AGP Executive Report

Gordie Howe Bridge: The free walking and biking path across the Gordie Howe International Bridge is now drawing big crowds of cyclists and hikers, adding a fresh Michigan-to-Canada travel option for summer visitors. Michigan Politics & Travel Demand: Democrats are rallying after Abdul El-Sayed’s Michigan Senate primary win, setting up a high-stakes November race that could shape how travelers and businesses plan around election-year uncertainty. Public Safety: Firefighters responded to a blaze at Troy Church of Christ in Oakland County; no injuries were reported. Health Watch for Travelers: A fast-growing cyclosporiasis outbreak tied to contaminated food has been reported across multiple states, with Michigan among the hardest hit—another reason travelers should be extra careful with produce and food handling. Northern Michigan Getaway: Petoskey is being highlighted as a go-to base for Harbor Springs, Charlevoix and Boyne City, with beaches, golf, wineries and breweries driving end-of-summer trips. Local Tech in Schools: Palmer Trinity’s Falcon drone team placed fourth nationally in Detroit, a feel-good story for families looking for STEM activities.

Gordie Howe Bridge Opens for Walkers and Cyclists: Detroit and Windsor’s new multi-use path is drawing big crowds after the bridge’s vehicle opening, with early “firsts” including the first cyclist and first on-foot arrival. Great Lakes Cruise Tourism: Ludington is leaning harder into modern Great Lakes cruise stops, building on decades of maritime heritage and marketing its harbor, downtown, beaches and trails. Outdoor & Community Calendar: Ludington’s August events lineup includes Movies in the Park, live music, kids’ activities, and STEAM Camp. Lake Michigan Beach Cleanup: The Alliance for the Great Lakes is kicking off its Adopt a Beach effort with Lake Michigan cleanups in Southwest Michigan, including Silver Beach (Aug. 14) and New Buffalo City Beach (Aug. 20). Wake Boat Rules Debate: Becker County commissioners rejected a full ban on wake surfing at Pickerel Lake, but signaled openness to a less strict 300-feet-from-shore limit. Health Watch: Cyclospora cases tied to contaminated iceberg lettuce continue to climb nationwide, with Massachusetts reporting 147 cases as officials urge food safety. Travel Retail Buzz: Buc-ee’s announced its first Arkansas travel center opening Aug. 17.

Gordie Howe Bridge Opens for Walkers/Bikers: The multi-use path on the Gordie Howe International Bridge started letting pedestrians and cyclists cross at 8 a.m. Wednesday, with free access, border-processing lines expected, and rules like no pets and no pedal-assist bikes at first. Detroit Transit Vote: Wayne County voters approved a transit millage renewal/expansion for SMART, with unofficial results showing about 66% “yes” early Wednesday. Detroit Schools Funding: Unofficial early results show Detroit Public Schools Community District’s $120M operating millage is headed toward approval, a key step for classroom and staffing costs. Michigan Senate Primary: The Democratic U.S. Senate nomination race stayed extremely tight overnight, with progressive Abdul El-Sayed leading Rep. Haley Stevens by a narrow margin as counts continued. Food Safety & Travel Caution: Federal health officials are investigating a cyclospora outbreak tied to Mexican iceberg lettuce; Sysco says it will stop buying the product as Michigan reports deaths, a reminder for summer travelers to watch produce advisories. Tourism Spotlight: British influencers Josh and Jase faced backlash in Traverse City after locals criticized their sponsored visit, raising questions about how tourism promotions land.

Gordie Howe Bridge Opening: The Gordie Howe International Bridge multi-use path for walkers and cyclists opens Wednesday morning at 8 a.m., with seasonal hours (8 a.m.-8 p.m. Apr. 1-Oct. 31; 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Nov. 1-Mar. 31) and free entry—parking is at trailheads in Windsor (Malden Park) and Detroit (Clark Park). Great Lakes Travel & Tourism: Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City is on a record pace, with nearly 155,000 passengers in July and expectations to approach 1 million for the year. Family-Friendly Events: Oscoda hosts an inaugural Beach Book Bazaar, and Tawas Point Lighthouse marks its 150th anniversary with free tours and activities Aug. 7-8. Health Alert for Travelers: The CDC says cyclosporiasis cases have reached 47 states; Michigan reported two deaths tied to the outbreak, and Utah says nearly all its recent cases involved out-of-state travel. Local Culture: A traveling “domicology” exhibit is now available for organizations via Michigan State University Museum and EGLE.

In-Car Road Trips: Ford and Lincoln are rolling out Autio’s location-based audio road trip guide inside select vehicles, letting drivers tap or auto-play short stories as they pass points of interest—no phone or login needed. Winter Outlook: The Old Farmer’s Almanac says Michigan is likely to see a warmer, drier 2026 winter than last year, with El Niño driving the forecast. Lake St. Clair Rescue: A charter captain and clients helped save three fishermen after their boat began taking on water near the Detroit River channel. Cyclospora Warning for Travelers: Michigan health officials confirmed two deaths tied to the cyclosporiasis outbreak as cases top 11,000, with dehydration a key risk for vulnerable people—CDC links the outbreak to recalled iceberg lettuce. Family Fun on the Calendar: Battle Creek’s Cereal City Concert Band is set to host three free summer concerts featuring film composer Alan Menken music. Detroit Spotlight: Jalen Rose says Detroit’s comeback shouldn’t be judged only by downtown growth, arguing poverty levels still show the city has more work to do.

Cyclospora Outbreak: Michigan confirmed its first two deaths tied to the multistate cyclosporiasis outbreak, with the state reporting more than 11,000 cases and hundreds of hospitalizations; health officials link infections to recalled iceberg lettuce and urge careful produce handling. Public Safety: A 45-year-old Ann Arbor woman died after running onto M-14 and being struck by a Jeep following an argument involving another vehicle. Local Travel & Outdoors: East Bay Township has started work on a Safe Routes to School Three Mile Trail extension, adding a separated 1.6-mile walking/biking path for students. Events: The Top O’Michigan Marathon Nationals outboard boat race returns Aug. 8-9 in Indian River despite recent flooding. Community Back-to-School: Metro Detroit nonprofits are teaming up to deliver backpacks and school supplies to families in need ahead of the school year. Detroit Spotlight: European travel influencers posted their first impressions of Detroit, highlighting walkability and local stops like Campus Martius and Belle Isle. Sports: The Tigers agreed to trade Casey Mize to the Padres in a deadline move. Primary Watch: Michigan’s Democratic governor primary pits Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson against Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson.

PGA Tour Spotlight: Michael Thorbjornsen won his first PGA Tour title at the Rocket Classic at Detroit Golf Club, firing a back-nine surge to beat Xander Schauffele by two and keep Detroit in the spotlight. Road & Airport Updates: A major I-94 lane shift is now in place between I-275 and Michigan Ave. as part of the Restore I-94 project, with ramp closures lasting into mid-2027—plan extra time for commutes and airport trips. Weather Watch: A flood watch is active for parts of southeast Michigan through Sunday afternoon, with heavy downpours possible and street/creek flooding risk in low-drainage areas. Family Travel Help: Detroit Metro’s free DTW Destination Pass lets non-travelers enter terminals to help kids through their first solo flight, with more than 185,000 passes used since 2023. Local Giving: Special Olympics Michigan Area 36 raised $1,100 at a Negaunee car wash fundraiser, supporting uniforms, travel, and related costs for athletes. Travel Safety Reminder: Orkin’s bed bug “hot list” includes Detroit and Grand Rapids, a timely nudge for travelers using hotels and short-term rentals.

Rocket Classic in Detroit: Michael Thorbjornsen won his first PGA Tour title at Detroit Golf Club, firing a bogey-free 7-under 63 to beat Xander Schauffele by two. Detroit Sports: The Tigers completed a historic sweep of the Athletics with an 11-0 rout, setting up a trip to Seattle. Great Lakes Energy: Michigan Supreme Court sent Enbridge Line 5 tunnel approval back to regulators, renewing debate over environmental and public trust protections. Local Politics & Travel Safety: Rep. Marcy Kaptur was hospitalized after a hit-and-run crash near Toledo while on her way to church; injuries were described as non-life-threatening. Transit & Tourism Angle: Northern Indiana’s South Shore Line board approved a new 20-year plan, including service upgrades and possible station changes tied to federal grants. Outdoor/Adventure: Northern Lights may be visible Sunday night in parts of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, depending on conditions.

Michigan Border Economy: ProPublica reports northern Michigan’s Sault Ste. Marie area is getting squeezed by the U.S.-Canada tariff fight, with residents feeling the pain while they say they have little political voice. Detroit Transit Vote: Wayne County voters head to the Aug. 4 ballot on a transit millage that would renew SMART funding and expand service to 17 communities. Gordie Howe Bridge Access: The Gordie Howe International Bridge pedestrian and cycling pathway is set to open Aug. 5, with guidance on how to cross the multi-use path. Rocket Classic Weather: Detroit Golf Club’s final-round tee times were pushed back due to storms, and the PGA Tour outlined what happens if weather forces a Monday finish. Local Trade/Jobs: A report on Michigan’s data-center boom highlights how major AI projects are pulling skilled electricians into long, high-pay work schedules. Outdoor Planning Forecast: West Michigan weather calls for clearing skies Sunday, a dry Monday-Tuesday, then more shower and storm chances midweek. Mackinac Branding Buzz: A poll suggests Michigan’s state flag could be redesigned around Mackinac Island fudge and everyday “roadwork” frustrations. Lake Michigan Safety: Lake Michigan choppiness has prompted a beach hazard statement and small craft advisory. Underground Science: U-M researchers say deep subsurface water under Michigan may be rich with fungi and tiny animals like tardigrades. Travel Disruption Alert: The State Department warned Americans in the Middle East to expect possible flight cancellations and airspace closures amid heightened Iran-related strike risk.

Detroit Golf Club & Rocket Classic: The PGA Tour is mapping contingencies for Sunday’s Rocket Classic if weather derails play, with a likely Monday push or, if rain persists, a possible 54-hole finish based on Saturday’s standings. Belle Isle Art Fair: A sustainability-minded “Grand Dome” made from 100,000 recycled bottle caps is a standout at this year’s Belle Isle Art Fair, built from removable panels and designed to travel. Northern Michigan Golf: Former Michigan State and LIV player James Piot won the Tournament of Champions at Boyne Resorts, a hometown boost as he chases Korn Ferry Tour status. Northern Strike 26-2: More than 9,000 service members from 36 states and partners will train Aug. 3-14 across northern Michigan, including Camp Grayling. Local Culture & Community: Colony Day in Colony drew a growing crowd for its annual hometown celebration. Health & Travel Safety: The State Department issued a warning to Americans in the Middle East about possible flight cancellations and airspace closures amid escalatory strike concerns. Public Health Access: A free pop-up Remote Area Medical clinic in Verona, Wisconsin, highlights growing demand for no-cost medical, dental and vision care. Metro Detroit Transit/Travel: Gordie Howe International Bridge pedestrian and cycling access is set to open Aug. 5.

Michigan Travel & Tourism Picks: Urban Views: A new study spotlights two Michigan sunset favorites—Detroit Riverwalk (No. 30) and Clinch Park in Traverse City (No. 35)—as easy, city-friendly places to unwind. Summer Events: Little League Softball World Series: Greenville, North Carolina hosts Aug. 2-9 at Stallings Stadium, with all 22 games on ESPN/ABC and a big Opening Ceremony kickoff Aug. 1. Local Calendar: Detroit Lakes area listings include the Becker County Fair Tractor Parade and Family Day (free admission) plus a final day for “The Naturalist” art exhibit. Travel Deals: Hotel Offers: Destination.com says more travelers are stretching trips into fall, and several hotels are extending summer dining and perks beyond peak season. Getting There: Korean Air: New services include automatic baggage transfer for U.S. connections to cities including Detroit. Outdoors & Wildlife: Piping Plovers: Great Lakes piping plovers are rebounding in Wisconsin thanks to conservation efforts—good news for birding travelers.

PGA Tour in Detroit: Cameron Young shot a Detroit Golf Club-record tying 61 in the Rocket Classic, reaching 10-under and tying Patrick Cantlay and Patrick Fishburn for the lead after a bogey-free round. Public Health & Travel: Windsor-Essex County Health Unit is advising travelers to Michigan to avoid raw produce amid rising cyclosporiasis cases, recommending cooked options like a safer dining bet for now. Road Safety: Michigan officials highlighted the need to “move over” for roadside crews after a driver was charged in the May crash that killed two road workers in Ingham County. Transit Planning: MDOT opened public comment on its draft 2027-2031 Five-Year Transportation Program through Aug. 31, including highway, transit, rail and aeronautics projects. Great Lakes Energy: The Michigan Supreme Court ordered regulators to redo their Line 5 permit review, saying environmental impacts weren’t fully considered. Local Tourism & Culture: The New 400 Theater in Rogers Park reopened after years dark, bringing moviegoers back for the latest Spider-Man sequel. Family Travel Deals: Detroit-area back-to-school events are offering free backpacks and supplies, with many also including extras like haircuts and health screenings.

Gordie Howe Bridge Traffic Watch: The new U.S.-Canada crossing is open, but truck congestion on Detroit’s Huron Church Road hasn’t instantly eased—locals say traffic is “slightly better” as paperwork catches up and more freight shifts to the bridge. Passport Perks for Travelers: The State Department says limited-edition “Patriot Passports” with a Trump portrait and 250th anniversary theme will roll out nationwide, with Detroit among the passport agencies hosting one-day events starting Aug. 8. Health Alert for Great Lakes Beachgoers: Stay out of the water at several Lake Michigan beaches due to high E. coli levels, including Mount Baldy, Central Beach, Dunbar Beach, Portage Lakefront and West Beach. Cyclospora Outbreak Update: The explosive-diarrhea parasite is now reported across 45 states, with Ohio jumping to 4,013 cases—another reminder for travelers to be extra careful with food and water. Kalamazoo Back-to-School: Family Health Center’s Back To School Bash moves to WMU’s campus (Aug. 14) with rides, games, supplies and required well-child checks. Nordstrom Rack Expansion: More discount shopping is coming to Michigan as Nordstrom Rack plans new stores in multiple states, including a Michigan location opening in the fall.

Rural Health & Access: Christian Vukasovich held a public forum in Sturgis on the closure of Sturgis Hospital, spotlighting what the loss means for rural care and the broader fight over access to services. Tourism & Lodging: Visit Southwest Michigan bought the former United Federal Credit Union building in downtown St. Joseph to create a higher-traffic welcome hub for the region. Big Events & Travel Demand: Ionia is gearing up for Billy Strings’ sold-out Ionia Freak Fair (Aug. 28-29), with hotels already reporting rooms booked fast. Public Transit Milestone: Detroit’s People Mover marked decades of service, tracing its 1987 opening and ongoing role in downtown travel. Health Care Accountability: Michigan AG Dana Nessel sued a nursing home chain over alleged unsafe care tied to millions in Medicaid funding. Travel Convenience: Limited-edition “Patriot Passport” applications expand nationwide, with Detroit among the participating passport offices. Local Culture: A Vietnam veteran honored fallen friends at Bluebell Beach in Flint with a Chippewa “smudging” ceremony tied to the traveling Vietnam Moving Wall. Community Safety & Care: Planned Parenthood of Michigan closed three more clinics in Lansing, Livonia, and Warren, citing federal funding cuts.

Cyclospora Alert for Michigan Travelers: The CDC says cyclosporiasis has surged to 6,707 confirmed cases in 45 states since May 1, with Michigan reporting more than 10,000 cases (some not yet lab-confirmed). Health officials link the biggest outbreak to iceberg lettuce from central Mexico and urge extra food and water hygiene—especially for anyone planning trips. Emergency Care Shift in St. Joseph County: After Sturgis Hospital closed June 19, ambulance runs in the area are now going much farther, with longer trips taking local crews out of service for more time. Harbor Country Growth: A former Chikaming Elementary School is being reborn as 3 Harbert Residences, with 17 apartments opening Aug. 1 near Lake Michigan. Local Events & Tourism: New Buffalo’s Harbor Country Museum of History + Rail earned a 2026 Best of Michigan award, while St. Joseph’s Chalk the Block returns July 31–Aug. 2 with dozens of artists turning downtown sidewalks into art. Detroit-Canada Travel Boost: The Gordie Howe Bridge is now open to public traffic between Detroit and Windsor, making cross-border trips easier for Michigan visitors.

Michigan Travel & Tourism: Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association is urging lawmakers to add $3 million to Pure Michigan promotion funding after Canadian wildfire smoke hurt summer travel, saying the fires caused billions in lost earnings and led to canceled weekend trips and outdoor events. Public Safety on the Road: Michigan State Police are investigating a fatal head-on crash on U.S. 12 near Lima Road in White Pigeon Township; a box truck driver died, and the other driver was taken to Bronson Hospital, with alcohol and drugs suspected. Health Alert for Travelers: The CDC reports 6,707 domestically acquired cyclosporiasis cases since May 1, with Michigan among states seeing infections; symptoms can include explosive watery diarrhea. Local Events & Getaways: A free concert tour stop is coming to the Lakelands area with The King’s Brass joined by local musicians, and the Salvation Army of Petoskey’s “Stuff the Bus” school-supplies drive runs through Aug. 10. Family Outdoor News: A 13-year-old released from the hospital after a tree fell on him during a camping trip in mid-Michigan.