// Rendering courtesy of Detroit Grand Prix
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.
Grand Prix Free Prix Day Returns June 2, Race Entertainment Announced
Comerica Bank Free Prix Day will return to the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear ion June 2, supporting a tradition that began with the very first Detroit Grand Prix in 1982.
This marks the 10th year of Comerica Bank sponsoring Free Prix Day and giving fans the opportunity to experience all the racing and activities of the Grand Prix as it enters a new era on the streets of downtown Detroit in 2023.
Visitors to this summer’s Grand Prix will have access to more than half of the event’s footprint for free throughout the June 2-4 weekend. On Comerica Bank Free Prix Day, fans will be able to watch the on-track action in grandstands 1 and 9 free of charge. Seating in these two grandstands will be general admission and available on a first-come, first-seated basis. Paddock access is not included with Free Prix Day seating and no tickets will be required to sit in either grandstand on Free Prix Day, courtesy of Comerica Bank.
“Thanks to our partners at Comerica Bank, we are so proud to carry on the tradition of Free Prix Day at the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear,” says Michael Montri, president of the Detroit Grand Prix. “As the Grand Prix returns to its original home on the streets of downtown Detroit this summer, we are creating more ways for everyone to experience this event with over half of the circuit open and accessible for free. On Comerica Bank Free Prix Day, we’ll take that experience to the next level for fans with great viewing available in two of our grandstands completely free of charge.”
The on-track action on Comerica Bank Free Prix Day will feature all four series competing at the Grand Prix. The NTT IndyCar Series will host practice as the drivers prepare for the Chevrolet IndyCar Grand Prix on Sunday afternoon. The IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge will feature practice and qualifying for Saturday’s Chevrolet Detroit Sports Car Classic. The rising stars of Indy NXT by Firestone will be on track for practice and qualifying while the Trans Am Series presented by Pirelli also will turn its first laps on the new 1.7-mile, nine-turn race course with two practice sessions.
In Related News: The Detroit Grand Prix has announced he entertainment that will be accompanying this year’s race.
On Friday evening, June 2, the first day of Grand Prix weekend will conclude with performances by DJ and producer A-Trak from 6-7:15 p.m. followed by Grammy Award-winning rapper Big Boi of the legendary Atlanta duo OutKast, from 7:30-8:30 p.m.
Following practice, qualifying and the first races of Grand Prix weekend on Saturday, June 3, turntablist and producer Z-Trip will perform on stage beginning at 5:30 p.m. Following Z-Trip, electronic music superstar Steve Aoki will perform from 7-8:30 p.m.
Music will be featured on the entertainment stage throughout the weekend with a variety of DJs, local bands, and national acts performing in the same area where the Movement Detroit electronic music festival will be hosted in Hart Plaza one week earlier. The stage will feature performances from noon-8:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and from 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. on Sunday, leading into pre-race activities and ceremonies for the Chevrolet IndyCar Grand Prix. A full schedule of acts performing on the entertainment stage will be announced closer to event weekend.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit DetroitGP.com.
More Related News: Joe Muer Detroit Riverfront is offering a Detroit Grand Prix VIP party experience June 3-4 at its Renaissance Center location.
The VIP party will include exclusive access to the Joe Muer wrap-around patio with views of turns 5, 6, and 7, the Atwater Straightway, and The Riverwalk Winner’s Circle, as well as a Bloody Mary Bar sponsored by Ketel One, a buffet featuring many Joe Muer favorite menu items, and a parking pass to the Beaubien Place Garage.
Tickets for the event are $250 each (tax and gratuity included) and quantities are limited. To purchase tickets, visit here.
Gardner White Canton Township Store to Host Pre-Prix Party May 18
The Gardner White Store in Canton Township is hosting a Pre-Prix party from 6-9 p.m. pn May 18.
An authentic NTT IndyCar show car will be on display and children can sit and pose for photos in it. Guests can take a spin in a 360-video booth, race around a mini slot car track, enjoy music, hot dogs, and fun giveaways as well as register to win $500 and tickets to the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix presented by Lear June 2-4 in downtown Detroit. Gardner White is a 2023 race sponsor.
“Excitement is building in the Motor City for this iconic event which returns to the streets of Detroit this year, and Gardner White’s Pre-Prix Party for race enthusiasts and metro Detroiters young and old is a fun way to get into the Grand Prix spirit,” says Rachel Stewart, president of Gardner White. “As a Detroit Grand Prix sponsor as well as the presenting sponsor of America’s Thanksgiving Parade, Gardner White is proud to showcase Detroit in all its glory.”
In addition, from today through May 17, individuals can enter Gardner White’s Best Seats in the House contest to win six tickets for the Grand Prix from the best seat in the house at the Gardner White Grandstand at the hairpin turn on Jefferson Avenue. The grand prize winner also will receive the Retreat Patio Collection, featuring a two-piece sectional, armchair, dining table, and two ottomans, crafted of a rust-free, water-resistant, all-weather frame to withstand the elements. The winners will be announced at the Pre-Prix Party.
To pre-register for the Gardner White Pre-Prix Party, visit here. For more information on the Gardner White Best Seats in the House contest, visit gardner-white.com.
Live Nation and 313 Presents’ Annual Concert Week Offers $25 All-in Tickets
Live Nation and 313 Presents today announced the return of Concert Week, offering fans $25 all-in tickets for select shows at Little Caesars Arena, the Fox Theatre, Pine Knob Music Theatre, Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre, and Meadow Brook Amphitheatre.
The annual week-long program kicks off ahead of a robust 2023 summer concert season, getting fans ready to fill their summer months and the rest of their calendar for the year with epic shows and live music from their favorite artists. Pine Knob Music Theatre is presented by Proud Partners United Wholesale Mortgage, Trinity Health, and Ally, and Comerica Bank is the exclusive presenting partner of the Fox Theatre.
The limited-time ticket offer includes a wide variety of genres, including: Hip-Hop, Country, R&B, Metal, Pop, Rock, and more. Artists included in Concert Week range from Duran Duran, Dierks Bentley, Anita Baker, Counting Crows, and many more.
From May 10-16, fans can visit LiveNation.com/ConcertWeek to see the full list of participating events. Once they’ve selected a show, they should look for the ticket type labeled “Concert Week Promotion,” add the ticket(s) to their cart and proceed to checkout.
To find participating shows, fans can filter their search on the website by participating events, venues, or artists. While on the website, fans also can set the location to the closest city and the site will refresh to only include participating shows nearby.
Tickets will be available starting with Verizon and Rakuten presales beginning May 9. The general sale for Concert Week will begin May 10 at 10 a.m. and last through May 16 at 11:59 p.m., or while supplies last.
SBAM’s Brian Calley to Address Washtenaw Economic Club May 11
Former Michigan Lt. Gov. Brian Calley, current president of the Small Business Association of Michigan, will visit Washtenaw Community College in Ann Arbor May 11 to address the Washtenaw Economic Club.
The luncheon at which Calley will speak takes place between 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at WCC’s Morris Lawrence Building (4800 E. Huron River Drive).
Calley will offer his perspective of the economic climate from the viewpoint of an established private sector career that dovetailed with an extensive record of public service.
The event, titled “Fostering a Pro-Small Business Economy,” will include a question-and-answer session moderated by Michelle Julet, director of WCC’s Entrepreneurship Center.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit here.
Penske President to Speak at EO Detroit’s XCentric 2023
Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) Detroit, the local chapter of the 16,000-member global entrepreneurial community, has announced that Penske Corp. President Bud Denker will be a keynote speaker at XCentric 2023, Oct. 2-4 at the Westin Book Cadillac and other locations in Detroit.
Denker joins Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Cassandra Worthy as the first speakers to be announced for the event.
Denker will share stories and lessons learned as the Bloomfield Township-based and future-focused automotive, transportation, and logistics giant has grown to $40 billion in revenue, employing 70,000 people worldwide, and spanning more than a dozen companies and 3,200 locations.
“It’s much easier for small companies to stay nimble and entrepreneurial,” says Jenny Feterovich, president of EO Detroit and co-chair of XCentric 2023. “Penske is a shining example of a large company that has remained true to its creative and entrepreneurial roots. From auto sales and transportation to manufacturing and racing, the Penske name is synonymous with innovation, growth and winning. We are thrilled to have Bud take center stage and share with our guests how they can remain true to their entrepreneurial roots as they scale their businesses.”
For more information, visit eoxcentric.com.
CHASS Center in Southwest Detroit to Unveil New Mammography Services
The Community Health and Social Services (CHASS) Center Inc. in southwest Detroit is unveiling its new mammography services at a ribbon cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. on May 8.
This state-of-the-art technology will help to ensure that thousands of women in the Detroit community receive life-saving breast cancer screenings each year. The addition of the new mammogram machine will allow CHASS Center to continue their mission of providing high quality, affordable care to underserved populations in the city.
CHASS Center treats nearly 12,000 patients annually offering a full spectrum of ongoing services including primary and preventative health care, as well as dental and behavioral health services for individuals of all ages.
Registration Open for Aug. 6 Troy Traffic Jam Car Show at Columbia Center
Registration is open for the 15th annual Troy Traffic Jam car show slated for 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Aug. 6 at the Columbia Center on Big Beaver Road. The event “fuels education” at the Troy Historic Village.
Troy’s premier car show features “great cars, great music, and great food.”
“It’s difficult to choose my favorite cars over the years,” says Alan Kiriluk, chairman of KIRCO and a member of the TTJ planning team. “We’ve had a rare and beautifully restored Tucker, and an exquisite Duesenberg. We seek specialty cars from high-end collectors but are also amazed by what everyday collectors bring to the show.”
While cars are the main attraction, the Troy Traffic Jam is a free and family friendly day out for many reasons. Visitors can vote for their favorite of more than 250 vehicles while strolling the show. Photo ops abound among the show vehicles and newest Troy firetrucks and police vehicles. The robots from Troy area First Robotics teams will be back to demonstrate innovations in programming and inspire the next generation of car designers. The Troy Historic Village tent will connect visitors to the automotive past through hands-on activities for all ages and Sparkles the Clown will be painting faces.
Individuals interested in displaying their vehicle(s) are able to register at TroyTrafficJam.com. Pre-registration is $25 per car and offers quick check-in and swag bag compliments of TTJ’s sponsors and registrants. Registration on the day of the event will be $30.
Goldfish Swim School Making Waves for National Water Safety Month
A new study commissioned by the Troy-based Goldfish Swim School revealed that 57 percent of families are planning to vacation around water this summer, but only a third of parents are very confident in their children’s swimming ability.
With its mission to raise awareness about water safety ahead of the summer months, Goldfish Swim School is launching its third annual Safer Swimmer Pledge, a commitment to following five golden rules of water safety with a philanthropic tie-in, in honor of National Water Safety Month in May.
New this year is the Biggest Wavemakers Challenge, which encourages Goldfish students to be ambassadors for water safety and get their friends, classmates, and communities to take the Safer Swimmer Pledge. The wavemaker who gathers the most pledges via the Goldfish website pledge will receive a VIP pool party for their closest friends, as well as a year of free swim lessons.
The Safer Swimmer Pledge is a series of commitments that remind children and parents to be smart around water:
- Whether I’m at home, the beach or pool, I will play it cool and follow the rules.
- When it comes to swimming, water safety is key, that’s why I will always have an adult with me!
- When I’m around water or on a boat, I can wear a life jacket to help me float.
- No matter how deep the water may be, I’ll always jump in with my feet.
- If I see a swimmer in need, I know how to help them indeed! First, I’ll throw them something to float, and then I’ll go and get an adult.
After taking the pledge online, families will receive access to at-home water safety tools and activities, as well as a promo code for a 25 percent discount on any Speedo USA purchase, with 10 percent of that purchase being donated to the USA Swimming Foundation. Additionally, Goldfish Swim School Franchising will donate $1 for each virtual pledge taken to the foundation, helping provide access to swim lessons to underserved children across the U.S. In Canada, schools will partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Halton and Hamilton to promote water safety and access to swim lessons in their communities.
For more information, visit here.
The Ann Arbor Art Fair Returns July 20-22
Ann Arbor is getting ready to welcome the nearly half a million visitors anticipated to converge in its downtown for the Ann Arbor Art Fair, the largest and one of the top-ranking juried art fairs in the country.
The Ann Arbor Art Fair returns July 20-22, to celebrate art and the artist community that make the fair so special and integral to the city’s proud recognition as a beacon for the visual and performing arts.
The Ann Arbor Art Fair, comprised of three independently juried nonprofit art fairs that run consecutively — The Ann Arbor Street Art Fair, The Original; the Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair; and the Ann Arbor State Street Art Fair — will span 30 blocks and will consist of nearly 1,000 individual artists of different mediums from across the country.
Additionally, the fair will feature three stages with live music, international exhibits, art demonstrations, and interactive art activities to include everyone in the fun. The area’s small businesses will be offering sidewalk sales and local restaurants extending patio service into the streets.
The Ann Arbor Art Fair has a new shuttle partner this year. National Trails will pick up fairgoers at both Briarwood Mall and Huron High School for round trip shuttles to the fair for $8 per person. Once onsite, May Mobility’s autonomous vehicles will be joined by BMW vehicles to shuttle fairgoers around the perimeter of the fair as co-presenters of the Art-Go-Round.
“Art is a wonderful part of the human experience,” says Karen Delhey, director of the Ann Arbor Summer Art Fair. “And it’s with great love for the artists and the Ann Arbor community that we host the Ann Arbor Art Fair each year. Although it’s a lot of hard work bringing everything together, it is so rewarding to see artists and art lovers alike fill the streets of Ann Arbor each July.”
The 2023 Ann Arbor Art Fair runs 10 a.m.-9 p.m. July 20-21 and 10 a.m.-8 p.m. July 22.
For more information, visit theannarborartfair.com.
Friends of Johnson Nature Center to Host Forest to Table Fundraiser Sept. 9
The Friends of Johnson Nature Center in Bloomfield Township is planning its Forest to Table fundraiser from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Sept. 9.
Chef Chris Gadulka from Sylvan Table and Chef Johnny Prepolec from Alchemi will be catering a strolling dinner of forest foods throughout the trails at the center. The chefs will intertwine Michigan native and invasive species of flora and fauna throughout multiple stations. Attendees will have an opportunity to connect with the center’s natural environment and engage their senses.
Guests will stroll the trails as they listen to live music and taste chefs’ creations. Naturalists on site will provide education and community awareness around ecological conservation. The evening will conclude with sweet endings, photo opportunities, and performing artists.
For more information, visit johnsonnaturecenter.org.
City of Southfield Seeks Entries for Photo Prize Competition
The city of Southfield will sponsor the 7th annual Southfield Photo Prize this summer to showcase the natural and architectural beauty throughout the city while also creating an outdoor public art exhibition.
The city is currently seeking qualified entries for the competition, which will run from June through August. Submissions initially will be reviewed by the Total Living Commission that will select the top 25 entries that will be displayed and eligible for public voting. Finalists will then be enlarged and displayed outside on city hall and the parks and recreation building for public viewing and voting. The community will be encouraged to visit all of the entries and to vote online for their favorite installation.
Finalists will be posted on the city’s website for judging by the public from June 12-Sept. 1. The photo that receives the most overall votes will be featured in the city’s 2024 calendar with a photo credit. Other finalists also may be featured in the calendar and other city marketing materials. The photograph that receives the most overall votes will be announced at an awards ceremony in September in addition to prizes and gift certificates from local businesses for all of the top three winners.
For submission criteria and other information, visit here.
Meijer LPGA Classic 5k Run & Walk Slated for June 17
The Meijer LPGA Classic 5k Run & Walk presented by Kellogg’s will return for the ninth time as part of the Meijer LPGA Classic for Simply Give. Registration for the run and walk is now open online.
The race, powered by Gazelle Sports, will start at 8 a.m. June 17 at Rockford High School. Each participant will receive a branded T-shirt, a complimentary breakfast provided by Kellogg’s, and two daily tickets to the golf tournament, valid for any one day, Thursday through Sunday.
“The best thing about the Meijer LPGA Classic 5k Run & Walk is you don’t have to be an avid runner to participate,” says Cathy Cooper, executive director of the Meijer LPGA Classic. “It’s just a nice way to get the whole family involved in the tournament while helping feed those in need.”
The route for the run and walk is course certified, which allows runners to ensure the accuracy of their time and distance. The cost to participate in the run is $25 per person, ages 18 and older, and $15 per person, ages 17 and under. During the event, strollers are welcome and encouraged.
For more information on the Meijer LPGA Classic for Simply Give or to register for the Meijer LPGA Classic 5k Run & Walk presented by Kellogg’s, visit meijerLPGAclassic.com.
