Celebration at capitol marks Michigan's 180th birthday

LANSING (AP) - Happy 180th birthday to Michigan.

A birthday celebration took place last Thursday, the anniversary of Michigan's admission into the Union on Jan. 26, 1837.

Gov. Rick Snyder, Secretary of State Ruth Johnson, Attorney General Bill Schuette and other top elected state officials attended a ceremony in the Capitol building in Lansing.

The event was called "The Turnaround" celebration because 180 represents the number of degrees needed to turn something around. Speakers said Michigan has reinvented itself throughout its history in the face of numerous challenges.

Snyder said Michigan is entering its "third era" - one of innovation - after the earlier logging/mining and industrial eras.

Twelve-year-old Noah Hampton Yarborough of Lansing told the crowd he hopes in 180 years, people are "selfless, caring and have empathy for others."

Published: Mon, Jan 30, 2017