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Even the best-built roads and bridges don't last forever. Not all broadband connections are created equal. And we need look no further than the Flint water crisis to know water systems sometimes fail. These are all infrastructure related issues, and provide the fodder for our continuing Michigan Beyond series. We'll spend the next few days exploring the issues surrounding Michigan's infrastructure starting with our crumbling roadways: From the compelling history of how our roads first were built, to today's very bad no good shape to tomorrow's possible solutions. Join the conversation as we attempt to unravel how a state synonymous with the automobile provides us Michiganders with some of the worst roads for automobiles in the union. MORE
► How Michigan built its roads - from fixing your own to fuel taxes
► Michigan Beyond

Rental business caters to the kid sleepover party crowd (yes, really!)

We have to give props to this business venture that provides all the fixin's for your kid's next sleepover party. It doesn't appeal to our old school selves, aka the "sleepovers weren't like that in our day" thoughts. However, it makes a lot of sense during these rush-rush days of never having enough time. The company sets up the sleepover tents and cots - and whatever else you order - and then comes by the next day to pick it all up. Yeah, its a splurge. But there's something to be said about hassle free that no doubt will resonate with harried parents. MORE

Yikes! 10 counties where the brown recluse has been spotted

Nope. No thank you. Common house spiders are bad enough. Now we have to deal with deadly ones? Brown recluse spiders have been found in 10 Michigan counties. (We interviewed a spider specialist who said these buggers remain rare. Oddly, that's not enough to assuage our totally rational fear.) Didn't these arachnids get the memo they are supposed to stay in the warmer southern states??? Jerks. Now the only benefit of putting up with Michigan's cold, harsh winters is the special reprieve we get when certain family members head to Florida for the winter. (Not you, Aunt Gladys!!!) MORE
►Massive spider found near Indiana border
►22 spiders you might find in Michigan

Red Wings, Holland more than pleased with 2018 draft haul

Have yourself a draft Detroit. By all accounts, the Red Wings had an excellent weekend at the NHL draft. They went for offense early with a pair of goal-scoring forwards in Friday's first round. (We still are amazed they landed Filip Zadina at No. 6!) On Saturday, Detroit addressed defense, goaltending and a bit more offense. It really was quite the haul. The Red Wings remain a ways off from contending, but a draft showing like this sets the stage for future success. MORE
► Detroit Red Wings
► Red Wings 2018 draft: From Zadina to Kivenmaki
► Red Wings part ways with Ouellet

Electric Forest's loving culture embodied in 'Giving Tree'

Electric Forest is more than just music, partying and camping. The annual event in Rothbury is just as much (and arguably more) about the attendees and the home away from home atmosphere and welcoming community they create. Exhibit No. 1: The Giving Tree - a large weeping willow on the grounds where people place items they don't need and/or think someone else might find useful. The items underneath constantly are changing, as attendees take and give throughout the weekend. Actually, there are numerous "giving tree" sites at the venue. But it is the willow we will remember. MORE
► Electric Forest campsites
► Electric Forest Day 3
► Electric Forest Day 4