Detroit Newsletter (August 5th)

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

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Welcome to The Detroit Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

  • Detroit Tigers games will return to Comcast

  • AI art of the week

  • A deep-dive into the life of John Lee Hooker

  • And more…

Quote of the Week

Knowing is not enough, we must apply. Willing is not enough, we must do.

― Bruce Lee

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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 museum is dedicated to the preservation and celebration of African American history and culture?

A) Detroit Historical Museum

B) Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History

C) Motown Museum

D) Detroit Institute of Arts

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The annual event celebrating the automobile industry with a parade of classic cars is B) Woodward Dream Cruise.

News

💼Business

New payment plan for Detroiters with overdue water bills starts with $10 deposit. (link)

International retailer Primark to open first store in Michigan. (link)

🏒Sports

Detroit Tigers games will return to Comcast after agreement reached. (link)

Detroit Lions offensive tackle Taylor Decker gets 3-year extension. (link)

🏦Finance

Detroit's Chinatown gets $1M boost for streetscape improvements. (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 City FC vs. Pittsburgh Riverhounds SC
Keyworth Stadium Hamtramck, MI
Wednesday Aug 7 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎤 In the Valley Below
The Shelter Detroit, MI
Monday August 5 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🎤 Ken Carson
Masonic Temple - Detroit , MI
Wednesday August 7 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

Family

📚 Summer Reading: Adventure Begins at Storytime
Lincoln| Detroit Public Library 1221 East Seven Mile Road Detroit,
Tuesday, August 6 · 12 - 1pm EDT | (more info)

🍝 Taste of Italy : Tortellini 101
18450 Mack Avenue Grosse Pointe Farms, MI
Wednesday, August 7 | 11am - 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 “An eco-city Detroit with lush greenery and no visible technology.” 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

1994 - The Detroit Newspaper Strike begins, lasting 19 months.

The Detroit Newspaper Strike of 1994 was a significant labor dispute that began on July 13, 1995, and lasted for 19 months, making it one of the longest newspaper strikes in Detroit's history. The strike involved tension between the unions and management of Detroit's primary two newspapers, the Detroit Free Press and The Detroit News. The striking unions included Teamsters Local 372, Teamsters Local 2040, Newspaper Guild of Detroit Local 22, Graphic Communications International Union Local 13N, Detroit Typographical Union (CWA) Local 18, and Graphic Communications International Union Local 289 M. The strike led to several actions, including a local boycott, corporate campaign, and legal charges of unfair labor practices.

During the historic Detroit newspaper strike, hundreds of strikers and supporters were arrested on various criminal charges during demonstrations, picket lines, and other protests. The valiant Detroit newspaper workers fought mightily to defend their right to organize, and their struggle to defend the right to organize has continued across the country since the strike. The strike had a significant impact on the landscape of journalism in the Motor City, and it brought attention to the challenges faced by newspaper workers and the importance of labor rights in the industry.

The strike finally came to an end in December 2000, more than five years after it began, with the last of the six unions settling. The Detroit Newspaper Strike of 1994 remains a historic event that showcased the determination and solidarity of newspaper workers in Detroit and highlighted the ongoing struggle to protect labor rights in the industry.

Famous People From Detroit

John Lee Hooker (1917–2001): Blues singer, songwriter, and guitarist.

John Lee Hooker, a legendary blues singer, songwriter, and guitarist, was best known for his unique style of Delta Blues, known as ""talking blues."" His long and successful career was revitalized as he turned 80, earning two Grammy Awards and influencing today's generation of rock musicians. Hooker passed away on June 21, 2001, in Los Altos, California, leaving behind a lasting legacy.

Early Life and Musical Roots

John Lee Hooker was born on August 22, 1917, near Clarksdale, Mississippi, the fourth of eleven children. His father, William, a sharecropper and part-time preacher, did not initially approve of his son's interest in blues music. Despite this, Hooker's passion for music was ignited at a young age, and he was introduced to the guitar by his stepfather, William Moore, a blues singer. This early exposure laid the foundation for Hooker's future musical career.

Detroit Blues and Career Launch

Hooker's career took off while living in Detroit, where he launched his musical journey. His appearance in the movie ""The Blues Brothers"" sealed his legendary status, and he became a prominent figure in the Detroit blues scene. His unique one-chord boogie compositions, growling vocals, and rhythmic electric guitar style made him one of the most important historical links between the Blues and Rock and Roll.

International Recognition and Influence

Beginning in 1962, Hooker gained greater exposure when he toured Europe in the annual American Folk Blues Festival. His influence extended beyond the blues genre, impacting the next generation of rock musicians. His style of Delta Blues, characterized by its raw and emotive storytelling, left an indelible mark on the music industry.

Legacy and Impact

John Lee Hooker's legacy lives on through his influential contributions to the blues and rock music. His unique style and storytelling prowess continue to inspire musicians and audiences alike. His impact on the Detroit blues scene and his international recognition solidify his position as a trailblazer in the music industry.

Key Achievements:

  • Pioneer of Delta Blues and ""talking blues"" style.

  • Influential figure in the Detroit blues scene.

  • Toured Europe in the American Folk Blues Festival, gaining international recognition.

  • Revitalized his career in his later years, earning two Grammy Awards.

  • Influenced a generation of rock musicians with his raw and emotive storytelling through music.

John Lee Hooker's story is one of perseverance, innovation, and musical influence. His contributions to the blues and rock music genres have left an enduring legacy, inspiring future generations of musicians and music enthusiasts.

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-Matthew Larsen

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