Through a longstanding career of public service through safety, Richard Fenton, Ilitch Holding Inc.’s Vice President and Chief Security Officer, has been named a 2022 Champion of Change, as awarded by the National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security (NCS4) at The University of Southern Mississippi.

Fenton, who has been with the Ilitch Companies since 2000, has served in numerous public safety roles; with the Wayne County Sheriff Department, at Eastern Michigan’s Interdisciplinary Technology Department and School of Police Staff and Command and the FBI National Academy, to name a few.

The Champion of Change Award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated an ability and commitment to bring about positive change in the sports safety and security industry. Through progressive leadership, this individual’s achievements have made a difference in organizational effectiveness and led said organization forward into the future.

“It’s been an honor to serve in a public safety environment for more than 50 years,” said Fenton. “I’m blessed to work with an amazing group of security professionals and for an organization that has always made the safety and security of our guests and colleagues our highest priority.”

While a part of the IHI family, Fenton has received a plethora of awards, honors and accolades. Ilitch Holdings, Inc. and Fenton were honored by Governor Granholm for Fenton’s ongoing work and critical contributions to securing the State of Michigan’s homeland in 2009. In 2013, NCS4 and Major League Baseball named Fenton “Professional of the Year,” recognizing him as an outstanding leader in addressing safety and security. Fenton was named, “one of the most Influential People in Security” in 2016 by Security Magazine. Most recently, The National Hockey League and The University of Southern Mississippi NCS4 program awarded Little Caesars Arena with the 2019 Facility Achievement Award, noting that, “Little Caesars Arena the and the Detroit Red Wings were the model security group.”

Fenton will receive the Champion of Change Award during the National Sports Safety and Security Conference & Exhibition, which takes place June 28-30 in Orlando.

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With the Detroit Tigers’ Miguel Cabrera being only the 33rd player in Major League history to achieve 3,000 hits; and the 7^th player to achieve 3,000 hits and 500 home runs, the first baseman and designated hitter was honored for his milestones before Sunday’s game against the Toronto Blue Jays. Cabrera, who is the 1st Venezuelan-born player to get 3,000 hits in MLB history, was celebrated by thousands of fans, his closest family, fellow and former teammates, and more. Known as a man of few words, Cabrera let those closest to him do the talking, and they didn’t disappoint.

“From time to time, I’ve checked in with Miggy. ‘How are you feeling? Are you happy? Do you need a day off?’” said manager AJ Hinch. “And the two common themes that he told me during his chase (to 3,000 hits): number one, he wanted to do it at Comerica in front of his fans. Number two, he wanted to do it in a win.”

Noting that 1,773 of Cabrera’s hits ended in winning games, Comerica Park roared with cheers from exciting fans. “You’re a winner, Miggy,” said Hinch.

Among many gifts during the ceremony Cabrera was presented with the game ball from April 23 — the date of the game where he hit 3,000 — a plaque commemorating the milestone and a video tribute from his oldest daughter. His jersey from the April 23 game will be displayed in the Baseball Hall of Fame Museum in Cooperstown, New York. C. Miggy was also greeted on field by Tigers Chairman and CEO Christopher Ilitch, Tigers manager AJ Hinch, Executive Vice President and General Manager Al Avila, and former teammates Alex Avila and Victor Martinez. Alex echoed a lot of fan sentiments heard in the park, “you’re one of the greatest hitters, ever.”

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Virginia Allen, a MotorCity Casino Hotel employee for the last 20 years, will now serve in one of the organization’s highest leadership positions. Formerly the Director of Security, Allen has been promoted to Vice President of Security. As a Madonna University and Wayne County Community College graduate with Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement degrees, Allen worked for her family business before joining the MotorCity Casino Hotel.

“Virginia’s experience in Security Management will ensure that we continue fostering the best environment for our customers and employees alike,” said Bruce Dall, President of MotorCity Casino Hotel.

In the new role, Allen will further develop the security operations of the venue that is home to world-class luxury hotel accommodations, fine dining, high-energy gaming and more.

“Throughout my career with MotorCity Casino Hotel, I’ve taken great pride in being part of the team entrusted with the security of our guests, associates, and the company’s assets.” said Allen, who is a Detroit native. “I’m thrilled to further my career with the MotorCity team.”

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Detroit Red Wings defenseman Moritz Seider has been named the 2021-22 Red Wings Rookie of the Year by the Detroit Sports Media Association.

Seider, 21, skated in all 82 games with the Red Wings in 2021-22, notching 50 points (7-43-50) and 34 penalty minutes. The 6-foot-4, 197-pound blueliner paced all Red Wings rookies in scoring while leading the team with 43 assists, 21 power play points and 23:02 average time on ice. In all, Seider ranked among the NHL’s top rookie defensemen with seven goals (2nd), 43 assists (1st), 50 points (1st), 34 penalty minutes (7th), two power play goals (T1st), 21 power play points (1st), two overtime goals (1st), four game-winning goals (1st), 187 shots (1st) and 23:02 average time on ice (1st). His 50 points are the third-highest total in franchise history by a Detroit rookie defenseman and the most since Nicklas Lidstrom (60) in 1991-92. Additionally, Seider set a franchise record by becoming the first rookie defenseman to author an eight-game point streak (Feb. 9-March 4). Seider was named a finalist for the Calder Memorial Trophy and is looking to become the sixth player – and first defenseman – in franchise history to be named the NHL’s Rookie of the Year.

Originally selected in the first round (sixth overall) by the Red Wings at the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, Seider recorded a pair of assists in his NHL debut on Oct. 14 vs. Tampa Bay, becoming the first Detroit skater with multiple assists in his NHL debut since Vyacheslav Kozlov did so on March 12, 1992 at St. Louis. A native of Zell, Germany, Seider was named the NHL’s Rookie of the Month for October after notching eight assists through his first nine games, making him the first Detroit rookie with at least eight assists in a calendar month since Pavel Datsyuk posted eight in 13 games in January 2002. Seider later became the second player in Red Wings history to score his first career NHL goal in overtime when he accomplished the feat on Nov. 6 at Buffalo, joining Mud Bruneteau (Dec. 14, 1935 at Toronto).

Seider will be honored by the DSMA prior to a Red Wings home game during the 2022-23 season. The DSMA Red Wings Rookie of the Year Award dates back to the 1948-49 NHL season. Previous recipients of the award include current Red Wings Dylan Larkin and Filip Hronek along with Calder Memorial Trophy winners Roger Crozier, Glenn Hall and Terry Sawchuk.

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The Detroit Tigers today announced details for “Summer Bash Weekend,” presented by Miller Lite and Bally Sports Detroit, taking place from Friday, June 10 through Sunday, June 12 at Comerica Park. The series will feature many of the favorite activities Tigers fans have come to enjoy, including interacting with current and former players, tremendous giveaway items and the celebration of Miguel Cabrera joining baseball’s 3,000-hit club. Tickets remain available at tigers.com/tickets.  

The Tigers will host the Toronto Blue Jays for Summer Bash Weekend, including a 4:10 p.m. first pitch on Saturday, June 11 and a 1:40 p.m. start on Sunday, June 12 for “Miggy Celebration Day.” Fans are encouraged to arrive at the ballpark early all weekend long to celebrate the upcoming start of summer.

“We’re excited to celebrate the upcoming start of summer with Tigers fans at Comerica Park next weekend,” said Chris McGowan, President and CEO of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. “We will be welcoming back players from some of the greatest teams in Tigers history, and our fans will have the opportunity to salute Miguel Cabrera for his latest incredible milestone of reaching 3,000 career hits. We encourage fans to arrive early and enjoy what will be a tremendous atmosphere at the ballpark all weekend long.”  

On Friday, June 10, shortly after gates open for ticketed guests at 5:30 p.m., Tigers fans will be greeted to a Q&A session in the Comerica Bank Big Cat Court. Fans will have the opportunity to ask questions to some of their favorite former players representing multiple decades of Tigers baseball. Following the game, fans are encouraged to remain in their seats for an incredible fireworks display.    

Gates will open at 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 11 – 30 minutes earlier than normal for a home game day – allowing for full enjoyment of pregame attractions on the concourse.

Upon entering the ballpark, fans will be welcomed by more than a dozen alumni players and coaches, and select current players, who will be signing autographs and be available for photos. Some of the most iconic teams in Tigers history will be represented, including the 1968 and 1984 World Series Championship teams, and the 2006 and 2012 American League Champions.

Former Tigers players and coaches scheduled to sign autographs and/or take pregame fan photos are listed below, and are subject to change. The first 10,000 fans in attendance will receive a “Detroit Roots” T-shirt, presented by Bally Sports Detroit.  

• Alex Avila – 2012 American League Champion
• Rajai Davis – 2014 American League Central Champion
• Andy Dirks – 2012 American League Champion
• Doug Fister – 2012 American League Champion
• Brandon Inge – 2006 American League Champion
• Austin Jackson – 2012 American League Champion
• Jim Leyland – 2006 and 2012 American League Champion
• Craig Monroe – 2006 American League Champion
• Lance Parrish – 1984 World Series Champion
• Dan Petry – 1984 World Series Champion
• Nate Robertson – 2006 American League Champion
• Dave Rozema – 1984 World Series Champion  
• Frank Tanana – 1987 American League East Champion
• Jon Warden – 1968 World Series Champion
• Alex Wilson – Pitched in 246 games from 2015-18

“Miggy Celebration Day” on Sunday, June 12 will feature a pregame on-field ceremony for Cabrera and his family, with special guests in attendance. Tigers fans will be able to salute Cabrera for joining the exclusive 3,000-hit club. Fans are encouraged to be in their seats by 1 p.m. to be a part of the ceremony honoring Cabrera.  

The first 10,000 fans to enter Comerica Park will receive a comic book cover, presented by Chevrolet, that commemorates Cabrera’s 3,000th career hit that he tallied at Comerica Park on April 23. The Tigers are partnering with Major League Baseball and Candy Digital to provide all fans in attendance an exclusive, free NFT ticket commemorating “Miggy Celebration Day” honoring his 3,000 hits milestone. Fans with tickets to the June 12 game will receive an email following the conclusion of the game.

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Detroit’s only permanent comedy club is set to open in June in The District Detroit. When John Tobin and Rick Bronson – who own Detroit House of Comedy and 11 other comedy clubs – noticed that surrounding cities from Royal Oak to Toledo had comedy clubs but Detroit did not, they knew they had to open one here.

Recognizing The District Detroit as the region’s premier sports and entertainment destination, Tobin says that it’s the perfect location for a club.  Not only will the Detroit House of Comedy be a place for laughter and fellowship among audiences, but it will be for fellow comedians, too.

“The comedy world is a brotherhood and a sisterhood,” said Tobin. “Comedians stick together, they grow together, and they support each other; and the Detroit House of Comedy will be an incubator for that type of growth.”

Located in the former City Theatre space adjacent to Hockeytown Cafe, the Detroit House of Comedy will accommodate up to 300 patrons spread across six levels – similar to an amphitheater – with table seating; and food and drink service will be available through Hockeytown Cafe. In addition to stand-up comedy, the venue will also feature improv and podcast performances.

“The Detroit House of Comedy is another refreshing addition to The District Detroit,” said Stefan Stration, Vice President of Development at Olympia Development. “Whether you are looking for a place to live, work, play or have a laugh, The District Detroit has something for everyone.”

Looking forward to featuring local Detroit comics as well as those touring nationally, the Detroit House of Comedy is set to open in June with more information. The current lineup includes:

·         Hans Kim – June 24 – 26

·         Sasheer Zamata – July 7 – 9

·         Shane Torres – July 14 -17

·         Ali Siddiq – July 21 – 23

·         Michael Ian Black – July 28 – 30

·         Pete Lee – August 11 – 13

·         And Then We Had Sex Podcast: The Live Experience – August 14th

·         Darius Bennett – August 18 – 20

·         Doug Stanhope – August 26

·         Josh Adams – August 27

·         Mo Mandel – September 1 – 3

Additional performances are TBA.

To learn more, visit https://detroit.houseofcomedy.net

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Elevated Role Positions Bradford and Olympia Development to Continue Delivering Catalytic Developments, Innovative Design and Construction, and Inclusive Placemaking

The District Detroit Continuing to Progress as Dynamic Work, Live, and Play Destination Through New Partnerships, Affordable and Market-Rate Housing, Historic Renovations, Office Space and Retail Offerings

Planned Detroit Center for Innovation, Commencement of Restoration for the Residences @150 Bagley Among Latest Successes

Christopher Ilitch, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ilitch Holdings, Inc., today announced that Keith Bradford has been promoted to President of Olympia Development of Michigan and The District Detroit. In this elevated role, Bradford will continue to work with his team to improve the lives of people who live, work, and play in Detroit and beyond through catalytic developments, innovative design and construction, and inclusive placemaking.

Bradford had been Senior Vice President, Olympia Development and The District Detroit since bringing his 30+ years of development and operations experience to the organization in June of 2018. He will continue to report to Christopher Ilitch and be responsible for all development strategy at the organization, including real estate planning, retail, residential and office development. Bradford also leads master planning, leasing, design and project management activities for all real estate ventures in The District Detroit. He will continue to maintain responsibility for the operations of facilities such as Comerica Park, the award-winning Little Caesars Arena, the historic Fox Theatre featuring Proud Partner Comerica Bank and other office buildings and retail spaces.

“Keith’s work with our organization has simply been outstanding,” said Christopher Ilitch. “He has built a high-performing team while serving as a strong advocate for impactful new development and adaptive reuse of existing structures in our community. He is a model partner in his work with Bagley Development Group, Cinnaire Solutions, Related Companies and many others. Keith’s tireless efforts continue to benefit the community, his colleagues, and our tenants and partners.”

Since Bradford joined Olympia Development from Walt Disney World Resort in 2018, steady progress has continued in The District Detroit, despite a global pandemic. A premier urban live, work, play destination featuring professional sports, entertainment, residential, retail, educational, and office space in the heart of the city, The District Detroit includes recently announced and under-progress developments such as the Detroit Center for Innovation, the planned historic renovation of Henry Street apartments, and the Residences @150 Bagley. Olympia Development also recently shared a vision for future progress in The District Detroit in partnership with Related Companies. Other developments completed under Bradford’s leadership at Olympia Development include the Eddystone residences, the Mike Ilitch School of Business at Wayne State University, 2715 Woodward, the renovated Women’s City Club and the Little Caesars World Headquarters. Through this work, Olympia Development continues to create jobs, increase tax base in the city and state, and grow businesses while steadily creating one of the world’s most dynamic sports and entertainment destinations, The District Detroit.

“I’m honored by this ongoing opportunity to create developments that produce positive economic and social impact for the people of Detroit, while bringing new jobs and opportunity to our city, region and state,” said Bradford. “We have a great team, tremendous partners and an ambitious vision. I look forward to continuing our work to bring that ambitious vision to life.”

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In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month in May, the Detroit Tigers, Red Wings and Comerica Bank joined together for the Game Changers program to recognize four influential individuals who are making a positive impact in the community by working to create an inclusive environment for all. The Game Changers series honors community members who are making a profound difference in the areas of youth education, youth wellness or sports participation. The four AAPI Game Changers are:

• Grace Cai, Founder & Executive Director, Michigan Youth Empowerment Foundation
• Danielle Daguio, Development and Engagement Coordinator, Keep Growing Detroit
• Peggy Du, Executive Director, Association of Chinese Americans, Inc.
• Duc Nguyen Abrahamson, Executive Director, Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce

The Game Changers honorees were recognized at a Tigers game during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month – and received a $1,000 grant to donate to a charity of their choice.

“We use this opportunity to shed a light on amazing individuals in our community that are doing the work on the ground every day to make our community a better place,” said Ilitch Sports + Entertainment director of community impact Kevin Brown, “That’s what Game Changers is all about.”

Olympia Development’s historic Eddystone residences, located in the heart of The District Detroit, welcomed its first residents late last year. The former hotel was meticulously restored to retain the exquisite details of the 100-year-old building while offering modern touches in the 92 apartments – 20 percent of which are designated for affordable housing.

“Detroit is unique, and so is the Eddystone. Preserving the beautiful, iconic brickwork and ornate interiors allows us to restore it as a part of the fabric of the community,” said Rian English Barnhill, Vice President of Government and Community Affairs for Olympia Development of Michigan. “It’s preserving the past and also acknowledging where we’re going in the future.”

Barnhill is constantly engaging with Detroiters: from business leaders and families to nonprofits, who express a rising demand for housing. She works to ensure that feedback from her conversations is considered as Olympia Development develops properties like the Eddystone that are inclusive and thoughtful of residents already here.

“We want this area to be vibrant and come to life; and you do that through residential housing,” said Barnhill.

Learn more about Olympia Development’s plans for the Eddystone residences as we sit down with Barnhill in a one-on-one video interview; and learn more about the Eddystone at https://EddystoneDetroit.com/.

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