Hybrid vehicle sales grew 81% in 2004 and the Detroit News has a list of the top 15 states for hybrid vehicle registrations. Let's see, Michigan is number ... well, we're not on the list.

Winter Returns, Not Welcomed by Farmers & Gardeners
Michigan received an unwelcome encore of winter this weekend as over a foot of snow fell in the northern Thumb and 10-13 inches in Detroit's northern suburbs. The late-April cold could damage farm crops, destroy spring blooms and slow the growing season and has farmers & gardeners playing the wait-and-worry game.
Also see Wintry blast throws curve at farmers in the LSJ

Alternative Energy Conference Energizes the Blue Water Area
The Port Huron Times-Herald reports that organizers of a symposium on alternative forms of vehicle fuel and electricity achieved their goal. Renewable energy has been a buzz topic in light of escalating gas prices & concerns about fossil-fuel supplies and the area is feeling it has the potential to attract businesses interested in alternative energy.

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.
Visit Lyons Press site for Beast of Never, Cat of God book information

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!).
Sign up for the Great Lakes IT Report

Governor Issues Energy Efficiency Directive
Last Friday, in recognition of Earth Day, Governor Granholm issued an executive directive designed to make Michigan government more energy efficient and save tax dollars in energy costs. The order directs the Department of Management and Budget (DMB) to reduce energy use in all state-owned and operated buildings 10 percent by 2008, and to reduce grid-based state energy purchases 20% by 2015.

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