Our roundup of the latest news from metro Detroit and Michigan businesses as well as announcements from government agencies. To share a business or nonprofit story, please send us a message.
Boyne Mountain’s SkyBridge Michigan Illuminates for Holiday Season
SkyBridge Michigan at Boyne Mountain in Boyne Falls will light up for the holiday season from Nov 22-March 31, just one of the seasonal events on tap at the northern Michigan resort.
The SkyBridge light show is provided by Zoro’s Lights of Livonia, which installed more than 150,000 twinkling lights, immersing crossers world’s longest timber-towered suspension bridge in a tapestry of lights.
Boyne Mountain Resort is offering families a stress-free Thanksgiving, Nov. 23, at Everett’s Restaurant inside the Mountain Grand Lodge and Spa. For details, visit here.
The resort’s Annual Holiday Open House takes place from 11 a.m.-8 p.m. on Dec. 16. It includes many events and activities. Visit here for more information and tickets.
Christmas Eve Dinner with Santa is served Dec. 24 at Stein Eriksen’s in the resort’s Clock Tower Lodge. More information and ticket details are here.
The Christmas Day Buffet at Stein Eriksen’s is an all-inclusive buffet featuring a spread of holiday dishes. Visit here for pricing and tickets.
Boyne Mountain Resort offers two New Year’s Eve parties including a family party from 10 p.m.-12:30 a.m. in the Vienna Ballroom, which is complimentary, and the 21-and-older party starting at 9 p.m. for VIPs in the Snowflake Lounge. Visit here for more information.
Surf Internet Wins $17M Grant for Expanding Fiber-optic Network in Livingston County
Surf Internet, a Howell-based provider of fiber-optic internet services, has secured nearly $17 million in funding through Michigan’s Realizing Opportunity with Broadband Infrastructure Networks (ROBIN) grant program to connect more than 3,600 locations in Livingston County to its high-speed fiber-optic network.
The funding is a “significant catalyst” for expansion of high-speed internet in the northern and western areas of Livingston County, which are rural, unserved, and underserved communities.
“We have long enjoyed working closely with Livingston County and the state of Michigan to help transform the lives of their residents with high-speed internet,” says Gene Crusie, CEO of Surf. “It’s thrilling to be a part of a group of internet service providers that are collectively going to make huge strides in bridging the digital divide statewide. We are proud to be able to use these funds to connect the most rural, underserved locations in Livingston through continued collaboration.”
Residents and business owners wanting project updates can visit Surf’s construction page. To see if services are currently available for a specific address, visit here and click the orange “Check Availability” button.
Little Caesars Treats Veterans and Military to Free Veterans Day Lunch Combo
Detroit-based Little Caesars is offering all United States Armed Forces veterans and active military a free HOT-N-READY Lunch Combo at participating stores nationwide this Veterans Day, Saturday.
From 11 a.m.-2 p.m., veterans and active military members can receive their free Lunch Combo, which features four slices of Little Caesars famous Detroit-style Deep Dish pizza paired with a 20-ounce Pepsi product.
“All of us at Little Caesars are thankful to our veterans and military members for their service,” says David Scrivano, president and CEO of Little Caesars. “In addition to complimentary lunch on Veterans Day, our family-owned company remains committed to supporting these heroes all year round with initiatives like the Little Caesars Veterans Program.”
The Little Caesars Veterans Program, now in its 17th year, provides honorably discharged veterans and Gold Star families with financial incentives to open a Little Caesars franchise of their own. These individuals receive benefits when opening a franchise store through the Little Caesars Veterans Program, including a franchise fee discount, equipment and supply discount, financing assistance, and advertising and publicity support, among other benefits. Today, there are hundreds of veteran-owned Little Caesars stores across the country. For more information about becoming a Little Caesars franchisee, visit franchise.littlecaesars.com.
No coupon is required to redeem the free HOT-N-READY Lunch combo offer on Veterans Day. Veterans and military personnel must present proof of service (such as an ID card with veteran designation, DD-214 form, or current military-issued ID card).
Farbman Group Launches Bingham Connect Interactive Office Amenity Space
Farbman Group, a Southfield-based full-service commercial real estate company, says it has finished renovations on Bingham Connect, an interactive amenity space within the Farbman-owned and managed Bingham Office Center.
“Our team is listening and responding to how tenants want to return to work in a post-COVID environment,” says Andy V. Farbman, CEO of Farbman Group. “Bingham Connect provides a large common space to encourage connectivity, creativity, and mental clarity for our tenants and guests.”
Bingham Connect was transformed from a cafeteria into a 3,000-square-foot interactive amenity room that consists of several breakout areas, table games, new furniture and design fixtures, and more.
The firm partnered with West Bloomfield-based Soul Studio, an art program and gallery by Friendship Circle, that provides adults with special needs a safe space to create and connect through art. Farbman Group commissioned a mural, “Sunflowers,” by local artist Megan Donely, to brighten up the new Bingham Connect space with color and joy.
The mural is one of two commissioned by Farbman Group this year from Soul Studio. The second mural is underway at a similar up-and-coming office amenity space at the firm’s 100 N. La Salle building in downtown Chicago.
In Related News: Farbman Group announced the next event in its C-Series line-up of free business educational discussions, “A Business Leader’s Guide to Cyber Security: Investing to Protect Company Assets.” It will take place Nov. 16 at 8:30 a.m. at the Oakland Commons building at 20700 Civic Center Drive in Southfield. The discussion is presented by Rob Cote, CEO of Security Vitals. Breakfast will be provided at 8:30 a.m. and the session will begin at 9 a.m. To RSVP, please email gavie@farbman.com.
Grosse Pointe will be home to beautiLofts’ Fifth Location in Early 2024
Women-owned and locally operated salon lofts business beautiLofts will be opening its fifth location at 20419 Mack Avenue in Grosse Pointe in early 2024.
Since 2015, beautiLofts has successfully assisted more than 100 beauty professionals in realizing their dreams of business ownership within the metro Detroit area. The brand has established itself as the go-to destination for beauty professionals seeking individual salon ownership while providing their clients world-class comfort and convenience.
“We are thrilled to open our doors in Grosse Pointe next year and to usher in a new group of motivated beauty professionals,” says Lauren Falzone, founder and owner of beautiLofts. “Being a 100 percent women-owned small business, we are dedicated to empowering and supporting individuals in the beauty industry. Our ultimate goal is to provide fully equipped salon lofts so beauty professionals can experience unparalleled success — we are excited to bring that to Grosse Pointe.”
For more information, visit beautilofts.com or contact Falzone at lauren@beautilofts.com.
Zingerman’s Cornman Farms in Dexter Betting Big on Small Events
Zingerman’s Cornman Farms in Dexter, named in Harper Bazaar’s list of the 22 Best Garden Wedding Venues in the World, will no longer be hosting events of 75 or more people, choosing instead to exclusively offer intimate wedding packages for four-75 guests.
“The reasons people want to elope or have an intimate wedding at Cornman Farms are as diverse as our couples,” says Tabitha Mason, managing partner at the venue. “Some come to us because they see a breathtaking picture on Instagram and fall in love with the beauty of our garden. Others choose us because they know Zingerman’s reputation for great food and service and are thrilled to share that with their guests on the most important day of their lives.”
Couples now will work exclusively with the team at Cornman Farms and executive chef and owner, Kieron Hales, to create multi-course dinner menus inspired by his British heritage, a culinary career that has propelled him through Michelin star kitchens, and seasonal produce grown in the farm’s gardens.
For more information, contact Mason at tmason@zingermans.com or call 734-619-8100.
$2M Gift from Forest Akers Trust to Fund MSU Museum Project
The Michigan State University Museum in East Lansing is the benefactor of a $2 million gift from the Forest Akers Trust, a major step forward in reimagining how the museum engages with its communities and educates future generations.
The investment will be used to construct and equip two spaces within the museum — an Immersive Lab and an Exhibit Lab — both set to transform the way Michigan State University students and visitors interact with the museum’s extensive collection of more than 1 million objects.
These new labs will empower university students to take a hands-on approach to exhibition creation and visitor engagement. The Immersive Lab and Exhibit Lab will serve as experimental spaces, providing students with the opportunity to co-create exhibits and design immersive visitor experiences. This initiative places students at the heart of the museum’s educational mission, fostering a collaborative and innovative learning environment.
For more information, visit museum.msu.edu.
Receiver Orders Absolute Auction of Finlandia University Real Estate in U.P.
Finlandia University in Hancock in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula recently became one of the latest small colleges forced to close. Two desirable buildings, a nearly four-acre lot, and two one-acre lots from the campus will be sold to the highest bidders through an absolute auction sale, presenting an investment opportunity for investors, developers, and redevelopers.
“This is an extraordinary opportunity to buy two of Hancock’s most iconic buildings,” says David Levy, managing director of Keen-Summit Capital Partners, the real estate firm retained by court-appointed receiver Patrick O’Keefe of O’Keefe and Associates Consulting to sell the properties.
“The Jutila Center is a large nine-story building with unparalleled views of the Portage Canal and has excellent redevelopment potential for residential, senior living, mixed-use and more. Old Main is a historic structure, in the heart of the Hancock central business district. The structure was once used as a dormitory and classrooms and last used as office space with a large meeting room and kitchen, so there are many possibilities.”
Levy says that Jutila Center, Old Main, and the three lots are being sold in a buy one, some, or all format. The qualifying bid deadline is Nov. 30, and the auction will be conducted on Dec. 7. Additional information is available at Keen-Summit Capital Partners or by calling 312-754-9560. The sale is subject to court approval.
Southeast Michigan’s WIN Celebrates National Apprenticeship Week with 25+ Events
The Southeast Michigan Community Alliance (SEMCA) Workforce Intelligence Network (WIN) is leading the Nov. 13-19 National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) observance in southeast Michigan.
NAW, hosted by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Apprenticeship USA, is now in its ninth year and is once again taking center stage in Michigan. This nationwide celebration highlights the role apprenticeships play in preparing the region’s workforce for a strong and highly skilled future.
This year, Michigan employers, educators, training providers, and jobseeker support organizations will host a lineup of more than 50 events for #NAW2023 with over 25 of these events being orchestrated by the WIN Board of Directors and organizations affiliated with the WIN Apprenticeship Intermediary Program, known as the Advance Michigan Center for Apprenticeship Innovation (AMCAI).
The WIN Board of Directors is a collaboration of seven Michigan Works! agencies, and 10 Community Colleges in southeast Michigan.
Apprenticeships have proven to be a catalyst for successful careers in various industries, including information technology, health care, energy, aerospace, construction, advanced manufacturing, hospitality, financial services, and many more. The earn-while-you-learn model provided by registered apprenticeship programs equips individuals with the qualifications and competencies needed to meet the evolving demands of the Michigan economy.
To discover and participate in National Apprenticeship Week events happening across the state, please visit the official NAW event page. To view all the 19-county WIN region events, visit here.
Humana Addresses the Mental Health of Veterans
There are 18.4 million veterans alive today who deserve our gratitude for their commitment to selflessly serve our nation. In turn, they also deserve the commitment of leaders, businesses, organizations, and communities to support them in their time of need.
This Veterans Day is an opportunity to remind our nation’s citizens about the challenges veterans may face both during and after their time in service.
The primary enemy many veterans face after service is not war-related trauma, but loneliness, according to a study from Yale and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. It may be difficult for some veterans to connect to the civilian world – they often feel misunderstood by those who haven’t experienced what they have. This can translate into social isolation, feelings of loneliness and disconnection, which can contribute to higher suicide risk among veterans.
The veteran suicide rate currently is 57 percent higher than the national average. We know there is not a simple solution to this very complex challenge, which means we must all work together to face it.
Health-related social needs play a huge role in both mental and physical health and can contribute to a higher suicide risk. In a 2022 survey of Humana Medicare members who are veterans or veteran spouses, many indicated struggles with financial strain, loneliness, food insecurity, transportation barriers, or housing insecurity. These factors are associated with anxiety, depression, and PTSD — all risk factors for suicide.
Helping veterans address these struggles may alleviate the negative impacts on health and wellness. We can do this by ensuring they have access to medical care, to include behavioral and clinical health, and by connecting them to community resources that can help with social needs.
First, understanding inpatient and outpatient care that is available in the area and covered — whether it’s through the VA, employer insurance or Medicare — is crucial. Outpatient care may include talk therapy, medication to support mental health, and care managers to provide guidance on the best type of care.
Second, we must look beyond doctors and hospitals to address social needs through community support. Helping veterans remove barriers to healthy living and connecting to the right organizations can help lift them out of isolation and into community. Tools like the Humana Community Navigator, a free resource available to anyone, can help make the connection to local support services.
To initiate change and make a real impact, we must work together as a community and as a nation to combat social risk factors to veteran suicide. If you want to say “thank you for your service” this Veterans Day, find some small way to give back to the veterans in your community and be part of the solution.
Karen Newman Joins Forces with WOMC-FM to Help Children’s Miracle Network Radiothon
Local celebrity Karen Newman, who sang the National Anthem at Detroit Red Wings games for more than 35 years, has announced her partnership with Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) for the 104.3 WOMC Turn Up the Miracles Radiothon, Presented by Bridgestone Americas.
The annual event will take place Nov. 16 and supports Corewell Health’s Beaumont Children’s. A Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals event, the radiothon will broadcast live from 6 a.m.-6 p.m. Anchoring the production will be 104.3 WOMC personalities Jim Johnson, JoAnne Purtan, Jason Raithel, and Beau Daniels. This event also marks the final radiothon hosted by Jim Johnson, who is retiring the end of this year, after 52 years in radio broadcasting.
“I am honored to be able to support the Children’s Miracle Network,” Newman says. “What CMN does for local children and families is so important to the health and wellbeing of so many. It is gratifying to know that the community and I can come together for such a worthy cause.”
Newman’s involvement with 104.3 WOMC Turn Up the Miracles Radiothon, Presented by Bridgestone Americas holds another special significance as she has close relationships with JJ and JoAnne, who have been instrumental in the events success.
Each hour of the radiothon will focus on a CMN-supported program that will benefit from the donations received that day, including custom therapy bikes; pet therapy program; RE/MAX preschool speech therapy instruction; parent/infant recliner beds for PICU; diabetes education for children; Giraffe incubator beds; music/art therapy; and more.
The last hour, 5-6 p.m., will feature the Red Tie Hour presented by the Toni A. Wisne Foundation and the Artichoke Garlic Foundation. During this hour, all funds raised will specifically support Beaumont’s Center for Exceptional Families in Dearborn. CEF is a medical and rehabilitative facility that treats developmental disabilities, disorders, and diagnoses, including autism, for children and their families.
The Red Tie Hour also offers a Chairman’s Dinner, a gathering that brings supporters to Roman Village in Dearborn for an exclusive Italian dinner paired with luxury wine selections hosted by the Rugiero family. Limited tickets are available for $500 by calling 947-522-0098 or email karen.whetter@corewellhealth.org.
Radiothon listeners can become a Miracle Maker with a $20 monthly donation. This donation can be made automatically by credit card or through a monthly invoice to pay by check.
Kresge Artist Fellowships Increase to $40K Each and 25 Awards in 2024
Kresge Artist Fellowships will increase from $25,000 to $40,000 in 2024 and the number of awards will increase the number of fellowships from 20 to 25, The Kresge Foundation and Kresge Arts in Detroit announced.
Artists residing in Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties can apply for the no strings attached prize starting Dec. 1. The latest application guidelines are available now at kresgeartsindetroit.org. The application deadline is Jan. 18, 2024 at 11:59 p.m.
“This expands and deepens our decade-plus commitment to direct support to the working artists of greater Detroit,” says Rip Rapson, president and CEO of The Kresge Foundation. “Artists are there for us as bearers of tradition and inspiring innovators. They are too often unacknowledged catalysts for our economic wellbeing and civic progress. We need to be there for them as they are here for our community.”
The program also has evolved to include more robust professional development offerings for artists such as legal and accounting support. Kresge Arts in Detroit also offers to produce a film for each of the fellows. A selection of the films was submitted to local, national, and international film festivals and has received a combined 53 screening invitations in the past year.
Exclusive “Elf” + Red Cross Socks for Donors Who Give Blood Nov. 10-30
For many, watching the classic holiday movie “Elf” has been a heartwarming tradition for years. As the holiday season approaches, the American Red Cross is encouraging people to begin another tradition by giving blood.
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of “Elf” and spread holiday cheer, donors who give blood Nov. 10-30 will receive an exclusive pair of “Elf” + Red Cross socks, while supplies last. For more details, visit RedCrossBlood.org/Elf.
Donations are critical to the blood supply during the holidays — a time when blood donations often decline. Donors of all blood types are needed, especially platelet donors and type O donors.
The Red Cross offers three ways to make an appointment to donate at your convenience:
- Download the Red Cross Blood Donor App
- Go to org
- Call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767)
- Blood drives are scheduled throughout the state, including in Adrian, Ann Arbor, Clinton Township, Holland, Flint, Kalamazoo, Lansing, Muskegon, Rochester, St. Clair, and Troy.
