AGP Executive Report

Conservation & Recreation: Michigan is set to buy nearly 4,500 acres on the Keweenaw Peninsula to protect land from private development, while keeping public access for hiking, biking, hunting, fishing and snowmobiling. State Budget Pressure: DNR Fisheries leaders warn that rising costs plus limited one-time funding won’t stabilize staffing or fish stocking, with potential major reductions ahead. Tourism & Outdoors: A new list of must-see Michigan waterfalls highlights the UP’s best drops for road-trip planning. Lake Michigan Safety: A man died and another was hospitalized after falling into Lake Michigan near Chicago’s 31st Street Beach, underscoring summer water risks. Local Events: Community calendars for Aug. 17 spotlight family-friendly activities across West Michigan. Travel Culture: Southwest Michigan’s wine country is getting more attention as visitors seek place-based Michigan pours. Road Trip Planning: Northern Michigan leaders push for better broadband and cellular service to reduce reliance on seasonal tourism. Family Travel: MDARD urges pet owners to update vaccinations before outdoor adventures and travel.

Woodward Dream Cruise: Pontiac’s “Wild West” stretch of the Woodward Dream Cruise roared to life Saturday with wall-to-wall car owners, low-humidity weather, and plenty of muscle-car energy. River Fun: The annual Port Huron Float Down brought hundreds onto the St. Clair River Sunday, with out-of-state visitors even flying in from South Africa for the first run. Detroit Baseball & Community: At Comerica Park, the “Magnum P.I.” Day crowd in red Hawaiian shirts topped 900 attendees and partnered with the Brain Injury Association of Michigan. Lake Safety: Hamlin Lake in Mason County saw a confirmed harmful algal bloom—officials advise avoiding contact and following posted advisories. New Ludington Spot: After delays, AndyS opens Sunday in downtown Ludington with an Italian wood-fired pizza focus, sports bar, live entertainment, and rooftop seating by Lake Michigan. Outdoor Weather Watch: Storm damage is still forcing some school delays and closures in the region. Family Travel Note: CN’s America250 whistle stop brings themed locomotives to South Bend’s Union Station Tuesday, with food trucks and tours.

Local Events & Outdoors: Cheboygan’s “Tap Into the Trails” returns Sept. 19 with 10K and 5K family fun runs starting at Festival Square, linking downtown to the North Central and North Eastern state trail network—about 150 miles total. Travel Safety & Planning: Sunday’s Michigan forecast calls for scattered showers and thunderstorms, highs in the 80s (mid-to-upper 80s near Saginaw), gusty northwest winds, and a slight severe risk near Saginaw Bay—plus beach hazards. Community Tourism & Culture: The Vietnam War Memorial replica “The Wall That Heals” is coming back to Southwest Michigan for an extended weekend, offering a free, 24-hour stop for remembrance and education. Roadside News: A 25-year-old pedestrian was killed after being struck by a vehicle on Coldwater’s south side late Friday; police are investigating. Statewide Visitor Tips: Tree Check Month urges residents to inspect for the invasive Asian longhorned beetle in yards and public spaces to catch new infestations early. Sports Travel Note: Sen. Gary Peters’ final “Thank You, Michigan” motorcycle tour starts Aug. 24 with stops including Bay City, Alpena, Marquette, Traverse City, Grand Rapids and East Lansing.

Woodward Dream Cruise: Detroit-area classic car fans packed Woodward Avenue for the 2026 Dream Cruise, with standout moments from Mustang Alley to the crowds lining the route. Public Safety: A deadly Missaukee County shooting spree left six people dead, including the suspected gunman, after authorities searched across multiple locations. Motorcycle Tourism: Sen. Gary Peters kicks off his final five-day “Thank You, Michigan” motorcycle tour Aug. 24–28, stopping in Bay City, Alpena, Marquette, Traverse City, Grand Rapids and East Lansing. Local Community Tensions: Cass County residents filled a town hall urging a halt to industrial projects they say could impact land and water, including a hyperscale data center, a fiberglass plant and large-scale solar farms. Travel Planning Watch: Gas prices in Michigan’s counties show mixed lows and averages (including regular and premium deals reported by GasBuddy), a useful heads-up for road-trip budgeting. Outdoor Interest: A national parks guide highlights why timing matters for popular parks and points travelers toward less-crowded options.

Tourism & Events: The Wall That Heals is coming to Southwest Michigan, set for Aug. 20-23 at Harper Creek High School’s soccer field complex, with free admission and 24/7 volunteer staffing to honor Vietnam War service members. Family Fun: Detroit Lakes’ Rotary Peach Sale wraps today (9 a.m.) at Nereson’s parking lot in Detroit Lakes, with proceeds supporting local and international Rotary programs. Northern Michigan Getaway: The lakes-area calendar is packed Aug. 15-23, with local happenings and seasonal plans for visitors. Local Culture: Cold Stone Creamery is pushing expansion—seeking franchise partners to add 8 to 12 new Michigan locations over the next four years, including a Detroit opening expected this fall. Community Spotlight: Houghton police are hosting a Special Olympics fundraising effort at Dunkin’ to support local athletes. Travel Safety/Access: Lake Michigan shoreline access is one step closer after an appeal-related decision, with a court timeline pointing toward Sept. 4. Road Trip Planning: Woodward Dream Cruise is this weekend—here’s how to enjoy (or avoid) the crowds.

Food Safety Watch: Taylor Farms is facing fresh scrutiny after a jalapeno-based salmonella recall tied to peppers from Sinaloa, Mexico—coming just weeks after the company was linked to a major cyclospora outbreak tied to shredded iceberg lettuce, and earlier to an E. coli scare involving onions. Michigan Travel Buzz: Woodward Dream Cruise is drawing hundreds of thousands to metro Detroit, with classic-car fans rolling in from across the country for the 16-mile Woodward Avenue showcase. Novi Community Tourism: More than 1,000 Josh & Jase fans packed a Planet Fitness meet-and-greet in Novi, a reminder of how pop-culture stops can pull visitors into Michigan. Racing Weekend in the U.P.: Bark River International Raceway is celebrating its 50th anniversary with three days of off-road racing, plus camping, vendors, and live music. Tech & Privacy for Visitors: Flock Safety overhauled its privacy policy for Michigan license plate reader cameras, including cutting data retention to seven days and adding offense-filtering controls. Outbreak Update: FDA investigators traveled to Taylor Farms’ Mexico operation as the cyclospora investigation continues, while other states report rising case totals.

Food Safety & Travel Disruption: Taylor Farms recalled jalapeno products in 26 states after a salmonella outbreak tied to peppers from Sinaloa, Mexico—another blow to a supply chain already linked recently to cyclosporiasis from shredded iceberg lettuce. Northern Michigan Outdoors: The Ojibwe Forests Rally at Soo Pass Ranch in Detroit Lakes adds a “Rock, Roll and Rally” super special stage on Friday, Aug. 28, with Travis Pastrana and Lia Block among the rally icons. Great Lakes Health: A cyclospora outbreak linked to shredded iceberg lettuce now involves 17 states, including Michigan, with health officials tracking cases and hospitalizations. Michigan Travel & Lifestyle: A new report looks at what it really costs to retire in a Lake Michigan beach town—home prices near the shore often run far above nearby county averages. Local Community Events: Michigan’s Community Calendar highlights what’s happening Friday, Aug. 14, for travelers and locals planning weekend stops. Public Safety: A Grand Blanc man was charged after allegedly trying to travel to Tennessee to engage in sexual acts with minors, following an FBI online undercover investigation.

Food Safety & Travel Risk: Taylor Farms recalled jalapeno products in 26 states after a salmonella outbreak linked to peppers from Sinaloa, Mexico—coming on the heels of other Taylor Farms-linked illness scares, keeping Michigan travelers wary about produce safety. Public Health Watch: The CDC says cyclosporiasis cases may be slowing, but Michigan’s totals remain high as the investigation continues, a reminder to stay cautious with fresh foods. Local Tourism & Tradition: The Woodward Dream Cruise in metro Detroit highlighted how car culture gets passed down through generations, with families making the annual trip part of their identity. Family Fun & Community: West Michigan Rep. Carol Glanville helped deliver 55,000+ school supplies through United Way’s “Stuff the Bus,” boosting back-to-school readiness for local students. Outdoor & Lake Life: Invasive crayfish are surging across U.S. lakes, raising concerns for Michigan anglers and anyone spending late-summer days on the water. Business Impact: Wildfire smoke events cost Michigan businesses more than $4 billion in direct economic activity, hitting tourism, hospitality, and outdoor-dependent operations. Sports & Travel Buzz: NFL cornerback Terrion Arnold is reportedly headed to the Seahawks after his Lions release—another storyline that could affect fans’ travel plans and game-day chatter.

Food Safety & Travel Impact: Taylor Farms recalled jalapeno-based products in 26 states after a salmonella outbreak tied to peppers from Sinaloa, Mexico—another reminder that foodborne illness can derail travel plans and summer dining. Public Health: Ramona Park Beach in Portage is temporarily closed after E. coli levels exceeded standards, with more water tests planned. Michigan Tourism & Culture: British influencers Josh and Jase are back in Michigan, starting with Detroit coney stops and holding a Novi meet-and-greet Friday (Aug. 14). Outdoor & Family Fun: A Lansing nonprofit is giving away 1,000+ pairs of free shoes at Kickz 4 Kidz Saturday at St. Joe Park, plus backpacks and haircuts. Border Travel Update: Canada extended remote border crossing permits again, with a shift toward telephone reporting sites coming later. Local Events: Kohler-Andrae State Park lists bird walks and a Lake Michigan “ghost ports” history program for Aug. 16-22. Weather: Rain was highly variable nationwide, with heavy totals across parts of the Midwest and Appalachians.

Food Safety & Travel: Taylor Farms recalled jalapeno products in 26 states after a salmonella outbreak tied to peppers from Sinaloa, Mexico—coming just weeks after the company faced a larger cyclosporiasis issue tied to shredded iceberg lettuce, a reminder that supply-chain problems can quickly reach Michigan grocery shelves. Missing Seniors: Michigan’s new Silver Alert law is now in place statewide after families pushed for help finding vulnerable adults; the change follows the 2023 disappearance of Emmet County man David Moffett. Road Trip Watch: Detroit police are asking for tips after a hit-and-run on the east side left a person critically injured; investigators say a red Chrysler 300 ran a stop sign and fled. Outdoor & Family Fun: Twin Lakes State Park in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula reopened its modern campground and tiny cabins after a $2.5 million upgrade, including new bathrooms and improvements to beach and parking areas. Local Tourism Picks: A new Michigan Historical Markers map highlights 1,800+ roadside stops across the state, making it easier to plan history-filled drives. Sports Travel: IndyCar confirmed the 2027 season opener in St. Petersburg and a Detroit street race on June 6, a big calendar note for motorsports fans planning Michigan trips. Campground News: Michigan DNR’s fishing report spotlights Northeast Lower Peninsula spots like Tawas/Au Gres for walleye action. Retail & Dining: Cold Stone Creamery is accelerating Michigan expansion with plans for 8–12 new locations over four years, including a Plymouth opening this fall.

Solar Eclipse & Stargazing: A partial solar eclipse will darken skies across Michigan Wednesday afternoon (Detroit about 3% coverage, peak around 1:35 p.m.), and the Perseid meteor shower is also active in the early morning hours through Friday—just use proper eclipse glasses. Border Travel Boost: More than 41,000 drivers have crossed the new Gordie Howe International Bridge into Canada since it opened July 27, with tolls starting at $5.75 (U.S. currency) for most passenger vehicles. Road Trip Disruptions: A sinkhole has closed westbound I-196 at M-40 in Allegan County for about a week, with detours via M-40 and US-31. Local Tourism & Events: Detroit Bass Day returns Aug. 15 at the Esther Gordy Edwards Centre for Excellence, and Woodward Dream Cruise is this weekend—expect heavy crowds along Woodward Avenue. Family-Friendly Outdoors: Lincoln Township Beach repairs are set to begin soon after erosion damage, including a new parking area, picnic tables, and shoreline fortification. Travel Safety Reminder: MDARD urges pet owners to keep vaccinations up to date before hitting the road for late-summer trips.

Local Parks & Tourism: Lake City is nearing completion of its $1.8 million Grand Central Park waterfront project, adding a bandshell, kids’ play area and community fireplace after years of planning on the former Grand Central Hotel site. Outdoor & Safety Infrastructure: MDOT will extend the US-23 bike path in Alpena Township next summer with an 8-foot-wide trail to make it safer for cyclists heading into Alpena. Community Events: Volunteers of America Michigan teamed with the Detroit Zoo for a backpack giveaway for students heading back to school. EV Charging for Travelers: EVgo opened a new 350 kW fast-charging station in Warren near Meijer, with 12 pull-through stalls designed for quick stops. Michigan Travel Alerts: A pedestrian was killed in a US-41 crash near the Baraga Lakeside Inn; the investigation is ongoing. Family Fun in the U.P.: British social media stars Josh & Jase visited Mackinac Island, including firing a cannon at Fort Mackinac, and raised more than $21,000 for Hospice of Michigan. Food & Wine Tourism: Berrien County wineries report a slow summer as U.S. wine sales hit a 20-year low, with tourism still helping but demand shifting.

Road Work for Drivers: MDOT is resurfacing about 3.5 miles of US-41 in Marquette County, from the Alger County line to M-456, starting Aug. 20 through Oct. 30, with one-lane alternating traffic and flaggers—plan for delays. Fall-Color Getaway Ideas: Midwest Family Ski Resorts is promoting scenic chairlift and gondola rides for early fall, including Michigan’s Snowriver Mountain Resort in the U.P., with panoramic views and access to hiking. Wildlife & Nature in Michigan: The DNR and Michigan State University released new remote-camera results estimating Upper Peninsula wolf numbers, with monthly counts ranging from 525 (March 2025) to 1,198 (Oct. 2024). Heritage Tourism Boost: Union City raised $100,000 to match a state grant for the “Union City Cornerstones Walking Tour,” featuring seven historic stops and Underground Railroad sites, plus QR codes for visitors. Outdoor Safety Reminder: Swimmers are being urged to take extra precautions at Silver Beach.

Lake Michigan Summer Planning: Want a beach day? Here’s a south-to-north guide to 12 Lake Michigan beaches, plus tips to check water temps and conditions before you go. Water Safety Reminder: Coast guards are warning people not to join the unsanctioned Port Huron Float Down on Aug. 16 due to fast currents, cold water, crowds, and limited emergency resources. Invasive Species Watch: Michigan’s Invasive Species Program and USDA are urging residents to “check trees” this August for Asian longhorned beetle signs—especially exit holes and bark damage. Gas Prices Roundup: GasBuddy reports the lowest premium gas deals in several Michigan counties (including Muskegon at $4.99 and Osceola at $5.29 for the week ending Aug. 1), with statewide averages hovering around the mid-$5 range. Local Events for Travelers: CN’s America250 Whistle Stop Tour will make public stops in East Lansing, Durand, and Flat Rock (Aug. 17–19), a fun rail-themed outing for visitors and families. Road Trip Timing: If you’re driving near Seattle, major construction is set for Aug. 14–17 with lane closures and interchange shutdowns that could slow travel.

Back-to-school help in Michigan: A Cadillac church says it’s expanded its backpack drive to 400 after demand kept rising, while other groups report steady needs for clothes and shoes as costs climb. Foster kids get supplies: In Bay City, “It Takes a Village” held its 5th annual event to stock backpacks and school items for foster children, with donations split between two local agencies and organizers pushing for more foster parents. Upper Peninsula pipeline fight: Bay Mills Indian Community leaders say they received Line 5 permitting decisions while wildfire smoke filled the area, renewing pressure against the Enbridge pipeline’s long-term operation through the Straits of Mackinac. Lakeshore Trail trek: A new travel feature highlights a backpacking-style journey along Michigan’s Pictured Rocks Lakeshore Trail, spotlighting the cliffs and shoreline scenery that make it a repeatable adventure. Lake safety reminder: A Michigan report notes Independence Lake has closed for swimming due to E. coli concerns. Food safety watch: Michigan health officials are tracking a national cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to lettuce, with cases and deaths reported earlier this month.

Michigan Politics & Tourism Backlash: Michigan Democratic Senate nominee Abdul El-Sayed is still in the spotlight after comments and campaign rhetoric that critics say target Mackinac Island, a top Michigan travel draw—sparking fresh attacks and counterattacks as Democrats try to unite ahead of the general election. Campaign Money Fight: Sen. Bernie Sanders urged Democratic leaders to ban super PAC spending in party primaries, calling out outside groups like AIPAC after the Michigan primary debate over large interest-group spending. Public Health for Travelers: Michigan health officials and researchers warn ticks are spreading, with Lyme-related emergency visits at high levels; experts say ticks are showing up beyond forests, including parks and backyards. Food Safety & Trip Planning: The Cyclospora outbreak is hitting consumer confidence nationwide, with Michigan reporting thousands of cases, raising concerns for anyone planning summer meals out. Local Culture & Community: Benton Harbor commissioners backed a new public art plan at Jean Klock Park aimed at boosting tourism and beach activity. Outdoor & Family Fun: MSU launched Michigan’s first biological control program targeting the invasive scarlet lily beetle using parasitoid wasps.