When the National Weather Service issues an extreme heat warning, it means dangerously high temperatures are occurring, and people should stay in air conditioned spaces as much as possible.

For those without air conditioning or a cool place like a basement, Michigan 211 makes it easy to find nearby cooling centers. Michigan 211 provides free, up-to-date information so you can quickly find a safe, air-conditioned place during extreme heat.

How to search for a cooling center:

Senate Republicans recently sent a letter to State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks demanding answers about ongoing tax refund delays affecting thousands of taxpayers across the state.

We are calling on the Department of Treasury to explain what caused the delays, what is being done to fix the problem and when taxpayers can expect their refunds.

The issues began after the department transitioned from its legacy tax processing system to the GenTax platform, which is currently being used by more than 30 other states.

Since the filing season began in January, approximately 250,000 Michigan taxpayers have experienced refund delays, and roughly 27,000 incorrect notices have been sent to filers.

For many families, a tax refund is not a luxury. It helps pay for groceries, utility bills and other household expenses. If you are experiencing issues with a tax refund, please don’t hesitate to contact my office.

Drawing results for 2026 bear and elk licenses are now available. This year, more than 100,000 people applied for 6,278 bear licenses and 200 elk licenses. Results are available at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses or through the Hunt Fish app.

While bear hunting dates and quotas will remain similar to last year, the Natural Resources Commission has established elk hunting regulations for the 2026 and 2027 seasons. These regulations include:

For more information, visit the 2026 Elk Hunting Regulations Summary.

The Community District Library has officially opened the Byron Branch in its new location at 124 Lehring Road in Byron. The new branch offers residents a dedicated, more accessible space to learn and connect with resources.

Previously housed inside Byron High School, the new standalone library provides expanded amenities, including free Wi-Fi, public computers and a larger children’s area. Connected to Burns Township Hall, the space also allows for more community programming and events.

Branch Manager Aubrey Spencer, a lifelong Byron resident, says the new location makes it easier than ever for the community to visit and feel welcome.

The library is open Mondays and Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Stop in to explore the new space and see all it has to offer!

As summer begins, Michigan propane suppliers are urging residents to plan ahead for the heating season. Shopping now can help households lock in lower prices and avoid potential increases later in the year.

Many suppliers offer fixed-price or pre-buy plans, along with budget options that spread costs evenly throughout the year. Consumers should compare providers, review contract terms carefully, and understand any fees or usage requirements before signing up.

With propane prices unregulated in Michigan, early preparation is one of the best ways to manage winter heating costs. Assistance programs are also available for those who need help.

More information is available through the Michigan Public Service Commission’s tip sheet on applying for energy assistance and the MPSC’s tip sheet on propane assistance.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is asking residents to be on the lookout for the invasive spotted lanternfly this summer.

If you see a spotted lanternfly, your location determines what you should do next. If one is found in Jackson, Lenawee, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland or Wayne counties:

If you see a spotted lanternfly in any other Michigan county:

For more information on identifying, reporting or managing spotted lanternfly, visit the state’s spotted lanternfly webpage.

This summer, purchase a Recreation Passport and visit one of Michigan’s 103 state parks and recreation areas to enjoy camping, swimming, fishing, hiking, biking, boating and more.

Michigan also has 11 visitor centers located at state parks and fish hatcheries that offer educational exhibits and access to nearby trails. Each center has professional interpreters who lead nature-focused programs.

During the summer months, Explorer Guides lead outdoor education programs at parks and recreation areas throughout the state. Click here for an interactive map of parks offering Explorer Guide programs, along with weekly schedules for each location.

Many state parks and campgrounds have been updated to improve accessibility. Facilities may include modern restroom buildings, accessible playgrounds, fishing piers, beaches, track chairs and more. Visitors can also take virtual tours before visiting a location.

Recreation Passports can be purchased through the secretary of state or at park entrances.

Michigan is one of the nation’s top blueberry producers, growing over 20 varieties across 17,000 acres and supporting more than 6,600 full-time jobs.

Most commercial blueberries are grown in southwest Michigan, where sandy soil and a high water table in Allegan, Berrien, Muskegon, Ottawa and Van Buren counties create ideal growing conditions.