As I was considering the things I am thankful for, I first thought about how grateful I am for my family, friends and the opportunity to serve as your state representative. But I also started thinking about the many things the State of Michigan has to be grateful for, even during these tough times.

Here in the fruit belt, we can be especially appreciative of our growing industries like agriculture, manufacturing and tourism.

Michigan leads the nation with our tart cherries; blueberries; red, cranberry and black beans; and potato chip production. We are also third in the country in apple production.

In fact, Michigan’s agricultural commodities, more than 200 overall, are second in the number and diversity only to California; and we have a shorter growing season.

It’s only getting better. Our $71 billion agrifood industry includes double-digit growth in our food processing industry. Our growing commodities and processing industries mean thousands of new jobs putting food on family tables in more ways than one.

Along with our growing agribusinesses, we can be thankful for the strong manufacturing base we have in Michigan, where manufacturing continues to be the number one industry. All Michigan manufacturers rely on the skilled workforce and innovative ideas found in Michigan.

Finally, an important bonus of our agriculture production is the tourists we draw to pick our cherries and berries and drink our wines and enjoy our bounty of natural resources. Michigan’s tourism industry is the third largest industry in the state. And despite our economic woes, it has stayed relatively steady and is projected to grow over the next year.

I believe taking stock of the positives is as important as detailing the negatives as we embark on improving Michigan. As always, I remain committed to the hard work ahead to ensure these and other Michigan industries continue to grow.

I look forward to hearing your comments on these important issues.  Please feel free to contact me by calling (888) 373-0078 or e-mailing sharontyler@house.mi.gov.