September-October 2011
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Legacy Night
The University of Michigan hosted a gala dinner to celebrate the philanthropic legacy of A. Alfred Taubman. The event drew more than 500 people.
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Class Leaders
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society – Michigan Chapter held its inaugural Leadership Class of 2011 event. The event honored individuals for their contributions to civic, business, and the cultural endeavors in the region.
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Art and Design
Rossetti, an architectural design firm, held a 40th anniversary party. The firm’s work includes the original Cobo Hall and Arena, Ford Field, and Compuware Corp.’s headquarters.
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New Detroit
The 13th annual Closing the Gap Dinner, presented by New Detroit, honored people and organizations that have made a difference in improving race relations in metro Detroit.
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Sunset Party
The Detroit Zoological Society held its annual Sunset at the Zoo fundraiser, which included food stations, live entertainment, and corporate chalets.
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High Life
The Garden Party, a fundraiser at the Academy of the Sacred Heart in Bloomfield Hills, benefited the Children’s Leukemia Foundation of Michigan and Oakland Community College’s Culinary Studies Institute.
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Sacred Heart
The 2011 Archbishop’s Gala was held on June 8 at the Ford Conference and Events Center in Dearborn. More than 400 guests were on hand to raise money for the Sacred Heart Majoy Seminary in Detroit.
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Beyond Basics
Chris Perry, global vice president of the Chevrolet Marketing Division, was the featured speaker at Beyond Basics’ Coming Together for Children Annual Dinner.
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Sky Bright
The Parade Co. in Detroit sold out its Target Fireworks VIP Rooftop Party on June 27 atop the Miller Parking Deck adjacent to the Renaissance Center.
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Speed to Market
The Lipari family built up one of the Midwest’s largest food distributorships one customer at a time.
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Small Loans, Big Results
Smaller banks are extending more loans, but they can’t do it alone.
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HireMe.com
A Bloomfield Hills technology firm takes a bite out of employee turnover rates.
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Bumper Crop
An unusual shop in Livonia performs “dentless,” low-cost vehicle repairs.
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PDA Q&A: Anne Doyle
Principal, Anne Doyle Strategies, Auburn Hills
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Common Ground
United yet divided; it’s not easy getting 30 regional chambers on the same page.
Next Steps
An Ann Arbor consultant works exclusively with Stage 2 companies.
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Electric Charge
Recent changes to Michigan’s electrical market, which provided near- monopolistic control to regulated utilities, were designed to help businesses. So why are so many crying foul?
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Plant & Produce
In the early morning hours, when time seems suspended, metro Detroit’s produce industry works overtime to
meet the region’s insatiable demand for all things exotic. -
Modern Ruin
Bloomfield Park promised to be the next Birmingham, but the $2 billion project was abandoned in mid-construction due to the 2008 global economic meltdown — at least that’s the popular version of what transpired. Here, for the first time, is the untold story of how municipal arrogance jeopardized millions of dollars in future tax revenue and left taxpayers to pick up the tab for a controversial legal showdown.
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Midnight Rider
As Chevrolet Division of General Motors turns 100, the genius of its namesake, a Swiss-French immigrant, share in a celebration.
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2011 Saks Blast Fashion Show
Saks Fifth Avenue hosted its Saks Blast 2011 Fall Fashion Show on Aug. 26 at the Somerset Collection in Troy. The event benefited Transition to Betterness of Windsor and the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute of Detroit.
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Advice to Banks on Troubled Loans
To help curtail commercial loan workouts, businesses and financial institutions need to better communicate potential problems.
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An Autumn Themed Dinner by Wine Brokers
On a crisp late summer eve, Milford-based Wine Brokers and Michael and Ranay Ogurek hosted an autumn-themed dinner at their residence in Oakland County for 26 guests. Held on September 10, 2011, the evening included passed a variety of white and red wines, passed hors d’ oeuvres, a sit-down dinner, and live entertainment.
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Detroit Jazz Festival VIP Party
The 32nd Annual Detroit Jazz Festival “brought the world to Detroit” over Labor Day weekend at Hart Plaza with jazz influenced music from artists all over the world. VIP members, who support the Detroit Jazz Festival and help keep the event free, enjoyed a night of world-class entertainment, food, and fun.
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The 2nd Annual Shimmer on the River
The Detroit RiverFront Conservancy hosted its largest fundraising event of the year, Shimmer on the River, on Sept. 8 at the GM Plaza and Promenade. Guests enjoyed a strolling dinner, dancing on the Detroit RiverWalk, and live entertainment. Proceeds from the event benefited the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy and its continued development of the Detroit Riverfront.
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30 In Their Thirties 2011
We asked our readers to nominate regional business professionals in their 30s who are advancing their companies, industries, and communities. From savvy entrepreneurs to enterprising executives, these overachievers believe opportunity and growth are not only achievable, but expected given the success of multiple generations of business leaders in the region and state.
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Aerospace Design Conference
A special Sept. 23 conference will explore opportunities to repurpose Detroit’s industrial automotive base toward innovations in aerospace technology.
New TrueCertify Technology Enables Electronic Delivery of Certified Documents
Ottawa County, MI is first to adopt new technology that will improve delivery of certified documents.
1st Source Servall Purchases Appliance Parts Company of Louisiana
Michigan-based company acquisition includes all eight locations and continues national expansion.
Amerigon Heated and Cooled Dual Cup Holder Available for 2011 Chrysler 300
Second vehicle to offer cup holder.
DTE Energy to Issue Request for Proposals for Michigan Energy Efficiency Implementation Contractors
DTE Energy plans to issue Requests for Proposals (RFP) to add energy efficient programs to its electric profile.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Announces Lowest Statewide Average Rate Increases In Six Years For Small Employers
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan brings more cost-effective products to the market.
CREW Detroit Announces 10th Annual IMPACT Award Winners
Prestigious Awards Celebrate SE Michigan’s Commercial Real Estate Successes.
New Statewide Poll Shows Voters Strongly Oppose NITC Bridge
65% of Michigan Residents Oppose Government Financed Canada to Detroit Bridge.
GM Names James A. Davlin Vice President Finance and Treasurer
General Motors has named James A. Davlin GM vice president finance and treasurer, effective Oct. 3.
Greektown Casino-Hotel Kicks Off Renovations with Super Pit Table Game Area and THE FRINGE Bar
Greektown Casino-Hotel unveiled its newly redesigned third floor.
Valassis Earns Multiple Awards for Workplace, Technology and Printing
Valassis announced today that it has recently received a number of awards, totaling 17 to date this year.
MWW Automotive Begins Production for Ford F-150 Components
MWW Automotive Group announced today that it has begun production of interior parts for the Ford F-150 series line of trucks.
Daniel J. Loepp, President and CEO, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan named Executive Committee Chair of the Downtown Detroit Partnership
Blue Cross advances its commitment to core cities by elevating role in collaborative partnership among Detroit’s business leaders.
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David Farbman's Surprise 40th Birthday Party
Nadine Farbman hosted a Surprise 40th Birthday Party for her husband, David Farbman, CEO of OutdoorHub.com in Bingham Farms, on Sept. 9 at Michigan Aviation at Oakland County International Airport in Waterford Township. More than 200 guests attended the event, including Josh Linkner, chairman of ePrize in Pleasant Ridge, and CEO and managing partner of Detroit Venture Partners in Detroit. To access Josh’s blog about the party, please visit: http://joshlinkner.com/2011/keeping-score/. To view the YouTube videos, please visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65n5_SJ6tWM and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32Ugqcsz1Ds.
New Labor Agreement Enables GM's Continued Progress
Agreement maintains GM’s low break-even level, gives all employees a direct stake in the company’s performance and protects its fortress balance sheet
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Distinguished Grand Jester’s Reception
The Parade Company’s Distinguished Clown Corps held its Distinguished Grand Jester’s Reception on Sept. 27 at The Reserve at Big Rock Chophouse in Birmingham. Guests enjoyed passed hors d’oeuvres and refreshments. On Thanksgiving morning, this distinguished group trade in their business suits for clown suits and march down Woodward Avenue in Detroit.
Detroit Law Firm Dykema Elects Peter Kellett CEO
Litigation Department Director Brings Years of Leadership Experience; Impressive Array of Talents in and out of the Courtroom; and Commitment to Future of Leading National Law Firm
Shore Financial Services in Birmingham Continues to Strengthen Leadership
CEO Kirkpatrick: Three New Hires Provide “Significant Competitive Advantage”
Kienbaum Opperwall Hardy & Pelton Member Elizabeth Hardy Named to the State Bar of Michigan Judicial Qualifications Committee
Kienbaum Opperwall Hardy & Pelton member Elizabeth Hardy was appointed as a member of the State Bar of Michigan’s Judicial Qualifications Committee.
Concours d'Elegance of America Announces 2012 Classes
Classes are announced for the 2012 Concours d’Elegance of America at St. John’s in Plymouth, where over 300 cars will be on the show field, making it the one of the largest displays of historically important automobiles in the world.
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Is Perception Reality
By examining the companies that make up the S&P 500, there is an interesting alternative to the perceived reality that the financial media seems to want us to believe.
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Il Volo at Detroit Opera House on October 16
At times, it pays to take one step back to move two steps ahead. When Anthony Rugiero, president of Antonio’s Cucina Italiana and Roman Village first heard Il Volo — arguably the hottest singing sensation in Italy — he had a “middle of the night” dream to produce a special benefit concert to raise money for three charities with strong ties to metro Detroit.
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Clays For Kids
The Oakwood Healthcare Foundation hosted its Clays for Kids sporting clays event at the Detroit Gun Club in Walled Lake. The Farbman Group and Toni and Randy Kowalski were title sponsors for the event and proceeds benefited Oakwood’s Center for Exceptional Families, which is the only place in Michigan to offer fully integrated, comprehensive, family-centered care for children with special needs.
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Arts Du Jour Charity Preview
Guests were invited to enjoy the official charity preview for Ford Arts, Beats, and Eats at the Royal Oak Farmers Market on Thursday, Aug. 25.
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Big Wine Classic
The Big Wine Classic, a charity event to raise funds for a four-year full-ride scholarship for a deserving young person, was held at the Birmingham Country Club on Aug. 29. Guests enjoyed a round of golf, fine wine and food.
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“Fair Winds and Following Seas” Ahead for Detroit
Officials gathered Oct. 21 at the Detroit Port Authority to celebrate the naming of USS Detroit, a new combat ship and the sixth Navy ship to bear the city’s name.
ESD Announces Fall Job Fair: 45 Companies; 3,100 Available Jobs
The Engineering Society of Detroit Fall Job Fair will be held from 2 until 7 p.m. Oct. 24 at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi.
Automakers to Work With Governments on Standards to Help Bring Connected Cars to Market Quicker
Globally harmonized standards will enable the automakers and other stakeholders to bring connected vehicle technologies to market more quickly and at a reduced cost for the consumer.
Continental to Supply Fuel-Efficient Turbochargers for Ford's New Engine Family
For a natural aspirated engine, for example, the combination with turbocharger and direct injection allows for a consumption reduction of about 20%.
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Wheels Up
During a recent visit to the East Coast, the level of appreciation people had for Detroit and Michigan was refreshing.
Plante Moran’s Succession Transition: A Roadmap for Seamless Transitions
New Book Offers Strategies to Create Sustainable Organizations through Leadership Development
MEGA approves incentives for $29.3 million in new investments
Michigan’s economic gardening strategy offers wide-ranging help to growing companies in order to generate new job opportunities.
Ford to Demonstrate Smart Electrification Technology That Can Adapt with Green Cities Trend
Ford Executive Chairman Bill Ford will be a keynote speaker and talk about his vision for the future of transportation
Chrysler Group LLC to Invest $165 Million to Add Body Shop to Sterling Heights Assembly Plant
New body shop adds more than one million square-feet to current footprint
UAW-Ford National Labor Agreement Ratified By Members
Ford is adding 12,000 hourly jobs in its U.S. manufacturing facilities through the four-year term of the contract, including in-sourcing work from Mexico, China and Japan.
U-M Ford School poll: Most local leaders in Michigan report ongoing financial woes
Nearly half of Michigan’s local governments say they are somewhat or significantly less able to meet their financial needs in 2011, though some negative trends eased this year, a new University of Michigan survey reports
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Beyond Basics
Gordon and Maureen Rains hosted an appreciation dinner on Sept. 20 in Bloomfield Hills for the volunteers and staff at Beyond Basics, an organization that brings reading, writing, and other literacy programs to students in grades pre-K through 12 in the Detroit Public School system.
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Crystal Rose Gala
Hospice of Michigan hosted its 26th Annual Crystal Rose Gala on Sept. 16 at the Westin Book Cadillac in Detroit. The gala was attended by 360 people and raised more than $150,000 for HOM’s programs.
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Wine and Dine in the D
Wine and Dine in the D, an event benefiting the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation, was held in the Music Box at Orchestra Hall in Detroit. Guests enjoyed fare from more than 10 of Michigan’s best restaurants paired with the finest wines from Michigan, California and Europe.
Michigan Business Leaders Tout Economic Benefits of Early Learning Investments
Early care and education programs generate $1.2 billion in economic activity for Michigan, employ over 27,000 workers and improve future workforce
Pay Anywhere in Troy Enhances Mobile Payment System for Apple and Android Users
Latest Version of the Apple/Android App to include Cash Transactions, Discounts, Store and Forward, and More
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Detroit Pizza War Heats Up
Domino’s artisan pizzas hope to take larger slice from metro Detroit’s competitors.
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IL Volo Returns to the Detroit Opera House
With a sold-out VIP reception at the Detroit Opera House on October 15, followed by a concert at the Fox Theatre, IL Volo, the young operatic trio from Italy, is returning to the Detroit Opera House on October 27 for a national concert taping to be shared with audiences of PBS. Tickets are available at www.michiganopera.org.
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Marygrove College and Midnight Golf Debut Practice Facility
On October 3, Marygrove College and The Midnight Golf Program, both based in Detroit, held a ribbon cutting ceremony for its new Golf Practice Facility. Designed by world renowned golf course architect Tom Doak, the facility features a large practice putting green, a large sand bunker, two practice tee areas (26 hitting bays), and a 4-hole short course. Photos by Patrick Gloria.
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Detroit Uncorked
The seventh annual Detroit Uncorked, one of the region’s largest wine tasting events, was held at the Ford Conference and Event Center on Sept. 30. The event featured hundreds of wines from around the world and benefited The Children’s Center and Detroit Wine Organization.
Ford Earns $1.6 Billion Net Income in Third Quarter 2011
Ford Motor Company (NYSE: F) today reported third quarter 2011 net income of $1.6 billion, or 41 cents per share, a decrease of $38 million, or 2 cents per share, versus third quarter 2010
Detroit Motor City Casino Workers Ratify New Agreement
The valets, front desk staff, phone operators, warehouse, grounds and general workers are represented by Teamsters Local 372 in Detroit, a member of the Detroit Casino Council.
Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder says revitalized infrastructure is road to success
Modern roads, clean water, and broadband access are among the building blocks of Michigan’s prosperity, Snyder said.
Michigan Firms Partner on New Venture Focused on Commercializing Emerging Technologies
Initiated by a $25 million commitment from Quantum, ClearTech will operate as a closely-held technology commercialization firm that invests in disruptive emerging technologies. Specifically, ClearTech will focus on technologies across the defense, security, energy and advanced outdoors markets.
It's a Wonderful Life! Gala Raises $200,000 For Seniors
The Presbyterian Villages of Michigan Foundation raised nearly $200,000 at their eighth annual It’s a Wonderful Life! Gala fundraiser to benefit more than 3,500 seniors.
MEDC seeks business incubator proposals for start-up support
The total amount of available funding is $6 million. This funding may be used to support up to three years of services for each incubator or accelerator award made by the MSF. The maximum request allowable under this RFP is $2 million.
Chrysler Group Reports Third Quarter 2011 Net Income of $212 Million
Chrysler Group Modified Operating Profit More Than Doubled From Prior Year On 19 Percent Increase In Quarterly Net Revenue
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A Degree of Speed
Improved productivity and technological advances have accelerated demand for higher education, but not everyone wants to spend four or more years in college before they earn a degree.
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1965 Mustang Convertible Returns with All-New Ford-Approved Body Shell
The body shell for the original Mustang convertible, now in production and available for restorers as a Ford-licensed restoration part, gives classic car enthusiasts a new option in putting their classic dream Mustang ragtop back on the road.
Henry Ford Museum's Racing In America Collection Featured in Ford Display At 2011 SEMA Show
Four race cars in Henry Ford Museum’s Racing in America collection will trek west for a rare appearance during the week-long automotive aftermarket business show
DMC Harper University Hospital is the First in Michigan to Utilize New Device for Brain Tumor Removal
One of a kind device gives hope to patients with hard to reach tumors
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Beyond Basics at Park West
Beyond Basics, a local organization embracing literacy and the children of Detroit Public Schools, hosted an event on Oct. 26 at Park West Gallery in Southfield where guests enjoyed an evening of cocktails, strolling appetizers and beautiful artwork.
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Innovation Institute at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit
On October 10, Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit held a VIP reception to unveil its Innovation Institute. The Albert Kahn-designed facility will create businesses, patents, and jobs in the medical field. Partners include Wayne State University and the College for Creative Studies.
Detroit-based Ally Financial Launches Innovative Vehicle Financing Product
Ally Buyer’s Choice product to debut initially in five U.S. markets
New 2012 Fiat 500 Abarth to Debut at the L.A. Auto Show
Building on the excitement of the new 2012 Fiat 500 (Cinquecento), the new Fiat 500 Abarth is designed for track-day enthusiasts and driving-purists
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Ann Arbor-based Everist Genomics Announces Acquisition of Angiologix, Inc.
New Diagnostic Assesses Endothelial Function to Detect Early-Stage Atherosclerosis and Cardiovascular Disease in Asymptomatic Patients
2011 Cattle Baron's Ball Raises More Than $1.4M For American Cancer Society
This year’s event also included a top notch live auction which generated more than $300,000 alone and included items such as a one of a kind custom Camaro designed by West Coast Customs, an opportunity to guest DJ at a Red Wings home game, a chance to hit the GM Proving Grounds, MTV Movie Awards tickets and more.
Grede Completes Acquisition of Industrial Foundry
Grede Holdings LLC acquires an industrial foundry and machining facility in Omaha, Nebraska strengthening Grede’s position in the heavy truck and industrial markets.
Bold Reforms Pay Off as Michigan Ranks 2nd in Bloomberg Study of States’ Economic Health
Michigan’s economic health is second-best in the nation, according to a prominent national ranking released today that validates the state’s bold reforms.
Polk Reports Significant Growth in New Commercial Vehicle Registrations
Commercial Vehicle Market Led by Class 3 Vehicle Growth; Diesel Continues to Dominate
TechTown's Randal Charlton Wins $100,000 Purpose Prize: One of five in the nation recognized for extraordinary impact in an encore career
Civic Ventures, a think tank on boomers, work and social purpose, announced today that Detroit’s Randal Charlton is one of five winners of its 2011 Purpose Prize.
New national business incubation study identifies best practices for success
The University of Michigan’s Institute for Research on Labor, Employment, and the Economy has released a new study, “Incubating Success: Incubation Best Practices that Lead to Successful New Ventures.”
54 Michigan businesses selected to receive support through pilot program
Fifty-four small and midsize companies from around Michigan have been selected to receive business development support through the Pure Michigan Business Connect Economic Gardening Pilot Program.
MyFord Touch Upgrade Provides New and Existing Customers Enhancements and New Features
Ford customers said MyFord Touch® could be faster and feature simpler graphics that are easier to use and that’s exactly what Ford plans to deliver with a broad set of performance upgrades to the system.
Troy-based Munro & Associates' CEO Discusses Advancements in Manufacturing at the American Manufacturing Strategies Summit
Sandy Munro, CEO, Munro & Associates, Inc., will present an interactive workshop titled “Yesterday’s Productivity Tools are Not Good Enough Today” during the American Manufacturing Strategies Summit on Monday, Nov. 7.
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MJR Westland Theater Opening
The new MJR Westland Grand Digital Cinema officially opened to the public Friday, Nov. 4 and features 16 screens. The night before the grand opening the theater invited guests to attend a preview and also hosted a fundraiser.
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Walter Knabe Detroit Exhibit Opening
Long-Sharp/Curis Gallery in Detroit held an artist’s reception for the opening of internationally acclaimed artist Walter Knabe’s “Mythologies” exhibit on Nov. 5. A screenprint demonstration by Knabe followed the reception.
New Ford Flex Improves Technology and Fuel Economy
The Ford Flex debuts an upgraded model with a new look and more technology.
