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Welcome to The Detroit Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Lions Sign CB Essang Bassey.

• AI art of the week

• A deep-dive into the life of Marvin Gaye

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live.”

—J.K. Rowling

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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!

Which Detroit structure is renowned for its architectural significance and was once the world's largest tire manufacturer's headquarters?

A) The Uniroyal Giant Tire

B) The Renaissance Center

C) The Fisher Building

D) The Ford River Rouge Complex

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The unique feature of Detroit's international waterfront is A) It's the only U.S. city where you can look south to Canada.

News

💼Business

Detroit Berry Company celebrate Black Business Month. (link)

🏒Sports

3 crucial young Detroit Lions players leave practice with injuries. (link)

Lions Sign CB Essang Bassey. (link)

🏦Finance

Detroit school district considering contract with controversial tutoring company. (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

⚾ Eastside Diamond Hoppers vs. Birmingham Bloomfield Beavers
Jimmy John's Field Utica, MI
Wednesday August 21 | 7:05 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎸 Orbit Culture
Majestic Theatre 4120 Woodward Ave. Detroit,
Monday August 19 | 6:30 PM | (more info)

🎶 Mad Caddies, The Iron Roses, You Dirty Rat
The Sanctuary Detroit 2932 Caniff St Hamtramck,
Tuesday August 20 | 7:00 PM| (more info)

🎤 NOFX
The Fillmore Detroit Detroit, MI
Wednesday August 21 | 6:00 PM| (more info)

Family

🎥 Summer Reading: Adventure Begins at the Movies
Lincoln| Detroit Public Library 1221 East Seven Mile Road Detroit,
Wednesday August 21 | 5 - 7:30pm 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 “Futuristic Detroit with advanced weather control systems.” 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

1907 - Hudson's department store opens, becoming a Detroit shopping destination.

In 1907, Hudson's department store opened its doors in Detroit, quickly becoming a beloved shopping destination for locals and visitors alike. Known as ""The Big Store,"" the J.L. Hudson's Department Store was a premier shopping center in the heart of downtown Detroit. The store was an iconic landmark, featuring over 2 million square feet spread out over 32 floors, 705 fitting rooms, 76 elevators, and three of its own electrical transformers. Hudson's department store was a symbol of Detroit's prosperity and a hub for fashion, holiday traditions, and community gatherings.

For generations, Hudson's department store was synonymous with Christmas and fashion, and it played a significant role in Detroit's cultural and economic landscape. The store's closure in 1983 marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of memories and nostalgia for Detroiters. Today, the historic Hudson's department store is remembered as a symbol of Detroit's record industrial growth and world status in the 20th century. The Detroit Historical Museum hosts exhibits that allow visitors to experience the nostalgia of shopping at Hudson's and relive the traditions enjoyed by generations of Detroiters.

The legacy of Hudson's department store lives on in the hearts of Detroiters, and its impact on the city's history and culture continues to be celebrated through exhibits and memories of a bygone era.

Famous People From Detroit

Marvin Gaye (1939–1984): Singer, songwriter, and record producer.

Marvin Pentz Gay, Jr. was born on April 2, 1939, in Washington, D.C., to Alberta and Reverend Marvin Gay Sr. He would go on to become one of Motown Records' most famous artists, known for his soulful voice and socially conscious lyrics. Gaye's life and career were marked by both triumphs and tragedies, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry and the world.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings (1939-1956)

Marvin Gaye's passion for music was evident from a young age. He joined his first musical group, the DC Tones, while in high school. However, at the age of 17, he dropped out of school to escape his father's abuse, setting the stage for his journey into the music industry.

Air Force Tenure and Musical Pursuits (1956-1960)

In 1956, a 17-year-old Marvin ran away from home to enlist in the United States Air Force. His time in the Air Force took him to various bases across the country, where he began rebelling against the strict orders of his superiors. It was during this time that Gaye's passion for music continued to grow, eventually leading him to pursue a career in the music industry.

Rise to Fame with Motown Records (1961-1970)

Marvin Gaye's career took off when he signed with Motown Records, where he became the label's number one solo male artist. His smooth, soulful voice and ability to convey emotion through his music quickly earned him acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Hits like ""How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You)"" and ""I Heard It Through the Grapevine"" solidified his status as a music icon.

Socially Conscious Music and What's Going On (1971-1973)

Gaye's album ""What's Going On,"" released in 1971, marked a significant shift in his music. The album addressed social and political issues, reflecting Gaye's growing concern for the state of the world. It became a landmark in music history, showcasing his versatility as an artist and his commitment to using his platform for social change.

Connection to Detroit and the Detroit Lions (1970s)

Marvin Gaye's connection to Detroit extended beyond his music career. He had a brief tryout with the Detroit Lions, showing his interest in football. This connection to the city further solidified his place in Detroit's cultural landscape and endeared him to the local community.

Tragic Death and Legacy (1984 and Beyond)

Marvin Gaye's life was tragically cut short on April 1, 1984, when he was fatally shot by his father. His untimely death shocked the world and left a void in the music industry. However, his legacy lives on through his timeless music, which continues to inspire and resonate with audiences around the globe.

Key Achievements of Marvin Gaye:

• Pioneered socially conscious music with the album ""What's Going On.""

• Became Motown Records' number one solo male artist.

• Left a lasting impact on the music industry with his soulful voice and emotionally charged lyrics.

• Endured as a cultural icon, known for his contributions to soul, R&B, and popular music.

• Remembered for his connection to Detroit and his influence on the city's cultural heritage.

Marvin Gaye's story is one of musical brilliance, social consciousness, and enduring legacy. His impact on the music industry and his connection to Detroit continue to be celebrated and remembered, ensuring that his influence will be felt for generations to come.

Connect With Me

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-Matthew Larsen

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