Auto & battery manufacturing: Ford has begun initial lithium-iron phosphate cell production at BlueOval Battery Park Michigan in Marshall, ramping “D-sample” cells for testing and targeting production-ready supply by year-end, with the plant already employing 500+ workers and drawing heavily from nearby communities. AI & chemicals: Novyte Materials and Chemvera Specialty Chemicals signed a manufacturing-and-royalty deal to commercialize an AI-designed specialty chemical for the polymer industry, building an India-based pathway from synthesis to large-scale manufacturing. Consumer costs & taxes: Southern Michigan drivers are increasingly fueling up in Indiana after the Hoosier state’s 30-day gas tax holiday, prompting renewed calls in Michigan for a similar “gas tax holiday” to ease pump-price pressure. Immigration enforcement real estate: DHS is reportedly preparing to transfer or sell seven ICE detention-expansion warehouses after legal and infrastructure pushback, shifting away from the costly conversion plan. Local government & schools: Cadillac Area Public Schools’ board is set to vote Monday on a proposed 2026-27 budget projecting a small deficit while relying on fund balance amid uncertainty over state funding. Business risk & security: A class-action lawsuit claims Madison Square Garden Entertainment was breached after hackers allegedly leaked sensitive visitor records, including biometric and “threat assessment” data. Sports-business crossover: MLB trade-season chatter is heating up with ESPN’s updated list of 100 potential trade candidates ahead of the Aug. 3 deadline.