Good morning, Ypsilanti.

Washtenaw County is hosting several summer festivals this weekend—Ypsilanti will hold a Food Festival on Saturday at University Park Commerce Center along with the Ton-Up Bike Show and Music Festival on Sunday at Arbor Brewing Company, while Dexter kicks off its Summer Festival today with fireworks planned for Friday night. The Manchester Community Fair and Saline Summerfest also feature food, music and hands-on activities for all ages.

Today, Torc Robotics held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its new $5.6 million engineering hub in Ann Arbor Township where the company will develop self-driving truck technology.

The facility, partly supported by a $3 million grant, will hire 500 workers as it works toward launching autonomous trucks by 2027—advancing Michigan’s automotive and tech sectors.

Ed Berger was reunited with his dog Isabelle outside the Washtenaw County Trial Courthouse on Aug.

6 after a deadly stabbing that claimed his partner, but a dispute over her ownership continues with Elana James (the victim's daughter).

The Creature Conservancy near Ann Arbor welcomes visitors on weekends when Al the alligator draws crowds on his dock—while sloths, a warthog, a mountain lion and pythons add to the display.

Wildlife educators also teach about emus, kangaroos and tortoises during the center's presentations.

Hilary Doe, Michigan’s Chief Growth Officer, is on a summer roadshow to boost the state’s population and economy—she started in Detroit and highlighted efforts like 3-D printed low-cost housing to create more jobs.

Her tour will visit several communities as she encourages residents to work together for a stronger future.

Next year, a new single-lane, four-legged roundabout will be built at the intersection of Whittaker and Martz roads in Ypsilanti Township to improve safety and traffic flow — it is one of four roundabouts planned for Washtenaw County.

Augusta Township residents are collecting 561 petition signatures to force a public vote on rezoning 522 acres north of Milan-Oakville Road for a proposed $1B computer data center—this follows the township trustees’ unanimous approval.

Travis Matts went door-to-door on August 3 to gather signatures, and supporters will have until August 26 to sign the petition.

Great Lakes Amateur Championship

7 AM – 7 PM — Eagle Crest Golf Club — Cost varies — Compete in an elite 54-hole stroke play tournament at a premier golf venue.

God's Oasis Bookbag Giveaway

12-3 p.m. — Textile + Tuttle Hill — Free entry — Enjoy a family-friendly day with book bags, games, and live entertainment in a welcoming neighborhood.