"This is how we're going to help Michigan get out of this depression. We have to help ourselves and support each other."
That statement made me reflect on many of my Oakland colleagues, as well as hundreds across the state, who opted to move out of Michigan after graduation. I think the woman is right. Running away from the state's problems or dismissing Michigan as a lost cause is not going to change anything. Those of us that have remained here have to invest in Michigan, as well as each other. Buying produce from a farmers market stand or purchasing a painting by an Ann Arbor artist might not seem like a big deal. But by doing so, you're putting money back in the pocket of Michigan. If everybody bought something local on a consistent basis, just think: a little bit here and there adds up fast.
Anyway, the main streets of downtown were crammed to the brim with vendors selling everything from handwoven clothing to baked goods to birdhouses made of gourds.
Birdhouses sold at the Buy Michigan Now Festival/Samantha Franz
One stop I made at the festival was at The Dancing Eye Gallery on North Center Street, where almost every piece sold is made by local artists, many to the Northville/Ann Arbor area. I spoke with one of the managers, Janine, who expressed how thankful she was to live in an area with so many local artists. Echoing my earlier sentiments about staying in the state, she added that, "Everybody I know that has left Michigan cannot wait to come back and visit. This will always be their home."
Isn't this awesome? I ended up buying it in blue. :) / Samantha Franz
I was only there for a few hours, but I did manage to catch up with a familiar face before leaving (see below). Next up? Michigan's West Coast, including Whitehall, Ludington, Saugatuck, Silver Lake, Montague and the Warren Dunes in Bridgman, among others. See you then!
Paws! Too bad his team can't get it together in the season's second half. / Samantha Franz
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