Morning Briefing

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2022

In today's newsletter, another sentencing in the Gov. Whitmer kidnapping plot, we explore bird-related news throughout the state and Michigan officials are investigating whether TikTok poses a threat to government devices.

Still undecided on NYE plans? We have some options for you.

Some years, I just feel like staying at home and watching movies as the new year rolls in. Other years, I feel like partying with friends, dancing and raising a glass to what's ahead. I think they are both valid options. And if you plan to stay in, kudos to a cozy night.

If you are looking to hit the town on Saturday to celebrate, there are events across the state. In Midland, there is the popular Midnight on Main party. If you are in the Ann Arbor area, your options range from a Gatsby-themed party to a jazz club gathering. In the Flint area, there is a family skate and the New Year's Resolution Race.

Planning to celebrate with the kiddos? In Saginaw, you can hit up the Mid-Michigan Children's Museum for their free New Year's Eve daytime party.

There is no wrong answer. Just enjoy yourself.

Curated by Jessica Shepherd

Michigan's Mazi Smith opened up about his Ann Arbor arrest while in Arizona preparing to compete in the Fiesta Bowl, calling the incident a "life lesson." Read more here. (Neil Blake | MLive.com)

Michigan's latest population dip can be blamed on deaths, not migration.

It's not a migration issue:Michigan had more people move in than it had move out, according to new 2022 U.S. Census estimates. Yet, Michigan still had a decline in its overall population. Altogether, the Census Bureau estimates Michigan is down 3,391 residents.

The real culprit: As we recently reported, in both 2020 and 2021, Michigan lost more of its residents to death than it gained via births, according to data from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

New COVID deaths:The weekly COVID numbers show just under 11,000 new cases and 110 new deaths. The latest additions are down from recent weeks, though that doesn’t necessarily indicate reduced coronavirus transmission.

Read more

Another leader in the plot to kidnap Gov. Whitmer is sentenced to nearly 20 years in prison.

'Spiritual leader' sentenced: A second man accused of leading a plot to kidnap Gov. Gretchen Whitmer was sentenced to 19 years, seven months in prison. Barry Croft Jr., 47, of Bear, Delaware, was sentenced Wednesday to nearly 20 years.

What the prosecutor said: Croft had planned to become one of the “re-founding fathers of the republic,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Nils Kessler said. Even among those in the kidnapping plot, Croft was considered “too radical,” the prosecutor said.

More courts news: A federal lawsuit against Hope College over a data breach discovered in September is seeking more than $5 million.

Read more

Let's talk about the birds and, well, the other birds. It's been a bird-filled week.

Can I feed them? Are you curious whether it is safe to feed birds this winter? The Department of Natural Resources says yes, but there are some precautions you should take when preparing meals for those feathery friends in your neighborhood.

For the birds: A place with both precious Great Lakes dune habitats and the most southerly edge of the boreal forest in Michigan will now be protected forever from future development. OK, it isn't only for the birds, but they are going to love it.

ICYMI: Thousands of ducks made a visible mass on the water near the Mackinac Bridge. While some crossing the bridge might have thought the sight was an oil slick, it was actually the massive group of waterfowl. Stay tuned, because we plan to have an update on the record-setting gathering.

Read more

Is TikTok a security threat to state devices? Michigan officials are looking into it.

Is the app problematic? State cybersecurity officials are reviewing whether the social media app TikTok poses a security threat on Michigan government devices, a spokesperson confirmed to MLive Wednesday.

Why are they concerned? The review comes as at least 19 states have banned the app, owned by a Chinese company, from at least some government devices, and the federal government is set to institute a similar ban via language included in a massive federal spending bill President Joe Biden is expected to sign before the end of the year.

More news from Lansing: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer vetoed 11 bills ahead of the legislative year’s end, citing concerns that policies pertaining to issues like marijuana licensing and retirement systems were "rushed through a lame duck session."

Read more

During this festive week, what says "celebration" more than delicious food?

The latest pizza news: I think I have met a total of one person in my entire life who said they did not like pizza. It's the great unifier. We have some fantastic pizza here in Michigan. For instance, Buddy's was just named one of the 50 best pizzas in the world. And you will want to keep an eye on this Eminem-themed pizza pop-up.

Hey Kzoo! Have you tried these new spots? In 2022, more than two dozen new eateries opened in the Kalamazoo area, with only a couple of closures. As someone who lives in the 'Zoo, I will admit I still have to visit a lot of these. But, hey, that makes for a fun to-do list.

A flurry of fry flavors:HOMES Brewery in Ann Arbor does French fries five ways — bulgogi, kimchi, Thai chicken, toga and plain. Each have their salty, sweet and spicy advantages.

Read more

Another briefing in the books.

Your Thursday Morning Briefing experience is complete!

For the rest of the day (and any other time), you can find the latest Michigan news at MLive.com. Perhaps it's the time for you to become an MLive subscriber.

I'll see you back here tomorrow morning for one last Morning Briefing of 2022.

— Jessica Shepherd

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