Red Wings to celebrate Pavel Datsyuk’s Hockey Hall of Fame Induction prior to game on Thursday, Nov. 21 at Little Caesars Arena
November 12, 2024
The Hockey Hall of Fame’s newest inductee and 14-year member of the Detroit Red Wings, Pavel Datsyuk, will be honored by the team at Little Caesars Arena on Thursday, Nov. 21 prior and during the Red Wings game against the New York Islanders.
Fans can purchase tickets for this historic evening and join in the celebration of Datsyuk’s illustrious NHL career. The first 5,000 fans will receive a Datsyuk commemorative coin, presented by Nexstar Digital.
"I am deeply honored to be recognized by the Red Wings and the incredible fans of Detroit,” Datsyuk said. “This city has always been like a second home to me, and the love and support I’ve felt here is something I will carry with me forever. Being inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame is a testament to the amazing teammates and coaches I’ve had and the passionate Hockeytown fans who packed the house for every game. I can’t wait to return to Detroit and share this moment with all of you. I look forward to seeing everyone on November 21."
The Red Wings host the Islanders for a 7 p.m. puck drop, and fans are encouraged to arrive early to receive a commemorative Datsyuk coin, take photos with some of the NHL’s most prestigious trophies and witness an exciting heritage display of Datsyuk’s game-used items. Fans should plan to be in their seats by 6:40 p.m. to see Datsyuk perform the ceremonial puck drop before the game.
Photo opportunities for fans include the Stanley Cup, Lady Byng Memorial Trophy, Frank J. Selke Trophy and Datsyuk’s manhole cover on the Little Caesars Arena Via concourse. The heritage display features historic photos and items, including Datsyuk’s helmet from his rookie season, a game-used stick, game-used skates, a game-used jersey from his final season with the Red Wings and more.
Datsyuk, known as the “Magic Man”, played 14 seasons in the NHL, from 2001 - 2016, all with the Red Wings. His magnificent career was highlighted by two Stanley Cup championships (2002, 2008) and several individual honors, including four consecutive Lady Byng Trophies for sportsmanship and three straight Selke Trophies as the league's top defensive forward. He amassed 918 points (314 goals, 604 assists) in 953 regular-season games and earned a reputation as one of the most complete players in NHL history. Datsyuk was a four-time NHL All-Star, named one of the NHL’s 100 Greatest Players and was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame as part of the 2024 induction class.
For information on all Red Wings theme nights and promotional items, visit DetroitRedWings.com
Red Wings Assign Defenseman William Lagesson To Grand Rapids
November 12, 2024
The Detroit Red Wings today assigned defenseman William Lagesson to the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins.
Lagesson, 28, has recorded five points (2-3-5), a plus-10 rating and 12 penalty minutes in 11 games with the Griffins to begin the 2024-25 season. The 6-foot-2, 213-pound defenseman split the 2023-24 campaign between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Anaheim Ducks, tallying four assists, a plus-five rating and 19 penalty minutes in 30 games with the Maple Leafs before logging 13 penalty minutes in 10 games with the Ducks. Lagesson also picked up one assist in five appearances with the AHL’s Toronto Marlies in 2023-24. Originally selected by the Edmonton Oilers in the fourth round (91st overall) of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, Lagesson has totaled 11 assists, a plus-two rating and 54 penalty minutes in 100 games with the Oilers, Montréal Canadiens, Maple Leafs and Ducks since 2019-20. He has also collected 77 points (23-54-77), a plus-43 rating and 130 penalty minutes in 184 AHL games with the Bakersfield Condors, Chicago Wolves, Marlies and Griffins. Lagesson began the 2020-21 season with HC Vita Hästen and Kristianstads IK in Sweden’s HockeyAllsvenskan, posting 12 points (3-9-12), a plus-six rating and 12 penalty minutes in 14 games. He made his professional debut with Djurgårdens IF in the Swedish Hockey League in 2017-18, registering 13 points (1-12-13), a plus-13 rating and 30 penalty minutes in 49 regular-season games, in addition to one assist in 11 postseason contests.
Prior to turning professional, Lagesson played two seasons at the University of Massachusetts from 2015-17, recording 15 points (4-11-15) and 54 penalty minutes in 63 games. He spent the 2014-15 season with the Dubuque Fighting Saints in the United States Hockey League, notching 16 points (2-14-16), a plus-18 rating and 79 penalty minutes in 52 regular-season games, along with two points (1-1-2) in eight playoff matchups. A native of Gothenburg, Sweden, Lagesson developed in Frölunda HC’s system before arriving in North America. On the international stage, Lagesson represented his country at back-to-back IIHF World Junior Championships in 2015 and 2016, combining for four points (2-2-4), a plus-eight rating and 12 penalty minutes in 14 games. He also competed for Sweden at the 2014 IIHF World Under-18 Championship, netting three goals, a plus-five rating and six penalty minutes in seven games. Lagesson played at the 2013 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament, showing two points (2-2-4) in four appearances. He won a gold medal with Sweden at the 2013 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, contributing one assist and 12 penalty minutes in six games.
Red Wings Recall Defenseman William Lagesson From Grand Rapids
November 12, 2024
The Detroit Red Wings today recalled defenseman William Lagesson from the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins.
Lagesson, 28, has recorded five points (2-3-5), a plus-10 rating and 12 penalty minutes in 11 games with the Griffins to begin the 2024-25 season. The 6-foot-2, 213-pound defenseman split the 2023-24 campaign between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Anaheim Ducks, tallying four assists, a plus-five rating and 19 penalty minutes in 30 games with the Maple Leafs before logging 13 penalty minutes in 10 games with the Ducks. Lagesson also picked up one assist in five appearances with the AHL’s Toronto Marlies in 2023-24. Originally selected by the Edmonton Oilers in the fourth round (91st overall) of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, Lagesson has totaled 11 assists, a plus-two rating and 54 penalty minutes in 100 games with the Oilers, Montréal Canadiens, Maple Leafs and Ducks since 2019-20. He has also collected 77 points (23-54-77), a plus-43 rating and 130 penalty minutes in 184 AHL games with the Bakersfield Condors, Chicago Wolves, Marlies and Griffins. Lagesson began the 2020-21 season with HC Vita Hästen and Kristianstads IK in Sweden’s HockeyAllsvenskan, posting 12 points (3-9-12), a plus-six rating and 12 penalty minutes in 14 games. He made his professional debut with Djurgårdens IF in the Swedish Hockey League in 2017-18, registering 13 points (1-12-13), a plus-13 rating and 30 penalty minutes in 49 regular-season games, in addition to one assist in 11 postseason contests.
Prior to turning professional, Lagesson played two seasons at the University of Massachusetts from 2015-17, recording 15 points (4-11-15) and 54 penalty minutes in 63 games. He spent the 2014-15 season with the Dubuque Fighting Saints in the United States Hockey League, notching 16 points (2-14-16), a plus-18 rating and 79 penalty minutes in 52 regular-season games, along with two points (1-1-2) in eight playoff matchups. A native of Gothenburg, Sweden, Lagesson developed in Frölunda HC’s system before arriving in North America. On the international stage, Lagesson represented his country at back-to-back IIHF World Junior Championships in 2015 and 2016, combining for four points (2-2-4), a plus-eight rating and 12 penalty minutes in 14 games. He also competed for Sweden at the 2014 IIHF World Under-18 Championship, netting three goals, a plus-five rating and six penalty minutes in seven games. Lagesson played at the 2013 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament, showing two points (2-2-4) in four appearances. He won a gold medal with Sweden at the 2013 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, contributing one assist and 12 penalty minutes in six games.
Red Wings Recall Ville Husso from Grand Rapids Under Emergency Conditions
November 8, 2024
The Detroit Red Wings today recalled goaltender Ville Husso from the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins under emergency conditions.
Husso, 29, has started one game with the Red Wings during the 2024-25 season. The 6-foot-3, 208-pound netminder has also posted a 2-0-0 record with a 1.23 goals-against average, a 0.958 save percentage and one shutout in three appearances with the Griffins this season. Husso was limited to 19 appearances with Detroit in 2023-24, logging a 9-5-2 record with a 3.55 goals-against average and an 0.892 save percentage. He also stopped all 25 shots he faced with the Griffins on Jan. 26 against the Belleville Senators during a conditioning stint. Originally selected by the St. Louis Blues in the fourth round (94th overall) of the 2014 NHL Entry Draft, Husso has compiled a 69-41-16 record with a 3.03 goals-against average, a 0.902 save percentage and seven shutouts in 133 appearances with the Blues and Red Wings since 2020-21. Additionally, Husso has posted a 53-54-16 record with a 2.65 goals-against average, a 0.910 save percentage and 12 shutouts in 133 AHL games with the Chicago Wolves, San Antonio Rampage and Griffins, earning a place on the AHL All-Rookie Team in 2017-18.
A native of Helsinki, Finland, Husso played three seasons with HIFK in Finland's SM-Liiga from 2013-16 prior to arriving in North America, finishing with a 60-33-21 record and 10 shutouts in 121 appearances. In his final season with HIFK, Husso was named to the SM-Liiga All-Star Team and captured the Urpo Ylönen Award as the league's top goaltender after recording the circuit's best goals-against average (1.91) and save percentage (0.927) in 39 games during the 2015-16 campaign. On the international stage, Husso represented Finland at the 2018 IIHF World Championship, showing a 1-2-0 record with a 2.33 goals-against average and an 0.863 save percentage in three appearances. He also competed at back-to-back IIHF World Junior Championships in 2014 and 2015, winning a gold medal at the 2014 tournament. Husso was a member of Finland’s bronze-medal entry at the 2013 IIHF World Under-18 Championship and made three appearances at the 2012 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament.
Little Caesars® Launches in Cambodia with a Slice of Excitement at Phnom Penh Grand Opening on November 10
November 3, 2024
Little Caesars, the world’s third-largest pizza chain, is officially opening its doors in Cambodia with a grand celebration on November 10, 2024, at its first store on Koh Pich. Known for its HOT-N-READY® pizza, Little Caesars is set to offer an affordable and convenient dining experience for Cambodian families, students, and anyone looking for a quick, delicious meal.
Little Caesars entry into Cambodia, led by local franchise partner Neak Oknha Rithy Sear of Worldbridge Group, marks the brand’s 29th country of operation. The restaurant's debut on Koh Pich is just the beginning, with a second location already planned for early 2025.
At Little Caesars, the focus is on making mealtime easy and affordable for families, while consistently delivering the great quality guests love. This is accomplished by ensuring pizzas are freshly made and ready to go, allowing guests to walk in, grab a pizza, and head out—perfect for busy parents, students, and professionals.
The restaurant’s menu will feature Little Caesars classic pizzas, including their signature pepperoni and cheese, at affordable prices starting at just $6.49 for a large pizza. With sides like Crazy Bread®, flavorful dipping sauces, and their latest Crazy Puffs®, families can enjoy a complete meal that satisfies everyone’s cravings without breaking the bank. Additionally, the menu will offer options tailored to meet the unique flavors favored by Cambodian guests.
"Little Caesars has always been about bringing families and friends together over delicious food," said Paula Vissing, President of Global Retail at Little Caesars. "We’re thrilled to offer Cambodian families a quick, affordable option that delivers exceptional taste and quality every time."
Little Caesars is designed to fit seamlessly into the lives of Cambodian consumers, offering fast service, fresh ingredients, and unbeatable value. Whether it’s a last-minute meal after a long day or a treat for a weekend family gathering, Little Caesars pizzas make it easy to enjoy delicious food at a great price. Little Caesars is excited to bring its iconic pizza to Cambodia and become a part of the vibrant communities throughout the country.
Neak Oknha Rithy Sear, Chairman of Worldbridge Group, expressed his excitement for the partnership and what it means for Cambodian families.
“Little Caesars is a global brand known for its high standards, and I am proud to be a part of bringing this experience to Cambodian families. We believe that the combination of quality, affordability, and convenience will make Little Caesars a new favorite dining option for families across Phnom Penh.”
"Our brand is dedicated to delivering an unforgettable dining experience," said Vissing. "From the moment you walk in, we want you to feel welcome and excited, knowing you’re getting delicious pizza made with top-quality ingredients at a great value."
To celebrate its debut, Little Caesars is rolling out special promotions and giveaways for the first customers who visit the Koh Pich location. The restaurant will be open to the public from 11 November 2024. Families are encouraged to join in the excitement and be among the first to taste Cambodia’s newest favorite pizza.
Guest Enhancements Unveiled at Fox Theatre
November 3, 2024
Building upon more than three decades of investment in Detroit, enhancements to the iconic Fox Theatre were recently unveiled, underscoring Ilitch Companies’ commitment to creating a world-class guest experience for audiences across its venues.
The updates, announced earlier this year, feature new seating that replicate the original seats, the addition of cupholders, as well as improved wayfinding. View the video to learn more:
Olympia Development Announces the Second Building in The District Detroit’s Co-Developer Program
October 31, 2024
Olympia Development of Michigan has selected 81 W. Columbia Street as the second of three projects to be offered to Detroit-based developers in The District Detroit’s Co-Developer Program. The Co-Developer Program is designed to create opportunities for Detroit-based, Detroit-headquartered, or Detroit resident-owned development companies. Qualified companies will have the opportunity to pursue the development of up to three Olympia Development properties.
81 W. Columbia Street was designed in the transitional style by architectural firm Baxter and O’Dell in 1909 as the Blenheim Apartments. It originally comprised 19 apartments and a speakeasy. The building is four stories tall and is approximately 17,500 square feet. The Blenheim is located at the southeast corner of Columbia Street and Park Avenue adjacent to the Fox Theatre and Little Caesars Global Headquarters.
“The response to our Co-Developer program has been tremendous. The thoughtful and innovative proposals that local developers are submitting demonstrates the shared commitment to building what is best for the community. We look forward to reviewing the Blenheim proposals as this specific property is in a great location and is ideal for developers to design and build something unique as we further develop Detroit,” said Keith Bradford, President of Olympia Development and The District Detroit.
In July Olympia Development announced 475 Peterboro as the first of three buildings in the Co-Developer program and invited 10 developers to respond with development proposals that are currently under review. The third project in the program will be the parcels at 44 & 48 W. Adams, adjacent to Grand Circus Park West.
The 10 invited Co-Developers for 81 W. Columbia will begin exploring development options and meet with Olympia Development executives before submitting their proposals on February 15, 2025.
“The Olympia Development Co-Developer Program is a significant example of the diversity and inclusion that is a result of The District Detroit Community Benefits Agreement. This program will provide immense opportunity to emerging and disadvantaged Detroit-based developers and bring new life to key properties in the City,” said Chris Jackson, Chair of The District Detroit Neighborhood Advisory Committee.
More information on the Co-Developer Program can be found at TheDistrictDetroitOC.com/RFP.
The District Detroit’s Co-Developer Program is part of the Community Benefits Agreement. Separately, Olympia Development has other Co-Developer partnerships underway at The Residences @ 150 Bagley (formally known as The United Artist Building), 64 Edmund Place and Henry Street Apartments.
The District Detroit, City of Detroit and University of Michigan Host Community Meetings for Planned Public Plaza
October 30, 2024
Olympia Development of Michigan, Related Companies, City of Detroit and University of Michigan Center for Innovation held two public meetings during which members of the community were invited to share their ideas for a planned community plaza in The District Detroit. Currently referred to as the M-Block Plaza, the public space will be adjacent to the University of Michigan Center for Innovation near the intersection of Columbia Street and Cass Avenue.
The University of Michigan Center for Innovation (UMCI) is now under construction near the intersection of Grand River and Columbia Street in The District Detroit and is expected to open in 2027. The UMCI will be a world-class research, education and entrepreneurship center designed to advance innovation and talent-focused community development intended to propel city, region and statewide job creation and inclusive economic growth by stimulating economic development in Detroit.
The M-Block Plaza will be a public connector to the UMCI and other proposed developments including a residential tower and a business incubator. The charrette-style community meetings are intended to help ensure the plaza is a purposeful, culturally relevant, and useful place for Detroit. The M-Block Plaza will be approximately 20,000 square feet.
Community members heard from Rian English Barnhill, Vice President of Government and Community Affairs at Olympia Development; Stephanie Calhoun, Vice President of Construction at Related Midwest; Ryan Friedrichs, Vice President of Development at Related Companies; and Lutalo Sanifu, Director of Community Engagement for the University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit.
Speaking at the event, Sanifu told attendees: “Our engagement philosophy is ‘Nothing about us without us.’ We want to engage with 30,000 community members a year.”
The public input and ideas from the two sessions will help determine the plaza’s design, activation and amenities.
The meetings were held on Wednesday, October 16, and Wednesday, October 23 and were held at The District Detroit Opportunity Center.
The District Detroit’s Columbia Street Welcomes Back Fall Fest
October 30, 2024
The leaves are turning, the smell of pumpkin spice is in the air, and Fall Fest has returned to Columbia Street, The District Detroit’s pedestrian-only thoroughfare nestled between the historic Fox Theatre and Little Caesars World Headquarters. Now through November 15, experience Columbia Street as it transforms into a picturesque autumnal experience. Fall Fest, presented by Michigan First Credit Union, is free and open to the public.
Capture special moments with friends and family and stop by any one of the incredible restaurants - Union Assembly, JoJo’s shakeBAR, Good Cakes and Bakes, Sahara, and Frita Batidos - or the Detroit Vs Everybody flagship store that line Columbia Street. There is something for everyone. And if you’re lucky, grab a spot at one of the many JoJo’s shakeBAR Pumpkin Patch events.
Every year in collaboration with The District Detroit and Columbia Street, JoJo’s shakeBAR captivates guests with twinkling lights and a massive garage door that opens to create an airy, inviting atmosphere making it the perfect spot to gather with friends and sip on a warm hot chocolate. Inside and outside, guests can enjoy fall-themed photo ops. Whether you're a Detroit local or visiting for a Lions game, Red Wings match, or a show at the Fox Theatre - JoJo's brings the heart of the fall season to life.
Columbia Street Fall Fest is presented by Michigan First Credit Union. Founded in 1926, Michigan First Credit Union has been dedicated to serving the community with financial support and guidance since its inception as Detroit Teachers Credit Union. Today, Michigan First Credit Union serves over 165,000 members.
The District Detroit is the city's world class sports and entertainment district where memories are made. Managed by Ilitch Companies Olympia Development, The District Detroit offers award-winning restaurants, sports and entertainment venues, residential housing, class A office buildings, hotels and nationally recognized educational institutions.