On Jan. 24, the governor gave her sixth State of the State address. While there is bipartisan agreement in recognizing that the cost of living continues to rise, we differ on the best path forward to help Michiganders prosper through economic hardships and what the government’s role should be in the day-to-day lives of state residents.

In her address, the governor created a wish list of programs to be funded with taxpayer dollars, including subsidies for electric vehicles, free community college, and tax credits for certain households. Instead of picking winners and losers and spending tax dollars on unsustainable government growth, I believe the Legislature and governor should work together to reduce taxes on hardworking Michiganders, pay down our state’s debts, and invest in transformational infrastructure improvements and proven programs that will ensure our state’s future growth.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, but there is a lot we can do to change that. By making a few small changes and doing more to take care of ourselves, we can lower that statistic.

February is American Heart Month. During the month of February, accept the challenge and try making a few small changes for a healthier heart:

With temperatures falling and inflation rates rising, many in Michigan may find themselves in need of help. Michigan 211 is part of a national system of organizations that connect residents with services in their local area.

At Michigan 211, highly trained specialists are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can contact one of the seven regional contact centers across the state by dialing 211 from a phone or by texting the zip code where help is needed to 898211. The Michigan 211 website also has a chat feature and search options to allow residents to search for service providers in their area.

Last year, Michigan 211 helped more than 500,000 people connect with more than 40,000 services, including utility assistance, emergency housing or shelter, food, legal services, healthcare, substance abuse, mental health assistance, and more. For more information, visit Michigan 211.

Michigan’s annual winter Free Fishing Weekend is Feb. 17-18. All fishing license fees are waived, and vehicles can enter state parks and use boating sites without a Recreation Passport.

Winter Free Fishing weekend is a great time to try ice fishing. With at least 150 species of fish that can be caught through the ice, you don’t have to wait for summer to give fishing a try. Ice fishing can be an affordable, safe, and family-friendly activity to get everyone outdoors.

Residents and out-of-state visitors can enjoy fishing on both inland lakes and the Great Lakes for all species of fish. All fishing regulations still apply. Visit Michigan.gov/freefishing for information on special events and activities.

With more than 40 ski areas across the state, you are always within a two-hour drive of the thrills of skiing and snowboarding. Michigan ranks second in the U.S. for the number of places to enjoy this exciting, family-friendly winter sport.

The Cold is Cool Passport allows fourth and fifth graders to ski for free in Michigan when accompanied by a paying adult. It is a great opportunity to get kids out on the slopes and try a new sport. The passport, sponsored by the Michigan Snowsports Industries Association, allows families to receive up to three lift tickets at 29 participating ski hills. Other discounts are also available.

For more information or to register for the passport, visit the Cold is Cool Passport site.

This year, I welcomed Karen Goodman as my guest for the 2024 State of the State address. Karen is the vice chair for the Manistee County board of commissioners and also serves as the chief operating officer for Centra Wellness Network, which is a community mental health provider for both Manistee and Benzie counties.