In Case You Missed It: Top Stories from the Week (Dec. 20-24)

Motown singer Wanda Young of the Marvelettes dies at 78, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signs bills earmarking nearly $1.5 billion for economic development in the state, Korean fried chicken chain Bonchon to open its first Michigan location, and Oxford High School prepares for a “slow” reopening by end of January
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Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation on Monday, Dec. 20 to spend nearly $1.5 million in business incentives for Michigan’s economic development. // Photograph courtesy of Office of Governor Gretchen Whitmer

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signs $1.5-billion business incentives bills.

$1.48 billion is earmarked for Michigan economic development, including a new General Motors Co. battery plant. Another $841 million will target rental assistance and COVID-19 testing.

Motown singer Wanda Young dies at 78.

Young, who was in the group The Marvelettes, passed away last week. She performed background vocals for “Please Mr. Postman,” which went on to become Motown’s first chart topper.

Bedrock purchases The Icon, continuing its Detroit riverfront expansion.

The real estate developer announced Wednesday it has acquired the 420,000-square-foot development. Bedrock envisions using the area for sustainable infrastructure, mixed-income housing, dining, and more.

Korean fried chicken chain Bonchon sets a date for its Michigan grand opening.

The eatery will open to the public Dec. 29 in Farmington Hills. The first 100 customers will receive free sandwiches.

Playwright Dominique Morisseau’s Detroit-centric play made its Broadway debut.

The Detroit native’s play, Skeleton Crew, tells the story of automotive plant workers facing foreclosure. The play made its Broadway debut in New York on Tuesday.

Oakland University will start 2022 with virtual classes.

The university plans to offer online learning for at least the first two weeks of the year amid the latest COVID surge.

A Detroit woman tracks down the mystery benefactor who hid $120 on a bus bench. 

Amy Olive found the envelope from “The Ugly Sweater Elf” on Tuesday morning, stating it changed her life. With the help of Detroit Free Press, she was able to find who left the gift.

Oxford High School aims to begin a “slow” reopening by end of January.

The district is planning telephone town hall meetings and in-person venues for Oxford families to share their ideas and provide feedback on the return.


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