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Today — 15 July 2026Main stream

Detroit Evening Report: Alcohol, cannabis ads may soon be banned from being near religious buildings

14 July 2026 at 20:49

Houses of worship may soon be added to the list of sensitive locations where certain advertisements are not allowed within a 1000-foot radius. 

Councilmember Scott Benson says posting ads for things like alcohol and cannabis near a house of worship is inconsiderate. “You have your church, and then 30 feet from your church is a probably a 40 by 20 sign advertising King of Bud, just a level of disrespect and a level of just insensitivity to what we have here.” 

The Public Health and Safety Committee approved the changes to the amendment today. City council will choose whether to enact the changes at the next formal session. 

-Reporting by Bre’Anna Tinsley

Additional headlines for Tuesday, July 14, 2026

Gordie Howe toll deal

We’re learning more about the deal to open the Gordie Howe International Bridge on July 27. CBC News and other media report 50% of toll profits over the bridge’s first 15 years of operation will go into a U.S. development fund. President Trump had said he would not let the bridge open unless Canada agreed to share toll revenue.

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens told CBC’s Power and Politics while the deal may look like a win for Trump, the U.S. won’t get much out of it. He said it could take longer than 15 years for Canada to recoup the cost of building the bridge before it would share revenue with Michigan. 

Canada spent almost $6.5 billion to build the bridge. The U.S. paid nothing. 

-Reporting by Pat Batcheller

Freedom Tour Detroit

High school students are invited to apply for the Freedom Tour Detroit 2026. The four-day program explores advocacy, civil rights, justice and Detroit history.

The Michigan Coalition for Human Rights, the City of Detroit’s Office of Veterans Affairs, Wayne State University and the American Civil Liberties Union are working together to offer in-person seminars and guided field trips between July 30 and August 2.

Applications are due by Sunday, July 19.

Summer Games at the Michigan Science Center

The Michigan Science Center’s After Dark series is back with “Summer Games” on July 24. This event offers those 21 and over a chance to explore science, sports and a little friendly competition.

The Penske Planetarium will offer a one-night only show featuring the “Olympians of the Night Sky,” Detroit City FC will be in the house with giveaways and photo ops, former Piston and President of the Motor City Cruise Durand “Speedy” Walker will speak, and adult games—including a 50-foot inflatable obstacle course, Warrior Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em and something called Hippo Chow Down.

National Coney Island is bringing classic and veggie coneys and there will be signature cocktails from the Byrdie Bar.

Michigan Science Center After Dark Summer Games is Friday July 24 from 6-10 p.m. Tickets are $35 for members, $45 for non-members and $30 for designated drivers. Learn more at mi-sci.org

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

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The post Detroit Evening Report: Alcohol, cannabis ads may soon be banned from being near religious buildings appeared first on WDET 101.9 FM.

In The Groove Song of the Week: Hollie Cook’s ‘Dub Me In Your Arms’

14 July 2026 at 20:15

You never really know why you’re attracted to a certain style of music, but I’ve always had an ear for dub. It’s a wonderful side product of the ska / reggae movement that emerged from Jamaica in the 1960s. 

With dub tracks, they’re making them heavier, with bigger bass and more reverb and a sense of weightlessness with the vocals, as though the singer were drowning and their voice only carries through when they come up for air.

A recent discovery in this vein is Hollie Cook’s sensational dub treatment of her album called “Shy Girl In Dub!” It brings dubbed-out versions of her songs from the record “Shy Girl” under the production lens of Ben McKone, who lovingly adds echo and reverb and pumps up the bass on all 12 of these heavyweight dubs.

It’s been tough to pick a favorite of that dubbed-out dozen, but I’m currently in love with “Dub Me In Your Arms” and its throbbing bassline and gentle stabs of piano. (Reminds me of another great Jamaican track where the Chosen Few cover Smoky Robinson’s “Tears Of A Clown.”) 

When Cook’s voice comes hovering over this track, she’s in full command. It sounds like she’s from another world; like a voice emerging from the static of a television set late at night, surrounded by this swirl of noise and rhythm and crisp snare pops.

Both Cook’s original “Shy Girl” album and this new dub reset are absolutely worth your time.

This story was originally posted on Midbrow.

The post In The Groove Song of the Week: Hollie Cook’s ‘Dub Me In Your Arms’ appeared first on WDET 101.9 FM.

In The Groove: Hannah Cohen, Twin Shadow, Teddybears + more

14 July 2026 at 20:12

Heat advisory? More like beat advisory! We’re turning up the summer soundtrack with songs to help you keep cool, from Jonathan Richman, Hannah Cohen, LCD Soundsystem, The Cure, TeddybearsTwin Shadow, Talking Heads, and more.

Check the playlist below and listen to the episode for two weeks after it airs using the player above. 

In The Groove with Ryan Patrick Hooper playlist for July 14, 2026 

  • “I Love Hot Nights” – Jonathan Richman & The Modern Lovers 
  • “The Lovecats” – The Cure 
  • “Lost In the Supermarket” – The Clash 
  • “Moon Rocks” – Talking Heads 
  • “Lo Life” – Antibalas 
  • “Song for My Father” – Tenderlonious 
  • “Be Free. (Joe Goddard Remix)” – NEIL FRANCES 
  • “Shadows From Nowhere” – Blue Gas 
  • “Le Grand Soleil De Dieu (Psychemagik Remix)” – Francis Bebey 
  • “Illegal Hit” – Yttling Jazz 
  • “I’m Confessin’” – Fabienne Delsol 
  • “Dancer” – Twisted Teens 
  • “People Who Died” – The Jim Carroll Band  
  • “I Don’t Wanna Grow Up” – Tom Waits 
  • “New Drink for the Old Drunk” – Crooked Fingers 
  • “The Swimming Song” – Loudon Wainwright III 
  • “Drivin’ On 9” – The Breeders 
  • “That Summer Feeling” – Jonathan Richman 
  • “Summer Sweat” – Hannah Cohen 
  • “Morning Light (feat. Andreya Triana)” – Andreya Triana & Quantic 
  • “Cebollas Verdes (feat. Quantic)” – Khruangbin 
  • “Buscando Guayaba” – Ruben Blades 
  • “Formant Sweep” – LeonxLeon 
  • “You Wanted a Hit” – LCD Soundsystem  
  • “Punkrocker (feat. Iggy Pop)” – Teddybears 
  • “Alemania” – Twin Shadow 
  • “Josh Tillman and the Accidental Dose” – Father John Misty 
  • “Kashmir” – Led Zeppelin 
  • “Everybody Daylight” – Brightblack Morning Light 
  • “The Beach Party” – Hot Chip 

Listen to In the Groove with host Ryan Patrick Hooper weekdays from noon-3 p.m. ET on 101.9 WDET or stream on-demand at wdet.org. 

Support the shows you love.

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The Metro: State regulator says DTE restoration timelines ‘weren’t what they needed to be’

By: Sam Corey
14 July 2026 at 20:07

Many Michiganders feel powerless over their own electrical power. That’s because, despite approved rate hikes, when a storm hits the power can be out for days before utility companies like Consumers Energy and DTE Energy are able to restore it. 

But while many are disappointed with the performance of Michigan’s utility companies, some regulators point to progress as outage time has decreased by about 23% since 2019. 

How are Michigan’s utility companies held accountable for their actions? And, what kinds of improvements are taking root?

Dan Scripps is the chair of the Michigan Public Service Commission, which regulates DTE Energy. He says the utility’s performance has been improving. 

“Last year… DTE for the first time in at least 25 years… was actually in the top quarter of utilities when you consider performance across the whole year.” 

Scripps joined host Robyn Vincent on The Metro to discuss what is being done to restore and upgrade the state’s aging grid. 

DTE is a financial supporter of WDET. Our newsroom observes a clear boundary between funders and editorial content, and we do not serve the agendas of those who support us. 

Hear the full conversation using the media player above.

Listen to The Metro weekdays from 10 a.m. to noon ET on 101.9 FM and streaming on-demand. Never miss an episode — subscribe to The Metro on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or NPR or wherever you get your podcasts.

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More stories from The Metro

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US Senator Gary Peters endorses Haley Stevens

14 July 2026 at 16:35

Outgoing US Senator Gary Peters is endorsing Congresswoman Haley Stevens in the Democratic primary for US Senate. 

Peters described Stevens as an “outstanding” candidate who will hit the ground running on day one. He talked about working with Stevens during the Obama administration and how he thinks that experience gives her a leg up over her opponent, Dr. Abdul El-Sayed. 

“We want someone who can come in that doesn’t have a learning curve,” Peters said. “Someone who’s going to immediately represent the people of Michigan and fight for their interest. She’s Michigan through and through.” 

Peters changed his mind on endorsement

Peters said he wanted to stay out of endorsing in the Democratic primary until he realized how Michigan’s elections will impact the entire country. He said he sees “chaos” in the Trump administration, with inflated prices making it harder for Michiganders to buy gas and groceries. 

“It’s absolutely essential that a Democrat wins in Michigan. We need to have a check and balance with the administration,” Peters said. 

Peters denied his sudden endorsement meant the Stevens campaign was “panicked” as alleged by the Michigan Republican Party.

“That should be very telling when Republicans are making that comment. I guess they want the other candidate to win.”

El-Sayed has largely been leading in the polls since the beginning of May.

Representing Michigan

Peters described Michiganders as “practical, common-sense folks” who just want to get things done. To Peters, out-of-state endorsements for El-Sayed don’t reflect the needs of Michigan. 

“To me, this race is about Michigan,” Peters said. “It’s not about who’s attracting a national audience or who’s on national TV. It’s about who’s actually delivering for the people of Michigan.” 

However, money from outside sources like AIPAC has benefited Stevens’ campaign, with millions of dollars coming in for ad campaigns. 

Challenging the GOP

Peters says there would be big spending for Republicans in their primary if Mike Rogers had a serious challenger. 

“Whoever wins the primary, part of that $45 million of Republican money is going to go after that person with everything they’ve got, and that’s why you have to have someone who has a proven track record of actually winning tough races,” Peters said.  

What people should be focusing on instead of money, according to Peters, are the messages from each Democratic candidate.

On the Republican side, Peters said that Mike Rogers will serve as a “rubber stamp” for the Trump administration instead of serving the needs of Michigan. 

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.

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In a liquor store parking lot, the Cass Corridor watches the World Cup

14 July 2026 at 16:18

In Detroit, there’s always a lot of action in liquor store parking lots.

Fender benders. Loitering. Impromptu barbecue pop-ups. Arguments and negotiations. Entrepreneurs hustling their wares. You name it.

This is the first time, however, I’ve witnessed one hosting a World Cup watch party.

Most of the World Cup games so far have been broadcast on a TV or projection screen in the parking lot of Marcus Market, a small liquor and grocery store near Wayne State’s campus.

They sell everything from tacos out of a counter in the back to beer and fresh produce and cigarettes and kayaks (they technically haven’t sold one yet but they are for sale).

It’s a popular spot with college kids and people from the neighborhood; a major community hub of commerce and social interaction in the city’s Cass Corridor.

And now it’s a de facto sports hub for the initiated or those just passing by and curious what the shouting is all about.

Under a pop-up tent in a corner of the parking lot, there’s a loyal band of soccer fans each with their own rooting interests. The crowds have swelled to nearly 90 people for the U.S. men’s soccer matches. Brands and sponsors noticed, dropping off swag for fans.

Other times, often for day games victimized by the sun and heat, it’s just a handful of diehards.

Some are sitting in camping chairs they brought. Some are sitting on milk crates pulled from the back of Marcus Market and provided by cashier Sishir Cherry Buddharaju, who started this whole thing.

“It’s the best way to watch the World Cup,” says Buddharaju, who’s known around the neighborhood simply as Cherry.

Fans are more than welcome to head into Marcus Market and buy a snack or a drink, but it’s really not a sales tactic for the store, he says.

“Most World Cup viewing parties are in bars or you have to RSVP,” says Buddharaju. “There’s not many that are free, that you can stay as long as you want and you don’t have to spend any money.”

In fact, at a lot of these parking lot games, there’s not much drinking at all. It’s become a lazy cliche mostly plastered on sports advertisements, but these watch parties have become bigger than the game itself.

It ended up being more about strangers in the neighborhood getting to know each other and hanging out outside the structure of a bar.

Buddharaju says at least a few regulars have become friends since the watch parties started back in June, showing up together and making plans after the games. Another watch party regular said he’s worried he won’t see his friends as much when the games end. It’s the most time he’s spent with them in a while.

“It almost feels like a summer camp sort of thing because it’s essentially the same group of strangers that show up every day,” says Buddharaju. “They all became friends from just being at the same place every day together for two hours for 30 straight days.”

There’s been some trials and tribulations along the way. A heavy rain forced them to take the television inside the nearby Bronx Bar to watch the rest of the England versus Mexico match. During Argentina versus Cape Verde, a powerful storm popped up quickly and ravaged their set up within seconds, sending the pop-up tent flying and the TV crashing to the ground. 

The screen is cracked and partially blacked out now, but the group watches on.

After Spain beat Belgium 2-1 in the quarter-finals, a handful of fans watching the game thank Buddharaju for setting up once again and start stacking milk crates and put away the 10×10 tent they’ve been watching under. They ask Buddharaju when the next game is and if he’ll be grilling hot dogs again.

“It’s a weird feeling,” laughs Buddharaju, “because I was going to do this even if nobody showed up. It was just going to be me outside watching the World Cup in the parking lot.”

But there hasn’t been a game that he’s watched alone yet. There’s always someone from the neighborhood walking up, sitting down, and watching with him – and the rest of the neighborhood.

Sishir Cherry Buddharaju (pictured right, staring into the camera).

There’s still a handful of World Cup watch parties being hosted in the Marcus Market parking lot. They are free and open to the public.

• Tuesday, July 14 – at 3 p.m. for France versus Spain

• Wednesday, July 15 – at 3 p.m. (teams to be determined)

• Saturday, July 19 – at 3 p.m. (World Cup Final)

This story was originally published on Midbrow.

The post In a liquor store parking lot, the Cass Corridor watches the World Cup appeared first on WDET 101.9 FM.

How are we doing? Give us feedback by filling out our listener survey

14 July 2026 at 16:00

Your voice helps shape WDET.

Whether you tune in for local news, music, culture or conversation, we want to hear from you. Our annual Listener Survey is now open, and your feedback will help guide the future of WDET.

As a listener-supported public radio station, we’re accountable to our community. Your responses help us understand what’s working, what you’d like to hear more of, and where we can do better.

The survey takes just a few minutes to complete, is completely anonymous, and will be open until the end of August. Thank you for helping us build a stronger WDET for everyone.

Fill out the survey »

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.

The post How are we doing? Give us feedback by filling out our listener survey appeared first on WDET 101.9 FM.

Bridge Detroit, ProPublica investigate dust’s impact on a city neighborhood

14 July 2026 at 12:37

Detroit’s Cadillac Heights neighborhood was once a thriving Black middle-class community. Today, parts of it are more industrial than residential.

One company—Crown Enterprises—has acquired almost every parcel surrounding its Kronos Concrete plant on East McNichols Road near Conant Street. Most of the homes in that area have been demolished. Of the few that remain, the people who live in them blame the owners of the concrete plant and the city for the noise, the dust, and the traffic they deal with every day.

Bridge Detroit and ProPublica spent more than a year investigating what’s happening in Cadillac Heights.

WDET’s Pat Batcheller spoke with Bridge Detroit’s Jena Brooker. She says residents are used to living next to industry, owing to old zoning laws that still exist dating back to the 1940s. But she adds that more recent developments have worsened things.

Listen: Bridge Detroit, ProPublica investigate dust’s impact on a city neighborhood

The following interview has been edited for clarity.

Pat Batcheller: What was Cadillac Heights like before the concrete plant started operating?

Jena Brooker: Residents were used to living next to industry to a degree in this neighborhood. And there was even a truck depot on this lot where the concrete plant is that the Morouns have owned since 1966. But then when the concrete plant went in in 2022, residents said that the neighborhood really changed. There are streets that used to have houses on them and nicely maintained lawns and trees. And those whole streets now are completely empty, and the lots are vacant.

PB: You mentioned the Moroun family, which owns the Ambassador Bridge. Do they also own Kronos Concrete?

JB: Yes, and then they also have another concrete operation by the Ambassador Bridge on the riverfront. They own several other concrete plants throughout Southeast Michigan, and they’re expected to open one soon in Toledo, Ohio, and in Windsor.

PB: How did they end up owning so much property in Cadillac Heights?

JB: They bought this central lot where they owned a truck depot and operated it since 1966. And over the decades, they acquired some properties in this neighborhood. They have property across the city, so that’s not unusual. By 2019, they had about 80 properties.

Then in 2019, Detroit had this historic land swap deal where they wanted to give land to Fiat Chrysler Automobiles to open the first new car plant in 30 years. To do that, the city orchestrated this deal where they were shifting around different land.

The Morouns, who own Crown Enterprises, gave up a lot on the east side. In exchange, they were given 34 [Detroit] Land Bank [Authority] parcels in this neighborhood. And from 2019 until now, we also saw at least 16 private individuals sell their properties to Crown. That land swap deal also gave Crown first rights on any properties that enter into the Land Bank until 2034.

PB: How has the concrete plant affected the neighborhood?

JB: Residents say that it’s been dirty and noisy, and just a general nuisance in their everyday lives. We submitted many Freedom of Information Act public records requests, and we found that more than 80 complaints have been submitted to the city and the state regarding dust.

Residents described literal whiteout conditions, having to go inside when they were doing yard work. One of the families we featured had two kids under five and had just had a baby. They were concerned about how the dust was affecting their development. Another resident has COPD, and so the dust is a major concern, coating cars and entering people’s homes. Then there is the noise, the increased truck traffic, and the bright industrial lights from having this industrial operation right in the middle of a neighborhood.

Jena Brooker
Jena Brooker

PB: Have these operations broken any kind of laws or regulations?

JB: When the concrete plant was first set up, Crown did not have a permit to do so. They had applied for a permit. They hadn’t gotten it yet, but then they put it up. The city ordered it to be taken down, and then what we saw after that was the city giving special allowances to Crown to operate this whole thing. You’re not supposed to be able to get permits from the city if you have outstanding blight tickets, but we saw that happen in multiple instances. We also saw that they participated in the Wayne County tax auction and were able to purchase a house, even though they had outstanding blight tickets.

PB: How has the city responded to complaints from the neighbors?

JB: The city says that inspectors go out three times a week. The company was required to submit a fugitive dust plan of how they will control dust from exiting the site and going into the neighborhood. That includes things like watering around the plant daily, filtering the dust on the site, and reducing the speed of traffic. When Mayor [Mary] Sheffield took office, she directed the city to install some more air monitors around the plant. But the concern is we have so many air monitors across the city. What’s the next step once we have this data that the air quality isn’t great?

PB: How has the company responded?

JB: The company has said that they’ve increased fugitive dust protections by watering the site every day – they have a water truck that goes around the plant and wets the streets to keep the dust down – that they have never NOT been compliant with city laws and ordinances, and that this represents the biggest investment in the neighborhood in in recent memory.

PB: What promises did they make, and which ones, if any, have they kept?

JB: They promised to create a vegetative buffer and plant trees. In renderings that they publish online, it shows brand new sidewalks around their properties. And when you go out to the neighborhood today, it looks maybe worse than what it looked like before.

PB: How long did it take you to research and report this story?

JB: I’ve been working on this story for a few years. We had published a few articles in Bridge Detroit. But since July 2025, I really took the time to work with ProPublica for the whole year, looking at what this neighborhood used to be like.

Going back to one of the people I feature the most, her family built the first homes in this neighborhood in 1917. It took a long time to get a picture of what this neighborhood was like and how it’s transformed throughout the decades with the help of the city and the state, and the presence of Crown Enterprises.

PB: What do you think the next chapter in this story is going to be?

JB: I plan to continue to follow up. I was recently in the neighborhood dropping printed copies of the story off, and it was dusty. It’s still an issue. They recently got tickets for the dust, but they weren’t fined because of this special agreement they have with the city. There are still some residents left there, and they deserve to be protected and continue to focus on environmental justice stories in Detroit.

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.

The post Bridge Detroit, ProPublica investigate dust’s impact on a city neighborhood appeared first on WDET 101.9 FM.

Visions: Linda May Han Oh, Joy Harjo, new jazz underground and more

14 July 2026 at 02:00

This week on Visions, I play a lot of my new music discovery. I feature brand new releases from the Kris Davis Trio, Linda May Han Oh and Melissa Aldana’s newest record, and FATHERS, the newest album from Nate Smith, Kiefer, CARRTOONS, and Kenny Beats.

I play artists new to me, new jazz underground and Joy Harjo, plus music released this year from Adam O’Farrill, Lakecia Benjamin, and María Grand.

I round everything out with classic cuts from Philly Joe Jones, Miles Davis, Lonnie Liston Smith, Charles Tolliver, and more.

Check out the playlist below and listen to the episode on-demand for two weeks after it airs using the media player above.

Visions Playlist for July 13, 2026

  • “Household of Saud” – Charles Tolliver
  • “Beyond The Dawn (feat. Terence Blanchard)” – Lakecia Benjamin
  • “Tranxit” – Lionel Loueke & Dave Holland
  • “Curves and Convolutions” – Adam O’Farrill
  • “FIGURE 8” – Nate Smith, Kiefer, CARRTOONS & Kenny Beats
  • “how do you do (ii)” – new jazz underground
  • “Summer Days” – Lonnie Liston Smith & The Cosmic Echoes
  • “Klactoveedsedstene (Live)” – Chris Potter
  • “The Subtext (feat. Robert Hurst* & Johnathan Blake)” – Kris Davis Trio
  • “Here’s That Rainy Day” – Philly Joe Jones
  • “Hallucinations (feat. Melissa Aldana)” – Linda May Han Oh
  • “Goodbye Pork Pie Hat” – Joy Harjo
  • “Ayaruna (feat. Shakoor Hakeem, Rashaan Carter & Miguel Russell)” – María Grand
  • “Solar (Live)” – Brad Mehldau
  • “Suite Norte, Sul, Leste, Oeste” – Hermeto Pascoal
  • “Hannibal (Live at Vienne Jazz Festival, 1991)” – Miles Davis

* indicates a Detroit artist

Support the shows you love.

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 »

The post Visions: Linda May Han Oh, Joy Harjo, new jazz underground and more appeared first on WDET 101.9 FM.

In The Groove: Thee Sacred Souls, Ian Fink, Grace Jones + more

13 July 2026 at 16:49

New music from Benjamin Booker, Thee Sacred Souls, Joe Armon-Jones, Ian Fink, and Yellow Days, alongside selections from Grace Jones, Dorothy Ashby, Mulatu Astatke, Underworld, and Father John Misty

Check the playlist below and listen to the episode for two weeks after it airs using the player above. 

In The Groove with Ryan Patrick Hooper playlist for July 13, 2026 

  • “Hand Me A Cigarette” – Twisted Teens 
  • “Believe” – Benjamin Booker 
  • “Waiting on the Right Time” – Thee Sacred Souls & Victor Axelrod 
  • “free fall” – berlioz 
  • “Love Is Stronger Than Pride” – Ian Fink 
  • “The World Is a Ghetto (Laroye Rework)” – George Benson 
  • “Icy Roads (Stacked)” – Joe Armon-Jones 
  • “Cannibal Dub” – Grace Jones 
  • “Babystar (Kid Fonque Remix)” – Matthew Herbert & Momoko Gill 
  • “Say Yeah” – Moses Boyd 
  • “The Turning Ground” – Tara Clerkin Trio 
  • “Hot Dreams (Absolutely Free Dub Mix)” – Timber Timbre 
  • “Beyond Your Mind (Mixed)” – M.O.S. 
  • “Diane Charlemagne (Iman Houssein Remix)” – LEFTO EARLY BIRD 
  • “All Blues” – Nicholas Payton & Butcher Brown 
  • “l’histoire de ta vie” – Céline Dessberg 
  • “Sola Sistim” – Underworld 
  • “Blue Nile” – Mulatu Astatke & The Heliocentrics 
  • “Little Sunflower” – Dorothy Ashby 
  • “Mambo Diablo” – Tito Puente 
  • “No Me Voy (feat. Carolina Oliveros)” – Orquesta Akokán  
  • “I Wish It Didn’t Bother Me (Demo)” – Getdown Services 
  • “Mellow” – Deadbeat Beat 
  • “New York, Let’s Do Nothing” – King Hannah 
  • “Pretty Girls” – Honeyglaze 
  • “The World’s Biggest Paving Slab (Daniel Avery Remix)” – English Teacher & Daniel Avery 
  • “If You Change” – Widowspeak 
  • “Central Park West” – Peel Dream Magazine 
  • “True Affection” – Father John Misty 
  • “Nine Clean Nails” – Dummy 
  • “PATCHWORK” – Nate Smith, Kiefer, CARRTOONS & Kenny Beats 
  • “I Feel Hope Coming” – Alabama Shakes 
  • “Gap in the Clouds” – Yellow Days 

Listen to In the Groove with host Ryan Patrick Hooper weekdays from noon-3 p.m. ET on 101.9 WDET or stream on-demand at wdet.org. 

Support the shows you love.

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 »

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Big Sonic Heaven: A few nods to the 4AD record label

12 July 2026 at 15:12

We had lots of new music this week, which included South London trio, Mary In The Junkyard, and a collab between Tycho and Sea Lemon. There were also a few new tracks with a 4AD record label connection, which included Stefano Guzzetti, inspired by This Mortal Coil, and features artwork by ex-4AD graphic designer Timothy O’Donnell.

We also featured The Veldt, whose new video is inspired by 4AD graphic designer Vaughan Oliver. We heard a brand-new single from 4AD vets, The Wolfgang Press, who worked with Chris Bigg of 4AD’s V23 graphic design studio on their new album artwork. And, of course, it was all mixed in with your favorite shoegaze, dreampop, and post-punk classics.

Big Sonic Heaven Playlist for July 12, 2026

  • “Dewy Fields” – Bel Canto
  • “The Drift” – deary
  • “Anotherwave” – Tycho & Sea Lemon
  • “Iceblink Luck” – Cocteau Twins
  • “Speakers Don’t Speak” – The Wolfgang Press
  • “Lie To Me” – Depeche Mode
  • “Dreamweavers” – Trentemøller
  • “swim” – Night Tapes
  • “That Was Another Country” – The Innocence Mission
  • “Elephant Woman” – Blonde Redhead
  • “A Different Light” – Bibi Club
  • “Transatlantic” – Basement Revolver
  • “Faded Flowers” – Shriekback
  • “locket” – She’s green
  • “Doot Doot” – The Fauns
  • “Love Spells” – Attic Ocean
  • “Your Silent Face” – New Order
  • “We Have All the Time In the World” – My Bloody Valentine
  • “Morning, June and Yesterday” – The Veldt
  • “Here’s Where The Story Ends” – The Sundays
  • “In a Haze” – Gliss
  • “Crash Landing” – Mary in the Junkyard
  • “Help Me Lift You Up” – This Mortal Coil
  • “Dreamer” – Toni Childs
  • “Double Sky” – Autoregulate
  • “To My Right” – Prince Innocence
  • “Heaven” – Red Lorry Yellow Lorry
  • “Water Drops” – New German Cinema
  • “Michael” – Beachy Head
  • “Vapour Trail” – Ride
  • “Skin in the Game” – Slowdive
  • “Northern Sky (w/ Anne Garner)” – Stefano Guzzetti
  • “Gabriel” – Lamb
  • “Louise” – Clan Of Xymox

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The post Big Sonic Heaven: A few nods to the 4AD record label appeared first on WDET 101.9 FM.

Senate to question Todd Blanche as he seeks permanent attorney general role

15 July 2026 at 11:36

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche will appear before the Senate Judiciary Committee on Wednesday and Thursday as he seeks Senate confirmation to permanently lead the Justice Department.

Blanche has served as acting attorney general since April, when he replaced Pam Bondi after she faced bipartisan criticism over her performance, including her handling of files related to Jeffrey Epstein.

Before becoming acting attorney general, Blanche served as deputy attorney general, making him eligible to lead the Justice Department on an interim basis. Before joining the Trump administration, he was President Donald Trumps personal attorney. Blanche defended Trump in a 2024 New York case that resulted in Trumps conviction on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records.

RELATED STORY | What to know about Trump's nomination of Todd Blanche to be attorney general

To win confirmation, Blanche needs support from a majority of senators. Republicans hold a 53-47 Senate majority, though Sen. Mitch McConnells hospitalization could temporarily narrow the GOP voting margin.

Republicans on the Judiciary Committee have highlighted endorsements for Blanche from the Fraternal Order of Police, the National Sheriffs Association and dozens of former U.S. attorneys and Justice Department officials.

Democrats on the committee are seeking answers about what they describe as delayed, incomplete or ignored DOJ responses to requests involving politically sensitive matters. They also want the confirmation hearing to serve in part as an accountability hearing on the departments conduct under Blanche and Bondi.

RELATED STORY | Trump to formally nominate Todd Blanche as attorney general

New athletic facility open in Sterling Heights to bring community together

By: Evan Sery
15 July 2026 at 10:35

A brand-new athletic facility is now open in Sterling Heights and city leaders say it's designed to bring the community together through recreation, competition and accessibility.

The new athletic hub features pickleball courts, table tennis, adaptive programming and more. It's all part of the city's voter-approved pathway to play and preservation millage.

Watch Evan Sery's report below New athletic facility open in Sterling Heights to bring community together

"We have a 36,000-square-foot facility, nine dedicated pickleball courts, (we're going to) have an abundance of programs from pickleball lessons to adaptive programs," said Mark Disanto, who is overseeing operations at the Sterling Heights Athletic Hub.

If you like the sound of all of that, included the pickleball pop, you'll love the brand-new Athletic Hub in Sterling Heights.

Its a nice facility, so far so good," said Sterling Heights resident Debbie Henderson.

Brian Krupp has already been here twice since Saturday's Grand Opening.

Really everything theyve done, theyve done first class," Krupp said. I think this place is gorgeous, I voted for it, and im pretty happy about it

The voter-approved $10 million rec center is part of the city's Pathway to Play and Preservation Millage.

Watch our previous coverage Sterling Heights' $10 million Athletic Hub set to open this July

Disanto has overseen all operations.

"(There are) certain amount of stress, I must admit, when you're putting something new together but when you see people come in especially who love the game and love the activity, and they get on that court, and it almost looks effortless, and theyre just playing, its a good feeling, it really charges my battery," Disanto said.

And it's not just pickleball: the athletic hub also has six table-tennis courts.

University of Michigan sophomore Steven Lee said he'll be spending a lot of time here this summer.

I was looking for ping pong places in Sterling Heights and so I saw the plans in development for this, so I got really excited," Lee said. Facilities are nice, bathrooms are clean, mural in the back, its really open."

And it's really affordable, especially for Sterling Heights residents who get in for free, and just $5 for all-day play for everyone else.

The biggest challenge I think will be just getting the feel of the building and what we can do in it, a lot of people wanna know 'Can I rent it, can I do this?', we're really just gonna get our feel we know we have the nuts and bolts to make this place work right now but I think over time, it'll evolve, because people interests are gonna evolve

Where Your Voice Matters

The small engine part making oil changes more expensive

15 July 2026 at 10:25

Oil changes that once cost $20 or $30 are now running drivers $80 to $100 or more. For some, the bill could be even higher depending on what's under the hood.

Two factors are driving the increase.

First, the rising price of motor oil, the lubricating fluid that protects your car's engine from wear and tear, has "doubled per quart" for some brands, according to Matt Overbeck, owner of Overbeck Auto Services.

"International concerns are causing oil prices to go up," he said. "There's even some discussion of oil scarcity for certain viscosities here in the coming months."

The little part making some oil changes pricier

But there's a second reason prices are climbing: plastic oil drain plugs now found in some newer cars.

"It's actually across the board domestics and imports," Overbeck said.

RELATED STORY | What the Iran war cost the Pentagon, the economy and Trump

Some automakers now use plastic oil pans and plugs to reduce vehicle weight and lower production costs.

Watch as a mechanic shows the new oil drain plugs that can cost you more:

Drivers hit with oil change surcharge for new plastic drain plugs

Unlike traditional metal plugs that can last for years, these plastic components are designed to be replaced at every oil change.

"Plastic drain plugs should actually be replaced when doing the oil change. They're only designed to be used one time," Overbeck said.

Depending on the mechanic or auto shop, Overbeck said drivers could be hit with an added fee to replace the plug.

RELATED STORY | Keep summer cooling costs down as electricity bills climb

"You might see a $10 or $12 increase to that price because of that one-time use drain plug," he said.

The risk of reusing a plastic drain plug

Before you try to stretch more life out of a drain plug, know that reusing one to save money carries serious risks.

"Obviously the biggest risk is the failure of the plug or the loss of the plug, the plug falling out of the oil pan," Overbeck said, "having a loss of oil and a catastrophic engine failure."

Risking thousands of dollars in engine damage to save a few dollars is not worth it.

Instead, look for ways to offset the cost, including coupons or loyalty discounts.

Also, check your vehicle manual for recommended oil change intervals. You may be able to get more mileage before your next oil change.

Lastly, if you have a newer vehicle, know your oil changes could come with an added cost, so you can budget and you don't waste your money.

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This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.______________________________________________"Don't Waste Your Money" is a registered trademark of Scripps Media, Inc. ("Scripps").

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1 dead, 2 injured after overnight shooting on I-96

15 July 2026 at 10:09

1 person is dead and two others have been hospitalized after a shooting on the freeway overnight, Michigan State Police tells us.

Watch Ryan Marshall's report from 7 News Detroit at 6 a.m. 1 dead, 2 injured after overnight shooting on I-96

The shooting happened just before 1 a.m. Wednesday on eastbound I-96 near Bentler.

Investigators say that this appears to be an isolated incident, meaning there is no known threat to the public.

The eastbound lanes in that area were closed for more than four hours, but that area of the freeway has since been reopened as MSP investigates the shooting.

An MSP spokesperson said that the victims in this shooting drove themselves to the Detroit Police Department's Sixth Precinct. A 7 News Detroit crew saw a car with bullet holes in front of the precinct, but the spokesperson could not confirm that that car was the car in question

Canadian wildfire smoke returns to Michigan, prompting statewide air quality alert

15 July 2026 at 03:19

State health officials warn air quality could reach unhealthy levels as early as Wednesday, with haze likely visible in the sky. It is the first statewide wildfire smoke alert of the summer, and officials warn it could last for multiple days.

7 First Alert Chief Meteorologist Dave Rexroth is tracking the path of the smoke and says conditions will worsen throughout the day Wednesday. He says a shifting weather pattern not just the fires themselves is responsible for directing the smoke toward Southeast Michigan.

Watch Brett Kast's video report below: Canadian wildfire smoke returns to Michigan, prompting statewide air quality alert Watch Kiara Hay's video report below: Canadian wildfire smoke returns to Michigan, prompting statewide air quality alert

"That heat bubble that's been protecting us from the flow, that's why we've been dry and haven't had storms. That starts to break down a little bit, so the flow starts coming from Minnesota," Rexroth said.

Rexroth also warned that the worst air quality may come later in the day.

"By the time the sun goes down, people might be excited about a pretty sunset, but the quality is going to get worse and worse at that time," Rexroth said.

While the poor air quality can sometimes be seen with the naked eye, a local Detroit startup company called JustAir tracks it through data collected from roughly 130 air quality monitors throughout Southeast Michigan.

JustAir's data maps use a network of monitors that can pinpoint air quality down to individual neighborhoods. The Detroit-based startup works with local governments including Detroit and Dearborn and is now operating in 13 states. JustAir's Founder Darren Riley says the company's core mission is keeping the public informed.

"You know better, you do better," Riley said. "If we have more information, we equip more people and spread more awareness. When events happen like this, people will be better prepared."

Health officials warn that thick wildfire smoke contains particulates that can be unhealthy for everyone but especially for those with conditions like asthma. Riley, who has asthma himself, says having advance information is critical to staying prepared.

"It's a good opportunity to make sure my rescue inhaler is filled... that's why forecasting is so important, to make sure you have what you need," Riley said.

Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, whose state is also dealing with the effects of the fires, says the situation is likely to grow.

"I think it's inevitable that we're going to see quite a few more and I think we're going to see some spread on this. We will do our best to do what we can to contain," Walz said.

Walz added that the region may be at the beginning of a prolonged stretch of fire activity.

"I just kind of think we're on the front end of what's going to be a long summer on the wildfire front," Walz said.

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

Saline Township board approves Oracle tax abatement, cap it at original $4.8B project cost

By: Megan Lee
15 July 2026 at 03:04

The Saline Township Board of Trustees unanimously approved a critical tax abatement for Oracle's massive data center project during a meeting Tuesday night.

The 12-year abatement would reduce the tech companys real and personal property taxes by 50%.

Watch Megan Lee's video report below: Saline Township board approves Oracle tax abatement, cap it at original $4.8B project cost

However, the board added a critical stipulation: the tax break is restricted to the project's original $4.8 billion price tag that is in the consent judgment. The data center project is costing much more at $43 billion.

The major decision came after almost two hours of public comment. Many residents voiced their concerns and gave ideas on how to get around such a large tax break.

It changed the way they voted, Saline Township resident Eric Hartsfield said.

Previous report: Saline Township board delays vote on Oracle tax abatement after residents voice concerns Saline Township board delays vote on Oracle tax abatement after residents voice concerns

Residents see this as a win.

Im pretty excited about it. Its a definite win over what we thought the original outcome was gonna be. It took a lot of work to get this far along and I feel like weve actually been heard and that were moving in the right direction, Hartsfield said.

Moving forward, its unclear what this will look like and if Oracles legal team will try to challenge the boards decision.

They changed it. Give them the abatement for what they asked in the original, resident Jack Foley said.

Community stakeholders agree.

Like your lawyer has advised you, you have to abide by the consent agreement. Attached to it was an IFT application, and in that it had $4 billion, not $43 billion, said Brenda Stumbo, who is supervisor in nearby Ypsilanti Township.

Previous coverage: Oracle, OpenAI 'Barn' data center breaks ground in Saline Township Tech titans tout progress at Saline Township data center

7 News Detroit tried talking with the attorney who represents Oracle and he said to reach out to their communications team. As of Tuesday night, we have not heard back.

Trustees were not available to speak after the meeting.

New York puts yearlong moratorium on new data centers, citing energy and climate risks

15 July 2026 at 01:33

No large data centers can be built in New York for up to a year as the state creates rules to protect the environment and its energy grid from the power-hungry facilities fueling artificial intelligence.

Gov. Kathy Hochul signed an executive order Tuesday imposing the country's first statewide moratorium on hyperscale data centers, which house thousands of computer servers and require massive amounts of energy and a steady supply of water to keep cool.

The move pushes the state into a raging debate over how to regulate the AI industry, as concerns over rising electric bills and environmental risks collide with a desire to stimulate local economies and foster the U.S. tech sector.

The bottom line is that progress shouldn't arrive with a higher utility bill, deleted water supply or noise pollution, so we have no choice but to address these challenges created by these massive facilities, Hochul said at a celebratory signing ceremony in Brooklyn.

President Donald Trump has warned states not to slap regulations on the AI industry, echoing tech companies in arguing such moves hamper job growth and cede ground to China in a race to lead in the rapidly growing field.

Earlier this year, Maine seemed poised to establish a similar moratorium. But the measure was vetoed by Democratic Gov. Janet Mills because it would have blocked a proposed data center in a town that has struggled after a mill closed.

Moratoriums have been proposed in at least a dozen states but have not gotten far, though some counties and municipalities have imposed their own temporary bans.

New York's executive order pauses state permitting for new large data centers and directs state regulators to create standards that address environmental impacts, energy demand, water usage and other factors, the governors office said.

RELATED STORY | AI-powered scams cost Americans billions; here's why it could get worse

Dan Diorio of the Data Center Coalition, a trade association, said the moratorium will ensure that those investments, jobs, and economic activity flow elsewhere rather than to New York with impacts far beyond the data center industry.

The decision in New York also carries political significance for Hochul's reelection campaign and the state's tight congressional races this fall, as Democrats move to address affordability concerns over high utility bills. In addition, the governor this year softened New York's ambitious goals to reduce greenhouse gases, citing rising energy costs for consumers.

Hochuls Republican opponent in the governors race, Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, opposes a statewide moratorium and says local governments should be allowed to strike deals with tech companies for data center projects that promise enough economic benefits.

In a statement Tuesday, Blakeman said the governor doesnt work with local governments and business leaders to figure out how to get things done, while pledging to modernize our economy to bring costs down and create good jobs.

The state Legislature this year approved its own moratorium bill, but Hochul's office described the legislation as complex and said it needed additional work. Instead, the governor opted for an executive order that would take effect immediately.

State Sen. Kristen Gonzalez, a Democrat who sponsored the legislation, joined the governor during the signing ceremony. If Big Tech is coming onto our turf, it should be on our terms, she said.

New York, at this stage, has not been a destination for the largest hyperscale data centers.

Walt's Original Coney Island in Waterford turns 90, celebrates with deals on National Hot Dog Day

14 July 2026 at 23:13

Walt's Original Coney Island in Waterford Township is turning 90 this year, and the restaurant is marking the milestone with deals for customers on National Hot Dog Day.

The restaurant, located off M-59 near Cass and Elizabeth Lake roads, first opened in Pontiac in 1936 when gas cost 16 cents per gallon, Franklin D. Roosevelt was president and the average annual household income was around $1,700.

Watch Jolie Sherman's video report below: Celebrating Walt's Coney Island's 90th birthday

By the mid-1950s, the restaurant moved to its current Waterford location.

Owner Joyce Yack said the legacy of the restaurant, founded by a man named Walter Traicoff, is something she takes seriously.

"It's an honor to carry on the legacy that started all of this," Yack said.

Yack said the regulars are what keep the business going.

"It's the regulars that keep me floating. I have people that come every day and certain days of the week. I just love it," Yack said.

Customers say the consistency across three owners is a big part of the appeal.

"The food, it's always been the same for years. Exactly the same," Wateford resident Alfred Gulda said.

"I mean, it's just a fabulous place. We come here three times a week. When they do my autopsy, they'll probably find a hot dog in me, I don't know," Chris Abbuhl of West Bloomfield said.

"Best coneys you can get." Detroit native Bill King said. "I never had a Coney that good."

"I eat them all over the country. This is one of the best," longtime customer Joe George said.

For 82-year-old Nancy Dunn, who has been coming to Walt's since she was 5 years old, the restaurant carries deep personal meaning a tradition started by her father.

"Just talking about it brings tears to my eyes," Dunn said. "It was just us him and I. It's still this place that makes me remember when I was little, when the kids were little and now the grandkids are little."

On Wednesday, National Hot Dog Day, Walt's is offering 90-cent hot dogs, fountain drinks and ice cream. Customers can also participate in a raffle and order a special bundle in honor of the restaurant's founding year.

"You can buy eight Coneys for $18.26. With tax, it comes to $19.36," Yack said.

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