banner
banner
banner
banner
banner

Party on McCarty Returns for a Big Summer of Music in Saginaw Township

 

 

 

 

Get ready, Mid-Michigan! One of Saginaw County's favorite summer traditions is back for another season of live music, food, and family fun.

The annual Party on McCarty Concert Series returns to the Saginaw Township Soccer Complex, celebrating its 15th season of bringing the community together for great entertainment all summer long. Hosted by the Saginaw Township Soccer Association and Saginaw Township Parks & Recreation, the six-show series runs from June through August at the Soccer Complex on McCarty Road.

Six Nights of Music for Every Taste

This year's lineup features a little something for everyone:

  • June 11 – 60s & 70s Hippie Hits
  • June 25 – 70s & 80s Boogie Bash
  • July 9 – Motown Night
  • July 23 – Dance the 80s & 90s
  • July 30 – Country Night
  • August 13 – Classic Rock Night

For country fans, July 30 is the night to circle on the calendar, featuring performances from Raquel Hawkins and Whiskey Six, bringing plenty of country hits to the Party on McCarty stage.

More Than Just Music

The concerts are about much more than the bands. Attendees can enjoy:

  • Food trucks and local vendors
  • A beverage tent
  • Kids activities
  • Community organizations and nonprofits
  • A family-friendly atmosphere perfect for a summer evening out

Popular food options expected this year include Wonder Burger, Big Meaty Philly's, Kona Ice, barbecue favorites, Mexican cuisine from Maria's, and more.

Supporting Youth Soccer in Saginaw County

Party on McCarty isn't just a concert series. It's also the largest fundraiser for the Saginaw Township Soccer Association, helping support field maintenance, facility improvements, and opportunities for local youth soccer players throughout the community.

What You Need to Know

  • Location: Saginaw Township Soccer Complex, 3575 McCarty Road
  • Gates Open: 5:00 PM
  • Music Begins: 5:30 PM
  • Parking: $5 per vehicle
  • Admission: $2 per person
  • Kids 12 and Under: Free

Bring a lawn chair or blanket, gather the family, and enjoy one of Saginaw County's signature summer events. Whether you're into country, Motown, classic rock, or dance hits, Party on McCarty has a night for you.

We'll see you this summer on McCarty Road!

 

Florida Georgia Line Just Dropped a Huge Hint About a Reunion

 

 

 

 

 

Is Florida Georgia Line Getting Back Together? Fans Are Buzzing About a Possible Reunion

Country music fans may finally be getting the news they've been hoping for.

After years of speculation, it appears that Brian Kelley and Tyler Hubbard have officially buried the hatchet and could be preparing for a Florida Georgia Line reunion.

The duo recently sent the country music world into a frenzy when they updated their social media profiles with a brand-new logo featuring the letters:

FGL LFG

For those wondering, "LFG" stands for "Let's [Effing] Go."

And that's not all.

Billboards have started appearing around Nashville featuring the same logo and a phone number. Fans who text the number receive a message that reads:

"Turns out, some things are just better together. Much more to come. FGL LFG."

Needless to say, that message has fueled rumors that something big is on the horizon.

Florida Georgia Line became one of the biggest acts in country music history with massive hits like "Cruise," "This Is How We Roll," "Round Here," "H.O.L.Y.," and "Simple." The duo dominated country radio throughout the 2010s and helped introduce a whole new generation of fans to country music.

When the group went on hiatus and both artists pursued solo careers, many fans wondered if they would ever share a stage again.

Now, there are growing rumors that the answer may be yes.

Some industry insiders believe Brian and Tyler could make a surprise appearance during CMA Fest this weekend in Nashville. Nothing has been officially confirmed, but the timing of the social media changes and billboard campaign certainly has fans talking.

If a reunion does happen, it would instantly become one of the biggest stories in country music this year.

For now, fans will have to wait and see.

But one thing is clear:

FGL may not be done yet.

And if you're a fan of "Cruise," "Stay," "Confession," or "Dirt," you might want to keep your eyes on Nashville this weekend.

Michigan Summer Picnic Alert: Apparently, Potato Salad Is Out and Olives Are In?

 

 

 

 

 

 

The first weekend of June is here, which means Michigan is officially entering peak picnic, pontoon, campground, and backyard barbecue season.

Whether you're heading Up North, hanging out at the lake, or firing up the grill in the backyard, a new survey says some traditional picnic foods are gaining popularity while others are falling out of favor.

And honestly, some of these results may start an argument at your next family cookout. According to the survey, the hottest picnic food trend this summer is... olives.

Yes. Olives.

In fact, olives topped the list of foods growing in popularity, followed by flatbreads, breadsticks, hummus, chorizo, grilled halloumi cheese, salami, prosciutto, Spanish tortilla, and focaccia bread.

It sounds less like a Michigan picnic and more like something you'd find on a Mediterranean cruise.

Meanwhile, several longtime picnic favorites landed on the list of foods losing popularity.

The biggest surprise?

Potato salad made the list.

So did Spam, cocktail sausages, corned beef, sandwich spread, sliced white bread, cheap potato chips, cheddar cheese slices, mayonnaise, and potato salad.

Let's be honest. Here in Michigan, good luck showing up to a family reunion, graduation party, campground potluck, or Fourth of July cookout and announcing that potato salad is "out."

You might get escorted off the property.

The same goes for white bread, chips, and mayonnaise. These are practically food groups during a Michigan summer.

While trendy foods come and go, most Michiganders know what really belongs at a summer gathering:

Burgers on the grill
Hot dogs and brats
Potato salad
Baked beans
Corn on the cob
Chips and dip
A cooler full of cold drinks

So we're curious...

Would you rather snack on olives and focaccia, or stick with classic Michigan cookout food?

Because if potato salad is truly going out of style, nobody bothered to tell Michigan.

98 KCQ NEWS, SPORTS, AND WEATHER

 

 

 

 

 

Earlier today, an Iranian missile attack damaged Kuwait's airport, and the U.S. military carried out strikes near the Strait of Hormuz, as diplomacy between Washington and Tehran showed little progress. The latest flare-ups sent oil prices up more than 1%.

In a letter sent to law enforcement agencies, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is reminding law enforcement about election laws ahead of the August primary and November general election. The letter outlines legal guidance for common issues that may arise during the election process. It states that every eligible voter must have the ability to cast their vote free from intimidation and harassment.

Throughout the month of August, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is hosting its surplus land auction, with more than 100 properties available across 28 counties. The properties include lakefront, riverfront, and forested acreage. Before the auction begins, you must register at the website MichiganPublicLandAuctionTax-Sale.info.

In sports, Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final saw the Vegas Golden Knights outskate the Carolina Hurricanes 5-4.

The Tigers shut out the Tampa Bay Rays 8-0.

The Great Lakes Loons scored their fourth shutout win of the season, a 4-0 series-opening victory over the Lansing Lugnuts.

The NBA Finals begin tonight in San Antonio as the New York Knicks take on the Spurs. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30.

Your KCQ Pinpoint Forecast:

Sunny and hot today with a high of 86.

Partly cloudy tonight with a low of 56.

Thursday, mostly sunny with a high of 88.

Friday, mostly cloudy with a 50 percent chance of showers and a high of 85.

 

 

What Are The Most Unusual Things People Forget In Their UBER or Taxi?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Uber has released their 10th annnual lost and found list.  What have Michiganders left behind?  Any of this stuff yours?

 

Sack of marbles

Brand new mini fridge

Dentures with only two teeth
Breast milk
Human hair
Donny Osmond group picture
Ankle monitor


A prosthetic eye
Oxygen tank
Gold mouth grillz
Welding helmet

Single red-bottom Louboutin heel
Kitchen faucet

A live fish
Mannequin
Two trees
Textured photo with a rhinestoned picture of Jesus
Toboggan
Pelvis implants
Package of live butterflies
Sleep apnea machine

 

Check out the rest of the list!  Maybe you'll find your missing propane tank or your meat slicer!
 

Do You Pay Your Kids For Good Grades?

 

 

 

 

 

 

With mid-Michigan schools letting out for the summer, will you be paying your kids for good grades?

 

18% of Michiganders say NO WAY!  39% are undecided.  37% say its a GREAT idea!

 

What do you think?

 

 

National Dinosaur Day: Most Adults Fail the Dino Test, how about you?

 

 

 

 

 

 

Today is National Dinosaur Day, which is a perfect excuse to dust off your dinosaur knowledge and see if you're smarter than a fourth grader.

Fun fact: dinosaurs actually get TWO celebrations every year. There's International Dinosaur Day in May and National Dinosaur Day on June 1st. Because apparently one dinosaur holiday wasn't enough.

A recent survey asked more than 1,000 American adults a simple question:

How many dinosaurs can you name off the top of your head?

The results suggest many adults are letting dinosaur-loving kids down.

Nine percent of people admitted they couldn't name a single dinosaur. Another 8% said they could only name one. Meanwhile, 25% confidently claimed they could name five or more dinosaurs, and 7% said they could name ten or more.

Then researchers did something cruel.

They made people actually write down the dinosaurs they knew.

Suddenly things got Jurassic.

A whopping 84% of people named fewer dinosaurs than they predicted they could. Only 15% matched their estimate, and just 2% exceeded expectations.

Even more surprising, 16% of people who thought they could name one dinosaur couldn't come up with any at all.

Seriously? Not even Tyrannosaurus Rex?

Somewhere, a Triceratops is shaking its head in disappointment.

Only 16% of participants successfully named five or more dinosaurs, far fewer than the 25% who originally thought they could.

Special recognition goes to the elite 2% who managed to name ten or more dinosaurs. They're probably one of three things:

  • Dinosaur enthusiasts
  • Museum employees or teachers
  • Parents who have watched the same dinosaur documentary 500 times with their kids

The survey proves something we've all learned in life: we're usually a lot more confident about our knowledge than we should be.

So let's put Mid-Michigan to the test.

Without Googling...

How many dinosaurs can YOU name?

T-Rex, Triceratops, Velociraptor, Stegosaurus, Brontosaurus...

Can you get to ten?

Or are you about to discover you're not quite the paleontologist you thought you were?

Michigan Debate: When Does the Week Actually Start?

 

 

 

 

 

It's Monday morning in Michigan.

The coffee is brewing, the road construction barrels are out, and somebody is already counting down to Friday.

But here's a question that has surprisingly divided people around the world:

What is the first day of the week?

A new poll found that Americans can't seem to agree.

About 54% say Monday is the first day of the week, while 45% insist it's Sunday. Another 1% picked "something else," which raises a whole new set of questions.

Honestly, that 1% might be onto something. During a Michigan summer, the week doesn't really start until after you've recovered from a weekend up north.

Part of the confusion comes from our calendars. Most calendars in the United States start with Sunday, which makes it look like the beginning of the week. But many people view Monday as the true starting line because it's the beginning of work, school, and reality.

Around the world, it's not even close.

A whopping 86% of people outside the United States say Monday is the first day of the week. Most of Europe, Asia, and Australia are firmly Team Monday.

Meanwhile, countries like the United States, Canada, Brazil, and Argentina typically consider Sunday the start of the week.

And then there are places that really shake things up. In Iran, Afghanistan, and Somalia, Saturday is considered the first day of the week.

Here in Michigan, the answer may depend on the season.

In January, Monday definitely feels like the start of the week because you've spent the weekend shoveling snow and watching football.

In July? Many Michiganders would argue the week starts whenever you get back from the cottage, campground, lake, or pontoon boat.

Michigan Poll Time:

What is the first day of the week?

 Sunday
 Monday
 Something else

And be honest... are you answering based on the calendar, or based on when you finally stop thinking about the weekend? 

Nerd News: A Rocket Exploded, Scientists Found a Sea Monster, and Someone Hatched a Chick From a 3D-Printed Egg

 

 

 

 

 

Nerd News: Rockets, Dinosaurs, Chess Masters, and Artificial Eggs

Welcome back to Nerd News, where we round up the coolest stories from the world of science, technology, and things smart people get excited about.

Blue Origin Rocket Goes Boom

It wasn't exactly the launch Jeff Bezos was hoping for.

Blue Origin's massive New Glenn rocket exploded in a huge fireball during testing at a launch pad in Florida this week. Thankfully, nobody was injured, but video of the explosion quickly spread across social media.

The New Glenn rocket is designed to compete with some of the biggest players in the space industry, so engineers will now be digging through the data to figure out what went wrong.

Meet the "Tyrannosaurus Rex" of the Ancient Ocean

Scientists have identified a newly recognized giant marine reptile called Tylosaurus rex, which swam through an ancient sea covering what is now Texas about 80 million years ago.

The massive predator could grow up to 43 feet long and had actually been sitting in museum collections for decades under the wrong name.

Researchers say this discovery is a reminder that there may still be unknown species hiding in museum archives waiting to be identified.

 Thinking Less Might Help... If You're A Chess Grandmaster

A new study analyzed more than 215,000 chess moves and found that elite players often made better decisions when they moved more quickly.

Researchers discovered that longer thinking times didn't necessarily lead to better moves, especially during faster games where intuition becomes more important.

Before you start making life decisions in five seconds, scientists point out that this finding applies to professional chess players, not everyday situations.

 Artificial Eggs Could Help Save Endangered Birds

In what sounds like science fiction, a biotech company has successfully developed a 3D-printed artificial egg capable of hatching chicks.

The artificial egg uses a special membrane that allows oxygen to pass through, mimicking the conditions of a natural egg.

Scientists believe the technology could someday help save endangered bird species and improve conservation efforts around the world.

As for bringing extinct species back from the dead? That's still a long way off, but researchers say this is an important first step.

 Nerd News Takeaway

This week, a rocket exploded, a giant sea monster got a new name, chess players proved overthinking isn't always the answer, and scientists hatched chicks from a 3D-printed egg.

Just another totally normal week in science. 

Mosquitoes Might Be Learning Our Tricks... And That's Not Good News

 

 

 

 

 

Mosquitoes Might Be Learning Our Tricks... And That's Not Good News

If you feel like mosquitoes in Michigan are getting smarter every summer, science may have some bad news.

A new study suggests mosquitoes can actually learn to like the smell of DEET, the active ingredient found in many popular insect repellents.

That's right. The stuff designed to keep them away could eventually become something they recognize as a sign that dinner is nearby.

Researchers conducted laboratory experiments and found they could train mosquitoes to associate DEET with a blood meal. Over time, the insects became less bothered by the smell and were even more willing to approach people wearing DEET. In some cases, they appeared to prefer a DEET-treated arm over one that wasn't sprayed at all.

Before you toss your bug spray in the trash, scientists stress that DEET is still considered the gold standard for mosquito protection. The concern isn't that DEET suddenly attracts mosquitoes. Instead, researchers say improper use could make it less effective over time.

One possible real-world example involves someone who applied DEET hours earlier. If the repellent has worn off enough for a mosquito to still get a bite, that mosquito may learn to connect the smell of DEET with a successful meal.

Think of it like bacteria becoming resistant to antibiotics. Overusing something, or not using it correctly, can reduce its effectiveness.

The good news? Experts say there's no reason to panic. The key is simply following the directions on the label and reapplying repellent as recommended.

So the next time you're heading to a backyard barbecue, the ballgame, or Up North for the weekend, don't skip the bug spray. Just make sure you're using it correctly.

Because if mosquitoes start developing a taste for DEET, we may all be in for an even longer Michigan summer. 

Blog Headline Ideas:

  • Michigan Mosquitoes Could Be Getting Smarter, According to New Research
  • Bad News: Mosquitoes May Be Learning to Love Bug Spray
  • Scientists Say Mosquitoes Can Learn to Like DEET
  • The Mosquito Plot Thickens: They Might Actually Prefer DEET
  • Just When You Thought Mosquitoes Couldn't Get Worse...

98 KCQ NEWS, SPORTS, AND WEATHER

 

 

 

 

 

The U.S. and Iran have reportedly reached a tentative agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and begin new nuclear talks. U.S. officials say the proposal would launch an additional 60 days of negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program, although President Trump has not yet signed off on the deal and Iranian officials have not publicly commented.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer says she has nothing to announce regarding a possible 2028 presidential campaign. Speaking at the Mackinac Policy Conference, Whitmer backed away from previous comments that she would not run for president after leaving office, saying, “never say never.”

Michigan voters could soon see a proposal that would change how university board members are selected. A constitutional amendment would allow the governor to appoint board members instead of having them elected. If approved, the measure would appear on the August primary ballot.

The mother of Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo has passed away at the age of 100. Dorothy Izzo died on May 19th in Appleton, Wisconsin, just six days after celebrating her 100th birthday.

In sports, the San Antonio Spurs defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 118-91 in the Western Conference Finals, forcing a Game 7 tomorrow night. The Angels topped the Tigers 7-1, while the Dayton Dragons defeated the Great Lakes Loons 12-3.

Your KCQ Pinpoint Forecast: sunny and breezy today with a high of 84. Tonight, clear with a low around 50. Saturday will be sunny and breezy with a high of 68, and Sunday looks sunny with a high near 76.

 

 

National Hamburger Day: Michigan, It's Time to Pick Your Burger Champion

 

 

 

 

 

 

Today is National Hamburger Day, which means Americans everywhere are pretending calories don’t exist for 24 glorious hours.

Honestly, this holiday feels especially important in Michigan. We’ve officially entered prime burger season: warm weather, backyard grills firing up, Tigers baseball on the radio, and somebody in your neighborhood already cooking burgers by 11 a.m.

But if you don’t feel like grilling tonight, a food reviewer known as “Burger Beast” just ranked some of the best burgers from national restaurant chains, and the list is making people VERY hungry.

Buffalo Wild Wings Takes the Crown 

The top burger on the list comes from Buffalo Wild Wings, featuring:

  • Double smashed patties
  • American cheese
  • Bacon
  • Grilled onions
  • Pickled Fresno peppers
  • Hatch chile aioli

Basically, this burger sounds like it was designed during football season after somebody said, “Just put EVERYTHING on it.”

Bacon Lovers May Want Cheddar’s 

Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen landed near the top with a burger loaded with FOUR slices of bacon, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles, and onions on a brioche bun.

Four slices of bacon feels less like a topping and more like a life decision.

Cheesecake Factory and Chili’s Made the List 

Cheesecake Factory earned praise for its double patties, double cheese, and secret sauce burger, while Chili’s cracked the Top 5 with a nearly half-pound burger covered in Thousand Island dressing, cheese, pickles, onions, and shredded lettuce.

At this point, napkins become part of the dining experience.

Even Denny’s and Outback Got Love 

Denny’s made the rankings with a classic double cheeseburger setup, while Outback Steakhouse leaned into chaos with a burger topped with Bloomin’ Onion petals and Bloomin’ Onion sauce.

Australia may not claim that burger… but America absolutely will.

Michigan Knows Burgers 

Of course, people across Michigan probably already have strong opinions about this list.

Some swear by backyard charcoal burgers.
Others defend diner burgers with their lives.
And somebody reading this right now is already typing:
“None of these beat my local bar burger.”

Honestly? They might be right.

So for National Hamburger Day:
What’s YOUR go-to burger spot in Michigan? 

98 KCQ NEWS, SPORTS AND WEATHER

 

 

 

 

 

This is your KCQ Local Update, 98 KCQ.

Good morning. Iran says it has targeted an American airbase in the region following renewed U.S. strikes on southern Iran. Iran did not specify the location of the base, but Kuwait, which hosts a U.S. military base, says it intercepted hostile missile and drone threats. It marks the second time in three days the U.S. has carried out strikes in Iran, calling the actions self-defense measures.

Michigan State University President Kevin Guskiewicz has announced he is leaving to become president of Clemson University. In a letter to the MSU community, Guskiewicz said too much energy was being spent on past conflicts and internal disagreements. Since 2018, he became the sixth person to lead Michigan State University.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed a bipartisan bill providing 152 million dollars for runway and infrastructure upgrades at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. The funding must be committed before a June 1st deadline to unlock nearly 800 million dollars in federal investment and prepare the base for new F-15 fighter jets expected by 2028.

Applications for Michigan’s Great Start Readiness Program for the 2026-2027 school year are up 65% compared to this time last year. State officials are encouraging families with children turning four years old by December 1st to apply now. More information is available at miprekforall.org.

In sports, the Tigers shut out the Angels 4-0, while the Dayton Dragons edged the Great Lakes Loons 3-2.

Your KCQ Pinpoint Forecast: sunny and windy today with a high near 69. Tonight, clear and cool with a low around 48. Friday turns sunny and breezy with highs near 83, and Saturday looks sunny with highs around 69.

 

98 KCQ NEWS, SPORTS AND WEATHER

 

 

 

 

 

 

This is your KCQ Local Update, 98 KCQ. 

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, backed by President Donald Trump, defeated four-term U.S. Senator John Cornyn in the Republican Senate primary runoff. The result highlighted Trump’s continued influence over the Republican Party and delivered a major setback to the party establishment in Washington, D.C. 

Bay City leaders have narrowed the list of city manager candidates down to four. The next step in the process will take place during a commissioner’s meeting on June 8th, where officials hope to make a final decision. Mayor Christopher Girard says all candidate interviews will be available online through the city website. 

Saginaw County authorities are warning residents about a jury duty scam. Victims are receiving phone calls from scammers claiming to be with the Saginaw County Sheriff’s Office, saying they missed jury duty and must immediately pay a fine to avoid arrest. Authorities say never give out personal information over the phone and contact the Sheriff’s Office directly if you receive one of these calls. 

Consumers Energy is planning power interruptions this weekend for residents in Byron, Hemlock, and Davison as part of grid and security upgrades designed to help prepare for severe Michigan weather. The utility says outages are scheduled during milder weather periods and overnight hours to minimize disruptions. 

In sports, the Oklahoma City Thunder defeated the San Antonio Spurs 127 to 114 in Game 5. The Angels topped the Tigers 10 to 6, while the Great Lakes Loons crushed the Dayton Dragons 14 to 3. 

Your KCQ Pinpoint Forecast: mostly sunny today with a high near 81. Tonight, partly cloudy with a low around 52. Thursday turns sunny and breezy with highs near 70, and Friday looks sunny with highs around 82. 

 

 

The Secret Perks of Being Single

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Relationships are great… but the internet says being single comes with a few underrated luxuries too.

Someone online asked:
“What’s a single person luxury people in relationships miss out on?”

And the answers were painfully relatable.

The Last Piece of Cake Is Yours 

Single people know the joy of leaving dessert in the fridge and finding it untouched later.

No suspicious missing bites.
No “I thought you were done with it.”

Total Freedom 

Want tacos for dinner?
Want to binge an entire season overnight?
Want to do absolutely nothing all weekend?

No discussion needed.

Everything Stays Where You Left It 

Kitchen scissors, remotes, chargers… magically remain in the same spot.

Couples everywhere are currently arguing about this.

Thermostat Control 

Single people enjoy complete power over the thermostat without debates, blanket wars, or sneaky temperature changes.

Leftovers Actually Exist 

People in relationships say leftovers disappear instantly once you move in together.

The Bed Belongs to YOU 

No blanket thieves.
No elbows.
No fighting for pillow space.

Just full starfishing freedom.

Of course, relationships still have plenty of perks… but sometimes it’s the little things that make single life feel surprisingly luxurious.

The Ultimate Michigan Summer Survival Kit for KidsĀ 

 

 

 

 

 

School is wrapping up across Michigan, which means parents everywhere are entering the annual “How do I keep these kids entertained all summer?” season.

The good news? You don’t need expensive vacations or giant amusement parks to create a fun summer. Sometimes the best memories come from simple backyard activities, driveway games, and a little creativity.

Here are some classic outdoor toys and activities that can keep kids busy for HOURS this summer.

Reusable Water Balloons 

Water balloon fights are basically a summer tradition, but reusable water balloons are becoming the MVP of backyard battles. No tiny balloon pieces all over the lawn, and they refill in seconds.

Warning: parents are never “just watching.” Eventually you WILL get hit.

Stomp Rockets 

Few things entertain kids longer than launching foam rockets into the sky over and over again. It’s simple, loud, chaotic, and perfect.

Of course, there’s also about a 95% chance one ends up on the garage roof or stuck in a tree.

Walkie Talkies 

Walkie talkies somehow never go out of style. The second kids get them, the backyard becomes a top-secret mission zone.

Just prepare yourself for hearing:
“Can you hear me?”
“Over.”
“No YOU hang up first… over.”

Backyard Games Never Fail 

Badminton, croquet, cornhole, ladder toss… Michigan summers were built for random backyard tournaments that somehow become way too competitive.

Especially once dads start keeping score.

Bubble Machines = Instant Happiness ????

There’s something about bubbles that turns every kid into a tiny tornado of excitement. Bubble machines are low effort for parents and maximum entertainment for little kids.

Honestly, adults still chase bubbles too.

Nerf Everything 

A Michigan summer without Nerf battles just feels incomplete. Nerf footballs, Nerf blasters, Nerf basketball hoops… they all somehow lead to someone yelling, “Not in the face!”

Sidewalk Chalk Art Time 

Driveways become art galleries during summer break. Sidewalk chalk is cheap, creative, and buys parents at least 30 peaceful minutes outside.

Unless it rains five minutes later.

The Backyard Kiddie Pool 

Not everybody has a giant swimming pool, but inflatable kiddie pools still deliver elite summertime vibes.

Add cold drinks, popsicles, and a lawn chair nearby, and suddenly your backyard feels like a tiny Michigan resort.

Michigan Summer Magic

The best part about summer isn’t fancy plans. It’s kids running barefoot through the grass, hearing ice cream trucks in the distance, and staying outside until the streetlights come on.

That’s Pure Michigan childhood right there.

The Top 10 Things You NEED for a Road Trip Up North

 

 

 

 

 

Memorial Day weekend in Michigan is basically our unofficial state holiday. It’s the annual migration north where traffic doubles, gas stations become survival hubs, and somebody always says, “We should’ve left earlier.”

Before you toss the cooler in the backseat and head toward the cabin, lake, campground, or mystery dirt road your cousin swears is “the shortcut,” here are the Top 10 things every Michigan road trip NEEDS this Memorial Day weekend.

10. A Cooler Bigger Than Common Sense

You don’t know true optimism until you see a Michigan family trying to fit 48 drinks, hot dogs, potato salad, and three bags of ice into one cooler.

9. Bug Spray

The mosquitoes up north are basically welcoming committees with wings. Forget bug spray and you’ll come home looking like a connect-the-dots puzzle.

8. Gas Station Snacks

Better Made chips. Beef jerky. Cherry Coke. Random candy you only buy on road trips. The Michigan road trip snack lineup is sacred.

7. A Playlist Full of Summer Songs

Somewhere between Bay City and “the middle of nowhere,” somebody WILL crank up Bob Seger, Kid Rock, Luke Bryan, or Jimmy Buffett loud enough to wake wildlife.

6. Folding Chairs

Michigan people don’t sit normally in the summer. We unfold chairs in driveways, campsites, beaches, boat launches, and random parking lots like it’s an Olympic event.

5. Hoodie AND Shorts

Because Michigan weather likes to spin a giant wheel every six hours. You could start the day in a sweatshirt and end it sunburned in flip-flops.

4. Construction Patience

Orange barrels are basically Michigan’s state flower this time of year. Just accept that somebody towing a camper is going 43 MPH in front of you.

3. A Bluetooth Speaker

Nothing says “Michigan summer” like country music echoing across a lake while someone struggles to light charcoal.

2. Sunscreen You’ll Forget to Reapply

Every Memorial Day weekend starts with “I’ll be fine” and ends with somebody shaped like a lobster complaining about aloe vera.

1. A “We’re Going Up North” Attitude

This is the real MVP. Doesn’t matter if it’s Higgins Lake, Traverse City, Caseville, Tawas, or a tiny cabin with questionable Wi-Fi. Memorial Day weekend in Michigan is all about bonfires, beaches, boats, burgers, and making summer memories.

And honestly? Half the fun is just the drive there. 

KCQ NEWS, SPORTS, AND WEATHER

 

 

 

 

 

 

The House and Senate will both leave Washington for their Memorial Day recess without voting on a reconciliation package to fund federal immigration agencies. This after the Justice Department's new Anti-Weaponization Fund earned strong pushback from Republican members. The $1.7 billion fund was established as part of a settlement of a suit by President Trump against the IRS, which he controls. Senators return from recess June 1st. 

With less than six months until the election, former Detroit Mayor Mike Dugan is dropping out of the Michigan gubernatorial race. Dugan released a letter saying there were a variety of challenges he faced running as an independent. The August primary election is August 4th when candidates from both Republicans and Democrats will choose their nominees for governor. 

At the Building Homes, Building Community Housing Summit event Thursday, it was announced that Buena Vista Township has been awarded nearly $475,000. That's to help homeowners make upgrades. According to Michelle McGregor, the Community Development Officer for Buena Vista Charter Township, she said, “We want to help individuals as they age in place and we want to make sure new homes are being placed in our community.” 

Kyle Busch, a two-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and one of the sport's greatest drivers, has died. He was 41. His team had indicated earlier that Busch had been hospitalized with a severe illness. 

In sports, the Guardians over the Tigers 3-1, the Timber Rattlers defeated the Loons 14-5. 

Your KCQ Pinpoint Forecast: partly sunny and windy today with a high of 67. Tonight, cloudy with a 40% chance of showers and a low around 50. Saturday, cloudy with showers likely after 1 PM and a high near 60. Sunday, cloudy with a 30% chance of showers and a high around 74. Memorial Day Monday, sunny and warmer with a high of 80.

 

 

Michigan Memorial Day Weekend: The Official Start of "Pure Michigan Chaos"

 

 

 

 

 

 

Memorial Day weekend in Michigan is less of a holiday… and more of a statewide personality trait. It’s the moment when grills fire up, boats appear out of nowhere, somebody insists “the lake’s actually warm,” and half the state heads north at the exact same time. Suddenly every gas station smells like sunscreen, beef jerky, and optimism. So we figured we’d ask the important questions.

What officially makes it feel like Memorial Day weekend in Michigan?

Is it:

  • The first backyard BBQ?
  • Hearing a jet ski at 8am?
  • Someone wearing shorts while it’s still 53 degrees?
  • Sitting in construction traffic with a pontoon behind you?
  • The first bonfire smoke of the season drifting through the neighborhood?

Because honestly… all of the above count.

Up North Cabin, Campground, or Backyard Bonfire?

Michigan people divide into categories fast on Memorial Day weekend.

Some disappear to cabins “up north” with questionable Wi-Fi and excellent snack supplies. Others pitch tents and pretend sleeping on rocks is relaxing. And then there are the backyard bonfire legends armed with lawn chairs, citronella candles, and somebody’s uncle trying to grill 48 burgers at once.

The Big Michigan Cookout Debate 

Every cookout has:

  • The burger expert
  • The hot dog purist
  • The bratwurst philosopher
  • The person who burns everything and says, “adds flavor”

So what’s the ultimate Michigan cookout food?

Burgers? Brats? Hot dogs? Street corn? Mackinac fudge you bought three weeks ago and forgot in the car?

Cold Lake Water: Are You Brave Enough Yet?

Every Memorial Day, somebody cannonballs into a freezing lake and immediately regrets every decision that led them there.

And yet… five minutes later they’re saying:

“It’s not THAT bad once you get used to it.”

That’s the most Michigan sentence ever spoken.

Memorial Day Weekend Playlist Essentials 

There are songs that simply belong on a Michigan holiday weekend playlist.

The soundtrack usually includes:

  • Country music
  • Classic rock
  • One random 2000s summer song everybody knows
  • Somebody blasting music from a pontoon two lakes away

Bonus points if it’s loud enough to scare nearby seagulls.

The Ultimate Michigan Memorial Day Destination

Where are you headed?

  • Mackinac Island
  • Traverse City
  • Frankenmuth
  • Caseville
  • Torch Lake
  • Somewhere with a pontoon and no cell service

Or maybe just the backyard with a cooler and a folding chair that’s survived since 1998.

Important Michigan Questions We Need Answered 

  • What’s your go-to gas station snack for the drive north?
  • How many hoodies are packed for your “summer” trip?
  • What’s more dangerous: mosquitoes or Michigan drivers towing boats?
  • At what temperature do Michiganders officially declare it “boat weather”?
  • Pontoon party or quiet bonfire?
  • Beach day or backyard BBQ?
  • Flip-flops or hoodies?
  • Lake Huron or Lake Michigan?

And perhaps the greatest mystery of all:

Is It Even Memorial Day Weekend Without Construction?

The answer is no.

Orange barrels are basically Michigan’s state flower by this point.

One Thing Is Certain…

Memorial Day weekend in Michigan always feels like the unofficial launch of summer. The grills are hot, the lakes are crowded, the mosquitoes are organized, and somewhere nearby a dad is absolutely insisting he can back the boat trailer in on the first try.

 

KCQ's PEOPLE ARE CRAZY!

 

 

 

 

 

KCQ's People Are Crazy!

A man overseas was recently seen strapping a coffin to the back of his motorcycle. He rode down the road giving a buddy "one last ride."

 

Can you rob a convenience store with a lighter? A Massachusetts man was recently arrested for robbing a convenience store with a lighter.  He only demanded scratch off tickets!

 

You can't dance in the street with a turtle in Indiana!  He was arrested for dancing in the middle of a busy roadway while holding an Eastern Box Turtle. It was taken from the wild. He was arrested!

 

 

Dad Bods May Be Losing the BattleĀ 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For years, guys everywhere have proudly claimed the “dad bod” was the ultimate goal. You know… just enough gym time to say you work out, but also enough pizza to keep life interesting.

Well, a new report may have delivered some rough news for Team Dad Bod. Researchers looked at dating app data and survey results to figure out which body types people find most attractive.

And according to the study, the “perfect” male body was considered around 15% body fat… basically the lean, athletic build that looks like someone actually enjoys doing burpees on purpose.

The second most popular look? Around 20% body fat. The classic dad bod territory at 25% came in third. So the dad bod isn’t out… but it may need a little cardio. 

Meanwhile, the results for women were very different. The study found the “perfect” female body type landed around 30% body fat, proving that ultra-thin wasn’t actually the top choice. In fact, both 30% and 25% ranked higher than the thinnest option researchers showed participants.

So what’s the takeaway here? Apparently people like healthy, realistic body types… but maybe not the “I eat mozzarella sticks four nights a week and call mowing the lawn exercise” level of dad bod.

KCQ NEWS, SPORTS, AND WEATHER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 President Trump scored another win Tuesday against a Republican rival, dislodging Representative Thomas Massey in Kentucky's primary. Massey pushed for the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files, opposed the war with Iran, and voted against Trump's signature tax legislation last year. He lost to Trump-backed challenger Ed Gullrein following the most expensive U.S. House primary in history.  

 A mid-Michigan, attorney says he's filing an appeal after a judge ruled the state is not responsible for the 2020 Edenville Dam failure. Attorney Ben Johnson says the state failed in its duty to properly regulate the dam's owner and operator, Bryce Hydro. The judge's ruling stated the dams failed because of environmental issues and the dam's original construction back in the 1920s. 

 Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed bipartisan bills eliminating outdated standardized testing requirements for students. The two bills removed the mandatory essay portion of the Michigan merit exam and in the requirement to place standardized test scores on high school transcripts. The legislation aims to shorten testing time and give Michigan students more flexibility when applying to colleges. 

 The Essexville-Hampton Public Schools Board of Education has voted unanimously to place a $17.9 million facility improvement bond proposal on the August 4th ballot. Superintendent Dr. Davion Lewis says this proposal is the result of careful study, community input and a commitment to doing what is best for our students and our community. To learn more about the bond proposal, visit the district website by logging on to e-hps.net.  

In sports, the timber rattlers defeated the loons 6-4 and the guardians over the Tigers 4-3.  

 Your KCQ pinpoint forecast, partly sunny and breezy, high 64. Tonight, partly cloudy, low 41.  Tomorrow, sunny, high 60.  And Friday, cloudy and windy, high 67. 

 

 

Some of Country Music's Biggest Stars Skipped the ACM Awards

 

 

 

 

 

 

The ACM Awards were packed with huge performances, emotional speeches, and plenty of country music stars Sunday night…

But some of the genre’s biggest names?
Nowhere to be found.

And honestly, a few of the absences surprised fans almost as much as the winners did.


Megan Moroney Had a VERY Good Excuse

One of the biggest surprises of the night was:

Megan Moroney not showing up.

Especially because she was:
 the most nominated artist of the entire night.

So where was she?

Turns out Megan skipped the ACMs because she was serving as:
 maid of honor at her best friend’s wedding.

Which honestly feels very on-brand for somebody who sings heartbreak songs but still sounds like your fun Southern friend.


 Morgan Wallen Wasn’t There Either

Meanwhile…

Morgan Wallen skipped the show too.

But unlike Megan, this one didn’t shock many people.

Morgan rarely attends award shows these days, even when he’s nominated or performing well on the charts.

At this point, Morgan avoiding award shows feels almost as predictable as him topping streaming charts.


Jason Aldean Stayed Home

Jason Aldean also passed on the ACMs.

Reports say he wasn’t nominated for anything this year, so apparently he chose a quiet night at home instead of dressing up and sitting through four hours of acceptance speeches.

Honestly?
Relatable.


 Luke Combs and Jelly Roll Were Missing Too

Two more major names absent from the show:

  • Luke Combs
  • Jelly Roll

Both were nominated for:
 Entertainer of the Year

…but neither showed up.

No official drama. No controversy.
Apparently they just had other plans.

Which somehow makes country award shows feel even more like family reunions:
“Sorry, couldn’t make it this year.”


The Wildest Stat of the Night

Here’s the part that REALLY surprised fans:

Between:

  • Megan Moroney
  • Lainey Wilson
  • Chris Stapleton
  • Zach Top

…those four artists had:
 27 nominations combined.

And somehow?

 They went home with ZERO wins.

Country music fans online definitely noticed that one.


 KCQ Backroads Take

Award shows are always interesting because sometimes:

  • the biggest winners aren’t the biggest stars
  • and the biggest stars don’t even show up.

Still, the ACMs had plenty of big moments…

But country fans were definitely left wondering what the show would’ve looked like if:

  • Morgan showed up
  • Megan walked the carpet
  • Luke performed
  • or Jelly Roll gave one of his emotional speeches.

Because let’s be honest…
country award shows are always a little louder when those names are in the building.

 

 

If You Could Freeze Time... Would You Commit a Crime?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A lot of people have dreamed about having one superpower above all the others:

The ability to FREEZE TIME.

Not necessarily to save the world or fight villains…

Mostly just to:

  • catch up on sleep 
  • finish chores 
  • avoid awkward conversations ????
  • or sit on the couch in absolute silence for once.

But apparently a LOT of people would use this power for something a little more questionable.


A New Poll Asked:

“If you could freeze time, would you do anything illegal?”

And the results are honestly kind of alarming:

  • 86% said YES
  • Only 13% said NO

Which means humanity apparently turned into cartoon villains the second superpowers entered the chat.


What Counts as “Illegal”?

The poll said “minor crimes don’t count”…

But they never explained what qualifies as “minor.”

So now we have questions:

  • Cutting to the front of a line?
  • Sneaking into a concert?
  • Taking extra samples at Costco?
  • Jaywalking while time is frozen?

The legal system gets REAL confusing once nobody can move.


 What Would People Actually Do?

The internet comments got weird FAST.

People admitted they’d:

  • Never pay for groceries again
  • Rob giant corporations
  • Become unbeatable poker players
  • Sneak into restricted places
  • Pull random pranks

One person even said they’d:

“Switch the clothes on two people.”

Which honestly sounds less criminal and more like a rejected sitcom episode.


 And Then the Internet Got Predictably Weird

Of course, some people admitted they’d use frozen time to spy on people…

Which is probably why society can’t have nice superpowers.


 The Most Relatable Answer

One person simply asked:

“Is stopping time every morning to sleep more illegal?”

And honestly?

That might be the most understandable answer in the entire poll.


 KCQ Backroads Take

If most people had the ability to freeze time, we’d probably start with:

  • sleeping longer
  • skipping traffic
  • finishing laundry
  • and finally getting through all those streaming shows everyone keeps recommending.

Then after about a week?
Society would absolutely collapse because somebody froze time at Meijer and stole 400 frozen pizzas.

Archives:

2026-06 | 2026-05 | 2026-04 | 2026-03 | 2026-02