By Sherri Begin Welch

People and Land, a coalition working to spur Michigan’s prosperity, is attempting to forge regional support and action on a number of initiatives it believes will better position the state for the future.

The group has begun meeting with lawmakers, media, chambers of commerce and the broad range of PAL’s coalition members to promote six areas the group has identified as pivotal for the state’s future.

PAL, founded in 2000 and funded by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, is seeking both legislative and non-legislative actions, said co-director William Rustem, president and CEO of Public Sector Consultants in Lansing.

“A lot of Michigan’s (current) challenges are because we haven’t been ready for the future,” he said.

“The Michigan Economic Development Corp. has traditionally been chasing factories, now they’re focusing on talent.”

The other co-director of the effort is Soji Adelaja, John A. Hannah Distinguished Professor in Land Policy at Michigan State University’s Land Policy Institute.

PAL is also trying to get Michigan residents to focus on how the state’s natural and cultural assets figure into our economic development strategy, said Julie Bennett, program manager of PAL for Public Sector Consultants.

“We need to act regionally, to get more bang for our buck from federal dollars that are expected to come into Michigan, rather than acting as individual government units,” said Brad Garmon, land programs director at the Michigan Environmental Council and a member of PAL’s leadership council.

In the run-up to the 2010 elections, PAL hopes to push a number of issues it feels are important. It has developed what it calls “Six Pillars for Prosperity.”

They include:

• Rebuilding attractive cities and neighborhoods to attract and retain young talent.

• Supporting highly competitive schools and lifelong learning opportunities.

• Shifting attention to knowledge-based technologies for Michigan’s future.

• Strategically planning for a thriving agriculture industry to spur Michigan’s economy.

• Enhancing and promoting natural resources for recreation and job creation.

• Creating an inclusive and entrepreneurial culture.

“In the last election, nobody was talking about those things,” Bennett said. PAL wants the candidates to talk about issues it has identified as paramount.

Over the past nine years, PAL has made grants to groups working on land-use issues in Michigan, such as farmland preservation and forestry initiatives.

Last fall, it shifted those grants to groups working regionally on the pillars, awarding $1.3 million total to nine collaborations.

Among them was a grant of $75,000 to the Tourism and Economic Development Council of the Metro Detroit Convention & Visitors Bureau for “Developing the D,” a project to organize communities in the region as destination districts for residents, visitors and investors.

In addition, the Michigan Suburbs Alliance, which also received a PAL grant of $75,000 last fall, will use its funds to support its Millennial Mayor’s Congress project aimed at engaging city leaders with the millennial generation.

Sherri Begin Welch: (313) 446-1694, swelch@crain.com

By JEREMY GONSIOR
The Holland Sentinel
Posted Nov 18, 2008 @ 08:38 PM

Allegan County, MI — Flying into Tulip City Airport, visitors from across the world have noticed a new feature in Holland: the gardens on the roof of Haworth’s corporate headquarters.

The green feature, designed to absorb rainwater and improve energy efficiency, was installed in March, said Julie Smith, public relations manager for Haworth.

Since then, many visitors have requested a chance to view it during tours of the complex.

“People are very interested in seeing all the different applications of it,” Smith said.

Developers of a green infrastructure tool kit being unveiled in January said they hope their resource will help more people in West Michigan follow examples like Haworth’s gardens.

The West Michigan Strategic Alliance said governments and businesses often desire green projects, but deal with “information overload” when it comes to researching them.

This is especially true with smaller governments and businesses that may not have the resources to hire consultants to advise them, the group said.

That’s why the alliance is introducing its tool kit, which is a collection of items that could include notebooks, discs, online seminars and an online portal.

“We live in a complex society and at the same time we need to get smarter about how we maintain our environment,” said Greg Northrup, president of the alliance. “We need to make it easier for people to get help with best practices.”

The kit will be funded in part by a $150,000 grant from the People and Land Coalition of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation.

It will have an index for topics including watershed management, protecting dunes, farmland preservation and low-impact development, said Ken Freestone, project manager for green infrastructure at the alliance.

GREEN PROJECTS
• Rain gardens at Saugatuck Center for the Arts
• Rain gardens at Paw Paw Bridge Park in Zeeland
• Rooftop gardens at Haworth headquarters in Holland
• Farmland turned to wetlands at Upper Macatawa Natural Area in Zeeland Township

For Immediate Release
Monday, Nov. 10, 2008

CONTACT: Mike Nowlin
989-450-0855

LANSING — The Lansing Area Economic Partnership Foundation (LEAP) has been awarded a $150,000 grant by People and Land (PAL) under its Regional Prosperity Initiative. The goal of this W.K. Kellogg-funded initiative is to increase regional collaboration and promote Michigan prosperity in the emerging knowledge-based economy.

The grant award will allow LEAP to map regional assets in preparation for a comprehensive regional development strategy. Other partners include the Mid-Michigan Environmental Action Council and the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance.

“The Council immediately recognized that LEAP is creating powerful partnerships that promise to enhance Greater Lansing and Michigan prosperity by building on the region’s assets to revitalize neighborhoods, enhance green infrastructure, create a strong regional identity attractive to new investment and people of talent,” said Bill Rustem, co-director of People and Land. “PAL wants to support the region’s ongoing collaborative efforts.”

LEAP is the first PAL grantee in the mid-Michigan region. The grant to LEAP includes assistance in developing communications and strategic planning, as well as the opportunity to make use of PAL expertise and research from Michigan State University’s Land Policy Institute to help inform its multi-sector collaborators.

“We appreciate this support from People and Land,” said Denyse Ferguson, interim president and CEO of LEAP. “In particular, this grant will help our multi-sector partners to identify and evaluate Greater Lansing’s assets, create a strong regional identity, and develop a strategic plan to promote our region in the Global marketplace.”

PAL’s work is directed by a Leadership Council comprised of leaders representing a diverse and unique cooperative effort by seven Michigan organizations: The Michigan Association of REALTORS, Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Environmental Council, Michigan Farm Bureau, Michigan Suburbs Alliance, Michigan United Conservation Clubs, and the NAACP-Detroit Branch.

“The PAL Leadership Council is investing in regions because it believes they have the will and energy to be part of Michigan’s economic turnaround,” Rustem said. “The Council received 29 proposals from multi-county regions across Michigan. The Leadership Council carefully selected those demonstrating the ability to form successful collaborations focused on improving their region.”

LEAP is among nine grantees, which received a combined total of $850,00 from the Kellogg Foundation and represent broad regional coalitions, each with specific objectives for regional collaboration and economic development. In addition to LEAP, the other 2009 grantees are:

- Tourism Economic Development Council of the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau: $75,000 to support “Developing the D,” a plan to build a “Destination Districts” initiative that will attract and retain residents, draw new visitors and spur investment in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb and Monroe counties.
- Food System Economic Partnership in Southeast Michigan: $40,000 for support of a Farm to Schools lunch program in Wayne County that will provide healthy fresh foods to students.
- West Michigan Strategic Alliance: $150,000 to expand the capacity of the Alliance to effectively communicate with and engage businesses and government leaders in Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon, Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Montcalm, and Newaygo counties.
- Michigan Suburbs Alliance: $75,000 to launch a “Millennial Mayors Congress” that will bring together civic leaders and young adults to cultivate a new generation of problem solvers in Wayne, Oakland and Monroe counties.
- Rotary Camps and Services of Traverse City: $150,000 to support the “Grand Vision Decision,” a public outreach campaign that has enlisted more than 15,000 residents from a five-county region to participate in shaping a regional growth strategy. The grant will advance strategies to create affordable housing, promote regional transit, trails and community walkways as well as agricultural and local food initiatives in Grand Traverse, Wexford, Antrim, Leelanau and Benzie counties.
- Northeast Michigan Council of Governments (NEMCOG): $40,000 for a program to convene leaders to develop an effective Regional Prosperity Alliance for Alpena, Alcona, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Montmorency, Oscoda and Otsego counties.
- Southwest Michigan Planning Commission: $20,000 to expand its promotional efforts boosting public awareness about the growth potential of Van Buren, Berrien and Cass counties.
- Northern Initiatives: $150,000 to increase promotion of environmental tourism and awareness of the Upper Peninsula as one of the world’s greatest natural and cultural destinations, including working with the Sault Tribe of the Chippewa to develop a system of sharing tribal heritage as part of the sustainable tourism offerings throughout all 15 counties in the Upper Peninsula.

Three of the regions have received prior support from PAL, and already achieved a great deal in regional cooperation: Michigan Suburbs Alliance, West Michigan Strategic, and New Designs for Growth in the Grand Traverse region. Prior to the new Regional Prosperity Initiative grants, since 2001, with Kellogg Foundation support, PAL has assisted 49 grantees across the state with more than $5.4 million to strengthen their organizations, primarily in the areas of preserving green space, urban revitalization, and farmland preservation.

“The Regional Prosperity Initiative grantees will receive assistance from PAL in developing communications and assessment of their progress,” said Dr. Soji Adelaja, co-director of PAL, and director of the Michigan State University Land Policy Institute. “In addition, each grantee has the opportunity to make use of PAL expertise and also research from the MSU Land Policy Institute to help them work together with their multi-sector collaborators.”

The mission of People and Land is to support a new agenda for Michigan’s prosperity. “PAL believes that to attract and retain diverse and talented people, Michigan’s core assets of abundant natural resources, agricultural strength, educational opportunities, and urban potential must inspire the creation of vibrant, welcoming communities,” Rustem said. The Leadership Council has developed a Six Pillars for Prosperity agenda focused on Michigan’s future to achieve that mission. Regional initiatives funded by People and Land focus on that agenda.

To learn more about PAL’s Six Pillars for Prosperity, and information on the Regional Prosperity Initiative work, visit www.peopleandland.com.

For Immediate Release
Monday, Nov. 10, 2008

CONTACT: Mike Nowlin
989-450-0855

LANSING — The Southwest Michigan Planning Commission has been awarded a $20,000 grant by People and Land (PAL) under its Regional Prosperity Initiative. The goal of this W.K. Kellogg-funded initiative is to increase regional collaboration and promote Michigan prosperity in the emerging knowledge-based economy.

The PAL grant will help the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission to expand its promotional efforts boosting public awareness about the growth potential of Van Buren, Berrien and Cass counties.

“The Council immediately recognized the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission, with its unique focus on agriculture, recreation and tourism, and efforts at workforce development, would accomplish more through regional, cross-jurisdictional collaboration,” said Bill Rustem, co-director of People and Land.

The grant to the Planning Commission includes assistance in developing communications and organizational development, as well as the opportunity to make use of PAL expertise and research from Michigan State University’s Land Policy Institute to help inform its multi-sector collaborators.

“We feel fortunate to have been selected for this grant,” said John Egelhaff, executive director of the Southwest Michigan Planning Commission. “Our 360 Group has been meeting around issues of importance to our region, and this is an opportunity for us to expand that effort and address issues of regional prosperity that can benefit the citizens of Southwest Michigan.”

PAL’s work is directed by a Leadership Council comprised of leaders representing a diverse and unique cooperative effort by seven Michigan organizations: The Michigan Association of REALTORS, Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Environmental Council, Michigan Farm Bureau, Michigan Suburbs Alliance, Michigan United Conservation Clubs, and the NAACP-Detroit Branch.

“The PAL Leadership Council is investing in regions because it believes they have the will and energy to be part of Michigan’s economic turnaround,” Rustem said. “The Council received 29 proposals from multi-county regions across Michigan. The Leadership Council carefully selected those demonstrating the ability to form successful collaborations focused on improving their region.”

The Southwest Michigan Planning Commission is among nine grantees, which received a combined total of $850,00 from the Kellogg Foundation and represent broad regional coalitions, each with specific objectives for regional collaboration and economic development. The other 2009 grantees are:

- Lansing Economic Area Partnership: $150,000 to assist in mapping regional assets in preparation for a comprehensive regional development strategy. Other partners include the Mid-Michigan Environmental Action Council and the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance.
- Tourism Economic Development Council of the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau: $75,000 to support “Developing the D,” a plan to build a “Destination Districts” initiative that will attract and retain residents, draw new visitors and spur investment in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb and Monroe counties.
- Food System Economic Partnership in Southeast Michigan: $40,000 for support of a Farm to Schools lunch program in Wayne County that will provide healthy fresh foods to students.
- West Michigan Strategic Alliance: $150,000 to expand the capacity of the Alliance to effectively communicate with and engage businesses and government leaders in Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon, Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Montcalm, and Newaygo counties.
- Michigan Suburbs Alliance: $75,000 to launch a “Millennial Mayors Congress” that will bring together civic leaders and young adults to cultivate a new generation of problem solvers in Wayne, Oakland and Monroe counties.
- Rotary Camps and Services of Traverse City: $150,000 to support the “Grand Vision Decision,” a public outreach campaign that has enlisted more than 15,000 residents from a five-county region to participate in shaping a regional growth strategy. The grant will advance strategies to create affordable housing, promote regional transit, trails and community walkways as well as agricultural and local food initiatives in Grand Traverse, Wexford, Antrim, Leelanau and Benzie counties.
- Northeast Michigan Council of Governments (NEMCOG): $40,000 for a program to convene leaders to develop an effective Regional Prosperity Alliance for Alpena, Alcona, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Montmorency, Oscoda and Otsego counties.
- Northern Initiatives: $150,000 to increase promotion of environmental tourism and awareness of the Upper Peninsula as one of the world’s greatest natural and cultural destinations, including working with the Sault Tribe of the Chippewa to develop a system of sharing tribal heritage as part of the sustainable tourism offerings throughout all 15 counties in the Upper Peninsula.

Three of the regions have received prior support from PAL, and already achieved a great deal in regional cooperation: Michigan Suburbs Alliance, West Michigan Strategic, and New Designs for Growth in the Grand Traverse region. Prior to the new Regional Prosperity Initiative grants, since 2001, with Kellogg Foundation support, PAL has assisted 49 grantees across the state with more than $5.4 million to strengthen their organizations, primarily in the areas of preserving green space, urban revitalization, and farmland preservation.

“The Regional Prosperity Initiative grantees will receive assistance from PAL in developing communications and assessment of their progress,” said Dr. Soji Adelaja, co-director of PAL, and director the Michigan State University Land Policy Institute. “In addition, each grantee has the opportunity to make use of PAL expertise and also research from the MSU Land Policy Institute to help them work together with their multi-sector collaborators.”

The mission of People and Land is to support a new agenda for Michigan’s prosperity. “PAL believes that to attract and retain diverse and talented people, Michigan’s core assets of abundant natural resources, agricultural strength, educational opportunities, and urban potential must inspire the creation of vibrant, welcoming communities,” Rustem said. The Leadership Council has developed a Six Pillars for Prosperity agenda focused on Michigan’s future to achieve that mission. Regional initiatives funded by People and Land focus on that agenda.

To learn more about PAL’s Six Pillars for Prosperity, and information on the Regional Prosperity Initiative work, visit www.peopleandland.com.

For Immediate Release
Monday, Nov. 10, 2008

CONTACT: Mike Nowlin
989-450-0855

LANSING — The Upper Peninsula’s Northern Initiatives has been awarded a $150,000 grant by People and Land (PAL) under its Regional Prosperity Initiative. The goal of the W.K. Kellogg-funded program is to increase regional collaboration and promote Michigan prosperity in the emerging knowledge-based economy.

Northern Initiatives will use the PAL grant to increase promotion of environmental tourism and awareness of the Upper Peninsula as one of the world’s greatest natural and cultural destinations, including working with the Sault Tribe of the Chippewa to develop a system of sharing tribal heritage as part of the sustainable tourism offerings throughout all 15 counties in the Upper Peninsula.

“The Council immediately recognized that Northern Initiatives has a track record for creating powerful partnerships that promise to create new economies and tourism experiences through collaboration with Upper Peninsula communities and their leaders,” said Bill Rustem, co-director of People and Land.

The grant to Northern Initiatives includes assistance in developing communications and strategic planning, as well as the opportunity to make use of PAL expertise and research from Michigan State University’s Land Policy Institute to help inform its multi-sector collaborators.

“We appreciate this ongoing support from People and Land,” said Dennis West, president of Northern Initiatives. “Not only will we be able to build on previous success with our Leveraging the Great Waters Framework to increase awareness of the Upper Peninsula as an outstanding home to natural and cultural destinations, but in collaboration with the Sault Tribe of the Chippewa we will develop a system of sharing tribal heritage as part of the region’s tourism offerings.”

PAL’s work is directed by a Leadership Council comprised of leaders representing a diverse and unique cooperative effort by seven Michigan organizations: The Michigan Association of REALTORS, Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Environmental Council, Michigan Farm Bureau, Michigan Suburbs Alliance, Michigan United Conservation Clubs, and the NAACP-Detroit Branch.

“The PAL Leadership Council is investing in regions because it believes they have the will and energy to be part of Michigan’s economic turnaround,” Rustem said. “The Council received 29 proposals from multi-county regions across Michigan. The Leadership Council carefully selected those demonstrating the ability to form successful collaborations focused on improving their region.”

Northern Initiatives is among nine grantees, which received a combined total of $850,000 from the Kellogg Foundation and represent broad regional coalitions, each with specific objectives for regional collaboration and economic development. The other 2009 grantees are:

- Lansing Economic Area Partnership: $150,000 to assist in mapping regional assets in preparation for a comprehensive regional development strategy. Other partners include the Mid-Michigan Environmental Action Council and the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance.
- Tourism Economic Development Council of the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau: $75,000 to support “Developing the D,” a plan to build a “Destination Districts” initiative that will attract and retain residents, draw new visitors and spur investment in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb and Monroe counties.
- Food System Economic Partnership in Southeast Michigan: $40,000 for support of a Farm to Schools lunch program in Wayne County that will provide healthy fresh foods to students.
- West Michigan Strategic Alliance: $150,000 to expand the capacity of the Alliance to effectively communicate with and engage businesses and government leaders in Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon, Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Montcalm, and Newaygo counties.
- Michigan Suburbs Alliance: $75,000 to launch a “Millennial Mayors Congress” that will bring together civic leaders and young adults to cultivate a new generation of problem solvers in Wayne, Oakland and Monroe counties.
- Rotary Camps and Services of Traverse City: $150,000 to support the “Grand Vision Decision,” a public outreach campaign that has enlisted more than 15,000 residents from a five-county region to participate in shaping a regional growth strategy. The grant will advance strategies to create affordable housing, promote regional transit, trails and community walkways as well as agricultural and local food initiatives in Grand Traverse, Wexford, Antrim, Leelanau and Benzie counties.
- Northeast Michigan Council of Governments (NEMCOG): $40,000 for a program to convene leaders to develop an effective Regional Prosperity Alliance for Alpena, Alcona, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Montmorency, Oscoda and Otsego counties.
- Southwest Michigan Planning Commission: $20,000 to expand its promotional efforts boosting public awareness about the growth potential of Van Buren, Berrien and Cass counties.

Three of the regions have received prior support from PAL, and already achieved a great deal in regional cooperation: Michigan Suburbs Alliance, West Michigan Strategic, and New Designs for Growth in the Grand Traverse region. Prior to the new Regional Prosperity Initiative grants, since 2001, with Kellogg Foundation support, PAL has assisted 49 grantees across the state with more than $5.4 million to strengthen their organizations, primarily in the areas of preserving green space, urban revitalization, and farmland preservation.

“The Regional Prosperity Initiative grantees will receive assistance from PAL in developing communications and assessment of their progress,” said Dr. Soji Adelaja, co-director of PAL, and director the Michigan State University Land Policy Institute. “In addition, each grantee has the opportunity to make use of PAL expertise and also research from the MSU Land Policy Institute to help them work together with their multi-sector collaborators.”

The mission of People and Land is to support a new agenda for Michigan’s prosperity. “PAL believes that to attract and retain diverse and talented people, Michigan’s core assets of abundant natural resources, agricultural strength, educational opportunities, and urban potential must inspire the creation of vibrant, welcoming communities,” Rustem said. The Leadership Council has developed a Six Pillars for Prosperity agenda focused on Michigan’s future to achieve that mission. Regional initiatives funded by People and Land focus on that agenda.

To learn more about PAL’s Six Pillars for Prosperity, and information on the Regional Prosperity Initiative work, visit www.peopleandland.com.

For Immediate Release
Monday, Nov. 10, 2008

CONTACT: Mike Nowlin
989-450-0855

LANSING — The Northeast Michigan Council of Governments (NEMCOG) has been awarded a $40,000 grant by People and Land (PAL) under its Regional Prosperity Initiative.

The goal of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation-funded initiative is to increase regional collaboration and promote Michigan prosperity in the emerging knowledge-based economy. NEMCOG will use the PAL grant to convene leaders who will develop an effective Regional Prosperity Alliance for Alpena, Alcona, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Montmorency, Oscoda and Otsego counties.

“The Council was intrigued by the potential of the NEMCOG proposal because of the unique land-based assets of the region and its plan for involving a regional, cross-jurisdictional collaboration to create a powerful vision for enhancing and marketing those assets,” said Bill Rustem, co-director of People and Land.

The grant to NEMCOG includes assistance in developing communications and strategic planning, as well as the opportunity to make use of PAL expertise and research from Michigan State University’s Land Policy Institute to help inform its multi-sector collaborators.

“We are excited by the opportunity this provides our region,” said Diane Rekowski, executive director of NEMCOG. “Northeast Michigan is rich in assets but is not a prosperous region. With a collaborative effort of business leaders in tourism and recreation, forest products, mining and minerals, energy and agriculture, plus strong nonprofit organizations, we can create a Northeast Regional Prosperity Model that will give us the kind of vision and strategy we need.”

PAL’s work is directed by a Leadership Council comprised of leaders representing a diverse and unique cooperative effort by seven Michigan organizations: The Michigan Association of REALTORS, Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Environmental Council, Michigan Farm Bureau, Michigan Suburbs Alliance, Michigan United Conservation Clubs, and the NAACP-Detroit Branch.

“The PAL Leadership Council is investing in regions because it believes they have the will and energy to be part of Michigan’s economic turnaround,” Rustem said. “The Council received 29 proposals from multi-county regions across Michigan. The Leadership Council carefully selected those demonstrating the ability to form successful collaborations focused on improving their region.”

NEMCOG is one of nine grantees, which received a combined total of $850,000 from the Kellogg Foundation and represent broad regional coalitions, each with specific objectives for regional collaboration and economic development. The other 2009 grantees are:
- Lansing Economic Area Partnership: $150,000 to assist in mapping regional assets in preparation for a comprehensive regional development strategy. Other partners include the Mid-Michigan Environmental Action Council and the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance.
- Tourism Economic Development Council of the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau: $75,000 to support “Developing the D,” a plan to build a “Destination Districts” initiative that will attract and retain residents, draw new visitors and spur investment in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb and Monroe counties.
- Food System Economic Partnership in Southeast Michigan: $40,000 for support of a Farm to Schools lunch program in Wayne County that will provide healthy fresh foods to students.
- West Michigan Strategic Alliance: $150,000 to expand the capacity of the Alliance to effectively communicate with and engage businesses and government leaders in Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon, Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Montcalm, and Newaygo counties.
- Michigan Suburbs Alliance: $75,000 to launch a “Millennial Mayors Congress” that will bring together civic leaders and young adults to cultivate a new generation of problem solvers in Wayne, Oakland and Monroe counties.
- Rotary Camps and Services of Traverse City: $150,000 to support the “Grand Vision Decision,” a public outreach campaign that has enlisted more than 15,000 residents from a five-county region to participate in shaping a regional growth strategy. The grant will advance strategies to create affordable housing, promote regional transit, trails and community walkways as well as agricultural and local food initiatives in Grand Traverse, Wexford, Antrim, Leelanau and Benzie counties.
- Southwest Michigan Planning Commission: $20,000 to expand its promotional efforts boosting public awareness about the growth potential of Van Buren, Berrien and Cass counties.
- Northern Initiatives: $150,000 to increase promotion of environmental tourism and awareness of the Upper Peninsula as one of the world’s greatest natural and cultural destinations, including working with the Sault Tribe of the Chippewa to develop a system of sharing tribal heritage as part of the sustainable tourism offerings throughout all 15 counties in the Upper Peninsula.

Three of the regions have received prior support from PAL, and already achieved a great deal in regional cooperation: Michigan Suburbs Alliance, West Michigan Strategic, and New Designs for Growth in the Grand Traverse region. Prior to the new Regional Prosperity Initiative grants, since 2001, with Kellogg Foundation support, PAL has assisted 49 grantees across the state with more than $5.4 million to strengthen their organizations, primarily in the areas of preserving green space, urban revitalization, and farmland preservation.

“The Regional Prosperity Initiative grantees will receive assistance from PAL in developing communications and assessment of their progress,” said Dr. Soji Adelaja, co-director of PAL, and director the Michigan State University Land Policy Institute. “In addition, each grantee has the opportunity to make use of PAL expertise and also research from the MSU Land Policy Institute to help them work together with their multi-sector collaborators.”

The mission of People and Land is to support a new agenda for Michigan’s prosperity. “PAL believes that to attract and retain diverse and talented people, Michigan’s core assets of abundant natural resources, agricultural strength, educational opportunities, and urban potential must inspire the creation of vibrant, welcoming communities,” Rustem said. The Leadership Council has developed a Six Pillars for Prosperity agenda focused on Michigan’s future to achieve that mission. Regional initiatives funded by People and Land focus on that agenda.

To learn more about PAL’s Six Pillars for Prosperity, and information on the Regional Prosperity Initiative work, visit www.peopleandland.com.

For Immediate Release
Monday, Nov. 10, 2008

CONTACT: Mike Nowlin
989-450-0855

LANSING — The West Michigan Strategic Alliance has been awarded a $150,000 grant by People and Land (PAL) under its Regional Prosperity Initiative.

The goal of the W.K. Kellogg-funded initiative is to increase regional collaboration and promote Michigan prosperity in the emerging knowledge-based economy. The West Michigan Strategic Alliance (WMSA) will use the PAL grant to expand the capacity of the Alliance to effectively communicate with and engage businesses and government leaders in Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon, Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Montcalm, and Newaygo counties.

“The PAL Leadership Council immediately recognized that the West Michigan region is already a powerful partner in returning Michigan to prosperity, with its unique focus on agriculture initiatives, recreation and tourism, and overall efforts to strengthen regional partnerships. PAL wants to support the region’s ongoing collaborative efforts,” said Bill Rustem, co-director of People and Land.

The grant to WMSA includes assistance in developing communications and organizational development, as well as the opportunity to make use of PAL expertise and research from Michigan State University’s Land Policy Institute to help inform its multi-sector collaborators.

“We appreciate the ongoing support of PAL,” said Greg Northrup, president of WMSA. “In particular, this grant will help our organization to increase awareness of our efforts, strengthen our ability to garner additional funding, develop a green infrastructure Tool Kit for local units of government, and add focus to the Green Infrastructure programs so important to maintaining the West Michigan quality of life.”

PAL’s work is directed by a Leadership Council comprised of leaders representing a diverse and unique cooperative effort by seven Michigan organizations: The Michigan Association of REALTORS, Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Environmental Council, Michigan Farm Bureau, Michigan Suburbs Alliance, Michigan United Conservation Clubs, and the NAACP-Detroit Branch.

“The PAL Leadership Council is investing in regions because it believes they have the will and energy to be part of Michigan’s economic turnaround,” Rustem said. “The Council received 29 proposals from multi-county regions across Michigan. The Leadership Council carefully selected those demonstrating the ability to form successful collaborations focused on improving their region.”

The WMSA is among nine grantees, which received a combined total of $850,000 from the Kellogg Foundation and represent broad regional coalitions, each with specific objectives for regional collaboration and economic development. The other 2009 grantees are:

- Lansing Economic Area Partnership: $150,000 to assist in mapping regional assets in preparation for a comprehensive regional development strategy. Other partners include the Mid-Michigan Environmental Action Council and the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance.
- Tourism Economic Development Council of the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau: $75,000 to support “Developing the D,” a plan to build a “Destination Districts” initiative that will attract and retain residents, draw new visitors and spur investment in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb and Monroe counties.
- Food System Economic Partnership in Southeast Michigan: $40,000 for support of a Farm to Schools lunch program in Wayne County that will provide healthy fresh foods to students.
- Michigan Suburbs Alliance: $75,000 to launch a “Millennial Mayors Congress” that will bring together civic leaders and young adults to cultivate a new generation of problem solvers in Wayne, Oakland and Monroe counties.
- Rotary Camps and Services of Traverse City: $150,000 to support the “Grand Vision Decision,” a public outreach campaign that has enlisted more than 15,000 residents from a five-county region to participate in shaping a regional growth strategy. The grant will advance strategies to create affordable housing, promote regional transit, trails and community walkways as well as agricultural and local food initiatives in Grand Traverse, Wexford, Antrim, Leelanau and Benzie counties.
- Northeast Michigan Council of Governments (NEMCOG): $40,000 for a program to convene leaders to develop an effective Regional Prosperity Alliance for Alpena, Alcona, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Montmorency, Oscoda and Otsego counties.
- Southwest Michigan Planning Commission: $20,000 to expand its promotional efforts boosting public awareness about the growth potential of Van Buren, Berrien and Cass counties.
- Northern Initiatives: $150,000 to increase promotion of environmental tourism and awareness of the Upper Peninsula as one of the world’s greatest natural and cultural destinations, including working with the Sault Tribe of the Chippewa to develop a system of sharing tribal heritage as part of the sustainable tourism offerings throughout all 15 counties in the Upper Peninsula.

Three of the regions have received prior support from PAL, and already achieved a great deal in regional cooperation: Michigan Suburbs Alliance, West Michigan Strategic Alliance, and New Designs for Growth in the Grand Traverse region. Prior to the new Regional Prosperity Initiative grants, since 2001, with Kellogg Foundation support, PAL has assisted 49 grantees across the state with more than $5.4 million to strengthen their organizations, primarily in the areas of preserving green space, urban revitalization, and farmland preservation.

“The Regional Prosperity Initiative grantees will receive assistance from PAL in developing communications and assessment of their progress,” said Dr. Soji Adelaja, co-director of PAL, and director the Michigan State University Land Policy Institute. “In addition, each grantee has the opportunity to make use of PAL expertise and also research from the MSU Land Policy Institute to help them work together with their multi-sector collaborators.”

The mission of People and Land is to support a new agenda for Michigan’s prosperity. “PAL believes that to attract and retain diverse and talented people, Michigan’s core assets of abundant natural resources, agricultural strength, educational opportunities, and urban potential must inspire the creation of vibrant, welcoming communities,” Rustem said. The Leadership Council has developed a Six Pillars for Prosperity agenda focused on Michigan’s future to achieve that mission. Regional initiatives funded by People and Land focus on that agenda.

To learn more about PAL’s Six Pillars for Prosperity, and information on the Regional Prosperity Initiative work, visit www.peopleandland.com.

For Immediate Release
Monday, Nov. 10, 2008

CONTACT: Mike Nowlin
989-450-0855

LANSING — Rotary Camps and Services of Traverse City has been awarded a $150,000 grant by People and Land (PAL) under its Regional Prosperity Initiative to support the “Grand Vision Decision,” a public outreach campaign that has enlisted more than 15,000 residents from a five-county Grand Traverse region to participate in shaping a regional growth strategy.

The goal of this W.K. Kellogg-funded initiative is to increase regional collaboration and promote Michigan prosperity in the emerging knowledge-based economy. The PAL grant will help Rotary Camps and Services advance strategies to create affordable housing, promote regional transit, trails and community walkways as well as agricultural and local food initiatives in Grand Traverse, Wexford, Antrim, Leelanau and Benzie counties.

“The PAL Leadership Council immediately recognized that the Grand Traverse region is already a powerful partner in returning Michigan to prosperity, with its unique focus on agriculture initiatives, focus on recreation and tourism, and overall efforts to strengthen regional partnerships. PAL wants to support the region’s ongoing collaborative efforts,” said Bill Rustem, co-director of People and Land.

The grant to Rotary Camps and Services includes assistance in developing communications and organizational development, as well as the opportunity to make use of PAL expertise and research from Michigan State University’s Land Policy Institute to help inform its multi-sector collaborators.

“We’re excited about the ongoing support of People and Land for our region,” said Marsha Smith, executive director of Rotary Camps and Services. “The Grand Vision Decision is important to insuring our region’s ongoing economic prosperity with common purpose and goals for maintaining the critical quality of life we all enjoy.”

PAL’s work is directed by a Leadership Council comprised of leaders representing a diverse and unique cooperative effort by seven Michigan organizations: The Michigan Association of REALTORS, Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Environmental Council, Michigan Farm Bureau, Michigan Suburbs Alliance, Michigan United Conservation Clubs, and the NAACP-Detroit Branch.

“The PAL Leadership Council is investing in regions because it believes they have the will and energy to be part of Michigan’s economic turnaround,” Rustem said. “The Council received 29 proposals from multi-county regions across Michigan. The Leadership Council carefully selected those demonstrating the ability to form successful collaborations focused on improving their region.”

Rotary Camps and Services is one of nine grantees, which received a combined total of $850,000 from the Kellogg Foundation and represent broad regional coalitions, each with specific objectives for regional collaboration and economic development. The other 2009 grantees are:

- Northeast Michigan Council of Governments (NEMCOG): $40,000 for a program to convene leaders to develop an effective Regional Prosperity Alliance for Alpena, Alcona, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Montmorency, Oscoda and Otsego counties.
- Lansing Economic Area Partnership: $150,000 to assist in mapping regional assets in preparation for a comprehensive regional development strategy. Other partners include the Mid-Michigan Environmental Action Council and the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance.
- Tourism Economic Development Council of the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau: $75,000 to support “Developing the D,” a plan to build a “Destination Districts” initiative that will attract and retain residents, draw new visitors and spur investment in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb and Monroe counties.
- Food System Economic Partnership in Southeast Michigan: $40,000 for support of a Farm to Schools lunch program in Wayne County that will provide healthy fresh foods to students.
- West Michigan Strategic Alliance: $150,000 to expand the capacity of the Alliance to effectively communicate with and engage businesses and government leaders in Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon, Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Montcalm, and Newaygo counties.
- Michigan Suburbs Alliance: $75,000 to launch a “Millennial Mayors Congress” that will bring together civic leaders and young adults to cultivate a new generation of problem solvers in Wayne, Oakland and Monroe counties.
- Southwest Michigan Planning Commission: $20,000 to expand its promotional efforts boosting public awareness about the growth potential of Van Buren, Berrien and Cass counties.
- Northern Initiatives: $150,000 to increase promotion of environmental tourism and awareness of the Upper Peninsula as one of the world’s greatest natural and cultural destinations, including working with the Sault Tribe of the Chippewa to develop a system of sharing tribal heritage as part of the sustainable tourism offerings throughout all 15 counties in the Upper Peninsula.

Three of the regions have received prior support from PAL, and already achieved a great deal in regional cooperation: Michigan Suburbs Alliance, West Michigan Strategic, and New Designs for Growth in the Grand Traverse region. Prior to the new Regional Prosperity Initiative grants, since 2001, with Kellogg Foundation support, PAL has assisted 49 grantees across the state with more than $5.4 million to strengthen their organizations, primarily in the areas of preserving green space, urban revitalization, and farmland preservation.

“The Regional Prosperity Initiative grantees will receive assistance from PAL in developing communications and assessment of their progress,” said Dr. Soji Adelaja, co-director of PAL, and director the Michigan State University Land Policy Institute. “In addition, each grantee has the opportunity to make use of PAL expertise and also research from the MSU Land Policy Institute to help them work together with their multi-sector collaborators.”

The mission of People and Land is to support a new agenda for Michigan’s prosperity. “PAL believes that to attract and retain diverse and talented people, Michigan’s core assets of abundant natural resources, agricultural strength, educational opportunities, and urban potential must inspire the creation of vibrant, welcoming communities,” Rustem said. The Leadership Council has developed a Six Pillars for Prosperity agenda focused on Michigan’s future to achieve that mission. Regional initiatives funded by People and Land focus on that agenda.

To learn more about PAL’s Six Pillars for Prosperity, and information on the Regional Prosperity Initiative work, visit www.peopleandland.com.

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For Immediate Release
Monday, Nov. 10, 2008

CONTACT: Mike Nowlin
989-450-0855

LANSING — Programs in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb and Monroe counties have received a combined total of $190,000 in grants from People and Land (PAL) under its Regional Prosperity Initiative to spur their regional economies.

The goal of this W.K. Kellogg Foundation-funded initiative is to increase regional collaboration and promote Michigan prosperity in the emerging knowledge-based economy. The PAL grants were awarded to:

- Tourism Economic Development Council (TEDC) of the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau: $75,000 to support “Developing the D,” a plan to build a “Destination Districts” initiative that will attract and retain residents, draw new visitors and spur investment in Wayne, Oakland, Macomb and Monroe counties.
- Food System Economic Partnership in Southeast Michigan: $40,000 for support of a Farm to Schools lunch program in Wayne County that will provide healthy fresh foods to students.
- Michigan Suburbs Alliance: $75,000 to launch a “Millennial Mayors Congress” that will bring together civic leaders and young adults to cultivate a new generation of problem solvers in Wayne, Oakland and Monroe counties.

“We feel fortunate to have been selected for this grant,” said Jennifer Fike, executive director of the Farm Systems Economic Partnership. “This will enable our organizations to grow partnerships between schools and farmers, educate children about healthy foods and their origin, and assure that children in participating schools will consume the local, healthy fresh food they so seldom have access to consume.”

The grant to the TEDC includes assistance in developing communications and strategic planning, as well as the opportunity to make use of PAL expertise and research from Michigan State University’s Land Policy Institute to help inform its multi-sector collaborators.

“We appreciate PAL’s support for our collaborative,” said Jim Townsend, executive director of the TEDC. “This grant will help our organization to build the uniqueness of each destination district and foster the capacity of local leaders to work with each other on a district or sub-regional basis, as well as a region-wide basis to create strategies for linking districts.”

“We’re excited about the ongoing support of People and Land to the Detroit Metro area,” said Conan Smith, executive director of the Michigan Suburbs Alliance. “The Millennial Mayors Congress will finally bring the voices of young people into the conversation about what the region should look in order to attract entrepreneurs and people of talent, who are clearly the currency of the new economy.”

PAL’s work is directed by a Leadership Council comprised of leaders representing a diverse and unique cooperative effort by seven Michigan organizations: The Michigan Association of REALTORS, Michigan Chamber of Commerce, Michigan Environmental Council, Michigan Farm Bureau, Michigan Suburbs Alliance, Michigan United Conservation Clubs, and the NAACP-Detroit Branch.

“The PAL Leadership Council is investing in regions because it believes they have the will and energy to be part of Michigan’s economic turnaround,” said Bill Rustem, co-director of People and Land. “The Council received 29 proposals from multi-county regions across Michigan. The Leadership Council carefully selected those demonstrating the ability to form successful collaborations focused on improving their region.”

The three Southeast Michigan organizations were among nine grantees, which received a combined total of $850,000 from the Kellogg Foundation and represent broad regional coalitions, each with specific objectives for regional collaboration and economic development. The other 2009 grantees are:

- West Michigan Strategic Alliance: $150,000 to expand the capacity of the Alliance to effectively communicate with and engage businesses and government leaders in Kent, Ottawa, Muskegon, Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Montcalm, and Newaygo counties.
- Lansing Economic Area Partnership: $150,000 to assist in mapping regional assets in preparation for a comprehensive regional development strategy. Other partners include the Mid-Michigan Environmental Action Council and the Michigan Trails and Greenways Alliance.
- Rotary Camps and Services of Traverse City: $150,000 to support the “Grand Vision Decision,” a public outreach campaign that has enlisted more than 15,000 residents from a five-county region to participate in shaping a regional growth strategy. The grant will advance strategies to create affordable housing, promote regional transit, trails and community walkways as well as agricultural and local food initiatives in Grand Traverse, Wexford, Antrim, Leelanau and Benzie counties.
- Northeast Michigan Council of Governments (NEMCOG): $40,000 for a program to convene leaders to develop an effective Regional Prosperity Alliance for Alpena, Alcona, Cheboygan, Crawford, Emmet, Montmorency, Oscoda and Otsego counties.
- Southwest Michigan Planning Commission: $20,000 to expand its promotional efforts boosting public awareness about the growth potential of Van Buren, Berrien and Cass counties.
- Northern Initiatives: $150,000 to increase promotion of environmental tourism and awareness of the Upper Peninsula as one of the world’s greatest natural and cultural destinations, including working with the Sault Tribe of the Chippewa to develop a system of sharing tribal heritage as part of the sustainable tourism offerings throughout all 15 counties in the Upper Peninsula.

Three of the regions have received prior support from PAL, and already achieved a great deal in regional cooperation: Michigan Suburbs Alliance, West Michigan Strategic, and New Designs for Growth in the Grand Traverse region. Prior to the new Regional Prosperity Initiative grants, since 2001, with Kellogg Foundation support, PAL has assisted 49 grantees across the state with more than $5.4 million to strengthen their organizations, primarily in the areas of preserving green space, urban revitalization, and farmland preservation.

“The Regional Prosperity Initiative grantees will receive assistance from PAL in developing communications and assessment of their progress,” said Dr. Soji Adelaja, co-director of PAL, and director the Michigan State University Land Policy Institute. “In addition, each grantee has the opportunity to make use of PAL expertise and also research from the MSU Land Policy Institute to help them work together with their multi-sector collaborators.”

The mission of People and Land is to support a new agenda for Michigan’s prosperity. “PAL believes that to attract and retain diverse and talented people, Michigan’s core assets of abundant natural resources, agricultural strength, educational opportunities, and urban potential must inspire the creation of vibrant, welcoming communities,” Rustem said. The Leadership Council has developed a Six Pillars for Prosperity agenda focused on Michigan’s future to achieve that mission. Regional initiatives funded by People and Land focus on that agenda.

To learn more about PAL’s Six Pillars for Prosperity, and information on the Regional Prosperity Initiative work, visit www.peopleandland.com.