Michigan House Votes To Ban Text Messaging While Driving

The Michigan House of Representatives today voted on a key public safety measure to ban texting while driving, announced state Reps. Matt Lori and John Proos.

"Distracted driving is a hazard on our roads," said Proos, R-St. Joseph. "We are a society on the go - always cramming in as much activity as possible. Unfortunately, this mentality has put us in great danger on the road, where our sole focus must be our personal safety and the safety of others."

The legislation makes text messaging while driving a secondary offense, meaning that a driver could only be ticketed if he or she had already been pulled over for another infraction, such as speeding or failing to wear a seatbelt. The ban allows exemptions for drivers reporting traffic accidents, medical emergencies and criminal activity.

"Texting while driving is extremely dangerous and should be illegal," said state Rep. Matt Lori, of Constantine. "Frankly, I don't think the bill we passed goes far enough - lawmakers should have made it a primary offense, but I'll take what I can get."

Lori served as sheriff for 20 years before being elected state representative.

Twenty-nine states have passed laws to regulate cell phone use while driving, while six states, the District of Columbia, and some local governments have enacted outright bans of cell phone use while driving. Legislation has been introduced in both the U.S. House of Representatives (HR 3535) and the U.S. Senate (S. 1536) that would reduce by 25 percent the federal transportation funds distributed to states that do not pass a state text messaging ban.

91 percent of Americans think that driving while texting is as dangerous as drunk driving, according to a 2007 Harris Interactive poll. Young people in particular are at danger, as 66 percent of drivers age 18 to 24 admit to sending text messages while driving.

Dowagiac's Annual Council Strategic Planning Session

Let’s all mark our calendars for Saturday, January 30, 2010 for the annual City Council Retreat.
The Billieville Conference Center at the Ed Lowe Foundation has been reserved for the day so that Council can focus on upcoming issues and approaches as to how we may be able to address the long-term needs for the City of Dowagiac.
In the past this meeting has been open to the public. Any residents interested in seeing what council is working on for the future of Dowagiac should attend.

Dowagiac and Silver Creek Russom Field Board

The new Russom Field board will consist of 5 members that will work together to decide on future projects at Russom Field.
We have been told that Silver Creek Township has already been meeting to discuss projects and Dowagiac has yet to appoint anyone to the board.
Dowagiac City Manager Kevin Anderson told us that the City of Dowagiac will “start working hot and heavy after the first of the year to appoint their members to the board“
This will be an exciting opportunity for board members to make a positive change for Silver Creek and Dowagiac residents.
One of the projects already being talked about is a bike trail from Silver Creek to Dowagiac. This would be a project that would not only be a safe place for families to take a long ride but would also bring in Chicago visitors from Sister Lakes.

Dowagiac New Councilman Junior Oliver has Global Trading and Consultating Business

Much to the surprise of Dowagiac residents our newest Councilman has a lot of interests and employment in Global trading and as a consulant.

Clicks on the link below to find out more.

http://ar.tradekey.com/profile_view/uid/3039656.htm

http://www.alibaba.com/member/us106785894.html

http://www.alibaba.com/product/us106785894-106314033-0/ECONOMIC_DEVELOPMENT_RESEARCH.html

Entire State of Michigan going smoke free?

In May, Michigan moved one step closer to joining the 37 other states that have gone smoke-free. On a 73 to 31 vote, lawmakers approved a plan to ban smoking in most public places.

House bill 4377 prohibits smoking in most public indoor places and places of employment. Violators of the smoking ban face a $100 fine for the first violation and a $500 fine for subsequent violations.

Dowagiac Couple Hit By Car In Benton Harbor

Beverly and Donald Krause were hit by a car and seriously injured while visiting the Mendal Center at Lake Michigan College by a 26 year old driver.

The driver was traveling 25 MPH over the speed limit.

The driver was arrested and the Krause's are in serious condition.

Dowagiac City Council To Appoint New Councilman

The committee to select the two new councilman to the Dowagiac City Council has recommended Jim Dodd and Junior Oliver.
If approved by the Dowagiac City Council on December 7th the new councilman will take their seats immediately.
For more information go to www.dowagiacinformer.com