| August 31, 2021 
 There were record numbers of people on unemployment. And at the same time, employers struggled to find workers. The solution was logical for 26 states – ax the extra $300 in weekly federal unemployment benefits and more people will return to work. Most of the 26 also cut the federal unemployment programs that offered extra weeks of pay after people exhausted their state benefits. Job searches in those states increased after they announced they were canceling benefits. Jobs started filling faster in May and June, too, before the benefits were actually cut in late June and early July. But then came a reversal. In June, for every 100 jobs gained in states that cut the $300, the other states gained 75 jobs, per capita. But in July, for every 100 jobs gained in the $300-ending states, the others gained 116 jobs. READ MORE ►Labor shortage, remote work, job fairs and child care woes in mid-Michigan  Those who aren't big fans of hot weather usually look forward to September. Autumn is on its way and the temperatures typically start to cool. If you are trying to plan for the next month, Meteorologist Mark Torregrossa has an expert look at what the month of September usually brings to our Great Lakes state. He does not address the question of when it is okay to start decorating your house with Halloween decor. So you will have to decide that on your own. Or try to ask him during one of his weekday morning live broadcasts on the MLive Facebook page. He is a generally helpful guy. And here is his helpful info on the approaching month: READ MORE  The MLive podcast Mandatory chronicled the story of three Michigan brothers whose companies have collectively caught the attention of 20 state attorneys general. But one former AG whose office cracked down on their companies’ practices more than a decade ago works for one of the companies, now. Former Attorney General Mike Cox now runs the Mike Cox Law Firm and represents ANS, Inc., owned by Steven Fata. We explore his opinions on their business dealings and more -- and hear from some podcast listeners who have gotten similar solicitations -- in a bonus episode of Mandatory. LISTEN HERE ►Check out the entire season of Mandatory on Spotify
 Assuming all goes as planned, Miguel Cabrera will reach 3,000 hits early next season. The timing could potentially be fantastic for the Tigers. Much as his recent 500-home-runs chase has provided a bounce in attendance and enthusiasm right as fans typically start to lose interest, the 3,000-hit pursuit could add some excitement to April games that are usually chilly and sparsely attended. And if the Tigers happen to get off to a hot start next April, Cabrera’s milestone and the budding fan passion could be a launching pad for a turnaround season -- in the standings and at the box office. READ MORE  IMichigan’s new redistricting system is built around public comments, and commissioners are seeking more of them. The state’s 13-member redistricting commission and outside partner groups are trying to boost public engagement with the process, announcing a “Map Michigan Community Week” series of events and a targeted social media effort to encourage people to submit political district map recommendations. The commission over the next month will lay out initial drafts of Michigan state House, state Senate and Congressional districts, which determine the regions political candidates would represent if elected to office. Find out more on how to give your input: READ MORE ►As Michigan's redistricting deadline looms, chair of commission has missed 10 of last 14 meetings Get your local news 24/7 Connect with MLive
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