Good morning, Portage.

AAA Michigan said the state’s average price is now $4.27 per gallon, up 12¢ from last week.

Rates are highest at $4.33 in Ann Arbor + Jackson, lowest at $4.05 in Marquette, and a 15-gallon fill costs about $64.

Local sports fans can vote for the SMAC’s 2026 MVP as top high school football players, including Portage Central’s Cam Noe, compete for recognition.

The poll is open online and aims to settle the debate over the best talent in the region — a chance to honor outstanding play.

Local high school football fans can vote for the future MVP of the West Michigan Conference Rivers Division as the season approaches; the online poll closes at 10 p.m. Thursday, Aug.

20.

MLive asked high school sports fans to vote for the Southwest 10 Conference's 2026 MVP on Thursday, July 23 at the Next Level Sports Center during Kalamazoo High School Football Media Days.

The poll featured top candidates, including standout quarterback Patrick Armock (from Galesburg-Augusta) and players from neighboring schools.

Dan Bartholomae, athletic director at Western Michigan, is finalizing a deal to become Michigan State’s athletic director after four years in Kalamazoo, during which he led 37 championships, a national hockey title and nearly $22 million in donations, while inheriting a $401 million athletic gift as he replaces J. Batt.

After Gull Lake’s varsity season was canceled amid safety concerns, Parchment officials arranged an emergency co-op that may allow 10 to 18 players to join the varsity team if the Michigan High School Athletic Association approves—Brennan Davis will submit paperwork before midnight today with practice and a senior night home game planned as early as Thursday.