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
Michigan's Native tribes respond to expanding ICE activity
As tensions around ICE rise across the country, multiple Native American tribes in Michigan are asking their members to always carry identification in case they get stopped by immigration officers.
Tribes in other states such as Minnesota have reported instances of members being targeted and detained by ICE agents.
The Sault Ste Marie and Grand Traverse tribes, along with other tribal communities across the state, condemned ICE's actions in a series of statements reminding people they are U.S. citizens. They say Tribal ID cards are a federally recognized form of identification.
There are no reports of Michigan tribal members being detained at this time. Several tribes and the Department of Homeland Security did not respond to multiple requests for comment.
Additional headlines for Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2026
Flint water settlement
The process of paying out claims from the Flint water settlement is moving forward. So far, 4,400 people have secured their payment from the more than $600 million settlement with the state of Michigan, the City of Flint and several businesses. Nearly 26,000 people have qualified for a share of the settlement.
Michigan implements stricter reading program requirements
The Michigan Department of Education is pushing for a stricter mandate for districts to implement "the science of reading" across the state. The Detroit News reports the department asked legislators to support mandatory training for elementary school teachers and require districts to choose from a list of approved reading programs.
Holocaust Remembrance Day
International Holocaust Remembrance Day is next week and the Zekelman Holocaust Center is hosting a performance of Remembrance of Things Present to commemorate. The theatre performance by the Braid centers true stories of the children and grandchildren of Holocaust survivors through dramatic storytelling and song.
The performance is Sunday, Jan. 25 at 2:30 p.m. at the Holocaust Center. Holocaust Remembrance Day is Jan. 27. It marks the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau and honors the six million Jews and millions of others who were killed, tortured and persecuted by Nazis.
Admission to the museum is free Tuesday, Jan. 27. The Zekelman Holocaust Center is located at 28123 Orchard Lake Road in Farmington Hills.
Community conversation
Urban Neighborhood Initiatives is hosting a community conversation and celebration Saturday. The Springwells Summit is a space where residents can bring ideas and concerns about safety, flooding, transit, housing or any other issues. The summit is from noon-2 p.m. The afterparty is from 2-4 p.m.
Accounting Aid Society seeks volunteers for tax season
The Accounting Aid Society hopes to recruit between 350 and 400 volunteers to provide no cost tax preparation services to low and no income families this tax season. No prior tax experience is required. Volunteers receive free training and certification.
The Accounting Aid Society activated 387 volunteers to process more than 23,000 tax returns last year and was responsible for more than $32 million in refunds in 2025. To learn more and get involved visit accountingaidsociety.org.
More Episodes
Michigan’s teaching shortage isn't going away
A new report says Michigan is losing teachers about as fast as it's gaining them.
Researchers at Michigan State University say nearly eight thousand teachers left the field in the last academic year, while nearly the same number entered the profession. The report also highlights a reliance on temporary or interim teaching credentials. About 5% of teachers lack certification, and 3% are still in training.
Bridge Michigan notes that interim teachers are more common in charter schools and urban areas. Special education had the highest teaching vacancy rates.
Additional headlines from Friday, Jan. 16, 2026
TSA ConfirmID
TSA is introducing a new option for travelers who have not yet gotten their Real ID or a passport…for a fee. It’s called the TSA ConfirmID.
Starting Feb. 1, travelers will have to pay $45 for it on pay.gov. There isn’t an option to buy a ConfirmID with cash. You will still need photo identification along with the ID to fly.
Passengers with Confirm ID could experience delays of up to 30 minutes for an additional screening process.
Slotkin calls for settlement in EPA Flint lawsuit
Michigan Senator Elissa Slotkin says Flint is still in pain and looking for justice 12 years after lead contaminated the city's drinking water. Slotkin urged the Trump administration to settle a lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency.
Henry Ford exhibit celebrates 250 years of the U.S.
The Henry Ford is honoring the nation’s 250th birthday with a year-long celebration called “America: 250 Years in the Making.”
The celebration will be centered around two exhibitions and the opening of the Jackson Home, the house that served as the meeting place for Martin Luther King Jr and other leaders as they planned the Selma to Montgomery Marches of 1965.
The two exhibitions will focus on crafting in America and a collection of textiles and fashion that helped shape the county. For more information about all programming this year visit thehenryford.org.
Hatch Detroit Contest returns
Tech Town’s Hatch Detroit Contest is returning. The contest is for entrepreneurs with a retail concept looking to open a brick-and-mortar location in Detroit, Hamtramck, or Highland Park.
The winner will receive $100,000 from Comerica Bank and business support from TechTown Detroit.
Applications are now open. Participants can submit their business plans on hatchdetroit.com through Feb. 27.
Report investigates the effects of a potential sales tax in Detroit
A sales tax of one percent in Detroit could generate $72 million a year in revenue for the city. That’s according to a report released Wednesday by the Citizens Research Council (CRC). But the juice may not be worth the squeeze.
CRC officials say that estimated $72 million revenue is only about 5% of Detroit’s general budget for 2026. Creating the tax requires changes to the state constitution, an ordinance from the city council and voter approval.
Researcher Madhu Anderson says implementing the tax could create other challenges for the city.
“It encourages what we call tax avoidance, which is looking for areas where taxes may be lower to buy the same product It also encourages more competition for businesses. They may choose to not locate in a city because of the higher taxes, meaning residents may not purchase things there.”
Anderson says there are alternatives the city could look at for increasing revenue, such as an entertainment tax.
Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield is looking for suggestions from residents about what issues in the city she should be focusing on. The mayor’s transition team, Rise Higher Detroit, has released a survey on their website asking for input on things like taxes, services, community programs and more. Volunteers will also be going door to door in neighborhoods.
For more information or to complete the survey visit risehigherdetroit.com/survey.
Additional headlines for Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026
Scholarship for construction, trades
The National Association of Women in Construction Detroit Chapter is offering a $2500 scholarship to Michigan students and apprentices pursuing careers in construction and skilled trades.
The chapter is holding a free, in-person workshop on Jan. 24 at the Northwest Activities Center. Scholarships can be used for tuition, training, and tools.
Applications are due Feb. 28. For more information, visit the link in today’s DER post at wdet.org/der. (nawic.org/nfsf-scholarships)
Donation drive for Interim House
The Church of Christ Care Community is organizing a donation drive for Detroit residents. The church is collecting items to create welcome bags for women and children who arrive at Interim House, Michigan’s largest shelter for victims of domestic and sexual abuse.
People can donate clothing, pajamas, personal care items, formula, stuffed toys, blankets, diapers, wipes, non-perishable snacks and juice.
The drop off location is 23621 15 Mile road in Clinton Township. Donations are being collected through March.
Black velvet art exhibit at Michigan Historical Museum showcases Latino culture
The Michigan Historical Museum is showcasing black velvet paintings and their ties to Latino History in a new exhibit. “Black Velvet: A Rasquache Aesthetic” includes more than 100 black velvet paintings from the private collections of co-curators Elena Herrada and Diana Rivera, collector Minerva Martinez and from the community.
“[This is] probably the only kind of art exhibit ever where people brought their own and added them to the collection," says Herrada. "Like people were walking in with their velvet paintings and some of them donated them and some of them loaned them and some of them took them with them when they left.”
Herrada says there have been several small exhibits of black velvet paintings in Lansing and Detroit over the last few years but this is the largest. She says black velvet paintings were popular art pieces in Chicano homes but people were not given the space to celebrate the art elsewhere.
“Many times people’s aesthetics or tastes are really put down or looked down upon. That’s one of the reasons we don’t have close ties to museums because people don’t feel at home in places where there is high art.”
Black Velvet: A Rasquache Aesthetic is on view at the Michigan Historical Museum until late November. The museum plans to host several events related to black velvet painting in the coming months. This Saturday, Jan. 17 admission is free and visitors can make crafts inspired by the collection.
The museum is in Lansing at 702 W Kalamazoo Street. Admission is $8 for adults and less for seniors and children; $2 for adults and free for kids with EBT cards.
Additional headlines for Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026
Sheffield restructures city services
Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield announced the creation of the Department of Human, Homeless, and Family Services Monday, led by its new director Benita Miller. Miller previously served as the executive director of the New York City Children's Cabinet, and has three decades of experience in family and child welfare.
The restructuring of city services also creates the role of Chief of Health Human Services and Poverty Solutions. The University of Michigan's Luke Shaefer will fill that position and also oversee the Detroit Health Department, and the Office of Immigrant Affairs and Economic Inclusion. Shaefer was the founder and director of the University of Michigan's Poverty Solutions research initiative and co-founded the program Rx Kids.
Sheffield says the reorganization of these services will make the process of reaching out to community services less fragmented and confusing for residents.
Applications open for Queer Equity Impact Program
The Detroit Regional LGBT Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications for the next cohort of its Queer Equity Impact Program. The 12-week business accelerator program starts in February and offers participants with business plan development, peer support, training and other guidance.
Applications are due Jan. 30. Learn more at detroitlgbtchamber.com.
Hundreds in Michigan protest against ICE
Hundreds of people across Michigan protested against Immigration and Customs Enforcement over the weekend after an ICE agent shot a woman to death in Minnesota last week.
Joshua Medina joined demonstrators at Detroit's Clark Park on Friday night. He says Americans need to fight back against the Trump administration's immigration crackdown.
"Force only understands force, right? And by no means I mean that in a violent way, but I mean that in a show of people power, right?"
There were protests across the nation over the weekend.
- Reporting by Steve Carmody
Additional headlines for Monday, Jan. 12, 2026
Auto Show
Detroit's car companies are gearing up for the city's annual Auto Show this week.
Executive Director Sam Klemet says the event features immersive hands-on displays promoting both vehicle technology and the Motor City itself.
"It's a chance for everyone to come under one roof and see kind of what the auto industry is about...where it's going...and what the city of Detroit is about. I mean you'll see a lot of that as well. So I think that this is evolving into a content show."
Klemet adds that the event also celebrates those who love Michigan's outdoor areas by showcasing vehicles and equipment designed for rugged terrain.
The auto show opens to the public on Jan. 17.
- Reporting by Quinn Klinefelter
Dinner with your Muslim Neighbor
The City of Dearborn and Chef Amanda Saab are hosting a “Dinner with Your Muslim Neighbor” event this week at the Lincoln Ballroom at the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center. The event takes place Thursday, Jan. 15 at 6 p.m.
The event hopes to give non-Muslim neighbors a chance to join Muslim neighbors to sit down and have deeper conversations together.
Future Docs
The Wayne State University School of Medicine is hosting its Future Docs program in March. The event is hosted by the Medical Alumni Association to expose kids to hands-on science and medicine.
Future Docs is for children between the age of 6-12 years old. Children will experience 18 hands-on science workshops, such as Brain Blast, Wind Your Way Through DNA, and Heart Rocks. Kids receive a t-shirt, a backpack, and souvenirs. The event takes place on March 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 540 Canfield in Detroit.
Tickets are $20 for adults and $35 for children. Tickets for WSU Medical Alumni Association members are $15 for adults, $30 for children.
Councilmember Santiago-Romero seeks to limit ICE activity in Detroit
Detroit Councilmember Gabriela Santiago-Romero hopes to ban or limit Immigration and Customs Enforcement or ICE agents access in the city. This follows an incident in Minneapolis in which an ICE agent fatally shot a legal observer. Renee Good was a 37-year old mother of three.
Bridge Detroit reports Santiago-Romero sent the council’s Legislative Policy Division a memo during a committee hearing yesterday to define the city’s ability to keep agents out of clinics, schools, and places of worship or city property.
Santiago-Romero said, “We need to ensure that does not happen here in Detroit.” She says there have been recent reports of people getting picked up by ICE agents during school pick ups and entering mosques.
She further inquired about the Detroit Police Departments relation to the federal agency. As of now, Mayor Mary Sheffield says she does not support the police department’s resources being allocated to immigration efforts.
A report by The Trace says ICE has been responsible for 59 shootings and 23 deaths between 2015-2021. None of the agents were charged.
Tonight there will be a vigil and rally at Clark Park in Detroit at 6 p.m.
Additional headlines for Friday, Jan. 9, 2026
Bike giveaway
Bikes 4 Kidz Detroit is giving out free bikes this weekend. The event takes place Saturday, Jan. 10 from 6-9 p.m. at the FB4K Warehouse. That’s located at 4015 Michigan Ave., Detroit, MI.
Sign up for the event in advance.
New honorary street sign in Hamtramck
The City of Hamtramck is naming a street sign after former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. She served three terms.
The honorary street name will be given to Carpenter Street between Jos. Campau and Conant. Carpenter also borders Detroit where the “Bangladesh: Coming to America” mural is painted on a school building, honoring the Bangladeshi community.
Hamtramck is home to a significant population of Bangladeshis in Michigan. Khaleda Zia passed away on Dec. 30 from health complications. She was 80 years old.
Dearborn Heights man passes away
A 30-year-old man with autism from Dearborn Heights, Yousif Hassan went missing Wednesday, prompting a city wide and multi-jurisdiction search in the city with 200 volunteers. His body was found yesterday in the Rouge River near Hines Park.
Dearborn Heights Mayor Mo Baydoun said in a statement: "Despite the incredible outpouring of help and the rapid response from police and fire, the outcome was not what we prayed for.”
The Dearborn Heights Police Department hasn’t formally identified they body; however, they say it matches Hassan’s description. All search efforts have been called off while they await a confirmation from the Wayne County Medical Examiner’s Office. The investigation is ongoing.
Community fridges to improve food access for seniors
Metro Food Rescue is piloting a new program to bring food directly to those in need with a community fridge in apartment complexes. The goal is to eliminate transportation and time obstacles for older people trying to get access to groceries.
The mini food pantries will be located in affordable housing complexes for seniors, starting with the Gratiot Woods Co-op on Detroit’s east side. The fridges will be stocked weekly with fruit, vegetables, bread and other essentials.
The pilot program is funded for two years by the Michigan Health Endowment Fund.
Additional headlines for Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026
New On-the-Go food pop up in Taylor
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has expanded its On-the-Go pop-up food distribution with a new location in Taylor. The pantry offers fresh produce, grains and protein. Halal and Kosher friendly options are available where the community needs it.
The mobile pantry is offered on a monthly basis by appointment in Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne counties. To date, the department has served nearly 550 families and distributed more than 11 tons of groceries.
Individuals in Southeast Michigan in need of food must make an appointment by emailing MDHHS-FH-WC-Taylor@michigan.gov to help minimize wait times and ensure adequate food supplies.
Board of Ethics publishes admonishment against City Assessor
The Detroit Board of Ethics published a public admonishment of City Assessor and Deputy CFO Alvin Horhn earlier this week. Horhn violated state law when he added more than 13,000 properties to the tax roll late, and without any late fees.
Between 2014 and 2020 the Detroit Land Bank promised buyers they would file property transfer affidavits on their behalf and never did. Horhn says if he had added the properties to the tax roll based on date of transfer, thousands of residents would have received penalties for an issue that should have never occurred.
The Board of Ethics said though his intent was good, it is not an excuse to violate state law. City council members sided with Horhn on the matter. So far, Horhn has not been punished for his actions.
Sheffield investiture tomorrow
Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield’s public investiture is tomorrow morning at 10 a.m. at the Detroit Opera House. It’s the swearing in ceremony of Detroit’s first female mayor, though the official swearing in happened on Jan. 1.
The event will also include the swearing in of city council members, board of police commissioners, and the city clerk. It will be live streamed on Detroit’s social media sites.
Michigan lottery raises over $1 billion for state schools
The Michigan lottery raised nearly $1.2 billion for the state's school aid fund in 2025. It marks the seventh consecutive year the lotto brought in more than a billion dollars for education.
Michigan retailers also cashed in on the drawings last year. They brought in around $300 million in commission from lotto ticket sales.
Detroit City Council votes in new leaders
The Detroit City Council voted in new leaders Monday.
WDET'S Bre'Anna Tinsley was there.
James Tate was voted President 5-4. He served as President Pro Tem under now mayor Mary Sheffield. He says he wants to strengthen how the council operates.
"For years, I have pushed for a legislative agenda, and while we have not fully realized that goal, I did help usher into our rules, a process that can move us there. That matters because it increases transparency, accountability, and it also provides the public a way to see our priorities and measure our progress."
Coleman Young II was voted Pro Tem, defeating Mary Waters.
Additional headlines for Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2025
Duggan's independent campaign stresses unity
Independent gubernatorial candidate Mike Duggan says he's bringing a message of unity to the state—the kind he says helped him bridge divides as mayor of Detroit.
As an independent Duggan won't get any visibility from the party primary process. He says instead he’s visiting with small groups of voters across Michigan and finding many of them concerned about the same issues like affordable housing and job training opportunities.
Duggan says Republicans and Democrats are more interested in beating each other than working together to solve problems. "I have never seen a state more evenly divided than Michigan today. And people more fed up. I don't think the climate's ever been more fertile...to have a third option."
Duggan claims rural voters in particular find they have more in common than they thought with the urban electorate that placed him at the top of Detroit's city government. (Quinn Klinefelter)
Retail Food Business Cohort
The Brightmoor Artisan Collective is getting ready to launch a program for folks who want to start a food business.
Applications for the Retail Food Business Cohort are set to go live in a few weeks. Participants will be able to access free food safety certification, business plan development, networking events and a one year membership in the collective.
For more information visit brightmoorartisans.org.
New sports programs for kids
The Detroit Parks and Rec Department is launching a slew of sports programs for kids this and next month. Offerings include tennis, baseball, volleyball, basketball, flag football, soccer and “sports movement.”
Programs will be offered at recreation and community centers throughout the city.
Sheffield takes office
Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield took office on New Year's Day. But she's celebrating her achievement with a public swearing-in ceremony this week.
Detroit City Council members, police commissioners and the City Clerk will also take part. The ceremony at the Detroit Opera House features poetry and music performances as well.
Sheffield is the first woman ever elected mayor of Detroit. She says her team is developing an action plan for her first 100 days with input from the community. But she's also retaining several key officials from the past mayoral administration including the corporation counsel—the city's top lawyer—and Detroit's fire commissioner.
Sheffield also announced today that the city will join a program that gives financial support to pregnant women and infants. The city has already raised 9 million dollars to participate in RX Kids. It's looking for $2 million to fund the program for 3 years.
Sheffield says she hopes to secure the funding to launch the program within her first 100 days.
Additional headlines for Monday, Jan. 5, 2026
State utility regulators demand more transparency
DTE Energy, Consumers Energy, and other regulated utilities in Michigan must do more to inform customers about potential rate hikes. This is because of a new order by state utility regulators.
The Michigan Public Service Commission wants to increase customer participation in utility issues, including cases that set new rates. After March, regulated electric utilities must inform customers when they asked for higher rates, and how much their bills would go up if that amount is approved.
There’s concern that this could confuse people, since rarely do utilities get their full requested amount. But supporters of the change say advance notice will let more people find out about and comment on potential rate hikes before the cases are resolved.
Gas prices
Michigan gas prices have dropped 11 cents since last week. According to the auto group AAA, you can get regular unleaded for $2.70. This new price is 18 cents less than a month ago and 44 cents less than this time last year, making this new price the lowest since February of 2021.
The US strikes in Venezuela this weekend don’t seem to have impacted oil prices just yet, according to AAA. The organization also says Venezuela crude oil exports have been limited due to the sanctions in the last couple of years.
Sports updates
NFL
The Lions beat the Chicago Bears 19-16 yesterday with a walk off field goal kick from Jake Bates, ending the season with a winning record. Now all eyes are on the off season, the NFL draft and seeing how they will bounce back for the 2026 season.
NBA
The Pistons beat the Cleveland Cavaliers yesterday 114-110 and remain on top of the Eastern Conference. Their next game is today at Little Caesars against the New York Knicks and again at Little Caesars on Wednesday against the Chicago Bulls.
Tip off for both is at 7:00 p.m.
NHL
The Red Wings play against the Ottawa Senators tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Canadian Tire Centre. The Red Wings are currently third in the Atlantic Division.
Carl Thomas performs
And R&B singer Carl Thomas known for his smash 2000 hit “I Wish” will be performing at Sound Board on Sunday Jan. 11, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.
The artist from Illinois hit the Billboard Top Hot 100 and peaked at 20. And this year marks the 26th anniversary of his debut studio album "Emotional."
To hear Thomas live, go to soundboarddetroit.com for tickets and more information.
VERDAD disinformation monitoring tool, plus events this weekend
Over the holidays, we’re sharing some of the stories Detroit Evening Report hosts produced for the radio this year. Today we hear a story from Nargis Rahman.
Journalist Martina Guzman has created an AI-powered tool to monitor disinformation aimed at Spanish speakers via radio.
The project is a part of Guzman’s work for the Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights at Wayne State University’s Law School. They recently received a $350,000 grant to expand VERDAD which stands for Verifying and Exposing Disinformation and Discourse.
Guzmán told Nargis Rahman the tool will now expand to all 50 states, into multiple languages and also globally.
Additional headlines for Friday, Jan. 2, 2026
Women's Hockey League returns
The ladies come to hockey town tomorrow as the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) returns to Little Caesars Arena for their Takeover Tour. The Vancouver Goldeneyes play the Boston Fleet Saturday at 7 p.m.
Detroit audiences have broken PWHL attendance records at previous games.
The league will play in Detroit again March 28 when the New York Sirens and Montreal Victoire play.
The league expanded last year from 6 teams to 8 – adding Vancouver and Seattle. No Detroit team has been announced yet.
Fullmoon Party
The Euphoria Flow Sisters will host a Fullmoon Party Saturday evening at the Congregation. The event offers a chance to de-stress, release negative energy and shove in some self-care after the holidays.
It is free and will include an “ecstatic dance.”
Windsor tarot reading
Start the new year with appreciation for our international border and a psychic reading. GQ Tarot and Celestial Spirit Tarot are hosting Beyond Resolutions! New Year Psychic Readings at Celeste’s Café in Windsor starting at 10 a.m. Saturday.
The event is scheduled to fall on the Full Wolf Supermoon – a time for emotional release and profound clarity.
Celeste’s Café is at 1295 Ottawa Street in Windsor. Pre-booking is strongly encouraged. Call 519-256-9859.
Veterans find mental health support in gaming, plus New Year events
Over the holidays…the Detroit Evening Report team is sharing some of the stories we produced for the radio this year. Today, we hear a story from WDET’s Bre’Anna Tinsley.
A survey by the Entertainment Software Association found that 86% of veterans turn to gaming to reduce stress and anxiety. Bre’Anna Tinsley spoke to Stephen Machuga, who founded a nonprofit that supports mental health for veterans through gaming. Before creating Stack Up, Machuga spent eight years in the army.
That’s just part of Bre’Anna Tinsley’s interview with Stephen Machuga who founded the veteran support nonprofit Stack Up. You can hear the full story at wdet.org.
Additional headlines for December 31, 2025
First Day Hike
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is encouraging Michiganders to spend the first day of 2026 outdoors. The “First Day Hike” is an option for state and national parks. The Friends of Maybury State Park host a New Year’s Day hike every year. Recreation passes are required for vehicles entering state parks. You can find Michigan trails close by or across the state at michigan.gov/dnrtrails.
New year wishes
Decked Out Detroit’s “Create” program is offering a holiday crafting workshop tomorrow (Thurs). The Shadow Boxing New Year's Wishes Workshop is a chance to make a shadow box and fill it with wishes for 2026. The workshop is from 1 to 3 p.m. at 1413 Woodward Avenue. Search for “create by decked out Detroit” on Eventbrite to register.
Markets open until January 4
Shopping at the Downtown Detroit Markets and warm drinks at the Cadillac Lodge at Cadillac Square are also available New Year’s Day and through January. For more information, visit downtowndetroit.org.
Pistons at home
The Pistons host the Miami Heat at Little Caesars Arena New Year’s Day. The game starts at 7 p.m.
Stay safe
And of course, there will be plenty of New Year’s Eve celebrations tonight. Make sure to select a designated driver if you plan to drink.
Diana Ross
If you’re staying home tonight, Motown legend Diana Ross will headline Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve. The live New York based show featuring several artists starts at 8 p.m. on ABC television.
Happy New Year!
The Detroit Evening Report will take a break for the holiday, but we’ll be back on Friday – ready to bring you all things Detroit in 2026.
From all of us here at WDET, Happy New Year!
Detroit Evening Report: Remembering Rosa Parks, plus local events
Over the holidays, we’re sharing some of the stories Detroit Evening Report hosts produced for the radio this year. Today…we hear a story from Jerome Vaughn.
October 2025 marked the 20th anniversary of Rosa Parks’ death. She was 92 when she died in her Detroit home in 2005. WDET’s Jerome Vaughn covered the story at the time and WDET aired that story this fall to commemorate Parks’ life and passing.
This is just part of Jerome Vaughn’s story commemorating the life and passing of Rosa Parks. You can hear the full story at wdet.org.
Adults have a lot of options for ringing in the New Year. But we have some events to help little ones get in on the fun.
The Henry Ford in Dearborn, Legoland in Auburn Hills and United Skates in Lincoln Park are just some places with Noon Year’s Eve festivities for the whole family offered mid-day on Wednesday.
Find a link to Little Guide Detroit’s roundup of kid-friendly parties at littleguidedetroit.com. (https://littleguidedetroit.com/kid-friendly-new-years-eve-events-in-metro-detroit-2025/)
The Detroit Film Theatre will screen three documentary shorts about Anishinaabe Food Sovereignty on Saturday, Jan. 3. The films will explore modern and historic gardening practices, an effort to restore the whitefish population and one woman’s journey to reconnect with her own heritage through the experience of harvesting wild rice.
The screening is at 2 p.m. on Jan. 3 and is scheduled as the DIA’s exhibit, Contemporary Anishinaabe Art: A Continuation, is on display until April 5th. The film and exhibit are free to residents of Wayne… Oakland and Macomb Counties – or free with museum admission. For more information, visit dia.org/events.
Revisiting scent docent Terees Western, events and more
Over the holidays, we’re sharing some of the stories Detroit Evening Report hosts produced for the radio this year. Today we hear a story from Sascha Raiyn.
Terees Western is an artisan perfumer and owner of the business FragranTed. Sascha Raiyn spoke to her about her work and about one title she uses, "scent docent."
Western says she explains the experience of scent the way a docent at the DIA might explain a work of art.
Additional headlines for Monday, Dec. 29
Holiday events at Detroit Public Library
Detroit Public Library branches are hosting holiday break events throughout this week.
Offerings include card-making and Kwanzaa craft sessions, video and board gaming and storytimes. The Sherwood Forest Branch will host a family New Year’s Party Tuesday from 4-5pm at 7117 West Seven Mile Road.
Find Detroit Public Library events at detroitpubliclibrary.org/events.
Broomball in Detroit
Come Play Detroit is bringing Broomball to Downtown Detroit in early January and tomorrow is the last day to register to play.
The co-ed league hits the ice at Campus Martius Tuesday, Jan. 6.
Teams can register for $1100 dollars with a $100 deposit. Individuals can play for $120. The Broomball leagues runs through January and February. For more information visit comeplaydetroit.com.
Dearborn receives firearm safety grant
Dearborn’s Department of Public Health has been awarded a $101,000 grant to advance firearm safety. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services funding supports collaborative efforts to educate gun owners on safe handling and storage.
Dearborn Mayor Abdulllah Hammoud says firearm injury prevention is a public health and safety priority.
The city’s health department will distribute firearm safety kits, including gun locks, lockboxes, and educational materials. Dearborn Chief Public Health Officer Ali Abazeed says the grant supports evidence-based education and access to safety tools.
Additional headlines for Monday, December 22, 2025
Michigan Chief Medical Executive makes Standing Recommendation regarding children’s vaccines
Michigan’s Chief Medical Executive, Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, made a Standing Recommendation to continue issuing vaccinations on schedule based on recommendations by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP).
Bagdasarian shared that public health experts are not in agreement with new federal vaccine recommendations, prompting the announcement. One of the recent changes was dropping the Hepatitis B vaccine at birth and removing the COVID-19 vaccine recommendation for healthy children and pregnant women.
Bagdasarian’s Standing Recommendation was made with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ Division of Immunization.
She says the recommendation does not supersede clinical judgment. She also asks health care providers to make vaccines accessible by removing barriers for patients.
EGLE renews license for hazardous waste facility
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has renewed the license for a hazardous waste treatment and storage facility in Detroit for the next 10 years.
Hazardous Waste Management Facility Operating License to EQ Detroit Inc., which does business as US Ecology Detroit South, was issued the license after regulatory review and a public comment process. Several people strongly opposed the facility because it emits strong odors leading to health concerns like asthma. The facility also has a history of clean air violations.
EGLE renewed the license, adding new requirements, such as expanding air and groundwater monitoring. The facility must replace six tanks beginning in January 2026 and install odor control equipment by the end of Dec 2027.
Tunnel in southwest Detroit
The Great Lakes Water Authority has started building a sewage relief system near the Rouge River in Southwest Detroit. Crews will spend at least two years digging a tunnel to carry excess stormwater to an underused retention and treatment center. Chief Operating Officer Navid Mehram says the $87 million project should reduce the risk of flooding and sewage backups during heavy rain.
"So this is an example where we’re making an investment in our existing system by rerouting some flows, so that we can leverage an existing facility that wasn’t receiving all the flow it can treat.”
Mehram says the project will not increase customers' sewage bills. He says state and federal funding will help pay for the tunnel.
New tech firm in town
Detroit is getting a new high-tech security and AI solution firm Eccalon. The defense tech company will create 800 new jobs ranging from $25-100 per hour.
The facility will have manufacturing operations, training programs and an innovation center.
The company’s headquarters is moving from Maryland to become a part of the tech innovation in Detroit. Eccalon will be located at the Bedrock-owned Icon building at 200 Walker Street.
Eccalon Chairman and CEO André Gudger says the new headquarters will develop cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing and automation.
The company hopes to open early next year.
Detroit Evening Report: DCFC field is moving forward
Progress on DCFC field
Demolition has started at the site of the new AlumniFi Field, which will be home to the Detroit City Football Club soccer field. The former Southwest Detroit Hospital, which has been vacant for years, will be demolished to make way for the 15 thousand seat soccer stadium and mixed-use project. The project will also include a 421-space parking garage and a 76-unit residential building.
Additional headlines for Thursday, December 18, 2025
Gorgon confirmed
The U-S Senate last week confirmed Detroit Native Jerome Gorgon as US Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan. Gorgon will be the chief federal law enforcement official for federal cases in Detroit and throughout the state’s eastern Lower Peninsula. He follows former US Attorney Dawn Ison. Gorgon was born in Southwest Detroit, graduated from Southwestern High School, and taught in Detroit Public Schools.
Waitlist open
The Taylor Housing Commission is opening up the waitlist for its housing choice voucher program for 12 days this month. The last time the list was open was in 2023. Starting December 20, the commission will accept pre-applications for a potential spot on its waiting list for the program meant to help low-income families, the elderly, veterans, and people with disabilities afford housing. The commission will randomly select up to 400 names to create its new wait list. Applicants do not need to be residents of Taylor to apply. To apply, visit taylorhousing.org
Applications being accepted
PropserUs Detroit is hiring. The organization supports entrepreneurs with opportunities and capital needed to build businesses, generational wealth, and vibrant neighborhoods. ProsperUs is seeking applications for trainers to deliver a variety of programming, including entrepreneur training, subject-matter workshops, group technical assistance, and one-on-one coaching. Ideal candidates will have experience in entrepreneurship, knowledge of adult learning, and a commitment to equity and community impact. Visit ProsperUs Detroit’s Instagram page for a link to apply. Application window closes on January 11.
Drop in temps tonight
Watch out for a flash freeze tonight. Scattered showers throughout the day today are expected to create wind gusts picking up to about 40 mph by Friday morning. Temperatures are expected to quickly drop to below freezing overnight, increasing the potential of a flash freeze on the roads by Friday morning. Snow is also predicted through Friday morning.
Brian White selected as Sheffield’s deputy mayor
Detroit mayor-elect Mary Sheffield has chosen her deputy mayor.
Brian White has been her chief of staff during her time as city council president. White says he'll help Sheffield deliver on her promises to spread Detroit's growth into the neighborhoods.
Sheffield has also announced she will keep Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison in his position. In a press statemen the Sheffield transition team credited Bettison with a record drop in violent crime across the city. Sheffield said the chief has the “respect of his peers…the loyalty of the rank and file… and the hearts and trust of the people.”
Additional headlines from Tuesday, December 16, 2025
- New federal bills would replicate a Michigan program to help with childcare in every state. The “tri-share” childcare program splits the cost of childcare between income-eligible families, employers and the state. Republican Representatives Hillary Scholten and John James co-sponsored the bill.
- Governor Gretchen Whitmer says improving Michigan's student reading skills will be her number one priority next year. She says she will share more details about her plans during her final State of the State address early next year. Kids Count ranked Michigan among the ten worst states in 4th and 8th grade reading scores.
- Detroit attorney Maurice Morton joins the race for District 13 Representative. Morton will challenge Democratic Representative Shri Thanedar as an independent.
- The state’s last virtual FAFSA webinar of 2025 is this week. The FAFSA is used by colleges and funding organizations to determine financial aid for students. The MiLEAP webinars also offer information on federal financial aid programs, state financial aid programs and resources for finding scholarships. The last FAFSA webinar of the year is Thursday, Dec.18 at 6:30 p.m. To register or to find a recording of a previous webinar, go here.
Abbas Alawieh runs for District 2 state senator
Arab American candidate Abbas Alawieh has announced that he’s running to become the next state senator in District 2. The newly drawn district includes Dearborn, Dearborn Heights and parts of Allen Park and Detroit.
Alawieh says he is running to uplift people’s voices.
“I want to become a state senator that wields the power of a movement of people that will come together around this campaign to say, hey, District 2 is here to play. We're going to show up with our values, with our leverage, with our people power.”
Alawieh previously worked on Capitol Hill for U.S. Representatives Andy Levin and Rashida Tlaib. He also served as chief of staff to Congresswoman Cori Bush.
Alawieh also co-founded the Uncommitted National Movement, which aimed to pressure then Presidential candidate Kamala Harris to address U.S. policy on the war in Gaza.
Additional headlines from Monday, December 15, 2025
Inaugural Rising Voices Artist & Creatives Cohort
The Asian American civic engagement nonprofit “Rising Voices” has launched a new project.
The Rising Voices Artist & Creatives Cohort will sponsor four emerging creatives next year. Each artist will receive $2500 and a mentorship to create pieces for a gallery exhibition in July. The theme will be “Revolution, Resistance & Joy.”
The deadline to submit an application is Feb. 1. Winning artists will be announced in March, with work time between April and June.
Bus safety in Dearborn
The City of Dearborn and the Dearborn Public Schools unveiled a new bus safety program today. The program detects and penalizes drivers who illegally pass school buses. About 40 million drivers in the U.S. illegally pass bus stops annually, leading to 2,200 violations.
School buses in the city will be equipped with “BusPatrol” technology which uses stop-arm enforcement cameras to record violations and report them to the Dearborn Police Department.
The new features are part of an effort to increase traffic patrols and educate the public about how to keep children safe as they’re getting on and off school buses.
Hospitals make a call on vaccines
Several Michigan hospital systems reportedly plan to disregard federal recommendations and continue giving infants the hepatitis B vaccine.
A federal advisory panel said earlier this month that doctors should wait to vaccinate babies against hepatitis B unless their mother tested positive for the disease.
Health experts warn that will lead to an increase in childhood liver disease. Evidence shows giving newborns the vaccine early is safe and has drastically reduced hepatitis B in kids.
The Detroit Free Press reports that Corewell, Henry Ford, McLaren, Munson and the University of Michigan health systems will continue to give the vaccine to children within the first day after they are born.
Reporting by Quinn Klinefelter and Pat Batcheller
Warming centers
The city of Detroit has opened warming centers to help residents escape the bitter cold. City officials say residents can escape the frigid conditions during the day at Detroit's recreation centers and public library branches. Overnight shelter is also available.
Those in need should call the Detroit Housing Resource Help Line for assistance at 866-313-2520 or online at detroitmi.gov.
People can also go to a Detroit police precinct.
Weather forecasters say the potentially life-threatening sub-zero wind chills are expected to abate later this week.
Reporting by Quinn Klinefelter
Warming centers open in extreme cold
The City of Detroit is activating warming centers in response to the extreme cold weather forecasted this weekend. The City has also declared a cold weather health emergency and is advising residents to remain safe.
One of the warming centers is the Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries on 13130 Woodard Ave. They are opening Friday, Dec. 12 at 8 p.m. through Tuesday Dec. 16 at 9 a.m. Residents in need can access the temporary overnight stand by shelter anytime by walking in without any referrals.
You could also call the Detroit Housing Resource Help Line at 866-313-2520 which is operating 24/7 during this health emergency.
For more information on helpline resources, respite locations and other warming centers go to detroitmi.gov.
Additional headlines from Friday, December 12, 2025
Former Michigan coach faces criminal charges
Former Michigan football coach Sherrone Moore will be arraigned in court Friday on stalking and home invasion charges.
This happened just days after the shocking news of his firing from the Wolverines program over allegations that he had an inappropriate relationship with a staff member.
According to prosecutors, he faces charges of home invasion in the third degree, stalking and breaking and entering or entering without breaking.
The judge has agreed to a $25,000 cash surety bond, continuation of mental health treatment and a GPS tether for Moore, making it clear that any contact with the alleged victim would be a violation of the terms of his bail.
Sports
NFL
The Detroit Lions have a reunion with former QB Matthew Stafford as they face the Los Angels Rams. If the Lions win on Sunday they will have a 72% chance of making it to the playoffs. If they lose, their chances drop to 42% according to NFL research. Kickoff is at 4:25 p.m. EST as SoFi Stadium.
NBA
The Pistons face the Atlanta Hawks today at Little Caesars Arena. The hometown heroes are currently number one in the Eastern Conference.
Tip off for Friday’s game is at 7:00 p.m.
NHL
The Red Wings face the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday Dec. 13 at the United Center. The game starts at 8 p.m.
Chris Webber hosts basketball showcase
And this Saturday, NBA Hall of famer, Detroit native and former Pistons during the 2007 Chris Webber, is hosting his Michigan basketball showcase this weekend.
Basketball fans across the state will gather at the University of Detroit Mercy's historic Calihan Hall arena to witness the top girls and boys high school teams in Michigan.
The boys event will be on Saturday Dec. 13 at noon and Sunday Dec. 14 at 4:30 p.m. The girls event will be Sunday at noon. For more information go to udmercy.edu.