Welcome to The Detroit Newsletter!

In today’s edition:

• Upcoming Detroit Tigers home game

• Tragedy Strikes Detroit Lions Tailgate.

• A deep-dive into the life of Danny Thomas

• And more…

Quote of the Week

“All truth passes through three stages. First, it is ridiculed. Second, it is violently opposed. Third, it is accepted as being self-evident.”

—Arthur Schopenhauer

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, a symbol of the city's resilience, was the tallest building in the state of Michigan when it was completed in 1977?

A) The Renaissance Center

B) The Guardian Building

C) The Fisher Building

D) One Detroit Center

Answer to Last Week's Trivia:

The island park known for hosting the annual Detroit Jazz Festival is A) Belle Isle Park.

News

💼Business

GM names new head of its European business. (link)

🏒Sports

Giants Sign Lions Kicker Greg Joseph to Active Roster. (link)

Tragedy Strikes Detroit Lions Tailgate at Eastern Market. (link)

🏦Finance

Michigan works to land mammoth $55B microchip project. (link)

Health insurer names new Michigan market president as it gears up for expansion. (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 Tigers vs. Tampa Bay Rays
Comerica Park Detroit, MI
Tuesday September 24 | 6:40 PM | (more info)

⚾ Detroit Tigers vs. Tampa Bay Rays
Comerica Park Detroit, MI
Tuesday September 25 | 6:40 PM | (more info)

Music & Concerts

🎸Badflower - No Place Like Home Tour 2024
The Fillmore Detroit, MI
Tuesday September 24 | 6:00 PM | (more info)

🎤Big Daddy Kane With Live Band
Sound Board at MotorCity Casino Hotel Detroit, MI
Wednesday September 25 | 8:00 PM | (more info)

Family

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦Work from the Park (with your littles!)
Robert C. Valade Park 2670 Atwater Street Detroit,
Wednesday, September 25 | 9am - 2:30pm 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 “Futuristic urban zoo in Detroit with holographic animals.” 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

1992 - The QLine, Detroit's modern streetcar system, is announced.

In 1992, Detroit announced the development of The QLine, a modern streetcar system that aimed to revitalize the city's public transportation infrastructure. The QLine, with an estimated cost of $140 million, was designed to run on a 6.6-mile loop, connecting Detroit's downtown, Midtown, and New Center areas. After nearly a decade of planning, the QLine opened to the public in 2017, marking a significant milestone in the city's transportation development. The project was a collaborative effort between Quicken Loans and M-1 RAIL, with the goal of providing a reliable and efficient transit option for residents and visitors.

The announcement of The QLine as Detroit's modern streetcar system brought hope for improved regional transit across Metro Detroit. The project aimed to address the city's transportation needs and symbolized a significant step in the development of Detroit's public transit network. The QLine's launch was a monumental moment, representing a substantial investment in the city's infrastructure and a commitment to enhancing connectivity and accessibility for Detroit's residents.

Despite the initial excitement surrounding The QLine, the streetcar system faced challenges in meeting ridership expectations in its early years. However, the project remained a symbol of Detroit's commitment to modernizing its transit options and creating a more connected urban environment. The QLine's impact on Detroit's transportation landscape continues to be a topic of interest and discussion, reflecting the city's ongoing efforts to improve public transit and urban mobility.

Famous People From Detroit

Danny Thomas (1912–1991): Comedian, singer, actor, and producer; founder of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Danny Thomas, born Amos Muzyad Yaqoob Kairouz on January 6, 1912, in Deerfield, Michigan, was a multi-talented individual known for his contributions as a comedian, singer, actor, and producer. He is best remembered as the founder of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, a testament to his philanthropy and dedication to helping others. Throughout his life, Danny Thomas left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry and the world of charitable work.

Early Life and Career Beginnings (1912-1940)

Born in the town of Deerfield in Lenawee County, Michigan, Danny Thomas was the son of Lebanese immigrants. His birth name was Amos Muzyad Yahkoob, which he later anglicized to 'Amos Jacobs'. His early years were marked by a passion for entertainment, and he later adopted the stage name ""Danny Thomas"" as a tribute to his brothers.

In the 1930s, Thomas began his career as a nightclub singer and comedian, showcasing his natural talent for entertaining audiences. His performances garnered attention and set the stage for his future success in the entertainment industry.

Rise to Prominence in Entertainment (1940s-1950s)

Danny Thomas's career gained momentum in the 1940s, leading to appearances on radio and television. He became known for his comedic prowess and charismatic presence, captivating audiences with his performances.

In 1953, Thomas achieved widespread recognition with the launch of his own TV show, ""The Danny Thomas Show,"" also known as ""Make Room For Daddy."" The show's success solidified Thomas's status as a prominent figure in the entertainment world and endeared him to audiences across the nation.

Founding St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (1960s)

More than 70 years ago, Danny Thomas, then a struggling young entertainer with a baby on the way, visited a Detroit church and asked St. Jude Thaddeus to show him his way in life. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of his unwavering commitment to helping children in need.

Inspired by his promise to build a shrine in St. Jude's honor, Thomas founded St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee. The hospital, dedicated to treating and curing pediatric catastrophic diseases, stands as a testament to Thomas's compassion and determination to make a difference.

Legacy and Philanthropic Impact (1970s-1991)

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Danny Thomas continued to be a driving force behind St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, tirelessly advocating for the institution and its mission. His dedication to the hospital's cause inspired countless individuals to support the fight against childhood illnesses.

In 1990, Thomas was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame, recognizing his significant contributions to the entertainment industry. His legacy as a compassionate philanthropist and influential entertainer continues to inspire others to this day.

Key Achievements of Danny Thomas:

• Founded St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, providing life-saving treatment to children with catastrophic illnesses.

• Achieved widespread acclaim as a comedian, singer, actor, and producer, leaving an enduring mark on the entertainment industry.

• Inducted into the Television Hall of Fame, honoring his contributions to television and his impact on audiences worldwide.

• Committed to philanthropy and humanitarian efforts, leaving a lasting legacy of compassion and generosity.

• Inspired countless individuals to support charitable causes and make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Danny Thomas's life was a testament to the power of compassion, dedication, and the pursuit of a noble cause. From his humble beginnings in Michigan to his enduring legacy as the founder of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Thomas's impact on the world of entertainment and philanthropy remains an inspiration to all who strive to make a difference.

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

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