Daily Detroit

Latest Episodes:

We react to Trump dumping on Detroit, EVs and Politics, Possible Ann Arbor Voting Changes Oct 15, 2024

Show notes

Welcome back to your Daily Detroit! In this episode, we react to the aftermath of Donald Trump's controversial speech at the Detroit Economic Club. We explore the implications of his comments about Detroit and how they resonate with both local and national audiences.

Veteran political journalist Steve Friess shares his insights on the political landscape and the perception of Detroit in the media.

We also discuss the evolving political dynamics in Michigan, touching on the first debate between Elissa Slotkin and Mike Rogers. We examine the role of electric vehicles in political debates and how they have become a partisan issue, despite their growing popularity.

In addition, there's an upcoming Ann Arbor ballot propositions that could reshape local elections by removing party affiliations and adding municipal funding of local elections. We analyze the potential impact of these changes and are kind of puzzled why Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has taken a stance against them.

Switching gears, we talk about the recent success and the importance of raising expectations for Detroit's sports teams. Steve is originally from New York, so adds a bit of that "Winning should be the expectation" flare.

Don't forget to join us for our Happy Hour this Thursday, October 17th, at The Congregation in Detroit. It's a great opportunity to meet fellow listeners and celebrate our community. RSVP on Eventbrite and be part of the fun! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1025554359697?aff=oddtdtcreator

As always, your support on Patreon helps us bring more local stories to life. Visit patreon.com/dailydetroit to become a member.

00:00 - Introduction and Happy Hour Reminder

02:15 - Trump's Speech at the Detroit Economic Club

15:30 - Michigan's Political Landscape and Debates

30:45 - Ann Arbor Ballot Propositions

45:00 - Detroit Lions and Sports Culture

Will Stellantis Leave Michigan? // New Bars // Second Life for Old Hotels? Oct 11, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to your Daily Detroit!

In today's episode, we dive into a variety of topics that have Detroit buzzing. We start with a discussion about the recent Detroit Economic Club speech by Donald Trump, which left many scratching their heads. We delve into the implications of his comments on tariffs and the economic realities they present. This was recorded during the speech, so we didn't hear live the other thing he said about Detroit.

Next, we explore the vibrant new addition to Oak Park, Hanson's Hall, a cozy cocktail and beer spot that aims to be an extension of the community's living room. We discuss its unique charm and the local efforts to preserve urban fabric by reducing parking minimums.

Then, we turn our attention to the potential relocation of Stellantis headquarters, with Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer in talks to keep them in the state. We examine the economic impact and the strategic considerations at play.

We also talk the return of the iconic Post Bar to Detroit, reminiscing about its storied past and its upcoming revival. Plus, we share updates on the historic Lee Plaza building's redevelopment and the purchase of the old Dearborn Hyatt, pondering the potential for revitalization in these areas.

COME MEET US IN PERSON: Join us for a fun-filled Happy Hour at The Congregation in Detroit on October 17th to celebrate over 1500 episodes of Daily Detroit. It's free to attend, but please RSVP on Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/celebrating-1500-episodes-daily-detroit-happy-hour-the-congregation-tickets-1025554359697?aff=oddtdtcreator

SUPPORT THE PROJECT: We appreciate your support on Patreon, which helps us bring more local stories to life. Visit patreon.com/dailydetroit to become a member.

Should Michigan Build EVs? // Riverfront Delinquency // Tyrannosaurs in Detroit Oct 10, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to your Daily Detroit!

This episode kicks off with a lively discussion on Detroit's social media clapback against Equanimeous St. Brown's comments about the city, highlighting the spirited defense of the Motor City.

The conversation shifts to the financial troubles of Detroit's Riverfront Towers, now facing challenges despite high occupancy rates. Background reading: https://www.freep.com/story/money/business/michigan/2024/10/08/riverfront-towers-detroit-delinquency-morningstar/75568131007/

Next, we tackle the electric vehicle (EV) debate in Michigan, sparked by a US Senate candidate who is against EV factory and battery plant construction. That lines up with a poll that shows almost half of Michiganders don't want to compete for EV business.

With EV sales on the rise and younger generations embracing the technology, we discuss the importance of Michigan staying competitive in the EV manufacturing landscape. Even if you don't like EVs, shouldn't we make them for those that do? Shouldn't Michigan stay the center of the auto industry? Poll source: https://michauto.org/politicization-of-evs-existential-threat/

Also, that poll reveals hesitance among non-college-educated voters to pursue further education.

To wrap up, they share a fun experience visiting the "Tyrannosaurus: Meet the Family" exhibit at the Michigan Science Center, a must-see for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages. Get tickets: https://www.mi-sci.org/meet-the-family-tyrannosaurus/

Sipping Non-Alcoholic Success from Detroit: Casamara Club Oct 09, 2024

Show notes

In today's episode of Daily Detroit, we dive into the world of non-alcoholic beverages with a focus on a local brand that's making waves across the country.

We reconnect with Jason Lavalla, the founder and club president of Casamara Club, to discuss the evolution of their leisure sodas and their journey since the pre-pandemic days. J

oined by Norris Howard, the conversation explores the brand's unique botanical sodas that offer a sophisticated alternative to alcoholic drinks, appealing to a growing sober-curious movement.

Casamara Club's botanical sodas, inspired by global cocktail flavors, are making a mark with their art deco branding and refreshing taste.

Jason shares insights into the business side of things, including distribution strategies and the impact of being a non-alcoholic brand.

With a new product, Super Classico, hitting the shelves, the discussion touches on its vibrant branding and how it fits into the broader Casamara Club lineup.

Listeners will also get a taste of the future for Casamara Club as Jason discusses their expansion plans and the potential for growth in the non-alcoholic beverage market. The episode wraps up with a fun taste test and creative cocktail suggestions using Casamara Club's offerings.

PLUS: Don't miss out on our upcoming Happy Hour celebrating 1500 episodes at The Congregation in Detroit on October 17th. It's free to attend, but please RSVP on Eventbrite.

As always, your support on Patreon helps us bring more local stories to life. Visit patreon.com/dailydetroit to become a member.

The home run heard around the Great Lakes, New urban forest and trail + more Oct 08, 2024

Show notes

Today's show is in two parts.

First, we catch you up on four stories around town:

Detroit City Council member Fred Durhal III has launched an exploratory committee for a potential mayoral run.
Detroit's three casinos have mixed results this month.
Today is move-in Day for Ford Employees at the renovated Michigan Central Station.
Circle Forest, a 1.3-acre urban forest and trail, was unveiled Tuesday in the Poletown neighborhood. More: https://www.arbdetroit.org/circle-forest

Then Fletcher Sharpe talks about the home run heard around the Great Lakes as Kerry Carpenter knocked it out of the park in Cleveland to help the Tigers even the series; The Dallas Cowboys are next for the Lions in a winnable game for the Honolulu Blue; and yes, the Pistons are playing again. And they won!

Don't forget to follow us on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to your podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/daily-detroit/id1220563942

Our Happy Hour is next Thursday, October 17th at the Congregation. It's free, but RSVP here so we can plan for how many are coming: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/celebrating-1500-episodes-daily-detroit-happy-hour-the-congregation-tickets-1025554359697

And if you really want to help local media, support the show by being a member on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/DailyDetroit

What might decide Michigan? // What is social media in politics good for? (ft. Steve Friess) Oct 07, 2024

Show notes

Joining me as he does every Monday going into the Election, veteran journalist Steve Friess. He's written for the New York Times, Newsweek and many others. He currently writes the weekly newsletter for the Ann Arbor Observer.

Here are some of the topics we cover today:

Controversy in the Senate Race: We delve into the latest controversy surrounding Republican Senate nominee Mike Rogers and his questionable residency claims. With voter fraud and election integrity at the forefront, this issue raises eyebrows as the race against Elissa Slotkin heats up. We encourage you to read the original report in the Freep so you can check out the source material to what we discussed.

Campaign Dynamics: The conversation shifts to the strategies of the Harris campaign and the importance of addressing key voter concerns, especially the 100,000 uncommitted votes from the primary and if they mostly stay home.

We tackle a listener question about the evolving role of social media in politics. They're turned off by politics on social media, and we talk about what it can be good for, and where it's not as strong.

Our Happy Hour is back! We're celebrating over 1500 episodes at The Congregation in Detroit. Join us on October 17th, 2024, from 4pm onwards. Tickets are free, but please RSVP on Eventbrite.

Don't forget to subscribe to Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your shows.

Your support on Patreon helps us bring you more local stories from around Metro Detroit. Visit patreon.com/dailydetroit to become a member.

Peace Park Opens in Dearborn, Rencen Talk, Tigers Excitement Oct 04, 2024

Show notes

Can you believe it's October already? We're back with a Friday edition of the podcast, including some soft opens, a new park, and a listener question.

October Vibes: Devon shares his love for October, declaring it one of the best months in Detroit. With Halloween decorations already up, he talks about his neighborhood's festive spirit and the joys of the season.

New Coffee Spot Alert: Jer went to the soft open of Sepia Coffee, a new coffee shop on East Grand Boulevard.

Dearborn's Peace Park: Devon visited the newly opened Peace Park in West Dearborn, a modern park designed for events and community gatherings. It's one of three parks to be constructed in the city.

Playoff Fever: With the Detroit Tigers in the playoffs, Jer and Devon discuss the excitement sweeping through the city. They highlight new and classic spots to enjoy the games, including the newly soft-opened Parlay Gaming in downtown.

RenCen Reimagined: A listener question prompts a discussion on the future of the Renaissance Center. With only 20% occupancy, Jer and Devon explore potential changes and the impact on downtown Detroit's landscape.

Don't forget to subscribe to Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your shows. Your support on Patreon helps us bring you more local stories from around Metro Detroit. Visit patreon.com/dailydetroit to become a member.

Magic in the Motor City: Detroit Tigers Roar Forward in Playoffs Oct 03, 2024

Show notes

The Detroit Tigers are having a special season, and Fletcher Sharpe joins Jer to talk about it.

Playoff Magic: The Tigers are bringing back the magic reminiscent of the City of Champions era, with key hits and a newfound confidence among the younger players. Jer and Fletcher debate the role of magic in sports and how the Tigers have defied the odds against higher-paid opponents.

Looking Ahead to Cleveland: As the Tigers face the Guardians in a best-of-five series, the Guardians pose a strong challenge, but the Tigers' adaptability could be their secret weapon.

Community Spirit: The excitement in Metro Detroit is palpable, uniting fans across the city and beyond. This playoff run is more than just baseball; it's a reminder of the unity sports can bring to a community.

We want to hear from you! Share your thoughts and excitement at dailydetroit@gmail.com. Let's rally together and enjoy this incredible moment in Detroit sports history.

Talking Cocktail Theory and Harmonic Spirits (ft. Dr. Kevin Peterson) Oct 02, 2024

Show notes

Hey friends - today's episode sharing what's new, what's next and what matters in Metro Detroit is in two parts.

The first few minutes, we update you on stories around town. From a Jeep recall, to possible changes to where you'll watch the Detroit Tigers next year, to two new places coming to Wyandotte and three candidates for Royal Oak City Manager, we have you covered.

Then, a conversation with Dr. Kevin Peterson. He's a brilliant part of the hospitality and drinks world, and he has a book out, "Cocktail Theory: A Sensory Approach To Transcendent Drinks."

Get the book here: https://sfumatofragrances.com/products/cocktail-theory

He brings a scientific approach to making the best tasting drinks possible. Plus, there's a new line of ready to pour cocktails for higher-volume places called Harmonic Spirits that we talk about.

Lemme know what you think. dailydetroit - at - gmail - dot - com

And if you haven't yet, be sure to tell a friend about the Daily Detroit podcast, and follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to shows.

New Restaurant Inspection Signs // Lions Win Big (And 3 More Stories) Oct 01, 2024

Show notes

On today's show we cover 4 stories to know around town then get into the Tigers and Lions with Fletcher Sharpe.

Dining with Confidence Ordinance: The city of Detroit's new dining with confidence ordinance goes into effect today, aiming to improve food safety and transparency in restaurants.

Detroit Free Press and Detroit News Relocation: The Detroit Free Press and Detroit News will need to find a new home by the end of 2024 as their lease with Bedrock is not being extended. More: https://www.freep.com/story/money/business/michigan/2024/10/01/detroit-free-press-leave-newsroom-federal-reserve-building/75466267007/

QLine Ridership Increase: Detroit's streetcar, the QLine, has seen a significant increase in ridership, with more than a million riders in 2023, up 25% year over year. Operations have transferred to the Regional Transit Authority of Southeast Michigan, opening up more public and sustainable funding. Read their report here: https://www.qlinedetroit.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/QLINE-AR-24_FINAL_VideoLink.pdf

New Trail Project in Sterling Heights: The city of Sterling Heights in Macomb County is breaking ground on the new ITC Trail, a ten-foot-wide shared-use path connecting the Clinton River Trail to M-59.

Sports Talk with Fletcher Sharpe: Jer is joined by Fletcher Sharpe to discuss the Detroit Tigers' playoff series against the Astros and the Detroit Lions' victory over the Seahawks.

Don't forget to follow Daily Detroit on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your shows. Your support on Patreon helps us bring you more local stories from around Metro Detroit. Visit patreon.com/dailydetroit to become a member.

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