We've added links to Michigan podcasts.

The Debate Over Historic Detroit
Detroit Free Press architecture writer John Gallagher writes that cities like Detroit enjoy a stock of historic structures that create a unique and appealing environment not present in suburbs. He says that the loss of the Madison-Lenox Hotel is acting as a catalyst for discussion of historic preservation by municipal, corporate and nonprofit leaders and offers suggestions to guide the debate. Well written and well worth a read regardless of whether or not you live in Detroit.
Also visit Cityscape Detroit
The Fabulous Ruins of Detroit

Granholm Blasts Unproductive Legislature
The Gongwer News Service reports that Gov. Jennifer Granholm says Michigan's economy is in a crisis and the Legislature has not sent her any bills to address the situation. She called the 93rd Legislature so far extremely unproductive and sarcastically criticized bills including reapportioning the Potato Commission and the dead animals composting act. An interesting interview ... read it!

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.
Also see 'Very good' sweet cherry crop forecast from the Leelanau Enterprise

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 (a little-known provision allows parents to withhold their children's information from such dislosures).

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.
Motor Maids web site (be sure to click on the founders' bios -- great photos!)
Sturgis Motorcycle Museum Hall of Fame

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