High mortgage rates are keeping many potential buyers on the sidelines this spring, even as the housing market enters what is typically one of its busiest seasons.

For new homeowners Elizabeth and Izias, the decision to buy came with a growing family in mind.

"We want more kids too, so we needed the space eventually," Elizabeth said.

But the couple wasn't sure homeownership was financially within reach a concern shared by many across the country. Nearly two in three renters don't think they'll be able to buy a home in the foreseeable future, according to a recent survey.

RELATED STORY | No rate change amid uncertain economy as Powell acknowledges his last meeting as chairman

A 30-year fixed rate mortgage now sits at 6.37%, up slightly from last week, according to a new report released Thursday. Overall, mortgage rates remain near their highest levels in two decades.

That's likely contributing to a slowdown in sales. Existing home sales dipped 3.6% in March, dropping to a nine-month low, according to the National Association of Realtors. The median home sales price also hit nearly $409,000, up 1.4% from a year ago.

The conditions have created a divided market one that benefits current homeowners while squeezing out potential buyers.

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"We have homeowners who have gained a tremendous amount of housing equity as home prices have gained, but then you have first-time home buyers who are struggling to find an affordable property, who are trying to save diligently for a down payment and encountering higher home prices than they have seen," Jessica Lautz, deputy chief economist at the National Association of Realtors, said.

Meanwhile, the picture looks different for newly built homes. Sales of properties built by developers jumped more than 7% in March compared to the previous month. The median price of those homes also dropped, as builders can cut deals and offer financial incentives to attract buyers.

An Eastpointe business owner got an unexpected surprise when a crew dumped massive pieces of a cut-up maple tree in his store's parking lot on 9 Mile and the whole thing was caught on his security cameras.

Watch Peter Maxwell's video report: Eastpointe business owner finds massive maple tree dumped in his parking lot

Adam Steiner said he watched the footage in disbelief as the crew casually pulled up, unloaded the logs, left, and then returned to dump even more.

SURVEILLANCE VIDEO: Logs dumped on video SURVEILLANCE VIDEO: Logs dumped on video

"These guys dropped it here like it was supposed to go here," Steiner said. "On video, they just casually drove up, dumped the wood left, and then came back and dumped a bunch more."

The incident happened late Friday afternoon. Security video shows a truck backing up and a trailer unloading massive pieces of a cut-up maple tree. The crew left and returned a second time to drop off the rest.

Steiner spent several days trying to track down where the tree came from while the logs sat in his parking lot.

"I seriously probably spent 50 bucks on gas driving around Eastpointe looking for people cutting down trees. It was like my life's passion to find out where this came from," Steiner said.

Part of the answer turned out to be right across the street.

John Spanguolo, who lives directly across from Steiner's business, said a tree company had stopped by his home the week before.

"I am retired, and I hustle wood," Spanguolo said. "He goes, you want some wood, and I said, yeah, drop it off right here by my house there. A couple of days went by, and I thought, what the hell, man? He never dropped off the wood. I really could use the wood."

Spanguolo said he realized a few days later that the wood had been dropped at the wrong address when he looked across the street.

"When I seen the wood pile that was delivered, I was like, 'Oh no, I don't want that big bulk wood," Spanguolo said.

Spanguolo has been clearing the wood piece by piece with a chainsaw.

Steiner said there is no bad blood between the two neighbors just a lot of confusion and a pile of maple tree logs sitting where they do not belong. He hopes the tree company responsible for the mix-up returns to remove what remains.

"Hopefully, the wood is out of here in the next few days, and we can just maintain business," Steiner 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.

Lunchtime turned into a frightening scene in Northville on Thursday after a vehicle plowed into a popular local restaurant. Thankfully, what could have been a tragedy ended with no major injuries.

Late afternoon, a restoration crew boarded up the side of the Early Bird restaurant on Main Street. Northville police said an 84-year-old woman driving a Chrysler Town and Country minivan was attempting to park when she accidentally hit the gas instead of the brake.

Watch Darren Cunningham's video report below: Car crashes into Northville's Early Bird restaurant

This is like a Northville family favorite. This place is packed on the weekends," said Jordyn Kahler, who works next door. I heard this big loud crash, what I thought was a car accident. So, I got up and looked out on the street.

Kahler's attention quickly turned to the restaurant's parking lot and said it was kind of just shocking.

I saw her getting out the car and she looked pretty distraught," Kahler said.

Officers found the driver still in her seat, shaken but uninjured. Investigators have already ruled out drugs or alcohol as factors in the crash.

Jeremy Daum owns Forever Fit next door.

Scary because I was worried about people in case they were injured," he said.

Investigators said patrons were sitting in booths right where the vehicle struck. In what police are calling a fortunate escape, none of those customers were seriously hurt, and all declined medical transport.

As for the damage, 7 News Detroit spoke with the business owners wife who said its unclear how long itll take to reopen.

It really makes me sad for them because I know they may have to shut down temporarily, so I just hope that it goes good and they can get back to operating, ya know, like they normally do, Daum said.

While the building sustained significant damage, the community is just grateful everyone walked away. If you have any further information about this incident, Northville police would like you to give Chief Alan Maciag a call at 248-449-9921.

Multiple varieties of trail mix and nuts, including some sold at Target stores, have been recalled due to the possibility of Salmonella contamination.

John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc. announced it would voluntarily recall food products that included a dry milk powder used as seasoning that is suspected in potential Salmonella contamination.

The recall is a "precautionary measure:" None of the seasoning used in the products has tested positive for Salmonella, and there have been no illnesses reported in connection with the foods.

The snacks were sold under the brands Fisher, Southern Style Nuts, Squirrel Brand and Good & Gather. The company says consumers should dispose of the foods or return them for a full refund.

RELATED NEWS | Utz recalls multiple flavors of Zapp's and Dirty brand chips over possible salmonella contamination

Symptoms of salmonella infection may include fever, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. More serious bloodstream-related infections may occur, including arterial infections and endocarditis. Young children, the elderly and people with compromised immune systems are at an increased risk.

A 21-year-old West Bloomfield man is facing assault and gun charges after a shooting at a Southfield gas station left a 47-year-old man hospitalized with bullet wounds to his leg and hip.

Watch Randy Wimbley's video report: Southfield gas station shooting leaves man wounded, suspect charged

Jeremiah Clemons was arrested the day after the May 3 shooting at the Exxon station at 8 Mile and Southfield roads. Police body camera footage captured his arrest.

Southfield Police Chief Elvin Barren said the confrontation began with an argument inside the gas station. Surveillance video shows Clemons and the victim coming chest-to-chest before the dispute spilled outside and turned violent.

"The suspect produced a handgun and opened fire on the victim, striking him twice before fleeing the area with other occupants of the vehicle. And what we did discover is that he shot at our victim four times. Two of those rounds did take effect," Barren said.

See surveillance footage below: SURVEILLANCE VIDEO: Police release video in gas station shooting

Investigators first located a friend who was with Clemons during the shooting. On Tuesday, a search warrant at his home turned up what police believe is the magazine from the gun used in the shooting.

Police say Clemons dismantled the gun, burying parts of it including the barrel and slide in a vacant lot on Detroit's east side, more than a dozen miles from the shooting scene.

"Once the shooting happened, he wanted to get rid of the evidence and so, I believe he still wanted to have a gun. So maybe he disabled and buried half the gun, maybe took the other components to another location, then waited to see if the police department was gonna catch up with them and then bring those two components back together and continue carrying a gun," Barren said.

Barren said the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of de-escalation.

"The best thing to do is really simply walk away. And I'm talking at this time on both sides, you know, just maintaining a sense of composure. Drop the egos and let it happen because this shooting should not have happened," Barren said.

Clemons' mother said by phone her son is not a criminal or a killer. His uncle, Tremell Carpenter, says poor decisions were made on both sides and suggests the shooting may have been in self-defense.

"He didn't know if the guy had a gun or not, and the guy was acting like he had a gun and he went to the car and came back and walked up on his car that he was riding in with him and some other friends. And he said the guy made a gesture like he wanted to shoot at him," Carpenter said.

Police say the victim is in stable condition. Clemons is being held in the Oakland County Jail on a $250,000 bond. His next court date is May 20.

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.

Multiple Wayne County commissioners on Thursday called on Sheriff Raphael Washington to seek a third-party investigation into who posted multiple nude images to his Facebook account.

On Wednesday, 7 News Detroit reported that Washington said he did not know how a lewd photo of a penis was posted to his personal Facebook page just after midnight last Thursday.

Previously in June of 2024, an eight-second video of a naked woman dancing in a hotel room was also seen on Washingtons Facebook account.

Late Wednesday, Washington said he was the victim of a hack.

Both images were posted for several minutes before being taken down.

Previous report: Wayne Co. Sheriff Raphael Washington denies posting nude photo, video to his Facebook Wayne Co. Sheriff Washington denies posting nude photo, video to his Facebook

An investigation Im sure should happen, Commissioner Angelique Peterson-Mayberry said. So Im looking for the findings from that investigation.

Peterson-Mayberry was joined by Commissioners Sam Baydoun, Alex Garza and David Knezek in urging the sheriff to order a probe into who was responsible for the postings.

Im sure hes going to ask them to look into it, because thats troubling to see that, Knezek said.

As the chief law enforcement officer for the county, youre held to a different standard, Garza said.

Previous reportL Secret recordings undercut Wayne County sheriffs sexual harassment denials Secret recordings undercut Wayne County sheriffs sexual harassment denials

Following the report Wednesday night, Washington took to Facebook.

Last week, I became aware of an inappropriate image that speared on mypersonal Facebook account, Washington said. I did not post it. Once again my account was hacked. I have taken the steps to secure the account, including changing the appropriate settings.

At Thursdays commission meeting, Peterson-Mayberry called the posts disheartening to see from anyone, whether you hold a position or not.

When asked if she believed that Washington was hacked, Peterson-Mayberry replied: Maybe thats possible.

But if Washington's account was hacked, there is no sign that he nor his office are trying to find out whos responsible.

Repeatedly, a sheriff's spokeswoman would not say whether any outside agencies have been asked to investigate the postings.

Previous report: Wayne County commissioner calls for changes at the top of sheriffs office Wayne County commissioner calls for changes at the top of sheriffs office

The post featuring a naked woman was made nearly two years ago, but when 7 News Detroit submitted a public records request in March seeking any investigations into the video, the county denied the request stating that no such records exist.

Both Michigan State Police and Detroit police told 7 News Detroit that theyve not been contacted by Wayne County to look into what the sheriff is deeming a hack.

Im sure the sheriff and his team are looking into those things, Knezek said. If theyre not, I would encourage them to.

Former Detroit Police Chief James Craig, who led the department for eight years, said Washington has only one option if he wants to restore the publics confidence, recently shaken by a series of scandals and sexual harassment claims.

If somebody said I posted something like that, I would want an investigation, Craig said. But then I would want to come out and report the findings of that investigation.

If you dont want it investigated, its because youre trying to hide something."

When asked again Thursday if the sheriffs office has requested any agency to investigate who posted these nude images, spokeswoman Mara MacDonald declined to answer.

Contact 7 Investigator Ross Jones at ross.jones@wxyz.com or at (248) 827-9466.

The NCAA announced Thursday that it will expand its two March Madness tournaments by eight teams each next season, a long-expected move that will drop more games into the first week of the highly popular and lucrative showcase without substantially changing its overall form.

The new, 76-team brackets will jam eight extra games for a total of 12 involving 24 teams into the front half of the first week of the men's and the women's tournaments. It will turn whats now known as the First Four into a bigger affair that will now be called the March Madness Opening Round.

The 12 winners will move into the main 64-team bracket that will begin, as usual, on Thursday for the men and Friday for the women.

It is the first expansion of the tournaments in 15 years, when they were bumped to 68 teams each.

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The NCAA said it will distribute more than $131 million in new revenue to schools that make the tournament. That money will come via expanded TV advertising opportunities for alcohol, the likes of which were previously restricted. It said the value of the rights agreement will increase $50 million each year on average over the course of the six years.

Most of the eight new slots are expected to go to teams from the power conferences that were already commanding the lion's share of entries in the bracket. Two years ago, the Southeastern Conference placed a record 14 teams in the mens bracket. Last season, the Big Ten had nine.

Keith Gill, the chairman of the Division I men's basketball committee, called the expansion a nice way to create some access but make sure we have the bracket we all love when we start Thursday at noon.

The move is a product of the times, which includes massive expansion the Atlantic Coast Conference, for instance, has grown from nine to 17 teams since 1996 and the reality that mid-major schools with top-notch players will often see them plucked away by programs with bigger budgets and the ability to pay them through revenue sharing.

Cinderella? There will still be room for those stirring runs in the tournaments, though not a single mid-major advanced past the first weekend of either tournament the last two seasons.

This is hardly a concern of the decision-makers anymore, who will point to TV ratings that traditionally spell out fans preference for the likes of Duke and North Carolina over St. Peters and San Diego State, especially once the Sweet 16 starts.

What matters more to the biggest schools is that their teams have a chance to compete in what remains the best postseason in college sports and that they aren't iced out by lower conference champions who earn automatic bids.

Youve got some really, really good teams who are going to end up in that 9, 10, 11 (seed) category that I think should be moved into the 64-team bracket, SEC commissioner Greg Sankey said last year in discussing how he favored expansion.

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Also, the money. The new beer and wine money will add to what the NCAA can distribute in units that are earned for placing teams in the bracket and then for every round those teams advance. Last year, that amounted to about $350,000 per unit for the mens tournament. The Big Ten made nearly $70 million from both tournaments, won by conference members Michigan (men) and UCLA (women).

Leaders in the SEC, Big Ten, Big 12 and ACC have all acknowledged that smaller programs help make March Madness what it is, all the while steadily expanding their own power in NCAA decision-making. That brings with it the tacit threat of fracturing the single thing the NCAA does best the basketball tournament.

This move might forestall that. What it isn't expected to do is drastically change the TV deal beyond the advertising.

The current deal for the men's tournament is worth $8.8 billion and runs through 2032. Adding a few extra games between mid-level Power Four teams on Tuesday and Wednesday won't change that much.

One of reason this took as long as it did was the NCAA negotiations with CBS and TNT, which themselves have been in negotiations over their own ownership.

The more drastic option of expanding the tournament to 96 teams or beyond would involve adding an extra week to a tournament that has thrived in part because of the symmetry of a six-round bracket that gets whittled down over three weeks.

That basic shell began in 1985, with only slight tweaks, the latest of which came in 2011 when it was upped to 68.

At least five state health departments in the U.S. are monitoring a small group of Americans who returned to the country after disembarking from a cruise ship that is experiencing a deadly hantavirus outbreak overseas.

According to Oceanwide Expeditions, a total of 30 people, including six American passengers, left the cruise late last month after the first leg of the trip and before anyone had confirmed the deadly outbreak.

The illness is believed to have killed three people and infected at least eight others who were on the ship. Laboratory testing has confirmed the Andes strain of the virus is present among those who have tested positive.

None of them is an American.

We have no further symptomatic passengers or crew who are on board, which is a good sign, said Maria Van Kerkhove, an infectious disease epidemiologist. But of course, there is a long incubation period of the Andes virus.

Van Kerkhove said the uncommon virus can have an incubation period of up to six weeks.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | Officials rushing to trace passengers who left cruise ship before virus detected

Health authorities in California, Georgia, Virginia, Arizona, and Texas say they are monitoring the situation.

We are coordinating with local health officials, as needed, to monitor returning travelers. There is no information that the California residents are ill or infected, said Brian Micek, a spokesperson for the California Department of Public Health.

In Georgia, health officials are monitoring two people.

The individuals are currently in good health and show no signs of infection. They are following current recommendations from CDC, said Nancy Nydam Shirek, a spokesperson for the Georgia Department of Public Health.

In Arizona, health officials confirmed one resident was a passenger on the ship. This individual is not symptomatic and is being monitored by public health, said JP Martin, a spokesperson for the Arizona Department of Health Services.

In Texas, authorities say two passengers who left the ship do not have symptoms and have agreed to monitor themselves for symptoms with daily temperature checks and contact public health officials at any sign of a possible illness.

Virginia health department spokesperson Maria Reppas said one traveler who disembarked the ship is in good health, adding that a small number of potentially exposed Virginians might be identified in the days ahead, reinforcing that authorities believe the risk to the general public to be low. The exact total number of people connected to the ship being monitored for symptoms in the U.S. is unclear.

There are 17 Americans currently on board the ship as it continues to head to its destination at the Canary Islands, where passengers will disembark and follow a step-by-step public health protocol aimed at preventing any further spread of the disease.

Oceanwide Expeditions remains in close and continual discussion with relevant authorities regarding our exact point of arrival, quarantine and screening procedures for all guests, and a precise timeline, the company said in a written statement.

World Health Organization officials said passengers have been encouraged to remain in their cabins and wear masks if they must exit their rooms. Food and water are being provided to them as the ship is also being disinfected.

The Andes hantavirus strain has been shown to spread among humans, but health officials say the risk to the general public is low and that the spread of the infection typically occurs when people are in very close contact with each other.

The United States withdrew from the World Health Organization earlier this year, but health leaders from the WHO indicated the technical support from the United States has been an asset to the world and is currently benefiting the public health response overseas.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, meanwhile, said the administration is closely monitoring the situation with U.S. travelers onboard the M/V Hondius cruise ship with confirmed hantavirus. Our top priority remains the health and safety of all U.S. passengers. The Department of State is leading a coordinated, whole-of-government response including direct contact with passengers, diplomatic coordination, and engagement with domestic and international health authorities.

A lunchtime mistake has one of the first school districts in America to serve halal foods issuing an apology.

Dearborn Public Schools sent a letter to parents after serving pizza containing pork to middle school students practicing the Muslim faith and observing halal.

Parents tell me it was deeply disturbing to learn that kids observing halal as part of their Muslim faith were mistakenly served food with pork. The district tells me theyve taken several new steps to correct what happened, along with issuing an apology.

In this letter to O.L. Middle School parents from Dearborn Public Schools, the interim superintendent describes a period of 8 school days from February 23rd through March 5th when 206 servings of pepperoni pizza containing a mix of beef and pork were mistakenly served to students.

They say the non-halal food represented 7-percent of total meals during a typical 8-day time frame and while there was no malicious intent, the district offers most sincere apologies & a promise to ensure this does not occur in the future

"I just felt really bad that it happened. I felt bad that there were people that had the expectation of having, you know, halal food and that that happened," said parent Robbin Makled.

Some parents I talked to expressed a range of disappointment that this happened during the holy period of Ramadan and violated strict rules against consuming pork as part of their Muslim faith.

Thats the main reason we dont eat non-halal food. Because its against our religion," said parent Amlaki Naser-Aldeen.

Sabah Beydoun, another parent, said: It all has an effect. Spiritually, physically, its even not good for a human being.

In the letter, the district identifies steps taken, saying they met with parents and conducted an audit confirming no other non-halal products were served.

Halal includes a specific method of preparing foodwith certain food being forbidden to consume.

Dearborn schools is implementing mandatory training and new safeguards, adding they acted swiftly in this matter.

"They're wonderful people. They care very deeply about the kids, so I felt bad that this happened to them," said Makled.

My son, he attend to O. L. Smith, and I didnt know about that until now, until you told me. If they mean it, it will be the first and the last time, yes. If they apologized, thats enough for us for now," said Naser-Aldeen.

The district tells me theyve also added a second halal-verified food provider to their vendor list, as part of their corrective action.

Where Your Voice Matters

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is launching a new plan focused on psychiatric medications and what officials call overprescribing.

HHS launches plan to curb overprescribing psychiatric medications

The effort is encouraging more personalized mental health care and greater use of non-medication treatments when appropriate.

First of all, its important to say that psychiatric medications can absolutely be life-changing and even lifesaving for many people. Mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, OCD and others can really impact daily life.  A treatment plan - regardless of what form it takes - is often needed for symptom management. 

 

Now, the approach put forth by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is focused on reducing what officials describe as the overuse, or overprescribing, of psychiatric medications, particularly in children. This refers to situations where medications may be prescribed when theyre not truly needed, continued longer than necessary or used when theyre no longer providing a clear benefit.  

 

The plan encourages careful tapering or deprescribing when its medically appropriate. That does not mean that treatment has to end.  Its a discussion between the doctor and the patient to determine whether the medication is still necessary and still provides benefits. 

 

The initiative also highlights informed consent, shared decision-making and a shift toward prevention and a broader, more holistic approach to mental health care. 

 

The non-medication approaches mentioned include things like psychotherapy or talk therapy, family and social support, behavioral approaches, regular physical activity, better sleep habits, stress management and nutrition-focused strategies.

 

Research suggests that regular exercise may help reduce symptoms of depression, and healthier eating habits may also improve mood and mental health for some people. But these approaches are not one-size-fits-all, and they are not meant to replace medication in every case. Treatment should be tailored to the person, their symptoms, medical history and their goals.

 

Now, if you are taking medication, do not stop it on your own. Suddenly stopping certain medications can cause serious withdrawal symptoms or a return of symptoms. Instead, talk with your doctor or mental health professional about the risks and benefits together. If changes are needed, they should happen gradually and under medical supervision.

 

Everyones mental health is so important, and when it comes to a treatment plan, the benefits and risks should be carefully weighed before moving forward.

 

This Week on the Dr. Nandi Show

Learn the ABCs of organic gardening with Dr. Partha Nandi, MD. Expert guests demonstrate easy step-by-step instructions for planting your own garden and share why organic food is better than conventionally grown crops. Nandi speaks with a pediatrician who reveals how pesticides can affect childrens health and the improvements seen after switching to an organic diet. Also, how chemicals can affect our gut health and hormones, plus two quick and delicious veggie recipes. Tune in this Sunday, May 10 at 12:30 p.m.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) A man who sprayed vinegar at Democratic U.S. Rep. Ilhan Omar at a town hall meeting in Minneapolis pleaded guilty to assault Thursday in federal court after reaching a deal with prosecutors. Anthony Kazmierczak, 55, is awaiting sentencing. Kazmierczak, dressed in bright orange jail clothing, gave only a fragmentary explanation Thursday of the Jan. 27 assault , which came as the city was already on edge after the fatal shootings of two people by federal agents during a White House crackdown that brought thousands of immigration officers to Minnesota. After being asked what he remembered of the assault, he told U.S. District Judge Joan N. Ericksen: It's fuzzy. Kazmierczak, who was in the audience during Omars January town hall, leaped up when the representative called for the ouster of then-Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem . He sprayed liquid from a syringe as court documents say he shouted that Noem would not resign and that Omar was splitting Minnesota apart. Security officers tackled Kazmierczak, who told them the liquid was vinegar. I didnt want anybody to think she was in danger, he said Thursday. Omar, who was not injured, continued with the town hall after the arrest. Authorities later determined hed sprayed her with a mixture of water and apple cider vinegar. He was charged with assaulting a U.S. officer. Court documents say Kazmierczak, a critic of Omar who has made online posts supportive of President Donald Trump, told a close associate several years ago that somebody should kill her. Omar, a refugee from Somalia , has long been a target of Trumps anti-immigrant rhetoric. After she was elected seven years ago, Trump said she should go back to her home country . He has described her as garbage and said she should be investigated. Trump has also accused Omar of staging the attack, telling ABC News, She probably had herself sprayed, knowing her. On Thursday, Kazmierczak told Erickson that he was being treated for Parkinsons disease, and that hed been diagnosed with ADHD or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, and a form of post-traumatic stress. After his arrest, his then-attorney said that he did not have access to the medications he needed for Parkinsons and other serious conditions. Minnesota court records show that Kazmierczak, who was convicted of felony auto theft in 1989, has been arrested multiple times for driving under the influence and has had numerous traffic citations. There are also indications he has had significant financial problems, including two bankruptcy filings. In social media posts, Kazmierczak had criticized former President Joe Biden and referred to Democrats as angry and liars. Trump wants the U.S. to be "stronger and more prosperous, he wrote. Threats against members of Congress have increased in recent years, peaking in 2021 following the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol by a mob of Trump supporters before dipping slightly, only to climb again, according to the most recent figures from the U.S. Capitol Police.

A tough Michigan winter is finally behind us. Spring is here and summer is not too far off. Soon, school will be out, and many adults will be looking for ways to keep their kids busy and entertained. Thats when the Huron-Clinton Metroparks system is at its best!

From individuals to families, the 13 Southeast Michigan regional parks offer a smorgasbord of activities and programs to choose from. But perhaps nothing is more important than its Lets Get Everyone in the Pool initiative. Metroparks partners annually with local organizations to provide free swim lessons for thousands of youths and adults. Drowning is the leading cause of death in kids ages 1 through 4.

Where we live, water is everywhere! Michigan has thousands of lakes and more freshwater shoreline than any state in the nation. Were proud to be called, The Great Lakes State. But that moniker comes with responsibility.

May is National Water Safety Month. Private swimming lessons can be expensive and a financial roadblock for some. Metroparks is committed to expanding free water and lifesaving skills throughout Wayne, Macomb, Oakland, Livingston, and Washtenaw Counties. Registered participants will get a free swimsuit, swim caps, goggles, bag, and a towel.No experience is needed and all are in the hands of certified instructors. For more information, go to our website at wxyz.com.

Having a safe and fun, spring and summer, begins with awareness and trained staffers.Whether its sports, hiking, camping, biking, boating, or swimming, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks have it all. They are your parks to enjoy.Carefully plan your activities, and working together, lets make it a safe and memorable experience.

Im Mike Murri, Regional V.P. & General Manager

Broadcast: May 7 - 10, 2026

After Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill to rename the Palm Beach International Airport after President Donald Trump, the airport's official new logo has now been unveiled.

The logo, rendered entirely in gold, features an eagle holding two olive branches with a crest over its chest showcasing stars and stripes. The president's son, Eric Trump, shared an image of the logo on social media, saying he's "looking forward to seeing flights landing at 'DJT' very very soon."

For the first time, I am extremely proud to share the OFFICIAL logo for the Donald J. Trump International Airport in Palm Beach, Florida. There is no person more deserving of this incredible honor than @realDonaldTrump! Congratulations Dad! Looking forward to seeing flights pic.twitter.com/QUyPKJYixy Eric Trump (@EricTrump) May 5, 2026

"For the first time, I am extremely proud to share the OFFICIAL logo for the Donald J. Trump International Airport in Palm Beach, Florida," he wrote. "There is no person more deserving of this incredible honor."

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In February, the Florida state legislature passed a bill to officially rename the airport the Donald J. Trump International Airport, despite opposition from Democrats. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the bill into law a month later, with the name change set to go into effect on July 1.

A pilot has since filed a lawsuit seeking to block the renaming, claiming the state violated Palm Beach County's home rule authority, which gives counties not the state the right to govern on local matters.

"Palm Beach County has the right to name the airport. There's, it's not a state owned facility," the plaintiff said.

RELATED STORY | Florida pilot sues over multimillion-dollar renaming of airport after Trump, citing safety concerns

Meanwhile, DTTM Operations which state records show is connected to the Trump Organization and controls several trademarks related to the company has filed three trademark applications related to the new airport name. According to the applications, the company is seeking exclusive use of the name for suitcases, travel bags, animal carriers, luggage tags, and several other travel-related items and merchandise.

As they continue to investigate a death in Woodland Hills Park, Farmington Hills police are asking anyone who was in the park on Sunday, May 3rd, to contact them.

Officials say they may have information that could be of assistance. Police Chief John Piggott issued the following statement:

The Farmington Hills Police Department continues investigating the death at Woodland Hills Park as a homicide. This investigation is ongoing and remains active. At this time, there is no additional information to share; however, the department is asking anyone who visited the park or the surrounding area on Sunday, May 3rd, to contact the police department, as they may have information that could be of assistance. The department is using all available resources to bring this investigation to a close. Farmington Hills is known for being a safe community, and this type of incident is very rare. In response to the communitys concern, officers will increase police presence in city parks. The public is encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings, take ordinary safety precautions and contact the police department at 248-871-2610 if they observe any suspicious activity. At the request of the family, the department will not be releasing the name of the victim at this time.

According to the city, officers were called to Woodland Hills Park, located at 26655 Farmington Road, around 4 p.m. Sunday on a report of a body found on a trail.

ORIGINAL REPORT: Farmington Hills police launch homicide investigation after body found on park trail Farmington Hills police launch homicide investigation after body found in park

Officials say the victim is a 64-year-old male resident of Farmington Hills.

Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact the Farmington Hills Police Department at 248-871-2610.

The U.S. military carried out what it described as self-defense strikes on Iran while U.S. Navy destroyers transited the Strait of Hormuz, according to U.S. Central Command.

CENTCOM said Iranian forces launched missiles, drones and small boats targeting the U.S. ships as they moved into the Gulf of Oman.

The military said U.S. forces responded by targeting Iranian military facilities tied to the attacks, including missile and drone launch sites, command-and-control locations and intelligence and surveillance infrastructure. CENTCOM added that it does not seek escalation but remains prepared to defend American forces in the region.

Iran, meanwhile, accused the United States of violating the ceasefire.

A statement attributed to Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy Command claimed U.S. forces targeted an Iranian tanker and another vessel. The statement also accused the U.S. and regional allies of carrying out strikes near Qeshm Island and other coastal areas.

Qeshm Island sits in the Persian Gulf and is home to roughly 150,000 people, as well as a major water desalination plant.

The exchange came as there appeared to be movement toward a potential peace agreement between the United States and Iran.

Irans foreign ministry indicated that negotiations were ongoing through Pakistani mediators and said it was reviewing messages it had received.

The ministry said no conclusions had been reached and that it had not yet responded to the United States.

The Wall Street Journal reported that a working draft under discussion would ease restrictions around the Strait of Hormuz on both sides. However, key sticking points including enriched uranium, a suspension of enrichment activities and sanctions relief have not been finalized.

Irans mission to the United Nations on Thursday called for a permanent end to the war, an end to the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports and an opening of the Strait of Hormuz.

The strait, which carried roughly 20% of the worlds fuel supply before the war began Feb. 28, has played a major role in rising gas prices globally and in the United States.

According to AAA, the national average price for a gallon of gas rose to $4.55 on Thursday, up more than 40 cents from a week ago and about $1.40 higher than a year ago.

Republican lawmakers in Tennessee approved a new U.S. House map Thursday that carves up a majority-Black district in Memphis, reshaping it to the GOPs advantage as part of President Donald Trumps strategy to hold on to a slim majority in the November midterm elections.

Protesters shouted No Jim Crow outside the House and Senate chambers as lawmakers convened to consider the legislation. As the Republican-led House voted for the new map, Democratic lawmakers locked arms at the front of the chamber while protesters in the gallery yelled, chanted and blew air horns. Shouts from protesters who flooded the halls, where Tennessee state troopers held them back, could be heard inside both chambers.

The new map now goes to Republican Gov. Bill Lee, who called lawmakers into special session.

Tennessee is the first state to pass new congressional districts since a U.S. Supreme Court ruling last week significantly weakened federal Voting Rights Act protections for minorities. But more Southern states could follow. Republicans in Louisiana, Alabama and South Carolina also have taken steps toward redistricting.

The court ruled that Louisiana relied too heavily on race when creating a second Black-majority House district as it attempted to comply with federal law. The high court's decision altered a decades-old understanding of the law, giving Republicans grounds to try to eliminate majority-Black districts that have elected Democrats.

Louisiana has postponed its congressional primary to give time for state lawmakers to craft a new House map. Legislation awaiting a final vote in Alabama also would upend the states congressional primaries if courts allow the state to change its U.S. House districts. In South Carolina, meanwhile, Republican lawmakers urged on by Trump have taken initial steps to add congressional redistricting to their agenda.

READ MORE | Florida legislature approves new congressional map intended to boost Republicans in midterms

The states are the latest to join an already fierce national redistricting battle. Since Trump prodded Texas to redraw its U.S. House districts last year, eight states have adopted new congressional districts. From that, Republicans think they could gain as many as 13 seats while Democrats think they could gain up to 10. But some competitive races mean the parties may not get everything they sought in the November elections.

Tennessee Republicans act despite protests

As a first step to adopting new House districts, Tennessee lawmakers gave final approval Thursday to legislation quickly signed into law by Lee that repealed a state law prohibiting mid-decade redistricting. They then passed a bill that would reopen candidate qualifying until May 15 to allow time for new people to enter the U.S. House primaries and existing candidates to switch districts or drop out.

The proposed House map would break up Tennessees lone Democratic-held district, centered on the majority-Black city of Memphis, creating a ripple effect of alterations to districts throughout the western and central parts of the state. The geographically compact 9th District that includes Memphis currently represented by Steve Cohen, who is white would stretch a couple hundred miles eastward before reaching north toward the Nashville suburbs.

Republican House Speaker Cameron Sexton said the proposed districts were drawn based on population and politics, not racial data.

But Democrats dismissed such assertions.

These maps are racist tools of white supremacy at the behest of the most powerful white supremacist in the United States of America, Donald J. Trump, said state Rep. Justin Pearson, a Black Democrat from Memphis who is running for the U.S. House.

Republican state Sen. John Stevens defended the new districts he sponsored by noting that Democrats in Illinois, Massachusetts and other states also had drawn congressional districts to their advantage.

This bill represents Tennessees attempt to maximize our partisan advantage, he said.

It does so at the expense of both Memphis residents and democracy, said Sen. London Lamar, a Democrat from Memphis.

You cannot take a majority Black city, fracture its voting power and then tell us race has nothing to do with it," she said.

Democrats noted that the state Supreme Court in April 2022 rejected a challenge to the current congressional map, finding it was too close to the election to make changes. This year, theres even less time before the Aug. 6 primary, raising the potential of confusion for both candidates and voters, Democrats said.

MORE ON REDISTRICTING | Judge bars certification of Virginia redistricting results; state AG promises appeal

A plan for a new primary advances in Alabama

Protesters watching an Alabama legislative committee Thursday erupted in shouts of shame as Republican lawmakers advanced legislation to authorize special congressional primaries if the state can put a new congressional map in place for the November midterms.

In the wake of the Supreme Court decision arising from Louisiana, Alabama is seeking to overturn a court injunction that created a second U.S. House district with a substantial percentage of Black voters. That map led to the 2024 election of Rep. Shomari Figures, a Black Democrat. Republicans want instead to use a 2023 map drawn by state lawmakers that would give the GOP an opportunity to reclaim Figures district.

If a court grants Alabama's request, the legislation under consideration would ignore the May 19 primary results for congressional seats and direct the governor to schedule a new primary under the revised districts.

The House passed the legislation on a party-line vote Thursday after four hours of fiery debate. A final vote in the Senate is expected Friday.

South Carolina may add redistricting to its agenda

The South Carolina Senate could take up a resolution Thursday giving lawmakers permission to return later, after their regular work ends, to redraw congressional districts that could eliminate the states only Democratic-held district. The proposal, which passed the House on Wednesday, needs a two-thirds vote in both chambers.

Republican House leaders said after the vote that they plan to introduce a new map Thursday and hold committee meetings on Friday. But during debate Wednesday, Republicans fended off specific questions from Democrats, including why they were willing to stop the June 9 U.S. House primary elections well after candidates filed and how much a rescheduled primary could cost.

Democratic Rep. Justin Bamberg said he felt sorry for Republicans who, he said, were giving up their principles to follow the whims of Trump.

The president of the United States is a very powerful man, wields a heavy, heavy thumb Truth Social, X, Meta, Instagram. To be honest, I dont envy our Republican colleagues, Bamberg said.

Whirlpool appeared to be in a prime position to thrive, producing about 80% of its major appliances at American factories at a time when President Donald Trump has emphasized domestic manufacturing jobs and more production at home.

This week, however, the company said that revenue dropped nearly 10% in its most recent quarter and sales of major appliances in North America tumbled 7%.

The company that also produces KitchenAid and Maytag products said that the Iran war has led to a recession-level industry decline" that has shaken consumer confidence.

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Whirlpool announced a 10% price hike in April, its largest in a decade, and said that a separate 4% price increase will happen in July to address multiyear inflationary cost pressures.

The company had absorbed the higher costs, choosing not to pass them on to customers, but that must change after the company posted a first quarter loss of $82 million, reversing last year's gains.

CEO Marc Bitzer said Thursday that the North American slide in sales has a precedent.

This level of industry decline is similar to what we have observed during the global financial crisis and even higher than during other recessionary periods, he said during a conference call.

Whirlpool said that its performance has been impacted by the Supreme Court's recent decision to strike down Trump's emergency tariffs. Rival appliance makers are seeking refunds to reduce the impact of those tariffs, disrupting pricing in the industry further.

The Benton Harbor, Michigan, company estimated that the tariff impact on its competitors was about 10% to 15%, while the impact on its business was around 5%, according to details in its earnings presentation.

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But with consumers already worried about high grocery prices and escalating gas prices, many are holding off on big-ticket purchases like major appliances and instead trying to make due with what they already have.

People are looking at the price of replacing appliances and realizing its not something they want to deal with right now, Mark Stevenson, managing director and product designer at Stove Shield, said in a statement. Instead, theyre asking how to avoid the damage in the first place.

Whirlpool also announced that it is slashing its full-year earnings forecast to a range of $3 to $3.50 per share, from its prior outlook of $6 per share. Its also suspending its dividend while it looks to reduce its debt this year.

Shares tumbled more than 12% Thursday.

Oakland County Board of Commissioners Chair Dave Woodward is trying to stop the recall effort against him by taking the countys election commission to court.

Woodwards attorney filed a claim of appeal Wednesday from the April 27, 2026, election commission decision to approve two recall petitions against the powerful Oakland County politician.

The recall is being organized by the group I Am Oakland County.

Woodward has come under fire for his consulting work with private companies like Sheetz, and in April, hundreds of Oakland County voters shouted him down at a packed meeting where they say Woodward and other commissioners refused to let them speak before a crucial vote.

PREVIOUS REPORT: Recall effort launches against Oakland County Commission chair Dave Woodward Recall effort launches against Oakland County Commission chair Dave Woodward

On April 8, the Oakland County Board of Commissioners approved a Flock drone trial agreement, despite protests from many county residents who said they did not want the deal to go through for several reasons. Many commissioners voted to move public comment to the end of the meeting, hours after the vote on the Flock deal.

The 7 Investigators were the first to report that Woodward (D-Royal Oak) traveled to Flock headquarters in Atlanta last November, which other county leaders say Woodward did not reveal prior to his vote on the drone contract. Woodward confirmed to 7 Investigator Heather Catallo that Flock paid for his trip.

Previous Story: Commission Chair's visit to Flock, drone contract still sparking outrage in Oakland County Commission Chair's visit to Flock, drone contract still sparking outrage in Oakland County

Voters are now mobilizing to try to recall Woodward from his elected position in District 1, which includes parts of Royal Oak, Birmingham and Troy. Their efforts could be on hold until after Woodwards appeal.

Troy Residents Mike Flores and Justine Galbraith are organizing the I Am Oakland County recall campaign.

Having them take the vote before they had to hear from any of us just felt really disdainful, and it was just kind of an egregious subversion of democracy, said Galbraith. Decisions that affect millions of people should not be made this way. So, it's a big deal.

I think what constituents are saying is that yes, we do deserve a voice. We want to be heard at every level. And since we weren't heard on April 8th, this is the step that the process allows us to do to make sure that our voices are being heard, said Flores.

Previous Story: Did commission head use position to help along possible Sheetz in Waterford? Did commission head use position to help along possible Sheetz in Waterford?

"Very disappointed. These petitions are unclear. No voter would know what they possibly refer to, said Woodwards attorney Mark Brewer after the Oakland County Board of Election Commission meeting where the petition language was approved.

Two versions of the petition language were approved:

1. On April 8, 2026, at the Oakland County Board of Commissioners meeting held in Pontiac, MI, Commissioner David T. Woodward (District 1) voted yes on Miscellaneous Resolution #2026-6416 titled Project Prove It with Flock Group for Unmanned Air Support.

2. On April 8, 2026, at the Oakland County Board of Commissioners meeting held in Pontiac, MI, Commissioner David T. Woodward (District 1) voted yes on Miscellaneous Resolution #2026-6416 titled Project Prove It with Flock Group for Unmanned Air Support, before the Public Comment agenda item.

In a statement about his appeal in circuit court, Woodward told the 7 Investigators on Thursday, Oakland County voters want safe communities. Continuing a 911 drone program that helps first responders arrive faster and better assist in emergencies is something they support. The language isnt factual and clear, and the outsiders leading this effort shouldnt be allowed to mislead voters into signing.

Woodward previously called the recall effort a ridiculous stunt, and alleged the organizers of the recall effort support political violence.

I Am Oakland County organizers Galbraith and Flores deny that, saying in a statement Thursday:

I Am Oakland County is a coalition of residents advocating for transparency, accountability, and stronger representation in Oakland County government. We unequivocally reject political violence in all forms and do not advocate for violence against anyone. We are deeply disappointed by the false characterization made by Oakland County Chair Dave Woodward in recent interviews, particularly when directed at his own constituents who have engaged peacefully and consistently through public meetings, emails, phone calls, and civic participation.

Our movement has always been rooted in public engagement, accountability, and democratic participation. Residents across Oakland County have shown up respectfully and persistently because they care deeply about the future of our communities.

Our focus remains unchanged: ensuring that Oakland County is a place where residents voices are heard, respected, and represented. We look forward to continuing that work, including through the recall process.

When asked about Flock paying for his trip to Atlanta, Woodward said this:

The job of an elected official is to make informed decisions in the best interest of my community, so I do my homework and I do my research. I was invited to attend a meeting with the leadership of Oakland County Sheriffs Office to learn more about the service. It was an opportunity to better understand the technology and address my privacy concerns directly with the companys senior leadership. We also visited a local police department thats currently using this tool and spoke with the police chief and his staff about its effectiveness in supporting public safety.

Even though last fall Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter announced he wanted greater financial disclosure and transparency, Coulters spokesman would not comment on Woodwards Flock-paid trip to company headquarters.

Coulter did issue a statement backing Woodward on the recall attempt:

I oppose this recall effort. Its a distraction from the important work weve accomplished for our residents. In close partnership with the Board of Commissioners and Chair Woodward, we've brought home real results for Oakland County -- like expanding affordable housing and public transit, reducing medical and student loan debt, addressing access to mental and physical health, supporting low-income mothers and newborn babies, reducing homelessness, helping small businesses grow, investing in main streets across the county including in our county seat of Pontiac, expanding access to county parks, and so much more.

If the recall proceeds, supporters will need to gather about 9,000 signatures in District 1.

If you have a story for Heather Catallo, please email her at hcatallo@wxyz.com

The Professional Women's Hockey League has announced details for their draft, which will take place in Detroit, one day after announcing the city is getting the next team in the league.

The draft, which will be presented by Upper Deck, will be held at the Fox Theatre beginning at 5 p.m. on June 17. Tickets will go on sale May 12 for fans who make an early deposit for PWHL Detroit packages. The public sale will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 13.

Watch coverage of the Detroit team announcement: Detroit officially gets a PWHL team with play beginning in 2026-27 season

A limited-time presale offering 20% off will be available to current Season Ticket Members across the PWHLs eight teams, as well as PWHL Detroit Season Ticket Member depositors who purchase by Monday, May 11, ahead of the presale window. Deposits for PWHL Detroit season tickets can be made here.

Fans can also purchase a limited-availability Early Access Experience Package, which includes:

Early entry with advanced premium Red Carpet access Exclusive photo opportunities on the Draft stage and with the Walter Cup Autographed Official Draft Collectibles

As part of the announcement, the PWHL also announced that Ally Financial will be the inaugural partner and Official Bank of PWHL Detroit.

Fans can stay up to date on all 2026 PWHL Draft and Awards announcements at thepwhl.com and by following @thepwhlofficial across all social media platforms.