• Week-long online auction, in-arena tributes and other fundraisers highlight annual commemoration to raise awareness for hockey’s most important fight

The Detroit Red Wings are proud to once again team up with the American Cancer Society for Hockey Fights Cancer Night on Thursday, Nov. 30 as the organizations join forces to bring awareness to pediatric cancer and raise money for research, in partnership with Comerica Bank.

To join the fight against this dreaded disease, the Red Wings are hosting several activities and fundraisers before, during and after Thursday’s Hockey Fights Cancer game against the Chicago Blackhawks at Little Caesars Arena. Puck drop is set for 7 p.m.

“As the NHL celebrates 25 years of impact through Hockey Fights Cancer in communities across North America, the Detroit Red Wings remain steadfast in our collective approach to bring resources and awareness toward reducing the future of cancer,” said Kevin Brown, director of community impact for Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. “We’re proud of the strong partnership we’ve built with the American Cancer Society and our friends at Comerica Bank – working together on solutions that help people fulfill their potential without fear of a cancer diagnosis cutting those dreams short.”

On Monday, Nov. 27, members of the Lady Wings and Red Wings’ team chef Bill Ferrill visited Detroit’s Ronald McDonald House to cook & serve lunch for families that are currently residing at the House.

Autographed lavender Red Wings jerseys will be available for auction online starting at 7 p.m. on November 30 and through 7 p.m. on December 7. Fans can bid on the jerseys at DetroitRedWings.com/Auction.

In addition to the jerseys, fans can purchase one of 200 specialty Hockey Fights Cancer pucks on the concourse prior to and during the game, through the second intermission. One of the mystery pucks will be gold and signed by Alex DeBrincat. Whichever fan purchases this puck will win a future meet and greet with DeBrincat, who currently leads the Red Wings with 12 goals this season.

Proceeds from 50/50 raffle sales, the autographed jerseys and specialty pucks will benefit the American Cancer Society and the Detroit Red Wings Foundation, contributing to the growth of hockey across Michigan. Comerica Bank will match the first $10,000 raised by fundraising efforts tied to Hockey Fights Cancer Night.

“We stand united with the Detroit Red Wings, National Hockey League and American Cancer Society to defeat cancer and bench it from ever playing a part in our lives,” said Steve Davis, Comerica Bank Michigan market president. “Pediatric cancer has devastating effects on children battling the deadly disease as well as on their families. By supporting Hockey Fights Cancer Night, we hope that we help increase awareness and save lives while investing in game-changing research that will find groundbreaking treatment and cures.”

The Red Wings and Comerica Bank will invite 100 pediatric cancer patients, survivors, researchers and American Cancer Society supporters to attend Hockey Fights Cancer Night as guests of the organizations.

Fans can pick up a special “I Fight For” card in the concourse, fill it out and hold them up during a league-wide, special moment in the arena. There will also be a giant purple chair on the concourse for a photo opportunity that fans can enjoy.

“We are grateful for an amazing partnership with the Detroit Red Wings that provides awareness and funding for our work in childhood cancer,” said Jenni Beamer, senior executive director of the American Cancer Society in Michigan. “Together, we’re making an impact directly supporting research, advocacy and patient services dedicated to childhood cancer. And, through the Hockey Fights Cancer game, the Red Wings provide our youngest cancer fighters and their families with an unforgettable experience and opportunity to meet their heroes and forget about cancer for a while.”

Multiple cancer fighters and survivors will help the Red Wings start the game. Vann Burpee, a 12-year-old brain tumor survivor, will be the honorary puck-drop captain for the game.

Grayson Briones, who was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in June and completed his chemotherapy treatments in September, will be the youth skater of the game. The national anthem will be sung by LaTorea McBride, a three-year breast cancer survivor.

Ryan Cox will set off the honorary goal horn to start the game. Cox is an 18-year-old Allen Park native and survivor of Burkitt’s non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He is currently studying anesthesiology at Eastern Michigan University to assist children going through cancer treatment.

Fans will also see a video highlighting some of the cancer genetics research work done by Red Wings assistant coach Jay Varady’s wife, Joy Varady.

The Detroit Red Wings Foundation was recently recognized at the 2023 American Cancer Society’s Detroit Discovery Ball as the American Cancer Society’s Community Athletic Award Honoree for its many years of partnership and support of the American Cancer Society, specifically focused on fundraising for their pediatric research.

Continuing a decades-long tradition, Marian Ilitch and Ilitch Companies CEO, Chris Ilitch, along with leadership across the organization, expressed their gratitude for Ilitch Companies colleagues at a Thanksgiving luncheon.

Held at Little Caesars Arena on November 13^th, the luncheon was attended by over 800 colleagues across the Ilitch Companies family of businesses.

As they gathered, colleagues reflected on what they are most thankful for as well as their families’ holiday traditions.

The Detroit Tigers have signed righthanded pitcher Kenta Maeda to a two-year contract worth $24 million. Maeda will make $14 million in 2024 and $10 million in 2025. He will also make an annual donation to the Tigers Foundation, donating $70,000 in 2024 and $50,000 in 2025.

Maeda, 35, pitched in 21 games, including 20 starts, with the Minnesota Twins in 2023, posting a 6-8 record with a 4.23 ERA (104.1IP/49ER) and 117 strikeouts. After missing time due to injury, he excelled once he returned to full strength last season. Over his final 16 starts in 2023, Maeda went 6-3 with a 3.39 ERA (85.0IP/32ER), allowing no more than two runs in 11 of those outings. His efforts helped Minnesota to win the American League Central Division, making two relief appearances during the American League Divisional Series against Houston.

Maeda’s best big league season came in 2020, when he started 11 games and went 6-1 with a 2.70 ERA (66.2IP/20ER) and 80 strikeouts. He finished second in voting for the AL Cy Young Award that year and was named Second Team All-MLB. Maeda finished the season leading the AL in WHIP (0.75), while he ranked second in strikeout/walks (8.00), fourth in wins (6), fifth in ERA (2.70) and seventh in strikeouts (80). Additionally, Maeda finished third in voting for National League Rookie of the Year in 2016 with the Dodgers, posting a 16-11 record with a 3.48 ERA (175.2IP/68ER) and 179 strikeouts.

A native of Osaka, Japan, Maeda has made 190 appearances, including 155 starts, in his Major League career, compiling a 65-49 record with a 3.92 ERA (866.1IP/377ER) and 951 strikeouts. He has also pitched in 27 postseason games in his career, posting a 2-1 record with a 3.24 ERA (41.2IP/15ER) and 48 strikeouts. He helped the Los Angeles Dodgers to the World Series in both 2017 and 2018.

Maeda and his wife, Saho, reside in Tokyo, Japan with their two children.

With the signing of Maeda, the Tigers 40-man roster is now at 38.

• Three-Time Stanley Cup Champion Has Recorded 1,237 Points in 1,180 Games With Chicago Blackhawks and New York Rangers Since 2007-08

The Detroit Red Wings today signed right wing Patrick Kane to a one-year contract with an average annual value of $2.75 million.

Kane, 35, split the 2022-23 season between the Chicago Blackhawks and New York Rangers, recording 57 points (21-36-57) and 16 penalty minutes in 73 regular-season games. The 5-foot-10, 177-pound forward also tallied six points (1-5-6) and six penalty minutes in seven postseason contests with the Rangers. Prior to being acquired by the Rangers on Feb. 28, Kane played in 16 seasons with the Blackhawks and ranks among the franchise’s all-time leaders with 1,161 games played (3rd), 446 goals (3rd), 779 assists (2nd), 1,225 points (2nd), 122 power play goals (4th), 398 power play points (3rd), nine overtime goals (T2nd), 67 game-winning goals (4th) and 3,866 shots (3rd). Additionally, Kane places among the Blackhawks’ greatest playoff performers with 136 games played (3rd), 52 goals (4th), 80 assists (3rd), 132 points (3rd), eight power play goals (10th), 41 power play points (7th), five overtime goals (1st), 11 game-winning goals (T1st) and 422 shots (3rd). In total, Kane has racked up 1,237 points (451-786-1,237) and 426 penalty minutes in 1,180 NHL games since 2007-08, trailing only Sidney Crosby, Alex Ovechkin and Evgeni Malkin for the most points among active skaters.

Originally selected by Chicago with the first overall pick of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Kane led the franchise to Stanley Cup championships in 2010, 2013 and 2015. Kane ended the Blackhawks’ 49-year title drought when he scored the overtime goal in Game 6 of the 2010 Stanley Cup Final against the Philadelphia Flyers. He was named the recipient of the 2013 Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP after logging 19 points (9-10-19) in 23 postseason games, becoming the first American-born forward to earn the honor. In 2015, Kane led all scorers with 23 points (11-12-23) in 23 playoff appearances to help the Blackhawks clinch a Stanley Cup championship on home ice for the first time since 1938.

In all, Kane has been selected to nine NHL All-Star Games, including six consecutive appearances from 2015-20. He earned a place on the NHL’s First All-Star Team in 2009-10, 2015-16 and 2016-17, and was named to the Second All-Star Team in 2018-19. Following the 2015-16 season, Kane won the Hart Memorial Trophy as the NHL’s most valuable player, the Art Ross Trophy as the league’s top scorer and the Ted Lindsay Award as the most outstanding player as voted on by fellow members of the NHLPA after recording 106 points (46-60-106), a plus-17 rating and 30 penalty minutes in 82 games. Kane later set a career high with 110 points (44-66-110) in 81 games during the 2018-19 campaign. He was honored as the recipient of the Calder Memorial Trophy in 2007-08 as the NHL’s top rookie after leading all freshmen with 72 points (21-51-72) in 82 games. In 2017, Kane was named one of the 100 Greatest NHL Players as part of the league’s year-long Centennial Celebration.

Prior to turning professional, Kane spent the 2006-07 season with the Ontario Hockey League’s London Knights, garnering Rookie of the Year honors after leading the major junior circuit with 145 points (62-83-145) in 58 regular-season games. Kane also paced all OHL skaters with 31 points (10-21-31) in 16 postseason contests. The Buffalo, N.Y., native skated with the U.S. National Team Development Program from 2004-06 and played for the Honeybaked AAA program in Metro Detroit during the 2003-04 season. On the international stage, Kane represented Team USA at the IIHF World Championship in 2008, 2018 and 2019, earning a bronze medal and MVP honors at the 2018 tournament after leading all skaters in assists (12) and points (20) in 10 games. He served as an alternate captain for Team USA at the 2016 World Cup of Hockey, recording two assists in three appearances. Kane played for his country at back-to-back Winter Olympics in 2010 and 2014, earning a silver medal at the 2010 tournament after logging five points (3-2-5) in six games. Additionally, Kane captured a bronze medal at the 2007 IIHF World Junior Championship, collecting nine points (5-4-9) in seven games. He also won a gold medal at the 2006 IIHF World Under-18 Championship after leading the competition in goals (7) and points (12) in six games.

• Stuffed Crazy Crust® Pizza features a large round pepperoni pizza with a delicious cheese-stuffed crust
  
• Crust is brushed with a delicious garlic butter-flavored spread and then sprinkled with parmesan cheese

As the holiday season draws near, Little Caesars announces the triumphant reintroduction of the Stuffed Crust pizza—this time, with an exciting enhancement that will elevate your holiday gatherings.

The Stuffed Crazy Crust Pizza takes Little Caesars classic Stuffed Crust pizza, oozing with melted cheesy goodness, and tops the crust with Little Caesars signature Crazy Crust topping– a mouthwatering blend of garlic-infused buttery richness adorned with a sprinkle of parmesan. This addition takes the beloved stuffed crust experience to new heights, creating a fusion of flavors that’s genuinely a dream come true for pizza enthusiasts everywhere. A reimagined classic that’s set to tantalize taste buds.

The Stuffed Crazy Crust pizza has it all – it’s a delightful combination of flavors, textures, and indulgence that’s perfect for any get-together, party, or family dinner. So, as the holiday season approaches, there’s only one question: Do you start by biting into the cheesy, stuffed crust first, or dive right into the mouthwatering pizza itself? The choice is yours, and it’s a win-win either way with Little Caesars Stuffed Crazy Crust pizza, available starting November 20.

*Plus tax where applicable. Available at participating locations. Prices may vary. Prices are higher in AK, HI, and third-party online sites.

With hundreds of events across six sports and entertainment venues, Ilitch Sports + Entertainment event colleagues play a critical role in amazing, inspiring and uniting millions of guests each year. These incredible colleagues work in a diverse array of roles, including ushers, security, parking, in-venue entertainment and much more. Their dedication to providing a tremendous guest experience shines through in all that they do.

Meet Bobby Waller, Event Security, Little Caesars Arena:

The Mike Ilitch School of Business has announced that Scott Fisher has been selected to receive the 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award at the 43rd annual Recognition and Awards Program.

Fisher earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from Wayne State University in 1983 and became a certified public accountant in Michigan in 1986. Fisher also participated as a student-athlete on the football team from 1979 to 1983, received the prestigious Ron Solack Award winner and was named to the CoSIDA Academic All-District Honorable Mention in 1983.

Fisher has nearly 40 years of experience with the Ilitch Companies. Before being appointed Chief Financial Officer in 2008, he held several finance positions, including Vice President of Finance and Administration and Controller at Ilitch Holdings, Inc., Controller for the Detroit Red Wings and Controller for the Detroit Tigers. He also played a pivotal role in creating Comerica Park, the home of the Detroit Tigers.

In his role as CFO, Scott oversees the finance, treasury management and tax functions, as well as overseeing the financing for complex, mixed-use real estate development such as the Little Caesars Arena complex which includes office, dining, retail and public spaces. He is also engaged in a leadership role for strategic planning, long range projections, annual budget process, and corporate governance.

He supports many charitable organizations, including Michigan Humane, Tunnels for Towers, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Ilitch Charities.

Fisher was honored on November 17, 2023, at the 43^rd annual Recognition and Awards Program at the Roostertail, along with the recipients of this year’s Michigan Executive of the Year Award, Emerging Leader Award, Outstanding Student Award, Inspirational Student Award, Inspirational Teacher Award, Entrepreneurship and Innovation Hall of Fame Award and the Corporate Mentorship Program Founders Awards.

The Mike Ilitch School of Business is developing the next generation of business leaders and entrepreneurs for this region, and was named in 2015 after Mike and Marian Ilitch made a $40 million gift – which remains the largest in the history of the university.

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Tanya Cripps-Serra, Associate General Counsel for Olympia Development of Michigan, has been elected Chair of the State Bar of Michigan Young Lawyers Section (YLS) for the 2023-2024 bar year. As Chair, she will lead over 7,500 section members, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to the legal community and the state of Michigan.

“My vision for YLS is about creating a legacy of inclusivity, mentorship, and advocacy,” said Cripps-Serra. “Together, we’ll build a legal community that not only thrives but also genuinely cares for its members and the society we serve. I’m grateful for Olympia Development’s support.”

As the oldest and second largest section of the State Bar of Michigan, YLS serves as a platform for new lawyers to hone their skills, fostering professional growth and networking opportunities while also enabling them to actively engage in community outreach and public service. This dynamic community plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of Michigan’s legal landscape, as it encourages young attorneys to influence and contribute to the state’s legal and social evolution.

“Tanya is incredibly talented, hardworking, and a valued member of the Olympia Development team,” said John Valentine, Olympia Development’s Vice President and General Counsel. “Taking on this additional responsibility is a testament to her dedication to the legal profession and her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in our communities.”

Cripps-Serra has served on YLS Council since 2013, currently serves as a member of the Board of Commissioners for the State Bar of Michigan and was the past Chair of the Oakland County Bar Association’s New Lawyers Committee. At Olympia Development, she provides legal counsel on the many aspects of commercial real estate transactions including property transactions, financing, leasing, development, and joint ventures. In addition to her career and professional commitments, Cripps-Serra juggles her responsibilities as a mother to her one-year-old son, in partnership with her husband and fellow lawyer, Mike Serra.

• Meijer and Tigers contributed $100 for every opponent strikeout to the Meijer Simply Give program as part of “Striking Out Hunger” initiative
• Donations totaled $137,400 in inaugural season of extended partnership

The Detroit Tigers Foundation and Meijer will be donating $137,400 to the Meijer Simply Give program that helps feed hungry families by stocking the shelves of food pantries across the Midwest. As part of a multi-year extended partnership, the Detroit Tigers Foundation and Meijer combined to contribute $100 for every opponent strikeout during the Tigers season. The inaugural season saw the Tigers strike out 1,374 opponents, equating to the $137,400 donation.

“As Michigan-based organizations, the Detroit Tigers and Meijer are united by our shared commitment to community impact,” said Ryan Gustafson, executive vice president and chief operating officer of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. “Our extended partnership underscores our common values and dedication to making a meaningful difference in Michigan.”

Simply Give has helped feed families across the Midwest by stocking the shelves of local food pantries since November 2008. The program has generated more than $80 million in donations to food pantries thanks to the continued generosity and support of Meijer customers, team members and food pantry partners, who are committed to helping those experiencing food insecurity.

“Both Meijer and the Detroit Tigers have rich histories and a sincere commitment to community,” Meijer President & CEO Rick Keyes said. “We’re honored to work together to help feed more families through the Striking Out Hunger initiative.”

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