MI Barry County Indivisible community members
MI Barry County Indivisible

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Recent Newsletters

Select any issue below to read the complete newsletter right on this page.

Greetings!

We might argue about whether summer is over or not, but we definitely will agree that the current state of our country needs our attention. So, here is what you can do this week and beyond.

Quick Calendar of Upcoming Events

NEW ITEM! Thursday, September 10, 4:30 PM: Rally at Congressman Moolenaar's Caledonia office.
Monday, September 14: “Anatomy of an Election” presentation, Hastings.
Saturday, September 19: Regular monthly protest at the Barry County Courthouse.
Saturday, September 19: Barry County Ethnic Food Fest.
Monday, September 21: Monthly member meeting, Hastings.
Thursday, October 1: Rally at Congressman Moolenaar's Caledonia office.

Moolenaar Rally — Thursday, September 10, 4:30 PM

Congressman Moolenaar's Caledonia office: 8980 North Rodgers Court

We were unable to resume our protests last week due to the weather, so let's try again! Bring your favorite sign to let all of the traffic passing on M-37 know that we are working for change. If you are able, remember to bring your donation of underwear for The Shack.

“Anatomy of an Election” — Monday, September 14, 6:00 PM

Hastings Library

There is so much misinformation being thrown at us by the Trump administration—lies about election fraud, attempts to suppress our vote and confusion about mail-in voting. What are we to do?

As with so many things in life, we need to start with education. Learn about how the system works and why it is secure. This may be old hat to some of us, but for the general public it remains a mystery.
Please commit to coming to this program and inviting at least one friend or neighbor. Our mission to protect the Constitution commits us to the important work of promoting the vote and securing the election. Come—and bring a donation for The Shack (new underwear or winter gloves).
Joanne Galloway, executive director of Michigan Country, will discuss how our elections work and how we can be involved in ensuring that they are free and secure.
Michigan Country is working proactively to arm community members with the knowledge and vocabulary to help defend the security of our elections.
This program will inoculate our community against the mistruths, misinformation and disinformation plaguing our communities.
The program will elevate truths and confidence in our democratic processes and address threats and potential election subversion.

Regular Monthly Rally — Saturday, September 19, 10:30 AM

Barry County Courthouse

Let's show up in big numbers to show our community what we stand for. The election is getting closer every day, and we want to stir up interest in voting for change!

Barry County Commission Meetings

The Board meets bi-weekly on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month, and we want to have a representative of our group in attendance at every meeting moving forward.

You do not have to commit to saying anything—although you are encouraged to speak if so moved—but we encourage your presence and interaction with the Commissioners.
Our county officials need to know that we are committed to free and fair elections and to the effective and efficient management of the County. Sign up to attend County Commission meetings.

Township Meetings

Former Speaker of the House Tip O'Neill famously said that “all politics is local.” We get caught up in national and state news, yet our greatest influence is right here at home.

Do you know when your township board meets?
Can you attend its meetings?
You can be the eyes and ears of the entire group and demonstrate to your local elected officials that you are committed to the democratic process.

Don't Forget to Make Your Calls!

Use 5 Calls or call Moolenaar at 202-225-3561, Peters at 202-224-6221, and Slotkin at 202-224-4822.

I think you know the drill. You probably already have your own ideas about why you need to call. If you are looking for suggestions, check out last week's newsletter or visit 5 Calls. We need to keep the pressure on all of our elected officials to keep working for change.

Have a great week!

In solidarity,

Ed Szumowski
Mary Beth Adyniec

MI Barry County Indivisible
mibarrycountyindivisible@gmail.com

Greetings!

If you are like me, you are wondering where the heck the month of August went! As we get ever closer to the midterm elections (only 64 days away!), here's what we need to know and do this week and beyond.

Quick Calendar of Upcoming Events

Thursday, September 3: Resume our protests at Moolenaar's office, 4:00 PM outside his Caledonia office (8980 North Rodgers Court).
Saturday, September 5: Woodland Homecoming Festival*
Monday, September 14: "Anatomy of an Election" presentation, Hastings.
Saturday, September 19: Regular monthly protest at the Barry County Courthouse.
Saturday, September 19: Barry County Ethnic Food Fest.
Monday, September 21: Monthly member meeting, Hastings.

*MBCI will have a table at this community event. Contact Lynette (doele69@gmail.com) to find out how YOU can help. PLEASE! Help us spread the word about our vital mission and have fun with your fellow Indivisibles.

Moolenaar protests resume — Thursday, September 3, 4:00 PM

8980 North Rodgers Court

We have been unable to hold our rallies outside his office due to the ongoing road construction on M-37 for the past several months.
I stopped at the site on Sunday, and there appears to be ample room for us to gather safely again.
Please stay away from the road itself. The road construction has reduced the size of the shoulder. There is ample mowed lawn for us to gather safely and still present our message to the passing cars.
Bring your packages of new underwear for the Shack (see more info below).
Hope to see you there!

We have a new updated website!

Thanks to Kristen (Yay Kristen!) from our Communications team, we now have a completely overhauled website! It is stunning and it is packed with great stuff. Go here to check it out, and bookmark it for future reference.

Stay tuned for more information about how we will make this website a useful tool in our defense of democracy. Onward and upward!

Elections update

As mentioned earlier, there are just two short months before the midterm election. Our biggest commitment as a group between now and then is to work to make sure that our elections remain free, fair, and open to ALL eligible voters.

What about the post office and mail-in ballots?

There has been some hoopla in the news lately about an executive order regarding the US Postal Service and the election process.
While there is absolutely no role for the Post Office in the administration of elections, we urge all of our Indivisible members to take the needed precautions. We can control the process!
If at all possible, vote in person and vote early.
As a result of the 2022 amendment to the Michigan Constitution, the mandatory early voting period takes place for a minimum of nine consecutive days, ending on the Sunday before an election.
If early in-person voting is not a good option for you, drop off your mail-in absentee ballot directly at the polling site specified by your local jurisdiction. This bypasses the Postal Service altogether.
Early voting minimizes the risk of unwanted interference by either local or national miscreants.
So, vote early and if possible in person.

What if they pass the so-called “SAVE” (Safeguard American Voter Eligibility) Act?

While it is highly unlikely to happen, we recommend that we are all prepared to act just in case.
Make sure your passport and MI Driver License or state ID are up-to-date.
If you have registered to vote or voted under different names, obtain certified copies of your birth certificate, marriage license, etc.
We are not saying this to frighten anyone. We are expecting that the SAVE Act will not pass.
BUT, the first step in a good plan is preparation.
Be a good citizen and prepare yourself just in case.

What is “Con-con” and why should I be concerned?

Proposal 1 on this year's statewide ballot pops up every 16 years and is mandated by our State Constitution.
This proposal asks a simple question: should the State convene a Constitutional Convention?
While it might seem to make sense, in today's polarized political atmosphere it would be dangerous.
Every aspect of our Constitution would be up for negotiation, including the hard-fought battles for independent districting, reproductive rights, and civil rights for women, minorities, and LGBTQI+ individuals, and much more.
We urge our members to vote NO on Proposal One.
We urge you to spread the word to all friends and relatives to do the same.
If you want more information, read: What would a con-con mean for Michigan?

Three-pronged approach to securing our election.

Each of us must do our part to make sure that this year's election runs smoothly and fairly.
We are not all called upon to do the same things, but each of us has a duty to do something!
We have already talked about our need to vote early. But what should you do beyond that?
Step 1. Find your “lane.” Everyone has a different capacity for action. So your first job is to find where you fit into the program.
In previous newsletters we have talked about the Election Defense Corps and Neighbor2Neighbor. Check them out if you haven't already done so.
This week we are introducing another useful tool for you to engage, called Ground Control. This site connects you to local groups, programs, meetings, and events related to the midterm elections.
The site offers practical ways to take action. Close to home. Check out Ground Control.
Step Two. You have picked your lane. Now your job is to ACT on it! Do what it is you have found to be in your capacity.
Sign up to be a poll worker, or challenger.
Volunteer to work on GOTV (Get Out the Vote) efforts.
Sign up for the Neighbor2Neighbor or Election Defense Corps programs.
Just DO IT!
Step 3 is to “amplify your action.”
Make sure that everyone in your circle of influence knows the actions you are taking and why.
Suggest that they all get involved as well.
Here's a suggestion. Get three friends to commit to voting early.
Or encourage people to sign up for tracking their vote (Subscribe for voting notifications).
Or encourage 4 friends to make sure they are registered (Your voter information).
You get to choose the action, but your actions will be multiplied if you spread that word to as many people in your circle of influence as possible.
We need to use the power of social media and personal connections!

Candidate Interviews

We have posted our interview with Ben Ambrose on our YouTube channel. Check it out on MBCI YouTube, and encourage your contacts to do likewise.
Remind people that our incumbent Congressman did not reply to our request for an interview!
We are currently in the process of conducting interviews of candidates for State Representative and State Senator.
Subscribe to our YouTube channel (MBCI YouTube) so that you are informed as we begin to post our interviews of local candidates. Informed voters are effective voters!

Messaging: telling the right stories and asking the right questions, to encourage people to VOTE!

We have been talking about how you as an individual citizen have the power to act as well as encourage others to act. Every time you post something on social media, or create a protest sign, or talk to a friend, you are telling YOUR story about what you want to happen. Our “Messaging Project” has been a key focus of our group the past couple of months. The goal is the design and creation of messages that will maximize voter turnout in November. You might think that has nothing to do with YOU as an individual. But it all does, and here's how.

A recent article in The Guardian (We surveyed 6000 Americans) had some powerful recommendations that we can all take to heart. In truth, each of us is a walking and talking marketing specialist for our cause. This is a powerful voice, and we must use it wisely.
How can you be most effective? Pull, don't push. When we push against some other force, we are actually making that opponent stronger. So resist the temptation to comment on someone's ridiculous post. Your comments only spread that original garbage further along the social media food chain.
Instead, pull. Pull people into our story by telling them what we want to happen, what we value, and what we believe in.
What are you for? Tell that story, not just how horrific the opponent might be.
Tell your world that you want a diverse country of various beliefs, backgrounds, faiths, and interests. All living in freedom.
Tell them that you want a thriving working class that actually has a shot at the American dream.
That you want relief from high prices.
That you want affordable healthcare and childcare and housing.
That you want the economy to be rebalanced and no longer rigged in favor of only a few.
Don't tell people they have been duped (even when you know they have been). Research is clear that people retreat to their preconceived notions and fight for them if they feel attacked or threatened.
Instead tell them a better story and invite them in.
We all have strong voices. Let's use them wisely and for the good of our country!

Education program “Anatomy of an Election” — Monday, September 14, 6:00 PM, Hastings Public Library

Anatomy of an Election — September 14 event flyer
Joanne Galloway, the executive director of Michigan Country, will discuss how our elections work and how we can be involved in ensuring that they are free and secure.
Michigan Country is working proactively to arm our community members with the knowledge and vocabulary to help defend the security of our elections.
They seek to inoculate our community against the mistruths, misinformation and disinformation plaguing our communities.
Their goal is to elevate truths and your confidence in our democratic processes.
They will address threats and potential election subversion.

Mutual Aid

We believe that action speaks louder than mere words!

In response to this year's Barry County United Way's Day of Caring, we are assisting The Shack in Delton through a collection of winter gloves and NEW underwear.
Underwear is one of the most needed items, because health regulations do not allow organizations to distribute used undergarments.
MI Barry County Indivisible will be collecting donations at all of our events over the next month. Please be generous to our neighbors in need.

Regular monthly rally — Barry County Courthouse, Saturday, September 19, 10:30 AM

Let's show up in BIG numbers to show our community what we stand for. The election is getting closer every day and we want to stir up interest in voting for change!

Barry County Ethnic Food Fest — Saturday, September 19

Mark your calendar for the second annual ethnic food festival to be held at The Hastings Church of the Nazarene (1716 N Broadway in Hastings) on Saturday, September 19, from 11:00 AM–2:00 PM.
This event is co-sponsored by Roundtable Companions for Racial Equity (RC4RE) in Hastings and Emmanuel Episcopal Church, and features delicious food from the diversity of cultural backgrounds that comprise our community.
Celebrate our community's diverse heritage through food, music, and fellowship. Maybe you have a favorite ethnic dish from your family background that you would like to share.
You can sign up here or contact Maggie (maggiecat310@live.com) for information. Join us!

Monthly Member Meeting — Monday, September 21, 6:30 PM

Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 315 W. Center, Hastings

Come for the information. Come for inspiration. Come for the fellowship of your community of democracy defenders. Just come!

5 Calls

5calls.org — Moolenaar: 202-225-3561, Peters: 202-224-6221, Slotkin: 202-224-4822

Call our Congressman and Senators—

Oppose the gutting of the Endangered Species Act. The Trump administration is taking devastating new steps to gut the Endangered Species Act and remove critical protections for endangered animals. The administration rescinded a longstanding definition of “harm” in ESA regulations that will enable habitat destruction by industrial and commercial interests. Simultaneously, a bill is moving through Congress that would strip ESA protections from species such as gray wolves and grizzly bears. Write to Congress opposing these actions and rollbacks.
Demand that the procurement of taser gloves be halted. ICE awarded a nearly $17 million contract to buy electric-shock gloves for its agents. The Generated Low Output Voltage Emitter (GLOVE), by Compliant Technologies, allows agents to “deliver a pain stimulus” to an individual to “gain compliance.” Despite being touted as “nonlethal,” the gloves pose significant danger; according to the company's own manual, the shocks “may cause or contribute to death or serious injury.” Read more.
Demand that funding and staffing of the Food and Drug Administration and Health and Human Services is restored. The largest outbreak of cyclosporiasis, the parasitic illness found in lettuce, makes clear that inspections and labs checking our food sources are underfunded and understaffed. Read more.
Support H.R. 9939, the No AI Data Centers on Federal Lands Act. The Trump administration has been stripping away environmental protections on federal lands in favor of industry and business, including AI centers. An example occurred in June when the Bureau of Land Management approved the Townsend Data Center on 88.5 acres of public land near Boulder City, Nevada, without an updated environmental review or public input. Read more.
Oppose the Trump administration's repeal of the Roadless Conservation Rule to increase timber production on public land and national forests. Read more.
Support H.R. 8154, the Hold ICE Accountable Act; H.R. 4004, the No Anonymity In Immigration Enforcement Act; and H.R. 4667, the VISIBLE Act. These bills would prohibit ICE agents from hiding their identity by wearing masks, would prohibit arrests based on racial profiling and the use of unnecessary force during immigration arrests. Read more.

Thanks for reading this far. You deserve a gold star for caring enough about your country to actually DO something. I sincerely hope that you take action on one or more of the initiatives and action steps outlined above.

Have a safe final week of summer and a Happy Labor Day weekend!

In solidarity,

Ed Szumowski
Mary Beth Adyniec

MI Barry County Indivisible
mibarrycountyindivisible@gmail.com

Greetings!

Here's what you need to know and do this week and beyond...

Quick Calendar of Upcoming Events (details further in)

Saturday, August 29, MI Dems State Nominating Convention, Lansing
Saturday, August 29, Hastings Summerfest*
Thursday, September 3, resume our protests at Moolenaar's office. 4:00 PM outside his Caledonia office (8980 North Rodgers Court) — pending road construction
Saturday, September 5, Woodland Homecoming Festival*
Monday, September 14, "Anatomy of an Election" presentation, Hastings
Saturday, September 19, regular monthly protest at the Barry County Courthouse
Saturday, September 19, Barry County Ethnic Food Fest
Monday, September 21, monthly member meeting, Hastings

*MBCI will have a table at this community event. Contact Lynette (doele69@gmail.com) to find out how YOU can help. PLEASE! Help us spread the word about our vital mission and have fun with your fellow Indivisibles.

Hastings Summerfest, Saturday August 29

Join your fellow Indivisibles as we increase our community's awareness of our mission and our values. Contact Lynette (doele69@gmail.com) to find out how YOU can help.

MI Dems Nominating Convention. Saturday, August 29, Lansing

If you are planning to attend the meeting, there may be others in the group who would like to carpool. If so, please reply to this email indicating your interest, and we will connect everyone so inclined.

Moolenaar protests

We have not been able to do our rallies outside his office for several months now due to the construction on M-37. We hope to resume on September 3, 4:00 PM. Be on the look-out for last-minute updates since we don't really know if the site will be ready for us to gather or not.

Saturday, September 5. Woodland Homecoming Festival

We will have a table at the festival, and we have been invited to participate in the parade as well! Join your fellow Indivisibles and show Woodland what we stand for! To sign up, and for more information, contact Lynette (doele69@gmail.com).

Education program "Anatomy of an Election." Monday, September 14, 6:00 PM. Hastings Public Library

Joanne Galloway, the executive director of Michigan Country, will discuss how our elections work and how we can be involved in ensuring that they are free and secure.
Michigan Country is working proactively to arm our community members with the knowledge and vocabulary to help defend the security of our elections.
They seek to inoculate our community against the mistruths, misinformation and disinformation plaguing our communities.
Their goal is to elevate truths and your confidence in our democratic processes.
They will address threats and potential election subversion.

Regular monthly rally, Barry County Courthouse. Saturday, September 19, 10:30 AM

Let's show up in BIG numbers to show our community what we stand for. The election is getting closer every day and we want to stir up interest in voting for change!

In response to this year's Barry County United Way's Day of caring, we are assisting The Shack in Delton through a collection of winter gloves and NEW underwear.
Underwear is one of the most needed items, because health regulations do not allow organizations to distribute used undergarments.
MI Barry County Indivisible will be collecting donations at all of our events over the next month. Please be generous to our neighbors in need.

Barry County Ethnic Food Fest, Saturday September 19

Mark your calendar for the second annual ethnic food festival to be held at The Hastings Church of the Nazarene (1716 N Broadway in Hastings) on Saturday September 19, from 11:00 AM- 2:00 PM.
This event is co-sponsored by Roundtable Companions for Racial Equity (RC4RE) in Hastings, and features delicious food from the diversity of cultural backgrounds that comprise our community.
Celebrate our community's diverse heritage through food, music, and fellowship. Maybe you have a favorite ethnic dish from your family background that you would like to share.
You can sign up here or contact Maggie (maggiecat310@live.com) for information. Join us!

Financial contributions to MBCI in August are matched!

In Michigan, because we are considered a "Battleground State", every dollar up to $600 will be matched by Indivisible National.
We need funds for our GOTV efforts and our mailings to educate our community about our pro-democracy values.
Cash is always welcomed at any of our events. Or you can donate online to MI Barry County Indivisible.
Remember...your dollars go TWICE as FAR this month!

Have a great week!

In solidarity,

Ed Szumowski
Mary Beth Adyniec

MI Barry County Indivisible
mibarrycountyindivisible@gmail.com

Images from this newsletter

View the graphic included with this issue.

Woodland Homecoming Festival parade graphic View larger

Greetings Indivisibles!

Here's what you need to know and do this week and beyond...

Quick Calendar of Upcoming Events (details further in)

TONIGHT! Monday, August 17, 6:30 PM, Emmanuel Episcopal Church (315 W. Center, Hastings): monthly member meeting

Tuesday, August 18, Saugatuck Indivisible Art Event

Saturday, August 29, Hastings Summerfest*

Thursday, September 3, resume our protests at Moolenaar's office. 4:00 PM outside his Caledonia office (8980 North Rodgers Court)

Saturday, September 19, regular monthly protest at the Barry County Courthouse

Saturday, September 19, Barry County Ethnic Food Fest

*MBCI will have a table at thi community event and VOLUNTEERS are NEEDED. Contact Lynette (doele69@gmail.com<mailto:doele69@gmail.com>) to find out how YOU can help. PLEASE! Help us spread the word about our vital mission and have fun with your fellow Indivisibles.

The schedule may look thinner...BUT there is still LOTS TO DO!!

Yes, there are fewer "events" remaining as summer winds down. But don't get the idea that there is nothing to DO!

We need to increase the number of people at our rallies. Numbers have declined over the summer. Saturday's rally barely cracked 20 in attendance.
We understand that summer has offered many other options for our time. And that is GOOD! But summer is just about over, folks.
We need to get down to the hard work of defending our democracy.
We need to show up at the Courthouse rallies. AND bring our neighbors, cousins, and mothers-in-law!
We need to talk to our neighbors about making good choices in the upcoming election
We need to put up yard signs for our favored candidates. Yes, you need to get out that MI Barry County Indivisible yard sign. Need one? Contact me today!
We need to give money to the campaigns of our favored candidates. AIPAC isn't waiting! They are eager to buy our votes, and we MUST respond.
We need to post pro-democracy statements and values on our social media
We need to forward and re-post Indivisible communications to our friends
The authoritarians aren't giving up and we can't either!
The US Senate has confirmed a Trump sycophant as Attorney General. The fox is officially in charge of the hen house!
350,000 Haitians living in the US no longer have Temporary Protected Status. Are you angry yet?
ICE agents continue to round up decent people everyday to meet Trump's horrid deportation quotas. Are you ready to take America back from this cruel and inhumane administration?
We have a chance to elect real progressive candidates this fall, but it is up to US to get it done
No time to rest. No time to get discouraged. No time to acquiesce!
No time to stop being enraged at the Republican capitulation to authoritarianism.

Member meeting. Tonight, August 17, 6:30 PM at Emmanuel Episcopal Church

Learn how YOU can be involved in our GOTV (Get Out the Vote) and Election Defense Corps actions.
Get engaged in our Education Project geared to motivate our community around our progressive, pro-democracy values
Get inspired to keep fighting
Bring your package(s) of NEW underwear for The Shack (more about this below)

Art as Activism Party, Tuesday, August 18. 7:00 PM in Saugatuck.

If you are interested in supporting a fellow group of Indivisibles and have some fun at the same time, check this out.

Summerfest, August 29. Downtown Hastings

Consider spending an hour or two helping us promote our vision and values at this year's Summerfest. If you're available to help, contact Lynette ((doele69@gmail.com<mailto:doele69@gmail.com>).

Help the Shack!

In response to this year's Barry County United Way's Day of caring, we are assisting The Shack in Delton through a collection of winter gloves and NEW underwear.
Underwear is one of the most needed items, because health regulations do not allow organizations to distribute used undergarments.
MI Barry County Indivisible will be collecting donations at all of our events over the next month. Please be generous to our neighbors in need.

Financial contributions to MBCI in August are matched!

In Michigan, because we are considered a "Battleground State", every dollar up to $600 will be matched by Indivisible National.
We need funds for our GOTV efforts and our mailings to educate our community about our pro-democracy values.
Remember...your dollars go TWICE as FAR this month!

Election Defense Corps updates

Hopefully you have already signed on for this vital program to make sure that our upcoming election is free, fair, and unencumbered by interference. If you are not signed up yet, it's not too late. Go here for information: Election Defense Corps
Here's what we are called to do now
Become certified as a Non-partisan Poll Challenger. Be the eyes and ears on the ground and make sure every voter who shows up gets their chance to vote free from interference or intimidation. Info here: Non-partisan poll challenger
Work at the polls as a paid Poll Inspector. Be the person who assists voters in the election process. Be right there where the action is! Info here: Poll worker
Become a Poll Watcher. Observe and document what is happening at the polls, report any concerns to the Election Protection Hotline. Info here: Poll watcher
Become a Ballot Cure Volunteer. Make every vote count. Ballor Cure Volunteers help voters fix technical errors on the absentee ballots, such as a missing or mismatched signature. You will help notify voters that their ballot has been flagged, walk them through the process of fixing it, and ensure they meet voting deadlines. Go here for information (select "Contact Michigan Voters"): Ballot cure volunteer
If you are a lawyer, a law student, or other legal professional, consider volunteering for the Election Protection Hotline. Information here: Election Protection Hotline volunteer
Become a Board of Canvassers Observer. After Election Day, the real work of certifying the results begins, and we need trained observers inside canvassing rooms to make sure it happens transparently and accurately. League of Women Voters observers are placed inside county canvassing rooms to monitor the official certification of every ballot cast: absentee, provisional, and Election Day votes. Observers are nonpartisan, do not interfere with the process, and document and report any irregularities through proper channels. Information here: Non-partisan Canvass Monitor
Choose which option(s) work best for your interests and availability. BUT CHOOSE AT LEAST ONE! We all need to do our share!

Delete DoorDash!

Maybe you use this reportedly convenient way to order your favorite carry-outs. We are asking you to delete this app and stop supporting this company!
For the past year or so DoorDash has been silent as ICE has arrested, detained, and even killed their delivery drivers.
Now they are supporting HR 9720, an attempt by the Republicans to strip governing authority away from residents of Washington, DC. All so that they can save $0.20 per delivery! Money intended for food access programs for low-income DC residents.
You don't need DoorDash! Go pick up your carry-out on your own. It will save you $$ and it's the right thing to do!

Proposed changes in OMB (Office of Management and Budget) Rules for Federal research grants

Project 2025 is alive and well at the OMB
They have proposed changes to the rules governing federal grants for scientific and medical research. Trump and the OMB want to exert greater political control over these grants.
They want political hacks to have the final say on how federal money is spent, superseding the expertise of scientists, researchers, and trained health professionals.
They are cloaking this under the guise of "efficiency and fraud protection." We know from "DOGE" what that really means!
This proposed rule change would also allow OMB bureaucrats to revoke funding midstream from previously awarded contracts without evidence of malfeasance.
When you make your 5 Calls this week, tell our Congressman and senators to oppose these changes.
Tell them you don't want medical research into multiple sclerosis, Alzhemier's disease. cancer, vaccinations, (or whatever YOUR favorite personal issue might be) to be controlled by an ignorant lackey of the President. Your personal story is always the most effective for issues like this!
Remind Moolenaar that HE was a trained scientist, and that evidence should always trump political whims.
For further information about this very important but little-publicized issue, go here: View link

5 calls (View link, Moolenaar: 202-225-3561, Peters: 202-224-6221, Slotkin: 202-224-4822)

OMB rules (discussed above)
Clarity Act
Call our Senators and tell them to vote NO on the so-called "Clarity Act".
This act is intended to regulate crypto-currency, but in effect enables "dark money," illegal money laundering, and shady politics. You know, the Trump way of conducting business!
We need legislation to regulate this highly speculative and often misleading industry. The Clarity Act is NOT the way to do it, though.
Oppose any attempts to increase funding for the DoD and for the illegal and immoral Republican War against Iran. Call for the impeachment of DoD Secretary Hegseth for his gross incompetence in handling this debacle.
Speak out against the continued illegal and immoral actions of ICE against the immigrant population of our country.
Call out Congressman Moolenaar for his cowardice in voting in favor of increased funding for these operations.
Demand that the agency not go ahead with plans to purchase GLOVE weapons for immigration agents. Read more about it here: ICE and electric shock gloves
Demand an independent investigation into Trump's illegal desecration of the White House. He has evaded Congressional approval for this personal vanity project of his, and HE needs to be accountable.
This bill would extend Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 350,000 Haitians currently living in the United States.
Immigration officers have already begun isolating, detaining, and criminalizing ordinary law-abiding people in preparation for deportation to Haiti.
Haitians still need this protection. Haiti is not considered safe for travel, and yet our government is proposing sending innocent people there.
Demand independent Congressional and Senate investigations into the multiple retaliatory legal actions perpetrated by the Trump DOJ against "enemies" of the President. The Attorney General and the DOJ are not the President's personal lawyers and private investigators.

There's a lot to chew on this week. A lot to act on. But it must be done, and YOU are the one to do it!

You probably sense the frustration in my writing this week.

Too many among our group are not even bothering to read these communications, let alone act on the recommendations they contain.

Too many are sitting back and waiting for someone else to do it. If you've read this far, pat yourself on the back. You are one of the dedicated few.

Thanks for reading, and thanks for all you do for our country and our community.

In solidarity,

Ed Szumowski Mary Beth Adyniec

MI Barry County Indivisible mibarrycountyindivisible@gmail.com<mailto:mibarrycountyindivisible@gmail.com>

Images from this newsletter

View the graphics and images included with this issue.

Newsletter graphic View larger
Newsletter graphic View larger

Greetings Indivisibles!

Here's a quick recap of what you need to know and do this week and beyond...

Quick Calendar of Upcoming Events (details further in)

Thursday, August 13, BC Dems 2026 Fundraiser Banquet

Saturday, August 15, Delton Founders Day*

Saturday, August 15, monthly rally at the BC Courthouse

Monday, August 17, monthly member meeting

Saturday, August 29, Hastings Summerfest*

Saturday, September 19, Barry County Ethnic Food Fest

*MBCI will have a table at these community events and VOLUNTEERS are NEEDED. Contact Lynette (doele69@gmail.com<mailto:doele69@gmail.com>) to find out how YOU can help. PLEASE! Help us spread the word about our vital mission and have fun with your fellow Indivisibles.

Primary elections are in the past. Lots of work ahead!

The primary elections are done. Whether your preferred candidates prevailed or not, the time is NOW for us to unite and ensure that we assist in the election of the people who will stand up against Trump and his authoritarian grabs.

We need to fight for accountability on the part of our elected officials, and we want to elect candidates dedicated to solving the affordability crisis that is plaguing too many of our families. Here's how you can help:

Come to our member meeting on Monday the 17th (details below) and get involved in our Messaging campaign. We are educating our community about the issues that matter and the need for their getting involved in the election process.
Sign up to be a Poll challenger in the November elections. I served as a poll challenger in Lansing and East Lansing last week, and we were visited by monitors from the DOJ. There were no negative incidents, but we must be on guard for potential interference at the polls and afterward by the Trump administration. There will be training available later in the fall.
Look for other ideas to come on becoming a poll inspector or watcher as well.

Summer events continue

We have had great visibility at a multitude of community events this summer, in our work to spread the word about the fight for democracy and the Constitution. And we still have a few more yet before the summer ends. Review the schedule at the top of this newsletter. There may be a few volunteer opportunities still available, so contact Lynette (doele69@gmail.com<mailto:doele69@gmail.com>) for information.

BC Dems Fundraiser

MBCI is a nonpartisan group, and we remain unaffiliated with any political party. However, we must acknowledge the special support we have received throughout our existence as an organization from the local Democratic Party. They have been with us from the start and continue to stand alongside us. So we encourage you, if possible, to support the BC Dems by attending their 2026 fundraiser. It is scheduled for Thursday, August 13 at the Legacy at Hastings Club House. All proceeds stay local, and the money raised will support the local candidates who align with our organization's values and mission! Click here to participate: BC Dems Fundraiser If you can't go, you can still follow that link and make a financial contribution to help our local candidates.

Monthly protest at the Courthouse is this Saturday, August 15, 10:30-noon.

Remember that our themes for the next several months are "Hands Off Our Vote!" and "Promote the vote!" Bring your signs and your enthusiasm and rally with your fellow Indivisibles to awaken our community. You can sign up here (Hands Off Our Vote). We encourage people to use this Hands Off Our Vote link which helps publicize our events to others throughout our region.

Monthly member meeting, Monday August 17, 6:30 PM. Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 315 W. Center, Hastings. Get the latest updates on our "Messaging" project as well as how to stay involved in the upcoming election season.

5 calls (View link, Moolenaar: 202-225-3561, Peters: 202-224-6221, Slotkin: 202-224-4822)

Despite his woeful record, the Republicans forced through the confirmation of Todd Blanche as Attorney General. We need to remind our Congressman and Senators that we will be on watch for Blanche/Trump's next attempts to ignore the Constitution and the rule of law.
Continue to pressure our Senators to oppose the so-called Clarity Act (HR 3633), which claims to regulate cryptocurrency but has serious ethical and enforcement loopholes.
Oppose funding for the Trump/Republican War in Iran as well as the "SAVE America Act". Tell our Senators to vote against H.Con.Res. 113, which has already passed the House. Criticize Moolenaar for voting for this resolution, which adds $100B to the federal deficit, adds $73B in funding for the illegal war, and nearly $13B to fund Trump's voter suppression programs.
Ask our Congressman where his next town hall will be held. Call out his cowardice and his ignoring the needs of his constituents.

That's about it for this week. Keep the faith, and we'll see you on Saturday and again on Monday!

Ed Szumowski Mary Beth Adyniec

MI Barry County Indivisible mibarrycountyindivisible@gmail.com<mailto:mibarrycountyindivisible@gmail.com>

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Greetings!

Here's what we need to know and do this week--

Quick Calendar of Upcoming Events (details further in)

NO Moolenaar protest this month!

Saturday, August 8, Middleville Pride Festival*

Saturday, August 8, Hastings Rockfest*

Thursday, August 13, BC Dems 2026 Fundraiser Banquet

Saturday, August 15, Delton Founders Day*

Saturday, August 15, monthly rally at the BC Courthouse

Monday, August 17, monthly member meeting

Saturday, August 29, Hastings Summerfest*

Saturday, September 19, Barry County Ethnic Food Fest

*MBCI will have a table at these community events and VOLUNTEERS are NEEDED. Contact Lynette (doele69@gmail.com<mailto:doele69@gmail.com>) to find out how YOU can help. PLEASE! Help us spread the word about our vital mission and have fun with your fellow Indivisibles.

Volunteers need to make calls and visit neighbors on behalf of our endorsed candidates. There are opportunities for Monday ahead of the primary election!

Sign up to make calls for Indivisible-endorsed candidates in Michigan. Go here for information: Make calls. These calls are effective, and every vote counts!
Knock on doors using Neighbor2Neighbor! You can sign up here: Neighbor2Neighbor
Not sure what Neighbor2Neighbor is all about? Go here: Talking to your neighbors is important

Michigan Primary Election, Tuesday August 4

I am sure I don't need to remind any of us that this election is very important. But please take the time to encourage your friends and family to get out there and vote as well. Remember that we are looking for candidates who are willing, able, and ready to fight for our democracy!

Updates on the Election Defense Corps

We have talked at length about the various threats to our elections posed by the Trump administration, along with our need to prepare to fight them.
Within the next few weeks, we will receive real-time updates on action steps we can each take.
The following are of particular interest in our Battleground State of Michigan: Scenario 2 (Voter Roll Purge) and Scenario 11 (Federal Agents at Polling Places)

Hastings Rockfest, Saturday August 8, 5:00-9:00 PM, Thornapple Plaza, Hastings

Looking for a more friendly alternative to the Rock the Country event, as well as supporting local music? Come to the Hastings Rockfest at the Thornapple Plaza. We will have a table there representing our group to the community. Stop by and say hi. Hope to see you there!

Middleville Pride Festival, Saturday, August 8, Noon-5:00 PM, downtown Middleville

Our mission as an organization includes being good allies with those who are threatened by the Trump administration. We will have a booth at the Middleville Pride event and we encourage you to show your support for our LBGTQ+ neighbors, to stop by our booth, and say hello!

BC Dems Fundraiser

MBCI is a nonpartisan group, and we remain unaffiliated with any political party. However, we must acknowledge the special support we have received throughout our existence as an organization from the local Democratic Party. They have been with us from the start and continue to stand alongside us. So we encourage you, if possible, to support the BC Dems by attending their 2026 fundraiser. It is scheduled for Thursday, August 13 at the Legacy at Hastings Club House. All proceeds stay local, and the money raised will support the local candidates who align with our organization's values and mission! Here's how to participate.

or click here: BC Dems fundraiser

Saturday, August 15, Delton Founders Day

We are still in need of a couple of volunteers to staff our table at this year's festival. Available shifts are noon-2:00 and 2:00-4:00. Contact Lynette (doele69@gmail.com<mailto:doele69@gmail.com>) to volunteer.

Monthly member meeting, Monday August 17, 6:30-8:00, at Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Hastings. 315 W. Center Street. MARK YOUR CALENDAR!

Join us to celebrate (or lament) the results of the primary election and help us plan our campaigns for the November general election.

Barry County Ethnic Food Fest, Saturday September 19

Mark your calendar for the second annual ethnic food festival to be held at The Hastings Church of the Nazarene (1716 N Broadway in Hastings) on Saturday September 19, from 11:00 AM- 2:00 PM.
This event is co-sponsored by Roundtable Companions for Racial Equity (RC4RE) in Hastings, and features delicious food from the diversity of cultural backgrounds that comprise our community.
Celebrate our community's diverse heritage through food, music, and fellowship. Maybe you have a favorite ethnic dish from your family background that you would like to share.
You can sign up here (View link) or contact Maggie (maggiecat310@live.com<mailto:maggiecat310@live.com>) for information. Join us!

Help wanted!

Yes, I mean YOU!

Our Communications team could use some fresh help. If you are savvy in designing social media posts, have skills in website management, or just feel like putting your creative skills to a good cause. we need YOU. If you have any questions, reach out to Marcia (mszumo1@gmail.com<mailto:mszumo1@gmail.com>)

Also, our Messaging team is hard at work designing some effective marketing pieces to engage people to vote for change in our fall elections. If this is an interest of yours, feel free to join them at their upcoming meeting this Thursday evening (August 6), 6:30 PM, at State Grounds Coffee in Hastings. You can also reach out to Marcia about this opportunity as well.

5 calls (View link, Moolenaar: 202-225-3561, Peters: 202-224-6221, Slotkin: 202-224-4822)

Iran War. Call our Congressman and our Senators and demand they take action regarding Trump's immoral and illegal war in Iran. We are appalled by the loss of lives on all sides of this conflict, as well as the immense financial burden it is placing on all of us. Demand that NO additional funds be appropriated for this fiasco.
Stop Trump's $1.8B slush fund. Trump is threatening to postpone the nomination of Todd Blanche as Attorney general until he has a more favorable Senate to do his bidding. (Let's work to make sure THAT never happens!) Demand that our legislators support The Bipartisan Transparency for American Taxpayers Act . Trump and Blanche have refused to rule out the payment of these slush funds to the January 6 insurrectionists. Tell Moolenaar it is time for him to stand up for the rule of law!
Data Centers continue to dominate the news, as people all over the country demand that no massive data centers be constructed in their neighborhoods. The Trump administration's answer to this is to try to put these huge energy guzzlers on public lands. Tell our legislators to support HR 9939 (No AI Centers on Federal Lands Act), which would permanently ban all large AI data centers on federal lands, require the removal of existing facilities, and mandate site rehabilitation.
Call Congressman Moolenaar and ask him when and where he will be holding a town hall during his month away from Washington. Tell him we need to actually see his face in our district for a change!

Well, all of this should keep you busy enough this week! We are now in the midst of the election season. We have the opportunity to elect people who will actually change things for the better!

Let's go out there and do the work.

In solidarity,

Ed Szumowski

Mary Beth Adyniec

MI Barry County Indivisible mibarrycountyindivisible@gmail.com<mailto:mibarrycountyindivisible@gmail.com>

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Greetings Fellow Indivisibles!

I hope all of you are enjoying the summer. And, I am so happy for a day of rain. About time! The primary early voting started on Saturday and will continue through this Sunday. And Election Day is Tuesday, August 4. So get out there and vote! I know a lot of you are working at the polls and being poll challengers. Thank you!

*Quick Calendar of Upcoming Events *

*>Early Primary Voting, Saturday, July 25 - Sunday, August 2*

- 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM - Some townships have combined polling places so check before you go

*>Board of Commissioners Meeting, July 28, August 11, August 25*

- 9:00PM - Barry County Courthouse, Commissioners Chambers, 220 W. State Street, Hastings - More info below

*>Saturday, August 1, Vermontville Pride Festival *

- 12:00 PM - 7:00 PM - 108 N. Main Street, Vermontville

*>Election Day, Tuesday, August 4*

- 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM

*>Saturday, August 8, Middleville Pride Festival *

- 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM - 91 E. Main St., Middleville

*>Saturday, August 8, Kill the Mood Hastings Rockfest*

- 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM - Thornapple Plaza, 301 E. State St., Hastings - Cost: Free

*>Thurdsday, August 13, BC Dems 2026 Fundraiser Banque*5:30 PM - 9:00 PM

- The Legacy at Hastings - Club House - More info below

*>Saturday, August 15, Delton Founders Day*

*>Saturday, August 29, Hastings Summerfest*

**MIBCI *will have a table at these community events and *VOLUNTEERS are NEEDED. *Contact Lynette (doele69@gmail.com) to find out how YOU can help. PLEASE! Help spread the word about our vital mission and have fun with your fellow Indivisibles.

*Candidate Interviews*

We have completed the *interviews of the three Democratic candidates for Congress* in the 2nd District. (Note that *the incumbent did not respond* to our request for an interview). Here's your chance to *compare all three side by side* as you make your choice for the upcoming primary.

Go here to watch all three:

View link

*>Barry County Commissioner Meetings*

- August 14 several of us attended the meeting and Brian Green represented us by requesting that the commissioners work to protect our elections in Barry County due to our Sheriff who has interfered in the past - Following this meeting was a presentation by a group brought here by our Sheriff casting doubt on our elections. The Barry County Clerk was present and many of her township clerks. They refuted the information presented by this group. - After a deadly shooting in Feb 2025 the Board of Commissioners authorized funds to get body cameras. They are now being tested and the sheriff hopes to have them in place by the end of July. - It is important for us to have a presence at these meetings and request that the body cams are in place for the elections so there will be a record if the sheriff and his deputies interfere in our elections.

*>Barry County Dems Fundraiser *

- We are encouraging you to participate and support the BC Dems with their fundraiser. They supported us at our Trivia Fundraiser. - The money they raise will remain local. It will be supporting the local candidates who align with our organization's value and mission.

Summer is a busy time and it goes by too fast. I hope you are all enjoying time with your family and friends. This past week I spent time with my family and Ed and Marcia are spending time with their family celebrating their 50th Anniversary. This is important especially during these stressful times. It helps us to get energized and revitalized so we can continue our important work. Thank you for all you do!

Mary Beth Adyniec Ed Szumowski

-- MI Barry County Indivisible mibarrycountyindivisible@gmail.com

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Greetings Fellow Indivisibles!

It looks like President Trump's threat of tariffs on Canadian forest fire smoke has given us a little relief from the horrid air quality. (I confess to being in a sarcastic mood today). In any event, I hope you are able to get outside at least a little. And while we are trapped in our air-conditioned hide-outs, let's focus on how we can fulfill our mission as a group!

Quick Calendar of Upcoming Events (details further in)

Monday, July 20, 6:00-7:30 PM. Member meeting, Delton Library

Monday-Saturday, July 20-25, Barry County Fair, Expo Center*

Saturday, August 1, Vermontville Pride Festival*

Saturday, August 8, Middleville Pride Festival*

Saturday, August 8, Hastings Rockfest*

Thursday, August 13, BC Dems 2026 Fundraiser Banquet

Saturday, August 15, Delton Founders Day*

Saturday, August 15, monthly rally at the BC Courthouse

Saturday, August 29, Hastings Summerfest*

*MBCI will have a table at these community events and VOLUNTEERS are NEEDED. Contact Lynette (doele69@gmail.com<mailto:doele69@gmail.com>) to find out how YOU can help. PLEASE! Help us spread the word about our vital mission and have fun with your fellow Indivisibles.

Reading of the Declaration of Independence

About 25 people gathered at the Hastings Library on Friday afternoon to do a public reading of our nation's founding document.

Organized by the BC Dems, it was a fun as well as an inspiring event.
Reading this document at times felt archaic, with unusual words like "hath shewn" and "perfidy."
Yet, at the same time, the list of grievances rang close to home, as we continue to battle the autocratic impulses of the Trump administration with our "NO KINGS" theme.
It was a great way to gather together and celebrate our patriotism.

Immediately afterward, Congressional candidate Ben Ambrose held a town hall at the library.

He fielded questions for the approximately 25-30 people in attendance.
Ben's main message is that his decades of experience in the Marine Corps, along with related government service in Veteran Affairs, have prepared him to continue to serve the country with his values of integrity, commitment, and trust.
We hope to complete our Congressional candidate interviews this week. Look for a message soon where you will be able to view all three in time for the upcoming primary.

ICE Out vigil

Approximately 30 of us gathered at the steps of the Courthouse on Saturday morning to hold a vigil to honor the latest victims of ICE violence.

Our message was clear. We are saddened and outraged by the killings of Lorenzo Araujo and Sebastian Duran Guerrero.
We are ashamed that these killings were perpetrated by our government and paid for with our taxes.
We are moved by the common humanity we all share with these victims, and we refuse to sweep this under the rug as some sort of operational mistake.
Mother Alicia Hager, from Emmanuel Episcoal Church, read a beautiful and heart-rending poem titled "Home," by British-Somali poet Warsan Shire. I strongly recommend you read this poem, and that you recommend it to anyone who doubts the courage, tenacity, and gut-wrenching desperation experienced by so many refugees and immigrants.
We learned that outrage and sadness on their own are meaningless. If we are to make any good come out of these continuing tragedies, it must be through the actions we take.
We must VOTE. Vote to replace our elected officials with people who are dedicated to justice, to humane treatment of all, and to the rule of law.
VOTE like this is the most important election in our lifetimes. We know that our Congressman is not going to change. So it is up to us to change our Member of Congress by voting in someone better.
We need to work on GOTV (Get Out the Vote) initiatives, voter registration drives, and we need to work in our elections as poll workers, poll watchers, and poll challengers.
Let's turn our outrage into action! Come to the meeting at the Delton Library (Monday, July 20, 6:00 PM) to learn how.

Member meeting, Monday July 20, 6:00 PM, Delton Library. Updates on our programs to promote and secure our elections. Updates on our "messaging project." And more! Be there!

Poll challengers

The role of poll challengers will be significant this year, as we work to fight against the threats of election interference posed by the Trump administration. If you are confused about what a poll challenger does, this chart may help.

If you are interested in participating, you must act now. You have until July 24 to apply and complete the one-hour online training in order to receive an assignment for the primary election. Go here to get started: View link

BC Dems Fundraiser

MBCI is a nonpartisan group, and we remain unaffiliated with any political party. However, we must acknowledge the special support we have received throughout our existence as an organization from the local Democratic Party. They have been with us from the start and continue to stand alongside us. So we encourage you, if possible, to support the BC Dems by attending their 2026 fundraiser. It is scheduled for Thursday, August 13 at the Legacy at Hastings Club House. All proceeds stay local, and the money raised will support the local candidates who align with our organization's values and mission! Here's how to participate.

Barry County Fair

The fair runs this week (through the 25th), and our Indivisible chapter will be hosting a booth. This is our chance to engage with our community, to educate them about our values and our mission, and to recruit them to action. But we need people on hand to accomplish this. A friendly face to explain who we are and what we stand for. YOU are that friendly face! There are specific needs for 2 volunteers for the following shifts: Friday, 2:00-4:30, and 4:30-7:00. And Saturday, 2:00-4:30 and 4:30-7:00. Contact Lynette (doele69@gmail.com<mailto:doele69@gmail.com>) to find out how YOU can help.

5 calls (View link, Moolenaar: 202-225-3561, Peters: 202-224-6221, Slotkin: 202-224-4822)

Call our Senators

Slotkin: Thank you for questioning Secretary of Defense Hegseth about military promotions based on politics not merit. Slotkin, Democrats Question Hegseth Over Blocked Military Promotions.
Vote NO regarding the confirmation of Trump former personal lawyer and current toady Todd Blanche as U.S. Attorney General.
Vote YES on H.R.1689 - To require the Secretary of Homeland Security to designate Haiti for temporary protected status. The Supreme Court just ruled that the administration can remove Temporary Protected Status at will. More than 300,000 Haitians who are legally here no longer have work visas or protected status. ICE can come in and drag them to a detention center at any moment. These immigrants are our friends and neighbors, and we need to protect them.
Vote NO on the CLARITY Act (H.R. 3633), a bill disguised as “crypto regulation” but which actually serves the billionaires and bad actors at the center of today’s crypto chaos. This bill doesn’t protect consumers, doesn’t close money laundering loopholes, and does nothing to stop the biggest threat of all: Trump’s crypto-fueled bribery machine.
Demand that Trump keep his hands off the Smithsonian Museums. Take action to prevent Trump from rewriting history. Inside Trump’s Ideological Fight With Smithsonian.
Oppose the Trump administration demands that States use paper voting ballots and verify citizenship or lose antiterrorism funding that helps pay for terrorism preparedness, training and cybersecurity. Administration Demands States Change Voting Rules or Lose Antiterrorism Funds.
Oppose Congress spending billions of dollars on Trump’s illegal war with Iran. A vote for the White House’s $87.6 billion weapons funding request or any additional funding for war is unacceptable. Demand Trump abide by the War Powers resolution passed by both Houses. The war continues! Why Have US-Iran Strikes Resumed and What Does It Mean for Peace?<View link5qUl8tudA8RESc> & Oil Prices Jump and Stocks Drop After Trump Says Iran Deal Is Over

Call Congressman Moolenaar--

We are extremely disappointed by your NO vote on HR 1689 to require the Secretary of Homeland Security to designate Haiti for temporary protected status.
Oppose the Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) America Act. Speaker Mike Johnson wants to include the SAVE Act in the budget reconciliation bill with the hope it will also pass the Senate. The SAVE Act would require proof of citizenship by certified birth certificate or passport with name on state issued identification matching and would eliminate voting by mail. Johnson Says House Will Pass Stalled SAVE America Act One More Time After Latest Demands.

Well, that's a lot to think about and act upon this week. I know we can often feel overwhelmed. The "enshittification" of our nation by the horrid policies and actions of the Trump administration might tempt us to withdraw and give up. These words from legendary actress and producer, Mary Pickford, are our quote of the week:

"All the water in the world cannot sink a ship unless it gets inside the ship. All the negativity in the world cannot sink a person unless it gets inside the mind."

Stay focused, keep the faith, and keep the "s***" out of your mind!

In solidarity,

Ed Szumowski Mary Beth Adyniec

MI Barry County Indivisible mibarrycountyindivisible@gmail.com<mailto:mibarrycountyindivisible@gmail.com>

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