Michigan State University experts helped supply turfgrass for soccer pitches in 16 cities across the US, Canada and Mexico for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which starts next month.
Janelle D. James
Janelle D. James covers breaking news at Bridge Michigan. She joined the staff in January 2023. Previously, she worked as a Capital News Correspondent at Michigan State University where she covered state and local policy issues. She also worked as a breaking news intern at the Detroit Free Press. She has a bachelors degree in journalism and political science from Michigan State University. She is from Detroit. You can reach her at jjames@bridgemi.com and on Twitter at Janelle___j.
Posted inMichigan Government
Gretchen Whitmer on 2028 presidential aspirations: ‘Never say never’
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer used her final keynote speech at the Mackinac Island Policy Conference to outline priorities for the remainder of her term and said “never say never” to a question about whether she wants to run for president.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan prison sentences are growing. Revived commission to consider reforms
With prison terms growing, the Michigan Sentencing Commission met this month for the first time in decades. Members will review sentencing guidelines and recommend potential changes.
Posted inThe Center for Michigan
Bridge Michigan, BridgeDetroit rack up 33 Society of Professional Journalists awards
Bridge Michigan education reporter Isabel Lohman was nominated for Young Journalist of the Year, and BridgeDetroit’s founder, Stephen Henderson, received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Detroit chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists.
Posted inMichigan Government
Two deaths at Michigan’s women’s prison renew concerns over medical care
Two women died within four days at Michigan’s only women’s prison, prompting renewed scrutiny of medical care, staffing shortages and treatment delays.
Posted inMichigan Government
New Michigan tax system sparks confusion for 27,000 taxpayers
Michigan sent 27,000 taxpayers incorrect notices, including ‘alarming’ letters claiming owed taxes paid. Weeks later, the state is still working to correct the errors.
Posted inTalent & Education
Money woes close a small Michigan college. It’s not alone
Siena Heights University in Adrian is closing for good after graduating its final class. It’s among a wave of closures for small, private, faith-based colleges regionally and in Michigan.
Posted inMichigan Government, Michigan Health Watch
Michigan teen tobacco use ticks up as prevention funding lags
Michigan spends far less on tobacco prevention than the federal government recommends. As teen use begins to climb again, health advocates say that should change.
Posted inOutdoors Life
Michigan cities rethink ‘No Mow May’ as experts question pollinator benefits
Several Michigan cities have ditched ‘No Mow May’ amid fears
of ticks and limited evidence that longer grass in early spring helps pollinators.
Posted inTalent & Education
More Michigan students pursue trades, but access disparities persist
Career and technical education is growing across Michigan as more complete programs tied to in-demand skilled trades. Access differs by district, however, and some are asking voters to approve related bonds this week.