Daily Detroit

Welp. Operation LeGend, the Trump administration's name for sending federal troops to cities to impose law and order that aren't asking for any help, will come to Detroit after all. Sometime in the next three weeks, the latest news has it, heavily armed, camouflaged federal troops will descend on the Motor City. Recall that yesterday, Mayor Mike Duggan and Police Chief James Craig said basically, "Yeah, no thanks, we got this." Should be fun. On today's show, we follow a 2-minute speed round type of format, covering the decision of Warren police to reverse its own earlier decision and arrest the driver of that Amazon delivery van who parked on the wrong side of the street, and who was black. This as the city's police commissioner decries that "crime is out of control," after a shooting at a large gathering in Warren, though he also said crime wasn't that bad in the inner-ring 'burb. Got that? Also: Detroit City Councilman Gabe Leland is expected to plead guilty to corruption charges, per the Freep. That would require him to abandon his seat. Detroit Public Schools Community District Superintendent Nikolai Vitti opines about the Legislature forcing schools' hands on whether to open up classrooms during the coronavirus. TCF Bank announces a $1 billion round of loans to women- and minority-owned businesses, plus $10 million in grants for home buyers in low- and medium-income neighborhoods. Hamtramck is opening up their sidewalks for socially distant retail And there are a bunch of food openings you should know about. Slyde is doing a pop-up this weekend in West Village (more here on Eater Detroit) and make sure to give Godwin Ihentuge some love at Yum Village. He's been a friend of the show and been going through some tough stuff. 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.

Earlier this week, we told you about how President Trump casually mentioned the idea of sending in federal troops to cities including Detroit ("all run by liberal Democrats," he sniffed), like he has done to quell protests in Portland, Ore. Yeah, well Mayor Mike Duggan and Police Chief James Craig have basically said thanks no thanks, we got it. "The Detroit Police Department has had the support of the Detroit community in making sure our City did not have a single store looted or a single fire started during the protests," they said in a joint statement. Also on today's show, we discuss Fiat Chrysler's expanded partnership with Waymo, the self-driving subsidiary of Google parent Alphabet Co. We also talk a bunch of Detroit demolition and development news. Later, sports correspondent Fletcher Sharpe joins us to talk all manner of sportsball, including Detroit City FC's women's team, which lost its first match 3-1 over the weekend; we give help to a listener who wants to know about streaming options for DCFC matches; the hapless Lions; and the new Pistons alternate uniforms, which will feature Nike's Jumpman logo. You know, the one featuring the likeness of Michael Jordan, their former archnemesis? We're up for a podcast award! Nominate us in the News & Politics category. We're up against a lot of national shows so we need every little bit of help we can get: https://www.podcastawards.com/app/signup/

Laura Khalil. She's an experienced business coach and speaker who's worked with brands big and small. Plus, she's the host of the Brave By Design podcast. You can that find here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/brave-by-design/id1494575902 She has some no-nonsense advice to help get through this ongoing Coronavirus crisis. After all, it's going to be here awhile. We also talk about the implications of going completely cashless from a practical and equitable perspective. Some places are doing it for safety, but it also shuts the doors on a significant portion of our region's residents. A reminder member support is a key part of how we can keep doing this. Join us at http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

On today's show: A daily Coronavirus status update and the Governor says we're at a "turning point." President Donald Trump says that Federal officers may be coming to Detroit and other "liberal Democrat" cities. This could be really bad. Detroit City Councilman Gabe Leland has been charged with felony misconduct in office, and resists resigning. GM is rolling out an electric pickup. Will people buy it? And recycling drop-off reopens in Oakland County. Like what we do? Become a member at http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Today's episode dives into Dan Gilbert's Quicken Loans - or Rocket Companies, as they're going to be called moving forward - filing for an initial public offering on the New York Stock Exchange. Our guest expert is Erik Gordon, a professor at the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business. He helps unpack what's happening now and what's next. It's not often that happens in Metro Detroit, so we wanted to dive in with an expert to understand the ramification for both the company and Detroit. And then we'll share a couple of our thoughts.

Today's show is a break from the serious content as of late to enjoy some Michigan-made hard seltzers. After all, while we're socially distancing, we might want something to drink in our backyards. You don't have to imbibe White Claw for low-carb, fizzy alcoholic drinks. Why not support local companies? Of course, everyone knows White Claw. But how do our local options from across the mitten state stack up? Who do you wanna look for first on the shelves? We're about to find out in Fizz Fight 2020. Thanks to Engineer Randy Walker for putting this together and seltzer connoisseur Devon O'Reilly for his help. Daily Detroit did not receive any of these samples gratis; we paid for it all ourselves. It took more than a week of work to secure all of these brands.

On today's show: Coronavirus is back with a vengeance, and the governor says we're at a turning point with the pandemic in Michigan. Even Tom Izzo is in the Mask Up Michigan game. Fiat Chrysler and PSA Group of France announced a new name for the combined company, "Stellantis." Detroit City FC Women's soccer kicks off Friday. Fletcher Sharpe joins us for more. And a story of making a difference on the streets of Hamtramck with Frugal on the Fly's Erica Owens.

Ford finally unveiled the Bronco Family of three, new off-road SUVs on Monday, resuscitating the Bronco nameplate after more than 20 years in the wilderness via a series of videos. Here's how Greg Migliore, editor-in-chief of Autoblog, described it to us: "It was genuinely an exciting moment for Ford, for enthusiasts and for the auto industry. I think almost everybody I know who is into cars, trucks, vehicles of any sort was excited about the Bronco last night. You don't always see that." We speak with Migliore about the reimagined Bronco's nifty new features, how it stacks up against the venerable Jeep Wrangler and more. We also hear from Dave Battagello, the veteran Windsor Star reporter, on how people on the other side of the river are receiving the news of the death of Ambassador Bridge owner Manuel "Matty" Moroun, what's going on with his former company's efforts to build a twin span and the latest on the Gordie Howe International Bridge. He also tells us about how the coronavirus has affected Windsor. Also, we have updated coronavirus numbers from the state of Michigan, plus news about a possible lawsuit by the Warren City Council against Mayor Jim Fouts over alleged unilateral changes to an approved budget. We also tell you about Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan's proposed $250 million home-demolition bond, and the cancellation of this year's Tour de Troit (though you can sign up for a virtual ride). 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.

Big news in Detroit business as Manuel "Matty" Moroun, the self-made Arab-American billionaire trucking magnate and Ambassador Bridge owner, has died at the age of 93. Moroun leaves behind a complicated legacy in Detroit, rising from the son of Lebanese immigrants to a man known for throwing around lavish campaign contributions to politicians, defying government orders and for his non-stewardship of properties like the Michigan Central Station through decades of blight and decay. We discuss his not-so-rosy legacy on Detroit. Also: Protests erupt in Detroit after police fatally shoot a 20-year-old man and misinformation about the incidents spreads on social media Protestors shut down school buses in Detroit over coronavirus fears We bring you the latest COVID-19 data from the state The Clinton River Watershed Council has rolled out a new ecology-minded scavenger hunt (register here) And Jer interviews Detroit City Councilwoman Raquel Castaneda-Lopez and Seydi Sarr, the founder and Executive Director of the African Bureau for Immigration and Social Affairs, about a $750,000 program to help undocumented immigrants affected by the coronavirus 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.

We usually like to send you off on your merry weekend with lighthearted fare, but unfortunately, the coronavirus has roared back, and it literally touches everything about modern life. But the good news is, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer did not use her Thursday news conference to order a return to stay-at-home quarantine for Michigan. Yet. But she really, really wants you to wear a damn mask (our words not hers). So much so, there's a new executive order. On today's show, we discuss: The latest numbers and data from the state Whitmer's news conference How the state will examine toll roads as a possible solution to the hold COVID will blow in our road-repair budget The latest on whether schools will reopen this fall How coronavirus is wreaking havoc on the wide world of sports — including that head-scratching comment from Michigan Wolverines football coach Jim Harbaugh — with contributor Fletcher Sharpe And a conversation with Beaumont researcher Laura Lamb, who's part of a team that has developed a new COVID-19 test that can deliver accurate results in as little as 30 minutes 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.

We've talked about auto insurance reform in Michigan a few times on this show. I can remember back to a beautiful day on the porch of the Grand Hotel on Mackinac a little over a year ago, when I was with Governor Gretchen Whitmer and our legislative leaders who were hailing a deal that was supposed to save Michiganders money - which is a top concern among residents as we in Detroit and statewide pay the most for vehicle insurance in the nation. At the time, there was a lot of excitement by media pundits and politicians, mostly repeating talking points without really looking into the numbers. Lots of back-patting. Now that the reform has taken effect, it's a confusing mess. What coverage should people get? You might pay less on your auto insurance, but more with health insurance. And the reforms for equity? Sure, insurance companies can't use zip codes, but they can use territories to define your rates. They can't use your credit score per se, but they can use your credit report. And depending on your specific situation, your choices are going to be different. So Attorney Todd Berg of Michigan Auto Law joins me to unpack this. The firm has been ranked by U.S. News and World Report as among the Best Law Firms in America in the practice area of Personal Injury Litigation for Plaintiffs.

Daily Detroit has learned that Chipotle Mexican Grill, the fast-casual chain known for its burritos and bowls, is planning to open a new location on Woodward Avenue in Ferndale this fall. A spokeswoman tells us the new store will open at 23123 Woodward Ave., on the corner of Cambourne Street, in the site of a former Dickey's Barbecue Pit, which recently closed. Rumors about a new Chipotle had been swirling on a Facebook group, and Daily Detroit producer Shianne Nocerini recently took photos of the shuttered storefront that showed piles of construction materials lying on the floor with the name Chipotle written on them. Also, Chicago-based chain Portillo's, known for their Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches, is planning to open a new location on Hall Road in Sterling Heights in the second half of 2021. Portillo's is a mostly Midwest-based chain, but it has opened locations in California, Florida and Arizona. This will be its first Michigan location. The two planned openings are a rare bit of good restaurant news during the coronavirus, when many restaurants have shuttered temporarily and some are closing their doors for good. Newport Beach, California-based Chipotle, in particular, has weathered the coronavirus pandemic well and attracted renewed interest from Wall Street investors, thanks to brisk business and a strong digital ordering system. Chipotle currently has 10 metro Detroit locations and is also reportedly eyeing a location on Detroit's east side on the site of a vacant church. In our main conversation, we speak with Matt Friedman of Tanner Friedman Strategic Communications about the recent switch of sports-talk WDFN-AM to the Black Information Network. Friedman is a former broadcaster and close observer of media trends. He tells us the move is part of a broader trend of local radio stations going with more national content to save money. And of course, we update you on all the latest on COVID-19.

Coronavirus Updates (and Detroit City Hall opens for some in-person services) Bronco launches Lincoln Continental fades away A Detroit City Council Staffer is dead in an apparent murder-suicide A group erects a billboard outside of Livonia to call out police practices Republicans lose challenge to the new anti-gerrymandering laws Petition language approves to curtail Whitmer's executive power And Sven has thoughts about Michigan's thumb and how to inject some economic life into the area.

On today's show: We track the state's official COVID-19 numbers, plus highlight a new tool to look at the situation by county across the nation from the Harvard Global Health Institute. This will help us understand things better as Michigan is a geographically large state. Look up your county: https://globalepidemics.org/ Karen Dybis stops by virtually to talk about the Detroit Kite Festival coming up, a great way to have some fun in a socially-distanced manner. https://detroitonthecheap.com/detroit-kite-festival-encourages-this-years-participants-to-socially-distance/ And of course, we had to ask the author of a book about a drive-in movie theater about Walmart popping them up in parking lots. Karen's book: https://www.karendybis.com/ford-wyoming-drive-in Walmart drive-ins: https://twitter.com/Walmart/status/1278445015870640131?s=20 Then Sven Gustafson and Fletcher Sharpe talk upcoming Detroit City FC men's and women's team news and talk about if we should even do pro sports with the pandemic. Follow Sven: https://twitter.com/sveng Follow Fletcher: https://twitter.com/SaintFDW

Welcome to the holiday weekend, everybody. This is certainly a strange one, with coronavirus numbers once again on the upswing in Michigan and across much of the country, adding a complicated wrinkle to what is normally one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. On today's show, we make a house call to our friend Dr. Paul Thomas, founder of Plum Health Direct Primary Care in Detroit, for help answering your burning questions about COVID-19. We talk face masks, whether it's safe to eat at restaurants or fly on airplanes, what to make of coronavirus liability waivers and more. And we'll remind you that if you've got health-related questions about coronavirus, send 'em to us at [email protected] and we'll do our best to include them in future episodes with Dr. Paul. You can even send us audio of your question and we'll try to work that audio into the show. Also, we talk the latest, dispiriting COVID-19 data from the state and how we're holding up from a mental health perspective more than three months into this weird, horrible quarantine that unfortunately shows little sign of ending anytime soon. 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. http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

On today's Daily Detroit: Indoor bars across the lower half of Michigan have been ordered closed because of the coronavirus uptick. Plus: A conversation with Jarrett Schlaff, co-founder of Pingree Detroit. Their worker-owned business has some big news from a pivot - one of the recurring themes of these Coronavirus times - and they're expanding. He joins us for more. And Journalist Tiffany Esshaki of the Birmingham-Bloomfield Eagle brings us the wild story behind Bloomfield Township leaders suing social media platform Nextdoor… as well as some of the township's residents.

On today's show: A Coronavirus update, with new numbers and school start guidelines. A University of Michigan study says 1/3rd of parents will keep their kids home when the school year starts. Slaveholding former Michigan Governor and Senator Lewis Cass - his name is no longer on a state office building. It's now named after two representatives that fought for civil rights. Dearborn removes signs that used shawarma sandwiches to display distance apart from people after some pushback The nonprofit advocacy organization Friends of the Rouge River says it's won a grant to develop a large rain garden project near its headquarters in downtown Plymouth. The Motown museum in two old houses on West Grand Boulevard will reopen its doors July 15th after four months of being shuttered due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The museum will also allow you to take video inside the museum for the first time.

Hello Detroit. I'm back from Michigan's vacation wonderland and here to report about the efforts that many vacationers appear not to be taking to safeguard themselves and others against the coronavirus. Based on my experience, I'd recommend limiting your visits to businesses and other public spaces if you're planning to head Up North. And wear a mask! Other things you'll hear on today's show: The 2020 Woodward Dream Cruise is officially canceled. What does that mean? We discuss the latest COVID-19 numbers from the state of Michigan. Detroit police are investigating after one of their officers drove an SUV through a crowd of protesters over the weekend. Ford unveiled its redesigned F-150 pickup truck for 2021, while Lordstown Motors revealed its production Endurance, which aims to be the first battery-electric pickup on the market. And I add my thoughts about Rivian moving operations from Detroit to California. We discuss some of the region's most dangerous intersections from 2019, based on this post from Michigan Auto Law. And we've got an update about the dot, Ferndale's big mixed-use parking structure, after two months of construction went on pause. 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.

When we can, it's important to take a break. To have something fun, to help us get away mentally from what's going on. So today, a tasting of Anteel, a Detroit-based Tequila brand - then a conversation with their co-founder, Don Ferguson.

Three segments today: First, local Coronavirus news. Cases are up, gyms are angry they can't open, the DIA is reopening, a local drive-in movie theater takes top spot in the nation, and the city of Detroit is going to crack down on n'er do wells when it comes to bars and restaurants. Then, Eater Detroit's Brenna Houck joins us to talk about progress with To-Go cocktails as well as how restaurants are dealing with the Coronavirus and masks. Pieces discussed: Michigan Legislature Passes Bill Paving the Way for To-Go Cocktails: https://detroit.eater.com/2020/6/24/21301831/michigan-legislature-to-go-cocktail-bill-takeout-liquor-passes-senate Coronavirus Cases Tied to Michigan Bar Are a Reminder of the Risks of Pandemic Dining: https://detroit.eater.com/2020/6/23/21300673/michigan-restaurants-bars-east-lansing-close-covid-19-positive-cases Finally, Nina Thekdi from Varnum talks about the impact of President Donald Trump's quick ban on H1B and some other visas, and how that's going hurt Metro Detroit's economy; especially since no alternative plans or supports were put into place. Want to support thoughtful coverage? Join us on Patreon: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Today's show is in two parts. First, electric automaker Rivian is moving their future operations to Irvine California. This is a big blow to investment and future jobs in our state and region. Jer breaks down the story and talks about why we need to stop promoting yes-man slappys, and make some structural changes to how business is done in Metro Detroit and the state to be competitive. And that means investing in what makes our place a better place to live instead of handing out incentives like candy. Second, sports journalist Fletcher Shape breaks down the transfer of ownership at the Detroit Lions, plus the Detroit Pistons have a new GM Troy Owens. Will the organization is going to support the new General Manager? Or will owner Tom Gores continue to be an absentee landlord of one of Detroit's beloved sports institutions?

On today's show: Martha Firestone Ford steps aside as owner of the Detroit Lions, daughter Sheila Ford Hamp takes over. Gyms are reopening Friday, despite what the Governor would want. What are the most American made car brands and automakers? The answers might surprise you. Dr. Paul Thomas joins us to talk about the continued need to stay smartly vigilant about the Coronavirus and wear masks. They also have a new location of Plum Health DPC opening up in Farmington Hills. Thanks for listening to the show! We're wherever fine podcasts are found: http://www.dailydetroit.com/ And we're member supported: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

For Monday: Local news around town including the latest Coronavirus numbers according to the state. Plus: The New York Times reports that Detroit was a center of Federal aerial surveillance during the protests. More: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/19/us/politics/george-floyd-protests-surveillance.html You now need a pass to get into Michigan state parks. An update on Shelby Townships' new Chick-Fil-A in progress which township officials want to get done soon. The chain is controversial and popular. More: https://www.macombdaily.com/news/local/work-begins-on-chick-fil-as-hall-road-location/article_ed0d7bcc-b412-11ea-b238-4313643f0561.html Shinola is offering essential workers a cheap stay at their hotel. And Sandra Clark joins us to talk about the progress of the move of one of Detroit's oldest buildings. It's a home Union General and U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant lived in while he served here. It's moving from the State Fairgrounds to Eastern Market. A reminder that we're people powered. Membership: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Our Friday conversation is with former Detroit Police Chief, former Detroit deputy mayor and educator Isiah "Ike" McKinnon. He served decades in the community he loves and has big ideas for what we could do to reimagine what a police department is. Ideas you might not expect to hear out of a former police chief. And some of them might be familiar to you if you have seen the demands of protestors on the streets today. Also, a couple of housekeeping notes. Sven is on vacation next week. And thanks to Emily who joined us as a member at http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Today: Local headlines from an embattled police Chief in Shelby Township, to Coronavirus updates, Greektown Casino is laying off hundreds, and Oakman Boulevard in the city is getting new green infrastructure. Then we check in with our man about town, Devon O'Reilly, on what's happening in greater downtown Detroit around bars, restaurants and if people are returning to the streets. Finally, Sven Gustafson talks with Tim Hygh of Mackinac Island Tourism about how Coronavirus has impacted the tourist season on Mackinac Island.

On today's show: The Bronco returns with a curious launch date. OJ Simpson's birthday. We talk about a number of places around town opening or reopening. The new Milwaukee Caffe walk up window. Tree Runner Adventure Park (and should there be a zip line place in the city?). Kabuki Korean and Japanese. How restauranteur and TV personality Dave Change likes Jet's Pizza. The Henry Ford and Greenfield Village are reopening. Also, from our last episode, listeners have a couple of statue suggestions for downtown Detroit. Thanks to our members on Patreon who make this show possible: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

On today's show: A landmark ruling for LGBTQ civil rights started right here in Metro Detroit. It has big implications, but Michigan state law still has huge holes that don't protect gay and transgender people. A metro Detroiter is being imprisoned by the Russian government. The latest on the case of Mark Whelan. Coronavirus cases in Michigan are trending in the right direction, and we have a clearer picture of what's happening in nursing homes. The Christoper Columbus statue in downtown Detroit is being removed after more than a century. Greektown may be getting a new, 16 story development.

We don't cover Ann Arbor all that often on Daily Detroit, but we can't deny that a lot of interesting things come out of Tree Town. Case in point: The City Council recently approved a plan, years in the making, to make the entire city of 120,000 residents go carbon neutral by 2030. That makes Ann Arbor the first city in southeast Michigan to set such an ambitious goal. The plan is called A2Zero, and it revolves around six core strategies, including moving the grid to 100% renewable energy, boosting energy efficiency and reducing the amount of miles driven by residents by 50%. Joining us to talk about it are Mayor Christopher Taylor and Missy Stults, the city's sustainability and innovations manager who put the plan together. You can read the A2Zero plan here: https://www.a2zero.org/ Thanks to our members who make this show possible, including our newest, Majid! Join them at http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Welcome to an Al Fresco Friday edition of your Daily Detroit! Very socially distanced and outdoors, but for the first time in weeks, Jer and Sven are in the same place on the air. On today's show: Three key things to know as Detroit reopens, from barbershops to street closures for socially distant dining to DDOT service expanding. The Macomb County prosecutor's office is not going to press charges against an Amazon delivery driver that was arrested this week. Amazon also weighs in and says they would pay for the driver's legal defense. Quicken Loans may go public Oakland County plans to let the Coronavirus emergency declaration expire To Go Booze makes progress in the Michigan legislature Michigan State Parks get a new glamping option Thanks to our newest members on Patreon. Independent funding keeps independent media independent. Join us at http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

On today's podcast: Dashcam and viral video footage show the arrest of an Amazon delivery driver in Warren. Advocates say it was over the line; Police say don't call it a "bad cop" scenario. There's a Federal lawsuit against the city of Sterling Heights about a wrongful arrest after a young black man was placed in a chokehold for loitering while he waited outside his job for his dad to pick him up. Fixing the roads in Michigan? After the projects already funded, it looks like that's not happening due to lack of funds unless there's Federal help. And our feature conversation is with Tatiana Grant of Cultivate MI solutions. She's one of the state's few licensed Cannabis event professionals and is helping navigate what events looks like going forward. It's an insightful conversation. You can find out more about her here. Thanks to our members on Patreon. You're a big deal and help us cover the stories that matter in Metro Detroit. Join them at http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Friend of the Daily Detroit podcast Dr. Paul Thomas of Plum Health joins Jer on today's show to talk all about the health and medical risks of tear gas, pepper spray and rubber bullets, which it turns out mostly aren't made of rubber. It's a timely topic, given the use of these things by heavy-handed police departments across the country in response to the Black Lives Matter protests. Also, we discuss the cancellation of the 2020 Mackinac Policy Conference, after it was postponed to August, Macomb County setting a possible end date to its emergency declation over the coronavirus, and news about the Detroit City FC women's team and the 2020 season being canceled. 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.

Donald Trump turns 74 on Sunday, and local supporters of the president plan a boat parade in celebration. No, that's not a joke. Meanwhile, I report on a big Black Lives Matter march that took place in Ferndale over the weekend. The Michigan MAGA Boat Parade is planned to kick off Saturday afternoon at a marina in Harrison Township on Lake St. Clair and wrap up at 4 p.m. near the Ambassador Bridge on the Detroit River. It comes as public opinion polls reflect dismal views of the job the president is doing handling the now-multiple crises roiling America. That was also the backdrop of the protest in Ferndale Saturday, which police estimated drew between 1,500 and 2,000 people. On today's show, we discuss the daily coronavirus figures. There were just 129 new cases in Michigan and 17 fatalities. That brings the confirmed case total to nearly 59,000 and the death total over 5,600. There's new guidance for reopening Detroit's three gambling casinos, but not an opening date. A new poll from the Michigan Education Association suggests nearly a third of teachers could opt to retire, partly out of concern over their health and safety amid the coronavirus outbreak. What does that mean for districts that are already facing a looming fiscal crisis? Here's something to look forward to: Detroit City FC and the National Independent Soccer Association have announced the details of the fall season, set to begin Aug. 8. No word yet on whether it will involve allowing fans inside stadiums, but even live-streamed action at this point is a plus. Lastly, we give a shout to Buena Fe, a Mexican and Salvadoran restaurant in Oak Park that deserves your business. 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.

You might have heard of the Detroit Justice Center and The Bail Project on social media the last week or so. But what do they do? It turns out, quite a lot. Eric Williams and Erin Keith join us to talk about the changes on the ground their organization is working on. We also tackle the topic of cash bail and its role in American society. https://www.detroitjustice.org/ Then, three things you should know around town. Marches and protests were peaceful over the weekend as police are not enforcing curfews. The 36th District Court is running an amnesty program around fees until July 10th on misdemeanor and civil cases. Plus, bars and restaurants open up today. If you're going, tip your server. Thanks to Dave and SJ for supporting our work: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

On today's show: Haircuts are coming back, and a bunch of stuff is reopening in northern Michigan Michigan's Coronavirus numbers are trending in the right direction The Chief of Police in Shelby Township is in trouble for saying terrible things about protestors under a pseudonym; while a member of their city's board of trustees is worried about the Chief's first amendment rights. Shelby Township is almost 90% white and one of the fastest-growing suburbs. The former president of the UAW, Gary Jones, pleads guilty to embezzlement. MoGo, the bike sharing service, has new pricing. Meanwhile, bike sharing shuts down (temporarily) in Dearborn as their for-profit vendor, Zagster, pulls out. They're looking for a new vendor. Sanders closes four of six company retail stores as it realigns to the new normal focused on experiences and online sales. More details on the shutdown of the Detroit Institute of Music Education. 4,600+ RC helicopter drones from China were seized at the Detroit border for being mislabeled and undervalued. The first Chipotle in Detroit could come – on the border of Grosse Pointe. The Ford Bronco is coming back. Sven has more. The Detroit Zoo is reopening for members, with distancing guidelines. Some people aren't happy they have to wear masks. And the DNR is opening up campgrounds. Here's the DNR's info.

On today's show, we bring you the latest news about ongoing protests in the city and region, and we discuss the ramifications of new data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics that say unemployment in Detroit proper is at 51% right now, third worst in the nation behind Las Vegas and North Las Vegas. What does this mean for Detroit's much-vaunted "comeback"? Also making waves across Michigan today: The parent company of HopCat, the craft beer-focused restaurant chain, has declared Chapter 11 bankruptcy. It says it intends to open its Michigan HopCat locations on June 13 while it works out a financial restructuring under bankruptcy protection. We also hear from Trevor Staples of the Tony Hawk Foundation about a key funding hurdle in getting a new skatepark built at Chandler Park on Detroit's east side. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has rescinded three coronavirus-related orders, while Oakland County has rescinded its order closing outdoor playgrounds and playground equipment — further good news for those of us with kids! (But bring hand sanitzer — sven). Rivian, the electric vehicle startup, has let go 40 employees but hired a new chief operating officer. Oakland County has hired its first-ever chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer. Sales of cocktails-to-go got a boost when the proposal passed unanimously out of a Michigan House committee. We spoke about that with Robyn Cleveland of Norden Aquavit here: http://www.dailydetroit.com/2020/05/26/podcast-to-go-cocktails-proposal-makes-progress-bike-share-ridership-steady/ And lastly, Star Line, one of two ferry operators serving Mackinac Island, has announced a new Mackinac Pirate Adventure Tour. They've outfitted a ferry boat, called the Good Fortune and shown in the photo above, to look like a pirate galleon. You'll be able to take it to the island, or on an evening booze cruise under the Mackinac Bridge, starting June 19. 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.

Our feature stories include a conversation with Wayne State Police Chief Anthony Holt on a new de-escalation training center here in Detroit, plus Eater's Brenna Houck tells us about a popcorn company that's gotten burned thanks to some comments online. But first - Protests have spread in the suburbs. Pools are opening back up around the region. Auto insurance companies are going to have to pay you back some money. A local PTO Treasurer allegedly embezzled an eye-popping amount of cash And finally, we close with some thoughts from Sven about how it seems nothing changes.

Some good news mixed with all the heaviness of late. On Monday, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced she was rescinding her Safer At Home order and moving the state to Phase 4 of its reopening plan. That will allow bars and restaurants to reopen at half capacity, with social distancing and other safety precautions in place. It also allows for gatherings of up to 100 people, plus many more things we run down for you. We're staying on the fallout of the protests that have rocked Detroit and other U.S. cities in the wake of the death of George Floyd, another unarmed black man who died in police custody. We talk about a weekend of protests and violence in the city, and we hear from City Councilman James Tate. He's the former Deputy Police Chief who says what happened in Minneapolis last month was clearly murder. And he shares some thoughts about what's happened on the streets of Detroit. Finally, we discuss the closures of the Detroit Institute of Music Education, or DIME, and the Midtown location of New Order Coffee; as well as the re-opening of Street Beet. 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's episode is a step toward providing context and history around the events of the weekend that captured the attention of the nation and Detroit. Historian Ken Coleman joins us to talk about the long history of racial strife in Detroit that goes far beyond 1967, how that relates to the nation, and protesting in the spaces that make an impact. Here's Ken's most recent piece in Michigan Advance, "Use your passion in your backyard. Detroiters got Detroit covered." https://www.michiganadvance.com/2020/06/01/ken-coleman-use-your-passion-in-your-backyard-detroiters-got-detroit-covered/ And you can follow Ken on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/HistoryLivesDet and here: https://twitter.com/KenMIAdvance

Today's show is in three acts. First, we'll update you on some quick stories to know around Metro Detroit and the state. There's a $3B estimated revenue hole in Michigan. A lot of people hope the Feds step in to help, but Jer's not too sure that's going to happen. The Woodward Dream Cruise is canceled. Public pools across the three counties are closed indefinitely. Dan Gilbert's Bedrock is doing an interesting deal to keep their retail and restaurant tenants in business. Then, Karen Dybis joins me to talk about how local hotels - businesses that were planning to have a banner year in 2020 before the Coronavirus - are making changes and adjusting. And finally, some of the most well-known brand names in Metro Detroit are what's called -mid-market businesses. And they're at real risk here, falling into the gap between the Paycheck Protection Program and large corporations. Sven Gustafson chats with Christoper Letts, the chairman of the Detroit chapter of the Association of Corporate Growth. Yes, it sounds super wonky. And it kinda is. But it's interesting as a large number of people are employed by those companies right here in Southeast Michigan. We're supported by our members: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

On today's show, we dive into the news about the bankruptcy filing at car-rental giant Hertz. Analyst Michelle Krebs joins Sven to talk about the impact to the auto industry. And Jer speaks with Eater Detroit editor Brenna Houck about HopCat shutting down its downtown Royal Oak location. There's news about the Detroit Red Wings and the Ford-Wyoming Drive-In movie theater. Plus, we offer the latest updates on COVID-19 numbers from the state and city of Detroit, and more.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer may have urged Michigan residents not to head Up North for the Memorial Day weekend. But the owner of a dock company says the governor's husband asked to put his boat in the water last week before the holiday weekend, explaining that he was the guv's husband. And how Whitmer faces her own boatgate controversy, which is ironic, because some of the first, loud complaints about her emergency stay-at-home order centered on people not being able to put their boats in the water (or play golf, but that's another story). We discuss. Also on today's show: Daily coronavirus numbers from the state of Michigan and city of Detroit Kwame Kilpatrick isn't getting an early release from jail. The story was suspect from the beginning. Fred Westbrook Jr., the former head of the DDOT bus driver's union, has died of COVID-19 Great Lakes Crossing Outlets and Twelve Oaks Mall have announced plans to reopen on Thursday with a number of precautions and protocols planned Five mobility projects related to complications from the coronavirus outbreak received funding from the state of Michigan A new report from LinkedIn says Detroit is the eighth-best city in the U.S. to start your career, based on affordable housing and high starter salaries And bubble tea is the top unique delivery order in the state of Michigan 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 proposal has gained steam to allow to-go cocktails and booze from bars in Michigan, as well as has legislative sponsors. Advocate and distiller Robyn Cleveland joins Jer to talk about it, what's next and what you can do if interested. Plus, Sven talks with Lisa Nuszkowski of MoGo about bike share in the region. What's next, how the pandemic has impacted their plans, and how people are still riding the service. Support our work: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

On today's show: Michigan is opening up a little ahead of the holiday weekend. What are the details? Updated unemployment and Coronavirus numbers. The city of Detroit's population has been estimated by the U.S. Census to keep dropping - but the region is flat while the rest of the nation is growing. Meanwhile, we're adding more infrastructure for the same amount of people and act surprised when it costs more per person. Hamtramck's Labor Day Festival is canceled for this year. Author and journalist Karen Dybis joins us to talk about Michigan's drive-in movie theaters and how some of them are opening up regardless. Thanks to our members who make this show possible: http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Well, just as Michigan slowly recovers from what everyone hopes is the worst effects of the global pandemic, devastating floods hit mid-Michigan. We bring you up to speed on that and Sven talks about the intense dam-building spree the country went through. We've got the latest coronavirus numbers from the state and city of Detroit. A new poll from the Detroit Regional Chamber and the Glengariff group looks at partisanship and the pandemic. Governor Whitmer has massive support among Democrats and Independents. But Republican men view the Coronavirus Crisis very differently than other Michiganders. It's the only group that less than half say they are wearing facemasks; and the majority of middle-aged Republicans say the armed protestors in Lansing send the right message. We've got news on MOGO bike sharing in the suburbs We talk about the status of the Woodward Dream Cruise and the a planned wildcat cruise. Plus, details on the moved annual Detroit-Windsor Ford fireworks display.

We bring you up to date on the latest numbers from the state and city of Detroit. We talk about the challenges businesses up north will face opening for memorial day weekend Voting by mail will be a thing this november Poop as a harbinger of a coronavirus second wave Oakland County will offer $30 million in Federal aid to local governments Dan Gilbert wins a federal contract to oversee contact tracing We've got news about some business openings and closings and the annual Theater Bizarre halloween party - and we'll see two livestream music festivals in detroit before the month is up.

On today's show: The northern part of Michigan is beginning to reopen on Friday, while Metro Detroit is still seeing a percentage increase in COVID-positive tests. Are the flu and coronavirus comparable? The data points to a definite no. We'll talk about it. Background: https://www.mlive.com/public-interest/2020/05/the-flu-has-killed-2200-michiganders-since-2000-coronavirus-topped-that-in-a-month.html Bottle deposits aren't happening, and you've got a growing stack in your garage. What to do? Background: https://www.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/2020/05/18/michigan-bottle-returns-open-closed/5194368002/ Some auto industry updates, including factories reopening; plus Elon Musk can apparently do whatever he wants. And the DIA gift shop has seized the moment with new masks that resonate with us right now: https://diashop.org/face-masks/ That and more on your Daily Detroit.

In previous episodes, we looked at how the Coronavirus could impact Education in ways beyond social distancing. And then Sven did a deep-dive into live music and venues. Today, restaurants and bars. Eater's Brenna Houck joins me to talk about the latest from a big-picture perspective and what could be ahead for some of our favorite places to grab a bite. Then, I'll share a few things to know today: On Sunday, for the first time since the beginning of the pandemic, the City of Detroit preliminarily reported no new COVID-19 deaths. The city of Detroit has hired a long-time local leader and administrator (and the first African-American state supreme court chief justice) - as Deputy mayor. Ferndale has canceled all their events through Labor Day, and a number of Woodward corridor cities are drafting a letter requesting the Woodward Dream Cruise cancel their 2020 event which is still on for mid-August.

Today's show is a deep-dive into the impact of the Coronavirus on the music industry, musicians, and venues. First, Sven Gustafson sets the table on what's going on. Then two feature conversations: Dan McGowan, the Managing Partner of Crofoot Presents. He owns the Crofoot in downtown Pontiac and does promotions for a number of venues. Then, Steve Nawara, a longtime Detroit musician with credits that include the Detroit Cobras.

On today's show: 1:02 An update on where we stand on the Coronavirus statewide 6:05 The City of Detroit is greatly expanding testing, finding out some trends and will offer testing to barber shops, salons and dentists when they open 11:05 A protest is planned in the Capitol - again - and this time there would be arrests if people brandish weapons 14:05 The Coronavirus is decimating Michigan's budget, and one of the worst-hit areas could be our schools. Ron French from Bridge Magazine joins us to talk about the possibility of up to a 25% cut which would mean teacher layoffs, increased class sizes, and even possible district closures. Here's his piece: https://www.bridgemi.com/talent-education/gop-leader-25-percent-cuts-michigan-schools-coronavirus 24:25 We update you on some reopenings like Supino and Avalon 26:30 A pair of Detroit non-profits are giving away 10,000 facemasks Thanks for listening to your Daily Detroit! We're people-powered media. Join us as a member at http://www.patreon.com/dailydetroit

Welcome to your Wednesday Hump Day edition of your Daily Detroit. Today we're tackling: Metro Times is out with a shocking story about violent threats made against Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on several private Facebook groups. It comes as an armed rally is once again being planned for the state Capitol building in Lansing on Thursday. Some vacant Art Van furniture stores will be reborn as Loves Furniture, with about 1,000 people hired to staff them. The Archdiocese of Detroit has set dates for reopening parishes, along with strict social distancing guidelines. The New York Times editorial board dings states like Michigan that have relaxed Freedom of Information Act requirements during the coronavirus crisis. Eastern Market is redesigning how its annual Flower Day will work. And we hear from Cyndi Ross, restoration manager for the nonprofit Friends of the Rouge, about how the group is encouraging people to help the Rouge River this year by doing things at home. Later in the show, your Daily Detroit team shares the edible things they're craving that we can't currently get. Because we're almost two months into this shutdown business, and we're all going crazy. 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.