Michigan Environmental Report

Editor's note: This week the Detroit Free Press ran a story and an editorial providing a checkup on Belle Isle six months after the state assumed control of the park.

Welcome to the weekend!

John Austin and the Michigan Economic Center at Prima Civitas (a new and exciting player in Lansing policy discussions that we jokingly refer to around here as the "other MEC") recently launched the new "Michigan Dream At Risk" project that's worth a look. In short, it showcases in images, words and numbers the uncomfortable but unsurprising reality of Michigan's perpetually beleaguered economy.

The Michigan Public Service Commission recently issued a report summarizing the work of a group assembled to find ways to deploy more solar power in Michigan. The report offers possibilities for expanding the small programs offered by Michigan's two biggest utilities for customers who want to generate solar power at home, but it doesn't compel the utilities to take any action.

The Michigan Department of Environmental Quality hits the road this week to gather public input on proposed rules on fracking for oil and gas.

Many Michigan families and visitors from other states will enjoy fireworks and festivities this holiday weekend at one of Michigan's 102 state parks.

Oh, man. It's Friday and it's summertime. Does it get any better?

Springtime in a high school student's senior year is full of exciting rituals: the last day of school, the graduation ceremony, the open house.