Daily Detroit

In the wake of the President being diagnosed with COVID-19, we talk to Dr. Paul Thomas of Plum Health Direct Primary Care about the situation and what's happening here. Specifically, due to the incubation period of the virus, presidential candidate Vice President Joe Biden is not out of the woods for awhile yet. Plus, the Lions will not have fans at the stadium; and Michigan's cases are rising. This was recorded before word came that the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is rolling back to stage 4. Plus: 85,000 or so Detroit bus riders were left without transportation today as there was a work stoppage around safety concerns on DDOT coaches. And finally, the U.S. Census matters, and in Detroit it's a full-court press to get people counted. Victoria Kovari from the city of Detroit joins us to talk about the low response rate, how it's calculated, and where in the coming weeks the city will be focusing their efforts. Census numbers impact not only representation in the legislature but funding and business planning. Love what we do? Keep it going. Become a member: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

On today's show: COVID-19 Updates Chrysler is paying $9.5 million in additional fines to the SEC Macomb County gets $12.5 million in settlement money over the giant sewer collapse in Fraser back in 2016 The Detroit Housing Fund for the Future kicks off to make more housing that's affordable for middle and low income possible in the city of Detroit Plus, our feature conversation at 6m30s: Oak & Reel — a new seafood and pasta restaurant in the Milwaukee Junction neighborhood — just opened a few weeks ago and Engineer Randy visited the place to provide a preview for our listeners and chat with Chef Jared Gadbaw. Website: https://www.oakandreel.com/ There are some pictures from the visit on our website: http://www.dailydetroit.com/2020/09/29/first-look-at-oak-and-reel-plus-things-to-know-in-detroit/

The city of Detroit – as well as cities across the nation – has an issue with residents not having bank accounts. A study by prosperity now says that almost 20% – or one in five Detroiters – do not have a bank account. So they're paying much higher fees at liquor stores and other places to get access to their money. To help residents, especially young adults, get started off on the right foot, Jason Rivers joins me to talk about a new program. Then, we check in with Fletcher Sharpe about the latest in fall tournament action with Detroit City Fc, the Michigan Stars, and looks ahead to the weekend of play. And finally, a Detroit tradition is back, but on television only.

Today's show focuses on a second big company in metro detroit going public. You know them as United Shore, but as this show is being published the giant letters on their Pontiac headquarters are coming down for their new name, United Wholesale Mortgage. The merger deal that will put the lending giant on the NASDAQ will peg the company's value initially at about $16 billion dollars. And although metro Detroit is known for cars, students of regional history may know that we're also the cradle of the consumer finance industry. From auto loans to help make cars more accessible to store credit at places of yesterday like Hudsons, consumer credit powers America's economy and a lot of it started right here. So to navigate the waters of this deal, I'm going to chat with Matthew Rolling. He has a career with experience in accounting firms, an automaker, and yes, full disclosure, worked for a time for Rock Ventures at one point - although that's a couple of positions ago. Rolling is the executive director at Wayne State's Office of Business Innovation, as well as an adjunct finance professor at the university.

Black women entrepreneurs are the fastest growing group of business owners in the nation, but they're also starting with the least amount of capital. That's especially important in a city like Detroit that is about 80% black, although our entrepreneurial sector - especially those who get venture funding - does not reflect that. This conversation with Dr. Courtney McCluney, assistant professor at the School of Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University was recorded a few days ago, but to me is especially poignant to share now in light of a recent article in MLive featuring a 19-year old entrepreneur. Who is a University of Michigan student. Who said they started their million dollar firm, Zuplift, from nothing two years ago. It seems at first like the typical young guy business success story we've read a thousand times. But that entrepreneur is AJ Gilbert, the 19-year-old son of one of America's richest men, Dan Gilbert. And here's the passage that is full of usually ignored business speak that caught the ire of many of my neighbors in Detroit, attributed to AJ. "We started it from nothing...It took a lot of hard work but we're passionate about putting our customer first." I'd note here that their biggest client, according to the article, is Quicken Loans. As you probably know, his dad, the aforementioned billionaire, founded that. Now I'm not one to discount hard work. Or that it's a challenge. But privilege, I think, isn't about that. It is the awareness you're starting ahead of others. That the playing field in this society is not level. And stat after stat, and life experience after life experience for people of color, shows that it's not. In short, we as a community and a country have work to do. And there are people and organizations, locally, who are making an effort to change things in the entrepreneurial space. Dr. McCluney is in the middle of work on a multi-year study on the topic of Black Women Entrepreneurs in Detroit. Daily Detroit can have conversations like this thanks to our members on Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Dr. Paul Thomas is back to talk Coronavirus and gives more details on the Big Tens's testing plans and why he has reservations; plus more on Michigan's statewide situation with COVID-19. Next, the North American International Auto Show has been moved again. Autoblog editor in chief Greg Migliore has more on why and what to expect. And finally, as it is fall tournament season, Fletcher Sharpe updates us on Detroit City FC, the Michigan Stars, and a way to watch the matches on your TV for free.

Today, two things. Well, more than two. But we're talking to two people. First, Erin Allen from the Detroit Podcast Festival joins me to preview that event, highlighting creators and sharing knowledge right here in the Motor City. More: http://www.detroitpodcastfest.com Then, the big fall NISA soccer tournament starts tonight. Fletcher sharpe breaks down what's ahead for Detroit city FC this week vs. the Michigan Stars and Oakland Roots, as well as weighs in on the retirement of Tigers manager Ron Gardenhire. Follow Fletcher on Twitter @saintfdw Wanna support us? Become a member on Patreon and get cool stuff and our forever thanks.

Today's show is in three parts. First, some updates around town. We've lost Tip Toe Shoe Repair for now due to a fire, but Lafayette Coney Island kept serving. The Free Press building as new life as apartments. And construction has begun on the new Baker college building in downtown Royal Oak. Then, former first lady Michelle Obama is collaborating with a Detroit native and founder of The Lip Bar, Melissa Butler. Their goal? To increase voter registration, get voters to the polls, and change the culture around voting. Melissa joins me to talk about it. And, Janet Tyler from TEDxDetroit previews the virtual event September 30 that is focused on ideas worth spreading. And, it's free. Remember to become a member: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Since the 1960s, the Michigan Opera Theater has been serving metro Detroit, bringing not only impressive productions of opera, but music and dance to the Motor City. Recently, they have hired a new artistic director, Yuval Sharon. He has a fresh take on what can be done both inside and outside of the performance hall walls. So for your Daily Detroit on Thursday, September 17th, 2020, we talk about the present and future of this Detroit institution, being mindful of the number of challenges and opportunities of today. Leave a review on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942?mt=2 Become a member on Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Kirsten Ussery from Detroit Vegan Soul and Vittoria Katanski of Hatch Detroit join us to talk about the reopening of the restaurant's east side location and what the non-profit Hatch is up to considering there's not a contest this year. Then, Fletcher Sharpe gives us the inside line on roster changes ahead of the fall tournament for Detroit City FC, and we talk about Big Ten football making the decision to play. But first, there will be more bumps in the road ahead for the City of Detroit. But these bumps will be welcomed by many residents, as they are speed cushions on residential streets. Voicemail line: 313-789-3211 Support us: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

On today's show: Latest COVID-19 numbers around the state The city of Detroit's budget is going to be balanced, but there have been some cuts and rainy day fund usage. Also, bonds are being sold for improvements. Dan Gilbert's Bedrock has bought the former Sakthi Automotive campus in Detroit. We have details. Home values in Oakland and Macomb counties are way up over the last five years, far above statewide averages. Wayne is too, but pacing below the state's pace. Amazon is hiring thousands in Michigan, starting at $15 an hour. Then, a couple of conversations. With wildfires and air quality in the news, the American Lung Association has a new report out that talks about the impact on the local air of switching to electric cars. You might not realize it because we're not as smoggy as some cities, but our air pollution situation in metro Detroit isn't good, and a big part of that is all the vehicles we drive. Ken Fletcher from the ALA has more. Then, in these divisive times, how does one navigate political conversations at work? Should you even engage? Trisha Plovie from Robert Half joins me for some tips and localized statistics on how metro Detroiters feel about the subject.

There's new COVID-19 numbers and reporting, including in schools and universities, with the area around Michigan State in a "crisis" situation. A co-founder of the Detroit tech darling StockX has left the company as it ramps up to possibly go public. Four Detroit area pizza joints make it into the top in the country. And then Fletcher Sharpe joins Jer to talk Lions and Detroit City FC news. The NISA fall tournament featuring Detroit City FC and the MichiganSstars will be hosted right here in town. He has what we know so far. So from the tree-lined North End this is your Daily Detroit.

We have an update on rising COVID-19 cases and positive test percentages. A Warren family is dealing with dangerous racism and it has echoes I'll share to our region's past. The beat goes on at the Detroit Institute of Music Education as they've found a new degree partner. Barter in Hamtramck is temporarily closing until indoor bar service legally resumes, and Beyond Juicery + Eatery in Milford is opening. Then Engineer Randy Walker talks about Pumachug, the hot new thing in downtown Clawson. Also: Don't forget we're people powered. Join us at a member at http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

On today's show: Karen Dybis talks about drive-in eats around town and in Michigan. We talk about Daly Drive-In; Clydes; Grand Diner, A&W and more. Here's the full piece on drive-in-restaurants. Fletcher Sharpe talks Detroit City FC's 0-0 draw with the New York Cosmos and the playoff chances of the team. Also, the Tigers are Tigering and the Lions have a new pickup in Adrian Peterson. Also, things to know around town: Former Macomb County Prosecutor Eric J. Smith pleads guilty I-94 is gonna be a mess this weekend between I-696 and I-75 And the legendary Detroit Stars player Norman "Turkey" Stearnes is honored with the field the Hall of Famer played on being named after him in Hamtramck. We're on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1Yhv8nSylVWxlZilRhi4X9?si=82kM93fQQ9uqzoNNqn-55g And if you want to support us so we can keep this free for everyone, join us as a member: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

On today's show, we dive into election security. And not what the rhetoric in the public focuses on. It turns out the things we actually need to worry about aren't the ones getting the most press. Our guest is Hour Detroit's News and Features Editor Steve Friess, talking about that and his most recent piece focusing on the challenges and the places where we should be optimistic here in Michigan. Link: https://www.hourdetroit.com/community/is-voting-secure-in-michigan-cybersecurity-expert-alex-halderman-cautiously-optimistic/ Follow Steve on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SteveFriess But first, a couple things to know around town. -Detroit Institute of Bagels is bageling no more. Eater Detroit: https://detroit.eater.com/2020/9/9/21429001/detroit-institute-of-bagels-closed-restaurant-property-for-sale-corktown-pandemic -The Michigan Opera Theater has a new Creative Director and a really cool performance coming up, out of their garage. Support Daily Detroit: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

On your daily detroit: When it comes to getting customers, what is old is new again. The vending machine returns but this time a bit fancier and with beauty supplies. I talk with lavish box founder Leslie Williams about her creation that's open for business in the New Center. And Detroit City FC is nearing the end of their regular season. Fletcher sharpe fills us in on New Amsterdam FC, a new player acquisition and the upcoming New York Cosmos match. But first, what to know around metro Detroit on Tuesday, September 8, 2020. - Latest COVID-19 updates - Prepare for "election week," not "election day" - GM isn't returning until the end of June, in 2021. So yeah. - There have been 100 days of protests. There's been an injunction on the DPD, and Chief James Craig says "it changes nothing. Also: Yes, I live in the city. I feel safe. Please. Suburban friends. Stop calling me about it. It's fine. - GM is taking an 11% share of electric and hydrogen car designer Nikola Want to support what we're doing? Join us at a member. We have bourbon glasses now. http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Here's something fun for your Friday. There are some great local businesses who have pivoted through the pandemic. One of them is Mongers Provisions, with stores in Detroit and Ferndale. https://mongersprovisions.com/ When retail traffic slowed, they adapted and started doing virtual tastings of their cheeses, charcuterie and chocolate on Zoom. And honestly, it's become a thing. You can bring a charming cheesemonger right to your backyard, while enjoying a box of delectable goodies. So ready your tastebuds as Sven Gustafson and Engineer Randy Walker did one for us in the socially-distanced backyard of the North End studios with Zach Berg, their founder and co-owner. We're publishing this on September 4th, 2020. We'll hit the backyard after a quick reminder to remember to become a member. We have a brand new tier - the $10 Raise a glass tier. That's where we're sending you a Daily Detroit bourbon glass with our logo on it. Now, this isn't for sale. You can only get this as a member or guest of the show. So join us in telling local stories at http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Gym rats, rejoice? In a much-anticipated announcement, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer says gyms and fitness facilities can now officially reopen, if they require everyone to wear face masks. So, yay? Speaking of Big Gretch, one fellow Democrat who isn't likely to end up on her Christmas card list this year is Mark Hackel, the Macomb County executive. Crain's reports he's backing "Unlock Michigan," the petition drive aimed at stripping the guv of her powers to declare a statewide emergency, a la the stay-at-home order and other orders keeping certain classes of businesses closed. Macomb County is the only county listed as having accelerated spread over the last seven days in the tri-county or 10-county southeast Michigan region, according to globalepidemics.org from the Harvard Global Health Institute. In other news, we discuss the new Jeep Grand Wagoneer three-row SUV revealed on Thursday. (tl;dr version: IT'S BIG.) Quicken Loans made eleventy-bajillion dollars in its first quarterly earnings report to Wall Street since going public. The Detroit Police Department has unfurled a slew of new guidelines addressing the use of force, a hot topic during this horrible, nightmarish year, with a new phone number to report feedback and complaints about police encounters: 313-596-2499. Finally, I interview Danielle Todd, from Make Food Not Waste, about this month's series of virtual events with local chefs exploring the issue of how to avoid food waste. Thanks for listening to Daily Detroit. If you like what you're hearing, tell a friend about us, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, or support us by becoming a Patreon member.

On today's show: Headlines around town including more information on Ford's job cuts, a mystery hearse pulled out of the Detroit river, how Detroit's stadiums are providing space to help with elections, and Dutch Girl Donuts will reopen. Then, Brenna Houck from Eater Detroit joins us to talk about the state's new covid outbreak tracking data and the prospects of restaurants and bars going forward. More: https://detroit.eater.com/21408549/michigan-covid-19-outbreak-reporting-data-industry-setting-restaurants-bars-agriculture-food

Rumors are swirling that high-school football could once again be on this fall, now that the Michigan High School Athletic Association has said they'll follow other states' examples if Gov. Gretchen Whitmer amends an executive order. Plus, President Trump said he spoke with the B1G commissioner about "immediately" starting the fall football season, because a) of course he did and b) there's nothing else really going on right now that's worthy of the attention of the president of the United States. FOOTBALL! Also, gyms and movie theaters are rumored to get a reprieve and could reopen, though state health officials are staying mum on the topic. All this as COVID-19 cases plateau, "motoring along at a level of suck" in Michigan, as Jer put it. Also on today's show: Ford may be getting ready to cut 1,000 North American white-collar jobs Ford and GM are officially out of the coronavirus ventilator manufacturing game We discuss Michigan's chances of getting a stake in the U.S. Space Force game And Jer speaks with Jeremy Yagoda, owner of Marvin's Marvelous Mechanical Museum in Farmington Hills, about their GoFundMe effort to survive the pandemic Good times! Thanks for listening to Daily Detroit. If you like what you're hearing, tell a friend about us, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, or support us by becoming a Patreon member.

On today's show: A Coronavirus update MGM Grand Detroit is laying off 40% of its workforce Protestors are suing the city of Detroit, and the city plans to sue them back Detroit schools have reached a deal between teachers and their administration And Oakland County parks are looking for an expanded millage in November. More here: https://www.candgnews.com/news/oakland-county-seeks-to-renew-increase-millage-for-parks-118483 Plus, it looks like we're in for not a V-shaped, but a more prolonged economic recovery from the impacts of Coronavirus. Short term, we have some "choppy waters." Dr. Robert Dye from Comerica Bank joins me to talk about the latest results of their Michigan Economic Index and what's ahead for the state. Remember to become a member and support our coverage at http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Today's show is in two parts. First: 100,000. The state of Michigan now has crossed an infamous milestone: 100,000 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Dr. Paul Thomas from Plum Health puts this is in perspective and talks about what's next. You can follow him on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PlumHealthDPC Second, Zero. Zero is the patience left in many communities around the nation when it comes to repeated acts of injustice and police brutality. Fletcher Sharpe talks about it, Detroit City FC, and the impact on sports and relationships. You can follow Fletcher on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SaintFDW Daily Detroit is people powered. Join us on Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

On your Daily Detroit: A new Robocall is spreading lies about mail-in voting to Detroiters. Several real estate developments are pressing ahead in Detroit. There's a huge new mural to be installed on the side of a very visible building in Detroit. I talk with the artist, Sydney G. James, about the art and message that's in store for Chroma. And, the Piet Oudolf Garden on Belle Isle will make some very visible progress this week. Appreciate what we do? Do we add value to your day? Consider becoming a member at http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Happy Hump Day, Detroit. It's been another depressingly large lump of confirmed positive coronavirus cases here in Michigan, on the same day reports say the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have changed their recommendations for asymptomatic people who've been in contact with infected people. The agency's new recommendations read as follows: "If you have been in close contact (within 6 feet) of a person with a COVID-19 infection for at least 15 minutes but do not have symptoms, you do not necessarily need a test unless you are a vulnerable individual or your health care provider or State or local public health officials recommend you take one." We discuss the ramifications of having our top federal health agency being subjected to political pressures. But have no fear! Macomb County may be a hotbed of infections at present, but they're sponsoring the #MaskUpMacomb initiative, along with a poster contest awarding $500. More info is at theartcenter.org. Also, a bunch of Michigan businesses have bankrolled a new public awareness campaign called "Rona 4 Real." It targets the under-30 set, a demographic that has seen a spike in infections lately, and figures to spike more with the start of college classes in many cities across the state. Then, two interviews: Heidi Craun from Clearcover, a digital auto insurer that's opening a new Detroit office and hiring more than 300 And Tiffany Esshaki of the Birmingham-Bloomfield Eagle on the lawsuit against social networking site Nextdoor Thanks for listening to Daily Detroit. If you like what you're hearing, tell a friend about us, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, or support us by becoming a Patreon member.

On your Daily Detroit, we spend a few minutes updating you on what's happening around town. Your local Coronavirus updates The Detroit Lions cancel practice to raise awareness about Jacob Blake and police brutality A Detroit pizza brand takes the top of the pandemic charts How to get 84 cent hamburgers at a Michigan restaurant chain Part of the Lodge is renamed after the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin Then, a conversation with Dr. James Zender. This whole pandemic thing has made people anxious and worried so I figured it'd be great to talk to a psychologist with some tips to help all of us get through and recognize the signs that we might need some help. It's an important listen to make sure you do some self-care during all of this. Here are some resources: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org 1 (800) 273-8255 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration https://www.samhsa.gov 1 (877) 726-4727 Disaster Distress Hotline https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/disaster-distress-helpline 1 (800) 985-5990 Here's a link to Dr. Zender's work: https://drjameszender.com/ Thanks for listening to the show! If we bring value to your day, consider becoming a member: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Protests have continued to take place in Detroit, but early Sunday, things got ugly downtown. There, police in riot gear took an aggressive tack against marchers from Detroit Will Breathe who had shut down Woodward Avenue to traffic, shoving protesters and clubbing others who had their backs turned and were walking away. Tear gas and pepper spray were also used. Police Chief James Craig said Monday there was no way he would allow what he called a "Seattle-type zone of lawlessness" in Detroit and defended the actions of officers. Still, others say the crackdown on peaceful protesters went way beyond the pale. State Sen. Stephanie Chang, a Detroit Democrat, joins us to discuss why she thinks an independent investigation is needed. In other news, United Shore is among three Detroit-area employers fined last week for violating COVID-19 safety protocols with employees. The state says the company held meetings with more than 120 people seated less than 6 feet apart, with no face masks required. Dan Gilbert is now the 15th richest man in the world, per Forbes Kim Gibbs, a former member of the Royal Oak City Commission who made headlines after attending an anti-lockdown protest in Lansing in April and being cited for shoplifting in May, died two weeks after being found unconscious in her home And Fletcher Sharpe joins us to talk about Detroit City FC's scoreless draw over the weekend with the Michigan Stars Thanks for listening to Daily Detroit. If you like what you're hearing, tell a friend about us, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, or support us by becoming a Patreon member.

Welcome to Friday, comrades. On today's show, we air an overdue remembrance and tribute to John Thompson, a quintessential Detroiter and giant of a human being who was the original owner of legendary watering hole Honest?John's. (Close observers will note that Thompson passed away last months and we are late to the game. That's true. This segment got lost in the shuffle, and we're a small and often overburdened team. But we still felt strongly that we needed to eulogize him.)

On today's show, Tom Lawrence, Daily Detroit's resident Downriver Tech Guru and principal of Lawrence Systems, joins Jer to talk about some controversial location-tracking software being used by some local colleges as part of coronavirus safeguards. Tom's always a good listen. Also, the state on Thursday announced a $600 million settlement for civil litigation stemming from the Flint Water Crisis. Most of the money is targeted for minors who were at the most risk from lead contamination. We discuss. And as always, we bring you the latest COVID-19 numbers from the state, and we discuss a new order in Washtenaw County designed to try and curb large public gatherings by college students. Good luck with that! Thanks for listening to Daily Detroit. If you like what you're hearing, tell a friend about us, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, or support us by becoming a Patreon member.

Happy Hump Day. Today, Jer speaks with Dr. Paul Thomas of Plum Health Direct Primary Care all about Michigan State University's announcement that it's going 100% virtual instruction this fall and encouraging students to stay home and not move into dorms. It got me thinking about the Twitter thread below, about the difficulties universities face in opting to pull the plug on in-person instruction this fall. Also today, the city of Detroit plans a big memorial day Aug. 31 on Belle Isle to honor the nearly 1,500 residents who died from COVID-19. We offer some sharp words for those who continue to brush off the pandemic as some kind of hoax. Elsewhere, we discuss Bollinger Motors' move from Ferndale to Oak Park. They're the local electric vehicle startup that isn't named Rivian, with two battery-electric off-road vehicles in the works. They're also hiring engineers. Email [email protected]. Also: New affordable housing is coming to Milwaukee Junction in Detroit. Ferndale is starting its new citywide mobility plan. Find an interactive map, the Ferndale Moves! website or contact them with your suggestions. Amazon is hiring 100 people in Detroit at an average salary of $150,000: amazon.jobs. An old pipe organ from the long-demolished Hollywood Theater in Detroit is getting restored. Thanks for listening to Daily Detroit. If you like what you're hearing, tell a friend about us, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, or support us by becoming a Patreon member.

School's about to be back in session, and for many students, the new school year begins from home. That's frankly stressing the hell out of many parents, who must contend with supervising their children's online learning while continuing their own efforts to work from home and manage daily household matters. So to get some ideas on how to cope, we hit up Karen Liska Evans, a friend of the pod and coach who's literally writing a book on working from home with kids. She offers some great tips for how to stay sane. Also, we add a few headlines you should know from around town: The latest COVID-19 numbers from the state of Michigan Newly uncovered wiretap recordings between indicted Detroit City Councilman Gabe Leland and businessman Bob Carmack, courtesy of the Freep (paywall) Influential Detroit developer Eric Means has died at age 48 And we uncover the reason why the Hamtramck Post Office was closed last week Thanks for listening to Daily Detroit. If you like what you're hearing, tell a friend about us, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, or support us by becoming a Patreon member.

Back from the rolling Pennsylvania highlands, I join Jer again in our daily Starsky and Hutch routine to run down what's happening around town. So what's happening around town, you ask? Well, Macomb County is now driving the bus on coronavirus infections in metro Detroit, yay? The Legislature has approved bills tying funding to public schools' coronavirus efforts, parents in Livonia are protesting against virtual instruction for their kids' school, the MAGA Cruise on Saturday may have spread more COVID-19, and the city of Detroit's moratorium against evictions ended on Saturday. Good times. Also: New protected bike lanes in Rouge Park are nearing completion Ferndale residents are complaining about getting hit with huge increases in their water bills after new meters were installed Fletcher Sharpe joins us to talk Detroit City FC's loss last weekend to Chattanooga FC in its fall season home opener And we discuss what's happening in Belarus, as the government there has cracked down fiercely against protesters following a disputed presidential election. As a reminder, I we did a whole episode based on my visit to the beleaguered former Soviet country. You should totally listen to it for added context about what's happening there now. Thanks for listening to Daily Detroit. If you like what you're hearing, tell a friend about us, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, or support us by becoming a Patreon member.

Today on your Daily Detroit, we talk about voting. How to make your voice heard in the context of an election during a pandemic, while dealing with a shaky-at-best, defunded postal service. Plus how to put your shoulder to the wheel as a poll worker to help make democracy go with Laura Khalil. She's someone who has been a poll worker themself so has gone through the process. Here's a link to the map to find your ballot drop-off box in Michigan: https://datastudio.google.com/u/0/reporting/4a9e9f9e-0eb2-47bf-ba2e-b4900ea7f41c/page/WI5bB

On today's Daily Detroit: We gotta catch up on what's happening with Coronavirus in the state. There's a few stories, including a case spike. Plus, planning on an autonomous vehicle corridor from Detroit to Ann Arbor is moving forward. Royal Oak is banning gay conversion therapy. More: https://www.dailytribune.com/news/local/royal-oak-latest-city-to-ban-gay-conversion-therapy/article_6d6b0e5c-dcad-11ea-9a55-f3355ee17458.html And local pizza chains Buddy's and Domino's are hiring like crazy in the pandemic. I'll tell you how to get in on the action. Plus, there's a new Salsa in town from the Aronson family, famous for their salsa. Now that a non-compete clause has expired, a pair of stepbrothers who are the children of the founders and former owners of Garden Fresh Gourmet are stepping up to the plate with a new brand, Missy and Mel's. We give it a socially distanced taste test right here in the North End. Be cool like Brian and become a member of Daily Detroit to support our local journalism and storytelling: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

A lawsuit seeks to end sales taxes on tampons and feminine products in Michigan. More: https://19thnews.org/2020/08/michigans-tampon-tax-challenged-lawsuit/ People have lost their jobs over the fallout from the phallic cake incident in Macomb County. Will the Coroner be next? A new report asks big questions about the campaign spending of the Wayne County Sheriff. More: https://www.metrotimes.com/detroit/wayne-county-sheriff-benny-napoleon-has-been-lavishing-his-campaign-funds-on-pretty-much-everything-except-actually-campaigning/ Many craft distillers in Michigan are on the ropes There's a concerning oil spill in Macomb County Plus… after that lineup, I think I need a hug. Although there's no actual hugs in store for me, at least virtually for us there's the 9th Annual Hug Detroit Day coming up. Erica Owens joins us to talk about it. Website: https://www.hugdetroitday.com/ GoFundMe for school supplies: https://gf.me/u/ynbjpq Live Stream: https://www.facebook.com/Hugdetroitday/ Thanks to our newest member, Cole, for joining us. Remember to become a member and power all-local news here: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Our stories: Amazon is taking over a large part of the state fairgrounds for a new facility and we're getting a new transit center out of it A historic armory on the riverfront has plans for a new lease on life In Roseville, a historic church has begun to come down A Chevy is a surprise as the fastest selling new vehicle in the country And Fletcher Sharpe joins us to talk about the BIG 10 plus what's happening in soccer with local teams Detroit City FC and the Michigan Stars. Remember our new dial-a-podcast voicemail line at 313-789-3211 if you have feedback, and if you like what we're doing and it brings value, your support at http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit is much appreciated.

On today's show, Jefferson Chalmers has a new, community-driven plan to redevelop this historic corner of Detroit's east side. We dive in. Josh Elling of Jefferson East and Derric Scott of the East Jefferson Development Corporation joins us to talk about the master plan that was recently completed. It's a big vision that includes everything from housing to groceries to the Vanity Ballroom. Have a look at that vision here: https://arcg.is/19u5a8 Learn more about Jefferson East, Inc.: https://www.jeffersoneast.org/ EJDevCo: https://www.ejdevco.com/ A couple of quick housekeeping things before we get started here. First, we have a new dial-a-podcast and voicemail service. That's right, you can now call in to leave a message for the show we might play on the air. AND, a new twist. No, this isn't just a voicemail line. You can now call in and listen to the most recent or second most recent episode of the podcast. That way, you don't even need a smartphone to hear the show. Big time thanks to Engineer Randy for working on this and making it possible. You can leave feedback, ideas, or story suggestions at 313-789-3211. Services like that are only possible thanks to the funding of our members. You can join them at patreon.com/dailydetroit - and thank you.

We're in the middle of a pandemic. But in many ways, it just exposed the weaknesses within the system we already have. My feature conversation is with Abdul El-Sayed. His views on politics, health, and our nation are a fresh take on what the potential of the country could be. Agree, or disagree with him - I think you're going to want to hear what Abdul has to say. There's a reason this former head of the Detroit Health Department, gubernatorial candidate and now author has been getting national attention on CNN and a ton of other places. Abdul is out with a new book, Healing Politics: A doctor's journey into the heart of our political epidemic. You can get that book here: http://www.healingpoliticsbook.com Then, I'll update you on a few things to know around town: - United Shore was cited for allegedly violating pandemic health rules around masks and distancing - Quicken Loans (or Rocket Companies) is now public with the symbol RKT. However, the IPO didn't go as planned, with less shares sold and a lower initial share price. - And Henry Ford has begun phase 3 trials of a Moderna vaccine. Thanks for listening. If we bring value to your day, consider becoming a member at http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit and thank you to Carlo who recently did so.

On today's show, we run down some of the big headlines from the Primary Election on Tuesday, including freshman U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib's Democratic primary challenge, the Oakland County Executive race and some notable results from the prosecutor races in Oakland and Macomb Counties. Plus, we cover a few state House primaries that listeners asked us to keep tabs on. Also, friend of the pod Dr. Paul Thomas of Plum Health Direct Primary Care joins us to talk the latest in coronavirus in Michigan and the difficulty of reopening schools this fall.

Today on your Primary Election Day edition of your Daily Detroit, don't forget to get out and exercise your freedom to vote, because Democracy hinges on it and also on robust participation. See, the scoundrels don't want you to vote. It helps them slip their unpopular proposals into law. Also, we have a show for you today. We talk about: Michigan's RT level, which measures the spread of the coronavirus, is now below 1, which suggests the spread is slowing in the Mitten, yay. The Macomb County Medical Examiner's Office is a hotbed of racist and sexist behavior, a death examiner claims. Canada still doesn't want Americans to come over. 'MERICA. Evictions loom on a mass scale, and like many things with the coronavirus, black folks and other minorities figure to be disproportionately affected. Lordstown Motors is going public, thanks in part to an investment from General Motors. SMART is weighing extending its Woodward Avenue FAST bus out to Great Lakes Crossing in Auburn Hills. And Fletcher Sharpe joins us to talk DCFC and Lions QB Matthew Stafford's coronavirus diagnosis. Thanks for listening to Daily Detroit. If you like what you're hearing, tell a friend about us, leave us a review and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, or support us by becoming a Patreon member.

Bill Shea of the Athletic joins us to talk about his piece in the Athletic covering the crowdfunding campaign Detroit City FC is doing, why they're doing it and how legendary Detroit musician Iggy Pop is getting behind the cause. Bill Shea on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Bill_Shea19 The piece on The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/1963172/2020/07/30/iggy-pop-is-leading-a-small-detroit-pro-soccer-clubs-ownership-sale-campaign/ A reminder that Daily Detroit is funded by our members. Join us at http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit or become an underwriter. Feedback welcome at [email protected]

Skymint, a Michigan-based cannabis retailer, has opened its newest location in Hazel Park, brightening a forlorn stretch of John R with a gleaming, state-of-the-art weed store that frankly wouldn't look out of place at Somerset Collection or any other upscale mall. We speak with Summer Ransom-Cleveland, the company's president of retail, all about contemporary marijuana retail marketing, and with Joe Neller, chief government affairs officer and co-founder of Green Peak Innovations, Skymint's vertically integrated parent company, about the company's business model and efforts to promote social justice. Staying with the getting-high-in-the-burbs theme, Royal Oak's City Commission has approved an ordinance permitting adult-use recreational marijuana in the city. So while the city of Detroit continues to drag its feet on allowing recreational weed businesses, at least a few suburbs aren't content to wait. (Ferndale now has three dispensaries operating, including two licensed for adult-use recreational.) Lastly, downtown Royal Oak LGBTQ mainstay Pronto! has been sold. The buyer is its next-door neighbor, Five15, a novelty store best know for hosting Drag Queen Bingo. Reminder - audio narrative journalism like this is possible thanks to our members. You can join them at http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

The Ford Bronco is back - and it turns out there are some really interesting stories behind it. Former NPR reporter and audio storyteller Sonari Glinton joins us to talk about "Bring Back Bronco." That's our feature conversation Then, I catch up with Sven Gustafson at Wanda Park in Ferndale to catch up on a couple stories you should know, including a suburban mayor who is embroiled in controversy and taking a step back when it comes to reopening. Two way to support us: 1) Free! Vote for us for best News and Politics podcast at the Podcast Awards: https://www.podcastawards.com/app/signup/ 2) Become a member! Daily Detroit is people-powered. http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Today's show is in two parts. We'll talk about the unemployment cliff and the PPP bridge to nowhere with Laura Khalil. Then, a Detroit City FC update on the men's and women's teams with Fletcher Sharpe. Reminder: Support us for best news and politics podcast, there are only a couple days left and it would really help out our little band: https://www.podcastawards.com/app/signup/

We've reported several times about the state's plan to rebuild Interstate 375 as a grade-level boulevard complete with bike lanes, sidewalks, streetscaping and new buildable real estate. Now, Crain's reports the plan has been inexplicably iced to at least 2027, unless Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan can convince officials not to delay it. On today's show, we also discuss Ferndale's nifty new drive-through voting initiative, plus Sterling Heights' bid to become the U.S. Space Command, overseeing the newly created Space Force. Also, Blake's Hard Cider in Armada is apologizing after notices spread across the Internet that it was hosting a rally for Lisa McClain, a local Republican running for an open seat in the U.S. House, in support of President Trump and police. The rally was set to feature both former Trump campaign Manager Corey Lewandowski and controversial former Milwaukee County Sheriff David Clarke. Blake's is a sponsor of Detroit City FC, whose supporters weren't pleased. That and the latest in coronavirus updates from the state, plus the spectre of COVID forces Major League Baseball to postpone two games, just after the Tigers (finally) kicked off their 2020 season. Reminder: We're up for a podcast award! Vote for us in the News & Politics category so we have a chance to be a finalist! https://www.podcastawards.com/app/signup/

Hamtramck is the most population-dense - and possibly the most ethnically diverse - city in Michigan. But in its history has never passed a bond to support their schools. Hamtramck Public Schools Superintendent Jaleelah Ahmed joins me to talk about why she thinks the time is now, and what could be the oldest functioning elementary school in the state. Plus - You might think that during a pandemic people might stop buying homes. Nationally, that's not the case; and for two local companies that are big in the mortgage industry - Quicken Loans and United Shore - that's good news. Gay Cororaton from the National Association of Raltors joins me to talk about existing home sales and how they're recovering.