Articles by Jim Lively
This is what democracy looks like

This is what democracy looks like

Fifty-six people. 27 students. 30 hours round-trip on a cramped bus. Four hours standing on the National Mall in frigid temps followed by a march to the White House. That’s what democracy looks like. It’s not always comfortable, but it sure is inspiring. On Saturday Feb. 16, I joined 55 other people on a bus in Traverse City headed for Washington D.C. to march in what was to be the largest climate rally ever held in the United States.

New bus service brings Benzie, Traverse City a little closer

New bus service brings Benzie, Traverse City a little closer

This month, two regional transportation agencies launched a partnership that makes it easier for riders to travel between Benzie County and Traverse City while leaving their cars at home. The Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA) and the Benzie Transportation Authority (Benzie Bus) teamed up to offer a new connection service that allows Benzie Buses to transfer riders to BATA buses at Ric’s Food Center in Interlochen beginning Nov. 1.

The Vision Continues

The Vision Continues

Four years ago, more than 12,000 citizens shared their vision for future growth and investment in our region. The Grand Vision was discussed in terms of decades, but there has already been tremendous community action to make some of those plans a reality. Community members are invited to celebrate this progress at a series of six Community Action Updates.

Our Voices: 2011: A Great Year For MLUI

Our Voices: 2011: A Great Year For MLUI

Reflecting on a year’s worth of accomplishments for an organization of community organizers and policy advocates reminds me of the challenge of measuring our progress. The Michigan Land Use Institute strives to make systemic changes within very complex systems –...

Our Voices: Chamber Takes Strong Stance on Local Food

Our Voices: Chamber Takes Strong Stance on Local Food

Tuesday’s Chamber-sponsored Economic Outlook Breakfast brought some unexpected good news for the local agricultural economy that didn’t show up in the annual fiscal report, but instead showed up on people’s plates! Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce President and...