• 2021 Third-Round Pick Made Professional Debut With Griffins in 2022-23

The Detroit Red Wings today activated left wing Carter Mazur from injured non-roster and assigned him to the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins.

Mazur, 21, made his professional debut with the Griffins during the 2022-23 season, recording six points (3-3-6) in six games. The 6-foot, 177-pound forward signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Red Wings on March 28 after playing two seasons at the University of Denver. As a sophomore, Mazur skated in 40 games with the Pioneers and ranked among the team leaders with 22 goals (1st), 15 assists (9th), 37 points (2nd), a plus-19 rating (5th), 32 penalty minutes (5th), eight power play goals (1st), six game-winning goals (1st) and 131 shots (1st). Mazur was named to the National Collegiate Hockey Conference’s Second All-Star Team after helping Denver clinch its second consecutive Penrose Cup as the conference’s regular-season champions. Mazur was selected as the NCHC Rookie of the Year in 2021-22 and earned unanimous NCHC All-Rookie Team Honors after recording 38 points (14-24-38), a plus-23 rating and 44 penalty minutes in 41 games during his freshman campaign. Mazur helped the Pioneers win the 2022 NCAA Division I championship as a freshman along with Detroit prospects Antti Tuomisto (35th overall/2019) and Shai Buium (36th overall/2021). In total, Mazur compiled 75 points (36-39-75), a plus-42 rating and 76 penalty minutes in 81 games with the Pioneers.

Selected by the Red Wings in the third round (70th overall) of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, Mazur spent parts of three seasons with the Tri-City Storm in the United States Hockey League from 2018-21, serving as team captain during his final year with the organization. The Jackson, Mich., native accumulated 57 points (26-31-57) and 86 penalty minutes in 95 games with the Storm, in addition to two points (1-1-2) in three postseason contests. Mazur, who is a Little Caesars Amateur Hockey product, also skated with the U.S. National Team Development Program during the 2018-19 season. On the international stage, Mazur represented Team USA at the 2023 IIHF World Championship, logging four points (1-3-4), a plus-nine rating and six penalty minutes in 10 games. He also competed at the 2022 IIHF World Junior Championship, collecting seven points (5-2-7) in five games.  

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Little Caesars, the world’s largest privately owned pizza chain, is excited to announce its second-year collaboration with the world-renowned Call of Duty gaming franchise. Following the success of the inaugural collaboration in 2022, Little Caesars and Call of Duty are set to raise the bar even higher with an expansive co-branded activation for the release of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III.

Beginning November 1 through December 31, with each transaction over $3.00 at a participating Little Caesars location, guests can earn perks like Dual 2XP, bonus in-game rewards, and entry into a sweepstakes for coveted gaming-themed prizes. To unlock Dual 2XP and in-game rewards for consoles and PCs, gamers must visit www.LittleCaesarsCallOfDuty.com to upload their in-store receipt or enter the unique code on their digital receipt.  

To complement this collaboration, Little Caesars offers a mouthwatering treat, Stuffed Crazy Bread®, to provide gamers with ideal sustenance to level up their Call of Duty® experience. Stuffed Crazy Bread is priced at $3.49 and includes three pieces of the famous Crazy Bread® stuffed with cheese, plus Crazy Sauce®. This hand-held, “snackable” product is a cheesy, garlicky -herby-parmesan delight perfect for intense gaming sessions.  

“We’re thrilled to continue our collaboration with Call of Duty given the enthusiastic response from last year’s program – and this year we’re offering even more fun experiences for gamers. By pairing our Stuffed Crazy Bread with the launch of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, we’re really taking the gaming experience to a new level,” said Greg Hamilton, Chief Marketing Officer, Little Caesars.

For more information about the Little Caesars and Call of Duty collaboration and updates on Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III, Follow @LittleCaesars and @CallOfDuty on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

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• Robby Fabbri Placed on Injured Reserve Retroactive to Oct. 12

The Detroit Red Wings today recalled right wing Jonatan Berggren from the American Hockey League’s Grand Rapids Griffins under emergency conditions and placed center Robby Fabbri on injured reserve retroactive to Oct. 12.

Berggren, 23, has recorded three assists in two games with the Griffins to begin the 2023-24 campaign. The 5-foot-11, 194-pound forward spent the majority of the 2022-23 season with the Red Wings and ranked among the team leaders with 15 goals (5th), 28 points (9th), five power play goals (T4th), nine power play points (7th) and a 15.3 shooting percentage (1st) in 67 games. Berggren also tallied seven points (4-3-7) in seven appearances with the Griffins prior to being recalled to Detroit. He made his North American professional debut with the Griffins in 2021-22 and set franchise records for a rookie in assists (43), points (64), game-winning goals (7) and overtime goals (3) in 70 games in Grand Rapids. Berggren was named the AHL Rookie of the Month for April after totaling 20 points (6-14-20) in 14 contests. He finished the season with 26 points (7-19-26) in his last 18 games, including a season-high 11-game point streak (6-13-19) to close out the year. Prior to arriving in North America, Berggren played for Skelleftea AIK in the Swedish Hockey League, tying for the team lead with 45 points (12-33-45) in 49 games during the 2020-21 campaign, in addition to four assists in 12 postseason contests to help his team reach the semifinals of the SHL playoffs. In all, Berggren notched 60 points (14-46-60), a plus-seven rating and 28 penalty minutes in 99 games with Skelleftea AIK in Sweden’s top professional league from 2017-21.

Selected by the Red Wings in the second round (33rd overall) of the 2018 NHL Entry Draft, Berggren registered 69 points (24-45-69), a plus-19 rating and 42 penalty minutes in 67 career games for Skelleftea’s under-20 team (2016-18) while adding 140 points (67-73-140) in 109 games at the under-18 level for Enkopings and Skelleftea since 2013-14. The Uppsala, Sweden, native represented his country at the 2023 IIHF World Championship, tallying seven points (2-5-7), a plus-five rating and two penalty minutes in eight games. Berggren won a bronze medal with his country at the 2020 IIHF World Junior Championship, recording five points (1-4-5) in seven games. He captured a bronze medal with Sweden at the 2018 IIHF World Under-18 Championship after leading the team with 10 points (5-5-10) in seven games, and also won bronze after picking up five points (3-2-5) in five games at the 2017 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament. Additionally, Berggren won a gold medal with Sweden during the 2016 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, tallying three points (2-1-3) in six games.

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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.”

“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.

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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.

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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.”

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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.”

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.

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• 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.  

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• 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.

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