The Detroit Evening Report
The Detroit Evening Report is a three-minute daily round-up of the news that city residents need to know. Stories focus on the concerns, problems, passions and needs of Detroiters – specifically residents of color. On the weekends, we take a break from the news and spend some time with community members. Hosted by Sascha Raiyn, Jerome Vaughn, Tia Graham, Nargis Rahman, and Hernz Laguerre, Jr. Detroit Evening Report is a production of WDET, Detroit's NPR Station.
Most Recent Episode
Detroit invests in Homeless to Housed initiative
The City of Detroit has announced a three year, $9.2 million investment to help unhoused families move out of emergency shelter and into stabilized housing. The Homeless to Housed initiative will provide families with 6- 12 months of rental assistance, help them find a home, and provide additional support along the way.
The program touts that it will assist up to 140 households each year with this program, which is approximately 500 Detroiters each year.
In a press conference for the program, the city’s first ever Chief Executive of Health, Human Services and Poverty Solutions Dr. Luke Shaefer says this program is about more than providing shelter. "Its about creating pathways to stability. The mayor has challenged us to build a system where homelessness is rare, brief, and non recurring.”
Shaefer also describes how they were able to fund this program. “This didn’t happen by accident...it happened because dedicated public servants were willing to rethink how we use available resources, they strategically aligned federal emergency solutions and grant funding to launch the Homeless to Housing initiative leaning into the mayor’s charge to us.”
Priority for this program will be given to families with minor children. This program is also expected to free up space in existing shelter homes to provide assistance to other Detroiters facing homelessness.
Additional headlines for Thursday, July 30, 2026
Small business summit
The city of Detroit is hosting a micro and small business summit on July 31 at the Wayne County Community College District Northwest Campus.
The summit is part of the Office of Contracting and Procurement, and it's part of an effort to build Detroit based micro and small business industries.
The free event will provide attendees an opportunity to interact with funders, banks, and partner organizations including Goldman Sachs, First Merchant bank, the Detroit Development Fund, the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation and the Small Business Association.
For more information and to register go to detroitmi.gov.
Sports
Detroit City FC faces Miami FC on Saturday, Aug. 1 at Pitbull Stadium in Westchester Florida. Also, the club soccer team’s development of their new home stadium broke ground earlier this month.
The AlumniFi Field will hold 15,000 seats, an increase from Keyworth stadium that only holds 7,000 seats. It will also be the city’s first soccer-specific stadium, and the state's only privately owned major sports stadium. The project also includes a 421-space parking garage and a 104-unit residential building with 76 affordable housing units.
Completion of the stadium was slated for spring of 2027 but its now slated for 2028 USL Champion season.
Sports
MLB
And the Tigers efforts to climb up the American League Central division stalled a bit with a high scoring loss to the Baltimore Orioles yesterday 10-9.
They now face the Athletics in a 3 game weekend affair at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, California. First pitch for tomorrow’s game is at 9:40 p.m. EST.
Talk it Out Walk it Out
And on Saturday August 1 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the Charles H Wright Museum of African American History is hosting Talk it Out Walk it Out. This free admission event is an annual community conversation and awareness walk to highlight health disparities impacting Black women.
The event serves as a start to Black Women’s Health Month in Detroit. The event is being held at the museum.
More Episodes
Detroit Children’s Museum reopens after 14 years
The Detroit Children’s Museum has reopened for the first time in 14 years. The museum originally closed due to financial crisis within the school district. With the help of a grant of over $800,000 from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, the institution was able to open it again to the public.
During its closure, the museum still lent out artifacts and STEM tools to teachers. The museum has now expanded it collection to 2.5 million artifacts including historical objects, science materials, and global treasures.
Schools are open to schedule field trips to the museum. Its open to the public for free every fourth Saturday of the month.
Additional headlines for Tuesday, July 28, 2026
Ride to Rise program increases student ridership
Detroit’s Ride to Rise program has doubled ridership on city busses among Detroit students. That’s according to the Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT).
The program allows all youth to ride DDOT busses year-round for free when they show drivers their student IDs.
Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield announced the program in April to reduce absenteeism in schools and provide reliable transportation for students to after school programs.
DDOT Director Robert Kramer says the department has secured a million dollars in funding in the 2027 state budget to continue the program.
Cyclospora outbreak continues
The state health department says more than 9,000 people in Michigan have reported coming down with a parasitic infection linked to contaminated lettuce. That's more than twice the number of cases the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have confirmed nationwide.
The CDC estimates Michigan has between 900 and 2,100 people who've gotten sick since May 1. That does not include probable cases.
Whitmer signs new bills
Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed a bill to help people avoid losing their homes to foreclosure. The new law makes programs such as installment plans for delinquent property taxes permanent.
She also signed bills banning state lawmakers from lobbying while they're in office and prohibiting former legislators from becoming lobbyists for two years after they leave office.
Community Contractor Fair
The development program Ignite Detroit is hosting a Community Contractor Fair on Wednesday. The fair is for Detroit residents, homeowners, and small business owners to connect with contractors, explore home and property improvement resources, and learn about the Homeowners Property Exemption program.
The event takes place at the Northwest Activities Center—that’s 18100 Meyers Rd., Detroit, Michigan on Wednesday, July 29 from 6:30-8 p.m.
FEMA awards reimbursements for winter storm recovery efforts
FEMA has awarded a total of $15.8 million dollars in reimbursements to several Michigan entities as part of the recovery stemming from the March 2025 winter storms in northern Michigan.
The money goes toward repairing critical public safety communications infrastructure, debris removal and power restoration efforts. The funding comes from FEMA’s Public Assistance program.
The Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget was awarded $383,000.
Laura Wotruba is the Director of Communications for the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget. She says the money will be used to reimburse the state for costs to repair damaged communication towers and clean storm debris around the towers.
The Office of Michigan’s Public Safety Communications System is housed in the department. It maintains the second largest trunked communication system in the world, connecting local, state, federal and tribal communications with first responders. The network includes more than 2,600 agencies and 165,000 radios to aid emergency response in all Michigan counties. The system also includes some parts of Ohio and Indiana.
During the March 2025 storm, some of the 356 radio towers in northern lower Michigan were damaged or became inaccessible due ot debris and downed power lines.
The remaining funds include $14.7 million reimbursed Presque Isle Electric & Gas for power restoration and $642,000 to Charlevoix County Road Commission for labor and equipment.
Additional headlines for Monday, July 27, 2027
Gordie Howe opens
The Gordie Howe International Bridge opened for car and truck traffic today after 8 years of construction and recent political tension.
That came to a head when President Trump imposed new tariffs against Canada, which responded by disinviting American officials to last Friday's ribbon cutting ceremony in Windsor.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford says the Gordie Howe Bridge highlights the bond between the two countries despite tension with the White House.
"We'll not back down... and we'll negotiate from a position of strength as a top trading partner... because I know that both Canadians and Americans are better off when we work together instead of standing apart."
Canada will use toll revenue to pay the bridge's operating expenses.
If there's any profit left over, it will split that money with the U.S., which will put its half into an economic development fund. The 15 year agreement also gives the U.S. some control over toll changes.
-Reporting by Alex McLenon
Election board allows money-out-of-politics initiative to move forward
Voters could decide this fall whether to ban political action committees from making donations on behalf of utilities and some public contractors.
The Board of State Canvassers says organizers gathered enough valid petition signatures to send the proposal to the Legislature. If lawmakers don't approve it, the measure will appear on the November ballot.
Attorney Gary Gordon represents a business group that opposes the ban. He claims the campaign did a sloppy job of signature gathering and didn't give the state enough time to check their work.
"The staff review of these petitions was truncated by the petitioners gaming the system. They gamed the system by filing way more than the number of signatures they required, thereby increasing the burden on the staff, and they waited until the last minute."
Canvassers rejected that argument. The group could go to court to keep the measure off the November ballot.
- Reporting by Rick Pluta
Zaman International ED
Zaman International is a Michigan-based nonprofit that works to break cycles of poverty for women and children. Zaman announced their first Executive Director, Mariam Jalloul will be added to the team this year during the organization's 30th anniversary.
Jalloul will lead the strategic direction to expand Zaman’s work.
She previously served as the Chief Strategy Officer for the City of Dearborn and held leadership positions in the U.S. Congress.
Najah Bazzy is the founder and CEO of Zaman. She will focus on guiding Zaman’s vision, philanthropy and serve as an ambassador for the nonprofit.
MyFlight Tours officially opens Detroit location
A year after the groundbreaking ceremony, MyFlight Tours is opening up their new headquarters and aviation entertainment in Detroit this weekend. The helicopter tour company is offering sightseeing flights over Detroit's skyline.
In a ribbon cutting press conference, Founder Sergio Troiani said this business adds to the growing infrastructure of Detroit. “Detroit is in the middle of an incredible transformation. Everywhere you look, there is new investment, new growth, world class infrastructure being built and today we’re proud to add to one more piece to that story. This is a place where people can enjoy great food, great drinks, incredible company and sit on that balcony that overlooks the airfield where jets take off.”
The 12,000 square foot facility will be at Coleman A. Young International Airport. This opening adds to their business that’s now at 7 other locations nationwide with the addition of Detroit.
Additional headlines for Friday, July 24, 2026
Gordie Howe Bridge to open
The Gordie Howe International Bridge is having their inauguration day today to celebrate the opening on Monday. After a 6 month delay thanks to political drama and trade tensions, the bridge is set to create a vital economic link between United States and Canada.
After eight years of construction this bridge is open and save commuters, truckers and recreational travelers and estimated 420 hours per year according to federal and state projections.
Before the Gordie Howe Bridge we only had the Ambassador bridge for commercial road crossing. The operators of that bridge recently reduced passenger tolls to become more competitive with its new, publicly-owned competitor.
Sports
MLB
Detroit Tigers are fighting an uphill battle in their American League Central division and they hope to keep moving uphill against the Kansas City Royals. They face their fellow division mate yesterday and won, 4-3. Now they have 3 other games this weekend to climb closer to the top.
First pitch for tonight’s game is at 6:40 p.m. at Comerica Park.
Soccer
Detroit City FC face off against Las Vegas Lights tomorrow at 7 p.m. at Keyworth Stadium.
Celebrating 325 years
And today is someone special’s birthday...I’m talking about our very own Detroit!
Today the once-called Paris of the West is having celebrations all over the city. Here are my top 3:
- Hudsonville Ice Cream will be at Campus Martius selling free ice cream from 6-7 p.m.
- Detroit’s 325th Birthday Bash Garden Party at The Whitney if going down today at 5 p.m.
- and nonprofit Rendez-vous Detroit is hosting a two day celebration this weekend both today and tomorrow with a list full of activities.
Detroit parks get updates worth almost $20 million
Eleven Detroit city parks are receiving nearly $20 million in updates and beautification projects this year.
All upgrades were ideas suggested by residents and block clubs in the neighborhoods near the parks.
City Councilman Scott Benson was a persistent advocate for park improvements across the city.
“Recreation is not just a luxury; it is a vital urban asset, and it's a competitive edge for strong, thriving cities," says Benson. "And this is what you see here today. Vibrant parks attract families, improve mental and physical well-being.”
New amenities at the parks include an inclusive play area at Eliza Howell Park, the city’s first BMX bike track at Dorais Park and a multi-sport court at Jane-Lasky Park.
Additional headlines from Thursday, July 23, 2026
Loud cars driving people away from Woodward?
Cruising Woodward is a summer tradition. But many residents near the avenue say vehicles are too loud. That is why legislators hope to crack down on modified vehicles.
Natalie Price is a Democratic state Representative from Berkley. She told WDET’s The Metro on Wednesday that some people are moving away from the Woodward corridor because the noise keeps them up at night.
"We see property values being impacted by this noise. In November, I talked to a constituent [who] did that from out of state not realizing, and now has decided that they can't live in the area due to this excessive noise."
Price is proposing drivers receive ‘fix-it tickets’ instead of fines for driving excessively loud vehicles. She says that would prevent people from paying a financial penalty for driving noisy cars.
West Nile Virus in Wayne County
Wayne County Public Health has confirmed the presence of West Nile Virus this summer season. The virus has only been detected in mosquito samples; no human cases have been reported in 2026.
Officials say the best way to protect yourself is to prevent bites. West Nile Virus cannot be spread person to person and most people do not see symptoms, however 1 in 5 may experience fever, headaches, body aches, joint pain, vomiting, diarrhea, or a rash 2-14 days after a mosquito bite.
To stay safe, limit outdoor activity at dawn and dusk, use an EPA-registered insect repellent, and empty standing water at least once a week to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
DDOT seeks council members
The Detroit Department of Transportation is seeking residents to serve on its Local Advisory Council. DDOT is recruiting people who live in Districts 1, 3, 5, 7, and an at-large member.
The Council will help plan services for senior adults and people with disabilities.
Applications can be submitted by contacting DDOT’s ADA Coordinator at 313-316-2793.
Hotter Than July kicks off
LGBT Detroit’s Annual Hotter Than July Festival is back and starts today. It’s the city’s longest running Black LGBT Pride event. The event kicks off with a candlelight vigil in Palmer Park by the Blue Spruce Tree at 5:30 PM.
The festival includes a bar crawl mixer tonight at 9 p.m. on the Avenue of Fashion, an Art and Film Festival honoring Duane Belin on Friday, the Palmer Park Picinic on Saturday, strolling brunch on Sunday and more! The festival will also feature a star search competition looking for Detroit’s next Drag Star.
How wildfire smoke choked Michigan's economy
The wildfire smoke that covered Michigan skies is costing the state money. According to an Analysis from an East Lansing based Anderson Economic Group, the smoke cost the state’s economy $4 billion in losses. We are second only to the state of New York which estimated a $5 billion loss.
The firm said that Michigan had the largest impact based on the size of its economy. Proximity could be the reason why.
How did this happen? Well, industries that rely on outdoor work like transportation and construction contributed to these losses greatly. Outdoor events and attractions closed as well which also points to a decrease in tourism and fewer customers at businesses that depend on the outdoors.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources had to tell campers with reservations that they should cancel. They also waived cancellation fees and issued refunds.
But the losses may be ending soon as it appears the smoky haze has lifted.
As of Wednesday, the Air Now's Air Quality index showed the air quality was between 0-50 which means the air in Michigan is in a good range. At one point last week, Michigan was rated the most polluted air quality in the world with Detroit’s air quality index at 724—for reference, anything over 301 is hazardous.
According to the Michigan Department of Environment Great Lakes and Energy as the weather system moves about the improvements are expected to continue.
To stay up to date on air quality, you can check EGLE’s MiAir Quality Index Dashboard or use the US Air Quality Index called Air Now.
Additional headlines for Wednesday, July 22, 2026
Global company joins Detroit's downtown
A company from Japan is planting their roots in Detroit. The company Nagase America opened their Mobility Solutions office in downtown Detroit.
According to the publicly traded company, they will provide innovative materials and components that enhance vehicle comfort, performance, and efficiency.
In a YouTube Short video, Mayor Sheffield describes how this move will expand Detroit’s global reach.
“Today sends a powerful message that a global company with nearly 190 years worth of experience had many choices where they could go and grow and expand. You could’ve expanded anywhere but you chose our talent our downtown and our future. It speaks volume of the confidence you have in our city. Your decision brings you closer to more customers, partners and innovators while strengthen Detroit’s position as a global mobility hub.”
The company says it plans to use Detroit as a long-term strategic foundation for its North American mobility operations.
Detroit's 325th birthday
And the 3-1-3 is turning 3-2-5. July 24th marks the city’s 325th anniversary.
You might be thinking, how is that possible? America just turned 250 years old! Well, it was originally founded French explorer Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac in 1701. Detroit transitioned from French to British control in 1760, and later became part of the United States following the American Revolution.
The Detroit Historical Society is celebrating the milestone in conjunction with anniversaries for the Detroit Historical Museum and Dossin Great Lakes Museum.
The Detroit Historical Society will host a daylong community block party on Friday, July 24 with free admission to the museum. And the Dossin takes the baton and continues the fun on Saturday, July 25, a maritime-themed “dock” party that will also include family activities, music, ice cream, food trucks and free museum admission.
Department of Construction and Demolition gives update on contaminated dirt removal
The Detroit Department of Construction and Demolition gave city council an update on the removal of the contaminated dirt in the city on Monday.
The Department has replaced tainted backfill in more than 100 properties. That's out of the 450 lots that were identified. The average cost of the fill removal and replacement is about $36,000 per site.
Department Director Tim Palazzo says they have tightened up process for approving construction fill materials over the last several months. "The first thing is that we collapsed the number of sites and sources from which we receive fill material down to seven public pits. These only excavate native sand, gravel, soil from longstanding operations."
Palazzo says they inspect those sites on a monthly basis and send their staff—as well as a third-party environmental consultant—to oversee operations at the sites. He says they have also started sampling the fill before it even leaves the source site.
-Reporting by Bre'Anna Tinsley
Additional headlines for Tuesday, July 21, 2026
Community discussion about ICE
The Southfield Neighbors Action Committee is hosting a community discussion Wednesday about ICE enforcement in Southfield. “What Does It Mean To Be A Good Neighbor When ICE Moves In?” will be moderated by Kermit Williams, political director of Oakland Forward.
Panelists include Elida Reyes from Community Action for Empowerment, Lauren Fink from Southfield Neighbors Action Committee, Dr. Patricia Talley from Mexico Negro and U.S. House Representative Rashida Tlaib.
The event is Wednesday from 6:30- 9 p.m. in Room 115 at the Southfield Pavilion at 26000 Evergreen Road.
Good Food for Michigan
Dearborn Public Schools has received a state grant designed to bring more Michigan-grown food to its cafeterias. The Good Food for Michigan Project is giving the district more than $460,000. Dearborn schools serve more than 3 million meals to around 20,000 students at more than 30 sites.
The Good Food for Michigan Project is a collaboration between the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development, the Center for Good Food Purchasing, and the Michigan State University Center for Regional Food Systems.
Detroit Riverfront hosts art exhibit
People visiting Detroit’s Riverfront and Southwest Greenway can now take in a little bit of the DIA’s art collection. The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy is hosting the museum’s Inside Out project featuring large-scale reproductions of 7 works. The pieces will be in place until October.
Girls soccer clinic
The Hamtramck Parks Conservancy and the city’s recreation department are partnering to offer a girls soccer clinic on August 17. Women coaches and trainers will work with girls between the ages of 10 and 17 years old. Balls, nets and pennies are provided.
The clinic runs from 9:30-11:30 a.m. at the Veterans Park Soccer Arena at 8684 Joseph Campau.
Wildfire smoke expected to linger, take precautions says Detroit Health Department
The Detroit Health Department says people should continue to plan for poor air quality from Canadian wildfires. Yesterday, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy put out a statewide Air Quality Alert. Smoke is likely to linger this week.
In Detroit, the air quality is in the “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" range.
Detroit Health Department Director Ali Abazeed says residents should check current conditions and adjust outdoor activity. He says residents will be notified if air quality worsens.
People should avoid strenuous outdoor activities, take frequent breaks and keep quick relief medications, such as inhalers, nearby. People should also keep their windows closed and run AC units and filters.
Residents should monitor health conditions such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness or irritation of eyes or throat. Anyone who is having trouble breathing should contact a healthcare provider.
Visit airnow.gov for air quality conditions.
Additional headlines for Monday, July 20, 2026
Dance parties
Detroit Disability Power and DanceAbility are hosting several dance parties to get groovy this summer. Join six Zoom sessions online or in-person workshops. Cara Graninger will facilitate. People can also join in person for three sessions with local musicians. ASL interpretation is available upon request.
The first in-person event takes place July 21 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Valade Shed on the Detroit Riverfront.
Wright Museum hosts Golf Classic
The Charles H. Wright Museum’s Women’s Committee is hosting a golfing event next month. The Golf Classic is an annual fundraising event to raise money for the museum. Named in honor of Roberta Hughes Wright—an award-winning author, humanitarian and the late wife of Dr. Charles H. Wright, the founder of the museum—the event also hopes to explore African American history and culture.
Proceeds will go toward the museum’s unrestricted operating budget and children’s educational programs at the museum.
The Golf Classic takes place Thursday, August 6 at the Lakes of Taylor Golf Course from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Register at thewright.org/events.
Get Out to Vote Block Party
The city of Detroit’s Department of Elections and Detroit Votes 2026 is hosting a Get Out to Vote block party this weekend. The event takes place Saturday, July 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 2978 West Grand Blvd. outside of the Department of Elections Office. There will be community resources, entertainment and kids activities.
Organizations offer tools to beautify city
Several Detroit organizations are coming together to provide community resources for clean-up and beautification efforts in the city. The tool kits are accessible to residents, community groups, and nonprofits. Tools include small construction tools and safety equipment for snow removal and lawn and landscaping.
The tools can be picked up from the Balley Park NDC, the E. Warren Tool Library, or the Premier Group Associates in Detroit.
Visit the Department of Neighborhoods on detroitmi.gov.
Detroit offers respite centers to get people out of hazardous air
The city of Detroit’s Health Department is offering guidance and respite centers to help residents to stay safe from the Canadian wildfire smoke.
In a press conference this week, Mayor Sheffield acknowledged the hazardous air quality conditions. “We know we have unsafe air quality outside, and we are doing all that we can to get that information out to residents to stay in and to stay masked and to ensure we’re checking on our loved ones.”
In response to the air quality, the health department has informed residents to check the website, airnow.gov to check up to date air quality conditions in your area.
They also advise residents to stay indoors as much as possible, keep windows and doors closed, move physical activities indoors, and wear masks. Residents that don’t have air-conditioning can check out some of Detroit’s recreations centers at detroitmi.gov. There you will find centers near you and the numbers to contact them.
Additional headlines for Friday, July 17, 2026
Detroit invests in sewer line repair
The city is also investing $184 million to repair a long list of damaged sewer lines. This project will help prevent sewer backups and sinkholes that are most common in low-income neighborhoods.
Gary Brown is the director and CEO of the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD). He says these repairs are too expensive for homeowners to repair. “In Detroit, homeowners and the maintenance of these lines are the homeowner's responsibility. Many residents don’t realize they’re responsible for the connections. Unfortunately, it is also the deepest most difficult and most expensive portion of the sewer repair.”
The federally funded project will repair nearly 9,000 clogged or broken sewer connections in mostly low to moderate income neighborhoods. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2030.
Sports
MLB
The second half of the Tigers season starts this weekend after the all-star break. The home team goes against the Los Angeles Angels for a 3-game weekend affair.
The Tigers are currently trying to dig out of the American League Central against an Angels team that is trying to do the same.
First pitch for today’s game is 9:35 p.m. at Angel Stadium in Anaheim.
Soccer
Detroit City FC go against the Indy Eleven tomorrow at Keyworth Stadium. Game starts at 7 p.m.
FIFA
And the FIFA World Cup final takes place on Sunday, July 19 with Spain facing Argentina in a game that will make history with Lamine Yamal and Lionnel Messi leading their respective teams. Game starts at 3 p.m. at the MetLife stadium—temporarily known as New York New Jersey Stadium in New Jersey.
Festival of Books
And this Sunday is the 9th Annual Detroit Festival of Books. Organizers say that at this event you’ll be able to shop for rare, unique, and unusual books, vinyl records, comic books and more.
The event is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on July 19 at Eastern Market.
City council approves banning ads for alcohol, drugs around places of worship
Detroit City Council approved a change to an ordinance that prohibits alcohol, tobacco, and marijuana advertisements to be placed withing 1000 feet of sensitive locations. Places of worship have been added to the list of protected locations.
Council President Pro-Tem Coleman Young raised concerns about information on treatment centers and educational services being affected by this new rule.
But Councilmember Scott Benson says that is not the case. “This ordinance does not capture that. And this ordinance is already in place for alcohol and tobacco products, and there is no prohibition about advertising [Detroit Integrated Health Network] services or other services for substance use disorders.”
The amended ordinance passed unanimously .
Additional headlines for Thursday, July 16, 2026
Highland Park launches scholarship program
The Highland Park School District announced a new scholarship program to help residents pursue post-secondary education.
Officials says Highland Park high schoolers are often not eligible for promise scholarships in the school districts they attended because of their address. The Highland Park Promise Scholarship is available to every graduating high school senior who lives in the city. Beginning fall 2027, eligible student can get an initial $1,000 to go toward any post-secondary education such as community colleges, universities, or trade schools.
Because the school district does not currently have its own high school, the scholarship will be available to any student attending high school in a neighboring district as long as they currently live in Highland Park.
Congress candidate forum
The Eastside Community Network is hosting a forum with the 2026 U.S. House and Senate Candidates about issues shaping Detroit’s eastside. Candidates expected to participate include Donavan McKinney for the U.S. Houses 13th district, Abraham Aiyash for the State Senate first district, as well as candidates for the 3rd Senate District and 9th and 11th State Representative Districts.
Forums will begin at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday July 18 at the East Side Community Network on 4401 Conner Street.
WHEN: Saturday, July 18, 2026. Doors open at 9:30 a.m.
• 10:15 - 10:45 a.m. — U.S. House, District 13
• 10:45 - 11:15 a.m. — State Senate, District 1
• 11:15 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. — State Senate, District 3
• 12:45 - 1:30 p.m. — Lunch
• 1:30 - 2:45 p.m.— State House, District 9
• 2:45 - 3:30 p.m. — State House, District 11
WHERE: Eastside Community Network (ECN), 4401 Conner St, Detroit, MI 48215
Move over law
Michigan State Police is planning a one-day initiative to enforce the state’s “move over” law.
When approaching a stationary vehicle with flashing lights such as police, ambulances, fire, rescue or road service vehicles, drivers must slow down to at least 10 miles per hour below the posted speed limit and move over one lane. If you cannot move over due to traffic, weather or road conditions, still slow down and pass with caution.
Colonel James Grady said in a statement there have been 13 instances this year where patrol vehicles were struck while conducting traffic stops. The one day initiative will be on July 20 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. across Michigan and neighboring states.
EGLE issues air quality alert
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy has issued an air quality alert for the state of Michigan. That’s due to smoke from Canadian wildfires.
The air quality can harm those who are unhealthy or sensitive groups… potentially reaching the unhealthy range. EGLE has published a page for resources on how to respond to wildfire smoke.
The state’s health department advises people to limit outdoor activity by monitoring the air quality in their area. They also recommend sheltering indoors with air conditioning — and to find a shelter if it’s too hot at home. People can call 211 to find a local shelter.
Visit michigan.gov/egle for more information.
Invest in MI Taxes
Some Michigan lawmakers are backing a joint resolution to have voters decide whether the state’s highest earners should pay more in taxes. The proposal seeks to change an extra 5% tax on annual income above half a million dollars for single filers or a million dollars for joint filers. The extra revenue would go toward health, housing and education.
Democratic State Senator Stephanie Chang says the money could come in handy as economists predict tough years ahead for the state budget. “I think its important that as lawsmakers we keep talking about those priorities and also talk about how if we make the wealthy pay their fair share, we can create another revenue source that can help generate over a billion dollars.”
Republicans and business groups claim the plan increases taxes for small businesses — organizers say that’s not true. It would take supermajorities in both chambers of the state legislature to get the measure on the ballot.
-Reporting by Colin Jackson
DTE outage response
Days after severe storms interrupted service for thousands of DTE Energy customers, the head of the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) says the company’s response could have been better.
Commission Chairman Dan Scripps says DTE’s own restoration estimates fed into people’s frustrations.
“There were a number of problems with the restoration estimates. They were off… and sometimes significantly. And not just the level of communication that you’d expect from a utility to its customers.”
Scripps spoke with WDET’s Robyn Vincent on The Metro. He says MPSC received higher-than-normal public complaints after the storms.
DTE’s chief executive apologized to customers last week, saying the company will review its response and try to do better.
DTE Energy is a financial supporter of WDET.
-Reporting by Pat Batcheller
Chinatown Block Party
The Detroit Chinatown Vision Committee is hosting its second annual block party in Detroit on Cass and Peterboro Streets. The event corresponds with the 2023 demolition of the former Chinese Merchants Association Building, which also housed several Chinese organizations. Community members opposed the demolition of Detroit’s Historic Chinatown.
Lisa Yee-Litzenberg is a volunteer member of the committee. She says the block party and commemoration is an effort to create a safe space, a Pan-Asian district in Detroit.
“This is an opportunity for people to celebrate and feel pride about their culture and their history, but also for people from all walks of life to come and learn about the culture, the history of different Asian groups in the Detroit metro area, so that's a big.”
Yee-Litzenberg says her father Henry Yee was the former unofficial mayor of Detroit's Chinatown in the 1960s and 1970s.
Last year, Michigan State Senator Stephanie Chang announced one million dollars in funding to create a streetscape in the Chinatown district to recognize the contributions of Asian Americans.
The free Detroit Chinatown Block Party takes place Saturday, July 25, from noon to 8 p.m. The event will feature historical exhibitions, performances and food from over 50 vendors. There will also be free film screenings at the Masonic Temple featuring the movies “Bad Axe” and “Warren King: King of Cardboard.”
Alcohol, cannabis ads may soon be banned from being near religious buildings
Houses of worship may soon be added to the list of sensitive locations where certain advertisements are not allowed within a 1000-foot radius.
Councilmember Scott Benson says posting ads for things like alcohol and cannabis near a house of worship is inconsiderate. "You have your church, and then 30 feet from your church is a probably a 40 by 20 sign advertising King of Bud, just a level of disrespect and a level of just insensitivity to what we have here."
The Public Health and Safety Committee approved the changes to the amendment today. City council will choose whether to enact the changes at the next formal session.
-Reporting by Bre'Anna Tinsley
Additional headlines for Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Gordie Howe toll deal
We're learning more about the deal to open the Gordie Howe International Bridge on July 27. CBC News and other media report 50% of toll profits over the bridge's first 15 years of operation will go into a U.S. development fund. President Trump had said he would not let the bridge open unless Canada agreed to share toll revenue.
Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens told CBC's Power and Politics while the deal may look like a win for Trump, the U.S. won't get much out of it. He said it could take longer than 15 years for Canada to recoup the cost of building the bridge before it would share revenue with Michigan.
Canada spent almost $6.5 billion to build the bridge. The U.S. paid nothing.
-Reporting by Pat Batcheller
Freedom Tour Detroit
High school students are invited to apply for the Freedom Tour Detroit 2026. The four-day program explores advocacy, civil rights, justice and Detroit history.
The Michigan Coalition for Human Rights, the City of Detroit’s Office of Veterans Affairs, Wayne State University and the American Civil Liberties Union are working together to offer in-person seminars and guided field trips between July 30 and August 2.
Applications are due by Sunday, July 19.
Summer Games at the Michigan Science Center
The Michigan Science Center’s After Dark series is back with “Summer Games” on July 24. This event offers those 21 and over a chance to explore science, sports and a little friendly competition.
The Penske Planetarium will offer a one-night only show featuring the “Olympians of the Night Sky," Detroit City FC will be in the house with giveaways and photo ops, former Piston and President of the Motor City Cruise Durand “Speedy” Walker will speak, and adult games—including a 50-foot inflatable obstacle course, Warrior Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em and something called Hippo Chow Down.
National Coney Island is bringing classic and veggie coneys and there will be signature cocktails from the Byrdie Bar.
Michigan Science Center After Dark Summer Games is Friday July 24 from 6-10 p.m. Tickets are $35 for members, $45 for non-members and $30 for designated drivers. Learn more at mi-sci.org.
Dana Nessel joins lawsuit to preserve school mental health grants
Several attorneys general filed a new lawsuit to prevent the U.S. Department of Education from terminating school-based mental health grants. Michigan Attorney Dana Nessel has joined the lawsuit.
The projected cuts equal about $6 million in funding from Michigan schools and universities. Members of Congress allocated $1 billion to address school shootings. The grants are focused on bringing in 14,000 mental health professionals into low-income rural schools. Programs have provided services to over 775,000 students across the U.S.
Nessel’s office says in a statement that grantees were notified in April last year that their grants may be terminated for conflicting with the Trump administration's priorities or be targeted for perceived DEI initiatives.
A court order last year says the administration should not eliminate programming for mental health care in schools. The department said it would review grants at the 6-month mark and make further funding determinations. However, the department plans to terminate funding by this month, prompting the new lawsuit.
The attorneys general allege that termination of the grants violates the Administrative Procedure Act and the U.S. Constitution. Termination of the grants would also disrupt the pipeline to get more mental health professionals into the field and lay off those who are already working to address the concerns.
Additional headlines from Monday, July 13, 2026
DOJ says it will send poll monitors to Detroit
The Trump administration is questioning how Michigan conducts elections. That includes demanding lists of registered voters and threatening Michigan’s Secretary of State with criminal charges if any non-U.S. citizens cast a ballot. The U.S. Justice Department said it intends to send monitors to polls in Detroit, Lansing and East Lansing. All Democrat-led cities.
Detroit City Clerk Janice Winfrey says allegations that the city had long lines and a lack of ballots at polls are not true.
Winfrey says Detroit’s election system is transparent and above-board, and she welcomes legal poll monitors watching it in action.
“And transparency strengthens public confidence. So we don’t mind groups coming in to observe… as long as they don't get in the way of processing voters and the voting process.”
President Trump has often made baseless claims that Detroit’s elections were rigged against him despite investigations finding no evidence of any widespread voting fraud.
-Reporting by Quinn Klinefelter.
Oncology app
There’s a new app for oncology clinical trials. The Barbara Ann Karmonos Cancer Institute has launched a new version of the KCI Clinical Trials App, where clinicians and people can find out updated information about clinical trials for more informed care.
People can use the app to contact specialists for questions about trials and learn about opportunities or referrals. Karmanos offers clinical trials for various kinds of cancers including brain, gastrointestinal, and sarcoma. Visit karmanos.org/clinicaltrails to learn more.
Rising Voices art exhibition
The Asian American advocacy group Rising Voices is hosting an artist exhibition. It will display the art of Michigan Asian American artists Chelsea Koga, Maikue Vang, Navjeet Kaur and Julia Koza. There will also be performances and time for networking.
The “Revolution, Resistance and Joy,” exhibition opening night takes place July 17 from 6-9 p.m. at the Swords Into Plowshares Gallery in Detroit. The event is free with registration.
Sazon Festival
There’s a Latin food festival coming to Detroit. Latin City is hosting this outdoor, family-friendly festival with food and music.
The Sazon Latin Food Festival will showcase flavors from the Caribbean, Central and South America. Space is limited. The event takes place Sunday, July 26 at the Batch Brewing Company from 12-5 p.m. Registration is free but spots are limited.
Winfrey pushes back against Trump administration
Detroit City Clerk Janice Winfrey is pushing back against the Trump administration's decision to send Justice Department operatives to monitor the August primary election. The DOJ says it will be watching the voting in Detroit, Lansing, and East Lansing, which are Democratic strongholds. Trump has falsely claimed that fraud in Detroit cost him the 2020 election. Justice officials say they're worried about compliance with election law and long lines at polling places. Winfrey says no such delays happened in 2024 because the state had adopted early voting.
-Reporting by Pat Batcheller
Additional headlines for Thursday, July 9, 2026
Growing Cyclosporiasis cases
The state health department says an outbreak of a parasitic infection has grown to almost 1 thousand cases. Cyclosporiasis causes severe diarrhea and other symptoms. Investigators have not found the cause of the outbreak, but people usually get it by eating contaminated fresh produce.
Health experts advise washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly and seeking medical attention if symptoms persist. They can last for weeks without treatment.
Money for new mothers
Republican House Speaker Matt Hall says he doesn’t want a state program that pays new mothers to get the 20 million dollars it is expecting from the new state budget. R-X Kids gives women 15 hundred dollars during pregnancy and 500 dollars a month for the first six months of a newborn’s life. Studies show it has reduced infant mortality in Flint, where it began. Republican Speaker Matt Hall says more traditional social safety net programs with tougher eligibility requirements should get the money.
"I'm hopeful that we'll have a WIC program, that our child protective services will be well funded, that the cash assistance program will be well funded."
R-X kids serves all eligible mothers in designated coverage areas regardless of individual family need.
Reporting by Michigan Public Radio Network's Colin Jackson
Rental housing gridlock
Efforts to reform Detroit's rental housing remain stalled... and advocates blame the city's largest court for some of the gridlock. A lawsuit by the Detroit Tenants Union accuses 36th District Court's Chief Judge of failing his legal duty by allowing landlords without a certificate of compliance to continue collecting rent.
Right now, only 14 percent of Detroit landlords are compliant with city safety inspections. Donovan McCarty represents the union.
"If landlords can keep going in to collect rent that's not lawfully collected, then they have no incentive to actually come into compliance, and that I4 percent number will not grow to where we need it to be."
The 36th District Court didn't reply to a request for comment.
You can hear the full conversation at WDET.org or on The Metro podcast.
Grow Detroit Young Talent
City officials kicked off the 12th annual Grow Detroit's Young Talent
Summer Employment Program Wednesday.
The program will provide over eight thousand summer jobs for kids in the city. It's Mary Sheffield's first year leading the effort as Mayor. Over 90 thousand positions have been extended to Detroit's young people since the program began in 2014.
Five year old shot in Detroit
Police say a 5-year-old boy was shot in the arm while riding his bicycle in front of his home in northwest Detroit. Investigators say a teenager fired several shots near Fargo-Oakfield Park when a stray bullet hit the boy.
Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield says the young victim will recover. She called the shooting senseless gun violence and said children deserve to feel safe in their neighborhoods. She says anyone with information about the shooter should call the police or CrimeStoppers.
-Reporting by Pat Batcheller
Additional headlines for Wednesday, July 8, 2026
Federal monitors in Detroit?
The Justice Department plans to send election monitors to Detroit, Lansing and East Lansing for Michigan’s August primaries. Those are mostly Democratic cities. President Trump has falsely claimed that fraud in Detroit cost him the 2020 election.
Phil Mayor is the deputy legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan. He says the DOJ can, and has, used election monitors before. But he says Trump’s plan is troubling.
“Given this administration’s election denialism and many of the other ways the administration has sought to discourage voting or spread false narratives, we’re certainly concerned. We’ll be watching the conduct of DOJ’s monitors carefully to ensure that they comply with the law, that they don’t interact with or harass voters.”
The chairman of the Michigan Republican Party—and a 2020 election denier—suggested this could be a trial run for placing federal agents at the polls in November.
Faith leaders in the state are calling on legislators to pass a Michigan Voting Rights Act to fight against discrimination and protect access at the polls.
-Reporting by Rick Pluta and Sascha Raiyn
Faith leader training
A new training is available for people who’d like to be Poll Chaplains or Peacekeepers at polling locations.
Poll Chaplains are faith leaders who wear clerical attire at election sites and peacekeepers are religious community leaders. The training teaches both how to maintain peace and de-escalate potential conflict at polling locations to encourage voter participation.
Faiths United to Save Democracy is a nonpartisan, multifaith and multiracial voter protection campaign.
The training will be held on Zoom on Monday July 13 from 7-8:30 p.m. Additional training will be offered on September 28 and October 15. People will receive official credentials upon completion of training.
People can register at turnoutsunday.com.
Fresh food truck
Wayne County has launched a food truck to increase access to affordable, healthy food options for residents. The Well Wayne Fresh Truck Mobile Market is a “farmers market on wheels.”
It’s an effort to feed people who are facing food insecurity. That’s 1 in 5 people in the county.
The food truck is also a way to reduce barriers to accessing food due to limited transportation and food prices. The food truck is sponsored by a multi-million-dollar investment to address social determinants of health through community work. The mobile food truck accepts SNAP, EBT, Double Up Food Bucks, cash, and credit or debit cards. It will operate across several cities including in Highland Park, Hamtramck and Inkster. Routes will be updated quarterly and based on community feedback.
Grow Talent program starts
Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield kicks off the city’s summer jobs program for young people today. Grow Detroit’s Young Talent provides paid positions for about 8,000 teens and young adults. This year the city is adding two weeks of training for each participant in which they’ll learn about professionalism, conflict resolution and other skills.
-Reporting by Pat Batcheller
Faith communities ask legislators to pass Michigan Voting Rights Act
Leaders from multiple faith communities in metro Detroit are calling on state legislators to pass a Michigan Voting Rights Act after the justice department announced plans to send election monitors to three Michigan cities.
Clergy gathered at Central United Methodist in Detroit and at locations in Grand Rapids and Lansing to show opposition to Trump administration policies speakers say are designed to threaten communities across the country.
Hazel Gomez of Dream of Detroit says faith leaders will and must defend voting rights. "We will organize, we will train, and we're going to de-escalate. And in the primaries in August and in the general election in November, our goal as clergy of all faith traditions is to stand at the polls, to accompany, and to watch over our beloved communities."
Wendell Anthony of Fellowship Chapel in Detroit – and president of the Detroit NAACP is also calling on lawyers to join the front lines, saying “We’re not afraid to sue somebody.”
Additional headlines for Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Bill to guarantee children with legal representation passes state legislature
A bill that would guarantee children access to legal representation in delinquency cases is headed to Governor Whitmer’s desk. The legislation would require the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission to create a system similar to the one used by adults facing criminal charges who may not be able to afford an attorney.
If passed, the indigent defense commission would be required to have at least one attorney experienced in juvenile justice to help set the standards. The bill cleared the legislature last week with bipartisan support.
-Reporting by MPRN's Rick Pluta
National Wheelchair Games
The National Wheelchair Games are coming to Detroit this week. It is the largest annual wheelchair sports event for veterans in the world. Athletes compete in more than 20 events including basketball, swimming, track and field and boccia.
The 45th National Wheelchair Games will be hosted by several venues and based at Hunting Place. The Opening Ceremony is July 9 with competition running through the 14.
Detroit Kite Festival
The 8th Annual Detroit Kite Festival is Sunday on the Belle Isle Cricket Field across from the James Scott Memorial Fountain. Festivities kick off at 10 a.m. and run until 6 p.m. Plans include food, music and kites, of course. Kites are available for purchase. Learn more at detroitkitefestival.org.
Public reading of Declaration of Independence at Greenfield Village
Sites across the country will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the first public reading of the Declaration of Independence with a simultaneous reading of the document Wednesday. Greenfield Village is one of those sites and invites the community to join the event for free.
Visitors will also hear live music, see historic vignettes and learn about Centennial games on the Village Green. The event begins at 5 p.m. The reading – synchronized with other readings across the state begins at 6 p.m.
No tickets, reservations or parking passes are required.
MDHHS monitors disease outbreak
Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Chief Medical Executive for the State of Michigan, says there are now over 700 cases of cyclosporiasis in the state. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services put out additional recommendations to prevent the spread of cyclospora over the weekend.
Cyclosporiasis is a gastrointestinal disease caused by parasites, which causes severe diarrhea.
Dr. Bagdasarian says much of the spread has been caused by handling and consuming produce.
“We know that it takes about one to two weeks after consuming something that's contaminated with cyclospora to develop symptoms, so there's a lag between being exposed and developing symptoms, said Bardgasarian. "And then, of course, there's a lag when people are looking for healthcare, when they are finding a healthcare provider, getting tested, and actually determining that this is cyclospora.”
Wayne County is among several counties with large numbers of people diagnosed. Recommendations include washing all fresh produce under clean running water, and cooking foods to kill cyclospora.
If people suspect being infected, they should see a health care provider, mentioning they may have cyclospora if symptoms of diarrhea don’t clear up in a few days. Treatment includes a dose of antibiotics.
Additional headlines for Monday, July 6, 2026
Dearborn FEMA funding
The City of Dearborn has received federal funding to improve its sewer system. FEMA awarded $8.1 million for the upgrades... as part of the second phase of a Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Work will be done in the city’s neighborhoods between Chase Road and Greenfield Avenue.
About 6,200 feet of storm sewers will be added to help with flood mitigation efforts. The city flooded in 2014, 2018 and in 2021when a “once-in-a-lifetime flood” backed up the sanitary sewer system, causing two-thirds of basements to flood in the city.
While FEMA will pay for 90% of the upgrades, Dearborn will pay for the remaining 10% of the work.
Power update
DTE Energy crews worked all weekend to restore power to customers who lost electricity due to Friday’s severe thunderstorms. At one point, more than 200,000 homes and businesses in Southeast Michigan lost power after strong winds knocked down tree limbs and power lines. That number is down to about 73,000. DTE says it expects to restore power to most of these customers by the end of the day.
-Reporting by Pat Batcheller
Older Americans turn to friends for care
A new University of Michigan study finds friends are replacing family members in caring for elderly Americans.
Researcher Crystal Ng says changing family relationships including divorce are leaving gaps in care that children once provided. She says older Americans are relying on friends for more than a drive to the doctor’s office.
“A lot of times friends will also participate in clinical settings. Such as not only picking them… to transportation… to the medical appointment… but also sit next to them.”
Ng says relying on friends also provides people over the age of 65 years with a social framework and helps them maintain their independence.
The study appears in the Journal of the American Medical Association’s Network Open portal.
-Reporting by Steve Carmody
If something is happening in your neighborhood that you think we should know about, drop us a line at DetroitEveningReport@wdet.org. And don’t forget to subscribe to the Detroit Evening Report podcast, available wherever you get your podcasts.
Extreme heat continues. Here's how to keep healthy
Most of Michigan’s lower peninsula, including all of Metro Detroit, remains under an extreme heat warning until tomorrow night. Temperatures are forecast to rise into the upper 90s Thursday, with high humidity. The heat index could rise dangerously high, between 105 and 110 degrees.
The weather could cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats and has a hard time cooling down. Symptoms might include heavy sweating, dizziness and fatigue. Heat stroke occurs when the body temperature reaches 104 degrees. That can be fatal.
Additional headlines for Wednesday, July 1, 2026
Heat affects health
During this prolonged period of intense heat, there are things you can do to keep yourself and neighbors safe.
Director of Emergency Preparedness for the City of Detroit Dr. Kelvin Freeman says residents should work in pairs to stay healthy.
“Use a buddy system, check on your friend, check on your neighbor, especially those who live alone, and also have someone to check on you in that buddy system to close that loop.”
Freeman says residents should stay hydrated and limit exposure to high temperatures, adding that fans alone won’t cool you down when temperatures and humidity are this high.
He also recommends keeping your pets indoors during daylight hours.
-Reporting by Russ McNamara
And make sure to double check your vehicle and make sure not to leave children or pets unattended in the car. Temperatures inside a vehicle could rise quickly enough to become fatal within just a few minutes.
Ford recalls 741,000 vehicles
Ford Motor Company is recalling 741,000 vehicles because of a possible transmission problem. The company says a part of the parking system could engage while the vehicle is in motion, potentially damaging the system. Enough damage could mean the system fails to hold the vehicle in place without use of the parking brake.
The recall affects certain Ford F-150 pickup trucks, as well as Lincoln Aviator, Ford Explorer, Lincoln Navigator and Ford Expedition sport utility vehicles. The vehicles are from the 2018 through 2021 model years.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says Ford is aware of 24 possible cases of property damage and nine possible injuries connected to the issue. Dealers will update certain software and inspect the transmission for damage. They’ll make any necessary repairs for free.
Shotspotter renewed
The Detroit City Council has narrowly approved a nine-month contract renewal for the ShotSpotter gun detection system. The Director of the Office of Neighborhood and Community Safety Teferi Brent advocated for the contract. He says it allows police to respond quickly to de-escalate situations.
“People say Shotstopper doesn't save lives—that's patently false, because the quicker that we can identify which shootings occur, we can identify who's doing the shooting, and once we identify who's doing the shooting, we can then prevent what we call in the field retaliatory violence.”
Brent also listed several instances where ShotSpotter helped first responders aid victims. But some council members questioned both the effectiveness and the cost of the system. The Detroit Police say they are looking for a less expensive vendor to use after the contract ends.
-Reporting by Bre’Anna Tinsley
Police arrest man accused of threatening Islamic Community Center
A man who allegedly threatened a Madison Heights Mosque was arrested today. On Sunday, someone left voicemail messages threatening the Islamic Community Center on Dequindre near 11 Mile Rd. Police say the man said he would kill people and suggested Muslims are terrorists.
The Council on American Islamic Relations Michigan chapter praised police for their swift action in identifying a suspect.
Additional headlines for Tuesday, June 30, 2026
SCOTUS rules in favor of ending TPS
The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled in favor of the Trump Administration's efforts to end Temporary Protected Status. TPS allows people fleeing violence abroad to live and work in the US. The ruling may affect people from Lebanon, Haiti, Honduras and Burma, among several others.
Republican Steve Frisbie represents Michigan's 44th state House district, which includes the Battle Creek area, home to a Burmese community of thousands.
Frisbie says he supports the high court's ruling, but adds that people fleeing Burma should apply for asylum.
"I'm all in favor of letting them come to the country. Sort them out and look at them on an individual basis or a family basis to figure out what they're fleeing from and why and if it's legitimate and they're not from the military side of things in Burma."
The government has deported thousands of immigrants while they waited for courts to hear their asylum claims and some who showed up to their hearings were arrested.
Detroit meeting of immigration advocates
Immigration advocates met in Detroit to adopt a list of policy goals. Strangers No Longer is a Catholic-led organization active across Michigan. The group adopted policy objectives to bring to people running for state and federal offices.
Those include allowing people to secure driver’s licenses regardless of immigration status, more oversight of immigration detention centers and for local police to stop working with federal immigration enforcement. Advocates also want more due process protections for detainees.
Whitmer threatens to recall troops
Governor Gretchen Whitmer is threatening to bring home 170 Michigan National Guard troops from Washington D.C. if the Trump administration uses them for crime and immigration enforcement.
Whitmer says she deployed the troops to assist with security for celebrations surrounding the country's 250th anniversary.
Great Lakes Museum announces paint-by-number project
The Dossin Great Lakes Museum has announced the art for its community paint-by-number project. Brontae Williamson’s "Currents in Color" was chosen after the museum accepted submissions this spring.
The 32 by 8 foot mural will be painted by the community over the summer then hung on the museum building on Belle Isle. The Dossin says it will release information to the community soon about how people can come to paint.
Dan Robbins is the Detroit-born artist who developed paint by number.
High temperatures worsen air quality
Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE)’s meteorologists say the high temperatures this week will lead to high levels of ozone and poor air quality.
There’s an air quality alert for ozone in Southeast Michigan for today and tomorrow. Ozone is a pollutant in the atmosphere created by volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides found in things like industrial solvents, cleaning products and burning fuel. It is an air pollutant.
EGLE says people should avoid strenuous activities—especially for those who have asthma. People should also avoid refueling vehicles, using gasoline-powered lawn equipment or lighting charcoal with lighter fluid. People should also try to drive less and delay errands if possible.
ELGE says they will put out additional alerts as needed. For more information visit michigan.gov/MiAir.
Additional headlines for Monday, June 29, 2026
Tips for handling the heat
Detroit’s health department recommends drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated during this week’s heat wave. They also recommend limiting strenuous activity and staying inside.
Recreation centers, public library branches will serve as cooling centers during normal business hours.
Watch for signs of heat-related illness, including dizziness, headache, and unusually heavy sweating. Check on family members and neighbors, especially older adults and people with disabilities.
AAA reminds drivers not to leave children or pets in their vehicles and to check the back seat each time they get out of their car.
-Reporting by Pat Batcheller
Dearborn hosts World Cup watch parties
The City of Dearborn is offering free watch parties for residents and World Cup fans. The city is partnering up with What’s up Media Network to host the watch party at Dearborn’s PEACE Park West. The matches are shown on the screen at the park’s performance stage. Vendors will also provide refreshments.
Anyone can join, but the park can hold only up to 1,000 people. People are encouraged to go early to find a spot.
Dearborn’s PEACE Park West is located at 22271 W Village Dr. in Dearborn.
Dearborn Tree City designation
Also in Dearborn, the city was given the Tree City USA designation for the 39th time.
Mayor Abdullah Hammoud says the city is planting a few thousand trees.. And also removing dead ones.
“When I first came in, we had a backlog of about 1,200-1,300 dead and diseased trees that needed to be taken down. That list is now, I would say, around the 100 mark, and we've also caught up. We had seven years of no trimming of trees throughout the city. We officially caught up, and we're back on our normal five year cycle.”
Hammoud says planting more trees helps with air quality and mitigating flooding.
Dearborn residents can also request a free tree to be planted in their easement by going to Dearborn.gov/trees.
Wayne State tuition rises
The tuition at Wayne State University is rising by 4% for its undergraduate and graduate students. This comes after a unanimous decision from the university’s board of governors.
How will this affect the university students? Well, undergraduate students can see a tuition increase of about $250 and graduate students will see an increase of $33 dollars per credit.
The university increased their tuition last year by 4.5%. According to the school’s officials the 2026-2027 housing rates will not increase.
This rate increase is following a trend occurring in 4-year public and private universities and colleges across the country––tuition increases due to inflation, a drop off in enrollment post pandemic or uncertainty around state funding. WDET is licensed to Wayne State University.
Additional headlines for Friday, June 26, 2026
Community Health Assessment shows positive results
This week, the city of Detroit released a Community Health Assessment that revealed that community improvements positively affect the health of residents.
The report was an assessment of about 6,000 residents, some commuity organizations, public health experts and local data.
During a press conference about the assessment, Mayor Sheffield expanded the idea of what health means. “Health is much more than what happens inside of a doctor’s office. It is also about prevention. Health is about whether a mother has access to prenatal care. It is about whether a child has healthy food nearby and it is about clean air, safe housing, transportation and whether families can access the care that they need when they need it.”
Sports
FIFA
The U.S. had their first loss of the 2026 World Cup to the already eliminated country of Turkey. Turkey kicked a last minute goal to win the match. The U.S. also had mostly reserves playing in the second half of the game to ready the team for their next game against Bosnia and Herzegovina. That game is Wednesday, July 1.
NFL
The Lions’ defensive back Terrion Arnold was arrested this week in Tampa, Fla. on alleged felony charges of robbery and kidnapping.
Six other individuals were arrested, but according to police Arnold was the one coordinating and directing the codefendants. Arnold is from Tallahasse, Fla., which is about 4 hours away from Tampa.
The Lions said in a statement that they are aware of the news but are not commenting “out of respect of the ongoing legal process.”
MLB
The Tigers loss to the Astros yesterday in the score of 4-1. Next game is today at Comerica Park. First pitch is at 6:40 p.m.
Burger Battle
And this weekend get ready for what organizers are calling the biggest burger battle in the Midwest. This weekend the 10 year anniversary of Detroit Burger Battle is going down in the Motor City.
Fifteen of metro Detroit’s top restaurants will bang burgers and chef it up for the crown. Participants of the battle get a single voting card to pick their top 3 burgers. Whoever gets the most votes wins.
This is all going down on Sunday, June 28 from 1-4 p.m. at Shed 5 of the Eastern Market.
Mayor Sheffield gives update on road improvement plan
“Our great partner, Governor Whitmer isn’t the only one fixing the roads around here," said Mayor Sheffield yesterday, where she and the Department of Public Works gave an update to their road improvement program.
This $58 million initiative includes 140 individual major road and residential paving and construction projects, as well as bridge removals and streetscape construction.
The mayor said the project will not only fix the infrastructure of Detroit but it will build up the community’s workforce. “We are also putting Detroiters to work while we invest in our neighborhoods... 90% of the individuals that are doing this work are Detroit residents and 100% are unionized. Let’s give that a round of applause.”
Funding for the road projects will come from federal and state transportation funds. This project will begin along West Grand Boulevard.
Additional headlines for Thursday, June 25, 2026
New affordable housing complex for seniors
Earlier this week city leaders joined together for the ribbon cutting of new senior housing in Grandmont Rosedale. The new development Minock Park Place is a mixed use development bringing commercial space as well as affordable housing for seniors. The development includes 36 one bedroom apartments and six two bedroom apartments for low to moderate income seniors.
Mike Randall, executive director of the Grandmont Rosedale Development Corporation, says completion of this project brings value to the neighborhood and community. “In the face of doubt, skepticism, a global pandemic, 3 presidential terms, skyrocketing inflation and costs, yet here we stand. Not for the recognition and not to boast but to demonstrate that value exists on our corridor not just on grand river not just on 6 mile...and not just on schoolcraft but throughout all the great city of Detroit.”
Residents are expected to begin moving in in July with commercial spots opening in the first quarter of next year.
Sports
MLB
The Tigers lost to the NY Yankees with the score of 4-2. Their next 3 game series is against the Houston Astros starting tonight at Comerica Park. First pitch is a 6:40pm.
Club soccer
Detroit City FC face Birmingham Legion FC on July 2 at Protective Stadium in Alabama
FIFA
And the FIFA group stage continues as TEAM USA faces Türkiye. The U.S. has a 51% chance of winning according to sports analysts. Tonight’s game at the Los Angeles stadium in Inglewood California starts at 10 p.m. EST.
Murder mystery walking tour
And if you are looking for something spooky to get into this weekend, look no further than The Rosary Requiem—Detroit Murder Mystery Walking Tour.
The tour starts at Most Holy Redeemer Church – the church where the film "The Rosary Murders" was filmed. Organizers say the walking tour is blends mystery and intrigue, with the vibrant spice of Detroit's Mexicantown – that means food!
For more information go to distinctivelydetroit.com.