News@noon: Tougher lead rules, Springsteen's surprise, weekend fun
Today is Friday, April 15, 2016, and some beautiful weather is on tap for the weekend.
But there's a metaphorical dark cloud over the rest of Michigan that the government is taking a stand against. Under a new plan being introduced by Gov. Rick Snyder, Michigan would have the toughest lead-testing rules in the nation and require the replacement of all underground lead service pipes in the state.
The announcement comes after Detroit Public Schools water test results showed that 15 buildings have tested positive for high lead levels, including one where a drinking fountain recorded 100 times the allowable limit. As a result, the district is telling parents to get all children under the age of 6 tested for lead.
The question of the day: Do you back Snyder's plan? Let us know in the comments or tweet us @detroitnews
Here's what else is making news today:
What a difference a mile makes
- There's often a big difference in neighborhoods that fall in the outer ring suburbs and the city of Detroit just a mile away. But in Warren, those differences have become pronounced within the city itself after what some residents say has been years of neglect. Crime, poverty, unkempt rental homes and vacant or aging storefronts dot south Warren, while the northern section of the city thrives with cleaner neighborhoods, big-box retailers and companies such as General Motors investing millions of dollars in new developments.
Drive-through shooting
- A minivan filled with children was riddled with bullets Wednesday evening in an apparently random attack along the border of Inkster and Dearborn Heights, according to the Michigan State Police.
- A sidenote: Text-to-911 service is now available in western Wayne County.
Some real talk
- The Detroit Lions' schedule for the 2016 is out, and after taking a look, Josh Katzenstein, Rod Beard, John Niyo and Bob Wojnowski think they know how it's going to go. Do you agree with their predictions?
- The Pistons have made the playoffs and face the Cavs starting this Sunday. So how will they do? It depends on whether they are at their best. Overall, when you consider the matchup, Detroit has an uphill battle. But, as Wojo reminds us, there's really no pressure now because they've already surpassed all expectations.
- The Red Wings are also in the playoffs and already down one game to the Tampa Bay Lightning. Scoring has become an issue for the team, once again. Our columnists agree the Wings need to toughen up and (start scoring) if they have any hope of winning tonight. Chat with Wings columnist Gregg Krupa tonight at 6:30 before the game.
A Springsteen surprise
- Fans expected to see Bruce Springsteen at the Palace Thursday night and they also got Bob Seger.
Weekend fun
- Wondering what to do this weekend? You could see a movie, because there are lots of good choices. Here's what our critics had to say about the new releases: The Jungle Book | The Invitation | Confirmation | Krisha | Everybody Wants Some!! | Criminal | Barbershop: The Next Cut
- Or you can spend your time checking out some wine and pop-up restaurants, some creative new tastes or some old favorites.
- Maybe you'd prefer to do some cooking yourself. We've got some tasty recipes for you to try: Braised Lamb Shanks | Warm Bulgur and Lentil Salad with Roasted Shrimp | Two-Day Braised Point Brisket | Baked Polenta | Red Quinoa with Roasted Butternut Squash, Dried Cranberries and Pumpkin Seeds | Roasted Chicken 10 Ways
- Maybe you need to catch up on some chores, or are considering a redecorating project. Get some inspiration here.
- And perhaps you have been irresponsible and haven't filed your taxes yet. You better hurry up because Tax Day is Monday!
Have a good weekend everyone! And be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter and Instagram for more news every day.