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.
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Madison Heights cuts drag queen story time from Pride festival
The Madison Heights City Council voted to cut “Drag Queen Story Time” from their Pride festival days before the event. The story time event would have featured drag queen performer Jadein Black reading books to children during the city’s celebrations.
Council members voted 4-3 to cancel it, due to concerns about the “appropriateness” of a drag queen reading to children.
Black told Fox 2 she was surprised the city canceled the program. Black says instead she will be performing a drag queen story time this weekend at Sidetrack in Ypsilanti.
Additional headlines from Thursday, June 4, 2026
New hangar opens at Detroit airport
A new 20,000 square foot hangar opened at the Coleman A. Young International Airport on Detroit’s east side Wednesday.
It’s the first new facility to open at the airport in 60 years.
Mayor Mary Sheffield says it’s the start of many investments in store for the airport. “We are continuing major investments into our airport, including runway and taxi upgrades, safety enhancements, the upcoming My Flight helicopter tour facility in the new Benjamin Davis Aerospace Academy that will be opening this fall.”
The new hangar was planned, designed, and built by Avflight. The company has operated at the city airport since 2011.
Incentive increases attendance in DPSCD
The Detroit Public Schools Community District says nearly 84% of high schoolers were paid for attendance this year. That’s roughly 12,800 students who received at least one $100 visa gift card for showing up to class everyday between January and May this year.
District officials say absenteeism decreased by 10 percentage points this school year compared to 2023-24 before the incentive program began. The district launched the initiative last year as part of an effort to curb chronic absenteeism.
Free Dutch Girl Donuts
Friday is National Donut Day, and Detroit staple Dutch Girl Donuts is celebrating by offering free donuts at its new second location in New Center.
Customers can receive two free donuts while supplies last from 8-10 a.m. at its location on 2820 E. Grand Boulevard.
Lawsuit to block SMART bus millage dismissed
A judge has dismissed a lawsuit targeting a millage proposal on the August primary ballot that would prevent Wayne County communities from opting out of the SMART bus system.
The group Not SMART Wayne filed the suit, claiming the Wayne County Transit Authority did not follow disclosure and notice requirements before placing the millage on the ballot. The judge dismissed the case for insufficient evidence.
Matthew Wilk is an organizer of Not SMART Wayne. He says the battle is not over. “So we are going to fight this at the ballot box. We’re going to make sure everybody knows exactly what they’re doing. I think it is wholly inappropriate to have a tax, a special double tax on Detroiters. It’s 650,000 Detroiters and we’re going to let the world know about it.”
Wayne County Executive Warren Evans applauded the judge’s decision. Evans says expanding the SMART bus system will provide an affordable alternative, especially when Detroiters are dealing with high gas prices. Voters will see the millage proposal on the August 4 ballot.
-Reporting by Bre’Anna Tinsley
Additional headlines for Wednesday, June 3, 2026
Dearborn starts aggressive driving unit
The city of Dearborn has launched a new unit to stop aggressive driving. The city says the unit will watch for driving behaviors that may cause accidents and threaten the public’s safety.
The Dearborn police department has acquired three Ford Mustang Mach-E vehicles for the special unit. Those cars will be able to more easily blend in with normal traffic.
The city says police officers issued more than 33,000 traffic citations last year.
Gas prices fall
Metro Detroit gas prices are trending downward despite continued hostilities in the Middle East.
The average price of a gallon of self-serve regular in the area is now $4.28. That’s down 29 cents per gallon from last week at this time.
Analysts say talk of a possible peace deal has helped push prices lower. But the U.S. and Iran have both launched strikes in recent days – and there’s no clear word on when the situation might be resolved.
The vital Strait of Hormuz remains closed to commercial ship traffic. Twenty percent of the world’s crude oil typically passes through that waterway.
DPSCD to demolish Cooley High School
The Detroit Public Schools Community District will demolish Cooley High School this summer. That’s according to reporting by Bridge Detroit and Historic Detroit. The high school was originally built in 1928 and closed in 2010.
There were efforts to save the building. The non-profit Life Remodeled had offered in 2023 to purchase the site from the district, but that offer was rejected.
Teacher of the Year nominations open
And the Michigan Department of Education is looking to recognize teachers for their hard work.
The Teacher of the Year program was created to acknowledge the achievements of educators in the state. Anyone can nominate a teacher using the form on the state Department of Education website until September 23.
The winner of the award will be announced in the spring.
Detroit police explore alternatives to ShotSpotter surveillance system
Detroit Police want to extend their contract with ShotSpotter before it expires at the end of the month. But as WDET's Bre' Anna Tinsley reports, DPD officials tell city council they're searching for alternatives to the technology.
Detroit City Council has expressed concerns about ShotSpotter's surveillance tech in the past and they have questions about the effectiveness and security of the system.
DPD Officer Mathew Pencil frequently responds to ShotSpotter incidents in the city's ninth precinct.
He told council members that hearing gunfire is so common in the city, that sometimes residents won't even call 911. "Sometimes residents are afraid. Sometimes they can't tell where they came from, or they assume someone else will call. ShotSpotter doesn't hesitate, it doesn't panic, it doesn't look away. It alerts immediately, and it gives the chance to intervene while seconds matter on the street."
Pencil says ShotSpotter's surveillance is the reason police responded after 66 shots were fired in one neighborhood on the night of August 17, 2025, minutes before anyone called 911.
The city's Public Health and Safety Committee voted to postpone a decision on the contract until next week in order to hear from residents first.
-Reporting by Bre'Anna Tinsley
Additional headlines from Tuesday, June 2, 2026
UAW strike
About a thousand UAW members went on strike at the Dauch Corporation factory in Three Rivers Monday. Dauch is the company once known as American Axle. The Three Rivers plant is the company’s largest in Michigan. It makes axles for General Motors.
The union says Dauch is refusing to restore fair wages after the workers took cuts during the Great Recession. UAW President Shawn Fain kicked off the strike with a video saying “no contract…no axles."
The Detroit News reports the strike could disrupt production of pickup trucks in Flint if it goes on for more than a couple of weeks.
Pheasant Flock Party
This weekend, you might want to pop into Detroit’s first ever Pheasant Flock Party. Brewery Faison and the Detroit Bird Alliance are co-hosting the event Saturday where Michiganders and Michigeese can partake in a bird festival block party.
There will be a bird impersonation pageant, a “crow-off," bird-themed workshops and games, a “pheasant strut” (as one does) and a meet and greet with Fabio the Pheasant.
The Pheasant Flock Party is Saturday from noon until 6 p.m. at Brewery Faison at 1087 Beaufait Street on the city’s east side.
Vault of Midnight hosts game night
Vault of Midnight hosts its monthly game night Sunday in Hamtramck. This month’s featured games include Wondrous Creatures, High Society Yokai Carnival, some tiny games and more.
Detroit Vault of Midnight Game Night is every first Sunday from 5 - 8 p.m. at Florian East Lagers and Ales at 9350 Joseph Campau in Hamtramck.
Residents can now opt out of automatic voter registration
The Michigan Department of State (MDOS) automatically registers eligible people to vote if they apply for or renew a state ID or license as of 2019. Now voters can opt out of registration if they choose.
In 2018, Michigan voters approved a constitutional amendment to automatically register those applying for a state ID and drivers license. Now they will also receive mail notifying them of the registration. Only U.S. citizens are eligible for preregistration or registration.
The new changes add an option to opt out by mail with a pre-stamped, pre-addressed envelope from the MDOS. Voters can also send a written request to their city or township clerk to cancel their registration.
Additional headlines from Monday, June 1, 2026
Detroit Community Conversation
The City of Detroit is hosting a community conversation to improve access to services for people who are deaf, blind or hard of hearing. The “Building Barriers & Building Bridges” event will focus on improving access and inclusion in the city.
Presenters include Sherry Gay-Dagnogo, the Ombudsman for the City of Detroit; Jade E. Matthis, the Director of Civil Rights, Inclusion & Opportunity; and Christopher Samp, the Director of the Office of Disability Affairs.
The event takes place Tuesday, June 2 from 5-7 p.m. at the Wayne County Community College District NW Campus. That’s 8200 W. Outer Drive, Detroit, Michigan.
An American Sign Language Interpreter will be available. Light refreshments will be served.
Men's mental health with the Michigan Chronicle
The Michigan Chronicle is hosting an event on mental health for Men’s Mental Health Awareness Month. The Safe Space: How to Support Black Men’s Mental Health panel will feature Black community leaders. Practitioners will also share resources and lead a guided meditation. Joseph Williams, Head of Content at Word in Black, will moderate the event.
Speakers include Dr. Jason Phillips, a therapist and life coach; Brian Sims, a healthcare entrepreneur and community organizer; and Senbi Akau Spruill, a meditation leader. The event will be held virtually on June 3 from 6-7:15 p.m.
Homeownership classes
Gesher Human Services is hosting free homeownership classes next week. It’s part of National Homeownership Month. The Homeownership Empowerment Week is a series of classes from June 8-12 to guide potential and current homeowners on purchasing and managing homeownership.
The first class is in person at the Gesher headquarters building at 29699 Southfield Road in Southfield, Michigan. People can sign up for a 30 minute slot to get a free credit report with a financial education counselor between 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. The rest of the classes will be held on Zoom between June 9-12 at noon.
Detroit has a 54% homeownership rate, which is 9% less than the national average. Gesher Financial Education Manager Laltsha Cunnigham says June is a great time to access homeowner resources. She says the courses are aimed to quote, “make home ownership a reality for more families.”
The City of Detroit offers up to $25,000 in down payment for pre-paid or closing cost assistance when people purchase a home through $9 million in funds from the Community Development Block Grant and the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Relief.
Gesher courses will cover debt management, the path to ownership, and what to do if homeowners default on their mortgage. Classes will be taught by Housing and Urban Development (HUD) certified homebuyer education counselors.
To register, visit geshermi.org/events or call 248-233-4299.
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.
Editor's note: Corrections on the timeline of automatic registration, the mandated notification of automatic registration and opt-out process have been made to text but are not reflected in the broadcast version of this podcast. We apologize for the error.
Whitmer says she is not running for president in 2028, but leaves door open
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer turned heads this week when she said she will not run for president in 2028.
Speaking with Fox 2's Roop Raj at the Detroit Regional Chamber's Mackinac Policy Conference, Whitmer said she plans to take time off after her tenure as governor ends.
"I'm looking forward to taking a break...there is time until 2028. There will be a robust group running for president. I will not be one of them."
Later in the day, during a conversation with Tricia A. Keith, president and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Whitmer clarified her remarks.
"I never knew I would run for governor. I should know better. Never say never."
Whitmer said she does not want to be distracted by speculation about future political plans and remains focused on governing through the end of her term in November.
Additional headlines for May 29, 2026
Whitmer signs $152 million Selfridge funding bill
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation on Mackinac Island earmarking $152 million in state funding for improvements at Selfridge Air National Guard Base.
The funding is intended to prepare the base for new F-15EX fighter aircraft announced by President Donald Trump in 2025.
Whitmer said the investment was made possible through bipartisan cooperation.
"We secured the KC-46 tanker mission thanks to President Biden...last year we secured the F-15EX fighter mission thanks to President Trump. Together these missions will lock in Selfridge's future."
The governor said the base supports 5,000 families through jobs and emphasized the economic impact of the investment.
Detroit sports roundup
Tigers open series against White Sox
The Detroit Tigers begin a three-game series against the Chicago White Sox this weekend.
The Tigers remain near the bottom of the American League Central standings and are looking to gain ground with a strong showing in Chicago.
First pitch is scheduled for 7:40 p.m. ET Friday at Guaranteed Rate Field.
Detroit City FC faces Charleston Battery
Detroit City FC travels to South Carolina this weekend for a USL Championship Eastern Conference matchup against the Charleston Battery.
The clubs last met March 28, when Detroit earned a 1-0 victory at Keyworth Stadium behind a strong defensive performance.
Saturday's match will be played at Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina.
Detroit to host transportation technology conference
Detroit will host transportation leaders from across the country during the Intelligent Transportation Society of America Conference and Expo, taking place June 9-12 at Huntington Place.
Organizers expect more than 3,000 public- and private-sector transportation professionals and 170 exhibitors to attend the annual event.
The conference will feature more than 100 sessions focused on real-world deployment of intelligent transportation systems, including artificial intelligence, automated vehicles and connected mobility solutions.
More information is available at ITSAmericaEvents.com.
Detroit Parks Coalition expands We Walk Detroit program
The Detroit Parks Coalition is expanding its We Walk Detroit program. The group will take one-hour walks multiple times a week starting in June at parks across the city. It’s part of a larger slate of free, all-ages programming focused on wellness and recreation.
The coalition is made up of several park organizations, including the Belle Isle Conservancy, Chandler Park Conservancy, Clark Park Coalition and Friends of Rouge Park. Some programming is aimed at providing safe, free activities for youth during the summer.
For more information about events, visit detroitparkscoalition.com/events.
Additional headlines for May 28, 2026
MDHHS moves Wayne County food pantry site to Detroit office
A new food pantry is coming to Detroit next month. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services announced it is moving its On-the-Go pop-up food distribution center in Wayne County to its MDHHS office in Detroit to improve accessibility for residents.
The department hosts the food pantries in partnership with Forgotten Harvest. Residents will be able to schedule appointments. Culturally appropriate food options are offered when available, including halal and kosher foods.
For more information about dates and times the pop-ups will be open, visit forgottenharvest.org.
Detroit PWHL general manager looks ahead to league draft
The general manager of the new Detroit Professional Women’s Hockey League team, Manon Rheaume, says she’s excited and focused ahead of the league’s draft next month.
“The draft class this year is going to be unbelievable. The number of players that’s going to be ready to play right away in the league is incredible,” she said.
Detroit is hosting the event June 17 at Little Caesars Arena.
Rheaume was the first woman to sign a professional hockey contract and play in an NHL game. She represented Canada on two gold medal-winning International Ice Hockey Federation World Championship teams and the silver medal-winning team at the 1998 Olympics. She performed the ceremonial puck drop at the PWHL’s first game at Little Caesars Arena in 2024.
Rheaume named Westland native Josh Sciba head coach. Sciba has been the assistant coach for the PWHL’s New York Sirens.
Muslim Youth Connection to host 313 Bazaar in Dearborn Heights
The group Muslim Youth Connection is hosting the 313 Bazaar on May 31 from noon to 5 p.m. More than 70 vendors will sell handmade art, jewelry, Islamic items, clothing and more.
The event will take place at the Islamic Institute of America Mosque, located at 700 N. Beech Daly Road in Dearborn Heights.
For more information, visit Muslim Youth Connection’s Instagram page at @mycmedia.
Memorial Day travel
According to AAA Michigan, about 1.3 million state residents will hit the roads this weekend. The auto group says this is the second highest state number on record for the holiday weekend. This follows a national trend, with estimates setting up a new national record, topping last year’s numbers by 1%.
To avoid peak travel times, AAA suggests travelling between 9 p.m. on Thursday and 11 a.m. on Friday. Those traveling on Sunday will have little to no traffic, but those traveling on Monday will get the worst of it between noon and 5 p.m.
Memorial Day Weekend travel is costing more across the country this year on average due to rising gas prices. The increase is connected to the War in Iran and the closing of the Strait of Hormuz. This year, gas prices average $4.74 per gallon in Michigan. Last year the average was $3.13.
Additional headlines from Friday, May 22, 2026
Local Catholic churches face restructuring
Local Catholic church members are bracing for change as the Archdiocese of Detroit begins a restructuring process.
According to a report from the Detroit News, about 22 churches could potentially no longer hold weekend masses in the foreseeable future. These changes could be connected to finances and dwindling church attendance.
Listening sessions across the archdiocese are expected to take place this spring and early summer to consider plans.
Sports
MLB
The Tigers are facing a 6-game losing streak as face the Baltimore Orioles this weekend. Detroit is at the bottom of the American League Central and hopes to turn things with a three-game series against the Orioles.
First pitch for tonight’s game is at 7:15 p.m. at Oriole Park in Baltimore.
Soccer
Detroit City FC is facing Loudoun United FC tomorrow at 6:00 p.m. Detroit has won their last two games and hopes to get their third victory tomorrow. The faceoff will take place at Segra Field in Leesburg, Virginia.
Final Four ticket lottery
The Final Four is coming to Detroit and here is your chance to get some tickets. There is a lottery system you can enter for an application fee of $25. Fans who apply will be charged up front for the number of tickets they are requesting. You can only get up to 4 tickets. The available tickets are in the upper bowl at Ford Field and cost about $400 each.
The deadline to enter the lottery is Sunday, May 31. Winners will be notified in the Fall.
NBA
And I know the NBA season is over, but there is news heading into the 2026-2027 season.
The Pistons announced that they’ve reached a new television rights agreement with Scripps Sports. This move brings Pistons basketball to over‑the‑air television for fans throughout Michigan. The Pistons and Scripps Sports plan to collaborate on a direct-to-consumer streaming application in the future.
Movement music festival
It’s Memorial Day Weekend so there is Movement in Detroit. The longest-running electronic dance music event in the world return for its 20th year.
From Saturday to Monday, you have access to witness more than 115 artists perform on a variety of stages. Many performances and set pieces have been curated in order to celebrate the twenty years of existence. Three day VIP passes are sold out but single day, VIP and general admission passes are still available.
For more details go to movementfestival.com.
Mike Duggan drops out of Michigan governor’s race
Former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan has dropped out of the race to become Michigan’s next governor.
Duggan wrote in a letter posted to his campaign website that unified anger over the war in Iran and rising gas prices made it difficult to continue his pitch for unified and bipartisan leadership. He also said he was unable to build “serious national fundraising support.”
Duggan entered the race as an independent. A recent poll by the Detroit Regional Chamber showed him polling in third place.
Additional headlines for May 21, 2026
Police commissioner criticizes response to teen takeovers
Teen takeovers are taking place across the country, and one in Detroit ended in the shooting of a 14-year-old boy Sunday.
City officials have responded with stricter curfews and community outreach. But one police commissioner says that approach is not working.
District 3 Police Commissioner Darius Morris is criticizing Mayor Mary Sheffield’s approach to the teen takeovers in downtown Detroit.
After the first teen gathering in April, Sheffield held a news conference with organizers, touting a partnership with the teens to find more appropriate recreational activities.
Morris says when he spoke with organizers of more recent takeovers, he discovered Sheffield’s plan had an unexpected result.
“So I contacted him. I said, ‘Hey, what’s up with what are you doing involved in this? I taught you better than that. Why are you engaged in this?’ And he said, ‘Well, we’re doing it because we’re trying to get exposure and we’re trying to meet the mayor and do a TikTok video like the first group of people did,’” Morris said.
Morris says city officials and police are being forced to do the job parents should be doing, and he wants to see parents take more responsibility for the whereabouts of their children.
Federal judge closes Detroit bankruptcy case
A federal judge has closed Detroit’s bankruptcy case, ending almost 13 years of court supervision.
The ruling comes as the city makes final payments to unsecured creditors totaling about $10 million.
Detroit filed for Chapter 9 protection in 2013. The process allowed the city to shed about $7 billion in debt and restructure another $3 billion.
Mayor Mary Sheffield thanked the city’s financial and legal teams, as well as retirees who went about 10 years without pension payments. The city resumed those payments four years ago.
Traffic pattern changes underway at Belle Isle
Visitors to Belle Isle will notice traffic pattern changes underway.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced traffic pattern changes and a new two-way bike lane on the island. The changes were recommended in the 2025 Belle Isle Park multimodal mobility plan.
Central Avenue will transition to two-way traffic from Picnic Way to Portage Way.
Central Avenue’s scenic route through the flatwoods will flip from eastbound to westbound to help ease traffic congestion near the beach area.
A new dedicated two-way bicycle track will loop around the perimeter of the island, allowing cyclists to circle the entire island without crossing vehicle traffic lanes.
Construction on the changes has already started. The project is expected to be completed by the first week of June.
Severe storms hit metro Detroit
Severe storms raced through metro Detroit Tuesday, bringing strong winds, heavy rains and even hail. Streets throughout Detroit were left with large puddles, causing drivers to avoid them. Wind gusts knocked down trees and broke limbs in some places.
The canopy of a gas station on Detroit’s west side was knocked over by the winds, forcing its closure. The Mobil station at Plymouth and Hubbell remains out of operation today.
Additional headlines for Wednesday, May 20, 2026
Mary Waters disqualified
Detroit City Councilwoman Mary Waters announced last month that she was running for Congress in Michigan’s 13th District. She made the announcement just before the filing deadline. But Waters has now been disqualified from running for failing to gather sufficient petition signatures.
Waters tried to run for the job in 2024, but came in second to incumbent Shri Thanedar in that year’s Democratic primary. She was re-elected to Detroit City Council last year.
Congressman Thanedar is running against State Representative Donovan McKinney in this year’s August primary election.
Mackinac Policy Conference preview
Politicians, industry leaders and philanthropists are making last-minute preparations for the Mackinac Policy Conference. They’ll travel to Mackinac Island next week to network, discuss policy and learn from one another.
The annual event is held by the Detroit Regional Chamber. Speakers will include Governor Gretchen Whitmer, former U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, and Professor Cornel West. There will also be a debate between the Democratic candidates for U.S. Senate.
You can hear coverage of the Mackinac Policy Conference on WDET beginning Tuesday, May 26.
Gas prices drop slightly, but still hurt
Metro Detroit gas prices have fallen slightly in the past few days, but are still nearly two dollars per gallon higher than they were at the beginning of this year. The average price for a gallon of self-serve unleaded in the area is now $4.74. That’s down eight cents from a week ago.
Motorists planning to head out on the road for the Memorial Day holiday weekend should still plan for prices that remain near $5 per gallon. AAA says Michigan is one of the 10 most expensive states when it comes to gas right now.
NAACP calls for sports boycott
The NAACP is calling on college athletes to boycott southern schools in response to a Supreme Court decision impacting the Voting Rights Act. NBC News reports the civil rights organization launched the “Out of Bounds” campaign this week.
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled recently that using race to create two majority Black Congressional districts in Louisiana was unconstitutional.
The NAACP is asking Black recruits to withhold their commitments to attend certain colleges, most of which are in the NCAA’s Southeastern Conference. The boycott could have a financial effect via national sports television deals, ticket sales and alumni gifts.
Former Detroit Police sergeant stands trial for rape
A former Detroit Police sergeant accused of raping six women and girls will stand trial. The Detroit Free Press reports Benjamin Wagner faces 20 charges, including criminal sexual conduct and kidnapping.
Prosecutors allege that he committed the crimes between 1999 and 2003, attacking females ranging from 14 to 23 years old. He was charged in March, based on DNA evidence from a rape kit that sat in storage for years. The survivors testified against Wagner at his preliminary hearing.
His lawyer argued some of their stories had changed over the years. A judge ruled that enough evidence exists to let a jury decide.
Additional headlines for Tuesday, May 19, 2026
DHS may end TPS for Burmese refugees
The Department of Homeland Security wants to end Temporary Protected Status for Burmese refugees. TPS allows those fleeing dangerous conditions in their home country to live and work in the U.S.
TPS status was granted when the U.S. declared the mass killings of the Rohingya people a decade ago to be genocide. A federal judge postponed the effort to end Temporary Protected Status for Burmese refugees. DHS claimed conditions were safe enough for refugees to return.
Detroit sidewalk repairs
The city currently has a backlog of 6,300 sidewalk repair requests. Some residents have been waiting up to five years for a response.
Detroit City Council approved an $8 million contract two weeks ago to fix the sidewalks and allocated an additional $1.5 million in carry-over funds from the previous budget.
Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield says when she was on city council, she constantly received questions about sidewalk repairs. "Oftentimes I think we think about big developments and big investments that residents want and deserve in their neighborhoods, but it's also about simple quality of life things like lights and sidewalks that residents deserve to get addressed."
Officials say the backlog should be cleared by the end of this construction season. The city is now taking requests for 2027.
-Reporting by Bre'Anna Tinsley
Chemical clean up
Monsanto and the state of Michigan have reached a settlement to help pay for cleaning up PCB contamination.
PCBs are a class of chemicals that had a wide range of industrial uses before they were banned. They're linked to cancer, weakened immune systems and neurological disfunction, among other things.
PCBs are particularly troublesome because they persist in the environment and build up in the food chain. For example, the state has had to issue advisories warning people not to eat certain types of fish because of contamination.
Attorney General Dana Nessel says Monsanto has agreed to pay somewhere between $108 million and $240 million once the settlement is paid in full. As part of the deal, Monsanto does not acknowledge any wrongdoing.
It will be up to the state Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy and the Department of Natural Resources to develop cleanup plans.
-Reporting by Rick Pluta
Local governments prepare to spend opioid settlement money
Local governments in Michigan are sitting on $176 million from the nationwide opioid settlement. The attorney general's office reports that cities, townships, and counties have spent less than 20% of the money they've received since checks started going out in 2023. The funds are supposed to help communities reduce drug overdoses and deaths. An adviser to the Michigan Association of Counties tells Bridge Michigan some local governments are preparing to spend part of that money this year.
Last year, Michigan recorded the fewest drug-related deaths since 2013.
Hamtramck hosts Eid festival
Hamtramck is hosting an Eid gathering next weekend for Eid Al-Adha. There will be rides, food and shopping vendors. Organized by community leaders. The festival will take place from May 28-31 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Keyworth Stadium.
Additional headlines for Monday, May 18
Skilled trades meeting
The City of Detroit is hosting a Skilled Trades Task Force meeting. The meeting is for those who are interested in building in Detroit. People can also learn more about how to apply for tuition free apprenticeship programs. The meeting will be held on May 20 from 4-6 p.m. at the Farwell Recreation Center. That’s located at 2711 Outer Drive E, Detroit, MI 48234.
D'Artillery fashion show
The Hamtramck based studio D’Artillery is hosting a fashion show. The Behind the Seams showcase is a celebration of Immigrant Heritage Month. The women-only event features clothes and accessories made by women in the sewing training program.
The fashion showcase will be Saturday June 13 from 5-8 p.m. at 9528 Joseph Campau, in Hamtramck.
Dearborn spring cleaning
The City of Dearborn is launching its Spring Sweep. This is a joint effort by the city and residents to clean their properties. The city will be doing inspections on tall grass and overgrowth, trash and unauthorized storage or placement of items on lawns. Residents are asked to clean their properties from leaf accumulation or debris.
The city says violations are not tickets, but residents must inform the city when corrections have been made. The city’s code enforcement is refining its process. For more information visit Dearborn.gov/Property.
Creative learning space wins Comerica Hatch grant
A creative new learning space is coming to Detroit’s District 5. The name of the space is Kraftologie and it is a place for inclusive, hands-on crafting.
Owner Trice Clark is able to bring her vision to life because of a $100,000 grant from the Comerica Hatch Detroit contest by Tech Town. Hatch Detroit is an organization that supports small businesses and encourages residents to vote on what businesses they want in their neighborhood. Clark beat out three other finalists in the May 13 Hatch-Off that followed weeks of public voting and live pitches from the four finalists. More than 30,000 votes were cast in this year’s competition.
This contest has been going on for more than 15 years and past winners included dining restaurant Baobab Fare, Sister Pie and Batch Brewing Company. For more information go to hatchdetroit.com.
Additional headlines for Friday, May 15, 2026
Senior housing community ready for residents
The former Lewis College of Business campus was reborn into a senior housing community. The long vacant landmark located on Detroit’s northwest side is now the Dr. Violet T Lewis Village, named after the American businesswoman and educator who founded the school in 1928. This affordable senior housing has 105 units and is for residents 55 and older.
The project is a mix of historic preservation with new build and will help supply a housing market that’s experiencing a shortage. The village is fully income-restricted, serving households at roughly 30% to 80% of area median income, or about $20,000 to $70,000 per year. Developers say the project is designed to help longtime Detroit residents age in place and expands affordable housing for seniors.
Sports
MLB
The Detroit Tigers fell to the New York Mets again with the score 4-9. It doesn’t help that the Mets are the last place team in the National League East.
The Tigers now look to bounce back this weekend against the Toronto Blue Jays with a three game affair at Comerica Park. First pitch for today’s game is at 6:45 p.m.
NBA
And the Pistons face elimination in Game 6 of their series against the Cleveland Caviliers. The hometown heroes will potentially have to face Donovan Mitchell and James Harden without sharpshooter guard Duncan Robinson due to lower back soreness.
Game 6 in Rocket Arena will be one to watch. Tip-off is at 7:00 p.m.
Soccer
Detroit City FC face off against Forward Madision FC as part of the USL Cup. The game starts tomorrow at 6 p.m.
NFL
Detroit Lions defensive end Myles Adams is showing up to the Salvation Army’s upcoming sports pop-up event at the Rochester Hills thrift store.
The one-day-only pop-up will showcase hand-selected sports inventory like jerseys, athletic apparel and Detroit fan gear all at thrift store prices.
Adams spent the majority of the 2025 season on the team's practice squad and was resigned this offseason because of the positive impression he left on Head coach Dan Campbell’s practice squad.
'Martin' tour
And the Distinctively Detroit Tour is bringing you 90s sitcom nostalgia with Wazzup, Detroit! If you are a fan of the show Martin and the show’s Detroit’s ties, this is for you!
The tour will start at the William V. Banks Broadcast Museum where the star character Martin stepped into the world of broadcasting. The museum is the former WGPR building. Then the tour will go to Martin’s former apartment at the Garden Court Apartments. For more information go to distinctivelydetroit.com. This is all going down tomorrow May 16 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Detroit sees population growth for third consecutive year
The Detroit population grew for a third straight year. A city that has been losing residents for decades is making a come back. In 2025 the Motor City gained about 5,000 new residents according to the U.S. Census Bureau. In 2024 Detroit had nearly 7,000 new residents.
The total population in 2025 is about 649,095. Grand Rapids was the only other city to add more than one thousand people.
The Census shows that Detroit also grew at a faster pace than other major cities that had 250,000 residents or more.
Additional headlines for Thursday, May 14, 2026
GLWA raises rates for water, sewage
In July of 2026, Detroiters will be paying higher water and sewer bills. The Great Lakes Water Authority voted to increase water rates by 5.8% and sewer rates by 4.26% earlier this year. This mimics an increase they did in 2025.
This increase worsens the affordability gap, where some residents can’t afford the high costs. There are pushes for a statewide water affordability plan from different coalitions backed by the People’s Water Board Coalition. This plan would connect water bills to the household income in the hopes of creating a stable and equitable revenue source.
Sports
NBA
The Detroit Pistons face elimination on the road tomorrow after suffering a tough loss against the Cleveland Cavaliers yesterday in Game 5 of their series. Last night’s game went into the overtime and the Pistons struggled to overcome some late runs that ended with the game score 117—113.
The Pistons will have to win tomorrow’s game to bring it back to Detroit for a win or go home Game 7.
Tomorrow’s game will be at the Rocket Arena. Tip off is at 7:00 p.m.
MLB
The Detroit Tigers face loss against the Mets yesterday in the score 2-3.
The is the second straight loss to the Mets keeping the home team at the bottom of the American League Central Division.
'Sons of Detroit' documentary screening
Detroit Arts Institute is showing a screening of Son of Detroit. It is a film about the Motor City told through the lens of one unique family. Director Jeremy Xido returns to Detroit after 20 years to reconnect with the Black family who raised him as he confronts societal and racial struggles.
The screening is on Sunday, May 17 at the Detroit Institute of Art. For more information go to dia.org.
Huntington Place fire suspect charged with arson
The man accused of setting a fire inside Huntington Place has been charged. Deshawn Victor Harrison was arrested on Friday, May 8 and has been charged with two counts of arson.
Harrison is accused of walking into Huntington Place on April 26 and using water bottles filled with gasoline to douse the carpet before setting it on fire.
Huntington Place released a statement saying: "there was no impact to guests… staff or scheduled events."
Harrison is in the Wayne County Jail with a $100,000 bond and is due back in court on May 18.
-Reporting by Jonathan Roden
Additional headlines for Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Michigan ranks low on disability employment
Michigan ranks 44th in the nation for disability-inclusive employment according to a ranking created by EVERWAY, a company that provides solutions for Neurodivergent and autistic individuals.
The ranking measures employment rates across states using data from disability statistics dot org which found in 2024 only 42.4 % of the people in the State of Michigan with a disability were employed.
-Reporting by Jonathan Roden
Metroparks teach swimming, water safety for all
The Huron-Clinton Metroparks hopes to teach 5100 people to swim this year. Its Everyone in the Pool initiative has worked to increase water safety and swim skills for children and adults – especially in communities of color where people are less likely to learn to swim.
They point to data that suggests Black children between 5 and 19 are 5 times more likely to drown than white children the same age, and their own study which found 70% of children in Detroit have little or no swim experience. Huron Metroparks is offering free swim lessons in partnership with the YMCA.
To register for lessons, visit metroparks.com/everyone-in-the-pool.
Summer youth programs at The Yunion
The Yunion has opened registration for two summer youth programs. Level Up Workforce & Leadership Development Camp will allow rising 9th and 10th graders to focus on both academic and work skills during its free 6-week program.
And the Keys 2 Life Performing Arts Program will give kids between 11 and 13 a chance to focus on music, dance, theater or digital media with some academic re-enforcement thrown in.
Registration for both programs is open until June 5. For more information visit the theyunion.org/camps.
Vintage Fest this weekend
Camp Dearborn is hosting Vintage Fest this weekend with three vintage-y events happening at the same time.
From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., the Classic Car Show will showcase restored and preserve classic autos, The Friends of Camp Dearborn Flea Market will offer one-of-a-kind homemade arts and crafts. It runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The annual Tin Can Tourists’ Open House will give visitors a gander at more than 100 vintage trailers and coaches from as early as the 1930s between noon and 3 p.m.
Camp Dearborn is a 626 acre park located in Milford but owned by the City of Dearborn.
Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network offers scholarship for high school students
The Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network (DWIHN) is offering scholarships to high school seniors. The third annual DWIHN Mental Health Youth Ambassador Scholarship is for students in Wayne County who show resilience and a commitment toward their future higher education goals.
Five scholarships will be awarded to support students who have overcome personal or family challenges. Students must live in Wayne County, graduate in 2026 and have a GPA of 2.5 or higher. Students must also demonstrate resilience or perseverance and plan to pursue higher education in college, trade school or through continuing education credits. The money can be used toward tuition, books or transportation.
Students have until May 29 to apply. For more information visit www.dwihn.org or email WCYouthUnited@dwihn.org.
Additional headlines for Monday, May 11, 2026
Hamtramck Community and Economic Development summer internship
The City of Hamtramck is looking for summer interns to assist the Summer Youth Employment program. The paid internships are for youth 14-24 years old to take part in the city’s Community and Economic Development team.
Students will get hands on experience in public service, event planning and community engagement. They will also learn more about local government and small businesses. Internships begin in June and end by September. Applications are due by May 29.
To apply visit hamtramckcity.gov/employment-opportunities. Contact ced@hamtramckcity.gov for more information.
May is Foster Care Month
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services recently hosted a roundtable for Foster Care Month. The event’s goal was to raise awareness around support services available for foster care families. The state has over 10,000 kids in foster care.
MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel says “Every child deserves to feel safe and supported.” The health department works with local agencies, courts and community partners to provide safe environments for kids. However there is also an emphasis on uniting families whenever possible.
Programs like the Michigan Youth Opportunities Initiative, Transitional Placement Program, Community Reintegration Homes and the Foster Care Navigator Program hope to help children and families. The health department says they are also looking for more foster care parents. To learn more, visit michigan.gov/hopeforahome.
Michigan film trivia night
The Outlier Collective is hosting a trivia night next week. Outlier Media is teaming up with the Senate Theater to bring people a special Michigan film-themed trivia night. Outlier Media’s Briana Rice and BridgeDetroit’s Bryce Huffman will be hosting. They will ask questions about Michigan’s film history.
The event takes place May 19 from 6:30-9 p.m. Tickets are $10 per person. Trivia night will be hosted at the Senate Theatre in Detroit.Visit outliermedia.org/our-events/ to get tickets.
Detroiters celebrate second Cleveland defeat
Detroiters are celebrating another Pistons playoff victory. The team defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 107-97 Thursday night in Game 2 of the NBA Eastern Conference semifinals. Detroit All-Star Cade Cunningham scored 25 points in the victory. The Pistons have a 2-0 lead in the best-of-seven series. Game 3 is tomorrow afternoon at 3 in Cleveland.
Additional headlines for May 8, 2026
Students deal with Canvas hack
A hack of the Canvas academic system has affected students across the country, including many in Michigan. Students at Wayne State tried to access the system Thursday as they prepared for tests and worked to finish papers. But they were denied access. The system was hacked by ransomware, which demanded payment to keep from publishing students’ sensitive information. Canvas says the system is up and running again today.
Senior Olympics return to Detroit
Detroit’s Senior Olympics are returning June 8. The program was started in 1984 to empower seniors ages 50 and older and support healthy living. Seniors will compete in various activities such as swimming, track, golf, and even baking and arts and crafts. Registration as a participant is open through May 15. Athlete registration is $25. For more information or to register, visit the city’s website at detroitmi.gov and search for Detroit Senior Olympics.
Detroit District 1 to hold job fair
Detroit’s Department of Neighborhood Resource Managers is putting on a job fair in District 1 next month. City employers and others will be on-site actively hiring new employees. Project Clean Slate will also be there to help with expungement opportunities. The job fair will be held June 1 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Crowell Recreation Center. That’s 16630 Lahser at Verne.
Juneteenth art contest seeks entries
The City of Hamtramck’s Park Conservancy is now accepting applications for the TSF Juneteenth Multidisciplinary Art Contest for high school seniors. Any senior attending school or residing in Wayne or Oakland counties can apply. The contest is looking for an original activity that honors the legacy of National Baseball Hall of Famer and Negro League Detroit Stars legend Norman “Turkey” Stearnes. The submission must also portray the Juneteenth holiday. For more information about the contest and how to apply, visit hamtramck-stadium.org/juneteenth-contest. The application window closes May 29.
Metro Detroit gas prices remain steady in past week
Gas prices headed into the weekend haven’t changed much in the past few days. AAA Michigan says the average price of a gallon of self-serve regular in metro Detroit is $4.78 today. That’s the same price as Thursday, and just a couple of cents cheaper than last week at this time. Crude oil prices remain near $100 per barrel as the U.S. and Iran reportedly traded fire in the Strait of Hormuz on Thursday. Oil tanker traffic in that waterway has not returned to normal, impacting supplies in many parts of the world.
Dearborn selects Mike Esseily as new superintendent
Dearborn Public Schools has a new superintendent. After several rounds of interviews, the school board chose Mike Esseily to lead the district on Monday.
Esseily served as the Executive Director of Special Populations, overlooking special education, English language programs and mental health programs in the district. He previously worked as the Director of Special Education. He was also a special education teacher and served as an assistant principal.
Dearborn Public Schools has 20,000 students and 2,700 staff according to the school district’s website.
The search began after former superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko was hired as the State Superintendent. Mike Esseily is the first Arab American Muslim superintendent in the district. If he signs the contract, his new role begins on July 1, 2026.
Additional headlines for Thursday, May 7, 2026
Detroit Healthy Homes resource fair
The City of Detroit is hosting a Healthy Homes resource fair. The resource and foreclosure prevention event will also offer HOPE Application Assistance, Payment Plans and a chance to talk with staff from the Department of Water and Sewerage, the Wayne County Treasurer’s office with Eric Sabree, the Property Assessment Board of Review, and the Department of Neighborhoods.
The event takes place on Saturday at the Islamic Center of Detroit from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. That’s 14350 Tireman Ave., Detroit, MI. Lyft services will also be provided if needed. Call 866-313-2520 to schedule a ride.
Michigan aging poll
The Michigan Poll on Aging finds that many Michigan residents 50 and up find the state a favorable place to live as they age. The latest survey says 82% of older adults in Michigan say that it’s an “excellent, very good or a good place to live as they age.” However, half of older adults say cost of living, housing and transportation are barriers.
The survey also finds that despite opportunities, there are several challenges to create quality life for older adults. About 84% of Michigan residents say they believe older adults receive quality healthcare. Older adults who live in Southeast Michigan say its easy to find healthcare.
Detroit Compost Week
A Detroit-based coalition is sharing the results of a 4-month pilot study on food waste solutions. That’s ahead of Compost Awareness Week, beginning May 8.
The Detroit Community Composting Collective Project (DCCCP) is a partnership between several organizations to bring residents, farmers and organizers together to tackle food waste. The pilot was launched last April to train 100 Detroiters in community composting. The coalition partnered with six local farms.
The coalition says Detroit throws away 251 million pounds of food waste each year. The coalition's work hopes to reduce food waste in landfills.
An event will be held at the Detroit Food Commons Friday, May 8 from 6-9 p.m. to share the results from the pilot program and discuss ways for community-led solutions.
Mosquito season awareness
Michigan’s health department is encouraging people to be aware of mosquitoes and ticks. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) says people should take precautions to protect themselves and pets. The agencies suggest that people remove standing water in pools, trim tall grass and keep lawns mowed to reduce mosquito and tick habitats.
They also recommend stacking firewood neatly and in dry areas.
People can also use repellent on exposed skin to protect themselves against mosquito bites, keep pesticides away from children and pets and bathe after spending time outdoors to find any ticks. Officials also advise people to wash their clothes with hot water to kill ticks. For more information visit Michigan.gov.
Detroit police and fire departments seek information on Huntington Place arsonist
The Detroit police and fire departments have released a video of a man who started a fire inside Huntington Place last month.
Officials say on the morning of April 28 a man poured gasoline onto the carpet in the convention center’s first floor concourse and set the carpet on fire.
Police are looking for information about the man – dressed in all black, wearing a grey face mask and carrying a black backpack. Anyone with information can contact the Police Department’s Fire Investigation Division at 313-596-2940.
Additional headlines for Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Michigan Supreme Court hears lawsuit against House Speaker Matt Hall
Union members and lawmakers will gather at the State Supreme Court Wednesday to support sending several bills passed during the 2023-2024 legislative session to the governor for her signature. Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall has held the bills back. The court will hear oral arguments this week.
The 9 bills affect pensions for corrections officers, health insurance premiums for public workers and garnishment policies for low income residents – among other issues.
Judge halts termination of TPS for Yemenis
A judge in the Southern District of New York has stopped the termination of Temporary Protected Status for Yemeni nationals living in the U.S.
Then Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem announced in March that Yemen no longer met the conditions for TPS designation. TPS protections and benefits were supposed to end May 4, but District Judge Dale Ho said last week that the Trump administration did not follow the law when it revoked TPS status for people fleeing armed conflict in Yemen.
The Supreme Court is expected to rule this summer on DHS attempts to terminate TPS status for Haitians and Syrians.
High school marks end of first E-sports season
Denby High School has wrapped up its first E-sports season.
School leaders say video gaming has already led to higher grade point averages. The E-sports program at the Eastside school offers students the opportunity to compete with other schools in gaming, commentating and graphic design.
Korran "Ms. Que" Whittake tracks student progress in the E-Sports program. "I want to see kids really getting into school and using this platform... to really get into school and doing something that they like," says Whittake. She hopes that the E-sports program leads to higher GPAs and more opportunities for students.
The E-Sports program has already led to one student receiving a full scholarship to Olivet College.
-Reporting by WDET's Jonathan Roden
Drinks x Design
Drinks x Design will explore product design in the city. The event will shine a spotlight on Caroline Del Guidice, Jimmy Ward, Ryan Kahen, Kyle Stahler, The Duey Dealer, Eric Strebel, Botzen Design, Vidit Singh, Shayla Johnson, All Motion Studio, Hanna Garza and more!
Drinks x Design is May 7 at Vander Design, with music by Ember LaFiamma and food by Waka Street Food. The event is free but reservation is required.