Michigan

Economic favoritism is rampant in the state "up north." From the Lansing State Journal:

Demmer Corp. was awarded more than $2 million in local and state government aid Tuesday to use an empty factory to build components for the military.

Lansing-based Demmer will add 300 jobs and spend $12 million to upgrade buildings at 1600 N. Larch and 736 McKinley for its operation.

It will receive a $919,500 in local and state tax capture to improve the properties. In addition, Demmer was awarded business tax breaks of $667,000 and $360,000 to redevelop the two brownfield sites.

Demmer's plan was among 14 projects across the state awarded tax credits by the Michigan Economic Growth Authority to add jobs or redevelop properties. The projects together are estimated to add about 5,000 jobs directly and nearly 3,000 from the spinoff economic effect.

Gov. Jennifer Granholm, who faces a re-election challenge by Republican Dick DeVos, said the announcements are proof that Michigan is starting to grow and diversify its economy. She likened the state to the Detroit Tigers, which is headied to the World Series after being one of the worst teams in baseball.

"I think that's a good metaphor," she said.