ready for actionMichigan stands on the front lines of defense and homeland security tech

By Kevin Ransom

JADI Inc. wants to save American lives on the battlefield — whether in Iraq, Afghanistan or any future conflict. The Troy, MI, company is developing unmanned robotic systems that will be used in small scout vehicles that can be sent into dangerous combat situations and — via the use of electronic sensors — detect landmines or chemical weapons.

pumping out entertainment

If you're hard pressed for time to watch news, sports or weather, Gas Station TV comes to the rescue. Now, you can pump gas while CBS pumps out the day's news. Or maybe you prefer viewing promos for the next gripping tale of murder on CSI or watching game highlights on ESPN.

bragging rights General Bradley Lott means business in Michigan

Why settle for second best when you can get the best in Michigan?

heightened security

A few years ago, two men, whose sons played youth hockey together in Troy, MI, struck up a friendship during games and practices. In time, their conversations ranged far beyond goals, penalties and ice time and ended up on the somewhat esoteric topic of data encryption.

bringing it to the big screen Michigan's movie industry is rolling out the red carpet

Scene 1: The camera pans in on a close-up of a naked Will Ferrell lying on a locker room bench, a strategically placed basketball the only thing between him and an X-rating. "C'mon, let's get sweaty," he says.