Horse racing bills get hearing in Michigan House

By Elena Dumbaugh

Gongwer News Service

    House members were off to the races in committee last Thursday morning (June 26), as they discussed a trio of bills that would amend Michigan's horse racing and gaming laws to provide more money for county fairs.

    "Every single fair … they are going to get either $5,000 or $10,000 yearly, and then with an increase based on whatever happens within the budget," said Byron "Chunk" Schunk, a longtime harness racer, told the House Agriculture Committee .

    How much money the fair would receive is based on the type of racing they host. HB 4346 would remove the cap for the Agriculture Equine Industry Development Fund, and HB 4347 would modify how much money can be in the fund and how it is distributed. The final bill in the package, HB 4348 , contains a $2 million supplemental appropriation for the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development for horseracing purses at county fairs and races at licensed pari-mutuel racetracks.

    The bills do not allow for gambling of any sort at county fairs.

    The bill package would amend the Horse Racing Law to change the provisions for authorized uses of the Agriculture Equine Industry Development Fund. Currently, 5 percent of the proceeds from the graduated tax on the gross revenue of internet gaming licenses is deposited into the fund, and any amount over $3 million is deposited into the Internet Gaming Fund. The bill would change the law to direct the full 5 percent of those proceeds into the Agriculture Equine Industry Development Fund and remove language that currently provides that if the amount allocated into the fund in a fiscal year exceeds $8 million, the excess must be allocated to the pari-mutuel horse racing disbursement account.

    "There's no reason the full 5 percent can't be put into this industry to encourage people to continue to do business here, run their horses, buy their hay, buy their feed, buy their equipment," Rep. Sarah Lightner (R-Springport) said. "All the way around, I think Michigan wins on this."

    The county fair racing is separate from racing at licensed tracks. The only organization that has a license for a track is Northville Downs, but it doesn't currently have a place to race. Brett Boyd, representing the Michigan Harness Horsemen's Association, said that his organization is working with Northville Downs to open a new facility in Hastings.

    Brian Nielsen, of the Michigan State University Department of Animal Science and Michigan Horse Racing Advisory Commission , said the bills were important for the horse racing industry and agriculture.

    "When I started at Michigan State University in the mid-1990s, horse racing in the state was thriving, supporting over 40,000 jobs," he said. "These jobs included breeders, jockeys, drivers, trainers, grooms, exercise riders, veterinarians, barriers, track employees and those that produce the feed and bedding for the horses… horse racing is agriculture, and agriculture means jobs."

 Family Impact Centers sees historic demand & response

    Family Impact Centers is experiencing an extraordinary season of growth, generosity, and community support as it works to meet the increasing needs of local families.

    Today, Family Impact Centers is feeding more people than ever. This past month alone, the pantry received more than 41,000 pounds of food—nearly matching the total amount brought in during all of 2023. This incredible surge was made possible through strong partnerships with organizations like Gleaners and Walmart, enabling the center to access high-quality food at little to no cost.

    “While we’re now spending less per pound of food, the need in our community continues to rise,” said Michael Shafer, Executive Director. “More families than ever are turning to us for help, and we’re committed to serving each one with dignity and care.”

    Thanks to increased efficiency and strong partnerships, your dollar goes farther than ever before—stretching every contribution to feed more families and make a greater impact.

    Among the recent blessings was a surprise donation of 2,300 pounds of food from a first-time individual food drive—just one example of the growing support from local residents.

    The pantry, which now operates five days a week, continues to serve hundreds of families each month through its food programs, seasonal outreach, and community-building efforts.

    Spiritual and emotional support are growing parts of the mission as well. In June, Family Impact Centers hosted its first “Grace & Strength” women’s event, led by Rachael Pico of Life Abundant Ministries. The gathering offered encouragement, connection, and a message of hope to women in the community. A Women’s Simulcast Event is already in the works for October, with proceeds supporting pantry programs and outreach.

    Family Impact Centers is also fostering collaboration with like-minded organizations to strengthen its long-term vision. This week, Shafer will visit the Fenton Center of Hope to explore shared strategies for holistic community care. In August, he’s scheduled to speak at the Fowlerville Senior Center to share updates and invite more residents into the mission.

Volunteers Needed

    As the organization continues to grow, volunteers are needed more than ever. Family Impact Centers is currently accepting volunteers for every day and every shift that the pantry is open. Whether you can offer a few hours a week or a regular commitment, there is a place for you on the team.

    Family Impact Centers is a faith-based organization that not only meets physical needs but also seeks to care for the hearts and souls of those it serves. Volunteers have the opportunity to offer prayer to families who desire it, providing an added layer of hope and encouragement in times of struggle.

    “If you have a heart to serve, we would love to welcome you,” said Shafer. “Whether you're stocking shelves, packing food boxes, greeting families, or simply offering a kind word and a prayer—your presence matters.”

Upcoming Event

    The community is invited to take part in the Family Impact Centers’ Rummage Sale, scheduled for July 24–26. Donations of gently used items will be accepted from July 1–20, with all proceeds directly supporting the organization’s outreach programs. The sale is a great way to give back while finding great deals and connecting with others in the community.

    For more information, to volunteer, or to support Family Impact Centers, visit www.familyimpactcenters.com or email pantry@familyimpactcenters.com

 Folk-country-pop band to perform at Williamston Concert Series July 10th

    Recording artists Cold Leather Seats will perform at the Williamston Summer Concert Series this Thursday, July 10, starting 7pm at McCormick Park. The West Michigan-based band, who is making its first appearance in the aea, performs both originals and covers in a folk-country-pop original style that is one of a kind.

    The group consists of three core members, but will bring their full band for the bandshell performance. Sponsors include Cancun Mexican Grill, Rivers Edge Lofts and Custom Built Design and Remodelling. Concessions by Williamston Area Senior Center.

    Concerts are brought to you by the Williamston Area Beautification Fund. Other patrons are Williamston Rotary, Granger Waste Services and Xfinity Comcast. Concerts are in the Williamston Downtown Social District.

 Webberville United Methodist Church serving Chicken Dinner on July 19th

Webberville United Methodist Church, located at 4215 E. Holt Rd. is serving a ‘Drive Through Chicken Dinner on Saturday, July 19th. The dinner includes two pieces oven fried chicken, mashed potatoes, chicken gravy, green beans, corn casserole, coleslaw, roll and cookies. All for $10. Dinner served 5 to 7 pm or until we run out.

 Livingston County Community Alliance hosting 8th annual Charity Golf Outing

    The Livingston County Community Alliance will host its 8th Annual Charity Golf Outing on August 1st at Chemung Hills Golf Club.The LCCA Annual Golf Outing is the only fundraiser for the coalition.

    Golfers and sponsors are being sought for the annual golf outing that supports local substance misuse prevention programs and initiatives. All proceeds benefit local youth drug prevention programs and support the LCCA in its mission to unite the local community to reduce and prevent youth substance use and to live a healthy, drug-free lifestyle.

    Here are some highlights of the LCCA activities in recent years:

    --The LCCA in January 2021, was named in the Top 10 Coalitions in the nation by the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA).

    --The LCCA supports the Big Red Barrel Project and its medicine disposal events. Since 2011, this project has collected and properly disposed of up to 100,000 pounds of pills.

    --The LCCA supports programs such as: Youth Art Voice, Youth-Led Summit, Alcohol Compliance Checks, and many local youth initiatives. Some of the past initiatives areyouth summer activities at a local youth center, sending youth to national and state leadership conferences, Red Ribbon Week, and so much more. More details of these programs and more can be found at www.drugfreelivingston.com.

    The power of substance misuse prevention lies in its ability to reduce the negative impact of substance use while increasing positive protective factors on individuals, families, and communities. By addressing substance use before it begins, prevention efforts can lead to a healthier and more prosperous community. The LCCA provides opportunities for youth to develop leadership skills, build peer and community relationships and give youth a voice to create change. The funds from this golf outing go directly to these prevention initiatives.

    Sign up today to secure your spot as a golfer and/or sponsor! Help Livingston County youth live a healthy and drug free life! For more details please visit www.drugfreelivingston.com and the attached flyer.

    The Livingston County Community Alliance (LCCA) is a countywide, anti-drug coalition that aims to unite the Livingston County community to reduce and prevent youth substance abuse and to live a healthy and drug-free lifestyle. Our purpose is to connect the Livingston County community to establish and promote healthy community norms concerning the use of alcohol, drugs, and tobacco.

 Hartland Senior Activity Center holding Community Garage Sale July 12th

    The Hartland Senior Activity Center is holding the Hartland Area Community Garage Sale on Saturday, July 12, from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The event will feature a wide range of vendors offering deals on gently used items, antiques, collectibles, home goods, and much more! Whether you’re looking for something specific or just want to explore, this is a perfect opportunity to find unique treasures.

    The location is 9525 E Highland Rd, Howell, Front Parking Lot on M-59, half-mile west of US-23, at the Old Hartland High School Parking Lot)

    Rain or Shine – Don’t worry about the weather; we’ll be hosting the event regardless. Outdoor Event – No indoor facilities are available.

 Fowlerville District Library

Upcoming Events

Monday – Wednesday: 9:30 am to 7:00 pm

Thursday: 9:30 am to 8:00 pm

Friday: 9:30 am to 6:00 pm

Saturday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm

Sunday: Closed

For any questions, or to register for programs, call us at:               517-223-9089

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KIDS & FAMILY

Summer Reading Program

The Summer Reading Program is in full swing. Sign up to win fun prizes all summer long.

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Family Storytime (Ages 1-5)

For families with “littles” to learn, play and grow through a variety of stories, songs, rhymes, movements, and activities. Playtime and crafts included! Splash & Splatter Storytime will be on: 

July 15. Tues ● 10-11am

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Toddler Storytime (Ages 0-3)

A storytime for the “littlest littles” to learn, play, and grow through a variety of stories, songs, rhymes and movements that appeal to short attention spans. 

Wed ● 10-11am

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Kids Club (Ages 6-12)

All the fun of Lego Club, but with more! Now you can play a game, complete a craft or activity, and still build with your favorite bricks. 

Thurs ● 4pm

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Art Venture (Ages 6-12)

Tie-Dye Teddy Bears – Build your own colorful bear. Includes a wishing star and certificate. Registration is required as supplies are limited. 

Tues., July 15 ● 2-3pm

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Graphic Novel Book Club

Read the book and then come to discuss it. Snacks provided. Books are available at the front desk and are yours to keep. We will be discussing DETECTIVE BEANS & THE CASE OF THE MISSING HAT by Li Chen. 

Mon, July 28 ● 4pm

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Certified Babysitter Clinic (Ages 9 and up)

Live Safe Academy presents Certified Babysitter/CPR/First Aid and Safe Home Alone for kids ages 9 and older. Gain new skills and receive a certificate of completion. Bring a snack, pen and paper for notes. Registration is required as space is limited. 

Saturday, July 26 ● 10-1pm.

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Book Boxes (All ages)

Fill out the online form by visiting the events page on our website. Let the librarians pick a surprise selection of books for you. Register the first two weeks of every month to get next month’s box, which will be ready to pick up the first of the following month.

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Reading Dragons (All Ages)

Game on! Read to earn creature cards to collect and play games! Can you collect them all? Stop by the library to grab a reading log and a starter set to begin your adventure.

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Live Homework Help

Free with your library card! Log on to HelpNow, click “Live Help”, Enter subject and grade level and enter the online classroom for expert assistance. You can find a link on our homepage.

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Sensory Playtime (Ages 2-5)

This is a drop-in playtime filled with unstructured, sensory fun! Watch your littles use their imaginations to turn everyday things into toys. Caregiver supervision is required. 

Friday, July 18 ● 10-11 am

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Family Board Game Night

Use our space to find like-minded players for your favorite board game. All levels of experience are welcome. 

Thurs., Aug 7 ● 6 pm

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Spark Club (Ages 10-12 only)

Find your spark in a variety of creative ways at a program just for pre-teens. (Sorry, no younger siblings) Next up is Body Art, Design your own tattoos using temporary tattoo markers or give yourself a manicure with non-toxic peel off nail polish. Registration is required. 

Wed, July 9 ● 2-3pm

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Fowlerville in Color Sidewalk Chalk Competition (All Ages)

Register for a time block to help beautify our sidewalks with artwork depicting your favorite Fowlerville places! A public vote will determine the prize-winning squares. Chalk will be provided with squares being assigned upon arrival. Registration is required. 

Thurs, July 24 ● 4-7:30 & Fri. July 25 ● 9:30 -1

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TEENS

Dungeons & Dragons (Ages 12-18)

Come play D&D 5th Edition! No prior experience needed.

Wednesdays ● 2:30-5pm

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Switch Free Play (Ages 10-18)

Open gaming time with the library's Switch.

Fridays ● 2:30-5 pm

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Maker Space Open House (All Ages)

Join us in for a Maker’s Space Open House. Connor will be on hand to help with the 3D Printer and Glowforge. What will you create? 

Tues ● 4-5 pm

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Video Game Tournament

Think you’re the best? Want to prove it? Go head-to-head in Smash or Mario Kart for the change to win prizes and have bragging rights. 

Sat., July 12 ● 1:30-3:30pm

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Tile Engraving

Join us to select a pattern and color to make a beautifully engraved tile to take home. 

Tues, Aug 5 ● 3-4pm

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Applied Science (13+)

Have you ever extracted DNA from a strawberry or made sparks with steel wool? Join us for some STEM activities and fun with science. 

Tues, July 22 ● 3-4pm

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Tie-Dye (Ages 13+)

Color your world! Bring a white shirt to tie-dye. 

Tues, July 15 ● 3-4pm

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Writing Circle (Teens)

Do you like writing? Want a place to share your work and get criticism or discuss technique? Join us.

 Mon., July 21 ● 2-3pm

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ADULTS

Board of Trustees Meeting

The library board will meet. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend. 

Thurs., July 24 ● 6pm

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Riot of Color Paint Party

Sarah Elaine from Great Lakes Paint Party will be here for this enjoyable evening. We will be painting a vase with flowers. Registration is required as space is limited. All supplies are included. 

Thurs., July 10 ● 6 pm

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Find Your People at the Library

We are thrilled to continue this popular working group to explore the Ancestry Library Edition and other valuable genealogy resources. Bring your laptop or use one of our computers. Please note this change in day. 

Wed, July 16 ● 2-3 pm

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Jam Session (Adults and teens)

Open Jam Sessions are becoming a monthly tradition here at the library. Led by community members who love to learn, share and connect; all levels, instruments and genres are welcome! Newcomers are encouraged to lead tunes when they feel called. Song leads call out chords and changes. Questions? Email kjdamerow@gmail.com, OPENJAM in the subject line. 

Tues, July 15 ● 5:30 – 6:45pm

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Cardmaking (Adults)

Greet your friends and loved ones with beautiful homemade greeting cards-made by you! You will make four different cards to take home. All supplies included. Registration is required. 

Thurs, July 17 ● 6:30 pm & Fri, July 18 ● 11am

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Scrapbooking (Adults)

Make the most of your memories and join us for a fun day of scrapbooking your favorite photos. Stay the whole time or for just a few hours. Everyone gets their own table. Light refreshments will be provided. Registration is required. 

Sat. July 19 ● 10:30 – 3:30

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Shelf Indulgence Book Club (Adults)

Members take turns facilitating the discussions. Come and enjoy some literary camaraderie! Register to get a free copy of the book, while supplies last. Registration begins one month before each scheduled meeting. Next up we will discuss THE EXCEPTIONS by Kate Zernike. 

July 17 ● 2pm

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Sewing (Adults)

Bring your sewing machine and learn from a master seamstress. All levels of skill are welcome. Registration is required. 

Wed, July 16 ● 5:30pm & Fri, July 11 ● 10-2 pm

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So You Think You Can Puzzle! Puzzle Challenge

Calling all puzzlers for the summer-themed “Color Our World” puzzle challenge. Register your team of up to 4 people to compete to complete an identical puzzle in the fastest time. Single registrants will be paired with other singles. Prizes will be awarded and refreshments will be served. Registration is required. Space is limited. 

Thurs, July 31 ● 6-8 pm

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Small Towns, Big Stories

The Livingston Centre Historical Society (LCHS) invites the community to join Small Towns, Big Stories, a monthly seminar held every second Monday. This welcoming and informal gathering encourages residents and visitors alike to share personal stories and family histories from Livingston County. Guided by an LCHS volunteer, each session offers an opportunity to connect with neighbors, reflect on our shared heritage, and, if desired, have stories documented for historical preservation. Join us for open conversation and collective memory sharing as we work together to preserve the voices and experiences that shape Livingston County. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the area, your story matters—and it’s part of Livingston County’s legacy. 

Mon, July 14 ● 1-2:30pm

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Repair Cafe

Don’t throw it away! Bring your broken items here for repair and advice from handymen. 

Sat, July 26 ● 10-12pm

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Did You Know?

Did you know that we are a food collection location for the Family Impact Center? Non-perishable foods may be dropped off in the cafe area, and we thank you!

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A Friendly Reminder

We are happy to be fine-free, however after a book is 8 weeks overdue the item will be withdrawn from our system and can no longer be returned. A library lost/replacement fee will be applied to the account. Please return your items on time so that others can enjoy them too.