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
MDHHS launches health screening for firefighters
The state health department is rolling out an effort to screen firefighters for health issues stemming from their line of work. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is providing grant funding for mobile, onsite, or local clinic based screening.
MDHHS officials say firefighters have elevated health risks because of work conditions. The funding will support disease prevention.
The state has allocated $3.5 million for three years. MDHHS expects to grant two awards to local clinics. Applicants can log into a pre-application on March 13.
Additional headlines for Monday, March 9, 2026
Audit finds inconsistencies in Michigan school staffing reports
A new report says Michigan hasn’t been keeping track of teacher aids, and other school service workers. The state health department oversees the school services program.
Checking credentials can affect how districts receive federal reimbursement for those support services.
The report from the state auditor general found that reviews were backlogged and sometimes took months to complete. There were also a handful of observed cases from the 2019-2020 school year where the state didn’t let districts know when they found staff without the right credentials.
The Office of the Auditor General blames vagueness in the state health department’s review plan and outdated agreements for some of the issues. In response, the department says it will update its policies to include more oversight and a clearer review timeline.
-Reporting by Colin Jackson
Southwest events
The Urban Neighborhood Initiatives (UNI) is hosting a “Suerte con Amigos” event. People are invited to play Bingo and other games. There’s also a Kahoot game based on Southwest History.
The game night takes place March 12 at 5:30 p.m. at Vamanos!, located at 4444 Vernor Highway.
Tickets are $10. Prizes include gifts cards and more.
UNI is also hosting a Southwest Soundz event: “My First Queen,” a night to celebrate mothers and their sons. Free food, games and entertainment on March 27 from 6-10 p.m.
Detroit celebrates Women's Month
The City of Detroit is celebrating Women’s Month and honoring women who have led the city.
The Women of Wisdom Annual Awards Ceremony will be held Friday, March 20 from 12-3 p.m. at the Erma A. Henderson Auditorium located at 2 Woodward Ave. Detroit, MI. Register to save your spot for the Women of Wisdom Award Ceremony.
Gas prices rising
Gasoline prices have risen almost 60 cents a gallon since last Monday. AAA says Michigan drivers are paying an average of $3.58 for a gallon of regular unleaded this morning. That’s the highest average price since August 2024.
It’s $3.52 a gallon in metro Detroit—49 cents higher than it was a week ago. Diesel fuel has soared from $3.89 a gallon last week to $4.67 now.
-Reporting by Pat Batcheller
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Whitmer’s 2027 budget proposes increased fees for licenses, government services
According to a Detroit Free Press report, Gov Gretchen Whitmer’s 2027 budget proposes $139.2 million dollars in fee increases. Some of these user fees for government services and licenses haven’t changed in decades.
There will be higher fees for things such as hunting, fishing licenses, boat registrations, and more. During her state of the state address, Whitmer asked Congress to pass her budget in June before the July 1st deadline.
Additional headlines for Friday, March 6, 2026
Sports updates
NBA
The Pistons fell to the Spurs again last night 106-121.
They hope to bounce back against the Brooklyn Nets tomorrow at Little Caesars arena. Tipoff is at 6:00 p.m.
NHL
The Red Wings face the Florida Panthers today at 7:00 p.m. as they try to climb back in the Atlantic division. They are currently sitting at 3rd place with 35 wins and 20 losses.
Club Soccer
Detroit City FC revealed their 2026 season uniforms during their organization event this week. This season’s kits draws inspiration from Detroit’s techno and electronic music scenes as well as the Detroit Red Wings.
The dark kit home uniforms are dark red to maintain the traditional La Rouge Theme, with red tonal wave pattern, gold numbers and white logos of the Spirit of Detroit. The light kit nearly copies a reversed version of last year’s home jersey, with maroon sleeves, salmon colored stripes, and maroon and taupe shorts.
To see their uniforms go to their website: detcityfc.com. You can start seeing these uniforms in action as the team kicks off their first match on Saturday, March 14 at Keyworth Stadium.
Free physical therapy clinic
FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers is hosting a free in clinic event on March 19, 2026 at 5 p.m. to celebrate their one year anniversary.
The centers offer personalized physical therapy, balance training, vestibular rehabilitation, and auto injury care. They are focused on evidence-based rehab to help patients recover faster and improve their overall mobility.
Attendees will receive 20% off some products at the event. The event will be held at 30770 Southfield Rd. in Southfield.
Daylight saving time
Daylight saving time is this Sunday, March 8. It’s the annual period when we "spring forward" and adjust our clocks one hour forward.
Daylight saving time occurs at 2 a.m., when local time instantly jumps to 3am. As part of the yearly ritual, the sunrise and sunset will be one hour later, we’ll have more light in the evening and a later sunrise in the morning.
The push to stop daylight saving time was approved by the US Senate in the 2022 Sunshine Protection Act but did not pass the House of Representatives. A 2023 version didn’t go anywhere in Congress as well.
Hamtramck joins Michigan Main Street program
The City of Hamtramck is now a part of the Michigan Main Street program as a Select Level city.
The program is run by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, which aims to bolster technical support for the city’s main downtown area on Joseph Campau between Holbrook and Caniff Streets.
Milo Madole is the chair for the Hamtramck Downtown Development Authority (DDA). He says the partnership will build on the momentum of recent projects such as the Discover Hamtramck social media campaign and Hamtramck Night Bazaars.
"...I think people recognize that, and it's wonderful to be connected now with the resources that exist through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.”
Madole says Hamtramck is attractive to visitors because it’s filled with 1920s historical buildings, cultural attractions and restaurants from every cuisine.
Additional headlines for Thursday, March 5, 2026
Whitmer pursues free lunches for students
Governor Gretchen Whitmer served lunch to middle schoolers in Troy yesterday as she seeks support for free meals for K-12 students in Michigan. Whitmer wants to keep funding for universal school breakfast and lunch in her final budget. She also wants lawmakers to keep funding them after she leaves office.
“We’ve put in the budget the last couple of years. It’s been a game changer, and I love getting the chance to talk to students and all the people here at the school to find out what it’s really meant for kids, and its really remarkable, so I think we need to make this permanent.”
Republicans want an income test to ensure free school meals go to families that need help. Studies show means testing often leaves more kids hungry. GOP lawmakers also say schools should be allowed to use the money for other purposes.
-Reporting by Rick Pluta
Free naloxone kits available at local MDHHS offices
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is providing free naloxone, a medication that reverses overdoses, at MDHHS offices across the state. MDHHS says the funding comes from opioid settlements and as part of prevention, treatment and recovery efforts.
Michigan is set to receive $1.8 billion from opioid settlements by 2040. Half of that funding is allocated toward the State of Michigan Healing and Recovery Fund while the other half goes to counties, cities and governments across the state.
People can visit a local MDHHS office to request the free naloxone kits. More than 1.7 million kits have been distributed, with a recorded 34,000 overdose reversals since the program launched in 2020.
Michigan residents can also pick up a kit from harm reducing agencies, vending machines such as ones in Dearborn at the train station, local pharmacies and through mail order.
Highland Park mayoral candidates
Highland Park Mayor Glenda McDonald will have at least two challengers in this year’s election.
Community activists Shamayim Harris and Joshua Lamere submitted paperwork to the Wayne County Clerk’s office. Candidates have until April 21 to file.
McDonald announced her re-election campaign this week. Voters elected her in 2022.
-Reporting by Pat Batcheller
Detroit schools explore new ways to combat absenteeism
The Detroit Public Schools Community District is considering paying parents, giving away bikes, and providing gas cards for carpools in an effort to end chronic absenteeism.
Last year the district launched a program that allowed high school students to earn up to $1,000 for perfect attendance. The new financial incentives would be offered to families of kindergarten to second grade students in neighborhoods with the highest concentrations of poverty.
The idea is still being workshopped among DPSCD board members.
Additional headlines from Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Sea wall repair program
Detroit is launching a $1 million sea wall repair program in the Jefferson-Chalmers neighborhood. The project will repair or replace sea walls along canals fed by the Detroit River.
The program is prioritizing 15-20 properties and could help remove the neighborhood from FEMA’s flood hazard map. A survey in 2025 found 70% of the neighborhood’s waterfront properties have sea walls in fair or poor conditions.
Once properties are selected, construction is expected to continue through 2027. Applications are underway online or through the phone by calling 313-628-2232.
New parks over I-75
The Downtown Detroit Partnership is moving forward with plans to build three large park caps over I-75 between Third Avenue and Brush Street. The caps will reconnect neighborhoods to the downtown area that were separated by the highway.
Officials say the project will also improve pedestrian and bicycle safety, reduce highway noise, and create new public gathering spaces. Plans are currently undergoing a feasibility study that will run through 2026, with construction possibly starting between 2026 and 2028. Officials are gathering public input before final recommendations are made.
Detroit Tigers and Red Wings launch sports network
The owners of the Detroit Tigers and Red Wings have created a regional sports network to broadcast their games. Detroit SportsNet will carry the Tigers on cable, satellite, and streaming platforms this season. Red Wings games will continue to be available on FanDuel Sports for the rest of this season and will switch to the new network next season.
Both teams and many others across the country are terminating their deals with FanDuel's parent company because it failed to make scheduled payments for the rights to carry their games.
Gas prices
Gasoline prices rose by almost 14 cents per gallon overnight. AAA says Michigan drivers are paying an average of almost $3.13 cents for the cheapest grade of gas this morning. It was about $2.99 yesterday. The average price in metro Detroit rose from $3.03 a gallon yesterday to $3.13 today.
Ali Abazeed appointed Detroit Chief Public Health Officer
Mayor Mary Sheffield has hired Dearborn’s former Chief Public Health Officer to fulfill the same role in Detroit. Ali Abazeed is credited with building Dearborn’s public health department from the ground up. He also worked in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services during the pandemic.
Abazeed says he is looking for bold ideas to improve public health in Detroit. He is credited with achieving a 60% reduction in drug overdoses and expanding air quality testing in the city of Dearborn. Abazeed also brought the Rx Kids program to Dearborn, the same program Mayor Sheffield launched in Detroit earlier this year.
Additional headlines from Monday, March 2, 2026
DPSCD offers Ramadan meals to students
Detroit Public Schools Community District is offering Ramadan meals to students fasting during the month-long holiday. Meals are available for pick up between 2 and 3:30pm from school cafeterias.
Each meal package includes one breakfast and one lunch distributed to students who attend school that day. Ramadan meals are available school days until March 17.
Temple Beth El tour
Temple Beth El is opening its doors to the community for an exploration of history and faith. Attendees will learn about Judaism and the history of the Temple Beth El congregation and it’s impact on southeastern Michigan.
The evening includes a tour of the synagogue and a meal. The event is Tuesday, March 12 at 6 p.m. It’s a part of the Interfaith Leadership Council of Metro Detroit’s Interfaith Odysseys program. Registration is $35 for individuals and $50 for families.
Southwest Detroit Loteria fundraiser
Community members and Wayne State University alumni are invited to play a Southwest Detroit edition of Loteria Wednesday. The event is a fundraiser for the joint alumni association for Wayne State’s Latino en Marcha, Chicano Boricua Studies and Center for Latino/a and Latin American Studies programs.
This version of Loteria showcases people and businesses in Southwest Detroit. There will be Loteria-inspired merchandise for sale connected to each program. Funds support the Dr. Jorge Chinea Endowment.
A $100 donation buys a Loteria board. The event is Wednesday at 6 p.m. at Mexicantown Community Development Corporation at 2835 Bagley Street.
Lunar eclipse
Metro Detroiters will be able to see a total lunar eclipse Tuesday morning…if the weather cooperates.
The moon will enter the Earth's shadow overnight, and a partial eclipse will begin around 4:50 a.m. Totality will last for about an hour between 6 and 7 a.m., during which the moon will appear to be red.
Stellantis fails to provide profit-sharing checks to workers this year, reports annual loss
UAW Stellantis workers are reportedly disappointed because they are not getting profit sharing checks from 2025. This follows the company facing a multibillion dollar deficit last year. It’s also the first time Stellantis hasn’t provided a profit-sharing bonus since the recession.
The Big Three has faced obstacles because of tariff uncertainty, electric vehicle whiplash, interest rates and more, but Ford and GM still provided a profit-sharing checks to their employees. Stellantis says that it expects 2026 and its expanding product wave to bring profitable growth in North America.
Additional headlines for Friday, Feb. 27, 2016
Personnel shortage in behavioral health field
A new report from the Michigan Health Council shows that Michigan doesn’t have enough opportunities for students to become behavioral health care workers. This is contributing to a shortage of certified school-based mental health professionals across the state, according to the council.
This shortage puts a large workload on the personnel in this field. In the 2023-2024 school year Michigan had about 600 students per school counselor, over a thousand students per school psychologists, and almost 500 students per social worker. The report goes on to share that improving vocational programs could introduce thousands of high school students to fulfilling careers in behavioral health.
Sports updates
NBA
The Detroit Pistons face the Cleveland Cavaliers today at Little Ceasars Arena but—like their game against the Thunder—the opposing team is without their best players, with both Donovan Mitchall out with groin injuries and James Harden questionable with a thumb injury.
The Pistons are playing without their full strength with Isaiah Stweart out again because of his involvement in the fight with the Charlotte Hornets on Feb. 9. This is his sixth game of his seven game suspension.
Tonight’s game tip off is at 7 p.m. with a following away game against the Magic on Sunday, March 1.
NHL
The Red Wings face the Carolina Hurricanes tomorrow Feb. 28 at the Lenovo Center. The Red Wings are currently second in the Atlantic Divison with 34 wins and 19 losses. Game starts at 7 p.m.
Blueberry recall
More than 55,000 pounds of frozen blueberries, some of which were shipped to Michigan, have been recalled because of possible listeria contamination.
The Oregon Potato Company was the distributor of the recalled berries. This shipment was also sent to Oregon, Washington, Wisconsin and Canada.
The FDA recalled it initially on Feb. 12 and classified the recall as a Class 1 recall on Feb. 24, which means there is a reasonable probability that the use of or exposure to a violative product will cause serious adverse health consequences or death.
Go to your local grocery store to see if your purchase of frozen blueberries was in the mix.
Handmaid's Tale in Detroit
And the dystopian world of the Handmaid’s Tale comes to the Detroit Opera House. The play, once a hit television series and novel, is a chilling look into a future where America’s democracy morphs into a religious tyranny.
There are showings on Sunday March 1, Thursday March 5 and Saturday March 7.
Veterans Village opens in Detroit's eastside
A new affordable housing project celebrated its grand opening this week. The Benjamin O. Davis Veterans Village on Detroit’s eastside holds 50 units designed to help homeless and disabled veterans.
Vouchers from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority and the Detroit Housing Commission will guarantee rents at 30 percent of the resident’s income. Building amenities include a media room, common dining room and kitchen, exercise room, and an exclusive outdoor dog park.
The complex was named after Brigadier General Benjamin O. Davis, Sr., the Army’s first African American general and a trailblazer who helped lay the foundation for the integration of the U.S. military.
Additional headlines for Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026
Water bills increase
Metro Detroiters will pay higher water bills next year. The Great Lakes Water Authority’s board of directors voted to raise rates by an average of almost 6 percent. Customers would pay about 4 percent more on average for wastewater service. The agency says it needs the money to fix aging infrastructure and reduce water main breaks.
Project Clean Slate earns $200,000 grant
Detroit’s Project Clean Slate has received a 200-thousand-dollar grant from the Michigan Justice Fund…allowing the program to run for another 2 years. Project clean slate helps Detroiters with legal services for expungement of eligible criminal convictions. The service has expunged more than 19 thousand records. PCS expects the grant to allow for another ten thousand expungements.
Detroit Women of Comedy Festival searches for acts
The Detroit Women of Comedy Festival is looking for comedy acts for this year’s show. Organizers are seeking acts of all kinds such as stand up, improv, sketch, and more. The festival is inclusive of all genders and identities.
The mission of the event is to celebrate and elevate women, trans, and non-binary comedy makers in the metro Detroit area. The festival will be held at Planet Ant Theater on May 15 and 16. For more information about submitting an act, email DWCFsubmissions@gmail.com.
State of Highland Park
The City of Highland Park has announced the date Mayor Glenda McDonald will give the State of the City address. The mayor will give a public update to residents on Wednesday, March 18 from 6-7p.m. New Grace Missionary Baptist Church will host the event at 25 Ford Street.
Detroit Disability teach in
Detroit Disability Power is hosting a “teach-in” in March, focused on threats to immigrants and people with disabilities.
Care not Cages: Meeting the Moment with Disabled Detroiters will take place over 2 days – the March 13 event will focus on context; March 20 will be centered around action.
The event is free and dinner is provided.
Wayne State elects new president
Wayne State University has a new president. The school’s Board of Governors elected Richard Bierschbach as the 14th president of the university at a special meeting Tuesday.
Bierschbach has served as Wayne State’s interim president since the departure of Kimberly Andrews Espy last September. Before becoming interim president, he was the dean of Wayne State’s law school. While there, Bierschbach helped the law school rise from a national ranking of 100th in 2017 to 55th best in the U.S. now.
Additional headlines for Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026
Tlaib heckles Trump during State of the Union
Michigan Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib heckled President Donald Trump during his State of the Union address Tuesday night. The Detroit Democrat called the president a liar during his remarks. She wore an anti-ICE button, as well.
Minnesota Congresswoman Ilhan Omar also jeered at Trump during the event. Trump responded by saying the Democrats should be ashamed of themselves.
Whitmer to deliver State of the State tonight
Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivers her final State of the State address Wednesday. She’s expected to tout her accomplishments over the past year and lay out her vision for the future of Michigan.
Whitmer is expected to spend a portion of her speech talking about the importance of creating more affordable housing options for Michiganders. That includes plans for a new affordable housing tax credit.
You can hear the State of the State tonight at 7 p.m. on 101.9 WDET FM or at WDET.org.
Flags lowered to half-staff to honor Rev. Jesse Jackson
U.S. and Michigan flags across the state will fly at half-staff Thursday and Friday. Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered the action in honor of the Rev. Jesse Jackson.
Jackson died last week at age 84. In a statement, Whitmer says, “Rev. Jackson had a special connection to Michigan and especially the city of Detroit.”
BET reports Jackson will lie in state at the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition in Chicago tomorrow and Friday. A private homegoing service will take place on March 7. That event will be livestreamed.
Ford recalls more than 400,000 SUVs
Ford is recalling almost 414,000 Explorer SUVs because of possible steering problems.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says certain vehicles from the 2013 through 2017 model years could have faulty rear suspension toe links that could break. The problem could make it hard to steer the vehicle.
Affected owners will be notified by mail. Repairs will be made at no cost to consumers.
First place Pistons face Oklahoma City
The Detroit Pistons play the Oklahoma City Thunder tonight in a battle of NBA first place teams. The Pistons are first in the Eastern Conference with a record of 42 wins and 14 losses. The Thunder hold the top spot in the Western Conference with 45 wins and 14 losses.
Game time at Little Caesars Arena is 7:30 p.m. tonight.
Protestors, midterm candidates gather outside Romulus city hall to denounce ICE detention center
About a thousand protesters showed up to city hall in Romulus to protest a planned Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention center in the city.
Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist, who is hoping to win the Democratic nomination for Secretary of State was also there. "I make sure that people have the power to vote against those who would want to sign off on a budget that would approve these kind of expenditures... that would approve this kind of ICE personnel deployment," said Gilchrist. "That is unacceptable, and we need ICE out of Michigan."
Romulus City Council voted unanimously to condemn the proposed detention center, but admitted they still have not received formal confirmation of the building's sale to the federal government.
-Reporting by Russ McNamara
Additional headlines for Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2026
Whitmer will use State of the State to talk affordable housing
Governor Gretchen Whitmer will use her State of the State address Wednesday to call for more programs to address a shortage of affordable housing in Michigan.
Her plans include an affordable housing tax credit to spur development, cuts to regulations and faster approval of building permits. The governor has expressed concerns that President Donald Trump's sweeping tariffs will add thousands of dollars to the costs of home-building materials. The governor delivers her State of the State address the evening following the president's State of the Union address tonight. (MPRN)
New office of Community Safety
Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield has established a new office of Neighborhood and Community Safety. Its goal is to help prevent domestic violence and promote conflict resolution.
Teferi Brent will lead the office. He says domestic abuse is a major source of violence that the city needs to address. Brent says that effort would further lower the number of homicides, which hit a 60-year low in 2025.
-Reporting by Pat Batcheller
Detroit Historical Society celebrates Women's History Month
The Detroit Historical Society is kicking off Women’s History Month with ‘Love and Flowers: A tribute to Detroit’s Black Matriarchs’ Sunday.
The event is a celebration of caregivers past and present and an opportunity to reflect on the question of what it looks like to honor the Black women who "built… nurtured and fought for a better Detroit."
Registration is through the Black Bottom Archives as a part of its Bottom Up series of community programs exploring memory, storytelling and Black Detroit’s living history.
A museum membership is required for admission, but the Detroit Historical Museum offers a free membership to Detroiters and individual memberships starting at $60 on its website.
Literacy fundraiser
The Flint Unity Farming Project is having a popcorn fundraiser to support is literacy and learning programs.
Asian American organizations host immigration and detention virtual training
Asian Americans Advancing Justice Chicago is hosting a virtual Immigration and Detention 101 training in partnership with several Asian American organizations.
The Michigan nonprofit Rising Voices, which organizes Asian American women to get civically engaged, says the training will cover current immigration, detention and deportation information for Midwest AAPI audiences.
The training takes place tomorrow, Tuesday, February 24 from 7-8:30 p.m.
Additional headlines from Monday, Feb. 23, 2026
Chinatown streetscape
The economic development group Midtown Detroit Inc unveiled the finalized plans for streetscape improvements in Detroit’s Chinatown neighborhood at Cass and Peterboro Street.
The plans include wider sidewalks, upgraded lighting, and cultural elements like murals and bronze plaques.
State Senator Stephanie Chang secured $1 million dollars in the state budget for the streetscape project. She says the project is one way to preserve culture and history.
“During this chaotic and challenging time in our country that we are in right now where there are efforts to erase history and demonize and rip people away from immigrant communities, it's so important that we proudly celebrate culture and community.”
Midtown Detroit launched a fundraising campaign to raise the remaining $1.6 million. The construction is slated to be completed by the fall of 2027.
-reporting by Bre’Anna Tinsley
Tlaib seeks to expand Head Start
Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib proposed a bill she says would expand Head Start to 11 million children. The program provides early education and support for health care and housing to low-income families and their kids. Tlaib says the Trump administration has hurt Head Start by closing offices and withholding funds. She says underfunding has led to staffing shortages and aging facilities.
-reporting by Pat Batcheller
Limiting PFAS exposure
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services is sharing resources on ways to decrease PFAS exposure. PFAS are a group of harmful chemicals in the environment, also known as "forever chemicals".
MDHHS says possible ways to decrease exposure is using certified PFAS-reducing water filters, following fish and deer consumption guidelines and limiting the use of stain-resistant and non-stick items. People should also avoid contact with foam on water surfaces such as on lakes and streams.
High exposure to PFAS may lead to high blood pressure or other complications during pregnancy, decreased immune system response or the development of kidney and other cancers.
Skating in the D
The office of Gabriela Santiago-Romero, Detroit’s District 6 city councilwoman, is hosting a skating party. The third annual event will take place at RollerCade Detroit.
The event is on Wednesday, Feb. 25, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. Entry, skate rental, and pizza are free for the first 250 residents who attend.
New senior living apartments being built in Midtown
The City of Detroit and the Cass Corridor Neighborhood Development Corporation celebrated the groundbreaking of the Greystone Senior Living Apartments this week in the heart of midtown.
The new four-story, 49-unit affordable housing development is designed for seniors earning 30-80% of the area median income. The development corporation says this development is part of their 40 year commitment to preserve affordability and to advance community ownership in the Cass Corridor. The new construction is on a site that has been vacant for 20 years.
Mayor Sheffield said she is proud that this is her first groundbreaking of her administration. “Seniors have been near and dear to my heart. My 12 years serving on the City Council...I actually represented the highest amount of senior buildings in the state of Michigan in my district. I know firsthand the needs of our seniors. I do believe that it is important as a city that we are building housing for all income levels and all stages of life.”
According to the city, this project is set to be completed in 2027, and welcoming residents shortly after.
Additional headlines for Friday, Feb. 20, 2026
Kandies Mini Mart
The Detroit Economic Growth Corporation and city leaders celebrated the opening of Kandies Mini Mart. This is the first Green Grocer Program ribbon cutting since the program relaunched in 2024. This section will live in Blackwell’s Kandies sandwich shop and catering service which is located at the Durfee Innovation Society. The mini mart will provide fresh produce in the Dexter Linwood Neighborhood.
Weather forecast
This time of year, the weather feels like it cycles through all of the options Mother Nature has to offer and this weekend is no different. According to the National Weather Service Michigan is expected to cycle through hail, fog, winds, rain, and snow. So, say goodbye to the warm front we’ve been experiencing and hello again to your hats and winter jackets as colder air moves in.
The weather service also issued a wind advisory until 9 p.m. tonight. There is an 80% chance of snow on Sunday and the temperature this weekend is expected to be around the low 40’s and upper 30’s.
Stay strong Detroit, Spring will come... eventually.
Sports
Winter Olympics
This is the last weekend of the 2026 Winter Olympics and Governor Gretchen Whitmer made a surprise visit at this year’s games. She claimed Michigan has more Olympians competing in this year’s Olympics than any other state and also noted that California’s Governor Newsome had challenged her on the fact. The Winter Olympics final ceremony is on Sunday February 22.
NBA
Last night the Pistons had another dominant win against the New York Knicks 126—111. Cade “THE ALL STAR” Cunningham was two rebounds short of a triple-double with 42 points and 13 assists as the Pistons completed their season sweep of the Knicks. There is even talk of MVP consideration for the young star. The Pistons next game is against the Bulls tomorrow at the United Center. Tip off is at 8 p.m. EST.
Black author expo
Last but not least, this weekend Detroit Book City is having their 10th annual African American Family book expo on Saturday February 21 from noon to 5 p.m. This event celebrates Black History Month by having a meet and greet with over 40 independent Black authors for all ages.
The event is free with books available to purchase. This is all going down at the Village Hall in West Detroit.
Southfield officials protest ICE administrative office
Oakland County leaders and residents are protesting a possible Immigration and Customs Enforcement administrative office in Southfield. Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib and State Senator Jeremy Moss were among dozens of protesters at the site Tuesday. State Representative Jason Hoskins says residents are concerned about ICE having a larger presence in Southfield.
“Across the country, people have seen mass federal agents operating in ways that feel aggressive and intimidating and disconnected from the communities that they serve, and when communities of color see mass individuals exercising power, it says a historical weight that cannot be ignored.”
The building owner, REDICO, said in a statement that the lease is with the General Services Administration, and not directly with ICE.
Additional Headlines for February 18, 2026
DTE Energy fined for clean air violations
A federal judge has ordered DTE Energy to pay 100 million dollars for Clean Air Act violations in Metro Detroit. The infractions occurred at a subsidiary facility on Zug Island where coal is turned into coke for steel production. Sulfur dioxide is produced during the process. The gas can cause health problems when inhaled. The Environmental Protection Agency sued the coke plant in 2022. The judge also ordered the facility to come into compliance with clean air laws and to start a Community Quality Action Committee to work on air quality improvement projects. DTE Energy says it will appeal the ruling.
Cardiac emergency plans for school stalls
Michigan lawmakers required schools to adopt a cardiac emergency response plan for the current school year if the Legislature appropriated “sufficient funds." But funding wasn't dedicated in the education budget. A Senate proposal to include funding was removed by the House and was not included in the final budget. That means enforcement of the law is stalled. Bridge Michigan reports the state Department of Education says decisions on whether to implement emergency plans at the state’s estimated 5,000 public and nonpublic schools depend on local capacity and available resources.
The holy month of Ramadan has begun
Ramadan has begun. The Islamic holy month began Tuesday after sunset. Today is the first day of fasting. Muslim communities observe the event by praying intently, reading the Quran, giving to charity, and fasting from sunrise to sunset. Families gather in the evening to break their fast. Ramadan is the month when it is believed that the Quran was revealed to the prophet Muhammad.
Ash Wednesday observed
Today is Ash Wednesday, a solemn day of fasting and reflection that signals the start of Lent, the season of repentance, reflection and self-denial for Catholics and many other Christians. Worshippers attend church today and receive ashes, commonly spread in the shape of a cross on the forehead to remind them that life is short and that they should focus on things of the spirit.
Civil rights leader Jesse Jackson dies at 84
The Reverend Jesse Jackson has died. He was 84 years old. Jackson joined the civil rights movement in the early 1960s and begam working closely with Dr. Martin Luther King Junior. Jackson was near king on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis when King was shot to death in April 1968.
Jackson became a leader of the Civil Rights Movement in the years after King’s death. He went onto create Operation PUSH in Chicago as part of his effort to continue advocating for change. One of his signature slogans was “Keep Hope Alive”. Jackson ran for president in 1984 and 1988, but failed to win the Democratic Party nomination.
Jackson maintained close ties with civil rights leaders in Detroit, often visiting for NAACP or Operation PUSH events in the city. The Rainbow/PUSH non-profit coalition was created in the mid-1990s. Jackson also gave the eulogy for Rosa Parks at her funeral in Detroit in 2005.
President Clinton awarded Jackson the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2000.
Additional headlines from Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026
SW Detroit residents remember flood
This is the first anniversary of a major flood in Southwest Detroit. A 54-inch water main broke last year, causing problems for hundreds of residents in the area.
Several feet of icy water poured into streets and basements. The city had to evacuate more than 150 homes in the Springwells neighborhood. Residents in the area say some were evacuated by boat. Some lost their cars due to the amount of freezing water in the streets.
Michigan ranked #1 for men's college basketball
And Michigan is ranked number on in The Associated Press men’s college basketball poll. It’s the first time that’s happened in 13 years.
The AP says the Wolverines claimed 60 of 61 first-place votes in yesterday’s new poll. Michigan is set to play number three Duke Saturday evening.
DHS ends Temporary Protected Statys for Yemen
The Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced the end of Temporary Protected Status for Yemen. The designation was first granted to Yemeni nationals in September 2015 due to war in the country. TPS designation was renewed several times between 2017 and 2024.
Noem says the conditions in the country have improved, no longer warranting TPS. She says the designation was meant to be temporary.
According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services about 1,400 Yemeni nationals had TPS status as of last year.
Secretary Noem says TPS beneficiaries who have exhausted their lawful basis for staying in the U.S. have 60 days to self-deport—that’s April 14. People are encouraged to use the U.S. Customs and Border Protection CBP Home app to report their departure for self-deportation, which includes a complimentary plane ticket and a $2,600 dollar bonus, which Noem says leaves the possibility of legal opportunities for future immigration. Those who do not leave may be arrested and deported and cannot return to the U.S.
TPS recipients can seek out legal residency through asylum or work visas.
Additional headlines from Monday, Feb. 16, 2026
Detroit police officers suspended
Two Detroit police officers have been suspended for coordinating with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The Detroit Free Press reports that led to two people being possibly deported.
Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison requested the officers' pay be suspended. Previously, Bettison told Detroit City Council members the police department does not do immigration enforcement.
On Feb. 9, a Detroit sergeant called Border Patrol when an officer requested translation services for a non-English speaker during a traffic stop, prompting an investigation by CBP who then took the person into custody. Another incident occurred in December, when an officer called Border Patrol while investigating a felony warrant.
The Board of Police Commissioners will decide this week whether to suspend the officers’ pay. Bettinson says officers have been discouraged from working with Customs and Border unless a detainer is issued and signed by a judge.
US Immigration Customs Enforcement purchases Romulus facility
A spokesperson for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement told CBS News Detroit on Sunday the federal agency has purchased a facility in Romulus.
The facility is expected to bring nearly 1,500 jobs to the area, just under $150 million in economic activity and more than $33 million in tax revenue.
Last week, Romulus Mayor Robert McCraight said in a Facebook post that the Department of Homeland Security secured a building about 6 miles northwest of Detroit Metro Airport.
McCraight said that the detention center would be opposed by the city at all levels and he is working with legal counsel to determine what authority the city has to stop it.
-Reporting by Bre’Anna Tinsley
College Fair
The Williams Recreation Center is hosting a college fair next week. It will feature admissions and scholarship information, financial aid guidance and student and alumni engagement. Light refreshments will be provided, and it’s free and open to the public.
Call 313-628-2039 or email taylor.small@detroitmi.gov for more info. The college fair takes place on Feb. 28 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
If there is something 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.
Sheffield appoints Detroit's first Senior Director of Youth and Education
Mayor Sheffield is focusing on the well-being of children in Detroit with a new leadership team. During a press conference yesterday, Chanel Hampton was named Detroit’s first Senior Director of Youth and Education. Sheffield said that Hampton and Director of Youth Affairs Jerjuan Howard will work to reduce chronic absenteeism, improve transportation for kids to get to school and expand after school programs.
Hampton and her team will focus on youth up to 26 years old. During the press conference Sheffield teased an upcoming initiative to reduce absenteeism that will require City Council approval.
Additional headlines for Friday, Feb. 13, 2026
Hamtramck city leaders to hold public meeting
Hamtramck Mayor Adam Alharbi is hosting a meet and greet with two new city leaders. New City Manager Adel Al Adlani and Acting Chief of Police Hussein Farhat will join the mayor to answer questions from the community and share their vision for Hamtramck.
This is all in an effort to create more transparency in the city and for the public to know city officials. The meeting will be held at the Hamtramck Public Library on Sunday Feb. 15 from 7-9 p.m.
Sports
NBA
All Star Weekend is upon us as Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren represent the Detroit Pistons. The Pistons head into all star weekend with 40 wins, leading the Eastern Conference. Only the Oklahoma City Thunder have a better record.
You can see both Cunningham and Duren play in the NBA versus World All. Star Game on Sunday Feb. 15 at 5 p.m.
Winter Olympics
American Ice Dancers Madison Chock from Novi and Evan Bates from Ann Arbor won silver in the free dance. Both skaters voiced that they believed they delivered a gold medal performance with their matador and bull themed routine.
This is a bounce back from the Beijing Games where they missed the podium completely. It is unclear whether Chock and Bates, who have been partners for 15 years and are married, will retire or return for another Olympic cycle.
High school sports
DPSCD’s Public School League girls basketball semi-final champions are Mumford’s Lady Mustangs. They beat Cass Tech 58 to 38 yesterday. DER’s High School Sports Correspondent Lex Walker was wearing a different hat at that game – she was on the court. But she told us why the win was important.
"We’ve been striving to get to where we are today…We for sure became more competitive after this losing streak we’ve been on for like 5 games. It’ll motivate us to play even better knowing that we didn’t put in the work for nothing. Now we know we just have something more competitive to look forward to on Sunday."
The Lady Mustangs go on to the PSL basketball championships Sunday. The boys basketball championship matchup will be determined by games today. Cass Tech plays Douglass; King takes on Western.
Valentine's Black romance author Q+A
The Detroit Public Library is hosting "Author Talk: Valentine’s Day Black romance writers panel." The event features moderator Ebony Evans, and authors Katrina Jackson, Sylvia Hubbard, and Aliza Mann.
Copies of the panelists books will be available for purchase but admission is free. Seats will be first come first serve. This is all going down at the Detroit Public Library on Feb. 14 at 2 p.m. For more information go to detroitpubliclibrary.org.
Black Leaders Detroit reaches out to developers
Non-profit organization Black Leaders Detroit is known for its mission to provide access to capital for Black entrepreneurs. Now the group is extending those services to developers in the city. The program is a response to residents’ complaints of seeing development in the downtown area, but not in the neighborhoods.
Dwan Dandridge is the CEO of Black Leaders Detroit. He says the goal is to make sure Detroiters who have stayed in the city for generations can benefit from the city’s resurgence.
“We are aware that there have been and there are others that desire to be developers, that want to take on the challenge of making sure that development is happening in the neighborhoods. So, we're just looking to empower them, right? Because the capital is missing in that space.”
The program offers zero-interest loans of up to $150,000 to rehabilitate a single family homes or up to four-unit multifamily property. The loan is only open to developers looking to invest in Detroit neighborhoods.
Dandridge says there are restrictions put in place to help protect neighborhoods from speculators looking to take advantage of the program.
“One of the requirements is that you either completed the project and brought it to a finish, to finish at least one and meaning that property is renovated. It's either you sold it or you're renting it out currently, and if you have not completed at least one project, you've gone through Building Community Values program that's put on by Chase Cantrell.”
Dandridge says one of the ways the organization raises support for the program is through donations. The group is looking for people who wish to donate one dollar a week to support the program. Dandridge says he hopes to reach 1 million people to make that commitment.
For more information visit blackleadersdetroit.org. Applications for the loans open on April 1.
Additional headlines for Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026
Henry Ford Museum celebrates Black History Month
The Henry Ford is celebrating Black History Month with the theme “A Century of Black History Commemoration.” The museum has a series of events including a guided tour called “Three Cheers for Black History” which shares the untold stories of Black innovators. Visitors can also see the Equality exhibit, which tells the story of the first African Americans to compete in the national spelling bee.
There will also be a Black entrepreneurs vendor market that is free to the public, as well as multiple author talks on books on Harriet Tubman and the Civil War. Visit thf.org for all special events and programming.
The Hustle returns
The Detroit Historical Society is launching its second round of The Hustle, a community engagement and exhibition program. The program was designed to spotlight Black entrepreneurs through photography, oral interviews, exhibits and more.
The society is looking for nominations from the community on who to spotlight next. Visit detroithistorical.org/hustle to nominate a business or business owner. Nominations will close on April 26.
Trump threatens to stop Gordie Howe Bridge opening
President Trump says he won't allow the Gordie Howe International Bridge to open until Canada gives him what he wants.
He didn't specify what that is, but in a social media post, Trump threatened to prevent the opening unless Canada repays the U.S. for everything it has done for its northern neighbor. He also demanded half-ownership of the bridge, which Canada paid for.
In an interview with the Windsor Star, Mayor Drew Dilkens called the post unhinged.
Additional headlines for Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026
Rx Kids supports Detroit mothers
Pregnant and new mothers who live in Detroit can now receive cash assistance with no strings attached. The payments will come from the Rx Kids program—which provides $1500 to expecting mothers and $500 a month for the first six months of their baby's life.
The program started in Flint and is now active in over 25 lower income communities around the state. That includes Pontiac, Highland Park, Hamtramck, Hazel Park, and Dearborn.
Aiyash announces Michigan senate campaign
Former state Representative Abraham Aiyash has announced he plans to run for the Michigan senate. Aiyash served in the state House from 2020 to 2024. He is seeking the Democratic nomination for the District 1 seat currently filled by Erika Geiss.
Coco Gauff donation for HCBU tennis players
Coco Gauff has donated $150,000 to the United Negro College Fund to support tennis players at HBCUs. The Michigan Chronicle reports Gauff made a similar $100,000 gift in 2025, creating the Coco Gauff Scholarship Program.
Community Doula Workshops
The Sherwood Forest Library branch is hosting a series of Community Doula Workshops. Conversations will be centered around information and resources for new and expecting mothers, and include topics about mental health, labor and delivery advocacy and access to resources.
The series is hosted by Penny Love Fitness. Join this week Wednesday, Feb. 11 at 11:30 a.m. at Sherwood Forest Library at 7117 West Seven Mile Road.
Free Fishing Weekend
Valentine’s Day is not the only thing to celebrate this weekend. Free Fishing Weekend is Saturday and Sunday. This is one of two weekends during the year when people can fish without a license and without needing a recreation passport to access state parks.
All fishing regulations still apply. The next free fishing weekend is in June. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/dnr.
Bangladesh ambassador discusses plans to open consulate in Detroit
The Bangladeshi ambassador to the United States visited Hamtramck Saturday to meet with Bangladeshi Americans. Tareq Md Ariful Islam joined a town hall at the Gates of Columbus Banquet Hall to discuss U.S. - Bangladeshi relations.
Michigan Bangladeshis hope to get a permanent consulate office in Michigan to service the thousands of Bangladeshis in the state. In October 2025 the Advisory Council in Bangladesh, chaired by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, approved a proposal to open a consulate office in Michigan. It’s one of five offices scheduled to open around the world. People applauded as Ambassador Islam announced plans are moving forward to open the consulate office in Detroit.
The Embassy has provided mobile consular services over the years.
Additional headlines for Monday, Feb. 9, 2026
Ismael Ahmed memorial
A celebration of life memorial service was held for Arab American activist Ismael Ahmed yesterday at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center in Dearborn. Ahmed passed away on Jan. 31.
Speakers included Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib and business leader Nasser Beydoun, who shared personal memories during the celebration of his life.
Friends talked about his commitment to public service and the arts. Ahmed co-founded the Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services and the Concert of Colors. He also led the Michigan Department of Human Services under former Governor Jennifer Granholm. Ahmed hosted two music shows on WDET including This Island Earth.
-Reporting by Pat Batcheller
Candidates for governor discuss education
Some candidates for governor discussed their education plans during a Michigan Education Association forum in Detroit. They generally agreed schools need more counselors and other support staff.
Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, a Democrat, says schools do need more money. She also says the state should stop relying on a per-student funding model.
"Different needs meet different communities. And, as I've talked to educators around the state, the number one thing that keeps coming up is just that, that an x amount of money for a student in Muskegon is not going to be the same as x amount of money or the same amount of money for a student in Iron River. The needs are different. The cost model needs to be different."
Democrat Chris Swanson, Republican Mike Cox, and now-independent former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan also participated in the forum.
Dearborn Night of Innovation
The City of Dearborn is accepting applications for the Night of Innovation Pitch competition. The event is presented by the American Arab Chamber of Commerce. Five businesses will pitch their ideas to a panel of judges to compete for monetary awards. First prize is $25,000; second place is $10,000; and third place is $5,00 dollars for seed funding.
The City of Dearborn’s Director of Economic Development Jordan Twardy says the pitch competition is a way to showcase entrepreneurial talent in the city. Dearborn residents and business owners can apply by Feb. 27 by visiting BetOnDearborn.com.
The Night of Innovation will take place at the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center May 12 from 5-8 p.m. The event is free for people to attend.
Hamtramck NEZ tax information session
The City of Hamtramck Community & Economic Development Department is hosting an information session about the Neighborhood Enterprise Zone tax. People will learn how to apply for NEZ tax abatements.
The Coffee, Tea and NEZ session is on Feb. 23 at Kitab Cafe in Hamtramck. The event is available for two sessions; one at 12 p.m. and the other at 5 p.m.
Cold weather advisory for southeast Michigan
Subzero wind chills are expected this weekend as the National Weather Service has issued a cold weather advisory for southeast Michigan.
Even though today’s high will reach about 35 degrees, overnight lows are expected to dip well below zero with wind chill. The Weather Service says frostbite on exposed skin can happen in under 30 minutes.
The advisory is in effect until around noon Saturday.
A warmup is expected Tuesday and Wednesday, with temperatures trending above normal and highs and lows climbing out of the teens.
Additional headlines for February 6, 2026
Detroit opens shelters and respite sites
Until then, the city of Detroit is offering standby shelters and expanded library respite hours to protect residents from the deep freeze.
In partnership with Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries, the sites will operate from 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6, through noon Monday, Feb. 9.
If you are concerned about someone’s safety, call 911 to request a welfare check.
More information, including locations and hours, is available at detroitmi.gov.
Big Sean and Usher youth facility opens at Michigan Central
A $1 million investment in an entertainment production facility for Detroit youth from Big Sean and music artist Usher is now official. Leaders held a ribbon cutting this week for the new space.
The facility is part of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Detroit and is located on the fifth floor of Michigan Central Station.
The new hub includes creative technology studios, special effects labs and a literary and storytelling lounge. It is designed for young people ages 14 to 24.
Programming is set to begin Sunday, Feb. 9.
Sports
The Pistons lost at home Thursday to the Washington Wizards, 126 to 117.
Detroit looks to bounce back tonight against the New York Knicks at Little Caesars Arena. Tipoff is 7:30 p.m.
Sunday is Super Bowl Sunday. Even if the Lions are not playing, keep an eye out for new commercials from Detroit based organizations Rocket Companies and Redfin. Kickoff is 6:30 p.m. Eastern.
Book event: Lachi discusses I Identify as Blind
Grammy-nominated artist Lachi will speak at an event Monday, Feb. 9, from 6:30 to 7 p.m. for her new book, I Identify as Blind: A Brazen Celebration of Disability Culture, Identity, and Power.
The event includes a conversation with disability advocate Tameka Citchen Spruce.
Lachi was born legally blind and identifies as neurodivergent. The book explores her experiences, with the goal of challenging stereotypes and empowering people with disabilities.
For more information, visit Eventbrite.
Trump wants federal oversight of Detroit's midterm elections
President Trump is continuing to push lies about the 2020 presidential election in Detroit.
During an executive order signing to end the government shutdown, Trump told reporters he thinks Republicans should take election rights away from some states that the president did not win in 2020. He used three prominent swing states as examples.
"Take a look at Detroit... take a look at Pennsylvania... take a look at Philadelphia. You go take a look at Atlanta. Look at some of the places that... horrible corruption on elections."
Prominent Republican strategist and Trump-ally Steve Bannon has said ICE agents would be sent to polling places in this year's midterm elections.
Detroit City Clerk Janice Winfrey says any attempt to take over voting would be partisan politics at its worst. Winfrey says the results were fair and transparent then and subsequent elections have been, too. The U.S. Constitution says states decide how to conduct elections. Congress can enact some regulations, but the president has no control over elections.
Additional headlines for Thursday, Feb. 5, 2026
Critique on Sheffield's order on assessments
The Coalition of Property Tax Justice says Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield’s recent executive order is too vague and does not do enough to stop over assessments in the city.
Sheffield signed an order last week aimed at improving transparency in the city’s assessment process and requiring the office to meet national standards.
Professor Bernadette Athutahene says the order does not specify how to conduct an assessment ratio study, which is required by the property tax reform ordinance.
"We thought that the executive order would say, you know, to do a mass appraisal report, and those two things are different. The mass appraisal report, you can't apply Iao standards to a mass appraisal report."
The coalition did praise Sheffield for requiring the office follow the ratio standards of the International Association of Assessing Officers. The coalition published a revised version of the executive order with more parameter specifics for a property assessment.
ICE detention facility proposed in Romulus
A 500 bed ICE detention facility has been proposed for Romulus, but officials say it’s not set in stone. Romulus was among 23 locations nationwide identified in a recent Bloomberg report detailing the Trump administration's plan to buy warehouses and convert them into ICE detention centers.
The Washington Post reported in December that a warehouse in Highland Park was being looked at as a potential location. The Mayor of Highland Park has recently said the city was not interested at all and the city lacks the space for such a plan.
Dearborn utilizes drones to help first responders
Dearborn will soon use drones to serve as the very first responders in a variety of incidents where police assistance is requested. The Drones as First Responder program is the first in Michigan. It will deploy aerial drones to any part of the city within 5 minutes to provide real-time video information about situations including traffic accidents, vehicle and property break-ins and violent crimes.
The city says the footage will allow officers to respond more safely to emergencies and complex situations and improve decision-making. They say officers will be able to better assess situations before they arrive on scene.
The police department says it will make flight data available to the public on a transparency dashboard.
Additional headlines for Tuesday, Feb. 3, 2026
Dearborn Public Schools continues search for superintendent
The search continues to find a superintendent for Dearborn Public Schools. Former superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko, stepped down from his position to serve as the State Superintendent. Lamis Srour is serving as the interim super until the position is filled.
The district is collecting public input about the search until Feb. 16. People can fill out an online survey available in English, Arabic and Spanish. The Michigan Leadership Institute will also host stakeholder meetings Feb. 5 at 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.
The district hopes to have a new leader ready to start on July 1, 2026.
EPA removes hazardous materials
The Environmental Protection Agency is removing hazardous materials from a former industrial chemical plant in Detroit.
The EMCO facility on Lawton Street closed in 2023. Nine months later, someone vandalized the property and set a car on fire, which spread to a storage site containing more than 400 drums of chemicals. The Detroit Fire Department put the flames out before the drums could ignite.
The EPA says it should finish cleaning up the site this summer.
Hollier announces state senate run
Adam Hollier announced he is no longer running for Secretary of State. Instead he will run for the state senate seat for District 3. District 3 includes Hamtramck, Highland Park and the east side of Detroit. Stephanie Chang currently represents the district. Hollier served in the state senate representing District 2 from 2018-2023.
Detroit Red program honors Malcolm X, jazz, and Detroit
A new musical performance honoring the legacy of Malcolm X, the history of jazz, and Detroit is coming to Wayne State University. Detroit Red has a 10-piece multidisciplinary ensemble composed of artists LuFuki and Destiny Muhammad. The program will include panel discussions, workshops, and performances.
Detroit Red will be held Feb. 8th at the Valade Jazz Center at Wayne State University. Malcolm X gave his last speech at the university’s State Hall on February 14th in 1965. The program is hosted by DREAM of Detroit and is free to the public. To reserve your spot, visit detroitred.org.
Konjo Me has a new location
Ethiopian food pop-up Konjo Me has found a home at the Detroit Shipping Company. The space is currently under construction, but owner Helina Melaku says it will open soon, offering fresh Ethiopian food, coffee and culture to diners in Midtown.