Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel released a report this week about the Flint water crisis.

The report, released Tuesday, explains that a Michigan Supreme Court ruling on “one-person grand jury proceedings” limited the actions that could result from the yearslong investigation.

The crisis raised concerns about lead contamination in the drinking water of Flint residents. However, there were no state criminal prosecutions arising from the crisis.

The attorney general said the 105-page report marks the conclusion of the case.

To hear more about the report and other headlines, listen to the MichMash podcast to hear Cheyna Roth and Alethia Kasben discuss the news with The Detroit News’ Beth LeBlanc.

Detroit Fire Department honors late Sgt. Sivad Johnson

The Detroit Fire Department unveiled a memorial plaque honoring the late Sgt. Sivad Johnson this week along the pedestrian walkway on Belle Isle.

The 26-year veteran died Aug. 21, 2020, after trying to rescue three girls who were struggling in the Detroit River. Although Johnson and a civilian were able to save the three girls, Johnson was believed to have become tangled in aquatic vegetation.

Mayor Mary Sheffield attended the presentation and spoke about Johnson’s sacrifice.

“Today we gather near the very place where that act of selflessness was made. As a city we have a responsibility to never forget those who made the ultimate sacrifice.”

Lions, Tigers and Detroit City FC in action

NFL

The Lions’ final preseason game is Saturday against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.

Kickoff is at 1 p.m. As the NFL season approaches, the Lions and the rest of the league will cut their rosters to 53 players by Sunday.

The Lions’ first game of the season is against the New Orleans Saints on Sept. 13.

MLB

The Tigers are trying to string together more wins as they continue to slide away from the top of the American League Central division.

They hope to build momentum this weekend as they face the Los Angeles Dodgers at Comerica Park. First pitch Friday is at 6:40 p.m.

Soccer

Detroit City FC faces Louisville City FC on Saturday at Lynn Family Stadium in Louisville, Kentucky. The game starts at 8 p.m.

Blake’s Sunflower Festival returns

Fall is right around the corner, which means Blake’s Sunflower Festival is here.

The annual festival features what organizers call breathtaking sunflower fields, 100 talented artisans and plenty of photo opportunities with admission.

The festival begins at 10 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 30, at Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill.

For more details on pricing, activities and more, visit LittleGuide Detroit.

In this episode: 

• Why did the flint water crisis report come out now?
• Citizenship voting proposal blocked from Michigan ballot.
• Controversial UP copper mine gets $50M in state grants after years of trying.

Subscribe to MichMash on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Ballot proposal drama, the significance of a report on the Flint water crisis and mixed feelings about funding for a copper mine. There was a lot to cover this week.

On MichMash, WDET’s Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service’s Alethia Kasben break down the week’s major headlines with The Detroit News’ Beth LeBlanc.

One of the main headlines was Gov. Gretchen Whitmer urging lawmakers to send new versions of nine vetoed bills to her this fall. LeBlanc says she understands the move but doesn’t think it will succeed.

“Those nine bills passed through a Democratic trifecta. Right now, the makeup of the House and Senate is very different. Matt Hall held up these bills for a year, and many in his caucus don’t agree with these bills. I don’t really know if they have any chance of getting to the governor at this point,” LeBlanc said.

The governor received a lot of pushback when she vetoed the bills nearly six weeks ago.

More from WDET:

• MichMash: Whitmer clashes with state Democrats after vetoing bills; MEDC revives economic development incentive
• Detroit Evening Report: EPA lifts emergency order on Flint drinking water
• MichMash: Flint water criminal prosecutions ends with no charges, frustrated residents

In this episode 

• What comes with the federal education freedom tax credits?
• How many states have opted into the tax credits already?
• The future of education for private, public, and home school students.

Subscribe to MichMash on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Governor Whitmer as well as governors across the country have a decision to make regarding a federal program in connection with the Reconciliation Program. This week on MichMash…WDET’s Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service’s Zach Gorchow unpack the details of this program. They are joined by Prof Josh Cowen of Michigan State University and Peter Spadafore who leads the Michigan Alliance for Student Opportunity.

Cowen is known for being the nation’s leading critics of school voucher programs, but says this program is much different and offers real opportunities for public and private school students. “Unlike any other state voucher program that I have opposed…public school students can use this and they don’t have to exit the public schools to use it, there is a real revenue stream that is definitely available to public schools. That is not true for regular voucher programs.”

Spadafore, is against public schools oppose opting in to the credits because, ” It starts with a long standing opposition to any type of voucher program and this is unequivocally a voucher program. It’s public dollars for private schools. We stand in opposition to that. We have done so along with the voters of Michigan who have twice rejected these types of schemes alongside Governor Whitmer, who vetoed an education savings program that was passed by the legislature a few years back.”
Governor Whitmer hasn’t indicated whether she would make a decision to opt in during the last months of her tenure. 

• More from WDET:

  Michigan Primary 2024 Voter Guide: State House candidates running in metro Detroit

  Slotkin talks Medicaid cuts in GOP’s ‘Big Beautiful Bill,’ voting against California EV mandate

  MichMash: Whitmer clashes with state Democrats after vetoing bills; MEDC revives incentive

The city of Detroit and local leaders celebrated the opening of Rohns Apartments that will add 17 new affordable units to city’s housing stock.   

The long vacant historic apartment building was revitalized by the development company WIZE Detroit.

During the grand opening press conference Sophia Zembra, owner and managing director of WIZE, shared her thoughts around the project.   “Rohns Apartments is our first project. We are very grateful. The city of Detroit guided us all the way up.”

The project was made possible due to the Detroit Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) ordinance that was issued in October of 2024. The program aims to accelerate affordable housing development by simplifying and expediting the approval process for qualifying projects.  

Director of the Housing and Revitalization Department Julie Synder says this development is a product of public and private partnership.   “Rohns apartment shows that good housing policy can help make good housing development possible. Creating more affordable housing requires more than developers who are willing to invest…it also requires the tools to make that development possible to support their vision and come together to make projects like this a reality.”

Rent for a one-bedroom apartment starts at $900 per month, while rent for a two-bedroom apartment starts at $1,100 per month.    

WIZE is also using the PILOT program to redevelop the Dexter Linwood neighborhood. This will feature 34 residential units with a mix of one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments, and one studio unit. The project is expected to be completed in 2028.   

Additional headlines for Thursday, Aug. 20, 2026

Pay As You Stay returns

The city’s Pay As you Stay (PAYS) program returns. The program helps Detroit residents by reducing delinquent past property taxes and has helped prevent foreclosure for thousands of Detroit property owners. 

The program expired on June 30 of 2025. But after efforts from city leaders, the legislature continues.

Wayne County Treasurer Eric R. Sabree shares why the program is so important. “It keeps owner-occupied residents in their homes and keeps homes affordable. PAYS has been successful throughout the county. We needed to continue to be their for families…people who legitimately fall on difficult times due to changing economies or other circumstances beyond their control.” 

Since 2020 the PAYS program has helped approximately 18,000 Detroit property owners keep their homes.   

Sports  

Lions  

The Detroit Lions are set to have their second preseason game against the Washington Commanders on Saturday, Aug. 22.

Detroit Lions edge rusher Derrick Moore shares how a preseason game can help reset players. “I’ve been out for two weeks. Getting back into the rhythm of being able to go against different competition and different looks and showing everyone what I’m capable of doing”.

Kickoff is at noon at Ford Field.  
  
Tigers  

The Detroit Tigers have slid back down the American League Central division and their back-to-back losses against the Pittsburgh Pirates didn’t help. They hope to bounce back this weekend against the Kansas City Royals.

First pitch for tomorrow’s game is at 8:10 p.m. at Ford Field. First pitch is at 8:10 p.m. EST at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City Missouri.   
  
DCFC

Detroit City Football Club will go against the Tampa Bay Rowdies on Saturday at Keyworth Stadium. Game starts at 7:00 p.m .

Detroit Bourbon and Blues

Detroit Bourbon and Blues is back for the fourth annual immersive tasting and live music event. Organizers say this unique experience invites guests to sample a variety of bourbons and whiskeys as well as enjoy good music.

This is all going down at Eastern Market Shed 5 on Sunday, Aug. 23 from noon to 7 p.m.   

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

Detroit Police and the Detroit Fire Department are hosting Public Safety Fun Day at Palmer Park tomorrow, Aug. 15. The free community event is an effort to strengthen relationships between first responders and residents.

The event was originally set for July but was postponed because of unsafe air from Canadian wildfires.

Activities include hands-only CPR training, a meet-and-greet with Detroit police officers, safety education, voter registration and more.

For more information, go to DetroitMI.gov.

Detroit employees receive first checks under new livable wage

The City of Detroit celebrated city employees receiving their first “livable wage” checks in a video on its YouTube channel.

In the spring of 2026, Mayor Mary Sheffield signed an executive order mandating that city employees be paid no less than $21.45 per hour, or $44,616 annually.

All full-time, budgeted positions in departments under the executive branch of city government are included in the new livable wage, as well as employees of the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department. That includes more than 1,100 people.

In the YouTube video, Sheffield marked the achievement:

“Economic growth is not measured only in the buildings that we construct. We also must invest in the people who make this city work every single day.”

The increase amounts to an average annual salary increase of $6,400.

Lions fall to Bengals in preseason matchup

The NFL season is here. Well, the preseason, at least. The Lions had their first test yesterday against the Cincinnati Bengals.

The Lions lost 16-14, but standout Ahmed Hassanein showed up with a sack on starting quarterback Joe Burrow. He says he envisioned the moment before the game.

“I truly, truly prayed about it and I manifested it. And I said, ‘I’m going to sack him,’ before the game. And Coach Campbell said the same thing. I just kept telling my wife, ‘I’m going to sack Joe Burrow, I’m going to get him.’ I just kept talking to God about it, and it truly just happened.”

The Lions’ next preseason game is Aug. 22 against the Washington Commanders at Ford Field.

Tigers look to climb AL Central standings

The Tigers have managed to claw their way into second place in the American League Central and hope to continue their climb against the Chicago White Sox this weekend.

First pitch for tonight’s game is at 6:40 p.m. at Comerica Park.

Detroit City FC hosts Loudoun United

Detroit City FC faces Loudoun United FC tomorrow at 7 p.m. at Keyworth Stadium.

J. Cole brings Fall-Off Tour to Detroit

And this Sunday, the Ville comes to the Motor City as J. Cole is slated to perform at Little Caesars Arena.

The Detroit stop is part of J. Cole’s Fall-Off Tour, supporting what he has said will be his final album.

The show starts at 9:30 p.m.

In this episode

• Key to some of the progressive wins in the most recent Michigan primaries
• What does it mean to be a democratic socialist?
• What chances do some progressive democrats have in the November election?

Subscribe to MichMash on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

The progressive wing of the Democratic party made some noise in the recent primaries. What has been the key to their success so far? This week on MichMash, WDET’s Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service’s Zach Gorchow chat with Chris Gilmer-Hill, one of the progressives who won his race.

Gilmer-Hill shares why he feels like he was able to win.

Gilmer-Hill attributes his win against incumbent Democratic state Rep. Helena Scott greatly to the Democratic Socialist of America and the engine they put behind his campaign. Especially being that without them he lost by a large margin two years ago. 

“DSA is the biggest difference. Two years ago I filed because I disagreed with a lot of what our incumbent was doing and I didn’t think it was right for her to run unopposed but I didn’t have DSA or a whole movement of folks behind me. I wasn’t expecting to win. Actually at the time 27% was a lot more than what I was expecting so I saw an opening for the future. But that opening wouldn’t have been something we could’ve use to win without an army of DSA members”

Gilmer-Hill is running for the 8th state House District.

More from WDET:

• The Metro: What Abdul El-Sayed learned from being outspent 11-1
• The Metro: What Republican candidates need to do to win Michigan
• Jerome Vaughn retires from WDET

The city of Detroit and the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation celebrated the third Green Grocer ribbon cutting in the Motor City. This is part of the effort to have more fresh and healthy food available at retail food locations in the city. 

The Counter Detroit is a 400-square-foot grocery store anchoring community marketplace, Shops on Six, in the Bagley neighborhood. 

Owner Karlyta Williams says that her store is meant to bring people together and to represent the diversity of the neighborhood. “That is what the Counter stands for. It is for every neighbor. Every piece that goes onto their shelves, every neighbor is thought of. There is something magical that happens when the business that shows up in your neighborhood feed you.” 

Mayor Sheffield says that the goal is to have six Green Grocer stores by the end of the year. 

Additional headlines for Friday, Aug. 7, 2026

Gas prices on the rise 

As the summer comes to close…are you trying to go on a last-minute summer trip? 

Well if you plan on going on one this week, you might need to budget some more for gas. According to AAA gas prices in Michigan have risen to 13 cents from a week ago. Michigan drivers are now paying an average $4.36 per gallon for regular unleaded gas.  

Fuel prices have increased in large part due to the continuing war in Iran that has caused the blocking of about 20% of the world’s supply of oil and gas from the Stait of Hormuz. Another reason is that gas prices typically peak during the late spring/early summer when refineries switch to a more expensive summer blend of gasoline. 

AAA says while the market conditions remain unpredictable, drivers may continue to see the prices go up and down.  

Sports

MLB

The Tigers laid a beat down against the Seattle Mariners yesterday with the score of 11-0. They now face the San Francisco Giants this weekend as they continue to claw and climb from the bottom of the American League Central division. 

First pitch for today’s game is at 10:15 p.m. EST. 

Soccer 

Detroit City FC faces off against FC Tulsa tomorrow at 8:30 p.m. at the Tulsa Drillers Baseball Team Stadium in Tulsa Oklahoma.  

Football 

And with the Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs agree to 3-year, $67.5 million extension. The three-time Pro Bowler is now the highest-paid running back in NFL history. The record deal surpasses the extension Bijan Robinson signed with the Atlanta Falcons earlier this week—which is a reminder that anything can happen in football.  

Cyclosporiasis cases slow

The state health department says the number of new cyclosporiasis infections is slowing down, and fewer people are showing up at the hospital with diarrhea-related emergencies.

The agency is lifting its recommendation to avoid bagged salad mixes, one of the possible sources of the outbreak. It says people may also resume their usual food handling practices, but should still avoid recalled lettuce.

Michigan has had more than 12,000 confirmed and suspected cases of cyclosporiasis since late June. So far, 279 people reported going to the hospital. Two people with significant health problems died after getting the disease. 

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

In this episode

• The results of the Michigan primary elections. What was surprising and what was expected?
• A forecast of the 2026 midterm elections
• What do the results mean for the democratic party. statewide and nationally?

Subscribe to MichMash on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

The 2026 Michigan primaries not only affected the state but may also have national implications. This week on MichMash, WDET’s Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service’s Alethia Kasben break down the results and what they may forecast for the midterm elections. They are joined by Associated Press reporter Joey Cappelletti.

The biggest story coming out of the primaries is Abdul El-Sayed defeating U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens for the Democratic nomination for an open U.S. Senate seat. After winning by less than 1 percentage point, El-Sayed will face Republican Mike Rogers in the general election. El-Sayed represents the progressive, Democratic Socialists of America wing of the party. Cappelletti says the results in November could make or break the momentum the DSA has gained with El-Sayed’s victory.

“We’ve seen the progressive wing have victories in deep-blue cities before. But this is really the first time that we saw it on this level in a swing state like Michigan. Michigan does prefer, at least in the past, more moderate, pragmatic candidates. What happened [during the primaries] was big for the movement, but it will not matter if they don’t win in November.”

The midterm elections will be held Nov. 3, 2026.

• More from WDET:

  Abdul El-Sayed wins Michigan Senate primary in major victory for Democrats’ progressive wing

  Detroit Evening Report: Primary election results

  Metro: Progressives win up and down ballot

This year’s primaries feature some competitive races that will mark battle lines come November and may even point to national trends.

This week on MichMash, WDET’S Cheyna Roth, Gongwer News Service’s Zach Gorchow and Alethia Kasben discuss some of the key things to look out for in Tuesday’s elections. They are joined by Gongwer reporters Nick Smith and Lily Guiney.

Subscribe to MichMash on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode

• Things to look out for on Tuesday’s primaries.
• What do the polls say about who will win their party’s nominees.

Here are some key moments the MichMash team is watching for on the Aug. 4 Michigan primary elections:

• Tuesday may be a referendum of where Michigan Democratic voters are leaning towards. The results of races for the U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives, the Michigan House of Representatives and the Michigan Senate will tell us if progressives or established Democrats are the voice of the Michigan Democratic party.
• What will the national implications be and how much interest will Michigan draw after the results? The fight for U.S. Senate and House is tight, making a purple state like Michigan a key factor in determining who has control of Congress.
• Which party is more motivated? Voter turnout varies based factors like who is on the ballot. Tuesday’s results will tell us more about the upcoming midterm elections.

The primaries are on Aug. 4, 2026

More from WDET:

• MichMash: Democrat victory in special election may show where 2026 midterms are headed
• Inflation and the U.S. economy following the 2022 midterms
• Michigan’s Democratic senate primary is a tight, expensive race

The City of Detroit has announced a three year, $9.2 million investment to help unhoused families move out of emergency shelter and into stabilized housing. The Homeless to Housed initiative will provide families with 6- 12 months of rental assistance, help them find a home, and provide additional support along the way.  

The program touts that it will assist up to 140 households each year with this program, which is approximately 500 Detroiters each year.  

In a press conference for the program, the city’s first ever Chief Executive of Health, Human Services and Poverty Solutions Dr. Luke Shaefer says this program is about more than providing shelter. “Its about creating pathways to stability. The mayor has challenged us to build a system where homelessness is rare, brief, and non recurring.”

Shaefer also describes how they were able to fund this program.   “This didn’t happen by accident…it happened because dedicated public servants were willing to rethink how we use available resources, they strategically aligned federal emergency solutions and grant funding to launch the Homeless to Housing initiative leaning into the mayor’s charge to us.” 
 
Priority for this program will be given to families with minor children. This program is also expected to free up space in existing shelter homes to provide assistance to other Detroiters facing homelessness.  

Additional headlines for Thursday, July 30, 2026

Small business summit 

The city of Detroit is hosting a micro and small business summit on July 31 at the Wayne County Community College District Northwest Campus. 

The summit is part of the Office of Contracting and Procurement, and it’s part of an effort to build Detroit based micro and small business industries.

The free event will provide attendees an opportunity to interact with funders, banks, and partner organizations including Goldman Sachs, First Merchant bank, the Detroit Development Fund, the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation and the Small Business Association.

For more information and to register go to detroitmi.gov. 

Sports 

Detroit City FC faces Miami FC on Saturday, Aug. 1 at Pitbull Stadium in Westchester Florida. Also, the club soccer team’s development of their new home stadium broke ground earlier this month.

The AlumniFi Field will hold 15,000 seats, an increase from Keyworth stadium that only holds 7,000 seats. It will also be the city’s first soccer-specific stadium, and the state’s only privately owned major sports stadium. The project also includes a 421-space parking garage and a 104-unit residential building with 76 affordable housing units. 

Completion of the stadium was slated for spring of 2027 but its now slated for 2028 USL Champion season. 

Sports

MLB 

And the Tigers efforts to climb up the American League Central division stalled a bit with a high scoring loss to the Baltimore Orioles yesterday 10-9.

They now face the Athletics in a 3 game weekend affair at Sutter Health Park in West Sacramento, California. First pitch for tomorrow’s game is at 9:40 p.m. EST. 

Talk it Out Walk it Out

And on Saturday August 1 from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the Charles H Wright Museum of African American History is hosting Talk it Out Walk it Out. This free admission event is an annual community conversation and awareness walk to highlight health disparities impacting Black women.

The event serves as a start to Black Women’s Health Month in Detroit. The event is being held at the museum.  

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

A year after the groundbreaking ceremony, MyFlight Tours is opening up their new headquarters and aviation entertainment in Detroit this weekend. The helicopter tour company is offering sightseeing flights over Detroit’s skyline.  

In a ribbon cutting press conference, Founder Sergio Troiani said this business adds to the growing infrastructure of Detroit. “Detroit is in the middle of an incredible transformation. Everywhere you look, there is new investment, new growth, world class infrastructure being built and today we’re proud to add to one more piece to that story. This is a place where people can enjoy great food, great drinks, incredible company and sit on that balcony that overlooks the airfield where jets take off.” 

The 12,000 square foot facility will be at Coleman A. Young International Airport. This opening adds to their business that’s now at 7 other locations nationwide with the addition of Detroit.  

Additional headlines for Friday, July 24, 2026

Gordie Howe Bridge to open

The Gordie Howe International Bridge is having their inauguration day today to celebrate the opening on Monday. After a 6 month delay thanks to political drama and trade tensions, the bridge is set to create a vital economic link between United States and Canada.  

After eight years of construction this bridge is open and save commuters, truckers and recreational travelers and estimated 420 hours per year according to federal and state projections. 

Before the Gordie Howe Bridge we only had the Ambassador bridge for commercial road crossing. The operators of that bridge recently reduced passenger tolls to become more competitive with its new, publicly-owned competitor. 

Sports

MLB 

Detroit Tigers are fighting an uphill battle in their American League Central division and they hope to keep moving uphill against the Kansas City Royals. They face their fellow division mate yesterday and won, 4-3. Now they have 3 other games this weekend to climb closer to the top. 

First pitch for tonight’s game is at 6:40 p.m. at Comerica Park.  

Soccer 

Detroit City FC face off against Las Vegas Lights tomorrow at 7 p.m. at Keyworth Stadium. 

Celebrating 325 years

And today is someone special’s birthday…I’m talking about our very own Detroit!

Today the once-called Paris of the West is having celebrations all over the city. Here are my top 3:

• Hudsonville Ice Cream will be at Campus Martius selling free ice cream from 6-7 p.m.
• Detroit’s 325th Birthday Bash Garden Party at The Whitney if going down today at 5 p.m.
• and nonprofit Rendez-vous Detroit is hosting a two day celebration this weekend both today and tomorrow with a list full of activities. 

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

In this episode 

• The state of both the Democratic and Republican gubernatorial race. 
• Which spending proposal does State House Speaker Matt Hall support?

Subscribe to MichMash on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

With Former Michigan Attorney General, Mike Cox, dropping out of the gubernatorial race, how does that shape the Republican primary? This week on MichMash, WDET’s Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service’s Alethia Kasben discuss the remaining candidates and they hear from a prominent Republican leader on their thoughts on the race.

Then later on Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall stops by to talk about the race and some recent spending proposals.

Hall has said that he would support any Republican candidate for Michigan governor that President Donald Trump endorsed. With Congressman John James having that endorsement, Hall said James would be a great governor. “‘I’m fully behind John James. And, you know, you see, he’s leading in the polls. I’ve been so affective with the house. Imagine if you gave me a governor how much more effective we can be”. 

The 2026 primaries are on August 4th. 

• More from WDET:

  MichMash: State House Speaker Matt Hall wants more H.E.A.T. and less ‘pork’

  MichMash: Candidates clash during Michigan primary debates

  MichMash: Money Out of Politics group is “very confident” that its proposal will overcome foreseeable challenges

The wildfire smoke that covered Michigan skies is costing the state money. According to an Analysis from an East Lansing based Anderson Economic Group, the smoke cost the state’s economy $4 billion in losses. We are second only to the state of New York which estimated a $5 billion loss. 

The firm said that Michigan had the largest impact based on the size of its economy. Proximity could be the reason why.  

How did this happen? Well, industries that rely on outdoor work like transportation and construction contributed to these losses greatly.  Outdoor events and attractions closed as well which also points to a decrease in tourism and fewer customers at businesses that depend on the outdoors.  

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources had to tell campers with reservations that they should cancel. They also waived cancellation fees and issued refunds.   

But the losses may be ending soon as it appears the smoky haze has lifted.

As of Wednesday, the Air Now’s Air Quality index showed the air quality was between 0-50 which means the air in Michigan is in a good range. At one point last week, Michigan was rated the most polluted air quality in the world with Detroit’s air quality index at 724—for reference, anything over 301 is hazardous. 

According to the Michigan Department of Environment Great Lakes and Energy as the weather system moves about the improvements are expected to continue.  

To stay up to date on air quality, you can check EGLE’s MiAir Quality Index Dashboard or use the US Air Quality Index called Air Now.  

Additional headlines for Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Global company joins Detroit’s downtown

A company from Japan is planting their roots in Detroit. The company Nagase America opened their Mobility Solutions office in downtown Detroit.

 According to the publicly traded company, they will provide innovative materials and components that enhance vehicle comfort, performance, and efficiency.  

In a YouTube Short video, Mayor Sheffield describes how this move will expand Detroit’s global reach.

“Today sends a powerful message that a global company with nearly 190 years worth of experience had many choices where they could go and grow and expand. You could’ve expanded anywhere but you chose our talent our downtown and our future. It speaks volume of the confidence you have in our city. Your decision brings you closer to more customers, partners and innovators while strengthen Detroit’s position as a global mobility hub.”

The company says it plans to use Detroit as a long-term strategic foundation for its North American mobility operations. 

Detroit’s 325th birthday

And the 3-1-3 is turning 3-2-5. July 24^th marks the city’s 325^th anniversary.

You might be thinking, how is that possible? America just turned 250 years old! Well, it was originally founded French explorer Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac in 1701. Detroit transitioned from French to British control in 1760, and later became part of the United States following the American Revolution. 

The Detroit Historical Society is celebrating the milestone in conjunction with anniversaries for the Detroit Historical Museum and Dossin Great Lakes Museum.  

The Detroit Historical Society will host a daylong community block party on Friday, July 24 with free admission to the museum. And the Dossin takes the baton and continues the fun on Saturday, July 25, a maritime-themed “dock” party that will also include family activities, music, ice cream, food trucks and free museum admission.

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

The city of Detroit’s Health Department is offering guidance and respite centers to help residents to stay safe from the Canadian wildfire smoke.  

In a press conference this week, Mayor Sheffield acknowledged the hazardous air quality conditions.  “We know we have unsafe air quality outside, and we are doing all that we can to get that information out to residents to stay in and to stay masked and to ensure we’re checking on our loved ones.” 
  
In response to the air quality, the health department has informed residents to check the website, airnow.gov to check up to date air quality conditions in your area.   

They also advise residents to stay indoors as much as possible, keep windows and doors closed, move physical activities indoors, and wear masks.  Residents that don’t have air-conditioning can check out some of Detroit’s recreations centers at detroitmi.gov. There you will find centers near you and the numbers to contact them.     

Additional headlines for Friday, July 17, 2026

Detroit invests in sewer line repair

The city is also investing $184 million to repair a long list of damaged sewer lines. This project will help prevent sewer backups and sinkholes that are most common in low-income neighborhoods.

Gary Brown is the director and CEO of the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD). He says these repairs are too expensive for homeowners to repair. “In Detroit, homeowners and the maintenance of these lines are the homeowner’s responsibility. Many residents don’t realize they’re responsible for the connections.  Unfortunately, it is also the deepest most difficult and most expensive portion of the sewer repair.”   

The federally funded project will repair nearly 9,000 clogged or broken sewer connections in mostly low to moderate income neighborhoods. The project is expected to be completed by the end of 2030.  

Sports 

MLB  

The second half of the Tigers season starts this weekend after the all-star break. The home team goes against the Los Angeles Angels for a 3-game weekend affair.

The Tigers are currently trying to dig out of the American League Central against an Angels team that is trying to do the same.   

First pitch for today’s game is 9:35 p.m. at Angel Stadium in Anaheim.   
  
Soccer

Detroit City FC go against the Indy Eleven tomorrow at Keyworth Stadium. Game starts at 7 p.m.  
  
FIFA 

And the FIFA World Cup final takes place on Sunday, July 19 with Spain facing Argentina in a game that will make history with Lamine Yamal and Lionnel Messi leading their respective teams. Game starts at 3 p.m. at the MetLife stadium—temporarily known as New York New Jersey Stadium in New Jersey.     

Festival of Books  

And this Sunday is the 9th Annual Detroit Festival of Books. Organizers say that at this event you’ll be able to shop for rare, unique, and unusual books, vinyl records, comic books and more.

The event is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on July 19 at Eastern Market.  

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

Tensions are high in Lansing among the Democrats with Governor Whitmer vetoing a series a bills from her own party. This week, on MichMash, WDET’s Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Services’ Zach Gorchow unpack the 18 months of legal battles that led to this moment.

Then later on, David Meninga, senior vice president for Community Development Programs & Execution at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation stops by. He talks about reviving the transformational brownfield program, a state incentive that ended a few years ago but will soon come back once Governor Whitmer signs bills that passed the Legislature on July 3.

Subscribe to MichMash on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode

• A breakdown of the 18 month saga of these nine Democratic bills that got ultimately got vetoed by Gov. Whitmer
• Possible reasons why Gov. Whitmer vetoed these bills.
• MEDC economic development plan

“In this episode”

• Key takeaways from the Democratic U.S. Senate debate.
• Analysis of the Republican gubernatorial debate.
• How did each debate show divides among party candidates?

Subscribe to MichMash on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Both the Democratic U.S. Senate debate and the Republican gubernatorial debate showed the divides among the party’s candidates. This week on MichMash, WDET’s Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service’s Alethia Kasben and Zach Gorchow break down the major components of the race.

During the Republican gubernatorial debate, former Attorney General Mike Cox and businessman Perry Johnson called out the current frontrunner U.S. Rep. John James. In return James had some rebuttals for the two, one of which he may have created because of a MichMash episode.

On March 20th’s episode of MichMash, businessman Perry Johnson said
Johnson touted repealing the income tax will save every family $4,747. On the episode he mentioned part of his calculous was using Google or Chat GPT to figure out the median income in Michigan.

Kasben said James brought those numbers into question. “James called Johnson’s income tax plan magic numbers. That was an interesting attack from James on Johnson’s main policy point for his campaign.”

In the U.S. Senate debate, the remaining two candidates Abdul El-Sayed and Haley Stevens showed their different styles, presenting two different looks of a Democratic candidate. Gorchow pointed out both candidates might still have different challenges when facing their Republican opponent. “I think they both definitely have their own challenges, but I think based on the environment, I would give the Dems the advantage going into November regardless of if it’s El-Sayed or Stevens.”

The Michigan primary elections are on August 4.

More from WDET:

• Detroit Evening Report: Congressman John James calls for smoke control in Gordie Howe Bridge deal
• The Metro: What Michigan’s Senate race reveals about the state — and future — of the Democratic Party
• McMorrow drops bid for US Senate

It’s the 4th of July weekend and many Michiganders are celebrating by going to their favorite parks to go swimming, hiking, camping and fishing. This week on MichMash, WDET’s Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service’s Zach Gorchow discuss the recent investments  put into parks. They are joined by Kristen Kosick. She is the chief of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation division.

Subscribe to MichMash on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode

• How did the American Rescue Plan Act affect Michigan state parks?
• Which parks are getting massive renovations?
• Michigan’s state park infrastructure over the years.

More from WDET:

• Detroit Evening Report: Detroit Parks Coalition expands We Walk Detroit program
• The Metro: First-time campers welcome at Metroparks’ newly renovated Walnut Grove Campground
• Oakland County upgrades parks system with ‘Mission 26’

The tuition at Wayne State University is rising by 4% for its undergraduate and graduate students. This comes after a unanimous decision from the university’s board of governors. 

How will this affect the university students? Well, undergraduate students can see a tuition increase of about $250 and graduate students will see an increase of $33 dollars per credit. 

The university increased their tuition last year by 4.5%. According to the school’s officials the 2026-2027 housing rates will not increase. 

This rate increase is following a trend occurring in 4-year public and private universities and colleges across the country––tuition increases due to inflation, a drop off in enrollment post pandemic or uncertainty around state funding. WDET is licensed to Wayne State University.  

Additional headlines for Friday, June 26, 2026

Community Health Assessment shows positive results

This week, the city of Detroit released a Community Health Assessment that revealed that community improvements positively affect the health of residents. 

The report was an assessment of about 6,000 residents, some commuity organizations, public health experts and local data. 

During a press conference about the assessment, Mayor Sheffield expanded the idea of what health means. “Health is much more than what happens inside of a doctor’s office. It is also about prevention. Health is about whether a mother has access to prenatal care. It is about whether a child has healthy food nearby and it is about clean air, safe housing, transportation and whether families can access the care that they need when they need it.”  

Sports 

FIFA

The U.S. had their first loss of the 2026 World Cup to the already eliminated country of Turkey. Turkey kicked a last minute goal to win the match. The U.S. also had mostly reserves playing in the second half of the game to ready the team for their next game against Bosnia and Herzegovina. That game is Wednesday, July 1.  

NFL 
The Lions’ defensive back Terrion Arnold was arrested this week in Tampa, Fla. on alleged felony charges of robbery and kidnapping. 

Six other individuals were arrested, but according to police Arnold was the one coordinating and directing the codefendants. Arnold is from Tallahasse, Fla., which is about 4 hours away from Tampa.  

The Lions said in a statement that they are aware of the news but are not commenting “out of respect of the ongoing legal process.” 

MLB 
The Tigers loss to the Astros yesterday in the score of 4-1. Next game is today at Comerica Park. First pitch is at 6:40 p.m.  

Burger Battle

And this weekend get ready for what organizers are calling the biggest burger battle in the Midwest. This weekend the 10 year anniversary of Detroit Burger Battle is going down in the Motor City.

Fifteen of metro Detroit’s top restaurants will bang burgers and chef it up for the crown. Participants of the battle get a single voting card to pick their top 3 burgers. Whoever gets the most votes wins.

This is all going down on Sunday, June 28 from 1-4 p.m. at Shed 5 of the Eastern Market.

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

Subscribe to MichMash on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode

• Why was it surprising that President Donald Trump made an early endorsement for a Republican gubernatorial candidate in Michigan?
• Will the state budget get finished on time?
• Who are the frontrunners in this year’s primaries?

Consider this episode as a catch up of all the major news that have been occupying your headlines and a preview of the stories that might come in the future. Like Alethia says in this episode, MichMash is a great summer activity. 

More from WDET:

• MichMash: Abdul El-Sayed shares why he’s running for US Senate + other race updates
• Detroit Evening Report: Congressman John James calls for smoke control in Gordie Howe Bridge deal
• MichMash: Michigan US Senate race begins to take shape; State Senator Singh weighs in on the budget process