Celebrate Michigan Week 5/20 - 5/26
Andrew Norton
I remember Michigan Week when I was in elementary school. It was the one week out of the school year when all things related to Michigan were crammed into those five days. We learned the state motto, state bird, state tree, etc. I don't know if that is still the case these days. We can still celebrate our great state with some great kickoff events happening across the state this weekend. From the Jonesville Riverfest to the big parade in downtown Lansing you won't be lacking for Michigan celebrations.
A real treat for us in southwest Michigan takes place at the Three Rivers Public Library this Sunday. Gene Scott will be discussing his book, "Michigan Shadow Towns: A Study of Vanishing and Vibrant Villages." I haven't had a chance to read it yet, but I will be checking it out on my next visit to the library. The book studies 128 towns across the state of Michigan and their struggle to survive and thrive or to fade into a shadow of their former selves.
Anyway, there are lots of great events taking place around Michigan. For a complete listing of events head over to www.michigan.gov.
P.S. - Does anyone remember that catchy jingle Michigan used in the state advertising campaign - Yes! Michigan! I remember it went something like - Yes, Michigan forever, then I draw a blank. Oh well, thinking of Michigan week brought that little snippet of useless information into my head.