I don't know about you, but that hole in the St. Clair River makes me really nervous...

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.

Rocks Proposed to Slow St. Clair Leak
The London Free Press (Ontario, Canada) reports that the Georgian Bay Association (a Great Lakes advocacy organization) recommends dumping rocksinto the St. Clair River at Sarnia would help to slow the loss of water that has been lowering the level of Lake Huron. An eroded hole at the bottom of the river (see yesterday's story) is suspected to be the cause of lowered water levels in Lake Huron & Lake Michigan.

Ski Areas Close to Metro Detroit & Ski Voucher
The Detroit Free Press has a great rundown on ski areas that are close to the metro Detroit area. They also point you to the Michigan Snowsports Industries Association where you can print out a voucher good at most Michigan ski areas for lesson, lift ticket and equipment ($30 for adults and $20 for children ages 7-14, good until Jan 31, 2005).
Michigan Snowsports Industries Association web site

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.

Saginaw Snowshoer to Trek over 600 Miles
WOOD-TV (Grand Rapids) reports that a one-legged Saginaw County man with a weak heart is trying to trek 660 miles around the state on snowshoes. Doug Finkbeiner started his hike January 15th.

Read More (external link) »