The state government faces a possible shut-down soon unless lawmakers come to an agreement on a new budget. The House and Senate are billions of dollars apart in terms of their spending and policy priorities, says Speaker of the Michigan House, Matt Hall

Republican proposals align with much of Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer's agenda. But critics say the budget plan passed by House Republicans cuts too many programs.

It slashes funding for the Michigan State Police, hospitals and revenue shared with cities and counties among other cuts.

Without an agreement on a new budget, the state government will shut down in about a month.

It may be harder for many Michigan residents to get the new COVID vaccine this fall. The Food and Drug Administration has limited shots to people 65 and older, and those with certain medical conditions.

Others might be able to get the shot with a prescription. Michigan's health department encourages everyone over 6 months old to get the vaccine, including pregnant women and very young kids. 

Syphilis cases in Michigan are decreasing – for adults. But Bridge Michigan reports diagnoses for infants are up 38% since 2021.

Health officials estimate between 50 and 60 newborns will test positive for syphilis this year. 

The Sphinx Organization released its latest album last week. “American Mirror” shares new works by Black, Indigenous and other composers of color.

The organization has also opened applications for the 2026 Orchestral Partners Auditions. The program offers classical musicians of color a chance to connect with a national professional network and to compete for up to 3500 in cash prizes.

Applications close on October 6th and are followed by a round of recorded submissions in November and live auditions in Detroit in January. 

The Project Launch Early Childhood Conference is later this month. The one-day seminar will focus on social emotional learning in early childhood education.

The event is free to educators and can be used to meet required training hours. The Centers for Family Development will host the conference at Wayne State September 20th.  

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