PONTIAC – Orchard Lake St. Mary’s got seven stellar innings out of its starter on Saturday afternoon, and a few good at-bats, too.

Junior Luke Crighton pitched a complete game shutout and was also responsible for two of his team’s runs as the Eaglets defeated Notre Dame Prep 3-0 for a D2 district title.

“He’s the definition of a complete player,” Eaglets head coach Nick Di Ponio said. We needed him to step up in that game and he did so. That’s a really, really good team that we played, and especially in that last inning, we didn’t want to get back to the top of their lineup. Those guys can swing it. We know them well, they did a great job, and it was a really good game all-around.”

Crighton and St. Mary’s (23-12) cruised through the seventh other than a leadoff single to Jack Fallon, but it was the sixth that looked like the one where the Irish might finally chase the Indiana commit.

Notre Dame Prep led off that inning with back-to-back singles by juniors Tomassino Offer and Derek Roa, then had the bases loaded with one out when Owen Fulsher walked. But Crighton induced a grounder to third for a force out at home, then a strikeout swinging to keep the shutout intact.

“About the fifth inning I said to our pitching coach that this was his game,” Di Ponio said. “He was around the zone with all his pitches and give us the best chance, and with that team, we wanted him out there as long as we could have him. He did a really good job being efficient.”

The final line for Crighton included six hits, two walks and seven strikeouts. “My fastball, I was throwing it whatever I wanted; inside-out, I like to do that a lot,” he said. “Then I was just working the curveball and slider off of that.”

There were several other frames where the Irish, who came into the final having won 21 of their last 22 had runners in scoring position — seniors Michael Wiebelhaus and Ethan Janssen each had doubles — but the clutch hits never materialized.

“Going into it, we legitimately knew we had to score three or four runs to win the game,” Irish head coach Jason Gendreau said. “That was the talk before the game.”

He continued, “There were three goals, and the first, the only one we didn’t meet, was that we had to figure out how to get to (that many) runs. The second goal was to not let (Andrew) Tribul or (Hudson) Brzustewicz beat us, and we didn’t allow that to happen. And the last goal was, could we be within three runs in the seventh if we don’t have the lead? They did that. We had some opportunities offensively, but when you’re facing a kid that’s throwing 89, 90 (mph), a Division 1 athlete, it’s going to be hard at times, and you really have to buckle down and execute in those situations. Credit Orchard Lake for cashing in on their opportunities a little bit more than we did.”

St. Mary’s broke the scoreless deadlock in the bottom of the third when Crighton’s ball hit to left field scored Preston Duff. Crighton doubled off the fence in deep center to score Anthony Elezaj in the fifth, making it 2-0, then Nate Bauman followed it up with a knock into right that fell just fair of the first-base line and scored Crighton.

Junior Henry Ewles pitched well enough to give the Irish a chance, going all six innings of the defeat. ND Prep also had it working on the mound in its district semifinal earlier in the day, an 8-1 victory over Lamphere. Fulsher threw six innings of four-hit ball — two of those hits were by Aidan Grzeskowski — then Roa came in to seal the deal.

Janssen had three hits in the win over the Rams, while Offer went 4-for-4 and scored three times.

“Fulsher did what he’s been doing all year,” Gendreau said. “He finished 8-0 on the season. Henry ends up finishing 7-4, but he also threw against the majority of the big dogs. I have a lot of respect for both of the young men. They had outstanding years. And give a lot of credit to Owen (today) for throwing almost 80 pitches, then going back and catching a great game.”

Photos from Orchard Lake St. Mary’s vs. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep in a D2 baseball district final

The 29 wins this season marked a program-best for Notre Dame Prep.

"It beat the 2018 team's record, and we just came up one short of 30," Gendreau said.

Cade Wilhelmi and Kyler Marvin both drove in a pair of runs for Country Day in the other semifinal, but the Yellowjackets' sixth inning in which they scored all their runs was sandwiched by a pair of four-run frames at the plate by the Eaglets, who beat Country Day 12-5.

Gendreau's aforementioned goal of slowing two of St. Mary's top hitters was something Country Day couldn't hold to. Tribul had a pair of doubles and drove in two runs, while Brzustewicz hit a grand slam in the seventh that effectively sealed the Eaglets' place in the final.

The championship marked just another victory over a top program by the Eaglets this season. They came in ranked sixth in D2, two spots ahead of ND Prep, and started the year 10-8, but had a pair of wins each against Rochester Adams (No. 3 in D1) and Brother Rice (ranked 10th in D1) in the month of May.

"Within our league, we know we're going to see top-level competition every single time," Di Ponio. "There was a point in early April (against De La Salle), I think an umpire looked and me and said it kind of felt like a playoff game. So our team has been accustomed to these situations all year and knew that this was going to be another one. We feel like we're prepared for anything."

The Eaglets will now prepare for Dearborn Divine Child, ranked No. 11 in D2, in a regional semifinal that will also be played at Notre Dame Prep.

Orchard Lake St. Mary’s defeated Notre Dame Prep 3-0 for a Division 2 baseball district championship Saturday, May 31, 2025 in Pontiac. The Eaglets will remain at ND Prep to play Dearborn Divine Child in the regional semifinals on June 4.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — Michael Wacha said he had plenty left if needed.

Wacha had the fourth-longest no-hit bid of his career Saturday before yielding a one-out hit to Colt Keith in the seventh inning of the Kansas City Royals’ 1-0 victory over the Detroit Tigers. Wacha did not factor in the decision, but he had his best outing of his two seasons with the Royals.

“It’s the best change-up he’s had all year,” manager Matt Quatraro said. “He used his curveball more effectively. It’s hard to pick anything apart. There was so much soft contact.”

When asked if he would have given Wacha a chance to complete the game if the no-hitter was intact, Quatraro said, “I was hoping he would do it. He had six days off between his last outing and this one. He’s got some extra rest before the next one, if everything stays the way it is. So I was hoping we’d get to go for it.”

Before Keith’s hit, Wacha allowed only one baserunner on a fourth-inning walk to Gleyber Torres. He did not allow a runner to reach second base in seven innings.

“Obviously, I knew what was going on,” Wacha said of his no-hit bid. “I was just continuing to try to keep taking it to another level and keep making my pitches, and keep executing like I had been pretty much all day. I was just try to push it to the back of my mind and keep making quality pitches.”

Quatraro said he allowed himself to enjoy the effort of both pitchers, in spite of the scoreless game.

“You can appreciate the game, right?” he said. “I mean, you’ve got two really good pitchers out there, two good teams, and that’s a fun game. Sure, I would have rather been up 7-0 and not had to worry about it, but I did appreciate what was going on.”

Vinnie Pasquantino’s eighth-inning single drove in Nick Loftin from second for the game’s only run, as Wacha and Detroit’s Tarik Skubal both spun gems.

Loftin one-hopped the wall with what he originally thought was a homer.

“I just probably one of my better balls that I’ve hit here,” said Loftin, who had two of Kansas City’s four hits. “Quite frankly, I didn’t realize how big that ballpark was.”

Wacha has never thrown a no-hitter in his professional career, but he was ready to give it a try if he still had a chance.

“Absolutely,” he said. “I would not want to leave a game like that for sure. But unfortunately, I gave up a hit. That made it a little easier for Q.”

— By DAVID SMALE, Associated Press

COMMERCE TWP. — Like the prep softball version of the Hatfields and McCoys, the rivals from the Battle of Bogie Lake Road, Lakeland and Walled Lake Northern, have ‘gotten’ each other so many times over the years, that’s hard to determine what exactly you might be getting ‘revenge’ for.

So neither coach really wanted to bring up what had happened last year, when Lakeland took out Northern, en route to a quarterfinal appearance.

And even though Lyla Turmell and the No. 6-ranked Knights remembered, they didn’t put a whole lot of stock into it.

The junior pitcher had a home run — her third on the day — and an RBI double, and struck out 10, as the Knights beat Lakeland, 6-3, to claim a Division 1 district title on their home field Saturday, their seventh since the 2015-16 season.

“We kind of put it in the past, and we just said ‘New game.’ We beat them in preseason and in the LVC, and we just tried to not let it affect us really, even though we beat them,” Turmell said. “But we just wanted to come out new game, 0-0.”

The Knights (30-6) — who will advance to regionals at Grand Blanc next weekend, facing Lake Orion — did beat Lakeland (25-11) twice back in mid-April, in a high-scoring doubleheader where the two teams accounted for 41 runs.

“It’s always hard to beat a team, a good team, especially a good team like Lakeland, three times,” Northern coach Kristen Woodard admitted. “But no, I didn’t really want to put that (last year’s loss) in their heads at all. I just knew we’d have to come and bring our best, because I know Lakeland would — they always do.”

In the last decade, the two programs have met in the postseason six of the nine times it was held (no season in 2020), with one team or the other winning a district title every single time. In 2017, they both won a district, and met for the regional title.

“They’re a good team. They force you to do things like that (make mistakes) sometimes. And you know, our team, we played really well. I mean, earlier in the year, they beat us up pretty good,” said Lakeland coach Mike Cleary, noting that his team never talked about those April losses again after they happened. “And to go into this game tied in the (sixth) we were in pretty good shape, I thought. But you know what? You know, we did this to them last year. They do it to us this year. It’s tough when both of us are in the same district, because we always have good teams, and it’s seems one of us has to get (knocked) out early, which is, unfortunately, this year it’s us.”

The Eagles were in good shape early, jumping out to a first-inning lead with a solo home run by Brynn Taliercio. But Turmell answered in the bottom of the inning with a solo shot of her own to tie it up at 1-1.

Turmell’s RBI double to the right-center gap in the fourth put the Knights ahead, and they’d add a second run on an error to lead 3-1.

Both teams would pitch around the other’s No. 3 hitter the rest of the way, and that benefitted the Eagles in the sixth, when an unintentional-intentional walk to Taliercio put the tying run on, and Emily Searle’s two-run double tied it at 3-3.

“We just talked about, you know, what we get behind, and we’ve come back with other teams. We were down big against Hartland in the tournament. We came back and beat them, then other teams, we were down, and we battled back,” Cleary said. “So I said, you know, if they get ahead of us, we’re not out of it. And, you know, we came back, we’re down and came back and tied it up again. So that was kind of the team. They didn’t give up.”

Woodard made a trip to the circle to calm Turmell down during the rally, calming her down, making her laugh.

“Sometimes, I do lighten the mood, but there I just wanted her to get dialed in and just, you know, give her a little extra confidence,” Woodard said. “I just wanted to make sure that she wasdoing all right, because she was getting a little wild there. …And just remind her that they have to hit her best pitch, and just to pitch with that in mind.”

“She told me that, basically, to just throw my game and they have to be scared to hit off of me. And same with hitting too. So they had to throw to me and I had to throw to them,” Turmell said.

Makenna Kresbaugh led off the bottom of the sixth inning with a solo home run to put the Knights back up, 4-3, then after they loaded the bases, tacked on two more runs on back-to-back RBI singles by Olivia Frelick and Kendall Morris to make it 6-3.

It wouldn’t be a Lakeland-Northern matchup without a little controversy, and that came at the end of that inning, when Northern’s ninth hitter to come to the plate was initially called safe, then was called out when the home plate umpire overruled the initial decision.

The was more in the top of the seventh, as the Eagles — down to their final strike — had their own runner called safe on a bang-bang play, but Turmell got the next batter to line out to close it out.

Photo gallery from the D1 softball district final between Lakeland and WL Northern

 

Walled Lake Northern 8, Walled Lake Central 2

The second semifinal of the morning was another close one initially for the Knights, tied at 2-2 until the bottom of the fifth, when the Knights put a pair of runs on the board, then added four more in the sixth.

Sam Gillick was 4-for-4 with two stolen bases and three runs scored, while Turmell — who struck out 14 in the circle — homered twice and drove in three runs. Makenna Kresbaugh said a pair of doubles and drove in four runs.

Lakeland 17, West Bloomfield 2 (3 innings)

The Eagles made short work of the Lakers in the first semifinal of the morning, as four batters — Piper Huff, Aubrey VanGoethem, Emilee Dostal and Zoie Gagnon — drove in multiple runs. Gagnon homered and drove in three total.

Melina Wing got the win in the circle scattering six hits and striking out four.

An 11-win team heading into Saturday, the Eisenhower Eagles had to go through 23-win Romeo and 21-win Stoney Creek to win a district championship.

They did.

With a 9-3 victory in the semifinals over the Bulldogs, Ike went on to score five runs in the first two innings of their eventual 5-1 victory over the Cougars to win their first district title in eight years, and just the second in program history.

That last district crown came during Bob Hall’s first stint with Ike. After a hiatus, he’s back with the Eagles, but hasn’t coached for most of the year after a birth defect in his heart caused a stroke.

But he was there on Saturday, and acting head coach Karlene Kilburn – also on the 2017 staff – couldn’t help but hold back tears.

“Eisenhower only has one other district title in school history, and it’s a little emotional because the last time it was coach Bob and I together,” Kilburn said. “So it’s nice that he’s able to come back and we could finish what we wanted to start.”

The Eagles struck first when Addison Viviano cracked a single to score Rease Buza, who walked, in the first inning.

Vivano was given another chance in the second, and again, she didn’t disappoint – with the bases loaded and two outs, the freshman scorched a line drive into center field that got past a diving D Bryant, clearing the bases.

She came around to score herself on a Liz Petrella double right after.

“We feel so excited,” Viviano said. “We’ve been working for this all season, practicing hard every practice. I mean, it feels great.”

Viviano is just one of several young contributors for the Eagles. Their starting pitcher, Anna Bellomo, is just a sophomore – the only run she allowed in the complete game was an unearned one, and she also struck out six Cougars with three hits allowed. She walked four. Rease Buza, who pitched in the win over Romeo, is also a sophomore.

“Both her (Bellomo) and Rease as pitchers bring a leadership that is really helpful in our defense,” Kilburn said. “And so having that pairing has been phenomenal; that when one is down, the other one is pitching well.

“And Anna is a competitor, and she likes a little bit of pressure, and putting her in that situation just makes her throw better. Today was probably the best I’ve seen her pitch all year.”

Out of all five teams in the district – including Rochester, Romeo, Rochester Adams and Stoney Creek – Eisenhower had the fewest wins and worst regular season win percentage going in.

That was then.

“I told them all that, if they put into games what we do in practice, if they just execute that, there’s not a team out there that can beat us,” Kilburn said.

Stoney Creek struggled to find their groove early after winning an 11-10 marathon over Rochester Adams in the game before. Ella Fugate allowed four baserunners while getting just two outs, and Sara Kruczek was tagged for three runs in 0.2 innings.

It wasn’t until Allie Ray finally settled in that they were able to stabilize, but strong pitching by Bellomo and solid defense behind her made it difficult for Stoney Creek to overcome the early deficit.

“The culture of this team has been for the last four years, and as you’ve seen with the first game against Adams, is we never give up,” said Stoney Creek head coach Rick Troy. “It’s a ‘never give up’ attitude. It’s a culture. It’s just how this team has been built and continues to be built. There’s no excuse for the loss, but there is a reality that we’re a very young team.”

The Cougars graduate senior Kate Stephens, a Maryland softball commit, whom Troy dubbed as the best player to ever come out of Stoney Creek.

Photos from Eisenhower’s 5-1 district title win over Stoney Creek on Saturday

“We’ve been blessed to have her leadership and her gamesmanship, her skill sets,” Troy said. “She’s the entire package, and that’s why she’s going DI.”

Stoney Creek finishes the year 21-14.

Eisenhower has earned themselves another week, with their next game set to be against Port Huron Northern, who beat Dakota in eight innings on Friday to win their district. Start time is 10 a.m. from Royal Oak High School, with the winner playing either Ford or Royal Oak.

The Eagles are a-ok with having more time to practice, having had one as recently as the night before their 10 a.m. start time against Romeo.

“This feels amazing,” Viviano said. “It’s my freshman year. I can’t wait for the next three years.”

ROCHESTER HILLS – The Utica Eisenhower Eagles claimed their first district title since 2017 with a 3-1 win over the defending Division 1 champion Rochester Adams Highlanders on Saturday afternoon.

“It feels really, really good. We’ve been working very hard all season to win the district, and it means a lot to us because this is our first time, at least for the freshmen class that came in with me,” captain Sonja Peterson said. “So we’re really looking forward to hopefully making an even deeper run in the state.”

Eisenhower dominated the first half, creating most of the best chances even as it battled into the wind. The Eagles got on the board first when Lily Pantaleo scored on a breakaway with 28:21 still to play before intermission.

Later in the half, it was Pantaleo’s turn to play the through ball. Gabby Riggio ran onto the slotted ball and used the outside of her foot to flick a ball inside the near post, doubling the Eagles’ advantage. Eisenhower had a couple of chances to stretch the lead even further, but Adams senior goalie Brooklyn Harding came up with some key saves to keep the Highlanders hanging around.

The Highlanders fought to try and shave the deficit. Adams was especially dangerous after halftime and created a handful of high quality chances, but struggled to finish any of them off. The Highlanders did hit the crossbar twice – once in the final minute of the first half and again early in the second half – and had the ball bouncing around the Eisenhower penalty area on a few different occasions, but the Eagles always seemed to win those battles and eventually cleared the ball or pressured Adams into missing the net.

When Devyn Raymond blasted a ball that went in off the post with 4:26 remaining to make it 3-0 Eagles, any drama left in the game was put to rest. Still, Adams kept in it to the end and spoiled the shoutout with 24 seconds remaining when Riley Walsh set up Sadie Rogers for a 20-yard rip that capped the scoring at 3-1 Eisenhower.

“The story of it is they finished and we didn’t,” Adams head coach Josh Hickey said.. “But I’m proud of the girls for the way they played. They gave a good effort, but that’s a good team, so you can’t make mistakes against those types of teams.”

The win is the first district title for Eisenhower in eight years as they have consistently been drawn into one of the tougher districts in the state.

It was also Eisenhower head coach Merhdad Nekoogar’s 300th career win with the Eagles.

“Honestly, I never thought about. I really didn’t. I’m just happy that I was able to stay with a very, very good school, a school that I’m so proud of. I’m proud to be part of this program, and I’m just happy that I was able to help a little,” he said.

Photo gallery of Rochester Adams vs. Utica Eisenhower in a D1 girls soccer district championship

Eisenhower now advances to the regional semifinals on Tuesday when it will face Troy Athens, who defeated rival Troy for its district title.

“I’m just so happy for them. They worked very hard,” Nekoogar said. “This is the toughest district. Now after districts, Athens another very, very good team, but we will take one at a time. We’re just happy that we accomplished this part of it."

Added Peterson, “I think it’s definitely just the team’s chemistry this year. It’s been unmatched with years before when I’ve been on the team. Everyone cares about each other so, so very much, and we just connect really well. We also have a very talented group of players all working together, and I think all of us together wanting to win and wanting to go as far as possible is what is going to keep us going and what has kept us going."

Rochester Adams finishes the year 13-5-1. The Highlanders will graduate eight seniors from this year’s team.

“We’re happy. I thought we had one of the toughest schedules in the state, bar none, and it definitely got us ready for this. But having 13 wins against that type of schedule is always big,” Hickey said. “I love the seniors. We had girls come for the first time and be able to play high school, which is cool to see. Then I had a few four-year players. Those players are always special to us. And we’re going to miss them.”

Utica Eisenhower scored twice before halftime, then added another goal unanswered after intermission to defeat Rochester Adams 3-1 for a D1 district championship Saturday, May 31, 2025 in Rochester Hills.

No. 6-ranked Walled Lake Northern beat Bogie Lake Road rival Lakeland, 6-3, in a Division 1 district final at Northern on Saturday, May 31, 2025, as the Knights won their seventh district title in the last decade.

A Detroit native is living his dream racing in the Detroit Grand Prix as the event celebrates its third year downtown and 35th year overall.

The Detroit Grand Prix features three series: IMSA, IndyCar, and Indy NXT, with local driver Nolan Allaer competing in the latter category.

Allaer, who drives the No. 11 Indy NXT car for HMD Motorsports, says the 1.7-mile Downtown Detroit Street Circuit presents unique challenges.

"This track is very, very difficult, especially on a cold morning like this. It's about 50 degrees. It means the track temps down, the tire temps don't really come up. The engines make a lot of power, so you have extra power, not as much grip, a bit of a tricky situation," Allaer said.

The 23-year-old Detroit native has been racing for five years and feels he has the home advantage on this track.

"I think that happened the moment I was born here, but I never really imagined I'd be a racing driver. It's not something that I had on the cards, but pretty amazing. I never really think I thought I'd take part in a Detroit Grand Prix, so to be doing my second one now as a veteran in the series, I mean it's, it just means the world to me. It's a dream come true," Allaer said.

Preparing for races like the Detroit Grand Prix requires significant preparation, especially since this particular track presents unique challenges.

"Detroit is a unique one, and it's not on a simulator. You can't find it, so you can't really practice on a SIM, but you can watch video. You can talk about your data from past years to your engineers, so you can do a lot of research beforehand, and then it's, you know, like I said, you can control your fitness. You're doing a lot of training, you know, a lot of neck workouts, core workouts, and cardio. Make sure you can last the whole stint," Allaer said.

Racing runs in Allaer's family. His father, grandfather, and uncle were all racing drivers themselves, with his father Rob Allaer having won two championships and his uncle claiming one in Formula Ford.

"Honestly, it's like my family, my dad, my grandpa, my uncle, they're all racing drivers themselves. My dad has 2 championships. My uncle has one in form of the Ford, so I kind of grew up watching them race and perform, and they're now here supporting me through all of this. So it's kind of trying to carry on the legacy a bit," Allaer said.

Rob Allaer, Nolan's father and biggest mentor, still sees his son as the adventurous child he once was.

"He's still that little, little kid that used to run around and climb everything and get into trouble. He's always been adventurous. he's been tough to follow around. he's still that little boy and you know I think anybody with a child watching them grow up and seeing him do anything, I think you always see them as that little boy," Rob said.

Rob believes his son's greatest strength is his constant improvement.

"He constantly gets better. He's always getting better. we have this little saying in our house, always get better at getting better, and that is a thing that we all talk about. You just, if you have a bad session, just make sure the next session is better. if you have a bad test, make sure your next test is better," Rob said.

When not racing, Nolan studies mechanical engineering and proudly supports all Detroit sports teams. He has developed special relationships with several local teams.

"The Lions have just been so good to me. They were supporting me during my first Detroit Grand Prix. I got to wear the special edition helmet with the 3rd jersey, the black and the really, really stark blue is just gorgeous helmet. I also got the incredible honor to throw the first pitch at the Tigers game, which again not something I ever thought was going to be able to do. It wasn't a strike. It was close, but we decided since we have these connections to all these organizations, why don't we do something to actually represent all four," Allaer said.

The Detroit Grand Prix wraps up on Sunday with numerous fan activities available across downtown Detroit.

This story was reported 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.

A Milwaukee Public Schools teacher's aide has just four days to leave the country after being told by the Department of Homeland Security that she must return to El Salvador, despite having applied for a visa designed to protect trafficking victims.

Yessenia Ruano, who has lived in the United States for 14 years, was notified Friday that she must leave the country she now calls home.

"I'm not asking anything more than time," Ruano said. "That is the hard part for me. I'm trying the best I can to do it the legal way, and now they are closing the doors."

At the beginning of the year, Homeland Security officials instructed Ruano, who was living without legal status, to return to El Salvador. She said she fled the country due to poverty, trafficking and fears for her personal safety.

Watch: Milwaukee teacher's aide has four days to leave country despite trafficking victim visa application

Milwaukee teacher's aide has four days to leave country despite trafficking victim visa application

In February, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) granted Ruano additional time to apply for a T-visa, which is specifically designed for victims of severe human trafficking.

Ruano spent nearly $14,000 and several weeks completing the application process. Despite having a receipt confirming her application was submitted, the agency informed her she cannot remain in the country.

"My daughters don't know about this bad news and I hope there is a way we can slow it by asking for more time," Ruano said.

Marc Christopher, Ruano's immigration attorney, argues that the T-Visa was created to protect victims like his client from being forced back into dangerous situations.

"If we're not going to take into consideration the fact that these visas are taking three to four years, if we're not going to take into consideration the fact that she is here with her family contributing to society, what good is it to have these laws?" Christopher said.

"All we're asking is allow her to be here, to be protected, to be safe until that determination can be made," he added.

Despite receiving what she describes as shocking news, and being surrounded by tearful supporters, Ruano maintains her optimism.

"Even with the bad news my faith is inside of me, God is with me," Ruano said.

This article was written by Mariam Mackar for the Scripps News Group in Milwaukee.

When Yuvi Agarwal began playing keyboard for a room full of dogs at the Denver Animal Shelter on Thursday, the music was hard to distinguish between the barks and yelps of his audience.

But as the seconds turned into minutes and the 12-year-old from Houston continued to play, the canine cacophony began to calm as the dogs settled down.

“It’s very satisfying when the dogs calm down, and it is also really heartwarming,” Yuvi said, grinning.

It’s been more than two years since Yuvi started the nonprofit Wild Tunes to connect volunteer musicians and animal shelters. After establishing programs at seven shelters in Texas and one in New Jersey, Yuvi and his mom, executive director Priyanka Agarwal, are celebrating the launch of a new program starting in Denver in June.

Yuvi came up with the idea in December 2022 when he participated in a program to read books to animals, and he thought about how his golden doodle, Bozo, would lay down and listen whenever Yuvi started playing music at home.

“I realized that music would have a much stronger effect on the shelter animals than reading,” he said.

His realization was confirmed by studies that show classical music reduces stress in shelter dogs, and Yuvi thinks it also helps them rebuild bridges with humans and get adopted faster, he said.

The idea to bring Wild Tunes to Denver began when one of the group’s Houston volunteers moved to the city and wanted to continue playing music for pups. The group reached out to Denver Animal Shelter staff with an introduction from the director of the Houston Animal Shelter, and it was a clear fit.

“We thought it was such a fun and different way to engage our community and a great opportunity for people and animals,” said Lauren Rolfe, volunteer program administrator at the shelter. “It just gives you chills and brings a smile to your face.”

The first time shelter staff sent out a teaser about the new program, they heard from 65 people who wanted to get involved, Rolfe said. Volunteers will be playing music for the shelter’s dogs and cats seven days a week.

It’s not clear where Yuvi’s deep love for animals came from, Priyanka Agarwal said. The family liked animals before Yuvi was born, but it grew exponentially as their son rescued baby birds and refused to let them use pest control on uninvited animal guests.

“He’s really a change maker,” she said. “He’s always teaching people how to be kind, how to be compassionate, and it’s an overwhelming feeling to be his mom.”

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Runner Stephanie Case completed the 100-kilometer (62 miles) Ultra-Trail Snowdonia ultramarathon in 16 hours and 53 minutes, winning a race that also involves over 21,000 feet of climbing.

Adding to her impressive feat was the fact that she stopped at aid stations along the way to breastfeed her 6-month-old daughter, Pepper. Case said she breastfed three times during the race.

Because she had taken some time away from running, she was not among the "elite" runners who were able to start ahead of her. This meant that when she crossed the finish line, Case had no clue that she had won.

"I have gained way more joy and strength from this sport as a mom than I ever did before. While it broke my heart to leave little Pepper at the aid stations, I wanted to show herboth of ushow amazing mom runners can be," Case said in an Instagram post.

While Case acknowledges that not all new moms can go out and run an ultramarathon, she believes they should not be afraid of setting big goals.

"Whether you are thinking of being a mom, are pregnant, or are a new mom yourself, dont be afraid to keep setting big goals for yourself. Everyone has an opinion about what new moms should or shouldnt be doing, and that doesnt open up a lot of space for 'out there' ideas like running an ultra," she said. "Should I spend this much time away from my baby? Is it harmful to my body? What about my milk supply? My coach helped me navigate these questions and the social pressures that come with being a new mom runner, but we need to work together to remove the pressure in the first place and provide more support."

Race officials called her an "inspiration."

"Thanks to her openness about the highs, lows, and everything in between, shes a real inspirationmotivating new moms everywhere to carve their own paths and do what feels right for them," Ultra-Trail Snowdonia said on social media.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer says President Donald Trump would be going back on his word to her if he pardoned two men who are serving prison sentences for leading a 2020 plot to kidnap her.

Whitmer, a Democrat, told Michigan Public Radio on Thursday that Trump asked her about a month ago how she would feel if he pardoned the two men.

I said, I think it would be the wrong decision, Whitmer recounted. I would oppose it and he said, OK, Ill drop it.

Whitmer, a possible 2028 presidential candidate, recounted the conversation one day after Trump said he was considering a pardon for the men, saying, I will take a look at it. It's been brought to my attention.

The Republican president said he followed the men's trial and it looked to me like somewhat of a railroad job. He said the men were drinking and I think they said stupid things.

RELATED STORY | Trump considers pardons for men convicted in plot to kidnap, kill Whitmer

The U.S. Justice Departments new pardon attorney also said this month he would take a hard look at pardoning Barry Croft Jr. and Adam Fox.

Croft, 49, and Fox, 42, were portrayed as leaders of the kidnapping scheme. They were convicted of conspiracy in federal court in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 2022. Croft, a trucker from Delaware, was also found guilty of a weapons charge.

Croft was sentenced to nearly 20 years in prison, while Fox, a Grand Rapids man, got a 16-year term. They are being held at a prison in Colorado the most secure in the federal system.

Whitmer later told an audience following a speech at the Detroit Regional Chamber Mackinac Policy Conference that she plans to talk to Trump again about the pardoning matter.

We have an ongoing dialogue now ... very different from the first term, she said about Trump and turned to smile at the audience.

A spokesperson said the White House cannot confirm nor deny any upcoming actions.

The White House does not comment on the Presidents private meetings, and any speculation about future pardons is just thatspeculation," principal deputy press secretary Harrison Fields said in a statement.

Whitmer and Trump clashed publicly during his first term, with Trump referring to her as that woman from Michigan. She has blamed Trump for the political anger that motivated the plot to kidnap her right before the 2020 presidential election.

RELATED STORY | Trump offers rare praise of Michigan Gov. Whitmer during White House visit

Whitmer also hinted Thursday at anger over the possibility of pardons, saying she was disappointed to hear the news he was considering it.

No one should hesitate to condemn political violence, she said, noting the arson attack on Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiros residence and the assassination attempt on Donald Trump last year.

Whitmer has faced scrutiny from some Democrats for taking a more collaborative approach to the Trump administration in his second term.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, a Democrat who has criticized Whitmer for working with and appearing with Trump, said releasing the convicted men is no laughing matter.

The reward you get for cozying up to Trump is him threatening to pardon the terrorists who plotted to kidnap and murder you, she said on social media.

Whitmer's collaboration with Trump has come with several awkward moments for her this year, including when she was unexpectedly in the Oval Office during a press conference as Trump ordered the Justice Department to investigate two former members of his previous administration who had publicly criticized him.

RELATED STORY | Gov. Gretchen Whitmer risks backlash from Democrats as she hugs Trump in Michigan

Their new dynamic also led to some wins for her administration, including securing new jets at a military air base in Michigan and a commitment from Trump to fund a project to protect Lake Michigan from invasive carp.

In a stunning announcement Wednesday, the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission issued a public complainant detailing 10 counts of infractions against Taylor Judge Joseph Slaven of the 23rd District Court.

Slaven has been on the bench since Jan. 1, 2015.

The counts are:

• False statement regarding recorded conversations

• Use of judicial position to help a candidate

• Inappropriate demeanor and disrespect

• Disrespectful emails

• Disregard of the law with respect to wearing a rob

• Concealing face of Zoom

• Disrespectful behavior regarding security camera

• Interference with Zoom staff

• Knowing driving with expired and obliterated license plate

• False statements to the commission

The following is a brief synopsis of some of the individual counts.

False statements

Slaven had numerous conversations in 2021 and early 2022 with the new chief Judge Victoria Shackelford after she was appointed to the bench. When they met, the complaint said Slaven did not tell her that he was recording their conversation.

When she directly asked if she was being recorded, he told her no — knowing the statement was false, the complaint said.

Helping a candidate

According to the complaint, in 2022 Slaven used his judicial position on numerous occasions to promote Michael Tinney, a candidate for 23rd District Court judge.

During a Law Day celebration at the courthouse, Slaven displayed a vertical sign that spelled Tinney in an acrostic-style display.

The following year when Tinney was considering another run at the seat, during a livestreamed Zoom court session Slaven took the opportunity to talk about his friend, calling him a “really good guy” and thanking him for his outlook on the law and saying he looks forward to doing more community service with him and community activism.

On a separate occasion, Slaven is accused of using courthouse resources to print 160 copies of a document called, “Mike Tinney is a Man of the People” to assist his campaign.

Disrespect

Slaven posted on his Facebook page about a Law Day event in 2022 in which supporters of Shackelford attended. He addressed the event in part by posting, “they are simple minded buffoons!! BC, MG, DW, MF, RH, GT…..smh and shame on them.”

He allegedly said the people with those initials “Iie and twist things.”

The initials were those of all Shackelford’s supporters in attendance at Law Day.

On another occasion during a livestream Zoom hearing, Slaven discovered some show cause hearings had been added to his docket without his permission.

He then stated that the court administrator “thinks she can make my docket better than I can. Good luck with that. She can’t even do her ***damn job.”

On Nov. 20, 2023, during a livestream Zoom hearing, Slaven, referring to Chief Judge Shackelford, reportedly said: “I’m sorry that you can’t handle your docket. I’m sorry you don’t know the law. I’m sorry the court rules seem to be somewhat of a foreign language. The public needs to know that people who are in certain positions are not competent.”

Disrespectful on camera

In April 2024 new security cameras were placed throughout the courthouse. Shortly thereafter, on nine occasions, Slaven allegedly raised his middle finger to make an obscene gesture toward the camera as he walked by it or sometimes used his middle finger to ostentatiously push up his glasses as he walked by the camera.

In a January 16, 2024 Zoom hearing, Slaven said the following in reference to Shackelford during a live Zoom feed between hearings: “We’re going to have a bonfire and taking everything with her name on it and she’s —-ing voted out, gone…I will bring burn barrels.”

Wearing a rob

It is required that a judge wear a black robe when acting in an official capacity in the courtroom.

Slaven was reminded numerous times of the requirement, but continuously did otherwise.

On dates in 2022 that included April 27 and Sept. 12 and 13, Slaven wore a polo shirt with no visible robe during court proceedings on Zoom, the commission alleges.

 

The post After life altering crash, Juan Manuel Correa sets sights on racing in America appeared first on WDET 101.9 FM.

Finally, some good news from Newark Liberty International Airport: A major runway will reopen June 213 days ahead of schedule.

The runway, stretching 11,000 feet long, was upgraded to meet FAA safety standards at a cost of $121 million.

The runway should help alleviate some of the delays and cancellations caused by challenges with Newark's air traffic control technology.

Officials say runways typically need repaving every 10 years. The last repaving of the runway occurred in 2014.

RELATED STORY | FAA to extend flight limits at Newark airport past Memorial Day weekend

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey said the new runway features updated lighting, improved airfield signs with LED lighting, new underground electrical infrastructure, and drainage improvements.

Newark's other main runway was last repaved in 2021.

I commend the crews who have worked tirelessly to get this critical project done ahead of schedule, said Governor Phil Murphy. Im grateful for New Jerseys partnership with the Port Authority and the FAA as we work to return to full capacity at Newark Airport. New Jersey will do all we can to support plans from the USDOT to invest in modernizing our air traffic control system and fully staffing our air traffic controllers.

RELATED STORY | Air traffic control shortage forces United to cut flights from its service

Government officials worked to expedite the repairs amid Newark's ongoing challenges.

Those challenges have forced airlines, such as United, to reduce service from the airport.

The Detroit Police Department is seeking information from the community regarding shots fired near a school.

On Thursday, May 29, 2025, at approximately 8:26 p.m., in the 3200 block of E. Lafayette, unknown suspect(s) fired shots in the parking lot of Martin Luther King High School. At the time of the incident, several teenagers were present. No injuries were reported.

Detectives want to speak to a person-of-interest who was in the area at the time of the incident. If anyone recognizes thes person-of interest, or has any information pertaining to this crime, please call the Detroit Police Departments 7th Precinct at 313-596-5740, Crime Stoppers at 1-800-Speak Up, or DetroitRewards.tv

VegMichigan is hosting its 24th annual Spring VegFest on Sunday, June 1, 10am-4pm.

The free event provides individuals with an exciting opportunity to taste the best plant-based food that Michigan has to offer. The family-friendly event will be overflowing with food trucks, restaurants, and specialty food items. Free cooking demonstrations and presentations on a wide variety of topics in the field of plant-based living will kick off at 10:30 a.m. and continue throughout the day.

Attendees can also enjoy free food samples, complimentary massages from Irenes Myomassology Institute, eco-friendly shopping, and a chance to learn about local nonprofits that are making a positive difference in the community. There will also be engaging activities for kids, low-cost face painting, and a free coloring book to take home. With delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere, everyone is sure to have a wonderful time. Whether someone is completely new to plant-based eating or a longtime vegan, they will have a wide variety of dishes from which to choose.

Eastern Market is located at 2934 Russell St. VegFest takes place in Sheds 5 and 6, right next to Eastern Markets Sunday Street Market. Parking is free. For more details, visit vegmichigan.org.

Ferndale Pride will kick off Pride Month on Saturday, May 31. The annual family-friendly street fair runs from 12:30 to 10 p.m. and draws thousands of members of the LGBTQIA community to celebrate diversity and unity.

More than 200 vendors, as well as bands, disc jockeys and other performers, will converge on downtown Ferndale for this free event. This years festival footprint includes West Nine Mile Road between Woodward and Livernois avenues and portions of Planavon and Allen streets near West Nine Mile. Among this year's highlights include a Childrens Area, a Baby Feeding Area and a Sensory Zone.

Proceeds from Ferndale Pride benefit Affirmations LGBTQ+ Community Center, Arab Community Center for Economic and Social Services (ACCESS), Ferndale Community Foundation, Gender-identity Network Alliance, Matrix Human Services MAC Health, TGDetroit and Transgender Michigan.

For a complete listing of events, visit www.ferndalepride.com.

The 11th Annual Palmer Park Art Fair returns May 31 and June 1, to Detroit's urban oasis, the 300-acre, historic Palmer Park.

Nearly 100 juried artists from across the country as well as local arts groups gather along picturesque Lake Francis in the park. The log cabin stage in the center of the art fair will feature continuous entertainment by some of Detroits favorite groups including the Electric Guitar Orchestra and ,from Japan, jazz sensation Aya Sekine.

The annual art fair takes place Saturday, May 31, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, June 1, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Palmer Park is located between McNichols (Six) and Seven Mile Roads along Woodward in Detroit. The art fair takes place between Lake Francis and the historic Log Cabin. Admission is free. Parking is free and all activities are free. For more information go to palmerparkartfair.com

The 2025 Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear will turbocharge Downtown Detroit this weekend with a dynamic festival full of world-class racing, cool cars, live music and family-friendly fun.

Hosted May 30-June 1 on the Streets of Downtown Detroit, the Grand Prix will once again feature free fan activation, concerts and expanded viewing areas for fans of all ages. Now in its third summer back in the heart of the Motor City, the Grand Prix continues to offer new experiences to fans with more rooftop viewing options and expanded immersive fan zones in 2025.

While the on-track action will be fast and furious all weekend long including Saturdays Chevrolet Sports Car Classic featuring the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship, followed by Sundays INDY NXT by Firestone race and the Chevrolet INDYCAR Grand Prix on Sunday afternoon there will be plenty for fans to do and see away from track at this weekends Grand Prix. The Cadillac Square Entertainment Stage presented by Priority will come alive Saturday night with two powerhouse EDM concerts. EVAN GIIA will take the stage at 6:15 pm Saturday night before electronic music powerhouse GRYFFIN rocks the crowd in the Motor City.

Three major Grand Prix fan activation areas Woodward Avenue, Spirit Plaza and Hart Plaza will be open to the public for free all weekend long. At its new home on Woodward Ave., the Meijer Fan Zone on Woodward will feature interactive games, free ice cream and guest appearances and autograph sessions with Detroit sports legends throughout the weekend. The Michigan Science Center display will add hands-on STEM fun to the Fan Zone experience, while the Small Business Straightaway on Woodward highlights local entrepreneurs from across the city of Detroit.

Hart Plaza will rev up the weekend with racing simulators, giveaways from top brands like Verizon and Javahouse, and kids can take their spot behind the wheel of the Detroit Grand Prix Indy Car. Fans can shop for official merchandise, enjoy panoramic views from the Pratt Miller Patio and catch the thrilling Mountain Bike Stunt Show led by Andrei Burton, an eight-time Guinness World Record holder, performing daily near the fountain in Hart Plaza.

For more information, visit https://www.detroitgp.com/

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents detained several employees at a popular South Park restaurant Friday evening, causing the establishment to close during what would typically be a busy dinner service.

San Diego ICE says its agents conducted two worksite enforcement operations at Buona Forchetta and Enoteca Buona Forchetta on Friday evening.

Managers at the restaurant said that three employees were taken away in handcuffs after ICE agents entered the premises and demanded identification from all staff members.

The agents identified themselves as ICE officials and presented warrants, according to restaurant management.

RELATED STORY | Department of Homeland Security releases list of 'sanctuary jurisdictions'

Witnesses described a chaotic scene as a crowd gathered around ICE vehicles, video showing a flash bang going off at one point.

The restaurant, which operates multiple locations throughout the area, was forced to close for the evening with tables emptied and a "closed" sign posted at the entrance.

We reached out to ICE, and they gave us the following statement:

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement can confirm that ICE San Diego conducted two worksite enforcement operations at Buona Forchetta and Enoteca Buona Forchetta Restaurants in San Diego, Ca. As this is an ongoing investigation, we have no further releasable information at this time.

This incident follows similar ICE operations in the region. Two months ago, ICE agents detained 15 migrants without legal status at an industrial paint shop in El Cajon. Last week, agents were also seen detaining migrants at the immigration courthouse downtown after their asylum cases were dismissed.

This article was written by Kylie Strandberg for the Scripps News Group in San Diego.

This story was reported 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.

Macomb Countys first major festival gets underway this weekend with a one-two punch of fun and frolic as shared and individual events will be held in Center Line and Warren.

The Center Line Independence Festival takes place in the 10 Mile-Van Dyke area, while the Warren Summer Kickoff launches at the Civic Center South/Maybelle Burnette Library and City Hall. On Sunday, June 1, both communities will be part of Cruisin 53, a classic car show and parade down Van Dyke Avenue (aka M-53). All three are free to attend.

Now in its ninth year, the Center Line Independence Festival is expected to attract upwards of 25,000 people, according to Donna Weatherby, a sales executive with the Southeast Michigan Chamber of Commerce and one of the key event organizers. The festival and Cruisin 53 events have put the southwest corner of Macomb County on the map, said Center Line City Manager Dennis Champine. Part of the success is due to the year-round planning undertaken by city staff, in addition to their usual municipal tasks.

The festival at Memorial Park includes a foam party, kids zone, 10 food trucks, more than a dozen craft vendors, beer tent, Michigan Lottery pull tabs, carnival rides, and a colorful fireworks show on Saturday (rain date is Sunday). There also will be a special free live wrestling show at 1 p.m. Saturday presented by Grind Time Wrestling Academy, which is owned by four-time Stanley Cup champion Darren McCarty. The show will involve Center Line Mayor Bob Binson getting into the ring.

There will be live music by Set N Stone, Larry Lee & The Back in the Day Band, Sunset Boulevard, Blue Skye, Band Wagon, Bernadette Kathryn, Family Tradition, The Prolifics, Island, and Magic Bus Band.

Due to a reconstruction project of 10 Mile Road, the carnival will be moved to Bernice Street, west of Van Dyke. A free shuttle service will be available. Festival hours are 2-11 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.-Saturday, and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday.

Meanwhile, a few blocks to the south, the Warren Summer Kickoff takes place Friday-Sunday at the Civic Center South/Maybelle Burnette Library and also at City Hall. Highlights will include a variety of events, outdoor games, character meet-and-greets, ice cream, police K9 visit, raffles, candy giveaways, balloon artists, touch-a-truck, a Saturday evening movie night, and more. Event hours are 12-7 p.m. Friday, 12-8 p.m. Saturday and 12-4 p.m. Sunday.

Finally, United Auto Workers Region 1 presents the Cruisin 53 event, which is embedded in the Center Line festival on Sunday. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m., followed by a car parade at 11 a.m. and awards ceremony at 4 p.m. Hundreds of hot rods, classic cars, vintage vehicles and motorcycles take their place at the Rinke Chevrolet dealership on Van Dyke, just north of 10 Mile. It will also feature refreshments and live entertainment. The parade route runs from Eight Mile Road to Warren City Hall at Common Road. Organizers said a total of $2,200 will be awarded to owners of stock and modified vehicles. The first place finishers will receive $300, followed by $200 to second place, and $100 goes to the third-place winners. A $1,000 prize will be given to the overall best in show owner.

For more information on these events, including a complete lineup, visit centerlinefestival.org and cityofwarren.org/warrensummerkickoff.

Many U.S. corporations this year stopped supporting Pride events that celebrate LGBTQ+ culture and rights, causing hundreds of thousands of dollars in budget shortfalls ahead of the summer festivities and raising questions about corporate Americas commitment to the cause.

The moves come as President Donald Trump has shown antipathy for trans protections and has attempted to roll back some LGBTQ+ friendly federal policies. Experts also note that a growing slice of the public has grown tired of companies taking a stance on social and political issues.

San Francisco Pride, the nonprofit that produces one of the countrys largest and best-known LGBTQ+ celebrations, is facing a $200,000 budget gap after corporate donors dropped out. In Kansas City, Missouri, KC Pride lost about $200,000 roughly half its annual budget.

Heritage of Pride, the umbrella organization behind NYC Pride and other LGBTQ+ events in New York City, is fundraising to narrow a $750,000 budget gap after companies withdrew.

Meanwhile, Budweiser brewer Anheuser-Busch ended its sponsorship of PrideFest in St. Louis, Missouri, its home base, after 30 years, leaving organizers with a $150,000 budget shortfall.

In response, many Pride organizations have canceled some dance parties, reduced the number of stages, hired less pricey headliners and no longer give volunteers free food or T-shirts.

But the core celebrations will go on. In San Francisco, this years Pride theme is Queer Joy is Resistance. In New York, it's Rise Up: Pride in Protest, and, in Boston, it's Here to Stay!

If you come to Pride this year, thats a revolutionary act, said Suzanne Ford, executive director of San Francisco Pride. You are sending a message to those in Washington that, here in San Francisco, we still have the same values that weve always had you can love who you love here. Were not going to retreat from that.

Following media coverage of their retreat, some companies changed course but asked that their names not be affiliated with the events, the event organizers said.

Corporations rethink Pride sponsorships

San Francisco Pride earlier this year lost the support of five major corporate donors, including Comcast, Anheuser-Busch and Diageo, the beverage giant that makes Guinness beer and Smirnoff vodka.

RELATED STORY | Salt Lake City adopts new flags to circumvent Utah's ban on pride flags

With everything were facing from the Trump administration, to lose five of your partners within a couple of weeks, it felt like we were being abandoned, Ford said.

After the withdrawals drew attention, some corporations said they would donate but only anonymously, Ford said, declining to identify those companies. As of this week, neither Comcast, Anheuser-Busch nor Diageo appeared on the organizations website as sponsors of the June 29 festivities. It was unclear if they donated.

Anheuser-Busch and Diageo didnt reply to emails from The Associated Press seeking comment. A spokesperson for Comcast also declined to comment but said some of its companies are sponsoring Silicon Valley Pride and Oakland Pride.

NYC Pride spokesperson Chris Piedmont said about 20% of its corporate sponsors either dropped their support or scaled back, including New York-based PepsiCo and Nissan.

Kyle Bazemore, Nissan North America's director of corporate communications, said the decision comes as the automaker reviews all of its marketing expenses to lower costs. PepsiCo did not return an email seeking comment.

Piedmont said NYC Pride has also received anonymous corporate funding and that he appreciates the unpublicized support.

Writing a check to a nonprofit and supporting a nonprofit with no strings attached is stepping up to the plate, Piedmont said.

Companies retreat from brand activism

The shift reflects how corporations are adjusting to a changing cultural landscape that began during the pandemic and accelerated with Trump's second term, experts said.

Companies are resourceful, they are clever at identifying trends and studying their environment and their customers needs, but those needs change and corporations adjust, said Amir Grinstein, a marketing professor at Northeastern University.

Corporations' presence in rainbow-filled Pride parades, concerts and dance parties became more ubiquitous after the landmark 2015 Supreme Court ruling that legalized same-sex marriage nationwide, as companies splashed their names on parade floats, rainbow flags and bright plastic bracelets.

So-called brand activism reached its peak between 2016 to 2022, a period of social upheaval around the pandemic, police brutality and transgender rights, Grinstein said.

But research has since found a growing number of American consumers don't want companies taking positions on such topics, said Barbara Kahn, a marketing professor at the University of Pennsylvanias Wharton School.

There have always been people who said, I dont want my toothpaste to have an opinion, I just want to use my toothpaste, but the tide has shifted, and research shows there are more people that feel that way now," Kahn said.

Pride organizers keep their distance from some corporations

Meanwhile, Republican-led states have been passing legislation to curtail diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives and LGBTQ+ rights, especially the ability of transgender young people to participate in sports or receive gender-affirming care.

Trump signed executive orders on his first day in office that rolled back protections for transgender people and terminated federal DEIprograms.

Some companies followed suit by eliminating their DEI goals, prompting Pride organizations to sever ties.

San Francisco's organizers cut ties with Meta after the parent company of Facebook and Instagram terminated its DEI goals and content moderation policies.

RELATED STORY | Gender-affirming hormone therapy reduces depression in transgender adults

Twin Cities Pride ended its relationship with Target over the Minneapolis-based retailer's curtailing of its DEI initiatives following a backlash from conservatives and the White House. The company's retreat from DEI policies led to a counter-boycott by civil rights advocates.

Target announced in May that sales fell more than expected in the first quarter due to customer boycotts, tariffs and other economic factors. The company now offers only some Pride products at a few stores and online.

Still, Rick Gomez, Target's chief commercial officer, told reporters in May that it's important to celebrate Heritage Months, which highlight different groups from Latinos to Asian Americans to the LGBTQ+ community.

"They drive sales growth for us, he said.

Asking the community for financial support

First-time donations from individuals, foundations and local businesses have increased following corporate America's retreat.

In Minneapolis, a crowdfunding campaign by Twin Cities Pride to fill a $50,000 funding gap raised more than $89,000.

In San Francisco, two local foundations donated $55,000 combined.

This isnt the first year that theres been an inflammatory climate around Pride, said James Moran, a spokesperson for KC Pride, in Kansas City, Missouri. We know that our community is looking for spaces that are meant for us, where we can celebrate but also process whats going on and build our own support networks."

Two Mile Tuesday

is back! Breadless and WeRun313 are celebrating three years of partnership with the kickoff of the 2025 season on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at Breadless Detroit (2760 Larned St).

WeRun313 is Detroits leading social run club, connecting like-minded individuals through running to build a healthier, happier community. Since 2022, Breadless Detroit has been the official home for the weekly 6 p.m. evening run, promoting movement, wellness, and connection across the city.

The season opener will be more than just a run its a full community celebration featuring vendors like Henry Ford Health, Covenant Community Care, Asics, Gazelle Sports, Lululemon and Redbull. The weekly run is free and open to everyone. Meet at Breadless at 6:00 p.m. every Tuesday no registration needed.

The Department of Veterans Affairs said that it's planning to cut tens of thousands of jobs from its payroll.

WATCH BELOW: Former VA employee describes morale as 'absolutely horrible'

Former VA employee decribes morale as 'absolutely horrible'

We learned that some VA workers have chosen not to wait to see if they'll be let go.

All of this comes after Elon Musk and his Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) outlined federal spending cuts shortly after President Donald Trump took office earlier this year.

Musk announced this week he's leaving the Trump team but vowed Friday that the cuts will continue.

"The DOGE team will only grow stronger over time," Musk said during a Friday news conference in the Oval Office. "The DOGE influence will only grow stronger."

Elon Musk makes his last Oval Office appearance as head of DOGE

Those cuts included massive reductions to the federal workforce, impacting people like David Pasquino of Hobe Sound, Florida.

Pasquino was let go from his job at Veterans Affairs earlier this year. Pasquino traveled to Washington, D.C., in March to meet with members of Congress and fight for displaced federal workers. Later that month, he got his job back following a court order that blocked the layoffs.

On Friday, the Scripps News Group contacted Pasquino to see how he was doing after learning that the VA planned to cut 15% of its workforce.

"Today was actually the day that I turned in all of my government-furnished equipment," Pasquino said. "As of Sunday, I will be on administrative leave until Sept. 30."

Pasquino said he has accepted an offer for deferred resignation.

"It was not an easy decision, especially after as hard as I fought," Pasquino said.

The Scripps News Group contacted the Department of Veterans Affairs to learn more about the reduction in employees.

VA Press Secretary Peter Kasperowicz said in an email that it is currently reviewing all departments within the agency, intending to cut the workforce to about 398,000 employees, down from its current level of roughly 470,000.

"Our goal is to increase productivity, eliminate waste and bureaucracy, increase efficiency, and improve health care and benefits to Veterans," Kasperowicz said in an email. "We're going to maintain VA's mission-essential jobs like doctors, nurses and claims processors, while phasing out non-mission essential roles like DEI officers. The savings we achieve will be redirected to Veteran health care and benefits."

Pasquino, a disabled veteran, said the agency is not what it used to be.

"The VA that I joined a year ago is not the VA that exists today, and not a good way," Pasquino said.

He said he noticed changes at the VA as an employee and as a patient since President Trump took office earlier this year.

"I talked with nurses. I talked with doctors ... and they all say the same thing, that they're overwhelmed, they're understaffed," Pasquino said.

"What was morale like in those two or so months that you were actually back and working for the VA?" Pasquino was asked.

"Horrible, absolutely horrible," Pasquino responded. "We lived every day in fear of the unknown. We dreaded getting up and logging in, wondering if we were going to get a reduction-in-force notice."

He discussed more about his decision to leave the agency.

"I would not be able to sleep well at night, nor look at myself in the mirror knowing that I was furthering a cause that was detrimental to veterans and their care and their family's care," Pasquino said.

In his email, Kasperowicz didn't give a timeframe for when more workers will be cut from the VA.

This article was written by

Jamie Ostroff for the Scripps News Group in West Palm Beach.

Californias high school track-and-field state finals will award one extra medal Saturday in events where a transgender athlete places in the top three, a rule change that may be the first of its kind nationally by a high school sports governing body.

The new California Interscholastic Federation policy was written in response to the success of high school junior AB Hernandez, a trans student who competes in the girls' high jump, long jump and triple jump. She led in all three events after the preliminaries on Friday. The CIF said earlier this week it would let an additional student compete and medal in the events where Hernandez qualified.

The two-day championship kicked off in the sweltering heat at high school near Fresno. The atmosphere was relatively quiet on Friday despite critics including parents, conservative activists and President Donald Trump calling for Hernandez to be barred from girls' competition leading up to the meet.

There was some pushback Friday. A group of fewer than 10 people gathered outside the stadium ahead of the meet to protest Hernandez's participation. Some of them wore Save Girls Sports T-shirts. At one point as Hernandez was attempting a high jump, someone in the stands yelled an insult. An aircraft circled above the stadium for more than an hour during the events, carrying a banner that read, No Boys in Girls Sports!

The rest of the night ran smoothly for Hernandez, who finished the triple jump with a mark close to 41 feet, nearly 10 inches ahead of her closest competitor, San Francisco Bay Area junior Kira Gant Hatcher.

Hernandez also led in the long jump with a mark close to 20 feet to advance to the final. She advanced in the high jump, clearing 5 feet, 5 inches with ease.

She did not address the press.

California at center of national debate

The CIF rule change reflects efforts to find a middle ground in the debate over trans girls participation in youth sports.

The CIF values all of our student-athletes and we will continue to uphold our mission of providing students with the opportunity to belong, connect, and compete while complying with California law, the group said in a statement after announcing its rule change.

A recent AP-NORC poll found that about 7 in 10 U.S. adults think transgender female athletes should not be allowed to participate in girls and womens sports at the high school, college or professional level. That view was shared by about 9 in 10 Republicans and roughly half of Democrats.

The federation announced the rule change after Trump threatened this week to pull federal funding from California unless it bars trans female athletes from competing on girls' teams. The CIF said it decided on the change before then.

The U.S. Department of Justice also said it would investigate the state federation and the district that includes Hernandezs high school to determine whether they violated federal sex discrimination law by allowing trans girls to compete in girls' sports.

Some California Republicans also weighed in, with several state lawmakers attending a news conference to criticize the federation for keeping Hernandez in the competition and a Republican gubernatorial candidate planning to attend Saturday's finals.

California law allows trans students to compete on sex-segregated sports teams consistent with their gender identity.

The federation said the rule would open the field to more biological female athletes. One expert said the change may itself be discriminatory because it creates an extra spot for biological female athletes but not for other trans athletes.

The federation did not specify how they define biological female or how they would verify whether a competitor meets that definition.

Hernandez told the publication Capital & Main earlier this month that she couldnt worry about critics.

Im still a child, youre an adult, and for you to act like a child shows how you are as a person, she said.

Another student breaks a record

Californias state championship stands out from that of other states because of the number of competitors athletes face to qualify. The state had the second-largest number of students participating in outdoor track and field in the nation during the 2023-2024 school year, behind Texas, according to a survey by the National Federation of State High School Associations.

Olympians Marion Jones and Tara Davis-Woodhall previously set state championship records in the long jump in 1993 and 2017, respectively, both surpassing 22 feet (6.7 meters).

The boys' 100-meter dash heats were also a highlight Friday. Junior Jaden Jefferson of De La Salle High School in Concord finished in 10.01 seconds, about .2 seconds faster than a meet record set in 2023. Jefferson's time won't count as a record unless he can replicate his results in the final.

Hey, you're busy we get it.

We know a lot happens throughout the week, and you may not catch all of our stories here at WXYZ. So we've decided to gather the most talked-about stories from the past week all in one place that you can check out during your free time over the weekend.

Have a story idea or tip? Feel free to let us know using the contact form below.

Here are the big stories from the week beginning May 26.

Detroit police announce plans to crack down on drifting and street racing Detroit police announce plans to crack down on drifting and street racing

Detroit police are promising to crack down on drifting and street racing in the city. It's a public nuisance 7 News Detroit has reported on over the last several years.

Police said they are stepping up enforcement actions and busted a drifting event on Monday night at the intersection of Grand River and McGraw avenues.

Any given night, Detroit Police Department is going to have about a hundred officers thats dedicated to drag racing and drifting along with block party response, and were going to respond as soon as citizens call and say theres an issue of any kind, Cmdr. Anthony ORourke told news media.

A resident, who wanted to remain anonymous out of fear of retaliation told 7 News Detroit, I was outside and they (were) on both sides of the streets. Both sides. Both sides. Making a whole bunch of racket. Cars spinning and all of that, and I was just like, Oh.' I couldnt rest."

On Tuesday, Detroit police vowed to command that respect if drifters and observers fail to obey the law.

ORourke, DPDs head of the organized crime unit, said enforcement actions will range.

It could be ticketing spectators of these events. It could be towing vehicles. It could be forfeiting. It could be making arrests. It could be ticketing the drivers of these incidents," he explained.

The commander said the perpetrators often come from outside of the city.

"One of the individuals was arrested from St. Clair Shores. We have located people in Howell, Michigan, Brighton, Michigan, Algonac, right?" ORourke said.

"Individuals come into the city and they are also paid visits by us when it's convenient for us with tow trucks and arrests or citations.

7 News Detroit spoke with a couple of local drifters who said theres no legal outlet for it, but that there needs to be.

Theyre asking for the city to provide a space and a pit that is regulated where people can drift.

'We're all in intensive care': Greektown restaurant worried about losses due to construction 'We're all in intensive care': Greektown restaurant worried about losses due to construction

Downtown construction is taking a toll on a Greektown restaurant, who reached out to 7 News Detroit, fearing for the future of their business.

The owner of table No. 2 says when all the construction is clear, it's going to be a gorgeous stretch of downtown. But he's nervous his restaurant won't survive the wait, saying it's hard even to see the business front when walking by.

Table No. 2 has called Greektown home for two years. Its owner, Omar Mitchell, is hoping his third year will survive the Monroe Streetscape project. The $20 million state-funded project has shut down roads between Randolph and 375 Service Drive. It's expected to wrap up by the summer of 2026.

It'll provide the area with more public space, make the area more pedestrian-friendly, and give better lighting for enhanced safety measures.

Mitchell says since construction started, they're struggling. He's watching his sales drop by 95 percent, and on what should be busy weekends, he says he sees potential new customers walk past, just trying to get out of the crowded, congested sidewalks.

"Theyre tripping over the fence pedestals. Ive seen folks lean on the gates of the fence construction and almost fall through it. Its very tight. Its probably a 3-4 for clearance," Mitchell said. "Eventually when they find where they want to go theyre frustrated. They dont even want to be here anymore."

"Were all in intensive care and we just dont know if that breathing machine is going to stop," he continued. "We hope were still here for a year because weve all put a lot of hard work and dedication into this."

Athina Papas, the Greektown neighborhood partnership's Board Chair and President responded to business concerns with the statement below.

The Greektown Neighborhood Partnership is proud to support our district during the Monroe Streetscape Project. We have worked to mitigate decreases in foot traffic by increasing directional signage and wayfinding, among other ongoing construction-related measures to maintain accessibility. Pedestrian access on Monroe Street remains open for visitors to continue to shop, dine, and explore all that Greektown has to offer. To support and highlight our diverse local businesses, were launching exciting neighborhood-wide events and partnerships starting with a wine stroll and district happy hour next month. These initiatives are part of a broader, community-led effort to ensure that Greektown not only endures but thrives during this transformation. We meet regularly to understand and evaluate our communitys needs. This collaborative approach helps ensure Greektown remains vibrant and welcoming throughout this transformation. Visitors can stay informed on parking info, upcoming events and construction updates by visiting our website https://link.edgepilot.com/s/09c026b4/pAva1_teNUW_44aA9V_Olw?u=http://www.greektowndetroit.org/ [link.edgepilot.com] and following our social pages. Royal Oak residents weigh in on 11 Mile Road project plans Proposed road diet being discussed in Royal Oak

Royal Oak residents and business owners are sharing mixed opinions about a proposed multi-million-dollar left turn lane project on 11 Mile Road from Woodward to Stevenson Highway.

The project would reduce 11 Mile to one lane in each direction and add a center turn lane. The city is now seeking input on how to utilize the additional space created by the lane conversion.

Trey, owner of Hype House located near 11 Mile, believes traffic improvements are needed in the area.

"I think they need more parking, but the turning lanes. Since the freeway's closed, you can't get anywhere, so there's traffic everywhere. So if they do add some more lights, it would help," he said.

However, not all local business owners agree with the need for changes.

"No, I have no trouble with the traffic on 11 Mile. I experience ease of getting into out of my office. I don't think that all that construction is needed. I think that we've got a beautiful downtown community. If I were to have a vote, my vote would be leave it as is," said Sherry Major, whose Psychology Center for Positive Change sits behind 11 Mile off of Knowles Street.

Michael Aquilina, who, along with his wife, has lived in Royal Oak for more than 65 years combined, supports the project but has specific requests.

"I think it needs some work. Being a former bicyclist, I still get out and bike once in a while. I'd like to see them put in a bike lane," Aquilina said.

When asked if a middle turn lane would improve traffic flow, Aquilina responded affirmatively.

"Yes, I do. I would like to see a middle turn lane. And then at least one lane going each way and then a bike lane," he said.

Sister Pie in Detroit making 'temporary, necessary' changes in June amid challenging times Sister Pie making 'temporary, necessary' changes in June amid challenging times

Sister Pie, the popular bakery in Detroit's West Village neighborhood, will be making changes to its operation early next month.

Owner Lisa Ludwinski posted to the bakery's Instagram page on Wednesday morning that the "temporary, necessary" changes come in the midst of "challenge and chaos."

"Although the spirit of Sister Pie is alive and well, Ive arrived at the conclusion that the business isnt working in its current state. There are multiple, intersecting factors that contribute to this, and most urgently in the form of a financial crisis," Ludwinski wrote in the post.

She spoke to us on Wednesday after making the post on Instagram. She said the COVID-19 pandemic hit hard and they have been struggling to recover every since.

"At the beginning of 2025, it became clear that something really radical had to happen in order for us to kind of climb back," Ludwinski said.

According to Ludwinski, starting the week of June 9, Sister Pie won't be open for regular business hours.

She said in the post that instead, the business will enter a period of "rest and radical reconfiguration, of exploration and experimentation, and of occasional pop-ups and events to keep the roof over our heads."

She did say that people will still be able to satisfy their Sister Pie cravings periodically.

Ludwinski also wrote the bakery will still be fulfilling special orders and teaching baking classes throughout the time. You can sign up for baking classes on the Sister Pie website.

"We are selling at Eastern Market over the summer, there's going to be new classes that we add that are going to be available for people to take," she said.

Hana's Garden, which honors life of Hana St. Juliana, to open at Seymour Lake Park Hana's Garden, which honors life of Hana St. Juliana, to open at Seymour Lake Park

Hanas Garden at Seymour Lake Park will soon be open to the public. Steve St. Juliana told us its about honoring his daughter and creating a gathering place.

I insisted we have water here," said Steve.

Steve said they were able to fund this garden all through donations.

"So special. Its still going to take a couple years to reach its full potential," he said.

Hana was one of four children, including Tate Myre, Madisyn Baldwin, and Justin Shilling, who were killed by a mass shooter at Oxford High in November of 2021.

"Hana was a bright personality. She loved flowers. Her name means flower," said Steve.

Since her passing, Hanas father says hes searched for a way to honor his daughter, who loved art, flowers and the color purple.

The water flows out of the boulders and down," said Steve. The entrance gateway has a Japanese influence to it. The concept of having water in the garden, lends remembrance to that part of Hana.

He tells us more than two years of planning have gone into what you see here now, and there is symbolism all around.

A fountain and a sculpture are among the features of whats meant to be a gathering place for healing and a sense of peace.

Detroit City Football Club reveals timeline & renderings for new Corktown soccer stadium Detroit City Football Club reveals timeline & renderings for new Corktown soccer stadium

Detroit City Football Club is moving forward with its plans to transform the site of the abandoned Southwest Detroit Hospital into the citys first soccer-specific stadium.

DCFC CEO Sean Mann said demolition of the long-vacant hospital in Corktown is set to begin in July, marking the start of construction on a 15,000-seat stadium designed to serve as a community hub.

Weve approached this with an aggressive mindset, Mann said.

The stadium is projected to open by the start of the 2027 season, which would mark the clubs 27th year.

Renderings released this week show plans for a modern stadium, on-site commercial space, and a parking structure with 685 spaces. The design aims to blend the new facility into the Corktown neighborhood, Mann said.

Our goal is to build a stadium that is community-oriented, he added.

The project has been met with excitement from local residents and business owners, who hope the development will boost foot traffic and business in the area.

Ann Arbor grocery store on mission to support local farmers Ann Arbor grocery store on mission to support local farmers

A grocery store in Ann Arbor is changing the way we think about food by focusing exclusively on local items and giving farmers a significant financial boost.

Argus Farm Stop, which opened in 2014, now operates three locations in Ann Arbor, including two markets and a cafe.

The store's mission is to support farmers throughout Michigan by providing them with a much larger percentage of sales than traditional grocery stores.

"We are a year-round, everyday farmers market. We exist to help farmers, producers, and growers here locally have a spot to sell their stuff 7 days a week," said Laura Matney, general manager of Argus Farm Stop.

Nearly everything on the shelves, the vegetables, eggs, meat, and even items like flowers, beer and coffee beans, was made or grown in Michigan.

Signs around the store remind shoppers where their money is going, highlighting a key difference in their business model.

"In a traditional grocery store, farmers on average are getting maybe 15 cents on the dollar, and so we really are trying to flip that paradigm," said Matney.

Farmers who sell at Argus Farm Stop set their own prices and make 70% of the sale, while the store keeps the other 30%.

"The way this works for us is there's no middle distribution piece. The farmers pull right up to our store. Our goal is not to exist to make a bunch of profit. Our goal is really to exist a little over break even and send the money back to farmers, growers, producers, staff, and keep the lights on," said Matney.

The store has grown from supporting 40 local producers to over 300 since opening in 2014. One of those producers is Green Things Farm Collective located in Ann Arbor and known for their vegetables, flowers, and beef cattle.

Police in Troy say a 9-year-old boy was seriously injured after being accidentally shot Friday.

Officers were called to the home on Crooks Road near Muer Street around 4:10 p.m. When first responders arrived, they found the child bleeding from the head.

The boy was taken to the hospital and had emergency surgery. He is still in critical condition, police said.

Police recovered a gun from the home. Investigators are working to learn what led up to the shooting.

The childs mother was in the home at the time, according to police.

Additional details werent immediately available.

A Northville man has returned home after completing a world adventure that has earned him a spot in the record books. Michael Zervos returned home Friday after 499 days, traveling to every single country in the world.

Watch Ruta Ulcinaite's report below: Northville man returns home after visiting every country, setting new world record

His travel time passes that of current world record holder, Taylor Demonbreun.

The 36-year-old left his home in January of 2024 to attempt to beat the record. He said he was craving creativity and an adventure.

"Ive always been a thrill seeker," he said.

However, he says it was more than just about the thrill. At every country, Zervos had one simple question he wanted to ask: 'What is the happiest moment of your life?'

We learned about Zervos' exciting travels when we met his parents at one of our Lets Talk events.

On Friday, we were invited to the celebration of Zervos' safe return, after visiting 195 countries and taking over 230 flights.

I'm just beyond excited. Its probably one of the happiest moments of my life," his mother Mary Zervos said. When we said goodbye to him, there were two things I said to him: I said 'please come home safe and sound,' and 'I know youre going to break the world record.' And he did!

At Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, Michael Zervos put the final pin on his map to complete his adventure, as he now reflects on his journey abroad thats set to break the world record.

For his family, its been an emotional ride.

Its been a tough journey having him gone for so long, especially some of these countries that have been so dangerous," Mary Zervos said.

Michael Zervos said he ran into road bumps at points, worried he wouldn't be able to complete his large goal.

I mean, I was deported, I was in a jail, I was accused of crimes," he said.

However, Michael Zervos says it was worth it. His 86-year-old grandmother was just happy she could be there as he finishes this adventure and heads to his next.

"I say, I cannot die until I see Michael... I did it," Cannella Katsikas said.

Michael Zervos is now working on a book about his travels and happiness. Until that is released, you can check out his travels on his Instagram.

Smoke from Canadian wildfires is working its way into the northern U.S. this week, prompting warnings from health officials that air quality may become briefly unsafe.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency's AirNow air quality map, parts of North Dakota, Minnesota and Michigan registered warnings for moderate air quality on Friday. In some places within that stretch, the map showed a level of air quality considered unhealthy for sensitive groups.

Officials say the plume of wind-driven smoke is expected to make air quality worse over the coming days, possibly to a point that becomes unsafe for the general population. The North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality recommended on Friday that people limit their time outside, to reduce their exposure to the smoke.

RELATED STORY | Nearly half of Americans are breathing in unhealthy levels of polluted air, report says

The smoke comes from fires in Manitoba, Canada, which have forced evacuations of thousands of people. The fires are burning during Canada's wildfire season, which officially begins in May and will continue through September.

According to the EPA, the fine particles from wildfire smoke can cause eye, nose and throat irritation. Exposure may also aggravate pre-existing breathing and heart conditions and increase the risk of asthma, heart failure and premature death.

When wildfire smoke is present, the EPA recommends staying indoors with sealed windows, limiting time outside and wearing respirator masks.

A Michigan man who had a key role in building one of the longest bridges in the United States has been buried 15 years after his death after a funeral home near the iconic structure surprised the public by saying it still had his ashes.

Larry Rubin was laid to rest Wednesday in Petoskey, 40 miles (64 kilometers) from the Mackinac Bridge, which connects Michigan's two peninsulas.

For decades, Rubin was the senior staff member at the Mackinac Bridge Authority, which manages the bridge, a 5-mile (8 km) span over the Straits of Mackinac that is considered the third-longest suspension bridge in the U.S. It opened in 1957.

When the bridge was built, "he had an important role because the Authority needed someone to carry out their decisions. He served with excellence, Barbara Brown, a former board member, said Friday.

Brown said she was just shocked when she saw Rubin's name listed in the St. Ignace newspaper. A funeral home was informing the public that it had many unclaimed cremains. His family apparently didn't pick them up after he died at age 97 in 2010.

Val Meyerson of Temple Bnai Israel in Petoskey was familiar with the Jewish section of Greenwood Cemetery and aware that Rubin's first wife, Olga, was buried there in 1990. His name was already on the headstone in anticipation of eventual death.

Meyerson said friends from the Bridge Authority helped pay for Rubin's interment. About two dozen people attended a graveside service led by a rabbi.

We all took turns filling in the grave, which was quite an honor," Brown said. To have been neglected and forgotten for so long it was moving."

ANN ARBOR, Mich. (AP) A Chinese national who was charged with voting illegally in Michigan last fall has fled the U.S., federal authorities said Friday.

The man, who is not a U.S. citizen, had surrendered his Chinese passport in November and was told not to leave Michigan. But he traveled to China from Detroit in January by showing another passport, the FBI said in a court filing.

Watch our October 2024 report when the charges were issued below: Michigan student, a non-U.S. citizen, charged with voting in 2024 general election

An arrest warrant was issued in April after he failed to appear at two court hearings in Ann Arbor, where he had been a student at the University of Michigan. He was facing charges of perjury and attempting to vote as an unauthorized elector, a felony.

Only citizens can vote in federal elections, and every voter must attest to U.S. citizenship when registering. The student was accused of lying about his citizenship when he registered to vote and then casting a ballot during an early voting period.

He now faces a federal charge, though the U.S. does not have an extradition treaty with China.

MACKINAC ISLAND, Mich. (AP) Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer says President Donald Trump would be going back on his word to her if he pardoned two men who are serving prison sentences for leading a 2020 plot to kidnap her.

Whitmer, a Democrat, told Michigan Public Radio on Thursday that Trump asked her about a month ago how she would feel if he pardoned the two men.

I said, I think it would be the wrong decision, Whitmer recounted. I would oppose it and he said, OK, Ill drop it.

Whitmer, a possible 2028 presidential candidate, recounted the conversation one day after Trump said he was considering a pardon for the men, saying, I will take a look at it. It's been brought to my attention.

The Republican president said he followed the men's trial and it looked to me like somewhat of a railroad job. He said the men were drinking and I think they said stupid things.

The U.S. Justice Departments new pardon attorney also said this month he would take a hard look at pardoning Barry Croft Jr. and Adam Fox.

Croft, 49, and Fox, 42, were portrayed as leaders of the kidnapping scheme. They were convicted of conspiracy in federal court in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 2022. Croft, a trucker from Delaware, was also found guilty of a weapons charge.

Croft was sentenced to nearly 20 years in prison, while Fox, a Grand Rapids man, got a 16-year term. They are being held at a prison in Colorado the most secure in the federal system.

Whitmer later told an audience following a speech at the Detroit Regional Chamber Mackinac Policy Conference that she plans to talk to Trump again about the pardoning matter.

We have an ongoing dialogue now ... very different from the first term, she said about Trump and turned to smile at the audience.

A spokesperson said the White House cannot confirm nor deny any upcoming actions.

The White House does not comment on the Presidents private meetings, and any speculation about future pardons is just thatspeculation," principal deputy press secretary Harrison Fields said in a statement.

Whitmer and Trump clashed publicly during his first term, with Trump referring to her as that woman from Michigan. She has blamed Trump for the political anger that motivated the plot to kidnap her right before the 2020 presidential election.

Whitmer also hinted Thursday at anger over the possibility of pardons, saying she was disappointed to hear the news he was considering it.

No one should hesitate to condemn political violence, she said, noting the arson attack on Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiros residence and the assassination attempt on Donald Trump last year.

Whitmer has faced scrutiny from some Democrats for taking a more collaborative approach to the Trump administration in his second term.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, a Democrat who has criticized Whitmer for working with and appearing with Trump, said releasing the convicted men is no laughing matter.

The reward you get for cozying up to Trump is him threatening to pardon the terrorists who plotted to kidnap and murder you, she said on social media.

Whitmer's collaboration with Trump has come with several awkward moments for her this year, including when she was unexpectedly in the Oval Office during a press conference as Trump ordered the Justice Department to investigate two former members of his previous administration who had publicly criticized him.

Their new dynamic also led to some wins for her administration, including securing new jets at a military air base in Michigan and a commitment from Trump to fund a project to protect Lake Michigan from invasive carp.

President Donald Trump announced he would double tariffs on steel imported to the U.S. from 25% of 50%, effective June 4.

The president said the change would "secure the steel industry in the United States," helping protect the jobs of domestic steel and aluminum workers.

President Trump announced the change during a speech at U.S. Steels Mon Valley WorksIrvin Plant in West Mifflin, Pennsylvania. He was attending to commemorate a deal in which Japan-based Nippon Steel is expected to make a new investment in U.S. Steel.

The strong steel industry is not just a matter of dignity or prosperity or pride, President Trump said. Its, above all, a matter of national security.

The official details of the deal between Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel have not yet been announced. President Trump has said as part of the deal, Nippon Steel will invest $14 billion and U.S. Steel's headquarters will stay in Pittsburgh.

RELATED STORY | Federal appeals court revives most of Trumps tariffs for now

The tariff escalation comes as courts have begun to weigh in on Trump's signature trade policies, this week pausing and then unpausing the sweeping tariffs Trump instituted on "Liberation Day" in April. Those rulings do not apply to the steel tariffs, which the White House has justified under separate national security laws.

Months of conflicting, escalating and backtracked tariff decisions from the White House have caused chaos and disruptions in shipping and business planning. Experts warn that it could take years and potentially cost billions of dollars to reshore manufacturing and supply chains to the U.S. Even if such a shift occurs, experts are skeptical about whether it would actually lead to job creation in America.

The Department of Homeland Security is putting more than 500 so-called "sanctuary jurisdictions" on notice.

The agency published a list of cities, counties, and states on Thursday that it says are "deliberately and shamefully obstructing the enforcement of federal immigration laws."

The publication of the list comes a month after President Trump signed an executive order targeting undocumented migrants and jurisdictions that protect them. The order directs government agencies to identify potential cuts to federal funds that go to sanctuary jurisdictions, including grants and contracts.

The potential loss of those funds would be "huge," according to Katie Scott, the chair of the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners in Michigan.

"Losing federal funding means that we really have to think about the impact of the services that we're available to provide to people, like community health workers, outreach programs, things that we do with our nonprofit partners to provide food for food banks," Scott said. "All of those things end up needing to be reevaluated."

Meanwhile, the administration says it will double down on its efforts to carry out its immigration policies.

"We're going to flood the zone, and sanctuary cities will get exactly what they don't want: more agents in their neighborhoods, more work site enforcement," White House border czar Tom Homan said Thursday.

The list of sanctuary jurisdictions covers cities and counties across more than 30 states and Washington, D.C.

A spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security told Scripps News Group inclusion on the list was based on multiple factors "including self-identification as a sanctuary jurisdiction, noncompliance with Federal law enforcement in enforcing immigration laws, restrictions on information sharing, and legal protections for illegal aliens."

RELATED STORY | New executive order threatens to cut off federal funding for sanctuary cities

But leaders from several of the jurisdictions listed said they shouldn't be included.

Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott said in a statement his city is not a sanctuary city, noting it does not have jurisdiction over the jails.

"We follow our limited obligations as defined under federal immigration law," Scott said.

He said Baltimore is a "welcoming city" and will protect the rights of its residents.

Las Vegas Mayor Shelley Berkley told Scripps News Group Las Vegas that her city shouldn't be included, either.

"The entire city of Las Vegas is surprised," Berkley said. "We have never been a sanctuary city. We are not a sanctuary city. We're not ever going to be a sanctuary city, and I'm respectfully requesting that the Department of Homeland Security remove the city of Las Vegas from that list."

The agency did remove some jurisdictions initially listed, including at least two counties and one city in Colorado.

Denver's mayor says that proves the DHS wasn't careful when compiling the list.

"Considering DHS has removed several Colorado counties from the list less than 24 hours after publishing, it doesn't seem like they even know what their own criteria is," a spokesperson for Denver's Mayor's Office said.

City and county officials also say they have not been formally notified by the agency about their status as a sanctuary jurisdiction and only became aware of it due to the published list on the DHS website.

"We have not been notified by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security that Oakland County has any issue or that it is included on any list of so-called sanctuary jurisdictions," Michigan's Oakland County executive David Coulter and Sheriff Michael Bouchard said in a statement. "We are not a sanctuary jurisdiction. We are confident that the county's policies and practices comply with federal law, and we were incorrectly placed on this list."

DHS says that the list can be changed at any time and will be updated regularly.

A man who was armed with a knife and barricaded himself for hours on Friday inside a gas station in Allen Park has been taken into custody.

The situation started around 4:30 p.m. near a McDonald's in the area of Allen and Southfield roads before the man walked across the street to the Marathon gas station, police said. This led to a large police presence that included SWAT.

Watch Meghan Daniel's report below: Man armed with knife taken into custody after hourslong standoff at Allen Park gas station

Allen Park police said they were able to get everyone out of the gas station, and the man barricaded himself inside.

Police said he was armed with a knife and they believed they knew his identity before taking him into custody. They also believe the man was having a mental health crisis.

Watch surveillance video after the man entered the gas station below: Surveillance video shows armed man barricade himself in Allen Park gas station

Police began their efforts to make entry around 9 p.m. by shooting through the glass on the front door and then opening it using some sort of tool. They threw in flash-bangs before entering and walking back out with the man who was inside.

The standoff ended around 9:30 p.m.

Officers said this was the best-case scenario for a situation like this.

Watch Chopper 7 video of the scene below: Chopper video shows gas station barricade situation in Allen Park

Employees inside the business when the man walked in said they spoke with him and tried to calm him down. They also gave him water.

I was just thinking about my life. Thats it whats gonna happen next, you know what I mean? We didnt know if it was a shootout, a gas station clerk said.

It's unclear at this time if anyone was hurt.

Several police agencies responded to the scene.

Police are working to get the man the help he needs. Its unclear at this time if or what charges would be issued.

City crews are working to repair a sinkhole on Detroit's east side near Van Dyke and Grinnell after the city learned of the issue earlier this spring.

The gaping hole in the alley between Knodell and Edgewood near Erwin has become the site of a sewer main repair and a source of frustration for nearby residents.

"Seeing it like this? Terrible. Bad," Marilyn Harris said.

Harris has lived in the area for decades and says a sinkhole first formed in her alley around two years ago.

"The cave-in was much smaller than you see now because now we've excavated and dug up the sewer to repair it," said Bryan Peckinpaugh of Detroit's Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD).

DWSD officials say they first became aware of the issue in mid-April after receiving reports that part of the alley had caved in. They determined a 24-inch city sewer line had collapsed.

"Fortunately, it's a trunk sewer, so it's no houses or businesses attached directly to that sewer. So, its fed from other sewers. So, its not impacting- it didn't cause any water in basements of any residents," Peckinpaugh said.

However, Harris and her neighbor Alice Sinclair believe the collapsed sewer is responsible for sewage backups in their basements.

When asked if the collapsed trunk sewer could impact lines connected to homes, Peckinpaugh acknowledged the possibility.

"There's always a possibility it would have some impact, but we want to investigate and see what the cause is," Peckinpaugh said.

Sinclair described ongoing issues with basement flooding during heavy rainfall.

"Every time it rains, it rains heavy, it goes into the basement, and it fills up. And then I had to buy a furnacenot a furnace but a hot water tank," Sinclair said.

The replacement water heater cost Sinclair $500.

DTE Energy is also on scene to secure a utility pole as contractors dig up concrete to repair the sewer main and address the sinkhole.

"We also have to coordinate with telecommunications cause we gotta move the wires up because it's in the way of the excavator who was gonna dig and do the repairs, so we expect a repair in a timely manner," Peckinpaugh said.

DWSD encourages anyone concerned about basement backups related to this collapsed sewer to file a damage claim. You can find information about filing claims here: https://detroitmi.gov/departments/water-and-sewerage-department/dwsd-customer-service/dwsd-damage-claims-sewage-backups