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The Detroit Red Wings Foundation and The Children’s Foundation to Unveil Esports Lounge, Youth Workforce and Entrepreneur Development Program in Partnership with Boys and Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan
March 7, 2022
The Detroit Red Wings Foundation and The Children’s Foundation will unveil an Esports Lounge for youth members of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan (BGCSM) at the Lloyd H. Diehl Club on Wednesday, March 9. Completion of the lounge is part of a $300,000 investment between the Red Wings Foundation and Children’s Foundation to strengthen the career and entrepreneur pipeline for youth in the sports and Esports industries, and is a core component of the Red Wings’ groundbreaking Learn, Play, Score platform.
Building upon the success of an Esports Lounge previously installed by the Detroit Red Wings Foundation at the Dick & Sandy Dauch Club, the Esports Lounge at the Lloyd H. Diehl Club is the first of three additional lounges the Red Wings Foundation and The Children’s Foundation have committed to build at BGCSM locations to benefit the youth of metro Detroit. Featuring the latest technology, a total of five Esports Lounges will come online this year at BGCSM locations through support from the Red Wings Foundation, The Children’s Foundation, and other donors.
Esports + Hockey lounges and programming will be offered at the following BGCSM locations across metro Detroit:
In addition to year-round programming for BGCSM members, the facilities will provide paid workforce development and industry experience for nearly 200 youth from Detroit each year through the BGCSM Industry Club. BGCSM is the first Boys & Girls Clubs location in the nation to provide the Industry Club model to pay youth to learn about careers in Esports, sports, entertainment, as well as fashion and merchandising, tech, data science, and risk management. Applications are currently open to youth for all Industry Clubs at www.bgcsm.org/industry-club.
The Diehl location will be a hub for upcoming Esports tournaments and leagues that also take place across the BGCSM Esports + Hockey network. The space will also be available for neighborhood gatherings, corporate events and more.
“The partnership with the Detroit Red Wings and The Children’s Foundation brings so many resources to the youth in our BGCSM ecosystem,” said Shawn H. Wilson, President and CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan. “Beyond the amazing Egaming league play, within the new facility youth will have the opportunity to receive paid workforce and tech entrepreneurship experience, which ensures they leave our Clubs career and start up ready!”
The Red Wings and BGCSM will also introduce Street Hockey in The D: Club Sessions this Wednesday at the Diehl location as part of the Esports + Hockey program. Youth members will begin learning and playing floor hockey in the gyms at Diehl and across the BGCSM Esports + Hockey network. Once the game has been mastered, Club locations will compete against each other for a seasonal title.
Through support from The Children’s Foundation, BGCSM will provide youth programming geared toward social and emotional support at Clubs within the Esports + Hockey network. These unique programs will focus on supporting the mental wellness of Club members through special guest speakers and interactive experiences.
“This collaboration establishes another unique approach to improving the health and wellness of children and families,” said Lawrence J. Burns, President & CEO, The Children’s Foundation. “It particularly targets two of our main focus areas of mental health and youth development and is representative of what we do by bringing together a variety of community partners. We look forward to seeing the impact of this innovative, collaborative, and one-of-a-kind programming.”
Both the Esports + Hockey and Street Hockey in The D programs are key extensions of Learn, Play, Score. The Red Wings and their partners have introduced a variety of deeply rooted interactive programs and experiences for Detroit youth in the past two years, including Street Hockey in The D: At School with Detroit Public Schools Community District, Street Hockey in The D: At Home and Street Hockey in The D: Summer Series with Detroit Parks and Recreation, and Community Open Skates at Little Caesars Arena for all Learn, Play, Score participants and families.
The grand opening of the Diehl Esports Lounge, and the upcoming implementation of the Esports + Hockey program at Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan locations, are the next steps in the evolution of the Detroit Red Wings Learn, Play, Score platform.
Established during the 2019-20 season as part of a $1 million commitment from the Detroit Red Wings, Detroit Red Wings Foundation, and NHL/NHLPA Industry Growth Fund, the Learn, Play, Score platform is breaking down systemic barriers by introducing equitable access to hockey in various forms for thousands of children across the city of Detroit. In partnership with respected local organizations and revered Detroiters, children of all ages and abilities are now experiencing the social, emotional, and educational benefits of hockey – many of them for the first time.
“Serving kids in our community is at the foundation of the Learn, Play, Score platform, and we are excited that youth members at Boys & Girls Clubs across our region will be engaged in both the Esports + Hockey and street hockey components of the program,” said Chris McGowan, President and CEO of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment. “We’re looking forward to partnering with The Children’s Foundation to provide long-lasting opportunities and memories for these kids, and we can’t wait to see them at a Red Wings game soon.”
The Learn, Play, Score Esports + Hockey program will deliver necessary tools and experiences for hundreds of BGCSM youth members to discover the exciting cross-section of Esports, gaming and professional sports as they realize ways to unlock their own potential. Interacting with the latest technology, experiencing hands-on workforce opportunities, and learning the powerful principles in hockey, Esports + Hockey aims to serve as a catalyst for kids in metro Detroit to achieve their dreams.
The third Esports Lounge will open in the coming months at BGCSM’s Fauver-Martin Club in Highland Park.
The Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeast Michigan Industry Club Initiative aligns with the organization’s efforts to address poverty through economic mobility, and to continually have a positive community impact and advancement for youth and their families.
Meet Hunter Phelps, Former Cass Tech Intern Turned Successful Entrepreneu
March 6, 2022
For many students, participating in an internship program plays a pivotal role in shaping their future career. That was certainly the case for 22-year-old Detroit native Hunter Phelps. In 2015 while a junior at Cass Tech High School, Hunter worked as a summer intern with Detroit Tigers in the Accounting department. She thrived in the role and was invited back for a second internship the following summer as part of the Olympia Development Communications team.
Hunter credits her experience as an intern with sparking her passion for entrepreneurship.
“I wasn’t interested in entrepreneurship until I entered the Ilitch Companies, as I wasn’t sure what being an entrepreneur meant,” she said. “To see how much they’ve grown their companies over so many years inspired me to go after my dreams and find my passion.”
Following graduation from Cass Tech, Hunter went on to the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business where she majored in business administration and minored in entrepreneurship.
Today, Hunter embodies entrepreneurship as the founder and owner of three businesses. In 2018, before graduating college, Hunter founded Terry Lu Naturals, a natural hair and skin care company that creates dual-use products for men and women. More recently, Hunter added to her business portfolio by founding Phelps Room Designs, a new and upcoming romantic room decorating service.
Hear more about Hunter’s experience in this video:
Additionally, Hunter works full-time as a merchandising and marketing analyst for Walgreens, while still leading her companies. In her spare time, she loves to paint and sells her paintings through her third business, Hunter’s Palette. Hunter’s career goal is to obtain a leadership position in brand management and marketing, while developing her ventures into multimillion-dollar businesses.
The Ilitch companies have proudly partnered with Cass Tech High School and other Detroit Public Schools on internship programs for years, with the program expected to continue. The organization has also participated innovative, hands-on educational programs such as Project Destined, which offered a real estate internship for underserved youth in the city of Detroit.
Ilitch Sports + Entertainment Celebrates Black History Month With Hockey is for Everyone: Black History Night at Little Caesars Arena, Featuring February’s “Game Changers”
February 28, 2022
The Detroit Red Wings, Tigers and Comerica Bank are proud to continue the “Game Changers” program, highlighting people making profound difference in youth education, youth wellness or hockey and baseball/softball participation in the community. Recently, February’s Black History Month Game Changers were recognized during the Hockey is For Everyone: Black History Night at Little Caesars Arena.
“As we continue our Hockey is for Everyone game series, we’re proud to host Black History Night and honor four local Game Changers making an impact on the next generation of metro Detroit youth,” said Ilitch Sports + Entertainment director of community impact Kevin Brown. “The Hockey is for Everyone vision is more than a phrase. It’s a year-round commitment to ensure that on the ice, in the stands and across metro Detroit, we’re leveraging the platform and position of the Red Wings to move our game and our community forward.”
During a special reception in Little Caesars Arena’s Heritage Hall alongside 100 guests from their respective organizations, the Game Changers were presented with a donation to their charity of choice, as well as a commemorative plaque and Game Changer jersey. Following the reception, the Game Changers and their guests enjoyed the Red Wings game compliments of the team.
2022 Black History MonthGame Changers honorees:
Also in attendance were a number of 2021 Black History Month Game Changers: Portia Roberson, CEO, Focus: HOPE; Kenyatta Stephens, CEO, Black Family Development Corporation (BFDI); and Khali Sweeney, Founder & CEO, Downtown Boxing Gym.
In addition, more than 400 complimentary game tickets were distributed to deserving organizations across metro Detroit, including the Black Family Development Corporation, FOCUS: Hope, Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan, the YMCA and the Downtown Boxing Gym.
Throughout Little Caesars Arena, guests had the opportunity to engage in Black History Month themed activities: displays in celebration of the legacy of Black players in the Red Wings organization throughout arena, the Red Wings’ official Black History Month T-shirt – designed by young entrepreneurs from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern Michigan Fashion & Merchandising Industry Club – were for sale on the concourse, and the Detroit Red Wings Foundation’s 50/50 Raffle, led by volunteers from the Detroit Branch NAACP, provided a portion of the proceeds going to the organization. The Youth Hockey Player of the Game, presented by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, was 12-year-old Detroit native Javion Harris Jr., who is a defenseman in the Detroit Ice Dreams Hockey Association. Detroit Ice Dreams, which was featured in our first Black History Month Game Changers story, is dedicated to promoting and subsidizing hockey for underrepresented youth in the community.
Ilitch Sports + Entertainment Welcomes Ryan Gustafson as Senior Vice President, Business Operations Strategy
February 10, 2022
Ilitch Sports + Entertainment announced that Ryan Gustafson has been named Senior Vice President of Business Operations Strategy. With a wealth of experience and a strong record of accomplishment, Gustafson will focus on project management, operational support and business development strategy to drive future growth. He begins on February 15, 2022, reporting to Chris McGowan, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ilitch Sports + Entertainment.
Ryan’s experience, inventive thinking and integrity, along with his highly collaborative style, will be a great asset to the entire Ilitch Sports + Entertainment organization in this wide-reaching and highly visible role.
“We are excited that Ryan is joining our senior leadership group in Detroit, said McGowan. “His vast experience across multiple leagues and teams will be a valuable addition to Ilitch Sports + Entertainment as we continue to look for innovative ways to serve our fans.”
Gustafson brings nearly 15 years of strategic planning and revenue generation experience. Most recently, he served as strategy consultant at Elevate Sports Ventures and Pegula Sports & Entertainment. Gustafson previously held the position of Team President at the Seattle Dragons (XFL) where he led all business operations. Prior to that, he served as Vice President, Strategy & Development at the Seattle Sounders, where he oversaw all revenue-generating areas for the Club, and Vice President, Strategy & Innovation at the San Diego Padres.
Gustafson has overseen the development and implementation of short and long-term strategic plans, led innovative revenue generating initiatives, and headed up special projects surrounding data and analytics.
“I’m thrilled to join Ilitch Sports + Entertainment at such an exciting time for the Red Wings, Tigers, and in The District Detroit. I want to thank Christopher Ilitch and Chris McGowan for the incredible opportunity to join the team,” said Gustafson. “I look forward to getting started and helping create memories for the great people of Detroit and beyond.”
Gustafson earned his undergrad degree at the University of Puget Sound in economics and his MBA from Harvard Business School. He will relocate to the Detroit area from Seattle.
JoJo’s ShakeBAR Coming to The District Detroit
February 9, 2022
JoJo’s ShakeBAR, a modern take on the classic diner, is coming to Columbia Street in The District Detroit to serve up over-the-top milkshakes, craft cocktails and delicious diner fare.
JoJo’s Shake Bar is a light-hearted spot that sparks childhood memories with elevated, but familiar, diner and dessert creations. The 80s and 90s inspired diner will boast murals of celebrities with milk mustaches, Pac-man cocktail tables and same-sider booths, providing a fun atmosphere for children, families and adults alike.
“We are enthusiastic about what JoJo’s ShakeBAR will add to the great variety of dining, shopping and events already in The District Detroit,” said Stefan Stration, Vice President of Development at Olympia Development of Michigan. “Having original concepts like JoJo’s ShakeBAR, along with sports and entertainment, office, residential, educational, community spaces and much more, The District Detroit offers something for everybody in an appealing, one-of-a-kind atmosphere.”
JoJo’s ShakeBAR will occupy a 3,480 square-foot storefront on Columbia Street, the pedestrian-friendly retail and dining experience next to the historic Fox Theatre and the Little Caesars World Headquarters.
“We are super excited to be opening JoJo’s in The District Detroit,” said Castle Hospitality Group partner Robbie Schloss. “We are pulling out all the stops to bring a special experience that the community can enjoy.”
JoJo’s ShakeBAR is known as a next-generation diner grounded in nostalgia that is recognized for both its Instagrammable and larger-than-life aesthetic and menu. The concept is designed for guests to enjoy life’s playful moments with families and friends while devouring outrageous milkshakes and decadent diner food.
Opening Summer of 2022, JoJo’s ShakeBAR will add to the steady development progress in The District Detroit and joins recently opened Union Assembly, Mom’s Spaghetti, Frita Batidos, Tin Roof and The M Den, as well as the soon to be opened Detroit House of Comedy.
Detroit Tigers to Retire Lou Whitaker’s Number on August 6 at Comerica Park
February 8, 2022
The Detroit Tigers announced that Lou Whitaker’s No. 1 will be retired in a pre-game ceremony at Comerica Park on Saturday, August 6, 2022, presented by Bally Sports Detroit. The Tigers proudly salute Lou Whitaker for his on-field accomplishments during his 19-year Major League career, all spent in the Motor City.
One of the best players to ever wear the Old English D, “Sweet Lou” Whitaker’s career honors include five All-Star Game appearances, four Silver Slugger Awards, three Gold Gloves and being named American League Rookie of the Year in 1978. Whitaker teamed with Hall of Famer Alan Trammell to form the longest-running double play combination in Major League Baseball history as the duo anchored Detroit’s middle infield for 19 seasons.
Fans can be a part of the celebration with the corresponding “Double Play Deal” ticket package, which includes:
The ticket package will be available while supplies last and starts at just $65. For more information or to purchase tickets, fans can visit Tigers.com/DoublePlay.
Lou Whitaker’s career has been filled with awards and superlatives:
With soft hands, great movement, fluid body motion and strong and steady throws, Whitaker was one of the best second basemen of the 1980s defensively. With a longevity and consistency that is matched by very few in Major League Baseball history at second base, his fielding percentage of 0.9837 over 19,068 innings is simply outstanding. Whitaker played 2,390 games for the Tigers, third most in franchise history, and fourth best for a second baseman in MLB history.
While he was known for his incredible defensive skills, Whitaker brought excellence to all facets of the game. Not surprisingly, he ranks among the Tigers All-Time Leaders in over a dozen categories, including hits, home runs, RBIs, stolen bases, runs scored, total bases and more. His career WAR (wins above replacement) of 75.1 is better than all but six second basemen in MLB history.
Little Caesars Gives Pizza Fans More to Love on Valentine’s Day
February 6, 2022
This Valentine’s Day, Little Caesars is making it easy to capture a pizza lover’s heart with a collection of unique merchandise at HotNReadyShop.com. From jewelry gifts (to dress up date night or pizza night) like Hot-N-Ready necklaces and pizza slice earrings, to items that make an evening in extra cozy like pizza slice blankets, Crazy Bread lounge sets and Little Caesars heart hand t-shirts, nothing says cheesy romance like Little Caesars.
For more about the merchandise line, which was first launched last fall, watch this video with Little Caesars Director, Global Brand and Creative, Jaime Pescia.
As an added treat, Little Caesars is also testing Crazy Bread Bouquets for Valentine’s Day in the Charleston, South Carolina area, allowing local customers to send cheesy, buttery-tasting bouquets made of the iconic breadsticks to their Valentines from February 7-14.
Little Caesars continually aims meet their customers where they are by creating fun and engaging offerings. Recently, the brand introduced The Batman Calzony, a bat-shaped product inspired by Gotham City’s Caped Crusader available for a limited time.
Detroit Red Wings General Manager Steve Yzerman Discusses Young Hockey Talent
February 6, 2022
Recently, Red Wings General Manager Steve Yzerman sat down with Bally Sports Detroit to discuss the exciting new generation of hockey players on the team and in the league.
Yzerman says that every year, the new players are “a little bit better athletes, they’re a little bigger, they’re a little stronger, they’re a little more skilled.” In fact, Red Wings’ Lucas Raymond currently leads the NHL in points by a rookie with 35 points, and Moritz Seider is tied for fourth place with 29 points.
Check out Steve Yzerman’s interview with Bally Sports below.
Detroit Tigers Host Online Auction to Benefit Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History
February 6, 2022
In honor of Black History Month, the Detroit Tigers will host weekly charity auctions throughout the month of February featuring collections of Tigers and MLB Hall of Fame autographed items with proceeds benefitting Detroit’s Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History.
Auctions feature many of the great African American players to wear the Old English D, including Lou Whitaker, Willie Horton, Chet Lemon, Larry Herndon, Price Fielder, Cecil Fielder, Torii Hunter, Curtis Granderson and Gary Sheffield. Other auction items include baseballs signed by Hall of Famers Dave Winfield, Fergie Jenkins, Jack Morris and Alan Trammell, as well as additional autographed jerseys, bats, baseballs, photos and bobbleheads.
The auctions will take place weekly at https://Tigers.Auctions.MLB.com/ on the following schedule: auction #1: February 7-13, auction #2: February 14-20, and auction #3: February 21-27.
The Detroit Tigers and Ilitch organization have proudly maintained a long-standing relationship with the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, providing financial and in-kind donations as well as engagement opportunities with players and colleagues. In recent years, Tigers African American players and coaches visited the museum during the team’s Winter Caravan where they toured the facility and interacted with students from Detroit Public Schools Community District. The Detroit Red Wings worked with The Wright to bring the NHL Black Hockey History Tour to the museum, and the Ilitch organization partnered with the museum on a virtual learning and celebration surrounding the Juneteenth Holiday led by Jonathon Jones, Manager of Youth & Family Programming at The Wright Museum.
More information on the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History can be found here.
