AGP Executive Report

Local Projects & Community: Isabella County Parks will hold a ribbon cutting May 27 to celebrate finishing the Herrick Recreation Area bathhouse overhaul, including ADA-updated stalls, new fixtures, lighting, and fresh concrete walkways. Auto & Business: Stellantis unveiled its FaSTLAne 2030 plan—€60B over five years—shifting heavy investment toward Jeep, Ram, Peugeot and Fiat, while Detroit’s sports front got a boost as the Lions locked in inside linebacker Jack Campbell with an $81M four-year extension. Economy & Cost of Living: The University of Michigan’s consumer sentiment index hit a record low in May (44.8), with gas prices tied to the Iran war and inflation worries driving the drop; markets are also reacting to Fed rate expectations. Politics & Elections: Michigan lawmakers are pushing a constitutional change to let voters pick nominees for attorney general and secretary of state via primaries instead of party conventions. Environment & Health: New reporting finds harmful microplastics in Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, raising fresh questions about summer water safety. Michigan Culture: Ferndale’s Pride fundraiser “Every Box Tells a Story” drew $9,659 for Ferndale Pride, showcasing local artists’ mixed-media takes on community and identity.

Michigan Governor Race: Former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan says he “couldn’t continue” his independent bid after polls slipped and costs rose, reshaping the GOP-vs-Dem landscape for November. Legal & Courts: A federal judge rejected DOJ efforts to get Wisconsin’s unredacted voter rolls, citing limits on demanding personal voter data—Michigan is cited in similar rulings. Health & Safety: Michigan’s PreK for All push is surging, with Great Start Readiness Program applications up 65% and enrollment topping 55,000 kids statewide. Public Health Watch: A Paris-to-Detroit flight diverted to Canada after a passenger from an Ebola-affected region boarded “in error,” highlighting ongoing travel screening. Business & Culture: Little Caesars is opening its first Malaysia restaurant, while Detroit-area entertainment keeps rolling with a major July 4 Philly concert lineup that includes Detroit-born Momo Boyd. Sports: The Knicks take a 2-0 lead over the Cavaliers, and the NBA’s media deal is off to a huge start with record-setting Game 1 viewership in the West finals.

Michigan Governor Race: Former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is suspending his independent bid for governor, saying he’s fallen behind in both polls and fundraising and can’t overcome the “toxic” political climate driven by anger over the Iran war and rising gas prices. Voting Rights: Michigan Democrats reintroduced a Michigan Voting Rights Act package after the U.S. Supreme Court gutted parts of the federal Voting Rights Act, aiming to curb discriminatory election rules and expand language help. Ebola & Travel: A passenger from the Congo boarded a Paris-to-Detroit flight “in error,” triggering a diversion to Montreal under tightened Ebola entry rules; officials say the risk to Americans is currently low. Cybersecurity: A new wave of attacks is hitting automakers, retailers, developers, and open-source platforms, with analysts warning that attackers increasingly target trusted software and supply chains. Energy & Industry: Ford’s new battery storage push is landing its first commercial deal, while the broader battery supply chain debate keeps spotlighting Chinese-linked firms. Detroit: The city’s historic bankruptcy case has officially closed after more than 13 years.

Teen Violence: A 16-year-old Detroit teen was charged after a downtown “teen takeover” shooting left another teen wounded near the Gucci store on Library Street; the teen got $4,000 bond and house arrest, with a July 2 pre-trial hearing. Civil Rights: CAIR filed an anti-Muslim harassment complaint against Eastpointe police, alleging retaliation after an officer reported coworkers’ slurs. Animal Cruelty: A Warren woman was charged after a pet-sitting video allegedly shows her kicking a 6-year-old pit bull; she faces misdemeanor cruelty counts. Politics & Schools: The U.S. House passed a bill requiring parental consent for schools to update pronouns and restricting federal funds tied to “gender ideology,” with several Democrats crossing over. Auto Economy: Gas prices around $4.50 and forecasts of fewer driving miles in mid-2026 are adding pressure to collision repair shops as claim volumes lag. Detroit News: The paper won 15 SPJ Detroit chapter journalism awards for 2025 work. Arts: Peninsula Gallery in Lewes announced “Abstract Constructions” opening May 30.

Historic Preservation: The National Trust for Historic Preservation named 11 “most endangered” sites for 2026, tying the list to America’s 250th anniversary and the promise of equality—highlighting Stonewall National Monument and other places across the country, including Michigan’s Detroit Association of Women’s Clubs. Memorial Day & Culture: A Memorial Day reflection looks back at how Americans honor service, from the Vietnam Wall to standout films and TV about veterans. Reproductive Rights: House Democrats say they’ll oppose a Smithsonian women’s history museum bill after GOP-added language narrows the focus to “biological women,” raising new hurdles for the Senate. Healthcare & Courts: Pharma’s push against Medicare drug-price negotiations hit a Supreme Court wall, while Planned Parenthood of Michigan is asking Gov. Whitmer for $5 million to prevent clinic closures. Michigan Watch: Livonia Stevenson boys golf keeps chasing state finals after another record-setting run; Metro Detroit drivers face fresh I-94 weekend closures. Food Safety: Kwik Trip earned an international award for food protection excellence.

Detroit & Michigan Public Safety: Detroit Police is seeking bids to replace ShotSpotter, asking City Council for a 9-month, $2.06M extension while it evaluates other gunshot-detection options as the current $7M contract nears its June end. Weather & Local Impacts: Severe storms hit parts of Michigan Tuesday, snapping trees and wires and closing Kensington and Stony Creek Metroparks. EV & Business: Kitu Systems says it has deployed EV charging management at Willy’s Overland Lofts in Detroit, adding 10 new chargers to bring the site to 28 ports. Economy & Costs: Gas prices are at their highest Memorial Day level since 2022, with AAA warning increases could continue. Courts & Voting: A federal appeals panel questioned DOJ’s push to access sensitive voter rolls, with skepticism tied to a DOJ legal memo used in the fight. Sports (national, with Detroit ties): The Cavaliers blew a 22-point 4th-quarter lead in Game 1 of the East finals, losing to the Knicks in OT as Jalen Brunson attacked James Harden late.

PWHL Expansion: The Professional Women’s Hockey League completed its latest growth push by naming San Jose as its 12th franchise for 2026-27, locking in games at SAP Center and closing the league’s second expansion round that already added Detroit, Las Vegas and Hamilton. College Sports Power Play: Big Ten leaders are meeting in Southern California as the “unsustainable spending” debate keeps heating up, with Michigan’s recent men’s and women’s basketball titles adding fuel to the argument over what college athletics can afford. Michigan Politics: GOP gubernatorial candidate Aric Nesbitt asked the U.S. DOJ to investigate Gov. Gretchen Whitmer over a $20 million grant scandal tied to Farmington Hills donor ally Fay Beydoun. Election Integrity: The DOJ moved forward on a long-running Skid Row “cash-for-ballots” voter registration scheme, seeking a full audit of California voter rolls. Weather & Safety: More storms are expected across Michigan, with officials warning residents to watch for damaging conditions.

Severe Weather & Safety: A round of storms tore through Metro Detroit, snapping trees and damaging homes and businesses, with residents reporting roof blowouts and power-line trouble. Legal & Environment: Michigan’s AG says the state secured a Monsanto PCB settlement worth at least $108M, potentially up to $240M, to fund cleanup tied to long-lasting contamination. Courts & Accountability: In Flint’s EPA dispute after a bellwether trial, residents and the federal side are clashing with the agency over what the facts show. Consumer Protection: After storms, Michigan is warning people about contractor fraud—especially scams that pressure quick signings or demand cash upfront. Politics: At a UAW forum in Dearborn, gubernatorial candidates Mike Duggan and Jocelyn Benson sparred repeatedly over fundraising. Sports: Tarik Skubal threw a full bullpen session as he works back from elbow surgery, while the Knicks and Cavaliers set up the Eastern Conference Finals. Culture: The DIA is kicking off Pride Month with an all-ages drag showcase, plus more queer events around town.

Economy Mood Swing: A University of Michigan sentiment drop and new polling show Americans more depressed than in the postwar era—even as headline stats look “decent,” with affordability and inflation still driving the anger. Cybersecurity: The American Lending Center breach is now pegged at 123,000+ people affected after a ransomware attack hit its internal network; the firm says there’s no sign of misuse. Detroit Media: 9&10 News cleaned up at the Michigan Association of Broadcasters awards, including honors tied to its Edmund Fitzgerald coverage. Energy & Courts: The Trump administration renewed an order keeping Michigan’s J.H. Campbell coal plant running, while Michigan and environmental groups keep fighting it in court. Local Business Buzz: Cloud Boba opened in Novi with 100+ customizable drinks. Tech/Industry: Newlab Detroit is pitching a manufacturing future at Michigan Central. Sports: NBA playoff scoring is down sharply leaguewide, and the Pistons’ season is over after a tough run.

Pistons vs. Cavaliers: Cleveland took Game 7 125-94, with Donovan Mitchell scoring 26 and Jarrett Allen dominating (23 points, 7 rebounds) to send the Cavs to the Eastern Conference finals vs. the Knicks. MSU Governance: The MSU Board of Trustees approved a new ethics code (5-3) and extended President Kevin Guskiewicz’s contract through 2031 with a raise to $2 million amid retention concerns. Local Sports Media: Detroit Pistons games are set to return to free, local TV via Scripps Sports, with WMYD TV-20 becoming the official broadcast home. Detroit Culture: The Pistons leaned into hometown pride at Little Caesars Arena, welcoming Detroit artists for Game 7, including Trick Trick for the halftime show. FEMA Funding: FEMA awarded $86.4M to Michigan groups for COVID-19 response costs, including Henry Ford Health, Corewell Health, and Detroit Public Schools. Travel Headline: Spirit Airlines’ collapse is still rippling for summer travelers, as budget alternatives get harder to find.

Crime & Community Pressure: Detroit-area police are stepping up foot patrols after a surge of social media posts from assault and theft victims, with frustration boiling over as residents trade tips and complaints online. MSU Governance: Michigan State’s Board of Trustees will hold a special Zoom meeting Sunday to consider revisions to its ethics and conduct code—after a late notice raised questions about compliance with open-meeting timing rules. Local Business Watch: Joe Vicari Restaurant Group is taking over Hook on the Nautical Mile for the 2026 season, signaling a likely menu refresh and possible rebranding. State Budget Reality Check: Michigan’s revenue outlook improved, but officials still warn of a more than $1B gap and “tough decisions” ahead amid federal uncertainty. Auto Industry Shockwaves: GM is discontinuing its biggest Silverado heavy-duty models by end of 2026, with production cutbacks expected to hit Michigan and the Midwest. Sports (Detroit): The Tigers set up a Sunday rubber match vs Toronto after another extra-inning loss, while Casey Mize’s efficient return offered a rare bright spot.

NBA Playoffs: OG Anunoby practiced again with the Knicks and says his right hamstring injury isn’t as bad as the one that sidelined him before—while Detroit and Cleveland gear up for a Game 7 Sunday after the Pistons’ 115-94 win Friday. Detroit Sports/TV: ABC’s Eastern Conference finals promo mistakenly teased the matchup as if the Pistons weren’t in it, even though Detroit forced the Game 7 at Little Caesars Arena. Education: DPSCD is rolling out a high-school redesign aimed at steering students into career-focused pathways, with Western International High School serving as a pilot. Local Governance: St. Joseph commissioners approved a sidewalk replacement program using a one-inch tripping-hazard standard, with a pilot to see if doing more in-house is feasible. Arts & Culture: WKAR was named Michigan Public Television Station of the Year for 2025, its 14th win in 15 years. Business/Industry: EW Grobbel officially opened its newly acquired St. Clair Shores meat facility after buying it from Perdue Premium Meat in 2023. Courts/Music: Funk legend George Clinton sued UMG in federal court in Detroit, claiming more than $1.1M in withheld royalties.

MLB Spotlight: The Tigers host the Blue Jays Saturday with Casey Mize returning from an adductor strain, while Detroit looks to build off Friday’s late win over Toronto. Reds Reset: Chris Paddack gets his first Reds start Saturday vs. the Guardians after a rough start to the season and a quick reset after being released by Miami. Local Politics/Policy: Mackinac Island ferry service is in legal limbo, with a Michigan House bill that would let the island control fares and fees still stuck in committee as summer nears. State Demographics: Michigan’s population outlook is turning “upside down” as natural decrease continues—more deaths than births—despite migration gains. Business & Jobs: EW Grobbel is reopening a renovated production facility in St. Clair Shores, aiming to ramp output and expand. Health & Tech: Mentavi Health plans to present clinical validation data for adult ADHD evaluation at the APA meeting. Sports Front Office: The 76ers begin searching for a new day-to-day lead executive as Bob Myers sets expectations for a broad, collaborative role.

Women’s Hockey Expansion: The PWHL is adding San Jose as its 12th team, completing a rapid growth sprint that already brought new franchises to Detroit and Hamilton—aiming to cut travel and broaden the league’s footprint. Detroit Sports: The Tigers got a jolt of good news: ace Tarik Skubal has started a throwing program just two weeks after elbow surgery, with hopes he could return sooner than typical. Playoff Pressure: The Pistons forced a Game 7 after a big Game 6 win over the Cavaliers, setting up Sunday in Detroit. Legal & Public Safety: An Owosso mother convicted of selling nude photos of her 5-year-old daughter was sentenced to 5 to 20 years, with the judge calling the state’s max punishment “a huge break.” Michigan Money Woes: Michigan’s budget outlook improved, but a gap still tops $1 billion as lawmakers chase a balanced plan. Global Markets: Stocks slid worldwide from recent records as oil prices rose and AI-led tech cooled.

Sports & Entertainment: The NBA is in full offseason mode in Chicago for the draft combine, even as the Knicks and Thunder keep rolling toward the conference finals and the Cavs and Spurs have a shot to join them. Michigan Politics: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is seeking a FEMA extension for April’s severe-weather disaster declaration after damage across 41 counties, while the Michigan House passed snow-day forgiveness legislation after the mid-March storm. Local Governance: Lansing’s housing-cost and supply bills face strong pushback from local leaders over zoning and “preemption.” Public Safety & Justice: East Lansing police plan to release a narrated video in the Isaiah Kirby officer-involved shooting case after family complaints about what they were shown. Media Business: Gray Media and E.W. Scripps completed their station swap—Gray gains WSYM in Lansing; Scripps expands in Colorado and Idaho. Detroit/Region Watch: Michigan’s Cannabis Regulatory Agency disciplined 39 companies in April for tracking, security, sales, packaging, and reporting violations. Weather/Community: Michigan Audubon warns of a major spring bird migration surge and urges “Lights Out” to reduce light pollution.

NFL Schedule Drop: The full 2026 slate is out, with the Seahawks opening as slight favorites over the Patriots in a Super Bowl LX rematch, and Detroit’s own Lions schedule now set—highlighted by eight national TV games, a Thanksgiving home date vs. Chicago, and a rare overseas matchup in Germany (Nov. 15 vs. New England). Local Sports & Media: The Pistons’ TV home is shifting too, with WXYZ Editorial noting a new local partnership, while WCSX Detroit’s “Big Jim” O’Brien is exiting mornings after a decade-plus. Michigan Education: Gov. Whitmer signed bipartisan bills removing the Michigan Merit Exam essay requirement and ending the rule that test scores must appear on transcripts. Michigan Public Safety: Whitmer ordered flags at half-staff Friday for Peace Officers Memorial Day. Business & Community: Romulus officials say a $3B Motown Sports Village is planned next to Detroit Metro Airport, and MDARD announced Last Food Mile refrigerated-transport grants for 21 projects. Global Watch: Xi warned Trump that Taiwan could trigger clashes if mishandled, as tensions also flare near the Strait of Hormuz.