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In a series that began in April, MLive is taking a hard look at some of Michigan's biggest challenges - our economy, education system and infrastructure. The goal isn't to simply point out what is wrong, though. We actively are searching to help find solutions. This month we train our lens upon the state of education in the state. For starters, Michigan is trending in the wrong direction. Students here lag behind the national average in a number of key metrics, despite two decades of the state implementing various strategies designed to improve our schools. So what can we do about it? According to education leaders, plenty. MORE
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7 ways MSU could pay for $500 million Nassar settlement

The news out of East Lansing last week was the announcement of a $500 million agreement between Michigan State University and Larry Nassar victims. However, details of where that money will come from remain unknown. MLive capitol reporter Emily Lawler compiled a list of seven possible sources for the funds - from increasing tuition to asking the state (aka taxpayers) to borrowing. In case you were wondering, MSU's sizable endowment is protected by state law, and thus cannot be used for this purpose. MORE
► Complete Nassar coverage

Search for best Mexican restaurant heads to parts north

The search for Michigan's Best Mexican Restaurant is off to a rousing start. This week our Michigan's Best doughty duo - Amy Sherman and John Gonzalez - has planned, we'll say, an aggressive itinerary: heading north, crossing The Mighty Mac, cruising the Keweenaw Peninsula, then coasting down the Lake Michigan coast to Muskegon. That, our friends, is a mouthful. Somebody probably should print up a pair of T-shirts with a picture of a couple tacos and the words "We just drove more than 1,200 miles in five days for these." MORE

Woodson doubles down on Michigan-Ohio State guarantee

Now here's something Michigan football fans and U-M haters both can get behind: A bold rivalry prediction. Last month, Charles Woodson - Wolverine star and one of the greatest college players of all time - guaranteed a Michigan win against Ohio State this fall on the gridiron. On Saturday, Woodson didn't back down. We don't have the space here to get into the particulars. However, U-M fans have gotta love the display of bravado, especially considering OSU has won 13 of the past 14 meetings. As for the U-M haters, they simply relish opportunities to see a Wolverine eat crow. MORE
► Jim Harbaugh praises Lloyd Carr during roast

Going meta at Motor City Comic Con as Val Kilmer shows off Val Kilmer toys

MLive Val Kilmer beat reporter Ed Pevos scored an exclusive interview with Val Kilmer over the weekend during the Motor City Comic Con. Kilmer wasn't going to do interviews at the event, but Pevos is our Val Kilmer beat reporter for a reason, and connected with the actor over the assortment of Val Kilmer toys on display at his booth. The Funko Pop toys were created by a Rochester Hills artist, and Kilmer adores them. His favorite figurine is Doc Holiday, who Kilmer portrayed in the 1993 hit movie "Tombstone." If only we had been with Pevos for the interview. Just the thought of Kilmer saying, "I have two toys. One for each of ya," has the fanboy in us giddy. But we'd settle for a, "Forgive me if I don't shake hands." MORE
► Best cosplay on Day 2 of Motor City Comic Con
► Most creative cosplay on Day 1