Metro Detroit homeowners are facing frigid winter temperatures and rising heating costs, but practical steps can boost comfort and savings.

Smart thermostats like the Google Nest help optimize heating schedules — and with Consumers Energy donating 30,000 units, many local families can better manage costs.

Upgrading aging windows or adding thermal curtains and cellular shades cuts down on energy loss, while rebates from DTE Energy can reduce window replacement expenses, saving up to $500 annually.

Sealing drafts with new weatherstripping and caulk helps keep cold air out, especially around older patio doors.

Improving insulation in attics, basements, and crawl spaces delivers noticeable warmth; MiHER offers up to $20,000 for efficiency upgrades and DTE rebates up to $600 for insulation improvements.

Taking advantage of these solutions can make any Detroit home cozier and far more efficient throughout the toughest winter months.

Detroit and Windsor will soon be connected by the Gordie Howe International Bridge, poised to open in early 2026.

This six-lane crossing, with dedicated space for walkers and cyclists, promises faster cross-border travel and new economic opportunities.

In politics, Michigan's 2026 midterm elections will bring major changes.

Voters will select a new governor and U.S. senator, as Gary Peters steps aside, raising the stakes for state leadership.

Mary Sheffield is set to make history as Detroit’s first female mayor, following Mike Duggan’s long administration, with a focus on neighborhoods and city growth.

Detroit’s skyline keeps transforming, led by the Hudson’s Detroit tower and JW Marriott at Water Square, both set for 2027 openings, as the city readies for national sports events.

Roadwork like the I-696 rebuild is disrupting local commutes, while debates flare over new data centers and their impact.

Meanwhile, Detroit’s sports teams and a new soccer stadium are energizing fans citywide.

Big Lake Candy Company is a Michigan-based small business known for its freeze-dried candy — a crunchy, flavor-packed twist on classic favorites like Skittles, caramel bites, and seasonal specialty treats. You’ll find them at local events around Metro Detroit and online, making them a fun way to support local while treating yourself.

👉 biglakecandy.com

Sheetz has opened its fourth Michigan store in Warren, celebrating a major step in its ongoing Metro Detroit expansion.

The new location at 31925 Van Dyke Avenue welcomed eager customers, some lining up before dawn, with free coffee, soda, prizes, and a festive atmosphere.

Replacing a former bowling alley and nightclub, the renovated site now offers made-to-order food, fuel, and convenience items, and employs about 30 local workers.

Company leaders marked the opening by donating $2,500 each to the Warren Police and Fire Benevolent Association, Special Olympics Michigan, and Forgotten Harvest, underscoring Sheetz’s commitment to the community.

With plans to invest $500 million and open up to 60 stores regionally, Sheetz’s expansion continues with additional locations underway in Eastpointe, Fraser, Novi, Roseville, and Taylor, deepening its footprint across the area.

Metro Detroit families are flocking to Sensory Sprouts, a hands-on program created by educator and mother Julie Jacobs, where babies and toddlers explore sensory stations designed for learning and fun.

With classes hosted in local homes and at Temple Israel, children from 4 months to 4 years engage in themed activities using safe, inventive materials.

Each week, kids might dig through “snow” made of yogurt or play dentist with taste-safe tools, all while building fine motor skills and learning social lessons.

Jacobs’ love of creative teaching means sessions are open-ended — kids are free to make a mess, follow their curiosity, and play at their own pace.

Sensory Sprouts also offers take-home kits and holiday-themed sensory jars, making learning accessible to all families.

Jacobs aims to expand, inspired by enthusiastic local demand and support from the Jewish community.

As 2026 begins, Metro Detroit residents  are looking to refresh routines and restore calm after the holiday rush.

The new year offers a chance to adjust sleep patterns, try organizing common areas, and embrace meal planning—simple shifts that can ease daily stress and help families feel prepared.

Using a shared digital calendar keeps everyone on track with school, work, and social events, while intentionally limiting screen time can make space for device-free family dinners, games, or outdoor walks.

Scheduling downtime—like home movie nights or leisurely weekends—reminds us that rest is truly essential.

Upcoming community events, such as the Family Fun New Year's Dance on January 9, the Detroit Auto Show 5K on January 17, and The Gallery Fundraiser on January 13, offer opportunities to reconnect, reset routines, and support local causes.

Let 2026 be a year of balance, organization, and connection for all in Metro Detroit.

A fierce winter storm barreled across the Great Lakes this week, sparking a rare seiche on Lake Erie that reshaped water levels along its western shores.

Residents in Luna Pier, Michigan, watched in awe as strong winds pushed lake waters aside, exposing vast stretches of lakebed for the first time in years.

Austin Lada and friends seized the chance to explore, unearthing a rusted Volkswagen axle—lost since 1969—and an old class ring thought to have been submerged for more than sixty years.

They also spotted a zebra mussel-covered snowmobile, which was recovered with help from CJ Witfoth.

The unprecedented scene drew curious locals and visitors, including Scarlett Hill from South Carolina, who called the event unforgettable.

By the next day, waters returned to normal, but the memories, and stories revealed, are sure to linger in the community.