Growing marijuana under the Michigan sun in a smart building   In Marshall, Michigan, there is a glass-walled building the size of three and a half football fields under construction. Soon, a marijuana company hopes to have 50,000 plants growing inside. Michigan Pure Med is the medical marijuana company that will use the smart building, once complete. They hope the greenhouse engineering will cut down on electricity costs and make the operation more cost-effective.  MORE ►Judge denies cancer patient's lawsuit against state over medical marijuana access

House Republicans look to reduce penalties for gun license violations   Michigan House Republicans pointed to protection of second amendment rights as a top priority this session. Recently, bills passed on the House floor that would decrease penalties for those carrying firearms with an expired license and would allow Michigan residents to carry a loaded shotgun inside vehicles on private property. It's unclear how the bills will fare if they reach Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's desk. MORE ►Fewer penalties for concealed carry in gun-free zones under House bills ►Family, police could petition to take away guns from person posing 'extreme risk' under bills

Recapping Michigan and Michigan State football at Big Ten media days hat  In case you missed it, Big Ten media days took place late last week. We heard plenty about the Spartans and Wolverines, with Dantonio and Harbaugh in the spotlight. Here is complete coverage to get you pumped up for college football season, whether you bleed blue or green. MORE ►Michigan State looks to 'chase the moment' after disappointing season ►Jim Harbaugh: I'd pick Michigan to win Big Ten, too ►Ohio State's Ryan Day continues to emphasize Michigan rivalry

  

New Frankenmuth Flower Festival to feature U-pick sunflowers   A new festival will celebrate all things floral. The first Frankenmuth Flower Festival takes place Aug. 2 and 3 at Grandpa Tiny's Farm and throughout the city. Highlights of the festival include U-pick sunflowers and farm-to-table dinners outside, right next to flowers in bloom. You'll also find honey, a strongman competition, an arts and crafts fair and a bake sale.  MORE ►Strong arm? Love beer? Compete in Frankenmuth's next steinholding challenger