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Welcome to The Detroit Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Detroit Red Wings home game

• AI art of the week

• A deep-dive into the life of Dorothy Ashby

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.”

— Ralph Waldo Emerson

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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 is the name of the Detroit building that was the first to use the architectural method of rebar reinforcement in concrete?

A) The Guardian Building

B) The Fisher Building

C) The Book Tower

D) The Detroit Athletic Club

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The year Detroit's iconic "Spirit of Detroit" statue was unveiled is B) 1958.

News

💼Business

LuxWall strikes deal with Bedrock to build Detroit factory.(link)

Michigan Black Business Alliance Opens BLK Biz Hub in Downtown Detroit.(link)

🏒Sports

Detroit Lions fandom growing across the globe.(link)

Belleville QB Bryce Underwood officially signs with Michigan.(link)

🏦Finance

Losses in China lead to $5 billion charge for General Motors as it cuts the value of its assets.(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

🥋MotorCity Cage Night XIX - Live Mixed Martial Arts
Sound Board at MotorCity Casino Hotel Detroit,
Friday December 13 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🚗 Little Caesars Arena Parking
Little Caesars Arena Detroit,
Saturday December 14 | (more info)

🏒 Detroit Red Wings vs. Toronto Maple Leafs
Little Caesars Arena Detroit,
Saturday December 14 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎄 Mannheim Steamroller Christmas
Fox Theatre Detroit
Friday December 13 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🎮 Family Game Day
8422 Pembroke Avenue Detroit,
Saturday, December 14 · 11:30am - 1:30pm EST | (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 streets with interactive, responsive surfaces.” 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

1941 - Detroit becomes the "Arsenal of Democracy" during World War II.

In 1941, Detroit played a pivotal role in World War II, earning the title of the ""Arsenal of Democracy."" This designation was a result of the city's significant contribution to the war effort, particularly in manufacturing military equipment and vehicles. The Detroit Arsenal, located in present-day Warren, Michigan, became a symbol of the city's commitment to supporting the Allied powers. The dedication of the Detroit Arsenal in April 1941 marked a significant milestone, with the unveiling of the first tank produced at the plant, showcasing Detroit's transformation into a hub of wartime production.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt's call to arm and support the Allied powers in 1940 resonated strongly with Detroit, as the city embraced its role as the ""Arsenal of Democracy."" The transition from car manufacturing to war production was swift, and Detroit's factories became instrumental in producing war equipment and vehicles. The city's contribution to the war effort was unparalleled, with over 700,000 Detroiters working to produce the items necessary for Allied victory. Detroit's transformation into the ""Arsenal of Democracy"" was a testament to the city's resilience and determination during a critical period in history.

Following the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941, Detroit's industrial economy quickly shifted to a war footing. Automakers, including Ford, ceased civilian vehicle production and focused on producing armaments to support the Allied war effort. This transition solidified Detroit's reputation as the ""Arsenal of Democracy,"" and the city's automakers became the heart of a mighty military production effort. Today, Detroit's legacy as the ""Arsenal of Democracy"" serves as a reminder of the city's significant role in shaping the outcome of World War II and its enduring impact on Detroit's history and identity.

Famous People From Detroit

Dorothy Ashby (1932–1986): Jazz harpist known for her unique addition of the harp to jazz music.

Dorothy Ashby: A Detroit Jazz Harp Pioneer

Dorothy Ashby, born on August 6, 1932, in Detroit, Michigan, was an American jazz harpist and composer known for her unique addition of the harp to jazz music. Her innovative approach to the harp and her pioneering spirit made her a fixture in the world of jazz, leaving a lasting impact on the genre.

Early Life and Musical Upbringing

Dorothy Jeanne Thompson, later known as Dorothy Ashby, grew up in the vibrant jazz community of Detroit. Her father, Wiley Thompson, a self-taught jazz guitarist, often brought home fellow jazz musicians, exposing Dorothy to the world of jazz from a young age. Even as a young girl, she provided support and background to their music by playing the piano, showcasing her early musical talent and passion for jazz.

Introduction to the Harp and Musical Education

At the age of 17, Dorothy continued her music studies at Wayne State University in Detroit, where she majored in piano and music education. It was during this time that she discovered her love for the harp and began teaching herself to play this unconventional instrument. Her transition from a classically trained pianist to a jazz harpist marked the beginning of her groundbreaking journey in the world of jazz music.

The Jazz Harpist: Breaking Barriers and Making History

In 1957, Dorothy Ashby released her groundbreaking debut album, ""The Jazz Harpist,"" introducing the world to an entirely new sound and paving the way for future generations of jazz harpists. Her innovative approach to the harp and her ability to blend it seamlessly into jazz compositions earned her recognition as one of the most influential jazz harpists of the 1950s. Her unique style and musical prowess set her apart as a trailblazer in the jazz community.

Detroit Connection and Musical Influence

Dorothy Ashby's roots in Detroit played a significant role in shaping her musical identity. Her exposure to the rich jazz culture of the city, along with her experiences at Wayne State University and her interactions with renowned jazz musicians, contributed to the development of her distinctive musical style. Detroit's vibrant music scene and the support of the local community were instrumental in nurturing her talent and propelling her towards a successful career in jazz.

Legacy and Enduring Influence

Dorothy Ashby's legacy extends beyond her contributions to jazz music. Her pioneering spirit, innovative approach to the harp, and unwavering dedication to her craft continue to inspire musicians and music enthusiasts around the world. Her impact on the jazz genre and her role as a trailblazer in introducing the harp to jazz music solidify her position as one of the most influential figures in the history of jazz.

Key Achievements of Dorothy Ashby:

• Introduced the harp as a prominent instrument in jazz music, revolutionizing the genre.

• Released the groundbreaking album ""The Jazz Harpist"" in 1957, showcasing her innovative style and musical prowess.

• Pioneered a new sound in jazz, leaving a lasting impact on future generations of jazz harpists.

• Embraced her Detroit roots and drew inspiration from the city's vibrant jazz culture, shaping her unique musical identity.

• Remembered as a trailblazer and influential figure in the history of jazz, Dorothy Ashby's legacy continues to inspire and resonate with music enthusiasts worldwide.

Dorothy Ashby's story is one of musical innovation, perseverance, and the enduring influence of her pioneering spirit. Her contributions to jazz music and her role in introducing the harp to the genre have left an indelible mark on the history of jazz, ensuring that her legacy continues to thrive for generations to come.

Connect With Me

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

-Yannick Lyons

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