Detroit Newsletter (August 29th)

Here are the latest news stories and upcoming events in Detroit.

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Welcome to The Detroit Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • Upcoming Detroit Tigers home games

  • AI art of the week

  • A deep-dive into the life of James Lipton

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

“If plan “A” doesn’t work, the alphabet has 25 more letters – 204 if you’re in Japan.”

–Claire Cook

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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!

In Detroit, which historic jazz club, established in 1933, is one of the oldest continuously operating jazz clubs in the world?

A) The Blue Bird Inn

B) Cliff Bell's

C) Baker's Keyboard Lounge

D) The Dirty Dog Jazz Cafe

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The landmark that is a massive public market in continuous operation since 1891 is B) The Eastern Market.

News

💼Business

Large mulch fire at Detroit business blankets city in smoke. (link)

The Michigan Retailers Association retail index was up for just the second month this year. (link)

🏒Sports

Detroit Lions tackle Penei Sewell leaves practice with a foot injury. (link)

Detroit Lions roster spots still up for grabs going into preseason finale. (link)

🏦Finance

GM lays off more than 1,000 salaried software and services employees. (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. Los Angeles Angels
Comerica Park Detroit, MI
Thursday, August 29 | 1:10 PM | (more info)

Detroit Tigers vs. Boston Red Sox
Comerica Park Detroit, MI
Saturday, August 31 | 6:10 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎸 Built To Spill: There's Nothing Wrong With Love 30th Anniversary Tour
Saint Andrew's Hall Detroit, MI
Thursday, August 29 | 6:30 PM | (more info)

🎤 Boyce Avenue
The Shelter Detroit, MI
Saturday, August 31 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🎨 Family Days for Children With Autism - Arts, Beats & Eats 2024!
271 South Lafayette Avenue Royal Oak, MI
Saturday, August 31 · 10am - 2pm 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 public space dedicated to virtual reality experiences.” 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

1957 - Detroit's first freeway, the John C. Lodge Freeway, opens.

In 1957, Detroit marked a significant milestone with the opening of its first freeway, the John C. Lodge Freeway. Named in honor of iconic politician John Christian Lodge, who served on the Detroit City Council and as mayor, the freeway was dedicated on November 7, 1957. The construction of the freeway began in the 1950s, and it wasn't until 1963-64 that the entire travel section between Greenfield and 7 Mile Road was completed. The John C. Lodge Freeway, also known as M-10 or The Lodge, is a state route that runs from Detroit to West Bloomfield, Michigan, with its southern terminus at Jefferson.

This historic freeway is known for its role in shaping Detroit's transportation infrastructure and urban development. It is recognized as the first full freeway-to-freeway interchange built in the United States, showcasing the city's commitment to modern transportation systems. The construction of the freeway required the closure of sections, leading to significant changes in travel patterns for motorists. The completion of the John C. Lodge Freeway represented a major step forward in connecting Detroit to its surrounding areas and facilitating smoother commuter traffic.

The John C. Lodge Freeway remains an integral part of Detroit's transportation network, serving as a vital commuter highway that connects Oakland County with downtown Detroit. Its impact on the city's development and transportation landscape is a testament to the vision and innovation that shaped Detroit's infrastructure in the mid-20th century.

Famous People From Detroit

James Lipton (1926–2020): Writer, lyricist, and dean of the Actors Studio Drama School.

James Lipton, an American writer, actor, and dean of the Actors Studio Drama School, was born on September 19, 1926, in Detroit, Michigan. He passed away on March 2, 2020, leaving behind a legacy of insightful interviews and contributions to the world of performing arts.

Early Life and Education (1926-1944)

James Lipton was born in Detroit, Michigan, to Betty and Lawrence Lipton. His mother was a teacher and librarian, while his father was a journalist and beat poet.He demonstrated abilities in reading and creative writing before attending Detroit schools, where he developed a passion for the arts and literature.

Acting Career and Writing (1945-1993)

Lipton began his career as a professional actor, with his first credit on ""The Lone Ranger."" He also worked as a writer and lyricist, showcasing his multifaceted talents in the entertainment industry.Throughout his career, Lipton's passion for the performing arts and literature shone through in his work, earning him recognition as a versatile and creative individual.

Inside the Actors Studio (1994-2018)

In 1994, Lipton became the host of ""Inside the Actors Studio,"" a groundbreaking interview series that delved into the lives and careers of prominent actors and directors.His insightful and probing interviews with Hollywood luminaries made him an unlikely celebrity, and the show became a class for his students at the Actors Studio Drama School.

Dean of the Actors Studio Drama School (1994-2020)

Lipton's role as the dean of the Actors Studio Drama School allowed him to impart his knowledge and experience to aspiring actors and directors, shaping the next generation of performing artists.He remained dedicated to his role as dean emeritus even after the school relocated to Pace University in 2005, leaving a lasting impact on the institution and its students.

Legacy and Contributions

James Lipton's legacy extends beyond his own accomplishments, as he inspired countless individuals in the performing arts and elevated the conversation around acting, directing, and storytelling.His ability to connect with interviewees and draw out their personal and artistic insights made him a respected figure in the entertainment industry and a mentor to many aspiring artists.

Key Achievements of James Lipton:

  • Hosted ""Inside the Actors Studio,"" a groundbreaking interview series that became a class for students at the Actors Studio Drama School.

  • Served as the dean of the Actors Studio Drama School, shaping the next generation of performing artists.

  • Inspired countless individuals in the performing arts and elevated the conversation around acting, directing, and storytelling.

James Lipton's life was marked by his passion for the arts, his influential role as the host of ""Inside the Actors Studio,"" and his dedication to nurturing aspiring talent. His Detroit roots and multifaceted contributions to the entertainment industry have left an indelible mark on the world of performing arts.

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I would love to hear from you. Don’t be shy.

-Matthew Larsen

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