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During this important election year, Bridge readers like you know that high-quality journalism like ours is more critical than ever. There’s a lot on the line, and we’re working daily to deliver the information you need to prepare you for November’s election. Can we count on your vote of confidence in our newsroom? Donate today!

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Help Bridge chronicle the challenges facing rural Michigan

In recent weeks, Bridge Magazine has launched a series exploring the hardship facing many rural communities in Michigan, including the articles here and here that you’re reading today.

The statistics are sobering, with many rural communities struggling with moribund economies, mediocre schools and searing poverty, as well as difficulty accessing basic services like medical specialists, public transportation and broadband internet access. Compounding these challenges is a decline in political clout in Lansing, as more people move to metropolitan areas.

Bridge wants your help in chronicling the ills, and joys, of rural life across the state:

  • Send us stories or anecdotes about your counties and communities, so we can share them with Bridge and MLive readers.
  • Tell us about programs that are working, or not working, in rural regions.
  • Share examples of rural Michigan’s waning political influence in Lansing.
  • Name issues impacting rural communities that you believe remain uncovered, or undercovered, by the media.
  • Tell us what political, business or civic leaders can do to create jobs in these areas, and make them attractive places for young people.

Bridge intends to revisit critical issues impacting rural Michigan throughout this year and beyond. Your suggestions and insight will be invaluable to our reporting.

Send your thoughts to David Zeman, editor, at dzeman@bridgemi.com. Or you can reach out to anyone on the Bridge or Center for Michigan team.

Thanks for reading, and for your continued contribution to improving Michigan’s future.

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