What a week! I finally have a moment to catch my breath and wanted to tell you about my recent travels around the state.

Of course, the week started with the announcement that Google is coming to Michigan. And what a victory for the thousand people who won't just have jobs but will have a start with a great company that's in growth mode!

After our announcement Tuesday about Google's arrival, it was off to Grand Rapids on Wednesday for a tour and meeting with American Litho. And let me tell you, it was a warm day in GR with humidity readings near 100 percent - but it was worth braving the heat to talk with the men and women working at the plant. They are excited about the expansion and their new facility. Konica Minolta, one of the world's largest photo imaging and graphics companies, purchased Grand Rapids-based American Litho last year. On my recent visit to Japan in May (which I wrote to you about), I met with Konica Minolta executives to discuss their on-going expansion of American Litho and secured a commitment for a second expansion of the facility. When the projects are complete, the plant will have added more than 100 employees, more than doubling in size. What fabulous news for West Michigan!

On Thursday, I visited my friends at Faurecia North America, part of France-based Faurecia SA. This $13-billion global automotive supplier has chosen to grow their business in Michigan. Faurecia is a leader in creating seats, doors, exhaust systems, and other interior systems for vehicles. In 2005, the company selected Troy as their North American headquarters. Earlier this year they announced that they would be expanding or building six new manufacturing facilities in North America, including three here in Michigan. I was so proud to be a part of their grand opening in Fraser!

I continue to feel hope for the future of our Great Lakes state. Instead of watching our jobs sail overseas, I will continue working hard to keep global companies expanding on our turf. It is great global leaders like Konica Minolta, Faurecia, and Google that we want to stay and grow with us. Their commitment is another clear sign that our efforts to transform Michigan's economy are beginning to pay dividends. But I won't stop there; the fight continues…