It's been a few months since I've posted anything, but yesterday I saw an article in Grand Rapids magazine that got my attention. It's an article on recycling and, while it provides a good overview, the best part is the list of resources for recycling a variety of household items. In particular, I like the resources that provide a benefit to society, in addition to reducing the quantity of stuff that goes into landfills.
For example, Comprenew Environmental recycles a variety of electronic products including televisions and computers. Some products are refurbished and sold in Comprenew's store while others are dismantled and recylcled. Comprenew is a non-profit organization that provides jobs and training. You get a tax deduction.
Other good resources are the Grand Rapids Lions Club for eyeglasses; Kent District Library for books, DVDs, CDs, and games; Ronald McDonald House for pop can tabs; and Kent District Library for batteries.
To read the article or view the full list of resources, go to www.grmag.com or click on the link to Grand Rapids on the left side of this blog.
Happy recycling.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Monday, January 12, 2009
Home Ownership in Michigan
There are always a lot of facts and figures that can be quoted to help prove any point of view. For example, I read several items in the December 2008 issue of the AARP Bulletin that show two different sides of the housing situation in Michigan. First, the bad news: Michigan "has the sixth-highest housing foreclosure rate in the country." That is why "AARP is pushing for sweeping legislation that would crack down on predatory lenders."
On the positive side; Michigan, along with 13 other states including Idaho, Minnesota, South Carolina, and Maine, had the highest percentage of owner-occupied households in 2007. The U. S Census Bureau reports that, in these states, 73.3-77.6% of homes were owner-occupied. At the other end of the spectrum, Only 47.2-58.3% of homes in California and New York were owner-occupied.
It's always good to see more than one side of any story and the housing situation is Michigan is no exception.
On the positive side; Michigan, along with 13 other states including Idaho, Minnesota, South Carolina, and Maine, had the highest percentage of owner-occupied households in 2007. The U. S Census Bureau reports that, in these states, 73.3-77.6% of homes were owner-occupied. At the other end of the spectrum, Only 47.2-58.3% of homes in California and New York were owner-occupied.
It's always good to see more than one side of any story and the housing situation is Michigan is no exception.
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