Teens are increasingly using AI companions — not just for schoolwork, but for companionship and social interaction. Experts warn that heavy use may be linked to increased loneliness and emotional dependence.
Janelle D. James
Janelle D. James covers breaking news at Bridge Michigan. She joined the staff in January 2023. Previously, she worked as a Capital News Correspondent at Michigan State University where she covered state and local policy issues. She also worked as a breaking news intern at the Detroit Free Press. She has a bachelors degree in journalism and political science from Michigan State University. She is from Detroit. You can reach her at jjames@bridgemi.com and on Twitter at Janelle___j.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Ice grips Great Lakes, with Erie nearly fully covered
About 95% percent of Lake Erie is covered in ice, and even half of Lake Superior is too. Bitter cold temperatures have spurred major ice coverage across the Great Lakes, but warmer weather is coming.
Posted inQuality of Life
Michigan athletes go for gold in Winter Olympics. Who and when to watch
More than a dozen athletes with Michigan ties qualified for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy. The state is particularly well represented in ice dancing and hockey.
Posted inQuality of Life
Michigan cutting the cord at record rates, as cable subscribers fall below 1M
Cable television subscribers fell below 1 million in Michigan in 2025, as concerns about the cost of streaming services are increasing.
Posted inMichigan Government
Prison officer assaults up in Michigan. Union asks state for change
Assaults against Michigan prison staff have increased in recent years, particularly at facilities that house high-security inmates, which correctional officers attribute to a shortage of maximum-security space.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan cities limit salt use because icy temps mean it won’t work, anyway
Michigan cities are limiting road salt and prioritizing key routes as extreme cold reduces the salt’s effectiveness. Northern Michigan is seeing record snow totals, with some areas already above seasonal averages.
Posted inMichigan Government
State: New wrong-way detection system cut crashes on Michigan highway
On a busy stretch of US 131 in Grand Rapids, flashing lights and cameras are now stopping drivers before a wrong turn turns deadly. Since nearly two dozen new detection systems were installed in 2023, crashes have dropped sharply.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan travel pitch draws Canadian criticism amid Trump trade tensions
Ontario Premier Doug Ford is facing backlash after suggesting Canadians vacation in ‘beautiful’ Michigan this coming summer. Trips from Canada to Michigan dropped by nearly 16% in 2025 amid tensions.
Posted inTalent & Education
Adulting 101: Free MSU courses teach balanced budgets, cooking, pet care
Michigan State University Extension is offering free ‘Adulting 101’ courses to help young people learn essential life skills.
Posted inQuality of Life
Michigan sees heavy snow, dangerous roads. What to know
Parts of Michigan have seen almost twice as much snow as usual so far this winter. Bitter wind chills and hazardous roads are expected through the week, creating risks for drivers but ideal conditions for winter sports.