Tis the Season to Think and Buy Michigan

The stockings are hung by the chimney with care and sugar plums are dancing through peoples' heads; something like that. Let's be positive and ignore the stress and doldrums. As we go shopping this season, let's keep in mind the many Michigan companies that offer great holiday gifts for everyone on your list. There is truly something for everyone and all ages. We'll post a list on the website to offer you ideas or follow us on twitter to get up-to-date ideas. Buying Michigan products this season will keep much needed revenue in the state and our neighbors employed. Further, if a vacation is in order, try any number of resorts and outdoor winter events offered here in the mitten. Ski, hike, snowmobile, fish, sight-see, photograph, camp, or snowshoe; Michigan is truly a winter wonderland and destination for seasonal beauty. The falls in the upper and lower are incredible this time of year. Laugh, sing or snuggle at a bonfire under a winter moon, cloudless sky, and every star in the northern hemisphere. Indoor people should consider the many museums, bed and breakfasts, or sporting events in full-swing around the state. Take that Mexican Riviera!

Michigan: A Foodies Paradise!

You made it through Thanksgiving but the eating season continues. Know that our state produces a first-rate bounty of edibles. Our chocolatiers, roasters, bakers, artisans, brewers, butchers, and farmers are providing us with some of the highest quality product on the planet and it is available right in your backyard regardless of where you live in this state. Highest quality doesn't necessarily mean highest price either. The holiday staples such as meats, fruits, nuts, vegetables, breads, condiments and beverages (hard and soft) can all be purchased from Michigan companies. Your local food retailer should not only carry many of these products but clearly identify them as "Michigan Made" in their stores and on their shelves. If they do not, INSIST that they do. We're not talking about fad-shopping. Getting in the habit of buying these products and sharing them with friends and neighbors is the first step in redeveloping the culture in Michigan. If we are not loyal to companies that are already here, what interest will companies have to relocate to Michigan? Nobody is more loyal than Michigan people. The "Cash for Clunkers" auto program proved it. We cannot control what really happens in Lansing but we have power when it comes to purchasing. Think of it less as spending and more of a reinvestment in the home team.

Buying Local, Buy Michigan: The Series

We have begun the writing series and are close to submitting the first installment. We're correcting the dangling participles, modifying verbs properly, and double-checking the spelling. We hope to enlighten and educate Michigan citizens on the reality of buying local and the factual impact that it has. Our goal is to share the economics, the facts, and the real-life stories that happen between the fields and your dinner table. We have found this journey to be everything from heart-breaking to even spiritually uplifting. It will reveal a state's identity, heritage, pride, pain, love and passion. It goes well beyond the food and ends up with everyday people like you and me. What started out as a piece on grocery shopping turned into new formed relationships, new friends, and a revelation of a brighter and more encouraging Michigan future.

Take the MiMM Quick Poll

We want to know what you are thinking! Each month we will put a quick poll for you to respond to. This helps us make more informed decisions and lets us know where you stand on Michigan issues. The MiMM Quick Poll question this month is: Where do see the Michigan economy heading in 2010? Click on this link.