community

Michael Brown, a 52-year-old Detroit restaurateur and nightlife entrepreneur known as "Mike B.," was fatally shot outside a west side bar early Saturday, with two others injured in the incident. Brown had built a decades-long career in Detroit's entertainment scene, starting as a party promoter and club owner before transitioning to successful restaurant ventures including Sloppy Chops and Sloppy Crab. His establishments became important gathering places for Detroit's Black community during a period of citywide revitalization, combining upscale dining with the nightclub atmosphere he perfected over years. The shooting remains unsolved as Detroit Police seek information from the public, while the community mourns a beloved figure known for mentoring young promoters, supporting local artists, and creating opportunities for others.

Employees of Hutch's Jewelry in Oak Park used social media to address concerns about the store's future following the recent death of their prominent jeweler, Darrel "D. Hasty" Hasty, who passed away unexpectedly in late February at age 33. The 33-year-old had become the public face of the business through his popular TikTok presence after the store's original owner, Dan Hutchinson, was murdered in a hire-for-hire scheme in 2022. Despite these consecutive tragedies, the jewelry store had experienced significant growth, including partnerships with the Detroit Pistons and attracting celebrity clients like Rick Ross and E-40. Employees AJ Williams and Jay Graves posted a video thanking supporters and confirming the store will continue operating, though specific plans for moving forward remain unclear.

Detroit's new Mayor Mary Sheffield made headlines by wearing expensive Cartier "buff" glasses to a boxing match at Little Caesars Arena, greeting the crowd with the local phrase "what up doe!" This fashion choice came amid the sudden death of Darrel "D. Hasty" Hutch, a widely-admired Detroit jewelry ambassador who educated over 90,000 TikTok followers about authentic luxury items, particularly Cartier glasses with buffalo horn frames. Hasty's videos legitimized Detroit's distinctive jewelry culture and helped shift perceptions of the city beyond poverty stereotypes, treating items like gold chains as investments and self-expression rather than excessive luxury. The mayor's public display of Cartiers represents both a connection to her constituents and a tribute to Hasty's influence in bringing Detroit's authentic jewelry culture into the mainstream, following similar embraces by figures like Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Pistons' "Jewelry Cam."

Detroit educator Jessie Feliz, who grew up in the Brightmoor neighborhood, has established a comprehensive learning center on Schoolcraft that addresses a critical gap in accessible community education. The facility provides afterschool tutoring and enrichment programs for children aged 5-12, while also offering adult language courses and specialized programming for neurodiverse learners, including those on the autism spectrum. With support from a $50,000 Motor City Match grant that funded essential accessibility improvements and building renovations, the center employs four staff members and can serve up to 30 students simultaneously. Feliz developed the center's offerings based on her teaching experience in multiple locations and her personal experience raising an autistic son, creating an inclusive space that addresses the practical needs of Brightmoor families who previously had limited local educational resources. # Key Takeaways

Estate planning attorney Jehan Crump-Gibson addresses a widespread misunderstanding about Wills and probate court that has been perpetuated through social media and public forums. Contrary to popular belief promoted by non-experts, having a Last Will and Testament does not prevent assets from going through probate court; instead, a Will merely serves as instructions for the court to follow when distributing assets held solely in the deceased person's name. The article explains that Wills cannot override beneficiary designations and that assets without joint owners or designated beneficiaries must still pass through the time-consuming and public probate process. Crump-Gibson advocates for Revocable Trusts as a superior alternative that allows assets to transfer directly to beneficiaries without court involvement, though she emphasizes the importance of consulting an experienced estate planning attorney to determine the best approach for individual circumstances.

The Michigan Chronicle has announced the honorees for its 19th annual Women of Excellence Awards and Induction Ceremony, scheduled for March 27, 2026, at Huntington Place in Detroit. More than 400 nominations were submitted, and the selected recipients represent diverse fields including business, education, healthcare, nonprofit work, government, and entrepreneurship throughout Southeast Michigan. The program recognizes women who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, professional accomplishments, and community service that significantly influence the region's economic, civic, and cultural development. The celebration will include corporate partners, civic leaders, and past honorees, and supporters can participate through sponsorships, table reservations, or individual ticket purchases. A commemorative publication called The Book of Women will also be released to highlight the 2026 honorees and feature advertisements from previous recipients and community partners.

The Detroit NAACP launched its 71st annual Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner campaign on February 12 with a kickoff reception emphasizing urgent action against contemporary injustices. Reverend Dr. Wendell Anthony, the branch president, invoked the organization's 117-year history of multiracial civil rights advocacy while warning attendees that past accomplishments are insufficient given today's resurgence of discrimination and attacks on diversity. The event featured significant financial commitments, including $250,000 from Huntington Bank and $50,000 from Dennis Archer Jr., who assumed a leadership role as community co-chair. Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield and other civic leaders reinforced their support for the organization's mission, with the formal dinner scheduled for April 26 to honor three local leaders for their civic contributions.

Wayne County Commission marked Black History Month on February 5, 2026, with a program featuring nearly 20 students from Detroit School of Arts performing music, poetry, and dance at the Guardian Building. The celebration, hosted by Commissioner Angelique Peterson-Mayberry and Chairwoman Alisha Bell, deliberately focused on youth participation and included traditional elements like the Black National Anthem and ancestral libation ceremonies. Alongside the cultural program, the Commission introduced the "Our Hair, Our Health" resolution addressing toxic chemicals in beauty products disproportionately marketed to Black women. The resolution responds to research showing that approximately 50% of hair products marketed to Black women contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals compared to just 7% of products marketed to white women, positioning this as a public health equity issue requiring government attention.

Comedian Druski created a viral parody video mocking Black megachurch pastors, featuring an exaggerated character descending from the ceiling in designer clothes and performing theatrical stunts. Many viewers interpreted the skit as targeting Pastor Mike Todd of Transformation Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, who is recognized for unconventional preaching methods like getting haircuts during sermons. Todd addressed the controversy during a recent sermon, claiming he found the video humorous but criticized people for becoming distracted by the online debate instead of focusing on their spiritual responsibilities. Social media users responded with mixed reactions, with some arguing that Todd's extended discussion of the skit proved he was equally distracted, while others suggested he missed an opportunity for meaningful self-reflection about how megachurches are perceived. # Key Takeaways

Pastor Lawrence W. Rodgers is marking his fifth anniversary leading Detroit's Second Baptist Church, a historic 190-year-old congregation located in the rapidly changing Greektown entertainment district. Under his leadership, the church has expanded community outreach programs addressing homelessness, mental health, addiction support, and youth development, while balancing preservation of its significant legacy with modern needs. Second Baptist has deep roots in Black liberation, having served as an Underground Railroad station from 1836 to 1865 and establishing Detroit's first school for Black children in 1839. Rodgers emphasizes youth STEAM education and workforce preparation as essential tools to prevent Detroit's next generation from being excluded from future economic opportunities, recently securing grant funding to support these initiatives. # Key Takeaways

A Detroit-based development firm called Promised Land Realty, co-owned by Trevor Sarter, has revealed plans for "The Garvey," a new apartment building to be constructed at the intersection of Dexter Boulevard and Davison Avenue on Detroit's west side. The project takes its name from both civil rights leader Marcus Garvey and Sarter's grandfather, Marcus Garvey Woodson, who previously worked as a chief land appraiser for the city. The development has received approval from the Detroit Building Authority and has secured a retail partnership with Neighborhood Grocery. According to Sarter, the project aligns with Mayor Mary Sheffield's goals for equitable, community-focused development in Detroit neighborhoods.

The Michigan Chronicle conducts an annual recognition program that honors African American men who demonstrate outstanding leadership and achievement in their communities. The initiative celebrates Black men from Detroit and surrounding areas who are making significant impacts across various professional fields including business, religious institutions, educational settings, and political arenas. These honorees are selected based on their ability to inspire others through their vision, excellence, and dedication to empowering their communities. The program serves as a platform to highlight positive role models and acknowledge the meaningful contributions these men make to society. Through this annual tradition, the publication aims to showcase Black male achievement and community service. # Key Takeaways

Black homebuyers are currently facing increasingly restrictive barriers to homeownership through modern lending standards that are quietly recreating historical inequities without explicit discriminatory policies or legislation. Dr. Anthony O. Kellum highlights how credit requirements are becoming more stringent in ways that disproportionately impact Black prospective homeowners. These obstacles are emerging subtly through lending practices rather than through overt discrimination or formal policy changes. The situation represents a concerning trend where access to homeownership for Black Americans is being restricted through financial mechanisms that operate beneath public scrutiny. # Key Takeaways

TechTown Detroit is hosting informational sessions to assist entrepreneurs in creating strong applications for the Comerica Hatch Detroit Contest by TechTown, which is now in its fourteenth year. This small business competition provides one hundred thousand dollars in startup capital to a local business owner who intends to establish a physical retail location. The sessions target individuals who are either planning to start a business or are in the initial stages of operating one. TechTown is facilitating these preparatory workshops to improve the quality of contest submissions from prospective participants. # Key Takeaways

Richard Johnson, a retired automotive journalist, has written his debut play "The Classic King," which explores Detroit's car culture through the story of a struggling used car dealership and its multigenerational staff. The production, developed through workshops at The Purple Rose Theatre Company in Chelsea with founder Jeff Daniels and the theater's acting ensemble, blends comedy and drama while examining workplace dynamics and generational differences. Daniels is directing the play, which runs through March 8th at the theater he founded. The production aims to resonate both with car enthusiasts and general audiences through its relatable workplace themes, while celebrating Michigan's distinctive automotive heritage.

Detroit photographer Elonte Davis, also known as "Slumdog Visionaire," has opened a new exhibition called "Homeroom: Detroit Taught Me First" at Michigan State University's LookOut Gallery, showcasing his documentary-style images of everyday life on Detroit's east side. The 37-year-old artist, who considers himself a "memory engineer," draws inspiration from street-level conversations and community interactions to create what he describes as an archive of Black family life and experience. The exhibition is part of MSU's paid mini-residency program for emerging artists exploring African-American perspectives and social activism through art. Davis's rising profile includes recognition as a 2025 Kresge Artist Fellow and multiple exhibitions across Michigan, though he remains focused on continually expanding his work rather than dwelling on past successes.

The Detroit Department of Transportation has introduced revisions to its passenger Code of Conduct, establishing a two-tier system for addressing inappropriate behavior on buses, with penalties ranging from seven-day suspensions to permanent bans depending on violation severity. Officials emphasized their focus on de-escalation and peaceful conflict resolution rather than punitive measures that could lead to incarceration. The policy changes, presented at a January 15 community meeting, will be submitted to City Council for approval following an ordinance passed nearly a year ago authorizing DDOT to enforce conduct rules. The article also covers various other Detroit city government matters, including discussions about ICE protection measures, public lighting board nominations, bathroom accessibility in parks, library infrastructure bonds, and citizen concerns about animal control enforcement and traffic safety.

After Detroit received approximately six inches of snow—the threshold that triggers residential street plowing—the city deployed contractors under $4.2 million worth of contracts to clear neighborhood roads by Monday midnight. However, many residents expressed disappointment when they discovered the city's plowing standard only requires contractors to clear a 16-foot path (two 8-foot plow passes) to make streets passable, rather than removing snow curb to curb. While some residents reported seeing minimal difference after plows passed through their neighborhoods, city officials explained this limited approach is necessary given Detroit's 1,884 miles of residential streets, with more thorough plowing reserved for major roads and school perimeters. The confusion led to approximately 50 complaints through the city's reporting system, with residents frustrated by packed snow remaining on streets and the stark contrast with fully cleared roads in neighboring communities.

The Parker Pride Foundation, City of Highland Park, and Rehab Highland Park are organizing their annual "A Christmas in the Park and City Tree Lighting" celebration on December 6, 2025, at Massachusetts Park. The free community event will run from 3:00 to 5:30 p.m. and includes Santa Claus arriving on a fire truck, toy distributions, arts and crafts, and treats for attendees. This year's celebration will feature a new element: live entertainment from former Highland Park resident Loren D. Harper and The David Whitfield Production Choir, who will perform a special Christmas show. The event aims to support the Parker Pride Foundation's mission of revitalizing Highland Park and uplifting its residents through community programming.

Energy bills fluctuate during winter months due to several key factors that increase consumption. Homes require more natural gas and electricity to maintain comfortable temperatures in cold weather, with older homes experiencing even greater energy demands due to inadequate insulation and outdated windows. Holiday activities compound the problem through increased hosting, decorative lighting, and additional appliance usage. Additionally, billing cycles that vary between 26 and 35 days depending on when service started and weekend/holiday adjustments can create the appearance of inconsistent charges even when actual usage remains steady. # Key Takeaways

After retiring from a 21-year Navy career, DeShawn W. established a Detroit-based business connecting communities with essential services and discovered a significant shortage of certified contractors to help local families improve their homes' energy efficiency. He participated in the DTE Energy Efficiency Academy, a paid training program created in 2023 with Walker-Miller Energy Services that provides hands-on instruction and nationally recognized certifications in energy-related trades. Through the Academy, DeShawn obtained multiple Building Performance Institute certifications that now enable him to conduct energy assessments helping homeowners access free upgrades and rebates. His success demonstrates how the program transforms individual careers while simultaneously addressing Detroit's critical need for energy-efficient housing improvements that reduce families' utility expenses.

DTE Energy and Detroit have commenced construction on the Van Dyke/Lynch Solar Park, a 42-acre facility that represents one of five solar installations under the city's Neighborhood Solar Initiative. The project will produce 10 megawatts of renewable electricity starting in June 2026, sufficient to power over 2,000 residences and help operate municipal facilities including City Hall and emergency services buildings. Nearby residents will receive home energy efficiency improvements valued at up to $15,000 through DTE's program. This community-driven development supports Detroit's objective to transition all municipal buildings to clean power by 2034 and aligns with DTE's targets of achieving 50% renewable energy by 2030 and carbon neutrality by 2050.

The family of Reverend Jesse L. Jackson, Sr. has issued a statement correcting misleading media coverage about his health status. The civil rights leader is currently hospitalized at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in stable condition while receiving treatment for progressive supranuclear palsy, a neurological condition he was diagnosed with earlier this year. Despite reports suggesting otherwise, he is not dependent on life support equipment and is breathing independently. The family expressed gratitude for medical care and public support, while his son Yusef confirmed that Reverend Jackson remains engaged in his advocacy work, recently calling for churches to provide food assistance during the holidays.

Dr. Anthony O. Kellum argues that Black Americans can reverse decades of systemic disinvestment in their communities through strategic property ownership and local investment. He explains that when Black residents purchase homes and businesses within their own neighborhoods, they create economic stability, retain wealth within the community, and prevent displacement-driven gentrification. The article emphasizes that despite a persistent 30-percentage-point racial homeownership gap, modern lending tools and strategic approaches can help close this divide. Kellum advocates for community-centered ownership as a pathway to both individual wealth building and collective economic empowerment that benefits entire neighborhoods. # Key Takeaways

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, DTE Energy, and Boston-based Lightstar Renewables broke ground on a major solar energy project that will convert 165 acres of vacant and blighted land across ten Detroit neighborhoods into solar arrays. The project will generate approximately 10 megawatts of clean energy to power 127 municipal buildings, including police and fire stations, with the first phase expected to be operational by summer 2026. While some residents welcomed the investment and improvements to long-neglected areas, the city had to use eminent domain lawsuits on nearly 100 parcels, though 21 occupied homeowners voluntarily agreed to sell for $90,000 each. Additionally, nearly 250 households in participating neighborhoods received between $15,000 and $25,000 for home energy efficiency upgrades like roof repairs, windows, and furnaces.

Detroit Council Member Scott Benson has requested a legal opinion on how the city could close the Kronos concrete mixing facility in District 3, following community protests. The facility, built in 2022 in the Cadillac Heights neighborhood by a Moroun family-owned real estate company, has operated despite initially lacking proper permits and has generated numerous environmental and quality-of-life complaints from local residents. Neighbors have specifically reported health issues from noise and dust pollution from the plant. Benson, who has faced criticism from residents who believe he enabled the plant's establishment, claims he previously helped temporarily shut down the facility and is now working to change zoning rules that permit industrial operations near residential areas.