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.
Traverse City Expands September International Fireworks Championship
Organizers of the International Fireworks Championship in Traverse City announced there will be an additional night and more teams competing in this year’s event taking place Sept. 6-7 at Turtle Creek Stadium.
The show will feature pyrotechnic teams from Australia, the United Kingdom, India, the Philippines, Finland, and the United States.
“This event features some of the top pyrotechnic teams in the world,” says Trevor Tkach, president of Traverse City Tourism. “Last year’s tickets sold out in minutes and the audience was mesmerized by the incredible artistic displays. This year will be even bigger and better.”
The teams are invited to compete if they have won other competitions from around the world. They have 15 minutes to stage their performance and are judged on design, synchronization to music, and the overall experience of their show. Best of Show awards will be given on both nights through votes by attendees. In addition, a group of pyrotechnic experts will present a juried award based on the teams’ performances for both nights of the event.
Tickets for both nights of the show will go on sale May 14 at 11 a.m. at TraverseCity.com. Prices per night are $50 for box seats, $70 for field seats, tables for four are $500 and suites range from $1,000 to $2,500.
Details of the event, and a video highlighting last year’s International Fireworks Festival are available here.
Detroit People Mover’s NFL Draft Operations Kick Off a New Era
The Detroit People Mover (DPM) is ready to show riders something new. While thousands of visitors are here for the NFL Draft, they will be looking for ways to navigate a downtown footprint with activities, entertainment, and eateries.
The People Mover is ready to assist, with 24-hour service and information to provide safe transportation while the riders explore.
DPM will begin around-the-clock operations starting 7 a.m. April 25 through midnight on April 28. Trains will arrive every five minutes each day through the end of the NFL Experience and Draft. The schedule will change to arrivals every eight minutes through the overnight hours.
DDOT riders can access the system at Times Square or Michigan stations, while accessible rideshare service and SMART Bus Park and Ride passengers can board and exit at Fort/Cass station. DPM stations are steps away from the “Draft in the D” Celebrations, including Beacon Park & Capitol Park (Times Square Station), Grand Circus Park, Paradise Valley / Beatrice Buck Park / The Belt (Broadway Station).
DPM has replaced its original map cases with LED displays. Each station is now equipped with two digital touchscreen kiosks that provide a downtown map with details about destinations, events, nearby landmarks, and a display of current time. In addition, each station has new street-level and platform-level video messaging screens with system information and real-time next train arrival times.
At nightfall, both Larned and Park streetscapes will illuminate the People Mover’s guideway track from opposite ends of the Central Business District. A total of 17 designated columns fitted with custom architectural lighting will feature the colors of the NFL Draft and sports teams; holidays and other themes will shine throughout the rest of the year.
The exteriors of several DPM stations are highlighting the efforts and creativity of local individuals and organizations.
Detroit Lions Choose Verizon as Official 5G Network
New York-based Verizon has announced a new partnership with the Detroit Lions to be the “Official 5G Network of the Detroit Lions” and presenting sponsor of the halftime performance at the team’s annual Thanksgiving game.
As the Lions’ exclusive 5G and wireless services partner, Verizon will provide connectivity designed to improve venue operations and enhance the fan and stadium experience for the next three years. This agreement builds on Verizon’s wireless infrastructure at Ford Field, which includes deployments of 5G Ultra Wideband, Private Wireless Network coach-to-coach communication, and 5G Edge Cashierless Checkout technology.
“We are excited to continue and grow our partnership with Verizon at Ford Field,” says Mike Disner, COO of the Detroit Lions. “Our partnership with Verizon has enabled us to elevate the Ford Field experience for fans, media and our staff through greater connectivity and network strength. We are thrilled that they will continue to be a part of our annual Thanksgiving tradition in Detroit.”
To date, Verizon has made several network and stadium improvements to Ford Field to accommodate the rapid increase in data usage during games and entertainment events at the stadium throughout the year. This includes Verizon’s Distributed Antenna System (DAS), a wireless network of antennas distributed throughout the property allowing for better performance/coverage and greater capacity using Verizon’s C-band spectrum, as well as a 5G mmWave system deployment in the stadium.
“The Lions have been a great technology partner to Verizon working behind the scenes with us for some time now. We’re glad to be able to make it official,” says Jonathan Nikols, senior vice president of Global Enterprise Americas for Verizon Business. “Whether they’re in the parking lot or on the 50-yard line, fans expect fast and reliable connectivity to power all their experiential desires. We look forward to working with the Lions organization over the next few years to position Ford Field as a prime example of what’s possible for the future of sports and live entertainment.”
In addition, Verizon has implemented its 5G Edge Cashierless Checkout technology in two food and beverage locations within the stadium. Located in sections 140 (Express Shop) and 226 (Little Caesars), these “powered by Verizon 5G” stores use Verizon’s network and AI-powered computer vision technology from AiFi to help provide fans with a quick and convenient way to purchase food and drinks onsite.
Eaton’s Mobility Group Chosen to Supply Technology to China’s Great Wall Motor
Southfield-based Intelligent power management company Eaton has been chosen to supply an electromechanical actuation system (EMAS) that can deliver an early intake valve closing (EIVC) to the China-based automaker Great Wall Motor for use in a line of hybrid-electric vehicles (HEV).
“Emissions regulations are driving the adoption of new technologies by our global customers,” says Alessio Lorenzon, global engineering manager for valves at Eaton’s Mobility Group. “We’re proud to supply Great Wall with our variable valve actuation technology which, in combination with vehicle hybridization, will improve fuel economy in their newest hybrid passenger vehicle lineup.”
The Eaton EMAS is a discrete valvetrain-based technology that allows manufacturers to select the intake lift that best fits the engine map. At low to medium engine speed and torque, the system delivers the EIVC function, reducing the air trapped in the cylinder and the pumping losses, which increases overall engine efficiency. When the engine requires maximum performance, the system switches to the longer valve event, delivering the highest output possible. Leveraging a system that can be easily integrated into the valvetrain and the cylinder head space and controlled by a simple electric actuator, the EMAS creates a balance between fuel economy and performance.
Eaton’s innovative new system differs from traditional variable valve actuation (VVA) solutions in that it includes switchable rockers, a mechanical actuation shaft controlling the switching of the rockers, and an electric actuator driving the actuation system on demand. This configuration makes the system unaffected by varying oil temperatures, which enables fast system switching across a very wide working range of the engine. This also enables a safe rocker switch at high engine speed.
For more information, visit here.
Premier Private Jets Announces Expanded Senior Management to Lead Growth
Premier Private Jets, a Florida-based provider of business aviation services including at Oakland County International Airport in Waterford Township, has expanded its leadership team as it prepares to launch a wider menu of offerings.
“We’ve grown this company methodically and prudently for 11 years, becoming a trusted charter provider,” says Josh Birmingham, founder and CEO of Premier Private Jets. “Now we are ready to take the company to the next level, and we have put in place an exceptional team to lead this growth.”
Steve O’Neill, who founded and led CitationAir, a fractional and jet card provider, for over 12 years, has been providing advisory services for the past year and will continue to take a key advisory role. He works closely with Birmingham to guide strategic planning.
Jeff Lee has been promoted to COO after serving for seven years as Premier’s vice president of operations.
Joanne Aquilina has joined as CFO.
John O’Neill has joined as senior vice president of operations.
Kyle Eiserer is vice president of fixed-base operations (FBOs).
Darren Blackett is Premier Private Jets’ new vice president of VP sales.
Ron Jennings joined this year as vice president of sales-MRO.
Steve Purvis was appointed vice president of maintenance in February, moving up from director of maintenance.
“I am extremely proud of the leadership team we have assembled,” says Birmingham, “but I would be remiss in not recognizing the more than 150 members of our organization: experienced pilots, maintenance technicians, customer service representatives, and other professionals who give their all to meet the needs of our customers. This is truly a team sport, and we have an all-star team.”
The Village of Rochester Hills to Build Stand-alone Starbucks with Drive-thru
Robert B. Aikens and Associates announced that a stand-alone Starbucks, with a drive-thru, will be built at The Village of Rochester Hills and is slated to open this fall.
The village’s current Starbucks location next to the Gazebo in Festival Park, will remain open until Aug. 1.
The new building will be located in the Von Maur parking lot, and will be approximately 2,100 square feet, making it 1,000 square feet larger than the current coffeehouse. The new location will include a drive-thru that will be accessed through Fashion Lane and will also include Wi-Fi and an outdoor patio for guests to enjoy.
The Village of Rochester Hills also will be adding three new dining options later this year. The Jackson, Two Hands Korean-styled Fresh Corn Dogs, and Pokeworks.
For more information about The Village of Rochester Hills and its upcoming developments, visit TheVORH.com.
NFL Players Association Expands Program with All Four One Gives Bike
The Detroit-based All Four One nonprofit organization and The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) announced the new partnership of All Four One Gives Bike Donation that will serve as its official charitable partners for 2024.
As a part of its continued commitment to the fight for equality and as reflection of a membership and staff that serves as one of the most diverse in sports, the NFLPA has expanded its Charitable Partnership program pillars — children, mental health, men’s health, military, and women’s health.
The organization will receive a $1,000 sponsorship from The TRUST Powered By NFLPA to help fund the All Four One Gives Bike Donation program that furthers the mission of the organization and aligns with the union’s core values.
Red Oaks Golf Course Pro Shop Named for Former Oakland County Parks Official
Oakland County Parks (OCP) has renamed the Red Oaks Golf Course Pro Shop in Madison Heights after Pecky D. Lewis Jr., the longest serving chair of the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission.
A plaque dedication ceremony took place April 19, during which Lewis was honored for his more than 33 years of service. The ceremony was attended by many members of his family, friends, and former colleagues.
Lewis began serving as a Parks Commissioner in September 1981, and was elected chair of the Parks Commission from 1993-2010. He was appointed chairperson emeritus in 2011 and retired in March 2015. Lewis died in July 2023.
For more information about Oakland County Parks, visit OaklandCountyParks.com.
Shelving Inc. in Madison Heights Opens Applications for 2024 Business Scholarship
Shelving Inc. in Madison Heights, a provider of storage solutions for industrial, commercial, and residential spaces, has launched its 10th annual Shelving.com Business Scholarship contest.
This scholarship opportunity is open to Michigan residents who are actively pursuing a major in a business-related field of study. Showcasing its commitment to supporting education, Shelving Inc. is offering the largest prize amounts yet, with a $4,000 first place scholarship, $2,500 second place scholarship, and $1,500 for the second runner-up.
The program welcomes applications from Michigan residents who are currently enrolled in an accredited university or college, as well as high school seniors who have already enrolled or intend to enroll in college no later than the Fall 2024 semester. Eligible candidates should be pursuing a major in business or a related field of study, maintaining a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8.
To apply, applicants must submit a copy of their transcript, resume, and an essay that showcases their passion and commitment. For those not currently attending a college or university, proof of college enrollment is mandatory. Michigan residents who are attending an accredited college or university outside of the state are eligible to apply.
The application period for the scholarship closes on July 4 at 11:59 p.m. The winners of the scholarship will be announced on July 22.
To apply for the Shelving.com Business Scholarship, aspiring candidates are encouraged to visit here.
Former Detroit Lions Defender Andre Fluellen to Treat 40 Kids to Evening of Luxury May 13
Former Detroit Lions defensive tackle and motivational speaker Andre Fluellen is giving a group of 40 deserving children from Tomlison Middle School in Inkster a night to remember at Prime + Proper Steakhouse in Detroit.
The event will take place from 5-7 p.m. on May 13 and provides an opportunity for this group of kids to experience fine dining and a lifestyle they may not otherwise encounter. The young students from Tomlison Middle School, where Fluellen serves as a mentor, will enjoy an elegant dinner, learn social etiquette skills for young ladies and gentlemen, and be encouraged to dream big and reach for the stars.
Fluellen, an eight-year NFL pro who spent nearly his entire career with the Detroit Lions, believes that every child deserves to feel valued, appreciated, and worthy of life’s luxuries, regardless of their background. He has partnered with a growing team of former pro athletes and organizations to bring a mentorship program to the city of Detroit and surrounding communities.
The youth mentorship program, “Move Your Chains,” is hosted in combination with Sports World, an organization that sends pro athletes like Fluellen to schools all around the country to share personal life experiences with students, encourage positive choices, and bring desperately needed messages of hope to children and teens facing tremendous peer pressure, bullying, depression, and mental health challenges.
A limited number of partnership opportunities are available to team up with the pro athletes for the Prime + Proper Student Dinner Event. The partnerships provide an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of local kids for as little as $250 to sponsor a student for dinner. Contributions will not only provide these 40 students with a night to remember but also inspire them to dream big and aim high.
All donations will benefit SportsWorld, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, and are fully tax deductible as allowed by law.
For partnership opportunities and more information, contact Sherrie Handrinos at Sherrie@boostonemarketing.com or 734-341-6859.
Adult Day Program for Metro Detroiters Living with Dementia Planning Open House May 5
An open house with free refreshments, tours, and a presentation by a local estate planning lawyer called “Estate Planning Essentials for Caregivers” will take place at 11 a.m. May 5 at The Dorothy and Peter Brown Jewish Community Adult Day Program (Brown Program) at its West Bloomfield location (6720 W. Maple Road).
The event marks Older Americans Month in May, which this year has the theme Powered by Connection, highlighting the importance of relationships and social connections on physical and mental health for older adults.
The Brown Program is a joint initiative of Gesher Human Services and Jewish Senior Life and provides innovative and engaging activities, care, and socialization for those living with dementia along with support for their families at its two centers in West Bloomfield and Southfield. The Day Program welcomes people of all beliefs and faiths.
Registration for the open house is preferred by April 26. Contact Debi Banooni at dbanooni@geshermi.org or call 248-233-4390.
Washtenaw Community College’s Start-Up Week Begins May 6
Washtenaw Community College (WCC) in Ann Arbor will host its inaugural Start-Up Week May 6-9 to celebrate and promote entrepreneurship among students, aspiring business owners, and the local community.
Start-Up week will run in conjunction with the college’s annual Pitch@WCC competition in which new and aspiring business owners compete for cash prizes to launch or grow their companies.
The public is invited to join the events of the week to support and celebrate visionary entrepreneurs from the community and learn what goes into building a business.
All events are free and open to the public.
Pitch@WCC 2024 began in February and is a month-long entrepreneurial training program for new and aspiring business owners from throughout the community. Pitch@WCC culminates with a competition May 8-9, during which participants pitch their business plans to expert judges for an opportunity to secure funding for their businesses.
For more information, visit here.
In Related News: WCC’s Women’s Council will host its 27th Annual Washtenaw Community College Foundation Women’s Council Celebration Luncheon from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. May 1.
Proceeds from the luncheon will benefit the WCC Foundation Student Emergency Fund, which helps students meet unanticipated expenses that may jeopardize their ability to stay in school.
The luncheon will honor three Washtenaw County women and one organization for their work as “Sheroes,” or female heroes who demonstrate professional excellence through their work and service to support women, children and the underserved or advance equity, diversity, and inclusion.
The three women to be honored include Victoria Burton-Harris, Amy Cell, and Shannon Polk.
For more information, visit here.
Registration Now Open for Salvation Army’s 12th Annual Walk for Justice
Registration is now open for The Salvation Army William Booth Legal Aid Clinic’s 12th annual Walk for Justice fundraiser at 8 a.m. on May 11 at the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak.
Early registration is $40 for adults and $45 on the day of the walk. Children are admitted for free and law students can register for $30. The registration cost includes zoo admission, parking, an event t-shirt, refreshments, and entry into a door prize drawing. All proceeds from the walk go directly to The William Booth Legal Aid Clinic.
In addition to exploring a world class zoo while supporting a worthwhile cause, Walk for Justice participants will enjoy family-friendly activities and the opportunity to bid on items and experiences during a silent auction. A special prize will be given to the walker with the highest pledge total.
For the past 30 years, the William Booth Legal Aid Clinic has provided free legal services to those in need throughout metro Detroit, helping to resolve on average 1,500 legal issues every year affecting low-income families and U.S. military veterans. As the only Salvation Army free legal aid clinic in the world, the William Booth Legal Aid Clinic has provided quality guidance and advocacy in a wide variety of areas involving homelessness, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and consumer advocacy.
For more information about the Walk for Justice fundraiser visit walkforjustice.org, email info@walkforjustice.org or call 313-361-6340.
