Freep columnist Dawson Bell has nothing against Mackinac, but he wonders why state budget-cutters skipped over Mackinac State Historic Parks.

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.
Also see this Nolan Finley editorial: Attitude may make Michigan the new Mississippi

Mr. Gates Goes to Detroit
Detroit Free Press technology writer Mike Wedland has a feature on the visit of Bill Gates to the Motor City and Detroit's auto industry. Gates spoke to over 400 auto industry executives about how Microsoft software could make cars more convenient, safer, easier to maintain and fun to drive. Gates also gave a million dollars to the Henry Ford for a new exhibit on the evolution of technology.

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.
Sign up for the Great Lakes IT Report

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).

Antrim County Struggles with Anchor Business Troubles
The Traverse City Record-Eagle has a report on community concerns after last month's closing of the Second Chance body armor plant in Central Lake and uncertainty over Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire after its recent foreclosure. The story is a common one in Michigan right now...

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