Quality of Life

It’s tough to narrow down Michigan’s awesome music, so we gave up. Bridge’s 25-song Michigan playlist has grown significantly after readers pointed out the error of our ways.

There’s no debate: No state produces better musicians — or songs about it — than Michigan. The discussion starts about how to limit a playlist to just 25 songs.

Six planets — Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Neptune, and Uranus — are visible this month in a so-called planet parade. Some are visible to the naked eye and others require a telescope to see.

The gap between those leaving and coming to Michigan is narrowing, two new reports indicate. Along with recent Census estimates, that’s optimistic news for a state with a moribund population for decades.

This is one of the most traveled times of year. AAA predicts that 3.8 million residents will travel at least 50 miles between Saturday and New Year’s Day.

The Geminid meteor shower will reach peak activity Friday night. Weather-permitting, Michiganders may be able to catch the astronomical phenomenon, but a nearly full moon could limit visibility.

Scientists expect a warmer-than-average winter, but that won’t stop energy prices from going up. Programs are available for people who need assistance.

Michigan ranks third in the nation for the most Christmas trees harvested each year, but finding the perfect tree can be challenging because more families are putting their trees up earlier in the year.