Detroit officials say they’ve filed the “largest blight lawsuit in its history” against a blockchain-based real estate platform after it failed to maintain hundreds of residential properties in the city.

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Real Token, also known as RealT, is a Florida-based company that markets itself as a decentralized real estate security token platform. In the lawsuit, the city alleges that the company’s co-founders, brothers Remy Jacobson and Jean-Marc Jacobson — and their 165 affiliated companies — have neglected over 400 properties in Detroit by failing to maintain basic health and safety requirements, leading to widespread code violations and blight.

Detroit’s Corporation Counsel Conrad Mallet says the city wants them to pay $500,000 in blight tickets and ensure their properties pass compliance inspections.  

“We are also asking the judge to hold the Jacobson brothers personally liable for the circumstances that their tenants find themselves,” he said. “We are also asking the judge to take control of the entire process so that even the vacant properties are properly attended to [and] properly registered.”

Mallet says Real token used a complex web of shell companies to avoid responsibility for keeping up their properties.  

Real Token says it paid their parties to manage the properties and blamed them for the problems.  

“We are sending a message,” Mallet wrote in a statement, “no matter how innovative your business model may be, you cannot hide behind technology or corporate formalities to evade your responsibilities as a property owner.”

Other headlines for Thursday, July 3, 2025:

• More than 6,000 signatures have been collected by the group Dearborn Wants Wards to change the city council from an at-large body to district-based seats.
• The Michigan House has passed two bills that give police the ability to test for controlled substances during traffic stops.
• AAA says it expects almost 2.5 million people in Michigan to travel this Fourth of July weekend. State officials say they are suspending roadwork at more than 100 project sites over the holiday weekend to help ease traffic congestion.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

Two protesters were arrested on Detroit’s west side Monday after police say they attempted to prevent Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers from detaining a resident in the neighborhood.

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ICE was in the area to arrest a Honduran man who had already been deported twice but returned to the U.S. each time. Protesters say the immigration officers failed to show a signed warrant for his arrest. Officers used pepper spray on protesters when confronted.

At a Detroit City Council meeting Tuesday, Councilmember Gabriela Santiago-Romero said ICE could have avoided the protest by simply showing a signed warrant.

“The family knew their rights. They said they didn’t show us the warrant. They didn’t even leave me a copy of the warrants,” she said. “That, to me, seems like a very basic, simple solution to this not getting out of hand…” 

At least one of the two protesters arrested have been charged in federal court for allegedly blocking ICE agents from leaving after making the arrest.

Police Chief Todd Bettison says protesters should stay peaceful, and warned that anyone who interferes with federal agents will be arrested.

Other headlines for Wednesday, July 2, 2025:

• The Department of Natural Resources’ explorer guide program is offering more than 100 free activities over the July Fourth holiday weekend. DNR guides will lead programs at 30 state parks Friday through Sunday, with activities ranging from poetry writing to fossil-hunting. 
• The Brightmoor Artisan Collective will host a Nigerian cooking class at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 9, offered in partnership with the Detroit Partnership for Food Learning and Innovation program through Michigan State University Extension. The registration fee is $15 per person. Register by emailing edwar649@msu.edu.
• The Museum of Contemporary Art Detroit (MOCAD) is hosting a drop-in summer studio, with the next session taking place on Thursday, July 3. Visitors of all ages will have the chance to make art with some creative prompts and materials provided. Next week, MOCAD will welcome families for its Family Day with free exhibitions for kids, teens and parents.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

The city of Detroit announced on Monday that it has received a credit upgrade from the credit rating agency Moody’s for the 11th year in a row. 

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Detroit’s rating went up one notch from Baa2 to Baa1 with a positive outlook, the city reported. The city’s financial resiliency and its operating performance over time were key reasons behind this year’s upgrade, Moody’s said in a statement.

Moody’s cited key projects underway — such as the new Hudson’s development, the expansion of Henry Ford Hospital’s campus, and the new Water Square development — as positives, adding that the city’s tax base has more than doubled in the past five years. 

The city’s credit rating hit an all-time low at Caa3 — considered “junk bond” status — in June 2013 after declaring bankruptcy.

“This is what happens when elected leaders set aside us-versus-them politics and work together,” Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan said in a statement. “Our CFO team, department heads and City Council all have demonstrated tremendous fiscal discipline over the past 11 years to help bring us to where we are today and to lay a strong foundation for years to come.”

Other headlines for Tuesday, July 1, 2025:

• Residents on Detroit’s east side are speaking out about gun violence after two young people were killed at a city playground near Denby High School on Friday. Police are still investigation the shooting, which claimed the lives of 4-year-old Samir Grubbs and 18-year-old Daviyon Shelmonson-Bey and left another teenager wounded. No suspects are in custody.
• The Motown Museum has reopened its “Motown Mile” art installation along the Detroit riverfront with a new exhibition honoring the legacy of Motown Museum founder Esther Gordy Edwards, titled “Keeper of the Dream.”
• Detroit’s neighbors across the river are celebrating Canada Day on Tuesday, commemorating the country’s “confederation.” Windsor residents celebrated with a parade down Ouelette Avenue late Tuesday morning.
• Detroit is getting a new WNBA team. The league announced the new team on Monday. Tom and Holly Gores will be the controlling owners of the new franchise, set to play in 2029. Other expansion teams will also be launched in Cleveland and Philadelphia that year. Detroit’s previous WNBA team — the Detroit Shock — played from 1998 until 2009, winning three championships during that time.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

More than 6,000 signatures have been collected by a group seeking to change Dearborn’s city council format from an at-large body to holding district-based council elections.

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Dearborn Wants Wards filed the petition with the Dearborn City Clerk’s Office on June 18. If the language is approved, the city would have council members per district and only two at-large seats, for a total of nine council members.

If the language is approved, the city would have council members per district and only two at-large seats, for a total of nine council members. 

Campaign spokesperson Mona Mawari says the changes are overdue and necessary for equal representation of the city’s east and south sides. 

“So most of the seats are won by folks from the west side; and the East End has only one person on city council, and the South End has none,” she said. “So that’s when I decided to create this campaign where we will be going to change the structure of city council to a more equitable structure.”

If all the signatures are certified and election language is approved, voters in Dearborn will see the measure on their ballot in November.

Changes to the city council and charter commission would go into effect in 2029.

Other headlines for Monday, June 30, 2025:

• A series of bills were introduced in the state Senate that aim to make renting more accessible. The bills would cap rental application fees at $25, eliminate junk fees that occur after a lease is signed, and seal eviction records.
• The city of Dearborn will be increasing its police presence this Fourth of July weekend to combat a rise in illegal fireworks usage. Parents of children caught mishandling and using illegal fireworks will also receive citations as well. Police are reminding residents that fireworks are only allowed on private property from 11 a.m. to 11:45 p.m. between June 29 and July 5.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

The city of Detroit’s Office of Mobility Innovation has announced the return of its annual Detroit Bike Summit at Chandler Park this weekend.

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The ride will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, June 28, and is free and open to all ages. This year’s theme is “Eastside Bound,” focusing on community, clean transportation and active mobility on Detroit’s east side.

“Detroiters deserve access to safe, fun, and convenient ways to get around their neighborhoods,” said Tim Slusser, chief of the Office of Mobility Innovation, in a press release. “We’re excited to bring the Bike Summit to Chandler Park and highlight the importance of active mobility and community-led solutions.”

In addition to a full day of riding, there will be food trucks on site, music and more. The first 100 people to register will be eligible to receive a prepaid lunch voucher. The actual bike ride begins at noon, leaving from Chandler Park. Riders will bike to Detroit’s Maheras-Gentry Park and back — a seven-mile ride.

Visit detroitmi.gov for more information. 

Other headlines for Friday, June 27, 2025:

• The city of Detroit is one of 50 finalists in Bloomberg Philanthropies’ sixth Mayors Challenge — a competition to encourage innovation in local government that improves life in cities around the world. The city will receive $50,000 to test its idea for improving Detroit’s property information systems.
• Detroit’s Rouge Park is turning 100 years old this year. To celebrate the milestone, the nonprofit Friends of Rouge Park is hosting a free, three-day festival at the park this weekend, June 27-29.
• Since May 31, local nonprofit group Black Leaders Detroit has been participating in the national Ride for Equity — a 1,600-mile bike ride through the midwest aiming to raise money and create awareness around equitable funding practices for entrepreneurs of African descent.
• The Rocket Classic continues this weekend at the Detroit Golf Club, with more than 150 athletes taking part in the 7th annual tournament. It will be televised on CBS Saturday and Sunday afternoons.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

Children experiencing food insecurity this summer will have multiple services available to them to get free, nutritional meals.

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The Michigan Department of Education’s Summer Food Service Program — known nationally as  known as the SUN Meals To-Go program and known in Michigan as Meet Up and Eat Up,  — provides children in need with nutritious meals at on-site locations all across the state.

Families that can’t visit an on-site service can visit the meals to-go locations to take meals home. To find a location near you, visit Michigan.gov/meetupeatup.

Another option for summer meals is the SUN Bucks Michigan Summer EBT program administered by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). The program provides $120 for groceries per child through an EBT card. However, Health Department officials say because this program is backed by federal dollars, the program is in jeopardy this year due to proposed federal cuts to food assistance benefits and Medicaid.

For now, funding is still in place and families can take advantage. 

Other headlines for Thursday, June 26, 2025:

• The Wayne Mobile Health Unit (WMHU) is hosting a free vision clinic today through Saturday, June 28, at Grace Community Church. 21001 Moross Rd., Detroit. The event, held in partnership with Detroit OneSight Vision Clinic and Hap CareSource, will offer free comprehensive eye exams and prescription glasses, as well as free blood pressure checks, oral screenings, dental exams, hearing tests and more.
• The city of Detroit is hosting a Veterans Resource Fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. this Friday at the Northwest Activities Center. The free event will have career opportunities, veteran support services, community resources, and more.
• It’s national Homeownership Month and Detroit Project REACh is teaming up with Detroit Future City and other community organizations to host the 2025 Homebuyers Fair at Huntington Place this Saturday. There will be two sessions, with the first from 10 a.m. to noon and the second from 1 to 3 p.m.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

Detroit’s North End will soon be getting some special funds for summer events in the area. 

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Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced more than $130,000 in grants on Wednesday for nine Michigan communities, including Grand Haven, Saline, and Blissfield. 

The grants of up to $15,000 are part of the Michigan Main Street Vibrancy program, with money going toward community enhancement efforts and improvement projects. 

Funding can be used for a wide range of purposes, including physical improvements such as signage, advertising or pop-up events. 

Other headlines for Wednesday, June 25, 2025:

• Former Judge and state legislator Virgil C. Smith has died at 77 years old. Smith served for more than a decade as a Wayne County Circuit Court judge. He was working as Chief of Staff in the Wayne County Prosecutor’s office when he was appointed as a judge in 2004. Before that, Smith served in the state House for 11 years, and another dozen years in the state Senate. He was Michigan’s first Black Senate minority floor leader.
• The city of Detroit will hold a mayoral candidates forum Wednesday evening to give residents a chance to interact with candidates running in the August mayoral primary.  The event runs from 6 to 9 p.m. at the 3Fifty Rooftop terrace above Music Hall, 350 Madison St., Detroit.
• The Belle Isle Park Advisory Committee is hosting a meeting Thursday to get feedback from the public about potential redesign plans on the island. Belle Isle Conservancy CEO Meagan Elliot says the organization has been attending block club meetings and encouraging residents to make their thoughts heard. The meeting will be held at 9 a.m. at the Flynn Pavilion on Belle Isle. It will also be livestreamed.
• The Detroit Golf Club is getting ready to host another national event.  The Rocket Classic kicks off Wednesday, with more than 150 athletes taking part in the tournament — including a dozen of the world’s top ranked golfers. The tournament will be televised on CBS Saturday and Sunday afternoons. 

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

Michigan’s only HBCU is a part of a consortium of Historically Black Colleges and Universities launching “eHBCU” on Tuesday.

Pensole Lewis College joins Alabama State University, Delaware State University and the Southern University A&M College System in the effort.

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eHBCU offers students across the country the chance to earn degrees and certification online from accredited universities. eHBCU becomes the nation’s 108th HBCU. 

Dr. Violet Temple Lewis founded the Lewis College of Business in Indianapolis in 1928 to train Black secretaries. The branch opened in Detroit in 1938 would eventually become Michigan’s only HBCU. Lewis closed in 2015.

Accomplished footwear designer Dr. D’Wayne Edwards opened the Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design in 2015, continuing the legacy of the Lewis College of Business as an HBCU. Pensole Lewis offers degrees in footwear and apparel design and in color strategy, as well as design-related certificate programs.

For more information about Pensole Lewis, visit plcdetroit.com. 

Other headlines for Tuesday, June 24, 2025:

• BridgeDetroit and the Detroit Parks Coalition have invited mayoral candidates to a forum focused on parks and public spaces — and they want your questions! The forum will take place from 6-8 p.m. July 24, at Palmer Park. Questions must be submitted by June 30. 
• Detroit vendors are invited to a community outreach event with District 2 Councilwoman Angela Whitfield Calloway on Wednesday to learn how to secure contracts with the city. Businesses that offer security, janitorial, vehicle supply and other services are encouraged to attend the event, taking place from 2:30-4 p.m. at the Northwest Activities Center, 18100 Meyers Rd.
• There is still time to join the Detroit Public Library’s summer reading challenge, with a variety of online and in-person events and programming. Many branches are also offering a summer lunch program in partnership with Forgotten Harvest. Call your local library branch for lunch dates and times. 

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

An extreme heat warning will be in effect for much of southeast Michigan through 8 p.m. Tuesday.

According to the National Weather Service, dangerously hot conditions with a heat index above 100 degrees are expected across Genesee, Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties.

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Detroit’s Health Department is also advising residents to take precautions, with Tuesdays high projected to reach 94 degrees.

Chief Public Health Officer Denise Fair Razo says residents should stay indoors during the middle of the day if they can.

“That’s typically between 11 a.m. towards the evening. So if you are outside, just drink plenty of water, wear lightweight, loose fitting clothing and avoid strenuous activity during peak heat hours,” he said.

The Detroit’s Northwest Activities, Patton, and Heilmann recreation centers will be open until 8 p.m. daily as cooling centers throughout the heat wave.

All other recreation centers and Detroit Public Library branches are open during normal hours and will be available as cooling centers as well.

–Reporting by Bre’Anna Tinsley, WDET News

Other headlines for Monday, June 23, 2025:

• Most of Detroit’s riverside parks will close at 8 p.m. on Monday for the Ford Fireworks show, but Belle Isle, Hart Plaza and Spirit Plaza are open for viewing. City officials recommend claiming a spot early. The fireworks are scheduled to start around 10 p.m. and last 24 minutes.
• Michigan’s Board of State Canvassers is scheduled to review petition language for the “Invest in MI Kids” campaign. The proposal is asking voters to approve a 5% state tax that would be assessed on individual high earners’ income over $500,000, and assessed on income over $1 million for joint filers. Organizer Rachelle Crow-Hercher told Michigan Public the state’s poor test scores show the need for more funding.
• The Motor City Doula Association is hosting “A Healthy Start” workshop for expecting moms to share information about how one’s environment can shape their health and pregnancy. The workshop will take place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, June, 25, at the Leaders Advancing & Helping Communities building, 5275 Kenilworth St., Dearborn.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

The city of Detroit announced this week that its free community shuttle service, “The Connect,” will return next month with an expanded route and new features.

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The pilot program first launched last summer to help address the growing need for efficient, modern transit options in the area, according to the city.

The service will become available to residents beginning July 7, with plans to become fully autonomous after a four-week transition period. Trained safety operators will continue to monitor the operations to ensure passenger safety, the city says.

“Detroit has always been at the forefront of mobility innovation, and The Connect AV shuttle is another step toward making our city more accessible, efficient, and environmentally friendly,” said Mayor Mike Duggan in a statement. “With the transition to full autonomous operation, we are not just embracing the future of transportation, we are leading it.”

The program was brought back this summer thanks to a $1.67 million grant from the Michigan Department of Transportation. The shuttles will have expanded route offerings to loop Michigan Central, Downtown Detroit and East Jefferson Riverfront. They’ll run from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday for the first four months and will revert to the regular hours of 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. by November 2025.

Visit detroitmi.gov for more information about the program.

Other headlines for Friday, June 20, 2025:

• June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month and Chase Bank is teaming up with the Detroit Police Department to help seniors learn how to avoid scams through local workshops being held throughout the summer.
  The next workshop will be on July 3. Reach out to your local Chase Bank branch for more details.
• There is a major heat wave set to envelop Michigan and large parts of the U.S. this weekend into early next week, with temperatures expected to near 100 degrees. Many communities will be opening cooling centers to help provide relief for residents.
• Earlier this month, Michigan health officials closed three Oakland County beaches to swimmers due to dangerously high levels of E. Coli contamination, the Detroit Free Press reports. Eagle Lake in Waterford still remains closed, while Sylvan Lake and Elliott Lake have since been reopened. Visit EGLE’s MiEnviro – Beachguard website for the most up-to-date closure information.
• Club NYC and RELEASE Detroit are partnering to host a Choreographer’s Showcase at Big Pink Detroit on Thursday, July 31.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

The Motown Museum announced this week that it will pause tours of the Detroit institution for one year so that it can finish a multi-million dollar expansion project. 

The museum will temporarily stop public tours on Oct. 1. Other operations at the site — such as the retail store — will remain open, and Rocket Plaza will continue to hold performances and other activities. 

The final stage of the $75 million dollar project includes the construction of a new building and installation of exhibits. 

The museum — located at the site of the original Motown studios — opened in 1985. 

Other headlines for Wednesday, June 18, 2025:

• Detroit’s Greater Grace Temple is holding an event from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday to prepare residents for jobs using artificial intelligence. The Juneteenth National Digital Opportunity Bible Study is part of an effort to train Black communities for the emerging uses of AI in the workforce.  The event will provide workshops on digital literacy and workforce tool kits, which include info on data privacy and cybersecurity.
• Another Republican has jumped into the race to become the next governor of Michigan. Former state legislator Tom Leonard announced his candidacy on Tuesday.  He served as Michigan’s Speaker of the House in 2017 and 2018.
• Gas prices in metro Detroit are expected to rise in the coming days, according to AAA Michigan. Right now, the average price of gas in the area is $3.26 per gallon — up from $3.15 last week. Prices are expected to rise because of the conflict in the Middle East.
• Detroiters face a risk of possible severe storms this afternoon and tonight.  The National Weather Service says a front moving into the area will mix with hot, humid air, creating the conditions for strong storms.  Forecasters have given Metro Detroit a slight risk of severe weather.
• The Detroit Tigers continue to set the pace for the rest of MLB with the best record in baseball, 47 wins and 27 losses, with a month to go until the All-Star Break. The Tigers beat the Pittsburgh Pirates at Comerica Park Tuesday night 7 to 3.  The two teams are scheduled to play again Wednesday night. First pitch is at 6:40 p.m.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.

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Davis Aerospace High School returns to airport campus with expanded aviation training

Davis Aerospace Technical High School is returning to its original home at the Coleman A. Young International Airport—a move that will once again give students access to the runway and hands-on aviation training.

The school, which offers free aviation courses including drone certification and pilot licensing, was relocated in 2013 while the city was under state management. Since then, students have been unable to obtain federal certification in aviation mechanics due to lack of airport access.

Detroit Public Schools Community District Superintendent Nikolai Vitti says the move is meant to correct a decision made under emergency management.

“We’ve gone about reforming the school district,” Vitti says. “Sometimes everyone’s quick to get rid of everything and say nothing worked in the past, and this was the complete opposite of that. This was about bringing something back that absolutely made sense and should have never been taken away from the district and the city.”

The airport’s three-level terminal will be converted into the school’s new campus, which is scheduled to open in fall 2026. The relocation is expected to allow the high school to expand its enrollment to 200 students.

Principal Michelle Davis says this year, nine students passed their FAA drone certification course, and four passed the written portion of the private pilot’s license test. With the move, those students will be able to fly next year—something the school hasn’t been able to offer since 2013.

The relocation will cost nearly $15 million, with funding split between the school district and the state.

Detroit mayoral candidates clash over jobs, housing at debate

Affordable housing and job creation were at the forefront of a spirited Detroit mayoral debate held Monday night at Wayne State University. About half of the candidates running for the city’s top office took part in the event.

City Council President Mary Sheffield said Detroit must find ways to use downtown investment to lift up neighborhoods across the city.

Reverend Solomon Kinloch Jr. pledged to lead both his congregation and the city if elected mayor, while former Detroit Police Chief James Craig described himself as a “proven leader.”

But the most pointed moment of the evening came during closing remarks from former City Council President Saunteel Jenkins, who targeted each of her rivals with sharp criticism:

“More guns in schools… locking up our kids… Craig is your guy. If you want a part-time mayor who’s working two full-time jobs… Kinloch is ready. If you want a mayor who shows up on Instagram but doesn’t show up for meetings… follow Mary. Thank you.”

The crowd responded audibly before Craig replied:

“Gloves are off now!”

Kinloch pushed back in his final statement, saying:

“Detroit cannot build up by tearing others down.”

District 5 voters invited to meet City Council candidates at Eastern Market

BridgeDetroit is hosting a Meet the Candidates event this Wednesday at Eastern Market for residents of Detroit’s District 5. All seven candidates running to replace City Council President Mary Sheffield are expected to attend.

The event offers voters a chance to ask questions, hear directly from the candidates, and enjoy a meal—Greek food will be served.

District 5 residents are encouraged to bring their curiosity and their appetite. Attendees are asked to RSVP in advance.

Event Details
What: Meet the Candidates – Detroit City Council District 5
When: Wednesday, June 19, 2025
Where: Eastern Market
RSVP: Reserve your spot on Eventbrite

Detroit Public Library celebrates Juneteenth with family events across the city

The Detroit Public Library is celebrating Juneteenth all week long with family-friendly events at branches across the city.

At the Main Library on Woodward Avenue, the annual Juneteenth Celebration takes place Wednesday and will feature special guests from the Midwest Invitational Rodeo. Visitors can enjoy pony rides, a petting zoo, lawn games, arts and crafts, face painting, line dancing, and more. The event also marks the kickoff of the library’s Summer Reading Program.

Other highlights this week include:

• Movie night at the Campbell Branch
• A Juneteenth Jamboree at the Edison and Elmwood Park branches
• Storytimes, storytelling, and history programs for all ages throughout the city

To explore the full schedule of events, visit detroitlibrary.org.

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“DDOT Now,” Detroit Paratransit’s Same-Day Service

DDOT launches same-day paratransit service for Detroiters with disabilities

The Detroit Department of Transportation (DDOT) launched a new same-day paratransit program called DDOT Now on Monday. The service allows residents with disabilities to schedule rides the day before or up to an hour in advance.

Robert Cramer, executive director of Transit, says the new program gives riders more flexibility. “The new service allows people to schedule transportation on short notice,” he said.

Paratransit services are guaranteed under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, which prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in accessing public accommodations — including transportation.

DDOT Now operates between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Riders can schedule a trip by calling 313-570-6845 between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. The fare is $2.50 per ride, and the program is supported by federal and local funding.

The city has recently made improvements to DDOT’s paratransit services, including better on-time performance and the hiring of additional staff

Download the PDF to learn more. 

Thousands rally in Metro Detroit as part of nationwide ‘No Kings’ protests

Tens of thousands of people rallied across Metro Detroit on Saturday as part of the national “No Kings” protests against authoritarianism.

Many demonstrators carried signs criticizing President Donald Trump’s immigration policies and his decision to deploy Marines and National Guard troops to protests in Los Angeles.

At a rally in Southwest Detroit, high school student Julio Henry gave an impassioned speech in support of immigrants.

“We are here in the United States to come together,” Henry said. “Our diversity is what makes the United States the United States.”

Henry added that young people are paying attention to national politics and they’re not pleased with what they see.

“We call him so many things, the fascist, the dictator, the white supremacist, but what we all agree on is he should not be our president,” Henry said.

The event in Detroit remained largely peaceful. However, a brief altercation broke out when members of a local biker gang arrived and began harassing protesters. Detroit police quickly intervened to defuse the situation.

Reporting by Russ McNamara, WDET

MDOT to extend life of I-75 Rouge River bridge with surface treatment

The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is planning a two-year project to coat the surface of the I-75 Rouge River bridge in Detroit.

Crews previously rebuilt the bridge deck in 2017 and 2018. Project engineer Bill Erben says the structure is in good shape, but additional work will help preserve it.

“Sandblasting and smoothing the concrete will make it last longer,” Erben said.

MDOT plans to close the Rouge River bridge eight times this year and eight more times in 2026, each time affecting one direction of traffic at a time.

The first closure was scheduled to begin last Friday on northbound I-75 between Schaefer Road and I-96, but the threat of rain delayed the start.

Reported by Pat Batcheller, WDET

Republican-backed budget would slash funding for U-M and MSU, expand support for other public universities

The University of Michigan could lose a significant portion of its state funding under a higher education budget passed by the Michigan House of Representatives late last week.

The plan would also reduce funding for Michigan State University, while increasing support for most of the state’s other public universities.

Republican House Appropriations Committee Chair Ann Bollin said U-M and MSU rely less on state support than other schools. She and other GOP lawmakers say they hope the proposed cuts will reduce the number of out-of-state and international students at those institutions.

The education budget bill would also eliminate funding for free K-12 school meals across the state.

Reported by Collin Jackson, Michigan Public Radio Network

Taste of Dearborn returns with food tour of 20 local restaurants

The Dearborn Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Taste of Dearborn event this week, offering visitors a chance to sample dishes from local restaurants.

The event takes place Wednesday, June 18, from 6 to 9 p.m. Check-in begins at 5:30 p.m. at the Bryant Branch Library.

About 1,000 attendees are expected to tour 20 restaurants in Downtown West Dearborn.

General admission is $35, and a VIP experience is $50. Tickets are available at www.dearbornareachamber.org

In this edition of The Detroit Evening Report, new housing opens in Detroit’s Gateway Community. Plus, events around the city including theater, stargazing, drag shows and Black cinema.

Subscribe to the Detroit Evening Report on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Cathedral Arts Apartments open in Detroit’s Gateway Community

The City of Detroit celebrated the grand opening of the Cathedral Arts Apartments this week. The $19.7 million development brings 53 new housing units to the Gateway Community.

The project is a partnership between MHT Housing Inc. and the Cathedral of the Most Blessed Sacrament, located across the street from the new building. In addition to residential space, the development includes commercial storefronts and a workforce development hub operated by MHT. The hub will connect Detroiters to job training, internships and employment opportunities.

More information: City of Detroit press release

Around Detroit: Events and activities

ACE Family Night at The Wiz – June 24
Detroit’s Office of Arts, Culture and Entrepreneurship (Detroit ACE) is hosting a special night at the Fisher Theatre featuring the Broadway hit The Wiz. The evening includes family-friendly activities and a Q&A with the cast starting at 6 p.m., followed by the show at 7:30 p.m. Discounted tickets are available.

Details: Detroit ACE Family Night

Northern Lights possible in Michigan – June 13–14
The aurora borealis may be visible in parts of Michigan this weekend, possibly as far south as Saginaw Bay. Best viewing times are expected to be within a couple of hours of midnight, weather permitting. Top viewing locations include Headlands International Dark Sky Park, Keweenaw Dark Sky Park, and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Forecast details: Free Press article

United We Slay – June 28–29
United We Slay is a new event series featuring drag brunches, dance parties, queer mixers, and performances by talent from RuPaul’s Drag Race. Most events are free, with VIP tickets available to support the ACLU of Michigan.

More info: United We Slay on Linktree

Black Film in Focus – June 14
The Black Canon and Motor City Cinema Society present a night of cinematic storytelling at Newlab at Michigan Central. This event explores African American film history and features curated screenings from the Black Canon collection.

Event details and tickets: Michigan Central Events

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Bill would allow friends, family to officiate weddings

A new bill would allow friends and family members to officiate wedding ceremonies without getting ordained.

Currently, Michigan law only permits certain city officials, judges, or ordained individuals—such as ministers—to perform weddings.

State Senator Veronica Klinefelt sponsored the bill. She says some religious leaders have denied couples based on personal beliefs. She shared her own experience:

“The priest I was seeing made the determination that I shouldn’t be getting married and wouldn’t conduct the ceremony. This year, I will be married 40 years. So I don’t know that he was any more equipped to make that call than my family members who were at that wedding.”

The bill would also expand officiating privileges to township clerks and state lawmakers. It has passed in the Senate and is now headed to the House.

Detroit bike trail guide to include Gordie Howe Bridge path

The Detroit Greenways Coalition is expanding its bike trail guide to include a route across the Gordie Howe International Bridge into Canada.

The group is working with Bike Windsor Essex to compile a list of trails and attractions for cyclists on both sides of the border.

Coalition Executive Director Todd Scott said the potential for tourism is significant:

“I was at the Ontario Bike Summit recently, and they said that bike tourism in Ontario contributes $900 million to that province’s economy. That really opened my eyes to how much potential there is for expanding that bike tourism into the Detroit area.”

The guide will answer questions about cross-border documentation and differing cycling laws. It’s expected to be ready before the bridge opens later this year.

Dearborn updates food truck regulations

The City of Dearborn has revised its food truck regulations, allowing permanent operations in areas zoned for commercial and light industrial use.

The update includes requirements for proper electrical hookups, propane storage, and sanitation. Trucks will not be permitted in business districts near restaurants to protect brick-and-mortar establishments, but they may operate in public parks if they meet city standards for power and waste disposal.

The new rules take effect September 1st.

Juneteenth Black-Owned Business Market in Royal Oak

Bamboo Royal Oak is hosting its first Juneteenth Black-Owned Business Market on June 18th, celebrating Black excellence and economic empowerment.

The event features local entrepreneurs offering handcrafted jewelry, fashion, cuisine, wellness products, and more. It’s free for attendees and vendors.

The market runs from 3–8 PM. For more information, email ally@bamboocowork.com.

Dearborn Summer Market returns this Friday

The Dearborn Summer Market returns this Friday at 4:00 PM in West Downtown Dearborn.

The market highlights downtown businesses, local vendors, and free kids’ activities including face painting, balloon twisting, and caricature art.

More information is available at dearbornsummermarket.com.

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GM to invest $4B in U.S. manufacturing, reshuffle SUV and EV production

General Motors has announced plans to invest four billion dollars in U.S. manufacturing facilities over the next two years. The Detroit automaker says the investment at several factories around the country will allow it to build more than two million vehicles per year in the U.S. Such a move would help GM avoid certain tariff penalties.

The company’s Orion Township assembly plant will begin making gas-powered, full-sized SUVs and light pickup trucks. That change will shift the manufacturing of several electric SUV and pickup models to Factory Zero on the Detroit-Hamtramck border.

GM CEO Mary Barra says the moves demonstrate the company’s commitment to building vehicles and creating jobs in the U.S.

Detroit casinos see slight revenue boost in May

Detroit’s casinos are reporting slightly improved revenues for the month of May. The three casinos say revenues rose to $114 million last month—up 1.2% from May 2024.

MGM Grand held the largest share of the market at 47%, followed by MotorCity Casino at 30%, and Hollywood Casino at Greektown with 23%.

The three casinos provided $13.4 million in taxes and wagering agreement payments to the City of Detroit last month. They also paid an additional $9.1 million in taxes to the State of Michigan.

Downtown Detroit Partnership rolls out summer fun at Campus Martius

The Downtown Detroit Partnership is working to spread the word about several of its summer events. The organization will once again bring 20,000 tons of sand to downtown Detroit to create “The Beach at Campus Martius,” giving kids a chance to play—and adults a chance to relax.

Other DDP events planned for the summer include trivia nights, a beach party, Thursday markets in Cadillac Square, and live music. Campus Martius Park will also host Movie Night in the D, where attendees can enjoy films under the stars.

Heidelberg Project launches summer series with ‘Second Saturdays’

The Heidelberg Project is kicking off a series of events beginning this weekend. The organization, known for its internationally acclaimed art installation, will once again host Second Saturdays throughout the summer.

Organizers say the goal is to activate the space where the Heidelberg Project is located and bring the community together.

This weekend’s event will feature Puppet Karaoke Detroit, scheduled to run from 2 to 5 p.m. on Saturday.

Tigers hold MLB’s best record after win over Orioles

The Detroit Tigers continue to set the pace for the rest of Major League Baseball. They currently hold the best record in the league, with 44 wins and 24 losses.

Detroit beat the Orioles in Baltimore last night, 5–3. The two teams face off again tonight (Wednesday), with first pitch scheduled for 6:35 p.m.

In this episode of The Detroit Evening Report, we cover a celebration of African ancestors, a Detroit student facing deportation and more.

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Carnival of the Spirit returns for 25th year

Each June for the last 25 years, a ceremony has been held on Belle Isle to honor and celebrate African ancestors. The African Diaspora Ancestral Commemoration Institute of Detroit launched the Carnival of the Spirit in 2001 to “venerate” Africans lost in the Middle Passage during the slave trade.

Kefentse Chike is one of the organization’s founders. He says people from various backgrounds have found solace in the ceremony.

“When we started this, the idea was to be — I’ll use the word interfaith, for lack of a better word — but it was to be inclusive of all the various spiritual expressions of African people in the diaspora,” Chike said.

Attendees wear white and often bring items to commemorate loved ones lost. The ceremony starts at the Belle Isle Lighthouse with a procession to the river, and includes African drumming, dance and other offerings.

This year’s carnival will be at 7 a.m. on Saturday, June 21.

To celebrate the carnival’s 25th anniversary, there will also be a film screening and a spiritual healing ceremony as part of this year’s festivities. The film screening takes place on Friday, June 13 at the Shrine of the Black Madonna and features a documentary exploring African spiritual traditions as well as a panel discussion with practitioners from several African faiths. The spiritual healing ceremony, Akom, takes place on Saturday, June 21 at the Detroit Food Commons. For more information, visit ADACI Detroit on Facebook.

Detroit student faces deportation

A Detroit high school student is hoping to stay in the U.S. long enough to graduate before returning to his home country, Colombia. But 18-year-old Maykol Bogoya-Duarte now faces deportation.

Chalkbeat Detroit reports police stopped the undocumented immigrant as he was driving to Lake Erie Metropark to join his classmates for a field trip on May 20. He did not have a driver’s license and officers who couldn’t speak Spanish called Customs and Border Protection, who arrested him. His lawyer says Bogoya-Duarte was already planning to leave the country voluntarily after finishing his education.

U-M updates security

The University of Michigan says it’s cutting ties with a private security company that was accused of following pro-Palestinian activists on and off campus. The school says it found the actions of one employee to be “disturbing, unacceptable and unethical.” It did not elaborate.

Neighborhoods Day continues advocate’s legacy

ARISE Detroit’s Neighborhoods Day returns on August 2, 2025.

Longtime journalist and community advocate Luther Keith founded the event and the nonprofit to help change perceptions about city neighborhoods, and show people the good things they offer. Keith died in March, but his legacy endures.

The city-wide event includes volunteer service opportunities as well as music, car shows and other activities. For more information about Neighborhoods Day, visit arisedetroit.org.

—WDET’s Pat Batcheller contributed to this report.

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New travel ban takes effect

President Trump’s latest travel ban targeting 12 countries—many of them Muslim-majority or located in South America and Africa—went into effect today. The proclamation blocks travel to the U.S. for individuals without a valid visa from: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.

Seven additional countries also face restrictions: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.

Last week, the Michigan chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR Michigan) issued a community alert urging individuals from the affected countries to return to the U.S. by today if possible.

CAIR Michigan staff attorney Amy Doukoure says the new restrictions could have immediate consequences.

“We might also see people who have a valid visa who don’t quite make it into the United States by June 9, unable to actually enter on the visa that they’re issued. And we will definitely see people who are here on a current valid visa, being unable to travel outside of the United States and then reenter once the travel ban takes effect.” 

Doukoure says the policy mirrors previous bans issued during Trump’s first term. She warns it will likely separate families and increase anxiety among communities from the affected countries.

Local ICE protests

About 50 protesters gathered near an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Detroit on Sunday, voicing opposition to the Trump administration’s mass deportation raids.

Russ McNamara reports from the protest.

Leah Checchini of Hazel Park attended the rally. She says her father immigrated from Argentina and believes everyone deserves the same opportunity.

“Just seeing everything that’s going on around me—I have a lot of friends who are in the process of getting their papers taken care of—so watching what’s happening to people like them is enraging, to say the least.”

More protests are planned in cities across the country.

Free clinic offers help with license restoration

The Michigan Department of State is hosting a free clinic to help residents restore their driver’s licenses. The Road to Restoration clinic will take place Tuesday, June 24 at the La SED Senior and Youth Center, located at 7150 Vernor Highway in Detroit. Department staff and pro bono attorneys will be on-site to assist with the process. The clinic runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with walk-ins welcome between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Register at michigan.gov/r2r.

New guidelines added to Michigan’s Eat Safe Fish Guide

About 300 new recommendations have been added to the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ Eat Safe Fish Guide, with a renewed focus on reducing exposure to PFAS—commonly known as “forever chemicals.”

Officials say the chemicals are more harmful than previously thought. The updated guidelines outline which waterways are safe for fishing and how much of each species is safe to consume. For example, it’s considered safe to eat up to four servings of Bluegill per month from the Detroit River, but Bluegill from Belleville Lake should be completely avoided due to elevated PFAS levels.

Because PFAS are found in the fish fillet, simply trimming fat won’t reduce exposure. However, poking holes in the skin and grilling or broiling the fish can help lower the risk.

You can find the full Eat Safe Fish Guide at michigan.gov.

Reporting by Emma George-Griffin

Fall prevention resources available for Michigan seniors

Several groups are coming together to offer fall prevention resources for seniors. Each year, about 30 percent of Michiganders 65 and older report falling in their homes.

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services’ Bureau of Aging, Community Living and Supports Health Services, the Michigan Falls Prevention Coalition, and Oakland University have partnered to connect people with health care providers, community organizations, and fall prevention resources.

People can explore safety planning tools, physical wellness services, and daily life support online at mi211.org. You can also call 211 for help finding resources.

The website was made possible by a $408,000 grant from the Michigan Health Endowment Fund Healthy Aging initiative.

Learn more at mifallsprevention.org.

Detroit’s “largest and oldest literary nonprofit,” InsideOut Literary Arts, celebrated its 30-year anniversary last week by unveiling a new Detroit City Walls mural along the Avenue of Fashion.

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The mural was designed by artist Oshun Williams and inspired by InsideOut student poet Charisma Holly. It features a quote from her poem entitled “If I wake up in Detroit 25 years in the future,” which reads “In the Detroit City, the D has always been for dreams.”

The mural is located on the side of the Yoshi Hibachi Grille on Livernois Avenue along Detroit’s Avenue of Fashion.

“Detroit is where I was born and raised,” Holly said. “I’m so glad I had the opportunity to be a part of this mural project because Detroit is truly the place where I learned to dream big.”

Other headlines for Friday, June 6, 2025:

• Money Matters for Youth is looking for help to keep their student trip to Washington D.C. alive.
• Motor City Pride is taking over downtown this weekend, June 7-8 at Hart Plaza, with the parade beginning at noon on Sunday.
• The city celebrated the opening of the Orchard Village Apartments with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday, bringing 48 affordable units across four buildings to the Old Redford neighborhood.
• Michigan’s First Native American Music and Cultural Festival, Vibes With the Tribes, is coming to the Russell Industrial Center this Saturday, June 7, with doors opening at 2 p.m.

Do you have a community story we should tell? Let us know in an email at detroiteveningreport@wdet.org.