There is little debate that Arkansas center Frank Ragnow is an excellent football player. He is a road grader in the run game and a stout wall in pass protection. However, the Detroit Lions pulled a fast one on fans and reporters alike Thursday night in making Ragnow the 20th selection in the 2018 NFL Draft. Truly, the Lions needed to address their offensive line this offseason. Detroit once again had an ineffective run game last year, and quarterback Matthew Stafford was sacked, like, A LOT! Ragnow checks a lot of boxes for the Lions, and his selection looks to be a really solid choice on the opening night of the draft. MORE ►10 prospects who fit the Lions 2nd, 3rd round needs ►Video: Analyzing the Frank Ragnow pick
Supporters of marijuana legalization in Michigan are one step closer to smokin' 'em if they got 'em. Michigan's Board of State Canvassers approved the signatures required to place a petition to legalize, regulate and tax recreational marijuana on the November ballot. No formal challenges were filed to the petition. However, at least one group opposing recreational marijuana legalization suggested it is considering legal action. MORE
Michigan had a 3 percent drop in traffic crash deaths in 2017 from the previous year. However, crashes involving serious injuries were up 8 percent, and the percentage of alcohol-involved fatalities increased 32 percent. Better reporting methods are said to play a role in the alarming increase in the latter, but they can't account for the total increase. No matter. We can't stress this enough: Don't drink a drive, people! MORE
MLive impact reporter Julie Mack's series on housing values in Michigan, concludes with a look at some of the poorest communities in the state. The numbers come from the U.S. Census Bureau, and are not presented without caveats. Firstly, these estimates are derived from 2012-16, which was a volatile time for home prices. Secondly, these numbers tend to skew against smaller population areas. Flint, Highland Park and River Rouge topped this list. MORE ►50 communities with highest median home values
There's not much more quintessential Michigan than a weekend getaway to Mackinac Island and a stay at the Grand Hotel. The venerable lodging offered us a sneak peek at preparations for the 2018 summer season. After this long winter, the courtesy photos we got our hands on have us dreaming of soft breezes coming off the lake, wafting the sweet smell of taffy and fudge our way. The Grand Hotel opens May 4. MORE
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