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Morning 4: U-M to launch ‘grade covering’ pilot program for some freshmen

Here are the top stories for the morning of Aug. 13, 2026

FILE - The University of Michigan football stadium is seen, in Ann Arbor, Mich., Aug. 13, 2020. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya, File) (Paul Sancya, Copyright 2020 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Morning 4 is a quick roundup of stories we think you should know about to start your day. So, let’s get to the news.


University of Michigan to launch ‘grade covering’ pilot program for LSA freshmen

First-year students in the University of Michigan’s College of Literature, Science, and the Arts next fall will take part in a new pilot program that will exclude first-semester grades from their transcripts.

The new program, first suggested by LSA Dean Rosario Ceballo in her 2025 State of the College address, aims to reduce stress and improve mental health among incoming freshmen in the university’s largest college as they acclimate to the demands of a U-M education.

Read more here.


Michigan Republican gubernatorial candidate John James announces running mate

Michigan gubernatorial candidate John James has announced his running mate. On Thursday, Aug. 13, James announced on social media that he is choosing Michigan Rep. Jay DeBoyer as his running mate.

DeBoyer serves Michigan’s 63rd House District, which covers southern St. Clair County and northern Macomb County. He is also the chairman of the House Oversight Committee and a member of the House Judiciary and House Economic Competitiveness Committees.

Read more here.


What family of murdered Rochester Hills man said in sentencing for wife of fake DTE worker

The wife of one of the fake DTE Energy workers linked to the murder of a Rochester Hills businessman, who was also charged after dozens of her text messages were read in court, will be spending up to 20 years in prison.

Amanda Ileana Hernandez, 34, from Lincoln Park, pleaded no contest to conspiracy to commit first-degree home invasion, accessory after the fact and conspiracy to commit false impersonation of a utility worker. She is the wife of Carlos Hernandez, who was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for murdering Hussein Murray, 72.

Read more here.


This was just voted the best donuts in Metro Detroit

Who has the best donuts in Metro Detroit? The votes are in, and we have a winner! Dutch Girl Donuts in Detroit is the winner of this year’s Vote 4 The Best category for best donuts in Metro Detroit.

This year’s competition received more than 163,000 votes during the finalist phase, with Metro Detroiters supporting their favorite restaurants, venues, and local businesses in 80 different categories.

Read more here.


4Warn Weather Alert: Mainly dry through Saturday before shower and storm chances return

Mainly dry weather settles into Southeast Michigan today and continues through most of Saturday, providing a stretch of quieter summer weather. Temperatures will warm into the 80s today and Friday, with generally comfortable conditions and plenty of dry time.

Wildfire smoke from the Pacific Northwest will continue to provide hazy sky conditions across Michigan today, which if clouds break enough you could see another colorful sunset.