Welcome to The Detroit Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Detroit Red Wings home games

• Amon-Ra St. Brown contract rumors

• A deep-dive into the life of Joe Louis

• New AI art of our city

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“If you can’t yet do great things, do small things in a great way.”

―Napoleon Hill

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 building was the tallest hotel in the world at the time of its completion in 1927?

A) Renaissance Center

B) The Guardian Building

C) Book Tower

D) Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center

Answer to Last Week's Trivia

The park in Detroit that is larger than Central Park is B) Belle Isle Park.

News

💼 Business

A major automotive company in Detroit announces a new electric vehicle model. (link)

The Automotive Hall of Fame in Dearborn announced its induction class for 2024. (link)

Southfield's Clarience Technologies has acquired Safe Fleet. (link)

🏒 Sports

Daniel Jeremiah's latest 2024 NFL Mock Draft predicts the Detroit Lions will select Zach Frazier. This move is seen as securing a successor for Frank Ragnow. (link)

The Lions are predicted to lose wide receiver Josh Reynolds this offseason. (link)

There's speculation around a contract extension for Amon-Ra St. Brown. (link)

Detroit Lions release statements about off-season training and draft plans. (link)

🏦 Finance

Detroit financial institutions respond to recent changes in federal monetary policy. (link)

Recent reports indicate improvements in Detroit's economy post-bankruptcy, yet acknowledge ongoing challenges. (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 Red Wings vs. Florida Panthers
Little Caesars Arena, Detroit 
Saturday, Mar. 2nd | 3:00 PM | (More Info)

🏀 Detroit Red Wings vs. Washington Capitals
Little Caesars Arena, Detroit 
Tuesday, Feb. 27th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

Music & Concerts

🎵 Maddie Zahm
The Shelter, Detroit, Michigan
Tuesday, Feb. 27th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🎸Chase Matthew
Saint Andrews Hall, Detroit, Michigan Motorcity Casino Hotel
Thursday, Feb. 29th | 6:30 PM | (More Info)

🎷Thievery Corporation
Majestic Theatre, Detroit, Michigan
Thursday, Feb. 29th | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

🎹 Silversun Pickups
Saint Andrews Hall, Detroit, Michigan
Sunday, Mar. 3rd | 7:00 PM | (More Info)

Family

🐾 Paw Patrol Live!
Fox Theatre, Detroit
Mar. 2nd-3rd | 10:00 AM | (More Info)

⛸️ Frankenmuth Ice Rink
Edwin L Zehnder Park, Downtown Frankenmuth
Thursday, Feb 26 - 29th | (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 “Retro-futuristic 1950s style Detroit with modern 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

Detroit surrenders to British forces during the War of 1812

In the summer of 1812, Detroit found itself at the center of a pivotal event during the War of 1812 as American General William Hull surrendered the city to British forces without a fight. This surrender, which took place on August 16, 1812, was a significant military disaster for the United States and marked a turning point in the early stages of the war. The surrender of Detroit derailed a plan to invade and seize Canada and had far-reaching strategic implications for the American forces.

The siege of Detroit and subsequent surrender without resistance was a blow to American morale and a major setback in the war effort. General Hull's decision to surrender Fort Detroit and his entire army to the British without engaging in battle was met with shock and disappointment. The surrender of Detroit meant that there was no American presence in the area, leaving the American frontier relatively insecure. This event had a lasting impact on the course of the War of 1812 and the broader history of the region.

The surrender of Detroit to British forces in 1812 remains a significant historical event that shaped the outcome of the War of 1812 and had lasting implications for the United States and Canada. This pivotal moment in Detroit's history serves as a reminder of the challenges and sacrifices faced during this tumultuous period, and it continues to be remembered as a defining chapter in the city's past.

Famous People From Detroit

Joe Louis (1914–1981)

Joe Louis, also known as the "Brown Bomber," was a legendary world heavyweight boxing champion whose career and life story reflect a journey of perseverance, excellence, and cultural impact.

Early Life and Passion for Boxing (1914-1932)

Joe Louis, born Joseph Louis Barrow, on May 13, 1914, to sharecroppers near Lafayette, Alabama, moved to Detroit in 1926 when he was 12. As a teenager, Louis developed an interest in boxing while spending time at the Brewster Recreation Center, where he began his journey in the sport.

Rising Star in Professional Boxing (1934-1936)

Louis's initial professional fights were all in the Chicago area, with his professional debut taking place on July 4, 1934. His remarkable agility, strength, and determination quickly earned him recognition in the boxing world, marking the rise of a future champion.

World Heavyweight Champion (1937-1949)

In 1937, Joe Louis became the world heavyweight champion, a title he held for almost twelve years, setting a new world record. His reign as the champion was marked by numerous successful defenses and iconic bouts, solidifying his status as an American icon and a symbol of hope and resilience.

Cultural Impact and Connection to Detroit (1930s-1940s)

Joe Louis's impact extended beyond the boxing ring, especially in Detroit, where he had a significant cultural influence. His connection to the city is evident through the giant arm and fist sculpture in the center of Jefferson Ave at Hart Plaza, as well as the Joe Louis Arena, which stood as a testament to his legacy.

Retirement and Legacy (1950s-1981)

After his temporary retirement in 1949, Joe Louis continued to be a prominent figure in the public eye, contributing to various social causes and remaining an influential symbol of strength and perseverance. His legacy as a boxing legend and a cultural icon continued to inspire future generations.

Key Achievements of Joe Louis:

• World heavyweight boxing champion from 1937 to 1949, setting a new world record.

• Cultural impact in Detroit, with monuments and arenas dedicated to his legacy.

• Symbol of hope and resilience, especially during challenging times in American history.

Joe Louis's story is one of overcoming adversity, achieving greatness in sports, and leaving a lasting impact on American culture. His legacy as a boxing champion and cultural icon continues to inspire and resonate with people around the world.

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.

-Matthew Larsen

Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/matthewblarsen

Poll