Welcome to The Detroit Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Detroit Pistons home game

• AI art of the week

• A deep-dive into the life of Elmore Leonard

• And more…

Quote of the Week

"If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way."

—Martin Luther King, Jr.

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 landmark is known as the birthplace of the Model T, which revolutionized the automotive industry?

A) Ford Piquette Avenue Plant

B) The Renaissance Center

C) The Henry Ford Museum

D) Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The historic Detroit neighborhood known for its early 20th-century architecture and the annual Jazz Festival is D) Palmer Woods.

News

💼Business

Corktown's Michigan Ave. redesign weighs safety and business concerns.(link)

Dennis White of SJE in Detroit Lakes chosen for MN Chamber leadership group.(link)

🏒Sports

Reasons Why Detroit Tigers Signing of Pitcher Alex Cobb Is Head-Scratching Decision.(link)

Detroit Lions-Buffalo Bills tickets are NFL's most expensive.(link)

🏦Finance

Detroit Tigers Face Uncertain Financial Future After Amended TV Broadcast Deal.(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 Pistons vs Utah Jazz
Little Caesars Arena Detroit,
Thursday Dec 19 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

🏒Detroit Red Wings vs. Montreal Canadiens
Little Caesars Arena Detroit,
Friday December 20 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎄Magical Motown Christmas
Music Hall Center Detroit,
Friday December 20 | 7:30 PM | (more info)

🎶Ho Ho Hot Mulligan
Russell Industrial Center 1600 Clay St Detroit,
Saturday December 21 | 2:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🎅 Holiday Concert with Santa
Parkman | Detroit Public Library 1766 Oakman Blvd Detroit,
Saturday, December 21 | 2 - 5pm 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 “Detroitscape with a fusion of different historical eras.” 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

1950 - Detroit's population reaches its peak at over 1.8 million people.

In the year 1950, Detroit experienced a significant milestone as its population reached its peak at over 1.8 million people. This marked a period of unprecedented growth and prosperity for the city, as it became a bustling hub of industry and innovation. The automotive industry, in particular, played a pivotal role in driving the city's rapid expansion, attracting a large influx of workers and families seeking employment opportunities and a better quality of life. Detroit's population boom during this time solidified its status as a major urban center and a symbol of American industrial prowess.

The surge in population also brought about a vibrant cultural and social scene, with neighborhoods thriving and communities flourishing. The city's diverse population contributed to a rich tapestry of traditions, music, and art, making Detroit a dynamic and lively metropolis. The growth of the city's population also led to the development of infrastructure, including the construction of new homes, schools, and public amenities to accommodate the expanding community. Detroit's peak population in 1950 stands as a testament to the city's resilience and its ability to attract and support a large and diverse population.

While Detroit's population reached its zenith in 1950, the subsequent decades would bring about significant changes and challenges for the city. Economic shifts, urban development, and social dynamics would shape the city's trajectory in the years to come, leading to both triumphs and trials. Nevertheless, the milestone of 1950 remains a defining moment in Detroit's history, capturing a time of growth, prosperity, and the vibrant spirit of a city on the rise.

Famous People From Detroit

Elmore Leonard (1925–2013): Novelist and screenwriter, known for his crime fiction and thrillers.

Elmore Leonard: 1925–2013

Elmore Leonard, a prolific novelist and screenwriter, was known for his compelling crime fiction and thrilling narratives. His career spanned several decades, and his work earned him the title ""The Dickens of Detroit,"" reflecting his deep connection to the city where he spent much of his life.

Early Life and Detroit Roots

Elmore Leonard was born in New Orleans, Louisiana in 1925. His family moved frequently until 1934 when they settled in Detroit, Michigan, after his father secured a job with General Motors. This marked the beginning of Leonard's lifelong connection to Detroit, a city that would greatly influence his writing and storytelling.

Literary Career and Notable Works

Leonard's literary career was marked by a remarkable body of work, including novels such as ""City Primeval,"" ""Stick,"" ""Freaky Deaky,"" and ""Get Shorty."" His storytelling prowess and ability to craft gripping crime narratives earned him widespread acclaim and a dedicated readership.

Screenwriting and Adaptations

In addition to his novels, Leonard's work extended to the realm of screenwriting. Several of his novels were adapted into successful films, further solidifying his reputation as a master storyteller. His impact on both literature and cinema was significant, and his adaptations brought his compelling narratives to a wider audience.

Legacy and Influence

Elmore Leonard's legacy extends beyond his literary and cinematic achievements. His portrayal of Detroit in his works captured the essence of the city, showcasing its complexities and character. His influence on crime fiction and thrillers continues to resonate in the literary world, inspiring future generations of writers and storytellers.

Connection to Detroit

Leonard's deep connection to Detroit is evident in his portrayal of the city in his novels. His vivid descriptions and authentic depiction of Detroit's urban landscape and culture reflected his intimate understanding of the city. This connection to Detroit became a defining element of his storytelling, shaping the backdrop for many of his compelling narratives.

Remembering Elmore Leonard

Elmore Leonard passed away on August 20, 2013, leaving behind a rich literary legacy and a lasting impact on the world of crime fiction and thrillers. His contributions to literature and cinema continue to be celebrated, and his influence on the portrayal of Detroit in fiction remains a testament to his storytelling prowess.

Key Achievements of Elmore Leonard:

• Prolific novelist and screenwriter, known for compelling crime fiction and thrillers.

• Portrayed Detroit in his works, earning the title ""The Dickens of Detroit.""

• Adapted several of his novels into successful films, expanding his influence to the realm of cinema.

• Left a lasting legacy in crime fiction and thrillers, inspiring future generations of writers and storytellers.

• Deeply connected to Detroit, with his portrayal of the city becoming a defining element of his storytelling.

Elmore Leonard's life and work exemplify a deep connection to Detroit and a profound impact on the literary and cinematic landscape. His legacy as ""The Dickens of Detroit"" continues to resonate, ensuring that his storytelling prowess and influence endure for years to come.

Connect With Me

If you want to connect, reply to this email and let me know what you think.

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

-Yannick Lyons

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