I'm excited about continuing a regular series of office hours throughout the district and hearing directly from constituents about state and pocketbook issues. If you are in Beaverton on Monday, March 2, please feel free to stop by my office hours.
For more information, please visit www.senatorjimstamas.com/stamas-announces-office-hours-in-beaverton-on-march-2/
Alpena Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner
I had a great time at the Alpena Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner on Thursday, Feb. 12. There was a great turnout and the dinner was a positive event for the entire Alpena area. Great Job to the Chamber and congratulations to those who received awards!
The honorees included:
• Alpena Regional Medical Center received the 19th Annual Northeast Michigan Workforce Development Award;
• Amy Carlson received the 7th Annual Outstanding Supporter of Junior Achievement Award;
• First Federal Credit Union received the 2014 Culture Change Agent Award;
• Lafarge Presque Isle received the 20th Annual Health Leadership Award;
• Steve Wright was named Citizen of the Year;
• Cliff Anschuetz received the Business of the Year Award;
• Nick Montie received the Up and Coming Award; and
• Downtown Union 76 received the Customer Service Award.
Michigan Press Association Annual Luncheon
On Feb. 6, I attended the Michigan Press Association (MPA) Governor's Luncheon with Alpena News editor and publisher Bill Speer in Grand Rapids.

In the photo: Me, Bill Speer and Rep. Peter Pettalia
Mr. Speer will be taking over as the MPA's new president this year after serving as a MPA executive board member for six years. It was an honor to be his guest this event, and I congratulate him on his well-earned new role as MPA president.
Alpenfrost in Gaylord
It was cold, but I am glad I took the plunge at the Alpenfrost Polar Plunge for Special Olympics. Together, Mike Reling and I raised over $2000 for this wonderful fundraiser. A special thanks to WMJZ-FM, Mike and everyone for your support of Gaylord Alpenfrost 2015 and the Special Olympics.

Michigan Dental Association's 2014 Legislator of the Year
It is an honor to receive the 2014 Legislator of the Year award from the Michigan Dental Association (MDA). MDA Board of Trustees President Martin Makowski presented me with the award. I appreciate all they do to help our local communities throughout our great state!

Cold Temperatures Stress Importance of Energy Assistance Programs for Low-Income Utility Customers
As part of Keep Michigan Warm Month, the Michigan Public Service Commission highlighted the importance of programs that help Michigan's low-income customers with their energy bills.
For more information please visit their website