New, Classic Hockeytown Goal Horn Installed at Little Caesars Arena

October 18, 2023

When the Detroit Red Wings took the ice for Opening Night on Saturday, Oct. 14, a new sound reverberated through the award-winning Little Caesars Arena.

Now possible due to technological advancements in the last several years, a new, classic Hockeytown goal horn has been installed in the arena. The horn was sounded for the first time on Saturday evening when the Red Wings faced the Tampa Bay Lightning at 7 p.m.

While the horn is the exact model that was used at Joe Louis Arena during the team’s four most recent Stanley Cup Championship runs – and the Little Caesars Arena horn has a slightly different sound based on being in a new arena environment – it has the same bone-rattling blare that fans and players remember from their time at “The Joe.”

Joe Louis Arena Goal Horn
New Classic Goal Horn at Little Caesars Arena

“There’s nothing like the sound and feeling of a goal horn reverberating through a raucous hockey arena and we’re excited to debut a new, classic Hockeytown goal horn on Opening Night at Little Caesars Arena,” said Ryan Gustafson, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. “This specific model of goal horn is a distinct part of our identity as Hockeytown, harkening back to Joe Louis Arena and paying homage to legendary performances of the past.”

When Little Caesars Arena opened ahead of the 2017-18 season, technology and equipment didn’t allow for the safe storage of compressed Nitrogen gas at the top of the building. In the years since, a method of normal air compression has emerged for safer use in horns, allowing for this installation to be made. For the first six seasons in the new building, a three-blast recording of the nostalgic Joe Louis Arena horn was played following Red Wings goals. The revered Joe Louis Arena goal horn is on display at the Red Wings team offices at Little Caesars Arena.

Red Wings fans and Little Caesars Arena guests with sensory sensitivities are reminded that KultureCity sensory kits are available at the Guest Services offices near Portals 10, 20, and 67. Little Caesars Arena was named the 2021 KultureCity Sensory Inclusive Venue of the Year for making all events hosted at the venue sensory inclusive, promoting an accommodating and positive experience for guests and fans with sensory needs.

Exhibit at Little Caesars World Headquarters Showcases Colleague Art

October 17, 2023

Sherrié Savage has been drawing since she was 4 years old. Coming from a creative family, she was encouraged to use art as an outlet throughout her life. Now, as multimedia designer at Little Caesars Enterprises, Savage utilizes her talents to create graphics, drawings, animations and other forms of art. While her inherent creativity is evident in her professional work, many of Savage’s colleagues were unaware of her passion for art and the extent of her skills.

To highlight personal artwork by colleagues like Savage, Little Caesars established the LC Colleague Art Gallery, located in a shared space on the third floor of the Little Caesars World Headquarters.

Savage, whose creations are currently on display in the building, finds it important to see herself in her art while allowing others to do the same.

“I love to see other people happy about my work because it means they can relate to it. It makes me want to keep going as an artist – in and outside of work – so others can feel like they’re being represented,” said Savage.

One of Savage’s works on display in the LC Colleague Art Gallery, titled, “It’s not you, it’s the shoes,” was initially featured in Design Core Detroit’s Month of Design in September 2022 through an exhibit sponsored by Footlocker. The canvas, created with acrylic paint, was also displayed at Lawrence Tech University in Southfield before finding a home in the Little Caesars World Headquarters, which gave Savage an immense sense of pride. Another representation of Savage’s artistic work is her series of coloring books dedicated to celebrating Black culture, “Naturally ILLustrated,” that are sold in local Meijer stores.

Like Savage, additional Little Caesars colleagues are selected to have their work displayed through a submission process and reviewed by the internal curation department.

“The Little Caesars World Headquarters is truly a masterpiece, with special touches and details throughout the building. The gallery is a wonderful addition, designed to celebrate the talents of our incredible colleagues and create a welcoming and creative space for all. We are proud to have such a unique and inspiring initiative for everyone to enjoy,” said Cindy Olsen, Director of Curation and Content Activation, Ilitch Holdings, Inc.

Another colleague whose artwork has been featured is Jaime Pescia, Vice President of Global Creative & Brand Engagement for Little Caesars Enterprises.

“People have talents about which we may have no idea, and this dedicated space gives us an opportunity to showcase them in a fun and engaging way while creating connection amongst colleagues,” said Pescia.

“My artwork was a series combining watercolor and collage,” said Pescia. “Initially I ripped it up because I was being too formal about it. Ripping it up gave me freedom to create more. The work turned into a representation of the emotion of looking at patterns, texture and color palette.”

A look at Savage’s and Pescia’s work can be seen in the photos below.

Detroit Red Wings Celebrate Educators Through Annual Teacher of The Month Program, Presented by Burns & Wilcox

October 16, 2023

The Detroit Red Wings Teacher of the Month program, presented by Burns and Wilcox, recognizes Michigan K-12 teachers and educators making a positive difference in the lives of their students. Each month from October 2023 to March 2024, one deserving teacher will be recognized with the Red Wings Teacher of the Month award.

Each monthly honoree will receive two tickets to a Red Wings game, a personalized Teacher of the Month award, and a $1,500 grant. Monthly honorees will also be recognized on DetroitRedWings.com/Teacher, Hockeytown Cares Instagram page and monthly newsletters.

At the end of the program, fans will vote on the six-monthly honorees to determine a Teacher of the Year. Each monthly honoree will be invited to a Red Wings home game where the Teacher of the Year will be announced. The Teacher of the Year will receive a $5,000 grant for their school and a meet-and-greet with a Detroit Red Wings player. Learn more about last year’s Teacher of the Year here.  

To learn more about the Teacher of the Month program or to nominate a deserving teacher, visit DetroitRedWings.com/Teacher. To learn more about the Red Wings’ community initiatives, visit DetroitRedWings.com/Community.

The October Teacher of the Month is Hickory Wood Elementary Fourth grade teacher Karie Starr, who said, “I feel extremely honored to be recognized since I work with some of the best teachers there are. Being awarded with money to spend in my classroom was such a wonderful bonus.”

Detroit Red Wings, Tigers, and Comerica Bank Recognize Hispanic Heritage Month Game Changers

October 15, 2023

In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Detroit Red Wings and Tigers recognize and celebrate individuals who are making a positive impact in the Hispanic community in Detroit. In partnership with Comerica Bank, the Game Changers series honors one community member per week throughout the month who is making a profound difference in the areas of youth education, youth wellness or sport participation. Each honoree receives a $1,000 grant dedicated to the charity of their choice from the Detroit Tigers, Detroit Red Wings and Comerica Bank.

Kevin Brown, Director of Community Impact for Ilitch Sports + Entertainment, expressed the organization’s appreciation for the honorees, stating, “These Game Changers exemplify the spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month through their tireless dedication to our community. Their contributions have touched countless lives, and we are honored to recognize their extraordinary efforts.”

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This year’s Hispanic Heritage Month Game Changers are:

Dr. Sonia Acosta: Cultivating Cultural Competence

Dr. Sonia Acosta, PhD, serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Centro Multicultural La Familia (CMLF), a Pontiac-based organization dedicated to providing culturally sensitive support services to families. With a 30-year tenure in the fields of mental health, substance abuse, and domestic violence, Dr. Acosta, a fully licensed bilingual/bicultural psychologist, has been instrumental in expanding the organization. Under her leadership, Centro La Familia grew from its inception to encompass 35 bilingual/bicultural staff members, reflecting the growing needs of the Latino community.

Laura Chavez-Wazeerud-Din: A Champion of Southwest Detroit

Laura L. Chavez-Wazeerud-Din‘s deep-rooted connection to Southwest Detroit fuels her commitment to fostering positive change. As President & CEO of the Southwest Detroit Business Association, she brings leadership skills to the forefront. Her analytical skills, adept problem-solving abilities, and forward-thinking approach have propelled the organization toward greater operational efficiency and ensured its ability to meet present and future needs. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Laura actively engages in a variety of community roles, including President of Prospanica – Detroit Chapter, Board Member of National Black MBA Association Detroit, Executive Board Member of Chamber Music of Detroit, and Board Member of Bound Together.

Jane C. Garcia: A Lifetime of Community Activism

A native Detroiter and licensed social worker, Jane C. Garcia‘s legacy of volunteerism spans over five decades. With positions held in the Detroit Public Schools, various local Hispanic nonprofits, and over 25 years of service with the U.S. Federal Government, she stands as a force for positive change. Currently serving as Chairman of Latin Americans for Social & Economic Development (LA SED), Garcia is instrumental in the agency’s mission to promote social and economic development for the diverse ethnic groups residing in the community it serves.

Elizabeth Orozco-Vasquez: Nurturing Hope and Stability

Born in Mexico, Elizabeth Orozco-Vasquez immigrated to the United States at two-years-old, growing up in Southwest Detroit. As Freedom House Detroit’s inaugural Chief Operating Officer, Elizabeth demonstrates exceptional financial acumen, increasing fundraising efforts and diversifying revenue streams while ensuring competitive salaries for staff. Her leadership during the pandemic was instrumental in keeping Freedom House’s doors open. Additionally, she spearheaded the agency’s relocation, securing a new home and completing the move in under six months.

Detroit Red Wings Players to Greet Fans in Chevrolet Plaza Prior to Sunday, October 22 Game vs. Calgary Flames

October 14, 2023

  • Ticketed and non-ticketed fans can interact with current Red Wings players, including brief autograph and selfie opportunities
  • The Chevrolet Plaza opens at 1:00 p.m., with players expected to walk through plaza between 1:45 and 2:45 p.m.
  • Little Caesars Arena restaurants and Team Store to open at 1:00 p.m., in time for kickoff of the Detroit Lions road game at Baltimore Ravens
  • Limited tickets for Sunday’s 5:00 p.m. game are available at DetroitRedWings.com/tickets

The fan-favorite “Hockeytown Red Carpet Walk,” previously scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 14 prior to the Detroit Red Wings’ home opener, was unfortunately canceled due to rain across metro Detroit. With another weekend home game at Little Caesars Arena upcoming, the Red Wings are excited to provide fans an opportunity to interact with players as they enter Little Caesars Arena on Sunday, Oct. 22 ahead of the matinee against the Calgary Flames. Puck drop is set for 5:00 p.m.

“We encourage fans to arrive early to Chevorlet Plaza on Sunday to see the Red Wings players up close and feel the excitement we have building in Hockeytown,” said Ryan Gustafson, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. “Red Wings fans have been awesome to start the season, creating an atmosphere at Little Caesars Arena that is truly giving us a home ice advantage.”

The Chevrolet Plaza will open to fans at 1:00 p.m., with Red Wings player arrivals expected to begin at 1:45 p.m. from the Trinity Health Garage (165 Sproat St.). Players will be escorted by youth hockey participants of the Red Wings’ Learn, Play, Score, Little Wings, and Little Caesars AAA programs, and there will be potential autograph and selfie opportunities with Red Wings players.

The Coca-Cola Hockeytown Experience and yard games, live music, photo opportunities and giveaways will also be available in the Chevrolet Plaza. All four Little Caesars Arena restaurants will open at 1:00 p.m., in time for the Detroit Lions road game against the Baltimore Ravens.

Doors to Little Caesars Arena for Sunday’s Red Wings game will open at 3:30 p.m.

Ticket Packages Available for Beerfest, Presented by Kona Brewing Company

Prior to Sunday’s game, Kona Brewing Company will host a Beerfest beginning at 2:00 p.m. located in the Budweiser Biergarten. Interested fans can purchase a special ticket package that includes admission to the fest, 4-oz. beer samplers and a commemorative mug. A portion of the ticket proceeds will be donated to Maui United Way. Ticket packages can still be purchased by clicking here.  

Detroit Red Wings Recall Zach Aston-Reese from Grand Rapids

October 13, 2023

  • Forward Has Recorded 80 Points in 307 NHL Games With Pittsburgh Penguins, Anaheim Ducks and Toronto Maple Leafs Since 2017-18

The Detroit Red Wings today recalled center Zach Aston-Reese from the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins.

Aston-Reese, 29, made his debut with the Griffins in a 3-2 win over the Colorado Eagles on Friday at Van Andel Arena. The 6-foot-1, 205-pound forward spent the entire 2022-23 season with the Toronto Maple Leafs, recording 14 points (10-4-14) and 25 penalty minutes in 77 regular-season games. Aston-Reese also tallied one goal in six Stanley Cup playoff contests with Toronto, helping the franchise clinch its first postseason series win since 2004. He split the 2021-22 campaign between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Anaheim Ducks, logging 15 points (5-10-15), a plus-nine rating and 28 penalty minutes in 69 games. Originally signed as an undrafted free agent by Pittsburgh on March 14, 2017, Aston-Reese has compiled 80 points (42-38-80), a plus-33 rating and 124 penalty minutes in 307 games with the Penguins, Ducks and Maple Leafs since 2017-18. Additionally, Aston-Reese has registered 46 points (18-28-46), a plus-26 rating and 74 penalty minutes in 63 AHL games with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins and Griffins.

Prior to turning professional, Aston-Reese played four seasons at Northeastern University from 2013-17, racking up 148 points (66-82-148), a plus-48 rating and 182 penalty minutes in 145 games. As a senior, he was selected to the NCAA First All-American Team and named Hockey East Player of the Year after leading the NCAA in goals (31) and points (63) in just 38 games during the 2016-17 season. Aston-Reese also guided the Huskies to a Hockey East Tournament championship as a junior in 2015-16. The Staten Island, N.Y., native added 50 points (16-34-50), a plus-12 rating and 188 penalty minutes in 140 games with the Des Moines Buccaneers and Lincoln Stars of the United States Hockey League from 2010-13.

Little Caesars and MTN DEW Announce Gaming Combo and In-Game Items Ahead of Call of Duty Modern WarFare II Release

October 12, 2023

Little Caesars® and MTN DEW® are always looking to keep their fans fueled up and ready to go. That’s why the brands are joining forces ahead of the release of the new Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® II, helping fans across the U.S. elevate their gaming experiences and excite their taste buds.

Beginning Monday, October 17 through Saturday, December 31, gamers who order from Little Caesars can get their hands on unique codes that unlock Dual 2XP for Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® II. They can also purchase the “Call of Duty® Combo” which includes a Large Slices-N-Stix® pizza featuring half a Classic pepperoni pizza and half Italian Cheese Bread, Crazy Sauce® and a 20 oz. MTN DEW®, all for $7.99**. Order online at littlecaesars.com or purchase in-store and save your receipt for a code to unlock Dual 2XP as well as access to other bonus in-game items including a player card, emblem, and weapon charm, and the chance to win free prizes such as customized PlayStation 5s, wireless controllers and other swag to take your game to the next level.

“We know that DEW Nation and the gaming community are on the edge of their seats with anticipation for the new Call of Duty: Modern Warfare II,” said Scott Finlow, CMO of PepsiCo Global Foodservice. “Joining forces with our partners at Little Caesars gives us the opportunity to up the ante for fans by creating a meal combo that’s designed to elevate their gaming experience.”

To unlock Dual 2XP and in-game rewards for all consoles and PCs, gamers simply need to visit www.LittleCaesarsCallOfDuty.com  to upload their in-store receipt or enter the unique code on their digital receipt. The Dual 2XP and in-game rewards will be linked directly to the gamer’s Modern Warfare® II account.

“Little Caesars pizza is a perfect enhancement to a night of gaming,” said Greg Hamilton, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Little Caesars. “Our Slices-N-Stix and Crazy Sauce alongside a refreshing MTN DEW is a sure-fire way to fuel gamers while they unlock in-game features and swag with our exclusive offerings.”

* NO PURCHASE NECESSARY to enter the Sweepstakes. Program includes a gift with purchase offer and sweepstakes. Program begins at 12:00 PM ET on 10/17/22 and ends at 11:59:59 PM ET on 12/31/22, however offer is only available while offer item supplies last. Sweepstakes includes 11 entry periods. Open only to legal residents of the 50 US/DC who are 17 years or older. Complete a purchase at a participating Little Caesars location to get an offer code/register receipt and submit at www.LittleCaesarsCallOfDuty.comto claim an offer item, subject to verification. Activision account required to claim offer items. Limit 2 offer claims/day. Max. 40 total hours Dual 2XP play/person and max. 80 codes per person. Offer items must be redeemed by 3/28/23 and applies to all Dual 2XP redemptions for Call of Duty®: Modern Warfare® II and Call of Duty®: Warzone™ 2.0 (not limited to this Program). Program is subject to Official Rules at: mtndewgaming.com/rules. See Official Rules for how to participate, entry period dates, odds, offer item & prize details and restrictions. Void where prohibited. Msg&data rates may apply. Sponsor reserves the right to modify or cancel the offer at any time. Sponsor: Pepsi-Cola Company, 700 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase, NY 10577.

An entrant cannot participate solely by scanning the QR code.

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

Detroit Red Wings Opening Night This Saturday, Presented by Coke Zero Sugar and Meijer

October 10, 2023

The Detroit Red Wings’ home opener will take place on Saturday, Oct. 14 against the Tampa Bay Lightning, with puck drop at 7:00 p.m. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. The Red Wings announced special events surrounding Opening Night, in addition to new features at Little Caesars Arena for the 2023-24 season.

Arrive Early to See Special Opening Show

A special opening show will begin in the arena bowl at approximately 6:30 p.m. ahead of the 7:00 p.m. puck drop, so ticketed fans are encouraged to be in their seats by 6:20 p.m.

All fans in attendance will receive an Opening Night rally towel. The Via concourse will feature face painters, airbrush artists, photo opportunities and more.

What’s New at Little Caesars Arena?

The Red Wings enter their seventh season at the award-winning Little Caesars Arena with exciting new offerings available to fans:

New Concessions Items

  • New concessions items available at Little Caesars Arena will include a rotation of wraps, chili cheese fries and loaded cheese fries and more.  
  • Near portals 43 and 44 on the upper concourse, there will be a new baked potato bar.
  • Grab N’ Go locations will now feature seven-layer dip with tortilla chips, pasta salad and chicken caesar pasta salad.

New Menu Items at Arena Restaurants

  • Detroit staple Bert’s Marketplace will return to Little Caesars Arena, bringing Red Wings fans its signature barbeque flavors in the upper concourse.
  • All desserts at Little Caesars Arena’s restaurants will be packaged “to go” for fans to take back to their seats.
  • Mike’s Pizza Bar, The Mixing Board and PointsBet Sports Bar have introduced new menu items for the Red Wings season.

Mike’s Pizza Bar

Chix-parm sandwich

Meatball skillet

Jumbo mozz sticks

The Mixing Board

Bacon-wrapped dates

Firehouse shrimp

PointsBet Sports Bar

Bacon bourbon peach cobbler

Buddha bowl

Caramel crunch chicken wings

Elote street wings

French onion dog

Grilled cheese and tomato

Mediterranean sampler board

Short rib pot Pie

Steak frites

Crème brulee

New Merchandise Items

In partnership with Delaware North, Ilitch Sports + Entertainment is proud to introduce several new Red Wings merchandise lines at the Little Caesars Arena Team Store:

  • Mitchell & Ness “Blue Line” premium jerseys will be available, featuring Red Wings Hall of Famers.
  • Pro Standard luxury sportwear will make its Red Wings debut.
  • OVO (October’s Very Own), the limited-edition fashion line created by Drake, will be available.
  • DKNY, Greyson Clothiers, Lululemon, Tommy Bahama, Travis Mathew, WEAR by Erin Andrews and Vineyard Vines will all have new items and styles available for the season.

5-Game Plans, Group Ticket Packages Currently Available

In addition to single-game tickets for the 2023-24 season, the Red Wings recently introduced a pair of 5-Game Plans, presented by Great Clips. Detroit’s 5-Game Plans feature savings off single-game ticket pricing and priority access to purchase a Winged Wheel Nation membership for the 2024-25 season.

Fans interested in group ticket packages can contact the Red Wings group sales team at 313-471-7575 or visit the Group Tickets page on DetroitRedWings.com.

The Red Wings will begin the 2023-24 season on the road, playing at New Jersey in the season opener on Thursday, Oct. 12 at 7:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+ and HULU.

Detroit Red Wings Assign Zach Aston-Reese to Grand Rapids

October 8, 2023

  • Veteran of 307 NHL Games Signed One-Year Contract With Detroit on Oct. 8

The Detroit Red Wings today assigned center Zach Aston-Reese to the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins. Additionally, the Red Wings have reassigned left wing Alexandre Doucet from the Griffins to the ECHL’s Toledo Walleye.

Aston-Reese, 29, was signed by the Red Wings to a one-year, two-way contract on Oct. 8. The 6-foot-1, 205-pound forward spent the entire 2022-23 season with the Toronto Maple Leafs, recording 14 points (10-4-14) and 25 penalty minutes in 77 regular-season games. Aston-Reese also tallied one goal in six Stanley Cup playoff contests with Toronto, helping the franchise clinch its first postseason series win since 2004. He split the 2021-22 campaign between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Anaheim Ducks, logging 15 points (5-10-15), a plus-nine rating and 28 penalty minutes in 69 games. Originally signed as an undrafted free agent by Pittsburgh on March 14, 2017, Aston-Reese has compiled 80 points (42-38-80), a plus-33 rating and 124 penalty minutes in 307 games with the Penguins, Ducks and Maple Leafs since 2017-18. Additionally, Aston-Reese registered 46 points (18-28-46), a plus-26 rating and 74 penalty minutes in 62 appearances with the AHL’s Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins from 2016-19.

Prior to turning professional, Aston-Reese played four seasons at Northeastern University from 2013-17, racking up 148 points (66-82-148), a plus-48 rating and 182 penalty minutes in 145 games. As a senior, he was selected to the NCAA First All-American Team and named Hockey East Player of the Year after leading the NCAA in goals (31) and points (63) in just 38 games during the 2016-17 season. Aston-Reese also guided the Huskies to a Hockey East Tournament championship as a junior in 2015-16. The Staten Island, N.Y., native added 50 points (16-34-50), a plus-12 rating and 188 penalty minutes in 140 games with the Des Moines Buccaneers and Lincoln Stars of the United States Hockey League from 2010-13.