What I love most about Michigan is how our unique state stands out, even from a satellite view of the earth.  Our magnificent blue borders, provided by the Great Lakes, distinguish our Upper and Lower Peninsulas. Every state cannot say that they have multiple large bodies of water surrounding them or within them. Bounded by four of the five Great Lakes, plus Lake Saint Clair, Michigan has the longest freshwater shoreline in the world. In 2005, Michigan ranked third for the number of registered recreational boats, behind California and Florida. Wow! A person in Michigan is never more than 85 miles from open Great Lakes water and is never more than six miles from a natural water source.  The Great Lakes that border Michigan from east to west are Lake Erie, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan and Lake Superior.

I personally love water and the wonders that rest within them. Just being able to look out into the water, either resting your mind or letting it race away with the waves, is priceless. Most of the time enjoying the water is truly priceless in Michigan.  Plus, the Great Lakes are great places to vacation and have good old fashion family fun. Those are the things that I want my kids to see when I have them, and just give them a chance to enjoy the natural beauty that our state has to offer.

One thing that I would want to change would have to be Michigan’s current economic condition and its impact on our reputation. It is horrible to look at the news and be overloaded with “how bad the state is doing.” This state is too great of a place to lose rank without a fight.  Michigan has experienced economic difficulties brought on by the severe stock market decline following the September 11, 2001 attacks.  Michigan's industrial base has eroded as the auto industry began to abandon the state's industrial parks. Nevertheless, despite problems, Michigan ranked second nationally in new corporate facilities and expansions in 2004. From 1997 to 2004, Michigan was listed as the only state to top the 10,000 mark for the number of major new developments, led by Metro Detroit.

Even though Michigan is known as the birthplace of the automobile industry, its diverse economy leads in many other areas. Michigan has a booming biotechnology and life sciences corridor.  As leading research institutions, the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University are important partners in the state's economy. Michigan's workforce is well-educated and highly skilled, making it attractive to companies. Michigan's infrastructure gives it a competitive edge.  Rebuilding begins with a solid foundation!

I have chosen to remain in Michigan and pursue my college degree at Grand Valley State University.  As a teenager, my family hung in there with tough love through my rough times. As a Michigan resident, I too, will hang in there through our state’s tough time.  Hopefully, other future leaders, movers, and shakers are on the same page.

My best vision for Michigan is a state populated with proud and committed entities, corporations and individuals alike.  In order for this to exist, the state will have regained a thriving, stable economy.  Corporations will establish or relocate their headquarters here.  Attracted by tax incentives, tourism and growing population, businesses will healthily have profits to reinvest.  Michigan’s rich history and academic excellence will continue to be a demonstrated priority.  Residents, whether born and raised or borders crossed, will invest in Michigan’s communities, via dollars and involvement.  Marketing our state’s greatness will be a piece of cake.  Just as noticeable as the state of Michigan is on a map, this “through thick or thin” foundation will be seen light years away.  Michiganders are fortunate enough to experience every season nature has to offer.  Therefore, as Michiganders, we are equipped to withstand every economic season as well.

As Michiganders, corporations and individuals alike, we have to realize that getting better does not always feel good.  When we are sick, we have to take gross tasting medicines to rid ourselves of the illness.  Sometimes we let little things go unattended and may need to undergo corrective surgery.  Our great state is no different.  Regaining a thriving, stable economy and the wonderful reputation to go along with it may not be the most pleasant experience.  My best vision for the state of Michigan is that this too shall pass!