A Dearborn fashion designer who left dentistry behind to follow her passion is now turning fabric into one-of-a-kind wedding gowns and, in at least one case, a lasting friendship.

Watch Faraz Javed's report below Dearborn fashion designer and bride forge unexpected friendship one fitting at a time

Bahijah Bazzi runs her own atelier in Dearborn, where she creates custom evening gowns and wedding dresses by hand, handling everything from concept to the final dress herself.

"Because these are the moments people dream about before they get to live them," Bazzi said.

The 30-year-old always knew she wanted to be a designer. But like many Arab American parents, hers hoped she would choose a more traditional path.

"As a little kid, I always told my parents I wanted to be a designer or some sort of artist," Bazzi said.

She chose dentistry instead drawn to what she described as its blend of art and science.

"Dentistry is the closest thing to an artistic science background," Bazzi said.

Three years in, she walked away. Her parents, she said, ultimately supported the decision.

"It was a little harder on my dad than it was on my mom. There was something in me that just wasn't alive anymore. And they wanted to see my spark again. And they knew that if I went to fashion school, that it would come back," Bazzi said.

In 2018, Bazzi graduated from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in Los Angeles. She has since opened her Dearborn studio, where she works alone.

"The space means everything to me," Bazzi said.

That personal, hands-on approach drew bride Shereen Abdelhak to her door after months of searching for the right dress.

"Every girl that's in her bridal era knows the struggle of being on a dress hunt," Abdelhak said.

A friend suggested Shereen meet Bazzi. During one of their conversations, Abdelhak shared a story about her mother.

"My mom couldn't afford a wedding dress at the time that she got married. So she ended up wearing a wedding dress to her sister's wedding because she finally could buy her own at the time. And I thought to myself, I wish I could wear this dress," Abdelhak said.

Bazzi was listening. The story inspired the design.

"And then that inspired this whole look the corset lacy top using my mom's old wedding dress," Abdelhak said.

For Abdelhak, that moment changed everything.

"I think her inspiring that idea was... The moment I was like, my God, she really does have my best interests in mind," Abdelhak said.

Bazzi said her standard for every client is the same.

"I will never give a client a dress that I personally wouldn't wear it to myself," Bazzi said.

What began as a designer-client relationship grew into something more. Bazzi attended Abdelhak's destination wedding.

"We're like best friends," Bazzi said.

"When I think of Bahijah, I just think of how much we laugh together," Abdelhak said.

"I felt like I couldn't get married without her there," Abdelhak said.

Today, Bazzi said she is living the dream she always imagined and she knows who to thank.

"I wouldn't be here without my parents. Even though at the beginning it was a little hard for them to accept, my parents have been my cheerleaders from day one," Bazzi said.

To learn more visit: bahijahbazzi.com

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

A giant dome built from more than 100,000 recycled bottle caps is one of the standout attractions at this year's Belle Isle Art Fair, turning discarded materials into a colorful, large-scale art installation with a message about sustainability.

See the full story in the video below

Belle Isle Art Fair dome made from 100,000 recycled bottle caps promotes sustainability message

The Grand Dome is the work of artist Adrienne Outlaw, who says the structure is designed to be both functional and thought-provoking.

"This is a zip tie dome so you can put it together with zip ties in a day, take it apart, go elsewhere if you need to," Outlaw said.

Outlaw asked people from multiple communities to save their bottle caps instead of throwing them away. The installation is made up of 105 individual removable panels, and about 300 people helped create the two traveling domes.

"Each panel on its own may or may not stand up to sort of the gaze of the art world. It's when you put it all together and then you activate it and then the sun comes over and the shade happens and the shadow play happens. That's when the art really comes alive," Outlaw said.

The inspiration behind the dome, Outlaw said, stems from growing concerns about climate change and the need for adaptable shelter.

"I'm really interested in responsibility and as the climate just gets worse and worse and you hear these horror stories about disasters all over the world and people lose their homes, I started really thinking about what kind of shelters can we move from place to place and what kind of shelters will withstand these types of conditions," Outlaw said.

For Outlaw, sustainability extends well beyond recycling.

"Sustainability is one of those things that impacts absolutely everybody. And if we don't, and when I'm talking about sustainability, I'm not just talking about plastic or recycling. I'm talking about sustainability for everything. How can we sustain relationships? How can we sustain ourselves? How can we really come together and experience life in a fuller way that's not selfish?" Outlaw said.

Her message for visitors is simple.

"That taking care of yourself and taking care of others can be really fun," Outlaw said.

The sustainability theme extends throughout the fair. Joel Newport, representing the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), set up an interactive space to challenge visitors to learn more about recycling and how to properly sort waste.

Newport said Michigan has made significant progress on its recycling goals.

"Michigan has increased its recycling for the 5th consecutive year. So we've gone from roughly 14% in 2019 up to 26% this year. So we are well on our way to our goal of 30% recycling by the year 2030," Newport said.

Newport said access and knowledge remain the biggest hurdles.

"Oh, there's a lot of them. I mean, access is always a challenge for folks. That's why we've increased curbside recycling in more communities across the state. And then knowledge, what can be put in curbside and what shouldn't be put in curbside, which is a big part of our efforts," Newport said.

His advice for anyone unsure whether something belongs in the recycling bin: when in doubt, throw it out.

More than 150 artists from across the country and Canada are taking part in the 11th annual Belle Isle Art Fair. The fair wraps up Sunday at 5 p.m.

To learn more about the fair visit: www.belleisleartfair.com

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

More than 14 million people watched a Michigan man get a haircut. But this is not really a story about a haircut.

It is a story about two brothers, autism, independence, and a journey that is inspiring millions around the world.

Watch Faraz Javed's report below Two Michigan brothers show the world that autism is no barrier to independence

At first glance, viewers watching a video filmed at Great Clips in Allen Park thought they were watching 32-year-old Jake Tilk accompany his younger brother, Max, to get a haircut. Jake says they were watching something much bigger.

"Mac prefers if I give him a little trim at home, because it's a lot for him to get a haircut," Jake said (longer hair).

Max Tilk is autistic. And even though the brothers are only a year apart in age, Jake says he never saw Max as different growing up.

"I don't know who I would be without Max. He is my best friend," Jake said.

When asked what they love about spending time together, Jake prompted his brother.

"Play games and what else?" Jake said.

"Hangout with Jake," Max said.

That bond eventually found a much bigger audience. Jake says the social media journey began in 2008, when Max started facing challenges and his need for independence became clear.

"A lot of these sorts of challenges that I do with Max really make me nervous," Jake said.

When asked what makes him nervous, Jake pointed to the possibility of negative reactions.

"I don't know if Max goes into the barber shop, if he is going to get negative reactions," Jake said.

Jake confirmed that has happened before. He also reflected on other obstacles Max has faced.

"A lot of times Max has faced adversity in life, like, when Max supposed to be graduating high school," Jake said.

"In 2017," Max added.

"In 2017, Max got held back 6 times," Jake said.

Inside Great Clips, Salon Manager Britaney Gawne found the moment relatable.

"Being judged or what not on stuff growing up, got to navigate through a lot, and the bad memories stick more than the good sometimes," Gawne said.

Franchise owner Janak Patel said the environment his staff creates is something he takes pride in.

"We have a platform called Great Clips University, where we have lots of training programs so we can accommodate all of our customers," Patel said.

When Max completed the haircut on his own, the reaction was immediate.

Jake says the videos serve a purpose beyond social media.

"It's hard to say that I'm changing the narrative because to me, I want to show what autism is and what that means. These videos give Max a lot of purpose, too. Back when Max was diagnosed with autism, the doctors actually said that Max would never, ever speak and that he'd need to be institutionalized," Jake said.

Today, the brothers have 1.4 million followers on TikTok, 1.4 million followers on Instagram, and 1.1 million followers on Facebook.

"I did not dream that Max and I would be making content full time," Jake said.

When asked what he would say to the millions of people who follow along, Max kept it simple.

"Love everyone," Max said.

"You are going to give the world what?" Jake asked.

"Big smile and a hug," Max said.

The brothers say they have no plans to slow down.

"We want to do a lot more challenges. We want to show that people like Max, can go out and do anything," Jake said.

Their next video features Max ordering at a drive-thru on his own.

Here is how you can follow Jake and Max's journey:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mybrothermaxie

Website: https://mybrothermax.xyz/

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Early in-person voting is now underway in Detroit, with city leaders marking the first day with a block party featuring food and music as residents turned out to cast their ballots ahead of the Aug. 4 primary election.

Watch Faraz Javed's report below Detroit kicks off early voting with block party as residents share top concerns

On that date, Michigan voters will decide the respective party nominees for a variety of races, including Governor and U.S. Senate. Early in-person voting runs through Aug. 2.

Lifelong Detroit residents Monique Campbell and Romelle Madley said early voting has always been their plan.

"So I don't have to stand in a line so I can get it out of the way. It gives me time to research all the candidates at home and then I can really read the directions," Campbell said.

When asked what she looks for in a candidate, Campbell said she wants someone "more progressive," while Madley said she wants "something right for the people."

For 18-year-old Gavin Hudson, this election marks a milestone it is his first time casting a ballot.

"Public schools. The funding of the schools. They need to get more books. They need more teachers, honestly, education," Hudson said.

Other voters echoed concerns about the economy and housing.

"Raise the income. I mean, hourly raise, they need to raise that because it's not conducive to the cost of living," Nadine Hern said.

"I'd like to see better housing, you know, this better school system," Madeline Gill said.

Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield and City Clerk Janice Winfrey were on hand to encourage residents to vote early and address concerns about election integrity.

"Our vote is one of the most powerful weapons that we have to change the quality of life that we have. Midterms elections are critically important because they determine who goes on to the general election. So I would just say if you care about the cost of living, if you care about housing, if you care about the quality of our neighborhoods, we have to get out there and let our voices be heard, especially in a time where our vote is trying to be taken away from us," Sheffield said.

Winfrey pointed to the certification process as evidence of the city's election reliability.

"At the end of every election, there's a certification process, right? And what the certification is done by a Wayne County board. Our numbers have never been lower in the last 10 years, never been lower than 98%," Winfrey said.

Sheffield added a call to resist misinformation.

"We have to continue to not allow misinformation to persuade us into not voting," Sheffield said.

Officials say early voting gives residents extra time to research candidates and make informed decisions before Election Day.

"And I hope that we always elect people who are going to bring more love and unity," Sheffield said.

To find the nearest early voting location, click this link.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Most families grow one child at a time. Jacqueline Cracchiola's grew one life at a time.

The 66-year-old former Hamtramck police detective spent 25 years in law enforcement 19 of them as a detective and built a family that reflects the kind of America she believed in: One where background doesn't determine belonging.

See the full story in the video below The 'Crack House': Meet the Hamtramck mom who opened her home and changed dozens of livesMost families grow one child at a time. Jacqueline Cracchiola's grew one life at a time. The 66-year-old former Hamtramck police detective spent 25 years in law enforcement 19 of them as a detective and built a family that reflects the kind of America she believed in: One where background doesn't determine belonging. "My one theory when I was becoming a police officer was if I could make a difference in one child's life through my career, I did my job," Cracchiola said. "I made sure I did a little bit more."

"My one theory when I was becoming a police officer was if I could make a difference in one child's life through my career, I did my job," Cracchiola said. "I made sure I did a little bit more."

That "little bit more" meant adopting four children, fostering six, and helping several others along the way. Over the years, kids from every background Polish, Italian, Yemeni American, African American, mixed grew up under one roof just outside of Hamtramck.

They call it the Crack House.

"The last name, Cracchiola. Family nickname is Crack. So everyone calls it the crack house," said Joseph Cracchiola, 32, Jacqueline's biological son.

A family built on need, not bloodline

Jacqueline grew up one of seven children and wanted her biological son Joe to have what she had a house full of siblings.

"I was an only child until maybe 12 years old. I was bored playing with toys by myself," Joe said. "I remember the first day I met both of them. Playing with them and realizing, like, these are my siblings now."

When asked about her family's diversity, Jacqueline didn't hesitate.

"There's no color in my family whatsoever. They're all children that needed somebody to love them," she said.

"When they look at each other, they don't see any difference. That's their brother, that's their sister."

Pulled from foster care at age 3

William Cracchiola, now 26, was 3 years old when Jacqueline pulled him out of foster care along with his biological sister Lillian, now 25.

"If I didn't get adopted, I wouldn't be here," William said.

He means that literally.

"I wouldn't be alive. When they adopted me, I was skin and bone, and you could see my rib cage. I was having seizures and fever," he said.

Lillian said the two were lucky to escape a system that can be difficult to leave.

"We are more of the fortunate ones to get out of that system because I feel like once you're in it, it's hard to escape that, especially if you're in the hands of the wrong family," Lillian said.

"Just being able to experience such a great family and siblings and then also to stay close with my biological brother has helped tremendously," she said.

'You start to shut off after a while'

Sammy Atkins, 30, came into the family at 15. His journey took him from foster homes and juvenile detention to becoming the kind of father he never had growing up.

"You start to shut off after a while. I think a lot of us kids came from broken homes and where we really didn't have a light or a path forward," Atkins said. "And I think our mother really kind of brought us in and showed us like, hey, if you pay attention in school, pick a sport and just stay grounded and be a part of this family, you really can have a second chance."

When asked about that second chance, Atkins said it wasn't something he expected.

"Yeah, definitely. It took a while. You know, I got brought in when I was 15 years old, so my childhood was pretty much up," he said.

Today, the family Atkins describes is sprawling.

"I'm Sammy Atkins. This is Darian Brooks. Okay. We got Grayson. We got his wife Megan. We got Billy Cracchiola. We got Paige Cracchiola and their two daughters. We got Xavier. We got Carter and Lily. We got Jada. We got Laura, Joe. Samurai Kenai, Gino, my wife Lissandra, we got Damon. Man, okay, yeah. So we're pretty much all siblings. And then there's all of our spouses and significant others," Atkins said.

'I need them'

To keep the house running, Jacqueline did whatever it took chopping wood, making decorative pigs out of old heating and cooling tanks, all while working in law enforcement.

"Whether I have my last $2 and my child needs something, that child's gonna get that before I ever worry about getting something for myself," she said.

When asked what she sacrificed, Jacqueline pushed back on the premise.

"Really, I can't say I sacrificed a lot. I think by what they gave me, all those sacrifices go away. You know, I might not have the perfect clothes, I might not drive the nicest car around, but that's okay. I don't need those things. I need them," she said.

She now has six grandchildren.

Joe said stepping into a big-brother role for the whole family has shaped who he is.

"I'm the one taking them to practices and going to parent-teacher conferences. And so for me, being the oldest for this whole family is such an honor. Like, I'm just, I feel like I'm special because of all of them," he said.

'These kids needed somebody'

When asked if she's the definition of Wonder Woman, Jacqueline laughed it off but didn't entirely disagree.

"I was Wonder Woman once for Halloween. Some people might say that. I don't know why I do the things I do, but I just know that they were important, and these kids needed somebody," she said.

Lillian said the family's story is one she wants others to hold onto.

"I told myself I would not cry. I suck. But yeah, just never give up. Always believe in yourself, even when life throws you curveballs. Everyone's going through something hard," she said.

As America marks 250 years of independence, the Crack House in Hamtramck stands as its own kind of landmark one built not on history, but on the choice to show up for someone who needed it.

"There's never a dull moment at the Crack House," Joe said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

More than 100 bikers rolled through metro Detroit on Saturday, honoring a fallen officer whose legacy continues to bring people together nearly 2 years after his death.

The "Let's Roll Said Ride" raised money for the Mohamed Said Foundation while celebrating the life of slain Melvindale Police Corporal Mohamed Said.

"Let's Roll Said. Said in Arabic means happy or blessed," Melvindale Police Chief Chris Egan said.

More than 100 riders took part in the ride, starting in Plymouth before making their way to Melvindale.

Melvindale Police Corporal Mohamed Hacham served alongside Mohamed Said he was also his partner and close friend.

"He was a hero. He was an inspiration to the community. He inspired a lot of people," Hacham said.

When asked what one thing he would like to take away from Said's life as a fellow police officer, Hacham's answer was simple.

"Be like him," Hacham said.

Said was 26 years old when he was killed in the line of duty on July 21, 2024.

When asked what Said would say if he were here in person, Hacham reflected on the drive his fallen partner instilled in him.

"Let's go find bad people. Let's go. And I still do it till this day. It makes me stronger to do it for him. Losing him did not stop me from doing the job," Hacham said.

Among those taking part in the ride was Melvindale Mayor Nicole Shkira, who rode in Said's vehicle and wore a T-shirt in his honor.

"It's a little heartbreaking. I miss him every day. July is an extremely hard month for me just because of all this. I wish we could bring him back, but I know that's not reality," Shkira said.

The ride also brought together police officers from departments across Southeast Michigan. Among them was Inkster Police Lieutenant J. Hacham, one of the event's organizers, along with his brother, Moe Hacham.

"What people don't realize, July is a very deadly month for law enforcement. The year Officer Said lost his life, we can't forget Bradley Reckling, the Hillsdale County Sheriff's Department officer, and Lauren Quartz from Detroit. It is sad, it is disheartening," Lt. J. Hacham said.

Egan said that is exactly why the Mohamed Said Foundation is needed to help the community and celebrate the lives of fallen heroes.

"Be transparent and show our community that they can trust us. And we have a community that absolutely supports us," Egan said.

Shkira expressed her hopes for the foundation's future.

"I would like for the Mohamed Said Foundation to grow so that they can continue to help people that are struggling in need," Shkira said.

The message behind the ride was clear not just remembering how Mohamed Said died, but making sure his legacy continues to live on.

"He was one of the kindest people you'll meet. There's incidents where he paid somebody's DTE bill at night because their power was out. Nobody knew about it. Director of the Oakland Police Academy teaches it to all of his cadets and all of his recruits. Be a person of the community. And that's, I think, what we need to have more of," Lt. J. Hacham said.

The Mohamed Said Foundation will be running year-round initiatives to help the community. To learn how you can donate, visit WXYZ.com.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

For many people, this heat is an inconvenience. For others, it's part of the job.

I was at the Ernest T. Ford Recreation Center in Highland Park, one of two cooling centers opening today from 10 a.m. as the city braces for dangerous heat. Highland Park is even closing city hall today as a precaution and officials are urging people to drink plenty of water, stay indoors when possible and check on vulnerable neighbors.

I spoke to folks in Hamtramck on their plan to beat the heat.

Watch Faraz Javed's video report below How metro Detroiters are staying cool during this week's heat wave

Sisters Kaahlya and Kitra Hamilton were enjoying dinner with their friend, Delorice Collier, when I decided to pick their brains about how they're getting ready for what could feel like triple-digit heat.

"It's going to feel like it's almost... over 100 degrees. So what do you think is actually going to work to stay cool?" I asked them.

"Under the AC, with all the curtains, all the fans, yes, close all the doors, and windows closed. Honestly, stay hydrated and get some liquid IVs," Kitra said.

"I got me a little mini fan I got from Amazon. I walk around with. It don't do much," Kaahlya said.

Hassan Ahmed is visiting from Buffalo and he, too, has a plan.

"Definitely, I'm going to add a lot of ice cream, water, you know?" he said.

"You guys think about like the construction workers or folks who work outside?" I followed up with.

"It's going to be a tough day for them," Ahmed replied.

While many people can head inside and turn on the AC, some workers don't have that option.

"Asphalt when it comes out 250 degrees, so you not only have the air temperature, but then the reflection of the heat off of asphalt," said Bill Urban, a Project Manager with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).

Urban said drinking water and taking care of yourself becomes even more critical during stretches of extreme heat like this one.

"It's the overall humidity and heat and the drain that it takes on your energy and your resources," Urban said.

Meanwhile, Kitra and Delorice, who work at a Stellantis plant, understand the pain workers go through during hot summer days. I asked them how they stay cool while working at a plant.

"Water, lots of water. I pour the cold water down my shirt sometimes," Delorice said.

"Or a lot of people have cooling racks and fans," Kitra said.

"Isn't it strange that when it gets cold, we complain, when it gets too hot, we complain?" I asked people

"Yeah. But that's why fall is the best season," Delorice said.

"I would say that I'm like, you know, just call sick. That's the easiest way to beat the heat," Ahmed said.

The message this morning is simple: stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, and check on seniors, young children and anyone who may not have access to air conditioning. City officials say if you don't have a cool place to go, or know someone who doesn't, now is the time to make a plan before the hottest part of the day arrives.

Melvindale police officers are taking a proactive approach to a growing safety concern, hitting the streets to educate young e-bike riders and hand out free helmets donated by Target.

Watch Faraz Javed's report below Melvindale police hand out free helmets to young e-bike riders to prevent accidents before they happen

Dangerous e-bike riding has become an increasing problem for law enforcement across metro Detroit, with serious crashes involving riders of all ages reported in recent months from Dearborn Heights to Ferndale.

Corporal Mohamed Hacham and Probationary Officer Flora Walker say they want to reach young riders before tragedy strikes.

"We're trying to educate the children that everyone is following the laws and the rules and regulations of this community so that we can lower the chances of accidents happening," Walker said.

During a recent patrol, the officers spotted 2 boys, both 13 years old, riding a single e-bike and recklessly crossing the road without stopping at stop signs.

"Did you see the car that came out right here? It almost hit you," Hacham told the boys. "I was following you because you weren't stopping at the stop signs. So what we're gonna do today is we're gonna get you guys some helmets."

The stakes are real. Jacklyn Richerdson, who works at Children's Hospital, said she sees the consequences firsthand.

"We see so many kids that come in on our burn day from, like, road rashes, from riding e-bikes," Richerdson said.

When asked what goes through her mind when she sees kids riding e-bikes without helmets, Richerdson said: "Safety."

Hacham said the goal is education, not punishment.

"We don't want to sit here and taunt them and, you know, tell them, hey, we need your, we're taking your scooter away from you. No, we want it to be a teaching lesson. Kids learn better when you talk to them and you teach them," Hacham said.

Hacham also emphasized the importance of personal accountability for young riders.

"I want you to always, when you're riding this e-bike, to think in your head that somebody's watching you and cares about you," Hacham said.

The officers say parents and guardians also need to step up and create awareness around e-bike safety.

The helmet giveaway is one of several community initiatives connected to the Mohamed Said Foundation, established in honor of Melvindale Police Cpl. Mohamed Said, who was killed in the line of duty in 2024.

Chief Chris Egan said Said's legacy continues to shape how the department serves the community.

"Mohamed Said did a lot that a lot of people don't know about, helping kids, helping the community," Egan said.

Anthony Jurich, president of Bikes and Battle Buddies, is teaming up with other law enforcement agencies for the upcoming Let's Roll Said Ride to raise funds for the foundation.

"It's an honor for us to be asked to be a part of this. For what the foundation does, not only for the community, it's cultivating that relationship between police officers and the public," Jurich said.

The Let's Roll Said Ride takes place July 18 starting at 9 a.m.

See below of details:

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

The American Islamic Community Center in Madison Heights received two threatening voicemails that law enforcement is now investigating as a hate crime.

The calls came just two minutes apart and contained explicit death threats and demands that worshippers leave the country, according to Dawud Walid, executive director of CAIR-Michigan.

Watch Faraz Javed's video report below: Death threats target Madison Heights Islamic center in hate crime investigation

The first call arrived at 3:46 p.m. Sunday and threatened to kill congregation members. The second escalated with promises of violence. Some of what was on the voicemails is below:

"You're a ******* ISIS. You're a ******* piece of trash. I'm coming for you." "Get the **** out of my country before it's too late." "We're going to come, and we're going to come strong. We're going to get rid of you." "I'm going to kill you. I'm going to kill your people." "You have a right, but you don't have a right in my country. You ******* terrorist Islamic ***** **."

Walid said the threats must be taken seriously given the current political climate, pointing to a recent attack in San Diego.

"I think these are actual threats. Tone matters and words matter too. And these are hate-filled lace messages," Walid said. "Given this current political climate, and in particular what happened a little over a month ago in which there were three Muslims that were killed at a mosque in San Diego, we take such threats extremely serious."

The center, which also serves as a mosque, has faced hatred before. During a past expansion project, federal authorities intervened when the community faced organized opposition at a zoning hearing.

"I was there, present at the zoning hearing, and there was a couple of hundred people outside who were chanting slurs and making threats against mosque attendees. And I was told, as an African American, to go home. Some of us were spat upon," Walid said.

Related video: Local Muslim-American leaders condemn San Diego mosque attack, call for peace Local Muslim-American leaders condemn San Diego mosque attack, call for peace

Walid drew a clear legal distinction between protected speech and criminal threats.

"There's a difference between disagreeing with Muslims and Islam. Someone could even insult the religion itself or its sacred figures. But once anyone talks about killing people or wiping out an entire group of people based upon religion, then that's genocidal and that's illegal," Walid said.

Related video: Northville Township police train Ward Church security team on active threat response Northville Township police train Ward Church security team on active threat response

Walid called on law enforcement at every level to act.

"We would like to see local, state and federal law enforcement use all of their tools to catch this perpetrator and to charge them to the furthest extent of the law, which includes hate crime," Walid said.

Related video: Temple Israel officials share interfaith message of support after San Diego mosque shooting Temple Israel officials share interfaith message of support after San Diego mosque shooting

The Madison Heights Police Department is investigating. CAIR-Michigan is offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to an arrest. Anyone with information is asked to call police immediately.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

The 39th annual EyesOn Design car show at Ford House brought together 175 carefully selected vehicles under this year's theme of power and elegance but for one father and son, the event represents something far more personal than a love of automobiles.

Steve Pasteiner has served as a judge and announcer at EyesOn Design since the event began. His youngest son, Eric, has volunteered alongside him every year since the inception of the show. For the Pasteiners, the annual event has become a nearly four-decade Father's Day tradition.

"Some of the favorite memories are helping them work on cars, you know, growing up, you know, running tools for them, holding this, or actually... getting the hands dirty and working alongside of them," Eric Pasteiner said.

Steve Pasteiner said his son's passion for cars took root early.

"I have pictures on my phone that I carry of when he was five, six years old, and standing next to one of the cars that we both loved and he grew up with, and that love prevails," he said.

Beyond the Father's Day tradition, EyesOn Design carries a deeper charitable mission. Christos Rostemis, a member of the event's Vehicle Selection Committee, said the show raises awareness and funding for the visually impaired.

"It's just a wonderful charity that brings people out and aware of the things that visually impaired people can do. We also have, the charity helps visually impaired people to see better. We're doing symposiums that unite the sensors on cars with sensors that can be used to help people see in the future," Rostemis said.

One of the show's most distinctive features involves visually impaired participants called visioneers who judge the vehicles by touch.

"We have visioneers that come through and judge the cars. They're visually impaired. They judge them with gloved hands, and that is a unique part of our show. They judge them by feel. It's an amazing thing to watch," Rostemis said.

Around 50 judges participated this year, including seven visually-impaired award winners across several categories. Donations are collected through ticket sales and sponsorships, while participating vehicles are invited exclusively by the selection committee based on the annual theme.

Steve Pasteiner said the cause resonates deeply with him.

"Sight is probably the greatest treasure that we have, you know," Steve Pasteiner said.

Eric Pasteiner echoed that sentiment, calling for greater public awareness of the event.

"People need to be more aware of this event just to get more cars, more people, more donations in order to help the visually impaired is absolutely fantastic," Eric Pasteiner said.

For the Pasteiners, the day ends the same way it begins together.

"I get to hang out with this guy, and then when it's over, I still have the cart, we can ride around and look at cars together and appreciate that part of it too," Steve Pasteiner said.

To self-nominate a vehicle for next year's showcase, visit eyesondesign.org.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Michigan's strawberry season has been a bumpy one, but Blake's Orchard and Cider Mill in Armada is giving berry lovers a reason to celebrate at least for a few more days.

Watch Faraz's story in the video player below: Blake's Orchard Strawberry Festival draws crowds amid tough growing season in Michigan

The farm is hosting its 10th annual Strawberry Festival, and visitors are showing up hungry. Sorin Kovaci arrived with ambition, picking 10 pounds of strawberries through the farm's U-pick program. Laslie Haver and her niece Susan Pattee were gearing up to do the same.

When asked what makes the perfect strawberry, the answers came quickly.

"The color, the taste," Kovaci said.

"Medium size," Haver said.

"Fresh. On Sale," Pattee said.

Shoppers across the region have noticed strawberry prices fluctuating at grocery stores. Blake's Farms Operations Manager Brent Christensen said several factors are driving the volatility.

"There's so much that goes into it. Weather events, tariffs, fertilizer prices, fuel prices. They ship the berries from a long ways away, whether it's California or out of country, play a factor in what you're paying at the grocery store," Christensen said.

Michigan's growing season added its own complications. Christensen said the state's strawberry crop struggled this year due to excessive rainfall in April followed by multiple frost events.

"Yeah, the strawberry crop in general in Michigan has really struggled this year. There was a ton of water early in the month of April, and that caused issues with roots being super wet. And then we dealt with many frost events across the whole entire state. Cold temperatures when the plants are in flowering cause issues. It can stress the plant significantly. It can kill the flowers," Christensen said.

Despite those challenges, Christensen said Blake's Farms is not experiencing a shortage. The main location has up to 20 acres of strawberries, with 30 acres across all of the farm's properties.

"Here at Blake Farms, there's absolutely no shortage. We have up to 20 acres here at this main location. Across all of our properties, it's 30 acres. We have great crops. You might be seeing at your local farms a little bit smaller size or a little less quantity available on the shelves right now," Christensen said.

For those worried that smaller berries mean less flavor, Christensen offered some reassurance.

"A lot of people actually say that the smaller they are, they actually have a little bit more sugar, a little bit sweeter. So some people prefer them small. Me, myself, I like a big, nice, juicy berry, though," Christensen said.

Beyond the festival, Blake's Farms runs an educational program for children called Appleseed's Camp, which teaches kids how to grow crops, including strawberries. Lauren Pilett, the farm's Director of Marketing, said the program reflects a core value of the business.

"And that's a fun way to get kids excited about nutrition and the agricultural and all that stuff at a young age. And it's something that we're really passionate about here at Blake's Family," Pilett said.

With the season winding down, Christensen urged anyone thinking about visiting to act fast.

"The season's short. We only have about 10 days left in the season. Hurry out. You're going to miss it if you don't," Christensen said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

As America marks 250 years of independence, were honoring the stories that keep the American dream alive.

Watch Faraz Javed's video report: How the owner of Dearborn's Qahwah House is uniting community with Yemeni coffee

The Yemeni coffee craze is sweeping across America, but in Dearborn, Ibrahim Alhasbani didn't just join the trend; he started it.

"It's not just a drink. It's history. It's culture. It's in the blood," said Ibrahim.

Ibrahim is the man who made Yemeni coffee accessible to every coffee lovers cup.

"I feel very proud because I really changed the history of the coffee. I will bring the history back to Yemeni coffee," he said.

Welcome to Qahwah House. The 41-year-old is the owner and founder.

"How we bring different background in one place to know each other. That's what we did," he said. "You're gonna see Christian, you're gonna see Jewish, you're gonna see white, you're gonna see Black, you're gonna see Spanish, you're gonna see people from everywhere."

"So you're telling me this cup of Yemeni coffee is uniting people?" I asked.

"100%. I'll drink to that," he said.

But what does qahwah mean? Ibrahim says qahwah is coffee in Arabic.

Fans of the coffee say it's bold and rich. Ibrahim says it has a natural chocolate flavor and is smooth.

"A lot of people, they don't know why they call it mocha coffee. There's a city in Yemen called city of Mocha ... this is where the first shipment officially shipped from port of Mocha to Europe," he said.

Ibrahim comes from 8th generation of coffee farmers in Yemen.

He says his family's house is more than 400 years old.

"I was born in this house, actually. This is my family from both sides, from my mother's side and from my father's side. And people still live in this house till now," he said.

The war in Yemen is what forced Ibrahim to move to America.

In 2011, he moved to the U.S. His first stop was New York. Ibrahim tried opening a Qahwah House in New York. It did not work out. Then in 2016, he moved to Michigan, opening a Qahwah House in 2017.

When asked what was different, he responded, "the community. It's not just Arabic. It's from everywhere. That's why, really, I love Dearborn."

From working various jobs to investing his 401k and maxing out credit cards, Ibrahim finally turned his dream into reality.

"So after one year, I came out with Qahwah House. But even when I opened the first location, it wasn't really 100%. I didn't have the espresso machine. I didn't have chairs. I didn't have a table, because I was out of the money," he explained.

Fast forward to now, there are 32 Qahwah House locations across the U.S.

"Do you think your immigrant journey is the epitome of the American dream?" I asked.

"100%. We come here for a reason. Some of them, they come for, change their lifestyle. Some of them, they run away from war. But in the end ... you're going to be proud to be part of this country," said Ibrahim.

Some people asked about the decision to keep the Arabic name Qahwah for his business.

"This is one of the first things the people told me, actually ... I said, listen, I learned to say Starbucks. You know, I learned to say very hard word ... in English, but I learned to do it. Just let them say one word, they're going to learn to do it," he said.

For 250 years, America has been the place where dreams take root and grow. And successful immigrant journeys like Ibrahim's Qahwah storythat's a tradition worth celebrating on our 250th birthday.

A driver is dead after driving the wrong way on Telegraph Road in Redford Township late Sunday night, police tell us.

Watch Faraz Javed's report from the Noon show below Wrong-way driver dead in Redford Township crash involving 8 vehicles

The incident happened on Telegraph Road, just near 5 Mile, as the crash involved eight vehicles. Emergency personnel responded to the scene around 11 p.m.

Investigators say the driver was heading northbound in the southbound lanes in a burgundy Durango. We're told the driver struck two vehicles just north of 5 Mile and continued at a high rate of speed before striking a vehicle head-on at the stoplight.

The impact from the head-on collison caused other vehicles at the light to also be struck.

The driver of the Durango was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Everyone else in the incident were either unharmed or suffered minor injuries.

Jamie Cook and Antonio Mury were working their night shift at McDonald's on Telegraph when they heard loud noises.

"All I heard was 'boom, boom, boom'. I thought like our speakers would pick up everything," Mury said. "So I thought it was outside our store. Then we looked outside, we started cars, cops, everything. We went outside, the cops saw about it's a pull-up. And then we asked them cars what happened right there. They said a car was driving past on the wrong side of the road. Then we didn't look, and then it was a four-car pull-up down there.

"I'm hurt for the family. I'm hurt for the whole situation. I can't even imagine how they feel right now at the moment," Cook said.

Out of respect, we are not showing you the family members. But we saw police escorting them towards one of the vehicles involved, where their loved one was.

"I'm praying for them because that's something you don't want to do. Like waking up in the middle of the night, find out if I'm going in a car accident. That's crazy. I won't wish that. I won't wish that on my worst enemy right now," Mury said.

Police have not confirmed how many people were injured or their condition, but Tane, the owner of club Tane bar & grill, shared with me that he knows one of the drivers involved in the crash.

"So the driver of the white truck was inside this establishment?" I clarified with him.

"Yes, he just left," Tane replied. "He said he's going home. Then he called me. I said, 'what's going on?' He said, 'I'm right opposite from the club'. I said, 'what are you doing opposite from the club? You just left.' He said, 'yeah, I just got hit.' So when he was on the floor, and then we saw all these guys out there.

Anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact Officer Jacob Vance at jvance@redfordpd.org or 313-387-2561 in the Redford Township Police Traffic Bureau.

Two best friends from metro Detroit have turned the Detroit Grand Prix into more than just a race weekend it's a 23-year tradition built on friendship, autographs and a front-row spot in line.

Sherry Caudill and Charlene Skonieczny from Garden City and Milford, respectively, arrived at the Renaissance Center early Saturday to be first in line for autographs from their favorite IMSA series drivers.

Watch Faraz Javed's video report below: For the Detroit Grand Prix, two best friends turn race day into a 23-year tradition

"We're super fans," Skonieczny said.

The two were first in line on each side of the autograph area, a position they say they earn every year.

"Every year, we're first in line here every year because we do enjoy the interaction with the drivers and also how fan friendly it is," Skonieczny said.

Their friendship, now in its 23rd year, has grown stronger through their shared love of the Grand Prix and collecting autographs and memorabilia.

"Well, my best friend, I love spending time with her and I love this beautiful event that they put on every year for us fans," Skonieczny said.

Previous report: Detroit Police unveil comprehensive safety plan for this weekend's Detroit Grand Prix downtown Police unveil comprehensive safety plan for this weekend's Detroit Grand Prix

For Caudill, the appeal goes beyond the racing itself.

"Enjoy meeting the drivers and meeting new people, socializing," Caudill said.

Caudill said she was especially excited to meet Ricky and Jordan Taylor. After waiting four hours in line, both say the experience is worth every minute.

"So worth being first in line because sometimes, you'll see the drivers before anybody else does and we sit, talk to them," Skonieczny said.

The two walked away with buttons, stickers, cards and posters keepsakes Skonieczny said she treasures.

"I enjoy when they pass out like stickers and the little cards and the big posters, so you can frame them and it says Detroit and the Grand Prix and it gives a date," Skonieczny said.

Previous report: Detroit Grand Prix drivers, sports legends compete in fowling ahead of race weekend Detroit Grand Prix festivities begin

Now in its fourth year in downtown Detroit, the Grand Prix moved from Belle Isle to a 1.7-mile street circuit in 2023. The three-day weekend event features IndyCar Series, Indy NXT and IMSA racing, with over 150,000 fans expected to attend.

"It's the best experience ever, man," Skonieczny said.

And when asked if they'll be back next year, there was no hesitation.

"Yes, we definitely will be here at the Grand Prix. Yes, we will," Skonieczny said.

"One hundred percent we'll be back," Caudill said.

The Detroit Grand Prix wraps up Sunday with the Indy NXT and IndyCar Series races.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.