David Lyden

MACKINAC ISLAND —Mackinac State Historic Parks will begin summer operating hours and open its Historic Downtown Mackinac sites starting June 6. These changes coincide with the 10-day Mackinac Island Lilac Festival, which kicks off June 5, during which the parks will host several events. The transition to extended hours for various historical sites on Mackinac Island and in Mackinaw City marks the beginning of the peak tourist season.

06-02-2026 at 01:26:57 PM EDT| Updated 06-02-2026 at 01:27:40 PM EDT ANTRIM COUNTY — Families can learn about summer safety and receive free bicycle helmets and life jackets at the Antrim 0-6 Summer Safety Kick-off Event on Wednesday, June 10. The event is scheduled from 2-6 p.m. at Richardi Park on East Antrim Street in Bellaire, Mich. The Antrim County event aims to connect families with community representatives and offer education on critical summer safety topics.

BIG RAPIDS — Andrew Polter has been named the new associate vice president for Advancement and executive director of The Ferris Foundation at Ferris State University. In his new role, Polter will lead efforts to make a Ferris State education more accessible and relevant, aiming to position the university as a stronger competitor statewide and nationally. Polter will oversee a team responsible for supporting students and programs through strategic partnerships and fundraising initiatives.