Look Twice, Save a Life!

SOS Johnson rides across Mackinac Bridge to promote motorcycle safety

With the Straits of Mackinac rolling beneath her and a group of fellow riders behind her, Secretary of State Ruth Johnson rode a Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 across the five-mile asphalt, concrete and steel span of the Mackinac Bridge on May 19 to highlight the critical need for motorists and motorcyclists to safely share the road.

Johnson and the other motorcyclists set off from Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry parking lot in Mackinaw City to publicize May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Johnson’s motorcycle was provided for the event by Zips 45th Parallel Harley-Davidson in Gaylord.

“As the weather turns warmer and the riding season shifts into high gear, more motorcyclists will be out,” said Johnson, who rode her first motorcycle at the age of 12. “I’m here today to remind everyone that whether you drive two, three or four wheels, safety on the road begins with you.”

Motorcycle safety is an important issue in Michigan. Statistics show that 80 percent of motorcycle crashes result in injury and death. 

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Be the Match plate introduced

Secretary Johnson's Chief of Staff Mike Senyko, along with officials from Michigan Blood, State Senator Dave Hildenbrand and others, unveiled a new Be the Match fundraising license plate on May 16, which helps promote lifesaving marrow and umbilical cord blood transplantation.

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SOS offices closed 
for Memorial Day

Secretary of State Ruth Johnson reminds residents that all branch offices and the Office of the Great Seal will be closed in observance of Memorial Day on Monday, May 30. Secretary of State SUPER!Centers normally offer Saturday hours but will be closed on Saturday, May 28.

Residents are encouraged to use online services at ExpressSOS.com, especially on the days after holiday weekends, which are very busy in SOS offices.

MSP warns of danger of leaving kids in cars

As temperatures heat up, the Michigan State Police is again reminding residents of the dangers of leaving children unattended in vehicles.

Read the Sault Ste. Marie Evening News story

Get Perks with an $11 Recreation Passport

When you say YES to the Recreation Passport when renewing your tabs, you don't just get annual access to Tahquahmenon Falls State Park (pictured) and all other Michigan state parks. You also get nearly 1,200 Passport Perks that can save you money.

Plates for vets

Are you a veteran of America's armed forces? Michigan has many plates to recognize your service.