July 15, 2020 A $600 weekly federal unemployment benefit is set to expire at the end of this month. The funds have been supplementing state benefits collected by the record number of laid-off workers during the coronavirus pandemic. Without the extra $600, weekly unemployment benefits will revert to the standard state amount after July 31. Those benefits are capped at $362 in Michigan. For some who have been collecting the federal benefits, the idea that they could disappear soon is a source of anxiety. “It’s disconcerting to think that in another few weeks my income is going to drop substantially,” said Ken Holsgrove. “It’s a major financial concern.” MORE On Monday night, Carl Nelson posted a lengthy rant on the Facebook page for his popular Grand Haven corn dog stand, Pronto Pups. The post, which called the coronavirus pandemic a hoax and denounced the Black Lives Matter movement, drew plenty of attention, even after it was deleted from the page. During the immediate backlash, Nelson apologized, saying the sentiments were meant for his personal Facebook page. Despite the controversy, Nelson was serving corn dogs at his business the next day, with a line of customers waiting to purchase Pronto Pups. MORE In yesterday's Morning Briefing, we discussed an awesome beer road trip (see link below). Sometimes, though, you just need a great patio where you can hang out all day and enjoy the summer weather with a beer in hand. This list is for those days. Here's your guide to the must-visit beer patios of Michigan. It's a popular way to visit your favorite establishments these days, with many businesses expanding patio space. Grab your sunscreen and your shades. You'll want to sit in the sun for hours when you visit these spots. MORE Just like the NFL team in Washington D.C., Paw Paw High School decided to ditch the controversial Redskins name. Now, they are officially the Red Wolves. A unanimous decision by the Paw Paw Board of Education ushered in the new era. A new logo was also revealed. The Van Buren County district was the latest in Michigan to change a controversial mascot, though some schools are hanging onto the name for now. Clinton, Sandusky, Saranac and Camden-Frontier all still call their teams the Redskins. MORE Have you wanted to try your hand at blacksmithing? It appears a trip to Frankenmuth is in order. The ancient trade is practiced at the new Bavarian Blacksmith Experience and before you leave, you can forge your own tool. Perhaps you want a knife? Or maybe a magic wand is more your style? Either way, Josh A. Weston, who has appeared on the History Channel’s “Forged in Fire," decided you should have a chance to learn about the trade. Here's a look at the new business in Little Bavaria: VIDEO Get your local news 24/7 Connect with MLive To ensure receipt of our emails, please add newsletters@update.mlive to your address book or safe sender list. |