One of my favorite National Parks to work in (I have many), is the Keweenaw National Historical Park in Calumet, Michigan. The park was established to preserve and interpret the history of copper mining on the Keweenaw Peninsula through partnerships with both public and private organizations.

The 12th Floor of the Michigan Central Station, previously covered with debris, has recently undergone abatement and selective demolition of loose clay tile, plaster and wood windows, just in time for this winter’s snow.  In many areas around the Station there are traces of life…demolition noises, voices, cars coming in and out of the gates...

On Sunday July 17th I attended the ribbon cutting at the Elizabeth Lane Oliver Center for the Arts in Frankfort, Michigan. This 1934 former Coast Guard Station on Lake Michigan has been transformed into a community art center with gallery and classroom space. While final touches and a wait for permanent power will keep the center closed for a few more weeks, there was a big crowd on hand to officially open the building, tour the interior, and enjoy cookies and lemonade.

It has been quite a couple of weeks.

First, yet more photos of the ruins of Detroit on the internet. The images are familiar - I can't begin to remember all the vacant buildings that I have toured - but the impression of hopelessness is deceptive and frustrating. Where others see decay, I see possibilities. In fact among the most recent photos of the ruins I see buildings that have been and are currently being restored. Despite the impression given by these images, Detroit is on the rebound.