Every second Friday of each month, State Representative John Stakoe visits with the seniors at the Independence Township Senior Center.
“It gives us an opportunity to chat,” Stakoe said. “And I get to see what’s going on.”
Every visit, Stakoe sits and talks with the seniors about anything and everything. If they have any concerns Stakoe is more than happy to listen and see what he can do about them in Lansing, said Senior Center Coordinator Margaret Bartos.
“He’s very open and will research things if we need him to,” she said. “He’s very helpful. He followed up on issues with our recent millage proposal and funding at the state level.”
When Stakoe isn’t taking political questions or hearing concerns of the seniors, he sits back with them in their dining area and enjoys a nice lunch.
Stakoe, who holds office hours in many town halls, has been coming to the senior center for around four years and said it’s important to him to keep connected with the people who put him into office.
“When I was Highland Township supervisor, I always felt a disconnect between the people and Lansing,” he said. “I want people to know I’m available.”
The senior center also holds events such as their new Club Bookworm, an AARP Driver Safety Program, bake sales and dinners.
They also organize many day trips and are planning a trip to Australia in October.
For more information about the senior center or to find out about other events such as the “Meet Your Legislator” lunches and trips, call 248-625-8231.