As Cost of Energy Rises, Michigan Looks to Green Investments

In a state known for manufacturing machines that consume fossil fuels, the future of Michigan's economy could take a turn toward investments in solar, wind and biofuels that decrease energy dependency on fossil fuels. Companies specializing in alternative and renewable energy are expanding and hiring while traditional manufacturing businesses are closing their doors. WKAR looks at Michigan's economy and the potential opportunities to move the state toward energy independence.

-- in East Lansing

New Orleans received much of the attention following Hurricane Katrina but smaller towns such as Pearlington, Miss., faced major setbacks as well. In "Beyond Katrina: A Volunteer Story," Mississippi Public Broadcasting follows the volunteer efforts to help residents still struggling more than a year after the storm hit.

Facing pressure to increase volunteer numbers, military recruiters are branching out to high schools and colleges, a move that some communities have tried to block. Life and Times brings together two attorneys -- a veteran and a gay activist -- to debate the issue and invites you to share your thoughts on the program's blog.

Nearly 20 percent of school-aged Americans are considered obese or overweight by the Centers for Disease Control, and with numbers on the rise, schools are beginning to focus on the role they play in encouraging healthy eating habits among students.
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Beginning at an early age, many women encounter the attitude that they are not as capable in math and science as their male classmates. To address gender equality, the National Science Foundation created grants to help foster a less hostile environment for women interested in scientific fields.

What started with a few farmers selling tomatoes and eggplants on 59th Street has become a New York institution. With 45 markets sprinkled throughout the five boroughs, the Greenmarket system has changed the way New Yorkers shop, cook and eat.

When noted photographer and sculptor Alice Wingwall began losing her sight, she became determined to continue making visual art. Now almost completely blind, Wingwall remains a vital visual artist, making lyrical and poignant photo-based works that often express her sight-impaired experiences.