The Detroit Evening Report

General Motors says it's laying off more than a thousand workers at its Detroit-Hamtramck electric vehicle plant due to weak demand. The Detroit News reports GM is cutting production at Factory Zero to a single shift. It's also cutting hundreds of jobs at EV battery plants in Ohio and Tennessee. The layoffs follow the expiration of federal tax credits for EV buyers and pressure from the Trump administration to build more gasoline-powered cars and trucks.  Additional headlines from Thursday, October 30, 2025 The city of Detroit has agreed to pay nearly $6 million to settle a lawsuit over the death of a pedestrian who was struck by a bus. It was the second fatality involving the same driver since 2015. - Reporting by AP DTE Energy is reporting net profits of $419 million in the third quarter of this year.  The earnings, not including non-recurring costs, hit $2.25 per share.  That beat Wall Street analysts’ expectations.  The company says it has invested $3 billion this year to improve electric and natural gas infrastructure. A state House bill would let local governments ask voters to approve taxes on short-term rentals. The Michigan Association of Realtors says it wants lawmakers to include limits on local regulations meant to shut out short term rentals. Detroit City Council approved several honorary street signs for local leaders and influencers, including Imam Abdullah El-Amin. El-Amin was a prominent faith leader in Detroit and co-founder of the Muslim Center of Detroit. Among other recipients are Reverend JoAnn Watson, Mudgie’s Deli founder Gregory Mudge, and Viola Liuzzo. 

There are just a few days left until Detroit’s municipal elections take place.  Early voting began last Saturday.  The two candidates for mayor, City Council President Mary Sheffield and Pastor Solomon Kinloch,  are scheduled to take part in a forum Thursday at the Detroit Economic Club.  That’s expected to be their last meeting before next week’s election.  Each candidate will take the stage alone to answer a series of questions about their vision for the city.  This event is not a debate.  Additional headlines from Wednesday, October 29, 2025 Food banks and pantries are preparing for a surge in demand if federal food aid is paused this weekend from the government shutdown. The outlets were already struggling after federal program cuts this year. Now, SNAP benefits are set to pause Nov. 1. It’s the latest in a string of hardships placed on charitable food services. Food banks and pantries across the country are concerned about meeting the growing need left in the wake of that pause. President Trump nominated Hamtramck Mayor Amer Ghalib as ambassador to Kuwait earlier this year, but the discovery of social media posts criticizing Israel have pushed some Republican Senators to say they will not back his nomination in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Ghalib says he will not withdraw his name from consideration for the position. City officials gathered on Detroit’s east side Wednesday to break ground on a new housing development. The project, called “The Arthur Murray”, will renovate a historic building in the East Warren-Cadieux area.  The long vacant building will be turned into affordable housing and commercial space, including 32 apartments.    Detroiters are continuing to get a break at the gas pump. Analysts say the annual switch to winter blends of gasoline is helping to lower prices, as is reduced demand for gas as we approach the colder weather months.  ESPN is reporting that the Detroit Lions have agreed to a huge contract extension with defensive end Aiden Hutchinson.  He’s considered one of the best pass rushers in the league.   

Syrians in the U.S. under Temporary Protected Status may no longer be able to live and work in the U.S. as soon as next month.  The Department of Homeland Security says since the civil war in Syria ended last year, people who sought TPS status here no longer face life-threatening danger if they return.  Jad Salamey, civil rights and immigration attorney for the Council on American-Islamic Relations, Michigan chapter, says "Current administration and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem determined that the conditions for TPS no longer exist in Syria, and that essentially, it's safe enough and there's no serious threat for Syrians to be kept away from returning to Syria." Salamey says the change in status will affect about 6,000 Syrians.  Michigan is home to about 15,000 Syrian Americans.  He says Syrian TPS holders must apply for a different immigration status or prepare to self-deport by November 21. "The Trump administration has offered Syrians, who leave voluntarily, a free airline ticket and $1,000 departure bonus, if that is what they want to do. But if not they want to stay here, maybe they have family connections. I strongly recommend getting legal assistance as soon as possible."  Salamey says CAIR Michigan is getting calls from people about TPS and other immigration assistance.  Additional headlines from Tuesday, October 28, 2025 Construction on the first of five solar neighborhoods has officially begun. It started on approximately 42 acres of blighted land in the Van Dyke/ Lynch area on Monday. Two years ago, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan announced the plan to convert 165 acres of vacant and blighted land into solar farms to offset the electricity used at 127 municipal buildings. Duggan says demand for energy continues to rise and the solar project will help mitigate those demands. A film screening on Wayne State’s campus next week supports ski programs for students at Detroit’s University Prep and Hamtramck High School. Sno-City is a film by Warren Miller and will be screened at Wayne’s Community Arts Auditorium Saturday November 7. The event is sponsored by SOS Outreach and Crystal Community Ski Club. Money raised will go toward a 3-day ski trip for students at Crystal Mountain in March. For more information and for tickets, go here. The Henry Ford will host journalist and Cherokee Nation citizen Rebecca Nagle for a discussion on representation and erasure of indigenous people in the news and other media. “We’re Still Here: Fighting Indigenous Erasure in the Media” is Saturday November 8 at 1 p.m. in the Anderson Theater. For more information and tickets go to thehenryford.org/current-events. 

Dearborn's Department of Public Health published a report on its Air Quality Project. Health Director Ali Abazeed says over a million air quality measurements were recorded in 2024.  “And that data confirms what residents have long known, that pollution burdens are evenly distributed across the city, and we're using that data. We're using that insight as we have to help hold polluters accountable, to guide smarter and fair policies for our residents.” Abazeed says there were about 22-23 days in 2024 that air quality reached levels of unhealthy for sensitive groups, with spikes near traffic corridors or industrial zones.  The report also found 200 people subscribed and received over 41 thousand text alerts about air quality.  Abazeed says the department is expanding to have 11 monitors and adding sensors for ozone. Signs for the monitors are listed in English and Arabic for residents.  Read the report at Dearborn.gov/EnvironmentalHealth.   Additional headlines from Monday, October 27, 2025 A Bangladesh Consulate office is set to open in Detroit. The Advisory Council in Bangladesh approved the proposal last week. TechTown Detroit is hosting the Detroit Elevate Showcase Nov. 14*. It’s a business showcase being held at the Eastern Market for second stage businesses who are beyond the startup phase. The program supports businesses from Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park. Learn more at detroitelevate.org.   The Global Detroit Celebration of 15 Years takes place on November 13 from 6-8 p.m. at the Jam Handy in Detroit. Tickets are $135 and up. The event will highlight Changemakers. La Jalisciense Supermercado y Taqueria is hosting a 2-day vendor market to celebrate the Day of the Dead in Mexicantown this weekend.The third annual celebration will include a community altar or ofrenda. Community members are invited to bring photos flowers and family keepsakes to add to the ofrenda. The market features local vendors selling handcrafted jewelry art and food. The La Jalisciense restaurant will be serving traditional Mexican dishes and drinks throughout the weekend for the occasion. The market will be open Saturday, November 1 from 2-9 p.m., and Sunday, November 2, from 2-6 p.m. Admission is free.  *Editor's Note: This description was updated 10/27/2025 at 8:55 p.m. to reflect the postponement of the Detroit Elevate Showcase. It is not being held this Wednesday, but November 14.  If there is something happening in your neighborhood that you think we should know about, drop us a line at DetroitEveningReport@wdet.org.

The Detroit Youth Assembly is next month. The City is inviting young people from across Detroit to connect with city leadership, share their voices, and take action on the issues that are important to them. The Detroit Youth Assembly will be on Thursday, November 6, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the Northwest Activity Center Theater. Get your tickets online. Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park opens on Detroit’s west riverfront Detroit’s newest park opens this weekend. The Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park sits along the west riverfront between downtown and the Ambassador Bridge. The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy broke ground on the 22-acre project three years ago.The park features playgrounds, a water garden, and two indoor basketball courts.Tomorrow’s grand opening is part of this year’s Detroit Harvest Fest. Inmates appeal dismissal of lawsuit over recorded strip searches Lawyers for hundreds of inmates at the Huron Valley Correctional Facility say they’ll appeal a judge’s dismissal of their lawsuit.The women sued the prison after corrections officers recorded strip searches with body cameras.The judge ruled Michigan law only allows inmate lawsuits that allege physical harm. But attorney Todd Flood says the recordings did cause harm, including flashbacks, insomnia, and panic attacks. “It’s unconscionable to me. At least 80% of the women who are incarcerated have been subject to domestic violence, sexual assault, or some sort of battery,” Flood said. The Michigan Department of Corrections stopped most strip-search recordings in March. The department agreed with the judge who threw out the lawsuit. Sports roundup Rivalry returns: Michigan vs. Michigan State Tomorrow is the big game that divides our great state — the Michigan Wolverines face off against the Michigan State Spartans.The Wolverines’ record is 5–2 and the Spartans’ record is 3–4. The head-to-head matchup takes place at Spartan Stadium and will be covered by NBC. Kickoff is at 7:00 p.m. Pistons look to bounce back The NBA is back and the Detroit Pistons play tonight against the Houston Rockets at the Toyota Center. They lost their opening game to the Chicago Bulls but hope to bounce back this weekend. Tipoff for tonight’s game is at 8 p.m. EST. Then, Cade Cunningham and the crew return home to play the Boston Celtics on Sunday at Little Caesars Arena. Love Peace and Light Foundation hosts Youth Empowerment Day Detroit’s Love Peace and Light Foundation is hosting Youth Empowerment Day on November 8. The group is collecting hygiene products, canned goods, and winter clothing for youth and families. They’re also collecting monetary donations to reach a goal of $5,000. Get your tickets online.  The event will be held November 8 from 2 to 5 p.m. at the Coleman A. Young Recreation Center.

Food stamps will not be available in Michigan next month.   The state Department of Health and Humans Services says it’s been instructed by federal officials to pause the Snap benefits program in November as a result of funding gaps caused by the ongoing federal government shutdown.  Around 13% of Michigan households rely on Snap benefits—that's roughly 1.4 million residents.  In a statement, the State of Michigan said the program will remained be paused until further notice.  Additional headlines from Thursday, October 23, 2025 Hamtramck's former Chief Altaheri allowed to resign, collect severance pay after lawsuit Community organization Dream of Detroit is asking for resident support name to get an honorary street sign for Imam Abdullah Bey El-Amin, a prominent faith leader who died in March of 2023. Dream of Detroit is asking residents to give messages of support to city council at their next formal session, Tuesday October 28.  Michigan Starters Coalition seeks to remove barriers for new entrepreneurs. To learn more visit righttostart.org/michiganstarters 

Detroit’s candidates for mayor are in their final weeks of campaigning.  And a new poll shows voters are making up their minds.   A Detroit News/WDIV-TV poll shows City Council President Mary Sheffield with a commanding lead in the race over Pastor Solomon Kinloch.  The survey…conducted from October 16-18 shows Sheffield supported by about 65% of those surveyed, Kinloch with 14%, and about 20% undecided.   The Glengariff Group conducted the poll of 500 respondents.  The survey has a margin of error of plus or minus 4.4 percentage points. Just a reminder: a poll is a snapshot in time of the people surveyed.  Polls don’t vote – people do.  Early voting starts on Saturday.  Election Day is Tuesday, November 4.  Additional headlines for Wednesday, October 22, 2025 include:  General Motors earnings surpass Wall Street analysts' predictions Diwali in the D offers free events through this Saturday Chapter 9 of the Vietnam Veterans of America will hold a BBQ to show its appreciation for the city’s first responders.  Police officers and firefighters are invited to come to the barbecue from noon-5 p.m. on Friday. Detroit City Council has approved an ordinance banning the use of smokeless tobacco in the city’s sports stadiums.  The Detroit Pistons open their new season on the road tonight against the Chicago Bulls.  Tip off at the United Center tonight is at 8 p.m. ET.    

The state health department is working with Forgotten Harvest to make sure people in Southeast Michigan have access to healthy food.   The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services launched On-the-Go pantries last month. MDHHS offices across Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties host pantry days and accept individuals and families by appointment to pick up fresh produce, grains and proteins. Pantries may also have halal and kosher items available at some sites. The Madison Heights office hosted an On-the-Go pantry today. The agency is reminding residents about the pantries and other food resources after the U.S. Department of Agriculture told states that the government shutdown may keep families from accessing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – or SNAP – support in November.   Forgotten Harvest has many more resources for families looking for food assistance. For information about food distribution locations or to donate visit forgottenharvest.org/find-food. Appointments to shop at the Forgotten Harvest Community Choice Market can be made by calling 248-268-7756.  Additional headlines from Tuesday, October 21, 2025 Funding cuts impact educational TV service The new state budget cuts funding to the Michigan Learning Channel. The project was a statewide collaboration between Michigan public television stations and one station in Indiana. It was founded in 2021 during the COVID-19 pandemic to provided educational content to students and families at a time when most children were learning at home.  The 3 million dollars the Michigan Learning Channel requested from the legislature was a part of both state senate and house plans going into final budget talks. The network says it has the funding to continue broadcasting through fiscal year 2026. It’s not clear whether the cuts will result in layoffs for the channel’s 5 staffers located at several stations throughout the network or how individual stations will be impacted. Congress voted to cancel funding to public television and radio stations in August.  'Hocus Pocus' movie night The Pontiac Youth Recreation and Enrichment office is hosting a drive-in movie night at City Hall Saturday. Attendees will be treated with a double feature: Hocus Pocus and Hocus Pocus 2. Popcorn and beverages will be available. Festivities start at 7 p.m. Saturday night at 47450 Woodward in the City Hall parking lot. More information at pontiacrecreation.recdesk.com. Halloween ice skate event Saturday The Dearborn Ice Skating Center is inviting the community to a Halloween Skate Saturday.  Younguns can come in costume to win prizes. Old ones are welcome too. There will be interactive on-ice games and Halloween-themed music and decorations. Tickets are $13 and include skate rental. Costumes with loose items that obstruct vision or that may otherwise be unsafe for skaters will not be allowed on the ice. Get tickets at disc.activityreg.com.  Dogs in costume for Palmer Park parade You can let the dogs out this Sunday. Palmer Park’s Doggie Fashion Parade and Howl-O-Ween Party is from 2-4 p.m. at the Palmer Park Dog Park at 1655 W 7 Mile Road. Participants get doggie bags full of goodies and humans get refreshments, too. To register in advance go to palmerparkunleashed.com.  If there’s something in your neighborhood you think we should know about, drop us a line at DetroitEveningReport@wdet.org.

Over ten thousand people rallied in Detroit on Saturday for the No Kings Protest.  The event started in Roosevelt Park in front of the Michigan Central Depot. Kassandra Rodriguez spoke at the rally. Rodriguez is with the Detroit Community Action Committee. She says many Latinx people stayed home.  “A lot of them are very sacred, you know, they are view these big movements, big protests, as a place where they might get targeted. So its important, even more important that so many of us come out there and are able to like elevate their voices and share their stories.”  Following the rally, protesters marched to the Customs and Border Protection field office in Downtown Detroit. The event was peaceful, although Detroit Police arrested one pro-Trump counterprotester.  - Reporting by Russ McNamara  Additional headlines from Monday, October 20, 2025 Microplastics awareness Oct. 19 through Oct. 26 is Microplastics Awareness Week. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) is inviting people to learn about the impact of microplastics, cleanups and prevention to reduce plastic use at home. On Oct. 22  a free virtual Great Lakes Microplastics Summit will bring together scientists, policymakers and community members who will discuss microplastics and drinking water.  For more details visit michigan.gov/egle  MDHHS focuses on vaping during Fire Prevention Month The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is recognizing Fire Prevention Month. Part of that is raising awareness about vaping play that creates fire risk along with health concerns.  MDHHS is sharing resources to educate Michiganders about a variety of topics  including reducing fire risks from smoking materials and e-cigarettes, protecting residents from secondhand smoke and aerosol exposure and lowering cleaning and maintenance costs for home owners and renters.  More tips can be found at michigan.gov/smokefreehousing.   Business workshop ProsperUs Detroit is hosting a Business 101 Workshop in Highland Park next week. The in-person event will take place at Avalon Village at 24 Avalon Street, Highland Park, MI on Wednesday, Oct. 29th from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.  Dearborn public health director awarded The Dearborn Department of Health’s public health director Ali Abazeed, has been recognized as part of 40 under 40 in Public Health. The award is given by de Beaumont Foundation and it is the first of its kind to recognize and elevate leaders in public health. It honors people who work in leadership and community impact across institution through health departments, universities, nonprofits or in the private sector.  If there is something happening in your neighborhood that you think we should know about, drop us a line at DetroitEveningReport@wdet.org.  

Michigan’s September jobs report delayed by federal shutdown Michigan could not publish its September jobs report because of the federal government shutdown. The monthly jobs report shows the unemployment rate, the number of unemployed people, and other workforce information. It indicates which sectors of the economy are losing or gaining jobs — information important to academics, economists, government policymakers, and businesses. The September data exists, but it hasn’t been shared because the employees who handle the report are furloughed. The August report showed Michigan’s jobless rate was down slightly, largely because fewer people were looking for work. AB Ford Park reopens after $12 million renovation The 34-acre AB Ford Park reopened this week after $12 million in renovations and cleanup. The East Riverfront park now includes two new playgrounds, environmental remediation, a basketball court, riverwalk replacement, a nature meadow, and more. The park is next to the Community Center at AB Ford, which opened in 2023. During the Cold War, AB Ford Park was a site for missile radar towers. The bases of two towers still stand in the park. Detroit City Walls plans to beautify those towers with a mural in spring 2026. Detroit water aid program runs out of funds A fund that helps Detroit water customers pay their bills has run out of state and federal money. The Detroit Free Press reports the Water and Sewerage Department is restructuring its Lifeline Plan, which has helped thousands of customers since launching in 2022. Until now, most households on the plan paid as little as $18 a month for water. The revised plan will raise monthly rates and serve fewer people in need. Hamtramck councilmember to stand trial for election fraud A Wayne County judge says enough evidence exists to try a Hamtramck City Council member for election fraud. Prosecutors charged Mohammed Hassan with forging a woman’s signature on an absentee ballot in 2023. The Detroit News reports the woman did not vote in that election. No Kings protests planned across Metro Detroit A second round of No Kings protests is happening this Saturday, October 18, across the country — including several in Metro Detroit, such as at Roosevelt Park. The protests are organized by the group 50501, which stands for “50 protests, 50 states, one movement.” Participants are protesting President Trump’s executive orders on immigration, foreign policy, federal spending cuts, civil rights, and more. Organizers are asking people to wear yellow as a symbol of unity and hope.

The Detroit Fire Department received new fire and emergency medical services vehicles thanks to a nearly $11 million dollar investment from the city. This is part of the city’s efforts to upgrade their fleet and keep response times well below the national average. The department received 10 new fire engines, 13 new ambulances, 3 battalion chief vehicles, and 3 new EMS Supervisor vehicles. Each vehicle is equipped with HAAS Alert Safety Cloud that sends real-time digital alerts to nearby drivers when emergency vehicles are approaching or stopped at an incident. According to the city, these investments help improve a fleet in comparison to the decades old vehicles that were prone to break down. Additional headlines from Thursday, October 16, 2025 A proposal for transport at the recently restored Michigan Central Station Detroit sports update Convening for Dance and Culture is this weekend, hosted by TéMaTé Institute for Black Dance and Culture Listen to The Metro: Annual African dance conference uses dance as a tool for justice and equity  

Detroit voters will have an opportunity to see the two candidates for mayor debate each other tonight.  City Council president Mary Sheffield and Pastor Solomon Kinloch will take part in the televised event at the WXYZ-TV studios in Southfield.  Michigan Chronicle Executive Editor Jeremy Allen says many Detroiters have already made up their minds about who they’re voting for. “It’s pretty clear that people are either for Mary Sheffield or for Solomon Kinloch.  And there are – there’s really no in-between.  And so, what I’m seeing from the community is folks who are invested in this race are fully invested on one side or the other, and there’s no in-between.” Tonight’s debate will be broadcast on WXYZ-TV 7 at 7 p.m. and streamed online. Citizen Detroit will hold a debate watch party beginning at 6 p.m. at UFO Bar – that’s 2110 Trumbull in Detroit.    Additional headlines from Wednesday, October 15, 2025 The Detroit Free Press announced Tuesday that’s it’s endorsing City Council President Mary Sheffield to become Detroit’s next mayor.  The Free Press says she’s more qualified to hold the city’s top job. The Detroit News and Michigan Chronicle have also endorsed Sheffield for mayor. The Detroit Fire Department is adding new vehicles to its fleet.  The department is getting 10 new fire engines and 13 new ambulances.  There are also six new supervisory vehicles. The city’s total investment is $10.7 million.   A mural of civil rights activist Rosa Parks is being unveiled today at the Rosa Parks Transit Center. City officials say the mural is part of efforts to make improvements at the center. The opening of the Gordie Howe bridge between Detroit and Windsor has been delayed. The “Gordie” is now expected to open sometime early next year. Gas prices are falling in Metro Detroit. The average price of a gallon of self-serve unleaded is now $2.87.  That’s down 13 cents from a week ago, and 30 cents cheaper than last month at this time. Industry analysts say lower prices are a result of reduced consumer demand and the annual switch to a winter blend of gasoline, which is cheaper to produce. 

A startup competition is soliciting business proposals from Indigenous entrepreneurs in Michigan. It's called IndigiPitch, and it's organized by 20 Fathoms, a tech startup incubator in northern Michigan. Chief Financial Officer and Tribal Liaison Shiloh Slomsky says Native communities face more barriers to getting a business off the ground than other groups. "Number one is capital or access to representation at pitch events, or in front of venture capitals and even banking." IndigiPitch will place entrepreneurs in front of investors. A panel of Indigenous judges will choose the winners in December and award cash prizes. -MPRN Additional headlines from Tuesday, October 14, 2025 Urban Consulate’s Daring Ideas for the Future series will bring 3 MacArthur “geniuses” to Detroit this fall. Admission is free but registration is required. For more information visit urbanconsulate.com/daringfuture. The Detroit Free Press Marathon is this Sunday and organizers are inviting the community to come out to cheer the runners on. Runners in the International Marathon, the International Half-Marathon and the Motor City Half-Marathon versions of the race will wind through parts of Midtown, the Cass Corridor, Eastern Market and downtown. Police will start towing cars along the marathon route at around 2 a.m. Sunday morning and keep streets blocked until 2 p.m. Check marathon routes and get more information at freepmarathon.com/marathon/ Michigan Central is hosting Halloween at the Station. The free family event includes an Outdoor Festival on the Michigan Central Lawn and LaCombe Street with an interactive science station arts and crafts, a selfie station, airbrush tattoos, cider, doughnuts and more. Inside, DJ sets and live painting. Costumes are encouraged but masks are not allowed. No registration is required for the outdoor festival. Register for Fridays at the Station at michigancentral.com/events/ People in more than a hundred Michigan communities plan to join nationwide protests against the Trump administration this Saturday. That includes a "No Kings" rally at Roosevelt Park in Corktown, at Parkwood Plaza in Oak Park, and at Lathrup Village City Hall. Millions attended similar demonstrations across the country in June.   If there’s something in your neighborhood you think we should know about, drop us a line at DetroitEveningReport@wdet.org

Detroit’s mayoral candidates have their only scheduled debate this week. The Reverand Solomon Kinloch faces City Council President Mary Sheffield in the general election. Kinloch, a political newcomer, says city leaders haven’t done enough to increase affordable housing in Detroit. He votes to do that and continue pastoring his church if voters elect him.   “All of us got a responsibility, not to just do something from a spiritual perspective, but to do something social and political. That’s my rearing and my raising. I believe that this is a great opportunity to inspire an entire city that ordinary people can do some extraordinary things.” Sheffield argues dealing with Detroit’s housing and financial issues demands someone with the kind of experience she’s gained over a dozen years on Council. The debate will be on Channel 7 starting at 7 p.m this Wednesday, October 15.  Additional headlines for Monday, October 13, 2025 Dearborn Heights City Council Chairman Mo Baydoun is now the Acting Mayor due to Mayor Bill Bazzi’s resignation. The U.S. Senate confirmed Bazzi’s nomination to serve as the Ambassador to Tunisia. The Detroit Repair Cafe is hosting a popup at the Moondog Cafe in Detroit Sunday, October 19. People can bring their clothes, electronics, bikes, toys and other things to fix for free. There is also free parking available. The Asian American-led group Rising Voices is hosting another artist salon in their series “We Belong Here - Asian American Ancestry, Authenticity and Healing." The program will be held at the Elmwood Cemetery in Detroit next Friday, Oct. 24. It will begin with a walking tour of Asian Americans and allies buried in the cemetery and be followed by a panel discussion about AAPI history in America and healing. It is free and open to the public. The international Christian relief organization Samaritan’s Purse is looking for gifts and donations for Operation Christmas Child. Several drop boxes will be open next month for donations. Volunteers are collecting and delivering gifts for kids who have faced war, poverty or disaster. People can also donate $10 for a box of goodies to fill a shoebox full of gifts for a child. Collection week is November 17-24. Find the closest drop-box by entering your zip code on this Samaritan’s Purse page.  If there is something happening in your neighborhood that you think we should know about, drop us a line at DetroitEveningReport@wdet.org. 

Stacey Abrams to headline Detroit’s clean energy summit If you’re interested in how you can be a part of a clean energy future, this event might be for you. The Resilience and Equity in the Clean Energy Sector Summit is happening next week, October 13 through 15, at the Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center. Organizers say this is the largest clean energy gathering with Black and Brown folks in mind — not as the footnote but the headline. The summit will offer hands-on workshops, tech showcases, career pathways, funding opportunities, and more. Plus, the featured speaker is national political activist Stacey Abrams. For more information, visit therecessconference.com. Pontiac celebrates 100 home repairs through city program The City of Pontiac is announcing 100 completed home improvement projects at a press conference on October 14. This is all part of its Houses Through Home Repair Program, which aims to fix homes that need key repairs and upgrades. City leaders will highlight improvements to plumbing, HVAC, roofing, porches, and more at the press conference at 1159 Eckman Ave. in Pontiac. For details, go to pontiac.mi.us. Detroit sports: Tigers battle Mariners, Lions face Chiefs Before we get to the weekend activities, let’s check out sports. MLB The Tigers face the Seattle Mariners tonight in a winner-take-all matchup. The American League Division Series is tied 2-2, and the winner of tonight’s game moves on to the American League Championship Series to face the Toronto Blue Jays. First pitch is at 8:08 p.m. NFL On October 12, the Detroit Lions face the Kansas City Chiefs in a Sunday night matchup you don’t want to miss. The Lions are 4-1 and leading the NFC North, while the Chiefs are digging their way out of the AFC West. Kickoff is at 8:20 p.m. at Arrowhead Stadium. Wayne State hosts Mexican film festival with Detroit Consulate Wayne State University is partnering with the Consulate of Mexico in Detroit to host a film festival of Mexican-based films on Wednesday, October 15, at noon. The event is free and will be held at La Plaza del Norte Building, 2835 Bagley Street. It will feature conversations about political and social implications, history, and more. For more information, go to las.wayne.edu. Beacon Park’s Cider in the City returns for two weekends Beacon Park is hosting Cider in the City this weekend, October 11 and 12, and next weekend, October 18 and 19, from 1 to 5 p.m. both days. There will be cider and donuts, cocktails, football on LED screens, and more. For details, visit ciderinthecity.com.

Wayne State University launched the Warriors on the Rise program last month that will offer guaranteed enrollment to qualified high school juniors in the Detroit Public Schools Community District. The goal is to increase enrollment of students that come from the school district. Juniors with a 3.0 GPA will be automatically enrolled by DPSCD school officials. Families will then be invited to a meeting with the district to discuss the next steps. Additional headlines from Thursday, October 9, 2025 Residents in Corktown presented the developers of the new Detroit City Football Club stadium with a detailed proposal for community benefits. A marijuana industry group is suing the state of Michigan after Governor Gretchen Whitmer passed a plan that would add a 24% tax on cannabis.  Michigan currently has a 10% excise tax on weed along with the 6% Michigan sales tax. The Detroit Land Bank Authority is investing $15 million to launch its Affordable Housing Pipeline. The project aims to restore underutilized multi-family buildings in the city. The first project in the Wade neighborhood will transform two historic 1920s buildings into 30 affordable housing units. Detroit will offer free bus rides to voters on Election Day. DDOT will waive fares for people who need a ride to the polls on November 4. If there is something happening in your neighborhood that you think we should know about, drop us a line at DetroitEveningReport@wdet.org.

Detroit officials have opened up a new section of the Joe Louis Greenway.  About two miles of the greenway’s new additions are spread throughout the city’s west side, running from Joy Road to Chicago Street.   A sculpture of Joe Louis was also unveiled at the trailhead of this section near Grand River and Oakman. District 7 City Councilman Fred Durhal says the greenway expansion will help bring city residents together.  “What this project means for our community here is connectivity.  Connectivity to our lives.  Opportunity for our youth, for our seniors—all to come together in a healthy way.” Mayor Mike Duggan also attended Tuesday's event.  He says the greenway is making a visible difference in city neighborhoods, adding that the name of the project makes sense for Detroit.  “Whose name could possibly be great enough—whose impact in the city could be great enough that would affect and do justice?  And it wasn’t a hard decision at all.  And so to recognize Joe Louis forever—as my friend Joyce said— 'you named a hockey arena after him and you knocked it down, but greenways are forever.'”  Duggan says about 6 miles of greenway have been completed and another 6 miles are under construction.  The entire project, when finished, should cover about 27 miles.  Additional headlines from Wednesday, October 8, 2025 Former Congresswoman Carolyn Cheeks Kilpatrick has died at the age of 80. She served as one of Detroit’s representatives in Congress from 1997 until 2011.  Before that Cheeks Kilpatrick was a member of the state House from 1979 until 1997.  She was also the mother of former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has signed the state budget into law. The $81 billion budget includes more money for roads, and a larger wholesale tax on marijuana.  The marijuana tax has been increased to 24% as part of a deal to raise funds for road construction and maintenance. In a video statement, Whitmer says students will benefit from the new budget, too. Detroit’s three casinos brought in $98.9 million in revenue last month.  That’s down about 3% from September 2024. The casinos paid $16.1 million in wagering taxes and other fees to the City of Detroit in September.  They paid another $8 million to the State of Michigan last month. The Detroit Tigers are fighting to stay alive in the American League Divisional Series. They lost to the Seattle Mariners yesterday 8 – 4.  The Mariners lead the best-of-five series two games to one.  That means Detroit will be eliminated if they lose another game. The Tigers and the Mariners play game four this afternoon at Comerica Park.  

"Had you deployed the National Guard again in this city? You're talking about 144 square miles, I doubt anybody would have had the National Guard at 7:30 on a Monday morning at Littlefield in West Chicago. That's not a practical way to do it. But I can assure you that right now, our CVI groups are figuring out who might be looking to retaliate against somebody and intervening." Duggan praised efforts from community violence intervention programs as well as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  Additional headlines from Tuesday, October 7, 2025 Count Day attendance increases Chalkbeat Detroit reports almost 500 more students showed up on October first than on Count Day last fall. Those numbers may still get a bit higher since the district can count students who show up for school up to 10 days after the designated day. The final count will be used to determine how much money the district will get from the state. Interfaith educational tour showcases Detroit's Muslim community The Interfaith Leadership Council of Metro Detroit is inviting Metro Detroiters to An Educational Tour of Metro Detroit’s Muslim Faith Communities later this month. Attendees will visit the Muslim Center Mosque and the Islamic Center of America. Lunch and transportation are provided. The tour is October 23 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Neighborhood Vitality Index survey Congress of Communities is encouraging residents to take the Neighborhood Vitality Index survey. The survey takes about 20 minutes and collects information about the experiences and concerns of Detroit residents – from safety to healthcare to community resources. Survey takers will receive a $25 gift card. For more information, and to see data from the 2024 survey, go to nvidetroit.org/survey.  Legacy Tour celebrates Detroit's Black professionals, HBCU alum The Legacy Tour will spotlight Black professional excellence and historically Black college and university (HBCU) culture at events in Detroit this weekend. Attendees will dress to impress at Suits and Stilettos at Fixins Soul Kitchen Friday night. On Saturday, HBCU alum are invited to ‘rock’ their school colors and Greek gear for the Rep Your Legacy Day Party at the Locker Room Lounge. For tickets and information go to thelegacytour.myle.com.  

Global Detroit is launching the New American Leadership Academy. It’s a free leadership program to empower people of color, with a focus on supporting immigrants, in developing leadership skills.   Participants will learn how to network and engage their local government in seven sessions between Oct. 28th and Nov. 22. Interviews will be scheduled with potential participants. Email Summer Baraka at summer@globaldetroit.org for more information.  Applications close Oct. 15.   Additional headlines from Monday, October 6, 2025 Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan says violent crime is down this year. He and other officials will presented the latest figures today. He talked about new state funding for the city's community violence intervention program. Last year Detroit saw the lowest number of homicides in the city since the 1960s, although the murder rate remained high because of the drop in population over six decades. The City of Detroit is hosting Fire Prevention Week between Oct. 5-11th. During the week, the Detroit Fire Department will host open houses and share fire prevention resources. Also carbon monoxide detectors, CPR training, and fire extinguisher training will be provided. Detroit’s Tech Town is hosting it’s 11th annual Toast of the Town. That's a lineup of several Detroit food trucks, entrepreneurs and networking opportunities. The event takes place Oct. 10 from 5-9 p.m. About 700 people are expected to attend. Tickets are $150. The Michigan Department of State (MDOS) is launching a new handheld device to provide language translation services at Secretary of State offices. MDOS says they will roll out the Pocketalk devices to all branches by the end of October. Last week, Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced the launch of the device at the Mexicantown Community Development Corporation as part of Hispanic Heritage Month. Translations are provided in Bangla, Spanish and Arabic, as well as 80 other languages. The International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit is hosting a free 10-week entrepreneurship hybrid course for Detroit residents. Classes meet on Tuesdays from 6-8 p.m. from Oct. 14 through Dec. 16. The live classes will be held at The International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit, at 111 E. Kirby Street, Detroit. Registration for in-person and online sessions closes on Oct. 14.     If there is something happening in your neighborhood that you think we should know about, drop us a line at DetroitEveningReport@wdet.org.  

Michigan lawmakers pass 2026 state budget After months of waiting and two missed deadlines, the 2026 state budget has finally passed. Michigan lawmakers agreed early Friday morning to add about $1 billion to road and bridge improvements, increase school funding, and decrease funding for some other programs. The budget also includes a new 24% wholesale tax on marijuana. Now the budget is headed to Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s desk, allowing her to finally fulfill her famous promise to “fix the damn roads.” For more information and a breakdown of how this budget affects Michiganders, check out WDET’s political talk show MichMash. A bonus episode was released the same day as the budget to explain the details. Additional headlines for October 3, 2025 District 3 residents organize “Stop the Violence” march Residents of Detroit’s District 3 have organized a “Stop the Violence” march this Saturday (Oct. 4). Alita Moore, executive director of the North Central Block Club Association, says the march is in response to a recent uptick in violence in the neighborhood. “Our youth, our seniors, are very, very concerned. And so, before something like the National Guard comes in, we wanted to — on a local community level — show solidarity with our neighborhood police officers, with the people that work with us right here,” Moore says. Moore hopes the event draws attention to a part of the city that feels neglected. The march will start at Farwell Recreation Center at noon. Tigers advance; Lions prepare for Sunday matchup Everyone is talking about the Tigers. Yesterday, the team beat the Cleveland Guardians in the wildcard round and is now heading to the American League Division Series, where they’ll face the Seattle Mariners. First pitch is tomorrow at 8:38 p.m. EST at T-Mobile Park. Meanwhile, about four hours south of metro Detroit down I-75, the Lions face the Bengals in a Sunday afternoon matchup at 4:25 p.m. They’re coming off a dominant win against the Browns, 34–20. Their record is currently 3–1, putting them at the top of the NFC North. Applications open for Detroit Legacy Business Project Applications for the Detroit Legacy Business Project close on Monday, October 6 at 8 a.m. This program is for businesses that have been serving the city for 30 years or more. Available grants include: One $50,000 grant Fourteen $15,000 grants Five $5,000 grants Ten $2,500 grants For more information, visit detroit.gov/opportunities.