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Your Old Mansion lecture series
For its annual fundraiser, the Grosse Pointe Artists Association (GPAA) has a lineup of speakers who will energize and entertain in the reception room of the historic Alger house at 2 pm on Sundays, once a month from December to April.
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A Morning Out: Every 1st and Third Tuesday
Talk about art. Share your memories.
Create your own art. Take your art home to enjoy.
10:30 am - noon,
First and third Tuesdays of every month
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An Evening Out for Vets : Every 2nd & 4th Tuesday
Winston Churchill: "Painting came to my rescue in a most trying time."
The program is free and open to all veterans and their families on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month.
All materials are provided.
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Tai Chi w/Susan Smith
Discover the ancient art of Tai Chi with our 6-week class at The War Memorial in Grosse Pointe. Led by experienced instructor, Susan Smith, this course will guide you through gentle movements and meditative practices designed to enhance balance, flexibility, and overall well-being. Suitable for all levels, this class offers a peaceful retreat to cultivate inner harmony and physical vitality. Join us and embark on a journey to improved health and tranquility.
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Grosse Pointe Artist Association: Landscapes in the Style of Pierre-Auguste Renoir with Donald Cronkhite
One of the best ways to learn posthumously from a master painter is to paint a “master copy." In this workshop we will study Clearing in the Woods by Pierre-Auguste Renoir. You can see it at the Detroit Institute of Arts.
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Grosse Pointe Artist Association: Dyeing with Indigo and Other Natural Dyes with Ann Jacob
Learn to dye cotton fabrics using materials from nature. We will explore dyeing with indigo, plant material, rust and more. The first portion of the class will focus on precise folding, clamping and gathering of fabrics to get dramatic patterns such as kumo (circular motifs), shibori and geometrics.
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Dave Bennett Winter Brunch Series featuring Sean Dobbins
This cold winter - heat up with some jazz! Featuring a performance by Sean Dobbins and a gourmet brunch in the Alger Center ballroom!
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Conflict and Healing Lecture Series—Part One: The Psychology of Trauma
Join Dr. Judy Jacobs, PhD, RN, LPC as she explains how traumatic events and stress effect not only your mental health, but your physical health as well.
This is part one of the Conflict and Healing Lecture Series.
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Premier World Discovery Trip Presentation
Join us for an exciting presentation featuring Tracey Shenk from Premier World Discovery. Learn about two unforgettable trips:
8-Day Music Cities Tour (May 12–19, 2025): Explore the vibrant sounds and culture of New Orleans, Memphis, and Nashville.
9-Day Burgundy & Provence River Cruise (October 28–November 5, 2025): Indulge in the elegance of France’s wine country and countryside.
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Introduction of Historic House Painting and Decoration
Join us for a presentation on Historic House Painting and Decoration
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Grosse Pointe Artist Association: Needle Felting Small Creatures with Ann Jacob
At the end of this workshop, you will have critters to take home and share, including owls, dogs, birds and more. Plus you will an understanding of the needle felting basics and skills needed to make other creatures on your own.
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Grosse Pointe Symphony Orchestra Concert
The Grosse Pointe Symphony Orchestra is a community orchestra dedicated to providing live, classical symphonic music to the community while providing an opportunity for local professionals and accomplished amateurs to perform the classics.
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Tek Ready Workshop: Technology for Seniors
Join us for an engaging and informative workshop designed to help seniors master essential technology skills! This hands-on session will cover the basics of using smartphones, creating and managing email accounts, and accessing telehealth services. Our goal is to empower seniors to stay connected with their loved ones and easily access important resources that enhance their daily lives.
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Vet-To-Vet
Hosted by The War Memorial's veterans committee, gather with fellow veterans for a light breakfast and camaraderie at The War Memorial. This will be a chance to connect with members of the committee, and catch up with area veterans.
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Introduction to Watercolor Pencils with Saveria Giovinazzo
No experience necessary!
Saveria Giovinazzo, a respected artist and experienced teacher, has developed this class to introduce watercolor pencils, a convenient medium that can produce "wow" results.
She has planned multiple exercises and small projects with a focus on encouraging students to explore how they can use the medium to suit their own artistic style.
During the classes, students will practice the application of the watercolor pencil to paper, color mixing/blending and layering/glazing.
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Luck of the Irish Dinner & Concert
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with an Irish dinner and concert Friday March 7th at the War Memorial. This intimate Friday night event features our own spin on traditional Irish fare with a three-course menu from in house Chef Joe Paxton.
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Second Saturdays at TWM: Sing in Spring
Join us for Second Saturdays at The War Memorial - themed events held monthly offering crafts, activities, games, an onstage performance and more family-friendly fun! Our series continues with Sing in Spring on March 8th!
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Grosse Pointe Artists Association: Make a Special Print: Japanese Woodblock Print Workshop With Nobuko Yamasaki.
Everyone has a memorable small item sitting around at home. For this workshop bring your special souvenir or important item to sketch. We will then carve the sketch into a special 8inx10in board for printing. Our final step will be printing in one or two colors.
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YOUR OLD MANSION: Remembering the Celebrated Career of Mickey Mouse
Be ready to celebrate the long career of Mickey Mouse, who sailed into our lives on Nov. 18, 1928, as Steamboat Willie in an animated black-and-white short that premiered at the Colony Theatre in New York City.
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Pre-K Prom
The War Memorial's first ever Pre-K Prom! In the style of Daddy/Daughter and Mother/Son Dances of the past, this fun event invites the whole family to join in the fun. Dress in your best and feel like the King and Queen of the Prom
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Silent Book Club at The War Memorial
Join us at The War Memorial’s Silent Book Club! Bring your current read—no assigned books, no pressure. Settle in, find a cozy spot, and enjoy an hour of peaceful, uninterrupted reading. We’ll kick off with a quick chat to get comfortable, then dive into our books. Perfect for introverts, book lovers, and anyone looking to unwind. All are welcome!
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Landscapes in Oil for Beginners with Linda Boyle
Explore the captivating world of landscape oil painting in this beginner-friendly class!
Designed for those new to oil painting, this course will guide you step by step through the essentials: color theory, composition, layout, materials and tools.
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Grosse Pointe Veterans Club Meeting
Join the Grosse Pointe Veterans Club for its meeting on Feb. 13 at 2 p.m.
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Cocktail Class with Aaron: St. Patrick’s Day
Join our favorite bartender and learn to make five different cocktails - a St. Patrick’s Day themed class!
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Modern Manners: Youth Etiquette
Join our Modern Manners Youth Etiquette Class and help your kids cultivate the skills and confidence they need to thrive in today's world. From dining etiquette to digital decorum, we're shaping well-rounded, courteous, and self-assured young individuals.
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Conflict and Healing Lecture Series—Part Two: Managing the Stressors of the Day
Join Dr. Judy Jacobs, PhD, RN, LPC as she explains how traumatic events and stress effect not only your mental health, but your physical health as well.
This is part two of the Conflict and Healing Lecture Series.
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Portraits In The Style of Max Beckman with Donald Cronkhite
One of the best ways to learn posthumously from a master painter is to paint a “master copy." In this workshop we will study Max Beckman's Self Portrait in Olive and Brown. You can see it at the Detroit Institute of Arts.
Beckman is one of the leading German expressionist painters. He escaped Nazi German in 1937 and lived in exile in Amsterdam during the war. He started painting this portrait after the German troops withdrew from Amsterdam at the end of the war. He completed it on Nov. 29, 1945, noting in his diary -- "Germany is dying, et moi -- self-portrait 1945 finished.
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An Evening with Chef Joe Paxton
Join us for a special evening that includes a 4-course meal featuring remarks by War Memorial Executive Chef Paxton.
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Vietnam Veterans Day Luncheon
In commemoration of National Vietnam War Veterans Day, veterans and their families are invited to join us for a special afternoon lunch to commemorate their bravery and sacrifice during the Vietnam War.
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Dave Bennett Winter Brunch Series: Dave Bennett Band
This cold winter - heat up with some jazz! Enjoy Detroit jazz legend, Dave Bennett, for concert and a gourmet brunch in the new Alger Center ballroom!
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Graphite Pencil Basics with Saveria Giovinazzo
In this class, we will learn how there is so much more to know about graphite pencils!
Can't draw? No worries! You will be given printed images to work with as we explore the different degrees of graphite, their uses, and how to apply them to artwork.
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YA Salsa Dance Party!
Don't miss the fun when YA Salsa returns to the War Memorial for a night for an amazing night of food, live music and salsa dancing in our beautiful lakefront ballroom.
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YOUR OLD MANSION: Ford Power on the Water
For the fifth and final lecture of the series on April 6, historian Mike Kroll will offer a side of Edsel Ford that isn’t often talked about. You probably already know he introduced fine lines and fast motors to the cars produced on the Ford assembly lines, and he paid for the famous Rivera murals at the Detroit Institute of Arts. But did you know he also enjoyed racing powerboats? He used one of them to commute from his home on Lake St. Clair to the office at the Rouge Plant in Dearborn.
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Evening with Karl Marlantes: Echoes of the Vietnam War
New York Times Bestselling Author, Karl Marlantes will be speaking about his Marine Corp experiences in Vietnam as well as some of the books that he penned.
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Grosse Pointe Veterans Club Meeting
Join the Grosse Pointe Veterans Club for its meeting on Feb. 13 at 2 p.m.
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Bunny Brunch
Hop on over to The War Memorial this Spring and surprise your little one with a visit from the Easter Bunny while you enjoy a delicious Sunday morning brunch with your family.
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Landscapes In The Style of Claude Monet with Donald Cronkhite
One of the best ways to learn posthumously from a master painter is to paint a “master copy."
In this workshop we will study Branch of the Seine near Giverny (Mist), one of 18 works in Monet's Mornings on the Seine series. He painted the works from a flat-bottomed boat anchored to the riverbank where the Epte River flows into the Seine. As the light changed fro dawn to day, he worked on one canvas after another.To keep them in order, he numbered them, placed them in grooves built into the boat and had the gardener, whom he enlisted as his assistant, hand them to him.
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Middle School Dance: Hollywood Nights!
Step onto the red carpet and get ready for a star-studded night! This is your chance to shine like a celebrity, show off your best moves, and dance the night away with friends.
Dress to impress in your most glamorous attire or channel your favorite movie star—this is your moment to be the main character! Whether you’re bringing vintage Hollywood flair or modern red-carpet energy, the spotlight is on YOU!
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Life Directions Spark of Hope Gala
Join Life Directions on Friday, April 25 at The War Memorial for Spark of Hope- a benefit for Life Directions. This year’s Guiding Light Honorees are Joe & Rosalie Vicari, with Patrick A. Rugiero being recognized as the Lifetime Achievement Honoree.
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Grosse Pointe Symphony Orchestra Concert
The Grosse Pointe Symphony Orchestra is a community orchestra dedicated to providing live, classical symphonic music to the community while providing an opportunity for local professionals and accomplished amateurs to perform the classics.
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Premier World Discovery: 8-Day Trip to the Music Cities
Feel the rhythm and soul of America on this 8-day journey to the legendary Music Cities with Premier World Discovery. Immerse yourself in the vibrant jazz scene of New Orleans, stroll down Beale Street in Memphis where rock ‘n’ roll was born, and soak in the heart and soul of country music in Nashville. From historic landmarks to unforgettable live performances, this tour offers the ultimate blend of music, culture, and Southern charm.
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An Evening of Red, White & Blue
Our annual fundraising gala, An Evening of Red, White & Blue will be held on Wednesday, May 21, 2025!
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Memorial Day 2025
We gather in the shadow of Les Braves, for a time-honored Memorial Day ceremony which will include will include musical tributes, remarks of remembrance and honor, and a recitation of the names of Grosse Pointe residents who lost their lives in service to our country.
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Portraits In The Style of John Hoppner with Donald Cronkhite
One of the best ways to learn posthumously from a master painter is to paint a “master copy." In this workshop we will study John Hoppner's portrait of Susannah Edith Lady Rowley by John Hoppner. You can see it at the Detroit Institute of Arts. It was given to the DIA by Mrs. Horace Dodge in honor of her husband.
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Vietnam Through The Lens: The James “Skip” Liberty Story
Filmmaker, Tommy Dilger uses firsthand, home video footage shot by Skip Liberty during his time in the Vietnam War to one soldier’s journey during the conflict.
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Flying the P-3 Orion: A Vietnam War Pilot’s Story
Join retired Navy Captain, Randy Hotton to learn about the use of the P-3 Orion Aircraft during the Vietnam War.
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Premier World Discovery: Burgundy & Provence France River Cruise
Set sail on an exquisite 9-day river cruise with Premier World Discovery, exploring the captivating beauty of Burgundy and Provence. Meander through picturesque vineyards, savor world-famous wines, and wander cobblestone streets in charming French villages. This luxurious journey showcases the vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes of France’s most romantic regions—all from the comfort of your elegant river cruise vessel.
The AC-119 Gunships: From Cargo to Combat
The AC-119 gunships saw battle during the Vietnam War, and this is your chance to learn more about the crews that flew them, and the aircraft itself. Barry Levine, author and avid historian, joins us to share his knowledge on these magnificent converted cargo planes.
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Creative Nature Winter Break Art Camp
Each day students will create two different projects! Students will sculpt and paint various imaginative and colorful creations using a mixed media of non-toxic and kid-friendly materials, step by step instructions, and a touch of imagination!
All materials are provided.
Grades 1+
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YOUR OLD MANSION: Lessons Learned from the Old Masters
Artist, art historian, popular tour guide and instructor Donald Cronkite will take the podium on February 16 to help explain the influences of the Old Masters like Rembrandt and Monet on the artists of today.
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Grosse Pointe Artist Association: Incising Marks in Encaustic with Candace Law
This workshop is for artists who want to add to their creative voices by creating "marks" to express themselves.
In the workshop, we will explore what kind of marks you would like to make and specifically how to incise or cut them into an encaustic surface. We will try a few different techniques, so you will be able to find the one that suits you.
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Sing to Love: Valentine’s Day Dinner & Concert with Ramona Collins and Cliff Monear
Join us for an unforgettable Valentine’s Day. This event features a three course dinner and a dynamic performance from jazz singer Ramona Collins featuring the Cliff Monear Trio.
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Grosse Pointe Veterans Club Meeting
Join the Grosse Pointe Veterans Club for its meeting on Feb. 13 at 2 p.m.
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American Red Cross Blood Drive
All Blood Types Needed! Register today for the American Red Cross Blood Drive, taking place in the War Memorial Ballroom on February 13 from 12pm-6pm
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Silent Book Club at The War Memorial
Join us at The War Memorial’s Silent Book Club! Bring your current read—no assigned books, no pressure. Settle in, find a cozy spot, and enjoy an hour of peaceful, uninterrupted reading. We’ll kick off with a quick chat to get comfortable, then dive into our books. Perfect for introverts, book lovers, and anyone looking to unwind. All are welcome!
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Second Saturdays at TWM: Cupid’s Corner
Join us for Second Saturdays at The War Memorial - themed events held monthly offering crafts, activities, games, an onstage performance and more family-friendly fun! Our series continues with Cupid’s Corner on February 8th!
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Sole Mate Sneaker Dance
Step Into Style: Find Your Sole Mate at the Middle School Sneaker Dance!
Lace up and get ready to make your mark at the most stylish event of the season! The Middle School Sole Mate Sneaker Dance is your chance to celebrate with friends, show off your moves, and, most importantly, flaunt your freshest kicks.
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The Family Center: Health For Her – Heart Health
This new program series tackles medical topics of special interest to women. It’s a “girls night out” vibe coupled with the health education you need! This session tackles HEART HEALTH. Our experts will share the latest information on this important topic.
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The Family Center: The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D.
Join The Family Center an engaging and informative discussion with a panel of local experts.
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Tea and Treasures: Arias over Afternoon Tea with Detroit Opera
Join us for an elegant afternoon of tea and song featuring a delectable buffet of sweet and savory selections, a curated assortment of fine teas, and the Detroit Opera Resident Artists showcasing some of the most iconic and beloved arias and ensembles from the operatic repertoire.
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Heroes' Movement Inaugural Gala
The night will feature an exciting live auction, with all proceeds directly supporting Veterans’ strength and conditioning programs. Please help us make a lasting impact as we honor those who served.
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Mastering Mocktails
Calling all dry January and mocktail enthusiasts! Join us for a fun new class - Mastering Mocktails!
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Historic Book Talk with Jack Dempsey: Warriors for Liberty
Join us for an inspiring and enlightening book talk at the War Memorial, featuring the groundbreaking work Warriors for Liberty. This deeply researched volume brings to light the pivotal contributions of Michigan’s African Americans during the Civil War, both on the battlefield and beyond. From the heroic 1st Michigan Colored Infantry Regiment to unsung civilians who fought for freedom in countless ways, these stories highlight the courage, resilience, and patriotism of Michiganders of African descent in one of America’s most transformative eras.
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Dave Bennett Winter Brunch Series: Olivia Van Goor featuring Randy Napoleon
This cold winter - heat up with some jazz! Enjoy a performance by jazz vocalist Olivia Van Goor featuring Randy Napoleon and a gourmet brunch in the Alger Center ballroom!
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Grosse Pointe Artist Association: The Possibilities of Oil Pastels with Saveria Giovinazzo
In The Possibilities of Oil Pastels, students will be introduced to the preferred medium of masters such as Edgar Degas, Jean Francois Millet and Vincent Van Gogh and encouraged to develop their own style using the medium.
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Grosse Pointe Artist Association: The Art and Science of Color -- Understanding and Applying Color Interaction with Mihir Sharma
In this course, students will dive into the complex and fascinating world of color theory, learning how colors interact and influence perception.
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Grosse Pointe Artist Association: Portraits in the Style of Berthe Morisot with Donald Cronkhite
One of the best ways to learn posthumously from a master painter is to paint a “master copy." In this workshop we will study Woman at Her Toilet, 1875-1880, by Berthe Morisot, considered one of the five top Impressionist painters.
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The Healthy Grosse Pointe/Harper Woods Coalition
Join us as Dr. Flores defines disordered eating, shares who is at risk and the warning signs, and discusses prevention and treatment.
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YOUR OLD MANSION: Our Hike up Mount Kilimanjaro
Artist Melissa Stieber and her husband photographer Patrick Stieber from Owen Sound, Ont., Canada hiked to the summit Mount Kilimanjaro at the border of Kenya and Tanzania. Rising from the acacia forests and scrublands at the border of Kenya and Tanzania, Kilimanjaro is 19,343ft, making it the world’s tallest freestanding mountain.
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Grosse Pointe Artist Association: Venturing into Abstract and Non-Representational Art with Marcia Hales
What is the difference between abstract and non-representational art? In this workshop we will explore both and the techniques used in each to add expression to artwork with an emphasis on concept, composition, color and personal style.
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The Family Center: Picky Eaters Workshop
DO YOU HAVE A PICKY EATER?
LEARN TIPS FROM OUR EXPERTS THAT WILL MAKE MEALTIMES HEALTHY, DELICIOUS, AND STRESS-FREE
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Vet-To-Vet
Hosted by The War Memorial's veterans committee, gather with fellow veterans for a light breakfast and camaraderie at The War Memorial. This will be a chance to connect with members of the committee, and catch up with area veterans.
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The Family Center: Community Yoga
Breathe, stretch, and de-stress with The Family Center’s incredible yoga instructors.
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Lions Lounge: Detroit v Chicago
Join us on Sunday, December 22, 2024, for an unforgettable afternoon of football, food, and Lions Pride as the Detroit Lions take on the Chicago Bears! The action kicks off at 1 PM at the War Memorial, and doors open at 12:15 PM—come early to grab a seat and soak in the excitement!
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Fever Candlelight Concert
Experience the music of Aretha Franklin & the Sound of the Sixties in the War Memorial Ballroom by the gentle glow of candlelight.
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Breakfast with Santa
This holiday season, join friends and family for a joy-filled Breakfast with Santa at The War Memorial! Santa makes a spectacular entrance via his iconic helicopter to kickstart the festivities.
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Second Saturdays at TWM: Holiday Magic
Join us for Second Saturdays at The War Memorial - themed events held monthly offering crafts, activities, games, an onstage performance and more family-friendly fun! Our series continues with our holiday edition December 14th