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Welcome to The Detroit Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Planet Fitness to open near downtown Detroit

• AI Art of the week

• A deep-dive into the life of Robert Hayden

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance, you must keep moving.”

― Albert Einstein

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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 innovation, introduced in 1896, was the nation's first urban freeway?

A) The Lodge Freeway

B) The Ford Freeway

C) The Davison Freeway

D) The Chrysler Freeway

Answer to Last Week's Trivia: The historic venue known as the "Cathedral of Boxing" is C) Olympia Stadium.

News

💼 Business

Detroit cracks down on business owners who illegally post signs. (link)

Planet Fitness to open near downtown Detroit later this summer. (link)

🏒 Sports

Detroit Lions Terrion Arnold expected Arnold is expected to compete for Defensive Rookie of the Year and many pundits' All-Rookie teams. (link)

Detroit Red Wings select Michael Brandsegg-Nygard in first round of 2024 NHL Draft. (link)

🏦 Finance

Detroit paying $300,000 to man wrongly accused of theft, making changes in use of facial technology. (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

⚽️Utica Unicorns vs. Birmingham Bloomfield Beavers
Jimmy John's Field Utica, MI
Thursday ,July 4 | 7:05 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎤The Beach Boys
The Meadow Brook Amphitheatre, Detroit, MI
Friday, July, 5 | (more info)

🎸Helion Prime, AfterTime, Wisher, Plethora
The Sanctuary Detroit 2932 Caniff St Hamtramck,
Sunday, July 7 | 7:00 PM | (more info)

Family

🎤 Kidz Bop Live
Pine Knob Music Theatre, Clarkston, MI
Saturday, July 6th | 6:00 PM | (more info)

🌮 Royal Oak Taco Fest 
Downtown Royal Oak, MI
Thursday, July 4th - Sunday, July 7th | 11 am-9 PM | (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 entirely underground Detroit.” 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

1971 - The opening of the Renaissance Center as part of Detroit's redevelopment efforts.

In 1971, Detroit embarked on a monumental redevelopment effort with the announcement of the Detroit Renaissance Center project. This ambitious initiative was led by a coalition of 26 civic leaders, including Henry Ford II, and aimed to transform Detroit's skyline and revitalize the city in the aftermath of the 1967 Detroit Uprising. The Renaissance Center, a complex of seven connected skyscrapers, was designed by architect John C. Portman and was anticipated to be the world's largest private development with a projected cost of $500 million. The project received primary financing from the Ford Motor Company, marking a significant milestone in Detroit's urban renewal efforts.

The construction of the Renaissance Center spanned several stages, and it officially opened along the Detroit Riverfront on April 15, 1977. This iconic development not only reshaped Detroit's skyline but also played a pivotal role in the city's economic growth. In its first year of operation, the Renaissance Center generated over $1 billion in economic growth for downtown Detroit, marking a significant milestone in the city's revitalization efforts. The project also symbolized a new chapter in Detroit's history, reflecting the city's resilience and determination to overcome challenges and embrace a brighter future.

The Renaissance Center stands as a testament to Detroit's spirit of renewal and transformation. Its completion in 1977 marked a turning point in the city's redevelopment efforts, setting the stage for further revitalization and economic growth. Today, the Renaissance Center continues to be a symbol of Detroit's resilience and determination to thrive, serving as a hub for business, culture, and community in the heart of the city.

Famous People From Detroit

Robert Hayden (1913–1980): Poet, essayist, and educator, known for his work on African-American history and culture.

Robert Hayden (1913–1980): Poet, Essayist, and Educator

Robert Hayden was an African American poet, essayist, and educator known for his profound work on African-American history and culture. His life and career were marked by a deep commitment to literature and a powerful exploration of racial identity and social justice.

Early Life and Literary Inspiration

Robert Hayden, born Asa Bundy Sheffey on August 4, 1913, grew up in the Paradise Valley neighborhood of Detroit, Michigan. His childhood was emotionally traumatic, and he was raised in part by foster parents. Due to extreme nearsightedness, Hayden turned to books rather than sports in his childhood, finding solace and inspiration in literature.

Literary Pursuits and Education

Hayden's passion for literature led him to pursue higher education, and in 1932, he graduated from high school and attended Detroit City College (later Wayne State University) with the help of a scholarship. He published his first book of poems, ""Heart-Shape in the Dust,"" and continued to explore his concerns about race in his writing. After the publication of his first book, Hayden enrolled at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, where he continued his academic pursuits until his death in 1980.

Poetic Legacy and Contributions

Hayden's poetry delved into the complexities of African-American history and culture, addressing themes of identity, social justice, and the human experience. His notable works include poems such as "Those Winter Sundays" and "The Middle Passage," which are celebrated for their emotional depth and powerful portrayal of African-American life. Hayden's literary contributions have left a lasting impact on American poetry, earning him recognition as one of the most prominent Black poets of the 20th century.

Connection to Detroit

Robert Hayden's upbringing in the Paradise Valley neighborhood of Detroit deeply influenced his literary perspective and thematic exploration. His poems are artifacts from a long-gone yet storied neighborhood in Detroit, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and historical significance of the city. Hayden's connection to Detroit is evident in the themes and imagery present in his poetry, showcasing the influence of his hometown on his creative expression.

Legacy and Influence

Hayden's legacy extends beyond his literary achievements, as he remains a significant figure in African-American literature and cultural history. His work continues to inspire scholars, poets, and readers, offering profound insights into the African-American experience and the broader human condition. Hayden's commitment to exploring racial identity and social justice through poetry has solidified his place as a trailblazer in American literature.

Key Achievements of Robert Hayden:

• Author of acclaimed poems "Those Winter Sundays" and "The Middle Passage."

• Prominent Black poet of the 20th century, known for his exploration of African-American history and culture.

• Legacy as a literary figure who delved into themes of racial identity and social justice.

• Influence on American poetry and African-American literature.

• Reflection of Detroit's cultural heritage and historical significance in his poetry.

Robert Hayden's life and work exemplify a dedication to literary excellence and a profound exploration of African-American history and culture. His legacy as a poet, essayist, and educator continues to resonate with readers and scholars, leaving an indelible mark on American literature."

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-Matthew Larsen

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