Ford CEO Jim Hackett outlined an ambitious vision for the company's autonomous vehicle strategy at CES, emphasizing the development of networked systems that integrate cars, bikes, and city infrastructure. Ford is collaborating with Autonomic to create the Transportation Mobility Cloud and with Qualcomm to develop a 5G-based communication system. Additionally, Ford has partnered with Postmates to explore the use of self-driving vehicles for deliveries. The initiative aims to redesign urban transportation to meet growing demands and improve quality of life.

The Michigan Bureau of Elections has announced plans for the most comprehensive post-election audits in the state's history, including a statewide risk-limiting audit and a zero-margin risk-limiting audit in Antrim County. Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson emphasized the importance of these audits to affirm public confidence in the election process. The audits will involve hand-counting thousands of randomly selected ballots and reviewing election processes, machines, and ballots. Despite ongoing debates and lawsuits over alleged election irregularities, the audits are not expected to change the certified results of the 2020 General Election, which confirmed Joe Biden's victory in Michigan.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer endorsed Joe Biden for the Democratic presidential nomination, joining his campaign as a national co-chair. Whitmer's endorsement comes after Biden's strong Super Tuesday performance and highlights his support for expanded health care and the auto industry bailout. The endorsement has drawn criticism from the Republican National Committee and mixed reactions from within the Democratic Party. Biden and Sanders are set to visit Michigan ahead of the primary.

Detroit teens, including Marqell McClendon and Demetrius Robinson, navigate their first semester of college with the help of supportive programs like Michigan State University's Charles Drew Science Scholars and Central Michigan University's Pathways to Academic Success. These initiatives provide academic advising, career coaching, and community connections, aiming to improve graduation rates for first-generation and underrepresented students. Despite challenges in subjects like math, students benefit from mentorship and peer support, highlighting the importance of tailored programs in easing the transition to college life.

Nearly 50,000 General Motors employees with the United Auto Workers union went on strike after the expiration of their collective bargaining agreement. The union demands fair wages, affordable health care, profit sharing, and job security. The strike follows GM's announcement of plant closures, including the Detroit-Hamtramck plant. UAW organizers are maintaining 24-hour picket lines at the plant entrances.

Nearly 50,000 General Motors employees with the United Auto Workers union went on strike after the expiration of the 2015 collective bargaining agreement. The union demands fair wages, affordable health care, profit sharing, and job security, especially in light of GM's announcement to close the Detroit-Hamtramck plant and other facilities. UAW organizers are maintaining 24-hour picket lines at the plant entrances.

Nearly 50,000 General Motors employees with the United Auto Workers union went on strike after the expiration of their collective bargaining agreement. The union demands fair wages, affordable health care, profit sharing, and job security. The strike follows GM's announcement of multiple plant closures, including the Detroit-Hamtramck plant. UAW organizers are maintaining 24-hour picket lines at the plant entrances.

Nearly 50,000 General Motors employees with the United Auto Workers union went on strike after the expiration of the 2015 collective bargaining agreement. The union demands fair wages, affordable health care, profit sharing, and job security. The strike follows GM's announcement of multiple plant closures, including the Detroit-Hamtramck plant. UAW organizers are maintaining 24-hour picket lines at the plant entrances.

In Yabucoa, Puerto Rico, a chaotic FEMA event left Hurricane Maria survivors frustrated and confused as they waited for disaster assistance. Despite the severe damage and ongoing hardships, including lack of food, water, and electricity, the relief effort was disorganized, with unclear communication and inadequate resources. FEMA's response was criticized for being ineffective and poorly coordinated, reflecting broader issues in the federal government's handling of the disaster. Local residents, including those with serious health conditions, faced significant challenges, highlighting the urgent need for more efficient and compassionate disaster relief measures.

9-year-old Tessa Prothero, who has been battling neuroblastoma, received a heartwarming birthday surprise organized by Gilda's Club of Metro Detroit. Unable to walk due to her condition, Tessa was treated to a dancing flash mob orchestrated by professional dancer Will Thomas, involving two local dance studios, family, and friends. The event aimed to lift Tessa's spirits and showcased the community's support and love for her.

Family and supporters marched from Royal Oak to Detroit to advocate for Jose Aldofo Zaldana, an undocumented immigrant detained for unauthorized reentry into the U.S. Zaldana, who fled gang violence in El Salvador, faces deportation and potential death if returned. His wife, Merari Zaldana, and supporters are urging ICE and its director, Rebecca Adducci, to use prosecutorial discretion to halt his deportation. ICE maintains that Zaldana's case is a priority due to his felony drug conviction and reentry after deportation.

Special-needs children, including 17-year-old Khyle Torillos, received custom-made bicycles and tricycles at Beaumont Children's Hospital's Bike Day. The event, supported by The Kevin Degen Open Road Foundation and other groups, provided the bikes at no charge. These customized bikes, which can cost up to $6,000, offer significant physical and psychosocial benefits, allowing children to participate in age-appropriate activities with their peers and families. Over 781 bikes have been distributed to Detroit-area families in the past 11 years.

MLive Detroit invites residents to share their photographs capturing the beauty of Detroit, highlighting iconic landscapes and neighborhoods through the #BeautifulDetroit initiative.

Racing enthusiasts gathered on Belle Isle for the second day of the Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix, despite the threat of rain. The event featured cars from the Verizon IndyCar Series, the TUDOR United SportsCar Championship, the Pirelli World Challenge Series, and trucks from the SPEED Energy Formula Off-Road.

The Giant Uniroyal Tire, an iconic Detroit landmark, celebrates its 50th anniversary. Originally a ferris wheel at the 1964/1965 New York World's Fair, it was relocated to Detroit and has since become a symbol of the city. Uniroyal Tires and the Automotive Press Association marked the occasion with a celebration. The tire underwent significant renovations in 2003 to ensure its longevity. The article highlights the tire's historical significance and the positive sentiments of Uniroyal's Brand Manager Ray Fischenich.

Downtown Detroit's Hart Plaza hosted the first day of the Red Bull Hart Lines skateboard competition, featuring 19 professional skaters vying for a $35,000 prize and a 2015 Dodge Challenger R/T. Conceptualized by professional skateboarder Ryan Sheckler, the event showcased unique skating obstacles designed by California RampWorks. Fans had the opportunity to meet world-class skaters like Sheckler, Chris Cole, Wes Kramer, and Riley Hawk.

High school senior A'Ja Booth, who received a kidney donation from her teacher Nadirah Muhammad, was welcomed back to West Side Academy in Detroit. Muhammad's selfless act stemmed from learning about Booth's struggles with dialysis. After confirming compatibility, both underwent successful surgery. Booth, set to graduate and pursue nursing, expressed immense gratitude towards Muhammad, whom she regards as a second mother. The school is noted for its high graduation rate and supportive programs.

The Giant Uniroyal Tire, originally built as a ferris wheel for the 1964/1965 New York World's Fair, stands at eight stories tall and weighs nearly 12 tons. Designed by the same architectural firm behind the Empire State Building, it was later transported to Detroit in 1965. The tire has undergone several renovations and remains a celebrated landmark, having entertained notable figures such as Jacqueline Kennedy and the Shah of Iran.

Horticulture teacher Michael Craig was awarded the 2015 Educator of the Year by the Michigan Lottery, receiving a $10,000 prize at Charles Drew Transition Center. The award, established in 2014, recognizes outstanding public school educators. Michigan State men's basketball coach Tom Izzo praised Craig's humility and impact as a 'difference maker' in education. Craig's family, including his wife Susan, son Andrew, father Samuel Craig, and mother-in-law Mary Bozell, attended the event.

The Giant Uniroyal Tire, originally built as a ferris wheel for the 1964/1965 New York World's Fair, stands at eight stories tall and weighs nearly 12 tons. Designed by the same architectural firm behind the Empire State Building, it was relocated to Detroit in 1965. The tire has undergone several renovations and remains a celebrated landmark, having entertained notable figures such as Jacqueline Kennedy and the Shah of Iran.

Nearly 60 postal trucks and cars from the National Association of Letter Carriers helped Gleaners Community Food Bank launch the 23rd annual 'Stamp Out Hunger' Food Drive in Detroit. The event, set for Saturday, will have letter carriers collect nonperishable food items from residents' mailboxes. Last year, the drive amassed 70.3 million pounds of food, with hopes to exceed that amount this year.

Wayne State University's Anthropology Department conducts annual archaeological excavations in Detroit's Roosevelt Park, uncovering historical artifacts that shed light on the city's past. Led by Dr. Tamara Bray, the department's efforts include salvage excavations ahead of development projects. The findings, such as glass bottles, leather shoes, and animal bones, help understand historical industries, livestock, and culture. The Grosscup Museum of Anthropology at Wayne State University currently features an exhibit on the environmental legacy and fishing history of the Detroit River, open to the public.

Hamtramck's Bon Bon Bon has opened a new shop in downtown Detroit for a media preview, with the public opening scheduled for April 16. The new location at 719 Griswold St. in the Chrysler House building features an industrial look and custom packaging. The original Hamtramck location will remain open on Saturdays, while the new downtown store will operate six days a week. Kaitlin Antishin, the new store manager, anticipates a high volume of after-lunch customers.

The Macomb Center for the Performing Arts hosted the first of three performances of 'Frida,' an opera co-produced with the Michigan Opera Theatre, depicting the vibrant and tumultuous life of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. The opera, sung in both English and Spanish, features Catalina Cuervo as Kahlo and Ricardo Herrera as Diego Rivera, with music by Robert Xavier Rodriguez. The production will also be performed at The Berman Center for the Performing Arts and the Detroit Film Theater. Detroit's special connection to Kahlo and Rivera is highlighted through the Detroit Institute of Arts' significant Mexican murals.

Robert Elmes, founding director of Galapagos Art Space, made his first public appearance in Detroit at the Detroit Institute of Art, discussing the move of his Brooklyn-based art organization to Detroit. Elmes highlighted the city's potential for creating opportunities for local artists, emphasizing the importance of time, space, and people for a thriving art community. He expressed interest in partnering with local art organizations like 555 and 333 Midland to foster artistic growth and career opportunities.

Experiencia Preparatory Academy in Detroit hosted an NBA Fit Clinic led by Pistons center Andre Drummond and Pistons Academy Coach Aaron Smith. The event, part of the NBA's Fit Week, included basketball drills, exercise, and talks promoting an active and healthy lifestyle. Approximately 50 students participated in activities such as shooting contests and dribbling exercises, and received t-shirts, water bottles, and fruit to take home.

The North American International Auto Show's Charity Preview in Detroit featured the Steve Miller Band and raised over $5 million for local children's charities. The event, now in its 39th year, has contributed more than $100 million to various organizations. The 2015 beneficiaries include several children's charities in Southeastern Michigan. The auto show will be open to the public from January 17-25, with expectations of high attendance and a variety of vehicles on display.

A new 16,000 square-foot train station named after Michigan Congressman John Dingell has opened in Dearborn, replacing a smaller 35-year-old station. The $28.2 million federally-funded John D. Dingell Transit Center, operated by Amtrak, serves as a major intermodal hub and a focal point for future transit-oriented development. It features bike racks, free parking, Wi-Fi, and energy-saving elements, and has received LEED Silver certification. The station will service six Amtrak Wolverine-line trains daily, and a Tim Hortons is set to open inside.

The Birmingham Kroger store, located at 685 E. Maple Rd., will re-open on December 12 after a $6.5 million renovation. The first 400 customers will receive a $10 gift card. The store now features an expanded produce section, a full-service bakery, an improved hot foods area with a made-to-order macaroni and cheese bar, wider aisles, shorter shelves, and motion sensor lights in the freezer section. The expanded wine cellar will offer daily tastings for six weeks and new mixology seminars. Store Manager Mathew Dakho and Consumer Communications representative Ken McClure emphasized that the renovations were based on customer feedback.

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, along with the Public Lighting Authority (PLA) and the Sherwood Forest Association, celebrated the illumination of 96 newly installed, historically styled street lights in the Sherwood Forest neighborhood. The PLA, led by CEO Odis Jones and Board Chair Dr. Lorna Thomas, collaborated with the community to respect the neighborhood's unique character while modernizing its street lighting. The community raised additional funds for the unique poles, showcasing effective cooperation and swift action.

The 88th annual America's Thanksgiving Day Parade in Detroit featured intricate floats and large balloons, including characters like Kermit the Frog. Bob Dascola from Ann Arbor navigated a Michigan-themed float, while Morris Grissom from Southfield drove it, using a camera and radio for guidance. American rapper Vanilla Ice was set to ride on their float. The event spanned several blocks on Woodward Avenue and was a significant local celebration.

The Palace at Auburn Hills hosted 700 guests for a Thanksgiving dinner organized by the Detroit Pistons, U.S. military members, Forgotten Harvest, and Palace Sports and Entertainment. Volunteers including Stan Van Gundy, Rick Mahorn, Andre Drummond, and Spencer Dinwiddie served traditional holiday foods. This event marked the fourth annual Thanksgiving dinner as part of a season-long partnership between the Pistons and Forgotten Harvest, aimed at feeding families throughout Metro Detroit.

Multiple protests occurred in Detroit following the Grand Jury's decision not to indict Ferguson police officer Darren Wilson. Demonstrators gathered at various locations, including the U.S. Federal Court building and Wayne County's 36th District Court, to express their discontent and call for justice for Michael Brown. Key figures such as Police Chief James Craig and Reverend Charles Williams II of the National Action Network were involved in the rallies, emphasizing the importance of community trust and solidarity with Ferguson.

Campus Martius Park in Detroit hosted its 11th annual tree lighting event, attracting a large crowd despite cold weather. The event featured warming tents, ice skaters, bands, and choirs. The 60-foot Christmas tree was lit at 7:45 p.m., followed by free skating time on the rink.

A Detroit firefighter fell two stories from a ladder bucket while fighting a fire at the old Fisher Body Plant. The firefighter, who jumped from the bucket after part of the building collapsed, was knocked unconscious but was awake and conscious at the scene before being hospitalized. The condition and identity of the firefighter are not disclosed. The fire had been battled since early morning, and the plant, built in the early 1900s and closed in 1984, had historical significance.