The Detroit chapter of the NAACP released a statement calling the Michigan House of Representatives to be reconvened before the end of this year’s legislative session on Dec. 31. On Thursday after a tumultuous week of walkouts and absences, House Democrats adjourned with no plans for further voting.

House Republicans and state Rep. Karen Whitsett, D-Detroit, failed to attend sessions this week, walking out in protest.

The Republicans walked out together, hoping House Democrats would put up for a vote bills meant to preserve the tipped minimum wage in Michigan for servers and bartenders. Whitsett skipped Wednesday and Thursday for different reasons, telling reporters earlier this week that she left because she felt legislation on the table had been rushed.

Michigan Senate continued voting: After House adjourns, Senate passes bills in marathon session as lame duck nears end

Reverend Wendell Anthony, president of the Detroit NAACP, chastised those who missed the legislative sessions and demanded the House reconvene.

“Staying at home when you should be at work, hanging out in the halls or in a secure office when you should be doing the work for the people is shameful politics,” his statement reads.

Lame duck meltdown: As lame duck languishes, speaker demands attendance then abruptly adjourns

In their plea for the legislature to return to Lansing, the NAACP floated the use of Joint Rule 15, a facet of the Joint Rules of the Michigan Senate and House that grants the Senate majority leader and the House speaker power, acting together, to convene either chamber of the legislature at any time in case of an emergency.

“In a final plea before the year ends, we respectfully call upon Speaker of the House Joe Tate and Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks to exercise their power and call the House back to session per Joint Rule 15,” the statement says.

“Power means nothing if you don’t exercise it,” Anthony said in the statement. “Leaving bills stacked on the table when they should be voted on, passed, and signed into law is your job undone.”

Breaking news reporter Liam Rappleye can be reached at LRappleye@freepress.com

JACKSON COUNTY, MI – Cafe Fuel is now welcoming customers to enjoy coffee and company in downtown Jackson.

In October, Fortress Cafe closed its location inside Lean Rocket Lab, leading the nonprofit to open a coffee shop of its own called Cafe Fuel. The new business opened its doors Monday, Dec. 9.

Fortress Cafe is closing downtown store, but new coffee shop will take its place

“Everybody’s super excited to be back and loving all the new options they can pick from,” Director of Member Services Sierra Sibson said.

People can find a variety of sandwiches, bagels, soups, salads, English muffins and coffee drinks. Popular are the steamed bagel sandwiches, which are usually made with bacon and eggs, or turkey and cheese, Cafe General Manager Faith Seneff said.

“It’s kind of a new thing that people haven’t heard a lot about, but you make your sandwich, put it in a steamer that we have, and it softens it,” Seneff said. “It kind of melts all the flavors together.”

Soups are hits with patrons so far, Seneff said. Options rotate between chicken noodle, broccoli cheddar, loaded baked potato and a tomato basil bisque.

Baked goods come from Jackson’s Doughnation Bakery and The ABC Bakery in Summit Township. Additionally, there is a space where the nonprofit can showcase those participating in the LOCAL Fellows Program, Sibson said.

Fortress Cafe is closing downtown store, but new coffee shop will take its place

“We’re just trying to utilize local businesses and bring more people in the space,” Seneff said.

Cafe Fuel still brews coffee from Fortress Cafe, which operates a farm and other locations, and Cafe Fuel makes a variety of lattes, cappuccinos, cold brew and hot chocolate.

Coffee fans can join a mug club for $29.99 a month. They will receive a Cafe Fuel mug and can fill it with free drip coffee or get $1 off specialty beverages, Sibson said.

Aside from the food, Lean Rocket Lab reconfigured the seating of the cafe to offer more comfortable options, including, high-top chairs, tables and couches. So far, both Sibson and Seneff have enjoyed seeing the seats full.

“We had a lot of people that are regulars that come in here and they like to work up here, have meetings with each other,” Sibson said. “I think they’re excited to be back.”

Cafe Fuel, 133 W. Michigan Ave., is open 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday.

More information can be found on its Facebook page and website.

Want more Jackson-area news? Bookmark the local Jackson news page or sign up for the free “3@3 Jackson” daily newsletter.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) urges outdoor enthusiasts to stay safe as fluctuating winter conditions continue across Michigan.

According to a press release issued Friday (Dec. 20), proper preparation and caution are key to avoiding accidents while enjoying activities like snowmobiling, ice fishing, and hiking.

Winter Safety Tips

The DNR recommends dressing in light, adjustable layers to avoid overheating or freezing. Check weather and road conditions, and carry essential equipment like ice picks, ropes, flashlights, and backup gear.

“The right gear is definitely essential to going out,” said DNR conservation officer Brandon Vacek. “I mean, you want to make sure you’re dressed in layers to that you know you can adjust accordingly.”

Further, Vacek said people should travel with a buddy, inform someone of your plans, and ensure your communication devices work in remote areas.

“That goes back to always having, you know, a plan, leaving some information with someone about where you’re going and when you’re set to return,” said Vacek.

Staying hydrated and fueled with snacks is also important, according to the news release, and if you’re feeling unwell, it’s best to stay home.

Ice and Snowmobile Precautions

Ice conditions are unpredictable, so wear a flotation device and keep ice picks accessible, advised Vacek. Furthermore, snowmobilers should ride on the right-hand side of trails, keep speeds safe, and avoid alcohol.

Riders aged 12 to 16 must obtain a Michigan-approved snowmobile safety certificate to operate without a guardian or crossroads.

Last winter, the DNR reported that there were 19 snowmobile fatalities, highlighting the importance of caution.

For more safety tips and trail updates, visit Michigan.gov/RideRight and Michigan.gov/DNR/Education/Safety-Info.