According to a Detroit Free Press report, Gov Gretchen Whitmer’s 2027 budget proposes $139.2 million dollars in fee increases. Some of these user fees for government services and licenses haven’t changed in decades.
There will be higher fees for things such as hunting, fishing licenses, boat registrations, and more. During her state of the state address, Whitmer asked Congress to pass her budget in June before the July 1st deadline.
Additional headlines for Friday, March 6, 2026
Sports updates
NBA
The Pistons fell to the Spurs again last night 106-121.
They hope to bounce back against the Brooklyn Nets tomorrow at Little Caesars arena. Tipoff is at 6:00 p.m.
NHL
The Red Wings face the Florida Panthers today at 7:00 p.m. as they try to climb back in the Atlantic division. They are currently sitting at 3rd place with 35 wins and 20 losses.
Club Soccer
Detroit City FC revealed their 2026 season uniforms during their organization event this week. This season’s kits draws inspiration from Detroit’s techno and electronic music scenes as well as the Detroit Red Wings.
The dark kit home uniforms are dark red to maintain the traditional La Rouge Theme, with red tonal wave pattern, gold numbers and white logos of the Spirit of Detroit. The light kit nearly copies a reversed version of last year’s home jersey, with maroon sleeves, salmon colored stripes, and maroon and taupe shorts.
To see their uniforms go to their website: detcityfc.com. You can start seeing these uniforms in action as the team kicks off their first match on Saturday, March 14 at Keyworth Stadium.
Free physical therapy clinic
FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers is hosting a free in clinic event on March 19, 2026 at 5 p.m. to celebrate their one year anniversary.
The centers offer personalized physical therapy, balance training, vestibular rehabilitation, and auto injury care. They are focused on evidence-based rehab to help patients recover faster and improve their overall mobility.
Attendees will receive 20% off some products at the event. The event will be held at 30770 Southfield Rd. in Southfield.
Daylight saving time
Daylight saving time is this Sunday, March 8. It’s the annual period when we “spring forward” and adjust our clocks one hour forward.
Daylight saving time occurs at 2 a.m., when local time instantly jumps to 3am. As part of the yearly ritual, the sunrise and sunset will be one hour later, we’ll have more light in the evening and a later sunrise in the morning.
The push to stop daylight saving time was approved by the US Senate in the 2022 Sunshine Protection Act but did not pass the House of Representatives. A 2023 version didn’t go anywhere in Congress as well.
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The Detroit Public Schools Community District is considering paying parents, giving away bikes, and providing gas cards for carpools in an effort to end chronic absenteeism.
Last year the district launched a program that allowed high school students to earn up to $1,000 for perfect attendance. The new financial incentives would be offered to families of kindergarten to second grade students in neighborhoods with the highest concentrations of poverty.
The idea is still being workshopped among DPSCD board members.
Additional headlines from Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Sea wall repair program
Detroit is launching a $1 million sea wall repair program in the Jefferson-Chalmers neighborhood. The project will repair or replace sea walls along canals fed by the Detroit River.
The program is prioritizing 15-20 properties and could help remove the neighborhood from FEMA’s flood hazard map. A survey in 2025 found 70% of the neighborhood’s waterfront properties have sea walls in fair or poor conditions.
Once properties are selected, construction is expected to continue through 2027. Applications are underway online or through the phone by calling 313-628-2232.
New parks over I-75
The Downtown Detroit Partnership is moving forward with plans to build three large park caps over I-75 between Third Avenue and Brush Street. The caps will reconnect neighborhoods to the downtown area that were separated by the highway.
Officials say the project will also improve pedestrian and bicycle safety, reduce highway noise, and create new public gathering spaces. Plans are currently undergoing a feasibility study that will run through 2026, with construction possibly starting between 2026 and 2028. Officials are gathering public input before final recommendations are made.
Detroit Tigers and Red Wings launch sports network
The owners of the Detroit Tigers and Red Wings have created a regional sports network to broadcast their games. Detroit SportsNet will carry the Tigers on cable, satellite, and streaming platforms this season. Red Wings games will continue to be available on FanDuel Sports for the rest of this season and will switch to the new network next season.
Both teams and many others across the country are terminating their deals with FanDuel’s parent company because it failed to make scheduled payments for the rights to carry their games.
Gas prices
Gasoline prices rose by almost 14 cents per gallon overnight. AAA says Michigan drivers are paying an average of almost $3.13 cents for the cheapest grade of gas this morning. It was about $2.99 yesterday. The average price in metro Detroit rose from $3.03 a gallon yesterday to $3.13 today.
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Tonight, we heard some stellar new tracks, including Fever Ray’s “The Lake (Cinematic)” from the upcoming movie, “The Bride!” It’s pretty darn cool! Plus, She’s Green is back with a new release, a great new track from Apparat, and Deary hits another home run with their song, “Alfie.”
We also discussed a few important opportunities to vote for your favorite bands and radio hosts. Jeff Buckley and New Order/Joy Division are nominated to be inductees to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Cast your vote here.
Also, Detroit’s Dreampop duo Bluhm is nominated for Detroit’s best local act. Cast your vote for them and WDET’s own Ryan Patrick Hooper for radio host, and Jerome Vaughn and Pat Batcheller for radio news or sports reporter.
Listen to the full episode above, on-demand for two weeks at wdet.org.
“The Ubiquitous Mr. Lovegrove” – Dead Can Dance
“Clusters” – Emma Anderson
“Blush” – The Secret French Postcards
“Icing Sugar” – The Cure
“Alfie” – Deary
“Inhaler” – Hooverphonic
“Double Dream” – Bluhm
“Rubber Ring” – The Smiths
“Only Hinting” – Clinic Stars
“Blew It” – Liquorice
“Mettle” – She’s Green
“Morning Theft” – Jeff Buckley
“skin in the game” – Slowdive
“Hum Of Maybe” – Apparat
“Everywhere” – Cranes
“The Lake (Cinematic)” – Fever Ray
“Atmosphere” – Joy Division
“Gold” – Sigur Ros
“Cry In The Wind” – Clan Of Xymox
“Coast is Clear” – Curve
“Cave” – Future Islands
“Obviously” – A Shoreline Dream
“Octopus” – Starrgazy
“Crushed” – Cocteau Twins
“Sapphire Door” – Soft Blue Shimmer
“Burrow” – AtticOmatic
“Paradise” – New Order
“Poison Berry” – Night Swimming
“Wop-a-Din-Din” – Red House Painters
“Fly to the Ceiling (feat. Rosa Rocca)” – Theis Thaws, Tricky
“Harold and Cindy Hospital” – Severed Heads
“Blackhole” – Basement Revolver
“Leave Them All Behind” – Ride
“Burst” – Snowcuffs
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BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (AP) — Jaxon Kohler scored a season-high 21 points and Jeremy Fears Jr. added 21 points and nine assists to lead No. 13 Michigan State past Indiana 77-64 on Sunday.
Kur Tang finished with a career-high 18 points, making 6 of 8 from 3-point range — nearly half of the Spartans’ 13 3s. Kohler also grabbed 13 rebounds, his 12th double-double of the season as the Michigan State (24-5, 14-4 Big Ten) won its fourth straight.
The Spartans never trailed in winning at Assembly Hall for just the second time in six trips to complete a road sweep this week. They also won at No. 8 Purdue 76-74 on Thursday. It was coach Tom Izzo’s first trip to Bloomington since he broke the league record for conference wins in February 2025, breaking the mark held by former Hoosiers coach Bob Knight.
Lamar Wilkerson scored 19 of his game-high 29 points in the second half, but it wasn’t enough to prevent Indiana (17-12, 8-10) from a fourth consecutive loss. Tucker DeVries finished with 20 points and six rebounds, while Sam Alexis added eight points in a game Indiana’s bench players were shut out.
Michigan State used a hot start to take a 14-5 lead, then relied on its long-range flurry to thwart the Hoosiers from mounting serious challenge. The Spartans extended the margin to 39-26 on Teng’s fourth 3 of the game late in the first half.
Indiana managed to cut the halftime deficit to 45-37, then quickly fell into a 52-41 hole early in the second half. The Hoosiers got as close as 54-48 with 13:41 to play, but Teng answered with another 3 and the Spartans went on a 10-3 spurt to rebuild a 67-55 lead.
The Hoosiers never fully recovered.
Up next
Michigan State: Hosts Rutgers in its home finale Thursday.
Indiana: Closes out its home schedule Wednesday against Minnesota.
— By MICHAEL MAROT, Associated Press
Michigan State forward Jaxon Kohler attempts to get past Indiana forward Reed Bailey (1) during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game in Bloomington, In., Sunday, March 1, 2026. (AP Photo/Timothy D. Easley)
By KAITLYN HUAMANI and BARBARA ORTUTAY The Associated Press
LOS ANGELES (AP) — A young woman who is battling against social media giants took the stand Thursday to testify about her experience using the platforms as she was growing up, saying she was on social media “all day long” as a child.
The now 20-year-old, who has been identified in court documents as KGM, says her early use of social media addicted her to the technology and exacerbated depression and suicidal thoughts. Meta and YouTube are the two remaining defendants in the case, which TikTok and Snap have settled.
The case, along with two others, has been selected as a bellwether trial, meaning its outcome could impact how thousands of similar lawsuits against social media companies are likely to play out.
KGM, or Kaley, as her lawyers have called her during the trial, started using YouTube at age 6 and Instagram at age 9.
A turbulent home life
Kaley took the stand wearing a pink floral dress and a beige cardigan and said she was “very nervous” after her attorney, Mark Lanier, asked how she was doing Thursday morning.
Lanier displayed childhood photos of Kaley and her family and asked about positive memories from her upbringing in a quiet cul-de-sac in Chico, California. She spoke of themed birthday parties, trips to Six Flags and her mom’s consistent efforts to make her childhood special.
Still, Kaley’s relationship with her mother was challenging at times. Kaley said most of their arguments were over the use of her phone.
Both the defendants and the plaintiff have pointed to a turbulent home life for Kaley. Her attorneys say she was preyed upon as a vulnerable user, but attorneys representing Meta and Google-owned YouTube have argued Kaley turned to their platforms as a coping mechanism or a means of escaping her mental health struggles.
When asked about claims that her mother had hit her, abused her and neglected her, Kaley said “she wasn’t perfect, but she was trying her best,” and clarified that she doesn’t think she would label her mother’s past actions as abuse or neglect today.
But later Thursday, during her cross-examination, Kaley did agree that her mother was being physically and emotionally abusive during the time that she was self-harming around when she was in the 6th grade.
Kaley, who works as a personal shopper at Walmart, lives with her mother in the home she grew up in.
Notifications gave her a ‘rush’
As a child, Kaley set up multiple accounts on both Instagram and YouTube so she could like and comment on her posts. She said she would also “buy” likes through a platform where she could like other people’s photos and get a slew of likes in return. “It made me look popular,” she said.
Kaley was asked specifically about the features the plaintiffs argue are deliberately designed to be addictive, including notifications. Those notifications on both Instagram and YouTube gave her a “rush,” she said. She would receive them throughout the day and would go to the bathroom during school to check them — something she still does.
Kaley said while she uses YouTube less often now, she believes she was previously addicted to it. “Anytime I tried to set limits for myself, it wouldn’t work and I just couldn’t get off,” she said.
Filters on Instagram, specifically those that could change a person’s cosmetic appearance, have also loomed large in the case and were also a constant fixture of Kaley’s use. Lanier and his colleagues unfurled a nearly 35-foot-long canvas banner with photos Kaley has posted on Instagram. She said “almost all” of the photos had a filter on them.
The jury was also shown Instagram posts and YouTube videos Kaley posted as a child and young teen. One video showed her saying she was “crying tears of joy” after surpassing 100 YouTube subscribers — but then she quickly turned to her looks, apologizing for her “ugly appearance.”
“I look so fat in this shirt,” the young Kaley says in the video.
Kaley said she did not experience the negative feelings associated with her body dysmorphia diagnosis before she began using social media and filters.
Meta focuses on plaintiff’s home life, contradicting statements
Meta has argued that Kaley faced significant challenges before she ever used social media. The company’s lawyer, Paul Schmidt, said earlier this month that the core question in the case is whether the platforms were a substantial factor in Kayley’s mental health struggles.
Meta attorney Phyllis Jones took a polite, respectful tone in her cross-examination Thursday, acknowledging that it could be uncomfortable for her to speak about her private life in front of a room of strangers. Jones proceeded to zero in on Kaley’s home life and did not ask her any questions about social media addiction within the first hour and a half of the cross-examination.
Jones pulled up text exchanges and posts Kaley had made on Instagram about her mental health and her relationship with her mother and played videos Kaley took of her mother yelling at her.
On nearly 20 occasions during the Meta cross-examination, Jones asked Kaley to look at the transcript from her 2025 deposition, which contradicted some of the responses she gave during her testimony. Many of those questions were about how a specific action by her family members or a specific experience impacted her mental health, with Kaley saying on Thursday they either didn’t have an impact or didn’t significantly contribute to anxiety and depression. Her deposition from about a year ago often said the opposite.
“I tried to answer the questions to the best of my ability, but I may have misspoke at times,” Kaley said of her deposition.
This time, Kaley did agree that her mother was being physically and emotionally abusive during the time that she was self-harming around when she was in the 6th grade. She testified earlier in the day that she doesn’t think she would label her mother’s past actions as abuse or neglect today.
Therapist: Social media and sense of self ‘were closely related’
Victoria Burke, a former therapist Kaley worked with in 2019, testified on Wednesday, and Burke said her social media and her sense of self “were closely related,” adding that what was happening on the platforms could “make or break her mood.”
An attorney for Meta parsed through Burke’s notes from her sessions with Kaley extensively in a cross examination that lasted about three hours. He highlighted Kaley’s negative experiences with in-person bullying, other school-based sources of stress and anxiety and issues with her family. Mentions of social media in the notes were mostly limited to Kaley saying she didn’t feel she had a place at home, at school or among her peers, but did feel she had a place to be seen on social media.
Burke’s treatment of Kaley lasted about six months and that period took place seven years ago.
The case is expected to continue for several weeks, and the outcome the jury reaches could shape the outcome of a slew of similar lawsuits against social media companies. Meta is also facing a separate trial in New Mexico.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg arrives for a landmark trial over whether social media platforms deliberately addict and harm children, Wednesday, Feb. 18, 2026, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)
A new affordable housing project celebrated its grand opening this week. The Benjamin O. Davis Veterans Village on Detroit’s eastside holds 50 units designed to help homeless and disabled veterans.
Vouchers from the Michigan State Housing Development Authority and the Detroit Housing Commission will guarantee rents at 30 percent of the resident’s income. Building amenities include a media room, common dining room and kitchen, exercise room, and an exclusive outdoor dog park.
The complex was named after Brigadier General Benjamin O. Davis, Sr., the Army’s first African American general and a trailblazer who helped lay the foundation for the integration of the U.S. military.
Additional headlines for Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026
Water bills increase
Metro Detroiters will pay higher water bills next year. The Great Lakes Water Authority’s board of directors voted to raise rates by an average of almost 6 percent. Customers would pay about 4 percent more on average for wastewater service. The agency says it needs the money to fix aging infrastructure and reduce water main breaks.
Project Clean Slate earns $200,000 grant
Detroit’s Project Clean Slate has received a 200-thousand-dollar grant from the Michigan Justice Fund…allowing the program to run for another 2 years. Project clean slate helps Detroiters with legal services for expungement of eligible criminal convictions. The service has expunged more than 19 thousand records. PCS expects the grant to allow for another ten thousand expungements.
Detroit Women of Comedy Festival searches for acts
The Detroit Women of Comedy Festival is looking for comedy acts for this year’s show. Organizers are seeking acts of all kinds such as stand up, improv, sketch, and more. The festival is inclusive of all genders and identities.
The mission of the event is to celebrate and elevate women, trans, and non-binary comedy makers in the metro Detroit area. The festival will be held at Planet Ant Theater on May 15 and 16. For more information about submitting an act, email DWCFsubmissions@gmail.com.
State of Highland Park
The City of Highland Park has announced the date Mayor Glenda McDonald will give the State of the City address. The mayor will give a public update to residents on Wednesday, March 18 from 6-7p.m. New Grace Missionary Baptist Church will host the event at 25 Ford Street.
Detroit Disability teach in
Detroit Disability Power is hosting a “teach-in” in March, focused on threats to immigrants and people with disabilities.
Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.
Support local journalism.
WDET strives to cover what’s happening in your community. As a public media institution, we maintain our ability to explore the music and culture of our region through independent support from readers like you. If you value WDET as your source of news, music and conversation, please make a gift today.
When someone is in distress, who should respond to the call for help? Police officers or social workers?
After the murder of George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter Movement, police departments reformed. Throughout the country and around Michigan, police hired mental health professionals — or co-responders — to respond to 911 calls, alone or with cops.
Now, the question of who should take the lead on distress calls has become all the more pressing. Last month, this query was thrust into the public eye once again. That’s when Ypsilanti residents became upset after a SWAT team had a 30-hour standoff with someone they say was experiencing a mental health crisis.
Hillary Nusbaum is a co-responder supervisor for the Oakland Community Health Network. Her organization partners with Oakland County police departments by having co-responders work alongside police officers.
Producer Sam Corey spoke with Nusbaum about what a co-responder does and when they should be called to take action on a 911 call.
Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on demand.
One-of-a-kind podcasts from WDET bring you engaging conversations, news you need to know and stories you love to hear. Keep the conversations coming. Please make a gift today.
Wayne State University has a new president. The school’s Board of Governors elected Richard Bierschbach as the 14th president of the university at a special meeting Tuesday.
Bierschbach has served as Wayne State’s interim president since the departure of Kimberly Andrews Espy last September. Before becoming interim president, he was the dean of Wayne State’s law school. While there, Bierschbach helped the law school rise from a national ranking of 100th in 2017 to 55th best in the U.S. now.
Additional headlines for Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026
Tlaib heckles Trump during State of the Union
Michigan Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib heckled President Donald Trump during his State of the Union address Tuesday night. The Detroit Democrat called the president a liar during his remarks. She wore an anti-ICE button, as well.
Minnesota Congresswoman Ilhan Omar also jeered at Trump during the event. Trump responded by saying the Democrats should be ashamed of themselves.
Whitmer to deliver State of the State tonight
Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivers her final State of the State address Wednesday. She’s expected to tout her accomplishments over the past year and lay out her vision for the future of Michigan.
Whitmer is expected to spend a portion of her speech talking about the importance of creating more affordable housing options for Michiganders. That includes plans for a new affordable housing tax credit.
You can hear the State of the State tonight at 7 p.m. on 101.9 WDET FM or at WDET.org.
Flags lowered to half-staff to honor Rev. Jesse Jackson
U.S. and Michigan flags across the state will fly at half-staff Thursday and Friday. Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered the action in honor of the Rev. Jesse Jackson.
Jackson died last week at age 84. In a statement, Whitmer says, “Rev. Jackson had a special connection to Michigan and especially the city of Detroit.”
BET reports Jackson will lie in state at the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition in Chicago tomorrow and Friday. A private homegoing service will take place on March 7. That event will be livestreamed.
Ford recalls more than 400,000 SUVs
Ford is recalling almost 414,000 Explorer SUVs because of possible steering problems.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says certain vehicles from the 2013 through 2017 model years could have faulty rear suspension toe links that could break. The problem could make it hard to steer the vehicle.
Affected owners will be notified by mail. Repairs will be made at no cost to consumers.
First place Pistons face Oklahoma City
The Detroit Pistons play the Oklahoma City Thunder tonight in a battle of NBA first place teams. The Pistons are first in the Eastern Conference with a record of 42 wins and 14 losses. The Thunder hold the top spot in the Western Conference with 45 wins and 14 losses.
Game time at Little Caesars Arena is 7:30 p.m. tonight.
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After nearly 40 years supporters across the globe remain committed to advocating for Temujin Kensu’s release. While maintaining hope that he will eventually see freedom, some of Kensu’s staunchest defenders say they face an uphill climb to overcome Michigan politics and obstacles not related to the facts of his innocence, to help Kensu receive justice. “There is an abundance of corruption in Michigan politics… that keeps Kensu in jail,” says Debbie O’Sullivan of Australia. After learning about Kensu through an […]
This one brings together rapper Doechii and vocalist SZA on a record that lands like an anthem. It speaks to misogyny, pressure, survival inside the industry, and it doubles as a reminder for women of color to keep rising no matter what stands in the way.
Doechii is razor sharp here. Technically gifted, confident, fully in command. And SZA adds emotional lift, tone and atmosphere that wraps perfectly around the message. Together, they turn affirmation into sound. Here’s “Girl, Get Up.” My Pick of the Week.
Doechii and SZA with “Girl, Get Up,” a powerful meditation wrapped in rhythm.
If you love progressive hip hop with substance, tap in every Saturday evening at 6 p.m. on 101.9 WDET and wdet.org.
WDET’s unique music programs are dedicated to exploring the music and culture of our region and the world. Keep the music going. Please make a gift today. Give now »
A new statewide poll shows Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson opening up a narrow lead in Michigan’s 2026 governor’s race, while independent candidate Mike Duggan is losing ground, even after allies and pro-Trumpers poured seven figures into boosting his campaign.
The Reverend Jesse Jackson has died. He was 84 years old. Jackson joined the civil rights movement in the early 1960s and begam working closely with Dr. Martin Luther King Junior. Jackson was near king on the balcony of the Lorraine Motel in Memphis when King was shot to death in April 1968.
Jackson became a leader of the Civil Rights Movement in the years after King’s death. He went onto create Operation PUSH in Chicago as part of his effort to continue advocating for change. One of his signature slogans was “Keep Hope Alive”. Jackson ran for president in 1984 and 1988, but failed to win the Democratic Party nomination.
Jackson maintained close ties with civil rights leaders in Detroit, often visiting for NAACP or Operation PUSH events in the city. The Rainbow/PUSH non-profit coalition was created in the mid-1990s. Jackson also gave the eulogy for Rosa Parks at her funeral in Detroit in 2005.
President Clinton awarded Jackson the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2000.
Additional headlines from Tuesday, Feb. 17, 2026
SW Detroit residents remember flood
This is the first anniversary of a major flood in Southwest Detroit. A 54-inch water main broke last year, causing problems for hundreds of residents in the area.
Several feet of icy water poured into streets and basements. The city had to evacuate more than 150 homes in the Springwells neighborhood. Residents in the area say some were evacuated by boat. Some lost their cars due to the amount of freezing water in the streets.
Michigan ranked #1 for men’s college basketball
And Michigan is ranked number on in The Associated Press men’s college basketball poll. It’s the first time that’s happened in 13 years.
The AP says the Wolverines claimed 60 of 61 first-place votes in yesterday’s new poll. Michigan is set to play number three Duke Saturday evening.
Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.
Trusted, accurate, up-to-date.
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Late last year, Rogelio Landin ran for mayor of Detroit on a simple platform: the city should annex some of its surrounding communities. Detroit needs people, and those suburbs need money. With annexation, the city could expand and gain more revenue to share with its new residents.
Rogelio Landin.
Landin didn’t get many votes, but the idea was provocative. What if metro Detroit acted more like a coherent region, instead of dozens of separate municipalities all going it alone? What could that unlock?
Rogelio Landin spoke with Robyn Vincent about that and more.
Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on demand.
WDET strives to cover what’s happening in your community. As a public media institution, we maintain our ability to explore the music and culture of our region through independent support from readers like you. If you value WDET as your source of news, music and conversation, please make a gift today.
President Trump says he won’t allow the Gordie Howe International Bridge to open until Canada gives him what he wants.
He didn’t specify what that is, but in a social media post, Trump threatened to prevent the opening unless Canada repays the U.S. for everything it has done for its northern neighbor. He also demanded half-ownership of the bridge, which Canada paid for.
In an interview with the Windsor Star, Mayor Drew Dilkens called the post unhinged.
Additional headlines for Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026
Rx Kids supports Detroit mothers
Pregnant and new mothers who live in Detroit can now receive cash assistance with no strings attached. The payments will come from the Rx Kids program—which provides $1500 to expecting mothers and $500 a month for the first six months of their baby’s life.
The program started in Flint and is now active in over 25 lower income communities around the state. That includes Pontiac, Highland Park, Hamtramck, Hazel Park, and Dearborn.
Aiyash announces Michigan senate campaign
Former state Representative Abraham Aiyash has announced he plans to run for the Michigan senate. Aiyash served in the state House from 2020 to 2024. He is seeking the Democratic nomination for the District 1 seat currently filled by Erika Geiss.
Coco Gauff donation for HCBU tennis players
Coco Gauff has donated $150,000 to the United Negro College Fund to support tennis players at HBCUs. The Michigan Chronicle reports Gauff made a similar $100,000 gift in 2025, creating the Coco Gauff Scholarship Program.
Community Doula Workshops
The Sherwood Forest Library branch is hosting a series of Community Doula Workshops. Conversations will be centered around information and resources for new and expecting mothers, and include topics about mental health, labor and delivery advocacy and access to resources.
The series is hosted by Penny Love Fitness. Join this week Wednesday, Feb. 11 at 11:30 a.m. at Sherwood Forest Library at 7117 West Seven Mile Road.
Free Fishing Weekend
Valentine’s Day is not the only thing to celebrate this weekend. Free Fishing Weekend is Saturday and Sunday. This is one of two weekends during the year when people can fish without a license and without needing a recreation passport to access state parks.
All fishing regulations still apply. The next free fishing weekend is in June. For more information, visit Michigan.gov/dnr.
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WDET strives to cover what’s happening in your community. As a public media institution, we maintain our ability to explore the music and culture of our region through independent support from readers like you. If you value WDET as your source of news, music and conversation, please make a gift today.
Celebrate Ismael Ahmed’s life with us. Listen to a tribute made with love, sharing stories, music, and remembrances from those closest to him.
Ismael Ahmed: A life devoted to service
Ismael Ahmed’s life was rooted in community and guided by a belief that people are stronger when brought together. Born in 1947 to a working-class Arab immigrant family, he grew up in Dearborn’s South End, shaped by factory work, public education, and a commitment to justice that defined his life’s work
He co-founded the Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (ACCESS), helped establish the Arab American National Museum, and later served as Michigan’s first Arab American cabinet member. Music was central to his activism. Through founding Concert of Colors and hosting This Island Earth on WDET, Ahmed used music to break down barriers and connect people across cultures.
Ismael Ahmed died January 31, 2026. He was 78 years old.
Highlights from Ismael Ahmed’s life
Raised in Dearborn’s South End in a working-class Arab immigrant family.
Served his country in South Korea during the Vietnam War-era.
Organized Arab auto workers in Detroit at a time when their voices were often overlooked
Co-founded Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (ACCESS).
Helped establish the Arab American National Museum.
Served in state government and higher education.
Hosted This Island Earth on WDET, sharing music beyond borders.
Founded and led the Concert of Colors until the day he died.
Left a lasting mark on culture, community and public service.
Share your condolences and tributes
We invite you to share your memories and reflections by visiting wdet.org/ismael or by emailing wdetdigital@wdet.org. You may also leave a voice message through the WDET app on your phone by tapping “Open Mic” in the bottom right corner of your screen.
When Kate Brouner decided to put her six-bedroom, three-bath 3,590-square-foot Howell house on the market, she called the previous owner: Novi-based Realtor Jenn Anderson.
Anderson lived in the home for 11 years before selling to Brouner.
“We call it ‘our house’ and we wanted to make sure to find the right buyer,” Anderson said.
Winter tends to be a slower time for agents but it allows real-estate agents to size up last year’s marketplace and forecast the year ahead. But houses are still being bought and sold.
Steve Stockton has a national and local perspective of the housing market. He’s a board member for RealComp, Michigan’s largest multiple-listing service; the North Oakland County Board of Realtors; and the National Real Estate Review Board.
“This is the longest time period we’ve had growth: 29 months in a row of increased value nationally,” he said. “I don’t remember a month since COVID where we haven’t gone up month over month.”
Regionally, sales rose month-over-month in the Northeast and South, were unchanged in the West, and declined in the Midwest. Demand in Michigan remains steady, Stockton said.
Nationally, home sales rose in December, up by a half percent from November, according to the National Association of Realtors. But compared to December 2024, sales were down by 1%.
The typical homebuyer is 60 years old and the median age for a new-home buyer is at an all-time high: 40, up from 33 in 2021 and 29 in 1991.
“The hardest issue is finding starter homes that younger people can buy. To finally hit 40 as the average first-time buyer’s age is just crazy,” he said.
Market shift
Stockton said the current market is transitioning from one that favored sellers to a balanced market favoring neither buyers nor sellers, aided in part by lower interest rates.
As of late Thursday, a 30-year, fixed-rate mortgage loan was around 6.2% and the 15-year rate was around 5.6%. Few expect interest to drop below 6% this year, despite pressure on the Federal Bank by the Trump administration, he said.
Karen Kage, Realcomp’s CEO and a real estate agent for more than 40 years, said buyers are finding 10% more homes for sale in southeast Michigan this year compared to last year while Oakland County has 15% more.
Oakland County’s hottest markets include Novi, Northville and South Lyon, where builders are busy. Existing homes are selling in Milford, Highland and White Lake townships, Stockton said.
Areas like Birmingham and Bloomfield Hills remain popular and lakeside homes are always in high demand.
Home prices
Southeast Michigan’s median price for existing homes was $270,000 in December, up 5.9% over December 2024. Oakland County’s median home price increased by less than 1%, to $360,000..
“The buyers have a little more to chase,” Stockton said, noting that less than five years ago, buyers were skipping home inspections and warranties to compete with a slew of other buyers.
These days, he said, softer markets in Nevada, Arizona, Idaho and Florida are inspiring older homeowners who are weighing getting a good price for their Michigan home and taking advantage of better prices in what Stockon called “the sunshine states.”
In southeast Michigan, the number of homes on the market represent about three to four months of inventory, up from 2015, when the inventory was a scant six weeks. A truly balanced market requires a five-to-seven-month supply of homes, Stockton said.
More homes for sale means sellers are now waiting on home inspection results, offering home warranties again and bargaining on prices more than in recent years.
But in some areas, buyers are writing love letters about the home they want to persuade a seller to pick their offer.
What’s selling
A refreshed kitchen remains a selling point, as does a newer roof.
“The homes selling quickly now are updated and sharp,” Stockton said. “If you have a house that’s a little tired and dated, it’s going to sit on the market for a while.”
But a motivated seller like Brouner will adjust the home price to attract buyers.
Brouner, a healthcare analyst and mother of five, wanted a new home after her divorce was finalized but didn’t have the time for significant updates.
Anderson said it’s important for sellers to be realistic about their home’s value and the marketplace. Brouner had been watching the real estate market for 18 months before deciding to list her home. She and Anderson agreed to list the house for $449,900.
Less than a week after the listing went online, offers poured in.
“I was pretty confident my house would sell but Jenn really helped me make the most money possible,” she said. “Selling is not as scary as everyone thinks. Find the right agent and they will guide you.”
Brouner will start shopping for a new home with Anderson soon. She hopes to find a house with more land, room for her family and a price under $400,000 and she’s being pragmatic about her options.
“I don’t mind buying a fixer upper,” she said.
The 2026 outlook
“I hate making predictions,” Kage said. “Everything could change tomorrow … Who could have predicted some of the things we’ve been through in the last 40 years?”
She prefers to watch monthly home-sales figures and said two months of numbers gives a short-term peek into the future. The final months of winter can suggest how a season will progress. The second-quarter market is a better indicator, she said.
The solid sellers’ market pressed buyers into bidding wars, which Kage said raised prices to a point that challenges younger buyers.
She believes more sellers are confident of getting a good price for their home and being able to find an affordable next home,” she said.
A rise in the number of homes available has increased the average time on the market by two days, to 43 days, which has alarmed sellers and it shouldn’t because buyers who have more choices are more confident in their offers, Kage said.
Kage encourages buyers and sellers to work with a licensed real estate agent. They can help sellers find the optimum price for marketing a home and typically learn about new listings before they are published.
“People say, ‘Oh, I’ll just check Zillow’ but where do you think Zillow gets the information? They get it from us,” she said.
Although Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and President Donald Trump have found some areas of common ground this year, Whitmer recently outlined key disagreements at the Detroit Auto Show, including opposition to Trump’s tariff strategy and the presence of ICE in Minneapolis. This week on MichMash, WDET’s Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service’s Alethia Kasben discuss what Whitmer’s comments could signal about future relations with the Trump administration.
Whitmer called some Trump administration actions “an abuse of power,” adding, “I think it is a very serious and scary moment in this country. I appreciate those who are raising their voices. I worry about the people out there just trying to do the right thing.”
Roth said Whitmer’s remarks could hint at political ambitions after her term as governor ends. She also noted that much of Whitmer’s outreach to the Trump administration has focused on maintaining cooperation in Michigan’s best interest.
Later in the episode, Oakland Schools Superintendent Kenneth Gutman discusses proposed legislation that would ban cell phones in classrooms. Gutman supports the measure, saying it benefits students. “There are exceptions, and safety is one of them, but in general, do we need cell phones in classrooms? We do not. They are a distraction.”
If the legislation passes, Michigan would join states including Indiana, Louisiana, New York, and Ohio in banning cell phones in classrooms.
One-of-a-kind podcasts from WDET bring you engaging conversations, news you need to know and stories you love to hear. Keep the conversations coming. Please make a gift today.
When I read about violence interrupters, I always come back to the same tension. The work is built for moments that rarely make a police report. A brewing argument that never becomes a shooting. A teen who decides to go home instead of circling back. A friend who pulls someone out of the heat of […]
By Melody Baetens, Adam Graham, Francis X. Donnelly, The Detroit News
It was cold and it was sloshy and it didn’t make a bit of difference Friday night.
When you’re attending the premier social event of the year, the last thing on your mind is meteorology.
The forecast for the Charity Preview gala, which opens the Detroit Auto Show each year, was shiny tuxedos, glittering gowns, bubbly champagne and, oh yeah, cars.
All this finery transpired within the confines of the Huntington Place convention center, where 6,000 revelers oogled the latest designs from automakers.
The oglers sported some fancy designs of their own. Their jewelry alone put the glitz into the social spectacle.
Like most years, the fashion was black-tie with a dash of Motor City swagger and wintertime ritz.
Women have been hip to the fact that the hard, freshly carpeted floors of the showroom can be tough if you’re wearing heels, and many opt for flats. Complimentary comfy slippers were at the ready, piled high near the stage area.
Also spotted were a few gals in expensive sneakers.
Mia Talbott of Rochester Hills rocked an emerald satin mini dress with modern gold jewelry and black-and-white Jordans.
“They’re really comfy and they’re also my favorite pair of shoes,” said the young car fan, who was attending the event for the second time with her mom, Lori Talbott. “I like how they’re every day, but when you style them right, they can be fancier.”
During the entertainment portion of the evening, longtime “Masked Singer” judge Robin Thicke performed a brief 19-minute set that included his hits “Lost Without U” and “Blurred Lines.”
But it was a step down from 2025’s headliner, Flo Rida, who ignited a dance party on stage and brought out Flavor Flav to hype up the crowd, turning the buttoned-up Charity Preview setting upside down. Thicke didn’t bring any of that energy or excitement, and his set was seemingly over before it even got going.
A local guy did a much better job.
Trick Trick performed a 25-minute set on a large stage at the back of Huntington Center. Joined by his brother Diezel, a Detroit sex symbol in his own right due to his heavy Tubi presence, Trick took the stage and was greeted by a rumble of bass that echoed throughout the show floor.
The Detroit rapper had the tux- and gown-clad crowd throwing their hands in the air as he performed songs like “Bet She Wanna Smoke,” “My Name is Trick Trick” and “Booty Bounce,” the 1995 single that put him on the Detroit map.
Crowd faves “Welcome 2 Detroit” and “From the D” followed, and Trick served as a proper scene-setter for headliner Thicke.
Trick left the crowd with some parting words of unity.
“Listen,” he told the crowd. “It don’t matter what political party you represent, there’s always one Detroit.”
Besides fun and fashion, some do-gooderism also abounded.
As Carolyn Clifford and Glenda Lewis welcomed the growing crowd ahead of the ribbon cutting, the WXYZ-TV anchors talked about the financial impact of the event. Clifford said the gala has raised more than $125 million for local children’s nonprofits.
“At the heart of the night is impact,” said Clifford.
Proceeds from the $400-a-ticket event will go to six children’s charities in southeastern Michigan. The final tally won’t be known for several weeks but organizers hope to raise an additional $3 million for the charitable groups.
Todd Szott, auto show chair, echoed the importance of the charity support.
“What you make possible tonight through your support and your presence and your belief has a real and lasting impact on children and families across our region,” he told the crowd.
Lewis introduced the newly elected mayor of Detroit, Mary Sheffield, who said the auto show has had a great economic effect on the city.
Her Honor said the event generated $370 million in economic activity last year and $8 billion over the years.
“The auto show is such an important time and event for our city throughout the years,” she said. “It is more than just cars in glamour. It really is about the heart of our city. It is about the meaningful impact that this event has on our community.”
For former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, it was his first Charity Preview not as the city’s chief executive since 2013. But it felt just like the others, especially when snow fell on the same day as the gala, he said.
He didn’t mind the snow and thought the event was smart to return to winter after giving summer a try.
“Crowds come in from all over, and all you hear is, ‘the city looks incredible,’” he said.
Duggan said he didn’t have any official duties during the soiree, including making speeches, and he was fine with that, too.
“I’m adjusting to retirement without a problem,” he joked.
It may be a short-lived retirement as Duggan is currently running for governor.
Jalen Rose is many things ― a Detroit native, media mogul, and former NBA star, but until Friday night, he was never an attendee of the Charity Preview.
He not only corrected the last part of that, but doubled down as the evening’s master of ceremonies.
“This is incredible,” Rose said. “It’s a celebration of vehicles, and a celebration of the city.”
Rose said he loved that everyone dressed to the nines, and said no one does that better than Detroit. He was among the fashionistas, wearing a black suit, black rimmed glasses and a black hat with a red underbrim.
Marissa Bennett of Richmond wears a dress made of pieces of paper made of iconic Detroit landmarks. (KATY KILDEE-The Detroit News)
Marissa Bennett of Richmond floated through Huntington Place with a dress made of magazine-style paper ads for Vernors, Better Made potato chips, the city’s sports teams and everything else that screams Detroit.
Bennett was constantly stopped by people asking about the outfit, which had a plastic base and was held together with tape and glue.
Standing beside Bennett was Matt Richmond of Pontiac, who designed the dress and assembled it just a few hours before the show.
“It’s pretty crazy. You can’t go more than a few feet without someone stopping and asking about it,” Richmond said. “It’s a showstopper.”
Emerald and similar shades of green were prominent, not only via sparkly gowns but also accents on men’s tuxedos. It may be an ode to cash money or inspired by the latest “Wicked” film.
State Sen. Stephanie Chang was more Glinda than Elphaba in a pale pink, almost-cream gown with sparkling accents, which she purchased at Detroit’s Peacock Room.
“It’s a super fun event, great for networking, but also you get to see all the cars,” she said. “So many great things, but I think the most important thing is raising money for really important organizations.”
Chang said she was especially happy with the financial support for the Children’s Center, which helps kids with mental health and foster care placement.
Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel has been coming to the Charity Preview for years and said he always enjoys meeting people. He said the event also is a great way for the region to show off its attributes.
“It’s not about being a politician, it’s about being a people person,” he said. “It’s a target-rich environment for people who like people so I love it.”
Guests watch a ribbon cutting ceremony during the Detroit Auto Show Charity Preview on Friday, Jan. 16, 2026 at Huntington Place in Detroit. (Katy Kildee, The Detroit News/The Detroit News/TNS)
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