All of the products in the picture below were made in China. Because of new U.S. tariffs on China, you could be seeing an increase in prices at your local beauty supply store.

In the hair capital of the world, the journey often begins at Beauty Supply store.

I grew up in Detroit. I saw that, you know, shopping and beauty supply stores with my mom, there wasn't much representation at all," said Jessica Kwalli, the owner of Beauty Supply Store.

That's what motivated Kwalli to open up her own shop on Detroit's west side in February, filling it up with diverse and American-made products by small business owners like herself.

But, you know, in the beauty industry, it's kind of impossible for everything to be US based," Jessica said. "So I do have that portion of hair extensions that are coming from China and coming from other countries overseas."

From wigs to accessories and tools, China is one of the largest manufacturers and main suppliers of hair products to the U.S.

The human hair definitely you have, um, bundles, closures, frontals, wigs, I mean, majority of the wigs all come from China," she said.

Now, Kwalli's facing the reality that prices on those could get higher with U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports rising to 20 percent.

That's horrible," Kwalli said. 10% was already, you know, unexpected, and it's like you can kind of maneuver through that, but 20% is that's, I just don't even wanna think about that...Ive actually had a few customers who've come in and have asked me, you know, personally just ask, 'how are you being impacted by this as a new beauty supply store?'

Kwalli won't know the actual numbers until she places her next wholesale order. But she's already bracing for impact, researching new vendors.

"I kinda had to go back to the drawing board to figure out like, OK, how can I still give my customers the best quality products without having to have them break the bank to cover some of the cost. So I have been researching different vendors. I've been in conversations with different US based vendors who provide some of the same products just to see like, you know, is it a cheaper route, you know, can I get it from you guys? Is the, is it the same quality, but is it for a better price," Kwalli said. "And you know, am I gonna have to let go some of my Chinese vendors? because I, at the end of the day, I don't want to offset the cost onto my customers, and then it's like as a new business, it's already like, you know, You're trying to budget every single thing just to make sure you're covering all your grounds and not overspending.

Kevin Ketels, associate professor of Global Supply Chain Management at Wayne State University, says while every day, consumers may not see the impact on these tariffs now, they likely will soon.

20 percent tariff is a, is a very large percentage, and most companies can't eat um those costs, and they would ultimately have to be passed on to the consumer," Ketels said. "So initially we'll have some, you know, there's some existing inventory that will be burned off, but if it lasts more than a few weeks, it could have a large impact and could result in higher costs for consumers.

Ketel says when and for how long are a part of the ongoing uncertainty disrupting the supply chain.

While everyone is trying to figure out what's happening here, it will have a chilling effect on the American economy because everyone's waiting to just see," Ketels said.

Kwalli is staying positive; she's determined to get creative and make it work.

"You have to be open to trying other things," she said.

Where Your Voice Matters

At Pepper Elementary in Oak Park, the education staff doesn't just want kids to learn how to read. They want them to enjoy reading, and "Dog Man" is helping them do just that.

When it comes to literacy, you may be surprised by the power of one book.

"He's like super funny and little Jim is so cute and he likes cupcakes," said Bethany Duller, a third grader.

One book at a time, students at Pepper Elementary are falling in love with reading.

"I feel like I can do it, because I read like 116 books," said Parker Cornelious, a second grader.

Encouraging the joy of reading is why every second and third grader is taking a break from the classroom and stepping into Dog Man Day!

"For whatever reason, our students are just enamored by Dog Man," said Emanuel Haley, the principal at Pepper Elementary.

Principal Emanuel Haley declared Tuesday, March 4, Dog Man Day at the School.

"We have to think outside of the box and that includes incentivizing reading," said Principal Haley.

The incentive Tuesday: a copy of "Dog Man: Big Jim Begins."

Haley says it's a big deal for the school where 80 percent of students qualify for free or reduced lunch.

"What this giveaway does is it provides us with the opportunity to expand our children's home library," said Principal Haley. "It extends their vocabulary, they're interested in it and when children are reading what they like to read, they have a tendency to want read more, and the more you read, the better you become at reading."

It was a fun kickoff to National Reading Month and an extension of WXYZ and the Scripps Howard Fund's "If You Give A Child A Book" program. This past summer, WXYZ-TV did a call out for donations from employees and the community, and with funds collected and a matching contribution from the Scripps Howard Fund we are giving out more than 20,000 books to children in the community.

Related Video: Check out the 'If You Give A Child A Book' giveaway at Schickler Elementary in Lapeer 'If You Give A Child A Book' giveaway at Schickler Elementary in Lapeer

A few weeks ago, we were here with Scholastic when each student got five books to take home.

Now the author of the "Dog Man" series, Dav Pilkey, is gifting even more books.

Related Video: Dog Man author-illustrator Dav Pilkey sits down for interview with 7 News Detroit 'kid correspondents' 'Dog Man' author-illustrator Dav Pilkey sits down for interview with 7 News Detroit 'kid correspondents'

"I'm so happy about this. I love this book and it's new, so I want to read it when I get home," said Prezelle Cunningham, a second grader.

To these students, "Dog Man" is much more than a character in a book.

"Dog Man encourages his self to do more things and he never gives up," said Jalayah Hopkins, a third grader.

"Dog Man is very funny and confident about many things," said Zoe Van, a third grader.

"He's funny and I like all his books," said student Illy Dye.

Illy says she has read nine "Dog Man" books, saying it's taught her how to be a better reader.

"I like to read new words and if I don't know some of the words I look at the picture," she said.

And that's what all of this is all about.

"What happens is eventually they're gonna get hooked on reading," said Principal Haley.

Water heaters and furnaces have been installed in five homes in southwest Detroit after delays, but the city isnt as far along in the process as some homeowners would like.

When it comes to the process of getting people back in their homes, many people are waiting on furnaces and water heaters to be replaced by the city.

We lost everything. I had a lot of tools, my furniture, everything, said Ruben Rodriguez, who lives on Army Street.

Rodriguezs basement was cleaned on Monday so that his new furnace and water heater can be installed. Jimmy Rios, also known as Jimmy the Plumber, was there assisting contractors with accessing water.

I was waiting for about a week. They always make appointments, and they don't show up, said Rodriguez.

With no hot water or heat, his entire family has been staying at the hotel paid for by the city.

We want to come back to our house, he said.

On Monday, he learned his furnace and water heater will be installed Wednesday, but he says he was told it would be much sooner.

Friday, I cancelled to work, and nobody showed up, Rodriguez explained. Right now they're helping but we don't see no help before.

Community volunteer Veronica Rodriguez says their family isn't the only one still waiting on promises to be kept.

Our main concern is just the communication. There's a not a good enough communication plan in place with the city officials and if volunteers have come up with a system that works and we're all just volunteers, people that have their own jobs and families and its come this far that they can contact us and they know that we'll reach out and it should be happening the same way or even better with the city, said Veronica Rodriguez.

Bryan Peckinpaugh, Deputy Director of Public Affairs with the City of Detroit, says they are ramping up work this week with more contractors and people answering phone lines to help coordinate scheduling.

We recognize that we have, there is a gap, so we got feedback from the community and these residents so we understand their concerns. We appreciate their concern and their patience so we are adding dedicated staff that are going to work the phone lines as well as with our project manager who is working on this specific project with the contractors so theyre going to be fully dedicated to this work scheduling with the contractors, scheduling with the homeowners, said Peckinpaugh.

Hes thankful for volunteers from the community working to help coordinate and fill gaps.

An issue that we're handling now for example, here a couple houses down, the cleaning crews here they a don't have a pump truck to receive offsite water, so what I'm going to do is Im going connect them a hose fitting on the meter so they can have access so they can continue the work and we can move things forward, said Jimmy Rios, also known as Jimmy the Plumber.

The U.S. House passed a budget resolution this week, which some fear could bring significant cuts to Medicaid.

Medicaid provides health insurance to over 2.6 million Michiganders, among them those living with disabilities like Warriors on Wheels bracing for what comes next.

Carrie Bradley and her son Darryl Goldsmith, who was born with Down syndrome, recently got a letter in the mail informing them about a stop in Medicaid benefits due to changes to his Social Security Income.

Darryls Medicaid is going to be cut off as the 13th of March, said Bradley. This came about because he got a $469 raise in his Social Security because his father died.

Bradley says they have no choice but to reapply because the need is still there to cover needed services he uses weekly.

Trying to get family members to take you to counseling appointments, doctor appointments, picking up medication, that's going to be a lot. I'm totally blind, so I can't drive. I have to depend on other people, Bradley explained.

Now, they're working with Lisa Franklin, who lives with a disability herself and spends most of her time advocating for equity for people with them through her non-profit Warriors on Wheels.

We advocate for better transportation, accessible, affordable housing options, also advocate for better healthcare, said Franklin.

Franklin says she and many of her members rely on Medicaid benefits and is very concerned more letters like it could be coming as the federal government focuses on cutting spending.

If Medicare were to be cut, it would be dire because you already have too many people falling through the crack, said Franklin.

As budget talks continue in Washington and lawmakers are tasked to come up with ways to save $2 trillion in spending over the next decade to pay for tax cuts, Franklin is hoping Medicaid benefits won't be on the chopping block, but shes hearing many different messages.

Too many questions, too many questions, so we're asking people to call the legislature and let them know their concerns, said Franklin.

We asked the chair of the Oakland County GOP office about the growing fears.

I think it's unfortunately fear mongering by the Democrat party because they're losing on all fronts right now and Lisa McClain, one of the congresswomen out of my district, she said just yesterday there's absolutely no - the Republican party is not going to be slashing Medicaid, said Vance Patrick, Chairman of the Oakland County Republican Party.

Patrick says the focus should be on the fact that the work being done in Washington is addressing fraud and reducing government spending.

We're saving money. How could we not all get behind saving money? said Patrick.

Rocky Raczkowski, former Republican majority leader of the Michigan House, is echoing that message.

If we want to make sure we preserve these systems without any future cuts and we make sure that our seniors and our most needed and our most protected, we need to take care of those seamsters and fraudsters that are taking money away from those that did pay into the system or that did earn their rights, said Raczkowski.

Franklin says they'll be paying attention to what that process looks like.

Web extra: Rocky Raczkowski talks about possible cuts Web extra: Rocky Raczkowski talks about possible cuts

Work has been at the center of Black History and culture for years. From enslaved Africans that built America to the Black Business owners charting their own paths today, this Black History Month, as we explore the role of Black people and labor, we're talking to innovators and change makers here in Metro Detroit.

Today, we're highlighting a Detroiter making an impact in the toy industry. The owner of Healthy Roots Dolls tell me this is all about bringing curl power to the toy aisle with products that reflect the diversity of our reality.

When you look at these brown dolls with carefully crafted outfits and kinky, curly hair, what you don't see, is the journey Detroiter Yelista Jean Charles took to get here.

We never had dolls that had our noses, our lips, our hair texture, and you have to do more than paint a doll Brown. All Brown in order to connect with children of color," said Yelista. So much of it has been worth it because of the impact that we're having on children's lives and the response that we've received."

A Black woman with Haitian Immigrant parents, growing up in New York City.

I grew up in basically three cultures, American culture, black American culture, and then my Caribbean culture. And on top of that, I was also very involved in the arts," Yelista said.

This led her to art school, where her passion about representation in media and drawing led her to transform Rapunzel into a little brown girl princess with textured hair.

My classmates ultimately said, 'this looks like a doll', and I didn't really see it at the time, but I went on to Facebook and had a conversation with some peers, and over 100 comments later, realized there was definitely an opportunity here to address the lack of representation in children's media and toys that we didn't have growing up."

Her class project evolving into a crowdfunding campaign and eventually a successful business, launching in more than 1600 Target stores and into the hands of thousands of kids.

It was great getting to see us go from just healthy roots Zoe to Guyana to Marisol, having a wide range of skin tones, facial features and hair textures," Yelista said.

Putting these dolls in stores are not only furthering the representation that she didn't see growing up, but also teaching Black and Brown kids the magical experience of loving their natural hair.

I learned in the process of creating the products toys, influence how kids think, act and see themselves," Yelista said. "So giving them the opportunity to connect with a product that represents them looks like their family, and it's showing them how beautiful they are, and how beautiful their hair is."

Her hope is that this brand will inspire others to continue promoting self-acceptance and inclusivity, not just during Black History Month, but year-round.

It shouldn't be exclusive to a designated time of the year. It should be a part of our everyday lives," Yelista said. "We should be shopping from diverse creatives, from people of different cultural backgrounds, just being inspired by each other's work."

Where Your Voice Matters

Governor Gretchen Whitmer will address the state tonight.

RELATED: What metro Detroiters want to hear before State of the State address Here's what metro Detroiters want to hear before Governor Whitmer's State of the State address tonight

Among other topics we're expected to hear from the Governor about cell phone use in schools. There's currently no statewide law requiring districts to set specific policies, but the Governor wants to change that.

The Governor's office says this is about supporting local school districts and their efforts to limit cell phone use in the classroom. We talked to parents and a local administrator about how they feel about this.

Giovanni De Jesus says monitoring the cell phone use of his sixth grader is a big deal in his household.

We have applications that can actually limit what they can and cant do during certain times," Giovanni said.

But when it comes to limiting cell phone access outside of the home and inside school walls, local districts vary.

I actually would agree that we should limit that just a bit more," Giovanni said

RELATED: DPSCD Superintendent opposed to potential cell phone ban DPSCD Superintendent opposed to potential cell phone ban

Michigan does not have a statewide ban on cell phones in schools. But Governor Whitmer does want the legislature to take a look at supporting local districts in the effort to limit cell phone use in school.

In her State of the State address tonight, Governor Whitmer is expected to call for bipartisan legislation limiting the use of phones in class. One reason for that? To improve mental health.

Some parents agree.

Its needed," Emily Tonkovich said. "We know that cell phones are not only a distraction but they also have an impact on kids mental health, well being..I think it would be helpful to have a clean cut policy across the state that would help the schools enforce restrictions on cell phone use."

I agree 100 percent," said Jeff G. "I think itd be a good thing for all schools and I think every school has to partake in it that way no student feels."

I dont think cell phones belong in the schools, theyre supposed to be there to learn not to be playing on their phone," said Jan McQueen.

John Bernia, the Superintendent of Warren Consolidated Schools says he'll be watching.

I'm just curious because from my perspective, I wonder what the state can do that is gonna be more effective than what I can do with my administrative team and what our school board can do through policies," Bernia said.

Grades K-8 in his district already have restrictions on cell phones in the classroom. Bernia said he's looking for state help in what he sees as bigger issues.

I understand where the governor is coming from. I want to minimize distractions. I see the harm that cell phones do, but that to me is a local issue, and I'd rather see us focus our energy statewide on things like math, reading, and attendance," Bernia said.

The Governor will deliver her address at 7 p.m. tonight on 7 News Detroit.

FULL INTERVIEW: Warren Consolidated Schools Superintendent John Bernia talks about what he's looking for in the State of the State FULL INTERVIEW: Warren Consolidated Schools Superintendent John Bernia talks about what he's looking for in the State of the State Where Your Voice Matters

We're continuing to follow a community-led push to preserve green space in the Village of Romeo.

The nonprofit Green Space Romeo said it has raised over $600,000 in donations and pledges to purchase property from Romeo Community Schools.

However, the district will be looking for potential developers and others interested in buying the property.

Preservation is why Susan Kane, who's lived in Romeo for decades, has been supporting the grassroots effort to buy property from the district and turn it into a green space.

Weve lost so much of our open spaces out here. All of our farms and that have been bought up and subdivisions put in them and theres not going to be any open land, so why not preserve what we have for the future?" Kane said.

We first told you about the group's plan in the fall when they were raising money to submit a bid. Their bid of $605,000 was rejected. A for sale sign is now up on the property, making it clear the process is open to anyone else who wants to buy.

Watch below: Major effort under way to transform old Romeo Middle School

Major effort under way to transform old Romeo Middle School

Its a little discouraging of course, but from then weve just pulled ourselves up from our bootstraps and decided to get back to work," Elizabeth Miller said.

The nonprofit has gotten nearly 300 responses on their latest survey about how they should move forward. They have started a petition and are not giving up.

We believe this is still possible but its not without hurdles. We will not be able to compete financially with the developers, but what we do have that they dont have is that we have a community that really believes in this space," Miller said.

Community members not involved in the process are paying attention.

I'm excited to see what they do with the schoo, where the school used to be," James Akers said. "To see about housing or a park or anything really. I think it would good for this place. I just want them to do something good with the space really."

I think there are a lot of buildings around here and it is growing, so I think it should just be a space where people can go hang out in a park. A lot of kids are here. So I just think it should be left how it is," Sophia Romine said.

We reached out to the school board for an interview. They sent us a statement, saying in part, "The School District desires the proposed development to be neighborhood/family friendly and requires all Proposals to include a concept plan."

All bids are due by March 14, and Green Space Romeo is preparing for the next board meeting on Monday.

Where Your Voice Matters

Jessica English is breaking barriers one construction project at a time. A native of Detroit, she says the latest People Mover project was not only about her but also about building up her community and the next generation.

These rail cars have been rounding across Metro Detroit since 1987. Now, Detroiter Jessica English is a part of keeping that legacy going.

I am Detroit, born and raised. I went to Cass Tech and my community means a lot to me," English said. "I knew that building something that, like generations can be a part of later on down the road was exactly what I wanted to do."

As Capital Project Manager, English was in charge of the People Mover's latest multi-million dollar track improvement project.

I would not have had a successful project if it was not for my team," English said. We're all like very happy and fulfilled that we were able to turn over such a successful project on time and on budget. It definitely did. This was probably one of the tightest schedules I've ever worked with.

She's representation in an industry dominated by men. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2023, woman made up around 11 percent of the construction workforce, and even less than that were Black women.

"I think we have a little ways to go to become a little more inclusive, but I'm really proud of the progress that everyone is making," English said.

Growing up on construction sites with her Dad, English didn't see a lot of women. That's why she values being visible and highlighting the importance of Diversity and Inclusion.

"We've come a long ways, for sure, having more black women presence on job sites and things like that," English said. I find it extremely important to go to schools. I attend a lot of different panels and things like that, to show little girls that you have it in you.

As she reflects on Black History Month, she's really grateful for her past and where her family came from.

Everyone is a product of the city, and they've always been in the forefront of making things better," English said. "They've always been the leaders of the community. And when you just have awesome people like that to look up to, I knew I wanted to be just like them growing up."

And English hopes sharing her story will help inspire future generations of Detroiters to come.

We're strong, we're resilient, we know how to speak up when we need to, but we're also graceful and poised, and we also we have like, great leadership qualities. So you could take all of that and put it into a career," English said.

Where Your Voice Matters

As some people choose to stay in their homes amid the cleanup of a massive water main break in Southwest Detroit on Monday, community groups like Detroiters Helping Each Other are stepping in to help meet their needs.

Founder Jessica Ramirez says not all people want to leave their homes in Southwest Detroit due to deportation fears, a lack of trust or comfort.

"Exactly what was said to me. Those exact words," Ramirez said. "Nope, we're not leaving because we don't want to be carded. We don't want to be checked. We don't want to be registered because what if we get picked up. Then we'll lose everything, so we'll stay home."

Related video: 54-inch water main break floods SW Detroit neighborhood The latest on a 54-inch water main break in SW Detroit that flooded neighborhood

Ramirez says some people are scared to utilize resources shared by local officials. She says her group and others like hers have been going door to door and canvassing to make people still get access to resources they need.

"You got to build that relationship. You have to have a relationship with your residents and your community and at the end of the day, Southwest, we take care of each other. That's what it boils down to," Ramirez said.

Their call to action is for people to help and get involved. Right now, they are collecting non-perishables, clothing, shoes, blankets, air mattresses and pet items.

Related video: Who will pay for repairs from massive Detroit water main break flooding? Who will pay for repairs from massive Detroit water main break flooding?

"Just know that these families are still going to need help next week. That's the biggest thing. I look ahead. I look in advance of things because they're still going to need help. We're going to try to need resources. Yes, the state government might help pay for things, but in the meantime, life still goes on," Ramirez said.

To help those in need, drop-off information is listed below:

Detroiters Helping Each Other313-704-5392 Kemeny Recreation Center 313-628-28192260 S. Fort StreetDetroit, MI 48217 Patton Recreation Center 313-628-20002301 Woodmere StreetDetroit, MI 48209

Black history continues to be made - even now in metro Detroit. We sat down with Carrie Budzinski, Livonia City Councilor; Quinn Wright, Madison Heights City Councilor; Clarence Black, Berkley City Councilor; and Michael Howard, Macomb County Commissioner.

VIDEO EXTRA: Our interview subjects give their advice to those who want to get involved VIDEO EXTRA: Our interview subjects give their advice to those who want to get involved

All were elected last November by voters, the first in their communities.

My goal was not to make history. My goal was just to make sure that change was made and that we were taking the steps for my daughters and for the future generations, said Wright. I knew that it was time for new leadership just in general in our political process and I wanted to be a part of it.

Wright is the first Black City Councilor elected in Madison Heights.

I think, sometimes, we kinda sit back and we give our opinion. I wanted to make sure I was interjecting mine into the conversation and into the room. It needed to happen, said Wright.

That also motivated Carrie Budzinski, the first Black woman on Livonia City Council. The idea first came to her in 2020 during the pandemic.

I really wanted to run for office, just being a woman and a mom, to be perfectly honest, said Budzinski. I felt compelled to get out of my comfort zone and get involved. When you literally cant leave your house, you realize how important your neighborhood is, and so I decided to dive deep into local politics and local government really and how could I get involved and make a better world for my boys and do my part for our community.

One of her goals is to dispel myths about government and help others get involved.

I feel like we have such negative perceptions about government or just what impacts we can have, and we can have a big impact. Change is possible, said Budzinski.

Michael Howard, the first Black man elected in the city of Warrens history, is seeing the evidence of that.

I serve on the Macomb County Board of Commissioners, who had previously had one Black man serving 34 years ago, and he was the first, said Howard. Macomb, the county that I live in, is named after a slave-owning family, so now to serve the county of Macomb is - its impactful.

U.S. Army Major Clarence Black is the first Black man on Berkleys City Council.

I didnt find out until midway through our campaign that there had never been anyone of color in that seat, and that was just kind of jaw-dropping, and it pushed us even harder, I think, said Black.  

He was also a long-time resident of the area but did not obtain two open appointments before he ran.

I have four beautiful, biracial children who live in Berkley, go to Berkley schools, and Id been a Berkley resident since 2008, so I really felt like I had earned to have some say. I wasnt some newcomer. I had been there almost 14 years when I ran. So I really just wanted to be a part of it, said Black.

Being a part of history continues to motivate them all as they work to expand labor opportunities throughout their communities for those coming behind them.

Black folks have been at the crux of the labor movement here in America. It started not by choice, and then we built a middle-class lifestyle through labor unions, and labor is really the heartbeat of the middle class, said Howard.

Howard says it's about creating and taking up space.

If they wont give us a seat at the table, we need to build a bigger table because your voice matters, said Howard.

We asked about the intersection of black history and labor: Given the history of Black labor in America, what do you see as the most pressing labor-related issues today that need political attention in your cities?

Black: I think for us in Berkley, it really comes down to AI. We really need to get a handle on it. I think, like a lot of communities, were really trying to figure out what is this going to mean for us, especially as we look at a possible refit of city hall and our services and things like that. For us, we really want to try to figure out where is AI going to try to make labor easier.

Wright: Making sure that our workers have a prevailing wage and that were doing the best value contracting to make sure that were not just taking the lowest bidder but making sure that were providing an economic stimulus and development for our residents. Our city is a union town, and so we got a lot of folks who are labor, and we gotta make sure they can have a working wage, and they can afford the groceries and things that everyone is kind of up in arms about.

Budzinski What we really have to focus on is the next generation of kids and our students both at the high school level but also at the college level.

Howard: Making sure that our responsible contracting ordinances reflect practical and responsible labor responsibilities like project labor agreements, prevailing wage, and these are things that impact all communities, not just Black communities, not just white communities. It impacts everybody that is trying to work hard and provide for their family.

As Tahiry Broom's family mourns her tragic death, they are calling for understanding as they honor her amid ongoing investigations.

Broom, a 29-year-old transgender woman, was shot and killed on Sunday morning in Southfield.

Police arrested Robert Ridges III, 28, at a casino just hours after finding the murder weapon in his apartment. Now, we're hearing from the aunt of Broom about who she was.

Southfield man charged in murder of transgender woman over the weekend

"It's like, it's really like it got the whole family in like an uproar. It's like one of those things like you don't know what to feel. You wanna be angry, you wanna be sad, you wanna cry, you wanna scream, Broom's aunt Patricia Bender explained.

Even after the arrest of the person police believe is responsible, there are still a lot of questions going through Bender's mind.

Related video: Bodycam shows suspect arrest in murder of transgender woman BODY CAMERA VIDEO: Man arrested in murder of transgender woman

"That brought some peace, but that don't take away the pain, Bender said. You just wanna know why, like why did you do that? Why do you feel like she deserved for that to happen, you know, and then that way and that magnitude."

Bender says her niece loved making people laugh, was full of energy and confidence and loved Nicki Minaj.

"Funny, smart like one of those people that can walk into the darkest room and find some light in it," Bender said.

She's hoping people see Broom in that bright light instead of focusing on what she did for work.

"You can't judge a person by their actions or something that they do, Bender said.

Southfield police say they haven't ruled out the possibility that Broom was targeted. The suspect made 33 calls to sex workers, including Black transgender women like Broom.

"I believe that now that this has happened, he wants to try to distance himself from that reality, but no he knew. I believe it was possibly maybe even a motive for the robbery as well because when he was interviewed, turns out he didn't have any money, so how was he going to pay for services if you will, but he was carrying a gun," Southfield Police Chief Elvin Barren said.

But the evil that happened and investigation into it won't stop them from celebrating who she was.

"She shine a light that's gonna shine forever and ever and ever and ever," Bender said.

The family says they're grateful for the outpouring of support in Michigan. There will be a balloon release in Cleveland, where Broom is from, at Woodhill Park Friday.

The nonprofit All Things Women Inc. is making a call to action for the public to get involved as their transitional shelter expands to serve more people in the City of Detroit.

Every day is busy at All Things Women Inc.

"I want to say 60 calls a day, asking for shelter, asking for housing, asking for help," said Director of Operations Shaniece Terrell.

Understanding the demand across the city, the transitional housing shelter and community resource hub is moving to try to help even more people.

The community-led non-profit was birthed in direct response to what they saw as a lack of resources and support. It says there's been progress, but not nearly enough beds for people in need across the city.

"There is help. It's very limited. A lot of the spaces are very full, especially due to the weather," explained Terrell.

Terrell says even starting the process can be difficult.

"I really want to say most beds are full within 48 hours of them being open, and not all places take a waitlist, some does. It just all depends on the situation you're going through and the severity, said Terrell.

That's why they help people navigate through temporary shelter to permanent. The move to a bigger space will take them from 11 to around 80 beds.

"The goal is to transition you into your own permanent, stable housing, you paying your own bills, you and your kids living your own life, no help," she explained.

The deaths of two children on Monday who were experiencing homelessness with their family and living in a van echoes how important that mission is and having people to step up to help fill the gaps.

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"We're just excited to open new doors. We're excited to help more women and children. Were just excited to offer more things, more help to the community," said Terrell.

On a day where there's a lot of frustration over what still needs to be done, they see the move as progress and hope.

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"Take that frustration and get involved. Offer your time, offer your services," said Terrell.

It's one reason TWO MEN AND A TRUCK Detroit is partnering to help them move and encouraging others to join them.

"Throughout the year, we help them with moves they need. Either moving mothers and children into their new houses or, in this case, moving all things women into a new building," said Marketing Coordinator Alyssa Watts. "Just to be able to do anything that we can to give back, help give a lending hand, help someone move forward in their next step in the journey of life."

From March until Mother's Day, they'll also be collecting items that will go to the nonprofit and women they support as a part of a national campaign.

"We have collection sites all over Metro Detroit where people can come and drop off donation items to those boxes within those three months, and then once those are collected, we bring them to the shelter and then drop those off," said Watts.

All Things Women Inc. will open up the first beds in their new location on the city's west side within two weeks.

"There is help, you just have to do the research, you have to call, you have to talk to someone," said Terrell.

Since 2018, All Things Women Inc. has impacted more than 2,500 women and families through emergency shelter, a community clothing closet, postpartum support, food assistance, and workforce readiness programs.

TWO MEN AND A TRUCK Detroit has partnered with All Things Women Inc. for three years, supporting their mission through moving services and their Movers for Moms campaign, a national initiative providing essential items to womens shelters each spring. This years campaign kicks off March 10 and will run through May 5, with donations going directly to All Things Women Inc.

After stickers promoting unwanted activism started popping up, community members and business owners in Mount Clemens are speaking out.

A well-known alleyway in downtown Mount Clemens is a popular place for stickers, but not the kind that recently started showing up.

Marcel Johnson first noticed the black and white stickers with QR codes promoting "white lives matter" and "straight pride" on Wednesday after a customer called to alert him. Johnson, who owns Lil Daddy's Cheesecakes Co., then again noticed them Friday morning.

I think it was just a high-traffic area that they wanted to target, Johnson said.

He tore them all down and reported both incidents to the Macomb County Sheriffs Office hoping that would be the end of it but as he was talking to 7 News Detroit, we found even more.

Somebody came back and did that, Johnson said.

He describes the repeated incidents as harassment against the community.

It makes me more angry than anything, Johnson said.

Johnson and his wife opened up shop in the area because of the inclusive and diverse community and says this this wont be tolerated. He doesnt want to give it too much attention but wants it known they wont be silenced.

Everyone knows were not intimidated. We wont be. Things like that will always be taken down here, Johnson said.

Local businesses like Max and Ollies, Paperback Writer Books store and Weirdsville Records are sending the same message.

Were very disappointed. Were a close-knit community for being a big community and we think everybody matters, said Lisa Taylor, co-owner of Paperback Writer Book Store and Weirdsville Records.

We don't stand for it. This is an all-inclusive community. It always has been and it always will be. Everyone is welcome, but keep those thoughts to yourself, said Diane Kubik, owner of Max & Ollies, which is celebrating 20 years in March.

Longtime community member and volunteer Lee Gothro echoed those sentiments.

Were not going back were going forward and were going to take as many people as we can with us, Gothro said.

Leaders like Mayor Laura Kropp agree.

I was shocked at first and then extremely defensive of my community because I know thats not the values of our community, Kropp said. Were a diverse community. We have so many different types of people that belong to our community and we always feel strongly that that is a point of pride for us."

As the home of Macomb County Pride, they are taking the harassment seriously. With no cameras in the alley, Kropp considering making a change.

I jumped into action. We talked to the sheriff and may go as far as setting up cameras to find out who is doing this, Kropp said.

They cant understand why someone would target their community for those kind of messages.

As some of us come up, were taught to ignore these kind of things and its to be expected. I never thought it would be at my front door though, Johnson said.

The Macomb County Sherrifs Office is investigating and increasing patrols in the area, especially on the midnight shift.

The Detroit Department of Transportation's Reimagine blueprint calls for doubling bus services and increasing route frequency. Its been a year since we saw that final transformation plan.

Three to four times a week, Detroiter Paul Warner gets up bright and early to take the DDOT Woodward Avenue bus.

Its really nice. I dont have to walk that far. Its maybe seven- to 10-minute walk to get to my stop, Warner said. I like the idea of not driving, plus public transportation is much safer than driving an automobile on the road."

Warner says the past six months, hes noticed a difference including an added stop at the Rosa Parks Transit Center for his next connection.

Theyve done a really good job with getting drivers up. Theyre not missing as many routes now. It still happens, but its getting better, Warner said. Im getting everywhere I need to get to on time. I see many more people riding it. My bus coming in the morning is almost always packed.

Increased ridership and reliability are both goals of the DDOT Reimagined plan shared just over a year ago.

Robert Cramer, executive director of DDOT, says since they released that final plan, theyve made improvements to the Woodward and Jefferson Avenue route. Data shows some routes are becoming more reliable, and 50 needed drivers graduated in January.

Everyone is going to say it would be great to have more routes, more buses, but we need to focus on the short and midterm on making sure what we have is reliable and they can depend on it, Cramer said.

The plan calls for adding twice as many routes, faster service times and better shelter and infrastructure at stops.

But Cramer says creating that reality is taking time and theyre approaching that goal slowly.

In the transit world, it really takes time for routes, even when you put something new in place. It really takes six months to see how people are reacting, how people are using that, Cramer said.

The changes are happening quarterly and happen in conjunction with public input meetings, which is why their plan has six to 10 more years until we see the full vision.

Its really a matter of increasing the drivers, increasing the buses incrementally step by step as we go through the future, Cramer said.

Watch our July 2024 coverage when DDOT was receiving $30.8 million in federal funding to buy new electric buses in the video player below: DDOT receiving $30.8 million in federal funding to buy new electric buses

But advocates like Transportation Riders United say its moving too slowly.

We can't wait for good quality service. People are sick of waiting at bus stops in the cold. We need to make sure within three years, the city is doubling DDOTs service.

Its why Executive Director Megan Owens and a group of about a dozen other organizations across metro Detroit are calling for the mayor and city council to double DDOTS budget with a big increase in the upcoming year in hopes that it cuts the timeline in half.

We'd love to see $150 million coming from the city to fund the transit system, Owens said. That would take a huge step in the right direction and then yet developing a plan for how to get there. Do we need to look at something like a parking tax or an entertainment fee? Are there other ways? Can we work more with the state government?

Owens says the system is severely underfunded.

The COVID pandemic hit public transit industry hard just like it hit so many other areas of our lives, and public transit is finally starting to really get back on its feet. But you get what you pay for. Transit's been underfunded for so long that even excellent agencies can only provide so much service with a minimal budget, Owens said.

Its an ongoing conversation about increased funding thats been happening for years and promises to continue as issues about route frequency and consistency persist.

The 150 doesn't get us to that full double. But it's, again, a step in the right direction. We know it's not going to happen overnight, but a mix of increased local investment and state investment, we can get to the point of having a really reliable system that people can count on to get them where they need to go, so they don't have to put so much money into the gas tank every every week Owens explained about the request.

Watch our August 2023 coverage about phase two of the plan in the video player below: DDOT rolls out plan to boost bus service

TRU brought together transportation stakeholders for their first State of Transit summit. They shared the results of a survey they conducted with 1,100 riders in the fall of 2024. 

The mayors official proposed budget comes out in March. Hearings start shortly after.

I know they have to make some hard choices and there's a lot of important needs. But that's why we're excited to work with the mayor, to work with the city council to figure out over the next few years what will it take to double that bus service, Owens said.

We asked Cramer about the request.

If you dont have everything lined up, youre not going to see more service. So if we have a big increase in the budget, all of a sudden, theres a lot of time that comes behind that as far as ramping up the staffing and the busing, Cramer said.

In the meantime, Cramer wants the public to weigh in during quarterly meetings as they decide on more changes to routes.

Eight-year-old Janek has had a lot of visits to Corewell Health's Children's hospital as of late.

"I'm really excited to have my EEG," said Janek while walking into the office.

Friday was his first time bringing along boxes of slime.

"I think, like 2,400, or something like that, said Janek.

Its the thing that first brought his smile back after unshakeable darkness.

"Nana gave me a slime, and I started playing with it, and I started laughing," said Janek.

It's been seven months since a gunman opened fire at a splash pad in Rochester Hills where he was spending time with family.

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"I was shot in the head, and now I'm blind," he says.

His mom, Johanna Bebout, and four-year-old brother, Julen, were also shot.

Very soon after the incident, I was just at rock bottom. And really my kids were the ones who pulled me out of the sand inspired me, said Johanna Bebout."Janek was the one who told me, 'Mommy, don't be too sad about it' because I was grieving a lot for his eyesight, and he was the one who brought me out of this, and he was the one who told me to let go because he said, 'Don't be too sad, I'm still having fun, I'm still myself.' We're still all here."

Janeks belly laugh from the sound of the fart slime was hope they needed.

"That sounds like a daddy fart, laughed Janek while playing with the toy.

That joy was contagious.

"Even though he was going through such a hard thing, he brought laughter, and he brought smiles to every nurse and every doctor and every surgeon that walked into his room and took care of him, and it just made you want to keep going back, said Amanda Lefkof, Certified Child Life Specialist with Corewell Health Childrens.

It's why his Nana, Barb Soffin, wrote a letter to Santa asking him for helpers to collect this laughter in a cup. The community came through, and Janeks laughter was born.

"It's not going to win. This is our success. By laughing today and having fun with slime, might be simple to some people, it's actually everything to us, said Barb Soffin.

Now Janeks sharing his laughter with other kids in the hospital.

"They can fart with it if they want or squish it. I just want to put a smile on every kids' face," said Janek.

Hes getting help from his child life specialist, who was by his side when he woke up.

"I think our favorite this is being able to see our patients come back doing well, and so, not only is he coming back just rocking it with his cane and feeling really good, but wanting to give back to other children who are going through a hard time. It's such a meaningful full-circle moment," said Lefkof.

Seven months after the unthinkable Janek is navigating life without his eyes practicing echolocation and spreading joy wherever he goes.

"My message is that beautiful things can still come out of tragedy," said Johanna Bebout."We had been given a second chance at life, and we're so incredibly grateful to the lord and to having this chance."

There's a new way to work out in metro Detroit: it's called an EGYM and is the first in Michigan.

It promises smart fitness for beginners and gym veterans by turning it into a game.

Watch a walk-through of the EGYM system at the Royal Oak YMCA in the video player below: Christiana walks us through the eGym system at the YMCA

At the YMCA in Royal Oak, Alycia Clark, whos been an athlete her whole life, is finally getting a workout shes not used to. 

Today, I am muscle building, Clark said.

They want me to go up higher Im scared, Clark joked. It really records my data and that helps a lot.

The AI-powered digital workout creates a personalized experience and a game.

Whether youre an athlete or just trying to work out safely, the machine adjusts.

This is good for my knees, user Janet Jones said. When they first brought it here, I came in here the first day and went through the training and everything 'cause I was excited.

Fitness instructor Erica Wells says its challenging and helps with form.

I always want to push myself a little harder and I always want to beat my last score, Wells said. I prefer to do this than any of the other machines because its fun.

One of the games is like Pac-Man.

The more dots you collect, the more points you get, Wells explained.

Theres even a leaderboard for people to compete with other gym members at the YMCA.

 

Some things, its kinda like here you go, heres those workouts, have a good time. EGYM actually checks back into you constantly its like a little mini like AI, said Associate Executive Director Makaya Adams. It remembers where I like my seat and my handles to come, it knows my range of motion and it actually programs my workouts for me.

Adams says we could be seeing a lot more of these or this kind of workout.

Not having to think about changing the weight and changing the seat setting and how many reps am I supposed to be doing, Adams said. Thats kind of where technology with fitness is going.

Adams says they are already seeing progress with their members. Many of them have been sticking to their smart workout for the long run.

This kinda keeps you on point, Jones said.

City leaders in Highland Park unveiled plans for public lighting, housing developments and significant water infrastructure improvements to revitalize the community on Tuesday.

They say it's about showing the community the work going on behind the scenes and their commitment to continue the progress. 

I just want you to know that Highland Park is on the move and we are in motion and we are going to build this city back to the strength that everyone is proud, everyone is involved," Mayor Glenda McDonald said.

The city has gone without significant lighting for years after not being able to pay a multimillion-dollar DTE bill.

The math is really hard when you don't have that tax base, McDonald said. "Our goal is to increase our tax base. Our goal is to continue to move toward getting the city up and running again to a status where its citizens are proud to be here.

DTE confirmed they are actively working with Highland Park on potential solutions to add lighting to the city.

For now, they are adding 50 grant-funded solar lights in partnership with Solartonic.

The city is also adding three master meters across the city that they hope will help accurately measure water use and save community members money.

It is probably the most significant water infrastructure project that has happened in Highland Park in over a decade," said Damon L. Garrett, director of the Highland Park Water Department.

He says that project will be done by the end of spring.

At this point, it's all about continuing the progress, continuing the movement, continuing the motion, McDonald said.

More investment and development is good news for Keyaira Berry, owner Salon KnH. Her shop sits along Woodward Avenue.

"Whatever they got coming for us, well appreciate it. I know the community will, Berry said.

Stylist Robert Green added that he hopes the change will be sustainable and into the future for longtime residents.

"The blocks that are blighted with a lot of empty space, theres a lot of room for new housing, Green said.

Longtime resident Joseph Blevins says he's excited about the possibility of more resources coming to the city for residents.

"We need all of that to help the city prosper. We cant prosper the way we're going, Blevins said.

Specifically, he's looking for more resources for those interested in starting businesses or investing in property.

"A library where you can go, thats a good resource center, Blevins said.

McDonald says the city has applied for a grant to study what it would take to remodel the library and are hopeful they will receive it.

Getting more electric vehicle charging stations like ones across Detroit and its surrounding areas has been a big push for local officials trying to make it easier to own an electric car, but an executive order signed by President Donald Trump Monday has many people wondering about how that and the future of it will look.

Trump took aim at federal and state support for electric vehicles on his first day in office. The executive order seeks to end the federal support in recent years for electric vehicles. That includes a goal that EVs make up half of new cars sold.

The next move would likely be getting rid of the $7,500 tax credit for buyers of EVs. Also in question is federal support for charging stations and low interest loans for automakers building new plants for EVs and the batteries they need.

Detroiter Anthony Kemp feels like the city needs all the investment it can get.

"I have to wake up at like 4 a.m.... to get to a charger," Kemp said.

Without an electric car charger at home, Kemp says he can spend hours waiting and charging up.

"If they're going to go ahead and put these cars on the road, they need some more chargers because right now in the city of Detroit, only like 75% of the chargers actually work, so you got a line waiting to charge your car up," Kemp said.

The difficulty trying to find a charger is why city and state leaders have been making efforts to add more.

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The executive order is targeting two programs that could threaten funding for those plans, the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program and the Charging and Fueling Infrastructure Grant Program.

The programs set aside billions to build out more chargers nationwide. Both the Michigan Department of Transportation and the city of Detroit have plans in the works. So far, it's not clear on if or when they'll see promised money.

"The city and its partners are committed to building out a network of EV charging stations. We currently have a signed grant agreement from the Round 1B $23 million CFI grant and are working towards getting one for the $15 million Round 2 grant that will install a network of EV charging stations through Detroit and its neighboring suburban communities. We are moving forward with our plan and hope to work with the Trump administration as it supports American auto manufacturers," said Trisha Stein, chief strategy officer with the city of Detroit.

MDOT says it's too early to tell how this will effect their plans because they haven't received specific guidance from federal agencies.

"The hope is that the funds already obligated will not be clawed back," a spokesperson with MDOT said.

Michigan was set to receive just over $110 million.

"The president has made it very clear that he was going to cut back on EVs no matter what. What we're still waiting to see is precisely what he's going to do," said auto industry expert John McElroy with Autoline.

Extended interview: Hear more from John McElroy of Autoline Detroit Extended interview: Hear more from John McElroy of Autoline Detroit

The order ends the goal made by former President Joe Biden of 50% of new car sales being electric by 2030 dubbed the "EV Mandate". However, it was never requirement.

"I don't know if it's a good thing or a bad thing," EV owner Derek Hall said. "I believe in good, strong capitalism and sometimes, you might not need the government to push you in the right direction."

Hall says he just wants what's best for the environment.

"I'd like to hope that whatever President Trump does will consider what is it going to do for the cleanliness of our air, for the poison in our soil, for the contaminants in our drinking water," Hall said.

John Maynard who works at one of the Big Three auto companies says Trump's stance on EVs is a positive for his job security. He judged based on how his employer reacted to the news.

"Being an auto worker, I obviously want to see a need for my position so that I might stay working," Maynard said. When theres a need for cars, then theres a need for workers to build those cars and a need for companies to provide those products and they make money, we make money, everybodys happy.

Auto industry expert John McElroy says it's too soon to tell what the future will look like for EVs as all stakeholders wait on what specific actions the president will take. He says talks of tariffs on car imports isn't helping and would increase car prices.

"

They're down in their bunkers hunkered down and waiting to see what actually happens. They're cutting all kinds of spending. Some programs have been delayed. Once there's some certainty, I think things will start to turn around but right now, nobody knows what's going to happen," McElroy said.

After a story we did earlier this week about local restaurants adding service fees to customer's bills, our Facebook page was flooded with hundreds of comments.

The restaurant says it's in preparation for the tipped wage hike in February, and more restaurants could follow suit.

Watch below: Restaurants begin implementing service charges preparing for tipped wage hike

Restaurants begin implementing service charges preparing for tipped wage hike

After the comments, I went out to hear more from people about the potential change. We wanted to know how they are feeling about it, so we went to Main Donut Shop in Royal Oak.

We asked how the added charge on a restaurant bill would sit with people.

I worked in service my whole life so I understand where theyre coming from," George Ivey said.

I dont know about a service fee. I dont know why we cant just tip them," Kerrie Utley added.

I dont think the added cost onto the people is fair, I dont," Dan Holmes, a Ferndale resident who is also a former fine-dining manager, said.

That is a difficult question, but I think if the communication about that extra charge is part of the process, then I probably wont have a problem with that," Russell Boyle said. He's a former server. "But if it's something theyre just going to slap on and theyre not and theyre not going to mention it, which I know some people do, its going to be a little bit more challenging, maybe not for me but for a lot of other people who get really upset about hidden fees."

I think it would have to be some pretty good service for me to essentially double tip," Gary Cavender said.

The logic behind it at one restaurant in Farmington is to help them afford the increase in worker pay. Adding a service charge instead of letting staff go or increasing menu prices.

So theyre just flipping it back. Are you supposed to tip on top of that too," Holmes said.

If thats what we gotta do to keep our wait staff fully staffed, thats what we gotta do," Utley added.

But for some, if it comes down to paying a service fee, adding a tip isn't off the table.

I wouldnt go someplace and spend my money if it wasnt good anyway. If somebodys doing a really good job, I would pay both," Cavender said.

If it was on the bill or it wasnt on the bill I would still continue to tip my servers will I still tip them 20% because theyre making more an hour I dont know," Boyle said.

While they don't have to worry about that at their beloved donut shop, the minimum wage for tipped workers is expected to increase starting Feb. 21.

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