734-374-8900
WHERE: Taylor Recreation Center – 22805 Goddard Rd., Taylor, MI 48180
WHEN: Monday-Friday: 6:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., after hours based on need
Taylor
PHONE: 734-374-8900
WHERE: Taylor Sportsplex – 13333 Telegraph Rd., Taylor, MI 48180
WHEN: Monday-Sunday: 9:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.