Getting to class just got easier for Detroit students. Mayor Mary Sheffield is rolling out the "Ride to Rise" program, a six-month pilot initiative giving every K-12 student free rides on city buses.

Watch Jeffrey Lindblom's video report: Free DDOT bus rides for Detroit students

The program applies to all public, private, and charter school students. As long as they have a school ID, students can ride city buses every day of the year for free. The goal is to remove transportation barriers, tackle absenteeism, and help kids focus on learning instead of bus fares.

"We want every student in this city to be successful and have access to transportation," Sheffield said.

Sheffield noted that while the mayor does not control the schools, absenteeism is a major issue. She hopes the initiative will help young riders show up to school and get more comfortable using public transportation.

WEB EXTRA: FULL SPEECH: Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield delivers first State of the City FULL SPEECH: Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield delivers first State of the City

"So, this is just the beginning," Sheffield said.

Robert Cramer, the city's executive director of transit, said the program eliminates a major concern for families.

"This is kind of the beginning of a new chapter," Cramer said.

Bryant Tipton, principal of Pershing High School, approves of the program and said it supports his students.

"Now, they have a ride," Tipton said. "Now they dont have to have any barriers holding them back. They can just ride the bus, and theyre at school."

Pershing High School senior Mac Sconi and freshman Katelyn Tyner are among the students benefiting from the change. Tyner is familiar with riding the bus up and down 7 Mile to get to school.

"Its really awesome. Especially for people who dont have enough money to get on the bus," Tyner said. "Ive had a lot of memories on the DDOT. Good memories."

Tyner believes the roughly 14,000 other high school students in Detroit who previously had to apply for and receive a bus pass through their schools will feel the same gratitude.

"Theres students who have to worry about how theyre going to get to school or think about bus fares," Sconi said. "Now that people have this, they dont have to worry about wheres my bus fare, how am I going to get home its not a concern anymore."

Detroit Public Schools Community District Superintendent Doctor Nikolai Vitti said the program could save the district more than $500,000, which they will look to reinvest into education.

"Now we eliminate the process of asking, purchasing, providing. As long as they have their student ID, they can get on any city bus," Vitti said. "This is a conversation and investment in equity and access."

The city will evaluate the six-month pilot program as they look toward a more permanent solution.

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.

Large groups of teenagers gathering in downtown Detroit this week have led to fights and arrests, prompting an increased police presence and intervention from a local community group on the Detroit Tigers' Opening Day.

Social media posts circulated plans for teenagers to meet up downtown. In response, Detroit police ramped up their presence, and a community group called Ceasefire took to the streets to stop violence before it started.

Watch the video report below: Community group on the ground working to stop teen violence in downtown Detroit

On Friday evening, a large gathering of teens in Campus Martius led Detroit police to step in and disperse the group. Our cameras caught some young people running through the streets with police trailing close behind. Ceasefire was on the move, trying to de-escalate the situation before anything became violent.

"Tuesday, there were a lot of fights and stuff like that, so our goal is to really work with them, talk to them, and through our relationships, keep them from going to jail, keep things from escalating. We've seen crazy things happen downtown with young people," Ceasefire crewmember Toson Knight said.

The group says showing up at popular places with lots of foot traffic, like Campus Martius Park, and interacting with the youth plays a huge role in building trust.

"When it comes to our youth, sometimes you got to step in. You meet them where they are at. Look happy? Talk to them happy. They angry? You try and take that anger out of them and lead them another way," Ceasefire crewmember Ortagus Jackson said.

"Once you know them, you can kind of help them change their lives, for real, and help them stay out of trouble. They'll listen to you more than they'll listen to a police officer," Knight said.

"They know we're not trying to send them to jail or have them locked up. We want them to get home safe at the end of the night," Jackson said.

"Their parents are not down here, right? They're around their friends, probably going to be trying to show out," Knight said.

"Sometimes, they get out of line. It's up to us as adults in the community to say hey, stop," Jackson said.

Related video: Detroit youth flag football league launched by Community Violence Intervention groups Detroit youth flag football league launched by Community Violence Intervention groups

Ceasefire program manager Tamara Smith said the group is focused on making sure the community stays safe.

"We want to continue for Detroiters to feel safe," Smith said. "If you are caught doing wrong, reprimand to the fullest will happen."

"My message to them on a daily basis is make good decisions, find things that are productive and don't get you locked up, in trouble or hurt others," Knight said.

"We're here to help you stay out of trouble and get home to your loved ones your mother and father, your blood brothers and sisters," Jackson said.

Ceasefire wants to remind young people that the curfew for those who are 15 and under is 10 p.m., and for 16 and 17-year-olds, it is 11 p.m.

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Baseball fans across the state are celebrating Opening Day in Detroit, and one local spot is turning a construction zone into a three-day Detroit Tigers-themed pop-up.

A former French restaurant currently under construction to become a Hamlin Pub is temporarily opening its doors for the festivities.

Jim Tavana, operations manager for Hamlin Pub, said the business saw an opportunity to offer food and drinks for the event.

"Were just doing a three-day pop up for Opening Day," Tavana said. "This is the season. I am optimistic. They got the pitching."

Fans are filling the city to celebrate. Patricia Johnson scored tickets for Saturday's game.

"This is my city," Johnson said. "They are a Detroit team that I love to come and see."

For Paul Decker, loving the Tigers is a family affair that he wears proudly in his blood and on his arm with a tattoo. When asked if he regrets the ink, he was quick to answer.

"No, God no! No!" Decker said. "The Tigers really are the heart and soul of this town."

Sherrie Savage, owner and illustrator at The Coloring Museum, is providing a colorless canvas for the second year in a row. She said it would be wrong if the canvas stayed colorless for too long.

"Hopefully, people will leave their color and signature on there and rep Detroit," Savage said.

The Tigers will face the Cardinals for the Friday home opener at 1 p.m.

"Come on down and see the Tigers!" Johnson said.

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Fourteen people graduated from an 18-month rehabilitation program at the 52-1 District Court in Novi, stepping into a future free from addiction.

The Alcohol and Drug Court program focuses on recovery over punishment, offering individuals a second chance at life.

Watch Jeffrey Lindblom's video report below: 14 people graduate from Novi court rehabilitation program to overcome their addictions

52-1 District Court Judge Travis Reeds congratulated the graduates during the ceremony.

"For most judges, jail is a last resort," Reeds said.

Anthony D. Williams Sr., one of the 14 recent graduates, says his addiction started with a driving under the influence charge and continued until his second offense.

"Second DUI, then I was asked for a program for a second chance," Williams said.

He volunteered for the program 18 months ago because he saw an opportunity for change.

"A life-changing situation," Williams said. "This is the new me talking, so the old Anthony Williams, I dont know who that person is."

Williams said he is walking out of the program a winner.

"You have to fight yourself every day. They give you a second chance at life," Williams said.

Reeds, who has been on the bench for 12 years, said the program leads to lessened recidivism and often a lifelong commitment to sobriety.

"Its an amazing thing to watch," Reeds said. "You can put someone in jail and thats a temporary fix. What these people are doing to change their lives around changes the whole structure of the community and their involvement in it for, potentially, the rest of their lives."

Heidi Hertling graduated from the program 13 years ago and is now a coach for others facing addiction. She said supporting one another is crucial for those starting their road to recovery.

"They saw someone who wasnt criminal, but struggling," Hertling said. "We are different people. We are no longer criminal. We are just people. Its an amazing gift."

Williams emphasized the importance of moving forward.

"Never look at the obstacle. We have to walk in faith," Williams said.

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A Detroit mother of two is picking up the pieces after an early Sunday morning fire destroyed her home and her children's life-saving medications.

Denisha Roberson and her two children were not home when the fire ripped through their house on Mansfield Street around 3:30 a.m. Sunday. However, her children's vital medications were lost in the rubble.

Watch the video report below: Detroit mother loses her home and children's vital medications in a suspicious fire

"Its been a lot. And trying to keep up with medication and tracking that down has a been a big thing these last few days," Roberson said.

She recently moved into her new home late last year.

"This was a Christmas gift to the kids," Roberson said.

The home was meant for her 3-year-old daughter, who has a skin condition, and her 10-year-old child with Type 1 diabetes. Roberson said her children require a lot of attention.

"Its something Ive had to eat, sleep and breathe every single day," Roberson said.

Inside the ashes are their medications, including insulin and skin cream, which are difficult to quickly replace.

Roberson and her children were not home during the fire because of an incident hours earlier. On Saturday afternoon, Roberson said her porch camera captured video of an unrecognized person walking around her home with an axe. She came home to find her power line hacked up and no electricity.

"That shook me," Roberson said.

Fearing for her safety and the safety of her children, she stayed with a family friend. The following afternoon, she received a call that her house had been destroyed. Her new furniture fueled the flames, reducing her recent renovations to rubble.

"It was really hurtful. It put things into perspective for me," Roberson said.

There is an extensive amount of damage right outside her 3-year-old daughters window. Looking in from the outside, Roberson said the room used to be painted a different color.

"Her room was pink, she had a pink bed, and its all black and brown now," Roberson said.

The Detroit Fire Department said the cause of the fire is still under investigation, but they are calling it suspicious.

"Everything is gone," Roberson said.

The American Red Cross has helped Roberson with clothes and is looking for a place for her to stay. While she is overwhelmed and unsure of her next steps, she said she will keep moving forward for her kids.

"I always want to show them that you never give up. You never give up. You stand strong and tall until you get through," Roberson said.

Roberson said she could use some help as she contemplates her next steps. Anyone who would like to help, can visit the family's GoFundMe page.

Michigan has named the wood duck as the state's very first official duck, a bird that turns heads with its rare beauty and fascinating habits.

Matthew Lyson founded the Michigan Duck Rescue 20 years ago. With more than a thousand ducks and geese on site, he is happy with the recent decision to make the wood duck the state duck.

Watch Jeffrey Lindblom's video report below: Wood duck named Michigan's official state duck

"I think ducks are cool," Lyson said. "People can start appreciating the wonder of them."

Lyson praises the duck's color, calling it one of a kind in North America. Similar to the mallard, male wood ducks are more colorful than females.

"And thats nature's design. So when shes nesting, shes less likely to be spotted," Lyson said.

Lyson said he once saw a wood duck trying to blend in with some geese. However, being on the ground is not where you would find them nesting.

"The wood ducks nest in trees quite often. Thats actually how they got their name the wood duck," Lyson said.

When a baby wood duck weighs no more than an ounce, it will jump 20 or more feet from the nest in its tree to follow its mother into its newfound life.

"Bounce right back up and bam, theyre gone," Lyson said.

Capable of having more than 12 babies at a time, Lyson describes the wood duck as resilient. The species survived the 19th century, when they were a popular source of food and often used for clothing, nearly becoming extinct because of it. More laws have since come into place to protect the bird over the years.

"Wood ducks are an exceptional bird," Lyson said.

Michigans recognition of the wood duck celebrates more than a beautiful bird; it honors a conservation comeback made possible by protecting wetlands, restoring habitat and standing up for the future of waterfowl. No one has been a better champion in this space than Ducks Unlimited, whose investments in habitat have enabled the wood duck to thrive. Their important work, in combination with strong legislative effort, has allowed us to adopt a state duck - serving as a win for the species and a win for Michigan," State Rep. Alabas Farhat, who sponsored the bill, said.

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Fifty years ago, an EF-4 tornado tore through West Bloomfield, leaving behind destruction, heartbreak, and memories that remain vivid today.

Watch Jeffrey Lindblom's video report: Looking back at the West Bloomfield tornado 50 years later

The tornado claimed at least one life when a 15-year-old girl was killed on her way to a Sadie Hawkins dance.

"She was in the car, the car flipped over landed, and killed her," Tom Bjorklund said.

Bjorklund, a volunteer with the Greater West Bloomfield Historical Society, says while there have been tornadoes in the area in the past, this one severely impacted the community.

"There were businesses, there were homes that were just plain destroyed. A fair number of them," Bjorklund said. "This is clearly the worst of the worst. Its also interesting how much this event stuck with people in their minds."

At the Orchard Lake Museum, the historical society has preserved an extensive archive documenting the day that changed the community forever.

Frank Eory was 16 years old when the tornado swept through. He said the storm came without warning and was gone in the blink of an eye.

"Everything about it is vivid, even 50 years later," Eory said. "With so much devastation, it was unbelievable."

Eory remembers a pressure change, his ears popping, and windows shattering. He watched sparks and debris flying as part of his roof was removed.

"And it just clicked, and I said, 'tornado! hit the floor," Eory said.

Eory lives in Phoenix now, but he still remembers his old address, where Edith Root-Clark lives now.

"I think it puts me at ease in some respect knowing tornadoes may not hit in the same spot, so Im safe from that," Root-Clark said.

"It looks a lot how I remember from the late 70s," Eory said.

Anup Sinha lived a few doors down and was 5 years old at the time. He remembers the devastation outside his front yard and shared an old photo of what it used to look like.

"Its one of my earliest memories, and its quite a strong memory," Sinha said.

Both men count themselves lucky that things were not worse for them. They said the tragedy stuck with them, remembering the heartache in the aftermath but finding pride in how the community responded.

"It was quite heartwarming," Eory said.

"I never forgot it," Sinha said.

If you would like to see some of the old clippings, you can find the hours of operation for the Orchard Lake Museum on their website.

Check out these photos from their collection:

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A new Rock n' Brews restaurant is bringing classic rock legends, local music history, and a three-story dining experience to Royal Oak.

Watch Jeffrey Lindblom's video report: New Rock n' Brews restaurant brings classic rock and food to Royal Oak

The 14,000-square-foot space is a place to grab a burger and features memorabilia from bands like KISS and hometown hero Eminem.

Owners Dan and Tony Yezbick have been in business together for nearly 20 years. They discovered the franchise during a trip to Disney and decided it would be wise to bring it to their hometown.

"From when we were born til' now. Never left and never will leave. Love Royal Oak to death," Dan Yezbick said.

Dan Yezbick also joked about the age difference between the two business partners.

"He is a little older than I am," Dan Yezbick said.

"Thank you," Tony Yezbick said.

The two spent two months constructing the space, which includes a stage for live music, a TV at every corner, and a den for sports fans.

"We have a nice group of people who worked so hard to bring this to life," Tony Yezbick said.

The restaurant aims to highlight the area's musical roots.

"But, even more than Kiss there are so many local musicians that came from the area and made it big, and we tried to pay homage to a lot of those people," Dan Yezbick said. "Paying tribute to the vast history of music that Detroit has."

"You don't realize how many hit rock n' roll songs there are over the years," Tony Yezbick said.

Customers are already enjoying the food, drinks, and old-school vibe.

"The first thing you see is KISS and that just screams Detroit," customer Dez Walker said.

Walker said he likes the decor from the ceilings to the floors.

"There's just a lot to see and a lot to look at," Walker said.

Customer Derek Dettloff was perplexed by the size of his food as he dipped a very large pretzel.

"I'm digging it," Dettloff said. "For guys my age, especially who appreciate it."

Customer Barbara Paul said she likes the current hustle and bustle from servers making the rounds, stamping tickets down, shaking things up, and pouring fancy drinks into cups. Even though she is not a fan of KISS, she said you do not need to be a fan to reminisce.

"One more thing to make Royal Oak great," Paul said. "It's just the old memorabilia brings back a lot of memories."

The restaurant plans to bring live music to its stage as often as possible to ignite the soul with old-school rock and roll.

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.

Maple syrup season is in full swing in Michigan, and Maybury Farm in Northville is inviting visitors to see exactly how it's made from identifying the right trees in the woods to watching fresh sap drip into buckets.

Watch Jeffrey Lindblom's video report: Maybury Farm gives visitors a hands-on maple syrup experience

Weekend wagon rides beginning March 7 at the farm take guests out to the sugarbush, where educators walk them through the entire process.

Executive Director Diana Wallace said the experience is designed to be immersive.

"So that you can get the whole hour of education," Wallace said.

The ride out is a leisurely one. Tractor driver Bryan Craft said he keeps a relaxed pace on purpose.

"Saving just a little bit for the drive home," Craft said.

Once visitors reach the sugarbush, they trade the wagon for a walk through the snow and mud. Team Lead Educator Monica Nick leads the group in learning how to identify a maple tree a task that's trickier than it sounds when the trees have no leaves.

"How do you figure out what a maple tree is out here?" Nick said.

Without the tree's signature red leaf, visitors have to look at the branch structure instead. Maple trees have what's called "opposite" branching meaning branches grow directly across from one another, rather than staggered.

After identifying the right trees, the group learns how to tap them. A spile is pushed into the tree at a 45-degree angle, about 2 inches deep, to allow the sap to flow freely.

Barn Supervisor Nat Wootton said the farm taps sugar maples specifically because of their higher sugar content.

"We tap sugar maples, they're 2-3 percent sugar," Wootton said.

Wootton said sugar maples have 2 to 3 times more sugar than a typical maple tree. He also said the current weather conditions make this the ideal time of year for syrup production with freezing temperatures overnight and a thaw each morning creating the right environment for a steady sap flow.

"If you have a nice steady flow, it means that the weather is cooperating with you," Wootton said.

The team checks the tapped trees to see how much sap has collected, dumps any contaminated contents, and lets visitors watch and even taste the fresh sap dripping from the spile.

From there, the sap heads into an evaporator, where it's heated and boiled down. Water is cooked off, leaving behind the syrup.

Nick said the season and the color of the syrup are closely connected.

"Typically, maple syrup season is end of February to the end of March. In the first part of the season, you'll get syrup that looks like very light," Nick said.

As the season progresses, the syrup grows darker.

Michigan ranks 5th in the country for maple syrup production, and Maybury Farm wants visitors to feel connected to that legacy.

"We want people to experience maple syrup from Michigan," Wallace said.

At the end of the tour, visitors get to sample a Michigan-sourced maple syrup.

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As tensions escalate in the Middle East, an Iranian college student living in Michigan says he hasn't been able to reach his family since deadly strikes over the weekend and the uncertainty is affecting every part of his life.

Khashsayar Penkar, who was born and raised in Iran and lived there for 17 years before moving to the United States to finish high school, is now a student at Washtenaw Community College, where he is studying business. He is also an American citizen.

Watch the video report below: Iranian college student in Michigan fears for family after Middle East strikes

But while he walks the campus, his mind is elsewhere.

"Physically, I'm in America, but my brain and my soul are with the Iranian people, is with the people of the Middle East paying this price," Penkar said.

Penkar says he is used to speaking with his family in Iran several times a week. Since Saturday, he has not been able to reach them.

"My uncle, my grandmother, my father, my 5-year-old cousin she's a little sweet girl. I don't really know what is going on with them. I am deeply worried. I do see it in my performance in work and school that I'm not able to be the person that I used to be," Penkar said.

He says footage of the place where he was born and raised burning consumes his thoughts, and he finds himself constantly refreshing his phone, mourning the loss of both American and Middle Eastern lives.

"I'm worried about 92 million Iranians. I'm worried about the whole Middle East. I'm worried about people of Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, people of Dubai, people of Israel, I'm worried about the military service man," Penkar said.

While he does not support violence and fears for the lives of his family and his people, Penkar says growing up in a country he describes as oppressive makes him believe something in his homeland needed to change.

"I just want them to be safe and I want them to be free. Not only for my cousin or my uncle or my dad, I want the 90 million people of Iran to be finally free," Penkar said.

Related video: Michiganders stranded abroad as Middle East conflict disrupts travel routes home Metro Detroiters stranded overseas amid conflict

For now, the phone call Penkar wants most is a simple one hearing that his family is safe.

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A mobile food pantry is pulling up to a Dearborn neighborhood twice a month and for the families who rely on it, it's about more than just groceries.

Watch the video report below: Forgotten Harvest mobile market brings culturally familiar food to Dearborn families twice a month

Forgotten Harvest's Mobile Market Food Pantry visits the site in front of LAHC twice a month, bringing food that reflects the diverse backgrounds of the community it serves.

"From Lebanon, from Yemen, from Iraq American too," client Sadih Natour said.

LAHC Food Pantry Coordinator Katelyn Ososki said the partnership with Forgotten Harvest's Mobile Market, which began 8 months ago, has significantly expanded the pantry's reach.

"We served 60 clients typically on a mobile market we're serving over 100 now," Ososki said.

Ososki said the demand remains high.

"Twice a month is not enough to serve the need," Ososki said.

The goal of the mobile market, according to Forgotten Harvest Driver/Coordinator Monique Byrne, is to make sure families can count on consistent support.

"The schedule is booked," Byrne said. "They always can depend on us."

Byrne said the need in the community is significant.

"It's very dire. Very, very dire," Byrne said.

The food stocked inside the truck is chosen with the community in mind nutritious and familiar to the families picking it up.

"Giving food that is not only nutritious, but their families will actually use and enjoy," Ososki said.

For Natour, who has called Dearborn home for 30 years, the experience goes beyond receiving food assistance.

"You don't feel like charity you feel like home," Natour said. "It's like family to tell you the truth."

With grocery prices continuing to climb, Natour said the support makes a real difference for her family.

"With everything really high. It really does help," Natour said.

Salwa Khatib, who was picking up food for families in need, pointed to another layer of pressure on the community.

"And especially with some of the food stamps being cut off," Khatib said.

Client Lojen summed up the sentiment shared by many who came out.

"God bless to all. Thank you," Lojen said.

The Mobile Market travels throughout the community, making its Dearborn stop twice per month.

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

The historic Book Tower has now been standing tall over Detroit for a full century. The 38-story site was the city's tallest building when it opened way back in 1926.

Since then, it's undergone a complete transformation.

Watch Jeffrey Lindblom's video report below: Detroit's Book Tower celebrates 100th anniversary

Bedrock Detroit reopened the tower in 2023 but the building's rich history hasn't been forgotten.

Im a proud Book. Very, very proud Book, Randy Book said. Hes the great grandson of Frank Book, who with his two brothers in the early 1900s developed much of the block including Book Tower.

When I walk into this building every time, I get goosebumps, Randy Book said.

Book Tower was originally an office building with some retail not a library like the last name would suggest.

Book told me a lot of whats inside the building is original like a letter box that stands right beside the historic exhibition thats maintaining 100 years worth of his familys history.

All this, I had it in a briefcase all this information that I had. It was just timeless information that I had, Randy Book said.

Randy Book, a fourth generation Detroiter, says its a blessing the original blueprints and all the history wasnt gone with the wind.

You know, this building could have gotten torn down, he said.

Video: Restoration project of Book Tower Video shows restoration project done by Bedrock on Book Tower

I sat down with Bedrock Senior Vice President of Architecture and Design Jamie Witherspoon, who shared with me the rough shape the building was in prior to them taking on the project in 2015.

Its sort of hard to overstate the level of disrepair, Witherspoon said. It was a full gut.

He says it was vacant for nearly a decade before they started an eight-year transformation cleaning a century worth of grease, grime and old bones and giving it a new life as a hotel and apartment complex.

Related: Before-and-after photos of $300M+ renovation of historic Book Tower

The original elevators and some of the 1920s walls and floors were preserved.

A rumored basement bar during The Prohibition was replaced with actual bars and a cafe in the way of French cuisine and an old-fashioned speakeasy, hoping to make Detroiters proud.

The legacy, right. This is a building that stood here for a century, Witherspoon said.

Book plans to hold an on-site family reunion in the coming weeks to honor 100 years of transformation, which he believes the city has done right alongside his familys 38-story heirloom.

Theres no reason this building cant be here for another five to eight hundred years, Randy Book said. I think that theyre going to be just really taken away.

If youd like to join the Book Tower in its centennial celebration, you can go to Bar Rotunda in the main lobby beginning in March for a drink theyre calling The Centennial Celebration.

Macomb County is now the first county in Michigan to offer residents a way to verify ballots online, thanks to a new software platform called Civera.

The county recently made a $30,000 annual investment in the technology, which gives residents access to side-by-side images of ballots and cast vote records, voter turnout data, and race results broken down to the individual precinct level.

Watch Jeffrey Lindblom's video report below: Macomb County first in Michigan to launch online ballot transparency software

Macomb County Clerk Anthony Forlini said the move is part of a five-year effort to make the election process as transparent as possible.

"When I saw this technology about a year ago, I said to myself 'we got to get this,'" Forlini said.

"You can have voter privacy and you can have total transparency," Adam Friedman, founder and CEO of Civera, said.

Friedman describes the company as non-partisan. The platform uses tools and adapters to measure and track existing voter data and present it online.

CHECK OUT THE BALLOT VERIFIER TOOL HERE

"Now is the critical time to roll out a technology this," Friedman said. "Brings public data to life and makes sure that government provides maximum access and engagement for the public to participate in the process."

Friedman said the rising number of concerned citizens filing Freedom of Information Act requests to view election results stems from the 2020 presidential election, which he called "a very controversial election."

Harrison Township Clerk Adam Wit said Michigan government offices regularly receive FOIA requests related to election results, and he welcomed the new platform.

"All this is, is a digital flashlight that shows the information that already existed. It doesn't create any new information, but it makes it easily accessible for people. And when you make an effort to show that you're not hiding anything people figure out that there's nothing to hide," Wit said.

With the software, Macomb County residents will have access to Civera's server with historical Michigan election data going as far back as 1998. Local elections certified with the company's ballot verifier will eventually be available as far back as November 2024, with results broken down by individual precinct for a variety of city-held government races.

Macomb County resident Timothy Lichmanski said he sees potential value in the platform.

"It could be good. I don't think it's necessary, but if it eases people mind's yeah, I guess," Lichmanski said.

The software is live as of February 23.

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Police in Lapeer are warning residents to watch their step after receiving reports that someone has been hiding sharp objects around two city parks.

Families who frequent the parks say after hearing about police finding more than 40 metal objects around the area, they're thinking about taking their children somewhere else.

Watch Jeffrey Lindblom's video report below: Police warn Lapeer residents after 40+ sharp objects found hidden in city parks

Rotary Park in Lapeer is one of two parks in the city where police say an individual or individuals appear to have placed what they're calling "fence spikes" on the sharp side up, possibly with the intent to hurt somebody.

"Children get hurt easily. They're just running around playing. It's not safe. It's scary. Truly, it's scary," Jacob Kienitz said.

Kienitz calls the recent discovery by police on the grounds of the neighborhood park he brings his 7-year-old daughter concerning.

"Before this, we used to come to the park all the time, play around," Kienitz said.

City of Lapeer police say they found more than 40 fence spikes hidden in snow and scattered around Rotary and Cramton parks over Feb. 13 through Feb. 18.

Amy Mead has lived across the street from dimly lit Rotary Park for 15 years and says she worries for the safety of families and pets alike.

"Oh, yeah. I would hate that because I take my dog over there," Mead said.

She's concerned about potential injuries requiring hospitalization and stitches.

"I mean, a spike through the foot is absolutely terrifying," Kienitz said.

A concerned mother shared that it was in April of last year that similar spikes were also found. In 2018, two children were hospitalized after using the slide and being chemically burned. Kienitz says he's questioning bringing his daughter to the park again.

"I care more about her and her safety than coming to the one park that we like. We'll probably go somewhere else," Kienitz said.

Commissioner Stefan Brady says the city is looking into enhancing lighting and security in the community's public spaces. In the meantime, police are encouraging parents to take a look around and make sure playgrounds are free from any sharp objects before letting their children play.

"It worries me. I don't want her getting hurt," Kienitz said.

City of Lapeer Police Chief Jeremy Howe says the safety of the community is their priority and they're dedicating resources to finding those who are involved. At this time, they're encouraging the community to remain diligent and report anything unusual.

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.

Bloomfield Township residents packed a planning and zoning meeting Monday night to voice strong opposition to a proposed $17 million event space that could be built less than 100 feet from their property lines.

The heated meeting, which wrapped up late into the evening, centered around popular restaurateur Zack Sklar's "Bloomfield Hollow" proposal for a 30,000-square-foot venue with a 1,000-person capacity in the area of Franklin and Square Lake roads.

Watch Jeffrey Lindblom's video report below: Bloomfield Township residents voice opposition to proposed event venue

"I'm furious. I think it's going to destroy the value of my property and I think it's a nuisance," said John Schafer, a resident living off Berkshire Road.

Many residents shared Schafer's concerns about the proximity of the proposed amphitheater to their homes and the potential impact on their quiet neighborhood.

"We live in a quiet neighborhood and we'd just like it stay that way," Schafer said.

The venue would seat more than 600 people and be open until late in the evening, raising concerns among residents about noise levels.

"Loud noises until one in the morning," said Tryl Hartfield, another resident.

Schafer acknowledged the business perspective while maintaining his opposition to the location.

"He's going to try and sell it out as much as he can and I don't blame him for it it just shouldn't be right next to my house," Schafer said.

The project passed its initial design review a couple weeks ago. For proper zoning requirements to be met, ordinance language would need to be specially amended to allow a banquet hall in the space.

Many residents expressed frustration that they received a late notice of the plan through a postcard, feeling it wasn't adequate time to consider what's at stake.

Board Member Bruce Selik acknowledged the communication breakdown.

"Obviously, the developer did not take the time to sit with the residents. It's a shame that the residents felt that we had made up our mind 30 minutes into this meeting," Selik said.

The board ultimately voted to table both the potential ordinance language changes and the site plans for now.

Schafer expressed cautious optimism about the decision.

"Of course, we would rather just have it knocked down entirely, but to shelve it and have more discussions is a good compromise," Schafer said.

Moving forward, residents hope to have a bigger role in the conversation about the proposed development.

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

For some kids, stepping onto a court or field feels like a given. But for others, it's a dream that can feel out of reach.

See the inspiring story in the video below

Unified Sports: Making dreams come true

At Fowlerville High School, one coach is making sure that dream becomes a reality, no matter a student's ability or circumstance.

The Coach Jeff Minock Varsity Club Foundation sponsors Unified Sports. His dream is to give every kid, no matter their physical, mental or financial situation, a chance to play sports. It's a dream that stems from a tragedy.

"I was the only survivor of a terrible car crash when I was a junior in high school and I think I have the ability to reach out and help people," Minock said.

Hear more from Jeff Minock on how his foundation helps in the video below

Jeff Minnock speaks on how his varsity foundation helps people

"Not many people in the world have that faith," Jason Botruff, a Unified Sports athlete, said.

Jason has played on Fowlerville High's Unified Sports basketball team since he was a freshman. It's a place for children with disabilities to play, an opportunity he never had growing up with fetal alcohol syndrome and a missing chromosome.

"And not many people are included with these sports and I feel like I wasnt good enough for the world, but when I came to this school, everyone felt like family to me," Jason said.

Kelly Botruff shows up as a proud mom, supporting her adopted son, alongside the whole unified team.

"It breaks my heart that my son had to wait until 9th grade until he was given an opportunity," Kelly said.

She said having two children without disabilities graduate from Fowlerville  before fate led to her adopting Jason as a baby  meant she turned a blind eye to what she now understands all too well.

"Im so happy that hes had the opportunities that hes got. But, again, that wouldnt have been possible without Brooke Esch," Kelly said.

"Because she is the best teacher I have ever known in my life," Jason said.

Esch helped put the Unified program together in Fowlerville for the last several years. Falling in love with special education, she's become a role model for kids as a teacher in the classroom and as a coach> Her goal is to include as many kids as she can, and her motto is that you can do it.

"I just love these kids. Setting them up so they really get to shine," Esch said.

"Not being in someones shadow. They should be in the spotlight, which they deserve to be in," Jason said.

"Feel good about himself. Self-confidence. Builds his self-esteem. Makes him feel great, like every kid should," Kelly added.

"Its truly magical. These kids getting this spotlight that they never had before. Unified, it says it all. Unification and bringing everyone together," Esch said.

Where Your Voice Matters

Mount Clemens has completed the construction phase of a $6.4 million downtown revitalization project aimed at improving walkability, lighting, and pedestrian safety in the city's core.

Watch Jeffrey Lindblom's video report: Downtown Mount Clemens revamp helps lift businesses

The grant-funded construction project wrapped up late last year, replacing infrastructure that was more than half a century old. Mayor Laura Kropp said the previous improvements from the 1980s and 1990s had become well-worn and needed updating.

"It was well-worn. We had gotten our money's worth from the projects from the 80s and the 90s," Kropp said.

Mark Revord, a Mount Clemens resident for more than 60 years, was seeing the completed project for the first time. He said the improvements have transformed what locals call "The Clem."

"I think it's a great improvement. The bricks were a little uneven and ratty. It looks terrific now," Revord said.

The construction did impact local businesses. Gary Gabriel, who has operated Gabriel's Vacuum Sales & Service in Mount Clemens for 57 years, said the September through November construction period was particularly challenging.

"Just happy it's all done. September, October, November those months really hurt," Gabriel said.

However, Gabriel is optimistic about the finished product and its impact on foot traffic and parking accessibility.

"It looks nice. Nicer than it was. Since they got the street done, everybody can walk and park. Which, before they had a hard time," Gabriel said.

Anthony Ventimiglia, owner of Aventi Jewelry, has already noticed increased foot traffic since the project's completion.

"It was looking old. Since it has been done, traffic has increased. It's a nice fresh start for the city," Ventimiglia said.

The revitalization preserved some beloved downtown features, including a statue of a young girl and an old man playing checkers that Kropp said is "a favorite of most of the Mount Clemens residents."

Spring will bring additional improvements, including new landscaping and lighting. The city is also installing a new fountain with a 360-degree stage that will be visible from all angles.

Kropp said the space is designed for mobility, with movable stone benches and landscaping that can be reconfigured for different events.

"It's just going to be more wide open and more inviting," Revord 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.

For decades, a century-old lumberyard served the Lake Orion community, but for the last couple of years, it has sat dormant in the heart of downtown, awaiting its next life. Now, the Downtown Development Authority has big plans to transform one of the community's most visible spots from blight into a destination.

"A site here in town that has turned into blight. But we're turning it into something really cool. We're doing what we do best: preserving our history and telling our story," said Matt Gibbs, executive director for Lake Orion's Downtown Development Authority.

Watch Jeffrey Lindblom's video report below: New life for old lumberyard in Lake Orion Jeffrey Lindblom is 7 News Detroit's Lake Orion beat reporter. If you have a story idea for her, email her at Jeffrey.Lindblom@wxyz.com.

The DDA has taken the old lumberyard under their wing. The property is viewable from Broadway Street, right before heading into the city's downtown area.

"It's going to be a really cool project here in Orion," Gibbs said.

The space was once overwhelmed by blight, but the DDA is already well underway in giving it new life.

"So, the big blight that was there a year ago has been mostly removed," Gibbs said.

Lake Orion resident Larry Newman has noticed the improvements.

"It looks a lot cleaner than it used to," Newman said.

Newman says he heard about the plans to re-purpose the old structures into community-based buildings, both hanging onto history and broadening the downtown strip.

"I think it's a great idea," Newman said.

The DDA has virtually nailed down all of their plans for the redevelopment. The project will include a public market with beer or coffee, a new bakery and bike shop, an eight-room hotel and a trailhead.

"You can start your bike ride, you can finish your run," Gibbs said.

Not everyone is enthusiastic about the project. Lawrence Kostanecki, a 30-year resident, doesn't like the plan.

"I think it's a joke," Kostanecki said. "Oh, we've got to salvage that, that's historic."

Kostanecki says he doesn't understand the need for maintaining the lumberyard's history, doesn't have much faith in the project's summer construction timeline and wishes the money went toward something else.

"Five story casino... get some money in this village," Kostanecki said.

Newman is happy with the plan, especially the potential bonus of 129 parking spots.

"The lumberyard is going out and it's going to bring new things that we need into the community," Newman said.

The new space could start hosting events as early as August.

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

The Detroit Curling Club is experiencing unprecedented growth as the Olympic sport of curling captures the imagination of metro Detroit residents. What was once a struggling organization on the brink of closure in the 1990s has transformed into a thriving community with a waiting list.

See the full story in the video below

Curling thrives in metro Detroit as Olympic sport gains popularity at local club

"Our club is almost at capacity because we have 400 members that's about all we can hold," said Mike Grudzinski, vice president and membership director of the Detroit Curling Club.

The sport, often called "chess on ice," involves teams strategically moving 44-pound stones across an ice sheet toward a target. Players either throw stones, sweep to control their speed and direction, or serve as the "skip" who calls the shots from the target end.

"The team agrees on the shot and has an idea of how much force should be behind it, how fast it should be traveling down the ice," Grudzinski said.

The club's remarkable turnaround from near-closure to maximum capacity reflects growing interest in curling across Michigan. The welcoming atmosphere helps attract newcomers to the sport.

"Whenever we talk to people we're not just welcoming them in, we're encouraging them to just try the sport," Grudzinski said. "We love this sport so much."

The Detroit Curling Club demonstrates that Olympic sports can find passionate communities far from the international stage, bringing people together through friendly competition and shared enthusiasm for this unique winter sport.

Those looking to take a learn to curl class can sign up on the Detroit Curling Club's website.

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