If your dog hears the word “walk” and loses their mind, you’re not alone.

But sometimes that walk you've done a hundred times around the block gets stale. Maybe you'd rather take that leash off and explore one of the countless dog parks across the state.

That's why this week, The ’Gander's Claire Mainprize is bringing us her list of the 11 best dog parks in Michigan.

Plus: What the heck is kava? We've got the latest on the trending beverage.

'I Voted' sticker contest returns (LSJ): Michigan is bringing back its popular “I Voted” sticker design contest for the 2026 election. Residents of all ages can submit original, non-AI designs by May 1, with the public voting on finalists in June.

Automobile, credit issues topped 2025 list of consumer complaints to Michigan AG (ClickOnDetroit): Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel says her office recovered nearly $2 million for consumers in 2025 while handling more than 12,000 complaints. Officials say the most common issues involved auto services, credit and financial concerns, retail purchases and internet-related complaints.

Six Flags to sell Michigan’s Adventure (WOOD-TV): Six Flags Entertainment Corporation plans to sell seven parks, including Michigan's Adventure, as part of a move to streamline operations and pay down debt. The company says the sale, expected to close within two months, won’t affect park operations through 2026, and all passes will still be honored.

Beach days aren’t just for people. (Kojirou Sasaki/Unsplash)

By Claire Mainprize

Michiganders love the great outdoors, so it’s no wonder that our four-legged friends are often equally as enthusiastic about getting some fresh air. Unfortunately, not all of the state’s immaculate beaches, campgrounds, and hiking trails are pet-friendly—but that doesn’t mean there aren’t fantastic options for outdoor exploration with Fido in tow.

To help you find your new favorite pet-positive destination, we’ve compiled a list of the 11 best dog parks in Michigan. Just don’t forget to bring those waste bags along!

Kava is growing in popularity across the country. Check out exactly what this plant is, where it comes from, and some of the places you can try it for yourself. (Sen Kava)

By Dorothy Scott

The American food scene is rife with drink destinations. You’ve got coffee and tea shops for all of your caffeine needs, smoothie shops to give you a boost of nutrients, bars to relax in at the end of the day—the list goes on. There are even pet-friendly cafes across Michigan for those who want to combine coffee and canines. Still, a new type of establishment is cropping up across the country and bringing with it a wild amount of intrigue: kava bars.

Never heard of kava? You’re not alone. Like tea, kava is a plant, and it’s been consumed by humans for thousands of years. It originally had its heyday in the U.S. in the ‘90s, though in more niche circles. Now, it’s ready for the limelight and is slowly rising as a new superstar drink that claims to be packed with health benefits.

But we’re not going to just let you jump on any trend unprepared. No, we’re here to break down exactly what this plant is, where it comes from, its health benefits, and more.

It's been nearly a week since Israel and the United States entered into a new war with Iran.

So, we wanted to know how Michiganders felt about the new conflict. That's why earlier this week, we asked:

What are your thoughts on a war with Iran?

Here's what you had to say:

"I am absolutely opposed to the US initiating a military action against Iran, without obtaining a congressional declaration of war. I am not fan of the Iranian government, but I want the administration to state its compelling reasons for taking action and gain the consent of congress before taking any further action." — John, Cass County

"The war is long overdue. The regime has always hated America and wished death upon us. It’s strategic also for us to control the oil from Venezuela and Iran the two main suppliers of oil to China, Russia, and North Korea. It is excellent to finally have Republican leaders who realize the global implications of oil and not allowing communist countries to grow in power and global control. I really hope Republicans maintain control of the presidency, House and Senate for many decades to come!" — Joe, Charlotte

"Iran is the latest of several counterproductive wars the US has engaged in since 9/11 when we were attacked by Saudi Arabians, not Iraqis. We should help Europe organize and arm itself so that they can defend the source of some of their oil. Then, we can hand over our bases and focus on the Pacific. Also, stop supporting Israel's theft of Palestinian land and water. "An eye for an eye" does not justify killing tens of thousands because their security forces were focused on protecting illegal settlers in the West Bank." — Simon, Brighton

"My opinion on the attack is that it was not needed / not justified. It also puts the US at risk if a broader war in the Middle East. I’ve yet to hear the justification for our attack." — Eric, Ludington

"I think this bombing of Iran is insane: the US got duped into it by Israel’s preemptive murder of Iran leadership, some of whom we would have accepted as back-up leaders, now all dead. Trump’s ego would not allow him to refrain from joining in the mayhem that has no clear goal." — Margot, Montague

"After saying 'no war' we wake up and are at war. Why? We can’t afford it and our children are not sacrificial lambs nor collateral damage. Enough of these lies!" — Glenda, St. Clair Shores

"Trump said that Iran's nuclear program was "obliterated" last summer, but now he's bombing Iran because they have nuclear weapons. Which is it? He’s serving Israel, not the US. He’s as bad as Putin, the other evil leader for whom Trump rolled out a red carpet. Disgusting!" — Judy, Benzonia

"Actions taken by President Trump do not reflect a civil democratic state's code of conduct nor the values of the United States of America of which I am an ardent citizen. There is no basis, yet alone clear objectives for our interference in another state's affairs including Iran. If there were, the President and relevant cabinet secretaries would be able to articulate an end goal. (When has anyone -- individual, company, country, etc. -- achieved objectives without knowing what specifically the goal/s are.) The President and his apparent sycophant cabinet secretaries are endangering the values and lives of Americans solely for the sake of money ('follow the money trail' to the truth) and power. God save the Right from their own decision to remain blind-folded with ignorance." — Elizabeth, Northville

"This is a diversion to get us away from the Epstein files and to try and halt the midterm elections. Trump needs to be stopped and his presidency ended, NOW!" — Deb, Holland

"Once again old men with atrophied bodies and brains are using our sons and daughters to boost themselves. No argument that Khamenei is a disgusting human and needed to go but equally bad men run other country’s and those people also suffer. This is going to get ugly." — Sue, Traverse City

"Wondering why after hearing no new wars throughout the campaign and now we've bombed Iran, bombed Gaza, Invaded Venezuela and now bombing Iran again for Israel. This isn't our fight and Israel isn't a NATO member(yet). Oil and gas prices will now increase because Qatar has stopped production because of WAR and we've decided America second, not first by exporting our LNG(liquid natural gas) causing our domestic pricing to go way up when everything else is becoming(pardon the term) unaffordable. I'm really disliking all of the lies that are flying like flies." — Ted, Oscoda

"Not happy about getting into a war encouraged by Israel. There is no organized Iranian alternate group ready to take over control of the country and allow it to become more democratic. It will cause a vacuum more likely with unintended poor results." — Kathleen, Farmington Hills

And if you have a question you'd like me to ask our community, send it my way. I might feature it in a future newsletter.

*Responses may be edited for conciseness or clarity.

Want deeper coverage of Michigan politics? Our free Thursday newsletter, This Week in Michigan Politics, breaks down what’s happening in Lansing and Washington—clearly and without the jargon.

With the midterms approaching, we’ll keep you informed on what could affect your day-to-day life.

Interested?

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega with stories from Claire Mainprize and Dorothy Scott. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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