Sponsored by Big Lake Candy Company

Neighbors Helping Neighbors: Charmane Neal’s Fight Against Hunger in Detroit

Charmane Neal is on a mission to fight hunger and lift up her neighbors in Detroit. She founded the nonprofit Hey Y’all Detroit in 2020 to deliver groceries, tend community gardens, host free farmers markets, and stock local pantries and little free libraries for those in need. It’s a true grassroots effort that has become a lifeline for many families. Charmane’s philosophy is simple: meet people where they are, and show that a caring community can tackle big problems together.

Earlier this year, Hey Y’all Detroit nearly shut down after a promised federal grant was suddenly cut. Instead of giving up, Charmane turned to the community for help – and Detroiters answered the call. She asked for $1,500 to keep the project going, but neighbors pitched in over $6,500 – more than four times the goal – to save those vital food and literacy programs. For Charmane and the communities she serves, it’s a story of hope and resilience. Even in tough times, neighbors supporting neighbors can make all the difference in Metro Detroit. Read More...

Borrow, Build, Beautify: Tool Lending Program Expands in Detroit

Rows of shovels and other tools at a Detroit community tool library are ready to be borrowed for neighborhood improvement projects. Detroit has expanded its tool lending program to help residents beautify their neighborhoods, starting with a new community tool library in the Bailey Park–McDougal Hunt area on the city’s east side. Spearheaded by local volunteers like the Williams family in partnership with the Bailey Park Neighborhood Development Corp., the library loans out gardening and repair equipment ranging from rakes and wheelbarrows to chainsaws – available at no cost for registered block clubs and community groups, while individual residents can borrow tools for a modest fee.

Demand for the tools has been high, and additional tool library locations are being set up across the city to meet the “significant demand” identified by Detroit’s Department of Neighborhoods. The Williams family even operates a mobile tool delivery service to ensure anyone who needs equipment can access it, further empowering neighbors to revitalize their blocks. City officials say this initiative is more than practical – it’s helping build community engagement and improve quality of life in Detroit’s neighborhoods. Read More...

"Success isn't just about what you accomplish in your life; it's about what you inspire others to do." - Unknown

Glow, Gourds & Good Times: Romulus Pumpkin Festival Lights Up Sept. 19–21

A fire truck decked out in lights during the Pumpkin Festival’s Parade of Lights. The Romulus Pumpkin Festival is a three-day fall celebration that kicks off Friday night with the electrifying Parade of Lights, where everything from bicycles to cement trucks is illuminated and paraded through downtown. Thousands of spectators line Goddard Road to watch the glow and cheer on the creative floats. The rest of the weekend offers classic small-town festival fun: live music, plenty of food, artisan crafts and games for all ages. Attendees can join in pumpkin-themed contests – think pumpkin rolling races, pie-eating and even seed-spitting competition  – or check out the classic car and tractor show before relaxing in the park with some music. Located at Romulus Historical Park and free to enter, this annual festival brings friends and families together as a community to celebrate the harvest season in a big way. It’s a quintessential metro Detroit autumn outing filled with hometown spirit. Read More...

Sweeten your day with Big Lake Candy Company, Metro Detroit’s go-to for small-batch, hand-crafted treats. From our wildly popular freeze-dried candies—where classic favorites get a crunchy, melt-in-your-mouth twist—to our seasonal specialties, we’re all about bringing joy in every bite. Whether you’re grabbing a bag for yourself, stocking up for a family outing, or surprising someone with a gift, Big Lake Candy delivers a taste that’s equal parts nostalgic and new.

We don’t just sell candy—we create moments. You’ll find us at local fairs, festivals, and markets across Michigan, always ready with samples and smiles. And for those who can’t wait until the next event, our goodies are available year-round online.

Proudly Michigan-based and community-driven, Big Lake Candy is more than a sponsor—we’re your neighbor with a sweet tooth.

👉 Follow us on Facebook & Instagram @BigLakeCandy for event updates, special drops, and behind-the-scenes fun.

When Detroit Had Its Own Island of Fun – The Boblo Story

A vintage postcard of Boblo Island, once a popular amusement park on the Detroit River. For nearly a century, Detroiters flocked to Boblo Island Amusement Park – an idyllic island retreat on the Detroit River – for summer fun and lifelong memories. Boblo Island Park opened in 1898 as a ferry-accessible getaway. It could only be reached by the famous Boblo Boats – the steamships Columbia and Ste. Claire – that ferried excited families on an 80-minute trip downriver.

Many recall that the boat ride was half the fun, with a big steam whistle and live music serenading the voyage. On the island itself, generations of kids and parents enjoyed classic rides like the carousel, Ferris wheel, and Tilt-a-Whirl, and even danced together in one of the largest dance halls of its time. The magic finally ended when the park closed after the 1993 season. Today the island is private, but the legend of Boblo still brings a smile to Detroiters who remember the good old days. Read More...

Quick Escapes: 5 Easy Day Trips Every Detroiter Should Try

• Ann Arbor – This vibrant college town (45 minutes west) is filled with museums and art galleries, eclectic eateries, and the picturesque Nichols Arboretum for a dose of nature.

• Dearborn (The Henry Ford) – Spend a day at the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation exploring remarkable artifacts (the actual Rosa Parks bus is on display here) and step back in time at Greenfield Village.

• Lansing – Michigan’s capital city (~1.5 hours away) invites you to tour its 1879 State Capitol building (a National Historic Landmark) and visit gems like the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum.

• Frankenmuth – About 90 minutes north, Michigan’s Little Bavariacharms with its German-themed downtown, famous chicken dinners, and Christmas shops – it feels like a holiday village year-round.

• Bay City – Drive two hours north to this historic waterfront town on Lake Huron’s bay. Stroll the Riverwalk Pier and admire Victorian homes in the historic district, then browse antique shops and enjoy the waterfront views. Read More...

Why did the Detroit football team go to the bank?

To get their quarterback!

Roll With It: Midtown Welcomes Detroit’s First Gluten-Free Sushi Bar

🎉 Tigers Ticket Giveaway Winner 🎉

We’re excited to announce that Robby Phillips is the winner of our Detroit Tigers ticket giveaway! 🐅⚾👏

Thank you to everyone who entered — the response was incredible. Don’t worry if you didn’t win this time… more giveaways are already in the works. Stay subscribed to Spotlight on the D so you don’t miss your next chance!

👉 Keep an eye on your inbox — the next winner could be YOU!

This giveaway was brought to you by Big Lake Candy Company 

Proudly Michigan-made, Big Lake Candy is serving up bold flavors and freeze-dried favorites that hit different. Treat yourself today!