I've been blogging about businesses and organizations in Ann Arbor that give my city her character. A variety of people from all over Michigan are contributing "MAKING MICHIGAN" blogs to www.letssavemichigan.com To start things off, I wrote about the People's Food Coop, located in the Kerrytown neighborhood of downtown Ann Arbor, and the truth behind 826michigan's Robot Supply and Repair, on Liberty Street. This photo pictures 826michigan's holiday window display, courtesy of 826michigan.

Let's Save Michigan is collaborating with the Detroit Institute of Art (DIA) on a poster contest. Artists, illustrators and the graphically inclined are invited to submit poster designs that "inspire Michiganders to revive their state." Submit your designs before February 15th, online at www.letssavemichigan.com. Finalists will be featured in an exhibition in the spring, and award money will be given to the winner ($1000) and runner-up ($250). Check the website for full submission guidelines.