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Tornadoes in Michigan are not uncommon. However, this isn't a Great Plains state. The recent spat of nine tornadoes across the state in less than a week is rather alarming. Maybe more alarming is we Michiganders apparently lack some rudimentary tornado knowledge. Thus was the conclusion made by National Weather Service survey teams as they investigated possible tornadoes in Northern Michigan last week. Part of the issue is knowing the differences between tornadoes and straight-line winds. Another problem is remembering what to do in case of a tornado. We aren't in Kansas - and we never presumed to be - but it doesn't hurt to learn about weather that can hurt you before it does. MORE
►Satellite image shows moonlit storms, lightning over Great Lakes

Cider mill, U-pick apple orchard opening dates

Nothing says Michigan fall like a trip to an apple orchard: The fresh apples, the fresh-squeezed cider, the freshly fried doughnuts... all we can say is: YUM! Now, assuming tornadoes (see above) haven't uprooted all the apple trees in Michigan, signs are pointing to a bumper crop this year. Check out the list of orchard opening dates. (Hint: some already have opened!) MORE
►Your guide to 2018 apple harvest dates in Michigan

Photos show the Michigan State Fair as it once was

Michigan held its first state fair in 1849, and operated a permanent fairgrounds on Detroit's Woodward Avenue from 1905-2009. While the state got out of the state fair business a decade ago, there remains a state fair in Michigan, albeit a privately sponsored affair. In honor of this year's iteration over the weekend in Novi, we compiled a gallery of pictures from state fairs past. Enjoy! MORE
►Vintage photos of historic lighthouses
►Old-timey fishing photos

Lions 53-man roster is set as team prepares for its 2018 season opener

Two weeks of high school football are in the books. (That Muskegon vs. Detroit King game was epic!) College football took center stage during the long Labor Day weekend. (Way to go MSU! Not so much U-M.) Now, it is time for the main act, as the NFL kicks off the season this week. The Detroit Lions over the weekend put the final touches on their 53-man roster and filled out their practice squad. While the Lions rate as one of the oldest teams in the league, here's to hoping with age comes experience, wisdom and winning ways. MORE
►Could the Lions trade a running back?
►Lions sign Diggs to rich safety contract

ENTERTAINMENT

Saying good-bye to Aretha Franklin one last time

Aretha Franklin's funeral Friday lasted more than nine hours. It was an emotional, inspiring, thoughtful, moving and fitting tribute to the beloved icon. Thank you, Aretha, for sharing your music, your talents and your soul with the world. MORE

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