Proposal 3, one of six measures on the statewide ballot on Nov. 6, seeks to install in the Michigan Constitution a requirement for the use of electricity generated from renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar. Michigan currently has a state law that mandates a 10 percent “renewable portfolio standard” by 2015. Under Proposal […]
Bridge Staff
Bridge’s mission is to inform Michigan citizens about their state, amplify their views and explore the challenges of our civic life.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Guest column: Consensus emerges on local services, but what becomes of transparency?
By Tom Ivacko/Center for Local, State and Urban Policy A path forward, on common ground? Yes, but watch for caution signs along the way. First, the common ground: Michigan citizens — Republicans and Democrats — and their state and local government leaders broadly agree that consolidating individual public services across neighboring jurisdictions is worth pursuing, […]
Posted inGuest Commentary
Guest column: Pure Michigan’s natural assets are under assault
By Chris Bunch/ Six Rivers Regional Land Conservancy The Michigan Legislature is taking aim at land conservancies, the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund, the Department of Natural Resources and land conservation in general. The land conservancies in Southeast Michigan, along with the rest of the natural resource conservation community here, are surprised, frustrated and dismayed. […]
Posted inTalent & Education
Education reform discussion headed for Dexter, Lansing, Pontiac, more
Michiganians from Dexter to Lansing to Pontiac have opportunities in September and October to discuss K-12 education and reform as part of the Center for Michigan’s ongoing townhall series on the topic: WHEN: Sept. 24, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. WHERE: Dexter District Library, 3255 Alpine St. Dexter RSVP: Daniel Lai, Dexter Patch — daniel.lai@patch.com or (734) […]
Posted inMichigan Government
Truth Squad calls flagrant foul on new round of bridge ads
MICHIGAN TRUTH SQUAD ANALYSIS: “Why People Are Voting Yes on Proposal 6“ “The People Should Decide, As Simple As That“ Who: The People Should Decide What: TV ads Truth Squad call: Flagrant foul The People Should Decide is a ballot question committee funded, according to available campaign finance statements, almost entirely from interests linked to […]
Posted inMichigan Government
Anti-Prop 2 group goes too far with sexual predator claim, Truth Squad rules
MICHIGAN TRUTH SQUAD ANALYSIS: “Protecting Predators in the Classroom? Proposal Threatens Student Safety, Could Overturn Valuable Education Reforms.” (Press release) “Effect of “Protect Our Jobs” on Students, Public Education in Michigan” (Memo) Who: Citizens Protecting Michigan’s Constitution What: Press release and memo to statewide media Truth Squad call: Foul Questionable statements: “Under the proposal, numerous […]
Posted inQuality of Life
Remaking a river
Demolition crews in August took down the old powerhouse at the Brown Bridge Dam near Traverse City. This is part of a larger project to remove two dams and modify a third on the waterway. Bridge photo contributor John Russell reports that the powerhouse was built in 1922; was 33 feet above the waterline; and […]
Posted inTalent & Education
Dexter, Dearborn are among next stops in education townhall series
Michiganians from Grand Rapids to Birmingham, Dexter to Dearborn have opportunities in the next few weeks to discuss K-12 education and reform as part of the Center for Michigan’s ongoing townhall series on the topic: WHEN: Sept. 20, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. WHERE: LINC Community Revitalization, Inc., 1167 Madison SE Grand Rapids RSVP: Emberly […]
Posted inGuest Commentary
Guest column: Michigan, you don’t know everything about manufacturing
By Jim Danielski/Career Planning Specialists What … somebody recognized that manufacturing in the U.S. isn’t dead? That maybe, just maybe, the much touted service sector may actually be a byproduct of manufacturing? Many of us, including me, believe that manufacturing will make a comeback – only it won’t be in the form of the “factory” […]
Posted inMichigan Government
Hoekstra's ad isn't 'worst,' but distortions used earn foul, says Michigan Truth Squad
MICHIGAN TRUTH SQUAD ANALYSIS: “Meet the Parents” Who: Hoekstra for Senate What: Internet video Truth Squad call: Foul Questionable statement: “How about that Debbie Stabenow? Never met a tax increase she didn’t like … worst senator Michigan has ever had. “ These are broad generalizations, including a personal attack on Stabenow, that the video and […]