More than 250,000 residents across Southeast Michigan remained without power on Friday after widespread storms. The storms brought heavy rain, winds and at least one tornado to the region.  

National Weather Service data showed that more than 3/4′ of rain fell on Detroit on Thursday with an additional 2 inches of rain from overnight storms.  

DTE Energy issued a report saying that they expect 65% of customers to have power by the end of the day on Friday and 90% of customers to have power by Saturday and the remainder by Sunday.  

Additional headlines for Friday, Sept. 4, 2026

Five Detroit businesses gain funds from Motor City Match

The city and the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation awards $330,000 dollars to five Detroit businesses in round 32 of Motor City Match. This program connects new businesses with services and space to grow by providing them with funding and resources.

Kevin Johnson, president of the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation says efforts like this help build Detroit.  “People who saw a gap in their neighborhoods decided to fill it… that’s what’s going to bring our city back to the place where we want it to be, which is the most vibrant and most outstanding place to start and grow a business in this city through the mayor’s Rise Higher initiative.” 

Sports 

The Tigers had their payback against the Minnesota Twins with a dominant win of 11- 6 on Wednesday.

They are going to try to build off of that win this weekend against the Cleveland Guardians during their trip to Progressive Field in Cleveland Ohio.

The Tigers are currently second to last in the American League Central Division. 

Arts, Beats & Eats 

And this Labor Day weekend we have Michigan Lottery Arts, Beats & Eats. This annual downtown Royal Oak event is filled musical guests, such as rock band Third Eye Blind, country singer Chris Young, singer songwriter Brett Young, and R&B singer Ginuwine.  

Organizers say there will also be local talent, fun for kids, and a lot of interactive activities. 

At the festival there will be the Fine Art Fair  that was recently named #7 in the nation for fine art and design on Sunshine Artist magazine’s annual 200 Best list.

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

September is National Preparedness Month and the city of Detroit is telling you how you can stay prepared in case of an emergency. This year’s theme is Americans Stand Ready.

In order to encourage preparedness in the city the Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security is telling residents to create and practice family emergency plans, develop a family emergency communications plan, and build an emergency supplies kit. The city is also encouraging residents to prepare for emergencies by signing up for the Detroit Alerts 365 notification system.

Additional headlines for Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2026

Detroit parks receive funds for updates 

Eleven Detroit parks are getting an upgrade thanks to a $20 million investment in neighborhood and recreational spaces. This donation is made possible by the Gilbert Family Foundation, ARPA funds and city funds.

Councilmemeber Scott Benson—who is an avid bike rider—shares how this investment will enhance the quality of life in Detroit in an highlight reel YouTube video that dropped today from the City. “When we look at thriving cities around the city we see a common thread. Recreation is not a luxury, but is a vital urban asset and competitive edge for strong thriving cities and that is what you see today. Vibrant parks attract families, improve mental and physical well being and show the world that a city invests in its people, its recreation and neighborhoods” 

According to the city, they are seeing a record participation in their adopt a park program which is nearing 100 community partner organizations that help take care and invest in Detroit’s parks.  

Sports 

NFL  

We are a week away from the start of the NFL season and less than two weeks away to the Lions playing their first game. The team revealed their 53 man roster this week. RB Isiah Pacheco will miss at least the first four games of the regular season as he recovers from his MCL sprain.

Vice president and general manager Brad Holmes commented on Pacheo’s outlook. “We’re excited about him to get back. he’s again he’s doing everything that he can to to get back and we’re we’re excited to get him back when he’s health at some point this season.”

The Lions first game is on Sept. 13 at Ford Field. Kickoff is at 1 p.m. 

MLB 

The Tigers have suffered back to back losses to the Minnesota Twins. Next game is today at 7:40 p.m. at Target Field in Minneapolis. We’ll have the results of that game in tomorrow’s Detroit Evening Report. 

Art in the Elements Tour 

And this Labor Day weekend we get the chance to witness Meadow Brook Hall’s annual limited-run of the Art in the Elements tour. This tour features more than a dozen imaginative floral art sculptures created by renowned floral artists from around the country.

This is the tenth anniversary of their Art in the Elements Tour and organizers say this year’s art takes an imaginative excursion into the beyond.

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Detroit Police and the Detroit Fire Department are hosting Public Safety Fun Day at Palmer Park tomorrow, Aug. 15. The free community event is an effort to strengthen relationships between first responders and residents.

The event was originally set for July but was postponed because of unsafe air from Canadian wildfires.

Activities include hands-only CPR training, a meet-and-greet with Detroit police officers, safety education, voter registration and more.

For more information, go to DetroitMI.gov.

Detroit employees receive first checks under new livable wage

The City of Detroit celebrated city employees receiving their first “livable wage” checks in a video on its YouTube channel.

In the spring of 2026, Mayor Mary Sheffield signed an executive order mandating that city employees be paid no less than $21.45 per hour, or $44,616 annually.

All full-time, budgeted positions in departments under the executive branch of city government are included in the new livable wage, as well as employees of the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department. That includes more than 1,100 people.

In the YouTube video, Sheffield marked the achievement:

“Economic growth is not measured only in the buildings that we construct. We also must invest in the people who make this city work every single day.”

The increase amounts to an average annual salary increase of $6,400.

Lions fall to Bengals in preseason matchup

The NFL season is here. Well, the preseason, at least. The Lions had their first test yesterday against the Cincinnati Bengals.

The Lions lost 16-14, but standout Ahmed Hassanein showed up with a sack on starting quarterback Joe Burrow. He says he envisioned the moment before the game.

“I truly, truly prayed about it and I manifested it. And I said, ‘I’m going to sack him,’ before the game. And Coach Campbell said the same thing. I just kept telling my wife, ‘I’m going to sack Joe Burrow, I’m going to get him.’ I just kept talking to God about it, and it truly just happened.”

The Lions’ next preseason game is Aug. 22 against the Washington Commanders at Ford Field.

Tigers look to climb AL Central standings

The Tigers have managed to claw their way into second place in the American League Central and hope to continue their climb against the Chicago White Sox this weekend.

First pitch for tonight’s game is at 6:40 p.m. at Comerica Park.

Detroit City FC hosts Loudoun United

Detroit City FC faces Loudoun United FC tomorrow at 7 p.m. at Keyworth Stadium.

J. Cole brings Fall-Off Tour to Detroit

And this Sunday, the Ville comes to the Motor City as J. Cole is slated to perform at Little Caesars Arena.

The Detroit stop is part of J. Cole’s Fall-Off Tour, supporting what he has said will be his final album.

The show starts at 9:30 p.m.

The city of Detroit and the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation celebrated the third Green Grocer ribbon cutting in the Motor City. This is part of the effort to have more fresh and healthy food available at retail food locations in the city. 

The Counter Detroit is a 400-square-foot grocery store anchoring community marketplace, Shops on Six, in the Bagley neighborhood. 

Owner Karlyta Williams says that her store is meant to bring people together and to represent the diversity of the neighborhood. “That is what the Counter stands for. It is for every neighbor. Every piece that goes onto their shelves, every neighbor is thought of. There is something magical that happens when the business that shows up in your neighborhood feed you.” 

Mayor Sheffield says that the goal is to have six Green Grocer stores by the end of the year. 

Additional headlines for Friday, Aug. 7, 2026

Gas prices on the rise 

As the summer comes to close…are you trying to go on a last-minute summer trip? 

Well if you plan on going on one this week, you might need to budget some more for gas. According to AAA gas prices in Michigan have risen to 13 cents from a week ago. Michigan drivers are now paying an average $4.36 per gallon for regular unleaded gas.  

Fuel prices have increased in large part due to the continuing war in Iran that has caused the blocking of about 20% of the world’s supply of oil and gas from the Stait of Hormuz. Another reason is that gas prices typically peak during the late spring/early summer when refineries switch to a more expensive summer blend of gasoline. 

AAA says while the market conditions remain unpredictable, drivers may continue to see the prices go up and down.  

Sports

MLB

The Tigers laid a beat down against the Seattle Mariners yesterday with the score of 11-0. They now face the San Francisco Giants this weekend as they continue to claw and climb from the bottom of the American League Central division. 

First pitch for today’s game is at 10:15 p.m. EST. 

Soccer 

Detroit City FC faces off against FC Tulsa tomorrow at 8:30 p.m. at the Tulsa Drillers Baseball Team Stadium in Tulsa Oklahoma.  

Football 

And with the Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs agree to 3-year, $67.5 million extension. The three-time Pro Bowler is now the highest-paid running back in NFL history. The record deal surpasses the extension Bijan Robinson signed with the Atlanta Falcons earlier this week—which is a reminder that anything can happen in football.  

Cyclosporiasis cases slow

The state health department says the number of new cyclosporiasis infections is slowing down, and fewer people are showing up at the hospital with diarrhea-related emergencies.

The agency is lifting its recommendation to avoid bagged salad mixes, one of the possible sources of the outbreak. It says people may also resume their usual food handling practices, but should still avoid recalled lettuce.

Michigan has had more than 12,000 confirmed and suspected cases of cyclosporiasis since late June. So far, 279 people reported going to the hospital. Two people with significant health problems died after getting the disease. 

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

The City of Detroit has announced a three year, $9.2 million investment to help unhoused families move out of emergency shelter and into stabilized housing. The Homeless to Housed initiative will provide families with 6- 12 months of rental assistance, help them find a home, and provide additional support along the way.  

The program touts that it will assist up to 140 households each year with this program, which is approximately 500 Detroiters each year.  

In a press conference for the program, the city’s first ever Chief Executive of Health, Human Services and Poverty Solutions Dr. Luke Shaefer says this program is about more than providing shelter. “Its about creating pathways to stability. The mayor has challenged us to build a system where homelessness is rare, brief, and non recurring.”

Shaefer also describes how they were able to fund this program.   “This didn’t happen by accident…it happened because dedicated public servants were willing to rethink how we use available resources, they strategically aligned federal emergency solutions and grant funding to launch the Homeless to Housing initiative leaning into the mayor’s charge to us.” 
 
Priority for this program will be given to families with minor children. This program is also expected to free up space in existing shelter homes to provide assistance to other Detroiters facing homelessness.  

Additional headlines for Thursday, July 30, 2026

Small business summit 

The city of Detroit is hosting a micro and small business summit on July 31 at the Wayne County Community College District Northwest Campus. 

The summit is part of the Office of Contracting and Procurement, and it’s part of an effort to build Detroit based micro and small business industries.

The free event will provide attendees an opportunity to interact with funders, banks, and partner organizations including Goldman Sachs, First Merchant bank, the Detroit Development Fund, the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation and the Small Business Association.

For more information and to register go to detroitmi.gov. 

Sports 

Detroit City FC faces Miami FC on Saturday, Aug. 1 at Pitbull Stadium in Westchester Florida. Also, the club soccer team’s development of their new home stadium broke ground earlier this month.

The AlumniFi Field will hold 15,000 seats, an increase from Keyworth stadium that only holds 7,000 seats. It will also be the city’s first soccer-specific stadium, and the state’s only privately owned major sports stadium. The project also includes a 421-space parking garage and a 104-unit residential building with 76 affordable housing units. 

Completion of the stadium was slated for spring of 2027 but its now slated for 2028 USL Champion season. 

Sports

MLB 

And the Tigers efforts to climb up the American League Central division stalled a bit with a high scoring loss to the Baltimore Orioles yesterday 10-9.

They now face the Athletics in a 3 game weekend affair at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, California. First pitch for tomorrow’s game is at 9:40 p.m. EST. 

Talk it Out Walk it Out

And on Saturday August 1 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the Charles H Wright Museum of African American History is hosting Talk it Out Walk it Out. This free admission event is an annual community conversation and awareness walk to highlight health disparities impacting Black women.

The event serves as a start to Black Women’s Health Month in Detroit. The event is being held at the museum.  

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

A year after the groundbreaking ceremony, MyFlight Tours is opening up their new headquarters and aviation entertainment in Detroit this weekend. The helicopter tour company is offering sightseeing flights over Detroit’s skyline.  

In a ribbon cutting press conference, Founder Sergio Troiani said this business adds to the growing infrastructure of Detroit. “Detroit is in the middle of an incredible transformation. Everywhere you look, there is new investment, new growth, world class infrastructure being built and today we’re proud to add to one more piece to that story. This is a place where people can enjoy great food, great drinks, incredible company and sit on that balcony that overlooks the airfield where jets take off.” 

The 12,000 square foot facility will be at Coleman A. Young International Airport. This opening adds to their business that’s now at 7 other locations nationwide with the addition of Detroit.  

Additional headlines for Friday, July 24, 2026

Gordie Howe Bridge to open

The Gordie Howe International Bridge is having their inauguration day today to celebrate the opening on Monday. After a 6 month delay thanks to political drama and trade tensions, the bridge is set to create a vital economic link between United States and Canada.  

After eight years of construction this bridge is open and save commuters, truckers and recreational travelers and estimated 420 hours per year according to federal and state projections. 

Before the Gordie Howe Bridge we only had the Ambassador bridge for commercial road crossing. The operators of that bridge recently reduced passenger tolls to become more competitive with its new, publicly-owned competitor. 

Sports

MLB 

Detroit Tigers are fighting an uphill battle in their American League Central division and they hope to keep moving uphill against the Kansas City Royals. They face their fellow division mate yesterday and won, 4-3. Now they have 3 other games this weekend to climb closer to the top. 

First pitch for tonight’s game is at 6:40 p.m. at Comerica Park.  

Soccer 

Detroit City FC face off against Las Vegas Lights tomorrow at 7 p.m. at Keyworth Stadium. 

Celebrating 325 years

And today is someone special’s birthday…I’m talking about our very own Detroit!

Today the once-called Paris of the West is having celebrations all over the city. Here are my top 3:

• Hudsonville Ice Cream will be at Campus Martius selling free ice cream from 6-7 p.m.
• Detroit’s 325th Birthday Bash Garden Party at The Whitney if going down today at 5 p.m.
• and nonprofit Rendez-vous Detroit is hosting a two day celebration this weekend both today and tomorrow with a list full of activities. 

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

The city of Detroit’s Health Department is offering guidance and respite centers to help residents to stay safe from the Canadian wildfire smoke.  

In a press conference this week, Mayor Sheffield acknowledged the hazardous air quality conditions.  “We know we have unsafe air quality outside, and we are doing all that we can to get that information out to residents to stay in and to stay masked and to ensure we’re checking on our loved ones.” 
  
In response to the air quality, the health department has informed residents to check the website, airnow.gov to check up to date air quality conditions in your area.   

They also advise residents to stay indoors as much as possible, keep windows and doors closed, move physical activities indoors, and wear masks.  Residents that don’t have air-conditioning can check out some of Detroit’s recreations centers at detroitmi.gov. There you will find centers near you and the numbers to contact them.     

Additional headlines for Friday, July 17, 2026

Detroit invests in sewer line repair

The city is also investing $184 million to repair a long list of damaged sewer lines. This project will help prevent sewer backups and sinkholes that are most common in low-income neighborhoods.

Gary Brown is the director and CEO of the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD). He says these repairs are too expensive for homeowners to repair. “In Detroit, homeowners and the maintenance of these lines are the homeowner’s responsibility. Many residents don’t realize they’re responsible for the connections.  Unfortunately, it is also the deepest most difficult and most expensive portion of the sewer repair.”   

The federally funded project will repair nearly 9,000 clogged or broken sewer connections in mostly low to moderate income neighborhoods. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2030.  

Sports 

MLB  

The second half of the Tigers season starts this weekend after the all-star break. The home team goes against the Los Angeles Angels for a 3-game weekend affair.

The Tigers are currently trying to dig out of the American League Central against an Angels team that is trying to do the same.   

First pitch for today’s game is 9:35 p.m. at Angel Stadium in Anaheim.   
  
Soccer

Detroit City FC go against the Indy Eleven tomorrow at Keyworth Stadium. Game starts at 7 p.m.  
  
FIFA 

And the FIFA World Cup final takes place on Sunday, July 19 with Spain facing Argentina in a game that will make history with Lamine Yamal and Lionnel Messi leading their respective teams. Game starts at 3 p.m. at the MetLife stadium—temporarily known as New York New Jersey Stadium in New Jersey.     

Festival of Books  

And this Sunday is the 9th Annual Detroit Festival of Books. Organizers say that at this event you’ll be able to shop for rare, unique, and unusual books, vinyl records, comic books and more.

The event is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on July 19 at Eastern Market.  

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

“Our great partner, Governor Whitmer isn’t the only one fixing the roads around here,” said Mayor Sheffield yesterday, where she and the Department of Public Works gave an update to their road improvement program.

This $58 million initiative includes 140 individual major road and residential paving and construction projects, as well as bridge removals and streetscape construction.

The mayor said the project will not only fix the infrastructure of Detroit but it will build up the community’s workforce. “We are also putting Detroiters to work while we invest in our neighborhoods… 90% of the individuals that are doing this work are Detroit residents and 100% are unionized. Let’s give that a round of applause.”

Funding for the road projects will come from federal and state transportation funds. This project will begin along West Grand Boulevard.

Additional headlines for Thursday, June 25, 2026

New affordable housing complex for seniors

Earlier this week city leaders joined together for the ribbon cutting of new senior housing in Grandmont Rosedale. The new development Minock Park Place is a mixed use development bringing commercial space as well as affordable housing for seniors.  The development includes 36 one bedroom apartments and six two bedroom apartments for low to moderate income seniors.

Mike Randall, executive director of the Grandmont Rosedale Development Corporation, says completion of this project brings value to the neighborhood and community.  “In the face of doubt, skepticism, a global pandemic, 3 presidential terms, skyrocketing inflation and costs, yet here we stand. Not for the recognition and not to boast but to demonstrate that value exists on our corridor not just on grand river not just on 6 mile…and not just on schoolcraft but throughout all the great city of Detroit.”

Residents are expected to begin moving in in July with commercial spots opening in the first quarter of next year.  

Sports

MLB

The Tigers lost to the NY Yankees with the score of 4-2. Their next 3 game series is against the Houston Astros starting tonight at Comerica Park. First pitch is a 6:40pm.

Club soccer

Detroit City FC face Birmingham Legion FC on July 2 at Protective Stadium in Alabama 

FIFA 
And the FIFA group stage continues as TEAM USA faces Türkiye. The U.S. has a 51% chance of winning according to sports analysts. Tonight’s game at the Los Angeles stadium in Inglewood California starts at 10 p.m. EST. 

Murder mystery walking tour

And if you are looking for something spooky to get into this weekend, look no further than The Rosary Requiem—Detroit Murder Mystery Walking Tour.

The tour starts at Most Holy Redeemer Church – the church where the film “The Rosary Murders” was filmed. Organizers say the walking tour is blends mystery and intrigue, with the vibrant spice of Detroit’s Mexicantown – that means food!

For more information go to distinctivelydetroit.com.

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

The United Auto Workers has endorsed Jocelyn Benson for governor and Abdul El-Sayed for U.S. Senate in Michigan’s 2026 elections.

In a statement, the UAW said it supports El-Sayed because it wants “a fighter” in Washington, D.C. During an interview with ABC News Live this week, El-Sayed discussed the importance of unions like the UAW.

“The best way to protect people’s wages is to allow them to form unions. I want to pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Act and the PRO Act to make sure you have the voting rights and that you can form a union anywhere and in any sector in American life.”
The UAW also said the 2026 gubernatorial race is critical and that Benson has demonstrated she would stand with working-class Michiganders.

The endorsements come after former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan entered the governor’s race as an independent candidate and following last week’s Mackinac Policy Conference, where El-Sayed and fellow Democratic Senate candidates Mallory McMorrow and Haley Stevens participated in a debate.

Additional headlines for June 5, 2026

Dearborn opens third PEACE Park in Southend

Dearborn has opened its third PEACE Park in the city’s Southend neighborhood.

PEACE stands for Park Equity and Access for Civic Engagement. The parks are part of the PEACE Project, a nearly $30 million grant-funded effort to invest in the city’s green infrastructure.

PEACE Park South includes a community basketball court, two pickleball courts, a garden walk and other amenities. During a town hall meeting in April, Mayor Abdullah Hammoud discussed additional efforts to expand green space throughout the city.

“Every year, we choose six to nine schools where we’re planting rain gardens and trees in various schools.”

The new park is now open for residents to enjoy.

Tigers host Mariners in weekend series

The Detroit Tigers host the Seattle Mariners this weekend for a three-game series at Comerica Park.

Detroit enters the series looking to gain ground in the American League Central amid trade speculation ahead of the deadline.
First pitch for Friday’s game is scheduled for 6:40 p.m.

Detroit City FC takes on Lexington SC in USL Jägermeister Cup

Detroit City FC will face Lexington SC in Group D action of the USL Jägermeister Cup on Saturday.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Keyworth Stadium in Hamtramck.

Michigan State researcher helps prepare World Cup playing surfaces

Michigan State University professor Trey Rogers is helping prepare playing surfaces for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Rogers helped pioneer indoor natural grass systems for the 1994 World Cup. For next year’s tournament, he and his team are developing methods to ensure the safe transportation and installation of turf at host stadiums.

According to Bridge Michigan, Michigan State and the University of Tennessee are also supplying turfgrass through a FIFA-funded project.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins June 11 and concludes July 19.

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer turned heads this week when she said she will not run for president in 2028.

Speaking with Fox 2’s Roop Raj at the Detroit Regional Chamber’s Mackinac Policy Conference, Whitmer said she plans to take time off after her tenure as governor ends.

“I’m looking forward to taking a break…there is time until 2028. There will be a robust group running for president. I will not be one of them.”

Later in the day, during a conversation with Tricia A. Keith, president and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Whitmer clarified her remarks.

“I never knew I would run for governor. I should know better. Never say never.”

Whitmer said she does not want to be distracted by speculation about future political plans and remains focused on governing through the end of her term in November.

Additional headlines for May 29, 2026

Whitmer signs $152 million Selfridge funding bill

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation on Mackinac Island earmarking $152 million in state funding for improvements at Selfridge Air National Guard Base.

The funding is intended to prepare the base for new F-15EX fighter aircraft announced by President Donald Trump in 2025.

Whitmer said the investment was made possible through bipartisan cooperation.

“We secured the KC-46 tanker mission thanks to President Biden…last year we secured the F-15EX fighter mission thanks to President Trump. Together these missions will lock in Selfridge’s future.”

The governor said the base supports 5,000 families through jobs and emphasized the economic impact of the investment.

Detroit sports roundup

Tigers open series against White Sox

The Detroit Tigers begin a three-game series against the Chicago White Sox this weekend.

The Tigers remain near the bottom of the American League Central standings and are looking to gain ground with a strong showing in Chicago.

First pitch is scheduled for 7:40 p.m. ET Friday at Guaranteed Rate Field.

Detroit City FC faces Charleston Battery

Detroit City FC travels to South Carolina this weekend for a USL Championship Eastern Conference matchup against the Charleston Battery.

The clubs last met March 28, when Detroit earned a 1-0 victory at Keyworth Stadium behind a strong defensive performance.

Saturday’s match will be played at Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina.

Detroit to host transportation technology conference

Detroit will host transportation leaders from across the country during the Intelligent Transportation Society of America Conference and Expo, taking place June 9-12 at Huntington Place.

Organizers expect more than 3,000 public- and private-sector transportation professionals and 170 exhibitors to attend the annual event.

The conference will feature more than 100 sessions focused on real-world deployment of intelligent transportation systems, including artificial intelligence, automated vehicles and connected mobility solutions.

More information is available at ITSAmericaEvents.com.

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

According to AAA Michigan, about 1.3 million state residents will hit the roads this weekend. The auto group says this is the second highest state number on record for the holiday weekend. This follows a national trend, with estimates setting up a new national record, topping last year’s numbers by 1%.   

To avoid peak travel times, AAA suggests travelling between 9 p.m. on Thursday and 11 a.m. on Friday. Those traveling on Sunday will have little to no traffic, but those traveling on Monday will get the worst of it between noon and 5 p.m.    

Memorial Day Weekend travel is costing more across the country this year on average due to rising gas prices. The increase is connected to the War in Iran and the closing of the Strait of Hormuz. This year, gas prices average $4.74 per gallon in Michigan. Last year the average was $3.13.    

Additional headlines from Friday, May 22, 2026

Local Catholic churches face restructuring

Local Catholic church members are bracing for change as the Archdiocese of Detroit begins a restructuring process.

According to a report from the Detroit News, about 22 churches could potentially no longer hold weekend masses in the foreseeable future. These changes could be connected to finances and dwindling church attendance.    

Listening sessions across the archdiocese are expected to take place this spring and early summer to consider plans.    

Sports  

MLB  

The Tigers are facing a 6-game losing streak as face the Baltimore Orioles this weekend. Detroit is at the bottom of the American League Central and hopes to turn things with a three-game series against the Orioles. 

First pitch for tonight’s game is at 7:15 p.m. at Oriole Park in Baltimore.   

Soccer  

Detroit City FC is facing Loudoun United FC  tomorrow at 6:00 p.m. Detroit has won their last two games and hopes to get their third victory tomorrow. The faceoff will take place at Segra Field in Leesburg, Virginia.   
   
Final Four ticket lottery

The Final Four is coming to Detroit and here is your chance to get some tickets. There is a lottery system you can enter for an application fee of $25. Fans who apply will be charged up front for the number of tickets they are requesting. You can only get up to 4 tickets. The available tickets are in the upper bowl at Ford Field and cost about $400 each.   

The deadline to enter the lottery is Sunday, May 31. Winners will be notified in the Fall.    

NBA   

And I know the NBA season is over, but there is news heading into the 2026-2027 season.    

The Pistons announced that they’ve reached a new television rights agreement with Scripps Sports. This move brings Pistons basketball to over‑the‑air television for fans throughout Michigan. The Pistons and Scripps Sports plan to collaborate on a direct-to-consumer streaming application in the future.   

Movement music festival

It’s Memorial Day Weekend so there is Movement in Detroit. The longest-running electronic dance music event in the world return for its 20th year.

From Saturday to Monday, you have access to witness more than 115 artists perform on a variety of stages.  Many performances and set pieces have been curated in order to celebrate the twenty years of existence. Three day VIP passes are sold out but single day, VIP  and general admission passes are still available.  

For more details go to movementfestival.com.

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

A creative new learning space is coming to Detroit’s District 5. The name of the space is Kraftologie and it is a place for inclusive, hands-on crafting.

Owner Trice Clark is able to bring her vision to life because of a $100,000 grant from the Comerica Hatch Detroit contest by Tech Town. Hatch Detroit is an organization that supports small businesses and encourages residents to vote on what businesses they want in their neighborhood. Clark beat out three other finalists in the May 13 Hatch-Off that followed weeks of public voting and live pitches from the four finalists. More than 30,000 votes were cast in this year’s competition. 

This contest has been going on for more than 15 years and past winners included dining restaurant Baobab Fare, Sister Pie and Batch Brewing Company. For more information go to hatchdetroit.com. 

Additional headlines for Friday, May 15, 2026

Senior housing community ready for residents

The former Lewis College of Business campus was reborn into a senior housing community. The long vacant landmark located on Detroit’s northwest side is now the Dr. Violet T Lewis Village, named after the American businesswoman and educator who founded the school in 1928. This affordable senior housing has 105 units and is for residents 55 and older.  

The project is a mix of historic preservation with new build and will help supply a housing market that’s experiencing a shortage. The village is fully income-restricted, serving households at roughly 30% to 80% of area median income, or about $20,000 to $70,000 per year. Developers say the project is designed to help longtime Detroit residents age in place and expands affordable housing for seniors. 

Sports

MLB

The Detroit Tigers fell to the New York Mets again with the score 4-9. It doesn’t help that the Mets are the last place team in the National League East.  

The Tigers now look to bounce back this weekend against the Toronto Blue Jays with a three game affair at Comerica Park. First pitch for today’s game is at 6:45 p.m.

NBA

And the Pistons face elimination in Game 6 of their series against the Cleveland Caviliers. The hometown heroes will potentially have to face Donovan Mitchell and James Harden without sharpshooter guard Duncan Robinson due to lower back soreness. 

Game 6 in Rocket Arena will be one to watch. Tip-off is at 7:00 p.m.

Soccer

Detroit City FC face off against Forward Madision FC as part of the USL Cup. The game starts tomorrow at 6 p.m.

NFL

Detroit Lions defensive end Myles Adams is showing up to the Salvation Army’s upcoming sports pop-up event at the Rochester Hills thrift store.

The one-day-only pop-up will showcase hand-selected sports inventory like jerseys, athletic apparel and Detroit fan gear all at thrift store prices. 

Adams spent the majority of the 2025 season on the team’s practice squad and was resigned this offseason because of the positive impression he left on Head coach Dan Campbell’s practice squad.  

‘Martin’ tour

And the Distinctively Detroit Tour is bringing you 90s sitcom nostalgia with Wazzup, Detroit! If you are a fan of the show Martin and the show’s Detroit’s ties, this is for you!

The tour will start at the William V. Banks Broadcast Museum where the star character Martin stepped into the world of broadcasting. The museum is the former WGPR building. Then the tour will go to Martin’s former apartment at the Garden Court Apartments. For more information go to distinctivelydetroit.com. This is all going down tomorrow May 16 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

The Detroit population grew for a third straight year. A city that has been losing residents for decades is making a come back. In 2025 the Motor City gained about 5,000 new residents according to the U.S. Census Bureau. In 2024 Detroit had nearly 7,000 new residents.

The total population in 2025 is about 649,095. Grand Rapids was the only other city to add more than one thousand people. 

The Census shows that Detroit also grew at a faster pace than other major cities that had 250,000 residents or more.  

Additional headlines for Thursday, May 14, 2026

 GLWA raises rates for water, sewage

In July of 2026, Detroiters will be paying higher water and sewer bills. The Great Lakes Water Authority voted to increase water rates by 5.8% and sewer rates by 4.26% earlier this year. This mimics an increase they did in 2025. 

This increase worsens the affordability gap, where some residents can’t afford the high costs. There are pushes for a statewide water affordability plan from different coalitions backed by the People’s Water Board Coalition. This plan would connect water bills to the household income in the hopes of creating a stable and equitable revenue source.  

Sports 

NBA 
The Detroit Pistons face elimination on the road tomorrow after suffering a tough loss against the Cleveland Cavaliers yesterday in Game 5 of their series. Last night’s game went into the overtime and the Pistons struggled to overcome some late runs that ended with the game score 117—113. 

The Pistons will have to win tomorrow’s game to bring it back to Detroit for a win or go home Game 7.  
 
Tomorrow’s game will be at the Rocket Arena. Tip off is at 7:00 p.m. 

MLB 
The Detroit Tigers face loss against the Mets yesterday in the score 2-3.  
The is the second straight loss to the Mets keeping the home team at the bottom of the American League Central Division. 

‘Sons of Detroit’ documentary screening

Detroit Arts Institute is showing a screening of Son of Detroit. It is a film about the Motor City told through the lens of one unique family. Director Jeremy Xido returns to Detroit after 20 years to reconnect with the Black family who raised him as he confronts societal and racial struggles.
 
The screening is on Sunday, May 17 at the Detroit Institute of Art. For more information go to dia.org.  

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Rep. Haley Stevens continued her call for articles of impeachment against Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in a house committee meeting on Friday.

During a contentious set of questions, Stevens says that the secretary abused his office and gutted America’s health.

She said she did it for Michigan. “I had a moment to push for accountability for Michiganders whose healthcare and safety is on the line with conspiracy theories running rampant. I wanted to push today for the transparency and accountability Michiganders deserve. That’s who I take my cues from.”

After Stevens’ questioning, U.S. Rep. Bob Onder of Missouri accused Stevens—who is currently running for U.S. senate—of using the moment to get a viral clip.

With a Republican led house, it is unlikely that the articles of impeachment will go further or get a vote.

Additional headlines for Friday, April 17, 2026

Michigan Senate takes up bill to slow utility rate hikes

A state Senate committee took up a bill to stop utility rates from going up more than once every three years.

Right now, energy companies can ask the Michigan Public Service Commission for higher rates every 12 months—a source of public frustration when approvals of rate increase requests are soon followed by requests for even higher rates.

Commission char Dan Scripps says a three year system could help address that. He adds that tying increases to performance would also improve the system. “The details are important and I think there are a number of places where multi-year rate plans provide for continued investment. If you add in performance-based mechanisms, you can, I think, realize some shared savings.”

The commission doesn’t have to approve the full amount, but if it does act within 10 months, the increase becomes automatic.

Sports

NBA

The playoffs start this weekend and No. 1 seed Pistons will play Sunday, April 19 against whoever wins the Charlotte Hornets and Orlando Magic game tonight at 7:30 p.m.

MLB

The Detroit Tigers have a three game affair against the Red Sox at Fenway Park. The first pitch for tonight’s game is at 7:15 p.m. The Tigers are currently third in the American League Central.

Soccer

Detroit City FC face off against the Pittsburg Riverhounds SC on April 18 at Highmark Stadium. Game starts at 7 p.m.

Speakeasy fundraiser

This weekend, check out The Speakeasy at the Guardian Building. On Saturday, April 18 at 7 p.m. the Detroit Historical Society will host a fundraiser to support their efforts to share the rich history of the Motor City.

Tickets will cover live music by the Rhythm Society Orchestra, Charleston and East Coast Swing lessons, open bar, Detroit Distillery tastings, complimentary valet and more. Go to detroithistorical.org for more information.

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The story of retired baseball player Ron LeFlore is one  worth repeating. 

LeFlore was a gifted athlete who refused to let the mistakes he made during his childhood define him. His talent, perseverance and a little luck catapulted him out of his prison cell and onto the Detroit Tiger’s roster for six seasons. He led the league in stolen bases twice and secured a spot on the 1976 All-Star team. 

Although Ron LeFlore’s story has been told before in an movie and an autobiography, author Adam Henig felt there was still more to tell.

In Henig’s book “Baseball’s Outcasts: The Story of Ron LeFlore” he details the former Tiger’s journey from the streets of Detroit to the dugout, and LeFlore’s life after the major leagues. Henig  joined the show to explore some of the lesser known details about Ron LeFlore’s life. 

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More stories from The Metro

Detroit residents with past convictions can get a fresh start at the Pistons’ Social Impact Summit.

According to The National Inventory of Collateral Consequences, nearly 1,300 Michigan residents with criminal records face lifetime barriers to housing, jobs, employment and education.

That’s why TimeDone, the nation’s largest community of people with old records is working to help as many as 1,000 justice impacted residents get their records expunged.

The summit is happening from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday April 11 at the Henry Ford Detroit Pistons Performance Center. The address is 6201 Second Ave.

Registrations for the event are full, but walk-ins are welcome.

Additional headlines for Friday, April 10, 2026

Taxpayer assistance hours

The IRS announces special Saturday hours for select Taxpayer Assistance Centers across the country. The upcoming Saturday hours will be April 11 and 25 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

During these hours these centers will be available to help taxpayers with: Online Account Assistance, Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) Renewal, IRS Identity Theft Victim Assistance, Payments, Refunds, and more.

Locations: 

• Detroit: 477 Michigan Ave.
• Flint: 917 N. Saginaw St.
• Grand Rapids: 3251 N. Evergreen Dr. N.E.

Please go to IRS.gov to see other Michigan locations and the specific days and hours these centers will be open for these special hours.

Sports

NBA
The Pistons play their final regular season games this weekend with the Hornets tonight at Spectrum Center tonight at 7 p.m. and against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse at 6 p.m.

With the Pistons being No.1 in the east, they will face the No. 8 seed. The NBA Playoffs start on April 18.

NHL
The Red Wings playoff hopes stay alive with a win over the Flyers yesterday with the score of 6 – 3.

According to sports website Playoffstatus.com, they have a 8-9% of making it.

They hope to keep those chances up as they play the New Jersey Devils tomorrow at 5:00 p.m. at Little Caesars.

MLB
The Tigers start their three-game affair against the Miami Marlins this weekend. First pitch for tomorrow’s game is at 1:10 p.m.

The Tigers are currently 4-9 in the American League Central.

Mothering Justice event honors Black mothers

Black Maternal Health Week begins tomorrow April 11 and non profit organization Mothering Justice is kicking it off with a community event called Pouring Into Our Legacy.

Danielle Atkinson is the founder of the organization. She says the event will honor lineage, stories and lived experiences of Black mothers. “We all have a role to play in preventing Black maternal death,” she says. “Tomorrow is an opportunity to learn from the past. How we can do that better. Granny midwives taught us how to birth babies but they taught us how to advocate for ourselves.”

The event is going down tomorrow from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Mothering Justice Office at 17320 Livernois Ave.

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