Gov. Granholm for all of us
Larry Meyer, MRA chairman and CEO, made the statement that Gov. Granholm and her administration have done next to nothing as far as communicating with him over matters of retail. He said he feels, “out of the loop.” Now, I cannot know why he feels this way, or what lack of communication exists. However, he has conveniently left out any facts about Gov. Granholm’s record regarding small business.

Michigan now ranks fifth as a small-business-friendly state (Small Business Survival Index 2005). Michigan jumped seven places to eighth in the nation (Site Selection’s Business Climate Rankings). A $3.8 billion Jobs Today Initiative and a $2 billion Jobs Tomorrow Fund. In addition, the governor’s Michigan First Rule has meant since 2004 more than 85 percent of state contracts go to Michigan-based firms.

In contrast to this record of performance, Dick Devos has no record. According to Tim Skubick, “He’s been long on commercials and miserably short on substance. He claims he can create jobs. Show us the plan. He claims he can lead. Where’s the proof?” (April 14, 2006, Lansing State Journal).

So, are Mr. Meyer’s problems with Gov. Granholm personal, professional or partisan? We can’t be sure, but I would recommend we stay the course and support our governor.

Richard Liscombe
President and CEO, Footgear, Inc., East Lansing

Granholm walks the walk
Not all members of MRA share in your endorsement of Dick DeVos for governor.

Jennifer Graholm inherited a state of disrepair when she assumed the position of governor, in large part thanks to her predecessor’s selfish agenda to serve special interests in hopes of furthering his own political career. She also faced a state economy whose backbone (the auto industry) was severely out of control.

As governor, Granholm has demonstrated (she’s walked the walk, not just talked the talk) that she is dedicated to serving all the needs of Michigan’s citizens—in education, social programs and local business communities—and she does so without being tied to a single special interest group.

Gov. Granholm has visited Bay City a number of times, meeting and working with representatives of our local government, schools, arts programs and business leaders.

One example in particular of serving all interests in the community is her “Cool Cities” initiative. This platform allowed for the development of our new Waterfall Park in the heart of downtown Bay City. It attracts many visitors daily and is surrounded by several local businesses—all prospering from the increased activity drawn by the park.

I am one of many MRA members who applaud Gov. Granholm’s efforts in addressing all of Michigan’s needs, which include the needs of the business community.

Jett W. Whitehead
Owner, Jett W. Whitehead Rare Books, Bay City