Tuesday, 13 May, 2008 1:53 PM

Senator Stabenow says Michigan is facing challenges but is quick at finding solutions

Photo by Jeff Kowalsky

Senator Debbie Stabenow at the Detroit Economic Club on May 12, 2008

DEARBORN, Mich. -- For a dozen years, Debbie Stabenow loves her job as a United States Senator. But what she loves the most is being in situations that knows about farm policies, for example. "You learn something new everyday" states the Honorable. "[It is the] opportunity to go one place to the next -- meeting people that are tough and resilent. That is what gives me hope."

Stabenow isn't blind that Michigan's economy is in a recession, and that it is rough. Still, she believes that the state still has potential and strength. Though she is one of the "voices", it is also up to students and everyone else -- including Monday's audience at the Detroit Economic Club Meeting inside the Dearborn Inn Marriott -- to do something, for they have what it takes to become leaders.

Michigan is the "heart of manufacturing", said Stabenow, who calls herself, "the only person representing manufacturing". Our state, she continues, is next in line to be creating new technology -- for it is at the center of turning things around.

“Michigan is at the head of the curve. We are picking ourselves up looking at our terrific skills from cellulosic ethanol to wind power to solar to geothermal, carbon sequestration, all of these things Michigan has been at the head of the line in creating the next technologies.”

"The world", the Senator goes on, "knows that our recession is national. What our national economy needs is good-old fashioned Michigan solution, [and] must approach to health care. We, in Michigan, are creating models and options that other states are looking at. We have to tackle and deal with health care costs and investments. [There are] 47 million people without health care. National solution is needed, though, but Michigan is at the forefront."

Her focus on a national effort includes developing an universal health care policy where everyone -- even low-income people -- have health insurance. This plan is what she calls "Noah's Ark" plan. "We need Michigan solutions and bring them to the world," Stabenow answers.

For someone who lives in the state of Michigan as well as brag about it, Senator Stabenow got to where she is now is through "the old-fashioned way", according to Presiding Officer and longtime friend Florine Mack: hard work, courage, and dedication to public service. "[Debbie] understands what matters to Michigan and to the people; not just the problems of the state, but also the world; it's not routine," said the Weight Watchers Group, Inc. President.

"Michigan hasn't had a senator that understands leadership -- opening up her heart and inspire others to make change for the greater good. [She is] Willing to get things done."