Michigan unemployment rate drops slightly in August

Michigan’s monthly unemployment rate dropped slightly to 5.2 percent in August. A report from the Michigan Department of Technology says the unemployment percentage was affected by about 14,000 fewer people holding or seeking jobs. This is the fifth consecutive month that the state’s workforce has shrunk.

Wayne Rourke, the Michigan Labor Market Information Director, says the drop in the unemployment rate isn’t necessarily a sign of improvement.

“While the number of unemployed people are decreasing, the number of employed is not going up. So, these people are just leaving the labor market and not looking for a job.”

Some reasons for leaving the workforce include people aging out, becoming discouraged, or the costs of childcare keeping people at home.

Detroit Auto Show unveils 2026 anthem

The Detroit Auto Show unveiled the 2026 anthem My Drive, My City, My Show. The song will be written and performed by Detroit hip hop artist Gmac Cash.

According to organizers, the track delivers the feel of the Motor City by describing a city where cars and culture are prominent.

The 2026 Detroit Auto Show runs January 14 through 25 at Huntington Place in downtown Detroit. More information is available at detroitautoshow.com.

Waste to Wonder 2025 highlights design in action

September is Detroit’s Month of Design, and as part of the festivities the company Ecosphere Organics is hosting an event called Waste to Wonder 2025: Art and Design in Action.

Organizers say this outdoor block party and creative showcase will celebrate community, art, and imagination. The event will feature interactive art and design installations made from repurposed food waste materials.

The showcase will take place at Sanctuary Farms on Lakeview Street. More information is available at detroitmonthofdesign.org.

Spotlite to host coworking tour

On Wednesday, September 24, Spotlite is hosting the Work in Progress Coworking Tour.

The event is led by Amber Lewis, Chief Energy Officer of Visit Detroit. It is a workshop for people in creative or corporate fields who are looking to network or find a space to work on projects and ideas.

The event will offer advising sessions, LinkedIn and resume reviews, a happy hour, and more. To RSVP and learn more, visit Spotlite Detroit’s Instagram.

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