January/February 2010

A Year of Michigan

With a brand new year ahead of us, we at the Healing Garden Journal are welcoming 2010 with a year-long tribute to Michigan.  Let’s face it, we’ve had a rough few years as of late.  What better time than now to focus on all the good stuff that is happening in our great state.  We are committed to supporting Michigan the best way we know how, through the written word.  Look for upcoming stories on the people, places and events that make Michigan one of the greatest states around.  From our beautiful Great Lakes and bustling cities to our prestigious universities and our culturally diverse citizens, Michigan is a bountiful treasure second to none.  As our editorial focus is shifting in our magazine, you may also notice a few subtle changes to the look of our journal, too.  Be sure to look for more changes in the coming months.

 Here at the Journal, we are fond of a quote by Margaret Mead stating, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.”  So eloquently said, wouldn’t you agree!  As our future unfolds, Michigan’s transition to a more stable economy and stronger infrastructure can only come from its people.  Retraining and retooling our workforce to embrace the changing job market is a good start toward once again becoming a competitive state.  But have you ever considered how the health of a state’s population could affect its productivity?  Well, we have consulted an expert in this area, and are honored to introduce you to Dr. Kimberlydawn Wisdom, Michigan’s Surgeon General, and the first state-level Surgeon General in the nation.  We are pleased to have partnered with Dr. Wisdom because she embodies the spirit and leadership qualities needed to change the course of this state’s future.  Her unyielding work for better health of the citizens of Michigan is an inspiration to say the least.  It’s people like Dr. Wisdom and her vision for a healthier Michigan that make me proud to say, “I’m a Michigander!”

Linda Hasley
Managing Editor