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"Amazon Fresh stores closing, winter viruses spreading, grants awarded to youth clubs, pothole frustration and modern pet care expansion in Metro Detroit!"


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"Amazon Fresh stores closing, winter viruses spreading, grants awarded to youth clubs, pothole frustration and modern pet care expansion in Metro Detroit!"

Spotlight on the D
Archives
"Amazon Fresh stores closing, winter viruses spreading, grants awarded to youth clubs, pothole frustration and modern pet care expansion in Metro Detroit!"

Steve Korbal
Feb 16, 2026
Trivia Question❓What Detroit area shopping mall was the largest in the United States upon its opening in 1954? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
Amazon has scrapped plans to open several Amazon Fresh grocery stores in Metro Detroit, including locations in Roseville, Troy, and Shelby Township.
Some sites were fully outfitted and ready to launch, but they’ll remain vacant as Amazon pivots away from Amazon Fresh and Amazon Go stores.
The company is now betting big on expanding Whole Foods Market and ramping up its online grocery delivery.
As of December 2025, Amazon’s same-day grocery delivery reaches more than 2,300 cities, including Metro Detroit.
Shoppers can order fresh produce, dairy, meat, baked goods, and more for delivery within hours, positioning Amazon as a serious rival to traditional grocers.
Prime members get free same-day delivery on orders over $25, while non-members pay $12.99 per order.
Meanwhile, former Amazon Fresh store sites, like the old Toys "R" Us in Roseville, face an uncertain future as local brokers search for new tenants. Read More... |
Metro Detroit residents are experiencing a stubborn surge of cold and flu symptoms this spring, with persistent coughing and sneezing becoming the norm in homes, schools, and workplaces.
Physicians like Dr. Brandon Karmo of Orchard Primary Care report unusually high cases of flu, COVID-19, and lingering post-infectious coughs, sometimes lasting weeks or months.
This persistent cough is linked to airway sensitivity and lingering inflammation, even after recovery.
Dr. Karmo recommends hydration and rest, while Dr. Asha Shajahan in Novi urges using fluids, saline rinses, and decongestants, noting more cases of influenza A and sinus infections.
Alongside respiratory viruses, gastrointestinal bugs like norovirus are on the rise due to increased indoor gatherings.
Dr. Eric Ayers warns that children and seniors are especially vulnerable, while RSV and stomach viruses are spreading faster than usual in schools and workplaces.
Frequent handwashing, vaccination, and caution when ill remain crucial as the community hopes for relief with the arrival of spring. Read More... |
Craving something sweet with a crunch? Big Lake Candy Company is bringing bold flavor and fun texture to Metro Detroit with their wildly popular freeze-dried treats.
From fruity favorites to chocolate classics, these unique snacks deliver an intense flavor punch you won’t forget. Perfect for gifts, parties, game nights — or just keeping a stash for yourself.
🔥 Special Deal for Spotlight on the D Readers:
Stock up, mix and match, and discover your new favorite snack. Support local. Snack local. Taste the crunch everyone’s talking about. |
Royal Oak Detroit Elks No. 34 has awarded a $2,000 grant to the Metro Detroit Youth Clubs (MDYC), reinforcing efforts to expand youth development across Metro Detroit.
This grant will directly fund new sports equipment and provide membership scholarships, removing financial barriers for local students eager to join MDYC programs.
Brett Tillander, MDYC President and CEO, praised the Elks for their longtime commitment, noting their consistent support for both special-needs and recreation-focused programs.
With annual fees sometimes taxing for larger families, these scholarships allow more youth—especially teens—to participate fully in club offerings.
Carla Johnson, Elks Treasurer, reaffirmed that the grant aligns with their mission of charity and service, specifically assisting children in need.
The donation also bolsters MDYC’s capacity to deliver art, athletics, tutoring, and leadership activities in a safe and welcoming environment.
Such community partnerships are vital, providing life-changing opportunities and strengthening neighborhood bonds for over 2,400 local youth. Read More... |
Metro Detroit's worsening pothole crisis is frustrating drivers across the region.
Blown tires and rough daily commutes have become all too common as road conditions decline.
Local road crews are stepping up, with Wayne County extending work hours to 10-hour days, six days a week, to tackle the worst-hit streets.
Officials are urging residents to quickly report potholes so repairs can happen faster.
Oakland County teams are actively patrolling major routes like Woodward Avenue to identify and patch hazards before they worsen.
Meanwhile, Detroit’s Department of Public Works asks locals to use the ‘Detroit Delivers’ app to report road issues, aiming for repairs within three days—weather permitting.
Despite increased efforts, Michigan’s persistent freeze-thaw cycles ensure potholes remain a constant problem, so drivers are encouraged to stay alert and report trouble spots to keep journeys safer. Read More... |
Dr. Alex Schechter has channeled his early love for animals into Burrwood Veterinary, a flourishing clinic in Royal Oak, Metro Detroit.
After returning from New York City, where he launched innovative veterinary services, Schechter saw a need for accessible, neighborhood-centered care.
Since opening Burrwood Veterinary in 2022, the clinic has rapidly expanded, now offering 40% more space to serve local pets.
Schechter emphasizes transparency, trust, and compassionate care, inviting owners to witness treatments firsthand.
The clinic provides everything from urgent care to wellness programs and partners with mobile specialists so pets get advanced care without leaving Royal Oak.
Remote consults and help with travel paperwork add to the clinic’s convenience.
Amid industry staffing challenges, Schechter has built a dedicated, progressive team, making Burrwood Veterinary a standout destination for local pet owners.
He’s committed to keeping the clinic’s community-driven mission while growing its reach across Metro Detroit. Read More... |
💡 Answer to Trivia Question: Northland Center in Southfield, Michigan |