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Welcome to The Detroit Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Detroit Tigers home game

• AI art of the week

• A deep-dive into the life of Smokey Robinson

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Nobody can teach me who I am. You can describe parts of me, but who I am – and what I need – is something I have to find out myself.”

— Chinua Achebe

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Trivia

Here is your trivia question of the week. The answer will be shown in next week’s newsletter. Which do you think it is? No cheating!

What unique feature of Detroit's international waterfront makes it notable compared to other U.S. cities?

A) It's the only U.S. city where you can look south to Canada

B) It has the longest uninterrupted waterfront in the U.S.

C) It's the only U.S. city with a floating post office

D) It has the most international border crossings of any U.S. city

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The landmark designated a Michigan State Historic Site in 1985 is B) Hitsville U.S.A. (Motown Museum).

News

💼Business

Dearborn tries new pedestrian safety measures, following other Detroit area cities. (link)

🏒Sports

Detroit Lions, New York Giants each fined $200,000 for multiple fights during joint practices. (link)

Detroit Tigers' Keider Montero enjoys best start of young career in 4-2 win over Mariners. (link)

Detroit Tigers outfielder Kerry Carpenter begins rehab assignment in Triple-A Toledo. (link)

🏦Finance

McNamara building to get $34.1M in updates as part of U.S. investment in Michigan. (link)

Upcoming Events

Here are some events that are happening in our city this week. There is a good mix between sports, entertainment, conferences, concerts, and more.

Sports

⚾ Detroit Tigers vs. Seattle Mariners
Comerica Park Detroit, MI
Thursday August 15 | 1:10 PM | (more info)

⚾ Detroit Tigers vs. New York Yankees
Comerica Park Detroit, MI
Saturday August 17 | 1:10 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 Missy Elliott
Little Caesars Arena Detroit, MI
Thursday August 15 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎶Afrobeats to the World
Magic Stick 4120 Woodward Ave. Detroit,
Saturday August 17 | 9:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🎵 Sunday Socials: A Weekly Family-Friendly Music Series
102 Elm Street Wyandotte, MI
Sunday, August 18 · 12 - 4pm EDT | (more info)

Image of the Week

Every week, I have a habit of making some AI art about our city.

This week, I typed in “Detroit with a transportation system based on personal drones.” and this is what I got.

Let me know what ideas you have for this. I really enjoy making these types of photos.

Detroit Historical Events

1998 - The opening of the Comerica Park project is announced.

In 1998, the announcement of the Comerica Park project marked a significant milestone for Detroit. The construction of Comerica Park began in October 1997 on the former site of the Detroit College of Law. This $300 million project was a collaborative effort, with over 60% of the financing coming from private sources and the remainder from public contributions. The groundbreaking for the project occurred on October 29, 1997, and it was a momentous occasion for the city.

On April 11, 2000, Comerica Park officially opened its doors and hosted its first Major League game, becoming the new home of the Detroit Tigers. The inaugural game saw the Detroit Tigers triumph over the Seattle Mariners with a 5-2 victory in front of 39,168 fans. The park's opening marked a new era for Detroit baseball, providing a modern and vibrant venue for sports enthusiasts and the local community. Comerica Park has since become an iconic landmark in downtown Detroit, offering an enhanced fan experience and serving as a hub for sports and entertainment.

The naming rights for the new ballpark were secured by Comerica Bank in December 1998, with a $66 million agreement over 30 years. This partnership has contributed to the ongoing legacy of Comerica Park as the home of the Detroit Tigers. The park's construction and opening have left a lasting impact on the city, providing a state-of-the-art facility for baseball and creating a sense of pride and excitement for Detroit residents and visitors alike.

Famous People From Detroit

Smokey Robinson (1940–): Singer, songwriter, record producer, and former record executive.

Smokey Robinson, born William "Smokey" Robinson Jr. on February 19, 1940, in Detroit, Michigan, is an African American singer, songwriter, and record producer. He has been a prominent figure in the music industry for over three decades, known for his contributions to rhythm and blues. Robinson's early life in the rough Brewster ghetto of Detroit shaped his journey to becoming a music icon.

Robinson's Childhood in Detroit

Smokey Robinson spent his childhood in the rough neighborhood of Detroit, Michigan, growing up in the Brewster ghetto. His upbringing in this environment influenced his music and provided the backdrop for his early experiences and inspirations.

The Miracles and Musical Beginnings (1950s)

In the 1950s, Smokey Robinson co-founded the vocal group "The Miracles," which became a pioneering force in the Motown music scene. As the frontman, chief songwriter, and producer of the group, Robinson's talent and creativity propelled The Miracles to great success.

Rise to Prominence and Solo Career (1960s-1970s)

During the 1960s and 1970s, Smokey Robinson's career soared as he established himself as a solo artist. His distinctive voice and songwriting prowess led to the release of several hit singles and albums, solidifying his status as a music legend.

Record Producer and Executive Role (1970s-1980s)

In addition to his singing and songwriting, Smokey Robinson took on the role of a record producer and former record executive. His influence extended beyond performing, as he contributed to the success of other artists and played a key role in shaping the music industry.

Legacy and Continued Influence (1980s-Present)

Smokey Robinson's impact on the music industry has been enduring, with his influence felt across generations. His contributions to rhythm and blues, soul, and pop music have left an indelible mark, earning him recognition as a trailblazer and innovator.

Key Achievements :

• Co-founding the vocal group ""The Miracles"" and achieving success in the Motown music scene.

• Establishing himself as a solo artist with numerous hit singles and albums.

• Serving as a record producer and former record executive, shaping the careers of other artists.

• Leaving a lasting legacy in rhythm and blues, soul, and pop music, influencing future generations.

Smokey Robinson's story is one of resilience, creativity, and musical excellence. From his humble beginnings in Detroit to his rise as a music icon, Robinson's journey has been defined by his passion for music and his enduring impact on the industry.

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-Matthew Larsen

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