Dot.com kids don't graduate computer-savvy (Detroit News), warns that despite the ubiquity of computers and internet in public schools, college students are not majoring in computer science.

Great Lakes Governors Release Revised Water Proposals
The Toledo Blade reports that Annex 2001 (revised proposals regarding future Great Lakes diversion & bulk water export) was released for public comment last week by the Council of Great Lakes Governors. The proposals included a ban on diversions and more authority at the state and provincial level for decisions affecting water usage.
Council of Great Lakes Governors web site (Comment on the proposals)

Republicans Target Teacher Benefits
The Detroit Free Press reports that House Republicans want to change a statewide teacher retirement plan from a traditional pension, with a set monthly payment, to a 401(k)-style plan for newly hired teachers, similar to what most state employees receive. Republicans also are targeting health care for school employees. This is expected to generate a major reaction from the teachers' union.

UP Rural Electricity Rates May Increase
The Mining Journal reports that rural customers in five Upper Peninsula counties (Marquette, Alger, Schoolcraft, Delta and Menominee) are likely to see a 10% rate increase in electricity costs next year. Alger Delta asked the Michigan Public Service Commission for the increase, which may be a precurser to higher rates for the region.

Fort Gratiot Lighthouse Centerpiece for Port Huron
The Port Huron Times-Herald reports that the city of Port Huron plans to make the Fort Gratiot Lighthouse (Michigan's oldest lighthouse) the cornerstone of efforts to attract tourism and fund cultural growth in the area. The city is negotiating to purchase the light tower and five support buildings from the Coast Guard and plans to restore the campus.

Bicycling Hell
The Lansing State Journal reports that hundreds of bicyclists are expected to ride through the Pinckney area this Saturday as part of the Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society's annual One Helluva Ride. The ride starts at the Chelsea Fairgrounds and takes paved & gravel roards through Pinckney, Gregory, Stockbridge and of course, Hell.
Ann Arbor Bicycle Touring Society site

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