| February 4, 2022 
 Michiganders are taking home bigger paychecks on average than they were a year ago. But those wage gains are competing against ballooning prices caused by a 40-year-high inflation rate. University of Michigan economic forecaster Dr. Gabe Ehrlich says inflation is outpacing wages nationally and in Michigan. “Wages are rising, but at the same time prices are rising,” he said. The average 6.1% increase in earnings for private Michigan employees is below the 7% jump in prices from December 2020 to December 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. READ MORE ►Consumer prices jumped 7% in a year, the biggest jump since 1982  Thirteen Republicans are competing to challenge Whitmer in the November general election. They need to get through each other first. Voters will pick one winner in the August primary. Until then, candidates are competing for attention and dollars. If either dries up, a campaign can spoil fast. Campaigns that want to show their support is strong with the “average joe” often point to their small-dollar donations. Being able to prove most of your money came from Michigan residents also counts for bragging rights. Garrett Soldano, a Portage chiropractor, led the Republican field in both categories. READ MORE  Activists in Michigan are launching a ballot initiative that would legalize using, growing and possessing psychedelic plants. The proposal would decriminalize personal use, possession and growth of psychoactive substances for adults 18 and older. Advocates have pointed to research about the healing benefits of psychedelics, including for addiction and mental health treatment. The initiative would also amend Michigan law to reduce penalties for other controlled substances classified under Schedule 1 or 2. READ MORE ►Michigan no longer has a 'tampon tax' on menstrual products  On national signing day, Michigan got the biggest commitment of them all. Head coach Jim Harbaugh called athletic director Warde Manuel to inform him that the month-long dalliance with the NFL was over and he would be returning to Michigan to coach the team in 2022 and beyond. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Harbaugh told Manuel “this would not be re-occurring issue and he would stay at Michigan as long as it wants him.” Did Harbaugh have second thoughts about jumping to the NFL? Did the Vikings come away unimpressed with him following a nine-hour interview? Or were they on opposite sides about key topics? We may never know. READ MORE ►How do Michigan football fans feel about Harbaugh flirting with the idea of leaving for the NFL?  Do you ever drive by a home and think, "I wish I could see get a look inside that place"? This is the ultimate version of that! And, through the magic of photography, you can sneak a peek inside this MASSIVE estate. It's currently for sale, with a listing price of $11.5 million. What does that amount get you here in Michigan? For starters, you get 118 rooms. Yes, you read that right. Also, you’ll find a large pool, sauna, whirlpool, home theater, bar and multiple kitchens. Outside, there’s a tennis court and the home is surrounded by privacy. Look up when inside and you'll spot lovely hand-painted ceilings. TAKE A LOOK ►Michigan city's winter festival postponed because of too much winter Get your local news 24/7 Connect with MLive
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