1. There are lots of "first day of school" pictures floating around on Facebook today!
Several, including Rockford Public, are starting off prior to Labor Day weekend.
That’s because the state waiving more public schools from a requirement to start the year after Labor Day.
The law went into effect in 2006 and nine schools got waivers.
Last year, the Department of Education issued more than 10 times the number of waivers.
Tourism officials originally lobbied for the post-Labor Day law, making Michigan one of just three states with the requirement.
A state spokesperson said the reason behind issuing the exemptions is because schools want a year-round, balanced calendar.
2. It was a good turnout for Mercy Health's Tour de Rapids on Saturday.
Proceeds will benefit the ALS Foundation.
Lots of familiar faces were there as well, many of our Fox 17 crew turned out for the West Michigan Moves event.
After the bike ride, participants were invited to the post party where there was lots of food music and drinks.
3. Work to repair the Grand Haven pier catwalk is expected to start today.
According to the Grand Haven Tribune, crews will start on the far west end and move in toward land, closing the pier along the way so it will stay open during the removal project.
It`ll cost about $84,000 to remove and store the catwalk and about $115,000 to reinstall it.
The community already raised $150,000, but still has more to go.
4. Are you eager to fly your drone over the beautiful Michigan scenery and beyond?
The first comprehensive federal rule governing drones takes effect today as thousands of pilots of remote-controlled aircraft are eager to start their engines.
The Federal Aviation Administration’s drone office says more than 3,000 people signed up for a test of aviation knowledge, so they can become certified drone pilots.
The rule allows pilots who pass the test to fly up to 400 feet in the air during daylight hours while keeping the aircraft within sight of the pilot and away from other aircraft.
5. Apple has an urgent message for all i-Phone users: update your device now.
Apple rolled out a security update for the i-Phone after security researchers found a new piece of malware that allows attackers to see nearly everything on your phone.
Basically, the attackers are sending text messages with a link that looks legitimate.
If you click on the link, malware is secretly installed on the phone.
