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Morning Briefing

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 30, 2023

In today's newsletter, what to expect in Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s “what’s next” address, a look at the 50 highest rated Michigan high schools, and our thoughts on the Detroit Lions’ initial 53-man roster.

Boo Boo the bear stops traffic in Merrill

Residents of  Merrill had an afternoon surprise on Monday, Aug. 28, when a black bear was spotted wandering around downtown for hours. The bear has been affectionately named Boo Boo. Maybe it was on the hunt for a picnic basket? 

Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek is announcing the birth of a female baby red panda cub named Zin. The zoo is inviting the public to stop by to see their new addition. 

In other animal news, a Michigan man has agreed to surrender nearly 150 exotic animals and to never possess them again after he was accused of violating federal laws, officials said.

Curated by Cara Hackett

Ferris State University senior Matt Schmoyer, 21, of Chesaning, smiles for a photo with his dog, Pike, outside Cramer residential hall in Big Rapids Monday, Aug. 28. Ferris State is piloting Cramer Hall as a pet-friendly residential hall this year in an effort to help students who experience anxiety and homesickness on campus. (Photo provided to MLive by Ferris State University Communications)

What to expect in Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s “what’s next” address Wednesday

Making a plan: Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is expected to touch on several topics Wednesday, Aug. 30 from prescription drug affordability to abortion access and clean energy as she seeks to set a legislative agenda for the latter half of the year.

Looking at options: As Donald Trump seeks the presidency for a second time, those looking to keep him from the ballot are employing a different sort of tactic: the 14th Amendment. 

In Muskegon: Three projects that are transforming former industrial property in Muskegon, two of them on Muskegon Lake, have received $3 million in state redevelopment funding.

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Here are the 50 highest rated Michigan high schools in the new U.S. News rankings

Best in class: Three Michigan high schools are once again rated among the top 100 best high schools in the country in the latest U.S. News & World Report best high school rankings released on Tuesday, Aug. 29.

Furry faces: Pets are allowed to live in select dorms at Ferris State University this year, as part of a new pilot program testing out pet-friendly residential halls to help students who experience anxiety and homesickness while living on campus.

Almost here: Student loan payments are set to resume on October 1.  Here's how you can prepare.

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Record tornadoes, heat waves, wildfires: Climate disasters increasing everywhere including Michigan

Climate science experts said the barrage of frequent news about natural disasters across the U.S. and Canada in recent weeks is just the beginning. The impacts of climate change are growing increasingly noticeable, and that can be expected to continue.

Summer heat isn't done: Hot weather is roaring back to Michigan. An extended forecast shows the state has an 80% chance of warmer than normal weather next week. 

Aftermath: Kent County has declared a local state of emergency following the Aug. 24 storm that produced several tornadoes across Michigan, including one in Kent County.

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Our thoughts on the Detroit Lions’ initial 53-man roster

Making the cut: The Detroit Lions have set their initial 53-man roster for their highly anticipated opener against the Kansas City Chiefs, and it offers a few surprises, including 29 defensive players, just 21 offensive players, and only two running backs.

Over in baseball: The New York Yankees homered three times to beat the Detroit Tigers 4-2 on Tuesday night at Comerica Park. 

Playing field: Pickleball enthusiasts are grabbing their paddles and hitting the courts at a new complex in Jackson County.

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Iron Fish Distillery to celebrate 7-year anniversary with big Labor Day Weekend event

Mark your calendar: Live music, horse-drawn wagon rides, a whiskey barrel-making demo - and some vey special pours - will all be part of Iron Fish Distillery’s big 7th anniversary event planned for Labor Day Weekend.

Autumn views: Treetops Resort at the edge of Gaylord this fall will host its first Fall Progressive Dinners. Think of them as fall color tours with stops for appetizers and drinks, followed by a chef-made meal.

Have a scoop: In case you missed it, there are now seven Faygo pop ice cream flavors thanks to an exclusive partnership between the long-time Detroit soda pop maker and Browndog Barlor and Restaurant.

Read more

That's all for all.

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Be kind to yourself and others today.

— Cara Hackett

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