I have to confess: Even though I've lived in Michigan for over a decade, I still don't know how to play euchre (much to the dismay of my Michigan-native wife and her family). But even I know that euchre is much more than just a pastime in this state.

What I didn't know though, was just how deep the card game's roots are in the state, tracing back to German immigrants and generations of Midwest players.

Today, The ’Gander's Ellery Weil breaks down how euchre became a Michigan staple, and how you can get in on a game yourself.

Plus: A book lover's guide to Detroit.

Oakland County officials OK Flock drone pilot program (CBS Detroit): The Oakland County Board of Commissioners has approved a pilot program allowing the sheriff’s office to use drones for emergency response, despite strong public opposition. Residents raised privacy concerns over the partnership with Flock Safety, calling it a step toward mass surveillance.

Data: ICE crackdown led to more than 4K arrests (Detroit Metro Times): Federal immigration arrests in Michigan have surged since Donald Trump returned to office in 2025, with more than 4,200 people detained through early 2026, according to data reviewed by the Metro Times. The figures show that fewer than a quarter of those arrested had criminal convictions—a breakdown that contrasts with the Department of Homeland Security's statements, which emphasize a focus on serious offenders.

TikTok stars Josh & Jase to return to Michigan (WOOD-TV): British influencers Josh & Jase are planning a return trip to Michigan this summer after gaining attention during a winter visit earlier this year. Jason "Jase" Riley announced the trip this week during the Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism near Traverse City, saying the duo wants to experience the state in a different season and connect with more residents.

To play euchre, all you need is a deck of cards that only includes aces, kings, queens, jacks, tens, and nines. (Jack Hamilton/Unsplash)

By Ellery Weil

If you’re a lifelong Michigander, chances are you know a euchre player or two. But you may not be aware that euchre is a bit of a Midwest thing, and more specifically, a Michigan thing. If you relocated to the Mitten from elsewhere, you’re probably already aware of that fact, and have been ever since one of your fellow Wolverines first mentioned the game.

While Michigan isn’t the only state where euchre is popular, the game has especially deep roots in the Mitten, hence why it’s often called the “buckle” of the states that make up America’s “euchre belt.” But what are the other states? And how did all of this even get started, anyway? Let’s have a look.

Detroit is an oasis for book lovers. Discover the city’s best spots to shop for new books or read old favorites with a coffee or cocktail in hand. (Sip-n-Read)

By Britteny Dee

If your ideal day involves getting lost in a good book, Detroit has more to offer than you might expect. Beyond its rich musical and industrial history, the city is home to a thriving literary culture—where independent bookstores, historic libraries, and cozy cafes invite you to slow down and stay awhile.

Whether you’re hunting for rare titles or seeking a comfortable spot to settle in with a novel and a latte, you’ll find what you’re looking for at these book-centric businesses in Detroit. Keep reading to discover the best spots for book lovers to browse, read, and unwind across the city.

It's been a whirlwind month for gas prices (and the price of many other goods) due to the ongoing Iran war. That's why earlier this week, we asked readers:

How are higher prices at the pump and other places affecting your life?

We received fewer responses than usual, but here are highlights of what you had to say:

"6 am this morning on my way to work, gas prices were $3.68....when I came home from work at 5:15 pm, gas prices were $4.19. I'm a single mom to an Autistic teenage boy, so higher gas prices makes it hard to get groceries to the table or take my son on fun outings. How am I expected to pay my bills when at least half of my paycheck goes into my gas tank?" — Kristen, Waterford

"Gas prices are scary. Can't believe they can go higher, yet they do. On top of already inflated prices due to tariffs, wondering what will it take to get some relief." — Katie, Michigan

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 Ellery Weil and Britteny Dee. It was edited by Brook Bolen.

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