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Michigan Wine Trails, Minus the Drive An article giving the basics about Wine Country Tour Packages, Bus Tours, Limousine/Luxury Van Service, Biking and other ways to tour Michigan's wineries without doing the driving.

Expanded MEAP Testing for Michigan Students in 2005 The Detroit Free Press reports that beginning in fall of 2005, the Michigan Educational Assessment Program (MEAP) tests will be administered to 3rd - 9th grade students and gives some parent reactions to the expanded focus on testing.

Impact of Pure Michigan tourism promotion The Detroit News feature Mich. aims more cash at tourism credits the $13.2 million "Pure Michigan" marketing effort for helping the state to hold serve in a tough tourism market, saying that: Travel Michigan used half of a two-year, $15 million grant it received last year to help pay for Pure Michigan; the other half will be used this year to continue the promotion.

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Northern Michigan 2004-2005 Skiing Preview The Traverse City Record-Eagle reports on early season status of resorts including Crystal Mountain, Boyne, Nub's Nob, Caberfae Peaks, Schuss Mountain, Shanty Creek, The Homestead Resort and Treetops Resort.

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All Michigan, All the Time

Food & Dining > Michigan Grown Foods such as apples and cherries grown in the rich soil of the Great Lakes State can be found here. Be sure to check out the Michigan Wine & Michigan Food pages too! And hey, buy foods from Michigan when you have a choice!

Michigan's Jobless Rate 7% for November 2004 The Free Press reports that Michigan's unemployment rate hit 7% in November, the highest mark of 2004 (yet below the 7.6% of Nov 2003). The national unemployment rate for November 2004 was 5.4%.

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Map of Michigan and Michigan County Map

Five Things You Need to Know about Michigan

Newest Additions to Absolute Michigan Below is an automatically updated list of the 50 most recent additions to Absolute Michigan. If you're the bookmarking/favorite adding type, this might be a good page to add!

Michigan News Story Archive

Detroit/Michigan Holiday Blog for Troops The Detroit Free Press invited their readers to post holiday messages to troops on a special Weblog. More than 430 greetings had been sent.

Lake Michigan Intervention Causes Problems The Holland Sentinel reports that Lake Michigan has been engineered by humans into a system focused on producing maximum numbers of sport fish, most of which are not native to its waters. Now there is mounting evidence the lake could be on the brink of "ecosystem shock," a food chain collapse caused by the nonstop invasion of foreign species.

Michigan Stocks Outperform the National Average

Michigan Cougar Comeback The Detroit Free Press reports that while a cougar has not been captured in Michigan for nearly a century, evidence is mounting that they may be making a comeback. Cougars reportedly were spotted in the summer in Monroe and Macomb counties. By fall, reports of big cat sightings surfaced in western Wayne and northern Oakland counties as well. (Not to mention many reports from Northern Michigan)

About Absolute Michigan Absolute Michigan is designed to be a rich resource that promotes the state of Michigan as a place to visit, for business that doesn't mess up the natural beauty Michigan is blessed with, and most importantly as a place to live your life with the people you love.

Welcome to Absolute Michigan

Michiganians of the Year The Detroit News is calling for nominees for their 2004 Michiganian of the Year awards. Past winners include the famous (Jerry Linenger, Al Kaline, Aretha Franklin, Helen Milliken) and everyday heroes who have made a difference.

2004 Michigan News in Review The Detroit Free Press has their 2004 News in Review section with top Michigan stories in a variety of categories. If you missed 2004 (or are feeling nostalgic) this will be especially useful.

Michigan Cities Consider Income Taxes The Detroit News reports that Michigan cities including Mount Clemens, Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor are considering adding minicipal income taxes on residents & businesses to bolster their dwindling coffers. The article also has an online survey.

Lake Michigan Showing Signs of Ecological Breakdown This year the salmon were biting on just about anything, and commercial fisherman Dennis Hickey says he knows why: They are starving.

Wind Power in Michigan The Great Lakes Radio Consortium's Chris Lehman has a two part report on wind energy and farms of huge turbines (aka windmills) that are springing in Michigan and the Great Lakes region.

Michigan Songwriters Festival January 6, 2005 Some of Michigan's top songwriters (Jay Stielstra, Chris Buhalis, Eric Kelly, Mike Boyd, John Latini, The Great Lakes Myth Society, Dave Boutette), performing songs about Michigan to benefit the Washtenaw Land Trust.

Michigan's Transportation Future Precarious Booth Newspapers reports that Michigan's current 2009 budget for capacity improvement and new roads is ... nothing. Measures suggested to bring additional monies in include a gas tax hike.

High-speed Web Over Power Line in mid-Michigan The Grand Ledge Independent (via WWJ's Great Lakes IT Report) reports that a New York company is opening an office in the city to be the first in Michigan to offer broadband access to the Internet over power lines. The technology allows a broadband signal to travel on a power line and is expected to cost about $30 per month.

Architectural History for Sale in Michigan The Detroit Free Press has a feature on houses designed by the reknown American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. Currently for sale in Michigan are the Donald & Mary Lou Schaberg House in Okemos, built 1950 ($1.6 million) and the Eric Pratt House, built 1951, Galesburg, ($375,000).

Storm Hammers Southern Michigan The first storm of '05 is closing schools, creating driving misery and could leave up to 7 inches of snow in some areas before it tapers off later today.

Naming Michigan's Highways The Lansing State Journal has a feature on a book that explores the twists and turns of how Michigan's highways and roads. The book "A Drive Down Memory Lane: The Named State and Federal Highways of Michigan" by LeRoy Barnett is available from Wayne State University Press. For example, the Lodge Freeway is named after We have an expressway named after John Lodge, who never owned or drove a car.

Taylor Named Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Michigan Supreme Court selected Clifford Taylor to serve as its next chief justice.

Michigan Hunter Contracts Bovine TB The Detroit Free Press reports state health officials said Thursday that a Michigan hunter has been diagnosed with bovine tuberculosis, which he apparently contracted while gutting a deer he killed in October in Alcona County.

New Michigan Legislature, Same Challenges The Detroit News reports that the new Michigan House that starts this week will face the same task legislators have faced for the last 4 years: budget cuts in both the current budget ($350 million in the red) and next year's budget. Republicans have a 58-52 House majority and a 22-16 Senate majority.

GM to Michigan: Get Ready for Hydrogen Fuel Cells Booth Newspapers report that with General Motors working to perfect nonpolluting, hydrogen fuel-cell vehicles over the next five years, if Michigan wants to capitalize on the "hydrogen economy", it will need higher-skilled workers to produce and service fuel-cell vehicles.

Linking Michigan & Indiana Trails and Parks The Detroit Free Press reports that several northern Indiana and southern Michigan counties may link up their recreational trails and parks to boost cross-state tourism.

Barn Red Featured in West Michigan Film and Video Alliance Kick-off The West Michigan Film and Video Alliance (WMFVA) kick-off event will be held at Celebration Cinema in Grand Rapids on Jan 20th, at 6 PM. Featured will be the new High Definition feature presentation of "Barn Red", shot in Michigan by Brauer Productions and starring Ernest Borgnine and Kimberly Norris Guerrero. Borgnine, filmaker Rich Brauer and other cast & crew will be in attendence.

Proposals Could Bring Lower Insurance Rates to Michigan

Technology & Intellect to Drive Michigan's Auto Future The Detroit News reports that a group of top auto executives and industry experts who spoke Wednesday at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit feel that brains, not brawn will be most important commodity in an automotive future that will see hydrogen-powered cars, people-friendly designs and computers taking over many driving functions.

Michigan Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth Weaver to Resign

State Economists Confirm: Budget Cuts Needed to Put Michigan in the Black The Holland Sentinel reports that although the $12.5 billion budget that covers public K-12 education will be in the black, state Treasurer Jay Rising said he expects the $8.8 billion general fund budget to be around $350 million short in the current fiscal year and about $750 million short in the fiscal year that starts October 1st, 2005 if adjustments aren't made.

Michigan Prep Girls Season Likely to Change

Martin Luther King Day in Michigan The Detroit News has a feature looking at how metro Arab-Americans are looking at Martin Luther King's message and has a comprehensive listing of the day's events around the area.

91% of Michigan's Teachers "Highly Qualified" MLive.com & Booth Newspapers report that 9% of Michigan teachers must prove by the end of next school year that they are highly qualified to teach their core academic subjects under the Federal No Child Left Behind Act of 2001.

Kayak for a Cure, Kayakers to Attempt Lake Michigan Crossing The Grand Rapids Press reports that Bill Beland and 9 others plan to kayak 90 miles across Lake Michigan this August to raise at least $25,000 and awareness for the American Cancer Society.

Over Half of Michigan Votors Favor Affirmative Action Ban WOOD TV (Grand Rapids) reports that a new poll finds that 53% of likely voters favor a state constitutional amendment banning affirmative action in university admissions and government hiring. 33% were opposed and 14% were undecided.

Michigan Programmers Fight Hackers Detroit Free Press technology writer Mike Wendland has an article on two Michigan programmers who are helping in the fight against spyware and hacking: Oakland County's Richard Stiennon with Webroot (anti-spyware/adware software) and Mike Klein, CEO of Ann Arbor's LucidLink (wireless security).

Michigan Unemployment Rate Climbs for December The Detroit News reports that Michigan's jobless rate climbed to 7.3 percent in December (the high for 2004). With Oregon improving and Alaska yet to report, it could leave Michigan with the highest unemployment rate in the nation.

West Michigan Golf Show - February 4th-6th The West Michigan Golf Show set for February 4-6, 2005 at the DeVos Place in downtown Grand Rapids. The show features hundreds of exhibits, interactive golf areas, equipment, merchandise, clinics and free lessons.

Michigan Chambers Speak Against Rasing Minimum Wage

SCO Refused by Michigan Court of Appeals

Southeast Michigan

Northeast Michigan

Northwest Michigan

Southwest Michigan

Michigan's Upper Peninsula

Michigan Business Tax Overhaul to be Proposed The Detroit News reports on Gov. Jennifer Granholm's proposed new business tax system, expected to be offered today. The plan would purportedly cut the Single Business Tax rate from 1.9% to 1.2%, tax profits more heavily and offer a 35% tax credit for capital investments.

Major Increase in Michigan Venture Capital Investment The Great Lakes IT Report reports that venture capital investment in Michigan companies was up to $78.9 million for the fourth quarter of 2004 according to the most recent Money Tree Survey. Investment in Q3 was just $13 million and $22 million in the fourth quarter of 2003. 2004's total was $148.1 million as compared to $92 million for 2003.

Michigan Company Will Fire Smokers The Detroit News reports that the decision by Weyco Inc. (an Okemos-based medical benefits administration company) to terminate workers who wouldn't stop smoking (period) drew national attention yesterday. The news story includes reactions from smokers, other such policies, health costs and raises questions of personal freedom.

Proposed Michigan Business Tax Changes Announced The Detroit News reports that Gov. Granholm presented a major business tax reform plan yesterday. The proposed tax shift calls for a cut in the Single Business Tax and a reduction in the alternative tax paid by small business. The state would lower payroll tax (weighted more toward profits), allow credits for plants, equipment and research and development, and hike taxes on insurance companies.

Michigan Economy Lost Ground in 2004 The Michigan Business Activity Index (compiled by Detroit based Comerica Bank) gained 2 points in December, to close at 108 for 2004, compared with a revised 106 reading in November. This was slightly down from 2003 (114, 2.2%).

New Reference Book for Michigan Schools Michigan and southwest Ontario received a new reference book called Explore our Natural World: A Biodiversity Atlas of the Lake Huron to Lake Erie Corridor, created by Lisa Appel. The book features more than 130 pages of color charts, graphs, text and pictures of the various forms of wildlife in the Blue Water Area's back yard.

Michigan Gas Prices Soaring The Detroit News reports that the average cost of a gallon of gas in southeastern Michigan was $1.95 (and three cents more statewide) after starting 2005 at $1.72. Industry analysts believe that prices may climb as much as 30 cents more, which would top Michigan's previous high of $2.13.

Michigan Legislation to Require Consent for Nationwide Cell Phone Directory The Associated Press reports that Michigan lawmakers have introduced a bill to require consent from Michigan residents before their cell phone numbers are listed in a proposed nationwide directory. Some cellular carriers have proposed a nationwide 411 directory of mobile numbers but companies such as Verizon Wireless U.S. Cellular Corp. oppose it.

Zebra Mussels Spread to More Michigan Lakes The Detroit Free Press reports that zebra mussels have been identified in more Michigan lakes including: Tamarack (Washtenaw County), Runyan (Livingston), Marion (Charlevoix), Spider (Grand Traverse), Long (Hillsdale), Indian (Kalamazoo), Gunn (Mason), and Corey, Fisher, Palmer, Sturgeon and Wahbememe (St. Joseph County).

Michigan Reactions to the State of the Union Address Both the Detroit Free Press & News have features on last night's State of the Union address. The Detroit News added reactions of Michigan residents Predictably, jobs, manufacturing and health costs were important.

This Weekend In Michigan - February 4 & 5

Michigan Chamber of Commerce Questions New Business Tax Proposal

DEQ Permit Granted for Michigan Ethanol Plant The Toledo Blade reports that the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality has approved a permit requested by Great Lakes Ethanol LLC to install a $72 million ethanol plant in Riga Township (outside of Blissfield, Lenawee County). The plant would produce 50 million gallons of ethanol (bio-fuel made from corn used in gasoline) per year.

State of the State of Michigan Today's Detroit News has an excellent and detailed article detailing the State of Michigan's economy, budget and the challenges that Gov. Granholm (and the state as a whole) faces heading into the second half of her term.

Michigan Home Builders Sue to Block New Energy Regulations The Detroit Free Press reports that the Michigan Association of Home Builders is suing the state to block it from enforcing stricter energy rules for new and remodeled homes and condos because the new energy code doesn't meet a state requirement that new regulations pay for themselves in under seven years.

Michigan's Future Starts Today The State News (MSU) reports that Gov. Jennifer Granholm's third State of the State address tonight will focus on plans to improve the economic climate, increase job growth and diversify the economy. Also expected is a proposal to eliminate the $2,500 payment students receive for high MEAP performance and replace it with a grant of $4,000 for students who complete two years of college.

2006 Federal Budget May Be Bad News for Michigan The Detroit News reports that the 2006 Federal Budget proposed by president Bush may mean even more cuts in education, health care, housing and community programs. Although overall Federal revenues would rise 3%, most of them (like Medicare) have costs that are increasing much more. Add to this a projected state budget shortfall of $700 million, and this does not look like good news.

Michigan Mountain Bikers Work for Better Trails The Detroit Free Press has a feature looking at how the Michigan Mountain Biking Association is working to extend and maintain the state's trail network.

Where Michigan Gets Road Salt From the "Bet You Didn't Know This" files (and the Great Lakes Radio Consortium) is a fascinating story about a salt mine that extends about four miles under Lake Erie (accessed from the northern edge of Cleveland).

Michigan Must Diversify & Educate Free Press columnist Tom Walsh has a thought-provoking piece arguing that Michigan needs to both diversify its economy and focus on higher education. He cites US Census data that shows Michigan ranks 40th out of 50 states in the percentage of adults with a college degree.

Michigan Climate to be like Ohio ... or Northern Arkansas?

This Weekend In Michigan - February 11 & 12

Granholm Proposes More Dollars for Michigan Schools The Lansing State Journal reports that Gov. Jennifer Granholm wants to boost the minimum per-pupil foundation grant for the 2005-2006 school year from $6,700 to $6,875 (plus add another $50 for high school students). The article points out that the increase could be eaten up by rising retirement & insurance costs.

DNR Hears About Northern Michigan Snowmobile Trail Interlochen Public Radio has feature about recommendations received by the Michigan DNR about ways it could live up to a promise made to snowmobilers. The DNR promised (late 90s) to connect Cheboygan & Gaylord with a snowmobile trail. To do it, the state could either break another promise to Mullet Lake property owners or run a snowmobile trail through one of Lower Michigan's most wild places.

Michigan by Region

Michigan Universities Transform Michigan's Tech Industry Detroit Free Press tech writer Mike Wendland reports that technology transfers from the University of Michigan last year resulted in 13 new businesses & 285 inventions in medicine, engineering, chemistry, biophysics, education and transportation systems. Royalties and ownership holdings netted the university almost $12 million. MSU brought in $20 million.

Some Michigan Colleges Say Granholm Broke Promise The Detroit News reports that some of Michigan's 15 four-year universities say Gov. Jennifer Granholm's proposed $30 million cut in higher education funding goes against her vow last year to boost funding in exchange for caps on tuition hikes. The Governor's office has responded that the state's universities come out $70 million ahead to to a $200 million bond initiative.

Michigan Chamber Supports Removing Health Care from Single Business Tax The Michigan Chamber of Commerce announced yesterday support for the State House GOP plan to finish the job on removing health care from the base of the Single Business Tax (SBT). In 2003, Republican & Democratic lawmakers voted to remove 50 percent of health care from the base of the SBT over three years. The GOP plan would remove the remaining 50 percent of health care from the SBT base by 2007.

Michigan in Pictures View (nearly) daily photos of all faces of the Great Lakes State from professional and amateur photographers at the Michigan in Pictures photoblog.

Impact of Michigan Merit Scholarship Changes The Detroit News reports that while proposed changes in Michigan's Merit Scholarship program will cost more money, hurt some low-income students and reduce the total number of students receiving scholarships, they might also help increase the number of college graduates in Michigan.

Michigan Energy (Affordability) Crisis The number of Michigan households facing unaffordable energy bills has reached crisis proportions according to The Heat And Warmth Fund (THAW), a non-profit emergency energy assistance program. The study found that more than 180,000 households with incomes 50% below the Federal Poverty Level pay 38 percent of their income to keep heat and lights on in their homes (6% is considered affordable).

Michigan Early Childhood Investment Corporation Created Governor Granholm approved the formation of a new non-profit public corporation to coordinate state and local efforts to promote early childhood development activities in Michigan yesterday. The Michigan Early Childhood Investment Corporation (ECIC) will establish standards that will be implemented throughout the state by the ECIC in partnership with local ISDs.

Sour News for Michigan Sugar Beet Growers The Lansing State Journal reports that the Michigan Sugar Co. announced that it is eliminating its final three installment payments to its 1,250 beet producers in 21 Michigan counties (and in Ohio and Ontario). The cooperative stands to lose $33 million because more than 200,000 tons of beets spoiled due to dramtic temperature swings last fall & this winter.

Plans for Higher Standards for Michigan High Schools The Lansing State Journal reports that a coalition of 13 states (including Michigan) confirmed plans Sunday to require tougher high school courses and diploma requirements, changes that could affect about one in three students. Changes include requiring every student to take rigorous math and English regardless of career plans and tying college admissions to high school exit exams.

Michigan Made Movies The Lansing State Journal has a feature reviewing two wildly different films made in Michigan. Jeff Burton's "Dead End Road" (a slasher pic) and Rich Brauer's "Barn Red" (a thoughtful film about land management). The reviewer's verdict? Good production values but some inconsitent quality.

Michigan Identity Theft & Credit Reports

Michigan Chamber Opposes "Blank Check" for Schools The Michigan Chamber of Commerce has a news release opposing legislation that would provide for automatic annual increases in government spending on K-12 school districts, community colleges, and state universities (Senate Bill 246). The Chamber takes issue with the fact that (a) no fixed dollar amount is associated and (b) no funding source is identified.

Michigan 2nd in Corporate Expansion for 2004 Crain's Detroit Business reports that Michigan ranked 2nd in the nation (behind only Texas) for corporate expansions and locations (up from 5th in 2003) according to Site Selection magazine. In 2004, the Michigan Economic Development Corp. recorded 653 projects, a nearly 46 percent increase over 448 for '03.

Northern Michigan Initiative Proposed

Michigan's College Fund Gets High Marks The Detroit Free Press reports that Michigan's college savings plan, the Michigan Education Savings Program, got another round of high marks from investment ratings firm Morningstar Inc, who named the Michigan plan one of the six best plans in the country.

Michigan Jobless Rate Declines in January The Michigan Department of Labor & Economic Growth released a bit of good news regarding Michigan's economy last week that we missed. Over the month, total employment rose by 22,000 and unemployment fell by 25,000 as the state civilian labor force decreased slightly.

Michigan Tourism Posts Gains The Detroit dBusiness News reports that the Michigan Tourism Index (compiled by Detroit-based Comerica Bank) found that tourism activity in Michigan increased 10.2 points between the third quarter 2004 and fourth quarter 2004. The fourth quarter index, at 121.45, is up 2.7 percent from 118.21 a year earlier.

Wind Farms on Lake Michigan Earthwatch Radio has an audio feature reporting that energy developers are looking at coastlines and even the surface of the Great Lakes for windmills. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory recently produced a new map of Michigan's wind resources that you can find from the link below.

Michigan Not Cool Enough The Detroit News reports that the number of people 25-34 dropped by 5,800 last year, according to U.S. Census Bureau estimates to be released today. Since 2000, Michigan has lost about 51,000 people in that age range (Michigan ranks 11th in the US). Overall, the state's population grew about 1/3% to just over 10 million.

Slow Ice Fishing Reported Around Michigan The Detroit News reports that cold temperatures, strong winds and cloudy water have poor catches as the norm for ice fishing around the state according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. This is a pretty detailed report for all of Michigan.

U-M Researcher Finds Trouble With Michigan Civil Rights Initiative The Detroit Free Press reports that Susan Kaufmann, associate director of the U-M Center for the Education of Women, will release a study today finding that breast cancer screenings, science camps for girls and other programs for women would be threatened under the Michigan Civil Rights Initiative that could appear on Michigan's ballot in 2006.

Michigan Senate Passes Anti-Spyware Legislation The Detroit Free Press reports that the state Senate unanimously approved legislation Wednesday that would slap spyware makers with stiff fines and prison time. The measure heads to the House but some experts say legislation won't do much to curb spyware, noting that federal legislation didn't prevent e-mail boxes from being flooded by spam.

Michigan Hard Cider Industry Growing The Detroit News reports that Michigan is the third leading apple producing state (21 million bushels of apples annually) and that more of these apples are going into the production of hard cider, a fermented apple drink with about the same alcoholic content as a bottle of beer. With cheap Chinese apple concentrate driving juice prices down, the trend is welcome to apple producers.

Northern Michigan Wolf Search Doesn't Find Prints

Michigan Faith Based Office The Detroit Free Press reports that yesterday's creation of the Office of Community and Faith-Based Initiatives by Gov. Granholm has drawn both praise and concerns. The office is designed to help faith-based groups play a larger role in helping children, elderly people and poor people obtain state assistance.

Michigan DEQ Gets Green The Detroit News reports that the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality's regional office at the old Warren Tank Plant is Michigan's first "green" state office building. It was designed with technologies like wind power, low-flow toilets, passive solar and a hardy, native plant "lawn" to save energy and water (and money) and reduce the discharge of harmful gases like carbon dioxide.

Michigan Schools Running on Empty The Detroit News reports that many Michigan school districts have tapped their rainy day funds to avoid cutting programs, but are now running out of money. Gov. Jennifer Granholm's proposed $175 per-pupil funding increase won't be enough to stave off the budget crisis, school officials say.

Honoring Michigan's Fallen Soldiers The Detroit News has a feature exploring the different ways that communities across Michigan are honoring soldiers killed in the Iraq and Afganistan conflicts.

Michigan's Most Senior Employee Retiring The Lansing State Journal has a feature on Michigan Department of Education consultant Ben Hamilton, 84, who is retiring after working for the state for 56 years. He retires next week as the longest-serving state worker in Michigan history.

Michigan Legislators Split on 2006 Budget The Detroit free Press reports that Michigan's delegation broke along party lines over 2006 budget proposals last week, with Republicans calling the plans a step toward reducing the federal deficit and Democrats questioning cuts to domestic programs. The $2.6 trillion budget proposal was adopted by the Senate on a 51-49 vote.

New Record High for Michigan Gas Prices The Associated Press reports that Michigan gas prices are up 4.6 cents this week, setting a new record high and bringing the increase since the start of the year to 38.5 cents according to AAA Michigan. The current statewide average for a gallon of self-serve, unleaded gasoline is $2.136, 39.7 cents higher than last year's average and eclipsing the previous high from May 2004.

King Salmon Boom on Lake Michigan, Bust on Lake Huron The Traverse City Record-Eagle reports that a chinook (king salmon) boom on Lake Michigan corresponds with a bust on Lake Huron. Salmon numbers on the state's east side are falling so far, so fast that many discouraged local anglers dismiss nearby Huron and trailer their boats cross-state seeking the premier game fish.

Michigan Gardening Season Opens (Sort Of) The Detroit Free Press reports that a wintry February & March have the ground still too saturated for planting, but that supply stores have lots of plants for sale which may translate into great deals for gardeners. The lesson: know what plants you can buy early and how to keep them alive until planting time.

ArtTrain USA Makes a Stop in Mid-Michigan The Mt. Pleasant Morning Sun reports that Artrain USA, a nationally touring art museum, is making its way to Mt. Pleasant. Aboard the train is a display on Native American art entitled "Native Views: Influences of Modern Culture" that will be on display May 18-22.

Michigan Wi-Fi Usage Doesn't Live up to Wi-Fi Hype Detroit Free Press technology guru Mike Wendland writes that lost amid the hype in Michigan about Wi-Fi (wireless Internet) is the fact that the demand for the service is relatively small. For example, since Wi-Fi service was launched last summer at Michigan rest areas, state parks and highway welcome centers, the number of users statewide can be measured in the dozens, rather than the hundreds.

Hard Economic Times Hit Michigan Veterans The Detroit News reports that the state's largest assistance center for former soldiers (Michigan Veterans Foundation) reported a 36% increase in veterans seeking homeless assistance since last year.

Michigan/Canada Border Will Tighten The Detroit Free Press reports that Michigan (and US) residents might need passports to re-enter Michigan from Canada under new federal rules being phased in by 2008. Such a regulation would represent a significant tightening of a border that has been one of the world's freest for more than two centuries.

360 Degrees of Michigan Detroit Free Press technology writer Mike Wendland has a feature on a web site showcasing panoramic exhibitions of Michigan attractions from Mackinac Island to the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes to Michigan lighthouses and the North American International Auto Show.

Michigan Coalition Seeks to Protect Block Grants The Michigan Land Use Institute has a feature detailing how the Michigan Coalition for Community Investment, a coalition of Michigan governmental associations and citizen groups, is urging state and federal officials to publicly oppose Bush administration proposals to sharply cut federal block grant funding. The article is very detailed and has lots of links to Coalition member web sites.

McDowell Named Head of Northern Michigan Task Force The Petoskey News-Review reports that Rep. Gary McDowell, D-Rudyard, has been named to head a newly created task force to focus on the specific needs of Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. The task force will conduct a series of hearings across the region about economic development, jobs and tourism, health care and prescription drugs, education, water protection and trash.

Michigan Economy Ranks Dead Last The Kalamazoo Gazette reports that a new national report finds that Michigan ranks dead last among the states in economic momentum. The report ranked states on growth in three key areas: personal income, employment and population, setting a national average at 0. Nevada, which ranked first with a score of 3.66. Only Michigan (-1.45) and Alaska (-1.29) scored below a -1 on the index.

Hmong Immigrants Struggle in Michigan Today's Detroit News has a story looking at the difficulties many Hmong immigrants are having in making the transition from southeast Asia 17th century lifestyle to 21st century southeast Michigan. The Hmong (concentrated in Detroit, Pontiac and Warren) are one of the fastest-growing immigrant groups in Michigan and a third of the group lives in poverty.

Teaching Farming in Michigan Schools The Muskegon Chronicle has a feature story on the agri-science program at Montague School wherein elementary students work with high school mentors and spend one session a month in a new greenhouse funded by a bond issue.

Pledge of Allegiance in Michigan Schools The Lansing State Journal says Michigan lawmakers are one step away from joining 35 other states and making it mandatory to offer the Pledge of Allegiance. The House could take up a bill requiring all public and charter schools to allow time to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. The bill passed the Senate unanimously & wouldn't require students to say the pledge if they or their parents objected.

Michigan Unemployment Rate Drops but Remains Terrible The Lansing State Journal reports that Michigan's seasonally adjusted unemployment rate dropped to 6.9% for the month of March, the lowest rate in nearly a year. Even with the improvement Michigan is still well behind the national unemployment rate of 5.2%.

Protecting Michigan's Waters, Arguing About How to Do So

Macomb Fastest Growing County in Michigan The Macomb Daily reports that according to U.S. Census Bureau figures, Macomb County added more people than any other county in Michigan from 2003 to 2004 to 822,660 (a .9% increase). Wayne is the Michigan's largest at 2,016,202 (11th in the US) followed by Oakland at 1,213,339 (30th) while Macomb remained 59th largest in the country.

Michigan May Require Permits & Ballast Water Treatment for Ocean Ships The Associated Press reports that Michigan might require permits for oceangoing ships beginning in 2007 in an attempt to slow the spread of invasive species in the Great Lakes. Permits could require ships to treat their ballast water to kill exotic species.

Michigan Second to Last in Gender Pay Equity The PR Newswire reports that Michigan women are further from pay equity each year. According to the Michigan Pay Equity Network, Michigan women earn just 67 cents for each $1 Michigan men earn. Michigan is 49th among the 50 states when men's and women's wages are compared and ranked. Nationally, women average 77 cents for every $1 men are paid.

Michigan Representatives Jetsetting on the Lobbyists Dime The Lansing State Journal has a revealing story about a Gannett News Service review of records filed by members of mid-Michigan's congressional delegation for travel in 2003 and 2004. It showed trips taken by lawmakers and their aides to attractive destinations, all paid for by outside interest groups (common among lawmakers and allowed under House and Senate ethics rules).

Coal-Burning Plants Proposed on Lake Michigan The Great Lakes Radio Consortium reports that environmentalists are concerned about two new coal-burning power plants to be built on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Michigan Catholics React to New Pope The Detroit Free Press reports on the reaction of Michigan Roman Catholics to Pope Benedict XVI (German Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger). A related story profiles several Michiganders who work at the Vatican including Vatican astronomer Brother Guy Consolmagno, who charts the heavens from Castel Gandolfo and through the Vatican Advanced Technology Telescope.

Michigan Education Association Joins No Child Left Behind Suit The Lansing State Journal reports that on Wednesday, the Michigan Education Association went to court with other unions and school districts to challenge President Bush's "No Child Left Behind" program. The 20 plaintiffs from across 10 states claim that the federal government isn't providing enough money to pay for the testing and other efforts it is demanding.

Michigan's Big 50 Companies It's apparently "list week" at the Detroit Free Press. The latest is their listing of Michigan's top 50 publicly traded companies. GM & Ford (#1 & #2) accounted for As a group. the 50 businesses performed better in terms of revenue and earnings in 2004 than 2003.

Earth Day in Michigan Today is the 35th Earth Day. Here's some links for you...

Michigan Cougar Book Review The Flint Journal has a feature on Lake Ann, Michigan author Bob Butz's new book Beast of Never, Cat of God that chronicles the search for Michigan pumas and the debate between those who believe the state harbors wild pumas and the skeptics.

Michigan Youth Engineering and Science Expo The Great Lakes IT Report passed along the news that the second annual Michigan Youth Engineering and Science Expo (sponsored by Michigan Tech) will be held Wednesday, October 26, 2005 at Ford Field. The all-day event is designed to bring together the scientific departments of the state's universities, its science-based employers, and students (tickets are apparently free!).

Military Recruiters Falling Short in Michigan Schools The Detroit Free Press has an interesting feature on the mission to recruit about 80,000 fresh recruits for the U.S. Army this year, almost 2,400 of them from Michigan that is failing to meet quotas. Little known clause in the No Child Left Behind Act: Every high school that gets federal money must allow military recruiters the same access to students as they give college & job recruiters.

Michigan Shoreline Access in the Courts WZZM TV-13 Grand Rapids has a reprint of a Detroit News story (couldn't find it on detnews.com!) that explores how courts increasingly are being asked to settle battles over access to 11,000 inland lakes and four Great Lakes (the second-largest shoreline of any state). Recent interpretations of law from Michigan's courts favor property owners' rights over public interest in water access.

Absolute Michigan's Journal Absolute Michigan's Journal features photos, stories and other works from and about the state of Michigan. If you'd like to make a comment or lear about our submission policy, please email the editor.

Northwest Michigan Jobless Rate Improves The Traverse City Record-Eagle reports that the unemployment rate for the 10-county northwest Michigan area fell by six-tenths of a percentage point in March, improving to 8.7% (an increase of 900 workers) over the 9.3% rate posted in February according to the Department of Labor and Economic Growth.

A Look at Michigan State Symbols The Lansing State Journal has a look at our 14 state symbols and past and current efforts to expand Michigan's somewhat modest official things. Three bills to add the cherry as the state fruit and the replace the robin with the Kirtland's Warbler as state bird, and to create the post of official state poet laureate are in the Legislature now.

Michigan History Magazine

College Deadline Looms for Michigan Seniors The Lansing State Journal has a feature reporting on the difficult decision many Michigan high school seniors are making right now: which college to attend. Students must let colleges know by Sunday if they plan to attend so spaces can be opened to other interested students.The article also offers some helpful tips that this year's juniors would do well to consider.

Michigan Parent Attitudes Toward Education It's fashionable to bash schools, but the Sunday Detroit News reported on a survey of Michigan parents that found (among other things) that almost half don't think everyone should have a college education and only one in four believe that a good education is essential for getting ahead in life.

Michigan Technology Companies to Watch Today's Great Lakes IT Report highlights "50 Companies to Watch in Michigan" is a program designed to shine the spotlight on the second-stage companies that generate the bulk of new, sustainable jobs and are a powerful economic force underpinning the high quality of life most Americans enjoy.

Tuesday Election for School Districts in Michigan The Kalamazoo Gazette reports that Michigan's first election on the new May schedule will be held this Tuesday (May 3). In addition to offering school board candidates, many Kalamazoo area schools will be asking for sinking funds, building funds and other forms of supplemental income (like many of the school districts in the state).

Granholm Unwilling to Allow Michigan to Become "Meal" The Detroit Free Press has a report on Gov. Jennifer Granholm's speech at the Detroit Economic Club on Monday. She said that the state faces a jobs crisis that can only be solved with a better-educated workforce, fairer taxes and more-aggressive pursuit of technology industries and that "We must eat or be eaten as a state. I, as governor, refuse to let us become some other country's meal."

Michigan Supreme Court Reverses Girls Sports Decision The Detroit News reports that the Michigan Supreme Court set aside a lower U.S. Circuit Court ruling that Michigan high schools discriminated against female athletes by scheduling their basketball and volleyball seasons during nontraditional times of the year. The decision sends athletic directors into scheduling limbo but may ultimately solve nothing.

Michigan Politicians Face IRS Scrutiny The Detroit Free Press has a typically hard-hitting investigative report that Michigan legislators have used campaign cash to purchase cars, jewelry, gifts and other items. The IRS is investigating whether politicians in Michigan and other states are violating federal restrictions on the use of tax-exempt political funds.

Travel Michigan Finds Promotion Investment Pays Off Travel Michigan announced a study that found their 2004 advertising program drew nearly one million visitors who spent $163 million statewide. Overall the tourism industry contributes $16 billion to Michigan's economy annually, accounting for 182,000 jobs and generating $853 million in state tax revenues, making tourism the second largest industry in the state.

Bill to Allow Governor to Appoint Michigan School Chief Fails The Associated Press reports that the Michigan House fell a few votes short on a measure to allow voters to decide whether to give the governor, instead of the elected Board of Education, the ability to appoint the state school superintendent. The House voted 72-32 to approve the constitutional amendment, but needed 74 to send the measure to the Senate.

Habitat Building Project Comes to Michigan The Mt. Pleasant Morning Sun reports that Habitat for Humanity's Jimmy Carter Work Project will be working in Michigan this summer. The program aims to help low income folks have a home of their own. Throughout the year, the Project (which needs volunteers statewide, see JCWP site) will provide 230 homes in the state of Michigan to those in need.

Warm Weather & High Lakes are Good News for Michigan Boaters The Detroit News reports that the combination of high lake levels and a warm weekend has boaters excited about first week of the boating season. (of course, as anyone who knows or is a boater knows, boaters would be excited anyway) According to Michigan State University, recreational boating has an estimated $2.4 billion impact on the the Michigan economy.

Lake Michigan Salmon Fishing Good The Muskegon Chronicle reports that early May is usually when salmon action picks up on Lake Michigan and that 2005 is no exception. Anglers are reporting catches of king salmon (many 15-16 pounds) off Grand Haven, Mona Lake and a few near Muskegon Lake. Coho, lake trout and a few steelhead have been reported as well.

Michigan Businesses Turn to Blogs Today's Lansing State Journal has an in-depth look about how Michigan businesses from small realtors to General Motors are utilizing blogs to promote their business and interact with potential clients. The feature also offers a basic primer on the blogosphere.

13,000 Jobs Tied to Michigan Military Bases The Detroit News reports that the jobs of more than 8,000 civilian employees and contractors and 5,000 part-time military and civilian positions are tied to the Michigan military installations. The Department of Defense is expected to announce base-closing recommendations this Friday and politicians are lobbying hard to protect the Detroit Arsenal and Selfridge Air National Guard Base.

DNR to Hold Michigan Wolf Management Meetings The Soo Evening News reports that the Michigan Department of Natural Resources will hold meetings to take public input on a management plan for Upper Peninsula and Michigan wolf population in Newberry on Thursday and Friday at Lake Superior State University. The population currently is around 400 adult animals and future meetings will be held in Marquette, Clare, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor & Gaylord.

Michigan Program Launched to Assist Uninsured The Partnership for Prescription Assistance (pharmaceutical companies, doctors and other health care providers, patient advocates and community leaders) launched the Michigan chapter yesterday. The program a single point of access to more than 275 public and private patient assistance programs, including more than 150 programs offered by pharmaceutical companies.

Michigan Wines Bring Home the Gold The Detroit News reports that Michigan wineries did well at the 10th annual Great Lakes Great Wine Competition. The state collected one double gold (Black Star Farms Arcturos Cabernet Franc NV) and 11 golds (Bel Lago, Black Star Farms, L. Mawby, Peninsula Cellars (2), St. Julian (3) & Tabor Hill (3)) of the 55 golds awarded.

Michigan Has Difficulty Overseeing Charter Schools The Detroit Free Press has an interesting feature about charter schools run by private companies like Charter School Administrative Services (CSAS), many of which have poor scores on standardized tests and high teacher turnover. Michigan has over 200 charter schools serving more than 80,000 students, but Michigan laws make it difficult to oversee the private companies that run 3/4 of the schools.

Immigration Drop May Cost Michigan The Detroit News reports that immigration rates to Michigan (and the rest of the US) have slowed since 2001 as potential emigrants were confronted by tougher security restrictions, longer delays and a sagging national economy, according to government estimates. Immigration to Michigan dropped 5% from 2001 to 2004 and may cost Detroit and other cities millions of dollars in federal aid.

Michigan Affordable Housing Conference - May 16-18, 2005 The 7th annual Michigan Conference on Affordable Housing will take place May 16, 17 and 18 at the Lansing Center. This year's conference is the largest of its kind in the nation and will focus on the six main areas of Michigan's affordable housing issues: Community Economic Development, Ending Homelessness, Multi-Family Development, Homeownership, Preservation and Organizational Development.

Michigan Tourism & Tourism Promotion Spending in Decline The Traverse City Record-Eagle has a feature on the 6-year stagnation experienced by the Michigan tourism industry. Statewide growth used to run 3-4% per year, but a poor economy, high gas prices and bad weather have the industry growing at 1%. Michigan spent $12.1 million in 2000 to promote tourism. $7.9 million allotted for 2005, we rank 31st nationwide, and trail Illinois, Ohio and Wisconsin.

Court Decision Will Change Michigan Wine Shipment Rules The Detroit Free Press reports that Michigan may either have to allow out-of-state wineries to sell directly to customers or ban in-state vineyards from doing so due to Monday's 5-4 U.S. Supreme Court decision regarding regulation of wine shipments. The Michigan Liquor Control Commission will lobby for banning all Internet, phone & mail wine sales, possibly driving some wineries out of business.

Toxic Emissions Drop in Michigan The Detroit Free Press reports that total releases of toxic chemicals in Michigan declined by 24 percent from 2002 to 2003 according to the latest U.S. Environmental Protection Agency report. Levels of certain toxins such as mercury rose 41% nationwide but dropped 24% in Michigan. Emissions of certain other persistent bioaccumulative and toxic chemicals like PCBs and dioxin increased in the US.

Study Finds Spring Getting Earlier in Michigan The Detroit Free Press reports that every four springs, Michigan's state bird, the robin, arrives one day earlier (grackles arrive in the UP an average of 46 days earlier than they did 26 years ago). A study released Monday by Stanford University found that in just 30 years -- an eyeblink in geological time -- spring has moved forward 10 days and states man-made global warming is clearly to blame.

Michigan Fans Brace for Final Star Wars Movie The Detroit Free Press has a feature on metro area Star Wars faithful who are getting ready for tonight's midnight opening of Star Wars: Episode III -- Revenge of the Sith. The article also features a photo gallery of Reader Photos in Star Wars Costume (the Yoda is great!).

Unemployment Rises, but More Working in Michigan The Lansing State Journal reports that while Michigan's unemployment rate for April rose slightly to 7% (national rate 5.2%), total employment hit its highest level since November 2001. According to the state Department of Labor and Economic Growth, about 4.78 million people were working in April 2005, up 34,000 over March.

Flanagan New Michigan School Superintendent The Detroit Free Press reports that the Michigan Board of Education voted yesterday (5-1, with two abstentions) to hire Gov. Jennifer Granholm's choice, Michael Flanagan, as the new state superintendent after an all-day interview session with 3 applicants. Flanagan heads the Michigan Association of School Administrators and will replace Tom Watkins, who resigned following a feud with Granholm.

Marriage & Divorce in Michigan The Detroit News has an in-depth feature on marriage (and divorce) in Michigan. The article has some statistics: 43% of all U.S. marriages end in divorce (down from 50% in 1981), 62,900 Michigan couples tied the knot in 2003 and some history, but the most interesting part is the views of Michiganians profiled and the reader comments regarding what makes a good marriage (and what doesn't).

Great Lakes, Great Michigan Campaign Launched The Oakland Press reports that the coalition of environmental groups that form the Great Lakes, Great Michigan Campaign have released their platform. They hope to reform of Michigan laws and regulations to make Michigan a leader in water conservation protect Michigan's lakes, rivers and streams from nearby water withdrawals and limit large water exports.

Whole Lot of Michigan Today's Detroit News has a feature that takes you on a whirlwind tour around the Great Lakes State with brief bits on everything from the Wolf Lake State Hatchery in Mattawan to Brighton's Meijer Skate Park (a 19,000 square-foot street skateboard park). Attractions include Battle Creek's Cereal City USA, the Tecumseh Flea Market, Midland's Dow Museum of Science & Art and your standard water parks.

Michigan Books for Young Readers The Detroit Free Press has a feature on several books for young readers with Michigan ties including "When the Great Lakes Drained Away" by author/illustrator Charles Ferguson Barker (Mackinac Island Press). The story (with foreward by Gov. Jennifer Granholm) is a cautionary environmental tale that stresses how great a treasure our great lakes are by imagining what would happen if we lost them.

Michigan Laptop Program The Heartland Institute (a conservative think tank) takes on on Michigan's student and teacher laptop program. Freedom to Learn has relied primarily on federal funding and school district contributions. This March, Senator Valde Garcia introduced a bill to appropriate $3.7 million in state money and $5 million in federal funds to continue the program. Granholm didn't include it in her 2006 budget.

Michigan Week - May 21-27, 2005 The State of Michigan's Department of History, Arts & Libraries has a comprehensive guide to Michigan Week, the annual salute to the best Michigan has to offer in culture, tourism, natural resources, educational opportunities, manufacturing. Items include history, events & programs and the Great Traditions Culture Tour (with county event links).

Michigan's Tax Code Blasted by GM The Detroit News reports that a General Motors official told lawmakers Wednesday that Michigan has the worst business tax code of all the states where GM operates. If Granholm's tax plan passes, it would save GM several million dollars but the automaker still pay more taxes than in any other state.

Travel Guide to Northern Michigan Today's Detroit Free Press has a primer on Northern Michigan with attractions including Mackinac Island (and offbeat ones like Shell City & Dinosaur Gardens), museums including the Mackinac Bridge Museum, hiking trails like the High Banks trail on the Au Sable, waterfalls, great boat trips and more.

Michigan's First MEMORIAL DAY Memorial Day officially started in 1868 when Major General John A. Logan, head of the postwar Union veterans' group called the Grand Army of the Republic, declared that on May 30, "the choicest flowers of springtime" should be placed on the graves of Union soldiers and sailors who had saved the Union and ended slavery. In 1868, Michigan communities took General Logan's pronouncement seriously...

Michigan Cottage Fever The Detroit News has an in-depth feature on a Michigan tradition -- summer cottages. Thanks to Michigan's proximity to the Great Lakes and its 11,000 inland lakes, our state has 234,000 cottages or vacation homes, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. The article looks at various folks' cottages and gives links to rental sites for those of us not fortunate enough to own a vacation getaway.

Michigan Tourism Information a Hot Commodity Travel Michigan reports that interest in Michigan tourism destinations has reached an all-time high -- a record 31,986 visitors went to michigan.org on May 25, 2005 to find information on Michigan travel and tourism. Visitors spend $16 billion annually traveling in Michigan, generating $853 million in state taxes. More than 182,000 people are employed in Michigan's tourism industry.

Michigan Among the Worst for Small Business The Detroit News has a feature that looks at how Michigan's focus on the auto industry and large corporations has created an environment that fails to support the kinds of small businesses and entrepreneurs vital to a vibrant economy. Michigan is the only state where total small business payroll grew less than 10% between 1998 and 2002 and about 1,500 more small firms closed than opened.

Michigan Bald Eagle Update The Detroit Free Press has a feature from the Muskegon Chronicle on bald eagle efforts. There are an estimated 400 breeding pairs in Michigan -- almost as many as there were in all of the lower 48 states in the early 1960s. 40 chicks have been banded this spring and levels of PCBs and mercury, while decreasing overall, are higher in eagles living along the Great Lakes.

Michigan Asparagus Harvest Looking Good The Detroit Free Press reports that Michigan ranks third in the nation for asparagus production, with 15,000 acres under cultivation at an annual value of $15-$20 million. The harvest is expected to be good even though a warm April followed by snow and cold weather damaged some of the crop. Fun fact: asparagus can grow an inch an hour.

Michigan Homeowners Insurance Rates Rise Sharply The Detroit News reports that Michigan homeowners have seen their annual insurance premiums rise 85% since 2000 ($430 to $797 annually) according to the Insurance Institute of Michigan in Lansing. Michigan residents are paying at least $100 more than the national average due to increased flood claims and rising rebuilding costs.

Michigan Teaching Programs Good, But Teacher Job Market Poor The State News reports that due to local and state budget cuts, many recent teaching graduates from Michigan universities are entering a difficult job market and considering moving away to find opportunity. As teaching programs in Michigan rank among the highest in the nation, recruiters from other states and cities in need of teachers are flocking to Michigan.

Michigan's Biggest Asset: The Great Lakes Andy Guy of the Great Lakes Bulletin News Service and Michigan Land Use Institute writes that in the race to attract talented workers and lure new economic opportunities, one of Michigan's great advantages is a robust water supply. The 15 page report looks at a variety of issues and is highly recommended!

Michigan GOP Announces Balanced Budget, But Few Details The Detroit Free Press reports that Michigan House Republicans announced that they have a plan to balance the state budget for the upcoming fiscal year without raising taxes and fees. They have yet to explain how they will come up with the estimated $543 million in cuts needed to balance the budget, however. Welfare changes will be part of the plan.

Michigan and "The Longest Day" On Monday, June 6, 2005, aging allied veterans gathered on the rain-whipped beaches of northwestern France and quietly honored friends who had fallen 61 years earlier in the battle that changed the course of World War II. In Michigan, the anniversary received little notice. But in 1944, the invasion of German-occupied Western Europe was a time for apprehension and prayer.

Michigan Grown Shrimp ... Now That's Cool! The Detroit Free Press reports that Seafood Systems Inc. research center and pilot shrimp farm in Okemos is selling indoor-raised shrimp. Russ Allen has worked for 11 years and invested more than $2 million on proprietary indoor saltwater farming techniques and is ready to build the full-scale commercial facility.

Michigan Students -- Class Acts The Detroit Free Press has posted their "Class Acts", the All-City and All-State academic teams selected each spring by the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals. Congratulations to all those selected!

Michigan Radio goes Up North in a Down Economy Jennifer Guerra of Michigan Radio recently took a trip to northwest Michigan and produced three features on how businesses, nonprofit organizations & individuals are dealing with economic challenges.

Select Michigan: Great Taste! Great Lakes! Last week the Detroit News reported on Select Michigan, a partnership between Michigan Integrated Food and Farming, the Michigan Department of Agriculture, area retailers, Michigan commodity groups, manufacturers and producers, and local units of government. The new catch phrase is "Great Taste! Great Lakes!" -- look for it in your grocery store.

Michigan Execs Earn Less than Average, but Still See Gains The Detroit Free Press reports that Michigan's Fortune 500 top executives increased from $6.1 to $6.3 million in 2004, less than the nationwide average of $7 million. Fun fact: it would take more than 105 years for the average hourly worker to make as much as anyone on the list made last year. Executive pay was up 14.5% while hourly wages increased 4.5%.

Milliken: A Michigan Divided Against Itself Cannot Stand The Michigan Land Use Institute has the transcript of the speech given at the Mackinac Conference by Michigan's elder statesman, former Gov. William G. Milliken. In the address, Milliken blasted ...the growth of meanness, of bitterness, and of excessive partisanship that can only work to the detriment of the region, the state, and the nation.

Michigan Indian Tribes' Rights to be Tested in Court The Leelanau Enterprise reports that a major federal court case is shaping up on whether members of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians (GTB) can hunt according to their own rules and fish on inland lakes without regulation by the State of Michigan. The GTB and 4 other tribes claim that an 1836 treaty gives them the right to regulate their members' hunting & fishing activities.

Business Tax Proposal Coming from Michigan Republicans The Gongwer News Service reports that Michigan House Republicans will pursue a counterproposal to Democratic Gov. Jennifer Granholm's plan to overhaul business taxes. The proposal could involve the credit toward the SBT on personal property taxes paid, but broadening it beyond just manufacturers. The GOP plan also would likely include changing the tax's formula to base it entirely on sales.

Michigan Unemployment Climbs Again in May The Detroit News reports that Michigan's unemployment rate rose slightly for the 2nd month in a row to 7.1% in May (a loss of 15,000 jobs & 2% above the national average). The rest of the country has been posting employment gains as Michigan has been posting job losses, a very troubling sign.

Dig Michigan!

Nestle Files Suit Against State of Michigan The AP (via the Detroit News) reports that Nestle Waters North America Inc. (bottlers of Ice Mountain) filed a complaint in Ingham County Circuit Court and a federal lawsuit in Grand Rapids, contesting a requirement that water from the city of Evart be sold only within the Great Lakes basin.

2005 Miss Michigan - Octavia Reese The Detroit Free Press reports that Octavia Reese, a 22-year-old Detroit native and Hope College graduate, was crowned Miss Michigan on Saturday. In addition to winning the right to represent Michigan in the Miss America contest in the fall, Reese won a $7,000 cash scholarship.

Dig Michigan Features Here are a few things to do, see and experience from Off the Couch, Michigan. (click there for many more!)

Michigan's State Parks: Southwest Michigan Michigan State Parks :: Southwest Michigan. Michigan has quite a lot of "parks" where you can visit for the day or camp. You may want to go hiking on a trail (who knows, you may even see a waterfall!)

Michigan Maritime Museum Classic Boat Show - July 9th SOUTH HAVEN, MICHIGAN — The Michigan Maritime Museum Classic Boat Show will be held on Saturday, July 9, 2005 from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. The boat show is one of the oldest and most popular of its kind in the region. Vessels of every size and style, from large auxiliary sloops to dinghies and canoes, will be displayed.

Rural Broadband Coming to Michigan via Satellite The Detroit News reports that the Midwest Energy Cooperative of Cassopolis will be launching satellite Internet service by July 1, 2005. The Michigan Broadband Development Authority (formed to increase high-speed Internet) says there are large geographical areas unserved or underserved by broadband and Midwest (with the aid of Ka-band satellite technology) will focus on rural & semi-rural areas.

Canada Blasts Michigan, Ohio for Smog Bloomberg Canada writes that a government report by the Canadian province of Ontario says that factories in Ohio, Michigan and other states are generating more than half its smog-causing pollutants. Air pollution from the U.S. contributes to more than 2,700 deaths in Ontario each year and generates C$5.2 billion ($4.2 billion) in health-care costs and environmental damage, the report said.

Michigan Retailers See Slight Improvement in May According to the Michigan Retail Index, a joint project of the Michigan Retailers Association (MRA) and Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago, 39% of retailers increased sales over May 2004 and 59% of retailers believe their sales will increase for June-August over the same period last year.

Michigan's Urban Animal Wave The Detroit Free Press has a feature about Michigan's recent wave of urban animal encounters that includes theories as to why these animal sightings seem to be increasing. They missed the Marquette Moose!

National Ruling on Condemnation at Odds with Michigan's The Detroit Free Press reports that the U.S. Supreme Court appeared Thursday to declare open season on private property with a decision affirming the power of governments to condemn land to make way for projects that promise economic development. The ruling did allow for states such as Michigan, where our Supreme Court has restricted government condemnation powers (aka eminent domain).

Michigan Mudbogging The Detroit Free Press has a feature on Mudfest 2005, the big event for mud bog racing in Michigan will be held this weekend at the Gladwin County Ice Carnival grounds. (a little one seems to be held every other Saturday at my neighbor's house) The rules are simple: drivers take turns making runs through a 200-foot mud pit and whoever gets through fastest wins.

Michigan Schools Consider Selling Naming Rights The Detroit News reports that the Plymouth-Canton school district (and others) are pondering selling naming rights to their new & existing schools, athletic field and even events. I'm guessing that "Recess Sponsored by Nickelodeon" would be a high-ticket item

2005 Michigan Cool Cities Grants Announced The Muskegon Chronicle reports that Grand Haven and Whitehall received technical assistance grants to put together marketing programs for their downtowns. Other Cool Cities grants went to Ann Arbor, East Lansing, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Traverse City and four projects in Detroit.

State Sues Two Northern Michigan Tribes Over Gaming Revenues The Traverse City Record-Eagle reports that the State of Michigan has filed suit in federal court against the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians & the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians. The suit claims the tribes improperly withheld their 8% revenue payments totalling millions of dollars, but the tribes claim the Club Keno game violates the compacts they have signed.

Southern Michigan Osprey Watch The Detroit Free Press reports that the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is looking for evidence that efforts to boost the osprey population in southern Michigan are paying off.

Special Report: Drunk Driving in Michigan The Detroit Free Press has a special report on drunk driving in Michigan. It's disturbing, but certainly a good thing to read and consider before the holiday weekend...

Bill Has the Potential to Crush Michigan's Wine Industry Detroit News wine editor Sandra Silfven has a detailed report that the House Regulatory Reform Committee "rocketed" the anti wine shipping measure (House Bill 4959) out if its chambers to the House floor. The bill denies the wineries many long-standing rights including shipping to Michigan residents and acting as their own wholesaler.

Michigan at Gettysburg The Battle of Gettysburg, the Civil War's biggest battle, occurred midway through the four-year conflict that left more than 630,000 Americans dead. Of the nearly 4,000 Michiganians who fought at Gettysburg, more than 1,110 Michiganians became casualties. Many of the dead were buried in the Michigan plot at the Gettysburg National Cemetery.

Children's Email Addresses Protected in Michigan Registration for the Michigan Children's Protection Registry, a secure database of protected e-mail addresses, begins today. It allows parents and schools to register children's e-mail addresses and provides for civil and criminal penalties (up to 3 years in jail) for advertisers of alcohol, tobacco, pornography and other items who email the addresses after August 1, 2005.

Michigan Amateur & Michigan Open Golf Tourneys University of Michigan senior Christian Vozza of Traverse City won the 94th Michigan Amateur at Muskegon Country Club. Michael Harris, a touring professional from Troy, captured the 88th Detroit Newspapers Michigan Open Championship.

Acid Mining Comes to Michigan The Lansing City Pulse has an in-depth and engaging look at sulfide mining, which would begin at the proposed Eagle Mine on the Yellow Dog Plains north of Marquette. Interesting (and scary) items include the fact that no sulfide mine has operated 10 years without causing significant environmental pollution, sulfides mix with water to form battery acid and that the mineral belt goes to Ann Arbor.

Bumper Michigan Tart Cherry Crop Forecast The Paw Paw Courier Leader reports that the USDA is forecasting Michigan's 2005 tart cherry production at 190 million pounds, an increase of 28% from the 2004 crop and up 23% from 2003. Total US tart cherry production is forecast at 244 million pounds.

Michigan Counter-Recruitment Efforts The Detroit News reports that just 2,195 Michiganians enlisted in the Army last year, down from 2,692 in 2003 and 3,163 in 2002 and that some Michigan parents and anti-war groups are trying to derail the Defense Department's pursuit of future soldiers. The 2002 No Child Left Behind Act requires public schools to disclose contact information for students to the armed services.

Michigan's Motor Maids The Detroit Free Press has a feature on the Motor Maids, a Michigan-based women's motorcycling club. The nearly 800 member club is North America's oldest.

Kayaking Across Lake Michigan for a Cancer Cure The Detroit Free Press reports that sometime after Aug. 7, nine Michigan kayakers will load boats and gear aboard the Lake Express ferry at Muskegon, cross Lake Michigan to Milwaukee and launch their kayaks from a Wisconsin beach. With their 80 mile crossing, they'll raise money for the West Michigan Chapter of the American Cancer Society.

Whole Lot of Michigan Cherries While we're on the subject of cherries, Taste the Local Difference reports that we have a bumper crop this year, offers lots of cherry facts and history (such as, it takes 250 cherries to make a cherry pie), tells you where to purchase tart & sweet cherries and gives a recipe for Carmelized Salmon with Cherry Salsa.

Michigan at the 1893 World's Fair During the summer of 1893, tens of thousands of Michiganians headed to Chicago to enjoy a giant fair that marked the 400th anniversary of the European discovery of the New World by Christopher Columbus. (Although the Italian explorer had "sailed the ocean blue" 401 years earlier, the fair was not ready to open in 1892.)

Homeworks Pays Off in SE Michigan McDonald's The AP reports that starting this fall, the owners of two Livingston County McDonald's restaurants will pay high school and college students in their employ an extra hour before or after their shifts to do homework.

Bright News from Michigan Small Businesses Mitechnews reports that the latest quarterly Small Business Barometer survey finds that 18% of Michigan small business owners hired more workers in the second quarter of the year - the highest percentage of small businesses reporting hiring increases since the third quarter of 1999.

Hey Buddy, Wanna Buy a Lighthouse? Coast Guard Unloading 3 Michigan Lighthouses The U.S. Coast Guard has determined that the Frankfort North Breakwater Lighthouse, Middle Island Lighthouse, across Thunder Bay from Alpena, and South Haven South Pierhead Lighthouse are no longer essential to navigation. Click through to learn what that means and learn about these light stations!

Seeking Michigan: The Sounds of Summer at Interlochen Interlochen is a Michigan icon. Learn its story from the National High School Orchestra camp that convened at Interlochen in 1928 to the Interlochen Arts Academy High School and the Interlochen Summer Arts Camp that continue to offer instruction to arts students today.

Michigan Raspberries As the end of summer roles around raspberry season starts up. Michigan raspberries can be found across the state at farmers markets, farm stands, and local grocery stores. Learn about raspberries, their history, where you can find them and good recipes.

Destination: Michigan visits Mackinac Island

Michigan Farming Population Stable, But Aging The Mining Journal reports that the U.S. Department of Agriculture finds the Michigan farming population is stable after several years of decline, but farmers are aging (average age: 54). More than 14,000 Michigan farmers are part time and 9 in 10 farms are in the "up to 190 acres" category.

Bills Could Restrict Michigan WiFi Efforts mLive reports that local governments in economically depressed communities Michigan are working to develop wireless hot spots, allowing residents & visitors to surf the net anywhere. Now comes word that the Michigan Legislature is considering bills that would bar municipalities from providing these services. Critics say the laws are the result of intense lobbying by telecommunication giants.

Michigan Now 2nd Fiddle in Auto Industry The Detroit News reports that although half of the world's 150 largest auto suppliers have their North American headquarters in the Detroit area, and the state (especially southeast Michigan) has more assembly plants and research and development centers than any other state or province, Ontario produced nearly 103,000 more vehicles than Michigan last year.

Mandi McConnell Wins 2005 Michigan Amateur The Detroit News reports that Michigan State University junior Mandi McConnell won the 89th Michigan Women's Amateur Championship Friday afternoon by defeating Western Michigan sophomore Laura Bavaird 6 and 5 in the championship match at Radrick Farms Golf Club.

West Michigan IT Hiring Increase Expected Mitechnews.Com reports that 60% of large west Michigan companies say they will hire new information technology staff before the end of 2005 - double the number of companies with more than 1000 employees that planned technology employment increases for the first half of the year. The survey also found that 50% of small companies plan to increase IT hires.

Michigan Pickleball The Kalamazoo Gazette has a feature on "pickleball". The game is designed to be played by folks of all ages indoors or outdoors on badminton-size courts and uses a whiffle ball with wooden paddles.

2005 Michigan State Fair, Aug 10th - 21st; Detroit

Southeast Michigan Home Starts Decline The Detroit News reports that building permits for new single-family homes and condominiums in nine SE Michigan counties declined 13.5% from 2004 to 10,090 for the first half of 2005.

Farming Tough, but Michigan Farmers up to Challenge The Lansing State Journal has an excellent feature exploring how rising operating costs and unpredictable commodity prices are impacting Michigan's family farms -- and how Michigan farmers are meeting the challenge. While farms nationwide decreased nearly 3% from 1999 to 2003, Michigan experienced a growth of 300 farms, to 53,300.

Two Big Southeast Michigan Events! Michigan is home to the largest art fair in the nation (and one of the oldest). Absolute Michigan has a feature on the 47th annual Ann Arbor Art Fairs. Model D has a report on the Detroit Reunion. The event is billed as a reunion for those who grew up in Detroit during the 50s, 60s and 70s. 4 days of activities include trips to Bob-Lo Island, , Tigers games, entertainers from local TV & radio...

The Michigan Shakespeare Festival - Jackson

Michigan Womyn's Music Festival, Aug 9-14; Walhalla

Northwest Michigan Restaurant a Winemaker Favorite Detroit News wine writer Sandra Silfven reports that winemakers feel that Northern Michigan's hottest spot is Trattoria Stella in the newly developed Village at Grand Traverse Commons, a site better known for its previous occupant, the Traverse City State Hospital. The feature also has a great list of wine-friendly Northern Michigan restaurants including Amical, Lulu's Bistro & the Riverside Inn.

The Passenger Pigeon in Michigan More than a century ago, passenger pigeons were among the most numerous birds on the planet. Great Lakes explorer Samuel de Champlain reported "countless numbers" in the early 1600s, while 250 years later, the skies over Saginaw, Michigan, were darkened by a flock of pigeons that began at breakfast time and ended at dinner. By the early 1900s, a bird that once numbered five billion was extinct.

Michigan Counties Experiment with Soybean Fuel The Lansing State Journal reports that under grants from the Frankenmuth-based Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee, Eaton, Ionia and five other counties will experiment with use of cleaner-burning biodiesel fuel during the next year. The committee will give each road commission up to $10,000 this year to cover the cost difference between biodiesel and petroleum diesel.

The Wanderers Tells the Story of Michigan Migrants Northern Express writer Anne Stanton has a pair of excellent features on Northern Michigan migrant workers that provide a look into lives of Michigan's 45,000-125,000 migrant laborers. Part 2 tells the story of a 16-year-old living in Suttons Bay. These are heartily recommended!

New Fund to Encourage Michigan Technology Companies MITECHNEWS.com reports that the Venture Michigan Fund was signed into law by Gov. Jennifer Granholm and experts say will soon pump $150 million into promising technology companies in Michigan, helping Michigan diversify away from heavy dependence on the auto industry and manufacturing.

Many Michigan Kids Below Poverty Level The Detroit News reports the disturbing figure that 1/3 of the children in Michigan don't live with a parent who has a steady job, according to a new report released as state lawmakers consider limiting assistance and health benefits available to poor families. One in every six children in Michigan lived with a family earning below the poverty level and over 100,000 in a home where no adult works.

of Farms & Folly: Michigan Department of History, Arts & Libraries Today's Michigan in Pictures features an excerpt from a Michigan farmer's diary from the 1880s. In a move that lies somewhere between shortsighted and Visigoth, Michigan's Governor has proposed eliminating HAL to save 2 million dollars. As columnist Jack Lessenberry notes, that's roughly 1/10th of one percent of the money that is needed to close our budget gap.

Faith Based Michigan Billboards The Detroit Free Press reports that several billboards around Lansing and Ann Arbor proclaim: "Dear Gracious Heavenly Father, Forgive us our sin of being dependent upon the Automobile Industry and not on You. Please restore invention, productivity and prosperity. In Jesus Name, A Michigan Citizen."

iPod in Michigan The Detroit News has a feature on how Apple's iPod (and other MP3 players) are affecting the Michigan nightclub scene as well as how Michigan's radio stations are incorporating podcasting.

Top O' Michigan Marathon Nationals, Aug 20-21; Indian River

More Michigan Moms Working from Home The Detroit News has a feature on the growing trend of mothers who are raising children and telecommuting or running home businesses (one assumes that there are also fathers doing the same thing). The feature also reports that Michigan had about 357,000 woman-owned businesses in 2004, accounting for half of Michigan's privately owned companies, a 20% increase from 1997.

Reduced Rates for Lake Michigan Ferry The Lansing State Journal reports that the Lake Express ferry has dropped the cost of transporting a vehicle on the ferry's 11 PM EDT departure from Muskegon to Milwaukee from $59 to $40 for August. It has increased the fuel surcharge $1.50.

June Michigan Business Index Rises, Further Improvement Forecast The Michigan Business Activity Index, compiled by Comerica Bank, rose 5 points to 107 in June, putting it in the middle of the range over which it has been moving in 2005. Comerica economist Dana Johnson said: "The Michigan economy probably bottomed out in May. I expect a pattern of gradual improvement to emerge over the second half of 2005."

In Season: Michigan Blueberries Taste the Local Difference reports that Michigan blueberries are ready to pick and that farmers say the colorful berries will last until September. The feature includes some blueberry facts, locations where you can buy them and recipes for Blueberry-Spinach Salad, Blueberry Gingerbread and a very tasty and interesting Mixed Berry Gratin.

Michigan Stamps The Detroit Free Press reports that a new stamp honoring presidential libraries premiered yesterday at the Gerald R. Ford Museum in Grand Rapids and the Ford Library in Ann Arbor. The article also lists stamps that commemorate various Michigan things like Tiger Stadium, Henry Ford, the St. Joseph Lighthouse and the Mackinac Bridge.

Record July Rains Save Mid-Michigan Crops The Lansing State Journal reports that timely rainfall has Mid-Michigan crops coming up strong despite hot and dry conditions. Growers of soybeans, corn and wheat in Clinton, Eaton and Ingham counties are expecting to see above average yields. July had 3.73 inches of rain, making it the 21st wettest July since record-keeping started in 1895.

Changing the Face of Michigan's High Schools The Detroit Free Press reports that efforts are underway to change the face of Michigan high schools to better prepare students for the job market. The Michigan Department of Education has hired a high school redesign consultant (paid for by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation) to help address possible areas of reform, including teacher development and student testing.

DEQ Creates Inventory & Map of Michigan Groundwater The Detroit Free Press reports that the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality has completed an inventory and map of the state's groundwater to help Michigan lawmakers consider water withdrawal regulations. The online tool features watersheds, water quality, wetlands wells and a host of other data. Very cool!

2005 Michigan State Fair - August 10-21 The Detroit News has a feature on the Michigan State Fair. In 1905, the Michigan State Agricultural Society bought 135 acres along Woodward Avenue as the permanent home for the Fair. It starts tomorrow, runs through August 21 and features livestock & produce displays, over 60 rides, stage shows (including Alice Cooper), and the "Miracle of Life" exhibit where you can see baby animals being born.

Take Me Out to the Ball Game, Sit Me in a Michigan Seat The Detroit Free Press has a feature on the American Seating Co. of Grand Rapids. The company was founded in 1886 has provided seats to many major league ballparks including the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field, Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles and the Detroit Tigers' Comerica Park. Fun Fact: Seating at a Major League ballpark costs $4-5 million.

Michigan Renaissance Festival, Aug 13-Sept 25; Holly

Michigan Sunflower Plantings Increase

The Detroit Free Press reports that a growing number of Michigan farmers are choosing to plant sunflowers, which in recent years have become a profitable cash crop, for use as bird feed.

EPA to Perform Michigan Air Quality Study The Traverse City Record-Eagle reports that as part of the 2005 Energy Bill, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will perform a two-year study of how other state's air pollution affects western Michigan. The law also prevents the EPA from imposing any sanctions until the completion of its study of ozone pollution.

Diggin' Southeast Michigan Here's some things especially relating to Southeastern Michigan!

Taking a Look at Michigan Mega-Dairies The Muskegon Chronicle has an extensive article that says that the days when a dairy farmer could make a living selling milk from 15, 100, even 200 cows are gone due to the rise of massive dairies. While Michigan had 12,533 dairy farms in 1974, there were just 2,800 in 2005. Likewise, the number of dairy cows in Michigan also has declined over the past 30 years...

Michigan Land Use Institute

Michigan Home Schooling Provokes Criticism The Detroit News reports that with home schooling on the rise in Michigan, critics say that because Michigan has one of the nation's most liberal homeschooling laws (requiring only voluntary registration) there is no way to monitor how many children are involved and whether they are getting a better education or any education at all.

Gas Prices Hit Michigan Hard The Detroit News reports that soaring gas prices are taking a heavy toll on Michigan's economy due to our heavy reliance on manufacturing (and SUV sales). The Detroit Free Press reports that according to AAA Michigan, a gallon of gas in Michigan costs an average of 64.1 cents more this week than it did at the same time last year.

Michigan Government Technology Awards MITECHNEWS reports that Gov. Granholm will be showcasing the work done by IT professionals in Michigan state and local government organizations by presenting the first Michigan Excellence in Technology Awards. The awards will honor innovators, programmers and visionaries and will be presented during the Michigan Digital Government Summit on October 12.

Michigan Ice Cream Stands The Detroit Free Press has a feature on on metro-area ice cream stands that includes a photo gallery. (I wish they'd do this state-wide, because the stand in Suttons Bay with Moomer's ice cream deserves a mention .. so does The Chocolate Vault in Tecumseh)

Knowledge Jobs Grow in Michigan Buried in the statistical gloom surrounding Michigan's economy is this gem from CrainsDetroit.com: U.S. Census Bureau data shows Michigan added 91,077 professional, scientific and technical services jobs from 2000 through 2003, second only to California. The "knowledge-based" sector includes legal and accounting services, engineering, environmental consulting, scientific research and development,.

Michigan Students' ACT Scores Above Average WOOD TV-8 Grand Rapids reports that the 69% of Michigan graduates taking the ACT college entrance exam once again performed better than the national average. Michigan's students averaged a 21.4 compared to the national mark of 20.9 (scores range from 1-36).

Michigan Soul, Funk & Jazz CD Coming Jazz News reports that the label Luv N' Haight will be releasing About Searching For Soul: Rare and Classic Soul, Funk and Jazz From Michigan, 1968-1980, a collection of rare and classic 60's & 70's Michigan soul, funk and jazz. It includes rare tracks from The Black Aces of Soul, Eyes of Ebony, Wendell Harrison and many others and looks like an amazing collection!

Michigan Author Uses Internet to Self-Publish The Hillsdale Daily News reported on Jonesville author Susan Carpenter's self-published fantasy novel Curse of the Lyrestone that has been riding a wave of positive reviews after she self–published her book via the internet in May.

Medicaid Cuts Could Be Major Trouble for Michigan The Detroit News reports that Michigan could lose more than $300 million annually in federal funds for its already endangered Medicaid health care program, potentially forcing the state to turn away tens of thousands of its neediest citizens and consider raising taxes or cutting other vital state services. Medicaid is Michigan's largest budget item, accounting for 23% of spending.

Travel Michigan Ad Money Apparently Well Spent MITECHNEWS.com reports that Travel Michigan (Michigan's State Tourism Agency) won the Mercury Award for its 2004 radio campaign that ran in Chicago, Indianapolis & Cleveland. According to a study, the campaign attracted nearly one million visitors who spent $163 million statewide, generated an additional $11.5 million in state taxes and funded 3,607 tourism related Michigan jobs.

Michigan Golf Mecca Seeing Minor Gains in 2005 The Traverse City Record-Eagle has a report on the thousands of golfers who travel each summer to the Gaylord area which has two dozen golf courses is marketed as the Midwest's golf mecca . Revenues at many golf courses and businesses are on par with last year (a poor year due to weather) with some modest increases.

Michigan Teachers Link Science to Community The Great Lakes Radio Consortium has a great 4 1/2 minute feature profiling the efforts of Michigan teachers to make science more interesting to students by looking at environmental issues near their homes in Michigan. Teachers say today's students know very little about where their food comes from or why they should worry about the health of local fish and wildlife. Nice curriculum links!

Movie Tax Panned by Michigan Theaters The Lansing State Journal reports that Michigan Moviegoers might have to pay 40-50 cents more per ticket if Gov. Granholm succeeds in persuading the Legislature to impose a new tax on theater owners. The plan would generate about $20 million annually for the state and public schools but theater owners say their business is already in a slump and are fighting the proposal tooth and nail.

Campaign for a Healthier Michigan WILX TV (Lansing) reports that in announcing the Healthy Businesses campaign, Michigan Surgeon General Dr. Kimberlydawn Wisdom said Michigan's unhealthy lifestyle choices lead to poor quality of life and for businesses it can mean low productivity and higher healthcare costs. Michigan is #1 in heart disease death, #2 in obesity and diabetes, #6 in number of smokers and #1 in prescription drug use.

Skills Equals Jobs in Michigan Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm has a message for Michigan's unemployed: The state has 90,000 employment vacancies. Jobs go wanting in health care and some skilled-trade industries. "In this global economy, you need to have skills to be able to get a job and stay in a job," she said.

Northwest Lower Michigan Organic FoodFest and Farmers Market The FoodFest will be held from 8 AM - 2 PM on Labor Day (Sep 5) at the Antrim County Farmers Market on M-88 in Bellaire. In addition to an extensive selection of foods raised without synthetic chemicals, antibiotics and hormones, the one-day special market includes a certified organic pancake breakfast, a chicken salad lunch with naturally raised local chicken and music and children's activities.

Michigan Apple Crop Looking Good The Detroit Free Press reports that the Michigan Apple Committee says a combination of lots of sun (makes for redder apples) and hot days (increases sugar content) should bring a great Michigan apple crop. Many U-pick apple orchards and cider mills open over Labor Day weekend and the Freep has a guide to SE Michigan locations.

Detroit Most Impoverished City, Michigan Salaries Fall The Free Press reports that according to the Census Bureau's American Community Survey, Detroit tops the list of the country's most impoverished cities. The survey found that 33.6% of residents live in poverty and that Detroit is the country's 11th largest city (pop. just over 900,000). The News adds that Michigan is one of 8 states where salaries fell in 2004 - 3% to an average of $44,300.

Absolute Michigan Editorial: Will High Gas Prices Ruin Your Labor Day Weekend ... or our Future? The Detroit News reports (contrary to yesterday's upbeat picture) that gas prices, the slumping economy and pre-Labor Day school openings are threatening to make one of Michigan's biggest travel weekends a major bust for hotels, motels, b&bs and other lodging and travel businesses. Travel Michigan, the state's tourism bureau, says Labor Day reservations are weak across the state.

Katrina Impact on Michigan Could Exceed $5,000,000,000.00 The Detroit News reports that in addition to skyrocketing gas prices, state officials and other leaders are bracing for the damage the hurricane's aftermath will inflict on the state's troubled auto industry and weakened job market. By one estimate, the impact on Michigan could exceed $5 billion -- or nearly 2 percent of the gross state product.

Michigan National Guard to Aid Hurricane Victims WOOD-TV Grand Rapids reports that (along with millions of dollars contributed by Michiganders) 182 Michigan National Guard members from Owosso, Pontiac and Taylor plus two aircraft from Selfridge Air Force Base in Macomb County are headed to Louisiana to help maintain order. The state House and Senate have already begun the process of approving an emergency spending bill.

Michigan Food Banks and Efforts to Aid Katrina Victims Agencies that collect and distribute food for the hungry say emergency food needs are increasing in Michigan amid a tough economy and are encouraging gardeners to donate extra produce to their local food bank. The LSJ reports on a massive relief effort with the Michigan Legislative Black Caucus and the Lansing School District to bring up to 1,500 victims of the hurricane to Lansing and Detroit,

To Defend Michigan's Honor Americans celebrate the first Monday of September as Labor Day (declared a national holiday by President Grover Cleveland in 1894). But years earlier, the first Monday in September was a day of tense expectancy as Michigan militia, led by our "boy governor," prepared to defend Michigan's honor in the streets of a settlement called Toledo. The fight for a town that Mic

Michigan Drug Suit Law Under Fire The Lansing State Journal reports that Michigan's 1995 law protecting drug companies from lawsuits if the drug has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and labeled properly is generating outcry from users of presription drugs who believe they have been harmed and House Democrats. A group called DIIME (Drug Industry Immunity Must End) has formed to support the efforts.

Michigan Boating Accidents, Deaths Down in 2005 The Detroit Free Press reports that despite a rise in boat traffic on Michigan's lakes, Michigan Department of Natural Resources statistics show that there were 12 fatal boat accidents through the end of August, down from 2004, when there were 25 fatal boat accidents and 27 people killed in those accidents. Overall, there were 93 boating accidents involving 118 vessels in the state by the end

Some Katrina Evacuees Plan to Stay in Michigan The Detroit Free Press reports that while some Gulf Coast evacuees to Michigan, are moving into new, safe homes as temporary residents, some of them are saying they'll stay for good. Recommended reading.

Books Uncovers Forgotten Michigan History The Traverse City Record-Eagle ran a feature a couple weeks back about Ogemaw County journalist Dale Killingbeck's new book Michigan Triumphs and Tragedies. The book details 10 nearly forgotten Michigan events including the fires of 1871 & 1881, a circus train wreck in Durand, a massive tornado that destroyed blocks of homes north of Flint and a 1913 storm that claimed 10 ships & 235 lives.

Michigan Hotel Occupancy Near the Bottom According to Smith Travel Research, Michigan continues to lose market share in the U.S. commercial lodging industry. By the end of 2004 Michigan ranked 49th in state hotel occupancy rates. So far this year, through July 2005, Michigan's occupancy rate continues to be the lowest of any state and among the lowest in growth rate.

Michigan Bumper Crops May Be Hard to Transport mLive.com reports that while 2005 was a great growing season for Michigan farmers producing corn, soybeans and other crops, many may find they have no way to sell or ship crops as the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina collides with the rapidly approaching harvest season. Our $3.8 billion-a-year agriculture industry is likely to take a hit as the state competes for a limited number of rail cars.

Mervyns to Close All Michigan Stores The Detroit News reports that an undefined image, poor marketing and heated competition helped push Mervyns out of the Michigan retail market. The discount department store chain said Wednesday that it will close all 15 of its Michigan stores by February and lay off 1,108 workers.

Publius.org ... Your Michigan Election & Voter Information HQ We have featured the Publius Voter Information Center before, but with the election just around the corner, we have to highlight this amazing website that aggregates data supplied by Michigan’s county clerks and the Michigan Bureau of Elections to produce a one-stop, information portal for Michigan voters.

Michigan Mock Election Rally Rebroadcast TODAY There will be a rebroadcast all day TODAY (Nov 6th, 2006) VISIT MICHIGANLIVEEVENTS.COM TO WATCH!! On Thursday, November 2, 2006, Leland Public School hosted an area mock student election with nearly 1000 students from Glen Lake, Lake Leelanau St. Marys, Leelanau Schools, Northport, Suttons Bay and Traverse City schools.

Michigan Playwright Explores the Lives of Iraqi Women The LA Weekly has a feature on Michigan born writer-performer Heather Raffo and her play Nine Parts of Desire, a one-woman show about the lives of Iraqi women. You might be compelled to dismiss this article after a paragraph. Do yourself a favor and read it to the end.

Michigan's Winter Heating Bill Could Skyrocket WZZM TV-13 Grand Rapids reports that before Hurricane Katrina hit, forecasts called for Michiganders to pay 25% more this winter to heat their homes with natural gas. Now, winter heating bills could rise as much as 70%. Government programs to provide emergency fuel assistance have run dry, and it's unclear if they will have enough money to meet increasing demand when the fall funding cycle starts.

The Michigan Prairie Lady The Detroit Free Press has a feature on Aunita Erskine, a self-confessed prairie nut, who studies prairies, tours prairies, volunteers at prairies and educates others about prairies. She will be leading a prairie walk in Ann Arbor at 1 PM this Sunday at Matthaei Botanical Gardens. A prairie is a mostly treeless landscape dominated by grasses. In Michigan, some prairies have a few trees, mainly oak

Great Michigan Fall Travel Stops The Detroit News has a nice collection of their readers' favorite food, dining and shopping businesses including Clyde's Drive-In in Sault Ste. Marie, the Tawas Bay Yarn Company, the River Rock Bar & Grill in St. Louis, Goldie's Cafe on Carp Lake, Iva's Chicken Dinners in Sterling and Spike's Keg 'O' Nails in Grayling.

Michigan 2006 Budget Agreement Reached The Detroit Free Press reports that schoolchildren, the needy and Michigan prison employees are among those who stand to benefit from an agreement reached Friday by lawmakers and Gov. Jennifer Granholm on a $41-billion state budget. Republican leaders described the agreement as a signal to Michiganders that state government could live within its means and balance a budget without raising taxes.

Michigan Joins 17 Other States to Collect Internet Sales Tax The Detroit News reports that beginning October 1, 2005, Michigan and 17 other states will work together to persuade online and mail-order retailers to collect state and local sales taxes. The Streamlined Sales Tax Project provides computer software and other items to make it easier for out-of-state retailers to calculate and collect the tax.

Northern Michigan Katrina Help Site Launched The Great Lakes IT Report delivered news this morning that human service agencies in the Traverse City area have created a directory of relief services for Hurricane Katrina victims who have been temporarily relocated to northern Michigan. The site is designed to help any group or agency who is assisting an evacuee from the affected areas.

Northern Lights Visible in Michigan This Week! The Lansing State Journal reports that the northern lights have been visible in the Lansing area since Friday and are expected to continue through the week because of severe solar flares on the sun.

Astronomy Cruise on Lake Michigan Booth Newspapers has a feature on an astronomy cruise on Lake Michigan offered this fall (Sept. 23-25) on the tall ship Manitou. The cruise is one of 7 multiday cruises and in addition to assisting in the sailing of the two-masted, gaff-rigged, topsail schooner, passengers take out sea kayaks to explore after the ship has anchored for the evening and will view the beautiful moonless skies.

Northwest, Delta Bankruptcies Impact Michigan The Detroit News has a detailed analysis on the Chapter 11 bankruptcy filings of Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines. In addition to looking at likely layoffs and other economic impacts, there's an article wondering if we're seeing the future of the auto industry. The Lansing State Journal also explores on how this will impact Michigan travellers and travel businesses.

Michigan Fall Color Guide Travel Michigan has a fall color guide that is updated weekly and showcases a variety of tours in almost every area of the state. Fall colors usually begin to appear in mid September and run through late October.

Poll Finds Michigan Executives Pessimistic The Detroit Free Press reports that a poll released at a Michigan Chamber Foundation-sponsored Future Forum conference in Traverse City found that (among other things) 69% of executives surveyed think Michigan's business climate is going in the wrong direction, and 67% think things in Michigan overall are on the wrong track.

Michigan Telecommunications Bill Moves Forward MITECHNEWS.com reports that a work group and committee testimony produced a tentative decision Wednesday in a Senate committee on a bill to serve as the basis of rewriting Michigan's telecommunications law, set to expire December 31. The current proposal adds a new definition for essential local exchange service and applies the rate limits only to a single voice line to a residential customers...

West Michigan Fall Color Early This Year, Apples Great WZZM TV-13 Grand Rapids reports that meteorologists are expecting a beautiful fall in West Michigan, but that fall color is coming a week or two sooner than expected due to dry weather (mid October is predicted as the best time). Also, all the sun we've had should make the apple crop excellent (last weekend of September).

Danielle Gay Crowned Miss Michigan USA The Detroit Free Press reports that Danelle Gay of Lapeer was crowned Miss Michigan USA 2006 in Port Huron on Saturday night. Raquel McClendon, 16, of Kincheloe, near Sault St. Marie, was crowned Miss Michigan Teen USA.

Michiganians Receive 2 of 25 MacArthur Fellowships The Detroit News reports that $500,000 MacArthur Fellowships (aka "Genius Grants") have been awarded to Joseph Curtin, an Ann Arbor violin maker, and Aaron Dworkin, musician, music educator and founder and President of the Detroit-based Sphinx Organization (that seeks to increase access for minorities to careers in classical music).

Michigan State University Students May Have Designated Celebration Zone The Lansing State Journal reports that at an East Lansing Review Commission meeting, city officials and residents said that an organized partying place set up for Spartan sporting events could be a way to prevent student unrest. A proposal designating a celebratory spot on the border of the city and the MSU campus on Bogue Street likely will make a list of recommendations on crowd control.

The Michigan Apple Festival, Sep 24th & 25th; Charlotte The Michigan Apple Festival is a fun filled family event held the last weekend in September. Apple Festival activities include exhibits, food, cider and fine art to celebrate the history and cultivation of Michigan's #1 fruit crop. The Michigan Apple Festival is hosted by The Country Mill, an historic cider mill and apple orchard near Lansing.

Absolute Michigan: Link #2000! Absolute Michigan is pleased to announce that The Drueke Company (America's oldest manufacturer of traditional board games) became our 2000th Michigan link on September 20, 2005!

Michigan Cities Renovate to Entice Suburbanites The Great Lakes Radio Consortium has a report on how old warehouses, factories and other buildings are being turned into brand new luxury loft apartments. For Grand Rapids and other Michigan cities, those apartments are a big part of trying get people to move back to cities from the suburbs.

Report Says Michigan at Risk for Declining Housing Prices The Port Huron Times Herald reports that while PMI Mortgage Insurance Co.'s summer 2005 Economic & Real Estate Trends report ranks Michigan among 10 states with the greatest risk for a decline in housing prices in the next two years, Port Huron area agents expect the market to continue to be steady, with affordable interest rates and creative financing giving things a boost.

Study Finds Michigan Losing Ground in Tech Education Detroit Free Press tech columnist Mike Wendland looks at a 6-month-long study by Wayne State University study that examined the internet and the potential for e-learning. The report concluded that Michigan has lost an early lead in technology learning and recommends that high school students be required to pass at least one course online and teachers be tested for technology integration skills.

Michigan Television is a Reality for Four The Detroit News profiles 4 Michigan residents who are appearing on reality TV shows: Pete Thomas of Ypsilanti (The Biggest Loser), Shawn Killinger of Grosse Pointe (The Apprentice: Martha Stewart), Kyle Kavanagh of Dexter (America's Next Top Model) and Gary Hogeboom of Grand Haven (Survivor).

Archaeology Day at the Michigan Historical Museum The Lansing State Journal reports that artifacts as old as 10,000 years will be on display from 11 AM - 3 PM this Saturday (Oct 1) at the ninth annual Archaeology Day at the Michigan Historical Museum in Lansing. The event will also feature presentations including "Earthworks, Mounds and Monuments: New Research in Northern Michigan" and a report on the excavation of MSU's first dormitory.

Cuts in Michigan Arts Funding Likely The Detroit Free Press reports that the Michigan Legislature sent a bill to Gov. Jennifer Granholm Tuesday to cut state funding for arts and culture grants by 17.5% -- much larger than the 4% reduction she had proposed. That means a loss of nearly $2 million to zoos, museums, symphonies, theater and dance companies, rural arts agencies and school residency programs.

Michigan Haunted House Video A Trailer For "The Haunt". West Michigan's Premiere Haunted House Shot And Edited By B.C. Field

Uniform Post-Labor Day Start for Michigan Schools The Detroit Free Press reports that Gov. Granholm signed a bill yesterday to require all public schools in the state to start after Labor Day. Polls show that a majority of voters prefer an extra week of summer vacation in August with their kids. Starting next school year, schools must open after Labor Day unless they have union contracts specifying an earlier start (new contracts will be required

Endangered Species Overhaul Opposed by Most of Michigan's Delegation WMMT TV (Kalamazoo) reports that most of Michigan's congressional delegation opposed a House-passed overhaul of the 1973 Endangered Species Act that would help property owners receive payments if species protection measures hurt their development plans, and prevent the government from designating "critical habitat" for species where development is limited.

Marquette Prosecutor Longest Serving in Michigan History The Mining Journal has a feature on Marquette County Prosecutor Gary Walker. Walker's 31 years is the longest tenure since Michigan was made a state in 1837. Walker, who was fascinated by the books (Anatomy of a Murder, Trout Madness) of Michigan Supreme Court justice and writer John Voelker (aka Robert Traver) took a position as assistant prosecutor in 1972 and was made prosecutor in 1974.

Michigan Newspapers of the Year Announced In an act of understandable narcissism, Traverse City Record-Eagle reports that the Michigan Press Association has named it best newspaper in its class (15,000 to 40,000 circulation). Other daily papers honored were the Detroit Free Press, The (Pontiac) Oakland Press and the Petoskey News-Review. The Herald Times, in Gaylord, was one of four papers receiving the award in the weekly division.

Hastings 500 - Michigan's Largest Snowmobile Event, Oct 7th - 9th

Michigan Story Festival, Oct. 21st & 22nd; Mt. Pleasant

Seattle Timber Company to become Michigan's Largest Landowner The $345 million deal is expected to be concluded later this year, making Plum Creek the biggest private landowner in Michigan. The company says it plans to keep much of the land open to open for hunting, fishing, snowmobiling and other recreation, and keep it from being fragmented.

Michigan Wine Country Travel Michigan reminds Michiganians that they don't have to travel across the ocean, or even the country, for great wine tasting opportunities. They profile Grand Traverse area wineries, the Southeast Michigan Pioneer Wine Trail, Southwest Michigan Wine Trail and the Mackinaw Trail Winery.

Republicans & Democrats focus on Michigan Women Voters AP writer Kathy Barks Hoffman says that if you’re a woman who hasn’t made up your mind about whether to vote for Dick DeVos or Jennifer Granholm, you can expect to be targeted by both campaigns in the final days before the election...

Michigan Mock Election LIVE Webcast Thursday, Nov. 2 on Absolute Michigan! Live internet broadcast of Michigan's student mock election. Candidates including Rep. Dave Camp, Mike Huckleberry, Mike Bouchard, State Sen. Michelle McManus, Antoinette Schippers, State Rep. David Palsrok, Dan Scripps, have agreed to attend with Governor Granholm, gubernatorial candidate Dick DeVos and Sen. Debbie Stabenow still considering.

Kenny Rogers needs a Michigan Microbrew The Detroit News has an excellent feature on the state of Michigan’s craft brewing industry. As is often the case when times are hard, the beer industry is doing well. Michigan’s microbrewers do say it could be even better if Michigan law didn’t require brewers to use a third-party distributor and cap the number of brew pubs a single company can operate.

Pickin' Pumpkins in Michigan Michigan residents don’t have to worry this year about finding the perfect pumpkin for that perfect Halloween jack-o’-lantern. Big, round, healthy pumpkins can be found in abundance at local farms, cider mills, supermarkets and roadside stands.

Trains and tracks throughout Michigan While unused tracks throughout the state are being repurposed as recreational trails (aka rails to trails), many are still being utilized by both passenger and commercial trains. Following is a glimpse at some of the tracks and trains of Michigan, past and present.

Michigan Walk of Fame Nominations The Michigan Walk of Fame will honor Michigan residents who have made significant contributions in the categories of arts & entertainment, athletics & recreation, agriculture, business and industry, civic & community leadership, education & literature, medicine, science & technology in the state, nation or the world.

Made in Michigan Chosen by DeVos Campaign Detroit News political columnist George Weeks has a thoughtful look at the branding of businessman Dick DeVos as the "Made in Michigan" candidate for governor (highlighting Granholm's Canadian birth) and how it will play with voters. With polls showing that over 60% of likely voters say Michigan is heading in the wrong direction, it may be that slogans won't matter much.

Profiling Michigan Senator John Dingell The Detroit News has a feature looking at the political legacy of the Dingell family. John D. Dingell Sr. was a member from 1932 until he died in office in 1955 and his son, John D. Dingell Jr., succeeded him and is the longest-serving House member and the third-longest-serving in history. Great feature with great photos and links

Michigan Agricultural Tourism Commission Formed We had to go all the way to South Bend for this story from the Capital News Service reporting that two of the state's largest industries, agriculture and tourism, will be connected and promoted through the Michigan Agricultural Tourism Commission. Joining agriculture and tourism can help farmers escape from boom-and-bust cycle of food production and soaring property values and taxes.

West Michigan Trails Group Launches Campaign The Grand Rapids Press reports that a regional organization called the West Michigan Trails and Greenways Coalition is launching a campaign to raise $5 million over the next three years to supplement state, federal and local foundation grants. The initial goal is a $26 million, 140-mile expansion of West Michigan's bike trails with a long-term goal of over 300 miles of interlinked bike paths.

Farm Credit Bill Passes Michigan House AP Writer Amy F. Bailey (via the Record-Eagle) reports that legislation aimed at preserving Michigan's dwindling farmland by offering tax credits to farmers in eligible areas passed the state House 89-14 yesterday. The bill that would allow farmers to receive credits for their income tax or single business tax load if their property taxes are more than $5 an acre and now goes to the Senate.

Coming to Michigan ñ Pioneer Style The 1830s was called the Michigan Decade. In 1830, 27,000 people lived in Michigan; by 1840 more than 212,000 people lived here. Most early pioneers arrived in Detroit by boat from Buffalo, New York. But getting to the state’s biggest city was easy, especially when compared to getting to the land they planned to settle. The roads were muddy, rocky trails. There were no bridges...

Goodwill, Dell Launch Michigan Computer Recycling Program The Lansing State Journal reports that Goodwill Industries (in conjunction with Dell) is accepting old desktop and laptop computers, monitors, printers, scanners and parts and peripherals. The program is free at each of the state's 73 Goodwill stores and will refurbish and reuse some machines, strip and sell others for parts, and completely recycle others.

The Michigan Mortgage Monster The Detroit News reports that realtors and mortgage bankers in southeast Michigan report that they're seeing more and more homeowners discovering the dangers of alternative mortgages. With Michigan home prices flat and even declining, homeowners who owe more than the property is worth unable to lower payments by refinancing, and owing money to the bank if they sell.

Michigan Retailers Recognized for Community Contributions The Michigan Retailers Association has selected their 2005 Michigan Retailers of the Year, honoring retailers whose community involvement is integral to their business. Selected were Golden Shoes of Traverse City ("Boots For Kids" program), Kalamazoo's Gazelle Sports (charter member of Girls on the Run), and Bronner's Christmas Wonderland of Frankenmuth (large donation to Frankenmuth schools).

Clear Cutting in Michigan State Forests Draws Outcry The Detroit Free Press reports that Michigan's policy of clear-cutting trees in some state forests has been drawing criticism from officials and residents Roscommon & Ogemaw counties. Roscommon County Commissioner Jim Smolarz says that the cutting has lowered property values, decreased wildlife and hurt tourism. Affected are Ogemaw and Houghton Lake state forests (270,000 acres of state forest).

Tough Times for Michigan Schools The Mining Journal highlights the tough times facing UP schools (and those elsewhere in Michigan) with the example of an auction that raised $3000 ... for textbooks. District numbers have been declining following the closing of the Republic Mine and the school may be foreshadowing the future with its four-day school week to save costs on fuel, heating, and maintenance on the building.

September FBI Raid Shuts Down Michigan's Spam King The Detroit News reports that warrants unsealed last week revealed that FBI agents in September seized computers, laptops, financial records and disks from the 8,000-square-foot West Bloomfield home of Alan M. Ralsky. The raid effectively closed one of the world's largest houses of spam.

Demand for Organic Food Rewards Michigan's Organic Farmers The Cadillac News had a nice feature reporting that as the demand for organic foods rises, Michigan organic farmers are reaping the benefit of years of hard work to gain organic certification. One benefit highlighted by the article: though cows can live up to 18 years, the average cow life is 46 months in the state of Michigan (according to dairy farmer Bill Straathof).

Two Michigan Counties in Top 20 of Tech Adoption The Great Lakes IT Report pointed us to this USA Today feature on the most technologically advanced households in America, those that are early adopters of tech like Wi-fi, TiVo and internet telephones. The article has a map that shows a county-by-county look at the nation. Washtenaw County was tops in Michigan at 48% (#15 overall), followed c

Gaming Centers Growing on Michigan The Detroit Free Press has a feature on video gaming centers, networked facilities stocked with the latest games & harware, and how they are slowly growing in Michigan. Across Michigan, between 20 and 30 centers have opened in downtowns and shopping strips from Petoskey to Canton in the past three to five years.

Michigan AG Challenges Gas Rate Increases Crain's Detroit Business reports that Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox is challenging natural-gas rate increases sought by utilities in Southeast Michigan and throughout the state. Cox wants regulators to approve a plan that would postpone rate increases and to have utilities spread their recovery of higher costs over 12 months.

Michigan Blueberry Growers Start Own Breeding Program The Kalamazoo Gazette reports that in response to the selling of cultivation rights west of the Mississippi for three new blueberry varieties released by Michigan State University 2 years ago, the Michigan Blueberry Growers Association has started its own plant breeding program. Michigan is the nation's leading producer of cultivated blueberries. Recommended Reading!

Challenges to the Michigan Wind Power Industry The Great Lakes Bulletin News Service has an excellent and in-depth feature reporting on the difficulties faced by companies seeking to jump-start wind energy in Michigan. While Michigan is the 14th windiest state and could generate 7,460 megawatts of electricity (enough to power almost 2 million of Michigan's 3.7 million households), most local governments have no turbine ordinances.

Report on Michigan Students' Math & Reading Levels The AP reports that public-school students in Michigan's fourth and eighth grades have gotten better at math, but their reading skills have slipped a bit, according to government test results. In more disturbing news, Michigan African-American 4th & 8th graders scored much worse in reading & math than African-American students in the US as a whole, a gap that has been growing over the last decade.

Michigan Looking at Restricting Eminent Domain The Detroit News reports that followinga US Supreme Court decision citing Michigan as an example of how states can set limits on eminent domain, some lawmakers want to amend the state constitution to permanently restrict its use. The measures would seek to better shield property owners from the court's ruling that allows local governments to take private property for commercial developments.

New Michigan Motorcycle Guidebook The Detroit Free Press has a review of Motorcycling Across Michigan by East Lansing author William Murphy. The book offers 27 routes for scenic rides including the wine country of southwest lower Michigan, M-22 near Arcadia along Lake Michigan, M-119 north of Petoskey and the Upper Peninsula (as well as routes to avoid).

Michigan Dance Students Perform with Kirov Ballet The Detroit Free Press reports that 39 young dance students from Michigan and Ontario will dance small parts in the Kirov Ballet's "The Sleeping Beauty" at the Detroit Opera House (Oct 15-18). Founded in the late 18th Century, Kirov's notable dancers have included premier dancers Anna Pavlova, Rudolf Nureyev, Vaslav Nijinksy and Mikhail Baryshnikov.

Ann Arbor Group Honors Michigan Women in Computing The Great Lakes IT Report tipped us off to the announcement from Ann Arbor Association for Women in Computing of the winners of their third annual "Top Michigan Women in Computing" Awards. They will present the awards at a gala in November with proceeds from the event helping to fund scholarships for women studying information technology.

Number & Pay of Women Executives Declines in Michigan The Lansing State Journal reports that according to a study to be released today, the 2005 Michigan Women's Leadership Index, women hold 5.7% of top officer positions (down 20% from 2003) at Michigan's 100 largest and most powerful businesses. The study also found that female executive officers in Michigan earn an average of 49 cents for each $1 that male officers make.

Michigan Broadband Authority Under Attack The Detroit News reports that the Michigan Broadband Development Authority, created to Michigan to high-speed Internet and economic opportunity has been labeled a failure by business groups and Republican leaders, who will move to eliminate it. The organization is also under fire for exorbitant staff salaries and for what a state audit said was a lack of a plan to become self-sufficient.

Michigan Churches Getting Bigger The Detroit Free Press reports that dozens of Michigan churches are expanding either to compete with their larger brethren or to (in the case of the Detroit Catholic Church) to offset declining clergy numbers. Michigan has as many as 100 megachurches, defined as congregations with an average weekly attendance of more than 2,000 people. The article lists Michigan's largest churches (some over 10k).

Michigan Winery Reports Great Harvest, Recieves High Praise The Detroit Free Press has a profile of Lee Lutes, head winemaker at Black Star Farms of Sutton's Bay (just north of Traverse City). Lutes is overseeing what may turn out to be the best Michigan harvest ever, better even than the legendary 1991. Winemaker & winery received a 2-star rating from Tom Stevenson's New Sotheby's Wine Encyclopedia

Michigan License Plate History The Detroit News has a feature on the history of Michigan license plates that is chock-full of interesting facts such as: the earliest recorded Michigan law requiring motor vehicle registration took effect in Detroit on Dec. 1, 1903 (fee $1) and that personalized plates become available in 1939 and became popular with amateur radio operators (who would register their call signs).

Pheasant Hunting in Michigan's Thumb With the opening of pheasant season in Michigan, the Huron Daily Tribune ran a detailed feature on the history of pheasant hunting in Michigan's Thumb. It's an interesting read and has some nice, historical photos.

2005 Michigan Football Playoffs The Detroit News has a pair of articles highlighting the games and various things to watch for in the 2005 Michigan High School football playoffs, which begin Friday night.

Bills Introduced to Protect Michigan's Water The Detroit Free Press reports on a slew of proposals to regulate water withdrawals from lakes, streams and underground aquifers that were introduced this week in the Michigan Legislature. The Republican plan speaks specifically to protecting the state's premier trout streams from withdrawals while the Democrats' versions are more broadly worded to encompass all the state's waters.

Forum Considers Michigan's Economy The Midland Daily News has a report on the opinions of speakers at CMU's Griffin Policy Forum. The topic was "Michigan's Economy: Can It be Saved?" and while panelists answered "yes", they identified problems including a need to spend more on education (and for education beyond high school) and a need to shift policy focus from the Big Three to small business.

Halloween in Michigan The Detroit News has a feature that looks at the history of Halloween and how adults seem to be enjoying it as much (or more) than kids. There's also links to Halloween recipes, healthy Halloween treats, haunted home decoration, costumes and pretty much anything else holiday-related.

The 45th Annual Greater Michigan Art Exhibition, Oct 1 - Dec 31; Midland

Radio Features: Rosa Parks' Bus & 826Michigan Michigan Radio has a pair of great features. The first is about the bus on which Rosa Parks refused to surrender her seat to a white passenger back in 1955, now on display at the Henry Ford in Dearborn. The second looks at 826michigan, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting & inspiring students aged 6 to 18 with their creative writing skills.

Smart Growth Faces Big Challenges in Michigan The Great Lakes Bulletin News Service reports that according to developers, planners, community leaders, and Smart Growth advocates, many attempts to build "mixed use" neighborhood and town center developments hit a very large wall: They are illegal. In Michigan, with 1,800 local governments in charge of local zoning laws, the challenge is particularly severe.

Michigan Farm Delegation Reaches Trade Agreement with Cuba AP writer John Flesher reports that according to state Agriculture Director Mitch Irwin, a delegation from the state signed Michigan's first-ever trade promotion agreement with Cuba. Cuban food import company Alimport is expected to buy $10 million worth of Michigan farm products in the next 18 months, including apples, dry beans, potatoes and livestock. Michigan exported $919 million worth of agr

Michigan Heads into the Storm Northern Express writer Anne Stanton explores how several factors, including high fuel costs, rising interest rates and a potential doubling of monthly credit card minimum payments, are creating a serious economic situation for many of us. Stanton writes "OH MY GOD this article is depressing" (correct). It is also an excellent look at the issues surrounding bankruptcy and financial troubles.

Wine Ruling Will Allow Out-of-State Wineries to Ship to Michigan The Detroit Free Press reports that Michigan wine lovers won a big victory Tuesday when a federal judge in Detroit ruled that out-of-state wineries can ship directly to Michigan consumers -- a privilege once accorded only to Michigan producers. Be warned: residents cannot legally order wine directly from out of state until the judge signs an order agreed to by lawyers for both sides.

Former Michigan State Park Chief Argues for Selling Parks The Michigan Privatization Report has an article by Russ Harding, former chief of Michigan state parks, that argues for selling certain state parks to raise money for the state. Harding recommends Aloha, Baraga, Dodge, Hayes, Hoeft, Interlochen, Mears, Muskallonge Lake, Newaygo, Otsego Lake, Straits, Twin Lakes and Wilson State Park as well as Wetzel State Recreation Area for sale.

Workers Have a Big Say in Michigan's Future Economy The Detroit Free Press takes a in-depth (and excellent) look at the future of Michigan's economy, concluding that what workers choose to make of themselves through educational and other choices will be a critical factor in the outcome. Fun Facts: If Michigan were a separate country, its economy would have ranked 17th in the world in 2004, bigger than Switzerland. Michigan's total output of goods a

On Partisanship in Michigan: Excerpt from William G. Milliken, Michigan's Passionate Moderate Absolute Michigan is very fortunate to have an excerpt from William G. Milliken: Michigan’s Passionate Moderate, a new book by Dave Dempsey from University of Michigan Press. Transcending partisanship is a major theme of the book and was also a distinguishing feature of Governor Milliken’s time in office. We offer this essay in hopes that it will spark some thought and discussion...

Granger Turns Trash to Gas in Michigan The Lansing State Journal reports that at 12 sites around Ingham country, Granger Energy drills deep into heaps of decaying rubbish to get landfill gas - a gas it collects, processes and uses to create electricity or sells to large commercial clients. At the end of 2004, there were 378 landfill gas recovery projects in the United States, up from 86 in 1990. Granger runs six landfill gas recovery s

Michigan Robots Could Save Jobs The Detroit News that robots produced by by Methods Machine Tools in Wixom let manufacturers increase production with fewer workers. Nonetheless, the company contends that automation can help keep jobs in Michigan by keeping plants open. In the past 6 years, Michigan has lost 1,400 small and medium-sized manufacturing plants, most employing about 60 or 70 people, as many companies moved overseas.

MSU Artisan Distillery Moves to Michigan Brewing Co. The Lansing State Journal takes a look at Kris Berglund, the head of the artisan distilling program at Michigan State University. MSU has moved the program to the Michigan Brewing Co. in Webberville, which will be able to sell the European-style fruit brandies. Michigan allows winemakers to distill liquors (brandies) made from fruit and Michigan has 10 artisan distilleries (trailing only CA).

Michigan Holiday Shopping Tour mLive's Kim Schneider takes a whirlwind holiday shopping tour around Michigan with stops including Black Star Farms & Leelanau Cheese Company (wine & raclette), American Spoon Food in Petoskey's Gaslight district, The Butler Pantry in Saugatuck (a gourmet kitchen store w/ blueberry crumble coffee), the Pinconning Cheese Company, Zingerman's of Ann Arbor (farmhouse parmigiano-reggiano).

Michigan Retail Outlook Gloomy, Discounts Being Offered The Detroit News reports that holiday sales can account for as much as 50% of a retailer's income, but Midwest consumers are expecting to spend nearly half of the national average of $995 and the Michigan Retailers Association forecasts flat or declining sales from October through December. Many Michigan retailers are are offering agressive discounts to try and kick-start holiday shopping.

Michigan Artwork Showcased at Governor's Residence, Executive Office

West Michigan Food Pantries Reporting Shortages WZZM TV-13 Grand Rapids reports that with Thanksgiving coming, West Michigan food pantries say they may not have enough to offer to the poor. For example: Kent County served served 27,000 people in 2005, up 20,000 from 2004. The Muskegon Rescue Mission reports just one turkey, 499 short of the estimated 500 needed. This is a statewide problem, please do what you can!

Five Michigan Schools Receive Energy Education Grants The Michigan.gov Newswire announces that the Michigan Energy Office has made Energy Smart Schools Energy Education grants totaling $28,430 to five school districts (Fraser, Huron Intermediate, Laker School District (Pigeon), Marion & Riverview). The grants will be used to introduce energy efficiency and renewable energy curriculum into the classroom.

Michigan Man to Take Tibet Show on the Road The Mining Journal has a feature on Bill Thompson, owner of Downwind Sports in Marquette, who recently travelled to Mount Everest and Tibet. Thompson plans to present a slide show of his trip to school children and groups all over the state. There will be no charge for the slide show, but Thompson will be asking for donations for the orphanage he visited in Lhasa. Great photos!

The Economic Impact of Michigan Museums The Mining Journal reports that the economic impact of museums and other cultural attractions on local economies tends to be underestimated according to Teresa Goforth, executive director of the Michigan Museums Association. 65% of adult travelers include cultural events in trips of more than 50 miles and 1/3 extend their stays. Michigan museums provide 7,600 jobs and a $130 million payroll.

Michigan Deer Hunters Lowering Expectations The Detroit Free Press reports that Michigan hunters (usually wild with anticipation around this time) are reducing their expectations as deer numbers are about 1/2 of what they were 15 years ago. The DNR says 750,000 people will buy hunting licenses, and hunters will kill about 450,000 deer this year. Our math may be wrong, but appears that Michigan has about 850,000 deer.

Pewabic: A Century of Michiganís Art Pottery, thru Dec 16th; East Lansing

Michigan Fallen Heroes Memorial to be Unveiled The Detroit News reports that workers are putting the final touches on a memorial to honor the 761 Michigan police officers and firefighters who have died in the line of duty since 1864. The Michigan Fallen Heroes Memorial is a life-size bronze statute of a police officer and firefighter kneeling side by side before a wall listing those who have died and will be unveiled Nov 21 at the the Oakland

Michigan Holiday Gift Guide Think Globally, Shop Locally with our Michigan Holiday Gift Guide, designed to help you find the perfect Michigan gifts online or off. We'll also be giving away an amazing Michigan Gift Basket so be sure to enter our Michigan Holiday Memories Contest!

2005 Michigan Holiday Memories Contest It's time to vote for the best Michigan Holiday Memory. The winner, Donna Bacarella, will receive a great gift basket from Leelanau County, Michigan containing over $500 worth of food, jewelry, clothing, books and items for the home.

State Superintendent to Recommend Tougher Curriculum for Michigan Schools The Detroit News reports that Michigan currently requires only a high school civics course to graduate but that on Tuesday state Superintendent Michael Flanagan will likely recommend a curriculum to the State Board of Education requiring four credits of math and language arts or English, three credits of science and social studies (plus health education and fine arts or music).

Interview with Michigan Film Office Director The Associated Press has an interview with Janet Lockwood, head of the Michigan Film Office and how after several years of shrinking budget, she hopes to use new tax credits to sell Michigan to filmmakers and producers of movies, television programs and commercials.

The Outboard Motor: A Marquette Michigan First The Mining Journal reports that the 130-year-old Lake Shore Engine Works building in Marquette (currently being renovated into condominiums) is the birthplace of the world's first gas-driven outboard motor. The motor was likely built at the plant between 1897 and 1898 by Nels Flodin and (according to historian) likely Carl Blomstrom (who received no credit).

Michigan Christmas Trees

Michigan Turkey Producers

Get Real for Christmas! Select Michigan Christmas Trees, Wreaths & Ropes

Absolute Michigan Link Number 3000! On Monday, November 14, 2005 Absolute Michigan posted our 3000th link, to the web site of the Rosa and Raymond Parks Institute for Self Development. The Institute was co-founded in February 1987 by Mrs. Rosa Parks and Ms. Elaine Eason Steele, in honor of Raymond Parks (1903 - 1977) and is the living legacy of two individuals who committed their lives to civil and human rights.

Boulevard of Champion Northern Michigan Trees Proposed AP writer John Flesher reports on the Champion Tree Project International, an organization that seeks out the biggest and oldest trees and produces clones from their buds (about 125 species so far). The project now hopes to create a "Boulevard of Champions" of trees native to northern Michigan on a 2-mile stretch along Grand Traverse Bay in Traverse City. The city is still considering the project.

Bills Introduced to Encourage Logging in Michigan The Lansing State Journal reports that Republican state legislators are introducing bills aimed at boosting timber harvesting in state forests, one of which would make it harder for regulators to rule certain areas off-limits to logging. Other proposals include tax incentives to encourage private owners to allow timber cutting on their land and the forest industry to investment in Michigan.

Absolute Michigan Launches the Michigan Pages Today we add a new dimension to Absolute Michigan that we hope you enjoy. It's called The Michigan Pages and we're going to use it to bring you feature articles, photography and other media about the State of Michigan designed to showcase everything great about the Great Lakes State.

Study Finds Fewer College Grad Hires Planned in Michigan The Lansing State Journal reports that a survey conducted by the Collegiate Employment Research Institute at MSU has found that Michigan employers are planning to hire 43% fewer new college graduates in 2005-06. The drop comes primarily from hiring cuts by large manufacturing companies and Tier 1 automotive suppliers, along with smaller losses in construction and professional services.

Michigan Reads Preschool Book Program The Library of Michigan today announced the five finalists for the 2006 "Michigan Reads!" preschool-book program and invites preschoolers and book lovers to vote through Dec 9. The five books are "Bed Hogs" by Kelly DiPucchio, "Imogene's Antlers" by David Small, "In the Small, Small Pond" by Denise Fleming, Sheep in a Jeep" by Nancy Shaw & "Stranger in the Woods" by Carl Sams II and Jean Stoick.

Absolute Michigan's Guide to the State of Michigan Absolute Michigan presents the Michigan Pages

Absolute Michigan presents the Michigan Pages

Welcome to Absolute Michigan's guide to the State of Michigan. In the months (and hopefully years) to come, the Michigan Pages will take you all over the Great Lakes State with great articles, photography and engaging contests.

Winter Comes to Michigan Most of us woke up (or went to bed) much more than a dusting of snow on the ground after Michigan's first winter storm rolled through the state. The Huron Mountains receieved as much as 20" and there was significant ice and wind in southern Michigan.

Michigan's October Unemployment Rate Best Since 2002 Crain's Detroit Business reports that Michigan's unemployment rate fell in October to 6.1%, its lowest level since September 2002 and more than a full percentage point lower than the year-ago October rate of 7.2%. Michigan's unemployment is still well above the national rate of 5%. But we're getting there!

Made in Michigan: Fair Trade & Organic Gift Sampler Several Michigan businesses with a socially and environmentally friendly focus have joined together to offer consumers an organic and fair trade gift sampler produced here in Michigan. Grocer's Daughter, By the Light of Day, Higher Grounds Trading Co., and Food For Thought, along with Leelanau Trading Co. and Third Coast Design have developed a sampler pack of handcrafted gourmet goodies!

Michigan in October October in Michigan is “the” time to get out and enjoy a beautiful color tour or better yet take advantage of Michigan’s beautiful parks, U-Pick farms and cider mills. The Halloween minded can get into the spirit by navigating a corn maze or better yet, testing their “scare factor” by visiting one of the many haunted attractions scattered throughout the state.

2006 Michigan Governor Race: Who Won the Debates? The three debates are in the books, they’ve generated a lot of discussion (though maybe no real answers). We thought we'd give you links to a few sites that analyzed last night’s third and final Gubernatorial Debate and then let you sound off.

Michigan Food Assistance Reaches 10 Year High The Lansing State Journal reports that the number of people in the Michigan needing government help buying groceries is at an all-time high, topping 1 million in a month for the first time since 1994. That's one out of every nine Michiganians (11% of residents) buying their daily bread with food stamps. On Friday and over the objections of anti-hunger groups, the U.S. House voted Friday cut $700 m

GM News Doesn't Cut Quite as Deeply as Feared in Michigan The Detroit News reports on General Motors' bombshell that it will cut 5000 additional jobs (30,000 total) and close nine North American plants by 2008 (MI plants in Lansing, Flint and Ypsilanti). Even though the state is home to 65% of the GM's production, just 10% of the jobs lost will be in Michigan. Flint is expected to be hardest hit and is also facing the loss of Delphis Flint East plant.

2005-2006 Michigan Skiing Update CNN has a Ski Magazine feature by the Michigan Skier's Jim Neff about Boyne Mountain's new winter-themed indoor water park, Avalanche Bay, Michigan's first surf simulator (also reports on the hill). First Tracks Online reports that Crystal Mountain is ramping up for a Thanksgiving Day opening. With nothing but snow in the forecast, it looks like Michigan's ski season is off to a great start!

The Story Behind Michigan County Names Detroit News writer Tom Greenwood looks at where Michigan county names came from. Most of our county names come from Native American (Schoolcraft named many using quasi-Native American names) and from French, British (5 after Irish counties) and early American heritage (including 10 named after men in Andrew Jackson's administration). It's a gold mine for trivia buffs!

Report on Michigan Adoption Day The Detroit News has a feature on Michigan Adoption Day (the Tuesday before Thanksgiving every year). More than 40 Michigan counties participated in the event, the largest Adoption Day in the nation for the third year in a row. Some 4,400 children in Michigan's foster care system are still waiting to be adopted. Most are older, minorities or members of sibling groups.

Group Markets Michigan to China Crain's Detroit Business reports on a bit of good news in a week where doom and gloom have ruled the roost. The Right Place Inc., an economic-development organization serving Grand Rapids, is pitching Michigan to Chinese suppliers as an automotive research-and-development mecca. The hope is that Chinese suppliers will emulate Korean suppliers (26 Korean suppliers have operations in Michigan).

Michigan Travel Numbers Released The Detroit News reports on MI Travel Counts, a comprehensive statewide transportation study conducted by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). Among the findings are that women make more trips than men (any moms dispute that finding?) and that the average household takes 9.7 average trips per day. MDOT hopes to use the data to direct the future of Michigan's transportation system.

Michigan's Rural Areas Provide Almost 2x the Military Recruits The Detroit News reports that military records show that Michigan's military recruits come disproportionately from the state's most rural areas. In Michigan's 45 most rural counties (60% of people living in rural areas) about 7 of every 1,000 young people ages 18-24 enlisted last year compared to 4 of every 1,000 in urban areas.

Michigan Schools Face Counseler Shortage The Detroit News reports that at a time when Michigan leaders increasingly tout the importance of more students graduating from college, Michigan students are getting less counseling than those in all but a few other states. There was one counselor for every 619 Michigan students in 2004, far below the recommeded ratio of 250-1. Michigan schools aren't required to have counselors.

Michigan Shopping Report: Early Numbers Look Good The Detroit Free Press reports that Thanksgiving weekend provided a strong start to the holiday shopping season but that shoppers in the Midwest spent the least ($269.53 on average). Clothing and accessories again topped the gift lists this year, with 49.2% of people surveyed saying they bought these items. Books, CDs, DVDs, videos and video games were second, with 46.7%, and electronics was 3rd.

Michigan Mining Rules Hearings The Lansing City Pulse reports that with three weeks left for Michiganders to officially sound off on the regulation of sulfide mining in Michigan, environmental groups have organized a statewide round of briefings and public hearings on the issue. There are public meetings in Escanaba (Nov 29), Marquette (Nov 30) and Lansing (Dec 7).

Michigan Shadow Towns Michigan Radio takes a tour of some of Michigan's ghost towns with Gene Scott, author of the new book Michigan's Shadow Towns. Scott describes villages (128 in 64 counties) that have experienced near or total demises generally caused by local economic failures and one or more significant declines in population. We couldn't find anywhere to purchase it online!

Build Michigan! Although reading the headlines can give you the idea that Michigan is falling apart and there is not hope, there are a lot of individuals, businesses and organizations working hard to create the next generation of Michigan.

Michigan Mail Order Gifts The Detroit Free Press has a mail order guide with a great selection of food & wine gifts from all over the state of Michigan: bread, cheese, pies, pasties, cookies & candy I better eat some breakfast

More Women Judges in Michigan The Detroit Free Press reports that there are 49 women among 214 circuit judges statewide, and in the Oakland County courthouse, half of the 23 circuit, family and probate court judges are women. That trend is expected to continue as the old guard of mostly male judges statewide face mandatory retirement at age 70.

Michigan Small Business Owners Down on State Economy, Up on Own Businesses The Detroit Free Press reports that of 351 small-business owners polled in November by the Michigan chapter of the National Federation of Independent Business, 34% described business conditions as "poor" or "very poor," up from 31% in a similar survey three months ago. However, almost half described prospects for their own businesses during the next several months as "good" or "very good".

Michigan Veterans and Veterans Day November 11 is Veterans Day in Michigan. We thought it a good idea to point you to some things about Michigan's veterans. Includes VFW, veteran services, michigan military history and veterans history and veteran photos.

The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald & more Michigan Shipwrecks November 10, 1975. An incredible video of Gordon Lightfoot’s Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. Edmund Fitzgerald Remembered 30 Years After, 30th Anniversary, the Armistice Day Storm & the Carl D. Bradley, Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum at Whitefish point. More shipwrecks of Great Lakes frieghters (aka "Lakers")

2006 Michigan Election Results Links, articles, audio & video for the 2006 Michigan elections for Governor, Senate, House of Representatives and ballot proposals. The end of politics until 2008.

University of Michigan Wolverines vs. Ohio State Buckeyes The Michigan-Ohio State rivalry is an intense rivalry between the University of Michigan and the Ohio State University football teams. Widely regarded among the greatest competitions in all of American sport, Michigan and Ohio State ranked first in an ESPN poll conducted in 2000 of the greatest sports rivarlies.

A very Michigan Thanksgiving From turkey to Turkey Trots, parades to Detroit Lions Thanksgiving Day football, Absolute Michigan has all the food and fun for America's original holiday.

Leonid Meteor Showers in Michigan November 18, 2006 Leonid meteor showers, University of Michigan Lowbrow Astronomers and general information about Michigan astronomy, Michigan meteor showers (Leonids) and a link to Bob Moler's Ephemeris.

Saginaw, Michigan information, links & photos In addition to a great photo of Saginaw, today's Michigan in Pictures has lots of information and links about Saginaw and the Saginaw Valley from pre-history to the present day. Includes mound builders, indians, woodland indians, gm / general motors, saginaw chamber, saginaw convention & visitors bureau and more.

Jeff Daniels brings Michigan grown music to Ann Arbor Michigan Theater in Ann Arbor concert features Michigan musicians Rachael Davis of Cadillac, Wayne David Parker of Dearborn, Ann Arbor based Peter ‘Madcat’ Ruth, Lansing’s Steppin’ In It and Neil Woodward of Howell (he’s Michigan’s Troubador). Daniels and company will perform original songs and several tunes celebrating the Great Lakes State. Members of the Purple Rose Theater Company too!

Michigan Film: The Gardener The Gardener won Best Director (Geoffrey George) and Best Cinematography (William Couch) at the University of Michigan’s Lightworks Film Festival in 2006. It was made with the involvement of a number of local actors, most of them from the Ann Arbor Civic Theater and the Purple Rose Theater of Chelsea, Michigan. The 16mm film was shot without sound in Milford and West Bloomfield.

Under Fire: Michigan Republican Party Chair Saul Anuzis Michigan Radio’s Jack Lessenbery interviews Michigan Republican chairman Saul Anuzis about the “anti-Republican tsunami” and his thoughts on the Republican Party’s future in Michigan.

With Wages & Benefits Falling, Michigan Workers Doing More with Less The Detroit News takes a look at some of the tens of thousands of Michigan workers who are downsizing their lives to keep from going broke as employers scale back pay and benefits or cut jobs entirely. With Delphi floating cutting UAW hourly wages from about $27 to as low as $10, workers in airline & other industries seeing salary cuts as high as 25% and GM retirees now paying for insurance, doing

Michigan Energy Centers Pushing for More Efficient Future The Lansing City Pulse reports that unlike California, with its corporate tax credits for solar roofs, or New Jersey, with its clean energy rebates, Michigan residents receive few incentives. Nonetheless, state energy organizations are working to create awareness about efficient and renewable energy and how it can save people money.

Michigan Sugar Beets Cut the Ice The Lansing State Journal reports that Meridian township and the Ingham County Road Commission will use a de-icing coating made from Michigan sugar beets. Known as DE-ICE 55, the product uses sugar beets and brine from Michigan brine wells to make a sticky, liquid slush that gets sprayed onto piles of road salt once each season. Also see the update answering the question: Won't the deer LOVE this?

Michigan Legislature Moves to Overhaul Welfare State lawmakers have voted to limit cash assistance for able-bodied welfare recipients to four years, to implement penalties for those who fail to comply with work or training requirements and provisions are aimed at helping move people into long-term employment. If Gov. Granholm signs, it would be the most significant change to Michigan's welfare program since Engler overhaul in the 90s.

Federal Budget Cuts Could Have Serious Consequences for Michigan The Detroit News reports that Congress' plan to cut up to $50 billion from federal programs threatens tens of thousands of Michigan families who receive Medicaid, food stamps and help in collecting child support. The cuts could mean up to $1 billion less headed to Michigan over the next five years and force some difficult choices for state leaders.

Deals for Michigan Skiers The Detroit Free Press has a look at several Michigan ski deals including the "White Gold Card" (a $169 card that lets you ski one time free at 24 ski resorts in Michigan) and deals for beginning skiers, seniors and Michigan fourth-graders. Also included are a couple of other articles reporting that our ski season has gotten a great start with heavy late-November and early December snowfall.

Michigan Veterans Recall Pearl Harbor Michigan History Magazine takes a look back at December 7, 1941 with photos and the memories of many Michiganders. The Detroit Free Press also talks with Walter Drenkhahn Jr. There will be a memorial program in Pontiac today to remember the 32 Michigan servicemen killed at Pearl Harbor.

Michigan's Role in Narnia The Detroit Free Press has a feature on a Michigan man and woman who helped shape the story of Narnia. They are Sharon Bordine Frisco of Rochester whose short films helped to preserve the legacy of author C.S. Lewis and Washtenaw Community College computer instructor Laurence Krieg, who became a pen pal of Lewis and suggested using the Narnian chronological order for ording the books.

"Michigan, The Great Lakes State: An Illustrated History" Book Signing Sunday, East Lansing Meet the authors of "Michigan, The Great Lakes State: An Illustrated History" from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11 at Barnes & Noble, 333 W. Grand River Ave., East Lansing. For more details, call 324-3926.

Michigan to Unveil Cultural Marketing Effort The Detroit Free Press reports that Bill Anderson, director of the Michigan Department of History, Arts and Libraries, will unveil the Cultural Economic Development Strategy for Michigan. The plan will create a more accurate measure of the money, jobs and taxes brought to the state from arts and culture and also encourage communities to promote cultural tourism and provides training.

10 Michigan Books The Detroit Free Press has a great list of 10 Michigan-centric books that includes The Lake, the River and the Other Lake by Steve Amick (funny story about a fictional town on Lake Michigan, its natives and summer visitors) and Please Don't Come Back From the Moon by Dean Bakopoulos (young men abandoned by their fathers in a working-class Ukrainian community in a Detroit suburb).

Michigan Fallout from Auto Industry Struggles The Detroit Free Press notes that when giants stumble, it is easy to focus on the spectacle and miss what's happening on the ground. Using interviews, they take a really excellent look at how fallout from the auto industry's woes is being manifested in the lives of regular people in Michigan.

Michigan Snowshoe Primer The Northern Express's Rick Coates has a comprehensive feature on snowshoeing. The article looks at old style, wooden Michigan snowshoes and lightweight, heavy-duty aluminum frame styles, some events and races this winter and some resources for snowshoe information.

Green Building Efforts at Michigan Universities The Detroit Free Press reports on how universities in Michigan are building more energy-efficient structures to save money on energy and water use. One example is the recently renovated Dana Building at UM. Last spring, Michigan began requiring state-supported projects of more than $1 million to follow Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards for green construction.

Sweeping Michigan Welfare Changes Proposed The Detroit News reports that at the heart of the most sweeping Michigan welfare policy change in a decade is a proposal to set a lifetime limit of 48 months of benefits for those on welfare. Proponents say the changes will free those still trapped on public assistance. Others, such as the Michigan Catholic Conference say adoption of the plan would destroy the state's safety net. The House Fiscal

Michigan Venture Capital Controversy The Ann Arbor News has an excellent and detailed look at the Michigan's venture capital industry and surrounding controversy. Nader Najafi, CEO of Integrated Sensing Systems Inc., alleges the state's 15 or so venture firms, the majority of which are concentrated in Ann Arbor, have become a syndicate 'suffocating' the local technology industry. While some agree, others dispute the allegations.

Construction Trades a Tough Sell in Michigan The Lansing State Journal has a report on how trades groups and employers are struggling to recruit high school students to fill growing needs for everything from plumbers to bricklayers and drywallers. Despite opportunities, the jobs are proving a tough sell - not only to young people but to their parents and school counselors, who don't always see the trades as a desirable option.

Michigan Holiday Memories We invite you to read these memories submitted for our 2005 Michigan Holiday Memories contest!

A North to South Michigan Christmas by Bill Wheadon In our family it's known as the year that Santa and Mrs. Claus permanently moved to the North Pole. The "North" in that statement is Northern Michigan and the "Pole" the elongated piece of sand, cherries and snow that is Michigan's baby finger – Leelanau Peninsula. We had moved from Grand Rapids the previous January, leaving three generations of family behind.

My Michigan Snow Globe by Lisa Genesen People are shocked that our second home is six hours away. There are very nice beaches and woods just outside of Chicago. What can be worth a six hour drive into Northern Michigan? The answer is simple, snow. Winter can be fickle at the southern end of Lake Michigan, but you can count on snow at the 45th parallel.

Solve Michigan's Economic Problems, Win $1000 Government Technology reports that Harvard's John F. Kennedy School of Government has issued a new, Web-based case exploring how Michigan is tackling economic development where solutions rely heavily on information technology. It invites students to assess what Michigan has done so far, and then recommend priorities for the future. The winning student response will earn a cash prize of $1,000!

Two Michigan Cities Ranked in Global Knowledge Competitiveness MITECHNEWS.COM reports that Grand Rapids and Detroit were ranked in the top 15 in the 2005 edition of World Knowledge Competitiveness Index released Tuesday. The Index uses 19 knowledge economy benchmarks, including employment levels in the knowledge economy, patent registrations, R&D investment by the private and public sector, education expenditure, information and communication technology infra

2006 Michigan Reads! Preschool Book Announced The Library of Michigan has announced that the winner of its 2006 "Michigan Reads!" one-state, one-preschool-book program is Bed Hogs by Michgan author Kelly DiPucchio. The book is the story of Little Runt, who grows weary of sharing a straw bed with his parents and siblings and kicks them out (only to realize it's scary and lonesome without his family).

Michigan Writer/Publisher Hits Big with Christmas Book The Northern Express has a feature on Has Anyone Seen Christmas?, a children's book by author Anne Margaret Lewis, owner of Mackinac Island Press. The book was illustrated by accomplished mural artist Wendy Popko who resides and works in the Detroit area. It has been astonishingly successful, with sales nearing 35,000 copies and projected to exceed 50,000 copies before Christmas.

Senate Declares Michigan Christmas Tree The Lansing State Journal reports that Michigan's Senate joined the thorny Great Tree Debate on Tuesday, declaring the blue spruce in front of the Capitol is indeed a Christmas tree. The Senate resolution declares, "from this day forward, the tree and its graceful branches that adorn the Capitol lawn will be known as the Michigan Christmas Tree."

Michigan Ski Report for December 21 2005 AAA Michigan's ski report as of December 15 has northwest Michigan resorts like Caberfae, Crystal Mountain, Boyne Highlands, Boyne Mountain & Nubs Nob. Upper Peninsula resorts including Ski Brule, Big Powderhorn Mountain, Indianhead, Marquette Mtn, Blackjack and Norway. Cannonsburg, Mount Holly, Pine Knob, Mt Brighton, Alpine Valley and Apple Mountain.

Michigan Gains Residents ... Slowly The Detroit Free Press reports that Michigan has gained 182,380 residents since 2000, boosting population to 10.1 million people. Michigan's 1.8% growth since 2000 ranked 42nd among states. State officials said Michigan's declining birthrate, rising death rate and increased number of people migrating to other states contributed to slow growth. Mr. Stevens suggests that might be a good thing

Utah Visionary Brings Growth Management Ideas to Michigan The Michigan Land Use Institute has an excellent feature on a presentation by Robert J. Grow to the Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce. Mr Grow may be hired by the Traverse City area and is the founder of Envision Utah, Salt Lake City's growth plan to accommodate 3.4 million more residents by 2050 while preserving open spaces, reducing taxpayer expenses, easing traffic congestion, and preservi

2005 Michigan Book Picks Michigan Radio has an audio feature of book reviewer & UM Undergraduate Creative Writing director Keith Taylor's picks for the best work from Michigan authors. His picks for 2005 include The Lake, the River and the Other Lake by Steve Amick (fiction), Melville: His World and Work by Andrew Delbanco (non-fiction), and Refusing Heaven by Jack Gilbert (poetry).

Economists' Forecasts for Michigan in 2006 The Lansing State Journal has a feature on what several economists and industry watchers are forecasting for key sectors of Michigan's economy in 2006. Predictions include: Michigan residents' personal income will grow by 4.9% (offset by 2.4% inflation increase), flattening of interest rates, and slow hiring & restructuring forcing more people to leave Michigan to seek jobs elsewhere.

3/4 of Michigan Residents Have Computer Access The Great Lakes IT Report reports that a survey by Lansing public opinion research firm Epic MRA found that 75% of Michiganians have access to a personal computer. 44% percent said they had a computer only at home, 28% said they had a computer at both home and work, and 3% said they had a computer only at work. Only 24 percent said they didn't have access to a computer in either location.

Anti-Takings Amendment Headed for Michigan Ballot in 2006 The Washington Times reports that the Michigan Legislature has become the first in the nation to adopt a proposed constitutional amendment that would prohibit the government from taking private property from its owner and giving it to a private interest for economic-development purposes or to increase tax revenues. The resolution moves to the Secretary of State and November ballot.

Michigan Tree Farmer Moves Beyond Scotch Pines The Traverse City Record-Eagle has a feature on Jim Grant, a Leelanau County cherry and tree farmer who travels the world looking for perfect evergreen trees for northern Michigan. Gant works with almost 30 different tree varieties at his farm. The article gives an idea of what it's like to be in the Christmas tree business and looks at some of the exotic varieties Gant grows including Olympic fir

Michigan's Alternative Energy Future Inside Muskegon's latest podcast features an interview with Dr. Imad Mahawili, Executive Director of the Grand Valley State University Michigan Alternative and Renewable Energy Center (MAREC). Very interesting!

Michigan Workers with Disabilities Find Less Opportunity The Detroit News reports that working-age people with disabilities in Michigan between 21 and 64 have an employment rate 37% in 2004, compared with 76% for people without disabilities. For men with disabilities, employment fell by 22% from 1989 to 2000. The article looks at some common myths regarding disabled workers and assistive technology like screen-reading and voice-activation software.

Michigan Colleges Make Some Lectures Available Online The Detroit News reports on how some Michigan colleges are now offering lectures in the MP3 format (for iPods and other MP3 players), allowing students to download and listen to missed lectures. In the case of the UM school of Dentistry, Apple Computer manages the download of files. Some professors feel this use of technology cheapens the learning experience.

The Polar Express Comes to Michigan While growing up in Grand Rapids, Chris Van Allsburg remembers hearing train whistles and taking train rides with his father. Built in 1941, the Pere Marquette 1225 is an enormous steam locomotive, measuring one hundred feet long and sixteen feet high. Replaced in 1951 by a more efficient diesel engine, the 1225 was saved from the scrap heap and decades later, ended up in Owosso.

Happy Holidays from Absolute Michigan 2005 has been the year of the "War on Christmas", fought by everybody from Fox News anchors to the Michigan Legislature. At Absolute Michigan, we hope that whether you are celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Festivus or nothing at all, you and your loved ones enjoy it to the fullest.

Michigan's High Speed Rail the first in Midwest The Chicago Tribune reports that the Midwest's first high-speed passenger trains are cruising along at speeds of almost 100 miles per hour on Amtrak's Wolverine service in Michigan which utilize a technology known as positive train control. The only faster rail in the US is Amtrak's Northeast corridor where Acela trains reach speeds of 150 MPH.

Top Michigan Political Stories of 2005 Detroit Free Press political writer Dawson Bell takes a look back at the top political stories of 2005 including the entry of Grand Rapids businessman Dick Devos into the race for Michigan Governor, the sordid Fieger-Cox campaign finance/sex/blackmail scandal and the looming battle in 2006 over the Michigan Civil Rights Initiative.

Absolute Michigan Link #4000 On December 28, 2005, Absolute Michigan added its 4000th link to the web site of Hamilton-Anderson Associates. Hamilton-Anderson is a Detroit, Michigan company providing services that include architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning, civil engineering, and interior & graphic design. Visit Hamilton-Anderson Associates

Michigan Snowboarding Primer The Lansing Hub & Noise has a nice feature on snowboarding that covers learning to snowboard (hint: prepare to fall a lot), essential gear (helmets are essential, so why not get one that can be wired to an MP3 player?) and a listing of Michigan ski resorts and winter sports parks and what they offer snow surfers.

Michigan Outdoors: Ted Nugent's Christmas Eve Thoughts The Traverse City Record-Eagle reported that the New York Times' Christmas Eve outdoor section would have a definite Michigan flavor with a holiday column by Motor City Madman Ted Nugent and well-known Traverse City illustrator Glenn Wolff. Regrettably, we read this as "New Year's Eve" and were saving it for today. Meal garlic, butter, Michigan morel mushrooms and sweet onions, roasted over fire

Kentucky's BIG Man Comes to Michigan There are plenty of bigger-than-life men during the American Revolution. George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin, and Patrick Henry, to name a few. But hardly any were bigger Daniel Boone, who came to Michigan - as a prisoner. Henry Hamilton, Detroit's British commander, was impressed with Boone and tried to buy the frontiersman from his Indian captors, the Shawnee.

Absolute Michigan Launches Michigan Photo Blog New for 2006 is Michigan in Pictures, a blog that will showcase photos of the Great Lakes State. We'll try to bring you a new photo (lots from Flickr) every day and we'll also be checking out professional & amateur photographers' web sites and other spots where the beauty of the Great Lakes State is presented. We hope to add video and info about movies being filmed in Michigan as well!

Michigan PACs Are Raking in the Cash The Lansing State Journal reports that according to the Michigan Campaign Finance Network, special interest groups that donate to politicians and political candidates are well on their way to setting a new fundraising record for the 2005-06 election cycle. The top 150 political action committees have already raised 23% more through October 2005 than the top 150 had raised at this point in the 2003

Michigan's Bob Woodruff Debuts as ABC News Anchor The Detroit Free Press reported that Michigan native Bob Woodruff debuts tonight (Tuesday January 2, 2006) as co-anchor of ABC's World News Tonight. He will share duties with Elizabeth Vargas of 20/20 and the network hopes that the team can bring them. The network will also launch a live Webcast on Tuesday that features the pair.

The Michigan Reader: Michigan books, authors & publishers All January on Absolute Michigan we're going to be talking about Michigan books: authors, writers & illustrators and also publishers of Michigan books and the great bookstores all over the state.

Northern Michigan City Goes Virtual The Traverse City Record-Eagle has a feature on "Virtual Frankfort", a digitized version of the Benzie county city. Shops, restaurants, city hall, and streets can be navigated like a video game (albiet a 1992 game). It's hoped that the technology will attract visitors to Frankfort businesses (or at least their web sites). City planners could also require developers to build virtual models of propo

Abramoff Allegations Grow in Michigan (updated) The Gun Lake Tribe (Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians) is alleging that lobbyist Jack Abramoff was hired to help stall the building of their new casino. According to their news release "Investigations to date have shown that Jack Abramoff and his partner Michael Scanlon were paid more than $14 million by a past tribal council of the Saginaw Chippewa Tribe to prevent the development of competing Indian casinos in Michigan, including the Gun Lake Tribe's proposed casino in Wayland Township." The tribe also says that Congressman Peter Hoekstra received campaign contributions from Abramoff's former lobbying firm, Greenberg Traurig and should return or donate the money.

Michigan Teachers Receive Poor Rating The Detroit News reports that with a "D+" for the fourth consecutive year, Michigan has earned a D rating in teacher quality once again rank near the bottom of the nation, according to the Quality Counts 2006 national report released yesterday by Education Week. The report says Michigan has done well granting teaching licenses to those who majored in the subject they teach at the high school level

E85 Fuel in Michigan The Detroit Free Press has a feature on E85. Also known as "flex fuel", E85 is a blend of gasoline and ethanol made from corn or other crops. Only 4 Michigan gas stations offer E85 (500 nationwide), but the number is expected rise to about 2,500 by year-end as filling stations take advantage of new tax credits for the costs of retro-fitting pumps and tanks.

Quest for the Average Mid-Michigander The Lansing City Pulse has an interesting romp through Census, income, polling and other data to find the average mid-Michigan resident. Most are female (51.4%) and white (82.2%). About 77% were born in Michigan and they appear to be very evenly split in terms of politics. Along the way they talk with a number of folks from all walks of life.

Michigan Statehood Day Celebration, Jan 28th; Lansing When Michigan entered the Union on January 26, 1837, it was the fastest-growing territory in the country. What was life like during the early years of the nation's 26th state? Find out during Michigan's Statehood Day.

The Michigan History Pages Learn about Michigan's heritage with a wide range of articles and links.

Women's History in Michigan March is Womens History Month and there are a lot of interesting historical features about Michigan women to check out.

Stories from Michigan History Magazine Michigan History Magazine, Michigan's premier historical publication, offers a wealth of information about our history in these great features.

Study Looks at Mass Transit in SE Michigan The Detroit News reports that a report from the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments found those who drive between Ann Arbor and Detroit would use public transportation as long as the ride were as quick as a car, stations were convenient to home and workplace and service operated on a reliable schedule. Options include light rail line, express bus routes and commuter railroad.

Build Michigan! News Updates Check the links in the green bar below for news updates related to Build Michigan.

Michigan Pages Add Two New Sections Absolute Michigan's Michigan Pages have added two new sections. The first is called Build Michigan! and is dedicated to exploring the future of Michigan's business landscape, industry and built environment. Also released are the Michigan History Pages, featuring links to articles about the the rich heritage of the Great Lakes State and regular features from Michigan History Magazine.

2005 Michigan Wine Grape Harvest Spectacular The Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council reports that the third-warmest summer in state history led to an early harvest of completely mature and healthy grapes. Although the quantity was about average, the quality was again rated as far above average, making 4 straight years of excellent vintages.

Fewer Michigan Teens Dying, More Abused or Neglected The Lansing State Journal reports that fewer Michigan teens are dying, getting arrested, having babies and dropping out of school according to Kids Count in Michigan Data Book 2005, an annual report on the state of Michigan's youth. However, there were 29,737 confirmed cases of abuse or neglect in 2004, about 40% higher than in 1995.

Michigan's Housing Market Receives Gloomy Rating The Detroit Free Press reports that while most of the country is seeing a relatively upbeat housing market forecast, three of the nation's top economists speaking at the International Home Builder's Show in Orlando singled out Michigan as a state that will continue to struggle with housing growth and appreciation, escalating foreclosure rates and an overall dreadful economy. Some areas of the co

Michigan Mall Picks up 7-11 as Advertiser The Detroit News reports that Michigan Mall, a localized Internet search engine and online directory has picked up 7-Eleven as an advertiser as the convenience store giant seeks to sell franchises in Michigan. According to the article, there has been a trend over the last seven or eight years towards vertical portals, portals that are dedicated to a single industry or topic.

The Last "Bad Economic News for Michigan" Forecast We'll Post ... The Lansing State Journal reports that Michigan's leading economists warned Thursday that more tough times lie ahead: more plant closings, more layoffs, fewer jobs - at least through 2007. State officials project Michigan's unemployment rate will average 7.1 percent this year and next (up nearly 1% from November 2005). Regarding auto industry predictions, Sean McAlinden, chief economist for the Ce

Good Grades for Michigan's Mountain Biking Trails According to the 2005 International Mountain Biking Association Report Card of US trail systems, Michigan's mountain biking trails are among the best in the nation. With a B+ ranking, Michigan trailed only Virginia, West Virginia, Utah, Arizona and Colorado. Ratings are based not only on trail quality, quantity and access for off-road bicycling, but also strength of local organizations.

Motown Winter Blast, Detroit Michigan

Bookstores in Michigan's Upper Peninsula There must be more bookstores in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, but these are the only ones we could find with web pages. If you know of any UP Michigan bookstores that we missed, let us know!

Michigan Legislator's Attendence Records The Detroit Free Press has a feature that looks at the worst attendance (and best - 17 had perfect records) in the Michigan House and Michigan Senate. Jack McHugh, a legislative analyst and manager of MichiganVotes.org cautions against making assumptions about the voting records. McHugh said it appears that the number of legislators who missed dozens of

Levin Calls for Apollo Class Program to Help Michigan Manufacturers The Lansing State Journal reports that Sen. Carl Levin urged Congress to pursue "an Apollo-type program" on Wednesday to help the manufacturing sector in Michigan battle a loss of jobs overseas. Levin said a series of steps would be needed to help deal with the nation's loss of about 3 million manufacturing jobs since the middle of 2000 including changes to the tax code, help on rising health care

Michigan Internet ... by the Pixel The Great Lakes IT Report had news of Rochester Internet service provider Enterprise Expectation Systems' launch of TopMichiganWebsites.com. The page is modeled after the successful UK based Million Dollar Homepage (minus porn ads). EES will also donate up to 20% of proceeds to Michigan nonprofits and are seeking requests for funding.

Michigan Unemployment Falls in 2005, Rises for Last Month The Detroit Free Press reports that Michigan's 6.8% average annual unemployment rate for 2005 showed a decline of 0.3 percentage points from 2004's annual rate of 7.1%. Overall, the state lost 24,000 jobs in 2005. The Department of Labor and Economic Growth reported Wednesday that the Michigan jobless rate rose 0.1 percentage point to 6.7% (still above the national rate of 4.9%).

Update on the West Michigan Real Estate Market WZZM TV-13 Grand Rapids reports that real estate analysts say there is a buyers market in West Michigan with plenty of new homes up for sale. It's a trend that began last year. The home builders association of Grand Rapids says housing starts fell by 6% between 2004 and 2005. Prices have outpaced inflation in West Michigan, meaning homeowners are getting their money's worth out of their houses.

Line of Michigan Healthy Foods to Benefit Cass Community The Detroit Free Press has a feature on Just Belicious Granola, a new product line created by Kathleen Daelemans of Sylvan Lake is the author of three books about healthful eating, a chef involved with numerous restaurant starts and a diet expert. She plans to donate money from sales of the food products to Cass Community Social Services. The agency is working with her on the venture.

Some Michiganians Stranded on Broadband Superhighway The Lansing State Journal had a trio of articles on Sunday looking at those in rural mid-Michigan who are currently left in the 56k dust as the others in the state cruise on broadband connections. The article also reports on hope offered by broadband over power line that Lighthouse Broadband (and other companies) will be rolling out in Grand Ledge and St. Johns.

Northern Michigan Farmers Conference The Northern Express reports that it's an exciting time to be in the business of agriculture, especially in Northern Michigan. The rise of the wine region, new markets for the cherry industry and changes in consumer wants are boosting small family farm operations. This weekend (Saturday, Jan 28) hundreds will gather in Grayling for the 7th Annual Northern Michigan Small Farm Conference.

Michigan Author is 2006 Newbery Medal Winner The 2006 Newbery Medal has been awarded to Criss Cross (Greenwillow Books) written by Lynne Rae Perkins of Cedar, Michigan. Criss Cross The medal was the world's first children's book award and has been awarded annually since 1922 to the author of the most distinguished contribution to American literature for children. (not spelled Newberry!)

Michigan Cougar Watch: Escaped Pets or Wild Population? The Dowagiac Daily News continues its coverage of Michigan cougars with a report on whether or not wild cougars inhabit Michigan or whether they're a few former illegal pets. DNR wildlife biologist Dave Bostick is quoted as saying: "...we think there's only a handful of cougars in Michigan and, at least in this part of the state we think most of them are escaped cats...

Sending Unsolicited IMs to Michigan Children Carries Penalties MITECHNEWS.COM reports that sending unsolicited instant messages to children in Michigan will now carry the same fines and as sending kids unsolicited emails under changes made Monday by the Michigan Public Service Commission. The MPSC said it opened the Protect MI Child registry to instant messenger IDs, mobile text messaging and fax numbers.

Brownfield Redevelopment Boosts Michigan's Economy The Michigan Land Use Institute has a special report that explores brownfield redevelopment in Michigan. Michigan's brownfield redevelopment program is responsible for 14,000 new jobs since the mid-1990s and $3.8 billion in private investment since 2000, according to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and is the most successful state urban redevelopment program of the past generation.

Media will get a taste of Michigan Department of Agriculture will host a daily spread of our foods and wines.

GMO Battle Brewing in Michigan The Lansing State Journal reports on a budding battle in Lansing over legislation that pits natural, chemical-free crops and organic farmers against genetically engineered seeds. Under a bill in the state Senate, Michigan would join 14 other states that have prevented local governments from barring the planting of genetically modified crops. Up to 85% of U.S. soybeans are genetically modified...

NFL Auction to Benefit SE Michigan Boys & Girls Club EBay auction that launched on Friday of over 125 plaster footballs, decorated and autographed by athletes from all 32 NFL teams, national and local sports media and football-related personalities. The auction was created by Bloomfield Hills developers Taubman Centers Inc. and proceeds will benefit Detroit's NFL/Youth Education Town - Boys & Girls Club, a new, state-of-the-art youth center.

Figuring Out Employment (and lack thereof) in Michigan The Detroit News reports that statistics regarding employment in Michigan are expected to take center stage in the 2006 gubernatorial contest. A key consideration is whether or not to include self-employed individuals in the stats. If they are added, Michigan gained 99,000 jobs during Granholm's tenure. Remove them, and the state lost 160,000 jobs.

Five Things WE Need to Know About Michigan

Michigan Player's Tour announces 2006 events

Five Things You (Really) Need to Know About Michigan Check them out, add to the list

Absolute Michigan's Guide to Super Bowl XL NFL EXPERIENCE AT SUPER BOWL XL at COBO CENTER in DETROIT, MI. The NFL Experience is the most exciting continuous event surrounding Super Bowl XL -- an interactive theme park offering participating games, displays and entertainment attractions. Will also include: autograph sessions, the largest football card show ever, chat sessions with coaches, clinics and "Football 101:

Michigan Reactions to State of the Union President Bush focused heavily on the auto industry in his State of the Union address, calling for a major increase in federal research dollars to develop clean energy sources, including ethanol, electric and other nonpetroleum fuels. Although funds called for were relatively small, Ford CEO Bill Ford Jr praised the commitment. Some critics, including Sen. Carl Levin criticized...

Investing Millions in Michigan MITECHNEWS.COM has a pair of stories that are well worth a read. The first reports that a Request for Proposals was issued last week by the Michigan Economic Development Corp. on the first phase of a $396 million capital infusion into the 21st Century Jobs Fund. The money will come as loans to start-ups and small businesses and as grants for universities and non profit research...

The 2006 Michigan Notable Books List The 2006 Michigan Notable Books list is the Library of Michigan’s annual selection of up to 20 recommended books reflecting Michigan's rich cultural heritage, featuring high-quality titles with wide public appeal that are either written by a Michigan resident or about a Michigan-related topic.

Black History in Michigan In honor of Black History Month we will continue to add links to informational sites and events throughout Michigan on this page. If you have any you'd like us to know about, please send us an email.

Special Olympics Michigan's 2006 State Winter Games Start Today The Traverse City Record-Eagle reports that the Michigan Special Olympics State Winter Games begin today in the Traverse City area (Feb 1-3). Over 900 athletes will participate in competitions in downhill skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, snowshoe races and both figure and speed skating at the Grand Traverse Resort in Acme, Howe Ice Arena in Traverse City and Schuss Village in Bellaire.

Mid-Michigan Women's Expo, Feb 3rd-5th; Lansing

Huge Grant to Expand Fuel Cell Development Efforts in Michigan FCW reports that the Mid-Michigan Innovation Alliance has received a $15 million federal grant to help expand fuel cell development in the auto industry. The grant was awarded under the Workforce Innovation for Regional Economic Development (WIRED) program and includes 13 counties stretching from Lansing to Flint to Saginaw. Flint's Kettering University already has a fuel cell research center...

Michigan Sulfide Mining Rules Finalized The Mining Journal reports that Michigan now has regulations in place to oversee deep-shaft sulfide mining, which hasn't yet been done in the state. Numerous companies are exploring underground deposits of nonferrous minerals in the Upper Peninsula, and Kennecott Minerals is preparing to seek a permit to develop a nickel and copper mine in western Marquette County.

Michigan's Rich African American Past For years, February has been recognized as Black History Month. In nearly 250 years of living in Michigan, African Americans have made many important-and often overlooked--contributions to our state's past. Article includes information on the Underground Railroad and notable figure such as Sojourner Truth, Ralph Bunche, Berry Gordy Jr., actor James Earl Jones, John Conyers Jr., Rosa Parks.

Michigan Stem Cell Debate mLive takes a detailed look at the debate surrounding stem cell research in Michigan and legislation introduced by state Rep. Andrew Meisner, D-Ferndale. Gov. Granholm's State of the State speech called for fewer restrictions on stem cell research to boost investment in life sciences and aid Michigan's economy, but several prominent Republicans are not supportive of the Meisner legislation...

Valentines Day in Michigan Our staff has pulled together some great links (chocolate, candy, bed & bath, soap, candles, jewelry, gifts) and articles (wine, recipes, getaways) for Valentine's Day to tell you more about the holiday and give you some great entertainment, getaway, package and gift ideas.

Buy Fresh, Buy Local - Select Michigan Day 2nd annual "Buy Fresh, Buy Local – Select Michigan Day." The resolution was passed in the Michigan House of Representatives to encourage Michigan consumers to choose local food in their communities. Michigan Food & Farming Systems – MIFFS and the Michigan Department of Agriculture are sponsors for the day and have worked together to sponsor and promote several local food initiatives in the past.

Michigan Rock Legend Bob Seger Returns! On September 12, 2006, Capitol will be releasing Bob Seger's highly anticipated first studio album in 11 years. "Face The Promise" is a return to Seger's classic form: urgent, honest, rousing, timeless - a new and compelling testament to rock and roll's undying redemptive power. Seger has sold nearly 50 million albums in his career.

Michigan Site of the Week: Tigers Central Our latest Site of the Week Tigers Central not only keeps you up to date with the race through news items and an active forum, it also allows you to browse through Detroit Tiger history all the way back to 1903 with player profiles and season highlights.

Absolute Michigan Fall Guide 2006 Autumn is a wonderful time to hit the road and explore Michigan. Whether you head out to an apple farm, take a color tour, hunt, fish, hike or just wander the backroads in search of the state’s many hidden treasures the next few months are ripe for the pickin’. Check out some of our favorite resources to help plan your fall excursion in Michigan…

Valentine's Day in Michigan Our staff has pulled together some great links and articles for Valentine's Day to tell you more about the holiday and give you some great entertainment and gift ideas.

Build Michigan! Build Michigan! is a guide to strategies being employed by folks around Michigan to revitalize the local and state economy.

Explore Our State with the Michigan Pages The Michigan Pages are Absolute Michigan's guide to the Great Lakes State with great articles, photography, links and engaging contests.

History of the State of Michigan Explore the rich heritage of the Great Lakes State with regular features from Michigan History Magazine and other media outlets.

Absolute Michigan FAQ Answers to common questions about Absolute Michigan can be found on our Frequently Asked Questions page.

Groundwater Report Presented to Michigan Legislature The report said the state needs to invest in groundwater research to increase scientific and public understanding, improve government management of the resource and, hopefully, prevent conflicts among competing water users of aquifers. It also recommended the following definition of sustainable groundwater usage.

Bush Budget Would Hit Hard in Michigan The Detroit News reports that President Bush's proposed 2007 budget would cut tens of millions of dollars from numerous programs in Michigan, including $25.5 million less in block grants for jobs, housing, food and heating for the poor. The budget calls for an additional $50 million to clean up toxic sites in Great Lakes and $120 million for ethanol research (some of which would reach Michigan).

Michigan Winter Free Fishing Weekend; Feb 18 & 19 Beat cabin fever and take a child out ice fishing Michigan Inland or Great Lakes. For these two days, residents and nonresidents alike can fish without purchasing a fishing license, though all other fishing regulations still apply.

Michigan Veterans Memorial Park to Add Purple Heart Memorial The Saginaw News reports that Michigan has an estimated 60,000 residents who have received the Purple Heart. A bill introduced in the state House would extend the boundaries of the Michigan Veterans Memorial Park to provide room for the Purple Heart monument. Passage appears certain and the measure will be paid for by the Michigan Chapter of the Military Order of the Purple Heart.

George Will Previews Michigan's 2006 Gubernatorial Election Columnist George Will takes a hard look at how Michigan's economic crisis will impact the campaign for governor and may foreshadow key issues of the 2008 Presidential campaign. If you read nothing else today, read this.

Michigan Olympians The Torino Winter Games kick off on Saturday. In addition to listing Michigan's medal hopefuls, like skater Tanith Belbin, bobsledder Jean Prahm (Waterford), doubles luge Mark Grimmette (Muskegon), Olympians profiled are U.S. women's hockey team member Angela Ruggiero of Harper Woods and Bay City short-track speedskater Alex Izykowski, Red Wing's Chris Chelios.

Michigan Takes Home Grammys Pulitzer Prize-winning composer and University of Michigan professor of composition William Bolcom won three Grammy Awards on Wednesday for "Songs of Innocence and of Experience". Featured on the album were the MSU Children's Choir and several choirs from the University of Michigan. Other winners were Aretha Franklin, CeCe Winans, White Stripes, Stevie Wonder

Great Lakes Pollution Increasing, Michigan to Increase Water Cleanups A new report finds that despite decades of effort cleaning up the Great Lakes, industrial discharges of dangerous water pollutants into the lakes soared 23% at US companies and 13% at Canadian ones from 1998 and 2002. The finding is unexpected because companies have spent billions of dollars trying to clean up the environment, and water quality in the lakes has improved dramatically.

Michigan: Green Energy Ground Zero? Michigan is planning to spend $2 billion in bond money in the next decade to ensure that it becomes the nation's alternative energy hub. Research into alternative energy and renewable fuels is expected to be a key component of the governor's 21st Century Jobs Fund program. Technologies being explored include hydrogen fuel cells, biodiesel, ethanol, solar and nuclear.

Michigan Olympic Update Michael ROSENBERG: Similarities abound between Torino and our Motown ... Home of Olympics is also home of Fiat (Freep) # Boyne City Olympian Cary Adgate ... interview with retired skier from Northern Michigan. (NBC Olympics) # How Michigan athletes fared at the Olympics ... for Saturday & Sunday (Macon News)

Michigan Salsa Company Running Hot The Detroit News has a feature on Ferndale's Garden Fresh Salsa and how the city helped the company thrive. The company's salsas are distributed in 35 states and Canada and have won awards and acclaim for their "Hot," "Medium," "Mild" and "Specialty Fresh" salsas at international competitions. The company also manufactures tortilla chips, guacamole dip and other products.

Case Could Weaken Michigan Dune Protection Law The Muskegon Chronicle reports that Dune Harbor Estates LLC (a subsidiary of Nugent Sand Co.), recently filed an appeal in Ingham County Circuit Court challenging the DEQ's refusal to issue a permit needed to build a 600-foot pipeline through a 4,000-year-old dune. The company wants to lower water levels in two man-made lakes at its Norton Shores mining site by piping up to 8 million gallons...

Five to Enter Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame

Working to Restore Michigan's Workforce Jack Lessenberry has an interview with Grand Rapids Mayor George Heartwell who is among those who are asking what displaced tool and die and other manufacturing workers do when their skills suddenly become obsolete. Heartwell says that from 2001-2005 median household incomes in the Grand Rapids area fell by over 9.1%, meaning that many losing high-paying jobs are forced to take lower paying jobs.

Bay City Times: Michigan's problems are the nation's problems Yesterday's Bay City Times has a very powerful and compelling editorial. The editorial argues that although state & local leaders seem to understand the situation Michigan is facing, the federal government needs to step in. They make the difficult (and likely unpopular) argument that although $65 billion has been allocated to rebuild the city of New Orleans in the aftermath of natural disaster...

Mid Michigan Forum Calls for Private Sector Mid-Michigan government, civic and business leaders debated who should lead the region's economic development efforts. Several groups including Prima Civitas, the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Regional Economic Development Team ... Lansing must develop partnerships between the public and private sectors such as those flourishing in Saginaw, Grand Rapids and the Upper Peninsula.

Michigan's $2 Billion Bet Michigan Radio's Jack Lessenberry asks Lou Glazer, president of Michigan Future and former director of the Michigan Department of Commerce, if betting $2 billion on alternative energy, the life sciences, advanced manufacturing and homeland security and defense is a good idea. Glazer suggest that what's most important is creating a culture that is welcoming and values learning & entrepreneurship.

Exploring the Car Factories of Southeast Michigan Mike Wendland of the Detroit Free Press has a great feature on the discussion forums on the Detroit Yes web site and how they've become a hub for those interested in the hundreds of places around Southeast Michigan where automobiles have been made over the past century. An excellent feature about one of Michigan's coolest web sites!

Michigan Casinos Spending Millions to Quash Rivals The South Bend Tribune reports that Michigan's gambling industry has spent tens of millions of dollars on lobbying and political campaigns that have stopped new casinos from opening and restricted other forms of competition. Michigan's 20 casinos (17 run by American Indian tribes and 3 Detroit casinos) brought in an estimated $2 billion last year.

Mortgage Fraud Jumps in Michigan The Detroit News reports that mortgage fraud losses in Michigan jumped from nearly $9 million to $26 million over a two-year period in what has become one of the fastest-growing white-collar crimes in the nation. Michigan has been identified as one of the top 10 hot spots for mortgage and deed fraud by the FBI. The article identifies several scams and has some great resources.

US Supreme Court Refuses to Hear Michigan Beach Walking Case The U.S. Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to consider whether people have a right to stroll along private property aligning Great Lakes beaches in Michigan. Justices left undisturbed a Michigan Supreme Court ruling last year that found beach walking is a right. The area between the water and the ordinary high water mark on shore is open to all under the common-law doctrine of natural resources.

Michigan in Pictures Posts First Michigan Photographer Profile Michigan in Pictures (our photo blog) starts a three-day profile of Matt Callow, a photographer living in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Matt takes some amazing pictures using pinhole cameras (some even made of paint cans), toy cameras and expired film.

The Civilian Conservation Corps in Michigan The Civilian Conservation Corps, better known as the CCC, recruited unemployed young men to work on federal- and state-owned lands for "the prevention of forest fires, floods and soil erosion." According to Roosevelt, the CCC would "conserve our precious natural resources" while placing "a vast army of the unemployed" into "healthful surroundings."

Michigan Books: Michigan's Economic Future Jack Lessenberry interviews MSU Economics professor Charles Ballard about his new book Michigan’s Economic Future. Ballard says that manufacturing is destined to be a smaller part of Michigan’s economy and says that the state needs to focus more on cutting edge industrial research...

Transportation Secretary Praises Michigan Auto Supplier The Freep reports on Transportation Secretary Norman Mineta's visit with Livonia's TRW Automotive Holdings Corp. TRW officials showed Mineta a car equipped with electronically powered steering, which can be dropped into existing vehicles and improve fuel economy. TRW also has a regenerative braking system that collects the energy used in braking and uses it to power the electric motor on a hybrid.

Green Building Hot Topic in Michigan The Northern Express has a feature reporting that "green building" where it's at in the world of new construction, remodeling and home shows. Green building means using renewable resources such as bamboo flooring, making your home more energy-efficient and avoiding products which damage the environment.

1,000,000,000th iTunes Song Downloaded by Michigan High Schooler Apple announced today that Alex Ostrovsky of West Bloomfield, Michigan downloaded the one billionth song (Coldplay's "Speed of Sound") from the iTunes Music Store. As the grand prize winner he will receive a 20-inch iMac, 10 fifth generation iPods and a $10,000 gift card good for any iTunes Music Store item. In addition, Apple will establish a scholarship to the Juilliard School of Music. WBLD

Michigan Business Development Loan Program Launched Crain's Detroit Business reports that Charter One Michigan announced Thursday a $200 million low-interest loan program designed to create 2,000 new jobs in Michigan during the next five years. The bank is working with the Michigan Economic Development Corp. on the program, which offers loans at a fixed interest rate of 4.99 percent — 2.51 points below the current prime of 7.5%. Loans will be made

Governor Plans to Dramatically Increase Michigan Travel Ad Budget The Escanaba Press has a column from George Weeks about Gov. Granholm's plan to use $7.5 million dollars from the 21st Century Jobs Fund to dramatically boost advertising dollars and promote summer tourism. Travel Michigan currently advertises only in Chicago, Cleveland and Indianapolis, but in April, ads will start in additional markets including southern Ontario, Cincinnati, and Milwaukee.

Time for Michiganians to Take Charge The Saginaw News says that with the Michigan economy languishing, it's no time to think small. They report that several organizations of business, community and educational leaders will weigh in over the next few months with their own ideas of what Michigan needs to do to pull itself out of its economic funk.

Michigan Foreclosure Rate Soars The Detroit News reports that the number of homes under foreclosure in Michigan doubled from 2004 to 2006 to a rate that is 2 1/2 times the national average. According to foreclosure.com, Michigan had 8,240 homes in active foreclosure on Monday, 8.6% of that nationwide total of 96,019. Our population is only 3.4% of the national average.

Michigan Filmmaker Scores with MySpace Movie "MySpace: The Movie", an online spoof of the MySpace web site by Washington, Michigan native David Lehre. With over 3.5 million views, Lehre's movie is the all-time top viewed movie on the YouTube service. Lehre was offered a development deal days ago with MTVU, MTV's on-air, online and on-campus network. The deal would have Lehre producing content and appearing as on-air talent for MTVU & Uber.

Michigan Votes ... From Beyond the Grave The Sunday Detroit News reported that their review of voter and registration files, criminal and death records shows that Detroit's election records are so plagued with mistakes and inconsistencies -- including voter registry rolls packed with as many as 20,000 dead people and roughly 100,000 wrong addresses -- that the overall integrity of Detroit elections is in question.

Without GM, Southeast Michigan Companies Post Profit Brent Snavely of Crain's Detroit Business reports that as long as you exclude the monstrous losses of General Motors, Southeast Michigan's publicly traded companies collectively made a profit during the fourth quarter of 2005. Total fourth-quarter net income for 46 publicly traded companies based in Southeast Michigan was $3.67 billion, up from $1.12 billion for the same period in 2004.

Volunteers Needed in Southeast Michigan State Parks and Recreation Areas

MSU Study Finds Michigan Schools Remain Racially Segregated The number of Michigan schools considered racially segregated increased to 431. The results were very similar to a Harvard University Civil Rights Project report in 1993 that named Michigan schools the most segregated in the nation. Nearly 75% of black students who attend charter schools in Michigan attend schools that the study classified as segregated.

Marquette & Harbor Springs Boys, Traverse City & Pontiac Notre Dame Prep Girls are Michigan Ski Champions Marquette Redman won Class A Boys skiing followed by Traverse City West. Traverse City West won Girls Class A, Clarkston was second (85) and the Redettes third (147). In Class BCD Girls, Pontiac Notre Dame Prep narrowly edged Iron Mountain with Harbor Springs finishing 3rd. The BCD boys title was taken by Harbor Springs, followed by Benzie Central & Petoskey.

West Michigan Conservancy Takes Control of Lakeshore Jewel The Grand Rapids Press has a feature by John Tunison on the new William Erby Smith Preserve (also known as Wau-Ke-Na, a title Smith created that means "forest by the water"). The Land Conservancy of West Michigan recently took control of the preserve, which they call an environmental jewel along the lakeshore. The land is divided into two tracts of 128 acres and 237 acres separated by a mile.

Biofuel Buzz Building in Michigan Ethanol, biofuel, e85 and more - Michigan efforts to create the fuels of tomorrow are building!

Bill Would Address Michigan's Nursing Shortage Michigan Radio's Jack Lessenberry has an excellent interview with Barbara Redman, a nurse and the dean of nursing at Wayne State University regarding a bill that would allow nurses who are licensed in other states to practice in Michigan with out getting a separate license. The bill is designed to address a nursing shortage in Michigan, and Dean Redman comments that the practice is widespread...

Michigan Near Top in New Project Rankings MITECHNEWS.COM reports that while Michigan ranks near the bottom of all states in unemployment rates, it remains near the top of Site Selection magazine's Governor's Cup rankings, behind only Texas, Ohio and Illinois. The rankings track new facilities and expansions worth at least $1 million with 50 or more new jobs. 505 such projects were counted in Michigan last year...

Group Seeks Michigan Earned Income Credit The Lansing State Journal reports that the Michigan League for Human Services, a Lansing-based advocacy group, is asking Michigan to follow the lead of many other states and put a state earned income tax credit in place that would significantly decrease the taxes the working poor are asked to pay. Michigan is one of just five states that tax families of four with annual incomes below $14,000.

Despite Cuts, Spending for Michigan House & Senate Rise The Lansing State Journal reports that despite several years of cuts in state services and the fact that 21 states have larger legislatures, the Michigan Legislature's spending has continued to rise since 2000, making it the sixth-costliest in the nation. State records show the Legislature's budget has gone up 14 percent since 2000 During the same time, the overall state budget rose 11%.

Poll Finds Michigan not Well-Ranked as New Economy State MITECHNEWS.COM reports that a survey of executives in Michigan, Ohio, Illinois, Massachusetts and California tagged California as the state most conducive to new economy technology businesses, despite a perceived below average tax climate. Michigan placed fourth just ahead of Ohio. Interestingly, Michgan's low finish was primarily due to its less educated workforce.

Microsoft & Michigan Collaborate in Course in Global Economy Michigan Department of Education and Michigan Virtual University are collaborating to develop the online course, "Career Development in a Global Economy," a free, online course to help Michigan students understand how the new global economy will impact their career opportunities. It's designed to help students learn how the global economy is changing the nature of work in the United States...

NW Michigan Regional Art Exhibition, thru Apr 16th; Traverse City The Dennos Museum Center invited artists from Northwest Michigan including the Upper Peninsula to submit work for consideration by exhibition juror Dennis Nawrocki for the exhibition. 346 works were submitted by 184 artists of which 95 were selected for exhibition.

Absolute Michigan Link #5000

Absolute Michigan Celebrates Michigan Week Michigan Week is an annual tribute to the best of the Great Lakes State, that was started in 1954 as a way to promote state pride among citizens and to celebrate the rich heritage and unique features that make Michigan special. Check here for all kinds of information about Michigan Week!

Michigan Week

Saying Yes to Michigan Music in a Big Way Monday features The Recital from Detroit, Those Transatlantics and Michigan-based label Suburban Sprawl, Rock-and-rollers Mike Vasas and the Beasts Of Burden, rock music with a bit of a country and pop edge from Flatfoot East Lansing's ethereal Of The Sea. On Tuesday, Sufjan Stevens and his Greetings From Michigan get a nod (and a gentle complaint) as do LaSalle and their Expedition Songs release.

Michigan Officials Not Sold on National Food Safety Laws mLive's Sarah Kellogg reports that Congress is expected to approve legislation this week to establish a national system for labeling food products, ending a 50-state patchwork of laws. But opponents of the bill, including Michigan's top state agriculture and legal officials, believe the legislation would undermine state and local food safety laws and make it harder to protect public health.

Can Michigan Get a Handle on Healthcare? The Oakland Press suggests that Michigan would become a mecca for businesses and people looking for a good place to live by the simple act of figuring out how to deliver health care to a lot more people for a lot less money. While it seems like an unattainable dream, they report that the Michigan State Medical Society, representing medical doctors, is ready for radical change...

Michigan Unemployment Drops ... Because People Leave The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth reports that Michigan's unemployment rate fell to 6.2% in January, the lowest level since September 2002. There were 318,000 unemployed workers in January, 24,000 less than the previous month. However, the drop in the unemployment rate didn't come from major jobs gains, but rather the declining number of people counted as unemployed...

Lansing Latest Michigan City to Go Wireless The City Pulse reports that the city of Lansing will provide free wireless Internet by the end of 2007 to all Lansing residents. "Wireless Lansing" will be available to any city resident at basic speeds of 4x dialup with paid broadband access available.

March is Maple Syrup Time in Michigan March is Maple Sugaring time in Michigan. Here's an all-you-can-eat stack of links to Michigan maple syrup and maple sugaring information. Sap, sugaring, syrup, history, family maple syrup making and current events - it's all here!

Michigan Minimum Wage Going Up MITECHNEWS.COM reports that Michigan's minimum wage workers would see their pay jump from the current $5.15 an hour to $6.95 an hour beginning in October under legislation the Senate unanimously and surprisingly approved on Thursday. The House is expected to pass the bill next week, which would mark the first increase in Michigan's minimum wage in nine years. Under SB 318, passed 35-0...

Eat Local: Michigan Cherries Cherry harvest is underway and we present to you, Eat Local: Michigan Cherries. Cherries are definitely great to eat and present Michiganders another great opportunity to buy local. It is noteworthy that although Michigan grows several varieties of cherries, no area of the world produces more red tart cherries and ranks fourth in the nation in production of sweet cherries.

Photo Friday: Walloon Lake View Michigan by artbabee Rebeka is a graduate art historian currently working with the Denver Art Museum. Most of her photos are from Someplace Other Than Michigan but she has a great set from Charlevoix, Cross Village, and Walloon Lake, Michigan.

Michigan Budget Could See Major Hit from Smaller Tobacco Payments MITECHNEWS.COM reports that Michigan could lose $49.3 million of its anticipated $274 million in the Tobacco settlement. Companies involved say they have lost market share and argue that they should be able to drop payments by 18%, a decision that could weigh heavily as the state prepares its 2007 budget, and could impact the plans for the state to invest $2 billion to develop high-tech business.

Bush Says He Understands Michigan's Trade Concerns, Michigan's Leaders Wonder Saturday's Detroit News reported that at last Friday's National Newspaper Assoc. Conference, President Bush stated that he fully understands the concerns of Michiganders about the trade arena. The article has the reaction of Michigan politicians including Rep. Joe Knollenberg, a Republican from Oakland County's Bloomfield Township, said in a statement that he was concerned Michigan's economy...

Interview with Center for Michigan's Phil Power Michigan Radio's Jack Lessenberry has an interview with Phil Power that we encourage you to check out. Power discusses his "think-and-do tank" called the Center for Michigan and suggests our key problem is the fact that Michigan politics seems more focused on securing political, partisan advantage than in getting the state out of the jam we're in. They meet today, so we should have more tomorrow!

"Land Use Planning in Michigan", March 15; Mt. Pleasant

Forum Seeks Path to Better Future for Michigan The Detroit Free Press has a report on yesterday's "Where Do We Go From Here?" conference. Recommendations included developing a blue-ribbon advisory commission to tackle specific economic problems, a comprehensive review of tax and spending policies, a major effort in civic education so the state's citizens can weigh the advantages and disadvantages of public policy and evaluate options...

Inagural Inductees for Michigan Walk of Fame Announced The 2006 inductees are Jeff Daniels, Herbert Henry Dow, Thomas Edison, President Gerald Ford, Henry Ford, E. Genevieve Gillette, Ernie Harwell, W.K. Kellogg, Rosa Parks, Fannie Richards, Helen Thomas and Stevie Wonder. These Michiganians were selected from 450 nominees submitted by residents of all 83 Michigan counties throughout fall 2005 and will be inducted into the Michigan Walk of Fame...

Spotlight on Michigan Inventors American Inventor sparks a Detroit News profile of four Michigan inventors featured in the new book "Makers" by Bob Parks of MAKE Magazine: Rocket Roadster by Kerry McLean of Walled Lake, Don's Solar Scooter by Don Dunklee of Davidson, the aiBAR by Nate Strech, Torrey Baumstark and Joel Wollborg of Ann Arbor and PVC & Naugahyde bagpipes by Dennis Havlena of Cheboygan.

Detroit Radio Vet Named Michigan Public Media Director The Detroit News reports that veteran Detroit radio executive Steve Schram has been named interim director of Michigan Public Media at the University of Michigan. Schram has held the two top radio jobs in Detroit. rom 1996-2002, he was vice president and general manager for Clear Channel's seven Detroit-area radio stations...

Bill Could Have Grave Implications for Michigan's State Forests The Public Interest Research Group in Michigan, a lobbying group, has an interesting article urging (at least) a look at House Bill 5453, a bill passed by the State House and headed for the Senate. The bill would require the state to put the trees in our state forests up for sale every ten years unless it would be illegal or unsustainable to do so.

Study Concludes Michigan Can Support Biodiesel Plant The Michigan Department of Agriculture announced the results of a study assessing the state's ability to house a biodiesel plant. The MDA-sponsored report concludes that with an investment of $7-12 million, a stand-alone, five to ten million-gallon biodiesel plant could be built in one of several locations, including Bangor, Zeeland, Gratiot County and several other sites...

Live Podcasts of Michigan Sports Championships (and NCAA Video, Because it's Friday) The Michigan High School Athletic Association has launched the MHSAA Internet Broadcast Network. The network features LIVE podcasts of state tournament volleyball and basketball games, archived broadcasts of state hockey and even a couple historic broadcasts like the 1959 Lansing Sexton vs. Hamtramck Class A Boys Basketball Final.

This Week in Michigan
Falling: Tiger Stadium & Trees, Rising: Inventors & Detroit Down notes for the week included news that the Michigan budget could see a major hit from decreased tobacco payments (though we can take comfort that less people smoking will probably reduce our health care bill), word that this might be the end for Tiger Stadium, and announcement that a bill before the Senate could adversely impact Michigan's forests.

Big List of Michigan Political Blogs The Mercury News has a feature on Michigan's political blogs that's worth a read as we head into the political season. This detailed article profiles long-time blogger Matt Ferguson's Michigan Liberal and newcomer Bill Nowling of the week-old Lunchbucket Conservative. Also features a list of Michigan liberal, conservative and other weblogs.

Company: Michigan Needs More Demand for Biofuel Michigan consumes about 3 million gallons of biodiesel fuel brought in from other states and despite a study by the state of Michigan concluding the state can support a biofuel plant, consumption would have to reach 8-10 million gallons to make investment worthwhile.

Michigan Sets Five Year IT Plan for State Government Michigan Newswire reports that the Michigan Department of Information Technology (MDIT) has released the 2006 Michigan IT Strategic Plan, detailing how Michigan will use technology to improve the quality of life for citizens and to attract business and good paying jobs.

Michigan/Taiwan Teacher Exchange Program Up to 15 Michigan teachers will get the opportunity to teach in Taiwan next year with the signing today in Lansing of an agreement between State Superintendent of Public Instruction Mike Flanagan and the Ministry of Education in Taiwan. It is hoped that an exchange of Taiwanese teachers to Michigan schools in the future will help build global awareness, and second language and culture skills for M

Michigan Employers Paying Workers to Leave Brian Dickerson of the Detroit Free Press writes, if you've got some experience and you're willing to work hard for a living, Michigan employers want you ... to leave. All across the Great Lakes State, companies that once lured workers from all over the world are paying them big bucks to go away.

The Tango Hits Traverse City - Dance Michigan, Dance

MiPC Program Offers Michigan Residents Computer Deals Michigan residents could get low-price deals on computers, software, Internet service, e-mail and warranties this spring through the launch of the state MiPC program. Gov. Jennifer Granholm's administration is starting the program - pronounced "My P-C" - as a way to make it easier for all Michigan households to have a desktop or laptop computer. The goal is to make sure most residents become compu

The Lake Michigan Doughnut A doughnut-shaped area of newly discovered plant life that covers much of Lake Michigan's southern basin may hold the key to the survival of many species in the lake. The area lies 6-10 miles offshore and stretches about 60 miles from north to south (roughly from Muskegon to Gary, Ind.) and 48 miles from east to west, with a large hole in the center. It is composed of chlorophyll...

Northern Michigan Casino Profiles The Northern Express has a feature profiling northern lower Michigan's Leelanau Sands, Turtle Creek and Soaring Eagle casinos (facilities, amenities, entertainment & dining). The article also Victories Casino and reveals plans for construction of the new Victories Casino and Resort in Petoskey.

Michigan Must Read: Anger & Fear Shaping Michigan's 2006 Campaign The Christian Science Monitor has an engaging look at how anger and fear about Michigan's current situation and future are affecting the 2006 election (and how it may foreshadow the 2008 Presidential election. Well written, hard hitting, a must read.

Round and Round Michigan Mark Houston of 360Michigan has started a new "Detroit Random Panoramas" feature. He says he has no plans but will just grab his camera and shoot (he does say he's open to requests so we'll ask for some Tiger Stadium shots). He also has new panoramas of Fallasburg Bridge (a 100 year old covered bridge spanning the Flat River near Lowell) and the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory on Belle Isle...

School Survey: Michigan school districts still face major cuts Schools are still cutting programs, staff and services despite an increase in their foundation allowance for the 2005-06 school year and a proposed increase for 2006-07, reveals a March 2006 survey conducted by EPICoMRA on behalf of Michigan School Business Officials (MSBO).

Even with Additional Monies, Michigan Schools Struggling The Lansing State Journal reports that despite increased funding this year, a Michigan School Business Officials survey finds that Michigan schools continue to cut staffing and programs, and many are dipping into rainy-day funds to avoid financial disaster. The full release we posted has some great comments from school officials that really add perspective...

Bad Time for a Michigan Tax Cut Phil Power of the The Center for Michigan has a great editorial in today's Detroit News where he says that Michigan's political leaders on both sides of the aisle are more interested in "tactical partisan pirouetting and harsh rhetoric" than addressing the problems. He suggests that cutting taxes right now would be a very bad idea...

A Look at 2005 Michigan Political Fund Raising George Weeks writes that state officeholders raised over $10 million in calendar year 2005. Gov. Granholm accounted for $5 million of that total. Also Republican nominee-in-waiting Dick DeVos, Senators Alan Sanborn from Macomb County, Bruce Patterson of Canton Township, Jason Allen of Traverse City, Sen. Tony Stamas of Midland (all Republicans).

Federal & State Budget Cuts Hurting Michigan Municipalities The Michigan Land Use Institute has a typically excellent feature by Charlene Crowell exploring how cuts in state revenue sharing and federal block grants are wreaking havok on services for Michigan cities and small towns. The article includes an interview with Michigan Municipal League executive director Dan P. Gilmartin.

Michigan Senate Votes to Block Local Regulation of GMOs mLive reports that the Michigan Senate passed legislation Thursday that would block local governments from adopting ordinances that regulate or ban the planting of genetically modified organisms, or GMOs. Critics say the U.S. Food and Drug Administration lets the agricultural industry test the safety of GMOs, but the Michigan Farm Bureau and other backers say federal regulations are adequate.

Delphi May Close 4 of 5 Michigan Plants The Detroit News reports that United Auto Workers Vice President Richard Shoemaker says bankrupt Delphi Corp. appears likely to close or sell all but four of 18 factories that employ UAW workers. In Michigan, the Grand Rapids plant appears likely to survive, but other Michigan plants in Saginaw, Coopersville, Adrian and Flint (employing about 5,600 workers) will likely close.

The Past & Future of Michigan Tourism The Traverse City Record-Eagle has a pair of articles recapping this week's Michigan Lodging & Tourism Conference presented by the state and the Michigan Hotel, Motel & Resort Association. The tate plans to increase tourism spending by $3 million this year (to nearly $9 million) and add $6 million to the 2007 and 2008 tourism budgets...

April is Michigan Wine Month April has been officially designated as "Michigan Wine Month" in order to promote the increasingly high quality and competitive wines produced here as well as to acknowledge the level of tourism that Michigan's wineries generate. Wine production and winery tourism annually contribute $75 million to the state's economy. Michigan currently is home to 45 wineries with more popping up each year...

Michigan in Line for Arabic Language Pilot The Detroit Free Press reports that Michigan is in line for an annual grant of about $700,000 for up to 16 years to pay teacher salaries and other costs of teaching Arabic to students in grades K-12 and college as part of a multimillion-dollar, multiyear push called the National Strategic Language Initiative. Other languages targeted will be Mandarin Chinese, Farsi and Hindi.

New Biography of Michigan Governor William Milliken The City Pulse has a great review (with an excerpt) of the new book "William G. Milliken: Michigan's Passionate Moderate. This biography by Dave Dempsey profiles Michigan longest serving governor and looks at how he reached across traditional political partisan divides to accomplish an amazing amount of things. Milliken was born in Traverse City in 1922...

Michigan in Pictures: Michigan Photographer Profile II Next week Michigan in Pictures will be profiling Marjorie O'Brien for our second Michigan Photographer Profile. Marjorie is an Ann Arbor high school senior who takes stunning photos (including tons of Michigan theater pictures). If you have any questions for her or want to tune in, head over to today's photo of Jackson's Michigan Theater on Michigan in Pictures.

Granholm Wants to Market Michigan Tourism Now On Tuesday in Traverse City, Gov. Jennifer Granholm urged kick-starting the tourism industry by front-loading the additional money being allocated to tourism promotion over two years. Legislative leaders want to spread it over five years, but Granholm maintains that "The more money you have, the more markets you can go into. I don't know a single person in the tourism industry...

Michigan Energy Plan to Include More Renewables The Michigan Public Service Commission will draft a comprehensive energy plan that includes developing renewable portfolio standards. The plan would require Michigan to generate a targeted amount the energy it uses from renewable sources and the Michigan electricity portfolio includes 56.7% coal, 26.4% nuclear, 13.4% natural gas, and 2% from renewable sources.

Michigan Sports Hall Announces 2006 Inductees Diane Laffey girls basketball and softballDetroit Catholic Central and Tigers pitcher Frank Tanana, longtime Red Wings exec Jim Devellano, WXYT's Dave Diles, Running back Everett (Sonny) Grandelius of Muskegon Heights, MSU & the Giants, Forward Greg Kelser of Detroit Henry Ford, MSU, Pistons and FSD, G/F and 3pt specialist Dan Majerle of Traverse City, CMU and Phoenix, and Bad Boys Jack McCloskey

Gardening Season Kicks Off in Michigan The Detroit News reports that Michigan's nurseries and greenhouses (who typically make anywhere from 75% to 90% of their sales from Easter to the first week of June) are gearing up for the start of gardening season. Michigan nursery and perennial plant producers generate about $291 million in annual sales. The Michigan Nursery and Landscaping Association's Amy Frankmann suggests...

Strong 2005 4th Quarter for Michigan Tourism Michigan Tourism Index compiled by Detroit-based Comerica Bank increased 4% between the third and fourth quarter of 2005. The fourth quarter index, at 123.8, is up 2.5% from a year earlier, and rebounded nicely in the fourth quarter. Comerica Bank chief economist Dana Johnson said that although the Super Bowl gave Michigan tourism a first quarter boost, gasoline prices and the soft economy will...

Michigan Photographer Profile: Marjorie O'Brien Today, tomorrow and Wednesday Michigan In Pictures will talking with (and looking at the work of) Marjorie O'Brien, a high school senior from Ann Arbor. Marjorie takes amazing photos, including an extensive collection of photos of Michigan theaters.

Buy Michigan First Campaign Hits the Road WJRT TV reports that state officials are hitting the road to pitch state government as a source of business for Michigan companies. They will hold workshops around Michigan to raise awareness that the state wants to buy more products from Michigan companies. About 85% of what the state buys is sold by Michigan businesses and the state is hoping to increase that number to 90%.

Craft Brewing Growing in Michigan Craft beer is an all-malt, or nearly all-malt, beer made by any one of America's small, regional, micro- or pub-breweries. It usually has a fuller, more complex flavor than the typical light, American-style beer. As to the reasons behind the growth in popularity of microbrews, Mason suggested "People like the richer taste of craft beers. They have more personality to them...

Romney Speaks about Immigration, Michigan Governorship Massachusetts Gov. and Presidential hopeful Mitt Romney (in Holland Monday) said it should be harder for illegal immigrants to get into the United States but added that those who are here should not be rounded up and deported. Romney was asked by US Rep. Pete Hoekstra to speak in support of Republican gubernatorial candidate Dick DeVos...

Project Could Give Michigan the Lead in Bio-Economy The Lansing State Journal reports that MSU prof Kris Berglund's research has helped make small-scale distilling a viable industry in Michigan, laid the foundation for the state's only gourmet mushroom production facility and could now be the key to a new biotechnology park in Wayne County that would produce ethanol and a "green" version of a molecule called succinic acid...

Celebrating Michigan Wine

Michigan Explores Fuel Cell Technology The Detroit Free Press looks at fuel cell technology, the Holy Grail for alternative energy research, in the latest in their "Alternative Power" series (should have linked it yesterday but there was just too much "new energy economy news"!!). Fuel cells, similar to batteries, use stored fuels and an oxidant to produce power.

Top Dollar in Michigan The Detroit News reports that although Michigan's economy is heading south, membership in the Michigan state government's six-figure salary club has soared 85% to 700 employees since the economic slide started eroding Michigan's budget in 2000. Both Michigan lawmakers and the governor rank #2 in the nation in pay.

Solar Explosion: Solar Energy in Michigan "Many people think that solar won't work in Michigan because it's too cold and it doesn't get as much sun as other places, but that's misconstrued. Michigan has an average of 4.2 hours of peak sunlight per day each year. Florida, the 'Sunshine State' only has about five hours."

Five Things you need to know about Michigan for Monday, May 14, 2007 Featuring former Tiger teammates Tom Brookens and Lance Parrish of Midland's Great Lakes Loons and the West Michigan Whitecaps of Grand Rapids, the Mackinac Bridge, diving the Huron Ridge.

Changes on Absolute Michigan

Michigan's Farmers Get Creative This weekend's Free Press had a pair of great features looking at several entrepreneurs in Michigan's agriculture industry who are finding ways to boost their operations' bottom lines without trying to squeeze more crops from their plots.

Michigan in Pictures: Remembering the Flint Sit-Down Strike on a Labor Day Movies and photos commemorating the Flint Sit-Down Strike of 1936-1937. Features audio accounts from workers, historical photos and links to other resources for this definitive United Auto Workers (UAW) action.

Election 2006: Michigan Gubernatorial Web Site Fight The Detroit Free Press has a feature on the campaign web sites of Governor Granholm and challenger Dick DeVos that you may want to check out. Visit GranholmforGov.com and DeVosforGovernor.com and check out site rankings.

Michigan Women Win, Lose Representation The Associated Press reports that when Gretchen Whitmer became the 12th female in the 38-member chamber, it marked the highest number of women in the Michigan Senate's history. However, her departure from the 110-seat House dropped the number of women there to 18, the lowest since 1985-86 and far below the 31 who served from 1997-2000. All but one of the Senate's 12 women came from the House.

Michigan City Sell Off The Detroit News reports that several communities in Metro Detroit are considering selling golf courses, parking lots and other property in hopes of generating immediate cash and future tax benefits. Some see selling assets as a necessary one-time fix; others say it only delays the inevitable reshaping of services and resources that residents expect from their communities...

Michigan Mushroom Festivals The elusive morel mushrooms attract shroomers of all ages who enjoy the camaraderie and thrill of the hunt through the woods in search of the delicacy. Michigan boasts two major events with plenty of fun for the whole family. Just don't expect everyone to share their secret morel locations. The tiny town of Mesick, about 20 miles south of Traverse City, will swell with morel fans May 12-14 for th

E85 Ethanol Gets a Boost in Michigan The Detroit Free Press reports that Michigan-based Meijer Inc. and General Motors will announce today, with Gov. Jennifer Granholm, plans to make the ethanol-gasoline blend E85 available at about 20 Meijer filling stations in Michigan. Currently, just five gas stations in Michigan sell E85, a blend of 85% ethanol and 15% gasoline. Advocates of E85 tout the fuel as a made-in-America alternative...

Bringing Broadband to Michigan MITECHNEWS.COM reports that a group of government agencies will be bringing municipal leaders, citizens, Internet Service Providers and other IT professionals will host forums throughout Michigan in June 2006 to explore ways to bring broadband Internet service to everyone in Michigan....

Michigan Notable Author Day & Night for Notables, May 6; Lansing The Michigan Notable Books program annually selects 20 of the most notable books published in the year. The selections are reflective of Michigan's diverse ethnic, historical, literary, and cultural experience.

Earth Day Around Michigan Earth Day ranges from yesterday to Saturday around the state. Here's a few articles to chew on before you head outside

Solar Power in Michigan The Detroit Free Press continues its excellent series on alternative energy with a look at solar power. They say that while not as exotic (or heavily hyped) as technologies like hydrogen fuel cells, solar power is perhaps the most understood and accessible alternative energy discussed today. Critics of solar power say that without subsidies, solar is too expensive to be cost-competitive...

Kicking the British Out of Michigan On September 3, 1783, the Americans and British signed a treaty ending the American Revolution. In the treaty giving the Americans their independence, the British agreed to leave American territory "with all convenient speed." In the case of Michigan, it took them 13 years!

Youth Fishing Clinic Offered at Michigan Fisheries Visitor Center in Oden, May 6 A youth fishing clinic will be offered at the Department of Natural Resources’ Michigan Fisheries Visitor Center in Oden on Saturday, May 6. The clinic is being offered by the Miller VanWinkle Chamber of Trout Unlimited.

Michigan's New Curriculum a (rare) Bipartisan Success Story The Detroit News writes: During an extraordinary bipartisan love-in Thursday, Gov. Jennifer Granholm signed legislation giving Michigan one of the toughest sets of high school graduation requirements in the nation...

Chef Touts Michigan Cuisine The City Pulse has an excellent feature on Okemos chef and TV host Eric Villegas and the Michigan cuisine he is creating and promoting. Villegas, who also hosts the PBS show "Fork in the Road" says: "We have everything in Michigan — shrimp, ostriches, cranberries. This is the most diverse state in the nation. When you go to New York or Chicago, they're using Michigan products...

Explore the Michigan Walk of Fame Absolute Michigan and the Michigan Walk of Fame would like to encourage anyone with an interest in one or more of the inductees to visit the popular Wikipedia online encyclopedia to read about the inductees and possibly add to their entries with unique facts and historical accounts of their lives.

Global Warming's Impact on Michigan The Muskegon Chronicle has the best feature we've read thusfar exploring the many ways global warming is changing (and will change) Michigan's environment. They explore impacts including less ice cover on lakes, lower lake levels, stronger storms, more acute pollution and wilder temperature swings.

Grand Rapids Renaissance Zones a Michigan Success Story The Grand Rapids Press had a detailed feature this weekend looking at how the city's decision in 1996 to create Renaissance Zones and forgoe millions in taxes helped to create millions in investments, redevelopment of some of the city's most depressed properties and a dramatic revitalization in some neighborhoods. Between 1996 and 2005, taxable value...

Michigan's Online Educational Experience Ars Technica takes a look the requirement that all students take a least one "online learning course" or participate in an "online learning experience" that is part of Michigan's new graduation requirements. Michael Flanagan, State Superintendent of Public Instruction and member of the Michigan Virtual University (MVU) Board of Directors is quoted as saying...

Agreement Gives Extra $15 Million to Promote Michigan Tourism The TC Record-Eagle reports that under an agreement between Gov. Granholm and legislative Republicans, Travel Michigan, the state's travel promotion agency, will receive and additional $7.5 million in 2006 and in 2007. The money will be used to promote Michigan as a tourist destination to out-of-state travelers and the $15 million will bring Michigan closer to the tourist promotion budgets...

Using Wikipedia to Explore the Michigan Walk of Fame Absolute Michigan and the Michigan Walk of Fame would like to encourage anyone with an interest in one or more of the inductees to visit the popular Wikipedia online encyclopedia to read about the inductees and possibly add to their entries with unique facts and historical accounts of their lives. It is our hope that Michigan's pride in these twelve individuals will show through and make their...

Michigan Recycling Numbers Abysmal The AP (via the TC Record-Eagle) reports that the Michigan Recycling Partnership says that 20% of Michigan's trash is recycled, compared with 27% nationwide. Minnesota recycles 45% of household waste and Indiana 35%. Michigan's budgetary woes Tare apparently having an impact as just 27% of Michigan residents have curbside recycling, compared with 37% five years ago, according to the study...

Made In Michigan Festival, May 20 & 21; Lansing In conjunction with Michigan Week 2006 , the Made In Michigan Festival is a prime opportunity for Michigan consumers to meet face-to-face with companies making products here in the state.

Michigan's Resurgence Noted USA Today has the first article we've seen in the national media in some time that takes a positive look at Michigan's economy. The article focuses on three regions: the West Michigan cities of Muskegon, Holland, Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo; Washtenaw County as a center of research and development and biotech activity; and northwest lower Michigan and Traverse City where tourists, retirees and...

Agriculture Has $60 Billion Impact on Michigan Jack Lessenberry notes that while Michigan's manufacturing sector is struggling, the state's second-leading sector, agriculture, is doing very well. A recent Michigan State University study found that agriculture has a $60 billion impact on the state's economy, and provided a million jobs. Click below for a very interesting interview with Michigan Director of Agriculture Mitch Irwin.

Made in Michigan Festival, May 20 & 21, 2006 BuyMichiganProducts.com, the MSU Product Center and the Old Town Lansing Association have teamed up to create the Made In Michigan Festival. The event kicks-off the statewide Michigan Week (May 20-26) and is scheduled for May 20 & 21 in Lansing's Old Town district. The goal is to educate Michigan residents about the wealth of Michigan-made products and services and to provide a venue for...

Arbor Day in Michigan According to the Michigan Arbor Day Alliance: The first Arbor Day was celebrated in Nebraska on April 10, 1872. In 1885, the Michigan Legislature resolved "that the Governor is hereby requested to call the attention of the people of the state to the importance of planting trees for ornament and by naming a day upon which the work shall be given special attention to be known as Arbor Day.

Michigan Public Libraries Day at Comerica Park, May 21 & Baseball Readers Enjoy Doubleheader The Library of Michigan today announced that Sunday, May 21, has been designated as the second annual Michigan Public Libraries Day at Comerica Park. The Ernie and Tram Go to Bat for Michigan Public Libraries program encourages public library supporters to attend the May 21st game and see the Detroit Tigers play the Cincinnati Reds.

US Manufacturing Czar Under Fire from Michigan Delegation The Detroit News takes a look at Albert Frink, the U.S. Commerce Department assistant secretary for manufacturing and services. "That job came in like a lion and has lingered around like a mouse in the landscape of Washington," said U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Brighton. "I'm not even sure if anybody is reading the papers (Frink) is shuffling. The position is ill-conceived....

On the Trail of the Michigan Morel The LSJ has a great feature on the hunt for the morel mushroom that includes tips about how to tell true from false morel, where to hunt and links to a number of more web sites. Includes video from about hunting morels from Tom Nauman of MorelMania and Zachary Trost of OutdoorMichigan.com.

Michigan Ranks Well in High-Tech Michigan's technology employment ranked as the 10th largest in the United States in 2004, adding some $13 billion in payroll to the state's economy, according to a report just released by Cyberstate. 9300 Michigan high-tech firms employed 49 of every 1,000 private sector workers in 2004, and they earned an average wage of $70,800.

Michigan Walk of Fame

Intentional Community in Northern Michigan The Detroit Free Press has an interesting feature on Telford Farm, one of just a few intentional communities in Michigan. Residents of the 90-acre community own their own homes, but hold the remaining 80 acres, some old farm buildings and a seven-acre vineyard collectively as an LLC...

Michigan Foreclosures Climb Sharply in March MITECHNEWS.COM reports that Michigan is one of the five states with the highest foreclosure rates. Michigan's rate grew by 1/3 in March and the state has nearly 9000 homes currently in foreclosure and almost 15,000 more in bankruptcy proceedings...

Gauging Impact of Day Without Immigrants in Michigan The Detroit Free Press reports that along Vernor Highway, the main commercial strip for Latino-owned businesses in southwest Detroit, most of the businesses were closed. Two rallies in Detroit drew over 1,000 demonstrators, speakers emphasized the importance of unity across racial and class lines, urging the mostly Latino crowds to link with African Americans, labor groups, and Arab Americans...

New Company Looks to Fix Michigan Manufacturers The Detroit Free Press takes a look at serial entrepreneur John Psarouthakis, who has formed JP-Management Consulting, a company designed to help fix and grow midsize Michigan and other Midwest manufacturing companies before they shut down or wind up in Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Making Sense of Michigan Gas Prices Michigan Radio's Jack Lessenbery spoke with Michigan Tech professor of Geography and Environmental Policy Barry Solomon about gas prices: what makes up the cost, who gets the money, why prices vary so much in Michigan and where they're going.

Driving Michigan: Seth Bernard interviews Ray Minervini Driving Michigan is Absolute Michigan's new show that explores the state of Michigan and the people who are moving us towards the future. It's hosted by Seth Bernard, a musician with a passion for Michigan. Our first episode was shot at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons in Traverse City with GTC developer Ray Minervini.

Group Seeks Fourfold Increase in Michigan Tourism Promotion The Michigan Hotel, Motel & Resort Association, the Michigan Chamber of Commerce and the state's three largest destination-marketing organizations have formed a coalition to boost Michigan's annual promotional spending from $5.7 million to $30 million. Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau executive vice president Michael O'Callaghan says...

Michigan Businesses Stronger than Perceived Today's Detroit News has an article by David Sowerby (classed as opinion) making the case that despite the Single Business Tax (which the News is not a fan of), Michigan is competitive or at least at the median for the majority of our other major taxes like personal income, sales and property taxes. Despite the heavy hits to the auto industry, corporate profits for Michigan's 80 publicly traded...

Michigan Businesses to Watch West Michigan's 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For were announced yesterday. The awards recognize companies for strategies they use to create the best human resource initiatives for their employees. The "Best of the Best" award was presented to Deloitte & Touche USA LLP of Grand Rapids. Also announced were the Michigan 50 Companies to Watch, recognizing companies that employ 6-99...

Group to Work on Legislative Solution for Michigan's Energy Woes The Freep reports that the Senate Technology and Energy Committee is forming a technical working group to come up with long-range legislative solutions to Michigan's energy crunch. While focused primarily on electric generation capacity, the group will also address related issues such as petroleum delivery, nuclear power options, renewable fuel alternatives and other concerns.

Employment Outlook for Michigan Graduates Jack Lessenberry interviews Phil Gardner of Collegiate Employment Research Institute at Michigan State University to find out what kind of jobs are out their for this years crop of college grads. Jack then muses about the wisdom of tattoos, email addresses contaqining Boopsie, Dominator, & Hotmama and the importance of getting a foot in the door before trying to change corporate culture.

Probing Michigan's Billion Dollar Tribal Casino Industry The Detroit Free Press's Jennifer Dixon (one of Michigan's best investigative reporters) has an excellent feature exploring Michigan's 17 tribal casinos that have swelled to become a billion-dollar-a-year industry. Part one looks at how Michigan has lost out on more than $300 million in revenue from Native American casinos since the state's deal with seven tribes allowed them to halt payments.

Phone, Cable Companies Battle Over Michigan Broadcasting The Lansing State Journal reports on the battle between phone and cable companies being conducted over the airwaves. Michigan legislators are considering a bill that would help phone companies roll out new video services to compete with cable. AT&T and other backers say streamlining would stimulate competition in Michigan, where all but about 50 communities have just one cable provider...

How Michigan Cities Rank for Business MITECHNEWS.COM reports that the Detroit metropolitan area was ranked No. 59 on Inc. magazine's 2006 list of Best Large Cities to do Business, while Ann Arbor, metro Grand Rapids, Lansing and Flint cracked the Top 100 for medium-sized markets. The best small cities included Muskegon, Kalamazoo, Holland, Niles-Benton Harbor, Monroe, Jackson, and Bay City...

DeVos Endorsed by Michigan Chamber The Lansing State Journal reports that Republican gubernatorial candidate Dick DeVos picked up the endorsement of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce. The chamber said it had chosen DeVos over Democratic Gov. Jennifer Granholm because of his experience as president of Ada-based Alticor Inc., parent company of direct sales giant Amway Corp., which has operations in China and India and exports...

New Urbanism in Northwest Michigan The Michigan Land Use Institute has a special report that documents how rising gas prices, escalating traffic congestion, and a rapidly growing population eager for a more sensible, healthier lifestyle are fueling that interest in walkable neighborhoods. The feature looks at how New Urbanism can curb the rapidly worsening sprawl in northwest Michigan...

Michigan Film News The Metro Times has a nice feature on Ann Arbor's Cinema Slam that offers a mix of regionally produced shorts (many from the University of Michigan's film school) and films solicited from festivals and the internet. Michigan Theater and Sundance Institute have announced the Michigan Theater's participation in The Sundance Institute Art House Project, a new national initiative that pairs...

Michigan's Youth Population Grows ... via Immigration mLive reports that Michigan had about 176,500 fewer residents between the ages of 25 and 34 in 2004 than in 1994 (a decline of about 12%), but had about 46,400 more residents between the ages of 18 and 24 in 2004 than in 1994 (an increase of about 5%). The increase was mainly attributed to immigration. Michigan's overall population was estimated at 10.1 million in 2004, up about 5% from 1994.

Job Outlook Bright for West Michigan Grads WZZM TV-13 Grand Rapids reports that a new survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers predicts college hiring will be up 14.5% from last year. Graduates here in West Michigan are feeling the improvement in the job market, especially in technology, accounting, finance, nursing and health sciences.

Michigan Vacations On the House? (well, the Senate) The AP reports that Sen. Gilda Jacobs (D-Huntington Woods) has proposed $75 tourism vouchers for anyone who filed a Michigan tax return last year. The "Our State Michigan Vacation Program" vouchers could be used at any hotel, motel, inn or resort in Michigan, and could then be claimed against the business's state tax bill. Jacobs says it would boost the economy and reward families for traveling...

Mother's Day in Michigan (and elsewhere) * Habitat for Humanity's Women Build program in Michigan ... Women in Detroit will take up hammers at 3531 24th St. in southwest Detroit. * Mother's Day Specials from Travel Michigan ... might be a little late, but good ideas for next year or any time. * Albion, Michigan historical marker commemorating Mother's Day in Albion ... Charles and Moses Blakeley

Detroit News Michiganians of the Year The Detroit News has profiles (including video) of their 14 Michiganians of the Year. Their list includes former Detroit Lion turned entrepreneur and philanthropist Robert Porcher, David Milarch of the Champion Tree Project and Arab American National Museum founder Anan Ameri.

Michigan Teacher Developing Skateboard Curriculum The TC Record-Eagle has another great multimedia feature by Taylor Sipe about Traverse City East Junior High tech-ed teacher Scott Diment. Diment, a skateboarder for about 30 years, is working with Paul Schmitt of skateboard company PS Stix in developing a curriculum and pilot program called CreateAskate that encourages students to apply math and science in constructing and engineering a skateboard

Michigan's Best & Brightest Students The Detroit News has announced their "Best and the Brightest of 2006", honoring some of Michigan's top graduating high school students at public and private schools from throughout the state in categories that include: Against All Odds (success in the face of challenges), Athletics and Health, Journalism and Language Arts, Mathematics and Science, Performing and Visual Arts and Vocational...

2006 Michigan Tech Tour The Great Lakes IT Report has the complete 2006 Tech Tour available on their brand-new and improved web site. The report on the eight day tour of Michigan's technology movers and shakers features mini-articles and photos and [selfpromotion]a visit from Matt Roush to the offices of Leelanau.com and Absolute Michigan[/selfpromotion].

Wildlife Conservancy Says Michigan Definitely Home to Cougars WOOD-TV reports that researchers with the Michigan Wildlife Conservancy say they have found evidence of cougars in eight northern Michigan counties. The study was published in April's issue of Notre Dame's American Midland Naturalist. "Michigan is definitely home to resident cougars that are here year round," said Patrick Rusz, a co-author of the study.

Farmers Markets in Michigan The Bay City Times has a nice feature previewing Bay City/Saginaw/Midland area farm markets. Dietrich Bronner of the the Frankenmuth Farmers Market says "One of the most crucial things is how much markets support and strengthen the local economy. The connection between consumers and farmers is extremely crucial. The disconnect between those two groups is not a good thing for society...

Summer Guide to the Lake Michigan Shore The Muskegon Chronicle has an excellent 16-page feature on the West Michigan Lakshore and the wide range of summer fun including festivals, parks, beaches, golf, shopping, dune rides and information about communities from Ludington to Grand Haven.

Michigan Biodiesel Update The Kalamazoo Gazette reports that when the Eaton Rapids-based Michigan Biodiesel LLC opens a $7.5 million, 10,000-square-foot biodiesel-processing plant in Bangor this summer -- the first of its kind in the state -- it will join a rapidly growing list of plants nationwide. A second Michigan biodiesel plant in the Upper Peninsula city of Gladstone is scheduled to open later this year...

New Michigan Invasive Species Council The Kalamazoo Gazette also featured a story on the new Michigan Invasive Species Advisory Council, made up of representatives of the state's Department of Natural Resources, Department of Environmental Quality and Department of Agriculture. The council was established under the new invasive species law and hopes to combat "biological pollution" when it's easiest to control -- before it happens.

Michigan Wines Shine in Competitions The Michigan Dept. of Agriculture reports that with wine competition season barely half over, Michigan wineries are bringing home gold medals from all over the country. Seventeen michigan wineries have won a total of 66 gold medals at regional, national and international competitions so far this year

Michigan Week Youth Photo Contest Winners Announced The Department of History, Arts and Libraries (HAL) has announced the winners of the fourth annual Michigan Week Youth Photo Contest. The contest was sponsored by HAL and Michigan State University Extension's 4-H Youth Development, with support from the Michigan 4-H Foundation and the Michigan Barn Preservation Network.

Michigan Energy Fair, June 16-18; Manistee County Fairgrounds Join the Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association as they bring together energy experts, vendors, companies to educate the public about solutions to our energy future. Learn how businesses in Michigan and elsewhere are offering products and services that help save money, build energy security, independence, and benefit the environment...

Michigan's Oscar Night The Lansing State Journal writes that 700 guests are expected for first Michigan Walk of Fame gala tomorrow night in Lansing. A dozen celebrities and other well-knowns have been chosen for the inaugural class, including Helen Thomas, an award-winning political journalist who was raised in Detroit, and music legend Stevie Wonder who attended Lansing's former Michigan School for the Blind...

Going Wireless in Michigan Michigan Radio's Jack Lessenberry talks with with Charles Steinfeld, a professor of telecommunications at Michigan State who has written widely on e-commerce and related issues about the issues surrounding community wireless networks. Oakland County is about to launch an ambitious plan to make the state's second-biggest county completely open to wireless Internet access, something that they hope..

Disaster Area Status Requested for Farmers in Michigan Recent frost and freezing temperatures have prompted Gov. Granholm ask the U.S. Department of Agriculture to declare 28 Michigan counties disaster areas. Allegan, Antrim, Barry, Benzie, Berrien, Cass, Charlevoix, Eaton, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Hillsdale, Ionia, Kalamazoo, Kent, Leelanau, Macomb, Manistee, Mason, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Otsego, Ottawa, St. Clair, St. Joseph, VanBuren, Washtenaw

Michigan Walk of Fame Induction a Big Success Last night's Michigan Walk of Fame induction ceremony at the Michigan Historical Center was by all accounts, a rousing success. Stevie Wonder, who capped the evening with a special performance on a piano donated from the Michigan School for the Blind and played a variety of favorites, including My Cherie Amour and Superstition. Actor Jeff Daniels and Helen Thomas were on hand as well.

Unemployment Rates Decline Around Michigan The AP reports that unemployment rates decreased in all of Michigan's 17 major labor market areas in April. The decrease is to be expected for spring and jobless rates are higher than they were a year ago in all but two of markets. The only region with a lower rate was Detroit, while the Saginaw region remained the same.

Big Ideas in Southeast Michigan Detroit News columnist Daniel Howes has a nice column about how big organizations, big business, big money and big egos are preparing to craft a master plan for southeast Michigan.

Michigan Veterans & Memorial Day Michigan Radio's Jack Lessenbery spoke with Michael Sands, a high school teacher and a Vietnam Vet who was instrumental in getting Michigan's Vietnam Memorial built in Lansing, about attitudes toward veterans and Memorial Day. Lessenberry also muses about how Memorial Day has been politicized by folks for and against war through our history. Michigan Soldiers & Sailors Monument info included!

Record Breaking Memorial Day in Northern Michigan The National Weather Service reports that Memorial Day records were broken all over the northern half of Michigan. Alpena (92), Traverse City (93) and Gaylord (91) all set new records... while Sault Saint Marie tied the very old daily record high of 89 degrees set on May 29, 1895.

Design Michigan's Next License Plate Michigan residents have a chance to contribute to Michigan's automotive heritage by participating in the 2006 License Plate Design Challenge. Michigan Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land said, "Michiganians love their state and adore their cars. We're encouraging everyone to show their pride in both by helping to refresh our license plate design...

Be a Tourist in Your Own State, Michigan The Lansing State Journal has a report on an event we can't help but think needs to be statewide. Be a Tourist in Your Own Town is in its 12th year and is designed to acquaint locals with businesses and attractions in Lansing and East Lansing. Seeing this event again made me ask (again) "Why can't we have something called Be a Tourist in Your Own STATE and feature a different part of Michigan...

Jeff Daniels, MEDC Hope to Give Michigan the Upper Hand The Freep reports that a $10-million national marketing radio, TV and targeted print campaign touting Michigan as a great place to do business begins today. The campaign (separate from tourism promotions) features a tagline boasting that Michigan businesses have "the Upper Hand" thanks to the new $2-billion 21st Century Jobs Fund, dozens of universities and thousands of skilled workers.

Michigan Asparagus is Tasty! Michigan farmers harvest approximately 15,000 acres of asparagus annually, mainly in the southwestern part of the state. The article has some great photos, cooking tips and recipes including Baked Asparagus with Goat Cheese and Bread Crumbs (that I am totally going to make), Beer-Battered Asparagus (from Gourmet magazine) and an Asparagus Soup With Lemon Creme Fraiche that looks really good...

Michigan Employees Concerned about Retirement The Mining Journal reports that about 100 residents met with Gov. Jennifer Granholm Tuesday during a state employee and retiree address, with many voicing concerns about school funding and retirement security. Chris Walker of Gladstone, a Michigan State Employees Retiree Association representative, said she was concerned about retirees' pensions. "I know (Granholm) has a tough row to hoe...

Destination: Michigan Last week we promised you a new feature on Monday that would help you to Be a Tourist in Your Own State. After some though, we realized that it would make even more sense to develop something for folks from outside of Michigan as well. To that end, we'll be launching "Destination: Michigan" next week. Every week (well, hopefully most weeks) we'll profile a different Michigan travel destination...

Michigan's Civilian Conservation Corps The LSJ has an excellent look back at the tree planting efforts of the Civilian Conservation Corps in Michigan with CCC member Paul Durling. Durling was involved in work that created national, state and local parks, from the Seney National Wildlife Refuge in the Upper Peninsula to the Michigan United Conservation Clubs' outdoor education center, in the Waterloo Recreation Area near Chelsea.

Golf Michigan!

Focus on Michigan Tourism Rick Coates of the Northern Express writes: For the past five years tourism officials in Michigan have sounded like a broken record. Each spring bold predictions are made about a recovering tourist economy and each fall when expectations fall short excuses are made: Michigan's economy, fears from 9-11, the weather, and high gas prices have all been blamed for the state's struggling tourism...

Switchgrass May Provide Lucrative Energy Crop for NE Michigan & UP The MSU College of Agriculture reports that growers in northeastern Michigan are working with MSU esearchers and Extension specialists to grow switchgrass. Switchgrass is a hardy and easy to grow native prairie grass that can be converted to heat and electricity by burning it alone or with coal. The grass is baled and either burned directly or converted into pellets, which can be used with...

Water Week - Southeast Michigan, June 6-14 SEMCOG, the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments, and the Southeast Michigan Partners for Clean Water announce the third annual Water Week to be held from June 6–14 to celebrate, learn about, and enhance our abundant water resources in Southeast Michigan through recreation, education, and stewardship activities.

Is Michigan telling the New Economy to Get Lost? Detroit Free Press writer Brian Dickerson takes a look at the new report from Michigan Future, Inc. and concludes that in Michigan, we don't just leave the best-educated, most ambitious young talent to make its own way but are in the business of actively discouraging agents of the new economy from even considering our state.

K-16 Coalition and the Future of Education in Michigan Michigan Radio's Jack Lessenberry talks with David Plank, a professor of educational administration at MSU, about the K-16 Coalition and its impact on the submitted nearly 300,000 signatures to the state yesterday. The proposal would automatically lock in funding for state universities and kindergarten through high school education at the current rate, which would be automatically increased...

Michigan Campaign Finance Disclosure Far from Timely Political columnist George Weeks writes that although there's nothing evil about contributing to those who share your views, Michigan has an appalling lack of timely disclosure on who contributes to whom among statewide and legislative officeholders and candidates, with all of their shadowy support groups. Michigan Secretary of State Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land...

Michigan Legislature Considers Single Sex Classrooms The LSJ reports that the House Education Committee is considering a proposal that would change state law to allow single-sex public schools in Detroit. The Senate Education Committee unanimously endorsed a broader plan last week, despite the threat of a lawsuit if the proposal were to become law...

Michigan Strawberries It's a sweet time when strawberries are in season in Michigan and at farmers markets, farm stands, and local grocery stores. Learn more about the strawberry, its history, where you can find them and get some great strawberry recipes!

Michigan Asparagus Short Wins Award The Sixth Annual Media That Matters selected Asparagus! (A Stalk-umentary) as one of their 2006 winners. The film looks at how imported asparagus is putting pressure on the Michigan asparagus industry in Oceana County. The "Disco Asparagus" number alone is worth the download!

Michigan Job Picture Up (mostly) and Down Manpower Inc. analyst Joe Ross says "Michigan's got two economies right now. One is West Michigan, and the rest of the state." 30% of Grand Rapids employers polled by Manpower said they would be hiring between July and September (27% for Holland and 25% for Michigan as a whole). A big driver for the region is life sciences (hospitals, medical device manufacturing and research)...

Michigan Dems to Trade in Donkey for a Tiger? With all due respect to our cherished donkey, I'd kind of like to see the logo to the right become the new symbol of the Democratic Party. A large and ferocious animal with big sharp teeth seems to me a better representation of the kind of mindset we ought to have when dealing with the minions of Rove. Well, here in Michigan, the Blue Tiger is now officially on the prowl.

Michigan Fails to Support Entrepreneurs The 2006 Michigan Entrepreneurship Score Card gave Michigan a grade of D in entrepreneurial dynamism. The study found the state ranked below average in most categories (above average in "education & workforce"). Mark Clevey, Small Business Foundation of Michigan executive director pointed out "Study after study has shown that nearly all net new jobs are created by small business entrepreneurs...

Touring Michigan CSA Farms by Bicycle Michelle Ferrarese and Marty Heller will be spending the summer and fall visiting and volunteering at Community Supported Agriculture farms across the state of Michigan, traveling from Ann Arbor to Petoskey by bicycle. They will be updating folks on the blog on their Michigan CSA by Cycle Tour 2006 and report that they are seven days into the trip...

What "Pure Michigan" Means Folks are debating Michigan's new tagline, "Pure Michigan". Travel Michigan says that Pure Michigan means that Michigan offers pristine waters, forests, beaches and other natural assets, and Pure Michigan in the sense that as a state, we have many unique and authentic Michigan travel experiences.

Michigan's Island King The TC Record-Eagle has a feature on James Strang, a Mormon leader who established the only kingdom in the history of the United States on Beaver Island in 1848 (in Lake Michigan near Charlevoix) and ruled until 1856, when he was shot to death by two disgruntled members of his flock. Friday is the 150th anniversary of his assassination.

Michigan Biodiesel's Impact on Bangor In the Freep's Next Energy series, they report that Michigan Biodiesel LLC is building the state's first biodiesel plant in Bangor. Scheduled to come online in July, the plant will create 25 jobs and be a boon for hundreds of Midwest farmers and the Van Buren County town of Bangor. Bangor has about 2000 residents and with a per capita income of $14,925 a year, one of Michigan's poorest counties...

Innovation and Change in West Michigan A pair of articles that explore how the knowledge industry is changing the face of West Michigan and Grand Rapids. Includes information about the role of the Van Andel Institute.

Michigan Summer Beer Festival, June 21 & 22; Ypsilanti

Michigan Challenge Balloonfest, June 23-25; Howell More than 50 spectacular balloons will fill the Southeast Michigan skies with color and spectacle. But the Michigan Challenge is lots more than balloons. It's a weekend filled with excitement, entertainment and fun. 517-546-3920

Migrant Workers in Northern Michigan The Glen Arbor Sun has a fascinating look at migrant workers in Northern Michigan that is well worth a read and begins: They live amongst us. They drive on the same country roads. They enjoy the same sunsets. And they still play an integral role in harvesting the crops that we not merely eat, but identify with spring, summer and fall in northern Michigan...

Angela Corsi Selected 2006 Miss Michigan The 2006 Miss Michigan is 24 year old Angela Corsi of Farmington Hills. Corsi won the title in her last year of eligibility after five years of competition. She will represent Michigan in the 2007 Miss America pageant and receive a $10,000 cash scholarship and will be representing the state of Michigan in the 2007 Miss America pageant.

Debating Job Loss in Michigan WOOD-TV takes a look at the claim in "Unemployed", the latest DeVos campaign ad, that Michigan has lost one job every ten minutes since Governor Grahholm took office. That would mean 160,000 jobs but the Bureau of Labor (source of the data) says the state has lost about 82,000 jobs since Granholm entered the office. The GOP said it doesn't want to argue the numbers, just to point out...

Controversy Surrounds Michigan's Social Studies Curriculum Michigan Radio's Jack Lessenberry interviews Michigan Superintendent of Schools Mike Flanagan about the controversy surrounding proposed social studies standards. He also writes an interesting essay about his feelings as a college professor about what students do (and should) know about history.

Raising Alpacas in Michigan The Flint Journal has a detailed and interesting feature on alpaca farming in Michigan. Alpacas are related to the llama and known for a silky, hypoallergenic fleece used in luxury items such as sweaters, hats, gloves and socks. There are more than 84,000 registered alpacas in the U.S. and almost 3,000 in Michigan (9th highest in US).

Six Michigan Cities Tops in Population Loss The Detroit News reports that according to the latest population estimates from the Census Bureau, Detroit, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Warren and Grand Rapids all placed in the top 60 among cities with more than 100,000 people as ranked by percent of population loss. Detroit ranked #7 in terms of loss, mayoral spokesman James Canning says the city is experiencing its largest housing boom...

Vineyard Will be Michigan's Most Easterly The Lenawee Daily Telegram has a feature on Michael Wells and his plans to open the Arbor Vineyard and Farm winery. Upon completion, it will be the most easterly vineyard in Michigan and the article offers a good look at what's involved in starting a vineyard.

Teas & Tisanes Made in Northern Michigan mLive has a great feature on Traverse City area resident Angela Macke and her company By the Light of Day. Macke produces 36 blends of organic loose teas (black, green, white and oolong) and tisanes (infusions made from just about anything but tea: roots, bark, berries, dried fruits, herbs, flowers, etc.).

Michigan Lettuce It's salad time and lettuce is in season in Michigan and can be found at farmers markets, farm stands, and local grocery stores. Learn more about salad greens, its history, where you can find it and get tips on planting for a fall harvest!

Michigan Asparagus Spring is here and asparagus is sprouting. Local Michigan asparagus can be found at farmers markets, farm stands, and local grocery stores. Learn more about asparagus, where you can find it and great recipes!

Davies Captures Michigan Amateur Golf Championship The Freep reports that West Bloomfield's Greg Davies, 38, beat Ryan Brehm for the state's most prestigious amateur title, the 95th Michigan Amateur which was played this weekend at The Heather at Boyne Highlands. The last five winners of Michigan's highest honor for non-professional golfers have been in college or just graduated from high school.

Group Seeks Equity in Michigan School Funding Citizens for Equity, a group of parents, educators and concerned residents from northern Michigan communities who want changes in the state's education funding system. Many school districts in the region such as Kingsley and Traverse City Area Public Schools receive the bare minimum per-pupil state grant of $6,875 while tweaks to Proposal A such as Section 20j grant many more dollars...

Michigan Peas June is here and it's pea season. Fresh local peas can be found all around Michigan at farmers markets, farm stands, and local grocery stores. Learn more about peas, their history, where you can find them and tips on gardening!

Michigan Wineries Michigan is abundant in beauty, visit some truly serene Michigan wineries to bask in this beauty. When you are there taste some local wine, stay at an inn, or even explore some local areas. Michigan wine has won many awards, both regionally, nationally, and internationally, make sure to bring some of this top quality wine home with you. You can purchase the wine at the wineries.

Michigan Cherries Midsummer is almost here and with it comes cherry time. Local Michigan cherries can be found at farmers markets, farm stands, and local grocery stores. Get interesting information about cherries, their history, where you can find them and cherries in health.

Satisfy Your Appetite for Tasty Festivals in West Michigan This summer if you are hungry for some local food, a BBQ, or even some food from the area restaurants head to one of the many Michigan food festivals. This year there are many "Taste Of" across the state, two blueberrry fests, a fudge fest, a food and wine fest, a Salmon fest, a Carribian fest, and even a few BBQs.

Destination: Michigan visit the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village America's first and largest indoor-outdoor museum. Located in Dearborn near Detroit, the Henry Ford charts the country's evolution from a rural to an industrial society through exhibits covering communications, transportation, domestic life, agriculture, and industry - showing how Americans lived and worked since the founding of the country.

Michigan Summertime, in Music & Photos Today Absolute Michigan launches its first "mash-up". We've taken photos from our Absolute Michigan pool on Flickr and paired it with music from this weekend's Dunegrass Festival (Aug 4-6, 2006). Most of the music is from Michigan and I think it really reflects the kind of down-home fun you can have in Michigan in the summertime....

Buy American Campaign, Insurance Take a Bite Out of Michigan Bloomberg reports that in the 80s and 90s, Michigan unions and politicians urged U.S. citizens to "Buy American" and told Japanese carmakers to go elsewhere. Today, Ontario is North America's biggest car producer. [automotive, cars, ontario, economy, health care]

Economy Going Wrong, but Michiganders Remain Happy A pair of Detroit News/WXYZ-TV polls of 600 likely Michigan voters finds that while Michiganians are very concerned about the state's economy (79% say jobs and the economy are the most serious issue confronting Michigan), 89% of those in the survey who rated their lives "good" or "excellent." [economy, election2006]

Made in Michigan: Butler Amps The LSJ has a feature on Eaton Rapids resident Max Butler and the custom guitar amps he builds. Butler's tube amplifiers retail for around $1000 and have built a cult following in the Great Lakes region and beyond. Butler says that musicians chasing a particular sound from their equipment end up in his basement workshop where they play and Butler figures out the settings to match their style.

Michigan Garlic and Herbs While you are mellowing out in the summer you may need a little something to spice things up, Michigan garlic and herbs are perfect. You can find Michigan garlic and herbs at farmers markets, farm stands, and local grocery stores. Learn more about garlic and herbs, their history, where you can find them and get some great recipes!

Michigan Tomatoes With summer ending there is nothing tastier than a fresh tomato. Michigan tomatoes can be found at roadside farm stands, farmers' markets, and even grocery stores. Learn about tomato history, facts, and even get some great recipes.

Michigan's Family Album Exhibit The exhibit features more than 1,200 historical photographs from the collection of David Tinder that explore all aspects of Michigan life from the 1860s through the 1930s. Formats include daguerreotypes, tintypes, stereo views, cabinet cards, large-format photos (including panoramas) and a special display of postcards honoring every county in the state. August 5, 2006 through Jan. 14, 2007.

Michigan Summer Wine Festivals Michigan.gov has compiled a great list of wine festivals that will take place throughout the state this summer. Follow the link below for dates and locations.

Michigan's Upper Peninsula Calendar of Events There is plenty to do in Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula. If you haven't already planned a trip to the U.P. you should really think about fitting one into your upcoming travel plans. Follow the link below to get a comprehensive calendar of events.

Michigan's Faith in Domestic Car Makers Shaken The Detroit News has more polling results from their Mood of Michigan poll. The poll of 600 likely Michigan voters says Michiganians are losing confidence in the US auto industry. With General Motors Corp., Ford Motor Co. and DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler Group struggling to compete against surging foreign rivals, state residents fear Detroit auto executives and labor leaders have lost ...

New Site for Michigan Employers & Job Seekers MITECHNEWS.COM reports that the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth was launched a new version of the Michigan Talent Bank and Labor Market Information web site. The site gives employers and job seekers free listings and reports that as of today, 48,772 jobs are available (170 posted today). The bad news, there are 633,418 resumes available.

Michigan Iron Industry Museum World War II Tribute Combining a World War II living-history campsite, costumed interpreters, Big Band music, swing dancing, dramatic performances and speakers, the museum will host "Shield of Steel: Iron Ore and the Arsenal of Democracy" on July 8 and 9. The weekend event runs from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Saturday and until 4 p.m. on Sunday.

Hiking in Michigan Michigan is well known for its scenic views. Take in these views by going for a hike through forests, or along the coast. Hiking trails can be found all over Michigan and offer beautiful walks for an hour or a day. Many hiking trails are also biking trails and offer excellent opportunities for some great trail riding. After a day hiking why not camp at a State Park camp ground?

Fishing in Michigan Spend some time on the clear blue waters of Michigan fishing. Michigan fishing is known as some of the finest in the nation. It offers an excellent opportunity to spend time outdoors. Fishing tournaments in Michigan are known to haul in huge fish, ranging from walleye to trout. After fishing you might want to check out some local restaurants, or fry up your fish for dinner using Michigan recipes.

More on Michigan's Mood The Detroit News "Mood of Michigan" poll says that while jobs and the economy top the list (top issues for 79%), Michigan voters are also concerned about quality of life: schools, health care, crime and drugs, morality and the environment. Half of poll respondents also thought that Michigan schools are underfunded.

Michigan Fish Tales We caught some fishing stories and they were THIIIIIIIS Big! * They're suckers for salmon just off Grand Haven * This year's Lake Erie walleye crop legendary * Walleye biting in Lake Michigamme * Fishing is really about having fun * Inland lake anglers finding success * Absolute Michigan keyword "Fish"

Michigan Labor and Environmental Leaders Join Forces to Fight for Energy Independence Michigan labor unions and environmental groups have joined forces today to launch a new coalition to end America's dependence on foreign oil. The groups, organized as the Michigan Apollo Alliance, believe a major initiative to develop renewable energy, homegrown biofuels and advanced automotive technologies is needed to end Michigan's dependence on imported energy...

The Michigan Apollo Alliance Formed Michigan labor unions and environmental groups joined forces today to launch a new coalition to end America's dependence on foreign oil. The groups, organized as the Michigan Apollo Alliance, believe a major initiative to develop renewable energy, homegrown biofuels and advanced automotive technologies is needed to end Michigan's dependence on imported energy and to take advantage...

Michigan's Resource Use Growing Faster Than Population AP writer John Flesher has a story on a new report from the National Wildlife Federation and the Center for Environment and Population that Michigan is paving over farmland, using energy and consuming natural resources at rates well beyond the state's population growth...

Michigan's Role in the Revolutionary War Michigan Radio's Jack Lessenberry has a great interview with historian David Armour (former deputy director of Mackinac State Parks) about Michigan's role in the Revolutionary War. At the time, Michigan had a population of 10-15,000 (maybe 4000 Europeans) and was a British outpost that was part of Quebec that was successfully defended by the British but lost to the US in the Treaty of Paris...

Buyers Market for Michigan Vacation Homes Saturday's Freep had a feature reporting that second homes and cottages in northern Michigan aren't selling like they used to. The upside of course is that folks who have watched cottage proces climb out of reach for years are finally looking at a buyer's market.

Biking in Michigan Michigan Bicyling offers countless amazing rides, all the way from moutain biking along the Pictured Rocks to road biking through the senic Pierce Stocking Drive in the Sleeping Bear Dunes. Biking in Michigan offers competitions and pleasure cruises.

Michigan's Four Flags City Many people believe that the Revolutionary War only involved the Americans and the British, yet Michigan was invaded by the Spanish during the war. Both France and Spain joined the American side during the Revolutionary war, during the war the Spanish invaded a British outpost, in what is now Niles, Michigan, but as it turns out there were no soldiers. Niles is now known as the Four Flag City.

Nina Replica Comes to Michigan The AP reports that a replica of the Nina, one of the three ships that Christopher Columbus sailed from the Old World in 1492, will be docked Thursday through Monday at Algonac on the St. Clair River, the latest stop on a 13-year world tour. The ship is a floating sailing museum was built by hand (without power tools) and is 85 feet long with about 2,000 feet of sails and a crew of seven...

Michigan Business Ads Put Romney in a Bind The AP reports that Michigan's national advertising campaign is airing some radio ads in Massachusetts where they put Gov. Mitt Romney (a Michigan native with Presidential aspirations) in a delicate position. He can't afford to alienate Michigan which is a key primary state and also a potentially lucrative source of campaign donations.

Michigan Summer Fairs As midsummer roles around it's time for county fair. Michigan has tons of county fairs throughout the summer. The fairs have rides, contests, food, shows, and more. Join the competition in any county. Competitions range from cooking, livestock and produce, all the way lumberjack skills. These fairs are the biggest bashes around, come celebrate the summer in Michigan.

Looking Back on the Michigan Energy Fair The MLUI has a great recap on last month's Michigan Energy Fair. The article features remarks by folks like David Konkle of Ann Arbor's energy office (whose innovations have saved the city $5 million over the last 18 years). Konkle explained that Michigan is highly vulnerable to energy prices and supply problems because it imports all of the coal, 96% of the oil, and 75% of natural gas...

Michigan Business Forms Available Online MITECHNEWS.COM reports that Michigan businesses can now file critical tax and unemployment insurance registrations online, a process that can cut weeks off the processing time. The state now has about half of all the various forms businesses and others can file available online and plans to boost that total to 80% within the next year...

Rising Fuel Costs Pinch Michigan Farmers The Freep reports that rising fuel prices are taking a toll on Michigan's agriculture industry - eating away at profits and forcing many farmers to spend huge amounts on fuel and petroleum-related supplies.

Brothers Plan to Kayak Lake Michigan to Benefit Orphanage The Stamford Advocate has a feature on Daniel and Jeremy Fruchter, two brothers who will embark on a 100-mile kayak trip across Lake Michigan to raise money for an Israeli orphanage. Regarding his brother (16) and himself (18), Daniel said "We're not especially outdoorsmen, and we're not athletes. We're just very determined."

Some Southeast Michigan Homes Proving Tough to Sell The Detroit News has a pair of lengthy articles exploring the difficulties that some homeowners in Michigan are having selling their homes and at the innovative measure that realtors and owners are using to try and make the sale.

DeVos and Education in Michigan Sunday's Grand Rapids Press took an in-depth look at Dick & Betsy DeVos's history of backing vouchers, tuition tax credits and charter schools and trying to determine what that would mean for Michigan's schools if he were to be elected governor.

Chicago Man Kayaking Around Lake Michigan The Petoskey News-Review has a feature on Chicago native Tom Heineman. Heineman, 57, serves as a sea kayak instructor and is a member of the Chicago Area Sea Kayakers Association. He has made it all the way up the Wisconsin shore, across the UP and will be passing staying at DH Day campground in the Sleeping Bear Dunes tonight headed to Frankfort on Tuesday.

Destination: Michigan Explores the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore Michigan's Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore offers countless opportunities ranging from hiking and biking, to kayaking. In addition to famous rock formations like Miners Castle and Chapel Rock, the Pictured Rocks are also home to the Au Sable Lighthouse, the Grand Sable Dunes, and many thousands of acres of forests and beaches.

Google to Open AdWord Headquarters in Michigan The Freep reports that Google Inc. plans to create a headquarters facility for its Google AdWords unit (pay-per-click advertising, its bread & butter) in the Ann Arbor area and hire 1,000 workers there over the next 5 years. Google co-founder Larry Page, an East Lansing native and a graduate from the University of Michigan, was apparently a major supporter of the decision to locate in Ann Arbor...

Absolute Michigan's Destination: Michigan We are proud to launch our new "Destination: Michigan" section. In it we will regularly feature (hopefully once a week) a different Michigan location. Our first is the Pictured Rocks and upcoming features are planned for Mackinac Island, Greenfield Village and a host of other great vacation spots for tourists and residents alike.

Michigan Mastodon The Detroit Free Press has great coverage on the excavation of 10,000+ year old mastodon bones discovered by road construction workers in Rochester Hills. Mastodons were fairly common in Michigan in their day, inhabiting the spruce forests that covered the northern parts of the Lower Peninsula. Michael Stafford, of the Cranbrook Institute of Science, called the discovery a really big deal...

The Bowfin: Michigan's Prehistoric Fish Today ypsi~dixit introduces the bowfin, an odd fish that can breathe air. She writes: The bowfin is the only primitive fish to provide parental care for its young (though it's news to me that other fish care for their young at all). It is said to be a good sport fish; there are bowfin anglers. Dinosaurs, mammoths, archeopteryxes: the imperturbable bowfin has watched 'em all come and go...

Google to Michigan: Analysis A slew of reactions to yesterday's announcement that Google will open a major facility in Ann Arbor from blogs, government, newspapers and other media. Also seeks to answer whether Michigan as a whole will reap benefits.

Migrant Measure Worries Michigan Farmers The Detroit News reports that at least 40,000 migrant farm workers come to Michigan every year, and that Michigan farmers say their crops are on the line because American workers won't harvest them. John Wunsch, farmer and vice president of the Michigan Farm Bureau said "Every time we go to Congress, they say, 'You guys quit crying, there is a guest worker program.' Well, I used it, and it didn't

Michigan Wine Industry Comes of Age 1 million people visited Michigan's 45 wineries last year, generating an economic impact estimated at more than $100 million. Michigan ranks 8th nationwide in wine grape production and has over 1,500 acres of vineyards. Advances in the vineyards and cellars have allowed Michigan to define its own style of Riesling, Pinot Grigio and Pinot Noir... [leelanau, northwest, wines, agritourism]

Michigan Summer Beer Festival in Ypsilanti, July 21-22 Annual festival features tons of Michigan breweries for a celebration of the local art of beer brewing featuring a chance to talk with brewery personnel and learn about the art of beer making & home brewing, tasting of over one hundred different great local beers, delicious food, and excellent live entertainment in Ypsilanti...

Golfing in Michigan Michigan is home to some of the best golfing in the nation. Two Michigan golf courses made it on the top twenty best golf courses in the U.S. in Golf Digests' 2006 ratings, and the state itself is the twelfth best golf destination in the world, again according to Golf Digest. These great golfing locations are not only known for the difficulty of their courses but also for their great locations.

Michigan in Stamps Throughout the years of the United States Postal Service Michigan has been commemorated in stamps. In addition to having the Mackinac Bridge and the state itself honored, numerous Michigan people and places have also been depicted. These have included the St. Joseph Lighthouse, Joe Louis, Ty Cobb, and Henry Ford.

Michigan's Taxes: More Unbalanced than High The MLUI reports that the independent Citizens Research Council of Michigan (CRCM) compared Michigan's taxation and revenue sources to national averages and found that (contrary to some politicians claims) Michigan is far from a tax-gouging state. When CRCM compared all 50 states, Michigan ranked 36th on individual income taxes, 29th for general sales taxes, 42nd for motor fuel taxes...

Natural Gas Exploration Explodes in Michigan High oil and gas prices are driving up interest in drilling in some of the state's most pristine lands, particularly four counties in northern Michigan that sit over a natural gas reserve. Michigan produces roughly 25% of the natural gas it consumes and the bulk of the new drilling permits are for natural gas trapped in Antrim Shale formations stretching from Elk Rapids to Alpena.

We Love Michigan, Even Though We May Leave It The Freep reports that 9 out of 10 Michiganders (regardless of race, age or economic class) love the state of Michigan. However, the Detroit Free Press-Local 4 poll of 800 adults found that warm feeling is not without a colder edge: 1 in 3 Michiganders generally agrees that Michigan is "a dying state," and 4 in 10 said they recently thought about fleeing Michigan, mostly for job reasons...

Effort Started to Honor Architect of Michigan's Capitol Although Elijah Myers designed the state capitol buildings of Texas, Colorado and Michigan, his Detroit grave is marked only by a simple stone, with no indication that one of the more influential architects of the late 1800s is buried there. Myers' works include hospitals, high schools and town halls - at least one building in every state that was in the Union during his lifetime...

West Michigan Primary May Be Decided by Social Issues The Detroit News reports that Michigan's hardest-fought congressional primary could hinge not on the war or the economy but on social issues such as abortion and same-sex marriage. First-term U.S. Rep. John "Joe" Schwarz of Battle Creek faces a well-funded challenge from Timothy Walberg, a former state lawmaker and Christian preacher...

Michigan Agriculture Director on Ethanol Michigan Radio's Jack Lessenberry talks with Department of Agriculture director Mitch Irwin about the development of an ethanol industry in Michigan and how it could impact farmers. In Jack's essay, he worries about what happens if hydrogen, fuel cells or electric power turn out to be the real thing, and building ethanol plants turns out to be like building factories to make Betamax VCRs.

Michigan Blueberries As the summer winds down it is always nice to still have fresh local fruit, and in August blueberries hit the spot. You can find blueberries at farmers markets, farm stands, and local grocery stores. Learn more about blueberries, their history, where you can find them and get some great blueberry recipes!

Michigan Blueberries & Raspberries Blueberries and raspberries should be friends by Matt Musselman Check out Michigan Raspberries and Michigan Blueberries, two tasty features from Absolute Michigan and Taste the Local Difference for history, recipes and places you can purchase these delicious fruits!

Daniels to Receive Michigan Filmmaker Award The Traverse City Record-Eagle reports that the inaugural Michigan Filmmaker Award will be presented to Jeff Daniels, who founded the Purple Rose Theatre Company of Chelsea. The award will be presented on the opening day (Monday, July 31 2006) of the Traverse City Film Festival to Daniels by Gov. Jennifer Granholm at 2:30 PM at the State Theatre.

Michigan Apricots It is always a joyous time in Michigan when the apricots ripen. Learn about the the apricot, its history, some great apricot recipes and where in Michigan they can be found.

Michigan Fairs Change to Attract Visitors The Michigan State Fair has slowly turned itself around, adding attractions like hip-hop shows, a giant barn where visitors can watch farm animals being born and a big-top circus. Other Michigan fairs have added interactive exhibits, more technology and music. The Upper Peninsula State Fair has a best web site contest, the Kalamazoo County Fair offers a laser light show...

Could SE Michigan Aereotropolis be City of the Future? The latest thing on the world stage, the "aerotropolis". US urban planners seem to be ignoring the fact that urban centers have always grown around the dominant mode of travel: by air in today's world. Hong Kong and other nations are basing their development and world-trade strategy on the primacy of the airport and there are suggestions that Detroit is perfectly suited to such development.

Michigan Bloggers in Blogathon 2006 Blogathon is a 24 hour, worldwide blog-for-charity event There are (at least) two Michigan bloggers that we know will be participating: Beth Anne of clever titles are so last summer is blogging for the Global Fund for Women. Jamelah of Jamelah.net is blogging for the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. Gretchen, the Villain Everyone Wants to Bang is blogging for the Hurley Foundation.

Michigan Sweet Corn Standard Michigan sweet corn isn't grown by many farmers these days prefer Supersweet corn with its longer shelf life and bolder taste. The feature has advice on storage and cooking and includes recipes for Corn and Avocado Salsa, Soaked and Seasoned Grilled Corn and Flavored Butter for Corn on the Cob.

Michigan Utility Costs Inspire Alternative Energy Promises The LSJ reports that Michigan's utility costs for industrial customers of 5.9 cents per kilowatt hour are higher than surrounding states. Michigan now gets about 55% of its power from coal-burning plants, with the rest mostly from nuclear power plants and gas, and oil-fired power plants. A small amount is from hydroelectric plants and from renewable energy sources such as wind power.

Stevens T. Mason, Michigan's First Governor On Aug. 1, 1833, Territorial Secretary Stevens T. Mason became the acting governor after Gen. Lewis Cass left to serve as Secretary of War under President Andrew Jackson. Mason helped Michigan win statehood with a census that showed it had more than the 60,000 people required and was elected Michigan's first governor after statehood in 1837. He served until 1840, including during the Toledo War.

Pollsters Handicap the Race for Michigan's Governor MITECHNEWS.COM has an interesting analysis of the contest between Republican challenger Dick DeVos and Democratic incumbent Gov. Jennifer Granholm that says the state's continuing economic problems and the more than $10 million that DeVos has spent in a continuous TV ad campaign are keeping the race tight. Observations by several prominent Michigan pollsters make this well worth your time!

Promoting Michigan's Digital Talent The southeastern Michigan network of digital artists known as SEMAFX (the SE Michigan chapter of ACM SIGGRAPH). SEMAFX is at the SIGGRAPH 2006 Conference en masse and hoping that a strong showing by Detroit will help to establish the city as a creative center and help stem the flow of creative talent from the region. SEMAFX chair Scott Paul Dunham says...

Michigan Releases New License Plate The State of Michigan has released the latest commemorative license plate design: "Spectacular Peninsulas". One of the chief contributors to the new design is Brian Whitfield, a Lansing artist employed by the Michigan Department of Transportation. Check the link below for photos of the new plate as well as license plate history and a free car. kidding about the car - just checking

Years and Years of Beaches: Northwest Michigan Petoskey Area Lake Michigan Beach (1973) by Joel Dinda Joel Dinda does a better job than anyone I know of bringing home what it's like to have lived a lifetime loving the State of Michigan. On a rainy day, there's few better places to spend your surfing time than with Joel's photos.

We do love our cars: Southeast Michigan We do love our cars in Michigan, as this photo of the Summer Classic Car Show in Flint demonstrates. The automobile has defined Michigan and now the demise of the auto industry is redefining us. At Absolute Michigan, we're trying very hard to fight past the "we lost a ton of jobs" and the bickering about who did what to who that is the media's ongoing saga and get to "what do we do now" place.

Connecting Michigan: Northeast Michigan The Mackinac Bridge is more than just Michigan's most recognizeable landmark. The five mile span connecting upper and lower peninsulas is also a powerful symbol of how we as a state can come together behind a common goal and accomplish wonders. The herculean task of building the bridge was first envisioned in the 1800s...

Destination: Michigan Goes Everywhere Our summer intern Cody pulled together a ton of stuff for Absolute Michigan's Destination: Michigan features. We'll be getting those into web shape and posting them about once a week.

Michigan Experts, Michigan Excerpts Absolute Michigan is in the process of identifying experts who will be writing articles and managing areas of interest on Absolute Michigan. Our first of these will be published this week. We're also going to be working with book publishers to offer excerpts from books about Michigan.

More Michigan Videos There's a ton of Michigan video shorts on YouTube and Google Video. The big challenge for us is to find the gems among the thousands of Michigan videos out there. If you find one (or made one) that you think is great - please send us a link by email! Here's one from last weekend's Thunder Over Michigan airshow...

Michigan Site of the Week Years and years ago, we ran a feature called the Northern Michigan Site of the Week. People really liked it but it was hard to find a new site every week (or even every month) from one region of the state. We're going to bring it back for all of Michigan and we're also going to add a few twists to it!

Absolute Michigan's Site of the Week Absolute Michigan has links to thousands and thousands of Michigan web sites, with new sites being added every day. With our Site of the Week feature, we will introduce you to some of the best web sites in Michigan.

Michigan Site of the Week: Publius.org Our first Michigan Site of the Week is Publius.org, a non-partisan, non-profit organization founded in Michigan in 1996 to explore the impact of the internet on democracy and to develop web-based tools to enhance the exchange of ideas and information.

Michigan Walk of Fame Accepting Nominations The Michigan Walk of Fame is accepting nominations for 2007 inductees to the Walk until November 1st. We’d also like to ask any of our readers in Lansing to snap a shot of the walk, a star on the walk or anything having to do with the Michigan Walk of Fame!

Get out and VOTE, Michigan Via Michigan Radio we found Publius, a super-cool site that allows you enter your first and last name and see the candidates on your ballot. While some proposals are missing, it's still quite a resource. Michigan politicians hoping to capitalize on famous relations that includes names like Coleman Young (Jr.), Levin (Andy) and Byrum (Barb).

Northern Michigan Wine Industry Booming! Acreage of grape vineyards is growing and sales of Michigan-made wine within the state grew to 282,000 cases in 2004, an increase of more than 80 percent over the previous eight years. Michigan-made wines account for four percent of all wine sales in the state. [vineyard, berrien, van buren, leelanau, grand traverse, old mission, winery, michigan wine]

Michigan Second Mortgages Increasing Faster than Home Values The Detroit Free Press reports that census data shows that 556,000 Michigan homes (19% of all owner-occupied homes in the state - 2% over the national average) have some kind of second loan on them. At the same time, the median value of homes has increased 19% in the last five years (much less than the national average of 32%). Also a passage from Henry Schoolcraft's memoir!

Michigan Named Top Digital State A recently released national survey ranks Michigan first in the nation in the use of information technology to transform and improve government. The Digital States Survey, conducted by the Center for Digital Government in conjunction with Government Technology magazine, is the nation’s most recognized and respected study of information technology in all 50 states.

Michigan Musicians Dominate Great Lakes Songwriting Contest Jen Cass of Bay City was awarded the Grand Prize: Small Town Boy. Ann Arborite Whit Hill won first & 2nd place for Farsighted & Sandusky. Lansing singer-songwriter Rachanee also won second place for From Here. Three Michigan songwriters shared 3rd place: Roger MacNaughton of Ada for Cherry Creek, Patrick Power of East Lansing for The Heart of Mary Lou, and Rachele Eve of Plymouth for Lady in Black

Destination: Michigan Visits Whitefish Point Whitefish Point Lighthouse and the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum offer rich maritime history of Michigan with exhibits about ships, shipwrecks, diving and artifacts like the Edmund Fitzgerald bell.

2006 Michigan Primary Election Report A report from the primary election of August 8, 2006, featuring Joe Schwarz, Tim Walberg and Michael Bouchard who will challenge Debbie Stabenow.

Ford to Invest Nearly $1 Billion in Michigan (updated) The Freep reports that Ford Motor Co. and the state of Michigan have reached a tentative 20-year deal in which the automaker would invest up to $1 billion in facilities here, saving 13,000 jobs. Michigan is offering the automaker $151 million in tax incentives.

Michigan Site of the Week: Michigan Lighthouse Fund The Michigan Lighthouse Fund was established to provide grants and loans to organizations for repair and restoration lights all over Michigan. You can visit their web site to learn more about the fund, make a contribution and find out how to help preserve Michigan's maritime history.

Michigan Music: Aliccia Berg Bollig of Slumber Party OK, for the record, any article that leads with "Detroit singer/scientist" is automatically going to get linked to. Model D has an interesting feature in their A Night Out with ... series talking with the persistent leader of the rotating, all-girl band Slumber Party.

Michigan Politicians Courting Young Voters Ö for Good Reason Politicians Turn to Web to Attract Young Voters from WLNS is a video report on a new trend in the 2006 Michigan elections: candidates turning to youth networking sites like Facebook to connect with young voters. Candidates with Facebook profiles include Jennifer Granholm and Dick DeVos, Debbie Stabenow and Mike Bouchard.

Michigan Video: Woodward Dream Cruise The annual Woodward Dream Cruise is the world's largest one-day celebration of car culture that attracts nearly 2 million visitors. It takes place from 9 AM - 9 PM this Saturday (August 19, 2006) and features more than 40,000 muscle cars, street rods, custom, collector and special interest vehicles. You may also wish to check out Jalopnik's Dream Cruise Prequel...

Michigan Solar Tour The 2006 American Solar Energy Society’s National Solar Tour offers a first-hand look at the successful uses of renewable energy and energy efficiency in buildings, both private and public, across the state. The Michigan Solar Tour, part of the ASES National Solar Tour, will take place Saturday, October 7th at various sites throughout Michigan.

West Michigan loves cars too! In the wake of the Woodward Dream Cruise on the east side of the state, Grand Rapids is hosting the second annual 28th Street Metro Cruise on Saturday, August 26. It's billed as 15 Miles of Cool Cars and will feature antiques, hot rods, custom rides, muscle cars and trucks on display, and in competition, at area businesses. There'll also be food booths and a range of fun activities...

Michigan Site of the Week: Michigan Historical Markers In 1988, Jim Brennan began visiting Michigan's Historical Markers with the objective of photographing each one. Almost 20 years later, his web site has photographs about 1500 markers and has text for even more. The site offers an amazing look at the history of Michigan, with photos, the text of the markers, location and maps.

Destination: Michigan Visits Fayette Historic State Park Fayette Historic State Park (Fayette Townsite) is located on the UP's Lake Michigan shore and is an excellent restoration of a historic village that features 20 historic buildings against the beautiful background of Big Bay De Noc.

2006 Michigan State Fair - August 23 - September 4 The annual Michigan State Fair opens today (Aug 23) and continues through September 4. Popular attractions include the FREE Concerts under the stars in the Band Shell, daily parades, competitions, horse shows, agricultural displays, arts & crafts, racing pigs, rabbits & poultry, dairy exhibits, carnival midway rides & games and the world's largest stove.

Michigan Renaissance Faires and Festivals The Michigan Renaissance Festival is an annual affair held on weekends in Holly (between Detroit & Flint). It features full contact armored jousting, almost 200 artisans and tons of costumed entertainers of all kinds.

Michigan Site of the Week: Michigan Organic Food and Farm Alliance (MOFFA) MOFFA teaches 'eaters' to value and to choose organically grown food produced in their own locales. MOFFA is a force for generating public awareness about the need for more decentralized food systems that allow for greater participation and choice on the part of all citizens.

2006 Michigan Elections, Voting & Politics: Granholm vs. DeVos, Michigan vs. Itself The contest for Governor between Jennifer Granholm and Dick DeVos and the sharply divided the Michigan electorate.

Michigan Governorís Debate #2 Tomorrow! Just a quick note, check this post for all the details on the 2nd Gubernatorial Debate between Republican Challenger Dick DeVos and Democratic Governor Jennifer Granholm! The debate takes place at 8 PM on Tuesday, October 10th and the link above has a lot of info for the next two and the first debate (with a bunch of reader comments).

3rd Down, Goal to Go: Michigan vs. Ohio State Big selection of YouTube and other videos, stories and links for Michigan Wolverines and Ohio State Buckeyes. UM & OSU is a huge college football rivalry, check out all these things from Detroit, Ann Arbor and Columbus.

Development in Lake Michigan's Shoreline Dunes Michigan has laws to regulate development and activity in our geologically unique shoreline dunes. The question for today is: are those laws working? Tons of links for dune mining, dune development, sand dunes, done ecology, lake michigan dunes and more.

Touring Michigan's Big Things with Wandering West Michigan Wandering West Michigan is a weekly video blog hosted by Josh Leo. It features videos highlighting the events, businesses, people, attractions and everything else that makes the west side of the Great Lakes State unique. In this episode he goes big: Kalkaska tout, paul bunyan, big thermometer and more!

Michigan Cranberries & Cranberry Farming An article from Lake Magazine serves as the centerpiece to a feast of cranberry information including cranberry and cranberry farming links, cranberry recipes and a big old cranberry photo!

Michigan's 21st Century Energy Plan Michigan’s 21st Century Energy Plan is due to be released by the Michigan Public Service Commission by year’s end. One aspect that state regulators are considering is whether or not a certain percentage of Michigan’s electricity must come from renewable fuel sources like solar, wind and hydroelectric, and if that percentage would be mandatory or a goal.

Make it a Michigan gift this holiday season Absolute Michigan would like to help you find great holiday & Christmas gifts that are made in Michigan - and also to ask you to help us find them and share them with others!

Real Michigan Food: The Pasty A whole ton of pasty lore, recipes and even a pasty video from Wandering West Michigan’s Josh Leo. He a trip to Houghton where he got the answer to What is a Pasty?.

Absolute Michigan Server Move Please note that on Thursday afternoon (Nov 30, 2006), Absolute Michigan may experience intermittent outages as we move to a new, larger server. We expect to have everything put back together by Thursday night!

Fire Millen, a Michigan Tradition On Wednesday, November 29th, 2006, the FireMillen.com web site celebrated its first birthday. It seems as if the "Fire Millen" chant is growing again and, as FireMillen points out, Detroit Lions President Matt Millen's numbers have never been worse...

The Peregrine Falcon in Michigan The cuckoo-y tastes of peregrines at bootstrap analysis is one more post that makes me love blogs and bloggers. Seeing a Peregrine Falcon is not very unusual in southeast Michigan. Although they were not historically found in these parts, they were introduced into the city of Detroit beginning in 1987 as part of the Midwest Peregrine Restoration Program

Michigan Schools: Marching to the Edge? Michigan Radio's Jack Lessenberry interviewed the executive director of the Michigan Association of School Administrators, William Mayes, about the current crisis in school funding. Mayes agrees with the assessment by Michigan School Business Officials director Tom Lloyd that Michigan schools are on a "march to the edge of the cliff" that is likely going to accelerate...

Michigan Film: Michigan's Green Energy Economy A new documentary produced by Northern Michigan University professor Dwight Brady, Michigan's Green Energy Economy highlights how different Michigan businesses, utilities and everyday people are making the switch to different forms of energy, through wind, solar power, and biofuels.The half-hour documentary was featured on a recent episode of the WKAR-TV series Michigan at Risk...

What's in store for Mainstream Michigan Media? Eric Berrien over at Among the Trees has a pair of posts (As your audience goes... and Savior of the Industry) that discuss Michigan newspapers in relation to a recent New York Times article about 2007 advertising forecasts. The Times article says that while flat growth is predicted for traditional media like radio & television, web advertising is expected to see double-digit gains.

What DO you do during a Michigan winter? Kristi Kates of the Northern Express has a column that offers some strategies for surviving winter in Michigan. As the current issue of the Express also dashed my hopes that Sugar Loaf (our local and long-shuttered ski resort) would open this winter, I find that I am more interested in finding ways to enjoy more than the daily shoveling-cardio. Winter sports, games, dinner parties & more!

The New Michigan Video Franchising Bill & Net Neutrality Michigan's new cable franchising bill which has passed the House and Senate and appears to be headed for a quick signing by Governor Granholm. It's a very complex issue, but at its simplest, the new regulations will replace locally negotiated cable TV franchises with a uniform set of state rules.

Time to rewrite Michigan's Constitution? Citizens for Michigan is a self-appointed, volunteer group includes the likes of former AG Frank Kelley, former publisher Phil Power, Oakland County CEO L. Brooks Patterson and other former legislators, legal experts, business people and lobbyists who have been meeting for three years with the goal of promoting sound public policy in Michigan.

Michigan in Pictures on Snowflakes & Crystals Today on Michigan in Pictures there is a cool snowflake photo and links to some neat stuff on snowflakes including a link to an excerpt from It's Raining Frogs & Fishes on the white stuff we're supposed to have at this time of year titled Nature Baroque: Snowflakes & Crystals. A video too!

Michigan Northern Lights Log Our northern lights log is where you can post sightings and questions about the aurora borealis and also links to northern light photos, information and more.

Michigan Film: Unsalted, A Great Lakes Experience The film Unsalted touts Great Lakes surfing as the perfect recipe for a little winter fun - "one part obsession, one part addiction, and an unending quest for adventure makes Great Lakes Surfers a truly rare breed." Michigan native, filmmaker and surfer Vince Deur has put together an amazing film about surfers, surfing and finding the perfect wave.

Michigan film incentive, Lightworks Film Festival The Michigan Senate is working overtime at the moment, accomplishing more than they have all year. This afternoon, they passed the Michigan Motion Picture Incentive Plan by a unanimous vote. Read more in Senate Passes Michigan Motion Picture Incentive Plan at GLP and also this article from WOOD TV. Also, be sure to check out the term-end Lightworks Film Screening at the University of Michigan.

Head into the kitchen with Michigan milk, cheese & dairy Great recipes for milk, yogurt, and cheeses made right here in Michigan.

Report finds Michigan gets poor return on federal taxes Lansing State Journal reported that Michigan ranks 38th among states in rate of return on federal tax dollars, according to reports by the Northeast-Midwest Institute (NEMW) and The Tax Foundation. Michigan gets back about 85 cents on the dollar, but (according to the Governor's office) had we gotten back even 90 cents of each tax dollar in 2004, it would have received an additional $7 billion.

Historic Preservation means big money for Michigan Rapid Growth reports that according to the Michigan Historical Preservation Network: In the last five years, $1.93 billion was privately invested in building restoration projects that leveraged Michigan's Rehabilitation Tax Credits (RTCs), generating more than 22,000 jobs across the state. That compares to a mere $819 million invested in RTCs over the previous 30 years...

Granholm addresses Michigan's budget shortfall In news that should be surprising to nobody, one of the major issues in Governor Jennifer Granholm's end of the year press conference was that the looming $1 billion (possibly as much as $3 billion) hole in the state budget means either a tax increase or a cut in services. While the Governor acknowledged that budget cuts would certainly be part of the remedy...

2007 Rose Bowl: Michigan vs USC Our feature on the 2007 Rose Bowl has tons of links, articles and pictures on the University of Southern California (USC Trojans) and the University of Michigan Wolverines. Whether you are U of M fan or not, it has tons of history on the Tournament of Roses, the parade and other things on a classic football rivalry.

2007 Michigan Notable Books selected The Library of Michigan has announced the annual list of Michigan Notable Books. Every year, the Library of Michigan chooses 20 of the previous year's best non-fiction or fiction books either written by a Michigan resident or about Michigan or the Great Lakes.

"Pethanol" from Michigan's peat could be new fuel source The Detroit News reports that while turning corn into ethanol is the current fad, a team of Detroit researchers say that peat is a more economical and environmentally friendly fuel source.

Lake Trout making a comeback in Lake Michigan? The Muskegon Chronicle reports that 50 years after the lake trout disappeared from Lake Michigan due to sea lamprey predation, scientists have discovered evidence that lake trout are reproducing on their own on a deep water reef in the middle of the lake. Scientists who discovered lake trout eggs hatching on a reef 30 miles offshore of Grand Haven...

Three Michigan ski resorts mark 50th anniversary Michigan Radio reports that Crystal Mountain in Thompsonville, Ski Brule in Iron River and Mount Holly in Southeast Michigan are all celebrating 50 years of skiing and other snowsports. It's a wide-ranging feature that looks at where the industry began and where it is today.

Your State, Your Michigan Government: The State House The Michigan House of Representatives is the largest half of the state's legislative branch, but do you know who represents you? The House website offers several ways to locate and contact your representative, either by searching or browsing a full listing of representatives.

Michigan in Pictures celebrates 1 year, plus Happy New Year! Happy New Year and best of wishes for 2007 and beyond to everyone!

Granholm calls for Next Michigan, cooperation in inaugural The Detroit Free Press and the Detroit News have articles on the inauguration of Governor Granholm, Lt. Governor John Cherry, Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land, Attorney General Mike Cox and others on January 1, 2007. In her speech, the Governor pledged...

9th Annual Michigan International Auto Show in Grand Rapids Thought you'd seen it all with the North American International Auto Show in Detroit? Not quite! There's still the 9th Annual Michigan International Auto Show in Grand Rapids! Featuring the Million Dollar Motorway, Gillmore Car Museum, NASCAR, Indy car and much more!

Warm Weather Can't Stop Michigan Ice Sculpture Contests Despite the warming trends across the state, several Michigan cities won't skip the usual winter festivities, including traditional Ice Sculpture contests. Check this great video for footage from the Holland Ice Sculpture Contest and get info about the Third Annual Magical Ice Carving Festival in St. Joseph.

The Michigan Environmental Trail - Our Land, Our History The Michigan Environmental Council is paying tribute with the unveiling of the new Michigan Conservation Trail. The first three markers will highlight the the Detroit River in Trenton, Kirkland's Warbler in Mio, and the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes National Lakeshore.

Michigan Automotive History: Olds Motor Vehicle Company In association with our coverage of the North American International Auto Show (aka Detroit Auto Show) and the upcoming Michigan International Auto Show in Grand Rapids, we will be posting a series of short features on Michigan's rich auto heritage. It's usually best to start somewhere near the beginning, and that would be at Ransom E. Olds' Olds Motor Vehicle Company in Lansing.

Michigan Automotive History: Ford Motor Company Did you hear the story of the guy who built a bike, won a race, and used $28,000 to build one of the oldest and most successful automobile companies in the world? You should, especially when it's Michigan's very own Henry Ford and his Ford Motor Company that we're talking about. Below are a few highlights from NPR has a detailed timeline of Ford's history.

Absolute Michigan Sponsorship Absolute Michigan receives over 100,000 visitors every month and is currently offering a limited number of sponsorship opportunities for businesses and organizations who would If you would like to discuss sponsorship options with us, please send us an email or call Andy McFarlane at 231-256-2829.

Michigan Housing Locater offers free rental listings A week or so back, the Great Lakes IT Report tipped us off to the Michigan Housing Locater from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority. The site is devoted to assisting Michigan residents in finding affordable housing, and giving property owners a marketing tool for their rental portfolios.

Project to develop a vision for growth for Northern Michigan The Michigan Land Use Institute has an article on a new, community-based visioning process to help residents design what six northwest Michigan counties can look like in the coming decades.

Get to Know Your Michigan Government It's a new year and a new session of Michigan government that features new legislators and a change in the balance of power in Lansing. While one thing - our state's economic challenges - has not changed, there's always an opportunity to change the low participation in state government by Michigan's citizens. The best place to start is with you: get involved, let your legislators hear from you and

Your State, Your Michigan Government - The Executive Office Governor Jennifer M. Granholm, Michigan's first female governor, and one of just nine female governors currently serving in the entire US. The Governor's website has a host of interactive features including video clips of important state addresses, and conversations outlining her growth plan for Michigan.

Lighthouses Going Dark in Michigan In the late 1800s, the US boasted over 2000 lighthouses. That number dropped to 950 by 1995 and to just 600 today. Michigan has 116 lighthouses - more than any other state. The Detroit News has an excellent article looking at how automated lights, modern navigation equipment and shrinking budgets have contributed to the decline in both numbers and condition of Michigan's lighthouses.

Michigan prison spending higher than neighboring states States such as Illinois, Ohio and Pennsylvania have more residents than Michigan but incarcerate fewer inmates. Michigan's per-capita incarceration rate is the country's 11th-highest, ranks higher than seven other Great Lakes states and is fourth-highest among the 11 most populous states. Tom Clay of the nonpartisan Citizens Research Council of Michigan says that people are startled to learn that

Michigan Film Exclusive: Michigan Film Premiers at Park City Film Festival A team of Michigan filmmakers are strutting their stuff down the streets of Park City, Utah today, and with good reason. Tom McPhee, Scott Lynch, Olivia Olsen and Michael Frelick all premiered their latest film, An American Opera, last night at the Park City Film Music Festival, which runs in conjunction with Robert Redford's Sundance Film Festival.

Pfizer to lay off 2,410 Michigan Employees Pfizer Inc. announced Monday afternoon that will close its enormous Ann Arbor research facilities and part of it's operations in Kalamazoo, leaving 2,410 of its Michigan employees in the dust. The layoffs will occur between now and the end of 2008. It's part of a larger streamlining which will eventually result in 10,000 jobs cut globally.

Michigan Budget Bonanza The Michigan media has been a-swirl about the sorry state of Michigan's state budget for the 2007 fiscal year. Below are a collection of articles from newspapers and blogs about some of the major aspects. We'd also like to hear any thoughts you might have in the comments!

Your State, Your Michigan Government: The State Senate The Michigan State Senate is the other half of the Legislative Branch of Michigan's government. While the House has 110 districts, the Senate only has 38, each representing approximately 212,400 to 263,500 residents. State Senators serve 4 year terms, compared to the House's 2 year terms.

Michigan History: St. Joseph - Wedding Capital, U.S.A. Las Vegas boasts that it is America's "wedding capital." Yet, in the early years of the twentieth century, Michigan, especially the Lake Michigan town of St. Joseph, was the "wedding capital of the Midwest."

Your State, Your Michigan Government: The Courts On our fourth and final stop on our tour through Michigan's Government, we visit Michigan's Court System. Whether it's the state's highest court - the Supreme Court - the Court of Appeals, or any of the various Trial Courts, you'll be sure to find what you're looking for in this easy to navigate website.

Introduce Your Michigan Business or Organization! Tell everyone a little bit about their Michigan business, nonprofit, community organization, or other web site or blog!

Michigan's Project Blue Star - Serving Those Who Serve Us Project Blue Star is an effort to lend a helping hand to the families of Michigan soldiers serving overseas. The program identifies and catalogues all services available to military families in one convenient on-line location. With a history dating back to World War I, Blue Star programs have been around for quite a while.

Spend some time with Michigan writer Jim Harrison Last week the New York Times published An Interview With Jim Harrison: Pleasures of the Hard-Worn Life. The article provides an extended visit with one of Michigan's most prolific authors (and gourmands) and includes a great video.

A Fuel-Based Michigan Corn Boom? As the state's auto industry takes one hit after another, Michigan residents now have one more reason to consider heading back to the farm, corn-based ethanol. Today's cover story in the Lansing State Journal looks at how corn may change the face of automotive fuel.

Michigan Eats: Stuffed Michigan Whitefish on a plank Chef Eric Villegas of Restaurant Villegas in Okemos and host of the Emmy award-winning Michigan television show Fork in the Road serves up a great recipe for Cedar Planked Whole Michigan Whitefish Stuffed with Wild Rice and Shitake Mushrooms!

Michigan Cherries In honor of National Cherry Month and Michigan's vital and growing cherry industry, we present this special feature with recipes and information on Michigan cherries from Taste the Local Difference.

Photo Friday: Visit the white sand, er snow beaches of Michigan by April April writes On Sunday, somewhat on a whim we decided to drive from Chicago to Grand Rapids. What followed was a long drive (sans ipod - though with the added bonus of Patrick's singing) through the outskirts of Gary, Indiana and a white knuckling lake effect snow storm. When we got to South Haven, Michigan we went to visit the lake and snap a few shots of the ice covered lighthouse pier.

Black History Month: Michigan's Own James Earl Jones He has one of the most recognizable voices in the entertainment business and it all began with a grapefruit and a dedicated teacher. James Earl Jones was born in Mississippi in 1931. His parents separated before his birth and his grandparents raised him. When Jones was five, his family moved to Michigan and settled in the small town of Dublin, in Manistee County.

The 2007 State of the State: Michigan Responds Governor Jennifer M. Granholm delivered her fifth State of the State speech last night. Her speech was highly anticipated by both Democrats and Republicans due to the looming fiscal crisis. Some of the major themes that she touched on included School funding, Worker Retraining, Hints about tax increase and budget cuts, Alternative Energy and Government Reform.

Celebrate Valentine's Day the Michigan Way The day for lovers, sweethearts, paramours and chocoholics is drawing near. Like it, love it, or hate it, Valentine's Day has become an annual tradition. As you celebrate the holiday, consider making your day special with something from Michigan.

Lake Magazine features Absolute Michigan! Lake Magazine has a nice write-up on Absolute Michigan in their current issue. Here's an excerpt: from Monroe to Ironwood, from New Buffalo to the Soo. Absolute Michigan'™s news digest is as likely to link to a cranky blogger as a daily newspaper. Its history page will inform you "Why We Are Called The Wolverine State" The daily photo goes beyond the calendar classics beaches, ....

First Look at Michigan's New State Budget Hot off the presses in Lansing, and as promised in Tuesday's State of the State Address, Governor Jennifer M. Granholm has released her 2007 Michigan Budget.

Mitt is the hit of Michigan GOP Convention Lunchbucket Conservative has a pretty thorough report on last weekend's Michigan Republican Party Convention in Grand Rapids (that includes photos from the convention). He says that GOP presidential hopeful Mitt Romney was the lead story of the convention...

Black History Month: Fighting for Equality in Michigan During the mid-nineteenth century, Michigan’s African American population was quite small in number. In 1860, about 7,000 blacks lived in Michigan-less than 1 percent of the state’s population. Although white Michiganians supported the destruction of slavery that came with the end of the Civil War, most were unenthusiastic about giving blacks equal rights.

Will Ferrell Needs A Few Good Michigan Cars Hollywood stars Will Ferrell and Woody Harrelson will be filming a new movie in Michigan in the coming months, and they are hoping for some Michigan classic car owners to step forward and help out.

Michigan Valentine's Day - How Sweet it Is! If you're looking for something unique for your sweetie this year for Valentine's Day, Dianna Stampfler of Promote Michigan has 14 gift ideas and activities to consider. As usual, we'd love it if you'd add any other suggestions in the comments!

Valentine's Day Fun in Michigan In their Valentine's feature Detroit is for Lovers, Model D takes you on a sort of romantic and definitely whirlwind tour of the Motor City that takes you to the bar (then from the bar), around the city, moving in, moving out. If you're in the Mid-Michigan area, think about stopping by the BoarsHead Theater in Lansing between now and Feb. 25th for some romantic laughs...

The Michigan Heart Gallery needs your love The Michigan Heart Gallery is a traveling (and online) photographic exhibit of children in the foster care system who are waiting for a permanent family of their own through adoption. The Heart Gallery photos are taken by professional photographers, and the exhibit is used to increase awareness about the over 300 children awaiting adoption and to recruit families for these kids.

Michigan Photographer profiles return to Michigan in Pictures We will (finally) be profiling another Michigan photographer: Bobby Alcott aka “UrbanTiki”, a Detroit photographer. We’ll be asking Bobby some questions next week (Monday through Wednesday) and we’d also like to ask you to give us some questions for him.

Michigan and Climate Crisis The bright side is that Michigan won't be half underwater in 100 years like some states. On the less than bright side, this graphic in the Freep shows what Michigan could look like in 2100 as a result of global warming's impacts. Swampy shores, Mississippi hot, vanished songbirds, dying trout and a lot of snowmobiles with for sale signs on them.

Michigan businesses use video blogging as a PR tool Last week one of the more popular anonymous legal bloggers, the Greatest American Lawyer, "came out" via YouTube. Turns out he's an attorney from Michigan … and also that he's a friend of mine … the things you learn about people online. Also last week, the Freep had a feature on an ongoing video blogging effort by Shannan McNarney to chronicle the process of opening McNarney's Public House...

Michigan eLibrary Remixed The Michigan eLibrary (MeL) invites you to join State Librarian Nancy Robertson and Michigan eLibrary Coordinator Sue Davidsen for a live chat from 10-11 AM today (Tuesday, Feb. 20) at web.mel.org/melremix. You'll have a chance to ask questions, learn about MeL's makeover, and get some ideas for how to get the most from the Michigan eLibrary.

Assignment: Why Michigan is the best state in the country We received an email from Mitchell Hirsch asking for a little help. We thought our Michigan-loving audience be able to help him out a little. In addition to mailing the things he asks for, maybe you could post a couple links to things he can print out. It's our duty as a state to ensure that Mitchell receives a great grade!

Tap Some Michigan Fun with the Winter Beer Festival Mock Winter. Celebrate Beer! The Michigan Brewers Guild is holding their second annual Michigan Winter Beer Festival, an outdoor celebration of barrel-aged, cask and big beers from Michigan's craft brewers on the streets of Old Town this Saturday, February 24th from noon to 5 PM. It's a chance to sample over 150 brews from 32 different Michigan breweries.

Michigan's First Gentleman, Dan Mulhern Ever wonder exactly what a First Gentleman is? Best to go to the source, our own Daniel G. Mulhern, Michigan's own First Gentleman:

Absolute Michigan Exclusive: Excerpt from 'Everyday Leadership' by Dan Mulhern There's so much more to being a great leader than simply just leading, as we learn from Michigan's First Gentleman, Dan Mulhern. His new book, Everyday Leadership: Getting Results in Business, Politics, and Life, hits the shelves of your local book store on March 1st.

Michigan Photographer Profile: Bobby Alcott Michigan in Pictures has a three-part profile of Detroit photographer Bobby Alcott that we really encourage you to check out.

Michigan's Weekend Wintery Blast Just as Michigan was starting to warm up and the snow was starting to melt, Mother Nature came in with a wallop this past weekend. From Monroe to Ishpeming, motorists found themselves stranded, school kids had yet another snow day, utility workers found themselves putting in overtime, and the snowplows were out en masse.

East Lansing & Ann Arbor Film Festivals and Michigan's Film Fest scene Information about the Ann Arbor Film Festival, East Lansing Film Festival, Waterfront Film Festival in Saugatuck, Planet Ant Film & Video Festival in Hamtramck, Traverse City Film Festival, Midwest Urban Film Festival in Detroit and the Mitten Film Project/Festival - all Michigan Film Festivals celebrate independent, foreign, and documentary films.

Lesson for Michigan's future: talent trumps taxes In a recent column in the Lansing State Journal and again on Michigan Radio, futurist and former Michigan Secretary of Commerce Lou Glazer says we need to ask Where do we want to go from here? What sort of economic future do we want to have? and What will policies we pursue make us into? He looks at Minnesota and Alabama as possible futures

Talking Michigan down ... and back up again Interviews with Michigan State, University of Michigan and Wayne State presidents about Michigan's economic challenges and an interview with. The 2007 State New Economy Index Report from the Information Technology and Innovation Foundation finds that Michigan in doing well in fostering the new economy and Michigan Radio has an interview with the ITIF's Robert Atkinson. (includes link to report)

Michigan Electric Cars, Revisited A pair of articles that follow up on past features: Getting a Jolt from Volt on the GM Fastlane Blog revisits the Chevy Volt (seen at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show) and AutoblogGreen visits the American Electric Vehicle factory in Ferndale (where the Kurrent is made).

Today is Great Lakes Day ... What is Michigan doing about that? Clean Lakes Mean Good Jobs from the Michigan Land Use Institute alerted us to the fact that today is Great Lakes Day. MLUI's Andy Guy says that following the Strategy to Restore and Protect the Great Lakes would have a host of positive impacts reaching beyond the strictly environmental to deliver jobs and other economic impacts.

Michigan's reps speak for Great Lakes ... but will anything get done? The Lansing State Journal reports that Michigan and Great Lakes US Reps were more than a bit testy at a hearing to examine the problems posed by the zebra mussel, the sea lamprey and other invader species. Also yesterday, a bipartisan group of lawmakers reintroduced Great Lakes cleanup legislation in the House and Senate.

Five Things You Need to Know about Michigan for Friday, March 9th 2007 Five Things returns (at least for a day) with headlines including Ford to Offer Small Bonuses, Alternative Energy & Fuel Standard Fighting, Walking the Lake Superior Shore in Winter, a Free Climate Change Symposium at MSU and Retired Detroit Police & Firefighter Sue for Benefits. Also a pic of frozen Pictured Rocks and a Ford Model A!

10,000+ Michigan Photos Sometime over the weekend, the 10,000th photo was posted to our Absolute Michigan photo group on Flickr. Photo 10K was taken at the construction of a new casino in Greektown by Mac of Detroit Bike Blog fame.

MichTube: Deep powder in Northern Michigan A great video of backcountry skiing in northern Michigan's Leelanau County.

Michigan History: Jane Johnston Schoolcraft March is Women’s History month–a perfect time to recognize one of the state’s earliest multi-cultural authors. Jane Johnston Schoolcraft was a skilled 19th century writer, whose accomplishments are overshadowed by her more-famous husband, Henry Schoolcraft.

Michigan's political gridlock is bad for business The LSJ reports that the inability Michigan's governor and lawmakers to come to an agreement that solves the state's budget crisis is not playing well on Wall Street. Standard & Poor's lists Michigan is the only state with a negative credit outlook due to massive shortfalls in its current and upcoming budgets and a failure to pass a replacement for the expiring Single Business Tax (SBT).

Flush TV from Detroit, Michigan Flush TV is a show that follows the plumbers of Levine & Sons through their day as Detroit-area plumbers â€¦ along with some great music. It's probably best begin at the beginning and meet the crew in Episode 1: It Ain't Easy Being a Plumber but frankly you can probably start anywhere with Flush TV â€¦

Get your Spring back through the The Michigan Gallery Spring is just a few days away, so over at The Michigan Gallery on Flickr, Kathy has put out a call for spring pictures from Michigan.

Selling Michigan ... to Michigan's youth Phil Power writes that he recently had dinner with a group of bright, enthusiastic young people, all about to graduate from college and excited about their future â€¦ and all planning to leave Michigan. He suggests that finding, attracting, nurturing and retaining talent is the single most important thing we can do - more important than any economic policy.

Is the Michigan Environmental Protection Act in need of protection? The Northern Michigan Environmental Action Council (NMEAC) is the first group to officially campaign to protect the 37-year-old Michigan Environmental Protection Act from a potentially devastating Michigan Supreme Court ruling due later this year.

Alternative energy makes economic sense for Michigan Right now, only 3% of Michigan's electricity comes from renewable resources. Michigan Public Service Commission Chairman J. Peter Lark says that raising the Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) is a good first move...

Celebrate Michigan's water on World Water Day Today is World Water Day and it seems to me that above all else, water is what makes Michigan special. From the trickle of tiny streams to the tens of thousands of lakes to the roaring rivers and falls to the massive Great Lakes, Michigan is the truly water state. Tons of Great Lakes and watery links (and add your own!)

New Faces, New Futures: Immigrants, women change Michigan farming The face of Michigan agriculture is changing. Immigrants from Mexico (and Asia and Europe), women, retirees, even baby boomers looking for new careers. Together, these newcomers are gradually recasting the image of American farmers.

Michigan History: One Strong Michigan Woman March is Women's History month–a perfect time to recognize the contributions of thousands of Michigan women who helped win the Civil War more than 140 years ago. As tens of thousands of men went off to save the Union and end slavery, their wives, daughters and sweethearts–with only a few exceptions–stayed home. These women experienced many new responsibilities, and often alone.

The Michigan Pages: Spring Peepers Spring peepers are one of the earliest callers among the dozen frog species found in Michigan. During the first warm evenings of spring in late March or early April through May, their distinctive single note, high pitched "peep" is considered a harbinger of spring. Click for lots more...

Michigan Tourism Strategic Plan unveiled The Michigan Tourism Strategic Plan was unveiled by the Michigan Tourism Planning Council. Michigan's tourism industry generates $17.5 billion dollars in annual revenue, 200,000 jobs and almost $1 billion in state tax revenue, and the architects of the plan have set the goal of growing Michigan to be one of the top 5 travel destinations in the nation...

Shop Michigan: M22 Classic T-Shirt The M22 Classic T-Shirt is a terrific T-shirt from the Grand Traverse Area. This totally comfortable T-shirt represents "'North America's best kept secret." M22 was founded in 2002 by a group of Northern Michigan kiteboarders and they say that M22 represents Life Up North

Celebrate Michigan Wine & Michigan Wineries in April! April has been designated Michigan Wine Month to honor the state's wide selection of quality wines and the wine industry's significant contribution to the economy. Check here for winery events, winery links and wine tour information!

Video: Touring Northern Michigan - 60 years ago James A. FitzPatrick's 1949 Travel Talks: Roaming in Michigan features views of Glen Lake and the Sleeping Bear Dunes (complete with Sleeping Bear Dunesmobile rides), cherries and Traverse City, a visit to Mackinac Island, naturalist/storyteller/bear park operator John "Spikehorn" Meyer, the Soo Locks and all kinds of summer fun in northern lower Michigan and the Upper Peninsula.

Shop Michigan: Gitchi Gumee from Mackinac Island Press Gitchi Gumee by Anne Margaret Lewis and illustrated by Kathleen Chaney Fritz is a beautiful children's book with superb illustrations and a great story. Gitchi Gumee means "big water" and the book is about just that...

Michigan Lighthouses shine on Michigan's first lighthouse opened near Port Huron in 1823. Over the course of the next century, dozens of others were added. Eventually, more than 120 lighthouses were located in Michigan waters - more lighthouses than in any other state. Most are located on land or at the end of a pier, but some are isolated and surrounded by water.

Michigan's Curriculum among the best for college From the Silver Lining Department: GROW Detroit called out this Detroit Free Press article saying that Michigan was cited as one of the three states (along with Kentucky and Indiana) most closely aligning state curriculum with college expectations. Also includes link Michigan's new mandated curriculum and a cool video.

Michigan History: The Woman Lightkeeper In most cases, being a lightkeeper was a man's job. Yet, at least 19 women, including Elizabeth Whitney Williams, kept Michigan lighthouse beacons burning bright. Includes information and links on the Beaver Island Harbor Point Light and Little Traverse Lighthouse on Lake Michigan.

This Month in Michigan: April 2007 A page for news, events and general happenings in Michigan for April, 2007. Read what's there and add your own notes!

The Last Barn at Mentha: The Decline of Michigan's Mint Farming John Clement Howe went to the ghost town of Mentha and also dug up the fascinating story of Michigan's now vanished mint industry. By the turn of the century, 90% of the world's mint oil came from an area within a ninety-mile radius of Kalamazoo. Includes info about Albert Todd and his Mentha (Van Buren) & Campania (Allegan) farms.

SE Michigan Flickr photographers featured on Michigan Radio A number of photographers whose work appears on Absolute Michigan & Michigan in Pictures will be featured in a Michigan Radio item by Jen Guerra tomorrow (Friday, April 20). It will run during Morning Edition and metro-area All Things Considered.

Happy Earth Day, Michigan Hope you take a moment to do a little something for Michigan or the part of the earth you're in.

Numbers show food & wine travel a winner for Michigan A recent survey found Michigan ranked in the top 15 states for food and in the top 12 for wine-related travel. The survey found that 27 million travelers include culinary adventures in their trips and make leisure travel decisions based on wine and food activities, planning around restaurants, wineries, cooking classes, farmers markets and food or wine festivals.

It's Garden Time in Michigan Last week's HUB had a nice feature on getting your garden going. In addition to some tips for when to start vegetables (now) and garden size (any size will do) they also list some herbs and vegetables that do particularly well in Michigan. Includes information on the Greater Lansing Food Bank Garden Project and community gardens.

Government by gridlock in Michigan It's been a while since we last looked in on what Michigan's elected officials have been up to. Unfortunately for all of us, the answer is "Not much." Recently Michigan Radio's Jack Lessenberry interviewed Jim Weimken, the primary financial analyst for the state of Michigan at Standard and Poor, about Michigan's credit rating.

Investing in Michigan's Young Farmers Soon after Katie Brandt graduated from the University of Michigan, in 2001, she landed her dream job—working as a hired farmhand. Even though she earned a minimal wage, Ms. Brandt learned so much she realized that she was indeed born to be a farmer. Too often that’s where the story stops for so many young people who want to farm...

A few simple words about Michigan's schools Schools are big businesses, multi-million dollar employers that spend a good part of every dollar they receive providing jobs in nearly every community in the state of Michigan. If we crash these businesses - especially immediately prior to what already looks like a shaky summer travel season - we could find ourselves in even bigger trouble.

Shop Michigan: Birdola Plus Cake from Birdola In 1988 Birdola finally got fed up with the whole process of feeding birds loose seeds, so they invented seed cakes. Turns out they were a great idea and Grand Rapids-based Birdola is still in business and making the best-selling bird seed cake in the country.

Michigan events, calendars and things to do Michigan has an incredible variety of festivals, fairs, concerts, celebration and all the other fun stuff that there is to do in every part of Michigan. We have a ton of links to some of these events on Absolute Michigan, but we can't list every one of them. That's where you come in: say a few words, add a link and tell everyone about your favorite event or thing to do in the Great Lakes State.

Promoting film in (West) Michigan The recent Motion Picture Tax Incentives Package has begun the effort to attract more filmmakers to Michigan with a $7 million incentive fund offering rebates to cover up to 20% of production costs. Read on for a discussion of the things that are being done - as well as those that still need to happen - to make Michigan a major film destination.

Michigan Week and 2007 Michigan Week Celebrations Michigan Week is an annual celebration that seeks to to embrace, explore and celebrate the history, resources and opportunities that set Michigan apart as an ideal state to work, play and thrive. Click through for the history of Michigan Week and information about associated events.

Michigan Memorial Day Runup It's time to cast our net around the state and see how the media is promoting the big travel weekend. Parades and services of course, also art and antique fairs, concerts, gas prices, weather forecasts and lots of history.

Freakonomics author Steven Levitt on Michigan's economy One of the things in the Center for Michigan's weekly email last Friday was a link to Model D's interview with Freakonomics co-author Steven Levitt following his talk at Wayne State University. When we talk about Michigan's economy you hear a lot of terms like one-state recession...

Welcome to Absolute Michigan, may we take your order? We've noticed a lot of new folks showing up at Absolute Michigan over the last few weeks. We'd like to welcome you, and also to ask old friends and new faces about what you'd like to see on Absolute Michigan.

Shop Michigan: Gingered Asparagus and Bow Tie Pasta Salad Card from Veggie Cards Asparagus season is winding down in Michigan, but there's still time to whip up a culinary masterpiece using the Gingered Asparagus and Bow Tie Pasta Salad Card from Veggie cards. Each Veggie Card features a cool drawing and a tasty recipe.

Exploring right-sized housing in Northern Michigan Officials in Traverse City, Frankfort, Suttons Bay, Petoskey, and other communities are now looking at reviving regulations allowing more so-called "accessory dwelling units." Also called "granny flats," "carriage houses," or even "mortgage helpers," these small upstairs and backyard units were common in the late 19th and early 20th century in many towns.

Shop Michigan: Apple Cinnamon Yotta Bars from the Undercover Vegetable Company The Yotta Bar from the Undercover Vegetable Company is a chewy granola bar that contains 6 to 9 hidden vegetables and one full serving of veggies and fruit per bar with great flavors like cherry, orange or apple cinnamon.

2007 Michigan Energy Fair, June 22-24 in Manistee Billed as one of the most comprehensive expositions of renewable energy generating equipment, home and business energy efficiency techniques, and technical workshops in the state, the Fair features over 100 exhibitors & 60 workshops promoting energy efficiency, biofuels such as ethanol and biodiesel, renewable energy technologies like solar and wind power, and techniques for living sustainably.

Michigan June Events Check out the different events around Michigan this June. Attend anything from a Pow-Wow, to a Caribbean Festival.

USASA regional adult soccer tournament in Michigan The Midwest Regional Finals of the United States Adult Soccer Association's national cups competition will be held this weekend (June 14-17) in the St. Joseph area. The three-day competition over Father's Day weekend is a part of the nearly 100-year-old National Cups competition.

Berrien County, Michigan Berrien County is located at the southwest corner of Michigan along the shores of Lake Michigan and shares a state border with Indiana. Click for history, events, photos and more information for the county and cities of St. Joseph, Benton Harbor and Niles.

Shop Michigan: Surfing Lessons 101 from The Third Coast Surf Shop Surfing 101 is a class designed as the first step in learning how to surf. 101 goes over the fundamentals needed to become a good surfer. The lessons starts with land instructions that go over warm-up exercises, equipment handling and safety, water awareness, and the basics of laying, paddling, sitting and popping up on the surfboard. After the land instructions comes in-water practice.

Michigan business tax deal reached Gov. Granholm and leaders of the House and Senate have finally come to a deal to replace the expiring Single Business Tax and the $1.9 billion dollars it generated. The plan will cut taxes by as much as 50% for businesses that hire Michigan workers, build facilities and conduct research and development in the state.

Michigan Video: Caseville Michigan History 1850-1960 History of Caseville, a town that got its start as a lumbering town. Each spring the Pigeon River would be filled with white pine logs. When the trees were gone, farming and commercial fishing established the base of trade. The railroads and sandy beaches created the tourist trade Caseville is known for today.

Michigan Video: On top of the Mackinac Bridge Byron Goggin and the Wild Weekend Adventure crew take you into the pillars of the Mackinaw Bridge, up 50 stories of maze-like passages and onto the top of the Mighty Mac! Includes a lot of stuff that most folks who drive across the bridge don't think about â€¦ like how much painting is involved! You can see more videos from WildWeekendTV.com.

Michigan's Mackinac Bridge We'll be telling the story of the Mackinac Bridge on Absolute Michigan and Michigan in Pictures through photos, video, history and of course tons of links. As we do, we'll post links to the photos and stories below.

Shop Michigan: Fordite Rings from James Blanchard James Blanchard (not the former Governor) makes jewelry from Fordite (aka "Detroit Agate"), a substance taken from the spray booth at the Ford River Rouge plant in the 1970s. Chunks of layered automotive paint were painstakingly scraped from the conveyor, then cut and polished into gems. View and purchase at Gallery Fifty (in TC's Building 50).

Michigan July Events Enjoy Michigan's many different festivals, from the National Cherry Festival to the Michigan Elvisfest. You don't want to miss a thing so check out all our festival information.

Michigan History: Bridging the Straits This article provides a broad overview of the political challenges involved in the linking Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas. It also includes a link to some great construction photos from MDOT (the Michigan Department of Transportation).

Five Things you need to know about Michigan for Thursday, June 21, 2007 I love Five Things ... I just need a little space. Is Michigan's energy answer blowin' in the Huron County wind? Also summer solstice, the Detroit Tigers Pitcher Puzzle, this weekend's Festival of the Sun & Festival of the Moon in Lansing's Old Town and Onekama, Michigan.

Key provision of Michigan Environmental Protection Act under fire In a case before the Michigan Supreme Court, attorneys for Nestle Waters North America contend that a Michigan law that allows citizens who are not "directly affected" by an environmental action to go to court over it is unconstitutional. Joan Wolfe (a former member of the Michigan Natural Resources Commission and founder of the West Michigan Environmental Action Council warns MEPA is in danger.

The Absolute Michigan channel on chime.tv You can get a lot more great videos of Michigan from the Absolute Michigan channel on chime.tv!

Absolute Michigan: The Week for December 30, 2007 The first episode of The Week features the latest ride of the Eleven Seconds to Midnight Gang, the 1913 Massacre at Calumet's Italian Hall, New Years Eve and coming January events and (of course) a bunch of photos from the Absolute Michigan pool.

Five things you need to know about Michigan for Monday, June 25, 2007 Our special "Geez are we worried about the Great Lakes" edition features talk about invasive species, lake levels and Lake Superior. Also some Detroit Pistons offseason wishes and Traverse City, Michigan, Cherry Capital of the World.

Five Things you need to know about Michigan for Wednesday, June 27, 2007 The Senate's Mark Schauer thinks now might not be a good time for Michigan legislators to take a vacation. Also canoing the Grand River through Lansing, a photo of the Grand River, a visit to Eaton Rapids on the river and Bigfoot (who I guess would drink from the Grand River if thirsty).

Van Buren County, Michigan Van Buren County is billed as Michigan's fruit basket. Check here for information about the history and present day of the county, South Haven, Paw Paw and other places.

Michigan History: They Paid the Highest Price Louis Stepman was lucky. His desperate hold on thin strands of metal was the only thing keeping him from a 400-foot plunge to a watery grave. Two other men who were with him on the construction crew at the Mackinac Bridge were not so lucky.

MCS 7.2.7: Transformers co-star Michigan Central Station Today Transformers opens at screens across the country, and we thought it would be a good idea to give a shout out to the city of Detroit in general, and Detroit's Michigan Central Station in particular. From the history of this Motor City landmark to the cars in the film, it's all in there!

Absolute Michigan Pool - 15,000 photos and growing This morning, practically as I watched, the photodometer on the Absolute Michigan pool on Flickr rolled over to 15,000. The photo from Detroit International River Days maybe wasn't as dramatic as some of the others Connie has added, but it does showcase one of the great things about the group: they bring you real scenes of Michigan.

Shop Michigan: Shout Sister Shout by Steppin' In It and Rachael Davis Shout Sister Shout, the first album by Rachael Davis and Steppin' In It focuses on old-time American Jazz featuring torch swing numbers alongside bluesy ballads.

Michigan History: Soaring Beneath the Bridge U.S. Air Force Captain John S. Lappo had the heart of a jet pilot–skillful, bold and committed. However, the personality traits that served him so well on bombing missions during the Korean War and covert spy-in-the-sky missions over the Soviet Union also grounded him after a playful-but dangerous-stunt that involved the Mackinac Bridge.

Michigan August Event Calendar Including the Grand Haven Coast Guard Festival, Traverse City Film Festival, Sleeping Bear Dunegrass & Blues Festival, Woodtick Music Festival, Lansing Jazz Fest, Michigan Womyn's Music Festival, National Blueberry Festival, Great Lakes Folk Festival, African World Festival, Michigan Renaissance Festival, Cascades Civil War Muster, Detroit International Jazz Festival and more!

Shop Michigan: UP Copper License Plate from Copperland Perfect for letting them know where you're from … or want to be. Copperland is located in Lake Linden, Michigan (Houghton County) and is operated by the Gariepy family. Founder Jake Gariepy worked twenty-eight years as a furnace operator, learned copper-smithing and was a welder on the famous Bishop Baraga Statue.

Michigan: Great Lakes Surfing Capital We've pulled together a collection of Great Lakes surfing videos on our Michigan Station at chime.tv including clips from the movie Unsalted: A Great Lakes Experience by Vince Deur, a visit to Grand Haven by Roxy Get Outside, surfers on the Grand River, and kiteboarding and windsurfing in South Haven.

Video blogging the Michigander Bike Tour Freep.com video columnist Mike Wendland is taking part in the 16th annual Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance Michigander Mountain Bike Tour. Check out The Michigander: Day 1 and follow along all week at Mike Wendland's Blog.

Michigan History: What happened to car ferries at the Straits? Soon after the Mackinac Bridge opened in November 1957, the celebrated structure was taking a toll–and it had nothing to do with vehicles traveling its length. Among those people not excited about the opening of the bridge were the men who operated the car ferries that carried thousands of Michiganians across the Straits of Mackinac.

Blogs We Dig: Michigan Sweet Spot Michigan Sweet Spot shares the secret spots of Northern Michigan with brief passages and big photos, from beautiful barns down dusty dirt roads, to glorious spring forests tucked away on a forgotten trail.

Michigan Eats: Maple Corn Dogs from Fork in the Road Eric Villegas of the popular Michigan cooking show Fork in the Road gives you his spin on fair food with this great recipe for maple corn dogs and also "octopus corn dogs" (sure to be a hit at both kids birthday and Detroit Red Wing watching parties!) Also includes a recipe for soft pretzels!

Shop Michigan: Guglia Zip Hoody from Moosejaw A nice lightweight fitted hoody, even has a man sleuthing around on the back, theJaw Women's Guglia Zip Hoody is made by a great Michigan company. Moosejaw supplies high quality gear from the best brands out there. Not only does Moosejaw have sweet clothes from other companies, they also have their own clothes with cool logos on them. And they love you.

Remembering legendary Michigan outdoorsman Fred Trost The LSJ reports that Fred Trost, longtime host of the popular hunting and fishing show Michigan Outdoors and also the Practical Sportsman, died yesterday.

Two choices Michigan, time to make one Michigan Radio's Jack Lessenberry interviewed political consultant Bill Rustem about what to expect when the Michigan legislature returns from a vacation to address a $2,000,000,000 deficit (that's $2 billion with a big B). It was his Budget Woes essay that grabbed my attention, however.

Shop Michigan: Petoskey Wide Bracelet Top from Becky Thatcher Designs The Petoskey Wide Bracelet Top features Michigan's state stone set in sterling silver and is designed to fit their sterling silver wide bracelet base. They craft magnificent jewelry and have locations in Glen Arbor, Leland, Traverse City and Harbor Springs. You can also shop via webcam and read about jewelry and store events in their blog.

Supreme Court cuts key provision from Michigan Environmental Protection Act In the wake of yesterday's 4-3 decision by the Michigan Supreme Court in Michigan Citizens for Water Conservation vs. Nestle Waters North America, Inc, Dave Dempsey writes: Michigan's future is much more at risk today because of the courtâ€™s attack on Michiganâ€™s constitutionally protected natural resources.â€

Michigan History: The Mackinac Bridge Opens “Mighty Bridge Unifies Michigan” read the headline of the Kalamazoo Gazette on November 1, 1957. Across the state, newspapers agreed that the opening of the Mackinac Bridge was cause for great celebration. Includes a cool photo of Highway Commissioner John Mackie, David Steinman, Governor G. Mennen Williams, Prentiss Brown, Murray Van Wagoner, George Osborn, William Cochran & Lawrence Rubin.

Shop Michigan: Mackinac Bridge 50th Anniversary Posters from the Michigan Department of Transportation Four Mackinac Bridge 50th Anniversary Posters for sale by The Michigan Department of Transportation. Each poster features designs by MDOT artists.

Michigan History: Making money at the Straits BEFORE the Bridge Before the Mackinac Bridge opened in November 1957, the hundreds of people waiting to take a car ferry across the Straits of Mackinac (especially during deer-hunting season) provided an economic bonanza for local residents.

Michigan filmmaker Rich Brauer announces new film Absolute Michigan exclusive video with Michigan filmmaker Rich Brauer announcing his new film (to be shot on Mackinac Island this fall) called Mr. Art Critic. You can learn more about Rich and his feature film work including Frozen Stupid, Barn Red and Escanaba in da Moonlight at Brauer Productions.

Michigan TV Time! Stone Soup Musings has put together Must see TV: Michigan, a great post on recent visits by all kinds of TV shows to Michigan. From the Caledonia Mine in Ontonagon (Best Places To Find Cash and Treasures) to Mythbusters testing the urban legend on whether a jet engine will flip over a cat at Kalitta Air in Oscoda to the filming of Dirty Jobs at the Mackinac Bridge!

Michigan Film: Vacancy by Brandon Walley Rooftop Films and IFC.com are featuring a short film by Detroit filmmaker Brandon Walley called Vacancy. It's a compelling visual exploration of the Detroit's Madison Lenox Hotel and its demolition. Brandon has more films available on his web site including Unified Fields, which won the Best Michigan Filmmaker Award at the 2007 Ann Arbor Film Festival.

Ready to Pick: Michigan Blueberries Blueberries are the latest Ready to Pick feature from Taste the Local Difference. July is National Blueberry Month and Michigan leads the nation in blueberry production, producing 32 percent of the blueberries eaten in the U.S. Includes recipes from the from the Michigan Blueberry Growers Association and Michigan Department of Agriculture (and one for blueberry muffins!).

Michigan September Event Calendar September Event Calendar, includes: the Michigan Renaissance Festival, the Michigan State Fair, the Detroit International Jazz Festival, Arts, Beats, & Eats, The 50th Annual Mackinac Bridge Walk, the Paw Paw Wine and Harvest Festival, the Traverse Epicurean Classic, the Michigan Irish Music Festival, the Victorian Festival, and the Tour de Leelanau.

Michigan raclette cheese named best in North America The Leelanau Cheese Company of Suttons Bay, Michigan beat out more than 1,200 entries to take the "Best of Show" award for their Aged Raclette at the 24th annual American Cheese Society cheese competition. This year's event was the largest cheese competition in U.S. history.

2007 Michigan Wine & Spirits Best of Class It's Best of Show day on Absolute Michigan today. Joel Goldberg over at MichWine has posted the Best of Class winners of the 2007 Michigan Wine & Spirits Competition.

Shop Michigan: 2005 Proprietor's Reserve Trio from Chateau Chantal Winner of a Gold Medal in the 2007 Michigan Wine & Spirits Competition, the 2005 Proprietor's Reserve Trio is Chateau Chantal's version of the Bordeaux blend. It includes varieties of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Pinot Noir, producing a wine that contains plum and boisenberry bouquet with subtle hints of smoke from the French Oak barrels used in the fermentation, a dry full bodied wine.

Shop Michigan: Potato Brats from Nowicki's Sausage Shoppe Featuring Delicious locally made sausages are the best for miles around and in business since 1917, Nowicki's Sausage Shoppe has been making homemade specialties for five generations. In 1979, theycreated the world's longest sausage, totaling 8,773 feet. Featured in the Guinness Book of World Records, Nowicki's Sausage Shoppe will forever be remembered among the great names in really big food.

Blogs We Dig: Our Michigan Our Michigan takes a probing look at hard to comprehend mega-issues like the global financial upheaval, simplifies them, and then explores how they relate to life right here in Michigan. Celeste takes that same skill of simplification and applies it to Michigan's political blogosphere. Speaking of politics, she recently wrote that Gov. Milliken is her new favorite Republican.

Get moving, Michigan with the annual Labor Day Mackinac Bridge Walk This year's walk is the 50th Annual Labor Day Mackinac Bridge Walk. Check the article for links and info (including a virtual Bridge Walk and 88 year-old Clayton Klein, who will join the crossing on his walk from Paradise to Hell.

The Michigan Shout-out page, Book 1 Here's a place for you to post news or comments about pretty much whatever you think is good, bad or noteworthy in Michigan!

Five (spooky) Things you need to know about Michigan Our special Halloween prequel edition of Five Things you need to know about Michigan includes tales of Michigan monsters like the Dog Man (and the great book Weird Michigan), haunted lighthouses, creepy cemeteries and features the web site for the Northville Tunnels. There's also links to Michigan Ghost Hunters to help bail you meddling kids out of trouble!

Labor Day in Michigan (in Pictures) This photo of the Wings of Victory float in the 1942 Detroit Labor Day Parade is just one of a number from the Library of Congress. More on Labor Day in Michigan over at Michigan in Pictures.

Deja vu all over again in Michigan? Why anyone would want to govern Michigan is a wonder. The state has deep-seated economic problems, and it is riven by inter-and intraparty bitterness of a sort to make any Governor look bad... Thus begins a 1962 feature from TIME Magazine titled The Crazy Quilt that the Center for Michigan called out in their last email.

S. S. City of Milwaukee, a Michigan National Historic Landmark The 75 year-old S. S. City of Milwaukee is a Michigan National Historic Landmark that is permanently moored and open to the public May - September as a car ferry museum. It's a fascinating walk-through for all ages that really gives you a sense of the importance of the railroad car ferries and feeling for what it was like to travel and work aboard them. Check here for photos, video and links!

Michigan Irish Festival in Muskegon - September 14-16, 2007 The annual Michigan Irish Music Festival takes place this Friday through Sunday (Sept 14-16) at Heritage Landing in Muskegon. It features an outstanding line-up of music on 3 stages, an Irish Pub, the Irish Market & food vendors, cultural activities, a dance stage for demonstrations & lessons and an Acoustic Tent where patrons can jam with musicians.

Michigan's Famous Landmarks Ann Arbor's landmark is Michigan stadium - We're asking you to let us know about YOUR town or cities famous landmark.

West Michigan Whitecaps: Midwest League Champs! The West Michigan Whitecaps of Grand Rapids, a Class A affiliate of the Detroit Tigers, are the first team to repeat as Midwest League champions in 23 years after an 11-5 victory at Beloit in game five of the Midwest League Championship Series on Saturday. It is the third title in four years for the Whitecaps and the fifth in team history.

Michigan October Event Calendar A sampling of Michigan festivals & events for the month of October including the Red Flannel Festival, Great Lakes Lighthouse Festival, Michigan Story Festival, C. S. Lewis Festival and all kinds of color touring, harvest, music, and (of course) Halloween events!

Shop Michigan: Grey Poncho with Boucle Accents from Oak Grove Alpaca This Grey Poncho with Boucle Accents is hand woven using Michigan alpaca, and a tiny bit of mohair for some color and is warm and soft and perfect for a night around a bonfire. It's from Oak Grove Alpaca - a small alpaca ranch near Howell that is committed to raising world-class Huacaya Alpacas.

Shop Michigan: Hummingbird Nectar Tea (and Chew) from the Light of Day Hummingbird Nectar Tea is a delicious blend of local fruits; organic Montmorency Cherry, organic Hibiscus, organic Blueberry, organic Grape, organic Currant, organic Elderberry. Hummingbird Nectar also includes organic Maple Syrup bits. Light of Day seeks to develop a superior product that honors all those involved in bringing black, green & white teas and herbal tisanes from field to cup.

Michigan Fall Color Tour: The Western Upper Peninsula Ironwood - Silver City - Wakefield, the first Michigan autumn color driving tour from Michigan.org that we're going to try and flesh out as complement to what Travel Michigan has done.

Michigan Fall Color Tour: The Keweenaw Peninsula Checking out mining history and the amazing autumn beauty of Houton, Copper Harbor, Calumet and other towns on the Keweenaw Peninsula and the shores of Lake Superior.

September in Michigan

Michigan's Wine Grape Acreage Continues to Grow A recent report from the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that Michigan's wine grape acreage grew 12% from 2003 to 2006. Wine grape acreage in Michigan has increased 60% over the last 10 years. By far the largest recent vineyard plantings have been riesling; but pinot grigio, pinot noir, cabernet franc and vidal have also shown substantial increases.

Michigan November Event Calendar November highlights include the CS Lewis Festival in Petskey, Sacred Music & Russian Festivals in Kalamazoo, Toast the Season wine tour in Leelanau, Lansing Silver Bells in the City, Battle Creek Festival of Lights, Dutch WinterFest - Holland, Holly Dickens Festival, Detroit Thanksgiving Day Parade and opening day of deer season (it IS a holiday)

Absolute Michigan Autumn Slideshow ... and Fall Wallpaper On such a beautiful fall day it seems almost unnecessary to present the Absolute Michigan photo group's Autumn Slideshow. Maybe you can wait and check it out later! You might also want to check out the Michigan Fall Wallpaper series on Michigan in Pictures to get your desktop in theme with the season!

Michigan Fall Color Tour: The Pictured Rocks Let's jump over to the eastern side of the UP for the next color tour of Munising - Newberry - Grand Marais and the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Check this for photos and all kinds of links for your autumn touring!

Michigan Pumpkins All kinds of information on Michigan pumpkins including recipes and where to pick!

The Center for Michigan asks you to Envision Michigan The Center for Michigan invites you to participate in the Envision Michigan Competition. Share what do you love about Michigan, what you want to see changed or your best vision for Michigan's future in photo, essay or video form. Weekly winners get $50 Meijer gift cards, and finalists share more than $30,000 in college scholarships and Michigan vacations.

Warm weather makes Michigan a little giddy Michigan has experienced a record run of heat, with many places such as Mt. Pleasant shattering their record temps over the last few days. The Detroit News says that yesterday was the latest 90 degree day in Detroit's history and you can read on for a collection of articles on our 'October Summer'.

6% of x? Untangling Michigan's Service Tax We try to make sense out of Michigan's new 6% service tax and sort out what businesses are subject to it and what can be done to make it more fair. We welcome your input.

Blogs We Dig: Michigan Innovators Each post at Michigan Innovators is a video podcasts with innovators who can or have had an impact on Michigan's economy. Two professors at the College of Business at Eastern Michigan University, Diana Wong and Bud Gibson, started the site with hopes that it would become a "highly visible repository of stories that showcase the modern, innovate spirit lurking in the Michigan economy."

Haunted Michigan Haunting highlights from Michigan in honor of the Halloween season including Michigan Haunted Houses, Mazes & Attractions, the Absolute Michigan pool's Haunted Photo Gallery and some great ghost stories and spooky features!

2009 Michigan Haunted Attractions, Corn Mazes & Halloween Guide Be afraid, be very afraid!!! Once again our Fearsome Finder of Frights has compiled a list of haunted houses, corn mazes and scary attractions. Check out our huge list and add ones we've missed!

Michigan Ghost Stories: The Ada Witch Sometimes you can see a misty blue figure floating within a 3-mile radius of the Ada Cemetery near Grand Rapids. Click through for a video recollection.

Michigan Word of the Week: Halloween The word of the week this week is Halloween, and links include Absolute Michigan's Haunted Michigan, our big list of Michigan Haunted Houses, Mazes & Attractions and Halloween fun at Michigan's zoos.

Ready to Pick: Michigan Potatoes! Taste the Local Difference says that potatoes are ready to pick in Michigan. Includes potato recipes, information and links and recipes including a Potato & Roasted Garlic Gratin from Eric Villegas of the Michigan TV show Fork in the Road.

Shop Michigan: Mick Morris Myth Solver #4: Grudge Of The Gremlins! Grudge of the Gremlins is a captivating young adult book in which Mick, Sissy and Nathan are in the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, Michigan at night, "It's creepy and scary being in a museum at night, but even worse when gruesome little gremlins take over.

Michigan Word of the Week: Honey The Word of the Week is honey and Michigan is the 9th leading honey producer. Check this feature out for recipes, information and links about honey and also bees & beekeepers and honey sellers like the Dancing Crane Honey Farm.

Michigan History: Up North with the Hemingways Today, Ernest Hemingway is remembered as a world-famous author - not a young boy tagging along on family vacations. But for the first two decades of his life, "Ernie" was simply a part of a regular family that called northern Michigan home for the summer.

Michigan vs Michigan State Football Rivalry This Saturday the University of Michigan Wolverines travel to play the Michigan State University Spartans at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing. The Wolverines are seeking to take the Paul Bunyan-Governor of Michigan Trophy back to Ann Arbor and we have all kinds of info and ask your prediction!

Shop Michigan: Morning Peppermint Pure Olive Oil and Beeswax Soap from Country Bee Soaps Morning Peppermint soap is part of the Saving Grace line of soaps made specifically for babies. A soothing soap with calming properties is a prefect present for a baby shower or ideal to buy for your own kids.

Weird Michigan: The Rowdy Ghosts of the Fenton Hotel The Fenton Hotel, a former inn-turned-gourmet restaurant in the small, mid-state town of Fenton in Genesee County, is an establishment that prides itself on hanging onto things from its historic past. A special Halloween excerpt from Weird Michigan by Linda S. Godfrey headlines the first of our Absolute Michigan "Weird Wednesdays" !

Absolute Michigan Word of the Week: Shipwreck The word of the week is shipwreck, and all November on Absolute Michigan we'll be featuring tales of the dangerous side of Great Lakes. A staggering 6,000 vessels have been lost to the fury of these inland seas, and approximately 1/3 of those were lost in Michigan waters.

Absolute Michigan at TC Business Expo If you happen to be in the Traverse City area tomorrow (Tuesday, Nov 6) Absolute Michigan will be in the "Tech City" area for the Traverse City Chamber of Commerce Business & Technology Expo and giving away a $500 Absolute Michigan sponsorship. Drop by, say hello and enter to win!

Shop Michigan: Birdseye Maple Photo Albums from Birdseye-Connection The front and back covers of these beautiful photo albums are made of highly polished bird's eye maple from Michigan's Upper Peninsula, bound together with a walnut binder. Nature's Way Woodworking is a small family owned business in Michigan's Upper Peninsula that creates furniture, maple accessories, kitchen items and gifts out of the distinctly whorled birdseye maple.

The Ultimate Sacrifice: Remembering Michigan's Veterans Photo from the Veterans Cemetery in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Please take a pause in your activity this weekend to consider the profound sacrifices that so many have made on the behalf of our nation ... and also that there are people today making those same sacrifices.

Roundup: Opening Day of Michigan deer hunting season Opening day of deer season probably ranks pretty high in the list of Michigan holidays. An estimated 750,000 hunters will purchase licenses for the November 15-30 firearm deer season. Only nine of them will be legislators on their 20 day "deer hunting" recess.

Michigan Word of the Week: Turkey Whether you're hunting for your turkey in the woods or at the grocery store, Absolute Michigan has all you need to know about Michigan turkeys including hunting & purchase information and recipes, links, photos and video.

Michigan December Event Calendar Our listing of Michigan festivals & events for the month of December includes Meijer Gardens' annual display, the Michigan Christmas Show in Novi, Ann Arbor's Christmas Creche Exhibit, Holiday Balloon Fest in Battle Creek, Detroit's Noel Night in Midtown Detroit, Coopersville Santa Train, Holly's Dickens Festival and Victorian Christmas in Manistee

Photo Friday: Tulip Festival - Holland Michigan 2008 by bmg5 day. He has some cool photos sets including this beautiful collection of spring flowers (slideshow), the Coast Guard Fest and the Grand Haven Coast Guard's 50th Anniversary fireworks show. In addition to the sets, he has photos of everything from this amazing shot of the car ferry in Manistee to extremely detailed photos of ketchup.

Shop Michigan: Travel Folding Cribbage Set from Drueke At just under four inches long when folded, the Travel Folding Cribbage Set is great to take on any trip, and it even comes with playing cards. It's a must-have for any cribbage fan. The Drueke Company was founded in 1914 in Grand Rapids, filling the gap left when World War I made it impossible to get European chess boards.

Michigan Word of the Week: Copper The word of the week this week is copper. Native copper is a substance that has a big role in the history of Michigan, especially the Upper Peninsula. Check here for information about copper and copper mining, including the Keweenaw National Historic Park and the Copper Strike of 1913.

Weird Michigan: Antlers Taxidermy Restaurant, Sault Ste. Marie Aficionados of the strange will love being met by a stuffed, two-headed calf rather than the standard one-headed hostess when they enter the Antlers Restaurant on Portage Avenue in Sault Ste. Marie. Another Absolute Michigan "Weird Wednesday"!

Michigan Word of the Week: Skiing Michigan is home to some of the best cross-country & downhill skiing and snowboarding in the Midwest. Absolute Michigan covers all aspects of Michigan skiing with profiles of regions, resorts and trails along with a mountain of photos, video and information about the history and present day skiing experience in Michigan.

Michigan 4th graders ski for free! The Michigan Snowsports Industries Association offers a state-wide "Cold is Cool" Fourth Grade Ski & Ride Passport that provides every fourth grader in Michigan free skiing at many downhill and cross country ski areas in Michigan. Includes information on White Gold Cards for adults that is accepted at 23 ski resorts!

Blogs We Dig: Michigan Ski & Snowboard Blog This blog features articles and updates from resorts all over the state about everything from free skiing days to ski film festivals to ski reports to webcams and photos. One of the coolest things is their events section, which keeps you informed about the latest happenings at Michigan's ski resorts.

Shop Michigan: Mackinac Bridge 50th Anniversary puzzle by Barn House Puzzle Celebrate the Mackinac Bridge's 50th birthday with this Mackinac Bridge 50th Anniversary (1957 - 2007) puzzle from Barn House Puzzle. They also have other Michigan scenes including the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Leland's Fishtown and Traverse City.

Michigan Word of the Week: Toy The word of the week this week is toy. A few of the cool links we found are Down to Earth Toys, the Michigan Toy Soldier Co., the Enerdyne Science & Nature store and the Michigan-based Lionel Train Company. Also think about using one of the many Toys for Tots drop-offs!

Michigan Ski Tour: Upper Peninsula Information about ski areas and ski resorts in Michigan's U.P. Includes some details about each location and links to their web site. The UP offers some of the finest skiing in the Midwest - and (as any Yooper will tell you) tons of snow!

Michigan Ski Tour: Northeast Lower Michigan The next stop on our weeklong Michigan Ski Tour is Northeast Lower Michigan, with the Otsego Ski Club and Treetops Resort of Gaylord who offer new challenges for skiers and snowboarders.

Michigan Ski Tour: Northwest Lower Michigan Northwest Lower Michigan is home to some of Michigan's most well-known ski resorts including big name ski resorts like Boyne, Crystal, Schuss and Nubs along with smaller skiing spots such as Caberfe, the Homestead, Mt Holiday and Snow Snake.

Michigan New Years Eve Happenings We have assembled a list of some of the best New Year's Eve events from across the state including a number from Detroit & Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo's massive New Year's Fest, fireworks and more! Did we get them all? Not likely!! Be sure to add the ones we missed to the comments and be safe while ringing in 2010!

Michigan Ski Tour: Southwest Lower Michigan Skiing, snowboarding & snowtubing opportunities in Southwest Lower Michigan include Bittersweet, Cannonsburg, Pando Winter Sports Park, Swiss Valley & Timber Ridge.

Shop Michigan: Northwest Special Freight Train from Lionel Lionel Model Trains are based right here in Michigan! Check out their Northwest Special Freight Train or - if you're not looking for a train - the Lionel Engineer Hat.

Michigan Ski Tour: Southeast Lower Michigan Our tour of Michigan skiing and snowboarding destinations of SE Michigan stops at Alpine Valley, Apple Mountain, Mt. Brighton, Mt. Holly and Pine Knob.

Michigan Ski Tour: Cross Country Skiing You don't need a lift to have fun with skis at Michigan's nordic skiing destinations including the Cross Country Ski Headquarters, Forbush Corner, Garland Resort, Champion XC Ski Trail and others listed through the Great Lakes Winter Trails Council and State of Michigan.

Michigan Word of the Week: Snow Get out and have fun in the Water Winter Wonderland that is Michigan. Read on for information about what makes snow and what to do with it: snowball fights, snow angels, skiing, snowboarding, sledding, snowmobiling and a whole lot more!

Michigan Ski Tour: Racing, Events & More The last day of our Michigan Ski Tour features Downhill Ski Racing from the Michigan Cup and NASTAR and the North American VASA and White Pine Stampede cross country races. There's also links to the U.S. National Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame and Museum and the Michigan Snowsports Industry Association.

Shop Michigan: Your Downtown As the clock ticks down, shipping times mean you're probably going to have to finish up offline. Locally owned businesses returns approximately 80% of every dollar spent back to the community, so use our shopping listings for a few ideas and then go downtown!

Michigan January Event Calendar A few highlights of the many events being held around Michigan for the month of January. Many are out in the snow for snowmobiles, skates, skis and sled dogs, but there's also a chance to heat up with the Ann Arbor Folk Fest, Ferndale Blues and the Detroit Auto Show.

This week on Absolute Michigan This week we're spending some time enjoying the holiday season, some working on new features for Absolute Michigan and some more just enjoying Michigan's snowy fun. While we do that, we'll let a few of the many talented photographers of the Absolute Michigan group on Flickr take us out of 2007 and into 2008.

Weird Wednesday: Domke's Dinosaur Gardens & Michigan's roadside architecture Debra Jane says that her passions in life are her dogs and roadside architecture. Last summer she visited a number of Michigan's roadside attractions, including Domke's Dinosaur Gardens in Ossineke. She has a lot more photos of Dinosaur Gardens and also some from the now closed Prehistoric Forest in Irish Hills on her Michigan Dinosaurs page.

Absolute Michigan: The Week for January 6, 2008 The second episode of The Week features more from Michigan Notable Books on Alden B Dow and Tyree Guyton's Heidelberg Project, southern Michigan's big snow and a blizzard of photos from the Absolute Michigan pool.

Library of Michigan's 2009 Michigan Notable Books Every year the Library of Michigan selects their Michigan Notable Books, 20 books published over the last year that highlight Michigan history, people, places and events. We will be featuring these books on Absolute Michigan and want you to remember that books make great gifts!

Michigan Books: Alden B. Dow: Midwestern Modern by Diane Maddex The first of the 2008 Michigan Notable Books we're featuring is Alden B. Dow: Midwestern Modern by Diane Maddex that is a tribute to Midland native and nationally renowned architect Alden B. Dow (1904-1983) celebrates his creative and innovative designs for homes, churches, schools and government buildings, as well as his life philosophies of honesty, humility and enthusiasm.

Michigan Books: Connecting the Dots: Tyree Guyton's Heidelberg Project Connecting the Dots: Tyree Guyton's Heidelberg Project from Wayne State University Press features the controversial & remarkable story of an artist's quest to transform his urban Detroit neighborhood.

Michigan Books: Elijah of Buxton by Christopher Paul Curtis Elijah of Buxton was written by Christopher Paul Curtis and published by Scholastic. This story for young adults is set in Buxton, Ontario. In it, Curtis explores the growth and travails of Elijah, a young African-American boy born free in Buxton, who travels into Detroit in search of a thief.

Absolute Michigan: The Week for January 13, 2008 The third episode of The Week features more Michigan Notable Books, author Tom Bissell, the the 2008 Detroit Auto Show and a great iceboating video from our video group, and lots of photos from the Absolute Michigan pool.

Michigan Books: The Father of All Things: A Marine, His Son, and the Legacy of Vietnam by Tom Bissell Today's notable book is the tale of a son's struggle to understand his father's experiences in Vietnam. In the book, Bissell, native of Escanaba, documents his travels with his father John back to Vietnam.

Michigan Books: Fork in the Road with Eric Villegas by Eric Villegas The cookbook Fork in the Road with Eric Villegas by Eric Villegas from Huron River Press is based on chef and restaurateur Eric Villegas's award-winning PBS cooking show, Fork in the Road. It features recipes for traditional, natural, organic and wholesome Michigan cuisine and encourages you to get out and taste some of the Michigan mitten!

Michigan Restaurant profiles In February we'll be focusing on Michigan dining and cooking all month. Every day, we'll profile a Michigan restaurant and we're hoping that you'll recommend some of your favorites!

Michigan Books: From the Vine: Exploring Michigan Wineries by Sharon Kegerreis and Lorri Hathaway From the Vine: Exploring Michigan Wineries by Sharon Kegerreis and Lorri Hathaway is published by the Ann Arbor Media Group. It features winemakers, vineyards and tasting rooms and is the perfect way to discover the unique wineries and wines using insider information and travel information.

Michigan Bookstores: Southwest Michigan Southwest Michigan is the first stop on our tour of Michigan's great new and used bookstores and we profile booksellers in rand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Montague, Mason, Coldwater and other locations.

Michigan Books: Iggy Pop: Open Up and Bleed by Paul Trynka Iggy Pop: Open Up and Bleed by Paul Trynka from Broadway Books profiles Ann Arbor born "Godfather of Punk" - the front man for The Stooges, a band that was instrumental in the development punk, glam and New Wave.

March is Home Month on Absolute Michigan All month Absolute Michigan will be featuring historic Michigan houses, home & home design blogs, green building and other new trends in construction and redevelopment, and some of the great neighborhoods across the state for buying and renting. Home improvement, interior design and a look at Michigan's real estate markets are also planned!

Northwest Michigan Bookstores We head north from Southwest Michigan to check out some of the bookstores around Northwest Michigan. As usual, we miss some great ones, but that's OK because you'll post comments and let us know about those we overlooked - at least that's how I wrote it in my head!

Michigan Books: Mackinac Bridge: A 50-Year Chronicle, 1957- 2007 by Mike Fornes Mackinac Bridge: A 50-Year Chronicle, 1957- 2007 by Mike Fornes (Cheboygan Tribune Printing Co.) honors the 50th anniversary of the Mighty Mac with details of day-to-day life on the bridge that united Michigan's two peninsulas and became a symbol of the Great Lakes State.

"My Brave Mechanics:" The First Michigan Engineers and Their Civil War by Mark Hoffman Today we take a look at "My Brave Mechanics:" The First Michigan Engineers and Their Civil War by Mark Hoffman (Wayne State University Press). The book tells the story of the 1st Michigan Engineers and Mechanics through letters, diaries, regimental records, and local newspaper accounts.

Northeast Michigan Bookstores Northeast Michigan is the next stop on or bookstore tour with stores in Mackinac Island, Mackinaw City and Gaylord - add ones we missed!

Michigan Books: One Thousand Tracings: Healing the Wounds of World War II by Lita Judge One Thousand Tracings: Healing the Wounds of World War II by Lita Judge (Hyperion Books for Children) is the story of Judge's mother and grandmother, set during World War II in Pinckney. The book is illustrated with a combination of paintings, collages of original photographs, and foot tracings.

New Posting Schedule for Absolute Michigan For the last 3 years, we've tried to publish everything first thing in the morning. As our staff (and the internet) has grown, we find ourselves wanting to spread that posting time out to take advantage of those odd moments during the day and also to post shorter articles.

Michigan Books: Paper Tiger: One Athlete's Journey to the Underbelly of Pro Football by Ted A. Kluck Paper Tiger: One Athlete's Journey to the Underbelly of Pro Football by Ted A. Kluck (Lyons Press) employs humor and the behind-the-scenes style of journalism pioneered in George Plimpton's classic Paper Lion. In the book, Kluck details his season as a long snapper with the Battle Creek Crunch of the Great Lakes Indoor Football League.

Southeast Michigan Bookstores We found a bunch of great bookstores for Detroit, Ann Arbor and other locations across Southeast Michigan, but we know there's many more booksellers we're missing many more - click through and add them in the comments!

2008 Michigan Sports Hall of Fame Induction The Michigan Sports Hall of Fame 53rd Annual MSHOF Induction Ceremony takes place on Monday, February 11, 2008 at the Max M. Fisher Music Center on Woodward in Detroit. Read on for information about the class of 2007!

Michigan Books: A Primer on Parallel Lives by Dan Gerber Our latest Michigan Notable Book is A Primer on Parallel Lives by Dan Gerber (Copper Canyon Press). It is Gerber's seventh book of poetry and explores his fears and doubts as a youth growing up in western Michigan.

Absolute Michigan: The Week for January 20, 2008 The latest episode of the week is also the last for a while. We'll still be doing video though so stay tuned! We do have a cut from Brian Vander Ark's forthcoming album "Brian Vander Ark" and photos from the Absolute Michigan pool.

Michigan Books: The Red Parts: A Memoir by Maggie Nelson The Red Parts: A Memoir by Maggie Nelson (Free Press) is the story of the killing of Jane Mixer - Ms. Nelson's aunt - and its impact on her family. The crime was originally considered one of the famous "Michigan Murders" that occurred in Ann Arbor in the 1960s.

Michigan Roadside Attraction Stories, Photos & Souvenirs sought Another (Michigan) Roadside Attraction over at Michigan in Pictures has all the details on a call for stories, pictures and artifacts from Michigan tourist traps and attractions for an exhibit by the Michigan Historical Museum.

Michigan Books: Returning to Earth by Jim Harrison Returning to Earth by Jim Harrison (Grove Press) is Harrison's ninth novel. It's the tale of Donald Burkett, a 45-year-old, terminally ill Chippewa-Finnish man who is determined to chronicle his family's history before he dies.

Michigan Books: Sailing Grace by John Otterbacher Sailing Grace by John Otterbacher (Samadhi Press) is the story of former Michigan legislator John Otterbacher of Grand Rapids surmounting the challenges of 8 heart surgeries in 8 months by sailing across the Atlantic with his family to Ireland.

Michigan Authors: Ernest Hemingway Ernest Miller Hemingway - American novelist, short-story writer and journalist. Hemingway adopted his father's outdoorsman hobbies of hunting, fishing and camping in the woods and lakes of Northern Michigan and our Hemingway page seeks to connect you more with his Michigan ties.

Michigan Books: The Sound the Stars Make Rushing Through the Sky: The Writings of Jane Johnston Schoolcraft edited by Robert Dale Parker The Sound the Stars Make Rushing Through the Sky: The Writings of Jane Johnston Schoolcraft edited by Robert Dale Parker (University of Pennsylvania Press) brings to the public for the first time the complete writings of the first known American Indian literary writer, Jane Johnston Schoolcraft

April Michigan Event Calendar Spring has sprung! That means it's time to get out and enjoy the many things to do in and around Michigan during the month of April. Did we get them all? Not likely!! Add ones we missed (with links) in the comments! Click on in and see what's going on around the Great Lakes State!

Michigan Books: Write It When I'm Gone: Remarkable Off-the-Record Conversations With Gerald R. Ford by Thomas M. DeFrank The book includes years of private conversations with President Gerald R. Ford on a variety of topics. DeFrank, a Newsweek correspondent, reveals a different side of President Ford through his thoughts on today's political landscape including candid comments and about notable figures like Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, Dick Cheney and others.

Michigan Books: Stealing Buddha's Dinner: A Memoir by Bich Minh Nguyen Stealing Buddha's Dinner: A Memoir by Bich Minh Nguyen (Viking) is - according to the author's web site - a story of a Vietnamese girl coming of age in the 1980s in Grand Rapids, Michigan who is filled with a rapacious hunger for American identity, a desire that turns into a passion for America food.

February Michigan Event Calendar Our Michigan February Event Calendar shows that the more the weather tries to keep us holed up inside, the more ways we find to get out and have fun!! Of course, there's still many, many more and we invite you to fill us in on other February events in the comments section.

Michigan Authors: Bruce Catton Bruce Catton (Oct 9, 1899 - Aug 28, 1978) was a journalist and a notable historian of the American Civil War. He won a Pulitzer Prize for history in 1954 for A Stillness at Appomattox. Born in Petoskey, Michigan and raised in Benzonia, his experiences in this Northern Michigan village formed the basis for his book Waiting for the Morning Train

Michigan Books: Sweety Pies: An Uncommon Collection of Womanish Observations, with Pie by Patty Pinner Sweety Pies: An Uncommon Collection of Womanish Observations, with Pie by Patty Pinner (Taunton Press) was written by a Saginaw native Patty Pinner who gathered 70 prized pie recipes from the women in her life and also stories from each.

Michigan Authors: Gloria Whelan Gloria Whelan was born in Detroit and has written poetry, two novels, a short story collection and over 30 works of historical and contemporary fiction for children and young adults. Her book Homeless Bird received the National Book Award for Best Book for Young Adults. She lives on Oxbow Lake near Mancelona in northern Michigan.

Michigan Books: Up in Honey's Room by Elmore Leonard Up in Honey's Room by Elmore Leonard (William Morrow) is set in Detroit in 1945. U.S. Marshal Carl Webster hopes to use the free-spirited Honey Deal to track down a pair of escaped German POW's hiding out with Honey's ex-husband, Walter (a dead ringer for Himmler).

Book-related Michigan Festivals & Events Our list of Michigan Festivals, Events and other happenings that feature books, authors and writers includes the Michigan Antiquarian Book & Paper Show, Ann Arbor Book Festival, Bear River Writers' Conference, Kerrytown BookFest, CS Lewis Festival and the Great Michigan Read!

February is Dining Month on Absolute Michigan For the month of February, we'll be focusing on dining in Michigan. Starting Monday, we'll be offering daily profiles of restaurants and featuring noted chefs, Michigan cookbooks, culinary festivals and food blogs.

Michigan Restaurants: Yesterdog in Grand Rapids Yesterdog is located in Eastown, one of the most popular places to visit when in Grand Rapids. The Hot Dogs - Yesterdog, Cheddardog, Ultradog, Krautdog and Veggiedog - are made right in front of your eyes, so you can see all of the action before sitting down to get sloppy!

The Absolute Michigan Pool Tune into the amazing photos of all facets of Michigan in the Absolute Michigan pool with this slideshow!

Michigan Restaurants: Rosie's Diner in Rockford, Michigan Rosie's is "the original queen of diners and the most famous diner in the world." Their menu features lots of what you want from a diner: burgers, sandwiches (even fried egg and bologna), fried chicken, meatloaf, hand-dipped shakes and malts and even diner-made pies.

Michigan Restaurants: The Fleetwood Diner in Ann Arbor, Lansing & Kentwood Food at the Fleetwood Diner is, as one might expect, no-frills, hot as blazes and delicately flavored with whatever else has been on the grill all day. Eggs, bacon, burgers the way you want them, greasy fries, BLTs, tuna sandwiches and the Fleet's most famous meal, Hippie Hash!

Michigan Neighborhoods: Heritage Hills in Grand Rapids Heritage Hill has 1,300 homes that date from 1848 and representing over 60 architectural styles. Click through for photos, history and information.

Michigan Restaurants: Golden Harvest in Lansing For more than 40 years, people from all over Lansing have started their day at the Golden Harvest Restaurant in Lansing's Old Town. Try the Breakfast Special, omelets, waffles or pancakes as big as the plate! They also serve lunch and you can choose from hamburgers, meatloaf or roast beef and mashed potatoes - all under $6!

Michigan Diners & Hometown Favorites The first stops on our month-long tour of Michigan restaurants were diners, breakfast joints and hometown favorites. We picked four of Michigan's most notable and now we need you to tell us about all the rest!

Michigan Restaurants: Clara's of Battle Creek & Lansing Clara's on the River sits on the waterfront in Battle Creek and occupies the historic Michigan Central Railroad Depot (1888) and Clara's Lansing station is at the Michigan Central Railroad Depot. The menu at both restaurants features a diverse sampling of American and international dishes.

Michigan Restaurants: Harbor Haus in Copper Harbor Good service, outstanding and imaginative food, and a fabulous view of the harbor from all tables make the Harbor Haus in Copper Harbor one of Michigan's most memorable restaurants - "in a class by itself," as one fan says. Owner-chef Ron Waara has developed an eclectic menu with a number of German favorites.

Michigan Restaurants: Zehnder's of Frankenmuth Zehnder's of Frankenmuth is America's largest family restaurant and serves about a million diners a year. Their menu features all-you-can-eat family style chicken dinners, Old World classics like Black Forest pork chops, Barvarian sausage and Pan Fried Pork Schnitzel with Wild Forest Mushrooms and a variety of seafood, steaks, fresh baked goods and European desserts.

Happy Valentine's Day, Michigan! Along with the ducks, clouds, leaves and even the deer are getting into the holiday spirit. If you want to get your Valentine on, check out Absolute Michigan keyword Valentine for food & gift ideas.

Michigan Restaurants: The Bluebird of Leland Since 1927 the Bluebird has been the gathering place for locals and tourists alike. They have long been known for the finest whitefish and perch in Northern Michigan and also seek the finest steaks and the freshest, flown-in seafood along with their own fresh pasta and baked goods.

Credit crisis looming for Michigan students? Today's Detroit News reports that the state of Michigan has suspended the MI-LOAN student loan program indefinitely. With programs like MI-LOAN unavailable, more and more students will need to turn to more expensive lenders.

Michigan Casual & Family Restaurants This week we picked four of Michigan's notable casual & family restaurants, but we know there are a whole ton more great places across the state that we didn't include. That's where you come in! Post a comment about your favorite casual restaurants, tell us why you like them and include links!

Photo Friday: Michigan Regional Ski Championships by FB Photography John has several photos from yesterday's Michigan Regional Ski Championships at Alpine Valley in White Lake. His sets include Winter Sports, Equestrian and Scenic.

Michigan Brewers Guild Winter Beer Festival The 3rd Annual Michigan Brewers Guild Winter Beer Festival is scheduled for next Saturday, February 23, 2008. It's an outdoor celebration of Michigan Beer featuring 25 of Michigan's finest breweries and over 150 varieties of Michigan-brewed craft beer.

Michigan Restaurants: Five Lakes Grill in Milford For more than a decade, Five Lakes Grill has ranked as one of the nation's most respected restaurants. Chef Brian Polcyn and his staff create an extraordinary experience that combines the innovative culinary talents of his well-trained staff with a menu based on the freshest ingredients, including the best locally grown and produced foods.

Michigan Restaurants: Tapawingo in Ellsworth Chef and owner Harlan "Pete" Peterson Chef-Owner, Executive Chef Jeremy Kittelson and Master Sommelier Ron Edwards have garnered national recognition for their work at Tapawingo and also offer cooking classes in the fall and even culinary tours to Europe in the winter with Chef Pete.

Michigan Restaurants: Dusty's Wine Bar in Okemos Dusty's Wine Bar in Okemos is nationally recognized for its Contemporary American cuisine with a "New World" flair and features an award winning wine list served in a relaxed "Wine Bar"-Bistro atmosphere.

The Lunar Eclipse in Michigan Erich titled this photo Sparty and the Moon. There's a number of great photos of last night's lunar eclipse at the eclipse tag in the Absolute Michigan pool and many more at Total Lunar Eclipse of February 20, 2008 on Michigan in Pictures.

Michigan Restaurants: The Whitney in Detroit Billed as "An American Restaurant in an American Palace", The Whitney is located on Woodward Avenue in an 1894 mansion. They specialize in beef, fish, seafood, lamb and veal with an award-winning wine cellar that features a robust selection of Michigan wines.

Michigan Fine Dining Restaurants This week we looked at four of the many great fine dining establishments in Michigan and we're hoping you will tell us about some of your favorites.

Michigan Restaurants: Legs Inn of Cross Village The Legs Inn is a "monument to nature" built on a high bluff overlooking Lake Michigan by Polish immigrant, Stanley Smolak. The restaurant is still run by the Smolak family and their specialty is authentic Polish cuisine like Hunter's stew, Goulash, Pierogi, Schnitzel and Kotlet.

Michigan History: The Tri-Motor Conquers the South Pole Six hours into their flight, the four explorers aboard the Floyd Bennett, a specially equipped Ford Tri-Motor airplane, stared at the mountain range ahead, blocking their way. Includes photos and videos of this amazing feat and a remarkable aircraft!

Michigan Restaurants: Blue Nile Ethiopian Restaurant in Ann Arbor and Ferndale Blue Nile Ethiopian Restaurant offers a unique dining experience with food is naturally low fat due to preservation issues and their menu includes poultry, lamb, beef and a wide range of vegetarian dishes. They also feature a full bar, the spicy teas of the country and (of course) Ethiopian Coffee!

Michigan March Event Calendar Our Michigan event calendar for the month of March features all kinds of signs that spring is just around the corner ... with some reminders that objects around the corner may be further off than they appear.

Michigan Restaurants: Travelers Club International Restaurant & Tuba Museum of Okemos The menu at "the Tuba" represents authentic cuisine of their Latin, Asian, and Middle-Eastern staples and the regions from Eastern Europe to the Caribbean to Africa to the Mediterranean that are featured in their monthly specials.

Michigan Restaurants: Saffron in Kalamazoo Saffron in Kalamazoo features authentic Northwest frontier Indian Cuisine with items including Samosas, Tandoori-Sensational Chicken, Shrimp Karahi Masala, Lamb Jhalfrazi and a blistering Vegetable Vindaloo.

Michigan Ethnic Restaurants We profiled four great Michigan ethnic restaurants this week but how many did we miss? Probably close to a bazillion - help us (and them) out and give a shout out to your favorite ethnic restaurants in Michigan in the comments!

Michigan Historic Homes: Governor's Residences There are two official Governor's Residences in the state of Michigan. One is in Lansing and the other, a summer residence, is on Mackinac Island. Both residences are owned by the state of Michigan and are maintained with private donations.

929 Faces of Michigan Ice The photo is Holland State Park Sunset by jbatts is one of several he took there on March 1st. It's one of (at least) 929 photos of "ice" that have been added to the Absolute Michigan pool on Flickr. Click through to see the Ice Slideshow in the Absolute Michigan Pool!

Michigan Historic Homes: The Pickle Barrel House Two huge barrels make up this unique and much-loved Grand Marais landmark that has been restored and opened back up as a museum. The house was built for William Donahey creator of the Teenie Weenie comic cartoon feature by a grocery distributor grateful for the attention that the Teenie Weenies brought to its advertisements and products.

Michigan Historic Homes: Voigt House The Voigt House is an elegant and perfectly preserved Victorian mansion was built for Carl G. A. Voigt in 1895. The house was designed by eminent local architect William G. Robinson and is furnished opulently with original possessions of the Voigt Family.

A Michigan Home Photo Gallery A slideshow of photos from our A Michigan Home group that show what a Michigan home is from a variety of perspectives.

Michigan Music: Robin Lee Berry sings Ahna, Kick a Hole in the Sky Robin is a songwriter from northern Michigan and is joined by members of the EarthWorkMusic.com community, including Seth Bernard, "Daisy" May Erlewine, Michael Erlewine, Rachel Davis, Darlene, Andrea Moreno-Beals, Micah Middaugh, Dominic Suchyta and Ruby Williams. Includes link to Michael Erlewine videos including a bunch the Prime Movers Blues Band with Iggy Pop.

Michigan Historic Homes: Russell A. Algers House - The Moorings Russell A. Alger, Jr., (1773-1930) son of Michigan's Governor Russell Alger and one of the founders of the Packard Motor Car Company, built this Italian Renaissance style mansion in 1910.

Michigan Historic Homes: Wing House Museum of Coldwater This impressive Second Empire style home with mansard roof sheathed in tin was constructed in 1875 for Jay Chandler and his young bride Frances. Lucius M. Wing: Civil War captain, county sheriff, and prominent businessman, purchased this residence in 1882.

Ice Climbing and the Michigan Ice Fest The Chicago Sun-Times has a cool feature on ice climbing and the annual Michigan Ice Fest. The Ice Fest is held in Munising (home to over 100 climbable waterfalls) and celebrated its 25th anniversary this year.

Michigan Neighborhoods: Kalamazoo's Historic District The homes in the neighborhoods of Stuart, West Main Hill and South Street in Kalamazoo feature a variety of architectural styles examples here from the the turn of the century. The most popular of these are Queen Anne and Renaissance style, but there are Italian, Gothic and Greek influences as well.

Michigan Historic Homes: Kaleva Bottle House Museum This home was built by John J. Makinen, Sr. using over 60,000 bottles laid on their sides with the bottoms toward the exterior. Most of the bottles were from his own company, The Northwestern Bottling Works.

Michigan Video: Iceboating on Elk Lake Jack & Kelly added this video of ice boating on Elk Lake from March 6, 2008 to the Absolute Michigan group on YouTube. If you have a Michigan video to share, you can do the same! They have a lot more ice boating videos on their YouTube page and also run the Michigan Iceboat group.

Michigan Historic Homes: Loren Andrus House Made with bricks that Loren Andrus himself made with local clay, the Andrus house is Michigan's most elaborate remaining example of the Octagon form, considered by many to be the first pure American housing style.

When Carl Sandburg Called Michigan Home Renowned author Carl Sandburg loved Lake Michigan. In many ways, it influenced his writing. From 1928 until 1945, Sandburg and his family, which included three daughters, called Michigan home. During these years, he lived in the sand dunes in the southwestern Lower Peninsula (near Harbert).

Absolute Michigan Sponsor: Apollo Alliance The Apollo Alliance is a coalition of business, labor, environmental, and community leaders working to catalyze a clean energy revolution in America.

Absolute Michigan sponsor: ArtServe Michigan ArtServe Michigan is a statewide arts and cultural advocacy organization that seeks to support, strengthen and build awareness of arts, culture and creativity in Michigan. This Wednesday is their annual Arts & Culture Advocacy Day.

Michigan Historic Homes: Old Victoria Mining Village The picturesque ghost town of Old Victoria is one of the first sites ever mined for copper in the new world. Four buildings have so far been restored, two boarding houses, a single family dwelling, and a bachelors and others are in the midst of reconstruction in a location formerly called Finn Town.

Michigan History: Harriet's Daring Flight Born near Manistee, Michigan, on May 11, 1875, Harriet Quimby was always ready for a challenge. One of her biggest came on April 16, 1912 when she flew across the English Channel.

Michigan Historic Homes: Whaley Historical House Museum in Flint This handsome Victorian home was built in the late 1850s and added to by Robert J. Whaley, who purchased it in 1884. A banker, Whaley's 1886 loan to the Flint Road Cart Company eventually led to the creation of General Motors in 1908.

April is Garden Month on Absolute Michigan In just over a week, we'll turn our focus on Absolute Michigan to gardens and gardening with features on some of Michigan's great botanical gardens, nurseries and greenhouses, garden-themed events and profiles of native Michigan plants. Also check out the Garden slideshow from our photo group!

Harvest, Michigan's first commercial wind farm starts spinning John Deere Wind Energy is now producing energy at Harvest, the state's first commercial wind farm. The 3,200 acre installation has 32 windmills in Huron County's Oliver and Chandler townships. Harvest has a total capacity of about 53 megawatts, enough to power more than 15,000 homes.

Absolute Michigan Sponsor: Handy Connections Handy Connections is based in Rochester Hills, Michigan, and was founded by folks with experience in the construction industry to help Michigan residents locate quality service professionals for any home repair or remodeling project.

Weird Wednesday: Michigan UFO Sightings Michigan is full of UFOs and Weird Michigan has sent over one of the many reported UFO sightings they have received. We add some great historical accounts of the flying saucer uproar of March, 1966 in Hillsdale and Dexter Michigan.

Marquette, Michigan - 'Paradise Found' Marquette has been named one of the top 200 places in the U.S. for sportsmen and women to put their roots down in the April edition of Outdoor Life magazine. The city was #7 on a list that rated access to public areas for quality hunting and fishing, economically viability of the region and hospitality of the towns. (feature includes a great video too!)

Michigan March Madness! The Michigan State University and University of Michigan's women's basketball teams square off in the 4th round of the Women's National Invitational Tournament at the Breslin Center on Sunday. Also info about tonight's NCAA tourney matchup between MSU & Memphis. Go green, white, maize and blue!

Building Green in Michigan When the topic of 'green building' comes up many still think of images such as earthships, built from recycled materials including used tires. Today green buildings appear much like any other home or building. They are designed to save money, use energy and water efficiently, reduce waste and create over all healthier environments for living and working.

Canadian Freeze Ray wreaks havok on Michigan Our April 1st Special Report finds residents of the Straits area & Detroit stunned to find the Mackinac Bridge and the Renaissance Center mysteriously encased in huge blocks of ice. Read on for the shocking story, which even includes Kwame Brown & text messages, making it technically news.

April is 'Michigan Wine Month' and we are giving away wine trail event tickets Wine takes center stage this month with Governor Granholm proclaiming April 'Michigan Wine Month'. Michigan's wine industry has become an important addition to our economy and is increasingly grabbing the attention of wine lovers everywhere. Click on in to learn more and also to win tickets to a spring wine trail event in Leelanau county!

Breaking Barriers in Michigan As a young journalist in the early 1940s, Roberta "Bobbie" Applegate covered sports, police activities and trials at a time when most middle-class women rarely worked outside of the home. If women went into journalism, they were restricted to women's sections that typically featured the traditional role of women: family, fashion, food and furnishings.

Michigan plants: Jack-in-the-pulpit The Jack-in-the pulpit is a stemless plant that grows throughout Michigan in both open and dense woods, and occasionally in fields and pastures bordering woods. Arisaema triphyllum is also known as Bog onion, Brown dragon, Indian turnip, Wake robin or Wild turnip.

Absolute Michigan Editorial Calendar On Absolute Michigan we try and bring you content that helps you enjoy the great state of Michigan in every season. Check here for information on past, current and future monthly features.

Discussing Michigan farming & agritourism Interlochen Public Radio's Points North program recently spoke with Michigan Department of Agriculture Director Donald Koivisto about many aspects of farming in Michigan like biofuels and value added agriculture along with challenges to farming operations like food safety, water withdrawals, re-zoning and taxes on farms and availability of migrant labor.

Michigan Plants: Pink Lady's Slipper The Pink Lady's Slipper is a large, showy wildflower belonging the the orchid family. The heavily veined, deeply cleft pouch of this wild orchid is a distinctive characteristic of this species. Because this plant has an extremely long life cycle, the harvest of wild lady's slipper is often not sustainable and in Michigan it is not only illegal to pick but also to move.

The Michigan Shoutout page The Michigan shout-out page is a place for you to post local events that our readers should check out, helpful advice for travelers from near and far, a favorite Michigan band or gallery and comments about pretty much whatever. Shout out, Michigan!

Absolute Michigan Sponsor: Earthwork Music One of our major sponsors is Earthwork Music, a group of fine and creative folks who believe in the power of music. Check their site for plenty of music to listen to and buy, performance schedules and information about the many talented musicians and artists who are a part of Earthwork.

Make it a Michigan Vacation in 2008! With forecasts for the 2008 Michigan Tourism industry down, maybe it's time to look for a local solution as part of our travel marketing strategy.

Michigan Plants: Trillium The most common species of trillium in Michigan is Trillium Grandiflorum or the Large-flowered Trillium. This plant has a large, often white three-petaled flower above three broad bracts that look like leaves.

Arresting Michigan ... web sites that is Although Michigan's prison spending is hot topic these days, this post refers to the Arresting Site or Blog of the Month, a new feature highlighting blogs & web sites with a Michigan theme or connection from The Pulice Report.

May is Travel Month on Absolute Michigan We at Absolute Michigan have opted to see what we can do to help encourage folks from in and out of Michigan to help fight depression, boredom and having to cut the grass this summer with a Michigan vacation. Suggest and learn about Michigan getaways, day trips and places to experience here!

Wildflower Rescue in Michigan In Michigan, the number of native plants being buried under bulldozers is decreasing, thanks to the efforts of the Cranbrook Wildflower Rescue Committee in southern Michigan and the Leland Wildflower Rescue in northern Michigan.

Earth Day in Michigan It's an Earth Day explosion! Read about how Michigan is celebrating and living Earth Day ... and add some thoughts of your own.

Michigan Plants: Dutchman's Breeches The Dutchman's Breeches has delicate, fernlike foilage with unique blooms that resemble white pantaloons hanging upside down upon their arched stems. This dainty plant is wonderful in woodland or shade gardens and can often be found in the wild growing tucked into root flares of large trees.

From the Vine: Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail As part of our celebration of Michigan Wine Month, we'll be (re)featuring excerpts on each of Michigan's wine trails from the Michigan Notable Book award-winning From the Vine: Exploring Michigan Wineries. Today we present the Wineries of the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail (Lake Michigan Shore and Fennville AVAs)

Tulip Time in Holland, Michigan Holland's annual Tulip Time celebration starts this Saturday (May 3, 2008) and continues through May 10. It's grown to be one of the largest flower festivals in the country and features plenty of tulips, music, parades and celebrations and explorations of Holland's Dutch heritage including Klompen dancing.

Michigan's Humongous Fungus It's probably fitting that we close out Garden Month with the largest lifeform in Michigan: The Humongous Fungus. It is believed to be 1,500 to 10,000 years old and weigh about 100 tons - about the same as an adult blue whale!

May Michigan Event Calendar Our May calendar is packed full diverse events. It is a sign of much more to come for the Great Lakes State in 2010 and we like to think of May as a bridge to all that fun! "An optimist is the human personification of spring." - Susan J. Bissonette

Call for Artists: Honoring Michigan's Downtowns On September 15-16, 2009 Lansing will host the 2009 Michigan Downtown Conference. The conference organizers are seeking an exceptional, hand-crafted, Michigan-made award to reflect the positive image of our determined downtowns.

Arresting Site for May 2008: Michigan Innovators Tim Pulice's Pulice Report blog has announced the Arresting Site of the Month for May 2008. Who is it? Read on for the answer!

Michigan morels and the Boyne City Mushroom Festival Morel season is just around the corner in Michigan, and the biggest celebration of this woodland wonder is the annual Boyne City National Morel Mushroom Festival (May 14-17, 2009). Check the article out for all kinds of festival and morel information including recipes, photos and tons of links!

Dig Michigan: Sleeping Bear Dunes Explore the natural and cultural landscape of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: hiking, biking, boating, swimming, camping, lodging and lots and lots of photos, maps & links!

Michigan History: Jammin' in Jackson Held in August 1970, the Goose Lake festival was similar to the more famous outdoor concert near Woodstock, New York, that took place a year earlier. Some reports said 200,000 people attended the three-day outdoor concert near Jackson, Michigan.

Michigan travel incentives in response to gas prices Gas is all over the news after another all time high of $3.84 per gallon last week. Check this article out for a list of gas cards and other incentives being offered in Michigan!

Michigan Asparagus is Ready to Pick! Taste the Local Difference says that asparagus is ready to pick! It's a fast-growing member of the lily family that can grow as quickly as 10 inches in one day! Michigan ranks third in the nation for asparagus production and you can read much more, check out asparagus recipes and links including