The Detroit Evening Report

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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The Detroit Evening Report
Tlaib sponsors grocery bill, Mammoth demolition

In this episode of the Detroit Evening Report, we go over a new grocery bill sponsored by U.S. Representative Rashida Tlaib, the demolition of the long-since-vacated Mammoth department store, and more.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

00:03:53
Aug 13, 2025 4:22 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
EPA cuts funding for energy accessibility program

In this episode of The Detroit Evening Report, we cover the latest in federal funding cuts, a bill that would expand support for new mothers and more.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

00:03:25
Aug 12, 2025 6:29 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Michigan officials, civil rights organizations call for release of Hmong and Laotian refugees

Michigan elected officials and the Michigan Immigrant Rights Center are urging U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement to release detained refugees.

Six Hmong and eight Laotian refugees were detained on July 30th after receiving a letter from ICE and reporting for what they believed was a routine check in.

The refugees were transported through several sites before finally arriving in Louisiana. Immigration advocates believe that is the final stage before being deported to Laos.

State Representative Mai Xiong says the U.S. does not have a memorandum of understanding with Laos, and anyone deported there could be in danger.

These individuals fled, their family members fled persecution from Laos. Their parents, in particular, were involved in the the war in the 1970s in the Vietnam War, the secret war. They were recruited by the US to fight alongside American soldiers, and so they are in imminent danger.

The Michigan Immigrations Rights Center, the Asian Law Caucus and others sent a letter to ICE urging the agency not to deport these individuals since they are not in the U.S. illegally and can face persecution for aiding the U.S. government. The letter also called for transparency in the deportation process.

Reporting by Bre'Anna Tinsley

More headlines from Monday, August 11

  • A new study shows Michigan teachers are among the lowest-paid in the country. -Reporting by Pat Batcheller
  • The Hannan Center is accepting nominations for its 70 Over Seventy Awards. Call 313-833-1300 extension 16 with questions.
  • The Phoenix and Cielo Rooftop Detroit are hosting a substance-free “elevated nightlife experience” this Friday.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

00:03:41
Aug 11, 2025 2:51 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
ACCESS 10th annual Back to School Fair

ACCESS hosting 10th annual Back to School Fair

ACCESS will host its 10th Back to School Fair on Aug. 12 from noon to 3 p.m. The Arab American–based nonprofit focuses on community service, cultural and social entrepreneurship, healthy lifestyles, education, and philanthropy.

During the event, the organization will distribute free backpacks and school supplies. There will also be face painting, henna art, games, activities, and more.

The ACCESS Mobile Health Unit and Wayne State Mobile Health Unit will be on site to provide free health screenings, flu shots, and other health-related services.

More information and registration are available on the ACCESS website.

Additional headlines

Detroit poet laureate jessica Care moore named Academy of American Poets fellow

Detroit’s poet laureate jessica Care moore is among 24 poet laureates nationwide who have been named fellows by the Academy of American Poets. The fellowship includes a shared $1.1 million award to support community projects.

It recognizes literary excellence and supports poets in creating initiatives that engage communities through poetry. Moore, in partnership with The LOVE Building, plans to launch a literacy initiative in several Detroit neighborhoods. The project will include intergenerational workshops to share the stories of longtime and new Detroit residents.

Learn more about Moore’s fellowship and projects.

Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park to open Oct. 25 on the Detroit Riverwalk

Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park will open Oct. 25 along the Detroit Riverwalk. The annual Detroit Harvest Fest will be part of the debut of the 22-acre park, which will also feature live entertainment and food trucks.

The park honors the legacy of the late Ralph C. Wilson Jr., a philanthropist, entrepreneur, and veteran.

Details on the grand opening and celebrations are available from the Detroit Riverfront Conservancy.

Weekend events

Summer Bliss Music & Art Festival 2025

The Summer Bliss Music & Art Festival takes place this weekend at Tangent Gallery in Detroit. The event celebrates creativity, community, and connection, featuring DJs, local artists, and more.

More information is available here.

Sports

The Detroit Tigers face off against the Los Angeles Angels at Comerica Park as part of their three-game weekend series. The Tigers, who lead the American League Central Division, lost back-to-back games against the Minnesota Twins and look to bounce back. First pitch for tonight’s game is at 7:10 p.m.

Detroit City FC will play against Indy Eleven tomorrow at Keyworth Stadium. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.

The Detroit Lions take on the Atlanta Falcons in a preseason game tonight at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Game time is 7 p.m.

00:04:02
Aug 8, 2025 1:4 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Greektown intersection reopens with temporary two-way traffic

Monroe Streetscape Project continues through fall 2026

The Saint Antoine and Monroe Street intersection in Greektown has reopened with temporary two-way lanes while construction on the Monroe Streetscape Project continues.

The $20 million renovation of the pedestrian corridor is expected to be completed in the fall of 2026.

Tasso Teftis is the Vice President of the Greektown Neighborhood Partnership. His family also owns several businesses in the corridor, including Astoria Pastry. He says during the closures, his businesses have seen a 25 percent decrease in profits.

Other businesses haven't been affected, especially the ones that are closer to the entrance of the casino, and some even more than 25 percent. From talking to all my neighbors, most have been here a long time, and they want to see the change. So they're taking it in stride.

Teftis says all businesses are open and all parking spots within the two-block area are accessible. He says the intersections on Monroe at Brush and Beaubien are expected to be open by the end of this year.

Additional headlines

Michigan House Speaker supports Medicaid cuts but open to federal extension

Republican state House Speaker Matt Hall says he is open to the federal government granting more time to enact cuts to Michigan's Medicaid program.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer met with President Donald Trump this week to seek a temporary reprieve. But Hall does support the cuts.

And so at some point, Michigan is going to have to adjust our Medicaid system to reflect the fact that we're either—we're just going to have to adjust it to reflect this new reality, and that's OK.

Whitmer says a three-year waiver would give the state time to come up with a plan to manage the effect on 2.6 million Michigan residents who have Medicaid. The cuts would kick hundreds of thousands of people in the state off Medicaid, and millions would lose coverage nationwide.

Detroit voters turn out at higher rates than rest of metro area

Fewer than 1 in 5 registered voters in Metro Detroit cast ballots in the August primary election, but Detroiters turned out in higher numbers.

Turnout was about 18 percent in Wayne and Oakland counties, and less than 14 percent in Macomb County. Some precincts saw higher turnout in communities that had tax proposals on the ballot, such as Livonia, where voters rejected a $150 million bond to pay for a new police station, a new library, and renovations to the city's fire stations. Citywide turnout was about 34 percent.

Legionella found at Dearborn senior facility after two deaths

The Wayne County Health Department has found Legionella bacteria at the retirement home and nursing facility Allegria Village in Dearborn. Two people have recently died.

The county is looking into the two fatal cases and a nonfatal case from last year. On Wednesday, the county confirmed that testing of the "affected area's water system" has detected the presence of Legionella bacteria, which causes Legionnaires' disease. Complex water systems like those in nursing facilities have been common routes for the bacteria to spread.

Health officials say they’re helping with disinfection and alerting residents and staff to seek medical treatment if they develop symptoms.

Free Power of Attorney forms now available from Attorney General

Free and fillable Power of Attorney forms are now available for download on the Michigan Attorney General’s Elder Abuse Task Force webpage.

The forms are user-friendly, making it easier for Michigan residents and their family members to appoint a trusted individual to make important medical and financial decisions on their behalf.

A notice from the Office of the Attorney General states the new forms will help combat elder abuse by allowing more access to power of attorney documents. Visit the Michigan Department of Attorney General’s Elder Abuse Task Force page for more information or find the link on today’s DER post at wdet.org/der.

Wayne State event to raise funds for African American Studies program

Wayne State’s African American Studies program, the Crocket-Lumumba Scholars, is raising money for scholarships and study abroad programs through an event called Homegrown: An Evening of Detroit Jazz and Poetry.

The event takes place August 16 from 6 PM to 8 PM at the Gretchen Valade Center for Jazz. Featured performers include jazz bassist and bandleader Marion Hayden, trumpet player Allen Dennard, and drummer Tariq Gardner. Tickets are $30.

For more information, email HR6736@wayne.edu.

00:04:56
Aug 7, 2025 3:3 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Sheffield and Kinloch advance in Detroit mayoral race

Detroiters cast ballots in primary election

Detroiters headed to the polls yesterday (Tuesday) for the city’s primary election.

In the race to become Detroit’s next mayor, City Council President Mary Sheffield led the field of nine candidates throughout the night, winning more than half the votes cast. Her victory was evident early, and the Associated Press called the race for her before 10 p.m. Sheffield spoke to her supporters at the Cambria Hotel, celebrating her clear victory.

“I believe our best days are ahead of us. The victory tonight is not mine. It is ours. It is ours. It belongs to every little boy and girl in this city that was told to dream small. It belongs to every neighborhood in this city that has felt left behind.”

Pastor Solomon Kinloch finished second in last night’s primary election.

He celebrated with supporters at the Roostertail. Kinloch says if he’s elected mayor of Detroit, he’ll focus on investing in everyone in the city.

“Detroit needs more than a manager of downtown development. We need moral leadership, someone who doesn't just govern but serves putting people and their needs front and center in every decision.”

The race for second place was close and continued through the late-night hours. Kinloch beat former Council President Saunteel Jenkins by just over a thousand votes.

The two winners of the mayoral primary will face off against each other in the November general election. Incumbent Mayor Mike Duggan decided not to run for a fourth term. Instead, he’s running in 2026 as an independent candidate for governor of Michigan.

Additional headlines

Detroit City Council races take shape

The field of candidates is down to four in the race to become Detroit City at-large members—those elected across the whole city, not just within a district. Incumbents Mary Waters and Coleman Young led the voting. Challengers Janee Ayers and James Harris will also advance to the general election. The top two vote-getters in November will be elected to City Council.

In Council District 2, incumbent Angela Whitfield Calloway and Roy McCallister Jr. will face off in the general election.

Renata Miller and Willie Burton will vie for the council seat in District 5. And Denzel McCampbell and Karen Whitsett will compete in District 7.

Suburban mayoral primaries

Hamtramck residents cast their ballots in a mayoral primary Tuesday. The top two candidates were Adam Alharbi with 54 percent of the vote and Muhith Mahmood with 29 percent. They’ll face each other in the November general election.

Dearborn Heights voters selected Mo Beydoun and Denise Maxwell as the two mayoral candidates advancing to the November general election.

In Taylor, Tim Woolley and Herman Ramik were the top two vote-getters and will move on to the November ballot.

Pontiac voters chose Mike McGuiness and Kermit Williams to run for mayor in November. In Southfield, incumbent Ken Siver and challenger Sylvia Jordan will appear on the general election ballot.

00:03:52
Aug 6, 2025 4:3 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Low voter turnout expected in Detroit primary

City clerk says Trump’s election lies may be to blame for expected low turnout

Detroit City Clerk Janice Winfrey predicts voter turnout of between 13 and 18 percent for today's primary elections. Typically, fewer people head to the polls in years without a presidential race. But Winfrey told WDET's "The Metro" she blames the low numbers in part on former President Trump’s false claims that elections — including in Detroit — were rigged against him.

“When you as a leader of this great country say things like ‘Voting doesn't matter... it's not fair... they cheat,’ that would oftentimes lead to, I think, voter apathy,” said Detroit City Clerk Janice Winfrey.

Winfrey says only about 2,000 people voted early — despite early voting starting more than a week ago and ending Sunday. She says other cities across the country are seeing a similar trend.

“And we see all across the board that turnout is slow... that people are disinterested. But I also think that candidates also drive turnout. When people are excited about the candidate one way or the other... they show up and they show out,” Winfrey said.

The two highest vote-getters from today’s primary will move on to the general election in November. Mayor Mike Duggan is not seeking re-election and is instead running for governor.

Additional headlines

Detroit city races will narrow after today's primary

Detroit City Council members Mary Sheffield and Fred Durhal will find out today if they’ll appear on the November ballot in the race for mayor.

Several other races will also narrow.

Seven candidates are on the primary ballot in Sheffield's District 5. Four candidates are running in Durhal's District 7.

In District 2, incumbent Angela Whitfield Calloway faces two challengers — former councilman Roy McAlister Jr. and State Representative Helena Scott.

Former councilwoman Janeé Ayers is among six candidates running for at-large seats against incumbents Mary Waters and Coleman Young II.

Michigan launches stipend program for behavioral health interns

Students studying for careers in behavioral health can now apply for state support while completing unpaid internships. The Behavioral Health Internship Stipend Program offers up to $15,000 to help cover living expenses and academic fees.

Those studying to become marriage and family therapists, behavior analysts, social workers, professional counselors, and psychologists may qualify.

More details and application information:
https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/inside-mdhhs/legislationpolicy/workforce-access-and-grants-management-section/mi-bhisp

MOCAD hosts art-making, exhibits, and book club this week

The Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD) is offering several events this week for visitors of all ages.

Thursday:

  • Summer studio hours from 3–5 p.m.

  • Curator book club at 6 p.m. featuring Legacy Russell’s Black Meme, discussed by Associate Curator Isabella Nimmo.

Saturday, August 9 (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.):

  • Family Day — with gallery chats, art-making, and collaborative projects.

  • Exhibit closing: Code Switch: Distributing Blackness, Reprogramming Internet Art

  • Closing performance at 6 p.m.: All Faux Everythings, a sonic collaboration between artist Wes Taylor and Michael Demps.

More info: https://mocadetroit.org

Hannan Center exhibit celebrates artists who teach

The Hannan Center is showcasing a new exhibit titled Artists Who Teach and Their Students — part of its 100th anniversary season. The multigenerational show explores the connection between creating art and teaching it.

Curator and Gallery Director Richard Reeves says the exhibit gives teaching artists a much-needed space to show their own work.

REEVES: “A lot of times teachers are so busy doing the wonderful things they do — teaching our kids and adults — they don't have time to be creative and do their own artwork. This gives them a space to show and express themselves.”

The Hannan Center is located at 4750 Woodward Avenue.
More information: https://hannan.org

00:04:14
Aug 5, 2025 3:58 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Primary election tomorrow

Nine candidates compete in Detroit’s mayoral primary

Tomorrow (Tuesday) is primary election day in Detroit. Voters will have a chance to cast their ballots to determine which of the nine mayoral candidates will go on to face each other in the November general election.

Council President Mary Sheffield, pastor Solomon Kinloch, former Council President Saunteel Jenkins, and Councilman Fred Durhal II are on the ballot… along with former police chief James Craig, attorney Todd Perkins, businessman Joel Haashiim, entrepreneur Jonathan Barlow, and retired cosmetologist Danetta Simpson.

Several candidates are also on the ballot for Detroit City Council. Primary elections are also taking place in Hamtramck, Taylor, Dearborn Heights, and other cities.

Dearborn wards

The City of Dearborn is not holding a primary election tomorrow. A group called Dearborn Wants Wards is hoping to add ballot language to institute districted elections in Dearborn. If approved in time, voters could decide on the measure in November—along with choosing the next mayor and several city council seats.

There’s more information about local elections at the Michigan Secretary of State’s website.

Reporting by Nargis Rahman

Additional headlines:

$1 million in tuition prizes awarded to Michigan students

Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II, the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential (MiLEAP), and the Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) gave out $1 million dollars to 50 Michigan students recently.

The Ticket to Tuition giveaway provided 40 students with $1,000 prizes, and ten students with $50,000 prizes for those who filed their Federal Application for Student Aid – or FAFSA – for the first time. More than 21,000 students applied for the giveaway, which aimed to promote FAFSA filing for scholarships and grants to attend post-secondary education.

The giveaway is also part of the state’s “Sixty by 30” plan, which seeks to have at least 60 percent of Michiganders receive a degree or skill certificate by 2030.

Reporting by Nargis Rahman

August is Breastfeeding Month in Michigan

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared August as Breastfeeding Month.

The American Academy of Pediatrics says breastfeeding prevents multiple illnesses in infants, including decreasing the risk of infections, diseases, and diabetes. They recommend breastfeeding children up to 2 years old. The World Health Organization also says breastfeeding saves more than 820,000 children under the age of five.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) hopes to support families in nursing babies by increasing support for families—especially those from communities of color. The department provides resources such as training for health care providers and support for parents to raise awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding.

Learn more at mibreastfeeding.org.

Reporting by Nargis Rahman

Arab American nonprofits to receive $110K in grants

The Center for Arab American Philanthropy and the National Network for Arab American Communities announced they are teaming up to give away $110,000 to 17 Arab American nonprofits nationally.

The grants will be awarded to nonprofits working in arts and culture, human services, advocacy, and education.

Check out the full list at centeraap.org.

Reporting by Nargis Rahman

Air quality alert remains in effect for Detroit

An air quality alert remains in effect for Detroit today.

Smoke from Canadian wildfires is drifting south and east, blanketing parts of the Midwest. Air quality was considered to be in the “unhealthy” range this afternoon, as small particles from the wildfires drifted in the air. Those particles can be inhaled and cause irritation. They can also cause problems for healthy residents, as well as those with asthma or heart disease.

Detroiters are advised to avoid strenuous activities and limit time outside until the air quality alert has lifted.

00:04:27
Aug 4, 2025 4:45 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Detroiters invited to weigh in on EQ hazardous waste facility

EGLE seeks public input on hazardous waste site in Detroit

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy — known as EGLE — is asking for public feedback on a draft license renewal for US Ecology Detroit South, a hazardous waste management facility located at 1923 Frederick Street.

The proposed license would allow the facility to continue storing and treating hazardous waste. It does not permit any new operations or expansions.

EGLE is hosting two public meetings to answer questions and collect comments:

  • Tuesday, August 13 from 6–8 p.m.

  • Wednesday, September 4 from 6–9 p.m.

Both meetings will offer live interpretation in Arabic and Bengali. Residents can attend in person or join online.

To get meeting locations or virtual access links, visit Michigan.gov/EGLE and search for “US Ecology Detroit South.”

Additional headlines

Detroit launches $700K Startup Fund to boost tech innovation and jobs

Detroit has launched a new initiative to help local tech entrepreneurs grow and thrive. The Detroit Startup Fund, announced this week by the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation and city officials, will provide $700,000 in grant funding over the next year.

The fund is designed to support job creation, talent retention, and tech innovation in the city. It will award 26 grants to Detroit-based startups, with awards ranging from $15,000 to $50,000.

Applications for the first round of funding are due by August 25.

To learn more or apply, visit DetroitMI.gov.

Dearborn Homecoming Festival returns with music, fireworks, and family fun

The City of Dearborn is celebrating its 44th annual Homecoming Festival this weekend at Ford Field Park.

From August 1 to 3, festivalgoers can enjoy:

  • All-day live music

  • Carnival rides

  • A vendor-packed arts district market

  • Games, food, and family-friendly activities

  • Fireworks shows on Saturday and Sunday nights

This beloved local tradition brings out thousands each year. For the full schedule and info, visit DearbornHomecoming.com.

Tigers face Phillies as Detroit looks to stay atop AL Central

The Detroit Tigers kick off a three-game series tonight against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park.

The Tigers are currently sitting at 64–46, leading the American League Central. The Phillies come into the matchup with a 61–47 record.

First pitch is scheduled for 6:45 p.m. as Detroit looks to keep its momentum going.

Track the latest updates on the game here.

00:03:48
Aug 1, 2025 4:50 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
DIA announces first Native American exhibit in 30 years

In this episode of The Detroit Evening Report, we cover an upcoming exhibit at the Detroit Institute of Arts centered around Indigenous artists. Plus, where to hear jazz in the Avenue of Fashion this weekend.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org. 

00:03:06
Jul 31, 2025 3:35 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Police elevate curfew enforcement

In this episode of The Detroit Evening Report, we cover the Detroit Police Department as they increase enforcement of the city's curfew policy. Plus, Canadian wildfire smoke is headed this way.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org. 

00:03:35
Jul 30, 2025 3:17 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Early voting open for Detroit primary

Early voting underway in Detroit's primary election

Early voting is underway in Detroit's primary election. Voters can use an absentee ballot or cast their vote at one of the city's eight early voting centers. Those centers are open this week from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Nine candidates are on the primary ballot vying to become Detroit's next mayor. The top two vote-getters will go on to face each other in the November general election. Several candidates for City Council also appear on the primary ballot.

Early voting ends on Sunday. Detroiters can also vote in person on Primary Day, which is one week from today — Tuesday, August 5.

Heavy storms cause flooding across Detroit

Many Detroiters spent part of the evening cleaning up after heavy thunderstorms rolled through the area Monday afternoon. Rain amounts varied widely across the region, but some Detroit streets were temporarily flooded by heavy rainfall.

The I-96 westbound exit ramp to the Southfield Freeway was backed up with heavy traffic and closed for a short time after the storms passed. At Metro Airport, several roads were closed by flooding, forcing passengers to scramble to make their flights.

Meteorologists say an area near Romulus received nearly three inches of rain in just an hour.

Detroit launches first municipal start-up fund

The City of Detroit and the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation have launched the city’s first municipal start-up fund. The fund will award 20 grants of $15,000 each and six additional grants of $50,000 each.

Detroit Economic Growth Corporation CEO Kevin Johnson says the grants will give new non-retail businesses a better chance to survive.

"Being an entrepreneur is a battle to survive. Ideas mean one thing, but when you can’t cultivate it to a point where it becomes a reasonable business, then we’re recycling old things that cause them to fail," Johnson said.

Entrepreneurs must have been in business for at least two years and be based in Detroit to be eligible for the grants.

Reporting by Bre’Anna Tinsley

Gas prices drop in Metro Detroit

Gas prices are falling in Metro Detroit. The average price of self-serve regular is now $3.19 per gallon. That’s down three cents from last week and seven cents lower than a month ago.

The national average for gas is just over $3.13 per gallon.

Tigers trade for two pitchers ahead of MLB deadline

The Detroit Tigers have completed a trade just a few days before the Major League Baseball deadline.

The team was looking to bolster its pitching staff and received right-hand pitchers Chris Paddack and Randy Dobnak from the Minnesota Twins. In exchange, the Twins received catcher Enrique Jiminez and a minor league prospect.

The Tigers needed pitching help with Reese Olsen missing the rest of the regular season due to a shoulder sprain. He could return for the playoffs.

Detroit currently holds a record of 62 wins and 46 losses and sits in first place in the American League Central.

00:03:39
Jul 29, 2025 4:12 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Alessandra Carreon to lead climate office at EGLE

EGLE welcomes new chief climate officer

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has appointed Alessandra Carreon as the new officer for the Office of Climate and Energy. Carreon previously served on the Michigan Public Service Commission as the first Asian American commissioner in Michigan’s history.

In her new role, she will lead the implementation of the MI Healthy Climate Plan, which focuses on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing energy efficiency, and expanding renewable energy sources. Carreon begins the position next month.

Bill proposes FEMA basement repair coverage

A new bill introduced in the U.S. House would make basements eligible for FEMA repairs. Currently, basements are only covered if they include a bedroom, and FEMA typically does not cover mold or mildew mitigation after flooding events.

Flooded basements have long impacted Detroit residents. Donna Givens Davidson, president and CEO of the Eastside Community Network, says this bill is a step toward justice for communities that have endured decades of aging infrastructure.

“This bill brings us closer to addressing the cumulative impacts of racist public policy over the years in places like the east side of Detroit, where senior citizens, where low-income people, are already living in homes they cannot afford to repair,” Givens Davidson said.

Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib of Detroit introduced the bipartisan-supported bill. If passed, the bill would expand eligibility and coverage under FEMA’s Group Insurance Policy.

Reporting by Russ McNamara

Balkan House is closing

The Balkan House, a popular Bosnian-owned restaurant in Hamtramck, is closing its doors this year. Known for its döner kebab—a German street food made with lamb and beef—the restaurant has become a local favorite.

Owner Juma Ekic told the Detroit News that business at the Hamtramck location is dwindling, but she plans to focus on the thriving Ferndale location and her food truck, where her business is thriving.

Read more at the Detroit News

Youth Civic Night set for August 1

Detroit’s Department of Neighborhoods Youth Affairs Team is hosting a Youth Civic Night on Thursday, August 1, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The event combines civic dialogue and creative expression with voter education.

The free event will take place at the Detroit Union Carpenters and Millwrights Skilled Training Center, located at 11687 American Street in Detroit. Attendees can enjoy refreshments and live music by DJ Tee Two Times.

Register on Eventbrite

Detroit rental compliance reminder

The City of Detroit has issued a notice inviting Detroit landlords to check if their homes have a certificate of compliance. Property owners can apply online for inspections and to obtain a certificate.

Last year, the City Council passed a law streamlining the inspection process for rental homes to improve safety and simplify the process.

All rental homes must pass an inspection and obtain a certificate of compliance. This year, the inspections will focus on the most severe safety issues.

For questions related to rental property inspections, residents can call 313-628-2451.

View the Landlord Quick Reference Guide (PDF)

00:03:26
Jul 28, 2025 3:45 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Sailing center seeks support

In this episode of The Detroit Evening Report, Hernz Laguerre Jr. highlights a community sailing center that’s looking for help. Plus, a preview of this weekend’s sports and more.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

00:04:05
Jul 25, 2025 4:32 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Judge blocks Real Token rent

Judge blocks Real Token from collecting rent on blighted Detroit properties

A Wayne County Circuit Court judge has issued a temporary restraining order against real estate investment firm Real Token, blocking them from collecting rent on hundreds of Detroit homes until the properties meet city codes.

The order is tied to the city’s largest public nuisance lawsuit in history. Detroit filed the suit earlier this month, citing blight violations at more than 400 residential properties owned by Real Token.

Detroit Corporation Counsel Conrad Mallett says tenants will soon be instructed to pay rent into an escrow account starting in August.

“We will be doing direct door-to-door outreach, and will have specific direction for the tenants as to where their rent money should go in the next seven days,” Mallett said.

Paying into the escrow, he says, will protect tenants from eviction due to nonpayment.

The restraining order also blocks Real Token from pursuing evictions at any property without a certificate of compliance. The company was ordered to secure 58 vacant blighted homes and correct all code violations within 90 days.

Company owners Remy and Jean-Marc Jacobson released a statement blaming property managers for the conditions of the homes. Mallett dismissed that claim.

“These properties are in such a degraded state that there is no way that interested owners, no matter whom they farmed out the responsibility to, would not know that their tenants are living in substandard housing.”

Since filing the suit, the city has identified an additional 130 Real Token properties that also lack certificates of compliance.

00:03:43
Jul 24, 2025 4:8 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Detroit grassroots coalition working to reduce truck traffic on residential streets

The Trucks Off Our Streets coalition urged the Detroit City Council on Tuesday to enforce existing truck regulation laws while waiting for a route ordinance to pass.   

Detroit was named one of the worst cities to live with asthma in 2024, and activists says a leading cause of that is the trucks driving through residential areas.   

Activist Simone Zagovac says a truck census in 2024 on Livernois counted 1,000 semi-trucks passing in one day on a road without any industry on it.   

“So every day, yesterday, today and tomorrow, 1,000 semi trucks are driving down those streets. In the last two years since we toured city administration staff, that means one million semi trucks have driven down Livernois," she said.  

Zagovac told city council simple enforcement of existing laws against speeding, parking, and route restrictions of semi-trucks can greatly improve the health of residents.   

She advocated for the council to also consider zoning amendments to better separate industry and residential areas.  

Other headlines for Wednesday, July 23, 2025:

  • A Detroit man is suing the city of Detroit and its police and fire departments for $100 million in damages over his wrongful conviction in 2013.
  • Detroit City Clerk Janice Winfrey will be kicking off early voting with a block party celebration this weekend. The Block Party for Democracy will be held on Saturday, July 26, on Grand Boulevard between Second and Third streets to mark the opening of Detroit’s Early Vote Centers.  The party will feature DJs, local vendors, food trucks, and dog adoptions from the Michigan Humane Society.  Primary election day is Aug. 5.  
  • Temperatures are expected to reach the mid to upper 90s on Thursday, July 24. Detroit is reopening their cooling centers. Residents can visit any Detroit recreation center or Detroit library during normal hours to beat the heat. The Northwest Activities, Patton, and Heilmann recreation centers will have extended hours from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.  

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

00:03:17
Jul 23, 2025 5:8 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Interviews underway to fill vacant Detroit school board seat

Detroit’s public schools board is interviewing candidates for its vacant seat this week.

Subscribe to the Detroit Evening Report on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Angelique Peterson Mayberry resigned earlier this month to complete Irma Clark-Coleman’s term on the Wayne County Commission. Clark-Coleman died in June.

Chalkbeat Detroit reports 16 people will be interviewed during special board meetings held July 21-24. The candidates include: Pageant Atterberry, Kenya Avant, Sonja Beasley-Hall, The Rev. Dr. Steven Bland Jr., Whitney Clarke, Jonathan Demers, Debra Duren, Dr. Bonnie Ferrell, Bessie Harris, Dr. Shinese Johnson, Brandy Mitchell, Aliya Moore, Ashley Pearson, Traci Ricks, Jeremiah Steen and The Rev. Curtis Williams.

Applications for the position were open to the public and closed on July 9. The board plans to score each candidate during interviews then vote to fill the seat on July 28. The candidate selected will serve on the board through 2026. 

Other headlines for Tuesday, July 22, 2025:

  • Low income Consumers Energy customers can apply for up to $500 to pay past due energy bills through September 30. The State Emergency Relief funds are available to households with income within 150% of the federal poverty rate. Last year 540,000 customers shared more than 38 million dollars in energy assistance.
  • The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has launched a Faucet and Filter Safety Net Program. Eligible households may be able to replace a faucet or get a lead-reducing filter. Some residents may qualify for a home visit for a visual assessment of their plumbing or get assistance applying for the Medicaid Lead Abatement program. 
  • The Lexus Velodrome was re-dubbed the Mad Track Arena on Monday. The indoor multi-sport complex first opened in January 2018 and partnered with the Detroit Lexus Dealers Association to offer bike programs. Detroit Fitness Foundation CEO Dale Hughes says thousands of youth in the city have learned to ride a bike, taken a spin on the Olympic-caliber indoor racetrack or become racers themselves. The arena features the only indoor velodrome of its kind in the U.S.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

00:03:15
Jul 22, 2025 5:13 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
8,000 homes demolished in Detroit cleanup effort

Detroit Evening Report: 8,000 homes demolished in Detroit cleanup effort

Detroit has reached a major milestone in its blight removal efforts, marking the 8,000th demolition under Proposal N. The voter-approved bond and federal funding have helped transform some of the city’s most populated neighborhoods.

Detroit marks 8,000th demolition under Proposal N

The City of Detroit recently celebrated its 8,000th demolition under Proposal N. The proposal was a voter-approved $250 million bond to remove blight across the city. About a decade ago, there were 45,000 vacant land bank homes. The city used $265 million in federal funding to complete the first phase of the demolitions in the most populated neighborhoods.  

47 artists bring life to Detroit’s alleys

Detroit’s Arts, Culture, and Entrepreneurship office is opening nine art alleys. The Art Alleys feature mosaics… sculptures… and murals created by 47 local artists. The Detroit Arts Alleys Initiative is a project that hopes to renovate alleys into community spaces through public art. It’s also a part of Mayor Duggan’s Blight to Beauty campaign.  

EGLE seeks input on Line 5 pipeline permit

The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy or EGLE, has opened public comment for a permit related to work on the Line 5 project in the Straits of Mackinac. The tunnel would replace a 70-year-old Line 5 oil and gas pipeline on the lakebed. Indigenous communities… say the Line 5 project trespasses through protected tribal land… which is used for livelihood… cultural and spiritual practices. Native communities and environmental activists also say the pipeline will have catastrophic consequences in the Great Lakes region if it ruptures… citing multiple leaks from the previous pipes. People can make a public comment from July 16 to August 29 about Enbridge Energy’s bid to work on the Line 5 tunnel project.  

Two virtual meetings will be held regarding the project… one as an informational session… and the other is a public hearing to collect comments on the record. People can also leave a comment online on EGLE’s public notice page.

West Nile detected in Michigan, no human cases yet

Health agencies report new cases of West Nile and similar viruses in mosquito samples around Michigan. Wasthenaw County health officials confirmed a positive sample of Jamestown Canyon virus, and Kent County reported three samples of West Nile virus from routine mosquito surveillance.  

No HUMAN cases have been found in Michigan so far this year. The uptick in mosquitoes is typical for this time for year but health officials are asking people to take precautions like using repellent and removing standing water around homes.  

00:02:47
Jul 21, 2025 4:12 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
New Michigan pilot program aims to address turnover in early education

A new state pilot program kicking off this fall aims to reduce turnover and attract talent in early childhood education by offering affordable benefits packages for educators.

The two-year pilot program, facilitated through the Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM), will include health insurance, life and disability benefits, and 401(k) options for early education teachers and child care workers.

Other headlines for Friday, July 18, 2025:

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

00:03:32
Jul 18, 2025 5:30 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Mayoral candidates vow to find new revenue streams for Detroit

Most candidates vying to become Detroit's next mayor agree the city's high property tax rates remain a barrier to home ownership and attracting more residents.

They say Detroit needs to find new revenue streams, especially now that the city has allocated all of its pandemic relief funding. 

On WDET's The Metro, Detroit mayoral candidate and City Council President Mary Sheffield said Detroit must increase partnerships with the private sector. 

"I do not believe that we can tax our way out of anything. That's one tool to have in the tool box. But overall we want to continue to increase our population, we want to continue to provide good-paying jobs because when that happens we get revenue back to Detroit through property tax and income tax," she said. 

Sheffield and rival candidate Saunteel Jenkins say the city should explore creating a local sales tax. 

Other contenders — like council member Fred Durhal III — say Detroit should target new investment from green energy and tech firms. 

But mayoral candidate Solomon Kinloch argues the city cannot grow its way to prosperity without help from state lawmakers.

– Reporting by Quinn Klinefelter, WDET.

Other headlines for Thursday, July 17, 2025:

  • Dearborn City Council voted Tuesday to restrict Airbnb and other short term rental units to the downtown area. The decision was in response to some residents who have complained about parties and parking in their neighborhoods.  The zoning amendments will take effect on Jan. 1. 
  • Local prisoners will be receiving a new opportunity from Wayne State University. The university's Prison Education Program allows inmates to receive a bachelor's in sociology with a minor in entrepreneurship and innovation, starting fall 2025. Staff say the major was chosen because of its broad reach and the transferrable skills that come from a strong background in liberal arts.
  • Wayne State University is launching a women’s varsity soccer team beginning the 2026-27 academic year. It’s the first new varsity sport brought to the university in more than a decade. The new team will play in NCAA Division II as part of the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference, with home matches on the lit turf stadium next to Tom Adams Field. The search for a head coach will begin this summer.  

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

00:03:09
Jul 17, 2025 4:54 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Detroit seeking residents affected by June 2021 floods for sewer repair program

The city of Detroit is notifying people about a free sewer repair program for residents who experienced basement flooding in June 2021.

The Private Sewer Repair Program (PSRP) reaches 97 neighborhoods across the city and is available to residents who were hardest hit by the severe flooding. 

To apply, households must be a single-family residence, they must be located in one of the eligible neighborhoods, and must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI). They also need to be able to demonstrate damage from 2021 flood.

In a statement, Mayor Mike Duggan said the program uses federal funds to improve the lives of Detroiters and give them peace of mind. 

"Major storms that can cause flooding is something we expect to see more of in the future and this program will help 1,500 Detroit families in the 97 neighborhoods that already have experienced basement flooding to protect their homes," he said. "Repairing hundreds of damaged private sewer lines is just one of the many ways we are investing to make Detroit more resilient to flooding and the effects of climate change."  

Residents who previously received benefits are not eligible. To apply, email PSRP@detroitmi.gov, visit detroitmi.gov/psrp, or call 866-313-2520.

Other headlines for Wednesday, July 16, 2025:

  • The InterFaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit is hosting its 13th annual Urban-Suburban Interfaith Picnic from 1 to 5 p.m. this Sunday, July 20, at Palmer Park. The picnic will feature food from different religious traditions, a health fair, musical performances, games and more.
  • The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) announced eight awardees who received $7.9 million in solar grants for clean energy projects though the MI Healthy Climate Challenge. In Wayne County, Hope Village Revitalization plans to retrofit homes in Detroit and Highland Park, and the North End Woodward Community Coalition will expand its Solar Neighbors initiative.
  • Habitat for Humanity of Oakland County and the Elam Family are hosting a neighborhood revitalization event in Pontiac this week. Over 80 volunteers will work on cleaning up yards, and removing trash at 14 worksites during “Rock the Block,” taking place from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, July 17. 

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

00:02:50
Jul 16, 2025 5:33 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Detroit nonprofit launches website to inform voters ahead of city elections

Local nonprofit CitizenDetroit is working with Politics on the Go and Activate Detroit to get Detroiters informed ahead of upcoming city elections.

The collaboration has launched a website with videos from candidates to help voters prepare to elect the city's next mayor, clerk, city council members and board of police commissioners.

CitizenDetroit will also host a Detroit Primary Election Candidate Forum from 6 to 8 p.m. on Thursday, July 31, at the IBEW Local Union 58, 1358 Abbott St., Detroit/

Visit citizendetroit.org for more information.

Other headlines for Tuesday, July 15, 2025:

  • Two of Detroit's iconic summer festivals will be taking over Midtown this weekend. The Concert of Colors, taking place July 16-20, is one of the longest-running free global music festivals, attracting tens of thousands of attendees. Also, the Charles H. Wright Museum's 60th annual African World Festival celebrating the African Diaspora returns to Hart Plaza this weekend, featuring music and dance performances, food and arts vendors, a Children’s Village and more.
  • The Kalamazoo Institute of Arts is screening the documentary short I am Potawatomi," at 6 p.m. on Thursday, along with a language workshop. The film covers the near death and current revitalization of the Potawatomi language.
  • The Clark Park Coalition is reaching out to its community for support as it plans another year of youth programs. Summer youth activities include its soccer program and street hockey. The Park has also maintained a hockey program for years — making the sport accessible to Latino and Black youth in the city. It has taken special pride in its girls programs. The coalition says it’s not only looking for donations. Anyone interested in volunteering can also visit clarkparkdetroit.org. 

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

00:03:53
Jul 15, 2025 6:9 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Older adults outnumber children in nearly half of US counties, data shows

The U.S. Census Bureau released new data showing the population of adults 65 and older is increasing, while the population of people 18 and younger is decreasing.  

The population of adults age 65 and older rose by 3.1% (to 61.2 million) while the population of those under 18 decreased 0.2% (to 73.1 million) from 2023 to 2024, the data shows.

Lauren Bowers, chief of the Census Bureau’s Population Estimates Branch, says those changes affect communities of color most among the 4.4 million people who live in cities like Detroit, Warren and Dearborn.  

“The data in 2024 is showing that the non-Hispanic white population is the only population in the Detroit metro area where younger adults are outnumbered by older adults," she said.

Bowers says nationally, the number of older adults and children 18 and younger now are similar. 

Other headlines for Monday, July 14, 2025:

  • Seventeen nonprofits, businesses and community groups working to reduce food waste will receive support through the state-funded NextCycle Michigan initiative.
  • The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) says federal funding cuts could strip 300,000 Medicaid recipients of their health insurance. Medicaid is the largest insurer in the state, covering one in four residents. Health department director Elizabeth Hertel says the cuts will also affect her agency's efforts to protect public health.
  • A city building in Dearborn was renamed last week in honor of Dearborn's first Arab American councilmember, Suzanne Sareini. Sareini served as a council member six terms, from 1989 to 2013. The city’s senior housing building — formerly called the Hubbard Manor East — will now be called the Suzanne Sareini Manor.
  • The Detroit Documenters, a program which trains and pays people to attend city meetings, is hosting a photo documenting workshop this week. Cydni Elledge, senior photographer and editor at Outlier Media, will lead the workshop, set for 2 p.m. on Tuesday, July 15.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

00:03:18
Jul 14, 2025 4:52 PM
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The Detroit Evening Report
Detroit nonprofit newsrooms collaborate on new project exploring student safety

A new reporting project from Chalkbeat Detroit, Planet Detroit and BridgeDetroit is exploring Detroit students’ perspectives on safety and violence.

Other headlines for Friday, July 11, 2025:

  • Arab American community nonprofit ACCESS is hosting a community Narcan training on Tuesday, July 15 at the Henry Ford Centennial Library. Attendees will learn about overdose prevention strategies, how to identify an overdose and how to administer Narcan. Those who finish the train will also receive a Naloxone kit. Register at bit.ly/ASAPNarcanCommunity.
  • The Pontiac City Clerk is inviting the community to a “visioning” session on cannabis equity at 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 16, at the Robert Bowens Senior Center, 47450 Woodward Ave., Pontiac. Attendees will learn about the city’s plans to launch adult-use marijuana in the city, and residents will have a chance to share their thoughts about social equity initiatives related to ownership and licensing as well as business and workforce development. They will also learn about the Pontiac Social Equity Fund. RSVP at clerk@pontiac.mi.us. 
  • State Rep. Stephanie Young (D-Detroit) is hosting a community conversation town hall on Monday, July 14, to collect ideas and concerns around five priorities in the Democratic Vision Project: Affordability, public education, health, labor and neighborhood development, and environmental issues. The event includes a free dinner and will take place from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the James E. Tate Community Center, 21511 W McNichols Rd., Detroit. 
  • The 7th annual Detroit Kite Festival is taking place this Sunday, July 13 on the Belle Isle Cricket Field from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

00:04:11
Jul 11, 2025 3:19 PM
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