MDARD Grants: West Branch’s Great Lakes Lamb got support for refrigeration and freezer storage, while Saginaw’s N-18 Cabaret Trail received funding to build energy-efficient workforce townhomes. Campaign 2026 (Manufacturing Jobs): Slotkin and McDonald Rivet tied Michigan manufacturing job losses to Trump-era economic instability, pointing to the SK Siltron closure after a large DOE loan. Auto Safety (Ford): Ford named NHTSA veteran David Hines as chief auto safety officer to oversee global product safety compliance as the company faces recall and warranty scrutiny. Data Centers (Politics + Local Control): A federal moratorium debate keeps heating up, with Rep. Tom Barrett pushing bills to stop federal agencies from overriding local data center decisions. Energy + Environment (UP Conservation): Michigan DNR secured permanent access to 73,000 acres in the Michigamme Highlands, adding long-term recreation and forest management. Local Business + Housing (EGLE): Saugatuck’s River Market redevelopment won a $1M EGLE grant to clean contamination and add commercial space plus apartments. Public Safety (Gaming Enforcement): Muskegon officials seized alleged illegal slot-style machines at DJ’s Pub & Grill as part of an ongoing investigation. Consumer Fraud Watch: BBB Scam Tracker ranked Carleton among Michigan cities with scam reports, underscoring continued fraud losses statewide. Higher Ed Payments: Michigan State and other universities will accept tuition payments via PayPal and Venmo, aiming to reduce friction for families. Food + Agriculture (Northern Michigan): Traverse City Food and Wine returns with 80 events spotlighting local agriculture and regional culinary talent.