This month, volunteers from the Ilitch Companies partnered with a local nonprofit organization to help keep Detroiters warm in the cold winter months. Mittens for Detroit collects, purchases, and distributes gloves and mittens to children, teens, and adults in Detroit and surrounding areas. Executive Director Wendy Shepherd expressed that their organization heavily depends on volunteers.

“The only reason that Mittens for Detroit has been around since November 2010 is because we have such great support from the community,” said Shepherd. “This year, we had 500 volunteers to process gloves out, which means that together, we’re warming the hearts and hands of Detroiters.”

Colleagues took part in the organization’s annual Big Sort event, where Mittens and Gloves are sorted and boxed up for delivery. The mittens that Ilitch Companies volunteers sorted and packed went to elementary schools throughout Pontiac. Little Caesars colleague, Angela Borden, joined in on the volunteer project.

“It feels really good to be here helping out, especially with the temperatures being in the single digits. I can't imagine what it would be like to not have gloves or mittens on,” said Borden. “So it's really heartwarming that we're able to help out in the community that we're a part of, to make sure that kids and adults and teens all have hand protection at a time like this, especially.”

The Ilitch Companies Colleague Engagement Program continues to provide opportunities for colleagues to get out into the community, support local charities, and make a meaningful difference through hands-on service.

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The Detroit Tigers unveiled The Press Club, an exclusive premium hospitality destination that will elevate the gameday experience at Comerica Park. Designed for just two dozen guests per game, The Press Club delivers an intimate, all-inclusive offering defined by personalized service, elevated cuisine, and an unparalleled level of comfort and access.

Located adjacent to the ballpark’s working media press box, The Press Club provides a unique vantage point where many of the Tigers’ most memorable moments have been covered by local and national journalists and broadcasters, creating an experience that is both exclusive and unlike any other.

This private, climate-controlled space features sliding windows, giving guests the option to take in fresh air and ballpark atmosphere on perfect days, or enjoy a comfortable indoor setting with live radio broadcast audio during hotter summer games and cooler fall evenings. Premium VIP parking near a dedicated entrance is included, offering guests a refined way to experience Tigers baseball from one of the most distinctive perspectives in Detroit sports.

The Press Club access opens two hours prior to first pitch, and upon arrival, members are welcomed by hospitality staff with a signature cocktail or mocktail and escorted to their seats, where appetizers and a printed menu are provided. Dining service will be designed to reflect a fine-dining, high-end menu concept complete with rotating entrée selections and dessert, along with ongoing beverage service including wine, beer, cocktails and non-alcoholic options.

In addition to the personalized service of The Press Club itself, members enjoy all-access privileges to other premium club spaces on the same level. Fans may visit the Champions Club to enjoy additional cuisine or stop by the all-new MotorCity Casino Hotel Tiger Club for classic ballpark fare with convenient access to The D Shop at the Comerica Landing for gameday merchandise.

Across Comerica Park, the Tigers offer a variety of premium membership spaces designed to suit a wide range of experiences and budgets, providing fans with flexible options to enjoy the ballpark in ways that best fit their needs.

For more information on availability and premium membership opportunities, visit Tigers.com.

Throughout each season, nearly 1,000 event staff colleagues enthusiastically commit their time and energy to make each Ilitch Sports + Entertainment event a memorable experience for fans – and many of these colleagues have been part of the organization for multiple seasons.

To thank them for their incredible service, Ilitch Sports + Entertainment leadership hosted more than 800 event colleagues from Little Caesars Arena, the Fox Theatre and Olympia Parking on Jan. 6 for a special evening at Little Caesars Arena, filled with laughter, camaraderie and a shared love for events.

“We are so proud of the hard work that went into the planning and execution of the Event Colleague Annual Celebration,” said Ilitch Sports + Entertainment Vice President of Guest Strategy Amanda Vought. “It took departments and colleagues from across the company to pull everything together and our Event Colleagues were so appreciative of the thought and details that went into the party. The Guest Strategy team is grateful for the support of all full-time colleagues who volunteered to help during planning and the party itself.”

Nearly 100 full-time colleagues were involved in planning the event, which included a gourmet buffet dinner, Bingo, Trivia, shooting hoops on the Pistons’ court and a raffle with 55 exciting prizes.

Several Ilitch Sports + Entertainment leaders attended the event to thank these dedicated colleagues for their hard work, passion and grit, including Chris Coffman, Michele Bartos, Tim Padgett, Jim Bullo, Mike Hartnett, Amanda Vought, Bruce Trout, Jennifer Tompos and more.

Tigers open 2026 Grapefruit League home schedule on February 22 vs. Baltimore Orioles

15-game home schedule includes seven weekend matchups at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, Florida

The Detroit Tigers begin their 2026 Spring Training home schedule on February 22, and fans can purchase single-game tickets for Spring Training games at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium in Lakeland, Florida, starting Saturday, December 13 at 10 a.m. ET.

To purchase Spring Training single-game tickets, fans can visit Tigers.com/Spring, call 863-686-8075 or visit the Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium ticket office in person. Game times are 1:05 p.m., except the Friday, March 13 matchup against the Pittsburgh Pirates slated for 6:05 p.m. For the complete Tigers Spring Training schedule, visit www.mlb.com/tigers/schedule/2026-02.

This spring will mark the Tigers’ 61st consecutive season at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium and the 90th campaign at TigerTown in Lakeland, extending the longest current relationship between a Major League Baseball team and a Spring Training host city.

Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium has been voted the best ballpark in the Grapefruit League and boasts several fan-friendly features, including a 360-degree walkable concourse to enjoy average temperatures in the high 70s, an interactive children’s play area, all-inclusive indoor/outdoor seating and more while fans watch current and future Tigers stars.

“We are extremely excited for the Tigers to once again host Spring Training games at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium,” Vice President of Lakeland Business Operations Andy Dunn said. “Tigers fans from throughout the country ascend on Lakeland every year for Spring Training, and we look forward to making the 90th spring in TigerTown the best experience yet for the fans and players.”

The Tigers will begin their 2026 Grapefruit League home schedule on Sunday, February 22 against the Baltimore Orioles before hosting the American League Central Division-rival Minnesota Twins on Monday, February 23.

The Tigers open March with another back-to-back home set, hosting the American League-champion Toronto Blue Jays on Sunday, March 1 before facing the Atlanta Braves on Monday, March 2. On Wednesday, March 4, the Tigers will host Team Panama to celebrate the start of the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

Other notable Spring Training home games include Friday, March 6 against the Boston Red Sox, Thursday, March 12 against the New York Yankees, a St. Patrick’s Day game against the Orioles on Tuesday, March 17 and a second home matchup with the Yankees on Saturday, March 21.

Tickets for 2026 Spring Training home games are priced at four levels: Grey, Navy, Orange and White.

Grey games: March 12 and 21--Reserved Seating Starting at $39

Navy games: Feb. 22, March 1, 6, 7, 9, 13, 16 and 17--Reserved Seating Starting at $32

Orange games: Feb. 25, 27 and March 2--Reserved Seating Starting at $26

White games: Feb. 23 and March 4--Reserved Seating Starting at $21

The Tigers are now accepting deposits towards the purchase of new season tickets for the 2026 Spring Training season in Lakeland. Secure your spot to catch all 15 home games with just a $100 per-seat deposit.

Celebration to feature expanded fan experiences and exclusive collectibles; Exclusive “Ninety One: A Salute to Sergei Fedorov” book presale begins Jan. 1, with in-arena and autographed sales available during event on Jan. 12

The Detroit Red Wings today announced fan details for Sergei Fedorov Jersey Retirement Night, presented by Meijer, on Monday, Jan. 12 when the Red Wings host the Carolina Hurricanes at Little Caesars Arena.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in franchise history, Fedorov won three Stanley Cup championships during his 13 seasons in Detroit and ranks among the Red Wings’ top seven all-time leaders in goals, assists and points. He will become the ninth player in franchise history to have his jersey retired.

The celebration will feature several NHL legends in attendance, special concourse activations, in-arena tributes and multiple fan engagement opportunities honoring one of the most iconic players to ever wear the Winged Wheel.

An exclusive tribute book called “Ninety One: A Salute to Sergei Fedorov” will be available for purchase during the event, with presale access beginning Jan. 1 only at ShopHockeytown.com. The book was written by longtime Red Wings columnist Bob Duff and details Fedorov’s defection from Russia to join the Red Wings, his iconic skill and style and his lasting impact on Hockeytown and the NHL.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sergei Fedorov back to Detroit as his No. 91 jersey takes its rightful place in the rafters at Little Caesars Arena,” said Ilitch Sports + Entertainment President & CEO Ryan Gustafson. “Sergei is one of the most iconic players of all time, and our passionate fans will have numerous opportunities on Jan. 12 to celebrate his incredible career as he joins the other eight legends who have worn the Winged Wheel to have their numbers retired.”

Little Caesars Arena doors will open at 4:20 p.m., more than an hour earlier than usual, with puck drop set for 7:15 p.m. Fans are encouraged to be in their seats by 5:35 p.m. to experience the full jersey retirement ceremony.

Jan. 12 Timeline

• 4:20 p.m. – Arena doors open

• 5:35 p.m. – Fans encouraged to be in seats

• 7:11 p.m. – Ceremonial puck drop by Fedorov

• 7:15 p.m. – Game begins

Fan Engagement & Special Activations

• Tribute Book: “Ninety One: A Salute to Sergei Fedorov” available for purchase

• Presale begins Jan. 1 at ShopHockeytown.com ahead of the official release on Jan. 12

• On Jan. 12, ticketed fans will have an exclusive opportunity to purchase autographed copies at the Little Caesars Arena Team Store and on the Via Concourse

• Forever Fedorov Ultimate Fan Experience Contest (From Dec. 28 – Jan. 6) which includes:

           Two all-inclusive Labatt Club tickets and one parking pass for Jan. 12

            Two seats at a pregame Rinkside Chat and a meet-and-greet with Fedorov

            Two copies of “Ninety One: A Salute to Sergei Fedorov”

            Two exclusive Fedorov merchandise items

            Fans can enter HERE or visit DetroitRedWings.com/ForeverFedorov

• Commemorative “91” lapel pins for fans entering the arena

• Trophy Display: The Stanley Cup, Hart Memorial Trophy, Frank J. Selke Trophy and Lester B. Pearson Trophy on display near the Team Store by the Meijer Entry SW

• “91” Fan Section: Dedicated lower-bowl section on the east side of the arena will feature white “91” numerals formed by white T-shirts, with red shirts filling the remainder of the section

• Fans encouraged to wear the shirts throughout the game

• Limited-edition Fedorov merchandise available at the Team Store and on ShopHockeytown.com

• Augmented Reality activation to engage fans in-arena and at home

Limited tickets remain HERE.

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by Josh Berenter for DetroitRedWings.com

Thanks to our colleagues, partners and guests for your support, collaboration, and shared commitment, which made a meaningful impact here in our hometown and around the world in 2025.

Watch the video below to enjoy a look back at just some of the moments, milestones, and teamwork that helped shape our past year.

Last month, Special Olympics Michigan presented Ilitch Sports + Entertainment with the 2025 Sports Partner of the Year award during the annual ceremony at Michigan Central in Detroit.

Ilitch Sports + Entertainment has partnered with Special Olympics Michigan for more than 10 years and the partnership has grown in the last three years to include year-round athlete engagement and support.

“Ilitch Sports + Entertainment, through the Detroit Red Wings and the Detroit Tigers Community teams, have not simply supported Special Olympics Michigan — they have opened their platforms to our athletes,” said Bridget Ryley, Strategic Partnerships Advisor for Special Olympics Michigan. “Ilitch Sports + Entertainment has demonstrated what it looks like when a major league stage becomes a stage that everyone can stand on.”

Every year, the Red Wings and Tigers host multiple events for Special Olympics Michigan athletes, including the Red Wings’ Poly Hockey Skills Clinics at Little Caesars Arena, where current Red Wings players meet athletes, lead drills, provide equipment and foster inclusion, demonstrating a commitment to the Special Olympics community through player involvement and community engagement.

The Red Wings proudly host "SOMI Night" at Little Caesars Arena each season, offering exclusive hats and supporting fundraising efforts, and the Red Wings Alumni Association has joined the efforts, having Special Olympics Michigan athletes serve on coaching staffs for select alumni games.

Each season since 2015, one of the most visible, unwavering champions of the Special Olympics Michigan partnership is Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin.

“We are fortunate to have the support of many wonderful sports teams and organizations but Ilitch was the standout partner this year by not only sponsoring events and donating critical funds, but also creating skills clinics and once in lifetime experiences for our athletes,” Ryley said. “Having the support of Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin is a cherry on top and something our athletes and organization takes deep pride in.”

The Tigers have built the same culture of inclusion, embracing Special Olympics Michigan’s State Softball Tournament and welcoming Special Olympics Michigan’s gold-medal softball teams to Comerica Park for a night of true belonging in the big leagues.

The Detroit Tigers Foundation invites Special Olympics softball teams to select games each season for special access, including batting practice and a chance to meet Tigers players.

The collaboration highlights the athletes' abilities and fosters community understanding and unity.

For more information about Special Olympics Michigan, visit SOMI.org.

Little Caesars has achieved extraordinary results in the past several decades, and that momentum is continuing. Because of this, Little Caesars today announced several senior leadership promotions that reflect the company’s sustained success and long-term growth. Effective January 1, 2026, longtime CEO Dave Scrivano has been promoted to Vice Chairman of Little Caesars.

In his new role, Scrivano will continue to lead the brand while focusing on long-term strategy, culture, and innovation — the areas central to sustaining Little Caesars’ global growth and competitive strength.

Little Caesars also announced the promotions of three executives:

• Paula Vissing has been promoted to President and Chief Executive Officer, Global Retail. Vissing joined Little Caesars in 2011 and under her leadership the brand experienced its strongest period of expansion in company history. In her role since 2023 as president of global retail, she has driven strong results in franchise profitability, restaurant growth, global marketing initiatives, and global learning and development.

• Ed Gleich has been promoted to President and Chief Executive Officer, Global Services. Gleich joined Little Caesars in 2011 and he has been responsible for launching major traffic driving growth initiatives including the launch of national media, creation of limited time and permanent menu items, and expansion into delivery. In his role since 2023 as president of global services, he has driven growth and operational excellence through his leadership of innovation, global supply chain, equipment sales, spice blending, Blue Line Distribution, and Champion Foods.

• Leigh Burnside has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer and Chief Administrative Officer. Burnside joined Little Caesars in February 2023 and she has enhanced financial planning processes, strengthened treasury and accounting capabilities, and elevated organizational alignment across the company’s finance organization. She will now also oversee Human Resources and Legal, strengthening the company’s people, brand and business alignment.

“These promotions reflect the strength of our leadership team and the continued execution of our strategic plan, which has driven significant progress in international expansion, digital innovation, and restaurant growth,” said Chris Ilitch, CEO of Ilitch Companies. “Dave’s leadership has been instrumental to that success, and I’m pleased he will continue to guide the company.”

“I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together and excited for this next chapter,” said Scrivano. “Paula Vissing, Ed Gleich, and Leigh Burnside are exceptional leaders whose vision, experience, and dedication have helped drive our growth. Their new roles reflect both the strength of our leadership team and the opportunities ahead as we continue building on our global momentum, innovation, and the strong culture that has always set Little Caesars apart.”

Little Caesars continues to expand both domestically and internationally, driven by its commitment to value, convenience, innovation, and operational excellence across its global network.

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Olympia Development of Michigan has selected Detroit-based Woodborn Partners to pursue the restoration of the historic Woodstock buildings at 475 Peterboro Street in The District Detroit. The planned renovation of 475 Peterboro and selection of Woodborn is part of Olympia Development’s Co-Developer Program, a program that creates real estate development opportunities for Detroit-based, Detroit-headquartered, or Detroit resident-owned development companies.

“Our goal with the Co-Developer Program is to work with community-minded partners who share our commitment to improving Detroit, and Woodborn exemplifies that spirit,” said Keith Bradford, President, Olympia Development of Michigan and The District Detroit. “Our shared vision for the restoration of the Woodstock buildings helps to ensure the return of another great community asset for people to embrace all that The District Detroit has to offer.”

The selection of Woodborn Partners for the Woodstock restoration embodies the mission of the Co-Developer Program envisioned with The District Detroit Neighborhood Advisory Committee. Woodborn Partners is an emerging, Black-owned, Detroit-based developer with several successful residential projects in the city underway or completed. They include The Scott at Brush Park, The Coe at West Village, The Brooke on Bagley and Van Dyke Village Apartments.

“We are dedicated to improving neighborhoods and making a positive impact in the communities we serve, and restoration of the historic Woodstock buildings will do exactly that,” said Clifford A. Brown, Co-Founder, President and CEO of Woodborn Holdings. “The newly restored residential buildings will show our appreciation for their historic beauty with amenities and technology that will embrace a timeless aesthetic.”

475 Peterboro Street was designed in the Beaux-Arts style by the architectural firm Pollmar & Ropes and opened in 1914 as The Woodstock Apartments. The building is 47,500 square feet and originally had 71 apartments. The property is located between Cass Avenue and 2nd Avenue across from Detroit Shipping Company.

The vision for the restored Woodstock buildings is 56 well-appointed residential studios and one-bedroom units that are slightly larger than the original spaces. When finished, the Woodstock will offer modern, technology-enabled amenities as well as common areas, a courtyard, and available on-site parking.

Olympia Development and Woodborn Partners are actively engaged in permitting and other pre-development work necessary before the start of on-site restoration.